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Due to inherit a fortune when his sickly, widower father died, Charles decided he needed a woman to enjoy it with.
At a singles' bar, he spotted a woman whose beauty took his breath away.
He went up to her and said, "I'm just an ordinary man. But in just a week, my father will die and I'll inherit $20 million."
So the woman went home with Charles.
And became his stepmother the very next day.
Tuesday, July 26, 2005
The Smart Woman
On his deathbed, a miserly man told his wife, "When I die, I want you to take all my money and put it in the casket with me."
Soon after she promised, he died.
At his funeral, his wife put a small box into the casket.
Her friend said, "I knew you aren't such a fool as to put all that money in there with your husband."
But the wife replied, "I didn't go back on my word.
"I got all his money, put it into my account and wrote him a cheque. If he can cash it, he can spend it."
Soon after she promised, he died.
At his funeral, his wife put a small box into the casket.
Her friend said, "I knew you aren't such a fool as to put all that money in there with your husband."
But the wife replied, "I didn't go back on my word.
"I got all his money, put it into my account and wrote him a cheque. If he can cash it, he can spend it."
Monday, July 25, 2005
The Island by Tay Yak Teak
The Island, an entertaining flick about clones who don't know they're clones, features an idyllic island, advanced technology, people in white uniforms, obeying instructions, not trained to think independently, lining up eagerly for a lottery and generally kept in the dark about very important things.
I don't know why, I can't put my finger on it, but somehow I feel the story will strike a chord with many Singaporeans.
I don't know why, I can't put my finger on it, but somehow I feel the story will strike a chord with many Singaporeans.
St Andrew's Junior College Band 2-1 Agape FC
ST ANDREW'S JUNIOR COLLEGE, SINGAPORE - St Andrew's Junior College Band (SAJCB) pipped an under-strength but valiant Agape FC 2-1, with the winning goal coming with the last kick of the game on Sunday.
Agape were under pressure throughout the match, as the more experienced and fitter SAJCB dictated the pace of the 60-minute match with no halftime. Both teams struggled with the soggy conditions of the SAJC rugby pitch, as a morning downpour put paid to any chances of a free-flowing game.
Typically, it took a mistake to break the deadlock. Agape skipper Amos Pang, who uncharacteristically missed a few clearances early in the game, finally made one mistake too many, as SAJCB punished his inability to clear his lines effectively with a well-taken shot that zipped under the goalkeeper.
It was a goal that was always coming, as the home team settled down more quickly, cheered on by their home crowd of about ten clueless schoolgirls. Agape goalkeeper Tay Teckseng had already made two crucial stops to prevent SAJCB from taking the early lead.
SAJCB did well to keep the ball moving all over the pitch to tire out their opponents. However, their final ball was lacking as a combination of desperate defending and the waterlogged pitch halted their progress. They were frequently given the opportunity to test the keeper from range, hoping to profit from slippery conditions.
But it was a different story after SAJCB had taken the lead. Agape brought on substitutes Kenneth Yee and Darric Teo in place of the ineffective Eddy Ho and Chu Jianliang, and the personnel change almost reaped immediate dividends. A wayward Agape shot suddenly found Kenneth with the ball at his feet 10 metres out, as he coolly dinked the keeper with his weaker left foot. Celebrations wre quickly halted as SAJCB claimed offside. There was no sure way for the referee to tell as he was too far away from the action. It was tough luck, as the goal was chalked off for offside.
That set the tone for the rest of the match, as wave after wave of black jerseys crashing forward in attack foundered on the defensive rocks of Matthew Chua, Amos and Ah Hai. Agape soon began creating chances of their own. Their main threat came from the neat but sometimes over-elaborate inter-play bwtween Agape's three trialists, Theophane Chan's friends from Singapore Institute of Management. However, they always seemed to struggle as the defence failed to keep up with the midfield, leaving a gap for their opponents to exploit.
The match was now a more evenly-contested affair, as both teams seemed to get the measure of the prohibitive conditions. As the referee signalled ten minutes, a substitution turned the match on its head. Agape's wing wizard Samuel Pan, who was delayed by an over-zealous security guard and eventually had to climb over the fence to join the game, replaced central defender Amos as Agape threw everyone forward to get an equaliser.
With time running out, Samuel linked up well with Zixiang on the right flank, before delivering an inch-perfect cross to the far post, where another of the trialists tapped it in. The away support exploded with emotion as Agape celebrated an equaliser with five minutes to play.
It was all Agape could do to concentrate as SAJCB kicked off trying to re-establish the advantage they had held for most of the match.
Alas, Agape's courageous comeback was not to be as the final twist in the tail came deep injury time. SAJCB had a corner with regulation time completed. As Ah Hai headed the ball out for the umpteenth time in the match, the referee signalled for one last corner, even thgou time was up. A lofted ball played into the six-yard box should have been claimed by Teckseng, but the ball was bundled home in a goalmouth scramble. It was even unclear who had got the last touch, although it was later discovered that Chan Zikai had let the ball through his legs.
As the referee blew for full-time, both teams shook hands as the bad-tempered moments of the match were all but forgotten. It was a harsh result for Agape in their first competitive match in over a year, but they have the opportunity to put things right in the rematch. Aaron Wong, out for several months with a mysterious skin disease, might just recover in time for the big match.
Agape were under pressure throughout the match, as the more experienced and fitter SAJCB dictated the pace of the 60-minute match with no halftime. Both teams struggled with the soggy conditions of the SAJC rugby pitch, as a morning downpour put paid to any chances of a free-flowing game.
Typically, it took a mistake to break the deadlock. Agape skipper Amos Pang, who uncharacteristically missed a few clearances early in the game, finally made one mistake too many, as SAJCB punished his inability to clear his lines effectively with a well-taken shot that zipped under the goalkeeper.
It was a goal that was always coming, as the home team settled down more quickly, cheered on by their home crowd of about ten clueless schoolgirls. Agape goalkeeper Tay Teckseng had already made two crucial stops to prevent SAJCB from taking the early lead.
SAJCB did well to keep the ball moving all over the pitch to tire out their opponents. However, their final ball was lacking as a combination of desperate defending and the waterlogged pitch halted their progress. They were frequently given the opportunity to test the keeper from range, hoping to profit from slippery conditions.
But it was a different story after SAJCB had taken the lead. Agape brought on substitutes Kenneth Yee and Darric Teo in place of the ineffective Eddy Ho and Chu Jianliang, and the personnel change almost reaped immediate dividends. A wayward Agape shot suddenly found Kenneth with the ball at his feet 10 metres out, as he coolly dinked the keeper with his weaker left foot. Celebrations wre quickly halted as SAJCB claimed offside. There was no sure way for the referee to tell as he was too far away from the action. It was tough luck, as the goal was chalked off for offside.
That set the tone for the rest of the match, as wave after wave of black jerseys crashing forward in attack foundered on the defensive rocks of Matthew Chua, Amos and Ah Hai. Agape soon began creating chances of their own. Their main threat came from the neat but sometimes over-elaborate inter-play bwtween Agape's three trialists, Theophane Chan's friends from Singapore Institute of Management. However, they always seemed to struggle as the defence failed to keep up with the midfield, leaving a gap for their opponents to exploit.
The match was now a more evenly-contested affair, as both teams seemed to get the measure of the prohibitive conditions. As the referee signalled ten minutes, a substitution turned the match on its head. Agape's wing wizard Samuel Pan, who was delayed by an over-zealous security guard and eventually had to climb over the fence to join the game, replaced central defender Amos as Agape threw everyone forward to get an equaliser.
With time running out, Samuel linked up well with Zixiang on the right flank, before delivering an inch-perfect cross to the far post, where another of the trialists tapped it in. The away support exploded with emotion as Agape celebrated an equaliser with five minutes to play.
It was all Agape could do to concentrate as SAJCB kicked off trying to re-establish the advantage they had held for most of the match.
Alas, Agape's courageous comeback was not to be as the final twist in the tail came deep injury time. SAJCB had a corner with regulation time completed. As Ah Hai headed the ball out for the umpteenth time in the match, the referee signalled for one last corner, even thgou time was up. A lofted ball played into the six-yard box should have been claimed by Teckseng, but the ball was bundled home in a goalmouth scramble. It was even unclear who had got the last touch, although it was later discovered that Chan Zikai had let the ball through his legs.
As the referee blew for full-time, both teams shook hands as the bad-tempered moments of the match were all but forgotten. It was a harsh result for Agape in their first competitive match in over a year, but they have the opportunity to put things right in the rematch. Aaron Wong, out for several months with a mysterious skin disease, might just recover in time for the big match.
I hate durian!
Well, I don't really. But after binging on durian tarts yeaterday morning, my skin flared up with a vengeance that same evening. I can something that tastes so good do such damage. This must be from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil.
Anyhow, I've discovered D24 Durian gelato from Bravissimo, which I'm sure means 'very good' in Italian. Or it could be an undiscovered Lecce left-back. Really it tastes better than the real thing, it's cold, and you don't get your hands dirty. Although it's $3.20 a cup, it's worth it now and then. Edgar even wanted to buy the whole tub!
Which brings me to his son, that adorable bundle of joy. Ah, bless! Such a bright little boy. We had gone to Cafe Cartel for lunch, when I excused myself to go to StarHub to settle a SIM Card issue (more on that later). I left my cumbersome bag behind and left.
So little Ian (that's his name) asked after a while where I was: "Uncle Air-wen?"
And Jasmine lied that I had already left. (Oh! And he knows how to say 'owedi')
Then he thought for a moment, and pointed questioningly at my bag.
Wow. This kid's going to MENSA. And he offered me his entire box of Pocky! I'm GETTING him into MENSA!
Oh ya, the SIM card. Recently have been experiencing problems with a backlog of SMSes that I don't receive for hours and then get all at one go. That and the poor reception in my camp (which is mostly a good thing as arrowers can't call me). Thought it might be my SIM card as I've had it for at least five years. I had come to StarHub on Saturday to replace the SIM card, but having gone through all the trouble to convince my mum that no, I would not misplace her IC, despite having a dream the night before that I had lost my handphone and wallet, I forgot to get her to sign a Letter of Authority (LOA).
The dream, by the way, is nothing I want to live out. It's a double whammy of cataclysmic proportions. Wah, I'd cry man.
Anyway the LOA is an exercise in futility. It was a handwritten note written by me in black, and my mum just signed it, in blue. On Sunday, I gave the CSO the IC and letter and she just processed it without verifying the signature. I could've done this on Saturday!
Anyhow, I've discovered D24 Durian gelato from Bravissimo, which I'm sure means 'very good' in Italian. Or it could be an undiscovered Lecce left-back. Really it tastes better than the real thing, it's cold, and you don't get your hands dirty. Although it's $3.20 a cup, it's worth it now and then. Edgar even wanted to buy the whole tub!
Which brings me to his son, that adorable bundle of joy. Ah, bless! Such a bright little boy. We had gone to Cafe Cartel for lunch, when I excused myself to go to StarHub to settle a SIM Card issue (more on that later). I left my cumbersome bag behind and left.
So little Ian (that's his name) asked after a while where I was: "Uncle Air-wen?"
And Jasmine lied that I had already left. (Oh! And he knows how to say 'owedi')
Then he thought for a moment, and pointed questioningly at my bag.
Wow. This kid's going to MENSA. And he offered me his entire box of Pocky! I'm GETTING him into MENSA!
Oh ya, the SIM card. Recently have been experiencing problems with a backlog of SMSes that I don't receive for hours and then get all at one go. That and the poor reception in my camp (which is mostly a good thing as arrowers can't call me). Thought it might be my SIM card as I've had it for at least five years. I had come to StarHub on Saturday to replace the SIM card, but having gone through all the trouble to convince my mum that no, I would not misplace her IC, despite having a dream the night before that I had lost my handphone and wallet, I forgot to get her to sign a Letter of Authority (LOA).
The dream, by the way, is nothing I want to live out. It's a double whammy of cataclysmic proportions. Wah, I'd cry man.
Anyway the LOA is an exercise in futility. It was a handwritten note written by me in black, and my mum just signed it, in blue. On Sunday, I gave the CSO the IC and letter and she just processed it without verifying the signature. I could've done this on Saturday!
Saturday, July 23, 2005
Thursday, July 21, 2005
The difference between Malaysians and Singaporeans
I read
Veloo, R., & Cheng, P. K. (2002). The difference between Malaysians and Singaporeans. Singapore: NewsBooks.
Will try to add photos.
Veloo, R., & Cheng, P. K. (2002). The difference between Malaysians and Singaporeans. Singapore: NewsBooks.
Will try to add photos.
4 'P's to Being the Perfect Partner
For all you married/going-to-be-married readers. Picked this up from Straits Times, that pantheon of quotable quotes.
Prioritise
Put your spouse first. Children are leasehold - only for 18 years - while your spouse is freehold (free to hold any time too).
Publicise
Communicate your feelings to each other regularly; share your hopes, even fears. This helps you stay in touch and in sync with each other.
Participate
Be involved in your spouse's life by spending time together. This can range from enjoying a movie date, belting out loves songs to each other at a karaoke joint or even playing badminton (or Xbox) together.
The couple that plays together, stays together.
Praise
Affirm your spouse through words or even actions. Building people up makes them feel good about themselves and about the person who lavishes attention on them.
Prioritise
Put your spouse first. Children are leasehold - only for 18 years - while your spouse is freehold (free to hold any time too).
Publicise
Communicate your feelings to each other regularly; share your hopes, even fears. This helps you stay in touch and in sync with each other.
Participate
Be involved in your spouse's life by spending time together. This can range from enjoying a movie date, belting out loves songs to each other at a karaoke joint or even playing badminton (or Xbox) together.
The couple that plays together, stays together.
Praise
Affirm your spouse through words or even actions. Building people up makes them feel good about themselves and about the person who lavishes attention on them.
