It's amazing how personalities emerge and flourish during the exam period. I'm having fun looking at people studying, and teaching others... Although the latter is getting a little annoying. [*wink*]
For me it is an ultimate chance to relax. The papers are not as tough as I had originally expected, but there are those stiff-necked lecturers who are determined to give us hell. Okay, not really, I just forgot to study a few areas.
But still, it's been nice. The maximum hours I spent on any subject are five. In total. I spent more time watching episodes than class notes.
I've been engaged with a group of friends lately, studying - mostly. There are some multitasking on the computer, some who get distracted easily, some who won't stop talking under the pretext of teaching others (I'm just being unfair here, don't mind me, it humours me), and some who just finds any excuse to avoid studying last minute.
I think I'm the last one. I'm putting off studying English... but what the heck right? I already aced the subject without even trying.
In other areas, a party is soon in order. Plans are set and will be in motion in a few hours. The only drawback for me is my great-uncle passing away. I'm being skewered for hosting a party at the condo while the wake is still going on. All vestiges of guilt are being washed away by how unforgiving my parents were at my so-called insensitivity. It's not like I can help it - how can I tell forty people it's off when everyone's paid and geared to come?
And then there's my new writing project. A collection of letters from one guy to another, long distance relationship. A direct result of reading too many romance manga. My first letter's done, sounds solid enough to get the ball going. Gonna find some time to write at least one every day.
Testing, testing,
it drives everyone a-running,
little tempers start to sting,
some will be psychologist-hunting.
Testing, testing,
it gets everyone howling,
fun and games are in the bin,
start playing and you'll get "what are you doing?!"
Testing, testing,
everyone wants an ending,
and even when that is nearing,
the lecturers won't stop pestering!
Ciao.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
The Story So Far...
I. Can't. Believe. It's. Been. So. Long, Since. I. Wrote. Anything.
Jeez, seriously, it's been almost half a year. One whole Semester.
That's right, I'm nearing the end of my first semester doing Culinary Arts.
In fact, I'm in the middle of exams. How pathetic. But the truth is, our lecturer gave us a lot of tips so I hope that was enough.
I'm really excited as the year draws to a close. I haven't got back to my real self yet, but I feel it's getting there. In fact, I dare say there's been quite a few changes, and I really look forward to the last month of the year and the year ahead.
So to recap...
1. Been serving in the church choir and have been a backstage crew for the church productions. (I really like our nickname - the Men in Black, MIB. Heh.)
2. Written a few installments for my short story series... although it has recently been stalled for one edition because I was fairly busy with assignments. Yeah, didn't know you have to write that much for a Culinary Arts course.
3. Even been to a few vacations. It seems we go every couple of months. Frankly, it's a bit tiring, but a welcome break to a routine that is growing increasingly dreary.
4. Took charge of the food served in our campus youth gatherings. It's been fun, not as much experience as working in a hotel or restaurant but a good way to practice, since it's not as stressful.
5. Been doing daily devotions. It's called journaling, something my church started last year. It's really a good way to read the Bible and letting God talk to me through the Word.
Honestly, I did find it strange staring at my blog with nothing to write. If I were a manga character, my head would be hung, my hair covering my face so you can hardly see my eyes... In fact, I would look so depressed you can't see my entire face, just a whole section of vertical lines. Some artists might even draw spooky ghostly vapours to signify bad depression vibes.
Well, that's just to give you an idea.
Why I haven't been blogging? Well, at first it's because of the job I took up in June, but as the months progress it's been the college classes, then the assignments ... and recently a whole database of TV series I downloaded.
And why now? ... I guess it's because I feel like it. I've been doing a lot of that lately - if something is not compulsory, as in completely voluntary, I'll only do it when I feel like it. It's a welcome change from the rigidness of boarding life routine that I missed so much in recent times.
So before I sign off (as I really need to do some last minute studying - my next paper's in 75 minutes!), here's to hoping I'll return here and make that 50th post milestone.
All the best, to you and to me!
Jeez, seriously, it's been almost half a year. One whole Semester.
That's right, I'm nearing the end of my first semester doing Culinary Arts.
In fact, I'm in the middle of exams. How pathetic. But the truth is, our lecturer gave us a lot of tips so I hope that was enough.
I'm really excited as the year draws to a close. I haven't got back to my real self yet, but I feel it's getting there. In fact, I dare say there's been quite a few changes, and I really look forward to the last month of the year and the year ahead.
So to recap...
1. Been serving in the church choir and have been a backstage crew for the church productions. (I really like our nickname - the Men in Black, MIB. Heh.)
2. Written a few installments for my short story series... although it has recently been stalled for one edition because I was fairly busy with assignments. Yeah, didn't know you have to write that much for a Culinary Arts course.
3. Even been to a few vacations. It seems we go every couple of months. Frankly, it's a bit tiring, but a welcome break to a routine that is growing increasingly dreary.
4. Took charge of the food served in our campus youth gatherings. It's been fun, not as much experience as working in a hotel or restaurant but a good way to practice, since it's not as stressful.
5. Been doing daily devotions. It's called journaling, something my church started last year. It's really a good way to read the Bible and letting God talk to me through the Word.
~~~~~
Well, that's just to give you an idea.
Why I haven't been blogging? Well, at first it's because of the job I took up in June, but as the months progress it's been the college classes, then the assignments ... and recently a whole database of TV series I downloaded.
And why now? ... I guess it's because I feel like it. I've been doing a lot of that lately - if something is not compulsory, as in completely voluntary, I'll only do it when I feel like it. It's a welcome change from the rigidness of boarding life routine that I missed so much in recent times.
So before I sign off (as I really need to do some last minute studying - my next paper's in 75 minutes!), here's to hoping I'll return here and make that 50th post milestone.
All the best, to you and to me!
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Going On / Stopping Still
Life goes on - a cliche that seems to be used at every possible occurrence, even for the most mundane of things. People like to use it after an event of enormous proportions with possible life-changing side-effects. Whatever that affects you, may have little to no effect to others, and thus life that encompasses all that is in the world goes on like before, like the never ending currents of time.
But for an event that makes everything pause, another cliche is used - as though life, or time, stopped still. Events on this scale may have comparably huge proportions, but affects everyone and makes them stop and consider what has happened, and what life is and would be here on in. Questions will be asked: How did it happened? How could it have happened? What will we do, what will life be, after this happened? Can the world ever be the same?
Which would you rather prefer, life going on or stopping still, when you do something extraordinary? Would you prefer that everyone move on regardless of what you're doing or what happens to you, or would you prefer the whole world, or at least the world you know, to stop and turn their attention to you?
More importantly, what would your choice say about you?
Certainly, the former choice can only point to your selflessness, and perhaps to your humility, that you acknowledge the fact that in the grand scheme of things, you represent but a tiny detail. That would be the general perception, but are you thinking that there are perhaps other possibility? Could it be that you are hopelessly altruistic, that in action and even in death you still think of others before of yourself? Or could it be that you are shameful of your existence, and you would prefer that everyone just turn their eyes away for you? For that matter, could you be suicidal? (Mind you, this is just a thought.)
What about the latter choice? Would you agree that in choosing for life stopping still for you, you are to some degree attention-seeking? Could you be suffering from attention-deficit disorder, the dreaded ADD? Certainly, if you want everyone's attention, it could only mean that you think the world revolves around you. The general perception must be that you are selfish. But are we, if we take this option? Perhaps we are just admitting to, and even accepting, our natural human instinct. The proof is in an innocent child, who desires, and deserves, our every drop of attention. A child seeks the approval in the things he do, and must demand that the world stood still for him.
Of course, you can't expect to choose one and stick to it your whole life. No one is that rigid. The question is, which would you more likely choose more? Then again, you can't expect this to be the absolute truth. Perhaps you have something to add?
But for an event that makes everything pause, another cliche is used - as though life, or time, stopped still. Events on this scale may have comparably huge proportions, but affects everyone and makes them stop and consider what has happened, and what life is and would be here on in. Questions will be asked: How did it happened? How could it have happened? What will we do, what will life be, after this happened? Can the world ever be the same?
Which would you rather prefer, life going on or stopping still, when you do something extraordinary? Would you prefer that everyone move on regardless of what you're doing or what happens to you, or would you prefer the whole world, or at least the world you know, to stop and turn their attention to you?
More importantly, what would your choice say about you?
Certainly, the former choice can only point to your selflessness, and perhaps to your humility, that you acknowledge the fact that in the grand scheme of things, you represent but a tiny detail. That would be the general perception, but are you thinking that there are perhaps other possibility? Could it be that you are hopelessly altruistic, that in action and even in death you still think of others before of yourself? Or could it be that you are shameful of your existence, and you would prefer that everyone just turn their eyes away for you? For that matter, could you be suicidal? (Mind you, this is just a thought.)
What about the latter choice? Would you agree that in choosing for life stopping still for you, you are to some degree attention-seeking? Could you be suffering from attention-deficit disorder, the dreaded ADD? Certainly, if you want everyone's attention, it could only mean that you think the world revolves around you. The general perception must be that you are selfish. But are we, if we take this option? Perhaps we are just admitting to, and even accepting, our natural human instinct. The proof is in an innocent child, who desires, and deserves, our every drop of attention. A child seeks the approval in the things he do, and must demand that the world stood still for him.
Of course, you can't expect to choose one and stick to it your whole life. No one is that rigid. The question is, which would you more likely choose more? Then again, you can't expect this to be the absolute truth. Perhaps you have something to add?
Monday, June 14, 2010
Jewel of a Friend
Reflecting on our first times together,
As fleeting images roll past the windows,
Can I have been so blessed with
Heaven's companion, so gentle and beautiful?
Endless days separate our meetings,
Longing marks these "miss you" nights.
Time is not our friend,
As times spent together
Never lasts more than a few hours.
Hence, I treasure what times we had
Until we meet again;
Await I will for that smile
You reserve for friends only.
