Just a passerby trying to enjoy his journey

A review of my 2011...

2011-12-24T14:19:00.000+08:00

This will be my last entry for the year as I am leaving for South America in a few hours time. Year 2011 is a challenging year, and a lot of things did not go as planned. There are periods where it had been an emotional roller-coaster ride. I had to be mentally stronger. The philosophy of "Letting Go" has been very helpful. However, I also acknowledge that my trivial problems are insignificant when I took a few steps back looking at the bigger perspective of life.

Overall, it has been a good year. I am very grateful to be alive.

There are lessons that I have learnt:

1. Fear is the scariest when I chose not to face it.

2. Trusted people are like gems in my life.

3. Dangerous people: highly educated, intelligent, rich and well-connected, but without integrity. Especially those who appear to be friendly and kind.

4. Always ASK. Ask for help. Ask for favour. Ask questions. Ask for your rights.

5. Have a to-do-list and deadline. It instills self-discipline.

6. Learn to say "NO".

7. Simplicity is Beautiful. Less is More.

8. Be a dreamer. Live with No Regrets.

9. Meet more people. It keeps your ego in check. Humility.

10. Letting Go - the antidote to a lot of problems.

11. Be Grateful always.

(Dad & Niece)

I am really grateful for my family and my friends.

Thank You.

Charity: Riverkids Project

2011-12-24T12:32:00.000+08:00

http://www.riverkidsproject.org/

"Riverkids works with children and families in danger of abuse and trafficking in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. We identify children at high risk because of extreme poverty, drug abuse, alcoholism, gambling, child abuse or other children or family involved in trafficking.

Then, we talk with the families to work out what help they need and what will keep their children safe.

Sometimes, it’s as simple as getting the children enrolled in school. Other times, we need to provide emergency shelter for abused children and urgent medical care to prevent a greater crisis. For our families, selling their children is a desperate solution to complicated long-term problems that can’t be quickly solved, but instead need patience and compassion to find practical solutions like vocational training and family counselling.

Our community centers are within walking distance from the crowded and dangerous slums our families live in. That makes it easy for the families to ask for help during an emergency, and makes our centers part of the local community. We hire staff from the local slums where possible too."

I was born in Southeast Asia like these kids, but I am fortunate to be born in a rich country. Just because I was born in the right place, my future is likely to be better. I might not be as smart or hardworking as these kids, but I was given the opportunity to learn and grow in a safe environment. Sometimes, it is like a game of tossing coin - born in a poor or rich country. I am just lucky.

I hope to do something more than just donating money in the future.

It's a season of sharing. Let's share our blessings.

One New Experience Each Week - ZoukOut

2011-12-24T01:02:00.002+08:00

Lately, I haven't been trying out new experiences, partly because my list is getting shorter, the to-do-things are getting tougher and I am busy with my South America trip planning...

Finally, I went for my FIRST Zoukout experience (partying from dusk till dawn @ beach). I wanted to go to the first Zoukout back in 2000, but I was in the wilderness of Australia in my army attire serving the nation. In fact, I dropped the idea of going to Zoukout for years, until last year when I realized that if I still did not go for Zoukout, I might be the oldest participant in a few years time.

Last year, Zoukout was a sold-out event as it was celebrating 10 years anniversary. I was at the venue, and I was so desperate that I was willing to pay $180/ticket when someone offered it (however, one of my friends did not want to pay such money, so I dropped the idea).

This year Zoukout was rather boring, but I was glad that I went, as I have no more desire to attend another Zoukout.

+++

Desire (aka Craving) is a very funny animal.

When I did not have something, I wanted it so badly.

I would work really hard to get it.

When I gotten it, it did not bring that kind of happiness that I expect.

Then, I would continue to search for something else.

It was a never ending game...

For example: The Zoukout experience

I was willing to pay $180 for a ticket last year. But after this year experience, I might think twice even if someone offered me a free ticket.

For example: The clubbing experience

Recently, my younger cousin was updating her FB that she was clubbing every weekend. I could understand that phase of life, as I used to club every weekend more than 10 years ago. After been there done that, I found it quite pointless to club EVERY weekend. It is a waste of money, time, energy and LIVER. At the same time, I am glad that I went through that phase, and I could understand why people do it.

For example: The gambling experience

More than 10 years ago, my friend and I went on-board a gambling cruise ship. I gambled and lost all my money, and had a strong desire to fight the odds and win back my money. I thought of borrowing money, but I did not. My friend was in an even worse position, he borrowed money and lost thousands of dollars (that was a lot of money for a 20 year-old dude). Interestingly, he managed to recoup his losses and made some money. I asked him to stop, but he continued gambling as he felt really lucky. As expected, he lost every single cents.

After this experience, I could understand compulsive gambling and the gambling addict mindset. It was quite a good albeit scary experience - Greed, Fear, Desire, Hope. I am thankful for losing my money, as it was a good lesson.

For example: The Dead Sea experience

Prior to visiting the Dead Sea, I had seen so many photos of people floating on the Dead Sea. I really wanted to experience it badly. When I was floating in the Dead Sea I enjoyed myself thoroughly. It was really magical and I have never experienced anything like that before.

When I left the Dead Sea, I remembered vividly my thought was "So that was it??". I have no more desire to spend more time on the Dead Sea.

*If you haven't experienced it, you should do it at least once in your life* =)

Desire is both satisfying and frustrating.

I guess, I am just being human.

Charity Water

2011-12-16T15:48:00.000+08:00

http://www.charitywater.org

Millions are deprived of Clean Water.

Let's do something for them.

If we lived a century ago, witnessing clean water flowing out of a tap would be a miracle.

Have you taken your clean water for granted?

David Attenborough - Wonderful World (BBC)

2011-12-15T11:26:00.000+08:00

What a wonderful world... The World is awesome!!!
At the same time, i just felt that we should be responsible and stop exploiting it for own benefits.

Think of other species and the future generation!

The 50 most inspiring travel quotes

2011-12-15T10:56:00.002+08:00

Some of my favourite quotes

(Source: http://matadornetwork.com/bnt/50-most-inspiring-travel-quotes-of-all-time/)

“Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness.” – Mark Twain

“A journey is like marriage. The certain way to be wrong is to think you control it.” –John Steinbeck

“One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.” – Henry Miller

″A traveler without observation is a bird without wings.” – Moslih Eddin Saadi

“Travel is more than the seeing of sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.” – Miriam Beard

“To my mind, the greatest reward and luxury of travel is to be able to experience everyday things as if for the first time, to be in a position in which almost nothing is so familiar it is taken for granted.” – Bill Bryson

“A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step.” – Lao Tzu

“The journey not the arrival matters.” – T. S. Eliot

“A journey is best measured in friends, rather than miles.” – Tim Cahill

“The whole object of travel is not to set foot on foreign land; it is at last to set foot on one’s own country as a foreign land.” – G. K. Chesterton

"A ship in harbor is safe, but that's not why ships were built."

“Stop worrying about the potholes in the road and celebrate the journey.” – Fitzhugh Mullan

Be comfortable.

Sleep anywhere

(Taken at Indian Train Station)

I do not know a lot of things in life, but at least, I know that traveling is definitely one of the best ways to be ALIVE. I learnt so much while I was traveling. I learnt to be less judgemental as I am more aware of my ignorance and lack of knowledge. I learnt that a simple kindness in a foreign land is heart warming and it could linger in the heart for years. I learnt to appreciate differences between cultures and people, at the same time, realising that deep within, everyone is the same. I am humbled by all the amazing people I met. I learnt to appreciate hiccups as part of the journey, and quite often, it makes the trip memorable and a good conversation topic.

Most importantly, traveling reminded me that I am an insignificant sentient being in this wonderful big world. While my existence does not matter, I am grateful that I have the opportunity to enjoy and appreciate this beautiful world. I am also aware that my time is limited....

+++

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” – Mark Twain

Talk by Ajahn Brahm (Dec'11)

2011-12-14T11:00:00.000+08:00

Ajahn Brahm

Recently, Ajahn Brahm celebrated his 60th birthday. I really hope that I have the good fortune to listen to him for many years to come. I have been to many talks, and it is rare to find a teacher as good as Ajahn Brahm.

Below are some of my take-ways:

- Put the cup (worry) down and be Still

- During meditation:

Let go of things that make you move -

The Past and The Future.

-We miss out a lot of things in life because we are moving too fast.

Be Still and appreciate the beauty around you.

-Stillness is the medicine we are looking for.

-When people shout at you, give yourself 5 seconds of Silence before you react.

- When surrounded by enemy. Drink a Tea.

Life is always changing

- In Silence, you see more.

A tribute to an extraordinary lady - Teresa Hsu

2011-12-14T10:01:00.001+08:00

Teresa Hsu

(7 July 1898 – 7 December 2011)

Aged 113 years old

Source: TODAY Online

Despite her near-celebrity status for her tireless work in caring for the less privileged, Ms Teresa Hsu had shunned the public eye - up until her death last week.

Ms Hsu died last Wednesday at the age of 113 - she was Singapore's oldest living person - but news of her death only emerged this week in a posting on the website of Heart to Heart Service, a charity which Ms Hsu had set up.

"In accordance with her wish to depart quietly and peacefully, and her instructions not to make any announcement to the media, as well as not to conduct or perform any rituals or ceremonies that will cause disturbance and inconvenience to others, she was cremated on the same day," said the statement by Mr Sharana Rao, a colleague at Heart to Heart.

"She has further instructed that no claim be made of her ash by whosoever."

Teresa's mother said

"We ate yesterday.

They haven't eaten for two days.

They have more right to the food."

After eating grass to satisfy her thought of hunger, Teresa said to herself

"As long as I'm able to

let nobody need to eat grass."

"I will still share my rice bowl.

My bowl of rice with you.

This is now my life.

to share what I have with those who are hungrier than I.

Even equally hungry,

we share half a bowl."

"In life there are always problems.

You solve your problems to the best you can

and you accept the rest."

+++

I remember watching her (100+ years old) on a TV programme where she was still helping people 20-30 years younger than her. I was really amazed by her energy and passion. She really walks the talk. I read that she became a nurse at the age of 47 years old, even the school only accept people below 25 years old. I am glad she persisted.

It is really amazing that she was still thoughtful and humble by requesting for a simple funeral.

She lived a simple & humble lifestyle - Meditation, Yoga, Vegetarianism.

Amazing Lady.

Amazing Life.

Thank you for making this world a better place.

Thank you for inspiring everyone of us.

Thank you for being a role model.

__/*\__

Article "Comfortable with the face I've earned" by Dr Lee Wei Ling

2011-12-05T00:59:00.000+08:00

I really like Dr Lee Wei Ling's last few paragraphs on her article on Sunday Times (4th Dec'11). She was talking about being comfortable with her appearance and her general attitude towards life...

"I have not yet developed the ability to be totally detached from life's vicissitudes, but I have learnt to remind myself that desire of and attachment to worldly things bring suffering. I have this become fairly successful in curbing some of my attachments.

If I believed in reincarnation, then I would feel that I had many more lives to struggle through before I attained nirvana. But I don't believe in reincarnation, and I am convinced that I am a transient on this planet.

