Don't judge me cause I'm always and never the same...

2012-01-14T23:05:00.000-08:00

"Opportunity," by Keri Smith.

New Year Resolution - How about new hope?

2011-12-28T19:33:00.001-08:00

I believe, in fact I’m guilty of taking somewhat a sedate approach to life and as a result don’t quite realise my full potential. Hence, this very beginning of the New Year I’m really committed to my passion and pursuing to the max. I’m going to the extreme.

After all, it’s necessary for us to push ourselves and take the challenging road and the greater the challenge the more gratifying it will be. I hope the penchant I’ve for adventure in my travel for the past few years will extend to other aspects of my life. I’ll finish writing my book, 108 places to see before nirvana, promoting my book, publish my travelogue, setting up a tea house business, and take my freelance design business into greater heights, creating Buddhist lifestyle merchandise and perhaps many more in this very New Year. Unlike before, I don't want to feel so much and do so little!!!!

My plates are full, but my stomach is still hungry. Presently I’m satisfied but also anticipating a lot of opportunities coming my way. Seriously, so much I can do with my humble potential brimming with hope. I want to go as far as I can see and when I get there I can see further...

So, when do I start?

2010
2009

Birthday state of mind

2011-11-14T18:18:00.000-08:00

As you get older, you tend to look back upon your life and recall what could be my proudest or happiest moment? I couldn’t care much of what I’ve achieved so not particularly proud of anything I’ve done however I can recall some of my happiest moment. The joy you experience commonly is either with your love ones or getting that short instant material gratifications but all these are determine by the external factors and I’m pretty sure the happiest moment I’m looking for is the inner peace I’ve experienced within.

So when is that particular moment I keep longing? It’s actually not that long ago, it’s a trip I made to Pai after knowing I can’t continue staying in Myanmar till to the political inhabitation so I made a detour, and amend my trip to northern Thailand.

Read why I left Mymmar

The days I’ve spent in Pai, passed with sweet idleness – indulging in cycling around the town; practising yoga; chilling in the Jazz café near my guesthouse and chatting up with friends I’ve just met. But the sweetest hours of all were those I spent alone, on a bicycle, pedalling out of the town to the Japanese bridge.

Of my time cycling my bicycle, I put on my mp3 player with music soothing my soul, I still remember the song, Dog days are over perform by Florence and the machine, turning my eyes directly to the open road, somehow I feel myself floating and drifting to another dimension. In those 2 hours, I lost myself in the beautiful countryside, plunged in a host of delightful reveries.

I couldn’t recall what it is in details that make me so happy. I know the sun was setting, trees stretching out on the side of the roads and majestic mountains as the backdrop, I think it’s the care free feelings and undisturbed thoughts or perhaps in large part, the “timelessness” of the experience. A place where my mind did not venture to the past or anticipate the future, where present runs on indeterminately as we all have known everything is in constant flux, nothing remains the same.
Subsequently, pangs of nostalgia propel me to revisit the same town on my birthday. Sadly, till to the severe flood situation in Thailand, it’s not possible to be there in time.

I do know even if I’m back in the same old place I might be not be able to recapture that sublime state of mind I once reminiscence but I do know as long as my heart is calm and untroubled, with conducive surroundings, stay focus in the present. I inadvertently may be able to revisit that state of mind once again.

Happy Birthday to the state of mind that I long for…

2011-10-03T20:14:00.000-07:00

2011-09-25T04:31:00.001-07:00

Brown Bird Flys

2011-09-25T04:24:00.000-07:00

Brown bird crashing happily into the window panes
Nearly drop dead with a pinch of air
As deadly as it is
Brown bird take the broken wings and try to fly
Knowing the pain is only momentarily

Brown bird fly, Brown bird fly
Into the light of the jet black night

Brown bird singing in the dead of night,
From his sunken eyes, he learn to see clearly through his life
There is always light in the jet black night

Brown bird fly, Brown bird fly
Into the light of the jet black night

knowing there is always light in the jet black night

An escape

2011-09-02T03:06:00.003-07:00

Every human being whom is really alive is constantly broadcasting his thoughts, feelings and emotions and all these can be transmitted through vibrations, even if one sits in silence.

The very presence of a person is communicative and radiates a certain vibrations to whomever around him. He carries his ambiences wherever and whenever he goes and does. When you sit, observe or talk in his presence, you are likely to absorb every emotive expression he transmitted. Happy or sad, regardless, you either feel the positive energy or feel like energy has been sucked out. At times, you may also feel nothing at all, just deadness, like a log of wood. I call them boring personality.

Therefore, I took myself very seriously; by making sure that anyone whom gets in contact with me will receive my positive vibes and if they have any problems, I’ll advise or offer something for them to consider, at times just listen, attentively. To certain extent, I absorb their negative energy and feel obligated to resolve their worries.

However this time, I need to release my own negative energy. So with my coming trip to India that coincidentally planned one year ago. I escape. (First time, I take traveling as an exit plan. Usually, it’s more of a liberation)

I decided to venture to the Himalayan Snow Mountains for an in depth up close and personal self to self-retreat with maybe a few tranquil sceneries to rejunvenate me, like Goa to cleanse and wipe away my sorrow just like the shore.

So this time, I escape knowing I can recover and return to exudes positive vibes to others...

Love means nothing, nothing equals nothing

2011-08-16T05:31:00.000-07:00

I gotta take a little time
A little time to think things over
I better read between the lines
In case if I’m mislead

In my life there has been heartache and pain
can't compare with what others have faced
but I've to stop this now as it's getting too far
To go back to my solitary life

I don't wanna know what love is
cause no one can show me
I don't wanna know how love feels like
as no one can show me

I'm gonna take a little time
A little time to look around me
I've got nowhere left to hide
Looks like solitude has finally convince me

In my life there has been heartache and pain
can't compare with what others have faced
but I've to stop this now as it's getting much too far
To go back to my solitary life...

I don't wanna know what love is
cause no one can show me
I don't wanna know how love feels like
as no one can show me

I'm going back to my solitary life...

Go forward with Courage

2011-08-08T17:09:00.000-07:00

"Go Forward with Courage," an archival print by Jen Ray of Corduroy, one of my favorite Etsy shops these days. ($30)

State of emergency

2011-08-07T20:14:00.000-07:00

All these accidents,
That happen,
Follow for a reason,
Coincidence,
Makes sense,
Only with you,
You don't have to speak,
I feel.

Emotional landscapes,
They puzzle me,
Then the riddle gets solved,
And you push me up to this

State of emergency,
How beautiful to be,
State of emergency,
Is where I want to be.

