So that I won't forget
This post is dedicated to all fathers out there. I know, I know, today is not Father's Day. To be frank, I don't even remember when is the Father's Day. Not exactly I'm not. I only knew about it when there is a sale or when there is an advertisement in conjunction with the day. I'm sorry, I'm just not the kind of guy who can remembers any dates easily (you can asked FNA).
I digress. Okay, then. I thought about fatherhood because the topic of being one surfaced recently. Not the best of topic; kind of like the Pandora's Box. Was kind of sad at the moment, but now I am just going to see the good side of it.
I digress again. So here it is. The followings are my list of my top 3 favourite songs and movies relating to fatherhood (not necessarily in the order)
Top 3 Father's song:
Gun N Roses - Sweet Child O' Mine
Do I need to say more? For those who never listen to this song, please slap yourself three times in the face. This song defines the 80's. And what's more, this song is a dedication from a father to his daughter. Sweet lyrics too. And again, Slash is brilliant on the solo.
Will Smith - Just The Two Of Us
The original melody was, I believed, from a band called Groover Washington Jr. They might be another original artist, but I am kind of lazy to search it up. Just listen to the music and feel the lyrics. It was as if Will Smith is really trying to convey a message to his son, being the most honest and truthful about it. Great song, great lyric, great singer.
Ugly Kid Joe - Cats In The Cradle
What I really like about this song is the melody. Especially the transition from the verse and the chorus. It kind of like swaying you gently on the verse before delivering the punch during the chorus. The original version came from Harry Chapin, but I prefer the Ugly Kid Joe's version. The lyrics, on the other hand, are not as jovial and motivating as the previous two songs. This one has a more melancholic and sad twist on it.
Top 3 Father's movie:
A Perfect World (1993)
I personally believe that this is a must-watch movie for every single dad or soon-to-be dad in the world today. The storyline is really beautiful. The way Kevin Costner portrayed the model fatherly figure and conveys his love for the kid is really touching. It has a sad ending too. I don't believe men will weep. But it does pushes a certain button in their heart.
The Pursuit Of Happyness (2006)
Again, another touching movie that revolved around fatherhood. Will Smith's acting was brilliant. This movie has one of the most touching scene in movie history (or at least to my liking), during the scene where Will Smith and his son was forced to sleep in the bathroom of the subway station and the janitor was trying to get it. But then, it also has one of the most relieving and most triumphant moment in an actor's character, during the scene when Will Smith gets the job, get out from the office, and celebrate outside the building. You can really felt how he feels at that time. Brilliant.
I Am Sam (2001)
To be perfectly honest, I have only seen this movie once; during an English class in high school about 8 years ago. However, I can really remembered this movie well, as it has imprinted its message inside myself. The struggle of custody battle between parents, and the portrayal of a mentally retarded father trying to win such battle is stunning. You can really justify those battle here in this movie. A touching movie too (why oh why do I have to choose touching movies when it comes to fatherhood? Damn)
So there goes my Top 3 lists for both criteria. I know there are many other choices when it comes to fatherhood, but these are the movies and songs that left an imprint on me, and has successfully conveyed the messages across. Enjoy!
# This is one of my favourite poem of all time, and coincidentally it has, within its writing, a message from a father to his son.
I digress. Okay, then. I thought about fatherhood because the topic of being one surfaced recently. Not the best of topic; kind of like the Pandora's Box. Was kind of sad at the moment, but now I am just going to see the good side of it.
I digress again. So here it is. The followings are my list of my top 3 favourite songs and movies relating to fatherhood (not necessarily in the order)
Top 3 Father's song:
Gun N Roses - Sweet Child O' Mine
Do I need to say more? For those who never listen to this song, please slap yourself three times in the face. This song defines the 80's. And what's more, this song is a dedication from a father to his daughter. Sweet lyrics too. And again, Slash is brilliant on the solo.
She's got a smile that it seems to me
Reminds me of childhood memories
Where everything
Was as fresh as the bright blue sky
Now and then when I see her face
She takes me away to that special place
And if I'd stare too long
I'd probably break down and cry
Sweet child o' mine
Sweet love of mine
She's got eyes of the bluest skies
As if they thought of rain
I hate to look into those eyes
And see an ounce of pain
Her hair reminds me of a warm safe place
Where as a child I'd hide
And pray for the thunder
And the rain
To quietly pass me by
Sweet child o' mine
Sweet love of mine
Where do we go
Where do we go now
Where do we go
Sweet child o' mine
Reminds me of childhood memories
Where everything
Was as fresh as the bright blue sky
Now and then when I see her face
She takes me away to that special place
And if I'd stare too long
I'd probably break down and cry
Sweet child o' mine
Sweet love of mine
She's got eyes of the bluest skies
As if they thought of rain
I hate to look into those eyes
And see an ounce of pain
Her hair reminds me of a warm safe place
Where as a child I'd hide
And pray for the thunder
And the rain
To quietly pass me by
Sweet child o' mine
Sweet love of mine
Where do we go
Where do we go now
Where do we go
Sweet child o' mine
Will Smith - Just The Two Of Us
The original melody was, I believed, from a band called Groover Washington Jr. They might be another original artist, but I am kind of lazy to search it up. Just listen to the music and feel the lyrics. It was as if Will Smith is really trying to convey a message to his son, being the most honest and truthful about it. Great song, great lyric, great singer.
From the first time the doctor placed you in my arms
I knew I'd meet death before I'd let you meet harm
Although questions arose in my mind, would I be man enough?
Against wrong, choose right and be standin up
From the hospital that first night
Took a hour just ta get the carseat in right
People drivin all fast, got me kinda upset
Got you home safe, placed you in your basonette
That night I don't think one wink I slept
As I slipped out my bed, to your crib I crept
Touched your head gently, felt my heart melt
Cause I know I loved you more than life itself
Then to my knees, and I begged the Lord please
Let me be a good daddy, all he needs
Love, knowledge, discipline too
I pledge my life to you
Chorus:
Just the two of us, we can make it if we try
Just the two of us, (Just the two of us)
Just the two of us, building castles in the sky
Just the two of us, you and I
Five years old, bringin comedy
Everytime I look at you I think man, a little me
Just like me
Wait an see gonna be tall
Makes me laugh cause you got your dads ears an all
Sometimes I wonder, what you gonna be
A General, a Doctor, maybe a MC
Haha, I wanna kiss you all the time
But I will test that butt when you cut outta line, trudat
Uh-uh-uh why you do dat?
I try to be a tough dad, but you be makin me laugh
Crazy joy, when I see the eyes of my baby boy
I pledge to you, I will always do
Everything I can
Show you how to be a man
Dignity, integrity, honor an
An I don't mind if you lose, long as you came with it
An you can cry, ain't no shame it it
It didn't work out with me an your mom
But yo, push come to shove
You was conceived in love
So if the world attacks, and you slide off track
Remember one fact, I got your back
Chorus
It's a full-time job to be a good dad
You got so much more stuff than I had
I gotta study just to keep with the changin times
101 Dalmations on your CD-ROM
See me-I'm
Tryin to pretend I know
On my PC where that CD go
But yo, ain't nuthin promised, one day I'll be gone
Feel the strife, but trust life does go wrong
But just in case
It's my place
To impart
One day some girl's gonna break your heart
And ooh ain't no pain like from the opposite sex
Gonna hurt bad, but don't take it out on the next, son
Throughout life people will make you mad
Disrespect you and treat you bad
Let God deal with the things they do
Cause hate in your heart will consume you too
Always tell the truth, say your prayers
Hold doors, pull out chairs, easy on the swears
You're living proof that dreams do come true
I love you and I'm here for you
I knew I'd meet death before I'd let you meet harm
Although questions arose in my mind, would I be man enough?
Against wrong, choose right and be standin up
From the hospital that first night
Took a hour just ta get the carseat in right
People drivin all fast, got me kinda upset
Got you home safe, placed you in your basonette
That night I don't think one wink I slept
As I slipped out my bed, to your crib I crept
Touched your head gently, felt my heart melt
Cause I know I loved you more than life itself
Then to my knees, and I begged the Lord please
Let me be a good daddy, all he needs
Love, knowledge, discipline too
I pledge my life to you
Chorus:
Just the two of us, we can make it if we try
Just the two of us, (Just the two of us)
Just the two of us, building castles in the sky
Just the two of us, you and I
Five years old, bringin comedy
Everytime I look at you I think man, a little me
Just like me
Wait an see gonna be tall
Makes me laugh cause you got your dads ears an all
Sometimes I wonder, what you gonna be
A General, a Doctor, maybe a MC
Haha, I wanna kiss you all the time
But I will test that butt when you cut outta line, trudat
Uh-uh-uh why you do dat?
