TalkBack is a chatroom where Stompers congregate to talk about everything under the sun. One of the topics was the types of girls men should avoid when looking for a partner. The _Redeemer warns against going after social butterflies and princess wannababes.
In return, Blackened rebutted him with the question of why they must be avoided and stated that there is nothing wrong with them being popular in the social circles. She went on to state that these lifestyles of theirs should be respected by their male partners.
I am also a female and I disagree with Blackened. Such women are mostly interested in drawing attention to themselves and this will create a rift in the love relationships they have, since they tend to put their male partners as second to themselves. Their male partners will feel neglected and arguments will surface in the relationships.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Monday, September 14, 2009
Insincere marriage plans
An Indian IT engineer pleaded for mercy in court when he was convicted of molestation. He had thought a woman walking towards him in the early morning was a prostitute, and he kissed her. That means he had not only molested her, but had also insulted her. What kind of story is this? He told the court that he is getting married in 5 months' time. If he really loves his fiancee, he wouldn't have kissed another woman, even if she was a prostitute. That is already cheating on her feelings.
Looking after our parents is a duty
This topic is especially poignant with me because it was an expression of feelings between my mum and I before she died. Thus I cannot comprehend how there can be a law to do this, as mentioned in a letter in the New Paper.
I remember my mum insisting that I greet everyone we come into contact with. I did it begrudgingly when I was younger but now as an adult, I do it naturally. If I find it tedious, I give at least a smile. My parents did a good job in bringing me up, and they used the cane as one of their methods. I see most parents of today not daring to use it for fear of abuse. If the aim of its usage is to discipline the kid and change him for the better, then it is certainly not abuse. Some parents also naively believe their kids' lies against the teachers' words, and as a result, malign the teachers. Due to such lenience, it is no wonder that the children will not think that looking after their aged parents is a duty. These parents who fear doing the right thing, have caused Singapore to have no choice but to impose such a law.
I remember my mum insisting that I greet everyone we come into contact with. I did it begrudgingly when I was younger but now as an adult, I do it naturally. If I find it tedious, I give at least a smile. My parents did a good job in bringing me up, and they used the cane as one of their methods. I see most parents of today not daring to use it for fear of abuse. If the aim of its usage is to discipline the kid and change him for the better, then it is certainly not abuse. Some parents also naively believe their kids' lies against the teachers' words, and as a result, malign the teachers. Due to such lenience, it is no wonder that the children will not think that looking after their aged parents is a duty. These parents who fear doing the right thing, have caused Singapore to have no choice but to impose such a law.
Abuse In Tampines
The abuse is by a woman on a man who lives with her. It is especially horrifying because it is done in public and not in the confines of their home. She chases him along the common corridor with a cane, orders him to kneel down and apologise, and even to sleep without a shirt outside their home, and does not give him food at times. She is older by a decade.
The man refuses to leave her and claims he loves her very much. At the same time, he cries after he is mistreated. His emotions are causing him to let himself be ruined at her hands. I hope his tolerance level is tried so badly that he runs away from her.
The woman is obviously beyond help. When people tell her off, she blames the man for being useless. What if she were the one being abused? Women are supposed to be more loving than men. Here is an atypical example which really disgraces we women. She has shamed the man so badly by doing all these to him. Any men would have retaliated long ago. This is reminiscent of another woman who kicked a man in the groin at the roadside. The men are not children and yet they willingly allow themselves to be abused. What hold do these women have over them??
The irony is that even the woman's son disapproves of her actions. Does she still think she is doing the right thing?
The man refuses to leave her and claims he loves her very much. At the same time, he cries after he is mistreated. His emotions are causing him to let himself be ruined at her hands. I hope his tolerance level is tried so badly that he runs away from her.
The woman is obviously beyond help. When people tell her off, she blames the man for being useless. What if she were the one being abused? Women are supposed to be more loving than men. Here is an atypical example which really disgraces we women. She has shamed the man so badly by doing all these to him. Any men would have retaliated long ago. This is reminiscent of another woman who kicked a man in the groin at the roadside. The men are not children and yet they willingly allow themselves to be abused. What hold do these women have over them??
The irony is that even the woman's son disapproves of her actions. Does she still think she is doing the right thing?
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
A long-awaited get-together
It was so amazing how God allowed me to go for Ascension sunset mass by cancelling my lesson. A good girlfriend of mine, Mich, managed to catch me after mass for dinner.
She gave an update on the happenings in her life and it was then that I realised that I have not really spoken to her for at least two months! I didn't even know that her nature of involvement in church had changed.
She being a teacher-in-training, made it so easy for me to share my teaching-cum-tutoring stories with her. It was truly a meal of kindred spirits. I felt blessed being able to do so.
