Hi, Alex. It's Amy here. It has been close to a year since I last left you at the airport, and just about half an hour since we talked via Skype on the laptop they provided me here with. I admit that it took me a really long time to initiate that Skype call with you. I just.. couldn't muster up the strength and courage to pick myself up after the huge hit from Pam's sudden death. It just goes to show that life is really a fragile thing that should be treasured and made the most out of while you still have that precious time.
I actually had something really important to tell you just now, but somehow the moment never felt right. By the time you read this letter, I'm sure you would have already known that I'm about to undergo a surgery in less than 24 hours time. To be precise, a surgical clinical trial. I don't know for sure what the outcome will turn out to be, and neither do the top surgeons all over the world.
Just in case I wouldn't have the chance to say all these to you in the future, I'm just going to jot them all down in this letter and hope that I can make the words flow as smoothly as possible. You know me and papers; I'm such a lazy pig that I hate thinking of things to write. For starters, I will just write about all the memories passing by in my head right now.
I remember clearly how we started going out. I remember the time when I forced you to take an extra language class with me because I didn't want to be a loner in that class. I remember the time when you teased me because you got first in that very same class and me, third. I remember the time when I started having a crush on you, when I was just sweeping my eyes around the cafeteria and spotted you and my heart skipped a beat. I remember when you sat in front of me during tests and always turned around to talk to me between breaks. I remember when we were upset that we were separated to different classes the next semester. I remember when we reunited in the same class two semesters later. I remember when we went to a camp, where I got locked out of my room because I was in your room studying till past midnight, and I ended up going back to your room for the night. I remember when you asked me out on our first date, using the excuse of your friend not being able to make it for a late night movie. You were all nervous and sweaty as your friends hung around nonchalantly at the back, failing miserably to blend in with the non-existent crowd. I remember when that one date turned to two and then three and then countless more.
I remember when we drifted apart when I started dating Will. I remember when I was feeling down when I argued with Will but you came to my house and surprised me with a picnic basket groaning under the weight of all my favourite food. I remember when we had a dispute because you spent so much time on DotA and I hid your favourite gaming headphones because I was so mad at you. We didn't talk for days after that but you came to apologize with flowers and a cute teddy in hand. It was always you who apologized first, always you who conceded to me. I remember all the little things you did for me, those small touches that paint a smile on my face every time I think about you.
Our journey was definitely not the best, nor the smoothest sailing relationship out there, but all of these memories we created together were the best I could ever ask for. I sincerely thank you for all the memories you have given me. Those were the memories that can still make me laugh and yet, cry as I write this letter to you.
If this surgery succeeds, and I live, then good. You will never have to know about the existence of this letter. But if by chance this operation fails, I want you to continue living your life without me. Get a girlfriend. Propose to her. Start a new family. Get on with life.
As selfish as it sounds, I don't want you to forget about me. I want you to be able to look back upon our memories fondly, and improvise those failed plans you did for me for your next partner. Chase your dreams, no matter what others say to you. Open your own clinic. Be the most lovable, the kindest, the greatest doctor anyone has ever seen. Find a cure for my sickness. Because I have faith in you that you can do it.
As time passes by while I'm writing this letter, I can't help wishing that you were here next to me. But I'll stay strong and get through this surgery on my own. I'll be ready to greet you with outstretched arms once I'm all better, and then maybe this letter won't even be deemed important any more.
P.S. I hid your favourite DotA headphones at the back of the guest room cupboard. Just in case you wanted them back.
P.P.S. I love you.
Monday, 9 November 2015
Saturday, 29 August 2015
Literature- The Part That You Like The Most
The magnificently written
novel, 'Step by Wicked Step' written by Anne Fine, has its ups and down
throughout the story that instantly enraptured me and earned my liking for it,
I personally think that the most outstanding part in this novel is the tear-inducing
sentimental moment in Richard's story. I have mixed feelings about this part,
because there are certain sentences in the letter that has the potential to
make me chuckle with glee but also tear up.
Firstly, I was elated at the
part when Charlotte mentioned in her letter that Mr.Coldstone died of fury when
he found out that Richard is the owner of Old Harwick Hall. I felt that
Mr.Coldstone did not deserve the title of the owner of Old Hardwick Hall, because
he only married Richard's mother for her wealth and not sincere love. He knew
Richard's mother was lonely and needed a shoulder to lean on so he took
advantage of her during her point of weakness to marry her. Like Richard had
said, 'the black, black bat crept up on my mother and trapped her as surely as
if he'd thrown a net on her (PG19 P1) Mr.Coldstone was unwilling to spend
another penny on the search for Richard, and he threatened to abuse Lilith for
doing so. His harsh words still linger in Charlotte's mind as she illustrated
her letter forwarded to Richard. 'Lilith! Waste more of your dwindling fortune
on this folly and I will make you pay it for twice over!' (PG 27 P2)
In my most humble opinion, I
personally feel emotionally stirred by the plot where the writer revealed that
Richard Clayton Hardwick returned to his home twice. “I stood like a trespasser
in the shadow of the lime walk and watched the house. (PG 26, P1) He had the
golden opportunity to return home and make up for lost time but he chose to
escape reality once again. By doing so, he would forever be alone. This was the
price he paid for running away. “I crept away, back to sea where fortune shone
on me even through storms and shipwrecks.(PG 26, P4) He faced the dilemma of
having to choose his path in life after reading the letter. “I have to choose
whether to stay and face the damage I have done”. As an avid reader, I had
expected him to return home and save his mother and sister from their misery,
but his unexpected decision proved my expectations wrong. This extreme plot
twist was heart rending and tugged at my heartstrings.
In a nutshell, Richard’s story stood out the
most compared to the rest of the characters in this novel which really grabbed
my attention relentlessly. I like that Anne Fine took a risk to write the plot
twists in Richard’s story because the risk definitely paid off, although It
could either make or break the whole story. Though sad at times, Anne’s
brilliantly crafted story managed to pull it off beautifully.
Literature- How A Character Has Changed Due to Certain Events That Have Taken Place In His/Her Life
Based on the novel, Step by Wicked Step, by Anne Fine, the character that I feel has changed due to certain events that have taken place in his life is Colin. Colin used to love life with his stepfather. He remembered every little detail about his stepfather, from him rolling his own cigarettes out of tobacco in a tin, down to the silver patches of hair over his ears. After Colin's mother brought Colin with her to a completely foreign neighbourhood, Colin's character changed drastically.
Firstly, Colin changed into a very unhappy and lonely boy after moving away from his stepfather, He had to join a new school where everyone had friends already. He had to go through an unpleasant experience in his new school, he got ignored by the students in school. Nobody bothered with me. His mother, however, found a new job and was constantly busy with her daily routine that she did not bother about Colin. This made Colin miss his stepfather all the more, because he used to be able to confide in Jack about his troubles. It wasn't how it used to be with Dad. It is evident that Colin had transformed from a loving boy to a very lonely boy after the move.
Secondly, Colin became a dreamy boy, which caused him to have less focus in class till he did badly in school. The main reason for this was due to him missing his stepfather very much. Every night, he would take the tobacco tin out of the toe of his boot and put it under his pillow. Colin would then pretend that Jack was still by his side, ready to listen to his rant of the day. He would hum his and Jack's favourite song and stay awake for hours talking to his dad,whom he pretended was there.
Thirdly, Colin became resourceful. He was determined to search for his stepfather. His first effort was to write a letter to his stepfather, addressed to his old house. He did not receive a reply but he did not give up. Colin saved practically every penny that comes his way. He even does three paper rounds and always prefers cash for Christmas instead of gifts from his mother. Colin keeps an exact account on how long he was apart from his stepfather, which was 5 years, 8 months and 7 days.
In a nutshell, Colin responded negatively to the changes in his life. He became sad, dreamy and moody. This compelled him to make the courageous decision to search for his stepfather by doing something worthy. His love and longing for his dad motivated him to become optimistic, resourceful and patient in his goal to search for his dad.
Firstly, Colin changed into a very unhappy and lonely boy after moving away from his stepfather, He had to join a new school where everyone had friends already. He had to go through an unpleasant experience in his new school, he got ignored by the students in school. Nobody bothered with me. His mother, however, found a new job and was constantly busy with her daily routine that she did not bother about Colin. This made Colin miss his stepfather all the more, because he used to be able to confide in Jack about his troubles. It wasn't how it used to be with Dad. It is evident that Colin had transformed from a loving boy to a very lonely boy after the move.