Monday, July 18, 2005
Left Behind II
I read
LaHaye, T., & Jenkins, J. (1996). Tribulation force: The continuing drama of those left behind. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers.
LaHaye, T., & Jenkins, J. (1996). Tribulation force: The continuing drama of those left behind. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers.
Sunday, July 17, 2005
Nokia 7710
One brand new Nokia 7710 for sale.
Includes 128MB MMCard, charger, USB cable, headset, warranty card
Price: $850 (negotiable)
Visit: http://www.nokia.com.sg/nokia/0,,66205,00.html
She
An angel of truth and a dream of fiction,
A woman is a bundle of contradiction
She's afraid of a wasp, will scream at a mouse,
But will tackle a stranger alone in the house
Sour as vinegar, sweet as a rose,
She'll kiss you one minute, then turn up her nose
She'll win you in rage, enchant you in silk
She'll be stronger than brandy, milder than milk
At times she'll be vengeful, merry and sad
She'll hate you like poison and love you like mad
A woman is a bundle of contradiction
She's afraid of a wasp, will scream at a mouse,
But will tackle a stranger alone in the house
Sour as vinegar, sweet as a rose,
She'll kiss you one minute, then turn up her nose
She'll win you in rage, enchant you in silk
She'll be stronger than brandy, milder than milk
At times she'll be vengeful, merry and sad
She'll hate you like poison and love you like mad
Lifestyle Survey - Project Blackjack II (REVISED: Earn $40!
Hi Guys/Gals,
Please note that this invitation is also open to people you know.
Interviews will be conducted at Acorn's main office in Field Department 4th Floor, 241, River Valley Road. The interview is expected to take 20-30min.
Take note: There are FOUR criteria for this interview:
1. You are a SINGAPOREAN or PERMANENT RESIDENT.
2. You are above 21 YEARS OLD.
3. You must play any local gambling related game on a regular basis (including 4D, Toto, Soccer, Horse Racing, Mahjong etc)
4. You must have gambled $300 and above.
Incentive:
For those earning below $2000/mth: $20
For those earning above $2000/mth: $40
If you fulfil the above criteria (or know someone who does), email me your NAME and CONTACT NUMBER and you can expect to receive a call from us soon. You can then arrange a convenient time between 1100 and 2000hrs to meet us.
Feel free to refer friends or relatives interested in this survey. It's an easy way to make a quick, legal buck.
Look forward to hear from you soon! Please note that registration closes 20 July!
Thanks,
Aaron
Please note that this invitation is also open to people you know.
Interviews will be conducted at Acorn's main office in Field Department 4th Floor, 241, River Valley Road. The interview is expected to take 20-30min.
Take note: There are FOUR criteria for this interview:
1. You are a SINGAPOREAN or PERMANENT RESIDENT.
2. You are above 21 YEARS OLD.
3. You must play any local gambling related game on a regular basis (including 4D, Toto, Soccer, Horse Racing, Mahjong etc)
4. You must have gambled $300 and above.
Incentive:
For those earning below $2000/mth: $20
For those earning above $2000/mth: $40
If you fulfil the above criteria (or know someone who does), email me your NAME and CONTACT NUMBER and you can expect to receive a call from us soon. You can then arrange a convenient time between 1100 and 2000hrs to meet us.
Feel free to refer friends or relatives interested in this survey. It's an easy way to make a quick, legal buck.
Look forward to hear from you soon! Please note that registration closes 20 July!
Thanks,
Aaron
Saturday, July 16, 2005
Duh Headlines
Cold Wave Linked to Temperatures, say Scientists
Iraqi Head Seeks Arms
Miners Refuse to Work After Death
Typhoon Rips Through Cemetery; Hundreds Dead
Red Tape Holds Up New Bridges
The best part: All are actual newspaper headlines. Editor sleeping or what?
Iraqi Head Seeks Arms
Miners Refuse to Work After Death
Typhoon Rips Through Cemetery; Hundreds Dead
Red Tape Holds Up New Bridges
The best part: All are actual newspaper headlines. Editor sleeping or what?
Please hold the line
"We realise you're still holding, but please don't hang up, a this will further delay your call."
Friday, July 15, 2005
Democracy
"History teaches us that liberal democracy needs economic development, literacy, a growing middle class and political institutions that support free speech and human rights. It needs a civic society resting on shared values that make people with differnt and conflicting views willing to cooperate with each other. In a civic society, between the family and state, there are whole series of institutions to which citizens belong, voluntary associations to promote specific common interests, religious institutions, trade unions, professional organisations and other self-help bodies.
Democracy works where the people have that culture of accomodation and tolerance which makes a minority accept the majority's right to have its way until the next election, and wait patiently and peacefully for its turn to become the government by persuading more voters to support its views. Where democracy was implanted in a people whose tradition had been to fight to the bitter end, as in South Korea, it has not worked well. South Koreans battle it out on the streets regardless of whether they have a military dictator or a democratically elected president in charge. Brawls in the Legislative Yuan of Taiwan, plus physical clashes in the streets, are reflections of their different cultures. People will evolve their own more or less representative forms of government, suited to their customs and culture."
Taken from Lee Kuan Yew's From Third World to First: The Singapore Story: 1965-2000
Democracy works where the people have that culture of accomodation and tolerance which makes a minority accept the majority's right to have its way until the next election, and wait patiently and peacefully for its turn to become the government by persuading more voters to support its views. Where democracy was implanted in a people whose tradition had been to fight to the bitter end, as in South Korea, it has not worked well. South Koreans battle it out on the streets regardless of whether they have a military dictator or a democratically elected president in charge. Brawls in the Legislative Yuan of Taiwan, plus physical clashes in the streets, are reflections of their different cultures. People will evolve their own more or less representative forms of government, suited to their customs and culture."
Taken from Lee Kuan Yew's From Third World to First: The Singapore Story: 1965-2000
The slow die first
Two campers were hiking in the forest when all of a sudden a bear jumps out of a bush and starts to chase them.
Both campers start running for their lives.
But one suddenly stops running and starts putting on his running shoes.
His partner says, "What are you doing? You can't outrun a bear!"
His friend replies, "I don't have to! I just need to outrun you!"
Both campers start running for their lives.
But one suddenly stops running and starts putting on his running shoes.
His partner says, "What are you doing? You can't outrun a bear!"
His friend replies, "I don't have to! I just need to outrun you!"
Thursday, July 14, 2005
Dumb court questions
Were you present when your picture was taken?
How far apart were the vehicles at the time of collision?
You were there until the time you left, is that true?
She had three children?
Yes.
How many were boys?
None.
Were there any girls?
You say the stairs went down to the basement?
Yes.
These stairs, did they go up too?
You went on a honeymoon, didn't you?
Yes, to Europe.
And you took your wife?
How was your first marriage terminated?
By death.
By whose death was it terminated?
Was it you or your younger brother who was killed in the war?
Can you describe the person?
He was of medium height and he had a beard.
Was this a male or female?
Is your appearance this morning pursuant to a deposition notice which I despatched to your attorney?
No, this is how I usually dress for work.
Then was the lawyer who started off horribly: "My Honour, may I approach the bench?"
How far apart were the vehicles at the time of collision?
You were there until the time you left, is that true?
She had three children?
Yes.
How many were boys?
None.
Were there any girls?
You say the stairs went down to the basement?
Yes.
These stairs, did they go up too?
You went on a honeymoon, didn't you?
Yes, to Europe.
And you took your wife?
How was your first marriage terminated?
By death.
By whose death was it terminated?
Was it you or your younger brother who was killed in the war?
Can you describe the person?
He was of medium height and he had a beard.
Was this a male or female?
Is your appearance this morning pursuant to a deposition notice which I despatched to your attorney?
No, this is how I usually dress for work.
Then was the lawyer who started off horribly: "My Honour, may I approach the bench?"
Quote of the Day
When the world pushes you to your knees, you are in the right position to pray.
- Anon
- Anon
Wednesday, July 13, 2005
Spiritual Gifts
1. Leadership
2. Administration
3. Teaching
4. Knowledge
5. Wisdom
6. Prophecy
7. Discernment
8. Exhortation
9. Shepherding
10. Faith
11. Evangelism
12. Apostleship
13. Service/Helps
14. Mercy
15. Giving
16. Hospitality
Mine's Exhortation.
Which one's yours?
2. Administration
3. Teaching
4. Knowledge
5. Wisdom
6. Prophecy
7. Discernment
8. Exhortation
9. Shepherding
10. Faith
11. Evangelism
12. Apostleship
13. Service/Helps
14. Mercy
15. Giving
16. Hospitality
Mine's Exhortation.
Which one's yours?
Why English is so difficult to learn: Examples
1. The bandage was wound around the wound.
2. The farm was used to preoduce produce.
3. The dump was so full it had to refuse more refuse.
4. We must polish the Polish furniture.
5. The soldier decided to desert his dessert in the desert.
6. Since there's no time like the present, he thought it was time to present the present.
7. When shot at, the dove dove into the bushes.
8. I did not object to the object.
9. The insurance was invalid for the invalid.
10. There was a row among the row of oarsmen about how to row.
11. They were too close to the door to close it.
12. To help with planting, the farmer taught his sow to sow.
13. The wins was too strong to wind the sail.
14. Upon seeing the tear in the painting I shed a tear.
2. The farm was used to preoduce produce.
3. The dump was so full it had to refuse more refuse.
4. We must polish the Polish furniture.
5. The soldier decided to desert his dessert in the desert.
6. Since there's no time like the present, he thought it was time to present the present.
7. When shot at, the dove dove into the bushes.
8. I did not object to the object.
9. The insurance was invalid for the invalid.
10. There was a row among the row of oarsmen about how to row.
11. They were too close to the door to close it.
12. To help with planting, the farmer taught his sow to sow.
13. The wins was too strong to wind the sail.
14. Upon seeing the tear in the painting I shed a tear.
Tuesday, July 12, 2005
Beans!
Beans! Beans! They're good for your heart
The more you eat, the more you fart
The more you fart, the better you feel
So let's have beans for every meal!
The more you eat, the more you fart
The more you fart, the better you feel
So let's have beans for every meal!
Sunday, July 10, 2005
Pastor Koo's sermon on 10 Jul: People Don't Look Forward to Heaven: Why?
1. Unbiblical views of Heaven
2. Fear of death
i. the "knowing/doing" gap
ii. Christians don't live well (Phi 1:21)
3. Consumed by worldly pleasures, earthly cares (Luk 12:21)
4. Satan's deception (Rev 13:6)
i.Heaven doesn't exist
ii. Heaven is boring
iii. False/extreme means to enter Heaven
How to live?
Life 1: Success (myself)
Life 2: Significance (others)
Life 3: Eternity
2. Fear of death
i. the "knowing/doing" gap
ii. Christians don't live well (Phi 1:21)
3. Consumed by worldly pleasures, earthly cares (Luk 12:21)
4. Satan's deception (Rev 13:6)
i.Heaven doesn't exist
ii. Heaven is boring
iii. False/extreme means to enter Heaven
How to live?
Life 1: Success (myself)
Life 2: Significance (others)
Life 3: Eternity
Saturday, July 09, 2005
Sin City
I just watched Kill Bill 3. Until someone told me it was actually Sin City.
Cannot be what. It's directed by Tarantino, there's someone perpetually in yellow, there's a samurai gal, the people cheat death all the time, everything's in black and white, it's R21... the list goes on.
All in all, they weren't kidding when they said it was a graphic novel. The violence was something else, with blood of every hue. Surprisingly there was no Uma Thurman, but threre was a shocking turn by Alexis Bledel. She kept calling her mum, and I kept thinking of Lorelai Gilmore.
Good to see Mickey Rourke back among the stars again. Read about recently in a magazine about how he got his life back on track again after a battle with alcoholism and whatnot.
Guys, you may watch this movie for Jamie King, Jessica Alba, and Alexis Bledel if you must. But seriously I liked the way the plot came full circle even though I never read the book.
I will never see Frodo Baggins in the same away, after Elijah Wood turned out to be a cannibalistic psychopath who preyed on the flesh trade. Literally. Till his Huskie ate him alive. His limbs were sawn off and tourniqueted with rubber tubing, where the hero left him to be devoured. And he kept smiling, good to the the bite. Not many guns in this one. Just that the protagonists find grosser and grosser ways to massacre each other.
It's a cameo's dream this one: Michael Clarke Duncan (Green Mile), Devon Aoki (2 Fast 2 Furious), Josh Hartnett (Black Hawk Down), and many more. Bet they all worked for free when they heard Tarantino was directing.
I really should ramble on, but why don't you watch it yourself? Unless you're below 21, in which case you should buy the DVD and wait till you're 21. =]
Cannot be what. It's directed by Tarantino, there's someone perpetually in yellow, there's a samurai gal, the people cheat death all the time, everything's in black and white, it's R21... the list goes on.
All in all, they weren't kidding when they said it was a graphic novel. The violence was something else, with blood of every hue. Surprisingly there was no Uma Thurman, but threre was a shocking turn by Alexis Bledel. She kept calling her mum, and I kept thinking of Lorelai Gilmore.
Good to see Mickey Rourke back among the stars again. Read about recently in a magazine about how he got his life back on track again after a battle with alcoholism and whatnot.
Guys, you may watch this movie for Jamie King, Jessica Alba, and Alexis Bledel if you must. But seriously I liked the way the plot came full circle even though I never read the book.
I will never see Frodo Baggins in the same away, after Elijah Wood turned out to be a cannibalistic psychopath who preyed on the flesh trade. Literally. Till his Huskie ate him alive. His limbs were sawn off and tourniqueted with rubber tubing, where the hero left him to be devoured. And he kept smiling, good to the the bite. Not many guns in this one. Just that the protagonists find grosser and grosser ways to massacre each other.