You are the jewel of a friend; I can search for an
Eternity, but never will I find one that can compare to you.
As fleeting images roll past the windows,
Can I have been so blessed with
Heaven's companion, so gentle and beautiful?
Endless days separate our meetings,
Longing marks these "miss you" nights.
Time is not our friend,
As times spent together
Never lasts more than a few hours.
Hence, I treasure what times we had
Until we meet again;
Await I will for that smile
You reserve for friends only.
You are the jewel of a friend; I can search for an
Eternity, but never will I find one that can compare to you.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Update
I think I should have time for a short update. At the time of writing I have 13 minutes before the restaurant opens for the night shift...
Been actively serving as associate cook and did a stint of waiting this afternoon. My cooking still needs work in the areas I've been allowed to cook for the customers i.e. Chicken Milano, Spaghetti Aglio Olio, but they are minor flaws and can be easily remedied with a few more attempts.
I'm not swamped by work, seriously. I've got plenty of time to rest in between tasks and shifts, like now. Got time to read up on Egypt's New Kingdom, to get some info for my short stories series, and tinkered a little with Scroll II. Although, Anubis is taking its time to form, I'm a little stuck at describing Osiris' cenotaph.
Back to the restaurant, so far I've been exposed to a variety of Nonya cooking, as well as the aforementioned recipes, Spaghetti Carbonara, Oxtail Soup, Lamb Chops and the like. Outside the menu, my mentor has generously given me a look at Swedish meatballs and lemon cheesecake - the latter which will be tested at a birthday party the restaurant is hosting for the boss' son, at which I am expected to attend and cook for.
These few days I've been in a text chat with a girl I met at camp. It's been fun, I got to know her better, and at a glance you might even think I'm rather attracted to her. She does appeal to me, we do have quite a few things in common, but it's only been two weeks, and so it's very hard to say. We only met once after the camp, and that was with a big group of other people who went to the camp. I'd like to have an outing together, but she said she's uncomfortable with the offer. I did say I'd invite a few other people, a bigger group so to speak, and we can even shop around for stuff for a poolside-cum-housewarming party that seems to be on everyone's mind.
All-in-all, I'd like to get to know her better, face-to-face. Need to work harder...
Been actively serving as associate cook and did a stint of waiting this afternoon. My cooking still needs work in the areas I've been allowed to cook for the customers i.e. Chicken Milano, Spaghetti Aglio Olio, but they are minor flaws and can be easily remedied with a few more attempts.
I'm not swamped by work, seriously. I've got plenty of time to rest in between tasks and shifts, like now. Got time to read up on Egypt's New Kingdom, to get some info for my short stories series, and tinkered a little with Scroll II. Although, Anubis is taking its time to form, I'm a little stuck at describing Osiris' cenotaph.
Back to the restaurant, so far I've been exposed to a variety of Nonya cooking, as well as the aforementioned recipes, Spaghetti Carbonara, Oxtail Soup, Lamb Chops and the like. Outside the menu, my mentor has generously given me a look at Swedish meatballs and lemon cheesecake - the latter which will be tested at a birthday party the restaurant is hosting for the boss' son, at which I am expected to attend and cook for.
These few days I've been in a text chat with a girl I met at camp. It's been fun, I got to know her better, and at a glance you might even think I'm rather attracted to her. She does appeal to me, we do have quite a few things in common, but it's only been two weeks, and so it's very hard to say. We only met once after the camp, and that was with a big group of other people who went to the camp. I'd like to have an outing together, but she said she's uncomfortable with the offer. I did say I'd invite a few other people, a bigger group so to speak, and we can even shop around for stuff for a poolside-cum-housewarming party that seems to be on everyone's mind.
All-in-all, I'd like to get to know her better, face-to-face. Need to work harder...
Monday, June 7, 2010
Employed
Now I can proudly say that I am no longer an unemployed person! My days for the coming month right up till Orientation Day in my new college will be filled up with learning from the chef at a restaurant near my parents' company.
I have just finished my first shift, 9.30am to 3.00pm and I can say that it was good. I discovered some useful tips for a few pasta sauces as well as seen some local cuisine in the making. Fortunately my job does not include any cleaning of the restaurant, but just some cooking preparations i.e. chopping up onions and carrots.
Sure I have to give up some of my usual past-time activities; I can't watch movies during the day when so few people are around the house; I can't enjoy a book without caring about the time; I can't supervise anything going on in the house, especially now when we still have stuff being moved in; and I certainly can't cook for myself anymore. But it is all for a good cause for which I most certainly do not mind sacrificing a few menial hobbies.
On a minor note before signing off, I have internet access again! Now I can come in between shifts to the office to go online, so I won't be too bored at home or at work.
Alright, I'm running out of thoughts to write, so sayonara.
I have just finished my first shift, 9.30am to 3.00pm and I can say that it was good. I discovered some useful tips for a few pasta sauces as well as seen some local cuisine in the making. Fortunately my job does not include any cleaning of the restaurant, but just some cooking preparations i.e. chopping up onions and carrots.
Sure I have to give up some of my usual past-time activities; I can't watch movies during the day when so few people are around the house; I can't enjoy a book without caring about the time; I can't supervise anything going on in the house, especially now when we still have stuff being moved in; and I certainly can't cook for myself anymore. But it is all for a good cause for which I most certainly do not mind sacrificing a few menial hobbies.
On a minor note before signing off, I have internet access again! Now I can come in between shifts to the office to go online, so I won't be too bored at home or at work.
Alright, I'm running out of thoughts to write, so sayonara.
Friday, June 4, 2010
Stammer
"Not good. That is not good." ~ Yuri, 2012
The good news is, I've completely moved into my new home, which is by far the best place I've stayed in.
The bad news is, the internet connection won't be resurrected until next month. July.
There is a silver lining though. Mom decided to leave the network hardware in the old house, so if I should ever need free WiFi I just have to go there myself. I'll lose my night surfing hours, and I can't go there everyday, much as I like to, but still, it's better than nothing.
Have few to report here actually. I'm reading some interesting books, and most recently something about Ancient Egypt's New Kingdom era. Of course, this will be most helpful in my Chronicles of the Soulless, since it is primarily on Egyptian pantheon of gods and goddesses, and to a certain extent, Egyptian life.
And I'm not going to be lounging around any longer! Got my eyes set on a clubhouse restaurant in a Eco park near my parent's company. I'm going to be there for lunch and at the same time ask the boss if he'll accept me as an intern. We've previously talked about it and he seems okay with it, so I'll just have to confirm with him.
I'm starting to do regular devotion again. The reading guide goes through Psalms twice a year, so I'll have to wait till July to restart. I want to finish Proverbs and Psalms this year, and the rest of the Bible next year, God willing.
And speaking of God, thank the Lord above that my parents consented to my baptism! They seemed to accept the fact that it's my life to run now, and I have been trying to tell them of some stuff about Christianity. I haven't had the opportunity to bring them to church, on the account that my sister has swimming classes right before the Sunday service. But if all goes well, I'll be getting baptized during October, publicly too. Not sure how to think about that...
One last thing. The Edventure Camp Echo is today... And I feel like screaming. I've been "nominated" to speak about the camp, and I have absolutely no idea how to do it! I basically know what to speak about, but I need to get my speech prepared, else I'll be beating around a really big bush.
So that's it for now. I really don't have the time for a more insightful, thought provoking post.
Maybe next time.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Back. Finally.
Due to complications in the internet connection in my home I have been unable to create any new posts for almost two weeks. The frustration was unimaginably suffocating, but at the very least it returned at my hour of most need.
Alas, I fear that this may not last. I shall be moving soon to a new condo unit down the road and only God knows when the network can be reinstated at the new house.
What happened during my absence in cyberspace?
I attended my cousin's wedding - again. It seems that this time around we got to see the morning wedding reception, which includes the customary take-the-bride-to-the-groom's-house ritual and tea ceremonies, as well as a village wedding dinner in the evening. It was quite an experience, and it is beginning to eat at my oath to wait for God's choice or remain single for life...
Then there's packing. Loads of it. I managed to pack away all the books and clothes, then unpacked them just today! My room looks fabulous, and I only have a box or two of stuff left to move in. These of course includes stuff I'd like to have around just a little longer.
I went to camp! It feels good to join a camp where you know only a handful of people. Got to know many outstanding guys and girls, but I can't say especially who... I was sort of thrust into the role of team leader, and it's been great leading a bunch of daring, capable people, all of whom are older than me. To tell the whole experience here would not do it justice, so maybe I'll dedicate an entry to it another time.
That's it, really, I could go on about the camp, but I'm afraid I'm running out of time tonight, so I'll just end it here. For Beta!
Alas, I fear that this may not last. I shall be moving soon to a new condo unit down the road and only God knows when the network can be reinstated at the new house.
What happened during my absence in cyberspace?
I attended my cousin's wedding - again. It seems that this time around we got to see the morning wedding reception, which includes the customary take-the-bride-to-the-groom's-house ritual and tea ceremonies, as well as a village wedding dinner in the evening. It was quite an experience, and it is beginning to eat at my oath to wait for God's choice or remain single for life...
Then there's packing. Loads of it. I managed to pack away all the books and clothes, then unpacked them just today! My room looks fabulous, and I only have a box or two of stuff left to move in. These of course includes stuff I'd like to have around just a little longer.
I went to camp! It feels good to join a camp where you know only a handful of people. Got to know many outstanding guys and girls, but I can't say especially who... I was sort of thrust into the role of team leader, and it's been great leading a bunch of daring, capable people, all of whom are older than me. To tell the whole experience here would not do it justice, so maybe I'll dedicate an entry to it another time.
That's it, really, I could go on about the camp, but I'm afraid I'm running out of time tonight, so I'll just end it here. For Beta!
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
It's Official
For a few weeks now, I have (hesitantly) declared that I will be starting a Diploma in Culinary Arts programme in KDU College come July this year. I am glad to say that my enrolment has been approved, and it's now official: for better or worse, I'm going to be a Cul. Arts student.