Secondly, Colin became a dreamy boy, which caused him to have less focus in class till he did badly in school. The main reason for this was due to him missing his stepfather very much. Every night, he would take the tobacco tin out of the toe of his boot and put it under his pillow. Colin would then pretend that Jack was still by his side, ready to listen to his rant of the day. He would hum his and Jack's favourite song and stay awake for hours talking to his dad,whom he pretended was there.
Thirdly, Colin became resourceful. He was determined to search for his stepfather. His first effort was to write a letter to his stepfather, addressed to his old house. He did not receive a reply but he did not give up. Colin saved practically every penny that comes his way. He even does three paper rounds and always prefers cash for Christmas instead of gifts from his mother. Colin keeps an exact account on how long he was apart from his stepfather, which was 5 years, 8 months and 7 days.
In a nutshell, Colin responded negatively to the changes in his life. He became sad, dreamy and moody. This compelled him to make the courageous decision to search for his stepfather by doing something worthy. His love and longing for his dad motivated him to become optimistic, resourceful and patient in his goal to search for his dad.
Literature- Compare two characters.
Based on the novel, Step by Wicked Step, by Anne Fine, there are two characters that have several differences as well as similarities. I will compare and contrast those two characters, which are Richard and Colin.
One of the points that I will elaborate on is Richard and Colin's love for their respective dads. They both missed their fathers dearly. However, in Richard's case, he had lost his father forever as his father had already died and moved on to a better place, in the heavens. Colin merely lost contact with his father after he moved away with his mother without leaving any clues for his father to search for them. While Richard had no way to get in touch with his father again, Colin was still searching for his stepfather. Colin saves up all his money in a safe space for the time when he will embark on the search for his stepfather. I keep practically every penny that comes my way. Colin is determined to look for his beloved stepfather when he is old enough. As soon as I'm tall enough, I'm off. Clearly, Richard and Colin are unable to let go of their love for their dads.
Secondly, both Richard and Colin were ignored by their mothers. They did not get any attention from their mothers. Richard felt that his mother, Lilith, did not care about him when she married Mr. Coldstone despite his obvious contempt for Mr Coldstone. His mother turned a blind eye when Mr. Coldstone's treated him badly and said everything he does is for your own good. All his mother did was to lower her eyes. As for Colin, his mother was not aware of how much he missed his stepfather, Jack, because she is too busy working at the canteen and doing household chores. I think Mum thinks that I've forgotten him. To conclude, it is apparent that Richard and Colin did not feel their mothers' love.
Thirdly, Richard and Colin wanted to run away to make things work. They could only think of running away as the best option to solve all their problems. Richard ran away from home with the hope that he could make life more pleasant for everyone. Without me, the three of them would get on well enough. Colin however, was planning to run away to find his stepfather. Both of them have their differences as Richard realized that running away does not solve any problems. This is apparent when he had to face the damage he had done by piling one wrong on another. Colin, on the other hand, was still bent on the idea to search for his stepfather. He even does three paper rounds in an effort to accumulate more money for the search.
Drawing a conclusion, the two characters suffered much pain and sorrow as no one cares about them nor how they feel. They had no one to advise them that running away does not solve problems, in fact it can affect the people around them. Richard has learnt that lesson, but Colin has yet to encounter that problem. It is clear that we need to think wisely before making a serious decision in life.
One of the points that I will elaborate on is Richard and Colin's love for their respective dads. They both missed their fathers dearly. However, in Richard's case, he had lost his father forever as his father had already died and moved on to a better place, in the heavens. Colin merely lost contact with his father after he moved away with his mother without leaving any clues for his father to search for them. While Richard had no way to get in touch with his father again, Colin was still searching for his stepfather. Colin saves up all his money in a safe space for the time when he will embark on the search for his stepfather. I keep practically every penny that comes my way. Colin is determined to look for his beloved stepfather when he is old enough. As soon as I'm tall enough, I'm off. Clearly, Richard and Colin are unable to let go of their love for their dads.
Secondly, both Richard and Colin were ignored by their mothers. They did not get any attention from their mothers. Richard felt that his mother, Lilith, did not care about him when she married Mr. Coldstone despite his obvious contempt for Mr Coldstone. His mother turned a blind eye when Mr. Coldstone's treated him badly and said everything he does is for your own good. All his mother did was to lower her eyes. As for Colin, his mother was not aware of how much he missed his stepfather, Jack, because she is too busy working at the canteen and doing household chores. I think Mum thinks that I've forgotten him. To conclude, it is apparent that Richard and Colin did not feel their mothers' love.
Thirdly, Richard and Colin wanted to run away to make things work. They could only think of running away as the best option to solve all their problems. Richard ran away from home with the hope that he could make life more pleasant for everyone. Without me, the three of them would get on well enough. Colin however, was planning to run away to find his stepfather. Both of them have their differences as Richard realized that running away does not solve any problems. This is apparent when he had to face the damage he had done by piling one wrong on another. Colin, on the other hand, was still bent on the idea to search for his stepfather. He even does three paper rounds in an effort to accumulate more money for the search.
Drawing a conclusion, the two characters suffered much pain and sorrow as no one cares about them nor how they feel. They had no one to advise them that running away does not solve problems, in fact it can affect the people around them. Richard has learnt that lesson, but Colin has yet to encounter that problem. It is clear that we need to think wisely before making a serious decision in life.
Sunday, 2 August 2015
Goodbyes. [PART 7]
Alex could hear sounds of exclamations inside the ward from where he was standing outside. He peeked in the door to see Amy's expression change from shock to disbelief and finally, denial as the brunt of the horrifying news sunk in. Of billions of people all over the world, Alex couldn't believe that Amy was one of them who inherited a rare disease that affects her nervous system. Amy's parents who were determined to rid her of the disease were planning to send her to the most advanced hospital in the world for a higher success rate.
After the sobbing sounds from inside the ward subsided, Amy's parents exited the ward, telling Alex that he was wanted by Amy. They shared a subdued silence as they looked into each others' eyes. Amy whispered first, informing him that she would have to leave to California in a few days, possibly not coming back for several years while the therapy went on. Another solemn silence ensued. Alex responded by hugging her. Amy lay in the comfort of his embrace, enjoying his warmth. Alex muttered to Amy, "Love is missing someone whenever you're apart, but somehow feeling warm inside because you're close in heart. I will settle for that while waiting for you."
And so it went, the last day before Amy leaves for California. A handwritten note. Hugs that neither of them wanted to let go. More than just a little tears involved. Alex waved to Amy till she was out of sight.
Upon landing in California, Amy's parents immediately sent her to the hospital. Amy bid her parents goodbye from the ward she was admitted in. Once she saw them enter the elevator, she slowly made her way into her room. Her future seemed so desolate, what with all the therapies and sleepless nights she will encounter during rehabilitation. Scared of what will come, Amy collapsed at the corner of her room and broke down into silent tears.
At the exact same time, Alex's heart felt like it was being torn ruthlessly into bits and pieces. Back in the airport, he could see in Amy's eyes that she was terrified, but was trying to keep up a brave front so as to not cast worry on everyone who cared about. He could tell she was feigning ignorance about the seriousness of the whole matter, of the slim chance that she could actually survive the hurdle God presented to her. The moments of clarity and sorrow in her eyes as she left him were enough to help him make his decision. She was worth the wait, no matter how long it would take.
After the sobbing sounds from inside the ward subsided, Amy's parents exited the ward, telling Alex that he was wanted by Amy. They shared a subdued silence as they looked into each others' eyes. Amy whispered first, informing him that she would have to leave to California in a few days, possibly not coming back for several years while the therapy went on. Another solemn silence ensued. Alex responded by hugging her. Amy lay in the comfort of his embrace, enjoying his warmth. Alex muttered to Amy, "Love is missing someone whenever you're apart, but somehow feeling warm inside because you're close in heart. I will settle for that while waiting for you."
And so it went, the last day before Amy leaves for California. A handwritten note. Hugs that neither of them wanted to let go. More than just a little tears involved. Alex waved to Amy till she was out of sight.
Upon landing in California, Amy's parents immediately sent her to the hospital. Amy bid her parents goodbye from the ward she was admitted in. Once she saw them enter the elevator, she slowly made her way into her room. Her future seemed so desolate, what with all the therapies and sleepless nights she will encounter during rehabilitation. Scared of what will come, Amy collapsed at the corner of her room and broke down into silent tears.
At the exact same time, Alex's heart felt like it was being torn ruthlessly into bits and pieces. Back in the airport, he could see in Amy's eyes that she was terrified, but was trying to keep up a brave front so as to not cast worry on everyone who cared about. He could tell she was feigning ignorance about the seriousness of the whole matter, of the slim chance that she could actually survive the hurdle God presented to her. The moments of clarity and sorrow in her eyes as she left him were enough to help him make his decision. She was worth the wait, no matter how long it would take.