I agree with what she said about being thankful for friends who don't drift apart and are there for you even after not having met for a long time. My close girlfriends make me feel this way about our friendships. Even my best girlfriend and my god-daughter cause me to feel this way too. :)
She gave an update on the happenings in her life and it was then that I realised that I have not really spoken to her for at least two months! I didn't even know that her nature of involvement in church had changed.
She being a teacher-in-training, made it so easy for me to share my teaching-cum-tutoring stories with her. It was truly a meal of kindred spirits. I felt blessed being able to do so.
I agree with what she said about being thankful for friends who don't drift apart and are there for you even after not having met for a long time. My close girlfriends make me feel this way about our friendships. Even my best girlfriend and my god-daughter cause me to feel this way too. :)
Friday, August 28, 2009
Caring doctors to my family.
A doctor wrote an article on how he gets distressed when his patients ignore his advice for cancer treatment. He explained that it is because he cares for them. I am reminded of the doctors that have attended to my family members over the years.
My dad has 2. One of them is our family friend and the other was recommended by him. Both are caring towards us. They anticipate our needs and cater to them with their assurances.
My mum had 1. She went beyond the mile to send us encouraging messages of hope and strength, when my mum was dying. We still keep the messages.
I have 1. She makes me feel that she is more than a doctor to me, as she asks after my parents too. I feel so cared for by her that I decided to give her a gift last Christmas. Thanks, Dr. Koh!
My dad has 2. One of them is our family friend and the other was recommended by him. Both are caring towards us. They anticipate our needs and cater to them with their assurances.
My mum had 1. She went beyond the mile to send us encouraging messages of hope and strength, when my mum was dying. We still keep the messages.
I have 1. She makes me feel that she is more than a doctor to me, as she asks after my parents too. I feel so cared for by her that I decided to give her a gift last Christmas. Thanks, Dr. Koh!
Friday, August 21, 2009
Catching up with May
I met her at Compass Point and she brought her kids along. They are adorable and rather well-behaved darlings. I felt so protective of them. They also helped to nurture my character in the process of looking out for them.
It was a good time spent with her. I felt as if nothing between us had changed. I still felt comfortable with her mum too. Such is the power of old friends who became best friends. I went to their new house and then to the book warehouse sale at Ang Mo Kio Avenue 10. The sale was a book lover's paradise. Unfortunately, I've reached my peak in buying books, and so I experienced the concept of diminishing returns when I was there. I could not find any book good enough to cause me to fork out money for, despite the really low prices of the books.
Here is more information about the sale. The lowest price is about $1-2. There are also magazines too. They are not so old as to have yellow pages though. I believe they are a mixture of old and new books/magazines.
The hilarious thing is that she was on her way in sending me home before we saw the banner. Her daughter is a bookworm and she wanted to get some books for her daughter. I too, am a bookworm. :) So we decided to throw caution to the wind and head for the sale!
I saw even more how good a mother she is. She had the patience to scour through all the children's books for the ones that would be good for her daughter. She also affirmed my preference for children's and teens' books. They are easier to digest, especially pertaining to difficult topics, and have more appealing plots. Now I'm less embarrassed when I read one in public.
I managed to broach a subject that had been causing me resentment and fear each time I knew I was going to meet her. I realised that she had been ignorant of it all the while, and it was good that we cleared the air. She gave me her thoughts on it, and in the process, I knew that a realization had been attained. At the same time, she was gentle about sharing her perspective and added something that really touched me. I certainly don't deserve to be the target of what it was about. She has kindly overestimated me. It also revealed to me that I had jumped to conclusions based on what had happened much earlier in the friendship.
I definitely look forward to meeting her more often. :D
It was a good time spent with her. I felt as if nothing between us had changed. I still felt comfortable with her mum too. Such is the power of old friends who became best friends. I went to their new house and then to the book warehouse sale at Ang Mo Kio Avenue 10. The sale was a book lover's paradise. Unfortunately, I've reached my peak in buying books, and so I experienced the concept of diminishing returns when I was there. I could not find any book good enough to cause me to fork out money for, despite the really low prices of the books.
Here is more information about the sale. The lowest price is about $1-2. There are also magazines too. They are not so old as to have yellow pages though. I believe they are a mixture of old and new books/magazines.
The hilarious thing is that she was on her way in sending me home before we saw the banner. Her daughter is a bookworm and she wanted to get some books for her daughter. I too, am a bookworm. :) So we decided to throw caution to the wind and head for the sale!
I saw even more how good a mother she is. She had the patience to scour through all the children's books for the ones that would be good for her daughter. She also affirmed my preference for children's and teens' books. They are easier to digest, especially pertaining to difficult topics, and have more appealing plots. Now I'm less embarrassed when I read one in public.