And what, some people might ask, are the career options for a vocational course? There are opportunities for me to advance my studies in European Culinary Management in IMI Switzerland. After the degree, I can also enrol for an MBA at the same place. Yes, I'll be able to go to Europe again!
After that, it really depends on God. If He so aptly chooses to arrange some job offers for me, I guess I'll take it up for a while. After that I want to return home to open a restaurant, or help some family members manage theirs until I can learn enough about Asian Cuisine. Or maybe I'll travel to various places in Asia to pick up some of the local cuisine.
That said, a more common question I often have to endure is: Are my parents okay with this? Honestly, they claim they are. After all, an ace student taking up a vocational course? That is definitely unheard of, or at least rarely so. One says she's glad I'm doing something with my life, the other says I have to face the consequences of the choice I made. How more negative can one sound?
Either way, what's done has been done now. There is really no turning back, and zero option of anything else. It's going to be a narrow track until two years from now, and no chance of stopping.
... Sounds like a race. And in a way it's true, except that it's not a return-to-start circuit.
Before signing off, I feel obliged to report my goings-on today. I had just supervised and assisted in the moving of several furnitures to the new house. Everything seems to have gone in order, one minor hiccup aside.The new place looks great - just a few more items to clear up before the scheduled clean-up in a week's time.
Alas, I have forgotten of a few items that need be cleared up with the contractor! Three, to be exact. Mom's going to be really mad, I hope I can still fix it tomorrow by going over and seeing him.
That's it really. Now all that's left for today is a surprise dinner occasion tonight. I'm supposed to pick my sister up from her tuition (early - again). So, here I am, signing off.
And what, some people might ask, are the career options for a vocational course? There are opportunities for me to advance my studies in European Culinary Management in IMI Switzerland. After the degree, I can also enrol for an MBA at the same place. Yes, I'll be able to go to Europe again!
After that, it really depends on God. If He so aptly chooses to arrange some job offers for me, I guess I'll take it up for a while. After that I want to return home to open a restaurant, or help some family members manage theirs until I can learn enough about Asian Cuisine. Or maybe I'll travel to various places in Asia to pick up some of the local cuisine.
That said, a more common question I often have to endure is: Are my parents okay with this? Honestly, they claim they are. After all, an ace student taking up a vocational course? That is definitely unheard of, or at least rarely so. One says she's glad I'm doing something with my life, the other says I have to face the consequences of the choice I made. How more negative can one sound?
Either way, what's done has been done now. There is really no turning back, and zero option of anything else. It's going to be a narrow track until two years from now, and no chance of stopping.
... Sounds like a race. And in a way it's true, except that it's not a return-to-start circuit.
Before signing off, I feel obliged to report my goings-on today. I had just supervised and assisted in the moving of several furnitures to the new house. Everything seems to have gone in order, one minor hiccup aside.The new place looks great - just a few more items to clear up before the scheduled clean-up in a week's time.
Alas, I have forgotten of a few items that need be cleared up with the contractor! Three, to be exact. Mom's going to be really mad, I hope I can still fix it tomorrow by going over and seeing him.
That's it really. Now all that's left for today is a surprise dinner occasion tonight. I'm supposed to pick my sister up from her tuition (early - again). So, here I am, signing off.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Reading
I've never gone this far in blogs before. I must confess that I have tried as many as three times to blog regularly - two of those times ended up deleted entirely; one of those times - this blog - has been left to rot for a little more than a year before it is revived. Hence, it is my great joy to declare that this is the 25th post of regular blogging!
Insanity aside, what I really wanted to write about here is my reading. I have taken up the task to fill my hours by going on the Internet reading manga, watching movies, writing my stories and reading books. It is then no wonder that my reading pace has dramatically slowed in recent times.
I used to marvel my reading speed, that I'd finish at the most two books in one week. Of course, those were books that I was really into then, the sort that the book-stores categorize as children's books. Anthony Horowitz, Garth Nix and Eoin Colfer are some of them. I do occasionally stray towards more promising best-sellers (Dan Brown should ring a bell) but these have, in my opinion, have few literary value to them.
Lately I've bought Kate Mosse's first two books, as well as Paulo Coelho's The Alchemist and Khaled Hosseini's celebrated books. I've only finished one of them and reading another, but I am doing so in hopes of prying myself from going backwards in my reading. I've read so few classics, both contemporary and old, that people would surely marvel at how my writing could ever reach such a level.
Then again, my writing isn't quite the bomb really, to use the contemporary colloquialism...
Anyway, I thought I should include a short note of my schedule, at least for today. I do actually have a couple of errands to run: I have to go down to the framework shop two collect the last two art-pieces for the new condo, as well as drop my application for the Diploma in Culinary Arts at KDU college. Before that, I'm hoping to go for a swim to get my aquatic stamina back, and maybe bake a fresh batch of Danish butter cookies for the extended family.
All's well will hopefully end well.
Insanity aside, what I really wanted to write about here is my reading. I have taken up the task to fill my hours by going on the Internet reading manga, watching movies, writing my stories and reading books. It is then no wonder that my reading pace has dramatically slowed in recent times.
I used to marvel my reading speed, that I'd finish at the most two books in one week. Of course, those were books that I was really into then, the sort that the book-stores categorize as children's books. Anthony Horowitz, Garth Nix and Eoin Colfer are some of them. I do occasionally stray towards more promising best-sellers (Dan Brown should ring a bell) but these have, in my opinion, have few literary value to them.
Lately I've bought Kate Mosse's first two books, as well as Paulo Coelho's The Alchemist and Khaled Hosseini's celebrated books. I've only finished one of them and reading another, but I am doing so in hopes of prying myself from going backwards in my reading. I've read so few classics, both contemporary and old, that people would surely marvel at how my writing could ever reach such a level.
Then again, my writing isn't quite the bomb really, to use the contemporary colloquialism...
Anyway, I thought I should include a short note of my schedule, at least for today. I do actually have a couple of errands to run: I have to go down to the framework shop two collect the last two art-pieces for the new condo, as well as drop my application for the Diploma in Culinary Arts at KDU college. Before that, I'm hoping to go for a swim to get my aquatic stamina back, and maybe bake a fresh batch of Danish butter cookies for the extended family.
All's well will hopefully end well.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Procrastination
I originally learned of this word from an acquaintance from Penang, who is now really no more than a memory. Who knew that this would gradually become an annoying trait of mine.
By definition, it means to put off or delay the completion of a certain task. The layman might associate this word with laziness, but in actual fact there is little in common between the two words. A procrastinator normally would finish his work in the end, albeit often unsatisfactorily, but a lazy person just couldn't bother finishing his.
I wasn't always like this. In fact, I considered procrastination one of my cardinal sins and would never do that to important tasks. In other words, the only reason why some of my work was done at the last minute was because I had simply forgotten about it. Shamefully, that was the truth.
Presently, it is a different case. Some people might give any excuse conceivable under the sky to put off doing something. Not everyone may relate to that, but sometimes it is because they simply don't want to let it be done. Perhaps doing that certain task has consumed most of their time and energy, and they worry that they would not have meaning in their lives any more after it is completed.
And perhaps, that is the case for me. I'd usually deny this, but a part of me has gotten used to relaxing without a care in the world, which used to be a rarity for me. In order to shy away from the stress of life and living I would retreat to fiction - usually movies and books - for simple, temporary distraction. In the beginning, it was simply a distraction; unfortunately it quickly grew into an addiction.
However, there are two sides to every coin. I have acknowledged this flaw, and recently have begun to grow restless from all the cooping up I have resorted to. While this is a good thing, I need to be constantly vigilant against relapses and weakness, and in order to cure myself of this addiction I might have to turn to the extreme...
Enough said about such a depressing matter. I actually wanted to write about my writing project. I haven't written anything about the Lady ever since Johor, and I was supposed to do it alongside the Chronicles. And I have writer's block in the middle of Scroll II, so I'm really trying to kick back and think of a way out and continue the story. Alas, that might actually involve editing what I've written so far...
*Sigh. Writer out.
By definition, it means to put off or delay the completion of a certain task. The layman might associate this word with laziness, but in actual fact there is little in common between the two words. A procrastinator normally would finish his work in the end, albeit often unsatisfactorily, but a lazy person just couldn't bother finishing his.
I wasn't always like this. In fact, I considered procrastination one of my cardinal sins and would never do that to important tasks. In other words, the only reason why some of my work was done at the last minute was because I had simply forgotten about it. Shamefully, that was the truth.
Presently, it is a different case. Some people might give any excuse conceivable under the sky to put off doing something. Not everyone may relate to that, but sometimes it is because they simply don't want to let it be done. Perhaps doing that certain task has consumed most of their time and energy, and they worry that they would not have meaning in their lives any more after it is completed.
And perhaps, that is the case for me. I'd usually deny this, but a part of me has gotten used to relaxing without a care in the world, which used to be a rarity for me. In order to shy away from the stress of life and living I would retreat to fiction - usually movies and books - for simple, temporary distraction. In the beginning, it was simply a distraction; unfortunately it quickly grew into an addiction.
However, there are two sides to every coin. I have acknowledged this flaw, and recently have begun to grow restless from all the cooping up I have resorted to. While this is a good thing, I need to be constantly vigilant against relapses and weakness, and in order to cure myself of this addiction I might have to turn to the extreme...
Enough said about such a depressing matter. I actually wanted to write about my writing project. I haven't written anything about the Lady ever since Johor, and I was supposed to do it alongside the Chronicles. And I have writer's block in the middle of Scroll II, so I'm really trying to kick back and think of a way out and continue the story. Alas, that might actually involve editing what I've written so far...
*Sigh. Writer out.
Friday, May 14, 2010
Chronicles of the Soulless
I guess I'm going to be using this blog to catalogue my writing process, and also to advertise my story. (On that note, I haven't posted a recipe in a very long time...)