Thursday, 30 July 2015
Realization. [PART 6]
All of a sudden, Amy lost all control of her body. Everything felt numb. She fell off her feet as she slumped down on the ground, the phone sliding just out of reach from her hands. The last thing Amy could recall before blacking out was a pair of shoes, Alex's shoes, running towards her.
Amy awoke in the hospital several hours later. As she blinked her eyes in a futile attempt to adjust her eyes to the bright ceiling light, she turned her head to the left side of her bed. Amy spotted a black tuft of hair belonging to a head, namely, Alex's head, sleeping by her bed. She angled her head for a better view of him. Not seeing him for the short period of time when he was MIA somehow confirmed her about her feelings towards him. She affirmed that her affection for him was more than just a brotherhood-sisterhood relationship. As the idiom goes, you never miss the water till the well runs dry.
Amy's movements stirred Alex awake. He immediately showered her with questions about her condition, whether or not she needed food, water or anything at all. Amy laughed as she shook her head. His concern for her was genuinely just a sense of protection over a younger sibling. Amy asked Alex for her parents, just when they strolled in from the door. Alex moved silently as he made his way out of the ward. This was a moment that only family members were welcomed, because they had to either break down together or fight to stand together.
Alex sighed as awareness dawned upon him that they were about to break the bad news to her.
Amy awoke in the hospital several hours later. As she blinked her eyes in a futile attempt to adjust her eyes to the bright ceiling light, she turned her head to the left side of her bed. Amy spotted a black tuft of hair belonging to a head, namely, Alex's head, sleeping by her bed. She angled her head for a better view of him. Not seeing him for the short period of time when he was MIA somehow confirmed her about her feelings towards him. She affirmed that her affection for him was more than just a brotherhood-sisterhood relationship. As the idiom goes, you never miss the water till the well runs dry.
Amy's movements stirred Alex awake. He immediately showered her with questions about her condition, whether or not she needed food, water or anything at all. Amy laughed as she shook her head. His concern for her was genuinely just a sense of protection over a younger sibling. Amy asked Alex for her parents, just when they strolled in from the door. Alex moved silently as he made his way out of the ward. This was a moment that only family members were welcomed, because they had to either break down together or fight to stand together.
Alex sighed as awareness dawned upon him that they were about to break the bad news to her.
The Video. [PART 5]
Amy stared around her in fascination. The vibrant colours of dozens of multicoloured balloons contrasted sharply with the dull colours of the rooftop, but seemed to blend in just perfectly with the summer sunshine. With the addition of bubbles that reflected the colours of those balloons floating around lazily, the rooftop seemed so much more magical. Amy spotted a picnic blanket spread out in the midst of the entrancing site. She took several hesitant steps towards it and opened the picnic basket on the checkered blanket.
Inside, a single phone with earphones already plugged in lay solitary on the base of the basket. Amy pressed the play button, her heart racing with.. Eagerness? Curiosity? She herself didn't know what she was expecting to see in the video. For her, all she knew was that she was relieved because Alex was still alive and well.
Alex's face appeared on the screen of the phone Amy held dearly. As the video proceeded, Amy felt tears starting to well up in her eyes. The video featured Alex as he secretly helped her whenever she needed it. Copying her notes for her by asking her classmates when she was absent. Fanning her without her noticing when she felt hot. Helping her put in a good word to the teachers so she could go on the class trip she longed for. Coming over to her house with porridge in one hand and notes in the other so he could help her with her due project. He was her Santa, her Superman, her tooth fairy all in one.
As Amy watched the video, she felt soothing warmth envelope her when all of a sudden...
Inside, a single phone with earphones already plugged in lay solitary on the base of the basket. Amy pressed the play button, her heart racing with.. Eagerness? Curiosity? She herself didn't know what she was expecting to see in the video. For her, all she knew was that she was relieved because Alex was still alive and well.
Alex's face appeared on the screen of the phone Amy held dearly. As the video proceeded, Amy felt tears starting to well up in her eyes. The video featured Alex as he secretly helped her whenever she needed it. Copying her notes for her by asking her classmates when she was absent. Fanning her without her noticing when she felt hot. Helping her put in a good word to the teachers so she could go on the class trip she longed for. Coming over to her house with porridge in one hand and notes in the other so he could help her with her due project. He was her Santa, her Superman, her tooth fairy all in one.
As Amy watched the video, she felt soothing warmth envelope her when all of a sudden...
Wednesday, 22 July 2015
A Leap Of Faith. [PART 4]
Amy kept spending time with Will, her new boyfriend, that she began to neglect her tight friendship with Alex. Drinks that Alex bought for her went wasted, promises were left unfulfilled and eventually, even their studying dates got cancelled. For Alex, this was the last straw. Jason's words to him lingered in his ear as he finally comprehended the true meaning of those words. A plan began to form in Alex's brain as he figured out his next steps to confront with the problem he had on hand.
Amy hadn't seen Alex for a week or so. Contacting him proved fruitless, asking his friends was useless. It seemed like he just disappeared without trace from the face of Earth. What with so much going on in her head, it did not help at all that Will grew tired of her because of her seemingly obsession over Alex's disappearance. It wasn't long before Amy caught Will cheating on her with another freshman, but somehow, she wasn't as heartbroken as she had expected she would be. Worrying about Alex took up so much of her mind and focus that even breaking up with Will didn't falter her at all. So when Amy finally found a piece of note slipped between the pages of her book from Alex, she was overwhelmed with relief. The contents of the note were simple. It just read, 'Rooftop. 15/7, 9 a.m. ' .
Amy walked up the stairs to the rooftop of the isolated building where she used to have heart-to-heart talks with Alex before she met Will. Making her way upwards reminded her of the precious memories when she used to drag Alex with her to watch the sunrise from the panoramic view from the rooftop. Gasping for breath, she leaped up the final stretch of stairs. Amy stopped short as she took in her surroundings. She took one step.. and then two before halting again.
Amy hadn't seen Alex for a week or so. Contacting him proved fruitless, asking his friends was useless. It seemed like he just disappeared without trace from the face of Earth. What with so much going on in her head, it did not help at all that Will grew tired of her because of her seemingly obsession over Alex's disappearance. It wasn't long before Amy caught Will cheating on her with another freshman, but somehow, she wasn't as heartbroken as she had expected she would be. Worrying about Alex took up so much of her mind and focus that even breaking up with Will didn't falter her at all. So when Amy finally found a piece of note slipped between the pages of her book from Alex, she was overwhelmed with relief. The contents of the note were simple. It just read, 'Rooftop. 15/7, 9 a.m. ' .
Amy walked up the stairs to the rooftop of the isolated building where she used to have heart-to-heart talks with Alex before she met Will. Making her way upwards reminded her of the precious memories when she used to drag Alex with her to watch the sunrise from the panoramic view from the rooftop. Gasping for breath, she leaped up the final stretch of stairs. Amy stopped short as she took in her surroundings. She took one step.. and then two before halting again.
Changes. [PART 3]
Alex will never forget that first time he managed to talk to her in the library, albeit it was mostly him stuttering and stammering over his own name. Lucky for him, Amy was, as he guessed, a friendly person who instantly responded to him with a soft voice despite him being such an idiot in front of her. Within months, they grew into fast friends, constantly having study dates together in the library and watching movies together. They were always arguing and teasing one another but, their minds always seemed to be on the same track. Somehow, it was like they could read each other's minds readily.
Alex and Amy had developed a bond that no one else could understand, because they both claimed to be just friends. and nothing more. Jason once asked Alex, if he didn't still have feelings for her like he used to have. Alex replied that he had, in fact, actually confessed to Amy that he used to like her, but they just laughed it off at that time. Jason shook his head in disappointment in Alex. "Haven't you heard of the saying? You never know how much you love somebody until you see them love someone else. I'm just saying this for your own good, bro." Alex stood still as he got lost in his thoughts for a moment before fervently insisting that they're just friends now.
Little did he know that those exact same thoughts would lead to his heartbreak. Just several days later, Alex and Amy went to a cafe to freeload the wifi there. When Alex left to get some drinks for both of them, a guy walked up to Amy and starting flirting with her. Alex came back just in time to watch him leave with a satisfied grin on his face. When Alex asked Amy about it, she squealed in glee as she told him that the guy asked her for her number. And that was when everything changed.