It's a cameo's dream this one: Michael Clarke Duncan (Green Mile), Devon Aoki (2 Fast 2 Furious), Josh Hartnett (Black Hawk Down), and many more. Bet they all worked for free when they heard Tarantino was directing.
I really should ramble on, but why don't you watch it yourself? Unless you're below 21, in which case you should buy the DVD and wait till you're 21. =]
Wednesday, July 06, 2005
Left Behind
I read
LaHaye, T., JEnkins, J. (1995). Left behind: A novel of the earth's last days. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers.
LaHaye, T., JEnkins, J. (1995). Left behind: A novel of the earth's last days. Wheaton, IL: Tyndale House Publishers.
Monday, July 04, 2005
Protect your virgin real estate
One day, a government official approached a Roman Catholic priest with a tantalising offer. The old church was sitting on prime land. Hence, the government wanted to pay off the church to repossess the land and make it available to private developers for condominiums.
After some thought, the priest refused.
He replied: "As a Roman Catholic, I'm against the use of condominiums."
After some thought, the priest refused.
He replied: "As a Roman Catholic, I'm against the use of condominiums."
Public Speaking
Remember:
He who never makes mistakes seldom makes anything else.
A quick summary of how to deliver a short, sharp speech:
Step 1: Tell 'em what you're gonna tell 'em.
Step 2: Tell 'em.
Step 3: Tell'em what you've told 'em.
It's that simple.
He who never makes mistakes seldom makes anything else.
A quick summary of how to deliver a short, sharp speech:
Step 1: Tell 'em what you're gonna tell 'em.
Step 2: Tell 'em.
Step 3: Tell'em what you've told 'em.
It's that simple.
Confessions of a SPG
Chuay Pek Lang, 23, Sarong Party Girl
So bad, you know!
I just read in the Straits Times, got some chao ang mor journalist write that all these Asian women are flirting with ang mor men and tempting them away from their wives and children!
That's not true! The ang mor men are also tempting me, what.
It's two-way temptation.
I'm tempting them away from their frumpy wives with their water-retaining ankles, while they are tempting me away from typical stoner Singapore men with their boring lifestyles.
I also think it's very unfair to call Asian women who prefer ang mor men 'sarong party girls'. I mean, we rarely wear sarongs. It covers up too much.
People always ask me why I only want to date ang mor men.
It's because ang mor men treat their women with so much more respect than Asian men do.
Asian men are only interested in having us so that we can have children and form a family. Asian men see us only as wives. In their eyes, we are these boring, quiet, obedient and meek mice.
Whereas what the ang mor men see are sexy, long-haired, provocatively-dressed sirens.
In other words, unlike Asian men, they see us as individuals and not stereotypes.
That's why I'm doing whatever it takes to snag an ang mor - dressing sexily, getting tanned within an inch of skin cancer, growing long, straight hair.
I'm doing it so that I can retain my dignity and respect!
And why go out with Asian men? They always eventually have affairs with prostitutes in some foreign country, leaving their poor wives behind. Ang mor men are not like that at all!
Some more Asian men are not as socially sophisticated as ang mor men.
For example, when I'm at a bar, I can approach an ang mor man, even a stranger, anytime and they will chat with me, buy me drinks. So pleasant!
Whereas these Asian men are downright unpleasant - always coming up and trying to chat and buy me drinks. I mean, they're complete strangers! What do they think I am? The sleazeballs!
My favourite place to meet ang mor men is Boat Quay.
I think there is something magical and romantic there, right next to the water.
One of my ang mor boyfriends also believes it's some sort of magical tradition for Asian women and ang mor men to meet by the waterside.
He said that on every pier in every Asian country, there are always Asian women there waiting to meet ang mor men! Isn't that nice?
Which is why when people call me racist for preferring ang mor men, I always disagree.
Racist is when you think of another race as inferior, whereas I think of another race as superior.
Some more, there's proof that ang mors are genetically superior to Asian men.
I mean look at chap cheng babies. So nice looking, with big, round eyes. Not like Asian babies with their slitty, chicken eyes.
So how can I possibly be racist? These people, ah, all talk cock.
So bad, you know!
I just read in the Straits Times, got some chao ang mor journalist write that all these Asian women are flirting with ang mor men and tempting them away from their wives and children!
That's not true! The ang mor men are also tempting me, what.
It's two-way temptation.
I'm tempting them away from their frumpy wives with their water-retaining ankles, while they are tempting me away from typical stoner Singapore men with their boring lifestyles.
I also think it's very unfair to call Asian women who prefer ang mor men 'sarong party girls'. I mean, we rarely wear sarongs. It covers up too much.
People always ask me why I only want to date ang mor men.
It's because ang mor men treat their women with so much more respect than Asian men do.
Asian men are only interested in having us so that we can have children and form a family. Asian men see us only as wives. In their eyes, we are these boring, quiet, obedient and meek mice.
Whereas what the ang mor men see are sexy, long-haired, provocatively-dressed sirens.
In other words, unlike Asian men, they see us as individuals and not stereotypes.
That's why I'm doing whatever it takes to snag an ang mor - dressing sexily, getting tanned within an inch of skin cancer, growing long, straight hair.
I'm doing it so that I can retain my dignity and respect!
And why go out with Asian men? They always eventually have affairs with prostitutes in some foreign country, leaving their poor wives behind. Ang mor men are not like that at all!
Some more Asian men are not as socially sophisticated as ang mor men.
For example, when I'm at a bar, I can approach an ang mor man, even a stranger, anytime and they will chat with me, buy me drinks. So pleasant!
Whereas these Asian men are downright unpleasant - always coming up and trying to chat and buy me drinks. I mean, they're complete strangers! What do they think I am? The sleazeballs!
My favourite place to meet ang mor men is Boat Quay.
I think there is something magical and romantic there, right next to the water.
One of my ang mor boyfriends also believes it's some sort of magical tradition for Asian women and ang mor men to meet by the waterside.
He said that on every pier in every Asian country, there are always Asian women there waiting to meet ang mor men! Isn't that nice?
Which is why when people call me racist for preferring ang mor men, I always disagree.
Racist is when you think of another race as inferior, whereas I think of another race as superior.
Some more, there's proof that ang mors are genetically superior to Asian men.
I mean look at chap cheng babies. So nice looking, with big, round eyes. Not like Asian babies with their slitty, chicken eyes.
So how can I possibly be racist? These people, ah, all talk cock.
Sound Advice for Super Villains
So you’ve watched Star Wars Episode III and are all inspired to become a cool baddie like Darth Vader. Here are some tips before you embark on your new career of evil:
1. When you’ve trapped a hero, don’t waste time revealing your complicated secret plot. Just faster kill the guy!
2. And don’t go and arrow some stupid underling to kill him either while you go and do other things. They’re bound to cock it up, so do it yourself!
3. Assassinations lah, aiming death rays from space lah, holding important people hostage lah – all a bit leceh. There are much easier ways to take over the world for personal financial gain. Have you tried MLM?
4. When setting off a bomb or explosive, fix the timer so it goes off, say, five seconds early, because the chao hero usually manages to defuse it two seconds before it blows.
5. Don’t carry around bags with big dollar signs on them, because it makes it easy to spot you.
6. The Speak Good English Movement is your friend. Name one credible super villain who speaks like an Ah Beng. All the really powderful baddies speak with super chiak kantang English accents.
7. When locking up your hero, don’t put him in some tool shed where he can find stuff to help him escape, or together with some other prisoners who may be inspired to help him or sacrifice themselves for him, etc. In fact, why lock him up? Just faster kill him! (See Point No. 1 above)
8. Location, location, location. Don’t be tempted to base your HQ in some ulu place like a mountain fortress or under the sea or on board some space station. Sure, the remoteness of the place may be cheaper in terms of real estate, but don’t forget the transport costs.
9. When fighting the hero, don’t bother changing into a giant lizard or what. Waste time only, and you sure die anyway.
10. Save money by having your henchmen dress in civvies instead of making expensive uniforms for them just so your organisation looks ‘saht’.
11. Make sure you early-early negotiate with the hero for a cut of the movie and merchandising rights.
1. When you’ve trapped a hero, don’t waste time revealing your complicated secret plot. Just faster kill the guy!
2. And don’t go and arrow some stupid underling to kill him either while you go and do other things. They’re bound to cock it up, so do it yourself!
3. Assassinations lah, aiming death rays from space lah, holding important people hostage lah – all a bit leceh. There are much easier ways to take over the world for personal financial gain. Have you tried MLM?
4. When setting off a bomb or explosive, fix the timer so it goes off, say, five seconds early, because the chao hero usually manages to defuse it two seconds before it blows.
5. Don’t carry around bags with big dollar signs on them, because it makes it easy to spot you.
6. The Speak Good English Movement is your friend. Name one credible super villain who speaks like an Ah Beng. All the really powderful baddies speak with super chiak kantang English accents.
7. When locking up your hero, don’t put him in some tool shed where he can find stuff to help him escape, or together with some other prisoners who may be inspired to help him or sacrifice themselves for him, etc. In fact, why lock him up? Just faster kill him! (See Point No. 1 above)
8. Location, location, location. Don’t be tempted to base your HQ in some ulu place like a mountain fortress or under the sea or on board some space station. Sure, the remoteness of the place may be cheaper in terms of real estate, but don’t forget the transport costs.
9. When fighting the hero, don’t bother changing into a giant lizard or what. Waste time only, and you sure die anyway.
10. Save money by having your henchmen dress in civvies instead of making expensive uniforms for them just so your organisation looks ‘saht’.
11. Make sure you early-early negotiate with the hero for a cut of the movie and merchandising rights.
Seven Principles of Servant Leadership
1. Servant leaders humble themselves and wait for God to exalt them (Luke 14:7-11)
2. Servant leaders follow Jesus rather than seek a position (Mark 10:32-40)
3. Servant leaders give up personal rights to find greatness in service to others (Mark 10:41-45)
4. Servant leaders can risk serving others because they trust that God is in control of their lives (John 13:3)
5. Servant leaders take up Jesus' towel of servant hood to meet the needs of others (John 13:4-11)
6. Servant leaders share their responsibility and authority with others to meet a greater need (Acts 6:1-6)
7. Servant leaders multiply their leadership by empowering others to lead (Exodus 18:17-23)
Taken from Gene Wilkes' Jesus on leadership: Becoming a servant leader
2. Servant leaders follow Jesus rather than seek a position (Mark 10:32-40)
3. Servant leaders give up personal rights to find greatness in service to others (Mark 10:41-45)
4. Servant leaders can risk serving others because they trust that God is in control of their lives (John 13:3)
5. Servant leaders take up Jesus' towel of servant hood to meet the needs of others (John 13:4-11)
6. Servant leaders share their responsibility and authority with others to meet a greater need (Acts 6:1-6)
7. Servant leaders multiply their leadership by empowering others to lead (Exodus 18:17-23)
Taken from Gene Wilkes' Jesus on leadership: Becoming a servant leader
We is can!
Met my Ahmad Ibrahim Sec buddies on Sunday. Qingzhang shared a wonderful story about his warrant officer trying to psyche his men up:
"We is can!"
Wah, best. Wo3 men2 shi4 ke2 yi3 de4!
"We is can!"
Wah, best. Wo3 men2 shi4 ke2 yi3 de4!
Oxymorons
Here are some oxymorons I came across. NO they're not idiots who use pimple cream:
Civil war
Bittersweet
Pretty ugly
Cold comfort
Holiday homework (contributed by Zikai)
Any others?
Civil war
Bittersweet
Pretty ugly
Cold comfort
Holiday homework (contributed by Zikai)
Any others?
Pastor Koo's sermon on 3 Jul: Is Heaven real?
Four reasons why I believe Heaven is real:
1. Death is not the end of everything
2. A longing of an eternal home (Ecclesiastes 3:11)
3. God's Word speaks very much and clearly of Heaven (672 references to Heaven or heavens)
4. Jesus came from Heaven (John 8:23, Revelations 21:27)
1. Death is not the end of everything
2. A longing of an eternal home (Ecclesiastes 3:11)
3. God's Word speaks very much and clearly of Heaven (672 references to Heaven or heavens)
4. Jesus came from Heaven (John 8:23, Revelations 21:27)
Sunday, July 03, 2005
Wimbledon
Just saw Venus Williams beat an injured Lindsay Davenport after going a set down and never leading till the second-last game. Too bad no Sharapova. Sigh.
On to FedEx v Mandy Moore's ex!
On to FedEx v Mandy Moore's ex!
2nd Zara purchase
I bought
A baby blue Zara stretch tee for $16.90 (UP: $24.90)
I thought I bought the purple one. Sigh. Saw wrongly.
A baby blue Zara stretch tee for $16.90 (UP: $24.90)
I thought I bought the purple one. Sigh. Saw wrongly.
Commonly misused words
Hopefully:
Sentence: "Hopefully the meeting is on Thursday."
What this means: "THe meeting on Thursday will be held in an atmosphere of hope."
What you meant: "I hope the meeting will be on THursday."
Everyday and every day
Every day (noun): "I eat dinner every day."
Everyday (adjective): "Eating dinner is an everyday affair."
Sentence: "Hopefully the meeting is on Thursday."
What this means: "THe meeting on Thursday will be held in an atmosphere of hope."
What you meant: "I hope the meeting will be on THursday."
Everyday and every day
Every day (noun): "I eat dinner every day."
Everyday (adjective): "Eating dinner is an everyday affair."
Words of Wisdom II
1. He who laughs last, thinks slowest.
2. Support bacteria; they're the only culture some people have.
3. Hard work pays off in the future; laziness pays off now.
4. Everyone has photographic memory - some just have no film.
5. If barbie's so popular, how come you have to buy her friends?
6. Light travels faster than sound: that's why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.
2. Support bacteria; they're the only culture some people have.
3. Hard work pays off in the future; laziness pays off now.
4. Everyone has photographic memory - some just have no film.
5. If barbie's so popular, how come you have to buy her friends?
6. Light travels faster than sound: that's why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.
Friday, July 01, 2005
Damn Murphy's Law!