I managed to broach a subject that had been causing me resentment and fear each time I knew I was going to meet her. I realised that she had been ignorant of it all the while, and it was good that we cleared the air. She gave me her thoughts on it, and in the process, I knew that a realization had been attained. At the same time, she was gentle about sharing her perspective and added something that really touched me. I certainly don't deserve to be the target of what it was about. She has kindly overestimated me. It also revealed to me that I had jumped to conclusions based on what had happened much earlier in the friendship.
I definitely look forward to meeting her more often. :D
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Characteristics negative in every way
If there is a gift of outstanding ability and output, self-pride can ensue, but when the pride level escalates to blatancy, it becomes glaring and repulsive. The gift was not granted for this occurrence. It was for the purpose of enhancement and natural appreciation. Certainly, there is self-awareness that this occurrence is really a mirror for self-consciousness. The desire to seek purification is instilled. Perhaps emotion is the reason for such blatancy and condescension.
On the other hand, a revelation that personal levels pale in comparison can be smarting and incite inferiority. However, there is a choice to incline towards humility in acceptance, or towards uncalled-for cynicism under the pretence of enlightenment. Do societal rankings affect the choice taken?
When objective views are sought, truth should be the underlying drive. Instead, empathy to the point of unjustly sowing seeds of retaliation underneath power rights is shown. Gratitude is again felt at the knowledge of truth and love freely given.
Warpness is further seen in the corrupted motivation of personal gain when service is rendered and tasks are undertaken. This is more clearly explained in the context of a religion. There is definitely unsuitability, with the showcase of such an attitude, in this particular context. It is a tragedy to note such a perspective. "We are in the world but not of the world." This truth has been forgotten with the overwhelming forces of the world upon us. It is even more unfathomable when this is seen in the weaker gender of traditional society who is the key for future generations.
The terribly mistaken assumption that self-employment leads to naive ignorance of the world at large has been proven. A knowledgeable mindset can still be obtained, and boosted by a literary quest for it. Humble enlightening is then impressed upon. The power of literature and the written word does open the mind to commonsensical factors blatantly displayed, but blind to by a rigid thirst for materialistic gain.
Time and environment have certainly changed people's characters. Innocence and decency have evolved into an extremity of liberalism. Sincerity is terribly compromised and what is seen, is superficiality. This leaves me aghast.
Monetary abundance leaves one with the false impression that it should be the prime factor in lifelong companionship. Woe to those in this category. Character is what matters and what will sustain.
I cannot fathom how enhancing one's appearance through artificial means can compensate for one's deficient abilities in handling work responsibilities and in cultivating the correct work attitudes. It can give a competent initial impression but time will reveal the harsh truth, and the actual output will be terribly compromised to the embarrassment of self. The tragedy is that this lesson has not been fully learnt with past mistakes made. It would be better if the appearance is left in its natural form but the abilities are improved upon in a tremendous and positive manner.
On the other hand, a revelation that personal levels pale in comparison can be smarting and incite inferiority. However, there is a choice to incline towards humility in acceptance, or towards uncalled-for cynicism under the pretence of enlightenment. Do societal rankings affect the choice taken?
When objective views are sought, truth should be the underlying drive. Instead, empathy to the point of unjustly sowing seeds of retaliation underneath power rights is shown. Gratitude is again felt at the knowledge of truth and love freely given.
Warpness is further seen in the corrupted motivation of personal gain when service is rendered and tasks are undertaken. This is more clearly explained in the context of a religion. There is definitely unsuitability, with the showcase of such an attitude, in this particular context. It is a tragedy to note such a perspective. "We are in the world but not of the world." This truth has been forgotten with the overwhelming forces of the world upon us. It is even more unfathomable when this is seen in the weaker gender of traditional society who is the key for future generations.
The terribly mistaken assumption that self-employment leads to naive ignorance of the world at large has been proven. A knowledgeable mindset can still be obtained, and boosted by a literary quest for it. Humble enlightening is then impressed upon. The power of literature and the written word does open the mind to commonsensical factors blatantly displayed, but blind to by a rigid thirst for materialistic gain.
Time and environment have certainly changed people's characters. Innocence and decency have evolved into an extremity of liberalism. Sincerity is terribly compromised and what is seen, is superficiality. This leaves me aghast.
Monetary abundance leaves one with the false impression that it should be the prime factor in lifelong companionship. Woe to those in this category. Character is what matters and what will sustain.
I cannot fathom how enhancing one's appearance through artificial means can compensate for one's deficient abilities in handling work responsibilities and in cultivating the correct work attitudes. It can give a competent initial impression but time will reveal the harsh truth, and the actual output will be terribly compromised to the embarrassment of self. The tragedy is that this lesson has not been fully learnt with past mistakes made. It would be better if the appearance is left in its natural form but the abilities are improved upon in a tremendous and positive manner.
The power of my students
I really love teaching my students. When I am going through difficult moments on a personal basis, I just cheer up when I am with them. Their smiles brighten my heart and make me laugh. As some of them are Christians too, I can share with them my problems and ask for their prayers. In fact, I think I see them more as my friends. I have actually confided in some as well, and their advice plus friendship brought me through those moments.