I try to be a tough dad, but you be makin me laugh
Crazy joy, when I see the eyes of my baby boy
I pledge to you, I will always do
Everything I can
Show you how to be a man
Dignity, integrity, honor an
An I don't mind if you lose, long as you came with it
An you can cry, ain't no shame it it
It didn't work out with me an your mom
But yo, push come to shove
You was conceived in love
So if the world attacks, and you slide off track
Remember one fact, I got your back
Chorus
It's a full-time job to be a good dad
You got so much more stuff than I had
I gotta study just to keep with the changin times
101 Dalmations on your CD-ROM
See me-I'm
Tryin to pretend I know
On my PC where that CD go
But yo, ain't nuthin promised, one day I'll be gone
Feel the strife, but trust life does go wrong
But just in case
It's my place
To impart
One day some girl's gonna break your heart
And ooh ain't no pain like from the opposite sex
Gonna hurt bad, but don't take it out on the next, son
Throughout life people will make you mad
Disrespect you and treat you bad
Let God deal with the things they do
Cause hate in your heart will consume you too
Always tell the truth, say your prayers
Hold doors, pull out chairs, easy on the swears
You're living proof that dreams do come true
I love you and I'm here for you
Ugly Kid Joe - Cats In The Cradle
What I really like about this song is the melody. Especially the transition from the verse and the chorus. It kind of like swaying you gently on the verse before delivering the punch during the chorus. The original version came from Harry Chapin, but I prefer the Ugly Kid Joe's version. The lyrics, on the other hand, are not as jovial and motivating as the previous two songs. This one has a more melancholic and sad twist on it.
My child arrived just the other day;
Came to the world in the usually way
But there were planes to catch and bills to pay.
He learned to walk while I was away.
He was talkin' 'fore I knew it.
And as he grew he said,
"I'm gonna be like you, Dad.
You know I'm gonna be like you."
Chorus :
And the cat's in the cradle and the silver spoon,
Little boy blue and the man on the moon.
"When you comin' home ?"
"Son, I don't know when.
We'll get together then.
You know we'll have a good time then."
Well, my son turned ten just the other day.
He said , "Thanks for the ball, Dad. Come on, let's play.
Could you teach me to throw ?" I said, "Not today.
I got a lot to do." He said, "That's okay."
And he walked away and he smiled and he said,
"You know,
I'm gonna be like him, yeah.
You know I'm gonna be like him."
Chorus
Well, he came from college just the other day,
So much like a man I just had to say,
"I'm proud of you. Could you sit for a while ?"
He shook his head and he said with a smile,
"What I'd really like, Dad, is to borrow the car keys.
See you later. Can I have them please ?"
Chorus :
And the cat's in the cradle and the silver spoon,
Little boy blue and the man on the moon.
"When you comin home, Son ?"
"I don't know when.
We'll get together then.
You know we'll have a good time then."
I've long since retired, my son's moved away.
I called him up just the other day.
"I'd like to see you, if you dont mind."
He said, "I'd love to, Dad, if I could find the time.
You see my new job's a hassle and the kids have the flu,
But it's sure nice talkin' to you, Dad.
It's been sure nice talkin' to you."
And as I hung up the phone it occurred to me,
He'd grown up just like me.
My boy was just like me.
(Yeah, yeah, yeah)
Came to the world in the usually way
But there were planes to catch and bills to pay.
He learned to walk while I was away.
He was talkin' 'fore I knew it.
And as he grew he said,
"I'm gonna be like you, Dad.
You know I'm gonna be like you."
Chorus :
And the cat's in the cradle and the silver spoon,
Little boy blue and the man on the moon.
"When you comin' home ?"
"Son, I don't know when.
We'll get together then.
You know we'll have a good time then."
Well, my son turned ten just the other day.
He said , "Thanks for the ball, Dad. Come on, let's play.
Could you teach me to throw ?" I said, "Not today.
I got a lot to do." He said, "That's okay."
And he walked away and he smiled and he said,
"You know,
I'm gonna be like him, yeah.
You know I'm gonna be like him."
Chorus
Well, he came from college just the other day,
So much like a man I just had to say,
"I'm proud of you. Could you sit for a while ?"
He shook his head and he said with a smile,
"What I'd really like, Dad, is to borrow the car keys.
See you later. Can I have them please ?"
Chorus :
And the cat's in the cradle and the silver spoon,
Little boy blue and the man on the moon.
"When you comin home, Son ?"
"I don't know when.
We'll get together then.
You know we'll have a good time then."
I've long since retired, my son's moved away.
I called him up just the other day.
"I'd like to see you, if you dont mind."
He said, "I'd love to, Dad, if I could find the time.
You see my new job's a hassle and the kids have the flu,
But it's sure nice talkin' to you, Dad.
It's been sure nice talkin' to you."
And as I hung up the phone it occurred to me,
He'd grown up just like me.
My boy was just like me.
(Yeah, yeah, yeah)
Top 3 Father's movie:
A Perfect World (1993)
I personally believe that this is a must-watch movie for every single dad or soon-to-be dad in the world today. The storyline is really beautiful. The way Kevin Costner portrayed the model fatherly figure and conveys his love for the kid is really touching. It has a sad ending too. I don't believe men will weep. But it does pushes a certain button in their heart.
The Pursuit Of Happyness (2006)
Again, another touching movie that revolved around fatherhood. Will Smith's acting was brilliant. This movie has one of the most touching scene in movie history (or at least to my liking), during the scene where Will Smith and his son was forced to sleep in the bathroom of the subway station and the janitor was trying to get it. But then, it also has one of the most relieving and most triumphant moment in an actor's character, during the scene when Will Smith gets the job, get out from the office, and celebrate outside the building. You can really felt how he feels at that time. Brilliant.
I Am Sam (2001)
To be perfectly honest, I have only seen this movie once; during an English class in high school about 8 years ago. However, I can really remembered this movie well, as it has imprinted its message inside myself. The struggle of custody battle between parents, and the portrayal of a mentally retarded father trying to win such battle is stunning. You can really justify those battle here in this movie. A touching movie too (why oh why do I have to choose touching movies when it comes to fatherhood? Damn)
So there goes my Top 3 lists for both criteria. I know there are many other choices when it comes to fatherhood, but these are the movies and songs that left an imprint on me, and has successfully conveyed the messages across. Enjoy!
# This is one of my favourite poem of all time, and coincidentally it has, within its writing, a message from a father to his son.
If by Rudyard Kipling
| If you can keep your head when all about you If you can dream - and not make dreams your master; If you can make one heap of all your winnings If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue, |
So, so you think you can tell
Heaven from Hell,
Blue skys from pain.
Can you tell a green field
From a cold steel rail?
A smile from a veil?
Do you think you can tell?
And did they get you to trade
Your heros for ghosts?
Hot ashes for trees?
Hot air for a cool breeze?
Cold comfort for change?
And did you exchange
A walk on part in the war
For a lead role in a cage?
How I wish, how I wish you were here.
We're just two lost souls
Swimming in a fish bowl,
Year after year,
Running over the same old ground.
What have we found?
The same old fears.
Wish you were here.
Manchester United 3 Wolverhampton Wanderers 2
Manchester United won the 4th Round English Carling Cup ties with Wolverhampton after goals by Bebe (56'), Park Ji Sung (70'), and Javier Hernandez (90'). Chicharito has done it again, saving United from the possibilities of humiliating defeat at home. A nice goal too. Perhaps this little fellow can be a serious contender for the striking options, leaving Rooney lots to think about. Kudos to Bebe on his first starting line up. Seems to be promising. A lot of work still need to be done in the back four. We'll see.
Paul the Octopus dies
The oracle has died. After maintaining a 100% correct prediction in the 2010 World Cup, the octopus is dead. RIP Paul. We'll miss you.