When I need a cab it never comes.
When I don't need one like last night, 30 come in the space of 9 minutes! And this is just before midnight!
When I don't need one like last night, 30 come in the space of 9 minutes! And this is just before midnight!
Thursday, June 30, 2005
Gluttony!
Had a sumptuous lunch and dinner today, and I didn't have to pay a cent.
Lunch:
Dim sum ala carte buffet at Dragon Date Restaurant at HarbourFront Centre
$11.80+++/pax
55 portions for 8 people!
Didn't beat last year when we had 76 portions for 10 people. *burp*
Dinner:
Bacon and mushroom aglio olio linguini, Kashmiri naan, and peach melba with vanilla ice-cream at Tanglin Club's the Tavern
Lunch:
Dim sum ala carte buffet at Dragon Date Restaurant at HarbourFront Centre
$11.80+++/pax
55 portions for 8 people!
Didn't beat last year when we had 76 portions for 10 people. *burp*
Dinner:
Bacon and mushroom aglio olio linguini, Kashmiri naan, and peach melba with vanilla ice-cream at Tanglin Club's the Tavern
Lifestyle Survey - Project Blackjack II: Earn $40!
Hi Guys/Gals,
Please note that this invitation is also open to people you know.
Interviews will be conducted at Acorn's main office in Field Department 4th Floor, 241, River Valley Road. The interview is expected to take 30min.
Take note: There are THREE criteria for this interview:
1. You are a SINGAPOREAN or PERMANENT RESIDENT.
2. You are above 21 YEARS OLD.
3. You must play any local gambling related game on a regular basis (including 4D, Toto, Soccer, Horse Racing etc)
Incentive: $10-40
If you fulfil the above criteria (or know someone who does), email me your NAME and CONTACT NUMBER and you can expect to receive a call from us soon. You can then arrange a convenient time between 1100 and 2130hrs to meet us.
Feel free to refer friends or relatives interested in this survey. It's an easy way to make a quick, legal buck.
Look forward to hear from you soon! Please note that registration closes 11 July!
Thanks,
Aaron
Please note that this invitation is also open to people you know.
Interviews will be conducted at Acorn's main office in Field Department 4th Floor, 241, River Valley Road. The interview is expected to take 30min.
Take note: There are THREE criteria for this interview:
1. You are a SINGAPOREAN or PERMANENT RESIDENT.
2. You are above 21 YEARS OLD.
3. You must play any local gambling related game on a regular basis (including 4D, Toto, Soccer, Horse Racing etc)
Incentive: $10-40
If you fulfil the above criteria (or know someone who does), email me your NAME and CONTACT NUMBER and you can expect to receive a call from us soon. You can then arrange a convenient time between 1100 and 2130hrs to meet us.
Feel free to refer friends or relatives interested in this survey. It's an easy way to make a quick, legal buck.
Look forward to hear from you soon! Please note that registration closes 11 July!
Thanks,
Aaron
Tuesday, June 28, 2005
Credit Card Focus Group - Project Quality: Earn $100
Hi Guys/Gals,
Please note that this invitation is also open to people you know.
The focus group will be conducted at Acorn's main office in Field Department 4th Floor, 241, River Valley Road. The focus group is expected to take 1.5 - 2.5 hrs.
Take note: There are THREE criteria for this interview:
1. You go to ZOUK regularly.
2. You are a CREDIT CARD HOLDER.
3. You are between 28-40 YEARS OLD.
Incentive: $100.
If you fulfil the above criteria (or know someone who does), email me your NAME, CONTACT NUMBER, AGE and GENDER and you can expect to receive a call from us soon. You can then arrange a convenient time and place to meet us.
Feel free to refer friends or relatives interested in this survey. It's an easy way to make a quick, legal buck.
Look forward to hear from you soon!
Thanks,
Aaron
Please note that this invitation is also open to people you know.
The focus group will be conducted at Acorn's main office in Field Department 4th Floor, 241, River Valley Road. The focus group is expected to take 1.5 - 2.5 hrs.
Take note: There are THREE criteria for this interview:
1. You go to ZOUK regularly.
2. You are a CREDIT CARD HOLDER.
3. You are between 28-40 YEARS OLD.
Incentive: $100.
If you fulfil the above criteria (or know someone who does), email me your NAME, CONTACT NUMBER, AGE and GENDER and you can expect to receive a call from us soon. You can then arrange a convenient time and place to meet us.
Feel free to refer friends or relatives interested in this survey. It's an easy way to make a quick, legal buck.
Look forward to hear from you soon!
Thanks,
Aaron
Gluttonous Dinner
Escargots a la Bourguignonne (Burgundy-style) (1/2 dozen): $11
Borschch Soup (a richer minestrone): $7
Steak Garlic (medium-rare): $24
at Shashlik Restaurant at Far East Shopping Centre
Borschch Soup (a richer minestrone): $7
Steak Garlic (medium-rare): $24
at Shashlik Restaurant at Far East Shopping Centre
Dai dee king
Played daidee yeaterday with Jasmine and Angela. I won the first 10 straight games before Jas broke their duck. But then I won the next game so we stopped there.
Watched Wimbledon, Confed Cup, 6 Michael Jackson MTVs back-to-back, 2 American sitcoms.
Re Michael Jackson: You can say what you want about the King of Pop but his dance steps still gives me the chills. No wonder I idolised him as a kid. =]
Watched Wimbledon, Confed Cup, 6 Michael Jackson MTVs back-to-back, 2 American sitcoms.
Re Michael Jackson: You can say what you want about the King of Pop but his dance steps still gives me the chills. No wonder I idolised him as a kid. =]
Sunday, June 26, 2005
Sentosa
Had a relaxing day at Sentosa with the youth. Did not take part and was there primarily as bag-nanny. Had fun reading newspaper and playing frisbee, had a fantactic shower, then went to play Xbox. I'm exhausted!
Thursday, June 23, 2005
Medical Update II
Hi there!
Remember the Downgrading Private Aaron campaign? Well, it is almost at an end. Started in November 2003 to get me out of 1 SIR 'C' Coy, it has now progressed to the point where I've been put up to the Medical Board for permanent excuse uniform and PES E9L9. Also my excuse Duty Clerk has been extended to 13 Oct 05.
All these would not have been possible without your prayers. Thanks God. =]
Remember the Downgrading Private Aaron campaign? Well, it is almost at an end. Started in November 2003 to get me out of 1 SIR 'C' Coy, it has now progressed to the point where I've been put up to the Medical Board for permanent excuse uniform and PES E9L9. Also my excuse Duty Clerk has been extended to 13 Oct 05.
All these would not have been possible without your prayers. Thanks God. =]
The Strength of Solitude
Learning to be with God in solitude allows us to be Godly in community
by Ruth Haley Barton
One night I began to see a glimmer of something new and good for others emerging from my experiences in solitude. It was a beautiful summer evening, the windows and doors were all open, and our home and yard were full of the kind of energy that only a group of lively junior high-schoolers could bring. No matter that it was getting late, I was trying to meet a writing deadline and tomorrow was a full day of work; on this night our daughter Bethany and about twenty of her closest friends had come together for an evening of spontaneous "hanging out" at our home. Some were in the backyard playing volleyball, others were on the street shooting hoops, another contingency played pool in the basement, and always there was someone traipsing past my office for a drink or a snack.
My initial reaction to this scenario was irritation. Couldn't I just get a break here? Couldn't I get a little peace and quiet so I could get something done? This was not a new feeling for me; it is who I am when left to myself. All too often, I have responded to my life in the company of others with this kind of frustration, bent on getting my own way and shaping my environment to my own wants and needs. In fact, the awareness of my self-centeredness was one of the things that had sent me on the quest for deeper levels of transformation in the first place.
But on this night I found myself finally ready to ask a different kind of question. Rather than asking how I could manipulate my environment to get what I wanted, the question came, Is there anything from my experiences of fullness in God these days that I can bring to this moment, to these children? I wasn't asking the question out of the "guilty mom" place. I was asking it because everything in me ached to give some good gift to these teenagers. But how?
I remembered Julian of Norwich's wonderful statement about being present to God when in the company of others: "I look at God, I look at you, and I keep looking at God." Although I had often prayed for others in this way during times of solitude, on that night I decided to try it in the midst of a very ordinary moment of my life as a busy mom in a houseful of kids, facing deadlines and long workdays, a moment that is repeated over and over again these days. I thought, If my experiences in solitude and silence don't make a difference in this real life moment, then I'm not sure any of this is worth much.
So I looked at God. Sitting in front of my computer trying to bang out an article, tired, kids coming and going from every door … I turned inward to that place of quiet where I had grown accustomed to meeting God and asked him to give me sacred eyes-set-apart eyes to see and feel and know spiritual reality in this moment.
Then as I turned my eyes to the children, I began to see and feel things that were a bit uncharacteristic for me. Rather than being frustrated by the desire to be alone so I could write, I was filled with gratitude that these young people had chosen to be in a home where parents are present, expending their youthful energy in life-affirming ways. Rather than wishing my home were quiet, I began experiencing the noise and activity as the energy of youthful spirit, and I was drawn to it, filled by it. Rather than experiencing their comings and goings and curious questions as interruptions, I started noticing how beautiful and distinct each one was, and I was enlivened by the privilege of interacting with them.
After looking with sacred eyes at these children, I looked back at God, and I sensed his love for them filling my own heart. A deep, beyond-words kind of prayer welled up, a prayer that somehow they would be blessed by the bits and pieces of our togetherness.
Rather than the tiredness of one more evening of parental responsibility, being present to God in this moment somehow graced my heart with love and renewed energy and wonder. I touched a spiritual dynamic that was beyond my own ability to produce. In the midst of external noise and chaos, I was present to God in the company of others, and I was changed by it.
I had not moved beyond solitude; rather, by God's grace I brought the quietness of my solitude right into the present moment. I was learning, through experience and experimentation, that solitude does not consist only in creating perfect conditions outside myself in a retreat center, a church or a devotional corner; the quietness of solitude and silence was becoming an inner condition within which I was able to recognize and respond to the stirrings, the voice, the very Presence of God himself.
And so the practices of solitude and silence do, in time, bring us full circle—back into life in the human community. Whether we have been away for a half an hour of solitude, had an extended retreat time or have dropped completely out of sight for a while, God, in his time, does eventually bring us back to the life he has given us. Perhaps nothing in our external circumstances has changed, but we have changed, and that's what our world needs more than anything.
Without pressing or pushing or trying to do a great altruistic deed, we discover that much that happens in solitude and silence ends up being "for others"—as paradoxical as that may seem. Our speech patterns are refined by the discipline of silence, because growing self-awareness enables us to choose more truly the words we say. Rather than speech that issues from subconscious needs to impress, to put others in their place, to compete, to control and manipulate, to repay hurt with hurt, we now notice our inner dynamics and choose to speak from a different place, a place of love, trust and true wisdom that God is cultivating within us. Over time we become safer for other seeking souls, because we are able to be with them and the issues they are dealing with without being hooked by our own anxieties and fears. We are comfortable with our humanity, because we have experienced God's love and compassion in that place, and so it becomes very natural for us to extend love and compassion to others in their humanity.
For all of our piety and activity, we Christians are not always known for our kindness. Sometimes we are downright mean and judgmental. But most, if not all, of our meanness comes out of the places within us that have been unattended and untouched by God's love. Every broken place that has not been healed and transformed in God's presence is a hard edge of our personality that slices and dices other people when they bump up against it.
No wonder Bonhoeffer makes the startling and counterintuitive statement, "Let him who cannot be alone beware of community." Without solitude we are dangerous in the human community and in the Christian community, because we are at the mercy of our compulsions, compelled by our inner emptiness into a self-oriented, anxious search for fullness in the next round of activities, accomplishments or relationships. When we are not finding ourselves loved by God in solitude, in the company of others we are always on the prowl for ways they can fill our emptiness. We enter life in community trying to grab and grasp from others what only God can give.
On the other hand, when we are experiencing ourselves as the beloved of God, accepted and cherished by him in all of our beauty and brokenness, our hard, rough edges start to soften. We begin to see others as beloved as well, and that is what gets reflected back to them when they look into our eyes. Not only does the love of God come to us in solitude, the love of God begins to pour through us to others. This is a very different kind of productivity, and only God can bring it forth.
Taken from Invitation to Solitude and Silence by Ruth Haley Barton. ©2004 by Ruth Haley Barton. Used by permission of InterVarsity Press, P.O. Box 1400, Downers Grove, IL 60515. www.ivpress.com
by Ruth Haley Barton
One night I began to see a glimmer of something new and good for others emerging from my experiences in solitude. It was a beautiful summer evening, the windows and doors were all open, and our home and yard were full of the kind of energy that only a group of lively junior high-schoolers could bring. No matter that it was getting late, I was trying to meet a writing deadline and tomorrow was a full day of work; on this night our daughter Bethany and about twenty of her closest friends had come together for an evening of spontaneous "hanging out" at our home. Some were in the backyard playing volleyball, others were on the street shooting hoops, another contingency played pool in the basement, and always there was someone traipsing past my office for a drink or a snack.
My initial reaction to this scenario was irritation. Couldn't I just get a break here? Couldn't I get a little peace and quiet so I could get something done? This was not a new feeling for me; it is who I am when left to myself. All too often, I have responded to my life in the company of others with this kind of frustration, bent on getting my own way and shaping my environment to my own wants and needs. In fact, the awareness of my self-centeredness was one of the things that had sent me on the quest for deeper levels of transformation in the first place.
But on this night I found myself finally ready to ask a different kind of question. Rather than asking how I could manipulate my environment to get what I wanted, the question came, Is there anything from my experiences of fullness in God these days that I can bring to this moment, to these children? I wasn't asking the question out of the "guilty mom" place. I was asking it because everything in me ached to give some good gift to these teenagers. But how?
