Today, I felt the sudden need to lose weight for my wedding, urgently. Looking at my corporate photos, i have a fat face with double chin, looking exactly like my mum. Not that my mum looks bad of course. Just that I'm looking like my mum in her 50s when I'm only 27!
So many issues with my body image, a problem that escalates rapidly, parallel to age.
Nobody believes my weight drops rapidly when I am sick, stressed, busy or sad. Ok correction, there are a couple of my really close friends who have witnessed it... The last year has beena breeze, in happy company, especially of the young ex-colleagues, who never seem to put on weight no matter how much they snack.
Well, age doesn't have mercy on you. Hopefully the crazy workload I see ahead of me will somehow translate into some form of weight loss. Haha.
Time to hit the gym, for health reasons too. But I'm procrastinating. Argh.
21 August 2011
Life-changer definition of Forgiveness
"Forgiveness is giving up the hope that the past could have been any different." - A definition by a guest on Oprah.
Let the past go and move forward with the place that God has given you.
Let the past go and move forward with the place that God has given you.
06 July 2011
My friends call me a "very girly kind of girl". In their definition, it means I prefer skirts, make-up, handicrafts (the really basic kind) and live life with feelings. Ironically, one would expect me to have a vision or at least an idea of my dream wedding. None, whatsoever. I never pictured my "Prince Charming" or my wedding setting when I was a little girl. Not even when we started talking about marriage and setting up a family.
I'm realistic and practical that way. Would rather save the money for a really great honeymoon trip after. We have both never been to Europe so this should be really exciting. Especially since we seem to know more people who are staying there now and will be able to provide lodgings. My mind takes over the heart.
I'm realistic and practical that way. Would rather save the money for a really great honeymoon trip after. We have both never been to Europe so this should be really exciting. Especially since we seem to know more people who are staying there now and will be able to provide lodgings. My mind takes over the heart.
09 May 2011
It seems to me that we are continuing to complain, just for the sake of it. The votes have spoken and changes will not take place overnight. The term is five years and even in the bipartisan US, it is only fair to give the first review of the newly elected President after 100 days. Even that is too short in my opinion.
Are we being difficult just for the heck of it now? I had GE fatigue two days before polling but I thought I could safely say that everything will return to normal onces the results are announced. But it seems to me that the complainant nature may be slowly evolving into irrationality. I read articles that say "I truly think the support for PAP is only 50% but this is not translated into votes because Singaporeans lack political courage".
Have you seen the courage displayed to the lead up of the elections? And I must say, for the first time embracing social media in an elections, PAP's graciousness to all the taunts online, no matter how unreasonable has been satisfactory. And knowing how social media can be poisonous for organizations, I think they have done a good job in coping with the backlash and criticisms.
The promise has been made and we just have to have faith that PAP will live up to its promise to the best of their abilities. I think the 7 new MPs from WP will also help to give us a strong voice in Parliament so fewer Singaporeans are left behind. But like every other commitment in life, it needs time to fulfill.
How about making our feedback all-rounded? Like start to really scrutinize media reports and let SPH / MediaCorp know that journalistic independence seems to be lacking. That we need deeper analysis and greater insights. We shouldn't need to turn to international media for that one powerful article which successfully captures the essence of what the future entails for Singapore now that elections are over.
Are we being difficult just for the heck of it now? I had GE fatigue two days before polling but I thought I could safely say that everything will return to normal onces the results are announced. But it seems to me that the complainant nature may be slowly evolving into irrationality. I read articles that say "I truly think the support for PAP is only 50% but this is not translated into votes because Singaporeans lack political courage".
Have you seen the courage displayed to the lead up of the elections? And I must say, for the first time embracing social media in an elections, PAP's graciousness to all the taunts online, no matter how unreasonable has been satisfactory. And knowing how social media can be poisonous for organizations, I think they have done a good job in coping with the backlash and criticisms.
The promise has been made and we just have to have faith that PAP will live up to its promise to the best of their abilities. I think the 7 new MPs from WP will also help to give us a strong voice in Parliament so fewer Singaporeans are left behind. But like every other commitment in life, it needs time to fulfill.
How about making our feedback all-rounded? Like start to really scrutinize media reports and let SPH / MediaCorp know that journalistic independence seems to be lacking. That we need deeper analysis and greater insights. We shouldn't need to turn to international media for that one powerful article which successfully captures the essence of what the future entails for Singapore now that elections are over.
08 May 2011
What is justice?
The US has killed 167 times more innocent civilians in the war as compared to the no. of 911 victims in NYC.
What is justice? Are we ignoring the fact that this is a clear bully case by a more powerful country? "Bully" seems to undermine the severity of this war but even school bullies that drive their victims to suicide are put on trial before they are sentenced.
From report, it's a sense of celebration, no reflections on the value of Humanity or Life in the US. Raging a war is not more justified than terrorism to me.
What is justice? Are we ignoring the fact that this is a clear bully case by a more powerful country? "Bully" seems to undermine the severity of this war but even school bullies that drive their victims to suicide are put on trial before they are sentenced.
From report, it's a sense of celebration, no reflections on the value of Humanity or Life in the US. Raging a war is not more justified than terrorism to me.
05 May 2011
GE fatigue
Now it's finally clear why there has to be a cooling period tomorrow. It's called GE fatigue. We have heard all the viewpoints from both sides. We know the complaints, the mistakes and the changes we want. We have also heard the opposition present to us the cons of having just one ruling party.
