yeah....Things will only get better

Just some 10 mins after the previous post, I received a protest.

" KNN... today is Saturday leh, can you pls leave the sad sad things aside for the time being? "

Wow.. I didn't know that there's a schedule for us to feel happy, sad ... which day can exeperience which emotion and so on. Have we become so mechanical, so coordinated that even our emotions are as so?

But I shall attempt to look at things from the brighter side.

Ok... the weekends are here( I shall leave office on time today, no OT for me =) ). If the weekends are not for you to exeprience positive emotions, then when ah?

My Platoon Commander during my BMT days once told me, " As we grow older, we not only read the newspaper for the happenings around the globe, we also read the Sports Section and more importantly, what comes after that."

I never fully understod what he meant, until I picked up a copy of the Straits Times. What comes after the Sports Section are the Obituaries. And with that we grow.

*****
Frankly speaking, I do not know him personally. I've "met" him a couple of times, through TV and once in person. But that was just a glance in a very crowded setting. The ex was convocating and I went along to join in the celebrations. Those were wonderful moments, no doubt the memories would very much be replaced by the unpleasant aftermath. But I digress.

I was told of his determination, his undying perseverance in his beliefs. His Kakis and he joined a competition that was telecasted live on national TV and they shot to fame. His unique name became his trademark. They came in first runner-up I think. I draw strength from the daily happenings in life.

I also remember the very day when Weilian came in tops in the Superstar competition despite a less than convincing performance in the finals. Consistency, reminded the fans of what he is capable of, nevermind the occasional blip.

Perserverance and Sincereity, two very core values that have been in ingrained in me since my Ai Tong days, were so evident in him. I saw hope. It might have been a long battle, lonely at times but the destination is within sight, if you sincerely believe and you persevere on. Perhaps that's God's way of guiding me along. I thank Him for that.

The newspaper reported about a possible explaination of his death. The R word. Yes, relationship issues. Breaking up is never a simple thing. As much as happy moments were shared, both parties should be responsible enough to reduce the impact of the breakup.

Never say that the ends justify the means. It is better for the long run, hence blah blah blah.... It sucks. This not a procedure, this is not a SOP. We are talking about emotions.

And emotions can KILL.

And there are enough examples around us to illustrate this point. A life lost is one too many.

********
I'm extremely glad that you came off the parapet the other day. Life's so much better with you around. She won't shed a tear, I'm sure, had you jumped off; nor would she be turning up at your wake. I'm not sure about the guilt, if any, that she would experience. She would perhaps be frolicking in the beaches with whoever that person might be.

Auntie Hana would be shedding tears. Her heart would bleed, her whole world shattered. No one could assume that role in her life other than you. Not me, not him, not A , not B, simply put, NO ONE ELSE.

I would be shedding tears I'm sure, even if my eyes no longer permit me to do so, my heart will cry for you. So would Jac, Ik, P J, and many many more.
*********

RIP, Ishi.

The very moment I stepped into my favourite coffee shop along Balestier, he caught my attention. In a not very positive way perhaps. He was bald, or rather shaven, pint-size but nevertheless fit. He was grining away, perhaps, trying to hard to look smiley.

As I sat at a table waiting for my yong tau fu to arrive, he sauntered over. He tried to strike up a conversation with me. I can't make out what he wad trying to say. I shrugged my shoulders to indicate that. He rubbed his thumb and index fingers, in the otherwise known as the "counting money action". He pointed to his mouth and his tummy.

I had a quick glance at him again. He was not a day passed 40, fit and mobile. Not that I'm unwilling to spare him some money, if he really needs it, but something tells me that he's not that in need. I waved him off. He tried to "beg" some money from me as he waited for my order to be delivered to my table. I handed over a 10 dollar note to the stall keeper, in return she gave me some notes and coins as change.

The man pointed at the lose change.

" One dollar One dollar.... makan..."

I avoided eye contact with him as I kept my change and began my lunch. He circled around me. On the occasional moment of eye contact, he showed me a pitiful face and pleaded for that one dollar. I was firm. No means no...

After a while, I think he gave up. He walked over to the nearest Bak Chor Mee stall and placed his order of mee pok tar. He took out a five dollar note as he paid for his meal. He sure is hungry as he gobbled down his meal.

I'm pretty certain that he isn't very well to do. I won't deny the fact that he's very hungry. But as he finished his meal, he raised his hand and beckoned the coffee auntie over and ordered a can of coke.

Now, I'm not too sure if he really deserved that one dollar.

美好的记忆　谁都不舍　所以令人怀念
曾有的欢笑　流过有泪水　还有些好听的歌
云会被风吹散　但对你的思念却是永远永远
原来　你就是我始终忘不掉的
回
　亿

Borat, a totally crappy movie. Watched it sometime back. The main lesson I've learnt from this show is that sometimes, we got to laugh at ourselves. How often have fights broke out just because we are unable to take a joke? Which brings us to the question of what is exactly a joke? What is our treshold towards so call jokes?

Oh well, I always try not to laugh at others' unfortunate moments. I'm trying to be polite, to be nice, to be politically correct. Likewise, I try not to laugh at myself too. Perhaps for the same reasons. However, if humour is so "restricted", life's gonna be one helluva tough process, if you ask me.