Tuesday, 30 June 2015
Fate? [PART 2]
After that brief moment of directing Amy to the office, Alex had to bid her goodbye. His heart sank as he realized he may never have the chance to talk to her any more but what was he to do? He was, by nature, a quiet person who could never converse well with girls, unlike his friends who could instantly turn on their charms to make girls laugh. Alex sighed and went on with his way, physically getting away from Amy but never straying far from her mentally.
Two days later, Alex had to stay back at the campus while waiting for his sister to finish watching a movie with her friends so he could play his role as a responsible driver for her. He figured he might as well go to the library to grab some books for his upcoming project as he knew the pile of projects would eventually start stacking up once classes have formally started. Alex strolled down the aisle, occasionally stopping to flip through several books before adding them to the small mountain of books in his arms. Suddenly, he had a tingly sort of feeling behind his neck, as if his body was nudging his head upwards. He glanced up, only to see Amy standing just a stone's throw away from him. Without thinking, Alex spun around the corner of the bookshelf at lightning speed, in a valiant attempt to disappear from her line of sight before she spotted him.
Alex caught his breath as he slowly calmed down. His face broke out into a huge grin he could not suppress as he soared to cloud nine. If she was here, in the library, it meant that she was one of the students in his university! It also meant that he could see her more often although she was probably one of the freshmen. Last time he saw her, he could not screw up the courage to start a proper conversation with her, but Alex resolved to man up at all costs and just talk to her. Even if he got firmly rejected, at least he would know that he would not regret missing this chance in the future. And with that, he turned back to where Amy was standing.. Only to find her spot empty.
Dejected, Alex retraced his path back to where he was hiding earlier. As he was turning the corner, Alex crashed into someone mid walk. His books flew into the air in a slow motion arch as he registered the person he walked into. It was Amy. Never in his wildest dreams would Alex think this act of fate would happen. He knew his chance came.. and this time, he won't let it escape him again.
Tuesday, 23 June 2015
The Beginning. [PART 1]
2018
ALEX
What did you say? How it all started? Well, let’s rewind to a few years before this blog post, back when I was merely
20 years of age, and when I first met the love of my life.
2010
ALEX
I’m bored out of my life! What made me think of coming to
campus when I didn’t even have classes today? I sigh to myself, lunch with my
friends just isn’t a good enough reason for me to come out of my cosy bed. I barely
had enough sleep as it is because of my preparations for an upcoming
presentation; what made me think that a break from the computer would make my
day any better? I am just wandering
through the campus with my friends, a bunch of guys who badly needed haircuts,
when I see HER. I stop abruptly in my tracks, ignoring the startled cries of my
friends who crash behind my back. Why haven’t I noticed her before? Or perhaps
she is a freshman who just signed up for one of the courses in my university?
It is highly possible that with my kind of luck, she might just be a random
stranger passing by to enquire about something from the office. I sigh, hating
that I was already having these pessimistic thoughts before I even got the
chance to stand near her, much less talk to her. Suddenly, she looks up from
the brochure she was reading, seemingly able to sense the piercing stare I am
giving her. I couldn’t avert my eyes fast enough, and our eyes meet for a brief
second. I swear, in that short moment, it felt like the clock stopped ticking and
everyone stopped moving. Somehow, I know. That she is the one I am going to
marry.
AMY
Finally! It’s my first day as a university student and I am
already loving it. The campus is filled with other students milling about, and
seniors handing out brochures to join their clubs, each claiming to be the best
club on campus. I look around with a permanent satisfied smile pasted on my
face before starting a slow walk towards the office. I’m trying so hard to
decipher the map of the campus on the brochure, but my sense of direction is so
bad that I’m making a really bad job out of it. Hmm, let’s see. Around the
corner of the pavilion should be the main building, where there are two lion
statues as landmarks. I look up, but instead of seeing two lions, I see a guy,
a senior, maybe, looking at me. I decide to ask him for directions, since we have already caught the opponents’ attention anyway.
Sunday, 14 June 2015
Dreamy life
Is life all a dream?
Have you ever wondered what would happen after death? Would we be presented to God and be judged whether to be sent to Heaven or Hell? Or would we just wake up to find out that it was all just a dream? For all we know, our lives may very well be exactly like in the movies. We could be observed by other beings, our every action closely monitored by watchful eyes. But that doesn't really matter to me, because I care more about the present, the now that we're living in. As the saying goes, yesterday was past, but today is the present. Because today is a gift, for us to celebrate another day of being in the presence of our loved ones. If life was truly a dream, I am fully committed to living that dream so when I wake up, I could say, "Aah, what a nice dream.", instead of "Oh my goodness, what a horrible nightmare!". This leads to another theoretical question. Would you rather be in the know and be unhappy or be like a fool, but a happy fool? Being the fool that I am, I would choose the latter because to me, happiness just about trumps everything else. So who cares if what we're living now is just a tiny fragment of a dream? I'd much rather be happy without a care in the world than anything else.
Have you ever wondered what would happen after death? Would we be presented to God and be judged whether to be sent to Heaven or Hell? Or would we just wake up to find out that it was all just a dream? For all we know, our lives may very well be exactly like in the movies. We could be observed by other beings, our every action closely monitored by watchful eyes. But that doesn't really matter to me, because I care more about the present, the now that we're living in. As the saying goes, yesterday was past, but today is the present. Because today is a gift, for us to celebrate another day of being in the presence of our loved ones. If life was truly a dream, I am fully committed to living that dream so when I wake up, I could say, "Aah, what a nice dream.", instead of "Oh my goodness, what a horrible nightmare!". This leads to another theoretical question. Would you rather be in the know and be unhappy or be like a fool, but a happy fool? Being the fool that I am, I would choose the latter because to me, happiness just about trumps everything else. So who cares if what we're living now is just a tiny fragment of a dream? I'd much rather be happy without a care in the world than anything else.
Monday, 8 June 2015
Alive and living
What is the difference between living and being alive?
For me, there is a huge, distinct difference that differentiates those two simple phrases. Being alive, for one, could mean that the person could be living very much like a dead person would have, just that their hearts are beating well and strong. Truly living is what I believe everyone in this crazy world we're living in now wants to achieve. It isn't as easy to actually live life to its fullest when all we're doing is just having meaningless talks. In fact, I wouldn't be able to say that I'm truly living right now, but I'm breathing and carrying out my daily lifestyles just like you all do. Is living life all about achieving your life goals? I don't even know what my proper life goals are, apart from things that humour me and passing exams. But that is exactly why we are all still alive. Because that is how we are going to work and strive towards TRULY living our lives.
Happiness is the mission that I am certain everyone is aiming to accomplish, so I'll start living my life by setting that as my goal. School life really helped me a lot in that aspect, because my friends, buddies and baes (that's not a proper word, sorry) make learning so much more fun. There is not a day that passes by without the sound of laughter ringing in my ears. The hustle and bustle of school life has become my starting point to gaining happiness, because I have complete faith in the sentence, we're happy because we laugh, and not laugh because we're happy. If it doesn't make sense to you, read that sentence over and over again till you get it. Because that's when you'll finally start living life.
We shouldn't be concentrated on just being alive, because that's just being lazy to break out of your comfort zone. Living is all about being uncomfortable, because everyday brings a different surprise, various changes that may bring sadness but also pleasure to you. Those people being alive are too busy breathing to look out for these menial things that sums up to only one answer. Life.
For me, there is a huge, distinct difference that differentiates those two simple phrases. Being alive, for one, could mean that the person could be living very much like a dead person would have, just that their hearts are beating well and strong. Truly living is what I believe everyone in this crazy world we're living in now wants to achieve. It isn't as easy to actually live life to its fullest when all we're doing is just having meaningless talks. In fact, I wouldn't be able to say that I'm truly living right now, but I'm breathing and carrying out my daily lifestyles just like you all do. Is living life all about achieving your life goals? I don't even know what my proper life goals are, apart from things that humour me and passing exams. But that is exactly why we are all still alive. Because that is how we are going to work and strive towards TRULY living our lives.
Happiness is the mission that I am certain everyone is aiming to accomplish, so I'll start living my life by setting that as my goal. School life really helped me a lot in that aspect, because my friends, buddies and baes (that's not a proper word, sorry) make learning so much more fun. There is not a day that passes by without the sound of laughter ringing in my ears. The hustle and bustle of school life has become my starting point to gaining happiness, because I have complete faith in the sentence, we're happy because we laugh, and not laugh because we're happy. If it doesn't make sense to you, read that sentence over and over again till you get it. Because that's when you'll finally start living life.