It's about time to take a step back now and digest. Is it about the ideology like Jan says or simply voting for leaders of better calibre, on paper only. A litle torn actually because my vote does not have much of an impact on my neighbourhood and in the last five years, Material improvements in my estate doesn't leave much room for complaints. But I know that the overall opposition votes in Singapore will speak for our future and serves as a wake up call to PAP. I strongly believe we should look at the final results beyond just aljunied. Each vote counts.
I hope the deserving will prevail.
It's about time to take a step back now and digest. Is it about the ideology like Jan says or simply voting for leaders of better calibre, on paper only. A litle torn actually because my vote does not have much of an impact on my neighbourhood and in the last five years, Material improvements in my estate doesn't leave much room for complaints. But I know that the overall opposition votes in Singapore will speak for our future and serves as a wake up call to PAP. I strongly believe we should look at the final results beyond just aljunied. Each vote counts.
I hope the deserving will prevail.
04 May 2011
What really scares me is that PAP wants to win ALL seats in parliament and that they have no qualms about making it known they want to have almost full power over us. Yes, ultimately nine opposition members with the highest no. Of votes would make it too but with limited voting rights. And we all know what that really means. If this is not dictatorship in the making, I don't know what is.
It doesnt seem like they see any merit in having alternative viewpoints and they would very much like to grip on to all the power they can find. even if it means getting flak from the international press. Because it's always them who know best.
Is this really progress? There's is a well educated population under your care and yet it's been stifling.
It doesnt seem like they see any merit in having alternative viewpoints and they would very much like to grip on to all the power they can find. even if it means getting flak from the international press. Because it's always them who know best.
Is this really progress? There's is a well educated population under your care and yet it's been stifling.
Turning point
What a turning point this GE is for our freedom of speech. I never imagined it would be possible for us to blog so freely on our thoughts and voice out loud, the questions we have on the government.
The peak is tomorrow. 6 May is the "cooling" day and the votes will tell on 7 May.
It will be disastrous for us to lose all opposition seats. It's show hand but are we going to lend our support?
Exciting times.
P.S. I don't understand when a local blogger addresses everyone else as Singaporeans. Aren't we all... just one entity?
The peak is tomorrow. 6 May is the "cooling" day and the votes will tell on 7 May.
It will be disastrous for us to lose all opposition seats. It's show hand but are we going to lend our support?
Exciting times.
P.S. I don't understand when a local blogger addresses everyone else as Singaporeans. Aren't we all... just one entity?
It scares me... ...
Picture a Parliament with no opposition parties. With only ONE ruling party. What does this scenario entail for our future?
Finding it hard to forgive and forget the housing nightmare
An open mind was what I possessed when Elections was first announced. I did not favour one party over the other because I truly appreciate what the PAP has done for us. But I also see the serious mistakes that were too hard to ignore. I have been to two rallies and in my line of work, I keep track of the news very closely. As elections fever heat up, I find myself being lured away from the incumbent party.
1. PAP has been making really arrogant remarks
2. It's easy to win my heart simply by showing they have been listening and they truly understand my needs because they are not filthy rich. Because all I need is for opposition to ensure there is a check on the PAP, not overthrow them.
3. One of the hottest topic this Elections and PAP's biggest mistakes is housing, which I had to endure for two years. MBT screwed up big time by not anticipating demand.
My friends know housing is a topic close to my heart. I waited two years to finally have a chance to select a flat and it is not a fantastic ballot number by the way. We were truly desperate so we went to a Minster's "Meet the People Session" and also had to write in three letters to HDB. I don't know which resort worked but I can confidently say we could have missed yet another chance to secure a flat if we did not appeal for help as badly as we did. The flat we applied for was oversubscribed by at least seven times.
We spent three hours waiting to meet Minister L. We camped outside his office after rushing down from work, gobbled down dinner and all... Only to walk into a room and not be greeted with a "Hi" or eye contact. This, a "respected" Minister in Prime Minister's Office. We were probably granted ten seconds face time and his body language signalled for us to leave. Of course we didn't and sat down to say our piece and made a plea. A letter was also sent in to HDB with the first reply that "regretfully" told us that no further priority could be given to us despite this being our fifth or sixth (I've lost track) to select a flat. All previous attempts failed because of oversubscriptions. The first minute of my experience with the MP was more like meeting a Principal rather than someone I have elected and should be of service to me because I contribute to his team's salary. I waited three hours so thankfully, the long wait made me snap out of it and remember that this is my entitlement as a Singaporean to be on equal ground with him at the "Meet the People" session. People = We. i.e. We should be at the heart of the meeting agenda.
Do we really need to make a plea to buy a HDB flat? Several answers I received from HDB and the Minister shocked me.
HDB: I would suggest you try balloting for less mature estates instead, like Punggol or Seng Kang. (Seriously? I think you have the records and the flat to rdemand ratio is not any lower than that in Queenstown or Tiong Bahru)
Me: So are you saying that it all boils down to luck?
HDB: It is a computerised system and it's up to the system to allocate the number.
Me: So Mr L, if we still do not get a flat this time, what do we do? There are no upcoming flats in the west in the next two months and we really want to live near our parents, in tandem with pro-family policies advocated by the govt.
Minister: *sheepish smile* You just have to try for the next one and hope you get it.
Dumbfounded. If this is the kind of reply I get from a Minster from PMO, imagine what Tin Pei Ling would say to me.