***********

I think I'm beginning to love this place, except for the aircon, when it can get pretty cold.

The seats are defintely very comfy, sleep inducing if you ask me. And the various records brought me back in time; I never knew these incidents took place. Or that so and so looked like that back then.

I began making my way out when they were closing. I was reminded repeatedly by the never ending announcement. As I hit the down button and waited for the lift, I received a text message. The lift arrived while I was engrossed in the message. It wasn't crowded. Only for a pram and a lady, presumably the mother of the 3 year old child.

They had their backs to me as they were admiring the scenic view of downtown Singapore. But if you ask me, I don't think you can see much, it's already pretty dark and what you can see were lights. Furthermore, I'm not sure if the toddler really understands what were before his eyes. He's more interested in messing around with his mother's hair.

The lady, about 30 years of age, cut a cheerful figure. She turned over and smiled as I asked her which level she's heading towards. Apparantly, with the exception of B2,which was what I had pressed, no other levels seemed to be pressed.

"1st level, please. Thank you"

"You're most welcome"

At this moment, the little boy turned his head and looked at me. As he struggled to break free of the pram, he started mumbling to himself.

He smiled at me and uttered words that created an awkward silence in the lift.

" Pa Pa....."

I was taken aback, totally. His mom was so embarassed that she broke eye contact with me. She apologised.

I recomposed myself and reach out to the toddler.

" No, I'm not papa.... call me uncle"

I'm pretty used to being "uncle", hence no biggie. The mom broke into a smile.

" No George, call kor kor..."

Poor George. He must be totally confused. It was initially Papa and then Uncle and then Kor Kor. I have no issues with Uncle or Kor Kor, but defintely not PaPa.

The lift landed at the first level and the door opened. Little George stared hard at the gentleman standing outside the lift, with his arms outstretched.

" Kor Kor...."

" No George, this is Papa.... now say bye to Kor Kor...."

It sure isn't easy being a kid in Singapore.....

Please be careful when you're there in a foreign land. I know that you'll be back but nevertheless we're going to miss you.

This is going to be a major break through for you and for your career. We'll meet again, some 3 months down the road.

To you and your future, to our years of friendship and to your wedding in Decemember.

Cheers!~

Don't really have much to say, except the above.

Cheers

TT Durai's sentenced to 3 months. I believe enough been said about his offences and of the person.

I'm not too sure if 3 month's sufficient for his offences; apparently the court feels so. And I'm not too sure about Singapore's reaction to this. As with any other person, he has every right to appeal. And he did indicate his intention too.

When this matter gets to the Court of Appeal, I won't know it the sentence is going to be upped.

Let's just hope that there will be a fomal closure to this issue. It has been dragging on for donkey years already.

I think I know this guy. He was the parade RSM for one of the parades that I took part in during my NSF days. Not too sure what's his last appointment.

Yes, the smoking culture in SAF is very severe. You see new recruits coming in as non-smokers, or rather they declared themseleves to be so, but well, soon after, you'll not be surprised to see a "smoking platoon" formed up as they make their way for a smoking break.

I don't deny that there are positive aspects of smoking. But somehow the cons outweigh them.

The bonding among smokers is something that is very unique. People from all walks of life, different ranks and grades can just gather togther and puff to their heart's content.

I shan't go on about the not so positive aspects of smoking. But this article, sends a timely reminder to all.

RIP, Encik Mike.

*******

THE NEW PAPER
Too late to take his kids' advice
Smoker dad dies of lung cancer oneday before Father's Day

By Shree Ann Mathavan

MOST families celebrate Father's Day with an outing or a meal at a restaurant.

But these two children spent all of yesterday saying goodbye to their beloved dad.

Master Warrant Officer (MWO) Mike Gee, 44, died of lung cancer on Saturday, after an 18-month battle with the disease.

Tanned, trim and a fitness buff, the army warrant officer thought of himself as an unlikely victim. A social smoker, he stuck to only a stick or two a day, away from his children.

Even so, his son, 11, and daughter, 8, would beg their dad to kick the habit, said his widow, who only wished to be known as Mrs Gee.

They would point out anti-smoking health warnings displayed in public, telling him, 'Daddy don't smoke'.

He would respond: 'No lah, so healthy, won't get cancer.'

It was a rude shock then, when he fell ill suddenly.

He didn't have any symptoms, other than back pain, which he initially wrote off as a golf injury.

But in November 2005, just after his 10th wedding anniversary, he was diagnosed with lung cancer.

The doctor told MWO Gee he only had three months to live - the cancer had already spread to his bones and most of his major organs.

MWO Gee quit smoking and spent more time with his family, such as going on beach outings.

They also went on holiday to Pulau Pangkor, Malaysia in June last year.

HAPPY MEMORIES

Mrs Gee, 42, said: 'My favourite memory of him is him hugging the children, going on holidays and all the good times we shared.'

His daughter made him a card, saying that she loved him very much and that he must get better soon.

She also promised in the card to visit him every day.

Despite the doctor's initial assessment, MWO Gee managed to keep the disease at bay for more than a year before succumbing.

Mrs Gee told The New Paper her husband called the children to his bed just before he died.