I have just completed Scroll I of the Soulless series of short stories, entitled Osiris. It introduces two of the main characters in the series, as well as the events kick-starting the introduction and involvement of the beings I call the Soulless.
No doubt the people reading this story will connect the Soulless with Osiris the Egyptian Lord of the Underworld, that they are, perhaps, the same. How that will be told remains to be written, as well as read, but I can assure my readers that more Ancient Egyptian mythical gods will be featured during the entirety of the series.
In some sense I am following Rick Riordan's footsteps in creating a story that revolves around mythical deities but set in the present day and age. Indeed, Riordan has given hints that a new series based on Egyptian gods will be released soon. Some may be tempted to say that I stole the idea from him. I wish to clarify that this is completely untrue. The actual truth is that I have written Osiris as long as five years ago, and now wish to expand the story to include more gods and myths of Ancient Egypt. So if anyone wants to say who copied who, I dare say that since I wrote this first, Riordan copied me. ;p
On a lighter note, I will send Osiris to be published in the June issue of Opinionated Monthly. Any rights to republish the Soulless series is hereafter reserved by OM. I will of course also reserve the right to publish it here, but that will depend on me alone. Having said that, I know I promised to publish The Maze here too, but since The Opinionated Ones blog has already published it on the Internet, there's no need to copy it here.
Author out.
I have just completed Scroll I of the Soulless series of short stories, entitled Osiris. It introduces two of the main characters in the series, as well as the events kick-starting the introduction and involvement of the beings I call the Soulless.
No doubt the people reading this story will connect the Soulless with Osiris the Egyptian Lord of the Underworld, that they are, perhaps, the same. How that will be told remains to be written, as well as read, but I can assure my readers that more Ancient Egyptian mythical gods will be featured during the entirety of the series.
In some sense I am following Rick Riordan's footsteps in creating a story that revolves around mythical deities but set in the present day and age. Indeed, Riordan has given hints that a new series based on Egyptian gods will be released soon. Some may be tempted to say that I stole the idea from him. I wish to clarify that this is completely untrue. The actual truth is that I have written Osiris as long as five years ago, and now wish to expand the story to include more gods and myths of Ancient Egypt. So if anyone wants to say who copied who, I dare say that since I wrote this first, Riordan copied me. ;p
On a lighter note, I will send Osiris to be published in the June issue of Opinionated Monthly. Any rights to republish the Soulless series is hereafter reserved by OM. I will of course also reserve the right to publish it here, but that will depend on me alone. Having said that, I know I promised to publish The Maze here too, but since The Opinionated Ones blog has already published it on the Internet, there's no need to copy it here.
Author out.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Originality
I write this in the post-event of completing the corporate video for my dad. In hindsight, I find that the job was not as tough as I had imagined it to be. Granted, it took some patience with, not one, but two unstable and inefficient laptops, as well as a good eye and ear for the corporate touch, but all-in-all, I was merely updating the video. I was given a week, and I made the best of it doing what I'm good at. I'd say it was a good job, and my "critics" agreed with me too.
But I despair over the inability to do more. Due to the time constraint I had to work with existing project files, when I wished I start from scratch. The new version, 3.1, looks quite similar to the old one, 2.3, but somehow a little more impressive. It is still too long, a little over ten minutes, but that can't be helped since we wanted to include everything. To me, that's its flaw - it lacks originality.
Come to think about it, very few things of this age and era of technology are original. Almost everything is an advancement or improvement of a previous, similar model. Everything seems to be merely an extra level on a foundation laid out millennia ago. No longer do we pay our dues to fabulous artworks by renowned artists, because they simply do not exist any more, simply because the spotlight has shifted to the cold and life-imitating discoveries and inventions of technology.
Eulogy must be paid to the marvels of culture. Art no longer has the same meaning as it had a century ago. No longer do we visit museums and art exhibitions in crowds to enjoy paintings. Books that made their way to the best-seller list rarely has the quality of a classic work of fiction. Songs nowadays are merely the vehicle of money for many "artists", and rarely give more than a fleeting expression of human emotions and experience. And films... don't get me started.
A few areas, however, do survive to bear witness to mankind's originality and creativity. Architecture is the new battlefield for the bold and the brave, where countries compete to produce amazing edifices and monoliths, each and every one of them a testament to new scientific discoveries related to building. Countries constantly try to offer a new attraction to the beholder, mainly to draw the tourists, and the money, in.
Food has also recently made its way to stardom. Barely a decade ago, the phrase "celebrity chef" would have drawn laughter to the common man. Today, however, names like Gordon Ramsay and Jamie Oliver would be immediately recognised by the kitchen enthusiast (such as myself) and ranked among the persona that make fashion and entertainment headlines. Their creations are simply astounding, and they absolutely believe in sharing brilliant ideas with the general public.
Nevertheless, we live in a world where money often comes before the enlightenment of the soul. Indeed, few has the freedom to express originality in stunning masterpieces, and those who do have that originality are restrained by the lack of opportunities and good fortune. This is true for generations past, but never more real today.
Oh, the shame! Shame for the loss of talent, of originality in what are regarded as fine pieces of mankind's achievement. Must we continue to live in a world where the new is often scoffed at, or its début delayed until man is ready to accept it?
But I despair over the inability to do more. Due to the time constraint I had to work with existing project files, when I wished I start from scratch. The new version, 3.1, looks quite similar to the old one, 2.3, but somehow a little more impressive. It is still too long, a little over ten minutes, but that can't be helped since we wanted to include everything. To me, that's its flaw - it lacks originality.
Come to think about it, very few things of this age and era of technology are original. Almost everything is an advancement or improvement of a previous, similar model. Everything seems to be merely an extra level on a foundation laid out millennia ago. No longer do we pay our dues to fabulous artworks by renowned artists, because they simply do not exist any more, simply because the spotlight has shifted to the cold and life-imitating discoveries and inventions of technology.
Eulogy must be paid to the marvels of culture. Art no longer has the same meaning as it had a century ago. No longer do we visit museums and art exhibitions in crowds to enjoy paintings. Books that made their way to the best-seller list rarely has the quality of a classic work of fiction. Songs nowadays are merely the vehicle of money for many "artists", and rarely give more than a fleeting expression of human emotions and experience. And films... don't get me started.
A few areas, however, do survive to bear witness to mankind's originality and creativity. Architecture is the new battlefield for the bold and the brave, where countries compete to produce amazing edifices and monoliths, each and every one of them a testament to new scientific discoveries related to building. Countries constantly try to offer a new attraction to the beholder, mainly to draw the tourists, and the money, in.
Food has also recently made its way to stardom. Barely a decade ago, the phrase "celebrity chef" would have drawn laughter to the common man. Today, however, names like Gordon Ramsay and Jamie Oliver would be immediately recognised by the kitchen enthusiast (such as myself) and ranked among the persona that make fashion and entertainment headlines. Their creations are simply astounding, and they absolutely believe in sharing brilliant ideas with the general public.
Nevertheless, we live in a world where money often comes before the enlightenment of the soul. Indeed, few has the freedom to express originality in stunning masterpieces, and those who do have that originality are restrained by the lack of opportunities and good fortune. This is true for generations past, but never more real today.
Oh, the shame! Shame for the loss of talent, of originality in what are regarded as fine pieces of mankind's achievement. Must we continue to live in a world where the new is often scoffed at, or its début delayed until man is ready to accept it?
Thursday, May 6, 2010
It. Is. Done.
I have finally completed editing Opinionated Monthly's May issue.
It has been an intense joyride, but in the end it was completely satisfactory. I managed to introduce a two-column layout, as well as a cooler looking header and footer. Also standardized the font sizes and justifications, and included a great deal more pictures to make the magazine look more exciting.
Besides that, I enjoyed reading some of the pieces my friends contributed to. A few of them are very enlightening, giving me access to their line of thinking and ideas about stuff. Some reveals stuff about them I never really knew, a previously hidden side. All-in-all, the May issue, although thinner than the others, remain a good read, intellectually inspiring and immensely enjoyable.
I will certainly look forward to editing the next issue.
It has been an intense joyride, but in the end it was completely satisfactory. I managed to introduce a two-column layout, as well as a cooler looking header and footer. Also standardized the font sizes and justifications, and included a great deal more pictures to make the magazine look more exciting.
Besides that, I enjoyed reading some of the pieces my friends contributed to. A few of them are very enlightening, giving me access to their line of thinking and ideas about stuff. Some reveals stuff about them I never really knew, a previously hidden side. All-in-all, the May issue, although thinner than the others, remain a good read, intellectually inspiring and immensely enjoyable.
I will certainly look forward to editing the next issue.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Double Heavy Duty
I guess this must be what life is like - multiple, separate, unrelated tasks with the same bloody deadline.
The job Dad gave me which started yesterday has just completed its second phase, which included re-shooting of various parts of the corporate video due to unsatisfactory quality, or out of need to update. The third phase - completely comprising of video and scene editing - has begun and, according to schedule, shall consume most of tomorrow. The deadline of the submission of this CorpVid v.30 is Friday, and the final deadline for submission is next Monday or before then.
My post as Deputy Editor of Opinionated Monthly has also received its latest job, albeit with a little delay - the final editing of the magazine, after which will be sent to the printer for publishing. This is more important to me, and I will slot it in to any empty spaces in my schedule this week as much as possible. Of course, the Chief wants to publish this by Friday, so I have at most until Thursday night to complete it.
All in all, a most packed week.
I suppose if my preferred line of work is graphic editing of any kind, this would be my norm. It is a creative line of work, after all, which is no wonder that it is one of my secondary passions, otherwise my jobs would seem to myself utterly dull and time-consuming.
Speaking of creativity, I've spoken to a restaurant owner whom my parents has befriended. He is a passionate food lover and is dedicated to the highest quality his kitchen can attain. He is willing to take me in as an intern until I start my Culinary Arts Diploma. It will certainly be a great experience if he puts me to actual cooking - I'll be able to learn time management in a real industrial kitchen, and test my cooking skills to the maximum, which is more than I can say about cooking at home...