I read many stories in the papers that couples' claim of not getting a flat is unfounded because they had Q nos. but rejected each application. We never got a chance to select prior to this. We had to remind the govt that we are pro-family (like the PAP) settle down early and live near our parents. We hear so many cases of first-timers who are fresh grads, younger and in no urgency to get married as they have not been dating for a decade long like us. Even the request for greater transparency as to whom HDB grants priority to has also been ignored.
I quoted statistics and figures from media articles but all my questions went unanswered. The reply finally arrived on the same day as our ballot no. How timely.
I felt really distant from the Minister that night, which is contrary to why "Meet the people" sessions are held. My expectation was to feel heartened that the Minister would understand or at least try to understand us. I knew our lifestyle is very much different from his. He definitely lives in greater comfort and does not need to ballot for a flat like me. But there was not a moment in that room, which made me feel comforted. In fact, I walked out to (yet another) sleepless night filled with so much angst.
I wished I didn't have to talk about housing before marriage. I told myself I would not succumb to the system but sadly, I did afterall. I will be five years behind the life I had imagined it would be by the time my house is ready. This is the way of life in Singapore and more than anything else, I had to go with the flow and forget all romantic notions of proposals and engagement coming before plans for a home together.
The opposition may not have concrete proposals or tactics this elections but maybe these are not what we need. We already have capable, analytical, skilled, intelligent leaders in the civil service or PAP to conduct the research and develop policies that would lead to GDP growth. But I don't wish for it to be at the expense of my citizenship rights. I wish for more members of the Parliament to speak up for me and ensure alternative points of view have been taken into consideration before decisions are made. A handful of people that can represent the reality on the ground and tell the wealthy, really wealthy PAP Ministers that the rich are getting richer (like them), while the quality of life for the poor is spiralling rapidly downwards.
1. PAP has been making really arrogant remarks
2. It's easy to win my heart simply by showing they have been listening and they truly understand my needs because they are not filthy rich. Because all I need is for opposition to ensure there is a check on the PAP, not overthrow them.
3. One of the hottest topic this Elections and PAP's biggest mistakes is housing, which I had to endure for two years. MBT screwed up big time by not anticipating demand.
My friends know housing is a topic close to my heart. I waited two years to finally have a chance to select a flat and it is not a fantastic ballot number by the way. We were truly desperate so we went to a Minster's "Meet the People Session" and also had to write in three letters to HDB. I don't know which resort worked but I can confidently say we could have missed yet another chance to secure a flat if we did not appeal for help as badly as we did. The flat we applied for was oversubscribed by at least seven times.
We spent three hours waiting to meet Minister L. We camped outside his office after rushing down from work, gobbled down dinner and all... Only to walk into a room and not be greeted with a "Hi" or eye contact. This, a "respected" Minister in Prime Minister's Office. We were probably granted ten seconds face time and his body language signalled for us to leave. Of course we didn't and sat down to say our piece and made a plea. A letter was also sent in to HDB with the first reply that "regretfully" told us that no further priority could be given to us despite this being our fifth or sixth (I've lost track) to select a flat. All previous attempts failed because of oversubscriptions. The first minute of my experience with the MP was more like meeting a Principal rather than someone I have elected and should be of service to me because I contribute to his team's salary. I waited three hours so thankfully, the long wait made me snap out of it and remember that this is my entitlement as a Singaporean to be on equal ground with him at the "Meet the People" session. People = We. i.e. We should be at the heart of the meeting agenda.
Do we really need to make a plea to buy a HDB flat? Several answers I received from HDB and the Minister shocked me.
HDB: I would suggest you try balloting for less mature estates instead, like Punggol or Seng Kang. (Seriously? I think you have the records and the flat to rdemand ratio is not any lower than that in Queenstown or Tiong Bahru)
Me: So are you saying that it all boils down to luck?
HDB: It is a computerised system and it's up to the system to allocate the number.
Me: So Mr L, if we still do not get a flat this time, what do we do? There are no upcoming flats in the west in the next two months and we really want to live near our parents, in tandem with pro-family policies advocated by the govt.
Minister: *sheepish smile* You just have to try for the next one and hope you get it.
Dumbfounded. If this is the kind of reply I get from a Minster from PMO, imagine what Tin Pei Ling would say to me.
I read many stories in the papers that couples' claim of not getting a flat is unfounded because they had Q nos. but rejected each application. We never got a chance to select prior to this. We had to remind the govt that we are pro-family (like the PAP) settle down early and live near our parents. We hear so many cases of first-timers who are fresh grads, younger and in no urgency to get married as they have not been dating for a decade long like us. Even the request for greater transparency as to whom HDB grants priority to has also been ignored.
I quoted statistics and figures from media articles but all my questions went unanswered. The reply finally arrived on the same day as our ballot no. How timely.
I felt really distant from the Minister that night, which is contrary to why "Meet the people" sessions are held. My expectation was to feel heartened that the Minister would understand or at least try to understand us. I knew our lifestyle is very much different from his. He definitely lives in greater comfort and does not need to ballot for a flat like me. But there was not a moment in that room, which made me feel comforted. In fact, I walked out to (yet another) sleepless night filled with so much angst.
I wished I didn't have to talk about housing before marriage. I told myself I would not succumb to the system but sadly, I did afterall. I will be five years behind the life I had imagined it would be by the time my house is ready. This is the way of life in Singapore and more than anything else, I had to go with the flow and forget all romantic notions of proposals and engagement coming before plans for a home together.