All that no-one sees,
You see,
What's inside of me,
Every nerve that hurts,
You heal,
Deep inside of me,
You don't have to speak,
I feel.

Emotional landscapes,
They puzzle me - confuse,
Then the riddle gets solved,
And you push me up to this

State of emergency,
How beautiful to be,
State of emergency,
Is where I want to be.

State of emergency,
How beautiful to be,

Emotional landscapes,
They puzzle me,
Then the riddle gets solved,
And you push me up to this

State of emergency,
How beautiful to be,
State of emergency,
Is where I want to be.

State of emergency,
How beautiful to be.

Be here now!

2011-05-09T22:35:00.000-07:00

"Be Here Now," from Sarah Gardner's Lettering set.

Do what you can with what you have!

2011-05-09T20:17:00.000-07:00

I'm not the kind of person whom is vastly interested in politics. I can't even recall the name of the last president in Singapore; I can't even put the name together with the face of the ministers. The main reason I personally think is because politic is never fair. Everyone has their own set of perceptions. Promises by the politician are only words, it's the intention and the post-election I'm looking into. However, when life interferes, the welfare of the nation is compromise, and maybe we only hold that tiny piece of paper to vote. We do what we can with what we have.

Quote of the day!

2011-01-16T20:58:00.000-08:00

Somewhere I've read

2011-01-16T19:27:00.000-08:00

Changes Everywhere
Change - Positive or Negative - always create new things
So I look at "change" in a positive light.

Change for me is staying dynamic, staying ahead of the norm, Stepping out of your comfort zone and doing things that are a bit risky, a bit fun. As long as you keep moving, then things around the world will change for you.

MAKE CHANGE NOW!

A single running man

2011-01-08T09:03:00.001-08:00

Every evening or almost, unless I’m travelling, you’ll see me jogging around my neighborhood wearing my white Tee and shorts with a white “chanel” inspired watch to keep track of the time. Most of the time, I forgot how many rounds I’ve jogged so with the watch I can tell how much time I’ve spent on each round without over running.

Come to think about it, it’s been 8 years since I started jogging, initially, it’s about losing weight, but as time goes by, I eat as much as I jog and I run for other reasons. One of the main reasons, perhaps I know is whenever I feel down, I run. Focusing only breathing in and out, not allowing my mind to think about my emotions. Losing breathe seems to be meditative, jogging seems to empty my head which is a relief as my mind always bubbling with thoughts incessantly.

After every run, there is this inexplicable liberating feeling, for some is adrenaline pumping, for me it’s clear headed, my observation and awareness to simple things seems to heighten me. That simple bliss, that clear mind, the unwanted emotions, I know I’m not running away, I’m running inside myself, getting to know me and handle my thoughts a little better…

Somewhere I've read...

2010-12-20T17:05:00.000-08:00

Fireflies in the Garden

Here come real stars to fill the upper skies,
And here on earth come emulating flies,
That though they never equal stars in size,
(And they were never really stars at heart)
Achieve at times a very star-like start.
Only, of course, they can't sustain the part.

~ Robert Frost

Somewhere I've read...

2010-12-20T17:04:00.001-08:00

There is no power greater than a community discovering what it cares about.
Ask “What’s possible?” not “What’s wrong?” Keep asking.
Notice what you care about.
Assume that many others share your dreams.
Be brave enough to start a conversation that matters.
Talk to people you know.
Talk to people you don’t know.
Talk to people you never talk to.
Be intrigued by the differences you hear.
Expect to be surprised.
Treasure curiosity more than certainty.
Invite in everybody who cares to work on what’s possible.
Acknowledge that everyone is an expert about something.
Know that creative solutions come from new connections.
Remember, you don’t fear people whose story you know.
Real listening always brings people closer together.
Trust that meaningful conversations can change your world.
Rely on human goodness. Stay together.

Stop, let go & move on

2010-12-08T18:51:00.000-08:00

I can still remember vividly my first job experience, of course, I’ve work as a video rental assistant, guardian pharmacy assistant and CD sales assistant before but nothing compared to the first job that launches your career as a designer.

I was working with planet ad but it seems more like I’m working in planet Hell, and my Japanese creative director name is Hal too. It was a torturing yet also one of the most rewarding and great learning experience. All of my ex-colleagues can be a testament to that. All those nights of sleeping in the office rushing for never-ending deadline and pizza for lunch to dinner and sometimes, left over for morning breakfast. It’s unhealthy, lethargic and most of all lifeless. I even learn how to say Watashejintekaoshiteno which means give me back my life in Japanese so that my director could know how life in Planet ad has been for me.

However, after resigning my job, I learn to know. Who am I? a little better. What I want? A little more. What to pursue? A little clearer. It’s like Eat, pray & love after coming out from a messy divorce, you know who you are and what you want except in planet ad, we eat, work and shit!

Then why are so many people afraid of sadness? Don’t they know happiness must exist together with sadness? It’s relative! If not, how do you tell the difference? They tend to let their feelings run amok over and over again. They can’t seem to stop and get a grip of themselves because it seem like that’s the final point of their life. Changes are constant. Whatever you feel won’t be permanent because it is subjected by your senses.

In future, when you face any unhappiness, remember it’s only a process to go through until you find your happiness again; of course unless you indulge in melancholy, you’ll never discover happiness (I’ve a few friends whom are like that)! You just have to learn how to stop, let go and move on.

So if you don’t mind me, I’m going to watch a sad movie now because unfortunately my life is pretty much “sadnessless”…

P/S: In the coming year, I wish all my friends & cousins a happy & in between a touch of sadness 2011!

一个人的烛光晚餐 A candlelight dinner for one

2010-11-18T05:04:00.000-08:00

要到哪里逛一逛
才不会辜负我的细心打扮
买下那渴望已久的topman项链
是不是一种心里补偿

灯火太灿烂
还是我自以为开心
好想玩个疯狂
废寝也忘餐
才换到这成就感
可是如果来个烛光晚餐
一个人怎吃得完

我知道怎么办?
只来一道甜点chendol, 感觉一样浪漫
甜蜜的味道会掩盖所有辛酸
让我感受一下冰淇淋的浪漫
眼花缭乱的色彩不用谁分享

也许该大声呼喊
对着整个城市庆祝一番
为了这个不平凡的夜晚
我怎么会没有打算
像生活所有事情我也知道怎么办

就看一场爱情电影
感觉也可以一样浪漫
黑暗和安静的戏院会掩盖我所有辛酸
让我感受一下这孤独的浪漫
像生活所有事情我也知道怎么办

让我感受一下烛光晚餐
冰淇淋的浪漫
眼花缭乱的色彩不用谁分享。。。

My lifestyle, my choice...