The job Dad gave me which started yesterday has just completed its second phase, which included re-shooting of various parts of the corporate video due to unsatisfactory quality, or out of need to update. The third phase - completely comprising of video and scene editing - has begun and, according to schedule, shall consume most of tomorrow. The deadline of the submission of this CorpVid v.30 is Friday, and the final deadline for submission is next Monday or before then.
My post as Deputy Editor of Opinionated Monthly has also received its latest job, albeit with a little delay - the final editing of the magazine, after which will be sent to the printer for publishing. This is more important to me, and I will slot it in to any empty spaces in my schedule this week as much as possible. Of course, the Chief wants to publish this by Friday, so I have at most until Thursday night to complete it.
All in all, a most packed week.
I suppose if my preferred line of work is graphic editing of any kind, this would be my norm. It is a creative line of work, after all, which is no wonder that it is one of my secondary passions, otherwise my jobs would seem to myself utterly dull and time-consuming.
Speaking of creativity, I've spoken to a restaurant owner whom my parents has befriended. He is a passionate food lover and is dedicated to the highest quality his kitchen can attain. He is willing to take me in as an intern until I start my Culinary Arts Diploma. It will certainly be a great experience if he puts me to actual cooking - I'll be able to learn time management in a real industrial kitchen, and test my cooking skills to the maximum, which is more than I can say about cooking at home...
Monday, May 3, 2010
Axe-Sharpening
Basically Dad asked me to work with some of the company staff on Corporate Video Version 3.0.
"If you were to chop down a tree in eight hours, first spend six of those sharpening your axe." We've been sharpening the axe all morning, metaphorically speaking. The plan for the new video has been done more or less, which included time-lining CorpVid v2.3, streamlining it, omitting old and defunct parts and updating, refining and adding new sections etc.
What's next? One of my colleagues is right now collecting all the files pertaining to all versions of the CorpVid and relocating them into a secondary laptop, courtesy of Dad who thinks all the work should be done on that, instead of my own snail-like, faulty one.
We'll also be taking a factory tour, for my benefit mostly, to see what else needs to be done for the video. That's still sharpening the axe, but it will certainly be quite an educational trip.
Thinking about the company also reminded me that my friends had asked to see it for a school trip. I agreed, so if they decide to write in for permission to visit, we'll probably schedule it in June, in the beginning of their second semester.
Returning to the CorpVid, I suppose that's what I'll be writing about for the next few days, unless something more interesting turns up. I have to remind myself that this blog is still about food and my experiences about it. Then again, it can also evolve into something more. Change, after all, is nature, even if this blog is, by all intents and purposes, unnatural and immaterial.
And now I have to return to work.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Things to Do
I haven't written in yesterday. My bad.
Anyway, I've been going back to my friends, giving them a hand wherever they need help in the charity dinner we've been organizing before my absence. I must say they've been preparing a lot for this event, and I truly feel that there couldn't be a better team to handle all the last-minute problems.
But that's all in the recent past now. I've got a list of things to do for the foreseeable future to keep me busy till I go back to college:
Anyway, I've been going back to my friends, giving them a hand wherever they need help in the charity dinner we've been organizing before my absence. I must say they've been preparing a lot for this event, and I truly feel that there couldn't be a better team to handle all the last-minute problems.
- Final editing of the Opinionated Monthly magazine. Yes, I'm staying on the Editorial for the remainder of the year until the next intake is ready to take over. Since I volunteered for the post, it is my duty and responsibility to stay on this project till the end (for me). Our "omniscient" Editor-in-Chief will be mailing me the soft copy of the final draft for me to tinker with the layout before it is published next Tuesday.
- Visiting the MIB. No, this does not stand for Men in Black, but the Malaysian Institute of Baking. A friend is attending a course for the Certificate in Baking, so I'm going over there to see if I can't still join, since I'll be missing four sessions already.
- Packing for a one-night trip. One of my cousins in Johor is getting hitched! So we as a family (excluding mum who is away on a business trip to Bali) and as many from dad's side will be going south tomorrow, in time for the wedding dinner. And yes, I'll be bringing work with me on this vacation (refer to item 1).
- Joining a corporate team in a video project. I was in charge of making the corporate video for Dad's company a few years back. Now that the company has again expanded, Dad wants the video to be updated. I'll be some sort of a consultant and active participant in the process.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
W.H. Davies - Leisure
These past few days have been most exhilarating, at best. Having the chance to be around people and doing useful things, both for others and myself, and taking up that chance, is a blessing greater than anything that I could have ever asked for, and I'm eternally grateful for this opportunity to pick myself up again.
Nevertheless, one must always remember to rest. Religions across the world have emphasized this and allotted at least one day in a week of seven for rest. The Jews have their Sabbath, Muslims their Friday (rest from work, at least - it's mainly for prayers), Christians their Sunday, and so on and so forth. Even science has proven that rest is essential for the body to the benefit of better health. So it is no wonder that humans, and even animals of every shapes and sizes, need some form of rest for rejuvenation and restoration.
Today's world seem to prohibit true rest. The world around us has evolved at an accelerated rate, and that acceleration is fast becoming exponential. We are constantly pressured to complete one thing or another, and when we are not doing anything, thoughts of immediate tasks and duties and due dates for uncompleted work fill our heads.Our lives seem to live for the next moment, often for the next day, and the extreme ones for the next decade! Sometimes, it is good to detach ourselves from all that, and just savour the moment, the hours, the days, spent for relaxing.
Hefty words aside, in my opinion W.H. Davies captured this importance for rest in his beautiful poem, Leisure:
No time to stand beneath the boughs
Nevertheless, one must always remember to rest. Religions across the world have emphasized this and allotted at least one day in a week of seven for rest. The Jews have their Sabbath, Muslims their Friday (rest from work, at least - it's mainly for prayers), Christians their Sunday, and so on and so forth. Even science has proven that rest is essential for the body to the benefit of better health. So it is no wonder that humans, and even animals of every shapes and sizes, need some form of rest for rejuvenation and restoration.
Today's world seem to prohibit true rest. The world around us has evolved at an accelerated rate, and that acceleration is fast becoming exponential. We are constantly pressured to complete one thing or another, and when we are not doing anything, thoughts of immediate tasks and duties and due dates for uncompleted work fill our heads.Our lives seem to live for the next moment, often for the next day, and the extreme ones for the next decade! Sometimes, it is good to detach ourselves from all that, and just savour the moment, the hours, the days, spent for relaxing.
Hefty words aside, in my opinion W.H. Davies captured this importance for rest in his beautiful poem, Leisure:
What is this life if, full of care
We have no time to stand and stare.
No time to stand beneath the boughs
And stare as long as sheep or cows.
No time to see, when woods we pass,
Where squirrels hide their nuts in grass.
No time to see, in broad daylight,
Streams full of stars, like skies at night.
No time to turn at Beauty's glance,
And watch her feet, how they can dance.
No time to wait till her mouth can
Enrich that smile her eyes began.
A poor life this if, full of care,
We have no time to stand and stare.
No time to see, when woods we pass,
Where squirrels hide their nuts in grass.
No time to see, in broad daylight,
Streams full of stars, like skies at night.
No time to turn at Beauty's glance,
And watch her feet, how they can dance.
No time to wait till her mouth can
Enrich that smile her eyes began.
A poor life this if, full of care,
We have no time to stand and stare.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Dorian Gray
(Warning: Spoiler Alert!)
So says the tag-line of this horrific yet enchanting version of Oscar Wilde's only published novel The Picture of Dorian Gray. Oliver Parker did such a wonderful job directing the film that I must include it in my list of better film adaptations of written works.
I myself have only read the abridged version of the novel, and thus missed out on what must have been the author's more lurid descriptions of the life of debauchery Mr Gray (Ben Barnes) had plunged himself into. Hence, the film itself is rather shocking to watch for the conservative viewer. Viewer's discretion is heavily, heavily advised.
Ben Barnes of "Prince Caspian (2008)" fame certainly did a remarkable job of appearing so unaffected by the acts and sins he committed himself to. While this may to some extent attract the scorn of critics, I think such acting is essential for depicting the Dorian Gray the author created. Certainly, such cynicism towards the brighter side of life, and the intense dedication to hedonism, makes Barnes' character a powerful anti-hero, one that viewers, I imagine, must love to hate and hate to love.
Colin Firth is, well, quite comfortable in his role as Dorian Gray's acquaintance, Lord Henry Wotton. Dear Harry mentored Dorian, preaching to him what he dared not practice, effectively transforming the mild-mannered, handsome young country boy into the cruel, sadistic bastard many still read about today. Firth manages to display, even from behind a stately beard, Wotton's emotional transformation from the devilish pride of a mentor, to the growing concern for a friend, and ultimately to the great hatred towards the monster he created.
Rebecca Hall, while only a supporting character who made her appearance towards the climax of the film, played Wotton's daughter Emily to great effect. One could actually feel the effect she has Dorian and his emotions. I don't know whether this is what really happened in the original novel - I certainly doubt the ending is true to Wilde's classic - but she certainly made a big impact on the silver screen. It is a pity her role is reduced to emphasize Dorian Gray's conscience. (Seriously, there's only so much debauchery and beauty one can take from a character blessed, or cursed, with eternal youth.)
The photography of the film is commendable too. Close-ups of Dorian's sex scenes, while appearing so sensual, gives a third person's point of view (or immense disgust) towards acts of debauchery. It certainly made me baulk. That aside, scenes of improving technology, the dark sides of London, and war against Germans tell how time has passed. These guys have finally realised how to present time changes without sticking stuff at your face and exaggerating the ravages of time on everyone's face. (Well, everyone, except Dorian, of course.)