Shortlist for FIFA Ballon d' Or 2010
Xabi Alonso (Spain)
Daniel Alves (Brazil)
Iker Casillas (Spain)
Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
Didier Drogba (Cote d'Ovoire)
Samuel Eto'o (Cameroon)
Cesc Fabregas (Spain)
Diego Forlan (Uruguay)
Asamoah Gyan (Ghana)
Andres Iniesta (Spain)
Julio Cesar (Brazil)
Miroslav Klose (Germany)
Philipp Lahm (Germany)
Maicon (Brazil)
Lionel Messi (Argentina)
Thomas Muller (Germany)
Mesut Ozil (Germany)
Carles Puyol (Spain)
Arjen Robben (Netherlands)
Bastian Schweinsteiger (Germany)
Wesley Sneijder (Netherlands)
David Villa (Spain)
Xavi (Spain)
Manchester United won the 4th Round English Carling Cup ties with Wolverhampton after goals by Bebe (56'), Park Ji Sung (70'), and Javier Hernandez (90'). Chicharito has done it again, saving United from the possibilities of humiliating defeat at home. A nice goal too. Perhaps this little fellow can be a serious contender for the striking options, leaving Rooney lots to think about. Kudos to Bebe on his first starting line up. Seems to be promising. A lot of work still need to be done in the back four. We'll see.
Paul the Octopus dies
The oracle has died. After maintaining a 100% correct prediction in the 2010 World Cup, the octopus is dead. RIP Paul. We'll miss you.
Shortlist for FIFA Ballon d' Or 2010
Xabi Alonso (Spain)
Daniel Alves (Brazil)
Iker Casillas (Spain)
Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
Didier Drogba (Cote d'Ovoire)
Samuel Eto'o (Cameroon)
Cesc Fabregas (Spain)
Diego Forlan (Uruguay)
Asamoah Gyan (Ghana)
Andres Iniesta (Spain)
Julio Cesar (Brazil)
Miroslav Klose (Germany)
Philipp Lahm (Germany)
Maicon (Brazil)
Lionel Messi (Argentina)
Thomas Muller (Germany)
Mesut Ozil (Germany)
Carles Puyol (Spain)
Arjen Robben (Netherlands)
Bastian Schweinsteiger (Germany)
Wesley Sneijder (Netherlands)
David Villa (Spain)
Xavi (Spain)
There are many ways to describe a music, or a song. So many ways, that I won't bother in naming a few examples here.
But there is an example which I would like to amplify today: Hauntingly beautiful.
A 'Hauntingly Beautiful' music is a description (which I uses) to describe musics which, literally, can gives you goosebumps. It is a music or a song which can lift the hair on the back on your neck when you listen to it with your eyes closed. You can almost imagine the notes dancing in the air, whispering soft yet strong message into your head. Or an eerie feeling, but somehow beautiful up to a point that you feel every notes and every words belong. In other words, it's indescribable. Haha. I digress.
So here is my Top 3 list of songs which I personally find hauntingly beautiful:
1) The Mantovanni Orchestra - Speak, Softly Love (Theme for 'The Godfather')
What else can I say. I am 100% obsessed with the trilogy, so it is inevitable that I like the song too. But this is, in my humble opinion, the most hauntingly beautiful song. Just close your eyes and listen to melody. I mean, truly listen to the way the melody waives and flows. The lyrics of this song, sang by Andy Williams or Al Martino, are beautiful too:
But there is an example which I would like to amplify today: Hauntingly beautiful.
A 'Hauntingly Beautiful' music is a description (which I uses) to describe musics which, literally, can gives you goosebumps. It is a music or a song which can lift the hair on the back on your neck when you listen to it with your eyes closed. You can almost imagine the notes dancing in the air, whispering soft yet strong message into your head. Or an eerie feeling, but somehow beautiful up to a point that you feel every notes and every words belong. In other words, it's indescribable. Haha. I digress.
So here is my Top 3 list of songs which I personally find hauntingly beautiful:
1) The Mantovanni Orchestra - Speak, Softly Love (Theme for 'The Godfather')
What else can I say. I am 100% obsessed with the trilogy, so it is inevitable that I like the song too. But this is, in my humble opinion, the most hauntingly beautiful song. Just close your eyes and listen to melody. I mean, truly listen to the way the melody waives and flows. The lyrics of this song, sang by Andy Williams or Al Martino, are beautiful too:
Speak softly, love and hold me warm against your heart
I feel your words, the tender trembling moments start
We're in a world, our very own
Sharing a love that only few have ever known
Wine colored days warmed by the sun
Deep velvet nights when we are one
Speak softly, love so no one hears us but the sky
The vows of love we make will live until we die
My life is yours and all because
You came into my world with love so softly love
Wine colored days warmed by the sun
Deep velvet nights when we are one
Speak softly, love so no one hears us but the sky
The vows of love we make will live until we die
My life is yours and all because
You came into my world with love so softly love
2) Guns N Roses - November Rain
The guitar riffs from Slash, the piano melody from Axl Rose, the accompanying orchestra in the back; that alone is enough to make me labeled this song as hauntingly beautiful. You can almost sway along with the progression of the melody, giving you goosebumps along the way. At times, I nearly drooled while listening to the song. True story. But I have to say, the punch line or the deadly blow which effectively raised this song above any other started when Slash climbed that piano.
The lyrics? Well written:
3) The Smiths - There is a light that never goes out.
The melody of this song is simple. So simple, that it turns out to be one of the best I've ever heard. The idea is kept simplified and straight to the point. Unlike some songs nowadays where they tried stuffing many ideas into a song, making it rubbish and losses its essence. Simplicity is better, hands down. The melody is moving to me, but what makes this song hauntingly beautiful is the lyrics. Read it, have a sing-along, you'll see what I mean:
We're in a world, our very own
Sharing a love that only few have ever known
Wine colored days warmed by the sun
Deep velvet nights when we are one
Speak softly, love so no one hears us but the sky
The vows of love we make will live until we die
My life is yours and all because
You came into my world with love so softly love
Wine colored days warmed by the sun
Deep velvet nights when we are one
Speak softly, love so no one hears us but the sky
The vows of love we make will live until we die
My life is yours and all because
You came into my world with love so softly love
2) Guns N Roses - November Rain
The guitar riffs from Slash, the piano melody from Axl Rose, the accompanying orchestra in the back; that alone is enough to make me labeled this song as hauntingly beautiful. You can almost sway along with the progression of the melody, giving you goosebumps along the way. At times, I nearly drooled while listening to the song. True story. But I have to say, the punch line or the deadly blow which effectively raised this song above any other started when Slash climbed that piano.
The lyrics? Well written:
When I look into your eyes
I can see a love restrained
But darlin' when I hold you
Don't you know I feel the same
'Cause nothin' lasts forever
And we both know hearts can change
And it's hard to hold a candle
In the cold November rain
We've been through this
Such a long long time
Just tryin' to kill the pain
yeahh..
But lovers always come
And lovers always go
And no one's really sure
Who's lettin' go today
Walking away
If we could take the time
To lay it on the line
I could rest my head
Just knowin' that you were mine
All mine
So if you want to love me
Then darlin' don't refrain
Or I'll just end up walkin'
In the cold November rain
Do you need some time
On your own
Do you need some time
All alone
Everybody needs some time
On their own
Don't you know you need some time
All alone
I know it's hard to keep an open heart
When even friends seem out to harm you
But if you could heal a broken heart
Wouldn't time be out to charm you
Sometimes I need some time
On my own
Sometimes I need some time
All alone
Everybody needs some time
On their own
Don't you know you need some time
All alone
And when your fears subside
And shadows still remain
I know that you can love me
When there's no one left to blame
So never mind the darkness
We still can find a way
'Cause nothin' lasts forever
Even cold November rain
Don't ya think that you
Need somebody
Don't ya think that you
Need someone
Everybody needs somebody
You're not the only one
You're not the only one
I can see a love restrained
But darlin' when I hold you
Don't you know I feel the same
'Cause nothin' lasts forever
And we both know hearts can change
And it's hard to hold a candle
In the cold November rain
We've been through this
Such a long long time
Just tryin' to kill the pain
yeahh..
But lovers always come
And lovers always go
And no one's really sure
Who's lettin' go today
Walking away
If we could take the time
To lay it on the line
I could rest my head
Just knowin' that you were mine
All mine
So if you want to love me
Then darlin' don't refrain
Or I'll just end up walkin'
In the cold November rain
Do you need some time
On your own
Do you need some time
All alone
Everybody needs some time
On their own
Don't you know you need some time
All alone
I know it's hard to keep an open heart
When even friends seem out to harm you
But if you could heal a broken heart
Wouldn't time be out to charm you
Sometimes I need some time
On my own
Sometimes I need some time
All alone
Everybody needs some time
On their own
Don't you know you need some time
All alone
And when your fears subside
And shadows still remain
I know that you can love me
When there's no one left to blame
So never mind the darkness
We still can find a way
'Cause nothin' lasts forever
Even cold November rain
Don't ya think that you
Need somebody
Don't ya think that you
Need someone
Everybody needs somebody
You're not the only one
You're not the only one
3) The Smiths - There is a light that never goes out.