2010-11-08T20:31:00.000-08:00

In the eyes of my friends or even strangers, my lifestyle is something that many covet or envy. My chums usually told me I would love to travel and backpack like you do, experience life and look at this world with a wide open heart but I don't have the courage or determination, not to mention the burdens of harsh realities that life accumulates, car and house, monthly bills and the costly expenses to maintain a fast pace lifestyle in this modern world. That’s why, in this world they are hardly anyone whom can travel like you do.

Every time I hear it, there is a sense of disappointment and sadness. Life is already too short to begin with yet people can’t pursue the lifestyle they want, it’s disheartening. There are people around me whom think that my lifestyle is liberating, trouble-free and some people will even think of it as a storyline for a movie. It’s unrealistic! It’s like a story based on Eat, Pray and Love except I started travelling before the book becomes popular. I can’t figure out what’s my main motivation, I just feel like there are a lot of places in this world waiting for me to visit, cuisines that yet to tickle my palette and strangers that yet to be my friend.

Saying I love to travel is under-rated, the best way to say it is I live to travel. In the beginning, I’m like everyone whom gets excited and nervous for a new destination, doing what the tourist does and buying souvenirs but now backpacking has a different meaning, it’s more adventurous and amazing to travel to an unexplored territory, meeting the locals, understanding their cultures and lifestyle. As my travelling goes on and on, I bought less souvenirs and visit less touristy spots. I know travelling to me has a new found meaning. At the end of every journey, I grow up with new perception; meeting people on the train, peeing in the middle of the road, sharing food with strangers becomes the main reason to reminiscence. Certain places or people make you nostalgic. From the excitement I used to have for travelling slowly turns into a simple minded and ordinary state of mind. I look at this world much clearer without preconceive excitement or expectations.

This few years, my vagabond lifestyle, alter my requirements on food and lodging, just as long I won’t died, that is my motto for travelling. Living in a foreign land, Aa single lifestyle, it’s not easy as everyone thinks, facing troubles or tricky problems, I’ve to resolve it on my own, trying every means to make my trip as cheap as possible. I never find myself choosing this path, leading a non-confined or cliché life. I’m gratified and easily contented. Gratified when my friend asks for my advice in the countries I’ve visited and some even follow my footsteps. I live myself in a map with no specific directions, I’ll let the shore washes me wherever I need to be.

It’s a lifestyle I chose and a choice I made without regrets.

At this moment, where am I?

2010-10-30T21:35:00.000-07:00

A single man, having an impression of this familar city, asking himself where is he heading, but yet looking strangely at the same time. Bangkok, the city which I fall in love with often gets me addicted with their perfect imperfection, the bustling traffic, the agreesive tuk tuk drivers (okay, maybe not that) and the infamous red-light district which infuses with the glorious Buddhist temples. This impression oftens lingers in my mind.

This city, everytime I'm here, in my mind, become wonderous into many different worlds, some comes with nostalgia, some adventurous, some lonely but mostly liberating with happiness and some you can't let go and you have to keep revisiting, just to pursue that same old setiments you once remember but can never feel quite right the same as before. Everyone living in this city have different ways of mapping it. Some follow their heart, some follow the road signs and some circling along the same road waiting for someone to point them the right direction.

The key is am I wiling to try out a different road, out to a city I've never been. At this moment, it doesn't matter what I'm doing but where am I that matter most.

Everyday, walking in the same city but different routes, mapping out my own directions, I stop and asked myself at this moment again, where am I?

I feel that my life is where I want to be...

Happy Birthday to me!

Read previous Birthday entries

http://skylet.blogspot.com/2009/11/first-cry.html

http://skylet.blogspot.com/2008/10/081180.html

http://skylet.blogspot.com/2007/11/whats-there-not-to-celebrate.html

Be aware, be very aware...

2010-10-23T19:14:00.000-07:00

Have you ever seen ants marched across the tree barks? Have you ever try tasting the sweetness from a grain of rice? Well, if you haven't, you're one of those people like me, multi-tasking and speed chasing in the era of instant gratification.

I was at the Buddhist Conference, happiness here and now. They talk a lot of things but I’m deeply attracted by the word - mindfulness, at least that's what I've erudite from the conference. How many times are we fully aware of our actions? Don’t we sometimes act in the moment of folly and regret our actions? Or act under society/peer pressure that we inhibited our own happiness? In this automated era, we seem to tune in like a robot.

We eat for the sake of eating without actually tasting it. We earn a living by saying I've no choice when we don't actually know what we are doing. We don't love what we do; we do it for the sake of doing it. Seriously, the keyword is to slow down and think about what you do, you might be impressed by the result. Mindfulness creates a different kind of perception. For e.g the lizard on the wall might seem to you dirty and disgusting, try thinking about what the lizard think of you! Most probably the lizard will think the same way as you does! By slowing know, we also are taking time to focus and experience how we truly behaves. Savoring our relationhips with people, our encounters, our meals and enjoying this slow passage of time. From this newfound perception, we might be a much happier and gratifying person.

Even though I'm in favor with the Italian, the sweetness of doing nothing, I'm definitely of those men whom can’t idle doing nothing; however I can try to do it a little slower...

The right timing and challenge

2010-05-13T20:57:00.000-07:00

I’m discussing the content of a lifestyle enriching website that I’m designing, and then comes the question, Kyle, you’ve so much good ideas, why don’t you write something for us and we’ll edit it for you. That’s where I begin to think. I love to read. I love good quotes or well-phrased sentences even more. I usually spend time chilling out with my book, a well written book of course. When I finished, I realized what a joy it is to read books that take place sort of where I am.

However, writing for real is not my forte. I believe Carrie in Sex and the City is awe-inspiring (her shoes collection as well) and there are times when my friend referencing her role as my character in life. unfortunately, I am more Miranda than Carrie. She is a writer and I’m neurotic, both of us might be in the creative industry but doesn’t mean everyone is born to write.

In my secondary days, I’ve problem writing a 350 words composition. My punctuation is always kind of…eccentric. I guess that puts the fear of writing in my dictionary.

However, I believe in the power of good timing and challenge. It’s like reading. Certain books have come into my life in such a way that I can’t help but to think, “This is the perfect time for me to be reading this.” When my life is in the crossroad, The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho gives me the strength in knowing what each individual can achieve. When I was travelling for the first time to Laos, Eat, Pray and Love by Elizabeth Gilbert changes my perspective in travelling and inspire me to cherish every moment.