Friday, June 26, 2009
This taxi driver made my day!
I was feeling grouchy because things were not happening at the proper instant, and I had to accelerate the process. If not for my pro-active measures, at least for the majority of the incidents, I would not have gotten them done. I was complaining about it to Frances in the taxi and soon, I got down to talking about it with the driver.
He had a very humorous and patient approach to it. He said that perhaps it was natural to have the retardation. By this time, I was calmer and realised that time had not been sufficient for the process to take place at the proper instant. Also, it was a reaction to what had taken place before. I felt much better after that. I really enjoyed that ride. :)
He had a very humorous and patient approach to it. He said that perhaps it was natural to have the retardation. By this time, I was calmer and realised that time had not been sufficient for the process to take place at the proper instant. Also, it was a reaction to what had taken place before. I felt much better after that. I really enjoyed that ride. :)
Maintained renewal of a friendship
I mentioned this old friend Hazel whom I met again, after having lost touch with her through the years. We're still in contact and though we don't meet very often, this doesn't affect our little meals together when we do meet.
We've met twice since the last time I wrote about her and so many blessings took place. I was initially tired before the first meeting with her but God answered my prayer and gave me strength to be His instrument to her. I was also tired before the second one but once again, He blessed me with strength and in giving, I received as well.
It's a joy being with her and even talking on the phone gives me the same feeling. She is a beautiful person both externally and internally. What strikes me about her is her giving nature to be there for me when she herself may be preoccupied. I'm not saying these because she will be reading this, as she told me. It's from my heart. Smile.
I look forward to our next outing. *Smile*.
We've met twice since the last time I wrote about her and so many blessings took place. I was initially tired before the first meeting with her but God answered my prayer and gave me strength to be His instrument to her. I was also tired before the second one but once again, He blessed me with strength and in giving, I received as well.
It's a joy being with her and even talking on the phone gives me the same feeling. She is a beautiful person both externally and internally. What strikes me about her is her giving nature to be there for me when she herself may be preoccupied. I'm not saying these because she will be reading this, as she told me. It's from my heart. Smile.
I look forward to our next outing. *Smile*.
Nostalgic about friendships.
I went for a friend's 21st birthday celebration and met some old friends there. I have not seen them in a few years and we managed to catch up with each other, even if the exchanges were rather short. I was glad to see a couple of close friends too.
What was the highlight for me though was that I met a classmate that I've not seen in 15 years! We were good friends then but I had heard that she had migrated overseas. It was so surprising that she was the mecee as well as the birthday girl's family friend, while I was a guest and choirmate. I think God had allowed us to meet there and that was the reason why I was invited. :)
It didn't occur to me initially that I knew her but as the party progressed, it became evident that she seemed familiar and could be my old friend. I then saw her sister and mother, which confirmed that she was the one I knew. I was deliberating whether to go up to her and almost didn't want to. However, I plucked up my courage and went to her.
Her sister was there and recognised me immediately. She called my name and then my friend greeted me ecstastically as well! I was overjoyed! She said she had been thinking of me and wondering whether I still lived at my old place. We caught up with each other and exchanged phone numbers. We even hugged each other. I also met her sister's husband.
What was the highlight for me though was that I met a classmate that I've not seen in 15 years! We were good friends then but I had heard that she had migrated overseas. It was so surprising that she was the mecee as well as the birthday girl's family friend, while I was a guest and choirmate. I think God had allowed us to meet there and that was the reason why I was invited. :)
It didn't occur to me initially that I knew her but as the party progressed, it became evident that she seemed familiar and could be my old friend. I then saw her sister and mother, which confirmed that she was the one I knew. I was deliberating whether to go up to her and almost didn't want to. However, I plucked up my courage and went to her.
Her sister was there and recognised me immediately. She called my name and then my friend greeted me ecstastically as well! I was overjoyed! She said she had been thinking of me and wondering whether I still lived at my old place. We caught up with each other and exchanged phone numbers. We even hugged each other. I also met her sister's husband.
A long-time drink with Di
It had been so long since I last went for one with Di on a Friday night. When he called, I had to change to meet him but I think it was worth the effort.
There was a little awkward silence between us, I felt and I was thinking of topics to bring up to fill it. However, upon looking back, I wonder why I did.
Still, it was a cherished time spent. I was affirmed for my gifts in the process too.
There was a little awkward silence between us, I felt and I was thinking of topics to bring up to fill it. However, upon looking back, I wonder why I did.
Still, it was a cherished time spent. I was affirmed for my gifts in the process too.
School marriage
Two former students from Chai Chee Secondary started dating each other when they met in Secondary 1, and maintained their relationship for 14 years before getting married at their alma mater. That is a very sweet scenario and they are very blessed to have gone to this step in their relationship. Most secondary school lovers usually do not get to this level after they leave the school.