She said: 'He told them he was going to heaven but he would remain forever in their hearts, just that they would not be able to see him. The kids cried when they heard that.'

They were by his side when he died.

The family spent Father's Day yesterday at his wake in Choa Chu Kang.

PARTING WORDS

Mrs Gee said her husband had a final message to his family and friends before he died.

'He said, 'Don't smoke, get proper health insurance and be sure to spend precious quality time with your family'.'

Mrs Gee, who is unemployed, said this was a message he would repeat to friends after he was diagnosed with cancer.

She added that MWO Gee was a good husband and dad.

About 50 of Mr Gee's friends were at the wake yesterday, fondly reminiscing about the 'good times' they shared with him.

Army officer Gerry Ng, 29, who has known MWO Gee for seven years, said: 'He was a real father figure, always calm and professional.'

Tucked away in Balestier is this Gui Ling Gao Shop. Other than the typical Gui Ling Gao, you get all sorts of other desserts such as your waterchestnut and your bird's nest.

I made it a regular habit of having at least one serving of Gui Ling Gao a week. It helps me to clear whatever rubbish I have stuck in me. Not that I eat a lot of rubbish, but more than enough to require clearing.

As I make my way into the shop, a slight nod of my head and I got a seat. Seconds later, the Gui Ling Gao is served. The aunties manning the shop just know what I want, without having me to place an order. Of course, if for some reason, I've decided that I wouldn't want to have Gui Ling Gao that day, I better inform them early.

Not many like GLG but I'm sure the other desserts will appeal to you.

Oh yes and you find many customers that aren't feeling too well, they drop by for a drink for their famous herbal tea. It's bitter, extremely so. But it works. Some swear by it and prefer that to seeing a doctor. I'm not too sure about this though, if you're sick, better see a GP and you may even get MC mah....

Anyway, I do have a drink every now and then. It sure is bitter but well, it's makes me feel better? Not too sure if it's psychological or otherwise, but the bottom line is, I feel good.

It was a lazy Sunday.

It wasn't a hangover. But I felt tired. Did some stretching and soon all's well.

Went for lunch with S and W. Didn't realise Ah Mei is part of banquet. Looks like everything is getting so commercialised. J was supposed to join us but he sms me and mentioned that he's not able to make it.

I was stunned for a while. Wow... his sms is finally working again.

Lunch wasn't that fantastic but it wasn't awful. Still reasonable.

Dropped by BP and had a look at their house. it's still undergoing renovation but it's almost done. Wonderful I must say. Casually I pointed out the lack of a peep hole and and a door bell. Seems like that's the only "blemish" so far. Nice!

Spent the rest of the day at lib. It's a wonderful feeling to know that there's a place whereby old records are properly kept. Had a fun time looking through the past issues of PLM, while waiting for J to call. Completed the video recording to the Edinburgh military tattoo. While I'm not a believer of previous life; but I really did have one, perhaps I'm a Scottish warrior in the city of Edinburgh. I almost choked when the tunes were played, when the bagpipers marched on and when the flag was lowered. You know, some strong emotions, unexplained.

He never called. I'm used to it. What can I say?

This is a wonderful place to chill out, albeit a tad too comfortable. Warning, it might just cause you to doze off.

The music is unique too. But frankly speaking, I can't describe this place much except that it' s too comfortable , very much so that I can't think of other words to describe this place.

So if you really want to find a place to chill out and fall asleep, or half asleep, this is it.

It was shivering. I'm not too sure what was the temperature set to but I'm pretty certain that it was too cold for my comfort. Nevertheless I picked up the VCR and walked into the Video Room. I was at the National Library. Still pretty much used to calling it Stamford Road Lib but well it's no longer there.

It was a recording that I've been wanting to view for a very long time. You don't find it in Singapore, well at least it's kind of hard to get it here. Even the very sophisticated NLB only has 2 recordings.

I must say I'm very much intrigued by it. I was never in the band and perhaps that explains why. I 've never been through the countless drill sessions, precision marching in the scorching hot sun and the very energy sapping uniform/costume... whatever you'll like to call it. The end product is nice can already la. The ends justify the means....wahaha

Jas just sms me to inform me that J is back in Singapore. I dropped J an sms. No reply. It didn't matter cause 1) I'm used to it;2) I'm watching a great video; 3) I'm used to it; 4) It's him; 5) all of the above.

I was happily enjoying the performance when he suddenly called. I put it on busy mode as text him a message, telling him to sms me for I'm unable to pick up the phone. It only served to make him call me again. Well, once again, I decided to sent him a busy tone.

About an hour later, I texted him again. Once more, he tried calling me. Not too sure if this English teacher understod English or not.

But that's our dear J.

As above.

Just got a new one from Canon and now it's gone. What the....

Yeah, they will come and replace and so on.... but well that's time wasted

Nevermind, tomorrow's friday and things will be great! Be positive!!!!

I'm not complaining, in fact I do it myself too.

I see it as an effective means of communication be it within the office or with your friends outside. However, one has to watch it especially when it comes having it in the office.

I implemented a system of messaging in the office and among the various offices and branches. It was meant as an official means of communication. The risk of abuse is always there. Yes it may even take up precious working hours.