We shouldn't be concentrated on just being alive, because that's just being lazy to break out of your comfort zone. Living is all about being uncomfortable, because everyday brings a different surprise, various changes that may bring sadness but also pleasure to you. Those people being alive are too busy breathing to look out for these menial things that sums up to only one answer. Life.
Friday, 29 May 2015
Food Hunt
And so.. in just 12 hours hours from now, I will be off to Korea! As all my friends know, I'm a Korean drama fan, so going to Korea for my very first time is sort of like a dream come true for me. I will make sure to post several pictures (selfies, mostly) on my next blog post, so do look forward to it next week.
For now, I will introduce a dessert that my friends and I have tried yesterday at Damansara Uptown, which is ice-cream in a cup with dry ice fog surrounding it. The eatery is known as 'Softsrve' and is well-known for the uniqueness of the way they present their desserts, We ordered 'Fluffy' and 'Churros Chocolate Ice-Cream' but I was a little let down by Fluffy, because apart from the cotton candy, the vanilla ice-cream just tasted okay. The churros ice-cream however, blew me away with the rich chocolate ice-cream that resembled a pudding, not to mention the churros that provides an extra crunch at the side.
My biggest surprise was when we noticed that the ice-cream is actually served in a much smaller cup that is fitted inside a bigger paper cup that contains dry ice. This explains the fog that envelops the ice-cream in a mysterious and magical way, shooting this eatery to its popularity now. This eatery is located near 'The Good Batch', so do make sure to visit this place at least once to try out the though-overrated-but-still-good ice-cream!
P.S, The brunch in 'The Good Batch' tastes great too, I visited the restaurant when Pui Foong and Sarah came to surprise me at my part-time workplace.
For now, I will introduce a dessert that my friends and I have tried yesterday at Damansara Uptown, which is ice-cream in a cup with dry ice fog surrounding it. The eatery is known as 'Softsrve' and is well-known for the uniqueness of the way they present their desserts, We ordered 'Fluffy' and 'Churros Chocolate Ice-Cream' but I was a little let down by Fluffy, because apart from the cotton candy, the vanilla ice-cream just tasted okay. The churros ice-cream however, blew me away with the rich chocolate ice-cream that resembled a pudding, not to mention the churros that provides an extra crunch at the side.
My biggest surprise was when we noticed that the ice-cream is actually served in a much smaller cup that is fitted inside a bigger paper cup that contains dry ice. This explains the fog that envelops the ice-cream in a mysterious and magical way, shooting this eatery to its popularity now. This eatery is located near 'The Good Batch', so do make sure to visit this place at least once to try out the though-overrated-but-still-good ice-cream!
P.S, The brunch in 'The Good Batch' tastes great too, I visited the restaurant when Pui Foong and Sarah came to surprise me at my part-time workplace.
Churros with Chocolate Ice-Cream
Fluffy
Friday, 22 May 2015
Miracles.
Sometimes, the biggest miracles come in the smallest packages.
I recently read an article on Facebook, about a 7 year old boy who gave up his life to save three others. He was at a young age of only five when his parents discovered he had a malignant brain tumour. Shortly after that, his own mother contracted a kidney disease. Obstacles after obstacles kept arising and it seemed like their days of suffering were never going to end. However, they didn't give up hope as they battled side-by-side in the hospital, up until a certain day when the doctors declared that the son would eventually be blinded and paralyzed, while the mother can no longer sustain her life through dialysis alone. The son's days are numbered, but if he underwent a surgery to donate his organs, he would be able to save three valuable lives, including his mother. His mother blatantly refused the doctor's suggestion, because as long as her son was still alive, he deserved the chance to continue fighting for his life.
However, the son overheard talks about this matter, and in his pure little heart, he sincerely wanted to give up his life for his mother. He begged her to take his life. After a long debate, she finally agreed to it. Her only consolation was that as long as she was still alive, a small part of him would always remain within her. The son's sacrifice was deemed a huge success, because with his liver and both kidneys, he extended the lives of so many others.
This inspiring story relates to the quote above, because the son's heart was as big as his body was frail, that he took matters into his own hands and handed his shot in life to his mother. We often hear about parents' sacrifices, but with these stories circulating around, there is no doubt that even the smallest packages can pack a whole lot of miracles as well.
I recently read an article on Facebook, about a 7 year old boy who gave up his life to save three others. He was at a young age of only five when his parents discovered he had a malignant brain tumour. Shortly after that, his own mother contracted a kidney disease. Obstacles after obstacles kept arising and it seemed like their days of suffering were never going to end. However, they didn't give up hope as they battled side-by-side in the hospital, up until a certain day when the doctors declared that the son would eventually be blinded and paralyzed, while the mother can no longer sustain her life through dialysis alone. The son's days are numbered, but if he underwent a surgery to donate his organs, he would be able to save three valuable lives, including his mother. His mother blatantly refused the doctor's suggestion, because as long as her son was still alive, he deserved the chance to continue fighting for his life.
However, the son overheard talks about this matter, and in his pure little heart, he sincerely wanted to give up his life for his mother. He begged her to take his life. After a long debate, she finally agreed to it. Her only consolation was that as long as she was still alive, a small part of him would always remain within her. The son's sacrifice was deemed a huge success, because with his liver and both kidneys, he extended the lives of so many others.
This inspiring story relates to the quote above, because the son's heart was as big as his body was frail, that he took matters into his own hands and handed his shot in life to his mother. We often hear about parents' sacrifices, but with these stories circulating around, there is no doubt that even the smallest packages can pack a whole lot of miracles as well.
Friday, 15 May 2015
My Non-existent Skill
If ever given the opportunity to learn a skill, the top of my list would be leadership skills. Truth to be told, whenever someone asks me to lead a group, I automatically blank out. Nor do I have the wits to come out with impromptu speeches because my mind works really slow that way. These are the times when I really think that written exams in school are not the best way to measure someone's smartness, because I can pore over my books and memorize information, but in the real working field, memorizing isn't going to be able to help me much other than for the basics. I really look up to people who can just come up with things to say in the spur of the moment, and have the guts to say it in front of many strangers, albeit their speeches making no sense. It is their ability to adapt to the situation and can not only capture everyone's attention, but to hold on to it as well, that makes me really in awe of them. Therefore, I think leadership skills and talking skills can be categorized into one skill that I really have to brush up on before I leave high school.
Once I have gained this skill, there is no doubt that I would have improved my skill of being able to work under pressure. After the first week of exams, it is safe to say that I definitely CANNOT work under pressure efficiently. At least, not when I leave everything to the last minute and start revising a day before. The recent accounts project has brought about so much dread among us students, when we have to rush to complete it among other projects as well, while preparing for mid terms at the side. I just can't wait till mid terms are over, so I can get over my poor results that I foresee is coming my way.
Just as an additional note, I sat for my English exam today. I chose the fourth question, which was about a cancer patient who finally achieves a great triumph. It is actually a good thing that there wasn't enough time to elaborate any further on the sad parts, because I would most certainly have cried while constructing that essay. Once I get my marked paper back, I would probably want to continue the story and add even more details on the *SPOILER ALERT* death scene. Sigh, I think I watch too many dramas for my own good.
Once I have gained this skill, there is no doubt that I would have improved my skill of being able to work under pressure. After the first week of exams, it is safe to say that I definitely CANNOT work under pressure efficiently. At least, not when I leave everything to the last minute and start revising a day before. The recent accounts project has brought about so much dread among us students, when we have to rush to complete it among other projects as well, while preparing for mid terms at the side. I just can't wait till mid terms are over, so I can get over my poor results that I foresee is coming my way.
Just as an additional note, I sat for my English exam today. I chose the fourth question, which was about a cancer patient who finally achieves a great triumph. It is actually a good thing that there wasn't enough time to elaborate any further on the sad parts, because I would most certainly have cried while constructing that essay. Once I get my marked paper back, I would probably want to continue the story and add even more details on the *SPOILER ALERT* death scene. Sigh, I think I watch too many dramas for my own good.
Sunday, 10 May 2015
Road Bullying is a No-No!
Road bullying is one of the forms of bullying that has the highest risk of taking lives. Countless of innocent people have lost their lives due to the irresponsible actions of these road bullies. However, sad as the truth is, these road bullies are very hard to capture, because they speed away after commiting a crime. Therefore, how are we to drive with a sense of safety while knowing that they roam among our midst? The most popular mindset of citizens are that campaigns are the way to go, but in actual fact, how many road bullies will actually turn over a new leaf with a mere campaign? In my opinion, road bullies should not be granted the luxury of campaigns, but instead be doled out punishments, whether in monetary form or jailing.
Road bullying not only endangers their lives but also innocent lives. Driving recklessly may mean they have a death wish, but it is unfair to drag someone down with them just because of their selfish thoughts.