The melody of this song is simple. So simple, that it turns out to be one of the best I've ever heard. The idea is kept simplified and straight to the point. Unlike some songs nowadays where they tried stuffing many ideas into a song, making it rubbish and losses its essence. Simplicity is better, hands down. The melody is moving to me, but what makes this song hauntingly beautiful is the lyrics. Read it, have a sing-along, you'll see what I mean:
Take me out tonight
Where there's music and there's people
Who are young and alive
Driving in your car
I never never want to go home
Because I haven't got one anymore
Take me out tonight
Because I want to see people
And I want to see life
Driving in your car
Oh please don't drop me home
Because it's not my home, it's their home
And I'm welcome no more
And if a double-decker bus
Crashes into us
To die by your side
Is such a heavenly way to die
And if a ten ton truck
Kills the both of us
To die by your side
Well the pleasure, the privilege is mine
Take me out tonight
Take me anywhere, I don't care
I don't care, I don't care
And in the darkened underpass
I thought Oh God, my chance has come at last
But then a strange fear gripped me
And I just couldn't ask
Take me out tonight
Oh take me anywhere, I don't care
I don't care, I don't care
Driving in your car
I never never want to go home
Because I haven't got one
No, I haven't got one
And if a double-decker bus
Crashes in to us
To die by your side
Is such a heavenly way to die
And if a ten ton truck
Kills the both of us
To die by your side
Well the pleasure, the privilege is mine
There is a light that never goes out
There is a light that never goes out
There is a light that never goes out
There is a light that never goes out
Where there's music and there's people
Who are young and alive
Driving in your car
I never never want to go home
Because I haven't got one anymore
Take me out tonight
Because I want to see people
And I want to see life
Driving in your car
Oh please don't drop me home
Because it's not my home, it's their home
And I'm welcome no more
And if a double-decker bus
Crashes into us
To die by your side
Is such a heavenly way to die
And if a ten ton truck
Kills the both of us
To die by your side
Well the pleasure, the privilege is mine
Take me out tonight
Take me anywhere, I don't care
I don't care, I don't care
And in the darkened underpass
I thought Oh God, my chance has come at last
But then a strange fear gripped me
And I just couldn't ask
Take me out tonight
Oh take me anywhere, I don't care
I don't care, I don't care
Driving in your car
I never never want to go home
Because I haven't got one
No, I haven't got one
And if a double-decker bus
Crashes in to us
To die by your side
Is such a heavenly way to die
And if a ten ton truck
Kills the both of us
To die by your side
Well the pleasure, the privilege is mine
There is a light that never goes out
There is a light that never goes out
There is a light that never goes out
There is a light that never goes out
Wings on a flightless bird, eyes on a blind fish, and sexual organs on a flower that reproduces asexually—the casual observer might ask, what’s the point? But these vestigial organs and structures, once useful in an ancestor and now diminished in size, complexity, and/or utility, carry important information and give us clues to our evolutionary past.
Though humans often think of vestigial organs as useless little fixtures that sometimes, as in the case of the appendix, cause us extreme anguish, we wouldn’t know nearly as much about macroevolution as we do now without their presence. In On the Origin of Species, Charles Darwin used vestigial organs as evidence for evolution, and their presence has helped define and shape our phylogenetic trees.
Why the Leftovers?
Contrary to what most think, vestigial doesn’t necessarily mean useless; in some cases, we may just not yet know exactly how the organ is used in its current incarnation. (The human thymus was once thought to be vestigial). Because these structures can be traced back through the ancestors, they essentially serve as a marker of evolution; no organism can have a vestigial organ that hasn’t been found in its forefathers. For this reason, you won’t ever find feathers on a mammal or gills on a primate.
Similar in concept to vestigial structures are atavisms, which are the reappearance of a structure or trait that isn’t found in the immediate ancestors. For instance, whales and dolphins have been found in nature with hind limbs; this rare occurrence is due to the reemergence of a trait they inherited from their terrestrial ancestors.
Humans also contain structures that mark where we came from and perhaps, which structures’ evolution will take care of over time.
Human Tail (Bone)
Wisdom Teeth
Appendix
While appendicitis can be a potentially fatal condition, and removing the appendix has no adverse effects, some researchers think that the appendix might have an auxiliary function, such as aiding the immune system.
Vitamin C Synthesis
Male Nipples
Goose Bumps
Vomeronasal Organs (VNOs)
There are other vestigial and atavistic structures in humans, especially when you consider the potential leftovers in our genomes. And if they don’t require too much energy or resources to make, chances are they’ll stick with us for the long haul.
(taken from DivineCaroline)
Being human, we are subjected to a numerous of feelings of obsessions over certain things. We started at very young age, where we craved about a lot of things. When we were toddlers, we craved about toys. I remembered when I was small, I always wanted to own a set of Optimus Prime, completed with its trailer and stuff. I never got it until now, but I remembered it well as it is one of my earliest craving for stuff. Then it was Tamiya, where I always dreamed about having the best one around. I did owned a few back then, but never did I customised it to the extend it didn't look like the original model.
I remembered the first time I wanted to own a pair of football boots, after seeing my friends using them while football and hockey practice. I remembered looking at the field and observing the imprints of the studs of the boots being marked clearly on the field. At that moment, I tell myself that one of these days, my boots will leave the same markings on this field. My first boots was really a humble one. My father bought me a Fung Keong boots. I don't know if you have heard this brand, but it existed. Don't know if they are still around. Imagine a black Pallas Jazz shoe with rubber studs below; that is Fung Keong. It wasn't pretty, but I am really proud of that boots. I remembered kicking a ball for the first time using that boots. The feeling was amazing. As a kid, I felt like for the first time, I achieved something. Good times.
During my early teens, my tendencies of owning a particular thing have shifted along a new set of things. Toys are no longer in my mind. I started to obsessed about things that have anything to do with music. I began obsessing about guitars. I started going to gigs and imagining myself to be on the stage, rocking the hell out of my strings. I never got to buy a guitar at that time, as my farther was strongly opposing it. In fact, I only got my first guitar about 10 years later, during my tertiary studies, as a gift from my brother; an acoustic Santa Cruz. The feeling was mutual. I went into the guitar shop, and there she was. Ready to be plucked. Ready to be held in my arms. It was like love at first sight. I remembered plucking it for the first time. The tunes stuck on me for a very long time. She's still here now. Beautiful and amazing as always.
I remembered the first thing I bought with my very first paycheck, working as a Customer Service Assistant in Caltex Section 3, Shah Alam. I always wanted to buy a watch. As I am quite an outdoor person, a strong and reliable watch comes to mind. Then I saw it; a G-Shock watch. That is the very first thing I bought with my very first paycheck. And it's a damn good watch as well. I rarely get it off my wrist. In fact, I only took it off while bathing. It followed me while I camping, swimming, playing sports, jogging, even sleeping. I even wore it when I climbed my first mountain in Cameroon Highlands. I still own it, although the strap is broken. I am going to fix it.
Until now, the feeling of craving and obsessions are still a big part of my life. I know, we are all trained to be consumers, working jobs we hate so that we can buy something we don't need. I know that. But shit, the feelings of owning something you truly desire are overwhelming, satisfying your obsession, lighting up your day, making life worth living. Okay, I'm exaggerating. You get the idea.
Why am I writing this? Two reasons; Firstly, this is the entry that came across my mind today, about the whole consumerism and male obsession thing. Secondly, I just bought something that is truly something I desire and obsess about for many a years. Something I learned about thoroughly, and understand the mechanism behind it. Something I always wanted to own, but somehow just didn't happen.
I bought a Zippo.
I know, I know. Some of you might be thinking, "What the fuck? A Zippo? That's it? You have been obsessing about a Zippo?" You might be thinking that I only have the right to brag if I bought an iPhone, or a Macbook, or an Ed Hardy original t-shirt, or a BMW. Doesn't matter to me. I don't desire those things. Never even think about thinking to own them. Except for the BMW. But that is a totally different thing. I obsess about Zippo, ever since I started smoking in 2003. I see it more than just a smoking paraphernalia. I see it as a collector's item. Something to be very proud of. Everything about it captivates me. Every markings, the sound it makes when the top is fling open, the flame it produces, the maintenance aspects, the shine of its finish, everything. I even watched videos on interesting ways to light the Zippo. I just love that thing. And I am very proud that I can finally own one.