You'll be amazed at how some staff actually try to multi task, msn and doing data entry at the same time. I'm not too sure how this works, but somehow they seem to be able to do it. The issue here is with the task at hand. If you're doing some research, some msn may help, just like getting official information, research topics and so on.

However, if your job is to punch info into the computer, how does msn-ing help? And if at the end of the day, only 1/3 of the task is completed, how ? Should the company be paying Over time pay?

It's defintely not easy to measure productivity. But when things get so obvious, I guess something has to be done.

If the task is meant to be completed within a day but yet only a third is done, that's it I guess.

I remember my very first day at Catholic High School. I never knew it was actually a Chinese school. Hence, this prayer in Chinese took me by surprised initially; never knew it exsisited. Yes I know, damn swa koo right?

But now, it's part of me.

Amen.

我們的天父，願祢的名受顯揚，願袮的國來臨，
願祢的旨意奉行在人間如同在天上。
求祢今天賞給我們日用的食糧；
求祢寬恕我們的罪過。
如同我們寬恕別人一樣；
不要讓我們陷於誘惑，但救我們免於凶要。

萬福馬利亞，你充滿聖寵，
主與你同在，你在婦女中受讚頌，
你的親生子耶穌同受讚頌。
天主聖母馬利亞，
求你現在和我們臨終時，
為我們罪人祈求天主。

愿光荣归于父、
及子及圣神；
起初如何，
今日亦然，
直到永远。

阿们

Feel the dryness here and my bottle is empty. Need to get more supplies.

Have to check the expiry date too, didn't notice about that. You know they have this line that states " Discard after XX days after opening".

Lunch beckons and I'm hungry.

Been wanting to post this on 3rd of June but somehow can't seem to find the whole thing. Here's a belated one for all the police officers out there.

The Final Inspection

The policeman stood and faced his God,
Which must always come to pass.
He hoped his shoes were shining.
Just as brightly as his brass.

"Step forward now, policeman.
How shall I deal with you?
Have you always turned the other cheek?
To My church have you been true?"

The policeman squared his shoulders and said,
"No, Lord, I guess I ain't,
Because those of us who carry badges
can't always be a saint.

I've had to work most Sundays,
and at times my talk was rough,
and sometimes I've been violent,
Because the streets are awfully tough.

But I never took a penny,
That wasn't mine to keep....
Though I worked a lot of overtime
When the bills got just too steep.

And I never passed a cry for help,
Though at times I shook with fear.
And sometimes, God forgive me,
I've wept unmanly tears.

I know I don't deserve a place
Among the people here.
They never wanted me around
Except to calm their fear.

If you've a place for me here,
Lord, It needn't be so grand.
I never expected or had too much,
But if you don't.....I'll understand.

There was silence all around the throne
Where the saints had often trod.
As the policeman waited quietly,
For the judgment of his God.

"Step forward now, policeman,
You've borne your burdens well.
Come walk a beat on Heaven's streets,
You've done your time in hell."

Labels: police

Let's call her Y.

As far as my memory serves me right, she's been with the company for more than 8 years. We don't communicate often for we're from different departments.

Sometime in Feb, while I was on reservist, she was on long term MC. I didn't realise this until I was covering HR duties sometime in April/May. She has maxed out on her MC claims. I instructed one of my guys to call up the clinic to check out the situation, for Y isn't willing to reveal anything. She just dismissed as " woman's problem".

The clinic wasn't ready to provide anything , citing patient's confidentiality. They did confirm her attendance though and the MCs were indeed genuine.

One can't help but notice her drastic lost in weight. She's pretty slim before, but she's skinny now. All bones.

Some of the people closer to her tried to contact her boyfriend but to no avail. Her boyfriend of 10 years seemed to be uncontactable. They have been living together for more than 5 years it seemed.

I have no intention to pursue this matter further, after all, Y seems to be doing her work as per normal. The efficiency is there, quality of work is not compromised. I have no reasons to probe further.

That was a month ago.

This morning as I stepped into the office, H showed me an invitation card.It wasn't addressed to me though but nevertheless I had a look. The name of the groom sounded familiar. However I wasn't able to put a face to the name. I stared at it for a moment; the venue of the wedding is in a small town in Johor.

Suddenly I realized that the groom is Y's boyfriend. I should be feeling happy for Y ya? Though it doesn't explain the prolonged MC and sudden lost of weight, not forgetting the change in her mood.

But I guess the answer is revealed on the card itself. I don't see Y's name on the card at all.

It's extremely painful but life must go on.

Wow... I'm touched.. absolutely.

How many of us can actually do this? Do we really have the love, the finances ??



June 10, 2007
While he was sleeping...
Polish man wakes up from 19-year coma and discovers a new world

IT SOUNDS like the far-fetched plot of a Hollywood movie - and has distinct echoes of the 2003 film Goodbye Lenin! - but it's far from fiction.

A man wakes up one day to find a world full of new colours, shops full of amazing new products, and everyone using communication devices once seen only in sci-fi films.

Not only that, but there are two decades' worth of extra wrinkles on the face of the woman he fell in love with, his children have become adults, and he has 11 grandchildren he knew nothing about.