I remembered Julian of Norwich's wonderful statement about being present to God when in the company of others: "I look at God, I look at you, and I keep looking at God." Although I had often prayed for others in this way during times of solitude, on that night I decided to try it in the midst of a very ordinary moment of my life as a busy mom in a houseful of kids, facing deadlines and long workdays, a moment that is repeated over and over again these days. I thought, If my experiences in solitude and silence don't make a difference in this real life moment, then I'm not sure any of this is worth much.
So I looked at God. Sitting in front of my computer trying to bang out an article, tired, kids coming and going from every door … I turned inward to that place of quiet where I had grown accustomed to meeting God and asked him to give me sacred eyes-set-apart eyes to see and feel and know spiritual reality in this moment.
Then as I turned my eyes to the children, I began to see and feel things that were a bit uncharacteristic for me. Rather than being frustrated by the desire to be alone so I could write, I was filled with gratitude that these young people had chosen to be in a home where parents are present, expending their youthful energy in life-affirming ways. Rather than wishing my home were quiet, I began experiencing the noise and activity as the energy of youthful spirit, and I was drawn to it, filled by it. Rather than experiencing their comings and goings and curious questions as interruptions, I started noticing how beautiful and distinct each one was, and I was enlivened by the privilege of interacting with them.
After looking with sacred eyes at these children, I looked back at God, and I sensed his love for them filling my own heart. A deep, beyond-words kind of prayer welled up, a prayer that somehow they would be blessed by the bits and pieces of our togetherness.
Rather than the tiredness of one more evening of parental responsibility, being present to God in this moment somehow graced my heart with love and renewed energy and wonder. I touched a spiritual dynamic that was beyond my own ability to produce. In the midst of external noise and chaos, I was present to God in the company of others, and I was changed by it.
I had not moved beyond solitude; rather, by God's grace I brought the quietness of my solitude right into the present moment. I was learning, through experience and experimentation, that solitude does not consist only in creating perfect conditions outside myself in a retreat center, a church or a devotional corner; the quietness of solitude and silence was becoming an inner condition within which I was able to recognize and respond to the stirrings, the voice, the very Presence of God himself.
And so the practices of solitude and silence do, in time, bring us full circle—back into life in the human community. Whether we have been away for a half an hour of solitude, had an extended retreat time or have dropped completely out of sight for a while, God, in his time, does eventually bring us back to the life he has given us. Perhaps nothing in our external circumstances has changed, but we have changed, and that's what our world needs more than anything.
Without pressing or pushing or trying to do a great altruistic deed, we discover that much that happens in solitude and silence ends up being "for others"—as paradoxical as that may seem. Our speech patterns are refined by the discipline of silence, because growing self-awareness enables us to choose more truly the words we say. Rather than speech that issues from subconscious needs to impress, to put others in their place, to compete, to control and manipulate, to repay hurt with hurt, we now notice our inner dynamics and choose to speak from a different place, a place of love, trust and true wisdom that God is cultivating within us. Over time we become safer for other seeking souls, because we are able to be with them and the issues they are dealing with without being hooked by our own anxieties and fears. We are comfortable with our humanity, because we have experienced God's love and compassion in that place, and so it becomes very natural for us to extend love and compassion to others in their humanity.
For all of our piety and activity, we Christians are not always known for our kindness. Sometimes we are downright mean and judgmental. But most, if not all, of our meanness comes out of the places within us that have been unattended and untouched by God's love. Every broken place that has not been healed and transformed in God's presence is a hard edge of our personality that slices and dices other people when they bump up against it.
No wonder Bonhoeffer makes the startling and counterintuitive statement, "Let him who cannot be alone beware of community." Without solitude we are dangerous in the human community and in the Christian community, because we are at the mercy of our compulsions, compelled by our inner emptiness into a self-oriented, anxious search for fullness in the next round of activities, accomplishments or relationships. When we are not finding ourselves loved by God in solitude, in the company of others we are always on the prowl for ways they can fill our emptiness. We enter life in community trying to grab and grasp from others what only God can give.
On the other hand, when we are experiencing ourselves as the beloved of God, accepted and cherished by him in all of our beauty and brokenness, our hard, rough edges start to soften. We begin to see others as beloved as well, and that is what gets reflected back to them when they look into our eyes. Not only does the love of God come to us in solitude, the love of God begins to pour through us to others. This is a very different kind of productivity, and only God can bring it forth.
Taken from Invitation to Solitude and Silence by Ruth Haley Barton. ©2004 by Ruth Haley Barton. Used by permission of InterVarsity Press, P.O. Box 1400, Downers Grove, IL 60515. www.ivpress.com
A Tribute to 2WO Teh Kok Lian
This is a tribute to 2WO Teh Kok Lian, who passed away in the line of duty on the morning of 22 June 2005 at Jurong Camp
Sir,
I didn't know you well, but you struck me as someone different from other Warrant Officers. Somehow you hid whatever bitterness you must have collected to reach where you did in the SAF.
The only time I met you was when you helped us move our outgoing commander's belongings to his new unit. You didn't have to do it, but you did. And I know it wasn't the only time you've helped our office. You certainly helped cheer up my Mdm when she felt down and I know she considered you one of her closer friends. You guys were even supposed to catch a movie later that fateful day. But it was not to be.
How ironic that you should pass away while doing something that showed your commitment to the organisation. You were supposed to be on leave that day but you decided to come back for the Life Run. As I mentioned to 2LT Hafiz the other day, you never know which decision will be your last.
We are all devastated but none more so than your young family. I pray people will be there for them the way you've been there for others.
Ironically the one thing I associate you with is your Toyota MPV with the sliding door. I remember being so suaku when I first saw it.
I believe you were someone who put yourself before others. Belatedly, thanks again for helping us move the stuff.
God bless you, CPL Aaron Wong
Sir,
I didn't know you well, but you struck me as someone different from other Warrant Officers. Somehow you hid whatever bitterness you must have collected to reach where you did in the SAF.
The only time I met you was when you helped us move our outgoing commander's belongings to his new unit. You didn't have to do it, but you did. And I know it wasn't the only time you've helped our office. You certainly helped cheer up my Mdm when she felt down and I know she considered you one of her closer friends. You guys were even supposed to catch a movie later that fateful day. But it was not to be.
How ironic that you should pass away while doing something that showed your commitment to the organisation. You were supposed to be on leave that day but you decided to come back for the Life Run. As I mentioned to 2LT Hafiz the other day, you never know which decision will be your last.
We are all devastated but none more so than your young family. I pray people will be there for them the way you've been there for others.
Ironically the one thing I associate you with is your Toyota MPV with the sliding door. I remember being so suaku when I first saw it.
I believe you were someone who put yourself before others. Belatedly, thanks again for helping us move the stuff.
God bless you, CPL Aaron Wong
Tuesday, June 21, 2005
Teacher's survival kit
Contained: To help you survive teaching
Toothpick - to help you "pick" out the good qualities in others and yourself
Crayon - to color you day bright and cheerful
Hugs and Kisses - for when you need a hug
Candle - when you're up late grading papers
Eraser - to remind you everyone makes mistakes
Rubber band - to remind you to be flexible and try to work on "win-win" situations
String - to ties things together when everything falls apart
Pencil - to "write your wrongs"
Marbles - to replace the ones you've lost (we enclosed extra, you'll need them later)
Lifesaver candy - you are a lifesaver to many of your students
Paperclip - to hold it all together
Jewel - because you are as valuable as any precious stone
and a Prayer for you to say at the start of each day
Toothpick - to help you "pick" out the good qualities in others and yourself
Crayon - to color you day bright and cheerful
Hugs and Kisses - for when you need a hug
Candle - when you're up late grading papers
Eraser - to remind you everyone makes mistakes
Rubber band - to remind you to be flexible and try to work on "win-win" situations
String - to ties things together when everything falls apart
Pencil - to "write your wrongs"
Marbles - to replace the ones you've lost (we enclosed extra, you'll need them later)
Lifesaver candy - you are a lifesaver to many of your students
Paperclip - to hold it all together
Jewel - because you are as valuable as any precious stone
and a Prayer for you to say at the start of each day
Monday, June 20, 2005
Words of wisdom
1. Common sense is most uncommon.
2. Parents afraid to put their foot down usually have children who step on their toes.
3. Promises are like babies: easy to make but hard to deliver.
2. Parents afraid to put their foot down usually have children who step on their toes.
3. Promises are like babies: easy to make but hard to deliver.
Engineers vs. Management
A man in a hot air balloon realized he was lost. He reduced altitude and spotted a woman below. He descended a bit more and shouted, "Excuse me, can you help me? I promised a friend I would meet him an hour ago, but I don't know where I am."
The woman below replied, "You're in a hot air balloon hovering approximately 30 feet above the ground. You're between 40 and 41 degrees north latitude and between 59 and 6 degrees west longitude."
"You must be an engineer," said the balloonist.
"I am," replied the woman, "How did you know?"
"Well," answered the balloonist, "everything you told me is, technically correct, but I've no idea what to make of your information, and the fact is I'm still lost. Frankly, you've not been much help at all. If anything, you've delayed my trip."
The woman below responded, "You must be in management."
"I am," replied the balloonist, "but how did you know?"
"Well," said the woman, "you don't know where you are or where you're going. You have risen to where you are due to a large quantity of hot air. You made a promise which you've no idea how to keep, and you expect people beneath you to solve your problems. The fact is you are in exactly the same position you were in before we met, but now, somehow, it's my fault."
The woman below replied, "You're in a hot air balloon hovering approximately 30 feet above the ground. You're between 40 and 41 degrees north latitude and between 59 and 6 degrees west longitude."
"You must be an engineer," said the balloonist.
"I am," replied the woman, "How did you know?"
"Well," answered the balloonist, "everything you told me is, technically correct, but I've no idea what to make of your information, and the fact is I'm still lost. Frankly, you've not been much help at all. If anything, you've delayed my trip."
The woman below responded, "You must be in management."
"I am," replied the balloonist, "but how did you know?"
"Well," said the woman, "you don't know where you are or where you're going. You have risen to where you are due to a large quantity of hot air. You made a promise which you've no idea how to keep, and you expect people beneath you to solve your problems. The fact is you are in exactly the same position you were in before we met, but now, somehow, it's my fault."
Great quotes
"Great ambition and conquest without contribution is without significance. How will history remember you?"
- William Hundert, in The Emperor's Club
"What you are is God's gift to you; what you make of yourself is your gift to God."
- Carly Fiorina, ex-Hewlett Packard CEO
- William Hundert, in The Emperor's Club
"What you are is God's gift to you; what you make of yourself is your gift to God."
- Carly Fiorina, ex-Hewlett Packard CEO
Saturday, June 18, 2005
Camp anecdotes
A few gems from Rev Kevin Forlong about our dear tone-deaf Duncan:
You are so skinny, your striped pyjamas have only one stripe.
You are so skinny, you have to run around in the shower to get wet.
A few words of truth:
Fear is the darkroom where negatives are developed.
Tithing is curse insurance.
You are so skinny, your striped pyjamas have only one stripe.
You are so skinny, you have to run around in the shower to get wet.
A few words of truth:
Fear is the darkroom where negatives are developed.
Tithing is curse insurance.
The Return of the King
Nah, it's just me. Just needed a title to catch ya eye.
I had a wonderfully fantastic time at Church Camp this year. To allt hose who didn't go, you really mised out on a lot.
Revisiting Awana Kijal was a masterstroke, as familiarity meant we did not need to reexplore the campsite for fun things to do. We already knew the hotspots: beach soccer, beach volleyball, table-tennis, pool, other people's rooms, bridge/dai dee table etc.
Most importantly, the camp theme of 'The Abundant Living' is such a promise of blessing and abundance in our lives and Agape. Speaker Kevin Forlong (brother of the recent co-winner of the Golden Boot) was really on top form as God anointed him to prophesy over certain church members and over our church also. I'm really excited over how God wants to use our church to reach out to all kinds of people, esp the mariginalised and young people.
On the last morning, we had an anointing service where Rev Kevin anointed our pastors with oil, then the pastors did likewise to the leaders, before the leaders anointed the members. I had the opportunity to pray for Jianliang, Jackson, Samuel and Stanley. I believe God has great things in store for our ALG and I really want the good things that happened during camp to be commonplace in Agape.
We had durians on Tuesday and Thursday; I only indulged in the bitter on Thurs. THursday night also saw Tony Leung (Stanley) and Li Nanxing (the real deal!) singing us a couple of songs! Yes! Li Nanxing is in my church! He really is a down-to-earth fellow and I know the opportunity will open up for God to use him in Agape. Maybe he can be the auntie-drawer for our Chinese service. =]
Allen challenged the Worship Team at camp to serve all possible sessions, and this is to be extended to normal Sundays. I believe putting God first should come above personal convenience, and I pray He gives us the strength to persevere. Personally, I played till my left hand and right arm was about to drop off! =] But seriously, Allen's on the right track.
I had much fun playing sports that I hadn't touched since last year's church camp. Beach volleyball and soccer was on the menu as I played without breaking much sweat and hence did not break out in much rash. Thursday afternoon was particularly memorable as we played soccer on casuarina-lined carpet grass. Shoik ah! I know my doctor said to wear dark long-sleeved shirts and a cap when out in the sun, but seriously. =]
Nighttime brought me, Jasmine, Zikai, Teckseng and Yili out to a table outside in the corridor where we played bridge and dai dee to our heart's content. I've never been so gelak of dai dee, not even when i played 100+ sets on the PC!
Speaking of Zikai and Teckseng, Rev Kevin had words of prophesy on them both and how God would use them. I know I'm in the company of God's anointed, and I'm proud to be serving with them in the trenches of God's battlefield.
I believe God has breakthrough planned for Agape, and I wanna be right there when it happens.
Be ready, for the Return of the King is nigh.