Big deal, you say? Well, I don't really care what you think. All I care about, is that I finally own something I crave for, something I obsess about. I have satisfied my male obsession for now.
The feeling I get when I light my first cigarette using my own Zippo?
Simply exquisite, out of this world experience.
I remembered the first time I wanted to own a pair of football boots, after seeing my friends using them while football and hockey practice. I remembered looking at the field and observing the imprints of the studs of the boots being marked clearly on the field. At that moment, I tell myself that one of these days, my boots will leave the same markings on this field. My first boots was really a humble one. My father bought me a Fung Keong boots. I don't know if you have heard this brand, but it existed. Don't know if they are still around. Imagine a black Pallas Jazz shoe with rubber studs below; that is Fung Keong. It wasn't pretty, but I am really proud of that boots. I remembered kicking a ball for the first time using that boots. The feeling was amazing. As a kid, I felt like for the first time, I achieved something. Good times.
During my early teens, my tendencies of owning a particular thing have shifted along a new set of things. Toys are no longer in my mind. I started to obsessed about things that have anything to do with music. I began obsessing about guitars. I started going to gigs and imagining myself to be on the stage, rocking the hell out of my strings. I never got to buy a guitar at that time, as my farther was strongly opposing it. In fact, I only got my first guitar about 10 years later, during my tertiary studies, as a gift from my brother; an acoustic Santa Cruz. The feeling was mutual. I went into the guitar shop, and there she was. Ready to be plucked. Ready to be held in my arms. It was like love at first sight. I remembered plucking it for the first time. The tunes stuck on me for a very long time. She's still here now. Beautiful and amazing as always.
I remembered the first thing I bought with my very first paycheck, working as a Customer Service Assistant in Caltex Section 3, Shah Alam. I always wanted to buy a watch. As I am quite an outdoor person, a strong and reliable watch comes to mind. Then I saw it; a G-Shock watch. That is the very first thing I bought with my very first paycheck. And it's a damn good watch as well. I rarely get it off my wrist. In fact, I only took it off while bathing. It followed me while I camping, swimming, playing sports, jogging, even sleeping. I even wore it when I climbed my first mountain in Cameroon Highlands. I still own it, although the strap is broken. I am going to fix it.
Until now, the feeling of craving and obsessions are still a big part of my life. I know, we are all trained to be consumers, working jobs we hate so that we can buy something we don't need. I know that. But shit, the feelings of owning something you truly desire are overwhelming, satisfying your obsession, lighting up your day, making life worth living. Okay, I'm exaggerating. You get the idea.
Why am I writing this? Two reasons; Firstly, this is the entry that came across my mind today, about the whole consumerism and male obsession thing. Secondly, I just bought something that is truly something I desire and obsess about for many a years. Something I learned about thoroughly, and understand the mechanism behind it. Something I always wanted to own, but somehow just didn't happen.
I bought a Zippo.
I know, I know. Some of you might be thinking, "What the fuck? A Zippo? That's it? You have been obsessing about a Zippo?" You might be thinking that I only have the right to brag if I bought an iPhone, or a Macbook, or an Ed Hardy original t-shirt, or a BMW. Doesn't matter to me. I don't desire those things. Never even think about thinking to own them. Except for the BMW. But that is a totally different thing. I obsess about Zippo, ever since I started smoking in 2003. I see it more than just a smoking paraphernalia. I see it as a collector's item. Something to be very proud of. Everything about it captivates me. Every markings, the sound it makes when the top is fling open, the flame it produces, the maintenance aspects, the shine of its finish, everything. I even watched videos on interesting ways to light the Zippo. I just love that thing. And I am very proud that I can finally own one.
Big deal, you say? Well, I don't really care what you think. All I care about, is that I finally own something I crave for, something I obsess about. I have satisfied my male obsession for now.
The feeling I get when I light my first cigarette using my own Zippo?
Simply exquisite, out of this world experience.
I listen to this...just because.
I miss her.
I'm only pretty sure that I can't take anymore
Before you take a swing
I wonder
What are we fighting for
When I say out loud
I want to get out of this
I wonder
Is there anything I'm going to miss
I wonder How it's going to be
When you don't know me
How's it going to be
When you're sure I'm not there
How's it going to be
When there is no one to talk to, between you and me
'Cause I don't care
How's it going to be
How's it going to be
Where we used to laugh
There's a shouting match
Sharp as a thumbnail scratch
A silence I can't ignore
Like...
The hammocks by the doorway we spent time in
Swings empty, don't see lightning like last fall when it was always
about to hit
me
I wonder how's it going to be when it goes down
Hows it going to be
When your not around
Hows it going to be
When you found out there was nothing
Between you and me
'Cause I don't care
How's it going to be.
Hows it going to be
When you don't know me any more
And how's it going to be
Want to get myself back in again
The soft dive of oblivian
Wanna taste the soul of your skin
The soft dive of oblivian
Oblivian
How's it going to be
When you don't know me any more
How's it going to be
How's it going to be
I miss her.
I'm only pretty sure that I can't take anymore
Before you take a swing
I wonder
What are we fighting for
When I say out loud
I want to get out of this
I wonder
Is there anything I'm going to miss
I wonder How it's going to be
When you don't know me
How's it going to be
When you're sure I'm not there
How's it going to be
When there is no one to talk to, between you and me
'Cause I don't care
How's it going to be
How's it going to be
Where we used to laugh
There's a shouting match
Sharp as a thumbnail scratch
A silence I can't ignore
Like...
The hammocks by the doorway we spent time in
Swings empty, don't see lightning like last fall when it was always
about to hit
me
I wonder how's it going to be when it goes down
Hows it going to be
When your not around
Hows it going to be
When you found out there was nothing
Between you and me
'Cause I don't care
How's it going to be.
Hows it going to be
When you don't know me any more
And how's it going to be
Want to get myself back in again
The soft dive of oblivian
Wanna taste the soul of your skin
The soft dive of oblivian
Oblivian
How's it going to be
When you don't know me any more
How's it going to be
How's it going to be
Reminiscences can either be a bliss or a bitch.
It's up to your perception, how do you want to perceive it.
No matter what, embrace it.
It's your life. You are at the helm.
Lift the anchor, and set sail.
Bon voyage.
I'm outta here.
It's up to your perception, how do you want to perceive it.
No matter what, embrace it.
It's your life. You are at the helm.
Lift the anchor, and set sail.
Bon voyage.
I'm outta here.
I like my coffee hot and strong.
I like my chocolate dark and bitter.
I like my food to be spicy.
I like listening to loud music.
I like to keep my emotions to myself.
I like to walk.
I like natural remedies.
I like to smoke.
I haven't sleep in two days.
What's up with you?
I like my chocolate dark and bitter.
I like my food to be spicy.
I like listening to loud music.
I like to keep my emotions to myself.
I like to walk.
I like natural remedies.
I like to smoke.
I haven't sleep in two days.
What's up with you?
The very basis step to resolve arguments between two parties over a certain aspect of business activities, is determining whether there is a valid contract between those two parties.
In Sri Kajang Rock Products Sdn Bhd vs Mayban Finance Bhd (1992), Justice VC George stated that:
In Sri Kajang Rock Products Sdn Bhd vs Mayban Finance Bhd (1992), Justice VC George stated that:
"To constitute a valid contract,
there must be a separate and definite parties thereto,
those parties must be in agreement,
that is, there must be consensus ad idem,
those parties must intend to create legal relations
in the sense that the promises of each sides are to be enforceable
simply because they are contractual promises
and the promises of each party must be supported by consideration."
Under the Malaysia Contracts Act 1950, Section 10(1) stated 'all agreements are contracts if they are made by the free consent of parties competent to contract, for a lawful consideration and with a lawful object, and are not hereby expressly declared to be void'. The term 'free consent' is later defined in Section 13, which stated that 'two or more persons are said to consent when they agree upon the same thing in the same sense'. The intentions to create legal relations point to the intention of getting into legal enforceability after an offer or proposal is to be accepted, hence creating a situation where the parties involved can either sue or be sued. The effect of this is stated in Section 2(h), where 'an agreement enforceable by law is a contract'. In the last line of Justice VC George verdict, the term consideration is defined in Section 2(d), where 'when, at the desire of the promisor, the promisee or any other person has done or abstained from doing, or does or abstains from doing, or promises to do or to abstain from doing, something, such act or abstinence or promise is called a consideration for the promise'.
there must be a separate and definite parties thereto,
those parties must be in agreement,
that is, there must be consensus ad idem,
those parties must intend to create legal relations
in the sense that the promises of each sides are to be enforceable
simply because they are contractual promises
and the promises of each party must be supported by consideration."