This means that if I don't want to suffer too much in this life, I must continually remind myself that while I should aspire to help other humans, I must also be willing to be detached when detachment is the only option.

I don't resent the misfortunes that fate has brought me. I accept them as lessons in life that only personal experience can teach. Indeed, I believe I am fortunate rather than unfortunate to have learnt these lessons."

What are your childhood dreams?

2011-12-02T21:26:00.003+08:00

After watching the last lecture by Randy, I started to ask myself what are my childhood dreams? Have I fulfilled them?

+++

When I was in primary school, my grades were so bad that my mum told me (I was 9 years old) that I had to complete at least my primary school education so that I could get a job in a factory as a production worker. And because of our very difficult financial situation, my mother had to join the workforce in her mid-thirties as a production worker. For a while, my dream was really to become a production worker.

This dream was never realized. I have never worked in a production line before (fortunately or unfortunately).

+++

When I was in secondary school, my dream was to be admitted to University. It was really a faraway dream for me. And coming from a lousy school, I used to feel inferior when I met students from good reputable schools. I used to think that they knew more than me until I participated in the National Mathematics Olympiad and was ranked 100+ among the top 2000 students in Singapore, which put me in the top 1% percentile nationally for Mathematics. I was the only student in my whole (lousy) school to receive such recognition two years in a row.

This dream was realized when I completed my University education.

+++

When I was in junior college, my dream was to go overseas for university education. I did well for my first year exam and was selected to be part of the Scholars' club in the school. I also did well for my A levels exam (not straight As), but good enough to be invited for Overseas Scholarship Interviews. Unfortunately (fortunately) after receiving all the rejection letters, I sank into mild depression, as I knew I would never have opportunity to study abroad. I was offered a local scholarship, but I did not accept it.

This dream was realized when I spent one year working in the San Francisco Bay Area and was taking courses at Stanford University. That was the best year of my life.

+++

There are still many dreams of mine that I didn't realize (yet).

Working in Wall Street, Living in London, Becoming a Fund Manager, Financial Freedom, Setting up a Charity Foundation, Teaching in a Rural School in Himalayas etc...

My Life is far from perfect, but I come a long way.

From a dream of becoming a production worker to studying at Stanford University.

I am already very fortunate and lucky.

Sometimes, I was frustrated that my fullest potential was not realized yet.

But looking back, (fortunately, I started from a low base) I am already very thankful and grateful for all the blessings.

I may not fulfill ALL my dreams, but I take solace in the fact that some of my dreams have been fulfilled and I am taking incremental steps towards fulfilling my new dreams. I will never succeed, as new dreams kept surfacing. I may not be successful, but at least I tried.

Tibetan Kids

(Taken on 2005 at Xiahe, Gansu Province, China)

These adorable kids were collecting recyclable items on the street to sell. When I gave them some sweets, they were really happy and started to pose for me.

Looking at them, I knew that Life is never fair.

Why are they on the street when they should be school?

What are the dreams of these children?

The Last Lecture - Randy Pausch

2011-12-02T19:43:00.001+08:00

I watched this last lecture in late 2007 when Randy Pausch was still around. I thought that since he was so positive and optimistic, may be a miracle might happen. Despite knowing that his odds was low, I was still saddened by the news of his departure.

I wrote about it in 2009.

I read his book and watched his lecture again, there are still so many lessons to be learnt. Below are my key takeaways:

"The brick wall are there for a reason. They are not there to keep us out. The brick walls are there to give us a chance to show how badly we want something."

"Never lose the childlike wonder"

"People are more important than things"

--> Randy poured coke onto the back seat of his new convertible car, to tell his niece & nephew that it is okay to mess up his things. Later that evening, his nephew vomited in his new convertible. Don't get upset over things.

"Don't complain, just work harder."

"Why do pancakes need to be round?.... We (Randy & his nephew & niece) were always making weirdly shaped animal pancakes."

"Complaining does not work as a strategy. We all have finite time & energy. Any time we spend whining is unlikely to help us achieve our goals. And it won't make us happier."

"It's not how hard you hit. It's how hard you get hit and keep moving forward."

"Experience is what you get when you didn't get what you wanted. And experience is often the most valuable thing you have to offer."

"If you want something bad enough, never give up."

" Someone asked Randy 'Wow, you got your tenure early. What's your secret?'

He replied 'It's pretty simple. Call me any friday night in my office at ten o'clock and I'll tell you.'

Hard work is like compounded interest in the bank. The rewards build faster."

"No regrets, give it the best shot"

"Showing Gratitude is one of simplest yet most powerful things humans can do for each other."

Movie: 那些年，我們一起追的女孩

2011-11-30T22:53:00.000+08:00

"那些年，我們一起追的女孩"

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/You_Are_the_Apple_of_My_Eye

The movie resonated with me because the director is around my age, and he is sharing his love story for this girl during his schooling days. I could relate to a quite a lot of things and there are so many subtle lessons in the movie, especially this sentence

"有些事情本来就注定是徒劳无功的..."

" Some things are destined to be futile..."

So... it would be wiser just to enjoy the journey... since a lot of things in life are futile.

Looking back my schooling days, I have no regrets studying hard... fortunately, I played quite hard as well. But I wished I was more rebellious... I wished I had challenged the authority more.... and played even harder!

+++

In my secondary days, I was the vice-head prefect and I led my fellow peers to boycott the system, by not performing prefects' duty (as we wanted to step down and concentrate on our final exams). The school was in mess for a while, and the disciplinary master was very angry with me. In the end, I was given C5 (bad grade) for ECA --- after contributing my 4 years of dedicated service to the school and leading the prefectorial board.

On the hindsight, I am happy for my action. I was supposed to be a model student, yet I revolted because I stood firm on my rights. More importantly, I earned the respect from my peers.

+++

When I was promoted to junior college, I could not bother with school activities because my past experiences. There was an opportunity to do overseas volunteer work - building a school in the impoverished part of Inner Mongolia China, during the June holiday. Most of my peers were busy studying and preparing for exams in July, but I decided that this was too rare an opportunity to be missed.

In the end, my July exams results were the worst grades during my junior college days. Academically, I was in the top 5% in my cohort, and my teachers were lamenting that I was getting complacent and lazy.

On the hindsight, I don't really care about the July exam grades (I did well for my final A levels exam).
I still had vivid memories and lessons from the trip.
That's more important!

Having Fun with the Kids in Inner Mongolia, China

+++

"有些事情本来就注定是徒劳无功的..."

It's the experience that really matters!!!

Take more risks
Be foolish
Be embarrassed
Be spontaneous
Break more rules (those that doesn't make sense)
Question the Authority
Live without regrets!

So.... go out and have fun now!
Experience Life!
Be Alive!

Lessons from Life Reports (NY Times)

2011-11-30T11:58:00.000+08:00

Taken from: New York Times

Life Report 1 & Life Report 2

"The most common lament in this collection is from people who worked at the same company all their lives and now realize how boring they must seem. These people passively let their lives happen to them. One man described his long, uneventful career at an insurance company and concluded, “Wish my self-profile was more exciting, but it’s a little late now.”

"The most exciting essays were written by the energetic, restless people, who took their lives off in new directions midcourse. One man, who was white, trained an all-black unit during World War II, was a director of the pharmaceutical company that developed The Pill, and then served as a judge at an international court at The Hague. “Career-wise, it was a rocky road,” another wrote, “but if diversity is the spice of life, then mine resembled hot Indian curry.” Nobody regretted the life changes they made, even when they failed."

"Many more seniors regret the risks they didn’t take than regret the ones they did."

"An amazing number cherished their marriages of 43 years or more. And, for almost all, family and friends mattered most."

+++

Such an insightful articles.

Sometimes, we do not change because we are afraid & fearful...

Fearful of the unknown

Fearful of failure

Fearful of embarrassment

Fearful of being judged

Fearful of change

By the end of the road,

would you regret that you did not take more risk?

I have certainly taken some risks in my life,

things might not have worked out as I planned (yet).

Always need a bit of optimism. =)

But it's okay, at least,

I wouldn't say "I should have done it".

Life is a journey.

This is Life.

Enjoy it.

Book: The End of Poverty - How we can make it happen in our lifetime

2011-11-22T23:31:00.001+08:00

I first came across this book in the bookstore in Kathmandu, Nepal (One of the poorest countries in the world), but I felt that the subject matter is too heavy to ponder on a trekking trip so I didn't purchase it. The following year, I was on a business trip to India (also one of the poorest countries in the world) and I decided to buy it in the airport.

The End of Poverty

It was a good book - with Jeffery Sachs sharing his experiences in Bolivia & Poland, and shedding his views on the rise of China and India. It was a heavy topic and the problem is mind boggling. Sometimes, too heavy that I wanted to stop reading.

Some key takeaways from the book:

"The key problem for the poorest countries is that poverty itself can be a trap. When poverty is very extreme, the poor DO NOT have the ability - by themselves - to get out of the mess."

"When countries get their foot on the ladder of development, they are generally able to continue the upward climb. All good things tend to move together at each rising rung; higher capital stock, greater specialization, more advanced technology, and lower fertility. If a country is trapped below the ladder, with the first rung too high off the ground, the climb does not even get started."

Reasons why Communist China is the booming (currently the second largest economy in the world), while the rest of the Soviet and economies are not doing as well.

"1. The Soviet and Eastern European economies had massive foreign debts, whereas China did not.

2. China had a large coastline that supported its export-led growth, whereas the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe did not have the benefit of large coastlines and the resulting low-cost access to international trade.

3. China had the benefit of overseas Chinese communities, which acted as foreign investors and role models, whereas most of the Soviet Union and Eastern Europe did not have comparable overseas communities.

4. The Soviet Union was experiencing a drastic decline in oil production at the outset of reforms, but China was not.

5. The Soviet Union had gone much further down the road of industralization, using technologies incompatible with Western (US, EU & Japanese) technologies, whereas China remained at a low level of technology and could more easily adopt Western specification."

On why Malaria has reached an epidermic level in Africa but not the rest of the world:

"...Malaria is largely a tropical disease, and if warm weather is a prerequisite, Africa has it! ..... The force of transmission of malaria in Africa is roughly 9 times that of India because of the difference of mosquito species..."

"Corruption is the Culprit....corruption is Africa's venal sin, the deepest source of its current malaise..."

____

Jeff's insights have led me to think deeper about the problems facing this world. But why do I care about extreme poverty - since I am not affected by it anyway and I am not rich to make any significant changes. I would not have any material gain by spending my time thinking and donating money.

My analogy is a person who is suffering from Depression, needs someone else to help them out of the situation. Similarly, in extreme poverty, they also need a helping hand.

Everyday we have heard so many negative news around the world. The world is in serious need of people who could show empathy, love and compassion, otherwise the world is hopeless. I believe that by doing small things within our limited abilities, we could make this world a slightly better place.

The world is in serious need of people who cares.

One of the organizations that I truly believes could alleviate poverty is

http://www.kiva.org/

The Biggest Risk in Life

2011-11-13T22:42:00.002+08:00

The Biggest Risk in Life is not taking any risk and play safe.

When your life is over, you regretted you have not lived.