When I travel, books are my only companions; the character in the book makes my imagination runs amok when I’m sitting on a long bus or train journey except reading on a plane where I find it confining and contrived. Travelling is the best time I can read completely, 2 to 3 novel for a period of one month. A good book inspires you, change your perception and the way you see life.

I also think everything happens for a reason. I’m so good in bitching thus I don't think writing might be hard. I actually don’t mind writing at all, at least not professionally, my english teacher Miss Laila will be so proud. If I can share my feelings in a novel sort of way. Certainly; it’ll be gratifying. Well, let's hope I won't end up in tragedy like most classic novels are...

Closure

2010-03-14T22:56:00.000-07:00

Few weeks ago, I was in Bangkok visiting a friend of mine, Pauline which unfortunately had been diagnosed with advance stage liver cancer. When we talk about cancer or someone having cancer, we don't usually realize the impact. The word “anything could happen” stuck with me for a while.

Then last week, my uncle in Malaysia died in a car accident. My mum grieves at any moment the name of my uncle is mentioned. In life, death is unavoidable but then it seems like unfinished business keeps on trading like the hi-rise buildings in Raffles place. Thankfully, those businesses can be consider as one form, regret. There are only 2 types of regret. Both are a choice you make to validate your decision. It’s either you do or you don’t. Either way, you’ll regret both.

Research had shown that most people regret in something they did not do. The main reason is because we are free to imagine the different consequences of scenarios if we have chosen the “unchosen” road. What if… to put it in the easiest form of speech. However, keep thinking of “what if” could never turn back time and amend our mistake or wrong decision. Instead, focusing of what’s now.

What's going to happen now is that facing death and preparing for death everyday you live is not pessimistic or taboo. If someone gets really ill, the last thing you can do is to let the illness define who he/she is. Instead prepare for what's going to happen. No matter how hard we try to keep our composure and to present a facade of calm and understanding, we can never be able to explain death sensibly. Instead, find a way to end it with a proper closure, if you care well enough to seek for it...

*Pauline had now passed away in 8th May 2010*

New Year Resolution

2010-01-06T19:04:00.000-08:00

In the beginning of the year, most people would love to make plans, resolutions and some refer it as goals, hoping life can be more fulfilling, rewarding or transforming into a better version of themselves. However, by making all the above so called resolutions, subconsciously we tend to take control. Controlling our life the way it can be.

I spend nearly every minute thinking about control, how I can make a decision more efficient, what I should do to prevent mistake from happening, what I should wear to work. And still sometimes I can’t figure out if my aspiration – as an idea, a concept, a goal – it’s good or bad.

I make sure my bedroom is clean and tidy, my books and notes run in alphabetical order, my wardrobe according to the color hues, my keyboard 90 degrees parallel to the desk that I almost feel like I might have developed Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). I feel utmost gratify when my stationary is impeccably organized. Divine! And yet so many words and phrases that pertain to control are negative. “Control Freak” and “Possessive” immediately flashes through my mind(Note that those terms sometimes have been used loosely on me before.

Losing control is scary, especially when the future unfolds. No doubt able to take control in certain situations, people and your life can be empowering but nothing is predictable (unless you’re the oracle, which I doubt only exist in Matrix), we’ll all have days when the floor fell beneath us. When you’re lying awake at night worrying about something or another, your mind and imagination is beyond control at times that causes you towering anxiety. We just can’t control everything! Also, I’m making myself more miserable.

Each in our own way, we have to accept or sometimes embraces – the loss of control. One thing leads to another, we just have to let go and see where life takes us next. I’m not suggesting that you completely give up your life. However, take a deep breath and stay calm, and perhaps mediate, our resolution can be resolved and state of mind can be more serene. If it doesn’t work out, we can always try again or change another more realistic resolution as we’re always the one in control …

Don't dictate my own happiness

2009-12-26T20:56:00.000-08:00

Someone once told me that you have the choice to choose
What you can win or lose

You can't have everything as it has its up and down
The best is that in life, you can always take chances
however, you might feel the pain

When you love in vain,
love won't set you free

I could stand by my side
And watch this life pass me by
So unfulfilling
But safe as could be

SO
what if it hurts me?
So what if i break down?
So what if this world just throws me off the edge
My feet run out of ground

Sometimes, it's just that i can't see
the kind stranger on this road and blaming everyone I saw
Don't I feel like a victim and don't even start my self-pitying
Don't say anything as every words will seem like excuses

I gotta find my place
I wanna hear my voice
Don't wanna feel guilty for every choice I make, Don't wanna care about all the pain in front of me
Cause i'm just trying to be happy, yeah

I just wanna be happy
yeah, happy, happy...

Renew, Replace and Recycle

2009-12-26T20:46:00.000-08:00

As the New Year is approaching, I can't help but to wonder where have all my time gone? If calendar is not invented, time is not restricted to only 24 hours? What will the world becomes? Will we still complaining that we always run out of time or making excuses that we have insufficient time for our love ones? Who created time and who dictates our time?

We're all so caught up with time that we actually fail to realize the past and the future depends on the present and if we try to figure out where is the present, there is no way we can measure. Every second that goes by is the past and every new second is the future. Nothing equates to nothing for the past and future. That's why we have been holding on to nothingness, attaching to the past that have no substances, just purely our imagination creating the illusion, memories.

What about future? The future is something we hope for that yet to exist. So, we should focus and consider our every words and actions that create our past and future. There is no reason for us to figure who created time and space but only the present is the best time for us to realize what living in this world truly means. As for now, regardless new year or not, for me, It's time to renew my life with new found perspectives that enrich and improve the world, replace my bad habits with good reforms and recycle for the world in distress that gives us time to fulfill our goals and resolutions...

Table needs leg

2009-12-16T02:08:00.000-08:00

When they say table needs leg, they literally means it.

Paper Explosion

2009-12-11T23:39:00.000-08:00

Paper Pot
Finally, a refreshing change for tissue paper cases, from Japan! With its cute shape, bright colors (except for black, which is matte finished), and useful functions, this revolutionary Paper Pot can surely add a new twist to your room decors.

Amazing clock!

2009-12-11T23:34:00.000-08:00

Digital clock: only figures, no case, only the necessary – only accurate time. Each figure has self-contained power supply and independent control, it can be fixed to any surface autonomously. A light sensor will switch the clock to an invert mode: the figures are white in the dark time of day and black at daytime.

The art of sharing...