Saturday, June 20, 2009
First dinner with my cousin
I don't usually talk to my cousin. The times before this were in church and through sms over her children. We went out for dinner last night, as she wanted to discuss her daughter's progress. It was initially awkward because once we had finished talking about her daughter, it seemed that there was nothing else to talk about. However thankfully, she is a chatty and friendly person and the conversation flowed on naturally.
We talked about other things and about our relation to each other. It was a lovely dinner in terms of company and food. She gave me a treat and sent me home too. I enjoyed the time spent together as I got to know her better, not just as my student's mum but also as my cousin. :) It was a mutual feeling and I don't mind just catching up with her now and then. Thanks Chris!
We talked about other things and about our relation to each other. It was a lovely dinner in terms of company and food. She gave me a treat and sent me home too. I enjoyed the time spent together as I got to know her better, not just as my student's mum but also as my cousin. :) It was a mutual feeling and I don't mind just catching up with her now and then. Thanks Chris!
Time does not dissipate all friendships but I know it's God's hand at work.
Met Hazel and it felt just like old times. Just being able to sit with her, flipping through magazines and just yakking, is something special. I didn't expect her to come over to my place actually. Felt rather like a dwarf alongside a giant, because she is so tall. Sigh... Can't grow anymore unfortunately. I was so comfortable with her that I just took my stuffed 'dirty, smelly, old' teddy bear and hugged it while talking to her. I'm just glad we regained contact with each other.
Went out with Di. We hadn't seen each other for 5 months since he left for overseas. It was awkward initially due to the vibes I felt but then again, I may have been oversensitive. As time went on, it was as if things were back to normal. It was as if he had still been here. We hadn't lost what we have between us, as I had feared. It was comfortable being together. *big smile* We met a second time and this time, there was no doubt about the closeness between us. No, I don't have romantic feelings for him but he is important to me. He went back overseas, miss him Wah! :( Sniff sniff.
Haven't been talking to my god-daughter for such a long time. Since she went to another parish and went into JC, she has been busy with new friends. We have our own lives to lead. She may be my god-daughter but hey, she started off as my best friend's sis and then my friend in her own right. When we talk, it is always with my best friend present but she has blossomed into a mature, beautiful and independent young woman without our noticing. Circumstances caused it, apparently. We regained contact recently, just the 2 of us, through phone. It started off with teaching her GP and then progressing to catching up and confiding. :) It is so nice talking to her. :) She is different now, in a positive way. I can't wait to meet her next week! Company makes a difference!
Yep, I met up with her for her birthday. We had a nice time talking, eating and shopping. So many stories we had to tell each other! I had to rush off for tuition though so I didn't really spend as much time with her as I wished to. Sigh..... Oh well, the time with her is still cherished. :)
Went out with Di. We hadn't seen each other for 5 months since he left for overseas. It was awkward initially due to the vibes I felt but then again, I may have been oversensitive. As time went on, it was as if things were back to normal. It was as if he had still been here. We hadn't lost what we have between us, as I had feared. It was comfortable being together. *big smile* We met a second time and this time, there was no doubt about the closeness between us. No, I don't have romantic feelings for him but he is important to me. He went back overseas, miss him Wah! :( Sniff sniff.
Haven't been talking to my god-daughter for such a long time. Since she went to another parish and went into JC, she has been busy with new friends. We have our own lives to lead. She may be my god-daughter but hey, she started off as my best friend's sis and then my friend in her own right. When we talk, it is always with my best friend present but she has blossomed into a mature, beautiful and independent young woman without our noticing. Circumstances caused it, apparently. We regained contact recently, just the 2 of us, through phone. It started off with teaching her GP and then progressing to catching up and confiding. :) It is so nice talking to her. :) She is different now, in a positive way. I can't wait to meet her next week! Company makes a difference!
Yep, I met up with her for her birthday. We had a nice time talking, eating and shopping. So many stories we had to tell each other! I had to rush off for tuition though so I didn't really spend as much time with her as I wished to. Sigh..... Oh well, the time with her is still cherished. :)
Death brings parting and reuniting too....how so very ironic...
My old friend passed away suddenly and it's a very sad incident for me. I've known him as well as his wife for more than a decade, from teenagehood to adulthood. When I look back at the photos I have of them, it fills me with sorrow. In a way, I was one of those who brought them together, since he asked me for her telephone number. I attended their wedding too.
When I saw him in the coffin, I lost control and broke down, thankfully, not in front of her. I was recalling the times we had together and his personality. I wanted to stay strong for her, at least at the wake. I worry for her but I know that God will provide for and take care of her. It's so ironic that it took this occasion to bring us back together, because we did not keep in touch due to our own commitments in life. It touched me when she told me that she still keeps the letters I wrote to her, even after her marriage. I told her I wish to write more to her again, implying taking up contact with her again. I'm honoured, in a way, to share this time with her, as well as be her trusted confidant. I can share her happy and sad times with her. I also know he's closer to heaven than we on earth are.