The opposition may not have concrete proposals or tactics this elections but maybe these are not what we need. We already have capable, analytical, skilled, intelligent leaders in the civil service or PAP to conduct the research and develop policies that would lead to GDP growth. But I don't wish for it to be at the expense of my citizenship rights. I wish for more members of the Parliament to speak up for me and ensure alternative points of view have been taken into consideration before decisions are made. A handful of people that can represent the reality on the ground and tell the wealthy, really wealthy PAP Ministers that the rich are getting richer (like them), while the quality of life for the poor is spiralling rapidly downwards.
More voices pls.
The singapore general elections this year is closer to my heart than the last. Because I lived through a housing dilemma for the last two years and many more Singaporeans get the opportunity to cast a vote that truly makes a difference this time. Even though I voted last year, none of my friends remembers. Because back then, the only opposition parties that mattered were in Aljunied and Potong Pasir.
How the tide has changed. Refreshing changes that keep the debates alive and truly challenging the generation Y Singaporeans to think twice about which party to vote for. I find myself speaking my mind more freely and that there are more people around me to engage in the topic of politics, be it my family, closest friends, colleagues or simply voicing my thoughts out loud in the social media space, at times not getting any replies. We are also not as secretive as the older generation about our votes.
The four types of votes are very clear this time - 1. PAP supporters 2. Opposition supporters 3. Apathetic 4. Those who have yet to make up their minds
I am especially heartened to hear my junior say they are going to every single rally with an open mind. They truly want to know what the politicians have to offer and find answers not just to the "Whys" but also the "Hows". They want to know how the solutions will be executed. This is a huge leap forward. Although personally, I think it is unfair to press for specific answers from opposition when the PAP is so much stronger, has full access to infrastructure and funds that the opposition has been deprived of.
I don't need a brand new government but more voices in Parliament to ensure the policies are more well balanced and that majority of the Singaporeans don't get left behind. I give credit to the achievements of the PAP, I appreciate the fruits of our progress and that they are finally (yesterday to be exact) also willing to be accountable for the mistakes they make. When taxpayers are contributing THAT much to your salaries, it leaves minimal room for mistakes. If our leaders are willing to take a pay cut, Singaporeans will return the "favour" by having more understanding when mistakes are made.
Ultimately, doesn't the root of the problem lie in our Ministers' sky-high salaries? We need to attract the right talents to be our leaders. I think they should be well-paid but not overpaid. The current salary benchmark is overpaying. And if we are entrusting our money with supposedly the best talents in Singapore, then they ought to be prepared to deliver and meet our expectations, or even demands. The same theory that applies when we are going to a Michelin chef restaurant for the food, service and experience. Being part of our government is a community service. And we need to have leaders who are willing to serve, even after weighing the opportunity costs and knowing there are sacrifices they have to make (Including higher pay in the private sector). There's a passion that is lacking in PAP. Passion to listen, connect and understand our people. And I need to search really hard for conviction, to know that the PAP cares.
It is difficult, simply because I know my Ministers and MPs are living in luxury. Probably in a fancy residential area of Singapore like Holland Village in a sprawling bungalow, with drivers and stylish cars that are able to keep them away from the traffic jams and congested public transportation. The ground work of "rolling out a red carpet" for them beforehand is also done before they step foot on commoner ground. E.g. Bodyguards clearing train carriages beforehand for the Minister of Transport or grassroot members knocking on residents' doors and requesting them to keep their doors open before the MPs arrive to greet them.
I come from a middle class family and I know we will ultimately progress beyond the costly system right now because my Sister and I have benefited from privileged education. But I also have friends, relatives, acquaintances whom I know don't enjoy the same privileges and face serious problems that deprive them of a good quality of life. They will be stuck in that rut because the policies have been in favour of the wealthier and in other instances, foreigners. I also cannot emphasize enough that this group of Singaporeans have not done anything wrong in our meritocratic society. They have also put in their utmost efforts to obtain an educational qualification, like a diploma or a private university degree. Upon graduation, they pay taxes like we do but the returns are simply different. And in many cases I hear, they feel shortchanged.
Many netizens have voiced their views that the complaints in the social media space is alot of "noise". Noise that does not translate into specific solutions for the country but I think the onus is then on the government to find these solutions for us. This is not part of our job scope but theirs. And exactly what percentage of Singaporeans can dissect the issues, analyze and solve the issues they face? If they could, they would be in the government. Some are disappointed that the opposition parties are "empty shells" that have yet to present us with concrete plans. Again, give them the funds and equal access to resources like PAP and they might be able to surprise you. The baby step to take now is to play on the emotions of Singaporeans, win the seats this elections and be the alternative voices in parliament. We may have more questions but let's just start small, shall we? Democracy is not having a one party system only. And we are not asking for 90% of the government members to be overturned. The realistic chances? 5 seats max. Anything else is a bonus.
I'm beginning to lose sight of our privileges for being a Singapore citizen and choosing to stay on here, for good times and bad. I need to know my government will take care of me and each policy has taken into consideration both sides of the story. A government with NO opposition party at all, scares me. PM Lee has asked us to understand the government and where they are coming from.
NO, it should be the other way round and the government has to understand us first.
How the tide has changed. Refreshing changes that keep the debates alive and truly challenging the generation Y Singaporeans to think twice about which party to vote for. I find myself speaking my mind more freely and that there are more people around me to engage in the topic of politics, be it my family, closest friends, colleagues or simply voicing my thoughts out loud in the social media space, at times not getting any replies. We are also not as secretive as the older generation about our votes.