2009-12-04T21:10:00.000-08:00

Same old but not same old

2009-12-02T21:15:00.000-08:00

Travelling is on my mind once again, so I should find that life is starting to get a little brighter as I start to see even my familiar surroundings in new ways. It's time to plan a trip...

Love what you do!

2009-11-27T04:28:00.000-08:00

Turn me on!

2009-11-26T19:48:00.000-08:00

This good design by John Caswell turns me on...

First Cry

2009-11-08T18:42:00.000-08:00

29 years ago, I cry for the very first time. I'm not sure why, how and where exactly, I just know I have to cry. Not even sure if it's happy or sad. I cried, incessantly. I can't really recall what happen. I do know for the fact that I didn't cry out of self-pity. Every year on this day, I admit at times I do cry for myself, when I love to be by myself. Also, trying to figure how to make me feel better by imaging it’s a special day to celebrate. I guess when things appear to be too beautiful, I'm afraid to look closer, thus it's blury and I can't tell the reality.

So for the past 3 years, I try running away...I travel to Bangkok, I rather not be in the country when I first started to cry I pander to a different culture and environment so that nobody knows me and exactly what this day holds for me, not to mention judge me. I guess, perhaps that's the also first capital of a country (excluding Malaysia as my mum is Malaysian) I've visited that leaves me kind of nostalgic…

This year till to work commitment, I've to stay in Singapore. I even have to meet a client later. I guess crying is out of my option. Instead, I face and live it like every other day. Then, rather than feeling pitiful, my feelings turn to gratitude. Unlike, on this very day, there might be somewhere, someone is crying for the loss of their love ones or lost their home and got abandoned on the streets till to natural disasters. Things could be much worse. I’m thankful. I counted my blessing.

Today, I'm grateful of not crying. I'm truly thankful for the person that gave birth to me 29 years ago and slides a red “Ang Pow” next to my bed, wishes me Happy Birthday early in the morning as she has to go to work before I’m awake…That's my mum and today...is my birthday.

Find out what happen last year.

Heading for a spritiual journey...

2009-10-13T20:03:00.001-07:00

Elizabert Gilbert once wrote in her book, eat pray and love, in order to discover who you really are, you've to travel to the country starting with the letter "I". Thus, she traveled all across to Italy, India and lastly Indonesia.

I've traveled to Indonesia, even though it's hardly a life changing experience, it somehow enlightens my way of seeing life. As for now, in T2, accessing free internet ;) I'm flying to the next "I" country, India. Call it coincidences or contrived calling, I've been searching for some inner peace since I quit my volunteer work. It's hard to recognize that volunteer work would have unforeseen political issue to handle. Somehow, it happens for a reason, I was later offered a job that I need to commit, hence no time for volunteer work as well. I feel unsatisfied.

When I met my friend, CW one day saying she is in need of seeking spiritual guidance and the best way to unravel the truth is to attend talk or teaching from monk or respectable venerable. Who better to learn from the 14th Dalai Lama? It then triggers my thought that perhaps I could do this.

The travel agencies are offering package for a person from S$1750 - S$2050. I then did some research and discover that it only takes S$950 by doing it yourself.

Finally after much calculations, I put my credit card number down the online form and book a direct SQ flight from Singapore to Delhi. Not knowing what can satisfy me spritually, I'm now in Changi Airport T2 typing this entry...

Fpor more on my travel experience, visit www.kylestravelogue.blogspot.com

My kind of happiness

2009-10-05T01:13:00.000-07:00

I grew up with my mother's love surrounding me since young, to certain extent the love that she showers manifest into my "curvy" figure. The kind of happiness that I experience or pursue is very different. Once the fairy tale "happily ever after" enchanted me, leading me to believe everyone needs a soul mate. I might not have been into any BB relationship or soul mate experience before, I certainly don't miss out any happiness.

My kind of happiness is traveling around the world, exposing myself to the unknown. Waking up every morning to the breakfast my mum prepares for me. Knowing I've certain amount of money to do some bargain hunting. Meeting up with chums gossiping about someone who knows someone.

However, last Sunday, I experience another kind of happiness...from a wedding. something I thought is a contrived man-made ceremony to declare what love is all about. I've known this couple, JB & MJ since secondary school from my chum, JL. We'll often traveled to JB together for a weekend get away filled with food galore, spa indulgence and of course mouth gossiping exercise.

When I was asked to participate in their wedding, from gown selection, styling to hosting. I've never felt so delighted! The progress might not be easy but it's the hard work put into the friends you've seen, evolving from single to a couple that is gratifying. It's amazing to see the usual wedding dinner that I dread to go turns out to be an exciting event. It is truly a joyous occasion. The thing about marriage is you have to be willing to died and love for each other, faithfully without losing yourself to one another. I might not share the same kind of happiness with them but I truly feel that their kind of happiness will last forever...

Comtemplation & Comtemplation

2009-09-21T18:52:00.000-07:00

Lately, I've been circling around in the contemplation lane. Sometimes, you find your way out, at times, you keep circling round and round. In life, it's all about making decision. The anxiety of making the right decision, whether it may be right or wrong forces you to face life. I believe every decision has its pro and cons. What's important is the decision you make, is it for yourself or others?

I got a very attractive (Not the salary but the job scope & prospect) job offer last week, after freelancing for about 2 1/2 years. I realize committing to a full-time job might be threatening to my freedom. That freedom that allows me to take a nap 3pm in the afternoon after heavy lunch and jogging in the morning breathtakingly at 8am makes me think twice and harder. Then, I think thrice, isn't life suppose to struggle for the better? If we take the easy way out and not discovering the potential we have in store for ourselves. Isn't life meaningless?

Yes, I admit I'm losing a big bit of my freedom but at the same time I’m struggling and pursuing a career that I’m passionate about. FASHION. Money & fame don’t entice me like my heart confess to me.

At least, I know for once, I’m making a decision not for anybody but truly to myself…

Thai Song of the Month - September

2009-09-14T22:32:00.001-07:00

Stay in the PRESENT

2009-09-14T22:30:00.000-07:00

Thai Song of the Month - August

2009-09-14T22:29:00.000-07:00

Thai Song of the Month - July

2009-09-14T22:27:00.000-07:00

Thai Song of the Month - June

2009-09-14T22:24:00.000-07:00

Passport - The official way to travel ;)

2009-07-13T20:24:00.001-07:00

Not surprising, this is the fourth time I'm renewing my passport. I can't believe how I've evolved just by looking at the pictures on my passports. With this entry, it means I'm travelling again. This time to Indonesia, comprises of 17,508 islands, and with an estimated population of 237 million people, it's the world fourth most populous country and has the largest muslim population in the world.