You regretted that you have not taken more risk.

Because at the end, a lot of things that you fear doesn't matter.

(Embarrassment, Fear, Failure, Social Expectation etc..)

Life is a short trip.

Make it a good one.

As Steve Jobs said

"Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish."

Potala Palace

(Taken @ Lhasa, Tibet)

An evening with friends...

2011-11-12T16:17:00.002+08:00

I really enjoy this kind of gatherings.

Meeting at a friend (XF)'s place.

Preparing a simple dinner together.

Eating and chatting over dinner.

Teasing the kids of a friend.

Washing the dishes together.

Playing a round of Mahjong game.

That's it!

No fancy dinner. No loud music.

Simple, yet very enjoyable.

It's perfect way to spend an evening.

Preparing Dinner in the Kitchen (with small fish tank)

My friend's place is decorated with swarovski crystal ceiling, designer furniture, expensive paintings and antiques (ie. 1000 years old Bronze Figure).

Those things are really beautiful and unique (and really expensive).

But when I saw the innocent and adorable look of 10 month-old Shannon sleeping soundly,

it dawn on me that none of the expensive things is as beautiful as that moment.

To me, it validated my belief that physical things will never be as beautiful as other invisible things in life.

Think Different with Steve Jobs' Narration

2011-11-09T12:30:00.001+08:00

Watched this video umpteen times,

but it never fails to move me.

The Crazy Ones

who dare to be different and changed the world.

Thank You.

Graham Hill: Less stuff, more happiness

2011-11-09T11:30:00.000+08:00

As I grew older, I am embracing this idea of "Less is More".

More Time...

More Freedom...

Simpler

French Buddhist Monk Matthieu Ricard

2011-11-06T22:47:00.002+08:00

Read an article on the Straits Time about Happiness by Matthieu Ricard.

Taken from the Article:

"Dr Matthieu Ricard, 65, is the Dalai Lama's French interpreter and a monk in Nepal's Shechen Monastery, from the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. He completed his PhD in cell genetics in 1972 under the supervision of Nobel Prize winner Francois Jacob at the Institut Pasteur, in Paris. Though he moved in rarefied circles as the son of celebrated French philosopher Jean-Francois Revel and abstract water colourist Yahne Le Toumelin, he moved to Darjeeling in India to study Tibetan Buddhism at the age of 30.

Garbed in burgundy and saffron robes, and carting a laptop, Dr Ricard loves the secluded life, yet is globally connected. He travels with the Dalai Lama, attends the World Economic Forum in Davos, runs humanitarian and heritage projects. Last year, he counted 70 airline boarding passes.

'Personally, I feel wonderful looking at Himalayas from my hermitage. It is 3m by 3m with a big window facing the mountains. There is no heating, no hot water. It's paradise,' he says.

'The only reason I come down is to serve.

Compassion should be put in action, otherwise it is sterile.'"

+++

I got to know about him when I was in Kathmandu 2 year ago searching for a book to read during my 2 weeks Everest Base Camp trek. I was fortunate to chance upon his book "Happiness: A Guide to Developing Life's Most Important Skill.", which is one of the best books I ever read.

May be it is his scientific and philosophical background coupled with Buddhism philosophy, I found a lot of wisdom and clarity in his book. I am grateful for that.

"...The fact is that without inner peace and wisdom, we have nothing we need to be happy. Living on a pendulum between hope and doubt, excitement and boredom, desire and weariness, it's easy to fritter away our lives, bit by bit, without even noticing, running all over the place and getting nowhere. Happiness is a state of inner fulfillment, not the gratification of inexhaustible desires for outward things." - Matthieu Ricard

In another words, if you want to find lasting happiness outside of yourself,

it would be a futile effort eventually.

One New Experience Each Week - A Taoist Temple Dinner

2011-11-06T22:08:00.000+08:00

My father has been attending the Taoist Temple Dinner in celebration of a deity's birthday for many years. The last time I attended such event was may be 15-20 years ago. It was never my interest to attend such an event.

This year, out of curiosity, I decided to attend and try to understand it.

I asked one simple question: Who is this deity?

Then, I realized my parents did not know anything much as well. They just followed the family "tradition" to support this temple, as my late grandfather had been a supporter of this temple.

I decided not to ask more questions.

The Taoist Temple

When I was younger, I would follow my parents and burn incense as a form of offering without questioning. Now, I decided not to follow the worship practice unless I have a clear understanding of the significance behind each practice and ritual. I still bow in respect, but I have my doubts and questions.

It is not surprising that Taoism is losing ground among the younger generations.

The traditional puppet show.

It is a dying trade, and there is no audience anymore.

Quite sad, but that's part of change.

Dinner Celebration with Auctioning of items like Martel Wine.

The crowd was made up of the older generation (those in their 50s & 60s), in fact, I was a rarity among the crowd. I was commenting to my dad and his friends that such an event might last another 10 years only, as the younger generations are not supporting it. They were quite defensive with their response.

I left the event with a lot of unanswered questions. May be that is not important, at least, I understood why my father never fails to attend such an event. It is a community gathering - meeting up with old neighbours and friends.

My dad asked if I could get involved with the temple, as part of our family "tradition", since it started with my late grandfather many years ago.

My reply was "I would rather spend more time on volunteering work".

Remembering my maternal grandma...

2011-10-31T22:57:00.001+08:00

It has been a year since my first Buddhist retreat.

Recently, I recalled a lesson that Thich Nhat Nanh taught us.

Firstly, Thich asked us to imagine what are the things that we are proud of that are inherited from our parents.

I inherited my height and mathematical mind from my dad.

I inherited (learnt) patience and kindness from my mum.

I am grateful towards my parents.

Then, he told us to think deeper about the qualities that we inherited from our grandparents.

I have never met my maternal grandfather.

I started to think about my maternal grandmother who passed away when I was 8 years old.

I started to cry when I thought of the hardship that my maternal grandmother had to go through. She single-handedly raised 4 young children in a foreign land (She came from China), as my grandfather (an alcoholic) died when my mother was young. She never remarry and learned from scratch to run her own small business. She was very thrifty (in fact, stingy towards herself), and would rather spend money on her children. She made many sacrifices to raise her 4 kids, but she passed away before she could enjoy life.

I cried as I felt that Life was unfair.

Despite making so much sacrifices and enduring so much hardship,

she did not enjoy the fruit of her labor.

She was a very strong and determined lady.

Then, Thich said that all our forefathers are with us now.

Look inside of ourselves.

They are inside our DNA and Genes.

I took comfort that she is living inside of me as long as my blood is flowing.

I am bringing her with me when I was traveling the world.

I just hope that I could be as strong and as resilient as her.

By living a good life, I am honoring her.

We should be grateful towards all our forefathers.

Whenever we think that we are great,

think of the qualities that we inherited from them.

Let's be Grateful.

On Being Judgmental

2011-10-30T22:26:00.000+08:00

HIV Ribbon

- a symbol for both drug prevention and for the fight against AIDS

A few months ago, I attended the volunteer training course for HIV/AIDS patients. One of the prerequisite of being a volunteer is that we should not be judgmental, and we should not ask sensitive question like how do you contracted the HIV virus.

A doctor shared a story about his conversation with an middle-age female volunteer (of a certain religious faith). The volunteer was commenting that the patients had to blame themselves for being promiscuous and unable to control their sexual desire. Then, the doctor asked the volunteer if she had experienced such a strong urge and sexual desire before? The volunteer said that she did not have strong sexual desire. Then, the doctor told the volunteer that she has no reason to judge them, as she does not understand what they are going through.

That's so enlightening!

Before we make any judgment on anybody,

perhaps, we should ask ourselves if we could truly understand what that person is going through.

One New Experience Each Week - Istana

2011-10-30T22:02:00.000+08:00

I was thinking of procrastinating the Istana visit and spending my Deepavali Holiday lazing around. May be I could visit the Istana next year. This is the exactly why I had never visited Istana - it will always be there. Then, I asked myself... what if I am not around next year?

Main Gate of Istana

City Skyline from Istana

Statue of Queen Victoria - A Remnant of the British Colonial Rule

Mr Lee Kuan Yew (First Prime Minister of Singapore) said at his wife's wake that one of the happiest moments in his life was strolling in Istana with his wife in the evenings. Indeed, Istana is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the manicured "lawn" and beautiful garden... But not everybody have the privilege to enjoy the peace and tranquility of this place without a crowd.

Newly elected President Dr Tony Tan

The main building

I love the greens and the weather was cooling.

So what's the best way to enjoy the moment?

Strolling on the green barefooted....

Feeling the softness of the ground...

Walking freely...

When I got off the green and got back to the pavement,

I overheard someone commenting

"Oh... the ground was wet and muddy..."

I was thinking

"Ah....h Singaporeans...."

A Conversation with Grandma

2011-10-30T17:27:00.000+08:00

My Grandma (93 years old) was hospitalized recently, and I was delighted when she was felt comfortable after I massaged her legs and foot. My parents were pleasantly surprised that I would massage her legs, as that was the first time they saw me massaging legs. (Thanks to my volunteering experience with the HIV/AIDS patients, if I could massage a sick stranger’s leg, I could massage on anybody. No ego issues.)

I never had a long conversion with my Grandma, as I could hardly communicate in Hokkien, the only Chinese dialect that she speaks. She was born in China on 1918, 7 years after the collapse of the Qing Dynasty, which marks the end of the 2000+ years of Imperial Rule of various Dynasties. She grew up in the tumultuous period of Modern China – Civil War, Japanese Invasion (World War II), the rise of Communism in China.

Chairman Mao

(Taken at Beijing University of Posts & Telecommunication)

She came from a good family, as she was educated and literate. It was uncommon for a girl to be educated during the feudal period of China. During the Japanese Invasion, my grandma (in her twenties) ran away from the City to do farming in rural – She sighed that it was a lot of hardship. Then I asked her about the rise of Communism, and I sense her anger towards Communism and Mao Zedong. She said that everybody was suffering – eating roots and tree barks. She said that even if you have money, there is no food available. She said that she would be Extremely Happy to have a bowl of rice (which is a rarity). A lot of people were starving and life was extremely difficult. It’s about survival. Shortly after that, she left China and came to Singapore.

I really could not comprehend the challenges, fears and hardship that her generation of people experienced. Life was really fragile and difficult. We are the lucky generation that was savoring the fruit of the sacrifice made by the previous generations. We pale in comparison, and our problems (job security, relationship problems, money woes, dissatisfaction with life) are trivial in comparison.

After the conversation with Grandma, I ate my dinner that evening with gratitude.

RIP Charmaine

2011-10-27T22:55:00.000+08:00

Charmaine Lim (14 July 2005 - 21 Oct 2011)

http://ourfeistyprincess.blogspot.com/

On June 2009, I sent an email to all my friends asking them to help Charmaine Lim with her fight against Cancer. I also tried to use my blog to spread the word.

http://ahboon80.blogspot.com/2009/06/yes-mum-ill-fight-monster-charmaine-lim.html

Unfortunately, she lost her battle with cancer recently. On the other hand, I am glad that she was no longer feeling pain. I have not met her, but I have met her mum back in my Junior College days.