The four types of votes are very clear this time - 1. PAP supporters 2. Opposition supporters 3. Apathetic 4. Those who have yet to make up their minds
I am especially heartened to hear my junior say they are going to every single rally with an open mind. They truly want to know what the politicians have to offer and find answers not just to the "Whys" but also the "Hows". They want to know how the solutions will be executed. This is a huge leap forward. Although personally, I think it is unfair to press for specific answers from opposition when the PAP is so much stronger, has full access to infrastructure and funds that the opposition has been deprived of.
I don't need a brand new government but more voices in Parliament to ensure the policies are more well balanced and that majority of the Singaporeans don't get left behind. I give credit to the achievements of the PAP, I appreciate the fruits of our progress and that they are finally (yesterday to be exact) also willing to be accountable for the mistakes they make. When taxpayers are contributing THAT much to your salaries, it leaves minimal room for mistakes. If our leaders are willing to take a pay cut, Singaporeans will return the "favour" by having more understanding when mistakes are made.
Ultimately, doesn't the root of the problem lie in our Ministers' sky-high salaries? We need to attract the right talents to be our leaders. I think they should be well-paid but not overpaid. The current salary benchmark is overpaying. And if we are entrusting our money with supposedly the best talents in Singapore, then they ought to be prepared to deliver and meet our expectations, or even demands. The same theory that applies when we are going to a Michelin chef restaurant for the food, service and experience. Being part of our government is a community service. And we need to have leaders who are willing to serve, even after weighing the opportunity costs and knowing there are sacrifices they have to make (Including higher pay in the private sector). There's a passion that is lacking in PAP. Passion to listen, connect and understand our people. And I need to search really hard for conviction, to know that the PAP cares.
It is difficult, simply because I know my Ministers and MPs are living in luxury. Probably in a fancy residential area of Singapore like Holland Village in a sprawling bungalow, with drivers and stylish cars that are able to keep them away from the traffic jams and congested public transportation. The ground work of "rolling out a red carpet" for them beforehand is also done before they step foot on commoner ground. E.g. Bodyguards clearing train carriages beforehand for the Minister of Transport or grassroot members knocking on residents' doors and requesting them to keep their doors open before the MPs arrive to greet them.
I come from a middle class family and I know we will ultimately progress beyond the costly system right now because my Sister and I have benefited from privileged education. But I also have friends, relatives, acquaintances whom I know don't enjoy the same privileges and face serious problems that deprive them of a good quality of life. They will be stuck in that rut because the policies have been in favour of the wealthier and in other instances, foreigners. I also cannot emphasize enough that this group of Singaporeans have not done anything wrong in our meritocratic society. They have also put in their utmost efforts to obtain an educational qualification, like a diploma or a private university degree. Upon graduation, they pay taxes like we do but the returns are simply different. And in many cases I hear, they feel shortchanged.
Many netizens have voiced their views that the complaints in the social media space is alot of "noise". Noise that does not translate into specific solutions for the country but I think the onus is then on the government to find these solutions for us. This is not part of our job scope but theirs. And exactly what percentage of Singaporeans can dissect the issues, analyze and solve the issues they face? If they could, they would be in the government. Some are disappointed that the opposition parties are "empty shells" that have yet to present us with concrete plans. Again, give them the funds and equal access to resources like PAP and they might be able to surprise you. The baby step to take now is to play on the emotions of Singaporeans, win the seats this elections and be the alternative voices in parliament. We may have more questions but let's just start small, shall we? Democracy is not having a one party system only. And we are not asking for 90% of the government members to be overturned. The realistic chances? 5 seats max. Anything else is a bonus.
I'm beginning to lose sight of our privileges for being a Singapore citizen and choosing to stay on here, for good times and bad. I need to know my government will take care of me and each policy has taken into consideration both sides of the story. A government with NO opposition party at all, scares me. PM Lee has asked us to understand the government and where they are coming from.
NO, it should be the other way round and the government has to understand us first.
21 March 2011
这就是幸福的定义 :)
明天晴天
演唱: 孫燕姿
作曲: 孫燕姿, 編曲: 安棟
手沉默的握緊 越過一座森林
我們走得很慢 連幸福都著急
在落葉裡前進 哪一條路才有道理
奇蹟拋棄我們 還好你還在這裡
永恆不能趕快 開始誰也不明白
風風雨雨 寧願相信明天晴天
愛不好的我們 還能迎著陽光
一步一步來 畢竟路上有你作伴
就有幸福的預感
手沉默的握緊 越過一座森林
我們走得很慢 連幸福都著急
在落葉裡前進 哪一條路才有道理
奇蹟留給別人 因為已經有你
永恆不能趕快 開始誰也不明白
風風雨雨 寧願相信明天晴天
愛不好的我們 還能迎著陽光
一步一步來 畢竟路上有你作伴
演唱: 孫燕姿
作曲: 孫燕姿, 編曲: 安棟
手沉默的握緊 越過一座森林
我們走得很慢 連幸福都著急
在落葉裡前進 哪一條路才有道理
奇蹟拋棄我們 還好你還在這裡
永恆不能趕快 開始誰也不明白
風風雨雨 寧願相信明天晴天
愛不好的我們 還能迎著陽光
一步一步來 畢竟路上有你作伴
就有幸福的預感
手沉默的握緊 越過一座森林
我們走得很慢 連幸福都著急
在落葉裡前進 哪一條路才有道理
奇蹟留給別人 因為已經有你
永恆不能趕快 開始誰也不明白
風風雨雨 寧願相信明天晴天
愛不好的我們 還能迎著陽光
一步一步來 畢竟路上有你作伴
07 March 2011
24 February 2011
Do we control Life or is it the other way round?