This is most certainly a cautionary tale, and has remained strictly that. Instead of emphasizing on the consequences of immortality, Parker did a good job of highlighting Dorian's horrifying lifestyle and how it affects his soul, as depicted on his painting. On that note, I like how the painting only made so few appearances in the entire film, so that instead of "the picture of", the film is simply about Dorian Gray as a hedonist. However, towards the end, I must admit it is some sort of a mess, as the movie rushed ahead in its attempt to pull back to the cause of Dorian's eternal youth.
However, post-climax, the viewer's focus shifts to Lord Henry, who, in a very simplistic manner that lasts only two scenes, is shown to be living with the consequences of having made Dorian into the way he was (Gray's dead by then). Before facing the slightly burned painting, now restored (or close to, I think) to its original magnificence, he is seen in an empty ballroom (his house, it must be), trying to get his daughter back, who estranged herself from him thinking he left Dorian to burn alive in his attic, where he stores the cursed picture. True or not, I think he must be feeling the pain of causing a young man, with a full life ahead of him, to barter his soul for the earthly pleasures of life. Certainly, Dorian listened to him instead of his other friend, the society artist Basil Hallward who painted Dorian Gray's picture, but it was Wotton's continued coaching that turned Dorian against Basil's concerned warnings.
All-in-all, a stunning, horrific, true-to-novel film by the seemingly conservative British.
"Forever Young. Forever Cursed."
So says the tag-line of this horrific yet enchanting version of Oscar Wilde's only published novel The Picture of Dorian Gray. Oliver Parker did such a wonderful job directing the film that I must include it in my list of better film adaptations of written works.
I myself have only read the abridged version of the novel, and thus missed out on what must have been the author's more lurid descriptions of the life of debauchery Mr Gray (Ben Barnes) had plunged himself into. Hence, the film itself is rather shocking to watch for the conservative viewer. Viewer's discretion is heavily, heavily advised.
Ben Barnes of "Prince Caspian (2008)" fame certainly did a remarkable job of appearing so unaffected by the acts and sins he committed himself to. While this may to some extent attract the scorn of critics, I think such acting is essential for depicting the Dorian Gray the author created. Certainly, such cynicism towards the brighter side of life, and the intense dedication to hedonism, makes Barnes' character a powerful anti-hero, one that viewers, I imagine, must love to hate and hate to love.
Colin Firth is, well, quite comfortable in his role as Dorian Gray's acquaintance, Lord Henry Wotton. Dear Harry mentored Dorian, preaching to him what he dared not practice, effectively transforming the mild-mannered, handsome young country boy into the cruel, sadistic bastard many still read about today. Firth manages to display, even from behind a stately beard, Wotton's emotional transformation from the devilish pride of a mentor, to the growing concern for a friend, and ultimately to the great hatred towards the monster he created.
Rebecca Hall, while only a supporting character who made her appearance towards the climax of the film, played Wotton's daughter Emily to great effect. One could actually feel the effect she has Dorian and his emotions. I don't know whether this is what really happened in the original novel - I certainly doubt the ending is true to Wilde's classic - but she certainly made a big impact on the silver screen. It is a pity her role is reduced to emphasize Dorian Gray's conscience. (Seriously, there's only so much debauchery and beauty one can take from a character blessed, or cursed, with eternal youth.)
The photography of the film is commendable too. Close-ups of Dorian's sex scenes, while appearing so sensual, gives a third person's point of view (or immense disgust) towards acts of debauchery. It certainly made me baulk. That aside, scenes of improving technology, the dark sides of London, and war against Germans tell how time has passed. These guys have finally realised how to present time changes without sticking stuff at your face and exaggerating the ravages of time on everyone's face. (Well, everyone, except Dorian, of course.)
This is most certainly a cautionary tale, and has remained strictly that. Instead of emphasizing on the consequences of immortality, Parker did a good job of highlighting Dorian's horrifying lifestyle and how it affects his soul, as depicted on his painting. On that note, I like how the painting only made so few appearances in the entire film, so that instead of "the picture of", the film is simply about Dorian Gray as a hedonist. However, towards the end, I must admit it is some sort of a mess, as the movie rushed ahead in its attempt to pull back to the cause of Dorian's eternal youth.
However, post-climax, the viewer's focus shifts to Lord Henry, who, in a very simplistic manner that lasts only two scenes, is shown to be living with the consequences of having made Dorian into the way he was (Gray's dead by then). Before facing the slightly burned painting, now restored (or close to, I think) to its original magnificence, he is seen in an empty ballroom (his house, it must be), trying to get his daughter back, who estranged herself from him thinking he left Dorian to burn alive in his attic, where he stores the cursed picture. True or not, I think he must be feeling the pain of causing a young man, with a full life ahead of him, to barter his soul for the earthly pleasures of life. Certainly, Dorian listened to him instead of his other friend, the society artist Basil Hallward who painted Dorian Gray's picture, but it was Wotton's continued coaching that turned Dorian against Basil's concerned warnings.
All-in-all, a stunning, horrific, true-to-novel film by the seemingly conservative British.
Monday, April 26, 2010
The Maze
A few hours ago I completed the revised edition of The Maze, a short story that won second place in a short story competition back in my old school when I was in the Forth Form. The plot centres around the meaning of life, the sacrifice an individual made upon it's discovery in a famous mythical labyrinth (Percy Jackson fans would know what I'm talking about), and the arguments for and against its publication.
The revised edition includes a lot more detail in thoughts, less so in the material stuff in the story. I guess I've been doing that lately, ordering my train of thought, to keep it on track and that it connects one carriage to another. This is all in preparation for my next two writing projects - one, a series of short stories that hopefully will make it to the printing press someday; and the other, my long-awaited novel, which hopefully would follow the publication of the first project.
That's a lot of hope put into it there....
I have to be careful though, so as to not immerse myself too much in my personal world of fiction. I once confided in a friend that I often have trouble keeping my feet firmly on terra firma, metaphorically speaking. In a sense I think more like Plato than Aristotle. Plato's ideas generally deals with the metaphysical, while Aristotle emphasizes the search of knowledge through diligence and perseverance. The latter seems more reasonable in the world today, where in my opinion most people concern themselves with worldly matters, rather than spiritual...
Anyway, coming back to writing, Inkheart (2009) is a refreshing take on the theme of fiction in general, and on those who play a part in its creation. I have not read the book in ages (I think I will, as soon as I finish my current reading list); nevertheless, the character Fenoglio on screen described the loneliness writers may feel, that they sometimes wish to be in the world they had created to escape the harsh realities of life in the material world.
While Fenoglio's work Inkheart may not be the ideal fictional world (the villains described are just too darn scary), I find that I agree with him. You are often forced to isolate yourself in creating fiction, so much so that when you re-emerge into the real world, you often find it so cruel and merciless that you wish to just stay in that world in your mind and never have to leave it.
Of course, that's just one way at looking at life. I think some authors like to exaggerate the harshness of everyday life, so that when they venture out the real world, they would feel glad that it is not as dark and gloomy as the world they had created. George Orwell must certainly think so, although his works (I'm talking mainly about Animal Farm and 1984) are meant to be read as a warning against certain forms of government.
Well, that's me on fiction.
(I like this topic, I think I'll come back to it in the future.)
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Free-Lance
I've just offered to be a part-time contributor to my old school's monthly digest. I used to be the deputy editor, and it's been fun, even if I contributed to only one issue officially.
I think by doing it this way, I'd be able to look forward to a productive job at the end of each month. Plus, if the Editor-in-Chief agrees, I will stay on the team as a layout editor, so that my vision of a more attractive magazine can be realised! (I won't be not expendable too.)
Besides being an editor, I can also write my way into the magazine. I've got an idea for a series of short stories, starting with one that I've worked on many years ago. I'll do some tweaking on that one before I send it. Of course, it will be published on this blog the moment it is in print.
I've always been dreaming of being a free-lance writer. Now that I have an avenue, it would be the first step into the world of literature. I really hope that I'll be able to sell some of my pieces to popular magazines and newspapers one day. Besides the extra income, I'd be able to introduce myself as a writer, which is not as common a job as you might think...
I think by doing it this way, I'd be able to look forward to a productive job at the end of each month. Plus, if the Editor-in-Chief agrees, I will stay on the team as a layout editor, so that my vision of a more attractive magazine can be realised! (I won't be not expendable too.)
Besides being an editor, I can also write my way into the magazine. I've got an idea for a series of short stories, starting with one that I've worked on many years ago. I'll do some tweaking on that one before I send it. Of course, it will be published on this blog the moment it is in print.
I've always been dreaming of being a free-lance writer. Now that I have an avenue, it would be the first step into the world of literature. I really hope that I'll be able to sell some of my pieces to popular magazines and newspapers one day. Besides the extra income, I'd be able to introduce myself as a writer, which is not as common a job as you might think...
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Mightier Than a Sword
Not going into details much, I've decided to give the investigative novel a shot, partly because I've been reading so many Detective Conan cases (hey, I didn't say I'm not a manga fan). It actually might be an interesting angle to write about, and I can utilise my trivia to make up an intriguing case. Also, I find switching between time-lines, between different eras, a rather difficult but most satisfying read, especially when you expect them to connect to each other at one point or another. Kate Mosse and, to a degree, David Gibbins, used this writing technique to produce astounding works of literature, and I'm bent in attempting to do the same.
The topic is a phantom presence. The setting is an out-of-the-way boarding school. The main characters are from different times, but are somehow connected.
This would be an awesome adventure to write.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Passion Smoothie
Eh, forgive the name, I just thought it would sound catchy.
I happen to have a little le Monin passion fruit syrup at hand, so I thought of this rather on-the-spot. Made it twice, once for friends and once for family, and they all liked it. Here's the recipe:
1 apple
2 pears
2 oranges
70 ml Passion fruit syrup
ice and water
I happen to have a little le Monin passion fruit syrup at hand, so I thought of this rather on-the-spot. Made it twice, once for friends and once for family, and they all liked it. Here's the recipe:
1 apple
2 pears
2 oranges
70 ml Passion fruit syrup
ice and water
- Peel oranges and dice all fruits into the blender.