I just felt sad that a young life has not seen and experienced life, and had to struggle with illness for years. I guess many people have many explanations (ie. God's Will, Ripening of past lives Karma, Survival of the Fittest etc..) . I found comfort in that she had been showered with unconditional love by so many people and strangers...

That's the beautiful thing in life.

Love and Compassion.

Om Mani Padme Hum

__/*\__

Book: The Tao of Warren Buffett

2011-10-25T15:21:00.000+08:00

Below are some quotes from the Sage of Omaha - Warren Buffett.

"You can't make a good deal with a bad person"

"It is easier to stay out of trouble than it is to get out of trouble."

"Someone is sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago."

"There seems to be some perverse human characteristic that likes to make easy things difficult."

"You only have to do a very few things right in your life so long as you don't do too many things wrong."

"That which is not worth doing at all is not worth doing well."

"We never look back. We just figure there is so much to look forward to that there is no sense thinking of what we might have done. It just doesn't make any difference. You can only live life forward."

"I'm very suspect of the person who is very good at one business - it also could be a good athlete or a good entertainer - who starts thinking they should tell the world how to behave on everything. For us to think that jus because we made a lot of money, we're going to be better at giving advice on every subject - well, that's just crazy."

"We do not have, never have had, and never will have an opinion about where the stock market, interest rates, or business activity will be a year from now."

"Of the billionaires I have known, money just brings out the basic traits in them. If they were jerks before they had money, they are simply jerks with a billion dollars"

+++

I enjoyed reading these investment books, as it is not just about investment principles and philosophies, but also life lessons and philosophies.

Quote: "Someone is sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago"

2011-10-25T13:25:00.002+08:00

(Taken at Thar Desert, Rajasthan, India)

"Someone is sitting in the shade today

because someone planted a tree a long time ago."

- Warren Buffett

+++

Think of the things we are enjoying now:

The peace

The safety

The equality

The basic human rights

The religious freedom

The clean water

The education

The healthcare

We should learn to practice to live in Gratitude.

Many things that we are enjoying now are the results of the innovation, sacrifice, hard work, pain, war, riots, protests, illness, sadness, hardship that many human beings before us have went through .

This is the law of inter-dependency.

We are not alone, and we are dependent on each other.

And more importantly, we should be grateful towards our parents and our predecessors.

Remember that we are enjoying the fruits of their labour and sacrifice.

For that, we should honor them by living a good life and live in Gratitude.

One New Experience Each Week - Parliament Proceeding

2011-10-22T14:13:00.000+08:00

Attended the first day of the Parliament Proceeding. In fact, a lot of people are not aware that public are allowed to watch the Parliament Proceeding.

It was a good experience to see the Prime Minister and other cabinet ministers. The only challenge is that the seats are too comfortable and some of the speeches could be too draggy and so-politically correct & expected (aka boring) that you could doze off.

The only good thing about falling sick…

2011-10-22T14:06:00.000+08:00

I fell sick last week, and it has been sometime since I felt so bad. I suspect it was food poisoning – bad Diarrhea (waking up almost every hour at night to relief myself), feeling nausea, vomited, having muscle aches all over my body, head was spinning, feeling cold and weak …

I think of the quote “pain is inevitable and suffering is optional”. The problem is that my body is in such a discomfort that I could not think properly as well. I think of death, I think of getting well soon… I also realized that this physical body that I was born with, will eventually collapse and bring me a lot of pain in the future as I grow older (assuming I don’t die young). Understanding the Impermanence of Life intellectually is good reminder, however, feeling the Impermanence of Law is, in fact, very scary.

Well, the only good thing about falling sick is that it is a reminder of vulnerability of life. A reminder that health is wealth, it’s cliché, but it is so true. An opportunity to feel weak and vulnerable, so that I could empathize the sufferings and fear of other people. A chance to reaffirm that simple thing in life is good enough and satisfying. A time to be appreciative of the simple joy of living.

Simple Lunch.

Porridge & Cai Xin.

Simple, yet Nice.

Love it.

The other good thing about falling sick… is losing weight.

I lost 2kg.

Book: Your Money & Your Brain

2011-10-16T16:14:00.001+08:00

Your Money & Your Brain

This is an interesting book about human psychology, with emphasis on decision making on money related matters. Below are some extracts, hopefully it can keep you thinking:

"Imagine that you could choose between winning $3000 for sure, on the one hand, or gamble with an 80% chance of winning $4000 and 20% chance of winning nothing. If you are like most people, you will pick the sure thing. Next, imagine that you can choose between losing $3000 for sure, or a gamble with 80% odds of losing $4000 and 20% odds of losing nothing. What would you do? In this case, people reject the sure thing and take the gamble 92% of the time."

"A test was done with Godiva chocolates, the people who had selected one piece of candy from a display of 6 were much happier with their choice than those who picked one out of an array of 30 different candies. The more choices they left on the table, the more they worried that the one they picked was not the best. Too much of a good thing creates "choice overload", releasing a swarm of potential regrets."

"A study of dozens of Olympic athletes showed that, on average, bronze medalists were happier than silver medalists. After all, the silver medalists just missed the gold, while those who won the bronze just missed earning no medal at all."

" Imagine 2 situations - In one, you buy the biggest house in a middle-class neighborhood, in the other, you buy the smallest house in a rich part of town. In both cases, you earn an upper-middle-class income and pay the same price for each house. Which Neighbourhood will you be happier in?"

The ending note on this Investment Book:---

"Doing and Being are better than Having:

Having centers around purchases and possessions (quite often shortlived). Doing is about experiences and activities (ie. Gathering with friends, Traveling to new places). Being is about something larger than yourself: devoting a portion of your time and energy to an idea, a cause or a community. Having creates diminishing returns; the more accustomed you become to whatever you buy, the less happiness you get from it. The good news is that the money you spend on Doing and Being gives a much longer afterglow, as experiences burnish themselves in your memory and belonging brightens your self-esteem. In the end, living a rich life depends less on how much you own than on how much you do, what you stand for, and how fully you reach your own potential.

The best "value investment" of all is channeling your money into goals that will make your life more valuable: drawing out your innate gifts to make yourself matter to other people and to make the world around you a better place. Given the way the brain works, your happiness ultimately depends not on finding out how much you can buy but on learning how much you can be."

+++

One New Experience Each Week - Pulau Rawa, Malaysia

2011-10-15T19:22:00.001+08:00

Pulau Rawa main attraction is its white sandy beach, crystal clear water & proximity to Singapore. It only took us around 4 hours to arrive at the island. Within 4 hours, we were transported from a concrete jungle to an island paradise.

I really needed this break, as I was facing a lot of unhappiness and anger at work during the week. I was grateful to spend my weekend with people who I can trust and be comfortable with.

Slide!!!

White Sandy Beach

Crystal Clear Water

The newly wed (PY & ZY)

We were lucky to have a sunny day!

(It had been raining heavily and cloudy for the past few days)

So happy that we could levitate!!!

The other side of the island is a cliff.

Exploring the hilltop of the island

Enjoying the view and sunset by the cliff with friends.

Sunset from the hilltop.

Moonlit Night

3 of the guys (including myself) were playing table tennis at the resort. We were like young kids trying to win and compete... and it brought back fond memories of our teenage years playing table tennis at the void deck. Same people. Worse Skill. Different Place. And slightly Older.

One of the unexpected yet enjoyable experience was strolling along the beach, and then soaking and swimming in the water in the moonlit night. Floating on the water and observing the boundless sky. What a wonderful way to spend a Saturday night.

That's Life!

Lesson from Steve Jobs: One more thing

2011-10-10T22:57:00.000+08:00

Taken From http://www.eastwick.com/blog/2011/10/06/one-more-thing/

"We didn’t use words like “mindfulness practice” back then, and my only knowledge of Buddhism had come from art history classes. Yet this calling-back to consciousness, this art of checking in and course correcting, taught me something my upbringing and education had not: the importance of the “now,” the preciousness of each moment, the essential connection between process and outcome.

As Steve evolved as a leader and as a man, he honed this very practice, taking presence and mindfulness to a world-changing level. His sense of purpose and personal responsibility shone as he continued to create, shape, inspire, and exact exceptional performance in the people he led.

....

Today, I feel deeply grateful to share it here, offering it in hopes that maybe you’ll pick it up, make it your own. Use it to help shape your own audacious dream, something driven by hunger and foolishness and focus and purpose, because that is what Steve showed us is possible. Use it with the absolute conviction that every life and every moment matters, because we’ve seen that this can be true. Use it to expand your potential to be great – perhaps insanely so – in some way that matters to you.

And use it to remember an incomparable man who has touched so many lives in small or course-changing ways. Thank you, Steve, for teaching us the power of a moment. Thank you, Steve, for all that you’ve taught us."

Remembering Steve Jobs (1955-2011)

2011-10-06T16:09:00.002+08:00

It is one of those moments in life when you remember for a long time… what you were doing, where you were… when you heard the news. I also vividly remember those moments during 11 sept 2011 and the death of Michael Jackson.

I am really sad. I certainly have never felt so sad when other rich tycoons or businessman died. Steve Jobs had many labels – Visionary, Leader, Creative Genius, Innovator, Tycoon, and most importantly, an Inspiration. His life is an inspiration. His speeches were inspiring (esp. the commencement speech at Stanford University on 2005).

Below are some of the quotes that I would always remember:

“Being the richest man in the cemetery doesn’t matter to me … Going to bed at night saying we’ve done something wonderful… that’s what matters to me.”

“When I was 17, I read a quote that went something like: "If you live each day as if it was your last, someday you'll most certainly be right." It made an impression on me, and since then, for the past 33 years, I have looked in the mirror every morning and asked myself: "If today were the last day of my life, would I want to do what I am about to do today?" And whenever the answer has been "No" for too many days in a row, I know I need to change something.

Remembering that I'll be dead soon is the most important tool I've ever encountered to help me make the big choices in life. Because almost everything — all external expectations, all pride, all fear of embarrassment or failure - these things just fall away in the face of death, leaving only what is truly important. Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart….

No one wants to die. Even people who want to go to heaven don't want to die to get there. And yet death is the destination we all share. No one has ever escaped it. And that is as it should be, because Death is very likely the single best invention of Life. It is Life's change agent. It clears out the old to make way for the new. Right now the new is you, but someday not too long from now, you will gradually become the old and be cleared away. Sorry to be so dramatic, but it is quite true.

Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma — which is living with the results of other people's thinking. Don't let the noise of others' opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.

...

Stay Hungry. Stay Foolish.”

Quoting from Wildmild Buddhist Meditation:

“Steve Jobs, who was a Buddhist, talked eloquently about how an awareness of impermanence enriched his life.”

Even the greatest innovator and visionary of our time does not escape the Law of Impermanence. (And Steve understood it). Nobody or Anything has ever escaped this Universal Law. Rather than being sad about it, be aware of the Impermanence, use it as a strength and reminder to live the best possible life.

“Screenshot of Apple Website using my IPhone”

This is my way of remembering Steve Jobs.

Thank you Steve.

May you rest in peace.

May you seek refuge in Buddha.