I'm starting my journey from Jakarta > Badung > Joyogkarta > Borobudur > Surabaya and lastly Bali. How excited am I? I just have to wait and see...

For more updates, pls visit www.kylestravelogue.blogspot.com

放开放开放开放开放开放 Letting go

2009-06-13T18:21:00.000-07:00

I’ve a Muji white translucent name card case. It’s simple and chic, casual yet sophisticated. In additional to that utility is that it only cost $2. I bought 2 of it immediately knowing I’ve the tendency to spoil everything under my destructive belt.

As I’ve been using it for almost 2 years (Surprisingly) and recently, M, my chum since primary 4 whom recently become a well-know celebrity hairstylist is looking for a name card holder. My exquisite taste for my name card case caught his eyes. He loves it very much and since I’ve bought 2, I offer to give the other one to him as a gift. He asked what happen if your name card holder is spoilt. I can’t help but to wonder why do I keep attaching myself to everything even in a simple name card holder?

Impermanence exists in every aspect of life, regardless if you acknowledge it or not. There seems to be a certain time limit for what we possess. It’s like there is an invisible expiry date for the bag that we bought, the mp3 player that got stolen, the failed relationship we once thought will be forever. The struggle with our attachment is self denial. Knowing we can’t pull back time yet holding on to the memory that never comes to life again.

I told M, I’ve learned to let go. I’ll get another name card holder when it comes. It might not be easy to adapt but at least I understand that’s life.

I discovered to be able to let go is to let new inspirations arise and liberate ourselves to a new perception and a new beginning. To let go is to allow us to have the opportunity to experience life. If we keep holding on, we’ll never able to discover what life can offer.

Be happy with yourself!

2009-06-12T00:28:00.001-07:00

If you're not happy with yourself, no matter how many surgery you undergo, you'll still never be happy with yourself...

Thai Song of the Month - May

2009-05-20T19:38:00.001-07:00

If or If Not?

2009-05-19T05:52:00.000-07:00

Simple life for a start

2009-05-16T18:58:00.000-07:00

My last day in Saigon is the sweetest! Well, I mean it literally. I found the tasty and sweet Dau Huay on the narrow lane of Saigon when I was wasting my few hours before my departure from the HCMC International airport, this old lady with big heavy pot hanging on her shoulder begin to lure me into what’s perhaps the most delectable and my favorite dessert in the planet. Sometimes, the best time in life are simple and come in a nominal price. For 3000Dong (30cents Sing), I enjoy the soft and tender texture of Soya melt in my mouth with the brown sugar syrup and guess what, coconut milk too. Oh my Lord Buddha! He is right that we get attached to our senses too easily and created this person call I. Nonetheless, it’s too good to let go that I order one more to satisfy my desire.

I remember when I was travelling in Cambodia; Andrew from Scotland mentioned there are 2 types of people he’ll differentiate. The bottle half full or the bottle half empty. He told me that from the way I form my opinion, I’m the bottle half full guy with strong optimism. Boy! Isn’t he right? Life is too short. You don’t waste it by worrying your life away. Everyone deserves to be happy even the ones that you detest the most. Why not be grateful and appreciate for what you have and maybe you’ll realize the simplest and most achievable happiness is not too far away…from you.

Taking a Break!

2009-04-11T21:05:00.000-07:00

Backpacking once again in the land of smiles before heading to Cambodia and Vietnam.

For more updates, pls visit
www.magicalthai.blogspot.com

Thai Song of the Month - April

2009-04-04T09:05:00.000-07:00

Piang Tur - The Love of Siam OST

Thai Song of the Month - March

2009-04-04T08:59:00.000-07:00

รักแท้ดูแลไม่ได้ - Potato

Common friends are everywhere but Good friends are hard to come by…

2009-04-02T03:25:00.000-07:00

This Week started with Big, Loud and Red Bang. Mainly because my good chum, M from my Secondary School announced she'll ROM this October. Thankfully, it's not the same date as MJ or else there'll be a bigger explosion.

We met in the land of woods shopping mall, getting excited about the good news M has mentioned in the sms which J, SLP or me would either know she is getting married or having a child. I guess having a child might not consider as good news ;)

Thus, we had our dinner at Lerk Thai, which unfortunately 2 days later I'll be flying to Bangkok to taste the authentic and cheap cuisine. As we run through our memories in our secondary school-hood, I just realize how easily happy and naive we are. Of course, our roar of laughter keeps sending the passerby to stare at us.

However, we couldn't care less. We laugh all our way to Toast box before we agree to meet up regularly bi-monthly or quarterly. How I miss the old days and the laughter we once achieve so effortlessly! Ahhhhh...

Watch out for your destiny

2009-02-18T19:53:00.000-08:00

I found a quote that is closely related to Mister B teachings;

Watch your thoughts: They become your words.

Watch your words: They become your actions.

Watch your actions: They become your habits.

Watch your habits: They become your character.

Watch your character: It becomes your destiny.

Repeat this 10 times, then you shall be mindful of your actions and words.

The curious case about the way we live

2009-02-12T02:12:00.000-08:00

Pretty much this few weeks, there are lots of movies I would like to watch and many movies that I’ve watched. Nevertheless, my movie buddy, R or S will always ask me out, sharing the light in a dark room full of people.

Once in a while, you’ll catch a movie that keeps haunting you, a certain scene or moment that captures your imagination bursting with millions and millions of contemplative molecules (If only they have such molecules).

That movie I’ve watch a few days ago, is The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. No, I’m not a big fan of Brad Pitt and neither it’s a movie about a man who count buttons for his whole life but more like a man who’ve grown from old to young. The story of the movie prompts me to think further about the way we live our life. If your life does not start from the beginning or the end, then, does that mean we should live our life from the middle?

Life is strange and unpredictable. The minute you stop caring about how your career is going or how your life is faring, everything starts to take off, even when you decide to kick back a little. Still, life goes on without my anticipation or expectation. Maybe the life works better in a nonchalant effortless cool.

We can't hold on to our memories forever, even my hard disks which contain all my digital photos crash sometimes. Since nothing last forever, not even the sea and mountain. That inspires me to live my life right right at this very moment…

Thai Song of the month - Febuary

2009-02-03T18:49:00.000-08:00

Too Fast Too Serious - ชิน ชินวุฒ Chin

Shoulders

2009-02-01T18:31:00.000-08:00

Friendship is like a pair of shoulders, some are comfortable to slumber on, some are there for us to cry on and some need an extra shoulder pad to get it right. Some have perfect shoulder to fit on any clothing, it becomes unbearably prickly. Some are too beautiful to look with envy, some just pisses me off and make me want to slap them harder; some shoulder you couldn’t remember as they either have grown or you are just not accustomed with it anymore.