- Add passion fruit syrup, and as much ice and water as desired.
- Blend until desired consistency.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Hindsight / Reflection
I think I'm really getting addicted to this whole blogging thing.
I guess this can be a good thing. As I record the things that I had done, and the thoughts I had had, I may be able to look back to these actions and train of thoughts, examine them and ultimately understand myself more, bit by bit.On the other hand, this may turn out to be dangerous. If anyone has the same intentions as I did, they would also discover me and myself, and we all know that knowledge in the wrong hands is a dangerous thing. But then again, no one's reading this blog. At least, not yet...
It has been another good day, the past four and twenty hours.
I've been given another chance to test my culinary skills. I followed recipes, true, but still it takes some culinary knowledge to get them right, understand how they worked.
Last night's dinner have been another success... moderately anyway:
- My sister liked the angel hair carbonara I made for her alone, although by my standards it has too much Parmesan. Needs to be balanced by another type of cheese.
- The salad's crunchy, but a little conservative about the vinaigrette, and more fresh onion rings would make it spectacular.
- Also made chicken tahini - the marinade's a recipe that worked out most excellently (made the chicken really tender and tasty), and I made a roast rack out of carrots on a bed of onions and garlic, which made them taste absolutely heavenly. Served this with a simple angel hair with basil, and the carrots in the roast. Tried to make a gravy but that didn't work, I'll need to remedy that in the future.
- For the drinks I made a fruit smoothie flavoured with passion fruit syrup. I made this before for my friends - they loved it, and so did mum and sis. Didn't get dad's comments 'cause he came back late, but it's okay with me.
What's in store for me the next few days? Well, the parents are not around, so I'm in charge of the house (mostly), and that means taking care of my sister and her schedule, which can get pretty hectic during weekends, but it's fine with me. Got to have some time for church (finally decided to go back to the Lord), but it's only for a few hours, and any time helping others is spending time with God.
... So, I'll write again some other time.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
A Friend In Me
The last two days made me realise just how much fun time spent with friends can be.
On Monday, what was supposed to be a tasting of some of my cooking and a quick viewing of the new condo we're supposed to move into in June with one friend turned out to be one heck of a time with three. Called up Angeline and asked her if she's free for lunch at my place, and we decided to invite others who were free on Monday. The others turned out to be Hsien Yew and a new girl, Pamelyn.
It was about 10 in the morning, so I suggested we went for a jog/walk at the Kiara Park hill/jungle (near Bakti in TTDI). Oh man, did we test our stamina there! It was a great time to catch up with them too, and get to know Pam.
When we finished at about half past eleven-ish, I lead the way back to my house where everyone got a chance to take a shower. All of them pitched in to cook lunch (under my direction of course - hey, it's my kitchen and my recipes ;P) and took turns to use the shower, so lunch was ready in about an hour. Got good reviews of the eggplant salad and angel hair with sausage, so I will be posting those recipes here soon.
Well, we got 3/4 of an hour to kill before Pam had to go somewhere else, so they decided to try out the Wii. Tried to use the karaoke mikes on the Wii, but they failed again, so we went multi-player on a racing game. That was really fun - I've never played the multi-player version with two remote controllers and two nun-chucks before, so it was a good experience.
I didn't actually get to surprise them with the new condo, but it was a good time nonetheless.
And yesterday evening Hsien Yew suddenly surprised me with free tickets for a preview of Toy Story 1 & 2 - in 3D! Was supposed to shop for ingredients for tonight's meal for the family with Dad, but decided to do that solo in Mid Valley after picking up the four free tickets since I was the closest to the shopping mall. Didn't get all the items on my list, partly because they don't supply them in the Jusco supermarket in Mid Valley (should have shopped in Carrefour instead - that's bigger - but Dad has the J-Card).
We met up before the screening. Hsien Yew brought Pam and Joshua, so good to see him again! We had a bit of time to catch up, so it's cool.
Our seating was terrible, it was too much to the left and the screen was unusually small, so 10 minutes into the movie we swapped to some vacant seats in the middle of the third row from the top. This wasn't so good either, our view was slightly blocked by the railing, so at the interval between TS and TS2 we "upgraded" to the row above us.
I've seen both the films before, but it was still quite fun to watch, and the 3D effects were really good, unlike some other 3D films. I guess after so many attempts they finally got it right. lol
The movies finished at 20 before midnight, and all-in-all it was a fun time. Myself, got some tweaking to do on my laptop so I only slept at 1.
I don't usually do this kind of stuff with school friends - they're either not free all the time or wrapped up in their activities all the time, so it got kind of depressing after a while of asking them out and got rejected again and again. Going out with church friends was refreshing, and I'd definitely do it again.
On Monday, what was supposed to be a tasting of some of my cooking and a quick viewing of the new condo we're supposed to move into in June with one friend turned out to be one heck of a time with three. Called up Angeline and asked her if she's free for lunch at my place, and we decided to invite others who were free on Monday. The others turned out to be Hsien Yew and a new girl, Pamelyn.
It was about 10 in the morning, so I suggested we went for a jog/walk at the Kiara Park hill/jungle (near Bakti in TTDI). Oh man, did we test our stamina there! It was a great time to catch up with them too, and get to know Pam.
When we finished at about half past eleven-ish, I lead the way back to my house where everyone got a chance to take a shower. All of them pitched in to cook lunch (under my direction of course - hey, it's my kitchen and my recipes ;P) and took turns to use the shower, so lunch was ready in about an hour. Got good reviews of the eggplant salad and angel hair with sausage, so I will be posting those recipes here soon.
Well, we got 3/4 of an hour to kill before Pam had to go somewhere else, so they decided to try out the Wii. Tried to use the karaoke mikes on the Wii, but they failed again, so we went multi-player on a racing game. That was really fun - I've never played the multi-player version with two remote controllers and two nun-chucks before, so it was a good experience.
I didn't actually get to surprise them with the new condo, but it was a good time nonetheless.
And yesterday evening Hsien Yew suddenly surprised me with free tickets for a preview of Toy Story 1 & 2 - in 3D! Was supposed to shop for ingredients for tonight's meal for the family with Dad, but decided to do that solo in Mid Valley after picking up the four free tickets since I was the closest to the shopping mall. Didn't get all the items on my list, partly because they don't supply them in the Jusco supermarket in Mid Valley (should have shopped in Carrefour instead - that's bigger - but Dad has the J-Card).
We met up before the screening. Hsien Yew brought Pam and Joshua, so good to see him again! We had a bit of time to catch up, so it's cool.
Our seating was terrible, it was too much to the left and the screen was unusually small, so 10 minutes into the movie we swapped to some vacant seats in the middle of the third row from the top. This wasn't so good either, our view was slightly blocked by the railing, so at the interval between TS and TS2 we "upgraded" to the row above us.
I've seen both the films before, but it was still quite fun to watch, and the 3D effects were really good, unlike some other 3D films. I guess after so many attempts they finally got it right. lol
The movies finished at 20 before midnight, and all-in-all it was a fun time. Myself, got some tweaking to do on my laptop so I only slept at 1.
I don't usually do this kind of stuff with school friends - they're either not free all the time or wrapped up in their activities all the time, so it got kind of depressing after a while of asking them out and got rejected again and again. Going out with church friends was refreshing, and I'd definitely do it again.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Tagging
You might have noticed that my posts aren't tagged. Or labelled. Not one.
I just don't see the point of grouping diary entries (not that this is anyway) into separate categories "for easy reference". How exactly do you catalogue random thoughts? Sure, you may write about the same topic once in a while, or about the same event for a number of consecutive days, but it's not like you're writing it for anyone to read, even though it may seem so.
Okay, for a blog that offers recipes among other things, certainly I want to share them with the world, although I really just put them here for keepsake. But seriously, if I want anyone to read this, I'm not going to make it easy for them (sorry guys). I don't write often enough to label them. Never had (though this is not saying much), never will.
Speaking of future posts, I'm having a nagging itch to write nowadays. I wonder if this is the side effect of a certain "supplement", or just a hidden desire to waste my time writing my thoughts down. Either way, I feel that this is a welcome change if you'd notice how sporadic my posts were in the past.
It's not just blog posts too - I'm finally putting my first novel in pen (okay, more in pencil than pen). Well, not finally, I've made several attempts in the past, but I've never got to the climax before. (Does this mean I don't want it to end just yet?) Got a new approach, but the interesting plot is still there.
'Course, the journey of a thousand miles begins with one step...
I just don't see the point of grouping diary entries (not that this is anyway) into separate categories "for easy reference". How exactly do you catalogue random thoughts? Sure, you may write about the same topic once in a while, or about the same event for a number of consecutive days, but it's not like you're writing it for anyone to read, even though it may seem so.
Okay, for a blog that offers recipes among other things, certainly I want to share them with the world, although I really just put them here for keepsake. But seriously, if I want anyone to read this, I'm not going to make it easy for them (sorry guys). I don't write often enough to label them. Never had (though this is not saying much), never will.
Speaking of future posts, I'm having a nagging itch to write nowadays. I wonder if this is the side effect of a certain "supplement", or just a hidden desire to waste my time writing my thoughts down. Either way, I feel that this is a welcome change if you'd notice how sporadic my posts were in the past.
It's not just blog posts too - I'm finally putting my first novel in pen (okay, more in pencil than pen). Well, not finally, I've made several attempts in the past, but I've never got to the climax before. (Does this mean I don't want it to end just yet?) Got a new approach, but the interesting plot is still there.
'Course, the journey of a thousand miles begins with one step...
Sunday, April 18, 2010
The Little Prince
I have just finished Antoine de Saint-Exupery's The Little Prince, and I must say it is astonishing. This is my second time reading it, and I must admit I was not mature enough in my reading to fully appreciate the impact of such an unassuming book that captured the minds of not only children but also adults, who hailed it as a modern classic.