Railway worker Jan Grzebski fell into a coma as still-communist Poland was suffering from food shortages and almost cut off from the outside world by the Iron Curtain, and did not regain consciousness for 19 years.

And, despite admitting that the changes make his head spin, he is very happy with the new reality he has woken up to.
As he puts it: 'The world is prettier now.'

Mr Grzebski lost consciousness in 1988 after sustaining head injuries in a workplace accident, and doctors treating him then found cancer in his brain as well.

Their prognosis was understandably bleak - they said he would not live.

But while the 65-year-old's recovery seems little short of miraculous, this was all due to the love and dedication of his wife.

Mrs Gertruda Grzebska, 63, refused to believe the doctors, and took him home to care for him herself. For the next 19 years, she turned him over every hour to ensure he would not get bedsores, fed him with a spoon, talked to him, and even insisted that he attend family gatherings.

The Associated Press quoted her as telling local daily Gazeta Dzialdowska: 'I would fly into a rage every time someone would say that people like him should be euthanised, so they don't suffer.'

Using an affectionate form of her husband's name, she said: 'I believed Janek would recover.'

Despite all her loving care, however, last October he developed pneumonia and was taken to hospital again. That proved to be a blessing in disguise, as his doctors saw signs of recovery and started intensive rehabilitation treatment.

Slowly, Mr Grzebski's awareness and speech returned to him. While he is still in a wheelchair, his doctor expects him to be walking again soon. 'This is my great reward for all the care, faith and love,' his wife told AP.

Meanwhile, her husband was amazed by the changes he saw the first time he was taken out for a walk in his home town of Dzialdowo in northern Poland.

Martial law has been lifted, the drab, grey streets he remembered are full of garish neon signs and billboards, and the communist ration queues have been replaced with queues at McDonald's.

'When I went into a coma there were only tea and vinegar in the shops, meat was rationed and huge petrol queues were everywhere,' he told Polish media last weekend.

But if there is one thing he can't understand, it's other people's negative attitudes. 'What amazes me today is all these people who walk around with their mobile phones and never stop moaning,' he said.

And despite being faced with such a mind-boggling array of changes, one thing impresses him more than anything else. Britain's Observer newspaper quoted him as saying: 'It was Gertruda who saved me, and I'll never forget it.'

I'm not too sure if this is a Singaporean problem. I seldom see drivers signal their intention or signal late when changing lanes and turning .

If communication is so vital in a relationship, I believe signalling is the method of communication while on the roads. The relationship among all road users is maintained by communicating one's intentions through signalling. The same for pedestrains, cyclists, motorcyclist and motorists.

Somehow, I don't see this happening.

Pedestrains like to jay-walk. Or beating the red light seems to be perfectly fine. It doesn't bother them one bit that they are holding back the vehicles of they do cross a crossing when the lights are flickering. Or they stand by the middle of a road and start to moveeven before the vehicle pass by them.

Cyclist move very slowly as compared to cars. Some cycle on the extreme left lane, on the pavements, across crossings, on the right lanes and even against the flow of traffic

Do you know that it's entirely illegal to cycle against the flow of traffic? Or to even cycle across a pedestrain crossing? Or to be on the extreme right lane? Don't ask me how are you going to turn right. You can't. You should stop, push your bike across the crossing to the other side, and then you start to cycle again.

Motorcyclist, do not think you have God-given rights to be in bewteen the lanes. Don't complain of motorists "squeezing" you off when most of you like to squeeze through the lanes. And please, it's dangerous to overtake during a turn.

Drivers, why don't you signal your intentions? Don't tell me forget. If you can remember to zhng your car, add spoilers ah.. and what you have... very hard to remember to signal meh? If you can remember to step on the accelerator, you can forget how to signal meh?

Taxi drivers ah.. please la huh, I know you very lao jiao. But don't try to overtake or change lanes with signalling la. And when you stop to pick up passengers, please la.. got other road users behind one leh. Don't suka suka stop to pick up and hold up traffic. And when TP sees and give you summon, please pay up and don't KPKB.

Ok, he is back from the land of the meh mehs... where the moo moos outnumber the number of Singaporeans or so I thought.

He's tired, no doubt about it. Slept like a log and snored so loud that the whole cafe could hear.

Should be heading down to the Police Day Carnival today. No idea what's going on at the old Police Academy. Somehow the excitment generated by the Police Carnivals over the years doesn't seem to be generating the same kind as compared to the ones by SAF. They have more manpower and could hence have more variety.

Furthermore, how often do you see a light-strike vehicle as compared to say a Police FRV ? Surely more excitement is generated in this way right?

I think some air time was given to this carnival by FM90.5. Hopefully it will be a good one.

One of my colleeague is due to go on delivery leave very soon. She's trying to finish her stuff and do a proper handing over to another person that will be covering her duties.

The pregnant lady (let's call her B) isn't too conversant in English. She's writes pretty decent English though but somehow her pronounciation is a bit weird.

She was over at my cluster, teaching the person ( let's call her T) what to do. All of a sudden, T came over to my desk.

" Mal ah, can spare me a rubber? Need to correct a mistake."

B heard that and remarked.

" Why you so careless, I never need rubber one cos I won't make such a mistake."

Another colleague, upon hearing this remarked.