I had a wonderfully fantastic time at Church Camp this year. To allt hose who didn't go, you really mised out on a lot.
Revisiting Awana Kijal was a masterstroke, as familiarity meant we did not need to reexplore the campsite for fun things to do. We already knew the hotspots: beach soccer, beach volleyball, table-tennis, pool, other people's rooms, bridge/dai dee table etc.
Most importantly, the camp theme of 'The Abundant Living' is such a promise of blessing and abundance in our lives and Agape. Speaker Kevin Forlong (brother of the recent co-winner of the Golden Boot) was really on top form as God anointed him to prophesy over certain church members and over our church also. I'm really excited over how God wants to use our church to reach out to all kinds of people, esp the mariginalised and young people.
On the last morning, we had an anointing service where Rev Kevin anointed our pastors with oil, then the pastors did likewise to the leaders, before the leaders anointed the members. I had the opportunity to pray for Jianliang, Jackson, Samuel and Stanley. I believe God has great things in store for our ALG and I really want the good things that happened during camp to be commonplace in Agape.
We had durians on Tuesday and Thursday; I only indulged in the bitter on Thurs. THursday night also saw Tony Leung (Stanley) and Li Nanxing (the real deal!) singing us a couple of songs! Yes! Li Nanxing is in my church! He really is a down-to-earth fellow and I know the opportunity will open up for God to use him in Agape. Maybe he can be the auntie-drawer for our Chinese service. =]
Allen challenged the Worship Team at camp to serve all possible sessions, and this is to be extended to normal Sundays. I believe putting God first should come above personal convenience, and I pray He gives us the strength to persevere. Personally, I played till my left hand and right arm was about to drop off! =] But seriously, Allen's on the right track.
I had much fun playing sports that I hadn't touched since last year's church camp. Beach volleyball and soccer was on the menu as I played without breaking much sweat and hence did not break out in much rash. Thursday afternoon was particularly memorable as we played soccer on casuarina-lined carpet grass. Shoik ah! I know my doctor said to wear dark long-sleeved shirts and a cap when out in the sun, but seriously. =]
Nighttime brought me, Jasmine, Zikai, Teckseng and Yili out to a table outside in the corridor where we played bridge and dai dee to our heart's content. I've never been so gelak of dai dee, not even when i played 100+ sets on the PC!
Speaking of Zikai and Teckseng, Rev Kevin had words of prophesy on them both and how God would use them. I know I'm in the company of God's anointed, and I'm proud to be serving with them in the trenches of God's battlefield.
I believe God has breakthrough planned for Agape, and I wanna be right there when it happens.
Be ready, for the Return of the King is nigh.
Sunday, June 12, 2005
Woodchucking woodchucks
How much wood can a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood?
He could chuck as much wood as a woodchuck could chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood.
He could chuck as much wood as a woodchuck could chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood.
Church Camp in Trengganu (Part Deux)
Ok I'm going on monday morning. Need anything urgently, call my parents at 63861055. No roaming and email on my side. Aaron, out.
Saturday, June 11, 2005
Elementary Mathematics
Romance Mathematics:
Smart man + Smart woman = romance
Smart man + Dumb woman = affair
Dumb man + Smart woman = marriage
Dumb man + Dumb woman = pregnancy
Office Arithmetic:
Smart Boss + Smart Employee = Profit
Smart Boss + Dumb Employee = Production
Dumb Boss + Smart Employee = Promotion
Dumb Boss + Dumb Employee = Overtime
Shopping Sums:
A man will pay $2 for a $1 item he needs.
A woman will pay $1 for a $2 item she doesn't need.
"Look honey, 2003 calendars are at 80% off!"
General Equations:
A woman worries about the future until she gets a husband.
A man never worries about the future until he gets a wife.
A successful man is one who makes more money than his wife can spend.
A successful woman is one who can find such a man.
Smart man + Smart woman = romance
Smart man + Dumb woman = affair
Dumb man + Smart woman = marriage
Dumb man + Dumb woman = pregnancy
Office Arithmetic:
Smart Boss + Smart Employee = Profit
Smart Boss + Dumb Employee = Production
Dumb Boss + Smart Employee = Promotion
Dumb Boss + Dumb Employee = Overtime
Shopping Sums:
A man will pay $2 for a $1 item he needs.
A woman will pay $1 for a $2 item she doesn't need.
"Look honey, 2003 calendars are at 80% off!"
General Equations:
A woman worries about the future until she gets a husband.
A man never worries about the future until he gets a wife.
A successful man is one who makes more money than his wife can spend.
A successful woman is one who can find such a man.
Five Levels of Intimacy with God (John 15:4-5)
1. Aloof (convenient, disobedient)
2. Acquainted (can profit)
3. Associated (performance-based)
4. Affectionate (emotional, situational)
5. Abiding (pruning, trusting, dependent, fruitful)
2. Acquainted (can profit)
3. Associated (performance-based)
4. Affectionate (emotional, situational)
5. Abiding (pruning, trusting, dependent, fruitful)
Friday, June 10, 2005
EuroEnglish!
Important Announcement:
The European Union commissioners have announced that agreement has been reached to adopt English as the preferred language for European communications, rather than German, which was the other possibility. As part of the negotiations, Her Majesty's Government conceded that English spelling had some room for improvement and has accepted a five-year phased plan for what will be known as EuroEnglish (Euro for short).
In the first year, 's' will be used instead of the soft 'c'. Sertainly, sivil servants will resieve this news with joy. Also, the hard 'c' will be replaced with 'k.' Not only will this klear up konfusion, but typewriters kan have one less letter.
There will be growing publik enthusiasm in the sekond year, when the troublesome 'ph' will be replaced by 'f'. This will make words like 'fotograf' 20 per sent shorter.
In the third year, publik akseptanse of the new spelling kan be expekted to reach the stage where more komplikated changes are possible. Governments will enkourage the removal of double letters, which have always ben a deterent to akurate speling. Also, al wil agre that the horible mes of silent 'e's in the languag is disgrasful, and they would go.
By the fourth year, peopl wil be reseptiv to steps such as replasing 'th' by 'z' and 'w' by 'v'. During ze fifz year, ze unesesary 'o' kan be dropd from vords kontaining 'ou', and similar changes vud of kors; be aplid to ozer kombinations of leters.
After zis fifz yer, ve vil hav a reli sensibl riten styl. Zer vil b no mor trubls or difikultis and evrivun vil find it ezi tu understand ech ozer. Ze drem vil finali kum tru. Ja mein Fuhrer!
The European Union commissioners have announced that agreement has been reached to adopt English as the preferred language for European communications, rather than German, which was the other possibility. As part of the negotiations, Her Majesty's Government conceded that English spelling had some room for improvement and has accepted a five-year phased plan for what will be known as EuroEnglish (Euro for short).
In the first year, 's' will be used instead of the soft 'c'. Sertainly, sivil servants will resieve this news with joy. Also, the hard 'c' will be replaced with 'k.' Not only will this klear up konfusion, but typewriters kan have one less letter.
There will be growing publik enthusiasm in the sekond year, when the troublesome 'ph' will be replaced by 'f'. This will make words like 'fotograf' 20 per sent shorter.
In the third year, publik akseptanse of the new spelling kan be expekted to reach the stage where more komplikated changes are possible. Governments will enkourage the removal of double letters, which have always ben a deterent to akurate speling. Also, al wil agre that the horible mes of silent 'e's in the languag is disgrasful, and they would go.
By the fourth year, peopl wil be reseptiv to steps such as replasing 'th' by 'z' and 'w' by 'v'. During ze fifz year, ze unesesary 'o' kan be dropd from vords kontaining 'ou', and similar changes vud of kors; be aplid to ozer kombinations of leters.
After zis fifz yer, ve vil hav a reli sensibl riten styl. Zer vil b no mor trubls or difikultis and evrivun vil find it ezi tu understand ech ozer. Ze drem vil finali kum tru. Ja mein Fuhrer!
I am a mother pheasant plucker!
I am a mother pheasant plucker,
I pluck mother pheasants.
I am the
best mother pheasant plucker,
that ever plucked a mother pheasant!
Try this tongue twister without letting anything slip out! Courtesy of Jesz
I pluck mother pheasants.
I am the
best mother pheasant plucker,
that ever plucked a mother pheasant!
Try this tongue twister without letting anything slip out! Courtesy of Jesz
Thursday, June 09, 2005
"Your suffering is my enjoyment"
So we have a new HQ CSM, whose name is 2WO Chee. Some of my esteemed colleagues would add a suitable suffix to form a Hokkien expletive, but that's another story. His infamous quote on the first day proved me right, when I told Kimjin that "this roll call will set the tone for the rest of his reign". He then said the ill-dated sentence: "Your suffering is my enjoyment." He also proceeded to tell us how us being good, obedient soldiers would make him sad as he wouldn't have the chance to f**k us all.
Someone needs to check this fella before he kills us all. Anyway he's this imposing fella with a bald pate who's quite work-shy. And he's always saying anyone with hair longer than his needs a cut. It might be funnt the first time, but not the twentieth. Bleah.
Someone needs to check this fella before he kills us all. Anyway he's this imposing fella with a bald pate who's quite work-shy. And he's always saying anyone with hair longer than his needs a cut. It might be funnt the first time, but not the twentieth. Bleah.
Army Fitness System
My Comd now has me on board this exciting new initiative to evaluate and improve army fitness through optimal effort. Just sat through a three-hour meeting but emerged enthralled and perhaps rejuvenated that there perhaps is still some initiative and pro-activeness left in me. Perhaps it all boils down to the significance of what I am doing now and the fact that he trusts me to accomplish things working hand-in-hand with him. I respect him for his ideologies in getting work done and how he analyses problems and picks out the crux of the matter. I can learn problem identifying and solving from him. Perhaps the last four months of my NS liability will turn out to be the most productive. I appreciate the effort some people are putting in making the SAF a more efficient organisation, and not jsut working because it pays the bills. The motivation for the work you do is just as important as the tools you employ to achieve your goal. I hope to glean as much from him as I can in the little time I have left. All the same, I hope he doesn't stay back too late. =]
Guess-the-google
http://grant.robinson.name/projects/guess-the-google/
Theis website shows you a collage of 20 images and you're supposed to guess the word you can "google" to obtain those 20 images. Pretty fun, and actually needs brains to play. =]
Theis website shows you a collage of 20 images and you're supposed to guess the word you can "google" to obtain those 20 images. Pretty fun, and actually needs brains to play. =]
Tuesday, June 07, 2005
Church Camp in Trengganu
I won't be around next week as I'll be in sunny Trengganu NOT soaking up the sun for my Church Camp. Contrary to all expectations I managed to take leave to go and I'm really excited. Really looking forward to it and also revisiting a scene of great memories *wink*
I really hope I recover enough to play beach soccer and volleyball there. I want to play by faith to prove that God can give me the Quality of Life even though I have eczema.
I really hope I recover enough to play beach soccer and volleyball there. I want to play by faith to prove that God can give me the Quality of Life even though I have eczema.
Monday, June 06, 2005
Pastor Koo's sermon on 5 June: Living a Balanced Life
How to Grow in Physical Stature:
1. Get enough rest.
2. Make time for exercise.
3. eat healthy.
4. Avoid harmful habits and abusive practices.
5. Manage and reduce stress.
Practical wisdom
= Knowledge + Understanding
= Information + Transformation
Two Kinds of Wisdom:
1. Earthly, unspiritual, devilish
2. Heavenly, spiritual, divine
How to Get Wisdom:
1. Study the Scripture.
2. Read instead of watching TV or videos.
3. Read wholesome material.
4. Hang out with wise people.
5. Act on what you learn.
1. Get enough rest.
2. Make time for exercise.
3. eat healthy.
4. Avoid harmful habits and abusive practices.
5. Manage and reduce stress.
Practical wisdom
= Knowledge + Understanding
= Information + Transformation
Two Kinds of Wisdom:
1. Earthly, unspiritual, devilish
2. Heavenly, spiritual, divine
How to Get Wisdom:
1. Study the Scripture.
2. Read instead of watching TV or videos.
3. Read wholesome material.
4. Hang out with wise people.
5. Act on what you learn.
Saturday, June 04, 2005
Dr Seuss of Technical Support
Here's an easy game to play.
Here's an easy thing to say:
If a packet hits a pocket on a socket on a port,
And the bus is interrupted as a very last resort,
And the address of the memory makes your floppy disk abort,
Then the socket packet pocket has an error to report!
If your cursor finds a menu item followed by a dash,
And the double-clicking icon puts your window in the trash,
And your data is corrupted 'cause the index doesn't hash,
Then your situation's hopeless, and your system's gonna crash!
You can't say this?
What a shame sir!
We'll find you
Another game sir.
If the label on the cable on the table at your house,
Says the network is connected to the button on your mouse,
But your packets want to tunnel on another protocol,
That's repeatedly rejected by the printer down the hall,
And your screen is all distorted by the side effects of gauss
So your icons in the window are as wavy as a souse,
Then you may as well reboot and go out with a bang,
'Cause as sure as I'm a poet, the sucker's gonna hang!
When the copy of your floppy's getting sloppy on the disk,
And the microcode instructions cause unnecessary risc,
Then you have to flash your memory and you'll want to RAM your ROM.
Quickly turn off the computer and be sure to tell your mom!
Here's an easy thing to say:
If a packet hits a pocket on a socket on a port,
And the bus is interrupted as a very last resort,
And the address of the memory makes your floppy disk abort,
Then the socket packet pocket has an error to report!
If your cursor finds a menu item followed by a dash,
And the double-clicking icon puts your window in the trash,
And your data is corrupted 'cause the index doesn't hash,
Then your situation's hopeless, and your system's gonna crash!
You can't say this?
What a shame sir!
We'll find you
Another game sir.