Under the Malaysia Contracts Act 1950, Section 10(1) stated 'all agreements are contracts if they are made by the free consent of parties competent to contract, for a lawful consideration and with a lawful object, and are not hereby expressly declared to be void'. The term 'free consent' is later defined in Section 13, which stated that 'two or more persons are said to consent when they agree upon the same thing in the same sense'. The intentions to create legal relations point to the intention of getting into legal enforceability after an offer or proposal is to be accepted, hence creating a situation where the parties involved can either sue or be sued. The effect of this is stated in Section 2(h), where 'an agreement enforceable by law is a contract'. In the last line of Justice VC George verdict, the term consideration is defined in Section 2(d), where 'when, at the desire of the promisor, the promisee or any other person has done or abstained from doing, or does or abstains from doing, or promises to do or to abstain from doing, something, such act or abstinence or promise is called a consideration for the promise'.
Something dawned upon me today. Just now. In class.
I'm taking the ACCA's F5 paper this semester - Performance Management.
In class today, I was given a question on the topic 'Make or Buy Decision'. The requirement of the question is pretty simple - determine whether a company should make a certain product by themselves or to buy it from a third party. Both of the options have their own pros and cons. The goal of the exercise is simple, maximise profit.
Upon calculations, I have determined that buying the product from the third party will be more profitable compared to making it, as the contribution per unit is much higher. Therefore, I chose that option for my final answer. As a result, that company will forgo 72 people from its production line as they were no longer needed to make the product. A redundancy of $4000 is paid to each of them as a compensation for such action. With that, the company can increase its profit by 37.56% compared to the previous year. I get the answer correct, and my analysis is spot on.
Then, this occurred to me - by making calculations within 15 minutes, I have come to the conclusion that I will fire 72 people from the company. In order to maximise profit. Those 72 people's fate is in my hand for 15 minutes, and eventually I decided to let them go. Even though a compensation will be given, it is still quite terrifying. Although this was only an example, I'm beginning to think what accountants can do in real life. Simply cutting workers to maximise profit. Within 15 minutes. I know there a lot more considerations that will be put before making such decisions. But still, it can and must be done to ensure the company meet such objectives.
It's scary.
For this, I believe that The Godfather says it the best
"It's not personal. It's only business"
I'm taking the ACCA's F5 paper this semester - Performance Management.
In class today, I was given a question on the topic 'Make or Buy Decision'. The requirement of the question is pretty simple - determine whether a company should make a certain product by themselves or to buy it from a third party. Both of the options have their own pros and cons. The goal of the exercise is simple, maximise profit.
Upon calculations, I have determined that buying the product from the third party will be more profitable compared to making it, as the contribution per unit is much higher. Therefore, I chose that option for my final answer. As a result, that company will forgo 72 people from its production line as they were no longer needed to make the product. A redundancy of $4000 is paid to each of them as a compensation for such action. With that, the company can increase its profit by 37.56% compared to the previous year. I get the answer correct, and my analysis is spot on.
Then, this occurred to me - by making calculations within 15 minutes, I have come to the conclusion that I will fire 72 people from the company. In order to maximise profit. Those 72 people's fate is in my hand for 15 minutes, and eventually I decided to let them go. Even though a compensation will be given, it is still quite terrifying. Although this was only an example, I'm beginning to think what accountants can do in real life. Simply cutting workers to maximise profit. Within 15 minutes. I know there a lot more considerations that will be put before making such decisions. But still, it can and must be done to ensure the company meet such objectives.
It's scary.
For this, I believe that The Godfather says it the best
"It's not personal. It's only business"
Aku teringat satu kisah, masa zaman aku sekolah menengah dulu. Time tu aku form 2. Aku dengan member aku dipanggil ke bilik penyelia petang. Aku sebab rambut panjang, member aku sebab kantoi hisap rokok kat toilet.
Mak bapak member aku tu kena datang. Mak bapak aku takyah. Apalah sangat rambut panjang. Paling koman pun ade sesi potong rambut tepi bangunan sekolah. Si tukang gunting rambut tu tak lain tak bukan penyelia petang aku sendiri. Cis.
Masa mak bapak member aku tu sampai, aku dok kat luar bilik penyelia. Tengah tunggu turn. Aku pun curi dengar perbincangan dorang kat dalam bilik.
Penyelia: Anak encik ni ditangkap merokok di dalam toilet sekolah. Ini adalah kes yang serius. Saya tidak ingin bawa kes ini ke atas kerana akan menyusahkan anak encik.
Bapa: La, saya tak tahu pula anak saya ni hisap rokok. Lepas ni boleh la saya pow dia je.
Sumpah benda ni jadi. Aku tak tipu. Seingat aku, suasana dalam bilik tu sunyi sepi untuk beberapa minit.
Reaksi aku? Aku cuma berdekah je.
Dua tiga hari lepas tu, aku nampak member aku ni merokok dengan bapak dia dalam kereta sebelum masuk sekolah. Siap dengan mak dia sekali merokok.
Betul-betul nampak macam iklan 'Keluarga Bahagia'
Mak bapak member aku tu kena datang. Mak bapak aku takyah. Apalah sangat rambut panjang. Paling koman pun ade sesi potong rambut tepi bangunan sekolah. Si tukang gunting rambut tu tak lain tak bukan penyelia petang aku sendiri. Cis.
Masa mak bapak member aku tu sampai, aku dok kat luar bilik penyelia. Tengah tunggu turn. Aku pun curi dengar perbincangan dorang kat dalam bilik.
Penyelia: Anak encik ni ditangkap merokok di dalam toilet sekolah. Ini adalah kes yang serius. Saya tidak ingin bawa kes ini ke atas kerana akan menyusahkan anak encik.
Bapa: La, saya tak tahu pula anak saya ni hisap rokok. Lepas ni boleh la saya pow dia je.
Sumpah benda ni jadi. Aku tak tipu. Seingat aku, suasana dalam bilik tu sunyi sepi untuk beberapa minit.
Reaksi aku? Aku cuma berdekah je.
Dua tiga hari lepas tu, aku nampak member aku ni merokok dengan bapak dia dalam kereta sebelum masuk sekolah. Siap dengan mak dia sekali merokok.
Betul-betul nampak macam iklan 'Keluarga Bahagia'
I never thought parting with a car can be so emotional.
It did. As I did. Just now.
The car, Proton Iswara Aeroback, has been with us for about 12 years now. It has been a faithful and loyal car to us, especially to my siblings. My sister was trained to drive with that car. So did I. My father will let us drove around the neighbourhood, while teaching us the proper way to drive, with that car. It has been very patience with us, especially when we just started learning. All the screeching and ramming. All the sudden brakes and near misses. It stood by, and guide us all the way.
We had a few accidents along the way with it. Nothing serious, just some dents. The colour of the car is still vibrant, with no signs of aging, minus a few rusty area here and there. The fuel inside the car was seldom full. Most of the time, the meter will show only a quarter of fuel left. Yet, as we become very familiar with the car, we know its limits and capabilities. More often than not, we pushed it to the limits, to the extend that we nearly ran out of gas. But it persevered, and it drives on.
I personally become very intimate with the car. Yes, I do talked to it sometimes. It became alive to us. My sister even gave it a name.
And now it must go. A new car is coming in, and it has became too old. My father wanted to sell it quickly before the value become even lower. Today it ran its final trip with us, and I have the honour of driving it for the last time.
This is my appreciation to the car.
Thank you Roxy.
Thank you for your service and your loyalty.
We love you.
It did. As I did. Just now.
The car, Proton Iswara Aeroback, has been with us for about 12 years now. It has been a faithful and loyal car to us, especially to my siblings. My sister was trained to drive with that car. So did I. My father will let us drove around the neighbourhood, while teaching us the proper way to drive, with that car. It has been very patience with us, especially when we just started learning. All the screeching and ramming. All the sudden brakes and near misses. It stood by, and guide us all the way.