It's strange though that this occasion was also a friendship reunion between some of the old friends and I. Things were awkward because we just lost touch over the years but we still recognised each other. His first girlfriend was there and she broke down too. It makes me wonder if I'll do the same for my first love, should he die suddenly as well.
When I saw him in the coffin, I lost control and broke down, thankfully, not in front of her. I was recalling the times we had together and his personality. I wanted to stay strong for her, at least at the wake. I worry for her but I know that God will provide for and take care of her. It's so ironic that it took this occasion to bring us back together, because we did not keep in touch due to our own commitments in life. It touched me when she told me that she still keeps the letters I wrote to her, even after her marriage. I told her I wish to write more to her again, implying taking up contact with her again. I'm honoured, in a way, to share this time with her, as well as be her trusted confidant. I can share her happy and sad times with her. I also know he's closer to heaven than we on earth are.
It's strange though that this occasion was also a friendship reunion between some of the old friends and I. Things were awkward because we just lost touch over the years but we still recognised each other. His first girlfriend was there and she broke down too. It makes me wonder if I'll do the same for my first love, should he die suddenly as well.
Another long-awaited meal with Mich
We had arranged to catch up with each other and just spend some time together, sharing about our thoughts on things. However, because I was looking forward to it very much, I was fearful when I received a message from her an hour before our meeting time. Thankfully, it was just to delay the time and not to cancel the meal.
She arrived earlier than the changed meeting time though and time just slowed down for us. God's hand was at work because we had more time with each other as a result and everything comes from Him.
We just raved about and shared candidly with each other our hopes, joys and God's gifts to us. We compared teaching experiences and our Charismatic worship experiences. Now my friendship with her has taken a new turn with our enthusiasm towards Charismatic sessions. I'm so grateful to God for this renewal in my spirituality, that has drawn us closer with this common topic. She also affirmed my experiences of being prayed over.
It was an outing I treasured and I think she needed it as much as I did, to just share our experiences.
She arrived earlier than the changed meeting time though and time just slowed down for us. God's hand was at work because we had more time with each other as a result and everything comes from Him.
We just raved about and shared candidly with each other our hopes, joys and God's gifts to us. We compared teaching experiences and our Charismatic worship experiences. Now my friendship with her has taken a new turn with our enthusiasm towards Charismatic sessions. I'm so grateful to God for this renewal in my spirituality, that has drawn us closer with this common topic. She also affirmed my experiences of being prayed over.
It was an outing I treasured and I think she needed it as much as I did, to just share our experiences.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Lunch with my Di
He's back in Perth now and this entry is long overdue. These are some photos I took of our outing.
Shenghao as usual, smiling when there's good food in front of him. Haha.
Kueh Tutu from Bugis Street Pasar Malam: rice flour cakes with either ground peanut or sweet grated coconut filling. Delicious!
Bee Hoon Goreng from Zam Zam at Kampong Glam. Good!
Mee Goreng accompanied with Cucumber Salad. My Di ordered it.
The koi pond outside Raffles Hospital. Fantastic!
Shenghao as usual, smiling when there's good food in front of him. Haha.
Kueh Tutu from Bugis Street Pasar Malam: rice flour cakes with either ground peanut or sweet grated coconut filling. Delicious!
Bee Hoon Goreng from Zam Zam at Kampong Glam. Good!
Mee Goreng accompanied with Cucumber Salad. My Di ordered it.
The koi pond outside Raffles Hospital. Fantastic!
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Eat Dessert First (metaphorical sense) courtesy of beliefnet.com
Invite your friends and/or family for dinner and serve dessert first....Let each person present know how he/she is dessert in your life.
(Maybe I should do that. Eat dessert first.)
Give a dessert to someone whom you’d like to appreciate with a treat...
(This is sweet. The good thing is that you can buy it for the person too.)
(Maybe I should do that. Eat dessert first.)
Give a dessert to someone whom you’d like to appreciate with a treat...
(This is sweet. The good thing is that you can buy it for the person too.)
Saturday, February 14, 2009
My Paper's V's Day guide.
These are some of my thoughts on certain portions I read in it.
Some tips for women to be an ideal life-partner:
1) intelligence and wit.
This trait features quite a lot on men's lists. Guess bimbos are out of business now.
2) optimism.
It helps us be a better source of support to our men. When they are down, we cheer them up and put the smile back on their faces. I'm reminded of this song All Things Bright and Beautiful. Here's the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eLeq2vj9kcA
3) a unique sense of style.
We should not blindly follow societal trends. Each of us is an individual and we choose what appeals to us.