" What? No rubber? That's a mistake you know? No wonder you're pregnant....."

Trying to fish more information on Police Carnival but can't seem to find much leh. Despite having a webpage on it, it doesn't tell me specific information. It tells me things like what's available

Perhaps it will be better for them to show me something like from what time to what time got what performance and so on.

*********

Saw this particular stock. Let's call it B. High Transaction Vol for the past few trading days, increase in price and so on. Looks very tempting. But I don't recall this stock being very prominent. Did a check on it, hmm... it's finances are in the red for the past 3 years leh....

I'm not a speculator. I rather be hum.... and not get it. Haha...

Limited info in this case.


*****

Saw this note on my table.

Please check your mail

Well, well..... this is shitty. Have to do a report on a particular consumer product. Lotsa charts and graphs. Very cham.... This is too much info.

But to borrow another quote from Jas. Yeah, maybe I'm beginning to move onto a different league too? Haha...

I have no idea how this place is like. I first got to know of this place when I've learnt of the Bermuda Triangle. That was back in primary school. I remember watching David Coperfied challenge the Bermuda Triangle whereby he seemingly disappeared and reappeared again.

Boss' been asking me about the finacial climate there. No idea what he's up to.

Better do some research

"A meeting moves at the speed of the slowest mind in the room. In other words, all but one participant will be bored, all but one mind underused."
- Dale Dauten

Got this off Hong Kong's very famous Apple Daily

For those that prefer to a translation in not so perfect England, here goes

A young social worker, passionate to become a police officer. However, due to a suspected criminal record, he wasn't able to join the Hong Kong Police Force. At the passiong out parade of his good friends, he resorted to putting on a complete police uniform and posed as a Chief Inspector of Police. He was unable to pull out this trick and was exposed at the grounds and was found to have with him forged documents of appointment and warrant card. Sets of Summer and Winter Uniform were also recovered from his residence. At a district court in Fan Lang yesterday, he pleaded guilty to two charges of illegal donning of police uniforms and possesion of forged documents. The accused was fined HK$1000.


酷 愛 當 警 察 的 年 輕 社 工 ， 疑 因 有 案 底 未 能 當 上 警 察 ， 竟 淪 為 「 警 癡 」 ， 出 席 好 友 的 警 察 機 動 部 隊 結 業 禮 時 ， 斗 膽 穿 上 整 套 制 服 ， 假 扮 總 督 察 現 身 ， 當 場 被 真 警 察 拆 穿 ， 撿 獲 虛 假 的 警 察 委 任 證 及 卡 片 ， 並 在 其 寓 所 發 現 冬 夏 季 齊 備 警 服 。 他 昨 在 粉 嶺 裁 判 法 院 承 認 非 法 穿 制 服 及 管 有 虛 假 文 書 兩 項 罪 名 ， 輕 判 罰 款 1,000 元 。

記 者 ： 梁 瑞 珮

被 告 嚴 仲 宏 （ 29 歲 ） ， 為 註 冊 社 工 ， 於 98 年 有 爆 竊 案 底 ， 因 此 無 法 投 考 警 察 。 按 《 簡 易 程 序 治 罪 條 例 》 第 21 條 ， 任 何 人 穿 香 港 警 務 處 的 制 服 ， 或 穿 非 常 類 似 該 種 制 服 的 衣 服 而 刻 意 欺 騙 他 人 ， 可 被 判 罰 款 1,000 元 或 者 監 禁 6 個 月 。

控 方 指 ， 被 告 透 過 網 上 聊 天 室 認 識 四 名 好 友 ， 各 人 均 以 為 被 告 是 警 務 人 員 ， 當 中 任 職 文 員 的 兩 位 好 友 ， 接 受 被 告 鼓 勵 ， 分 別 於 05 年 6 月 及 06 年 2 月 投 考 警 察 並 獲 取 錄 。 今 年 5 月 25 日 ， 其 中 一 人 邀 請 被 告 等 往 粉 嶺 機 動 部 隊 總 部 ， 參 加 他 的 機 動 部 隊 結 業 禮 。

未 坐 嘉 賓 席 惹 懷 疑

被 告 當 日 與 眾 人 閒 談 一 番 後 ， 便 往 更 換 制 服 ， 以 一 身 總 督 察 打 扮 現 身 人 前 ， 惟 當 結 業 儀 式 進 行 期 間 ， 在 場 的 數 名 真 警 察 發 現 被 告 行 為 有 異 ， 未 有 就 坐 在 預 留 給 高 級 警 務 人 員 的 嘉 賓 席 上 ， 反 而 獨 個 兒 站 在 遠 方 ， 兼 且 看 來 神 色 慌 張 ， 刻 意 避 開 人 群 。

當 被 告 察 覺 遭 人 盯 緊 ， 即 急 步 走 到 售 賣 紀 念 品 的 專 門 店 ， 當 真 警 察 上 前 截 查 被 告 ， 要 求 他 出 示 警 察 委 任 證 時 ， 被 告 最 終 承 認 穿 制 服 假 冒 警 察 。

