Visiting Yogam Center in Singapore

I attended an introduction on root pattern analysis at Yogam center in Singapore. I have been to many different religious meetings previously, but I have never been to a religious/spiritual meeting that is centered around a Swami (Indian holy man).

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

Being naturally inquisitive, I decided to find out more about this Swami, unfortunately, I found scandal of this Swami. Despite of this, I told myself that I should try to keep an open-mind and be respectful.

As I have attended many religious meetings, the techniques applied to convince people are quite similar:

1. A successful person who was skeptical previously and saw great improvement in life after embracing the teaching. (In this session, the instructor was introducing herself as someone who took care of US$75m Microsoft business in USA.)
2. Interviews and examples of people whose lives transformed after this adopting this technique/teachings/beliefs.
3. Introducing fears. If you do not embrace this teaching/technique/beliefs, your life will not improve or even worse, something negative will happen to you.
4. Selling hopes. Your life will improve tremendously, or life of abundance should be your birthright etc…

I always advocate that everyone should apply critical thinking. Embrace the technique/teaching/belief only because it makes sense to us. And not because someone else who is successful embraces it.

One of the exercises is that you have to think about a negative experience, and ask yourself 3 questions:

How do you feel about yourself? What is your view of the world? How do you cope or react to it?

My answers: I felt incapable and unknowledgeable. My view of the world is it is tough and very competitive. My reaction is acknowledging that I have my limitations, but at the same time, I also have my strengths. As long as I have put in effort, I should not be too upset.

When some participants started to share their experiences, I realized that many people felt that they are not good enough, even professionals like currency trader and lawyer (on the appearance, they looked so confident).

My conclusion is that it is okay to feel that we are not good enough. We are all work in progress. =)

While it has been an interesting experience, I figured that this technique does not suit me. We were supposed to let out this sound (like OM..) and feel the energy in the room. Those folks who were initiated by Guru was overwhelmed by energy and started to jump while seated. The energy that I felt was headache and I can’t wait for them to stop.

There is no absolute right or wrong. It is a matter of suitability.

I am thankful for the experience and look for to other experiences. =)

Below is a youtube of the Swami and his jumping followers:

One New Experience Each Week - ZoukOut

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.

One New Experience Each Week - A Taoist Temple Dinner

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".

One New Experience Each Week - Istana

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...."

One New Experience Each Week - Parliament Proceeding

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.

One New Experience Each Week - Pulau Rawa, Malaysia

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!

=)

One New Experience Each Week - City Harvest Church

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

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. =)

One New Experience Each Week - Singapore Bird Park

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.

One New Experience Each Week - Presidential Election Rally

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

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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. 

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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!

=)

One New Experience Each Week - Singapore Sling @ Long Bar

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. 

One New Experience Each Week - Agriculture Farm Visit

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

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.

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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.

=)