How about my pair of shoulder? It’s like the seahorse mattress. Not everyone will like it, but that’s where I find solace.

Yet, some shoulders have been dislocated and when it recovers, old injury remains but the same shoulder will never be the same again…

Thai Song of the month - January

2009-01-03T18:48:00.000-08:00

Golf-Mike - You

2009 Resolutions

2008-12-26T17:52:00.000-08:00

A new year, a new beginning. 2008 has been kind and I believe with optimistic mind set, 2009 will be a better year thus here are some of my 2009 New Year resolutions

1) Stop wishing I've loss weight

2) Stop staring at my friends food thinking theirs taste much delicious than mine

3) Stop buying books when I've not finished reading my last book

4) Stop accumulating my wants but be satisfied with my needs

5) Stop anticipating my next bag packing trip

Let me not pray to be sheltered from dangers,

But to be fearless in facing them.

Let me not beg for the stilling of my pain,

But for the heart to conquer it.

Let me not crave in anxious fear to be saved,

But for the patience to win my freedom.

- Ven. K. Sri Dhammananda

Thai Song of the month - December

2008-12-11T18:57:00.001-08:00

Aof Pongsak - Tuen Kwarm Jum

Nostalgic Art

2008-12-10T19:07:00.001-08:00

http://www.miraruido.com

Life goes on

2008-12-09T20:19:00.001-08:00

on and on like how Celine Dion sings my heart will go on. 2008 is a year of unpredictability, a year where economy goes into depression whereby my insurance company, AIA is doubted. However, among the calamity and heartbreak, here is my top 10 favorite moments;

01: The start of my one and a half month back-packing trip to Thailand and Laos. The moment I step out of Chiang Mai Airport, I know something in my heart has change…

02: Meeting numerous remarkable friends along the way in 2008, The PRESTAT babes and the multi-racial backpackers I’ve met in Thailand.

03: My chums picking me up from the airport, sharing my joy of finishing my long envious backpacking trip.

04: Screaming hysterically in Lee hom’s concert. His talent is extraordinaire! What’s is even endearing is that the concert ticket is a birthday gift from my chum, Mary

05: Volunteering in the Asian Civilization museum as a Buddhist guide.

06: Laughing my head off watching the House Bunny in the theatre with my chums.

07: The birth of my godson. Believe it or not, I was in the hospital when he was born. 18 of March!

08: Meeting Phra Panya, inviting me to be a temple boy in Ubon Ratchathani.

09: Turning into a vegetarian on 14 of August. I never thought it would be so easy and gratifying.

10: I’m leaving this empty as 2008 has yet to end. ;)

Regardless you like it or not, 2008 insists on finishing its last day of the year, if not the last minute…thus live your life happily, it’s your choice!

Feeling so Good...

2008-12-09T19:39:00.000-08:00

when I opened up my eyes today
feel the sun shining on my face
it became so clear to me that everything around me is showing my way
I feel like there's no limit to what I can see or do
got rid of fears that were holding me
my endless possibilities
has the whole world opened up for me
that's why I'm feeling...so good
I never thought I would

jogging around my neighborhood
been taking care of myself like I should
I am who I want to be and
knowing of what I should do
cause nothing can bring me down
no one thing in this world can turn me down...

now that day is turning into night
and mum's home cooked dinner is my favorite time
there's nothing in this world
can break this spirit of mine
Rain comes heavily at night
but I still know the stars above are gonna shine
anything I hope will come true this time

Cause I'm feeling so good
I never thought I would

Yesterday is a memory
Tomorrow is the unknown
Now is the knowing

And I should be lucky to know that...

Thai Song of the month - November

2008-11-14T20:20:00.000-08:00

Nologo - Glua (Taken from 4bia soundtrack)

This is what happpen...

2008-11-14T20:16:00.000-08:00

when the right way of advertising is done properly...

08.11.80

2008-10-22T19:51:00.001-07:00

This is not a code to unlock any profitable Swiss bank account or the pin number for my atm card although it used to be. It’s basically a date. My date of birth aka my first cry.

Since young maybe because of our financial situation, my family doesn’t have the custom to celebrate birthday. However, my mom will always prepare this hot traditional soupy delectable vermicelli with 2 hard boiled eggs that can beat any highly embellished creamy birthday cake and I’m not saying this as self-pity. Till this day, the soupy vermicelli still remains as my favorite dish.

Not until when I reached secondary school, when your sweetest friend tends to throw you a surprise school canteen party (that doesn’t seem surprise at all, it’s your birthday!!) so that in return you can throw them the same birthday party too. Your chums will "Sabo" you by smearing some buttery cream on the face, using egg and flour for bomb attack and if you're a man, you might get some beaten up to indicate that you've grown and becoming a man. Not to mention, those lovely mugs, photo albums and greeting cards that you received are something that I cherish till this day. Those friendship that was forged with my chums during the secondary days is something I held close to my heart.

As I grow bigger much bigger as you can tell from my photos; my attitude towards my birthday becomes a phobia. I have developed POMB, Phobia on my Birthday.

As all sentient beings, we tend to be calculative, regardless it’s the price of the gift that doesn’t equate to the value of your returns, the person who bought the gift isn’t as appreciative, understanding or up to your expectation, good friend that don’t turn up or arrive late on your birthday or perhaps receiving gift that doesn’t fit you, in terms of shapes & sizes. Whatever it is, all these “little” trivial incidents create a fear in me since 2002. That’s also the year I stop having birthday to commemorate that my birth has absolutely no sense in making me miserable. Although one good thing does turn out for my mum is that she has strike 4D a few times based on my birth date and IC numbers.

I used to tell myself if Birthday isn’t the day to expect something in return then what’s the use of having a birthday? I guess I was wrong. Never do anything for something in return. Thus with no birthday comes no expectation and anything that comes on that day maybe perhaps or possibly might seem as “surprise”. Occasionally, I do have birthday cake for the past few years as my chums will out talk me saying well, we aren't celebrating your birthday since we don't do it on the actual day. Nonetheless, I do appreciate their effort by throwing me surprises.

As my birthday is drawing near, I can’t help but to wonder if I still have POMB or the unhappy and unwanted memories will keep on haunting me until I’ve really learn not to expect anything from my birthday…

Thai Song of the Month - October

2008-10-03T03:07:00.001-07:00

B.O.Y - First Love, First Hurt

Minimalist serves the time...