Written by a French pilot who sought asylum in America when France was taken by the Germans during WWII, it recounts the narrator's encounter of a strange little boy who apparently arrived on Earth nearly a year before from a distant asteroid. Through the narrator's patient observation and growing interest in the young, self-styled prince, we look into the lives and views on life and man of various quirky characters through the prince's eyes during his journey from his little planet to Earth.
This is a wonderful story written in the second person's point of view, much like Mitch Albom's Tuesdays With Morrie and Have A Little Faith, and other thought-provoking and influential tittles. Unlike those tales however, The Little Prince is written as an allegorical children's book, something like George Orwell's Animal Farm, so that it can be enjoyed by everyone of all ages.
The little ones would be fascinated by the prince's travels and encounters of the "grown-ups" and plants and animals, and would easily pick up some of the more obvious lessons, such as nipping problems in the bud and constant vigilance and diligence.
The "grown-ups" who read this book, however, may find more profound truths hidden in the observations of the little prince. Each of the adults that he meets in the six asteroids he stops at before arriving on Earth teaches us something more about different kinds of people, some of which may reflect our own personalities and how ridiculous they seem to the innocent but observant eyes of a child.
The most essential lesson that everyone ultimately learns and is reminded of as the story draws to a close is that "It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye." It reminds us to look beyond the material to find that the most important thing to us is really the immaterial.
My hope for this book is that its lessons reach the minds of a generation that is increasingly engrossed in material wealth. As for me, I'm going to give this to my sister to read.
Friday, April 16, 2010
Alfredo Sauce
A simple white cream sauce that forms the base of many of my delicious pasta recipes (primarily because I'm a big fan of this sauce in the first place, so I kept trying to perfect it!). With just a little tweaking, this can be transformed into the popular carbonara sauce, but I have yet to try the traditional carbonara sauce and so will not dive further into that now.
Anyway, this is my version of the sauce:
1 1/2 tbsp light butter spread
1 garlic clove
1 1/3 cup skim milk
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
80g cheese
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Anyway, this is my version of the sauce:
1 1/2 tbsp light butter spread
1 garlic clove
1 1/3 cup skim milk
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
80g cheese
- Melt spread in a saucepan and and saute chopped garlic.
- When garlic is fragrant enough, combine with milk and stir frequently.
- When milk is hot enough, or begins to froth, lower the flame to medium and add the cheese.
- Stir well before adding the flour dissolved with a little water. Leave to simmer, stirring occasionally, until sauce reaches a creamy texture.
- Toss with pasta of choice and serve.
Cooking time: 15 minutes
- The skim milk is used for a low-fat sauce. Of course, any other type of milk will do.
- Alternatively, wheat flour may be used.
- Preferably, use a combination of 50g cream cheese and 30g Parmesan of Romano cheese. If not available, three slices of cheddar cheese (most common and cheapest cheese on the market) will do.
- For a more fragrant sauce, add herbs of choice (I'd use a nice combination of Italian herbs) and maybe another garlic clove.
- Add grilled chicken and mushrooms (sauted with the garlic in the beginning) and steamed broccoli for a quick meal.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
The Point of No Return
Whoever came up with that phrase is a genius, I must imagine.
I guess it can be used to describe a moment in time or a point in life where you can only move forward, sort of like a denouement in a story where everything that has been happening converge before reaching a spectacular climax, where you can no longer turn back and must continue forward.
There are plenty of these "points" on the roads: narrow one-way streets that force you to continue straight ahead with no chance of making a U-turn any time soon if you happen to be lost and want to reverse-engineer your way back to somewhere you're familiar with. 'Course, these roads aren't always narrow (take the highway for example), but they always force you to look dead ahead and give you no choice but to go on in that direction.
Similarly in life, the weary traveller arrives at these points of no return every once in a while, following a series of life-altering experiences from which he must learn in order to move on, thinking that life's a downright b***h and griping about this and that while being forced in one direction. At this point, he would remember the roads he could have taken, all those miles ago, and dream of what could have been.
If he choose to think like that, anyway.
One could also refuse to entertain such thoughts, and instead look at the valuable lessons one has learned going down this road and reaching this point of no return, treasuring them and promising to learn from them, and let the river of life take his boat to wherever it may lead, or at least until another crossroads where life once again offers a choice.
Going on and on about this, I can most definitely say I'm at the point of no return, and I have to face that reality. I put myself in the IB programme thinking that somehow, I could return to the person I once was, two years ago at my old boarding school: the active, all-round, intelligent (to a degree), hard-working me. But now I have come to realise that that person is no longer me - I have let myself go, and now must work with what I am now; and this person that I have become cannot cope with the IB.
Of course, I still have a decision to make: either stay in the programme, face whatever that may come and accept the outcome; or quit the programme now and take a course that I'd actually like so that I'll stick with it (my parents insist on me getting a uni degree). Factoring in the fact that the IB is the second time I've been in a pre-U programme, I've yet to complete a Pre-U whereas all my secondary school classmates are already doing their first year in university, and I'm already 20...
I really don't know what to do.
Is this programme, this road, right for me in the first place? Have I taken this path for nothing? Which choice is the right one? What does God expect of me at this point? What was His will and have I failed Him? Have I failed myself?
"Do the right thing, come what may."
Which is the right thing?
I guess it can be used to describe a moment in time or a point in life where you can only move forward, sort of like a denouement in a story where everything that has been happening converge before reaching a spectacular climax, where you can no longer turn back and must continue forward.
There are plenty of these "points" on the roads: narrow one-way streets that force you to continue straight ahead with no chance of making a U-turn any time soon if you happen to be lost and want to reverse-engineer your way back to somewhere you're familiar with. 'Course, these roads aren't always narrow (take the highway for example), but they always force you to look dead ahead and give you no choice but to go on in that direction.
Similarly in life, the weary traveller arrives at these points of no return every once in a while, following a series of life-altering experiences from which he must learn in order to move on, thinking that life's a downright b***h and griping about this and that while being forced in one direction. At this point, he would remember the roads he could have taken, all those miles ago, and dream of what could have been.
If he choose to think like that, anyway.
One could also refuse to entertain such thoughts, and instead look at the valuable lessons one has learned going down this road and reaching this point of no return, treasuring them and promising to learn from them, and let the river of life take his boat to wherever it may lead, or at least until another crossroads where life once again offers a choice.
Going on and on about this, I can most definitely say I'm at the point of no return, and I have to face that reality. I put myself in the IB programme thinking that somehow, I could return to the person I once was, two years ago at my old boarding school: the active, all-round, intelligent (to a degree), hard-working me. But now I have come to realise that that person is no longer me - I have let myself go, and now must work with what I am now; and this person that I have become cannot cope with the IB.
Of course, I still have a decision to make: either stay in the programme, face whatever that may come and accept the outcome; or quit the programme now and take a course that I'd actually like so that I'll stick with it (my parents insist on me getting a uni degree). Factoring in the fact that the IB is the second time I've been in a pre-U programme, I've yet to complete a Pre-U whereas all my secondary school classmates are already doing their first year in university, and I'm already 20...
I really don't know what to do.
Is this programme, this road, right for me in the first place? Have I taken this path for nothing? Which choice is the right one? What does God expect of me at this point? What was His will and have I failed Him? Have I failed myself?
"Do the right thing, come what may."
Which is the right thing?
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
The Connection
It goes on,
it goes off.
And sometimes
it doesn’t come on
at all.
it goes off.
And sometimes
it doesn’t come on
at all.
I want it fast,
it prefers to
take its time.
And when you need it most
it crashes
like so much trash.
it prefers to
take its time.
And when you need it most
it crashes
like so much trash.
It is amazing how
such a high-tech piece of
“equipment”
can be so
undependable,
unreliable…
Unbelievable!
such a high-tech piece of
“equipment”
can be so
undependable,
unreliable…
Unbelievable!
It is the blasted
Connection
I am ranting about,
the invisible link
to the wonderful world of
the Internet.
It baffles me how
such a superficial “tool”
can be so utterly
temperamental.
Connection
I am ranting about,
the invisible link
to the wonderful world of
the Internet.
It baffles me how
such a superficial “tool”
can be so utterly
temperamental.
The I.T. guy that came in
said something about
the DNS
(and a bunch of other stuff I can’t remember),
but I knew that
the Connection
has a life of its own.
said something about
the DNS
(and a bunch of other stuff I can’t remember),
but I knew that
the Connection
has a life of its own.
Exodus
I just cannot believe I'm coming back here.
More than one year ago, I thought I lost the will to keep updating this thingamajig because of so much other stuff to do, not to mention more time spent with new friends. And now, once again, I found the will to again publish my thoughts to anyone who cares to read them.
Yeah, the title means I'm going to try to take most of my thoughts and put them into writing. That hopefully would include shorts and poems, the latter only if I'm not chicken enough to actually put them here.
'Course, it's not thoughts alone. I've been recently reintroduced to the kitchen, where I do battle with time and lack-of-ingredients-and-kitchenware to achieve the victory of creation. I've decided to publicise a select number of successful recipes - select because I don't want them taken out and displayed as someone else's. I have intellectual property copyrights too, y'know!
Guess that's all for now. Signing off.
More than one year ago, I thought I lost the will to keep updating this thingamajig because of so much other stuff to do, not to mention more time spent with new friends. And now, once again, I found the will to again publish my thoughts to anyone who cares to read them.
Yeah, the title means I'm going to try to take most of my thoughts and put them into writing. That hopefully would include shorts and poems, the latter only if I'm not chicken enough to actually put them here.
'Course, it's not thoughts alone. I've been recently reintroduced to the kitchen, where I do battle with time and lack-of-ingredients-and-kitchenware to achieve the victory of creation. I've decided to publicise a select number of successful recipes - select because I don't want them taken out and displayed as someone else's. I have intellectual property copyrights too, y'know!
Guess that's all for now. Signing off.
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