“Even death is not to be feared by one who has lived wisely"

- Buddha

Optimism

2011-10-05T13:16:00.000+08:00

Taken from Your Money & Your Brain:

In the movie Dumb and Dumber, Jim Carrey's Character, Lloyd, asks the love of his what his chances are of making her love him, too.

"Not good," replies Mary Swanson.

"Not good like one out of a hundred?" asks Lloyd haltingly.

Mary answers, "I'd say more like one out of a million."

Exclaims Lloyd; "So you're telling me there's a chance? YEAH!"

+++

Now, that's Optimism.

Quotes

2011-10-05T12:58:00.002+08:00

"Pain is inevitable,

Suffering is optional"

- Buddhist Saying

Save the World's Saddest Dolphins

2011-10-05T12:53:00.000+08:00

http://www.saddestdolphins.com/

A Dialogue session with the 72 years old Ric O'barry (the activist featured in the Academy Award Winning Documentary - The Cove) and Louis Ng (founder of ACRES) on Captive Dolphins and the struggle to get Resort World Sentosa to release the Wild Dolphins.

For anybody are supporting the capturing of the Wild Dolphins, please watch the documentary - The Cove. I watched the movie and it is hard to understand why Human Beings are capable of such brutality.

I was asking myself:

"Why am I here in the dialogue session on a Tuesday evening?"

"Why do I bother to support the cause?"

"Why are so many people around me supporting the cause?"

"Why do Ric & Louis bother to spend so much time and effort on this cause?"

Then Ric said something like

"We get into a campaign because it is the right thing to do. Not to win."

Because it is the right thing to do.

Sometimes, we could not just sit back and do nothing.

Both Ric and Louis are amazing people devoting their lives to worthy causes. Respect!

We assume that we are the greatest species. We have the brain to outsmart and dominate every animal on this earth. Some people even told me that their God created animals for us to eat! (That really infuriates me!!!) Who give us the right to exploit the animals? Are you fine with another person enslaving you just because the other person is more powerful?

FAQs on captive dolphins:

http://www.wspa-usa.org/wspaswork/marinemammals/dolphinfaq.aspx

Ric is absolutely right and very wise to say this:

"The key to solving all our environmental problems is to control our desires."

One New Experience Each Week - City Harvest Church

2011-10-02T23:21:00.001+08:00

Last week, I visited one of the most successful charismatic churches in Singapore - City Harvest Church. I wanted to understand the success of City Harvest Church and its founding pastor - Kong Hee, who is currently under investigation by Singapore Police for misuse of church fund.

Mobilizing the whole church to bless a Chinese national (successful businessman) who is on a mission to evangelize the Christian Faith in China.

The whole service felt like a rock concert, with a lot of young people. The whole setup was very impressive - playing inspirational music, great vocalists, great live band and good atmosphere. It is not surprising that it is a popular church.

There were moments when the pastor Kong Hee was speaking in tongues, and it caused the whole church into a frenzy where everybody started to speak in tongues. There was a group energy flowing around the church, and people were getting excited, energized and more passionate. In another words, people are getting emotional. It is the same feeling as those political rallies which I attended. I believe there is a collective energy in big congregation of people to rally, influence, brainwash people in a highly emotionally charged environment. In fact, this is the BEST way to influence people is when they are highly emotional and less rational.

The pastor and speakers are like motivational speakers - selling hope and optimism that something great will happen if you believe, accept and trust God. They featured successful people, sharing stories of ordinary folks devoting selflessly to serve their God, sharing story of born-again Christian whom was saved by God during their darkest moment in life. And one of the best selling techniques of all time: To show an example of a previous skeptics who had great success in life and pledges his life towards God and Church, and using words like "Dreams are realized". After that, a group prayer with vigor and energy filled the hall.

Pastor Kong Kee is very smart to select a verse from the Bible ("arise and build") to talk about fund raising for the church. He also shared news about highly successful people supporting the cause. I quote him "If you are building God house, you are building your own house."

Overall, I am very impressed with the church's ability to engage people. I am happy that I achieved my objective of understanding the success of this Charismatic Church. At the same time, I am quite uncomfortable with the whole approach. I guess this is not my cup of tea, and I am not convinced.

One New Experience Each Week - Bukit Brown Cemetery

2011-09-27T16:15:00.002+08:00

Bukit Brown Cemetery is the largest Chinese Cemetery outside of China. Estimated 250,000 people were buried there, and there are lotsa Singapore pioneers buried in this place around 1920-1940s. In the land scarce Singapore, the government has been toying the idea of redeveloping the whole area.

I joined a free tour provided some activists trying to preserve this cemetery by educating us the historical and heritage value of this place. His passion for this cemetery and Singapore history is amazing.

The cemetery is huge and covered with overgrown weeds. It is also very peaceful and quiet, and I enjoyed walking there, but it could be really eerie and scary to walk there during the night.

Lion guarding the tomb.

Chinese Fairy guarding the tomb.

Grandmother of Dr Tony Tan (Current President of Singapore)

A Humble Looking Tomb (Surprisingly!!!)

Grandfather of Lee Kuan Yew (First Prime Minister of Singapore)

Great-Grandfather of Lee Hsien Loong (Current Prime Minister of Singapore)

Boon Lay Town and MRT Station Origin

Mr Chew Boon Lay (Renowned Businessman)

Peranankan

Read this Death Date: "Lak Guek Chap Jee Jit"

It means "六月十七日" in Hokkien and the date is based on Lunar Calender.

Pernankan normally speaks English, Malay and some form of Chinese Dialect, unfortunately, most of them could not read and write Chinese.

Sikhs Guarding the tomb. Legacy of Colonial rule.

Descendant of renowned businessman and philanthropist - Tan Tock Seng.

Apparently, he was a supporter of Chinese Kuomintang (Taiwan), hence, the ray on both sides of the tombstone are symbol of Kuomintang. Interesting!

The Largest Tomb in Singapore.

Apparently, his descendants are still doing very well, as the tomb is up-kept in good condition. Chinese believes in Fengshui, and one of the cornerstones of Fengshui is believing that a good ancestral burial ground could either bring great fortune or ill-luck to the future generations.

Filial Piety

"In Confucian ideals, filial piety (Chinese: 孝; pinyin: xiào) is one of the virtues to be held above all else: a respect for the parents and ancestors. The Confucian classic Xiao Jing or Classic of Xiào, thought to be written around 470 BCE, has historically been the authoritative source on the Confucian tenet of xiào / "filial piety"

Stories of Filial Piety were engraved onto the tombstone to remind the future generation of importance of showing respect to our parents and ancestors. It is THE most important Chinese value.

A son is fanning a bed so that it is cool enough for his father to sleep.

A young lady is breast-feeding her mother-in-law who was hungry, instead of her own hungry child.

Passionate Guide searching for tomb!!!

He was searching for tomb long forgotten by people. That morning, he was sharing with joy & much excitement that he discovered a tomb of another important person (whom I do not know). Respect!

+++

Until a few days ago, I did not know that my family used to live very close to Bukit Brown Cemetery. My late paternal grandfather was in the business of engraving tombstone. So some of the tombstones engraving might be done by him. I had very blurred impression that place, as my earliest memory of that place was back in 1984/1985 when I was 4-5 years old. I remember my extended family was living in a quiet place hidden in forrest, but I never knew the exact location. The mystery is solved now. I am happy now. =)

The Seven Forms of Wealth

2011-09-27T12:45:00.000+08:00

Taken from: The Greatness Guide

INNER WEALTH

This includes a positive mindset, high self-respect, internal peace and a strong spiritual connection.

PHYSICAL WEALTH

Your health is your wealth. What's the point of getting to a great place in your career if you get sick doing it? Why be the best businessperson in the hospital ward? Why be the richest person in the graveyard?

FAMILY AND SOCIAL WEALTH

When your family life is happy, you will perform better at work. No one gets to the end of their life and regrets making their family their first priority. Related to this is the imperative of forging deep connections with friends and members of your personal community (including mentors, role models and trusted advisors).

CAREER WEALTH

Actualizing your highest potential by reaching for your best in your career is incredibly important. Getting to greatness in your profession brings a feeling of satisfaction on a job well done. It helps you make your mark. Being world class in your work is good for your self-respect.

ECONOMIC WEALTH

Yes, money is important. Not the most important thing in life but very important. It absolutely makes life easier and better. Money allows you to live in a nice home, take beautiful vacations and provide well for those you love. And as Yvon Chouinard, the founder of the outdoor gear company Patagonia, has said: "The more I make, the more I can give away."

ADVENTURE WEALTH

To be fulfilled, each of us needs mystery in our lives. Challenge is necessary for happiness. The human brain craves novelty. And we are creative beings so we need to be creating constantly if we hope to feel joy. Lots of adventure (ranging from meeting new people to visiting new places) is an essential element of authentic wealth.

IMPACT WEALTH

Perhaps the deepest longing of the human heart is to live for something greater than itself. Each of us craves to be significant. To make a difference. To know that the world has somehow been better because we have walked the planet. Think of what Richard Bach once wrote:"Here is the test to find whether your mission on earth is finished: If you're alive, it isn't."

Quotes

2011-09-25T23:36:00.000+08:00

Source

"Emotions and all materials things are like a ball on fire,
you feel warm by getting near,
but holding on to it for too long
burns your hand and cause more pain."

One New Experience Each Week - Singapore Bird Park

2011-09-25T22:55:00.001+08:00

The last time I visited Singapore Bird Park was 19 years ago, back in 1992. I went there with my school and i had a lot of fun. Recently, I went to the Singapore Bird Park with my family, and the fun part was actually seeing my 3 years-old niece reaction and excitement. It was a good opportunity spending some quality time with my family.

May be it is due to age, experience and expectation, I was not really excited seeing different kinds of birds. I am an animal lover, and I would prefer to see them in the wild or documentary. And I realized I am more contemplative now.

Where do the park get their birds?

Why are those majestic eagles looking so sad and bored in their small cages?

Why are one side of the flamingos' wings shorter than the other side?

Why ain't the Pelican and other birds in the open flying around/away?

What are the conservation efforts/messages by the park?

The magical moment came when I saw a flock of large birds soaring gracefully across the sky. Then it dawned on me that the birds are most beautiful when they are flying freely.... not walking/hopping around in the confinement of a cage. If I am a bird, I would rather starve in the wild and fly freely and experience the world, rather then living in a safety of a cage.

Is there a need for Bird Park?

What kind of value does it create for visitors as well as imprisoned birds?

My little niece was excited and happy seeing penguins for the first time.

That itself made me happy.

The first experience is always the best. =)

May be this is main value of the Park.

Providing that first experience for many.

When will there be no more wars?

2011-09-21T16:22:00.001+08:00

A disciple once asked the Buddha,

"Why are there wars?

When will there be no more wars?

When will there be world peace?"

The Buddha replied,

"If you want to know when there will be peace,

just listen to the cries from the slaughterhouses at night.

Only when there are no more cries from the slaughterhouses

will there be no more wars."…

A Tribute to my Buddhist Beads

2011-09-21T00:36:00.001+08:00

Bye My Dear Friend...