If the label on the cable on the table at your house,
Says the network is connected to the button on your mouse,
But your packets want to tunnel on another protocol,
That's repeatedly rejected by the printer down the hall,
And your screen is all distorted by the side effects of gauss
So your icons in the window are as wavy as a souse,
Then you may as well reboot and go out with a bang,
'Cause as sure as I'm a poet, the sucker's gonna hang!
When the copy of your floppy's getting sloppy on the disk,
And the microcode instructions cause unnecessary risc,
Then you have to flash your memory and you'll want to RAM your ROM.
Quickly turn off the computer and be sure to tell your mom!
Friday, June 03, 2005
Off!
Wow it's a 2nd or 3rd off day in my NSF career! I have to go to two medical establishments later:
First, the National Skin Centre, and I forgot to bring my 11B. I hope they allow me to process my transaction even in the absence of my physical 11B. If not I have to do a medical claim which will take up to a month. I do believe today's bill will hit three figures. :p
Second, Dr Hia. He is a GP recommended by Pastor Nettie and he really seems to know what he's doing. His "two weeks on, two weeks off" Prednisalone (steroid) treatment seems to be working as I am improving. He also doesn't rush in his consultation and makes sure he has a full understanding of your symptoms and medical history before dignosis and medication, hence the long queues. I'm seeing him again later and I'll present my arsenal of creams and tablets from the Skin Centre. Among them is Elidel, a 25g tube of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory cream that corrects immune system dysfunctions. The cost? A cool $50, unless they've raised the price. Of course MINDEF's paying. I really do have to recover before ORD huh? I trust God that I will. =]
First, the National Skin Centre, and I forgot to bring my 11B. I hope they allow me to process my transaction even in the absence of my physical 11B. If not I have to do a medical claim which will take up to a month. I do believe today's bill will hit three figures. :p
Second, Dr Hia. He is a GP recommended by Pastor Nettie and he really seems to know what he's doing. His "two weeks on, two weeks off" Prednisalone (steroid) treatment seems to be working as I am improving. He also doesn't rush in his consultation and makes sure he has a full understanding of your symptoms and medical history before dignosis and medication, hence the long queues. I'm seeing him again later and I'll present my arsenal of creams and tablets from the Skin Centre. Among them is Elidel, a 25g tube of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory cream that corrects immune system dysfunctions. The cost? A cool $50, unless they've raised the price. Of course MINDEF's paying. I really do have to recover before ORD huh? I trust God that I will. =]
Saturday, May 28, 2005
Steroid blues
Well I'm into my second steroid sojourn now, and I pray the flare will be much reduced this time round. It follows that a couple of days after stopping steroids the condition will worsen drastically. It's come true. I pray the flares will get fewer and further between.
Monday, May 23, 2005
United v Arsenal
'Nuff said.
The biggest sporting farce I've ever seen. Utter dominance going ultimately unrewarded. Arsenal sans Henry is really nothing. How we didn't win by at least 3 clear goals I don't understand. Rooney and ROnaldo were on song, with the midfield dominatedby Keane and Scholes. Butthe man that mattered, van Nistelrooy, failed to deliver on 5 half-chances.
You don't know whether to laugh or cry.
And to see Arsenal celebrate like they won it on merit. If I'm Arsenal I'll be damn paiseh to win leh.
The biggest sporting farce I've ever seen. Utter dominance going ultimately unrewarded. Arsenal sans Henry is really nothing. How we didn't win by at least 3 clear goals I don't understand. Rooney and ROnaldo were on song, with the midfield dominatedby Keane and Scholes. Butthe man that mattered, van Nistelrooy, failed to deliver on 5 half-chances.
You don't know whether to laugh or cry.
And to see Arsenal celebrate like they won it on merit. If I'm Arsenal I'll be damn paiseh to win leh.
Saturday, May 14, 2005
Tongue twisters
Try these. They're supposed to improve your pronunciation:
She stood on the balcony inexplicaly mimicking him hiccupping but amicably welcoming him in.
Amidst the mists and coldest frosts, with barest wrists and stoutest boasts, he thrusts his fists against the posts and still insists he sees the ghosts.
Good for typing too. =]
She stood on the balcony inexplicaly mimicking him hiccupping but amicably welcoming him in.
Amidst the mists and coldest frosts, with barest wrists and stoutest boasts, he thrusts his fists against the posts and still insists he sees the ghosts.
Good for typing too. =]
Tuesday, May 10, 2005
Shoo-bee-da-doo-bap!
I'm bored stiff.
Literally nothing to do, or blog.
So in true Letterman style, here's the top 10 things to do when you're bored:
10. Blog nonsensical nonsense.
9. Read a motoring magazine you have no interest in.
8. Listen to your boss nag about having to pay $10 more Mess Sub.
7. Play Flash games on your computer. A cat throwing rubbish at a dog. Go figure.
6. Play tennis on your mobile phone.
5. Drink coffee.
4. Eat cookhouse lunch three times over.
3. Sneakily surf the net now and then.
2. Apply moisturiser.
and the number one thing to do when you're bored is:
1. Zzzzzzzzzzz...
Literally nothing to do, or blog.
So in true Letterman style, here's the top 10 things to do when you're bored:
10. Blog nonsensical nonsense.
9. Read a motoring magazine you have no interest in.
8. Listen to your boss nag about having to pay $10 more Mess Sub.
7. Play Flash games on your computer. A cat throwing rubbish at a dog. Go figure.
6. Play tennis on your mobile phone.
5. Drink coffee.
4. Eat cookhouse lunch three times over.
3. Sneakily surf the net now and then.
2. Apply moisturiser.
and the number one thing to do when you're bored is:
1. Zzzzzzzzzzz...
Leave approved: Signed, sealed and delivered!
Oh yeah!
For some quirky reason they shifted the block leave period to my church camp week, which coincides with an exercise we're involved in. Don't know why, but thank God.
So I can go to Trengganu for the second year in a row. I wonder who I'm bunking with. =]
Shiok man!
For some quirky reason they shifted the block leave period to my church camp week, which coincides with an exercise we're involved in. Don't know why, but thank God.
So I can go to Trengganu for the second year in a row. I wonder who I'm bunking with. =]
Shiok man!
Wednesday, May 04, 2005
5 "M"s of a Mat Roker
Similar to the businessman's 5 "C"s, the 5 "M"s are more matching to the Mat.
1. Minah,
2. Marlboro,
3. Motosikal,
4. Metal dan
5. Maintain Balan.
1. Minah,
2. Marlboro,
3. Motosikal,
4. Metal dan
5. Maintain Balan.
Thursday, April 28, 2005
My boss is back II
It's just as I feared. He's staying late again. It's gonna be a midnight oil burner today...
Wednesday, April 27, 2005
My boss is back
Sigh. My boss returns to work tmr so there goes my blissful freedom.
Good while it lasted, it's back to the grind.
Here's the schedule:
I'm going ALG today.
I'm going dentist tmr, after installing MaxOnline.
Friday I'm planless. Think Jasmine's going to a BBQ. Which means I should meet up long-lost friends.
Saturday too.
And i just realised it's a 3-day weekend!
Good while it lasted, it's back to the grind.
Here's the schedule:
I'm going ALG today.
I'm going dentist tmr, after installing MaxOnline.
Friday I'm planless. Think Jasmine's going to a BBQ. Which means I should meet up long-lost friends.
Saturday too.
And i just realised it's a 3-day weekend!
Tuesday, April 26, 2005
Leave
I really hope I can take leave for church camp. Doesn't look good, as we're preparing for exercise that week. If church camp was the week before that'd be no problem.
Two hydrogen atoms
Two hydrogen atoms meet.
One says, "I've lost my electron."
The other says, "Are you sure?"
The first replies, "I'm positive."
One says, "I've lost my electron."
The other says, "Are you sure?"
The first replies, "I'm positive."
Over budget
Hmm I went $20 over budget on my shopping spree. Now only left the controller which is proving elusive.
A USB controller that plays like a PS controller. Help? =]
A USB controller that plays like a PS controller. Help? =]
Monday, April 25, 2005
SHOP SHOP SHOP!
I bought: Dark jeans for SGD47.50 frm Volume at Far East Plaza
I bought: Brown canvas trousers for SGD47.40 frm Fragile at Far East Plaza
I bought: Green leaf-motif long-sleeved shirt for SGD42.40 frm Fragile at Far East Plaza
I bought: V-neck striped tee for SGD28 frm TwoPercent Homme at Far East Plaza
I bought: Beige Wangwo short-sleeved cowboy shirt for SGD 37.50 frm Volume at Far East Plaza.
I bought: Beige Le Coq Sportif leather shoes for SGD55 at Famous Brands in City Hall
Do the math. That's one helluva shopping spree!
I bought: Brown canvas trousers for SGD47.40 frm Fragile at Far East Plaza
I bought: Green leaf-motif long-sleeved shirt for SGD42.40 frm Fragile at Far East Plaza
I bought: V-neck striped tee for SGD28 frm TwoPercent Homme at Far East Plaza
I bought: Beige Wangwo short-sleeved cowboy shirt for SGD 37.50 frm Volume at Far East Plaza.
I bought: Beige Le Coq Sportif leather shoes for SGD55 at Famous Brands in City Hall
Do the math. That's one helluva shopping spree!
Saturday, April 23, 2005
Rotten morning
1. Skin getting worserer.
2. Mop floor and mopping skills kena mocked.
3. CrapNet, sorry PacNet, cut my connection even though the cheque is on the way.
4. As a result, went to Library to surf net and $%@$&*@$*&^!@* they don't allow you to surf Fantasy Football at Yahoo.
5. Had a heathen Indian taxi driver who slowed down before every traffic light waiting for it to turn amber, took a circuitous route. And drove like acceleration costs more money.
6. Ice coffee this morning tasted like tea. Carrot cake tasted like carrotty-carrottop hair.
But all's good. Came to Jasmine's school, got stuffed with junk food, surfed on MOE's account to my heart's content, had a proper cuppa Java, and changed my Yahoo team. So there. Now I'm going shopping.
2. Mop floor and mopping skills kena mocked.
3. CrapNet, sorry PacNet, cut my connection even though the cheque is on the way.
4. As a result, went to Library to surf net and $%@$&*@$*&^!@* they don't allow you to surf Fantasy Football at Yahoo.
5. Had a heathen Indian taxi driver who slowed down before every traffic light waiting for it to turn amber, took a circuitous route. And drove like acceleration costs more money.
6. Ice coffee this morning tasted like tea. Carrot cake tasted like carrotty-carrottop hair.
But all's good. Came to Jasmine's school, got stuffed with junk food, surfed on MOE's account to my heart's content, had a proper cuppa Java, and changed my Yahoo team. So there. Now I'm going shopping.
Thursday, April 21, 2005
Waiting
While waiting for you guys to come up with tonnes of ideas on where to get my gear, I've finished the Bde History. Sigh. Need retail therapy. Starting with the cargo pants.
Wednesday, April 20, 2005
Want list
Hmmm like what my sis has done maybe I should write a wish list, den you all can pop in with ideas on where to buy these things:
Cargo pants, thinking along the lines of grey stone-washed canvas: $50
Higher end Adidas sneakers, to go with trousers, something like the Adidas ROM. Doesn't need to be adidas though. Reef etc are fine too: $70
T-shirt, non-baggy, fitting type. Nothing too presumptuous or poseur, the varley one i have is nice. got that from bugis: $25
Short-sleeved shirt. Running outta things to wear on sundays, so i guess this is prioritaire! Nothing too loud. Topman has some, but i'm budget conscious: $40
Pseudo-PS controller for PC: $20
Levi's jeans lookalike that can be worn with anything: $60
Ideas people?
Cargo pants, thinking along the lines of grey stone-washed canvas: $50
Higher end Adidas sneakers, to go with trousers, something like the Adidas ROM. Doesn't need to be adidas though. Reef etc are fine too: $70
T-shirt, non-baggy, fitting type. Nothing too presumptuous or poseur, the varley one i have is nice. got that from bugis: $25
Short-sleeved shirt. Running outta things to wear on sundays, so i guess this is prioritaire! Nothing too loud. Topman has some, but i'm budget conscious: $40
Pseudo-PS controller for PC: $20
Levi's jeans lookalike that can be worn with anything: $60
Ideas people?
Bde History
Whee. I've started writing it, starting with the chronology. Rather interesting, seeing I have to condense an entire coffeetable book into 2 pages. If I post it here, it'd be really boring. But really I'm quite proud to be part of this Bde, with its illustrious past and premier status. I shall not wax lyrical. =]
Tuesday, April 19, 2005
Wordplay
To solve the problem of boredom, lets talk about work. And then ramble on.
I've been tasked to come up with a two-page history and heritage of our Brigade. While not so daunting, you need what programmers would call a base copy: something someone has done before that you can modify and mould, but apparently no such thing exists. I do have a book, but it was published in 1994. I have a week more to do it and I do have the resources of my RSM to call upon, but I detect a lethargy that sets in since the Boss went to ROC.
Speaking of ROC, Nicholas is there as part of 7 SIB, which is a Guards Bde. Wah, sisn't he's so garang. So his Bde is the one doing Ex High Noon, while mine is the Umpire. I'm sure he'll know someone I know somehow.
Speaking of which, I've just created Nicholas as a striker, modelled on Kewell (which makes him hella good) in Winning Eleven 8. Just got the PC edition and I've been hooked on it. Taking my time to feel this game out, but it's fun creating your own players based on their attributes and hearing the commentator saying their names with conviction. Heck there's even an Eddie Howe! Any of you guys play this, we can even play it online!!!
Speaking of which, I realise I'm having fewer and fewer things to do online. I used to play online games often in Poly, but somehow nowadays it just doesn't appeal.
Speaking of which, I'm also hooked to X-Zone at Dhoby Ghaut. You pay $3 an hour to rent an Xbox console with unlimited games. I need Xbox buddies!!!