One day, you wake up to news that your friend has leukaemia. The world comes to a standstill and it's all system shut down. It's like being in a vacuum, you feel breathless like your air supply will run out any second. And you feel around you, three hundred and sixty degrees with no one, no pillars to hold, feeling faint.
And this is the moment you truly experience the saying, "Do not fret over the small stuffs in life". All these tantrums, emotional mood swings, being overly-sensitive to things you hear and choose to interpret as rudeness or insults. Do we really have time to find reasons to frown upon?
I know he will do fine. It's a passing phase, a challenge of Love and strength. But I questioned this evening, why him? Why someone who seems the healthiest, most health conscious and exercises regularly? Why someone whom so many of us care for?
My heart was truly shattered today.
And this is the moment you truly experience the saying, "Do not fret over the small stuffs in life". All these tantrums, emotional mood swings, being overly-sensitive to things you hear and choose to interpret as rudeness or insults. Do we really have time to find reasons to frown upon?
I know he will do fine. It's a passing phase, a challenge of Love and strength. But I questioned this evening, why him? Why someone who seems the healthiest, most health conscious and exercises regularly? Why someone whom so many of us care for?
My heart was truly shattered today.
22 February 2011
My mum doesn't quite understand the concept of "working from home". She thinks it's my excuse for not going to work or is my boss' polite way of telling me she doesn't want me in the office. The last time I went on extended MC for chicken pox, she actually asked if my boss was angry that I was absent for so long.
If only parents remain old-school this way, only in the good way. Where authority in school counts more than a word from a spoilt child. Mr. Y will then have an easier time as a teacher, not having to attend to overwhelming no. of complaints from parents in future.
My parents never spent much time with me growing up but they never once gave me the leeway to disobey teachers or to lodge a complaint with every whine.
A balance. Hopefully, working parents do not overcompensate their children for lack of time spent together, by overriding teachers at school.
Or so i say now. :)
If only parents remain old-school this way, only in the good way. Where authority in school counts more than a word from a spoilt child. Mr. Y will then have an easier time as a teacher, not having to attend to overwhelming no. of complaints from parents in future.
My parents never spent much time with me growing up but they never once gave me the leeway to disobey teachers or to lodge a complaint with every whine.
A balance. Hopefully, working parents do not overcompensate their children for lack of time spent together, by overriding teachers at school.
Or so i say now. :)
21 February 2011
Shaolin
It would be really cool if my son can be sent to Shaolin. to be instilled priceless values, disciplined through rigorous martial arts training at a culturally rich and historical "institution".
According to HDB...
According to a Customer Service Manager, Ms. Low Ai Ling, whom I spoke to at HDB today, securing a flat in Singapore very simply boils down to "pure luck" because of the random computer balloting system. No further prioritization to assist helpless, desperate homeseekers who are in a greater urgency to move in than a couple in their early twenties who just graduated from college.
The HDB officers we met and spoke to at the seminar told us to call / write in to HDB. Only to be given an answer that yes, it's based on luck.
This is the best part. She told me to expand my BTO options to "non-mature areas" that are so far from our parents, totally contradicting the government's call to stay near them. Now we are wrong for wanting to be filial? We also want to respond to the government's call to set a family earlier, having been together for 9 years now. But how so? once again, because we don't have a house...
I'm confused. All these mixed messages and media coverage. False sense of positivity around the new public housing policies. I don't feel anything. How do you feel a sense of belonging and patriotism to stay in Singapore when you can't even find a home at more than half a million dollars?
We have been scammed before, when we first moved to Punggol a decade ago. Punggol 21 didn't happen. Now all these new plans are announced in the lead up to the next General Election. Once bitten, twice shy. It's only normal that I'm so skeptical.
Prove me wrong, PLEASE.
The HDB officers we met and spoke to at the seminar told us to call / write in to HDB. Only to be given an answer that yes, it's based on luck.
This is the best part. She told me to expand my BTO options to "non-mature areas" that are so far from our parents, totally contradicting the government's call to stay near them. Now we are wrong for wanting to be filial? We also want to respond to the government's call to set a family earlier, having been together for 9 years now. But how so? once again, because we don't have a house...
I'm confused. All these mixed messages and media coverage. False sense of positivity around the new public housing policies. I don't feel anything. How do you feel a sense of belonging and patriotism to stay in Singapore when you can't even find a home at more than half a million dollars?
We have been scammed before, when we first moved to Punggol a decade ago. Punggol 21 didn't happen. Now all these new plans are announced in the lead up to the next General Election. Once bitten, twice shy. It's only normal that I'm so skeptical.
Prove me wrong, PLEASE.
13 February 2011
MTV EXIT - Support the cause
Every agency has pro bono clients. And very often, it's for a good cause.
It's MTV EXIT as our client this time round - the stories touch you and the stats and figures are beyond your expectations.
Support the cause to stop trafficking for sexual exploitation.
It's MTV EXIT as our client this time round - the stories touch you and the stats and figures are beyond your expectations.
Support the cause to stop trafficking for sexual exploitation.