One of the causes of road bullying is the driver's impatientness during a traffic. In the spur of the moment, the driver tends to speed at the first chance he sees, whether it is legal or not, therefore risking the lives of other drivers.
Another cause is when a driver who is hot tempered rises to the bait of another road bully. The childish race between those two drivers will cause other cars to halt suddenly in an attempt to avoid colliding with the speeding cars. This in turn has a domino effect and a whole chain of cars would crash due to the sudden braking.
Road bullying not only endangers their lives but also innocent lives. Driving recklessly may mean they have a death wish, but it is unfair to drag someone down with them just because of their selfish thoughts.
One of the causes of road bullying is the driver's impatientness during a traffic. In the spur of the moment, the driver tends to speed at the first chance he sees, whether it is legal or not, therefore risking the lives of other drivers.
Another cause is when a driver who is hot tempered rises to the bait of another road bully. The childish race between those two drivers will cause other cars to halt suddenly in an attempt to avoid colliding with the speeding cars. This in turn has a domino effect and a whole chain of cars would crash due to the sudden braking.
Monday, 4 May 2015
Interview aka Land of Doom
Interviews. Some people dread going for interviews because of the fear of not getting the results wanted. Scratch that, MOST people cringe from the idea if going for an interview, whether for a job application or to get into a society. However, there is actually no need to shrink away from interviews or be nervous about it because there are countless of ways that can be used to overcome this fear.
Firstly, try making a good impression on the interviewers by dressing appropriately. There are different outfits for different situations, so DO think twice before just grabbing any outfit from your wardrobe.
More often than not, people are usually afraid of interviews because they are worried that they would not be able to think or respond fast nor the way that the interviewers would want. This is where Google comes in, where you are supposed to research, do some homework about this company you want to join. Knowing just a little information goes a long way, because it just might be your ticket in to the company. Speaking eloquently would help in gaining brownie points with the interviewer, but if you're nervous, it would definitely show in your face. So keep calm and steady, answer the questions thrown at you with ease and ask them questions as well to get more information. Even if you failed an interview, you would still have gained experience out of it. Think positively and look at it with a positive mindset. As the saying goes, see the glass half full, and not half empty.
Thursday, 30 April 2015
Stressed out!
Everyone faces stress in their lives. Different people have different stress triggers that can affect them in their daily lifestyles. Some may stress about exams, some about their jobs and some just about ruining another person's life. A decision made in the spur of a moment can easily bring someone down, from happy-go-lucky to a person that no one recognizes- such drastic is that change. Just a simple yes or no or even not saying anything can be deemed as cruel to a person, make them feel like they have been punched countless of times in the stomach until they feel out of breath and in severe pain. Feeling kicked and left to the dust is never a fun nor good way to feel.
Such a person who made that decision like above would definitely be facing stress. Decisions are never easy to make, and knowing that your choice has ruined someone's life just makes it all the more harder. Eventually, everyone would have to go through that phase at least once in their lives, the phase of letting down someone, but that still doesn't make it easier when it actually happens to you.
Stress can also originate simply from our way of thinking, the perspective from which we view things. More often than not, we bring stress upon ourselves by overthinking things. We have to learn to let things roll off our backs and think of them as minor bumps in the road called life. If we can't overcome these so-called minor bumps, how else are we going to live life as it should be lived? There is no doubt that at a certain point of life, we will be facing a much, much larger 'bump' in that road. It is not so much as a bump rather than a wall that we must overcome. There is no way to put it off but to face it head on. Therefore, we have to always be ready to face whatever challenge we will encounter further on in our lives in order to avoid unwanted stress.
Such a person who made that decision like above would definitely be facing stress. Decisions are never easy to make, and knowing that your choice has ruined someone's life just makes it all the more harder. Eventually, everyone would have to go through that phase at least once in their lives, the phase of letting down someone, but that still doesn't make it easier when it actually happens to you.
Stress can also originate simply from our way of thinking, the perspective from which we view things. More often than not, we bring stress upon ourselves by overthinking things. We have to learn to let things roll off our backs and think of them as minor bumps in the road called life. If we can't overcome these so-called minor bumps, how else are we going to live life as it should be lived? There is no doubt that at a certain point of life, we will be facing a much, much larger 'bump' in that road. It is not so much as a bump rather than a wall that we must overcome. There is no way to put it off but to face it head on. Therefore, we have to always be ready to face whatever challenge we will encounter further on in our lives in order to avoid unwanted stress.
Sunday, 26 April 2015
Discipline
Having no discipline in a school makes a school no different from the streets outside. Therefore, disciplinary problems are a problem that should be handled immediately and professionally from its core so that it can be overcome easily.
A student's discipline should be heavily guarded by the teachers in school. After all, half of a student's day on a weekday is spent studying in classes. Thus, teachers should apply the saying, a teacher's job is to encourage as well as educate, inform as well as inspire. A teacher's role is crucial in guiding a student towards their goals in life. A teacher should nudge a student back to the correct path in life should they realize that the student is slowly going the wrong way. However, nudging can only be used if the student has not strayed too far from life's path. Once it is too late, forcibly pushing them against their will to return to that path would become too hard of a task to execute.
Parents play a huge role in their child's discipline as well. A sense of security and safety from home can largely affect a student's decision to rebel, because with a background that has been paved so perfectly, who would want to be involved in an action that would ruin their lives? A parent should strive to provide not just a house for their children, but a home, a household that will allow them to raise their kids with ease and discipline.
All in all, parents and teachers have to work hand-in-hand to guide a student in their early lives, when they are still malleable to changes. Once a child has become an adult, and is able to think maturely for himself or herself, then, and only then, the parents can let go of the reins to let them fend for themselves.
Motivation = Physics
Potential difference is defined as the work done to move one
coulomb of charge from one point to another. Very much like what we learned in
Physics, we need our own ‘potential difference’, a form of motivation to
successfully complete a given task. Different people have varying motivations
that can encourage each and every one of them to be spurred.
One of these mentioned incentives is a pride in doing things
well and to gain that sense of accomplishment upon executing a task. Some people may find great satisfaction on a
job well done, which will lead to an invaluable sense of competence. Choosing good friends also plays a critical
role in the lives of teenagers, because teenagers’ hearts are easily influenced
by their surroundings. This will push them to do well in their studies because
they are often motivated to do as well as their friends in different areas of
interests. In fact, behaviours can be considered as highly contagious among
students, because we are as vulnerable as sitting ducks.
Another type of motivation that I personally think is worth
trying Is by giving rewards to yourself for completing a task. In my case, I
take a lot of breaks while studying to relax my mind in order not to strain my
focus. Most of the time it works, but you have to take caution that you don’t
relax a little TOO much that you forget the whole purpose of you taking the
break in the first place.
These are the motivations that I deem useful to be
implemented in your lifestyles to achieve your goals. With these incentives, I'm
sure that you can aim higher and reach those stars you couldn't even dream of
brushing against in the past.
Sunday, 12 April 2015
Say No To Discrimination!
Discrimination and prejudices have existed since the very start of life, so what is there to say that it doesn't continue till now? There is not even one person in life now who can say with absolute and utmost confidence that they have never been against someone, been prejudiced against that one person in their entire lives at least once. After all, we are not flawless, that is what that makes us humans. Winston Churchill quoted, " You have enemies? Good. That means you've stood up for something, sometime in your life." However, in the movie ' Freedom Writers', such extreme and obvious examples of discrimination has been portrayed by the society that it tremendously changes the students' lives. Many of them have had their loved ones killed by gang members that their sole goal in life is survival. Surviving beyond the age of eighteen is considered a great achievement in those complicated areas.
The most outrageous injustice that I felt in this movie was the part when the department chair, Margaret Campbell refuses to allow Erin Gruwell, the fresh new teacher, to teach her students with intellectual information. In fact, she is encouraged to educate them about basic discipline to just while away the time. The school has already regarded this particular class of students to be lost cases but Erin throws away that line of thinking and goes beyond her line of duty as a teacher to get them the education and help they needed. Gradually, the racial barriers reduce because of her commendable efforts to get the students to open up to her. The students manage to graduate high school with her guidance, which just goes to show that everyone is given a chance to achieve something great in their lives. It is just a matter of willingness and perseverance whether we get to accomplish that life goal.
There are countless of examples of enmities throughout this movie, and I have yet to start listing out even a quarter of them. I leave that task up to you readers to fill in and give your own thoughts about this inspiring movie that has been based on a true story.