Speaking of which, one of my closest friends is getting married in December. How time flies! To think I met her 6 years ago, when i was *gulp* 16!!!
Speaking of which, I realise I turn 22 this year, but I don't seem to want to do anything about it. Lethargy. Must break out of it before ORD.
Speaking of which, what should be my first job? I erally don't know. Should I study first? *shrugs*
Many questions, so few answers. Guess we need to use trial and error. =]
I've been tasked to come up with a two-page history and heritage of our Brigade. While not so daunting, you need what programmers would call a base copy: something someone has done before that you can modify and mould, but apparently no such thing exists. I do have a book, but it was published in 1994. I have a week more to do it and I do have the resources of my RSM to call upon, but I detect a lethargy that sets in since the Boss went to ROC.
Speaking of ROC, Nicholas is there as part of 7 SIB, which is a Guards Bde. Wah, sisn't he's so garang. So his Bde is the one doing Ex High Noon, while mine is the Umpire. I'm sure he'll know someone I know somehow.
Speaking of which, I've just created Nicholas as a striker, modelled on Kewell (which makes him hella good) in Winning Eleven 8. Just got the PC edition and I've been hooked on it. Taking my time to feel this game out, but it's fun creating your own players based on their attributes and hearing the commentator saying their names with conviction. Heck there's even an Eddie Howe! Any of you guys play this, we can even play it online!!!
Speaking of which, I realise I'm having fewer and fewer things to do online. I used to play online games often in Poly, but somehow nowadays it just doesn't appeal.
Speaking of which, I'm also hooked to X-Zone at Dhoby Ghaut. You pay $3 an hour to rent an Xbox console with unlimited games. I need Xbox buddies!!!
Speaking of which, one of my closest friends is getting married in December. How time flies! To think I met her 6 years ago, when i was *gulp* 16!!!
Speaking of which, I realise I turn 22 this year, but I don't seem to want to do anything about it. Lethargy. Must break out of it before ORD.
Speaking of which, what should be my first job? I erally don't know. Should I study first? *shrugs*
Many questions, so few answers. Guess we need to use trial and error. =]
ORD update
ORD calculator
0 years 5 months 20 days 15 houre 54 minutes 37 seconds to 9 October 2005
OR 5.679 months [*4.35]
OR 24.702 weeks [*7.00]
OR 172.913 days [*24.00]
OR 4,149.910 hours [*60.00]
OR 248,994.617 minutes [*60.00]
OR 14,939,677 seconds (after that it just gets depressing)
OR 20.281% of NS to serve!
Correct as at (CAA) 08:05:23 on 19 April 2005
But, as StarHub would say, What's next?
0 years 5 months 20 days 15 houre 54 minutes 37 seconds to 9 October 2005
OR 5.679 months [*4.35]
OR 24.702 weeks [*7.00]
OR 172.913 days [*24.00]
OR 4,149.910 hours [*60.00]
OR 248,994.617 minutes [*60.00]
OR 14,939,677 seconds (after that it just gets depressing)
OR 20.281% of NS to serve!
Correct as at (CAA) 08:05:23 on 19 April 2005
But, as StarHub would say, What's next?
Saturday, April 16, 2005
MC King
Sigh.
I've spent basically the whole week on MC, with an acute flare-up of my eczema. I trust God will heal me eventually, but it really hurts. I mean HURTS. It's like everytime i have to bathe, it's like splashing water on a fresh (flesh?) wound. Everytime. I dread showering. Applying moisturiser means more gritted teeth. I'd post a picture, but it'd probably be censured. =]
Remember me the way you saw me last, it's better for you that way. And maybe the next time i see you, i'll be that way again.
If i don't recover by Monday, I guess I have to visit my good friend the MO again. They know me by name liao.
"You are the Lord that healeth me
You are the Lord my Healer
You sent Your word and healed my disease
You are the Lord my Healer"
FYI: Eczema affects 1 in 5 Singaporeans. Look around, and try to make life that little bit easier for them. Just imagine: no sports, football, sweat, prawns, seafood, Narcissistic moments in the mirror.
I've spent basically the whole week on MC, with an acute flare-up of my eczema. I trust God will heal me eventually, but it really hurts. I mean HURTS. It's like everytime i have to bathe, it's like splashing water on a fresh (flesh?) wound. Everytime. I dread showering. Applying moisturiser means more gritted teeth. I'd post a picture, but it'd probably be censured. =]
Remember me the way you saw me last, it's better for you that way. And maybe the next time i see you, i'll be that way again.
If i don't recover by Monday, I guess I have to visit my good friend the MO again. They know me by name liao.
"You are the Lord that healeth me
You are the Lord my Healer
You sent Your word and healed my disease
You are the Lord my Healer"
FYI: Eczema affects 1 in 5 Singaporeans. Look around, and try to make life that little bit easier for them. Just imagine: no sports, football, sweat, prawns, seafood, Narcissistic moments in the mirror.
Thursday, April 07, 2005
New boss
So I got a new boss in town.
He's a commando.
He's a workaholic.
God bless our social lives.
But he's nice so far.
Maybe the doomsayers are wrong.
His ex-runner did look to be very happy to be rid of him.
Hmmm.
He's a commando.
He's a workaholic.
God bless our social lives.
But he's nice so far.
Maybe the doomsayers are wrong.
His ex-runner did look to be very happy to be rid of him.
Hmmm.
Monday, March 21, 2005
Mission Trip
Hi guys,
Just got back from Khon Kaen Thailand on Saturday night.
Ministry-wise it was a wonderful trip and I had the opportunity to renew old acquaintances. Physically, though, i had never felt worse.
The hot weather, coupled with a post-steroid flare, meant that my face was most of the time, disfigured. Yes, that's the word. I don't have pictures, but it was quite frightful, and i was suffering most of the time. Still I thank God for small graces, and I received prayer both there and here in Singapore. On Sunday, my skin made a remarkable recovery and I'm back in camp when i thought I would need to take MC. Oh and the boss isn't in today, so that's another small mercy. =]
I wanna take this opportunity to thank lotsa people:
Gaby: For being a wonderful leader, and making the effort to look after me when we had to focus on ministry.
Mum: I know you prayed for me. Thank you. Oh and all the precious medical advice and care provided even after i returned.
Bee Shau: Thanks for praying for me and helping me. and the Vaseline too.
Duncan and SY: Thanks for being "buddies". I had a really great time with you guys.
Nana: Thanks for the lotion. And also instigating the Holy Communion. I feel that was a turning point for me.
Jenny, Lerane and Fann: Thanks for showing your concern throughout the trip. Thanks also for your prayers.
Air and James: Thanks for organising another great time of ministry. All the best for your incoming addition to the family. Do send pictures in July!
Men's ALG: I know you guys kept me in prayer. Thanks guys. You're the best.
Agape Community Church: Thanks for keeping me in prayer.
And finally Jasmine: Couldn't have gone on without you. Thanks for being a personal nurse. =] No lah, I valued your companionship and encouragement more than anything else. Love you.
Just got back from Khon Kaen Thailand on Saturday night.
Ministry-wise it was a wonderful trip and I had the opportunity to renew old acquaintances. Physically, though, i had never felt worse.
The hot weather, coupled with a post-steroid flare, meant that my face was most of the time, disfigured. Yes, that's the word. I don't have pictures, but it was quite frightful, and i was suffering most of the time. Still I thank God for small graces, and I received prayer both there and here in Singapore. On Sunday, my skin made a remarkable recovery and I'm back in camp when i thought I would need to take MC. Oh and the boss isn't in today, so that's another small mercy. =]
I wanna take this opportunity to thank lotsa people:
Gaby: For being a wonderful leader, and making the effort to look after me when we had to focus on ministry.
Mum: I know you prayed for me. Thank you. Oh and all the precious medical advice and care provided even after i returned.
Bee Shau: Thanks for praying for me and helping me. and the Vaseline too.
Duncan and SY: Thanks for being "buddies". I had a really great time with you guys.
Nana: Thanks for the lotion. And also instigating the Holy Communion. I feel that was a turning point for me.
Jenny, Lerane and Fann: Thanks for showing your concern throughout the trip. Thanks also for your prayers.
Air and James: Thanks for organising another great time of ministry. All the best for your incoming addition to the family. Do send pictures in July!
Men's ALG: I know you guys kept me in prayer. Thanks guys. You're the best.
Agape Community Church: Thanks for keeping me in prayer.
And finally Jasmine: Couldn't have gone on without you. Thanks for being a personal nurse. =] No lah, I valued your companionship and encouragement more than anything else. Love you.
Monday, March 07, 2005
Mission trip
YES!
FInally my leave for mission trip is approved! I'm going to Khon Kaen, Thailand on 14 Mar and coming back on 19 Mar. I'll be at the airport at 0615hrs in case you want to send me off. =] I'll be coming back at 2130hrs on Saturday.
I'll be going with my dear, so should be fun. Let's hope my eczema clears up there ya? Hear temperatures can hit 40.
If you need anything from the Land of Smiles just tell me ya? If not I'll just smile for you...
fun fun fun fun fun fun
SABAI DEE!!!
FInally my leave for mission trip is approved! I'm going to Khon Kaen, Thailand on 14 Mar and coming back on 19 Mar. I'll be at the airport at 0615hrs in case you want to send me off. =] I'll be coming back at 2130hrs on Saturday.
I'll be going with my dear, so should be fun. Let's hope my eczema clears up there ya? Hear temperatures can hit 40.
If you need anything from the Land of Smiles just tell me ya? If not I'll just smile for you...
fun fun fun fun fun fun
SABAI DEE!!!
Saturday, February 12, 2005
Long time no see
I haven't blogged properly in a long time so I guess I owe you guys one. To those who've been logging faithfully, I apologise, but there hasn't been enough time or material to justify consistent blogging.
Still, ask not whom the blogger blogs, I blog for you.
This blog should be interactive, so tell me what you wanna see here, and if it's within my capability, I'll blog something about it.
For today, let's just stick with something I can shoot my mouth off with: my day.
I just finished writing my reflection paper for a Learning to Care course I am completing in church. I'm glad it happened so naturally that I could just periodically refer to the file to know what I'm talking about. I should be taking the Historical Books course next term, with guest lecturers. Should be fun and difficult.
As you (might not) know, I am currently the assistant leader of my Men's ALG, serving under Pastor Koo. It's all good so far, and I'm responding better to this challenge than I thought I would. I enjoy being an effect on others' lives, and am glad to be able to have Amos and Stanley helping me out. We'll do well guys.
Just had lo hei with the worship team and it was pretty good value for $20. I have no idea what else to talk about.
I'm looking forward to tomorrow, as it's the last day of the holiday mood, before hitting the grind again. Also I'll get to watch the Manchester derby. Hooray.
Still, ask not whom the blogger blogs, I blog for you.
This blog should be interactive, so tell me what you wanna see here, and if it's within my capability, I'll blog something about it.
For today, let's just stick with something I can shoot my mouth off with: my day.
I just finished writing my reflection paper for a Learning to Care course I am completing in church. I'm glad it happened so naturally that I could just periodically refer to the file to know what I'm talking about. I should be taking the Historical Books course next term, with guest lecturers. Should be fun and difficult.
As you (might not) know, I am currently the assistant leader of my Men's ALG, serving under Pastor Koo. It's all good so far, and I'm responding better to this challenge than I thought I would. I enjoy being an effect on others' lives, and am glad to be able to have Amos and Stanley helping me out. We'll do well guys.
Just had lo hei with the worship team and it was pretty good value for $20. I have no idea what else to talk about.
I'm looking forward to tomorrow, as it's the last day of the holiday mood, before hitting the grind again. Also I'll get to watch the Manchester derby. Hooray.
Confinement
Ok guys, I'm serving what I hope to be my last confinement of my NS liability. Stoopid reason like not tucking in the shirt. =]
But confinements gove you time to do stuff that you'd never have time to do on a busy Saturday e.g. blogging, studying for tests, sleeping, watching TV, reading the newspaper... Did I mention sleeping? It's all good really. Oh and long hours on the phone. Call me if you're free!
But confinements gove you time to do stuff that you'd never have time to do on a busy Saturday e.g. blogging, studying for tests, sleeping, watching TV, reading the newspaper... Did I mention sleeping? It's all good really. Oh and long hours on the phone. Call me if you're free!
Tuesday, February 08, 2005
Going to Malacca
Hey guys,
I'm off to Malacca till Friday so you won't be able to reach me. If it's drop-dead urgent, SMS my dad at 94501613.
Happy Chinese New Year!!!
PS: If you're reading this and are married for more than a year, let's sit down and arrange how I can visit your house. =]
I'm off to Malacca till Friday so you won't be able to reach me. If it's drop-dead urgent, SMS my dad at 94501613.
Happy Chinese New Year!!!
PS: If you're reading this and are married for more than a year, let's sit down and arrange how I can visit your house. =]
Monday, February 07, 2005
Cheap mobile call rates
Looking to reduce your mobile phone bill? These might help:
osmscard.com
epic.erafflessc.com
icentel.com
Cheers!
osmscard.com
epic.erafflessc.com
icentel.com
Cheers!
Saturday, February 05, 2005
Apologies
Hello my avid fans, who must be bored stiff by now:
I apologise for not regularly updating this blog, but there just hasn't been the time. So I need some help: I need inspiration. If there's something you'd like me to write or rant about, just tag me and I'll try to find th time ok? Thanks all.
Aaron
I apologise for not regularly updating this blog, but there just hasn't been the time. So I need some help: I need inspiration. If there's something you'd like me to write or rant about, just tag me and I'll try to find th time ok? Thanks all.
Aaron
Monday, January 17, 2005
Sony Ericsson k500i
ANyone heard anything good about this phone? THinking of getting it. Says quite a lot for a Nokia user...
Thursday, January 13, 2005
Lost phone
I've just lost my phone. I'll be keeping my number, so wait a few days before contacting me ya?
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