MTV EXIT AND BLACK IRIS FEATURING BETHANY COSENTINO JOIN FORCES TO RAISE GLOBAL AWARENESS OF HUMAN TRAFFICKING
Source: MTV EXIT press release (Our Client)
In an exclusive collaboration, MTV EXIT (End Exploitation and Trafficking) and music collective Black Iris featuring Best Coast’s lead Bethany Cosentino have produced a music video which raises awareness of human trafficking. When Will I Feel Love hauntingly highlights the impact of trafficking for sexual exploitation, particularly of young women.
The exclusive video is driving the launch of the new phase of a unique partnership between MTV EXIT and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to combat human trafficking in Asia. This year, a new series of 12 documentary films, hosted by local and international celebrities, will premiere across Asia-Pacific featuring the stories of real people caught up in the web of human trafficking.
The music video will premiere across MTV properties on-air and online around the world on February 14th 2011, and will be available to download on iTunes from 15th February at http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/when-will-i-feel-love-feat/id417870235?ls=1. Proceeds from iTunes sales will be directed to anti-trafficking organisations working to rescue and rehabilitate victims of human trafficking. The video will be seen across all MTV platforms in 161 countries, and has the potential to reach more than 640 million households worldwide.
About MTV EXIT: http://www.mtvexit.org/index.php?lang=1
Read this at tan tock seng hospital ward the other day
当我老了，不再是原来的我。请理解我，对我有一点耐心。
当我把菜汤洒到自己衣服上时，当我忘记怎样系鞋带时，请想一想当初我是如何手把手地教你。
当我一遍又一遍地重复你早已听腻的话语，请耐心地听我说，不要打断我。你小的时候，我不得不重复那个讲过千百遍的故事，直到你进入梦乡。
当我需要你帮我洗澡时，请不要责备我。还记得小时候我千方百计哄你洗澡的情形吗？
当我对新科技和新事物不知所措时，请不要嘲笑我。想一想当初我怎样耐心地回答你的每一个“为什么”。
当我由于双腿疲劳而无法行走时，请伸出你年轻有力的手搀扶我。就像你小时候学习走路时，我扶你那样。
当我忽然忘记我们谈话的主题，请给我一些时间让我回想。其实对我来说，谈论什么并不重要，只要你能在一旁听我说，我就很满足。
当你看着老去的我，请不要悲伤。理解我，支持我，就像你刚开始学习如何生活时我对你那样。当初我引导你走上人生路，如今请陪伴我走完最后的路。给我你的爱和耐心，我会报以感激的微笑，这微笑中凝结着我对你无限的爱。
当我把菜汤洒到自己衣服上时，当我忘记怎样系鞋带时，请想一想当初我是如何手把手地教你。
当我一遍又一遍地重复你早已听腻的话语，请耐心地听我说，不要打断我。你小的时候，我不得不重复那个讲过千百遍的故事，直到你进入梦乡。
当我需要你帮我洗澡时，请不要责备我。还记得小时候我千方百计哄你洗澡的情形吗？
当我对新科技和新事物不知所措时，请不要嘲笑我。想一想当初我怎样耐心地回答你的每一个“为什么”。
当我由于双腿疲劳而无法行走时，请伸出你年轻有力的手搀扶我。就像你小时候学习走路时，我扶你那样。
当我忽然忘记我们谈话的主题，请给我一些时间让我回想。其实对我来说，谈论什么并不重要，只要你能在一旁听我说，我就很满足。
当你看着老去的我，请不要悲伤。理解我，支持我，就像你刚开始学习如何生活时我对你那样。当初我引导你走上人生路，如今请陪伴我走完最后的路。给我你的爱和耐心，我会报以感激的微笑，这微笑中凝结着我对你无限的爱。
Valentine
As with the last 7 years, Valentine's Day is not going to be fanciful tomorrow. Simplicity is key. It should be an everyday affair, not a once-a-year sudden expression of emotions and Love.
Yet I admit, we feel "obliged" to spend the day with each other. Otherwise, who? Not that easy to shake off social conventions and neglect the partner on Cupid Day.
And one day, we might find ourselves on the other side of the fence. When the number of people that celebrate Valentine's Day becomes negligible, we find ourselves changing our mind about being part of it. It's like an obsession, trying too hard to be different.
My exception? Well, I am a fan of all "cliche" weddings. The hotel wedding banquet, the photos, decor, ten-course menu, friends, family... ... They come at a cost too so there are increasingly more people who think they are unnecessary spendings but to me, they are all worthwhile. I truly enjoy myself at weddings, no matter how templated they are.
Yet I admit, we feel "obliged" to spend the day with each other. Otherwise, who? Not that easy to shake off social conventions and neglect the partner on Cupid Day.
And one day, we might find ourselves on the other side of the fence. When the number of people that celebrate Valentine's Day becomes negligible, we find ourselves changing our mind about being part of it. It's like an obsession, trying too hard to be different.
My exception? Well, I am a fan of all "cliche" weddings. The hotel wedding banquet, the photos, decor, ten-course menu, friends, family... ... They come at a cost too so there are increasingly more people who think they are unnecessary spendings but to me, they are all worthwhile. I truly enjoy myself at weddings, no matter how templated they are.
It's a little morbid that I enjoy crime dramas and real-life documentaries so much. Especially since it's not like I'm not paranoid enough when I walk through the really safe streets of Singapore.