4) order food portions you can finish.
If you can't, share your food with them. Of course, they like to see us throw caution to the wind and indulge along with them. They too, are weight-conscious.
5) play a sport/video games/computer games.
I love to watch and play tennis, and play Strikers 1945 Flash where you shoot down enemy planes and tanks. I'm open to other video games too, like the driving and the fighting games. So I'm safely in this category. Haha.
6) Have more makeup-free days.
I definitely advocate this tip for the sake of maintaining good skin. I'm glad I satisfy this criterion. I put makeup only for performances, which amounts to once a year. Hehe.
SDU adviser advocates relationships developing from friendships.
I believe that is the most perfect love relationship one can have. I know a couple who did just that and they are happily married now.
Some ways to improve relationships:
1) using words to affirm
I've learnt that actions matter more. Merely making promises but not fulfilling them and letting people down in the process makes us hypocritical.
2) giving
Love is to give till it hurts. I think this was said by Mother Teresa. I saw the exemplification of it in the actual ending of The Little Nonya, where Yueniang left Chen Xi to protect his family and reputation, despite loving him. Behold, true love. Love is to think of the other's welfare at one's own expense.
3) spending time together
I've always preferred outings with just one other person. It is easier to communicate without having to worry about leaving others out, lending an air of intimacy to the time spent.
4) physical intimacy
I beg to differ on this point. Emotional intimacy causes a deeper bond between two people. They communicate with their eyes and the vibes they radiate towards each other. The intrinsic knowledge that they mean something to each other closely binds them together.
Some tips for women to be an ideal life-partner:
1) intelligence and wit.
This trait features quite a lot on men's lists. Guess bimbos are out of business now.
2) optimism.
It helps us be a better source of support to our men. When they are down, we cheer them up and put the smile back on their faces. I'm reminded of this song All Things Bright and Beautiful. Here's the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eLeq2vj9kcA
3) a unique sense of style.
We should not blindly follow societal trends. Each of us is an individual and we choose what appeals to us.
4) order food portions you can finish.
If you can't, share your food with them. Of course, they like to see us throw caution to the wind and indulge along with them. They too, are weight-conscious.
5) play a sport/video games/computer games.
I love to watch and play tennis, and play Strikers 1945 Flash where you shoot down enemy planes and tanks. I'm open to other video games too, like the driving and the fighting games. So I'm safely in this category. Haha.
6) Have more makeup-free days.
I definitely advocate this tip for the sake of maintaining good skin. I'm glad I satisfy this criterion. I put makeup only for performances, which amounts to once a year. Hehe.
SDU adviser advocates relationships developing from friendships.
I believe that is the most perfect love relationship one can have. I know a couple who did just that and they are happily married now.
Some ways to improve relationships:
1) using words to affirm
I've learnt that actions matter more. Merely making promises but not fulfilling them and letting people down in the process makes us hypocritical.
2) giving
Love is to give till it hurts. I think this was said by Mother Teresa. I saw the exemplification of it in the actual ending of The Little Nonya, where Yueniang left Chen Xi to protect his family and reputation, despite loving him. Behold, true love. Love is to think of the other's welfare at one's own expense.
3) spending time together
I've always preferred outings with just one other person. It is easier to communicate without having to worry about leaving others out, lending an air of intimacy to the time spent.
4) physical intimacy
I beg to differ on this point. Emotional intimacy causes a deeper bond between two people. They communicate with their eyes and the vibes they radiate towards each other. The intrinsic knowledge that they mean something to each other closely binds them together.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
The friends we made on our CNY cruise onboard Legend of the Seas
Jung, our very own Assistant Waiter, from Korea. So nice talking to him. :)) Good looking too, right?
My dad and Jeffrey, our own Waiter, from India. He is very nice too, called us when we were going back to Phuket and he was with his friends. Good-looking as well. Heehee.
Junliang, our own Stateroom Attendant, from Jilin, China. A very efficient and professional worker. :))
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
My adorable niece, love her. :)
Calista(Min min) eating Pocky Chocolate.
Drinking her water. Such a sweet smile too!
So engrossed in getting more Pocky out.
Drawing her favourite picture: dots.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
A surprise gesture :))
I was the bridesmaid for May's and Maurice's wedding about 10 years ago and though we took photographs, she could not pass them to me immediately. A few days back, she actually posted them to me! It was a sweet thing to receive. Looking at them makes me smile.
She included a note with them as well and reading it makes me realise how long we've known each other and how we've journeyed with each other for the 17 years. I am especially grateful that she and Maurice came all the way from Pasir Ris to Upper Bukit Timah, to be with me during my mum's demise.