The most outrageous injustice that I felt in this movie was the part when the department chair, Margaret Campbell refuses to allow Erin Gruwell, the fresh new teacher, to teach her students with intellectual information. In fact, she is encouraged to educate them about basic discipline to just while away the time. The school has already regarded this particular class of students to be lost cases but Erin throws away that line of thinking and goes beyond her line of duty as a teacher to get them the education and help they needed. Gradually, the racial barriers reduce because of her commendable efforts to get the students to open up to her. The students manage to graduate high school with her guidance, which just goes to show that everyone is given a chance to achieve something great in their lives. It is just a matter of willingness and perseverance whether we get to accomplish that life goal.
There are countless of examples of enmities throughout this movie, and I have yet to start listing out even a quarter of them. I leave that task up to you readers to fill in and give your own thoughts about this inspiring movie that has been based on a true story.
Tuesday, 31 March 2015
Cravings :D
Everyone has cravings now and then, no matter food nor something else. As for me, my cravings are usually centred around food that just pops up in my mind. For instance, I craved for jelly yesterday, and pizza today. But that's enough of me, what I want to write about today is regarding unusual pregnancy cravings. Haven't you ever wondered about the weird cravings that pregnant ladies usually encounter in the middle of the night, about the effects of the cravings and so on? I don't know about you, but I often come up with strange questions that often go unanswered, like what if the baby craves for a food that contains of substances that the mother is allergic to? Would she still risk her life to satisfy that yearning or ignore it? I once heard of a story of a pregnant woman who longs for the pungent petrol smell and had to get a whiff of it in order to get a good night's sleep. Wouldn't the long-lasting effect of sniffing petrol be taxing on the lungs and cause health deterioration?
I, for one, pity the husbands of the pregnant women. I learnt of a humorous story shared by one of the 'victims' through a radio station, where the husband ranted about his wife waking him up at 3 in the morning, claiming to yearn for mangoes. The frantic husband drove to countless of places in search of mangoes but as it was so early in the morning, all the businesses were still closed. Thinking of his waiting wife at home, he never gave up and eventually found some mangoes. However, by the time he reached home, awaiting for his wife's warm smile and laughter, his wife had already changed her mind about the mangoes. And so it lay sitting on the table until he, himself, ate it.
Anyway, that's the end for my post today, so goodbye for now!
Sunday, 15 March 2015
Shopaholic? Naaaah.
I'm pretty sure my classmates and close friends all know about my seemingly obsessed with shopping traits. It's not that I love getting new clothes, but some tops really do need to be matched with say, another type of skirt or high waisted shorts. Dresses and rompers do not need second thoughts for a matching piece but I often find myself overdressing when I wear them for normal occasions.
Ahem.. Okay I will stop defending myself now. Anyway, the main purpose of my post today is to recommend a few blogshops that I often shop from myself, just in case some of you decide to follow in my footsteps :3
Here are some of the usernames of blogshops in instagram:
1. bashclothing_
2. trxpleclothing
3. _laceydaisy
4. sunnysideup_boutique
5. witxhlabel
6. trendybellaz_blogshop
Though I know this may deem some of you readers as boring, I'm sure that somewhere, someone would find this post informative and put it to good use.
P.S. I promise I will TRY to ignore my shopping impulses.
P.P.S. Carousell is an app that you should really check out too!
Ahem.. Okay I will stop defending myself now. Anyway, the main purpose of my post today is to recommend a few blogshops that I often shop from myself, just in case some of you decide to follow in my footsteps :3
Here are some of the usernames of blogshops in instagram:
1. bashclothing_
2. trxpleclothing
3. _laceydaisy
4. sunnysideup_boutique
5. witxhlabel
6. trendybellaz_blogshop
Though I know this may deem some of you readers as boring, I'm sure that somewhere, someone would find this post informative and put it to good use.
P.S. I promise I will TRY to ignore my shopping impulses.
P.P.S. Carousell is an app that you should really check out too!
Sunday, 8 March 2015
One Word.
And so Charity Concert has ended. I am still somehow forlorn that it has ended because it not only meant that we didn't have any more events to look forward to but it also meant that we would not have to meet up for dance practices any more. The rehearsals started at 1.30 p.m. yesterday afternoon at the Civic Hall to test out the sound system as well as to familiarize themselves with the stage to make last minute adjustments. I sat, eyes transfixed on the stage as I watched the other performances that I was starting to get a little nervous about our own performance.
What really captivated me on that night was the amazing light effects that really flashed on the perfect timing on the performers. For instance, when the flyers of the cheer team were tossed up, the LED red light shone on them, making that stunt look immensely impressive.
There is a lot more that I have to say about the awesome night, but when I think of yesterday's events, there is only one word I can use to describe it- which is INDESCRIBABLE . You have to be there to feel the overflowing energy, to feel the vibe that makes everyone want to stand up and cheer along with the performances. No word can properly describe what I felt that night. Maybe euphoria? Excited? I'm not sure myself, you have to feel the loud music pumping in your veins that even your heart starts to beat along to the music beat to understand what I meant. Therefore, I strongly urge everyone to attend next year's Charity Concert to experience it yourselves. An additional plus point would be that all proceeds go to charity so make sure to buy your tickets next year!
What really captivated me on that night was the amazing light effects that really flashed on the perfect timing on the performers. For instance, when the flyers of the cheer team were tossed up, the LED red light shone on them, making that stunt look immensely impressive.
There is a lot more that I have to say about the awesome night, but when I think of yesterday's events, there is only one word I can use to describe it- which is INDESCRIBABLE . You have to be there to feel the overflowing energy, to feel the vibe that makes everyone want to stand up and cheer along with the performances. No word can properly describe what I felt that night. Maybe euphoria? Excited? I'm not sure myself, you have to feel the loud music pumping in your veins that even your heart starts to beat along to the music beat to understand what I meant. Therefore, I strongly urge everyone to attend next year's Charity Concert to experience it yourselves. An additional plus point would be that all proceeds go to charity so make sure to buy your tickets next year!
Thursday, 5 March 2015
A Day to Remember :)
Tomorrow is definitely going to be a new chapter marked in my life diary. There will be a road run hosted by our school but as for me, I would be missing it to represent my school for a Physics competition. I am still quite blur about it all, considering that we only knew about this last week and we had exams this past week. I can only hope that we would fare better this round than for the Accounts competition I participated in last week, in which we lost in a matter of about 10 minutes of the preliminary round. Talk about embarrassing!
However, it is not going to be the competition that marks a new memory for me, but what is going to be happening tomorrow night. * drumroll * The night of Charity Concert hosted by Leo club members! I have missed all four years of the concert previously, so this would be my first time going. In fact, I will be performing a dance for the song, Uptown Funk with my friends! This will definitely be a night to remember as the last time I performed in school was when I was 12, and we danced to a Korean song. I really, REALLY, hope that I won't forget the dance steps or do anything silly because there will be several schools attending this event, which main purpose serves to raise funds for a new dialysis machine. Well, it will all be a 'now or never' sort of situation tomorrow when I step on the stage so, here goes nothing!
However, it is not going to be the competition that marks a new memory for me, but what is going to be happening tomorrow night. * drumroll * The night of Charity Concert hosted by Leo club members! I have missed all four years of the concert previously, so this would be my first time going. In fact, I will be performing a dance for the song, Uptown Funk with my friends! This will definitely be a night to remember as the last time I performed in school was when I was 12, and we danced to a Korean song. I really, REALLY, hope that I won't forget the dance steps or do anything silly because there will be several schools attending this event, which main purpose serves to raise funds for a new dialysis machine. Well, it will all be a 'now or never' sort of situation tomorrow when I step on the stage so, here goes nothing!
Till Next Time.
FINALLY! Exams have ended. Though it was just the first term exam, I could see so many stressed faces of my peers during recess, dozens of books being spread open on the library table and students with eye bags as proof of their sleepless nights. When I, myself, had become one of them, I realized one thing we had in common- we all left our studying to be revised on the last minute. Literally, on the last minute because we all still had our eyes glued on books even when we were laying down our bags at the back of the class. I remembered telling myself not to repeat that cycle after I got through a few exams last year, stressing myself out for tests, but then again, I found myself poring over books and even napping on my revision book because I was too tired ( or maybe just bored out of my mind for History ). Anyway, I now have a new resolution to at least be able to recall some of the information I read before exams so that I wouldn't have to spend so long revising for something new I have never heard before.