Now that we have the additional channels, there's really no reason not to come home earlier and treat myself to the episodes marathon. Might as well, by staying home, I save more. :)
Now that we have the additional channels, there's really no reason not to come home earlier and treat myself to the episodes marathon. Might as well, by staying home, I save more. :)
14 January 2011
Where do people find the time to photoshop every single pic before posting on their blog? Understandable only if it's in their DNA and part of their jobs. isn't it also weird to see that each photo is not the same as reality?
Different priorities it seems. Sleep is more important to me than beautifying my photos. Which is now.
Dream Sweet.
Different priorities it seems. Sleep is more important to me than beautifying my photos. Which is now.
Dream Sweet.
Sometimes it gets a little repetitive on various social network platforms. but I must not forget one of the golden rules to successful businesses... Recognizing that your target audience will always be different. To achieve best results, you need to understand how to influence your influencers through sources that they trust.
Never mind if you have heard me on Twitter or Facebook already. 3 is the magic no. anyway, especially in PR so if I am on the right track to winning you over, you won't be sick of me no matter how many times I repeat the message. In fact, you would have noticed that each caption is different.
Speed matters
Take the cue from Apple or Singapore Airlines. If you establish a strong leadership position in being the first to launch innovative products, the other companies will seem more like followers and less like competitors.
It puts your brand in a league of its own; rival-less.
It puts your brand in a league of its own; rival-less.
It's been a while... but.
it's never too late to make up for lost time. I'm happy to have reconnected.
05 January 2011
SATC 2
Sex and the City 2's storyline didn't get me hooked. The movie was fast forwarded at some points but the ending made up for it.
Black diamond to describe Carrie Bradshaw because she's not like the others.
Mr. Big bought her a diamond ring because he knew and he understood that she needed to have a "little" reminder everyday of her vow to him and their marriage.
Of keeping Carrie's house so somebody can have his / her personal space away from a relationship.
When you have been in a relationship as long as me, you can understand why these are steps to strengthen the relationship, and I foresee, with a marriage. Very, very sweet. Not signs of trouble, but substantiating actions and commitment to make a relationship work even better.
Black diamond to describe Carrie Bradshaw because she's not like the others.
Mr. Big bought her a diamond ring because he knew and he understood that she needed to have a "little" reminder everyday of her vow to him and their marriage.
Of keeping Carrie's house so somebody can have his / her personal space away from a relationship.
When you have been in a relationship as long as me, you can understand why these are steps to strengthen the relationship, and I foresee, with a marriage. Very, very sweet. Not signs of trouble, but substantiating actions and commitment to make a relationship work even better.
Tomorrow is one of my best friends' birthdays. IL and I always joke about how "one of my best friends" is such a paradox but that's the reality, we can't separate one from the other. She is always the first to turn the page in the New Year. Jokes aside, it's not just about the age but also of how our friendship has now lasted more than a decade. Unbelievable, we are now in our late twenties and I am still learning so much, indulging in the beauty of life everyday. Sometimes, the days are darker but it is always better to see them through with rose tinted glasses and celebrate.
Whenever I come home and see my Dad at his favourite seat in the living room watching his favourite programmes on TV, I say my prayers and say thank you.
Frequency of dinners with my mum has picked up in recent years because of the effort we both bother to put in. Even though we sit in silence sometimes and simply enjoy each other's company (or so I want to believe) and the food, but I am contented.
So I continue to look around me - The boyfriend, sister, brother in law, grandparents, cousins, friends, colleagues and even acquaintances on the way - keep my sense alive every single day.
Whenever I come home and see my Dad at his favourite seat in the living room watching his favourite programmes on TV, I say my prayers and say thank you.
Frequency of dinners with my mum has picked up in recent years because of the effort we both bother to put in. Even though we sit in silence sometimes and simply enjoy each other's company (or so I want to believe) and the food, but I am contented.
So I continue to look around me - The boyfriend, sister, brother in law, grandparents, cousins, friends, colleagues and even acquaintances on the way - keep my sense alive every single day.
04 January 2011
Recorded Oprah Winfrey the other night and it featured the story of a single father who was so devastated after the death of his wife that he found a higher calling. He adopted eight children and raised them as a single father. Including his own son, he now has nine children in the household, age ranging from 3-19.
Very inspiring indeed. This selfless corporate lawyer starts his typical day at 3am so he has some me-time for a cup of coffee before making breakfast and packing the school bags for his children. They set off in two batches, the older ones first. The children now have a loving Dad, a family to call their own and I think most importantly, to have been given a shot at education.
Here we are. Complaining about our lives when all we have to do is to identify and experience fulfillment with what we do. It is mundane sometimes but these are the simple pleasures that are often deeply missed when lost. So we seek out to find more, but often end up disappointing ourselves.
For me, they are very long-term goals which will not be fulfilled in the next six or even twelve months. Then I hear stories of life-changing experiences that startle people and make them embark on a journey less travelled. So why not start now?
Very inspiring indeed. This selfless corporate lawyer starts his typical day at 3am so he has some me-time for a cup of coffee before making breakfast and packing the school bags for his children. They set off in two batches, the older ones first. The children now have a loving Dad, a family to call their own and I think most importantly, to have been given a shot at education.
Here we are. Complaining about our lives when all we have to do is to identify and experience fulfillment with what we do. It is mundane sometimes but these are the simple pleasures that are often deeply missed when lost. So we seek out to find more, but often end up disappointing ourselves.
For me, they are very long-term goals which will not be fulfilled in the next six or even twelve months. Then I hear stories of life-changing experiences that startle people and make them embark on a journey less travelled. So why not start now?
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