搜 「 總 督 察 委 任 證 」

警 員 遂 搜 查 被 告 的 隨 身 袋 ， 撿 獲 一 張 影 印 的 總 督 察 委 任 證 、 三 張 有 警 察 徽 章 的 卡 片 ， 卡 片 印 有 被 告 名 字 ， 官 階 為 總 督 察 、 兩 張 被 告 身 穿 警 察 制 服 照 片 、 一 頂 貝 雷 帽 、 一 條 配 有 哨 子 的 紅 繩 及 一 條 印 有 香 港 警 察 的 頸 繩 。

其 後 警 員 經 調 查 搜 查 被 告 的 寓 所 ， 發 現 兩 件 警 察 白 色 長 袖 恤 衫 、 兩 件 警 察 白 色 短 袖 恤 衫 及 兩 條 警 察 藍 色 長 褲 。

被 告 承 認 制 服 是 購 買 ， 委 任 證 則 從 網 上 下 載 ， 然 後 更 換 資 料 ， 卡 片 則 找 印 刷 公 司 代 為 印 製 。 被 告 稍 後 返 警 署 報 到 時 ， 帶 同 親 自 撰 寫 的 道 歉 信 。

G texted me earlier on. He was wondering why wasn't my blog updated.

I really didn't know that my blog is being followed , perhaps by the hour.

G: Hey, dude, y nv update blog?

Me: Haha...perhaps later? Got things to do, a bit busy now leh... how come u so free one?

G: I thot u can multi-task one leh. No la, reading blogs help me destress a bit. Things can get pretty stressed up here

Me: Ooo... didn't noe it can help u, thought u ppl do things damn bloody slow one? Will post something la, maybe backdate la

G: As long as you don't make it post dated can liao....

And yes, G works in a bank. So much for the lingo

Yeah.. I'm sneezing!

Somebody misses me? Who who?

I once promised myself that I would take care of you for the rest of my life, to the best of my ability, as much as possible. Or as long as your would permit me too.

I guess it's no longer relevant today. For reasons best known to us, this is no longer possible. Seems like this promise is not meant to be fulfilled. I would, however, still want to honour my promise.

This cross, this crucifix of Jesus Christ, has been with me for the past 10 years at least, I think. To be honest I can't remember exactly though. It has taken good care of me, guided me, protected me from harm for as long as I can remember. I would want you to have it now.

On your departure to Nepal, I wish you well. I wish you peace, Ma'am.

Never thought of turning up for the parade. It only serves to remind me of some unpleasant memories.

However, I turned up anyway. Just like a magnet attracting a piece of metal. The emotions, the attachment. The sense of belonging.

I wasn't a bit dissapointed. I'm extremely touched. To see our officers give their all, despite knowing much grumbling and complain actually preceeded this wonderful display. To witness creativity in otherwise some very "rigid, very cast ine stone" drills.

The setting was different; it wasn't a parade square. This is where the band took over. The choreography was excellent; how they managed to get band officers from all ASEAN nations together is testimony to their ability and the allure of music.

Tears welled up whenever the PRS March was played. So near yet so far.

Met up with many old friends. Saw the officer in charge of recruitment. He cuts a charming image in his 5(T) with his young son on his right.

Was extremely surprised to meet Ted. Ted's an officer from the Philippines. I knew him many years back, about 10 in fact. He was introduced to me by Sheryl, my first girlfriend. I haven't seen Sher for many many years. No strong desire to do so too. Not that we splitted on unpleasant terms, just didn't feel the need?

But it's always good to meet up with old friends. Had a quick word with Ted and exchanged contacts.

The discovery of the day was in fact when Ted told me that Sheryl is currently residing in UK with her husband, Al. Dr Al in fact. They are expecting their first child any time soon. Well, it's great to know that she's doing well.

But well, the shocking thing is that, she's a Special Constable, something like our VSC and is seriously thinking of joining the police full time.

Damn it... why do I (only) fall for police officers?

Labels: reflection, thoughts

Dear friends,

It was such an honour having all of you with me. Thanks for taking time off your very busy schedule. It's not easy having to rush from place to place. It has been a long time since we had such a large gathering.

You have your other obligations to fulfil. I thank your wonderful spouses/partners for being so understanding.

I had fun. I hope you had too. Perhaps not all of you are comfortable with singing. Nevertheless you turned up.

I'm not good with words. I never was. I should have wished for that instead of world peace. Damn. I can only express my sincerest of appreciation.

Thanks to God for allowing me to be still alive today, thank You for the blessings and protection.

Thanks to my parents and sibling for enduring my nonsense.

Thank you to the following:
Mr and Mrs Samuel Lee
( Thanks for your stamina and thanks for the invitation to lunch the next day too)
Mr and Mrs CC Koh
(Sorry to make you walk all the way from Liang Seah, Diplomat and thanks to Mrs Koh for rushing down from your Laoshi's place, wherever that may be)
Soon to be Mr and Mrs Mike Ong (Damn... Boon still sounds nicer)
(Thanks for demonstrating that the back seat of a VIos can seat so many ppl)
Newly paired up couple of Don and Aiyu
(Thanks for demonstrating that there's still hope in this world and that submarine is still the best method)
Ah Heng
(Thanks for making the effort to rush down from Katong. You should have joined us for the steamboat, it's nice)
Jay
(For conveying your wishes thru Heng, sms me very expensive meh?)
Raymond
( You sing well, thanks for lifting the overall average standard of singing)
Chavez
(Thanks for making time out of your extremely busy schedule, tow kay. Hope that the house was sold hor)
Daryl
(Thanks for being a good boi boi to your parents first before rushing down, demonstrating how impt and easy it is to be good on both sides)
Wanyin
(Thanks for allowing me to have my left hand over your shoulder, smile more la and sing more la)
Jasmine
( Thanks for allowing me to have my right hand over your shoulder and for helping me get the room and all the arrangements)
Christine( RM of Jasmine, Cpt in Kbox for joining in the dice games)

In fact, I'm worried that I have left out any names. I believe these were all that turned up? I mean, any omission is due to the alcohol la.... Sam and Jasmine being the biggest culprits.