We had a few accidents along the way with it. Nothing serious, just some dents. The colour of the car is still vibrant, with no signs of aging, minus a few rusty area here and there. The fuel inside the car was seldom full. Most of the time, the meter will show only a quarter of fuel left. Yet, as we become very familiar with the car, we know its limits and capabilities. More often than not, we pushed it to the limits, to the extend that we nearly ran out of gas. But it persevered, and it drives on.
I personally become very intimate with the car. Yes, I do talked to it sometimes. It became alive to us. My sister even gave it a name.
And now it must go. A new car is coming in, and it has became too old. My father wanted to sell it quickly before the value become even lower. Today it ran its final trip with us, and I have the honour of driving it for the last time.
This is my appreciation to the car.
Thank you Roxy.
Thank you for your service and your loyalty.
We love you.
| O Fortuna | O Fortune, |
| velut luna | like the moon |
| statu variabilis, | you are changeable, |
| semper crescis | ever waxing |
| aut decrescis; | and waning; |
| vita detestabilis | hateful life |
| nunc obdurat | first oppresses |
| et tunc curat | and then soothes |
| ludo mentis aciem, | as fancy takes it; |
| egestatem, | poverty |
| potestatem | and power |
| dissolvit ut glaciem. | it melts them like ice. |
| Sors immanis | Fate - monstrous |
| et inanis, | and empty, |
| rota tu volubilis, | you whirling wheel, |
| status malus, | you are malevolent, |
| vana salus | well-being is vain |
| semper dissolubilis, | and always fades to nothing, |
| obumbrata | shadowed |
| et velata | and veiled |
| michi quoque niteris; | you plague me too; |
| nunc per ludum | now through the game |
| dorsum nudum | I bring my bare back |
| fero tui sceleris. | to your villainy. |
| Sors salutis | Fate is against me |
| et virtutis | in health |
| michi nunc contraria, | and virtue, |
| est affectus | driven on |
| et defectus | and weighted down, |
| semper in angaria. | always enslaved. |
| Hac in hora | So at this hour |
| sine mora | without delay |
| corde pulsum tangite; | pluck the vibrating strings; |
| quod per sortem | since Fate |
| sternit fortem, | strikes down the strong man, |
| mecum omnes plangite! | everyone weep with me! |
I came across something rather interesting today.
As I was making my way back to the car after the LRT ride from my college, I came across a young family; a parents which is in their early 30s, with their son which is about 3 or 4 years old, I guess. They were walking right next to me to the parking lot towards their car, which I later find out was parked right next to me.
They seemed like a very loving family. The father was carrying his child in his arm, while racing with the mother towards, laughing and cheering all the way. The small boy was laughing too, cheering for his mom who is way, way back. They were all laughing all the time, with a big smile on their faces.
It turns out to be that the mother is the one who will doing the driving, while the father and the boy sat on the passenger seat, still laughing from their small and happy race. I thought to myself, what a beautiful sight, to see a family as happy and as loving as this.
Then, the father, with the boy still sitting on his, light up his cigarette and start puffing away. While the boy is sitting right on his lap, right in front on his face.
I am disgusted.
All the beautiful moments were gone by now.
As I was making my way back to the car after the LRT ride from my college, I came across a young family; a parents which is in their early 30s, with their son which is about 3 or 4 years old, I guess. They were walking right next to me to the parking lot towards their car, which I later find out was parked right next to me.
They seemed like a very loving family. The father was carrying his child in his arm, while racing with the mother towards, laughing and cheering all the way. The small boy was laughing too, cheering for his mom who is way, way back. They were all laughing all the time, with a big smile on their faces.
It turns out to be that the mother is the one who will doing the driving, while the father and the boy sat on the passenger seat, still laughing from their small and happy race. I thought to myself, what a beautiful sight, to see a family as happy and as loving as this.
Then, the father, with the boy still sitting on his, light up his cigarette and start puffing away. While the boy is sitting right on his lap, right in front on his face.
I am disgusted.
All the beautiful moments were gone by now.
To whom it may concern.
I haven't been writing for quite some time now. The last post, the things about the effects of terrorism, is being posted just because I saw that there are no other postings in the month of April. So, I posted that article, the one I did previously for a good friend of mine, well, just because. I'm kind of proud of that one.
I've been admitted into the training group set up by my lecturer for F2 paper in ACCA. I'm proud of that. I am. After 5 years in Mechanical Engineering, this is the only time where I felt that I am achieving something in my studies, that I am actually going somewhere. Inside the group, we, me and my three groupmates, are being blasted with tonnes of questions, to be completed and presented in the end of the week. The questions are far beyond the expectations of the ones inthe actual F2 exams. It's far more harder, trickier, and need to be presented in an essay form, not the usual Multiple Choice Question (MCQ). It's a good exercise; practicing on a far more harder question, before attempting on the real thing. But it is damn hard, and really time consuming. My sister is getting married in 1 month time, so all the preparations will have to be completed prior to that date. The group's discussion is on at least twice a week, classes are now twice a week, revision classes are getting nearer and clashes with my sister's wedding, and exam is just around the corner. I needed composure to get through this month-of-hell.
My workload is getting heavier. It's predicted. During the final month of study, students will now realize that there are assignments to be done, reports to be completed, thesis to be submitted. And they all turns to me now. But the workload is so overwhelming, I have to decline almost half of the clients. I am truly sorry about that. But there is nothing I can do. There are priorities. I am abide to them.
I am getting less and less exercise nowadays. No more futsal on Tuesday, my team is no longer playing frequently on weekends, and I am no longer jogging around my neighbourhood every morning. I have been eating a lot too, with no regards of its content and nutritional value. And no particular regards to my skin condition. I am itching like hell right now. Shit.
Football? Man Utd still got the chance. If they don't win it, it's expected. Simple as that.
But really, does anyone really cares for this shit?
Thank you if you do.
Signing off.
I haven't been writing for quite some time now. The last post, the things about the effects of terrorism, is being posted just because I saw that there are no other postings in the month of April. So, I posted that article, the one I did previously for a good friend of mine, well, just because. I'm kind of proud of that one.
I've been admitted into the training group set up by my lecturer for F2 paper in ACCA. I'm proud of that. I am. After 5 years in Mechanical Engineering, this is the only time where I felt that I am achieving something in my studies, that I am actually going somewhere. Inside the group, we, me and my three groupmates, are being blasted with tonnes of questions, to be completed and presented in the end of the week. The questions are far beyond the expectations of the ones inthe actual F2 exams. It's far more harder, trickier, and need to be presented in an essay form, not the usual Multiple Choice Question (MCQ). It's a good exercise; practicing on a far more harder question, before attempting on the real thing. But it is damn hard, and really time consuming. My sister is getting married in 1 month time, so all the preparations will have to be completed prior to that date. The group's discussion is on at least twice a week, classes are now twice a week, revision classes are getting nearer and clashes with my sister's wedding, and exam is just around the corner. I needed composure to get through this month-of-hell.
My workload is getting heavier. It's predicted. During the final month of study, students will now realize that there are assignments to be done, reports to be completed, thesis to be submitted. And they all turns to me now. But the workload is so overwhelming, I have to decline almost half of the clients. I am truly sorry about that. But there is nothing I can do. There are priorities. I am abide to them.
I am getting less and less exercise nowadays. No more futsal on Tuesday, my team is no longer playing frequently on weekends, and I am no longer jogging around my neighbourhood every morning. I have been eating a lot too, with no regards of its content and nutritional value. And no particular regards to my skin condition. I am itching like hell right now. Shit.
Football? Man Utd still got the chance. If they don't win it, it's expected. Simple as that.
But really, does anyone really cares for this shit?
Thank you if you do.
Signing off.
Ever since the 9/11 attack which took place in New York City, America in 2001, the world is never the same again. Since then, more and more terrorists’ actions are being reported throughout the world, almost on a daily basis. Following the unfortunate and deliberate action by the terrorists, people’s fear on such occurrences has increased twice fold. This, in return, has changed the world’s perceptions on such activity. Two major wars, for example, have broken out under the Bush administration, resulting in a massive death toll suffered by either side. Securities have been tightened, and more people are losing their liberty and freedom due to it. Furthermore, such incidents have truly affected the overall world’s hotel and tourism industry, which showed significant downfall due to acts of terrorism. ISHC (2004) has referred to the terrorism act as one of the top ten global issues and challenges in the hospitality industry.