I was shock and very sad when I realized that I lost my beads during my trip to Jakarta.

For me, there is no other physical item that is more important than my Buddhist Beads.

It certainly does not worth any cents - it's made of cheap plastic. However, it is of great sentimental value to me. It was a gift from a Tibetan Lama (Daxing) when I was backpacking in China in 2002. The beads is the BEST souvenir in my life. It encapsulated the important memories and lessons for the past 9 years of my life.

It reminded of a beautiful place and simple way of life in Langmusi.

It reminded me that living a good and simple life is the way to happiness.

It was with me when I was living in the Silicon Valley, counting down at Times Square...

It was with me when I was at Potala Palace, Bodhgaya, Taj Mahal, Jerusalem, Pyramid....

It brought me comfort and a sense of peace when I was feeling sick and weak at the Everest Base Camp Trek...

It made me feel safe when I felt vulnerable and weak...

It is always with me at those important times of my life...

In fact, I felt a bit lost without my Beads.

I took it for granted.

Losing my Buddhist Beads reminded me of 2 important Buddhist philosophies.

The Impermanence of Life

Nothing is permanent.

Life is in a constant flux of change.

If I do not realize and acknowledge this Law of Life, I would always experience sadness and disappointment with changes in life. But that's the nature of Life - Changes. The problem is not in the Change, but in our Mind.

Attachment is a source of sufferings.

The pain and sadness I experienced is because of my attachment.

If I am attached to fame and fortune, I would suffer if I lost them.

If I am attached to my ego and pride, I would suffer if someone insulted me.

If I am attached to my money & physical items, I would suffer if I lost them.

If I am attached to relationship, I would suffer if the relationship went sour.

If I am attached to my health, I would suffer if I fall sick.

I think there is no better way to part with my Buddhist Beads with the 2 lessons learnt.

What a good way to say Good Bye & Thank You!

The impermanence of excessive pleasure...

2011-09-19T23:20:00.001+08:00

Last week, I went to Jakarta for a short working trip.

I stayed in very nice 5-star hotel and was upgraded to a Junior Suite at level 31 overlooking the city. The bathroom has a big bathtub and a shower room with massage jet. The king size bed is huge, comfortable and soft with a 1000 thread count bed linen. The breakfast buffet spread was great, listening to the jazz band at the lounge at night was good way to end the day, and the overall service was good too... the only problem is the 5-star price.

Junior Suite at level 31 overlooking Jakarta City.

I would be lying if I say that I didn't enjoy it. I love it. I got a taste of what it feels like to be rich (I'm not and I'm far from it). However, I also realized the discomfort of excessive pleasure. Having excessive rich food brings dissatisfaction, I felt bloated and lazy. Having such a nice room, I just wanted to enjoy it and ignore my meditation practice and exercise regime.

I found the "happiness" brought by these pleasures are fleeting and temporary. It is good to enjoy them once a while, but I think excessive of it is unnecessary as it numbs the senses and it makes a person jaded. These are definitely not the "happiness" I am pursuing in life. It is good to have them, but i guess I can do without them most of the time.

Quotes

2011-09-19T00:18:00.000+08:00

"A passing boat leaves no trace upon the waters;

a bird's flight leaves no trace in the sky.

When fleeting success, failure, gain, or loss leaves no trace upon the heart,

the great wisdom of liberation has been achieved."

- Master Sheng Yen

James Khoo: A Tribute to Mum

2011-09-12T11:26:00.000+08:00

I was touched reading the letters, and I want to republish it here to share the lessons of life.

I hope you learn something out of it, and show Love and Kindness to your family.

Be Grateful Always.

Show Gratitude Always.

+++

Excerpts taken from Brother James Khoo’s letters to his children from February to May 2011 regarding his mother who was dying from cancer. Members who wish to read the complete letters can find them on Buddhist Fellowship’s website.

Hey Champ,

It warms my heart learning about your concern for Nainai’s condition. A few months back, I cried learning that Nainai has stage four cancer. The tumours have since spread to her bones and lungs. Today I cry because of your compassion and your show of love. It is the tears of joy knowing that our family is full of love and we care for each other. I rejoice at the DNA of hard work, honesty and compassion that Nainai has infused in us. Nainai has always led a digniﬁed life. She came to Penang at the age of four, survived the Second World War, endured an unhappy marriage and brought up seven children in an upright manner. We were poor but always honourable. Each member of the family was always prepared to sacrifice for the good of the rest. When she passes on, we will of cause be saddened because we will never see Nainai again, but let’s celebrate her life. How long will Nainai survive is not important, what is important is the quality of her life from now on and the lessons Nainai teaches us. Treasure life now, make the best of it, put in the right effort, be good, be generous and be up right.

Children,

Nainai's body is unwell but her mind radiates equanimity. She says that this body of ours will fall sick and grow old. The body is not us, for if it is us then we can tell the body to stop falling sick and stop growing old. It is more important to practice for a strong mind. You can cheer her up by recounting the happy moments you had with her - like how she used to care for you when you were little, the holiday trips that we did together and the way she used to pamper you. Tell her about some of your in-teresting daily activities. Grieving is a process, it starts with denial, anger, bargaining, depression and at last acceptance. Investigate which part of the grieving process you are in and take care of the health of your mind. Working as a volunteer, I have come across cases where people stayed in the depression state for a long time. It is both not healthy and not beneﬁcial. We hope Nainai will recover but let's prepare for the worst. If you need to say something to Nainai, say it now. If you need to do something for Nainai, do it now. For tomorrow may be too late. We do not want to carry the burden of guilt for the rest of our life regretting not doing what is right.

Children,

She is prepared for death, has made alterations to her will and stated her preference for funeral and wake arrangements. She told me that she plans to draw her last breath with a smile on her face. I am sure she will! We often relate giving to donating money. Giving is much deeper than that. Nainai’s condition is a good opportunity for us to practice giving. Give her time, give her love, and give her the smoothing and tender moments of chanting and touching. You will experience the true meaning of happiness and realize that happiness spreads. We do not often have an opportunity to see death and many do not like to talk about death. Nainai’s dying process is a good opportunity to see a loved one dying. Dying is a natural life process, it is not something fearful. Sickness is painful but we have experienced occasional sickness since we were born. Dying can be peaceful and joyful

Children,

Nainai has decided that enough is enough. She said that she knows her own body well and has decided not to seek further treatment. HOPE and CURE must now be replaced with just CARE. We discussed Nainai’s decision with the specialist doctor and he agrees with her decision. We are all in the same wavelength now. Nainai sleeps most of the time but when awake she continues to have fun. She cracks jokes; makes fun of the two GuGus who put in the most effort caring for her. Ha! Nainai needs your support now; the two GuGus need your support now. Treasure this remaining month, treasure every moment. Tomorrow may never be.

Dad

無常 Impermanence

2011-09-06T12:58:00.000+08:00

I love this song when I was in my teens, I just love the tune and magical voice of Faye Wong. Unfortunately, I was too young and ignorant, and I did not understand the lyrics and the profound meaning behind them.

Coincidentally, I was reading an Investment book by the Billionaire Howard Marks, and this is what he said

"Among the values prized in early Japanese culture was mujo. Mujo was defined classically for me as recognition of "the turning of the wheel of the law," implying acceptance of the inevitability of change, of rise and fall... In another words, mujo means cycles will rise and fall, things will come and go, and our environment will change in ways beyond our control. Thus we must recognize, accept, cope and respond. Isn't that the essence of investing?"

This is not just about investing, but EVERYTHING in life.

Recognize it

Accept it

Cope with it

Respond accordingly.

The Law of The Impermanence.

Travel: Shanghai & Huangshan, China (24th-31st Aug'11)

2011-09-05T00:18:00.000+08:00

Shanghai Metro Network

The last time I visited Shanghai was 3 years ago, and its Metro Network has expanded quite alot - just like the economy of the World second largest economy (The People's Republic of China). Everybody is busy making money, and after this trip, I am convinced that China is only growth engine in this gloomy global economic climate. However, the property bubble could potentially impede this growth, as I saw alot of empty apartments and buildings (outside of Shanghai) and lotsa on-going constructions besides those empty buildings (which I think are 3-5years old). It just doesn't make sense.

Visited a retail shop opened by a listed company that I invested.

I am disappointed by its marketing effort and shop assistant service. Qualitatively, this business is not as good as what I expected. Quantitatively, this investment is still attractive. Well, I would need to decide if I should cut loss, hold on, or average down. I really enjoy the analytical process of assessing a business.

This is not an aquarium.

This is taken in Carrefour in the fish section. I am surprised that they bother to add plant and goldfishes to beautify the "live food" tank.

Gifts after visiting the factory of Hershey's near Suzhou. Quite an experience to see such a large chocolate factory and see its full manufacturing process. (Btw, I fell sick after returning from the trip after consuming too much chocolate).

Chinese Business Lunch - Very Hospitable and Painful.

The host was very hospitable by serving too much food (more than 15 dishes) and toasting wines to everybody. There was a wastage of food, as we could not finish it, but the Chinese deems that as a sign of being hospitable. They must felt that I was rude by declining the Shark's Fin Soup, not eating the meat that was served on my plate, and not drinking enough wine.

It was painful because emphasis on hierarchy and seniority is very obvious. For example, the seating order is very important around the table - there is a center of power. The manner of toasting is important for instance a junior person should lower his glass while toasting to a senior person as a mark of respect. It is disrespectful if you don't drink.

Well, this is not my first time, it has been a long time since I had such a lunch. I had been very respectful towards everybody and the local practice, but I was really happy when the lunch was over. Painful!!

My first ever visit to an oil refinery complex. It was Huge! In fact, photography was not allowed.

After the business stuff, I felt so relieved to extend a few days to go to Huangshan alone.

I love the freedom!!!

First, the bus AC stopped working, and then, the bus stopped on the roadside with smoke coming on the front-left part of the bus. I was seated on the last few rows of the bus, and all the passengers were scrambling down the bus and saying that the bus is on fire and might explode anytime. Darn! Those Chinese were fast, and I was the last one on queue getting out of the bus. I was telling myself "Pls don't explode! Pls don't explode!".

There was no fire extinguisher on the bus! The fire was put off by using bottles of mineral water and water from the river.

Police and the Fire Engine came.

I waited for around an hour for another bus. Interestingly, unlike other passengers who were agitated and were making a scene, I was quite at peace and reminding myself that this is part of an experience.

My simple dinner at the foot of Huangshan.

While I was having my dinner, I was watching a documentary about a Chinese mother who single-handedly raised 3 children as a porter earning 20rmb (S$3.80, US$3.16) for a single trip. In order to save money, her clothes were all donated by people, and she even wears man's shirt. Two of her children are going to university and she could not offer it, so the kids have to earn money during vacations for their education expenses. A lot of people's life are still very difficult and challenging. These ordinary folks are really strong people. These are everyday heros. Respect!