I miss the dinners with the couple and Gerry at her place but then again, she has to cook for us. It's not fair to her. Of course though, she is a fantastic cook and she learnt how to cook from scratch! She used recipe books and Maurice as her taster, to perfect her dishes. Read more about our meals in http://pseudocookery.blogspot.com/2008/08/fabulous-dinner.html
She included a note with them as well and reading it makes me realise how long we've known each other and how we've journeyed with each other for the 17 years. I am especially grateful that she and Maurice came all the way from Pasir Ris to Upper Bukit Timah, to be with me during my mum's demise.
I miss the dinners with the couple and Gerry at her place but then again, she has to cook for us. It's not fair to her. Of course though, she is a fantastic cook and she learnt how to cook from scratch! She used recipe books and Maurice as her taster, to perfect her dishes. Read more about our meals in http://pseudocookery.blogspot.com/2008/08/fabulous-dinner.html
My relationship with my dad
Our relationship has been growing stronger and this makes my mum's soul rest in peace. She was worried that our headstrong characters will clash, at her deathbed. My tongue is still sharp and I tend to be rather strong with my words. I am trying to curb it because I know my dad is sensitive. I am also trying to be more patient with him. Age is catching up with him and he is forgetful at times. I must let my pride and lack of understanding be quelled!
People say I'm a good daughter but it's my duty. I know he needs me to give him my time too. Anyway, the bible says we must not look down on our parents when they grow old. Now it's just my dad and I, since my brother is married. I think my dad's a good father and I know he loves me a lot. He tries to listen to me when I share and sometimes I get impatient when he takes time to understand something. That's not good on my side. He buys what I want and waits patiently when I am late in meeting him. I am glad I got to buy him lunch on my parents' wedding anniversary, since my mum's not with us anymore.
We share a lot on our thoughts and about life. I really treasure spending time with him. Though time with my friends and on work is compromised, the bigger picture is being with my dad. It's great going to shopping malls with him. We give each other time to walk on our own before meeting to go home. I can walk wherever I want, without feeling guilty for dragging my companion around with me. Then after we meet, we share with each other our adventures in exploring the place. :)) I feel comfortable speaking to him about the birds and the bees too, since we are mature adults. I've never felt this way before. :))
We went to Macau and it was good. We are going on a cruise this Chinese New Year, since it's the first one without my mum. I am excited because the ship's attractions look enticing and I have my camera to take pictures with! I have been sharing the information on the ship that I find on the website with my dad. We take turns to carry out the check-in procedures. I do the online portion and he does the actual check-in on the day we leave. Perfect teamwork!
People say I'm a good daughter but it's my duty. I know he needs me to give him my time too. Anyway, the bible says we must not look down on our parents when they grow old. Now it's just my dad and I, since my brother is married. I think my dad's a good father and I know he loves me a lot. He tries to listen to me when I share and sometimes I get impatient when he takes time to understand something. That's not good on my side. He buys what I want and waits patiently when I am late in meeting him. I am glad I got to buy him lunch on my parents' wedding anniversary, since my mum's not with us anymore.
We share a lot on our thoughts and about life. I really treasure spending time with him. Though time with my friends and on work is compromised, the bigger picture is being with my dad. It's great going to shopping malls with him. We give each other time to walk on our own before meeting to go home. I can walk wherever I want, without feeling guilty for dragging my companion around with me. Then after we meet, we share with each other our adventures in exploring the place. :)) I feel comfortable speaking to him about the birds and the bees too, since we are mature adults. I've never felt this way before. :))
We went to Macau and it was good. We are going on a cruise this Chinese New Year, since it's the first one without my mum. I am excited because the ship's attractions look enticing and I have my camera to take pictures with! I have been sharing the information on the ship that I find on the website with my dad. We take turns to carry out the check-in procedures. I do the online portion and he does the actual check-in on the day we leave. Perfect teamwork!
A sweet sight while shopping
I was looking for clothes to wear for Chinese New Year and saw a man helping his wife to look for blouses. They were elderly and it made me think that younger husbands would not do that. I see most of them waiting for their wives, and fiddling with their phones or looking bored.
Friday, January 2, 2009
"Happy New Year!"
This is a very rampant greeting on 1st January and even we Catholic Christians are no exception to it. Immediately after Mass, my friends came up to me to wish me this.
I am rather cynical about it though I still respond to them. It is as if people say it for the sake of saying it. This then takes away the true communication between them.
I am rather cynical about it though I still respond to them. It is as if people say it for the sake of saying it. This then takes away the true communication between them.
Thursday, January 1, 2009
My best friend
My best friend Angela aka "Tommy" from Rugrats and "Tigger" from Winnie the Pooh. We've known each other for 12 years and have gone through a lot together. We are still as close as ever though we may have changed in certain aspects over time. :)
She is the bouncy, sexy, confident opposite of my passive, plain, timid self. She is on the left and I am on the right.
Her hubby Gerald whom I've known for 13 years. As you can see, they are avid photographers. They clearly love each other and are a compatible match. :)
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