Francesco Frangialli, the Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), was cited as saying that “unprecedented and brutal act of terrorism is likely to have profoundly negative consequences for domestic and international tourism” and characterized terrorism as "an enemy of peace and tourism”. Such allegations truly have truth in it. Graham Miller of University of Westminster in London stated that tourism is the world’s number one industry, and the services are reliant on people’s safety and security, either physically or financial. Both, however, are threatened by terrorisms. The tourism industry generates substantial economic benefits to both host countries and tourists' home countries. The main benefits of tourism to a country are foreign exchange earnings, tax revenues, business opportunities for budding entrepreneurs, and employment for workers in the industry. According to the UNWTO, tourism is one of the top five export categories for as many as 83% of countries and is the main source of foreign exchange earnings for at least 38% of countries, while the World Travel and Tourism Council estimates that tax contributions related to tourism worldwide were US $800 billion in 1998. The hotel accommodation sector alone provided around 11.3 million jobs worldwide in 1995, according to the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP), with UNWTO estimates that tourism represents 7% of jobs worldwide. According to UNWTO in 2009, the worldwide contribution of tourism to gross domestic product (GDP) is estimated at some 5%. Tourism’s contribution to employment tends to be slightly higher and is estimated in the order of 6-7% of the overall number of direct and indirect jobs. However, terrorisms’ act will certainly play a huge role in diminishing such figures as it can bring the whole industry down. Goss (2003) has cited Marvin Cetron, stating that “The economy is like an 800-pound gorilla. When it is down, hospitality is one of the first sectors to be hit,” Post 9/11 showed that the economy stalled and fear of further terrorist acts sent travel and tourism into a nosedive, reducing occupancy rates at hotels such in New York City to around 40 percent. Even usually recession-proof destinations like Washington, Orlando and Las Vegas saw sharp and lasting declines in business and leisure travel. The adverse effect of terrorism towards the hotel and tourism can also be seen in Egypt, where a terrorist attack targeting visitors to the Temple of Hatshepsut in Luxor, threw Egypt's tourism industry into turmoil. Visitor arrivals to Egypt declined by 13.8 per cent from 1997 to 1998, and Egypt's international tourism receipts decreased by 45.4 per cent in 1998 compared to 1997.
Marvin Cetron (2006) has cited Demicco and Fannin, in stating five measures and solutions that can be taken by hotel industry to overcome such effects. First of all, hotel’s managements should change the norm perception that beefing up hotel’s security will affect the brand name and price of the hotel. This is not true as today’s consumer considers safety to be among the most important factors when selecting a hotel. Secondly, hotels should create a culture shift from a culture of liability paranoia to one obsessed with guest and employee safety. Hotels should also refer to credible sources when assessing terrorist threats in their hotels. For example, in America, the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) provide standards such as NFPA 1600 for national emergency preparedness and business continuity and NFPA 730-2006, which is designed to reduce security vulnerabilities to life and property. Apart from that, management should perform pre-employment background checks and develop comprehensive site security/emergency management plans based upon a security vulnerability assessment. Systematic risk assessment must also be regarded as mandatory and its function should be continuous in the hotel.
Aku suka tengok Astro channel 707. Discovery Travel and Living. Setiap kali aku buka tv, mesti aku akan tengok channel tu dulu. Suka tengok tempat orang lain. Ye la, nak pergi xde duit. Sekadar tengok kat tv pun orait la kan.
Tadi, seperti biasa, aku buka tv, aku tekan 707. Tengok info, cerita pasal food kat Kuala Lumpur. Aku pun seronok la tengok. 1 dunia tengok apa orang Kuala Lumpur makan, bangga gak.
Pengacara dia perempuan. Datang kat satu restoran ni. Aku tengok agak exclusive tempat dia. Cam 5 star restaurant. Agak style. Kompem sorang mau dekat rm30.
So pengacara ni pun pergi la kat kitchen. Dia pun introduce chef kat kitchen tu sebagai 'a renowned chef in Malay cooking'. Tersengih-sengih chef Melayu tu kena puji camtu.
Pastu pengacara tu tanya,"What makes you choose Malay food as your primary cooking?" (lebih kurang la ayat dia)
Chef tu pun jawab,"Because I is Malay."
Terus aku tukar channel.
Tadi, seperti biasa, aku buka tv, aku tekan 707. Tengok info, cerita pasal food kat Kuala Lumpur. Aku pun seronok la tengok. 1 dunia tengok apa orang Kuala Lumpur makan, bangga gak.
Pengacara dia perempuan. Datang kat satu restoran ni. Aku tengok agak exclusive tempat dia. Cam 5 star restaurant. Agak style. Kompem sorang mau dekat rm30.
So pengacara ni pun pergi la kat kitchen. Dia pun introduce chef kat kitchen tu sebagai 'a renowned chef in Malay cooking'. Tersengih-sengih chef Melayu tu kena puji camtu.
Pastu pengacara tu tanya,"What makes you choose Malay food as your primary cooking?" (lebih kurang la ayat dia)
Chef tu pun jawab,"Because I is Malay."
Terus aku tukar channel.
What happens when you mustered all your passion, your love, your wisdom, and put it into about 1 minute and 15 seconds of tune?
You get what Slash did when he get on that piano.
From the first I heard it right up until now, it still makes the hair on my neck stand.
Giving credit where credit is due.
You get what Slash did when he get on that piano.
From the first I heard it right up until now, it still makes the hair on my neck stand.
Giving credit where credit is due.
Silence is golden.
When we're younger, teachers tried to instill this into us. Heck, my class even cut out this phrase from a manila card and paste it on the wall. That time, I always thought it was just a mean to keep us quiet. You know how primary students can drive you up the wall. Shut up and learn; that's the whole point.
But nowadays, I see the phrase in a total different way.
Achieving silence is hard nowadays. No, I am referring to a situation where everyone keeps their mouth shut. I referring to the moment where you feel at peace, solitary, calm. Where you can just shut any sounds from outside and be at peace with yourself. Where you can hear yourself think. Where you and your mind are being left alone without any external sources. Where you can just inhale and be at peace. Where you are at the centre of the universe.
Peace, solitary, calm.
No sound, no pressure, no yapping, no nagging, no honking.
Nothing.
Finding peace and quiet is hard. Many people find other alternative to seek such grail. Putting a mute on everything will not do any good. The problems and constant irritation will not go away. Trust me. I tried.
Music gives me that. The euphoria I get when I play my guitar is so overwhelming. Anyone who are really passionate about guitar will say the same thing to you. There are moments when you start playing, and somehow the energy from it flows into you. You are then lost in the oblivion. You can somehow close your eyes and feels the power of the tune. Ever seen the expression on any guitarist when they are playing? That cannot be faked. For some reason, that power becomes one with your soul, and your emotions and actions are determined by it. The euphoria. The tingling sensation. The mojo. Your mojo.
And for that brief period of moment, I achieve absolute silence.
Absolute peace, solitary, calm.
And it's worth it, every single second of it.
It is golden.
When we're younger, teachers tried to instill this into us. Heck, my class even cut out this phrase from a manila card and paste it on the wall. That time, I always thought it was just a mean to keep us quiet. You know how primary students can drive you up the wall. Shut up and learn; that's the whole point.
But nowadays, I see the phrase in a total different way.
Achieving silence is hard nowadays. No, I am referring to a situation where everyone keeps their mouth shut. I referring to the moment where you feel at peace, solitary, calm. Where you can just shut any sounds from outside and be at peace with yourself. Where you can hear yourself think. Where you and your mind are being left alone without any external sources. Where you can just inhale and be at peace. Where you are at the centre of the universe.
Peace, solitary, calm.
No sound, no pressure, no yapping, no nagging, no honking.
Nothing.
Finding peace and quiet is hard. Many people find other alternative to seek such grail. Putting a mute on everything will not do any good. The problems and constant irritation will not go away. Trust me. I tried.
Music gives me that. The euphoria I get when I play my guitar is so overwhelming. Anyone who are really passionate about guitar will say the same thing to you. There are moments when you start playing, and somehow the energy from it flows into you. You are then lost in the oblivion. You can somehow close your eyes and feels the power of the tune. Ever seen the expression on any guitarist when they are playing? That cannot be faked. For some reason, that power becomes one with your soul, and your emotions and actions are determined by it. The euphoria. The tingling sensation. The mojo. Your mojo.
And for that brief period of moment, I achieve absolute silence.
Absolute peace, solitary, calm.
And it's worth it, every single second of it.
It is golden.
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