HuangShan

"Huangshan, is a mountain range in southern Anhui province in eastern China. The range composed of material that was uplifted from an ancient sea during the Mesozoic era, 100 million years ago; the mountains themselves were carved by glaciers during the Quaternary. Vegetation on the range is thickest below 1,100 meters (3,600 ft), with trees continuing until 1,800 meters (5,900 ft). The area is well known for its scenery, sunsets, peculiarly shaped granite peaks, Huangshan Pine trees, and views of the clouds from above. Huangshan is a frequent subject of traditional Chinese paintings and literature, as well as modern photography. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of China's major tourist destinations."

Trekking HuangShan

Met 2 fantastic PRC families who took good care of me. It was through interactions with them that I understood the challenges and hopes of ordinary folks. For them, visiting Huangshan was their only travel plan for the year and the things on the mountain are very expensive for them. Then, I realized how fortunate I am.

I was chatting with the high-school graduate (in the photo). He was leaving Ningxia Province to do his degree in Nanjing City. I could understand the challenge faced by a youth like him - being the only child (one-child policy in China), he has to work hard to meet the expectation of his parents, it is highly competitively in China to secure a place in good university as well as securing a job etc... In another words, life is tough!

It was always great to meet nice people!

Friends are everywhere.

Scenery of HuangShan is mystical, beautiful and awesome. I would let the photos do the talking:

It is amazing that pavement was built on the steep wall of the cliff.

The best moment of the trip.

People talk too much.

People walk too much.

People do too much.

I just enjoy keeping quiet.

Slow down and Stop everything.

Enjoy the silence and the scenery.

Feel the wind.

Feel the rain droplets on my skin.

Close my eyes for a moment.

Open my eyes and see.

Life is so Beautiful!

Sunset.

It was raining and too foggy. Spent my night in the mountain, it was quite an experience to sleep in the same room with 11 other guys talking about politics and social events in China (as there was nothing better to do in the mountain at night).

Back in the foothill, an old lady shared with me that Huangshan has changed so much. It used to have old Taoist temples in the mountains when she was young, but they were all gone now. I asked if the temples were destroyed during the cultural revolution, she didn't reply me...

The Bund

The Bund never fails to awe me.

Beautiful Skyline of Pudong, Shanghai

This restaurant was recommended on some travel websites.

The place was crowded with expatriates. I had a vegetarian main course & an orange juice (260rmb, S$50, US$41). The most expensive vegetarian meal so far. The food was not bad, but the ambiance and view was better. In fact, I was paying for the view.

This is my favourite photo of the trip.

I have seen similar picture of The Bund taken from this angle, but I never figured where it was taken. This is the best place to take photo of The Bund.

Exploring the Flea Market of Shanghai - Dongtai Road

My favourite game.

Mahjong on the Street. Cool!

For Sale

Old Toys

(but not-so-cheap)

Contemporary Art

Cultural Revolution

Old Tins

Exploring Moganshan Road - The creativity hub

Modernity?

Art Gallery

I met an American lady and her Canadian friend in her Art Gallery. I had a good conversation with them and trying to understand the rationale of this young mother of three, who is willing to uproot herself from America and relocate to the Far East. The reason is simple - her husband loves oriental culture and art.

Lotsa interesting Art pieces. I did not take any photos, as I respect their intellectual property. It is very stimulating to see so many creative art pieces.

Laundry & Art?

Chinese Grafitti

- Bruce Lee & Panda!

Calligraphy & Grafitti

Mythical themed Graffiti

Walls of Grafitti

The Portrait is so real!

With a population of over 20million people, there is no shortage of creativity and places to visit. Well, that is the beauty of Shanghai. Love it. =)

One New Experience Each Week - Presidential Election Rally

2011-09-04T19:01:00.000+08:00

I attended the first ever Presidential Election Rally in Singapore 2 weeks ago. That was history in the making.

The one thing that touched me is the realization that this Presidential Candidate - Tan Jee Say is a good example of someone living The Singapore Dream. He comes from a poor and humble background - he is the youngest of 11 children of a washer woman (from China) who was trying to make ends meet. Through his hard work and effort, he earned the scholarship to study Philosophy Politics & Economics at Oxford University, and went on to have a stellar career path.

This is The Singapore Dream.

With hard work, effort and capability, you are given the opportunity to shine on the global stage, irregardless of your family background. That is inspirational!

Amazing Boy!

2011-08-17T17:10:00.000+08:00

We should all learn something from this Amazing Boy.

He is such an inspiration!!

Are you still complaining about your life?

Another perspective...

2011-08-17T00:03:00.001+08:00

Last week, my mood was down, as I was affected by the world economics - the debt crisis in both America and Europe. My little investment portfolio was affected, and the crisis would affect my projects as well. While I was reading the papers about the crisis, I saw this picture:

Young Children queuing up for soup on the Holy month of Ramadan.

There are Millions of people worrying about survival, food, safety...

Sometimes... it is about having another perspective...

Sometimes...

we are too self-centered and that is a source of suffering...

Sometimes....

we should Think Less about "ME"

And Care more about "US" and the less fortunate ones...

That's the path to Happiness.

One New Experience Each Week - Singapore Sling @ Long Bar

2011-08-16T23:47:00.000+08:00

Singapore Sling @ Long Bar, Raffles Hotel

From Wikipedia:

"The Singapore Sling is a cocktail that was developed sometime before 1915^[1] by Ngiam Tong Boon (嚴崇文), a bartender working at the Long Bar in Raffles Hotel Singapore. The original recipe used gin, Cherry Heering, Bénédictine, and fresh pineapple juice, primarily fromSarawak pineapples which enhance the flavour and create a foamy top."

I am not a big fan of cocktail, but being a Singaporean, I felt that I should try the "original" Singapore Sling. It wasn't fantastic, the price is too expensive (S$30.60 - US$25.50), and the environment is quite nostalgia though. Well, the price is for the history and heritage.

I was wondering what is the worth of this history and heritage. Based on the statistics provided by the bartender, the average monthly glasses of Singapore Sling served is 14,571, hence, the total monthly revenue is S$445,885 and the annual turnover is S$5,350,628.

That's a very profitable business... as I have not considered other drinks and food, the cost is negligible, the cost of labor is low (less than 10 pax & made up of some Filipino). Well, this will be the first and last time I am contributing to the figures.

Lessons at Deathbed

2011-08-07T23:09:00.002+08:00

Recently, I saw a National Geographic documentary on Taiwanese blend of Folk religion, Taoism and Buddhism. The focal point of the documentary is on people's attitude towards death, funeral & ghost.

There was a gentlemen (37 years old) who was terminally-ill due to cancer. He has 2 young kids, 4 years old and 1 year old. He shared his perspective on life on the hospital bed. He said that only now then he realized that all his pursue for wealth, career and other physical things in life were meaningless. The only things that really matter are his health and the love of his family.

He regretted not taking good care of his health, and not spending enough time building good relationships with everybody. That's what truly matters. Unfortunately, his realization is too late.

This documentary was quite visually impactful. It showed his 4 years old daughter, kneeling down infront of the altar in the temple and praying for the speedy recovery of her dad. It also showed his funeral process, and his lifeless face in the coffin. His elderly mother crying and collapsing.

This is a reminder of the impermanence of life.

This is a reminder not to take life for granted.

This is a reminder not to take family and friends for granted.

This is a reminder to slow down and spend time some quality time with others and oneself.

This is a reminder not to have any regrets during this short journey called Life.

This is a reminder to keep the right perspective of life, and let go of trivial problems & issues.

Life is precious and short.

Let's Live It well and fully.

Not to waste any precious moment.

The Great Sky

(Taken at Tibet)

May you be well and happy always.

Where the Hell is Matt?

2011-08-05T13:48:00.000+08:00

His website: http://www.wherethehellismatt.com

I really NEED to travel soon....

Wanderlust never ends....

2011-08-05T11:17:00.000+08:00

MOVE from Rick Mereki on Vimeo.

The World is just Awesome!

I need to travel and see it before it is too late.

One New Experience Each Week - Agriculture Farm Visit

2011-07-31T22:31:00.001+08:00

Flower

Banana Tree Flower

(Looks like a lotus)

Banana trees were cut so that they would produce more bananas in the future.

Interesting fact that I was not aware. Good to learn something new!

Ladyfinger

Never expect to see it vertically, as I thought it would be hanging from a tree/plant.

"Gentle Woman or Gentle Man is a Genuine Person"

"Discover Basic Goodness"

Life's Good!!! =)

One New Experience Each Week - Night Safari

2011-07-31T22:07:00.000+08:00

My first time visiting Night Safari.

"The Night Safari is the world's first nocturnal zoo and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Singapore. Constructed at a cost of S$63 million, the Night Safari was officially opened on 26 May 1994 and occupies 40 hectares (0.4 km²) of secondary rainforest adjacent to the Singapore Zoo and Upper Seletar Reservoir.

The Night Safari currently houses a total of 1,040 animals of 120 species, of which 29% are threatened species. The zoo is managed byWildlife Reserves Singapore, and about 1.1 million visitors visit the safari per year.^[2] The Night Safari received its 11 millionth visitor on 29 May 2007."

I guess... I really take things for granted. It has opened since 1994, and I stayed really near to Night Safari. It never crossed my mind that I should visit Night Safari until recently. It was a good experience, and I felt like a real tourist in my own country.

Fire spitting and eating performance.

The tropical rain-forest is quite pretty at night.

This is the only picture that turns out okay, as flash photography is not allowed.

+++

At the tiger enclosure, I looked straight into the eyes of the tiger, and we were separated only by a glass. I had never been so close to a tiger. It is hard not be awed by this majestic and beautiful creature. It is really a masterpiece creation. What a wonderful experience!

This experience also reminded me of Tigers I saw at Darjeeling Zoo (India). I remember that the roars of the tiger sent chills down my spine. I guess it is my instinctive reaction to run away.

+++

One thing that sadden me was the lack of energy of the captive animals.

I asked myself this question:

"Would I rather be in the wild facing daily survival issues and dangers,

or be in a zoo with no freedom but there is food and security?"

I would definitely want to be in wild.

Even though it is tough, at least, I experience the real world.

I could roam the world freely.

I rather get hurt than to wonder/dream about the real world.

This applies to my general outlook of life as well.

I would rather have the opportunity to risk and experience life, than to live a cocoon life.

There will always be fears and insecurities... but then, those are great learning opportunities as well (on a hindsight). I guess it is about not making judgement on the experiences, but to learn as much as possible. At the end of life, it is better to tried and failed, than failed to try.

Friends - Spice Gang

2011-07-24T22:00:00.000+08:00

Extremely adorable and lovable En-en...

The new member of the Spice Gang.

Celebrating K's Birthday @ HF's house

We have been friends for 14 years already.

Everybody is busy with their life.

Everybody is facing different difficulties and challenges in life.

But it is always good to know that there is a safe place to share your woes and worries.

And a place where you can always be acting stupid and being child-like.

Thank you guys!

One New Experience Each Week - Hair for Hope 2011

2011-07-24T21:40:00.001+08:00

Before & After

HF, LY & Boon

It has been a great experience participating in Hair for Hope 2011.

I am very happy to raise S$1570.00 for the Children's Cancer Foundation.

Some observations & reflections:

1. When I told my family about my participation in the Hair of Hope event, they said that I was very "Bo-Liao", which means "Nothing better to do". And interestingly, my family donated the most money to support me. That's the beauty of my family. While they may not understand or agree with me, they always support me and believe in me. For that, I am always very touched and thankful.