Sunday, 15 February 2015
Nitpicking at V-day and CNY
Valentine's Day. The day that couples await for to do something special for their other halves. As for me, well, it doesn't really concern me because it doesn't hold any special meaning to me. I do, however, wonder why there is a special day to show how much you love a person when that fact should be shown to her/him everyday without fail. In fact, many people tend to celebrate Valentine's Day because their partners have grown to expect this tradition when it is not really a huge deal. Shopping malls are always super crowded on that day that we have to postpone watching movies or even stepping outside the house because of the increased traffic.
I can't deny loving Chinese New Year, but as humans, we can always find something to cavil at so we do not commit ourselves entirely to loving something. Chinese New Year is a day for family reunions but I dislike it when any family members stare at their phones and is completely oblivious to the conversations around him or her. In my opinion, this is a rare and special day that should be spent with our families because it is not often that an entire family can come together to bond. What with the increasingly modern and busy lifestyles for the new generations, there is simply no chance for reunions to happen unless there is a special occasion to celebrate. I am also mildly disturbed by the fact that teachers seem to think that our Chinese New Year holidays last for forever, such that they give mounds of homework for us to complete. With the seemingly never ending homework, how are we, students, expected to be able to return to our hometowns with an ease of mind to celebrate happily?
Well, that is the end of my rants for this week's assignment. I really hope that this year's celebrations will become more enjoyable so that everyone would be able to relax properly and just celebrate with their family members to their heart's content. Lastly, I wish all my readers a happy Chinese New Year and may everyone have good health and fortune granted to them this year!
I can't deny loving Chinese New Year, but as humans, we can always find something to cavil at so we do not commit ourselves entirely to loving something. Chinese New Year is a day for family reunions but I dislike it when any family members stare at their phones and is completely oblivious to the conversations around him or her. In my opinion, this is a rare and special day that should be spent with our families because it is not often that an entire family can come together to bond. What with the increasingly modern and busy lifestyles for the new generations, there is simply no chance for reunions to happen unless there is a special occasion to celebrate. I am also mildly disturbed by the fact that teachers seem to think that our Chinese New Year holidays last for forever, such that they give mounds of homework for us to complete. With the seemingly never ending homework, how are we, students, expected to be able to return to our hometowns with an ease of mind to celebrate happily?
Well, that is the end of my rants for this week's assignment. I really hope that this year's celebrations will become more enjoyable so that everyone would be able to relax properly and just celebrate with their family members to their heart's content. Lastly, I wish all my readers a happy Chinese New Year and may everyone have good health and fortune granted to them this year!
Sunday, 8 February 2015
HISTORY #deep
I'm proud to say that I'm an October baby,
born on the 3rd when so many incidences that shook the world has
occurred.
One of them that got me slack-jawed was the incident in year 2014 when JPMorgan Chase and Co. , a leading global financial services firm and one of the largest banking institutions in the United States, was hacked, exposing the personal information of 83 million bank account holders. Millions of names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses and confidential details related to the users were compromised, leading to them always being wary of their surroundings because of their fear.
Another tragedy was when a vicious shipwreck that took the lives of 325 people took place in Italy in the year 2013. The only survivors, or should I say fighters, fought for their lives by grabbing to life's threads for three long hours trying to stay afloat till dawn broke. I quote the fisherman's words when he found the struggling men there in the morning, "It was a scene from a film, something you hope never to see in life."
Next, in year 2003, Mantecore, a white tiger lunged at Roy Horn's neck in the middle of a sold-out performance of Siegfried & Roy. Horn suffered from an excessive blood lost on the journey to the hospital, got a stroke and required two surgeries. Fortunately, he survived the attack but was, however, left partially paralysed. It was later explained that the way Mantecore 'attacked' Horn was the same method as how a mother cat does with her cubs. The level of affection was too much that it almost took Horn's life.
Moving on, Japan's magnetically levitated (maglev) train broke the world speed record in year 1997 at the speed of 280.3 mph. The speed was so high that it was estimated to halve the usual time required to travel from Tokyo to Osaka.
Last but not least, in year 1988, Lebanese kidnappers released Mithileshwar Singh who was held hostage for 30 days. He was kidnapped along with three other Americans from Beirut University College in January 1987. When he was abruptly released, President Reagan insisted that no negotiations have been carried out with the kidnappers.
Saturday, 31 January 2015
Moods in a book.
Moods. Such a simple word to express what we experience every day without fail.
As for me, when I write stories, I try to use my knowledge of vocabulary to use different words that have the same meaning. For instance, 'eat', can be replaced with other phrases such as devour, nibble or even graze to beautify my writing. It provides a more interesting read for the reader even though these words are commonly heard in our everyday lives. 'Eat' gives an impression to the reader that the protagonist is just chewing and swallowing, but 'devour', however, paints a picture of the protagonist starving and wolfing down food in a hurry. That simple change of writing could affect our essays greatly.
Movies can control our moods easily, with loud sound effects or romantic, slow songs for each scene. As for books, there are many people who claim that books are boring compared to movies. After all, books can't have background music for each and every chapter. However, those same people can be proven wrong, because words CAN express moods. Just by using different phrases to replace a simple word can broaden the aspects so much more and captivate the reader's attention to the book. Repetitive phrases can easily bore the reader because there is no 'oomph' to the story. A good book is a book that can influence the mood of the reader such that the reader cannot put the book down, eagerly navigating through the pages in greed for more.
As for me, when I write stories, I try to use my knowledge of vocabulary to use different words that have the same meaning. For instance, 'eat', can be replaced with other phrases such as devour, nibble or even graze to beautify my writing. It provides a more interesting read for the reader even though these words are commonly heard in our everyday lives. 'Eat' gives an impression to the reader that the protagonist is just chewing and swallowing, but 'devour', however, paints a picture of the protagonist starving and wolfing down food in a hurry. That simple change of writing could affect our essays greatly.
Sunday, 25 January 2015
Innocent crush?
So.. Second post on this blog. It has only been two weeks of school and projects are already starting to pile up. Not that I minded, after all its what school is all about but it really leaves me hardly any time to watch dramas! People who know me probably all know that I'm a sort of crazy drama fan, what with the rate of dramas I'm watching. Anyway, back to the topic on hand, I'm not really sure what to write about for my second post but.. Here goes nothing. :)
I was bored the other day so I decided to tidy up the study table in my room. That was when I came across my old diary that I wrote in when I was 6 till 9. I began reading it out of curiosity and ended up spending a good hour reading it in fascination. My posts were sooo cute back then, an innocent mind writing innocent daily life stories, albeit each update ranging about a few months between each story.
Still, it was nice re-reading it, knowing what made my day and what did not. I have to admit, my kindergarten crush when I was 6 still brings back memories, especially those when we did the end of year concert. However, I never expected that I would meet him again, 10 years later at an unexpected moment during tuition. Till this day, my family still teases me about that one-sided crush. Imagine when I told them I met him at tuition.. It felt like the teasing would never stop- and I was given a smirk face from my family members wherever I went. But this is definitely one memory that I would never forget, 10, 20 or even 50 years later, because it was my very first crush on someone. It's one memory worth remembering, ^^
I was bored the other day so I decided to tidy up the study table in my room. That was when I came across my old diary that I wrote in when I was 6 till 9. I began reading it out of curiosity and ended up spending a good hour reading it in fascination. My posts were sooo cute back then, an innocent mind writing innocent daily life stories, albeit each update ranging about a few months between each story.
Still, it was nice re-reading it, knowing what made my day and what did not. I have to admit, my kindergarten crush when I was 6 still brings back memories, especially those when we did the end of year concert. However, I never expected that I would meet him again, 10 years later at an unexpected moment during tuition. Till this day, my family still teases me about that one-sided crush. Imagine when I told them I met him at tuition.. It felt like the teasing would never stop- and I was given a smirk face from my family members wherever I went. But this is definitely one memory that I would never forget, 10, 20 or even 50 years later, because it was my very first crush on someone. It's one memory worth remembering, ^^
Wednesday, 14 January 2015
Rain, rain go away, come again another day!
As we all know, the floods in the east coast regions have become an increasingly worrying issue for everyone. Lives were lost and homes destroyed beyond recognition. Devastated families are seen living in the community halls, having been rudely chased out of the comforts of their own homes after the floods. However, every cloud has a silver lining. Warmth can be felt from all of Malaysia as hands are eagerly extended to offer help to the flood victims. I sincerely believe that after rain comes sunshine and rainbows, so I strongly urge and encourage the citizens there to stay strong to overcome these hurdles. We may not be there in person, but our hearts stay with them, fighting alongside with their struggle in these times of needs. After all, we, Malaysians, are all in this together as one!
P.S. Excuse that pun line from High School Musical heh heh ^^
P.S. Excuse that pun line from High School Musical heh heh ^^
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