Thanks to Singtel for reminding me that my birthday's coming one day before. You see, it slipped my mind. I seldom celebrate my birthday. But thanks for the how many percent discount at some dunno what eatery on the month of my birthday.

Thanks to the Insurance agents for the cards. This year only AIA remembered. Prudential didn't send any, but thanks.Save the trees. Ced did sms me and promised me a treat. Thanks too

Thanks to Peiling for your sms.

And to Hanwei too. That was 20 years ago that you knew of my birthday and you still remembered. Doesn't matter if your PDA reminded you. I needed a reminder from Singtel too. I was stumped when Jas asked me of my DOB some time back. I think I remembered my Lunar birthdate more than anything. Yes, I 'm Cheena. So?

Thanks to Shuhui for your belated wishes.

And to Kerr. Hope to have you as my OO or CO soon. Let's work hand in hand some day. Lots to learn from you.

And to Small flower. Thanks for leaving a message in Friendster.

Let me see... did I miss out anyone?

Labels: appreciation, emotions, thoughts, truthful

Telemarketers. They can get pretty irritating at times, I must say. I shan't use the word "hate", that's pretty much too cynical a word. But they do get on my nerves.

Receievd this call from a certain bank, trying to sell me this product, whereby I can "get to use extra cash" for my enjoyment and it's at " low interest rates".

Tele: Why aren't you interested? It's extemely affordable and it's low interest rates make it just so attractive.

Now, I have already expressed my intention of NOT wanting this extra service. I have no need for that. Not that I'm rich that I'm refusing additonal cash, just that I don't have a need for this. Afterall , it's not FREE. I have to PAY to use it.

Tele: Why don't you reconsider? You can use it for your wedding preps, your honeymoon, or just a simple trip with your partner to the spa or .... yada yada....

Thanks huh. For reminding me of the heartaches.

That was like one month ago.
*******

Well, the telemarketer returns!

I received another call from the same bank

Tele: Hi, I calling from XXXXXbank. I understand my colleague has called you up regarding ...........

You know the same old issue. Similarly I expressed not wanting to take up the offer. The very same reason, i.e. I have no need for it.

Damn it, I got the same counter response. Weddings ah, honeymoons ah and what else. Looks like they are following some script or what.

*******

Was driving home one day, that was along Bishan Road. Normally the 3 lanes would allow for overtaking. H0wever, that day , tree pruning was going on, hence only a single lane was passable. Traffic was slow and heavy. It was after all peak hour. The lights turned red. I was the first car.

The green man was on and the pedestrains were crossing. The crossing crowd consists of joggers and office workers, moving in both directions. I wasn't paying much attention to the pedestrains, instead my eyes were fixed on the digits, counting down to zero. I wasn't rushing for time, however, I was anticipating the red man. I'm not too sure myself why, I mean I wasn't in a hurry to anywhere, not late for time but yeah, I wished to move on. Perhaps the fast paced lifestyle of the Singaporean got into me? Patience is a virtue.

As I was about to step on the accelerator, an old couple struggled pass my front. They looked not a day younger than 75 years of age. The old lady held onto a walking stick while the old man held onto her arm.Step by step they took. The red man was on, and the green light flashed. The couple were anxious, they knew that they were holding up the traffic. It didn't help a bit that the other lanes were not passable. They tried as they could. Uncle looked up at me with an apologetic face.

I was touched by this scene. It gave me a very important lesson on love. Forget the flowers, let's not talk about the chocolates or remembering one's birthday. At a ripe old age of 70 plus or whatever age they may be, standing by each other in time of difficulties, this is true love.

My right foot remained on the breaks. I lifted the handbrakes and was about to open the door. A long sharp horn sounded. The vehicles behind were obviously impatient. I pressed on the hazard lights but the tooting became even louder.

Finally, the reached the other side. I released the handbrakes and moved on. I took a glance at the old couple. They smiled at me.

I smiled back.

Cheers!! I love their beer!

A brand new month, a brand new beginning.

Thank you for teaching me the meaning of "faith" and " hope".

I just realised that I've missed the Maifest celebration at Paulaners'! Hai, nevermind, looking forward to Oktoberfest again

Cheers!

It's a lazy day at work as I plough through the emails. It's a working day for several of the ang mo countries. Hence yeah, emails in. And I just realised not every country celebrate Vesak Day on the 31st May. Perhaps due to the time zone difference ?

Anyway, Jas told me that she's did well for her interview. Wishing her the best