2. I was humbled and touched by the support and encouragement that I have received. It is always very inspiring to know that people do care about the less fortunate ones. That's compassion, which is the most beautiful thing in the world.

3. At the event, I found that everybody (both ladies and guys) looks very similar with a bald head. It reminded me that while we may look different on the appearance, we are all essentially the same deep inside.

It was a wonderful experience!

One New Experience Each Week - Walking on Railway Track

2011-07-21T00:27:00.000+08:00

This will be first and last time walking on the Railway Track.

Soon, this track will be disappeared from the face of this earth.

As I always say, all things are impermanent, even a solid structure like this Railway Track.

I started walking from Commonweath at 3.30pm and ended at Yew Tee at 8pm. In between, I took a short break at Railway Mall. It was quite tiring, but definitely very enjoyable! =)

I got a shock when a snake crossed the track in front of me.

A dilapidated house along the track.

Small, but it has a will to survive.

It is hard to see graffiti in Singapore.

It is even harder to see a nice one.

This place is so not Singapore.

It looks like a 3rd world country.

And I like it.

Sometimes, the journey is long and dry, but I have to go on.

Listen to some music.

And sing along to it.

Sometimes, the beauty is in small thing,

but we always miss it when we are in a rush.

While we have a destination to reach,

we could also enjoy the journey.

Sometimes,

we need to slow down to enjoy little things,

the destination can wait.

MGS Girls @ King Albert Park's Railway Bridge.

I never thought that I would walk on this bridge,

but at the same time,

there are too many things in life that are beyond my ability to predict and forecast.

A couple in love. =)

I like this photo.

I walked over and suggested taking a photo for them using their camera.

They thanked me. =)

I am too nosey at times.

Lost Camera

Taken at the road leading to Bt Timah Hill

I love the Greens.

I was quite emotional to see my school (Assumption English School) and St Joseph Church from the track. I also saw the statue of Mother Mary which we escorted from the old premise back to this premise. I could still recite the "Hail Mary" prayer after leaving school for so many years, even though I am a non-believer. On reflection, it is amazing that I did not convert (even though I thought about it before), and it is scary to know that an education institution is actually a strong tool to spread religious belief - especially to the young ones who are more malleable.

I love the feeling of being a tourist in my own country.

Sometimes, you gotta stop looking a the floor,

and look up.

The real beauty is over your head.

This chair has a lot of stories to share...

Sun had set.

Felt a bit cold.

I was alone.

But I wasn't lonely.

As I was listening to Faye Wong's "天空".

What a great way to end a day.

Movie: The Cove

2011-07-14T23:55:00.000+08:00

The Cove

"The Cove is a 2009 documentary film that analyzes and questions Japan's dolphin hunting culture. It was awarded the (2010) Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. The film is a call to action to halt mass dolphin kills; change Japanese fishing practices; and to inform and educate the public about the risks, and increasing hazard, of mercury poisoning from dolphin meat."

I watched this show last evening, and I shed tears a few times while watching the movie. When I saw the killings, I asked myself why people are capable of brutality and cruelty for the sake of monetary interest. I realized that everybody who patronizes Sea World, Ocean Park or any parks with captive dolphins are indirectly responsible for the cruelty. The Biggest Irony is that those people who patronized those theme parks are dolphin lovers, yet, they are indirectly killing other dolphins. That's ignorance, and I was guilty as well.

In the documentary, the dolphins were swimming freely in the ocean, it was beautiful and that is where they belong to. I would love to swim with them in the ocean. We should not be selfish. Dolphins are not born to bring entertainment to people. They born to be free. After the movie, I know I could not ignore it anymore. I must make a stand - Boycott all the theme parks that have captive dolphins.

For more relevant info:

http://www.wspa-usa.org/wspaswork/marinemammals/dolphinfaq.aspx

http://www.thecovemovie.com/

I hope you watch the movie.

I hope you join me too.

One New Experience Each Week - Mambo Jambo @ Zouk

2011-07-14T23:38:00.000+08:00

Brought my overseas friends to savor authentic local food. Met Ati when I was backpacking in Vietnam 5 years ago, and I was quite surprised when he told me that he would be spending 21 days in Singapore! And his friend Irene flew all the way from San Francisco Bay Area to enjoy 5 days in Singapore. I was quite surprised that Singapore was their choice of travel destination. I was recommending other places in the region, but this is not their first trip to South-East Asia. Well, they are traveled to more countries than me...

Ati - German of Turkish Descent

Irene - American of Ukrainian Descent

Boon - Singaporean of Chinese Descent

This is truly Globalization.

Brought them to something that is Uniquely Singapore - Mambo Jambo @ Zouk!

When I was walking towards Zouk, I could vividly remember the excitement of my first visit to Mambo Jambo 13 years ago. Back then, clubbing at Zouk was THE coolest thing to do. I could also remember 11 years ago, when I was on the dance floor dancing and singing to "Forever Young", and I hoped to be forever young. But, a decade just went past, and that's a scary thought. But I do take comfort that the past decade is the best decade of my life so far.

No major regrets so far.

There is a Time to Enjoy... There is a Time to Let Go...

2011-07-09T00:34:00.001+08:00

(Taken at Pokhara, Nepal)

For no apparent reason, a few days ago, I recalled a conversation I had with a Tibetan guy in Pokhara, Nepal. I wanted to enrol on the meditation course at a Buddhist Meditation Center, unfortunately, the Nun (A white American) was not feeling well. I was a bit disappointed and had a conversation with the administrator at the center. He is quite young and speaks good English, and he also shared a bit of his own rebellious history with me, and why he decided to change and learn more about Buddhism.

When I bid farewell, he said to me:

"Enjoy your life while you can,

but do not be attached to it."

My reply was:

"It is easier said than done."

I smiled and left.

I was walking alone on the street and reflecting on his words.

It makes Perfect sense to me, even till today.

My unhappiness arises because of my attachment.

The Real Freedom is when I learn to let go...

I am just a passerby on this earth...

I came with nothing...

I would leave with nothing...

Cancer - the number one killer...

2011-07-04T18:57:00.000+08:00

My participation in Hair For Hope this year has special significance.

Today, I heard that my uncle's cancer is back, but this time it is in the colon.

Last week, a client (successful entrepreneur) was diagnosed with cancer spreading to lungs.

And they have something in common - young kids.

I hope they will be strong and brave, even though the odds is against them.

May they find strength and peace at the same time.

Om Mani Padme Hum.

One New Experience Each Week - Morning Meditation at Fort Canning Park

2011-07-04T18:05:00.000+08:00

Woke up at Sunday 5.30am for the group meditation @ Fort Canning Park

It is a nice place for meditation.

Surprisingly, there was no mosquito while I was meditating.

And the mosquitoes started attacking when I was walking around.

Against my instinct, I brushed aside a mosquito that was sucking my blood.

I spared its life - to train my compassion & tolerance.

It is tough. Not sure if I could do the same next time.

Hair For Hope 2011

2011-06-29T22:17:00.001+08:00

http://www.hairforhope.org.sg

I am going to shave my head bald to support "Hair for Hope" project by Children's Cancer Foundation. Below are the objectives of this project:

1. Create awareness of childhood cancer in Singapore.
2. Show children with cancer and their families that they are not alone in their fight against cancer.
3. Tell children with cancer that it is OK to be bald.
4. Raise funds to help children with cancer and their families.
5. Build a community of support for children with cancer and their families.

Why did I do it?

1. I am inspired by people who have done it.

2. I feel sad for the innocent children, who have yet to experience the beauty of life.

3. I want to help, but I have limited resources.

By doing this, I could garner more support from my friends & family.

4. To remind me of the Impermanence of Life. Life is too short.

5. Learning to be detached from my physical appearance.

I am very grateful for the support of my friends. I am really touched by their compassion. At the end of our journeys, it is the intangible things that really matters. Love and Care for each other, as well as the less fortunate. Lend a helping hand to someone in need. I am really happy.

This is my donation link: http://www.hairforhope.org.sg/index.php?/shavee/idetails/789

May you always be happy!

** Achieved my goal of S$1000 donation. Thanks to my elder brother for filling up the gap.
=D

Quotes

2011-06-28T23:53:00.000+08:00

(Sunset @ Rinjani, Indonesia)

‎"You only lose what you cling to"

- A Buddhist Saying

One New Experience Each Week - Kayaking Course, Upper Pierce Reservoir, Pulau Seletar

2011-06-28T23:41:00.002+08:00

I am glad that I embarked on this "One New Experience Each Week" project. It allowed me to explore places that I did not know existed in the tiny Singapore and things that I wanted to do, but have been procrastinating.

Sunset @ Upper Pierce Reservoir

It was not crowded and quiet.

I laid down gazing into the sky and enjoying the breeze.

What a nice way to end a day.

Went wake-boarding again.

Saw a deserted island called Pulau Seletar (never knew such an island existed).

Swam over to the beach of the island and got bitten by sand-flies.

Ivan wake-boarding in the mangrove area.

The mangrove area is beautiful, especially during sunset.

Kayaking Course @ Kallang River.

It was fun to be taking a course with teenagers.

Learning something new.

I felt I was back to my student days.

It felt good to be student again.

I felt really young.

Quotes

2011-06-28T12:23:00.000+08:00

(Taken at Shoreline Park, Mountain View, CA)

"We shall not cease from exploration

and the end of all our exploring

shall be to arrive where we started

and know the place for the first time"

- T S Eliot

How I cope with disappointment...

2011-06-23T18:49:00.000+08:00

Last week, I was on cloud nine after my interview with the top management of a prestigious asset management firm in the world. That was the final interview, and I felt that I had done reasonably well. Even though I know the competition was very stiff and I am lacking certain credentials, I was quite optimistic.

This is THE IDEAL job. The firm is so rich that it didn't rent the office space, but bought the whole level in the prime business area. If I got this job, I was thinking that I wouldn't need to update my resume again, as my interviewers have been working there for 20+ years. I dreamed of jet-setting around the region and meeting CEOs of different companies' etc...

Unfortunately, my dream was shattered when I received a rejection phone call. The reality dawns on me again, that it is really a tough and competitive world out there. There are many many more people who are smarter, more hardworking and have better credentials than me.

The disappointment was intense. It is my DREAM JOB, and I was so close to getting it. What should I do? I was not in the mood to do anything. Feel like wasting myself to vent my anger and avoid the reality. Then, I told myself to learn something out of it. I want to fully experience and feel the intense disappointment (ie. No future and No hope, I feel like shit, I am not good enough etc..).

Then, just let go.

I will remember the feeling of intense disappointment, so that I could be more empathetic and compassionate in the future when someone else experiences the same negativity.

After allocating sometime for self-pitying, it is time to get out of it and spend my time in more productive things. Very often, a problem is blown out of scale by focusing on it for too long.

Dawn @ Ganges River, Varanasi, India

Take a few steps back and look at the bigger life issues.

Just need to let go of the things I could not control.

Take comfort that I worked hard for it.

I feel more at peace and ready to move on.

Letting Go is powerful.