2008-09-30T02:41:00.000-07:00

Minimalist, chic and amazing time pieces!

Haunting!

2008-09-17T18:45:00.000-07:00

The series of montage done by Helmo (French) is seriously haunting!
http://www.helmo.fr

Don’t be a "Vegetable"

2008-09-16T04:08:00.000-07:00

While I was on my way down from the escalator to the basement, I overheard a lady saying in a haughty and vile tone that “I will rather be dead than becoming a vegetarian”. In a world, where a piece of sweet corn can fill up a child stomach for the entire day, that remark seems to be thoughtless, insensitive and narrow-minded.

We brought up in a world to believe that killing animal like Chicken or Pig for consumption is an appropriate and correct way for our survival that we fail to realize instead of protecting certain animals like shark, dog or monkey from illegal trade for consumption or cruelty, we choose to slaughter billions of billions of animal for our own consumption. What makes us, the human have the right to take another life, when a pig hanging upside down who cried before they know they are going to be slaughtered, and the chicken that struggles and flap its wings and drip the blood all over the place when its throat is slashed. It’s a noble thing to protect the monkey or elephant from harm but why not the animal that we consume. Just because the animal can’t talk doesn’t mean they have no pain.

Let me tell you this girl, I’m a vegetarian and I’m still well, alive, kicking and certainly not dead. Thus before anyone make such a remark, please respect that some people have make a decision to abstain from meat not because they didn’t enjoy the taste of it but because every time when they open up their mouth and swallow that piece of meat, they know that another life has been taken. If you hear hard enough, you might be able to hear the cries and screams from the dead animals…

My Blue Colour Life

2008-09-12T03:03:00.000-07:00

Not everything blue is sad, and not everything that is blue is sad. Hardly every sad person considers himself gay, and vice versa. Moreover, not everything pink is gay and not everything sad causes sadness. Not everything permanent is truly permanent and everyone isn't really so different from everyone else.

G.O.D - Good Outfit Day

2008-09-01T23:16:00.000-07:00

In the past, on a good day, I wake up, get dressed and run my errands. On most days, I wake up, get dressed, get dressed again, fiddle with my outfit, and then drag myself out of the door. I’m usually wondering if people notice my belt doesn’t match my shoe or my bag doesn't suit my belt. I know I sound like a total loser that I've nothing better to do than to coordinate my dressing. But you know what? When I really put on an appropriate outfit, I leave the house with a bounce in my step. I approach the day with confidence. When I walk out the door with a black T-shirt and a pair of jean, that’s when I know I’ll be limping my day throughout. I’ve a B.O.D, Bad Outfit Day. That equates to a pimple newly ripe on your forehead. I admit the notion that my clothes will ruin the day is kind of ludicrous. Nonetheless, that is in the past.

Nowadays, I’ve changed my perception. The clothes don’t make you look bad. It’s your self depreciating attitude that is making you inferior, insecure and most importantly undesirable. I care too much of what others think about me that I’ve lost myself. Travelling teaches me to open and liberate myself. So here is a few ways to reduce your time in fiddling your clothes before you leave the house.

1) Put on your favorite perfume. When you smell good, you feel good then you’ll look good.

2) If you really don’t know what to wear, wear all black and pretend you’re the men in black

3) Remember that everyone is too occupied of what they are wearing that they can’t be bother your dressing so why bother?

4) Lastly, brace yourself and repeat this “whatever I wear will be FASHION” thus, there will be no right or wrong way on how to dress...

In conclusion, love yourself and don't try to be somebody else...

My Journey

2008-08-31T03:40:00.000-07:00

One thing I really miss during my bag-packing trip is the journey taken from one city to another; regardless it is travelled by Bus, Train or Ferry. The journey itself provides you the luxury of time to reflect, inspire by a good book and reminiscing the past. Your thoughts wander around vicariously like the Pluto in the universe while you are still in your seat moving forward to your next destination. Once in a while, when your karma reaps, you might be able to get to know a fellow back-packer exchanging wonderful conversations about life and experiences or when the sound of a familiar accent, "No lah, is it?" starts to annoy you and what the hell!!

While our thoughts are constantly floating somewhere, I can't help but to wonder (There you go, my thoughts start to wander again) where do all these thoughts go? Is there a place when the thoughts gather together bitching at us of how we are not letting go of our past even though there is nothing we can change, how we get too excited or fearful about the future that we already imagine what is going to happen.

If that's our thoughts, what purpose do they serve? Although we can't restrain our thoughts but we sure can utilize our time in a better way that benefits us. Thus, I choose to go with the flow. Be at the present. Participate in my journey by looking out the windows and indulge in the scenery...

Thai Song of the Month - September

2008-08-29T20:17:00.000-07:00

Tattoo Colour - จำทำไม

Look at how the shot is done in one take!

GARY FERNÁNDEZ

2008-08-28T20:41:00.000-07:00

Love the illustrations by GARY FERNÁNDEZ! It's futuristic yet stylish!

Never ending journey

2008-08-27T02:28:00.000-07:00

The Bhagavad Gita – that ancient Indian yogic text – once says that it’s better to live your own destiny imperfectly than to live an imitation of somebody else’s life with perfection. Living in Singapore, where expectation is as high as the high rise buildings in Boat Quay, one can tell you that being a freelancer is hopeless; No stability, No prospects & No CPF contributions. However, I choose to live my destiny imperfectly contrary to what the society deems fit. I choose to travel and discover my life than to pursue the materialistic gains endlessly.

After coming back from my back-packing trip in Thailand & Laos, I’ve affirmed that travelling is a priceless experience. Regardless, how much you pay for the air ticket, guest house or Phad Thai, the journey itself is something money can’t buy. (This’s where MasterCard flashes their logo :)

Travelling is not merely an experience, it changes you. It broadens your horizons and not just provides you with a topic of conversation, but it opens up your mind to question more about your life. The cultural differences provide you another perspective to discover who you really are. First, I’ve become a vegetarian, not specifically for religious purpose but for the rights of animal. Just because the animals can’t talk doesn’t mean they have no pain. Second, the devotion to enquire and question more about Buddhism, Third, the passion to start learning mediation.

Just when I’m about to feel that the journey is ending, the ending unfolds itself as a beginning to explore further. However different the culture is, happiness, love & compassion transcend through all ages and languages. If I say life is like a never ending journey, then my life now is only the beginning…

Relax, Hold Back & Break Free....

2008-06-28T19:06:00.000-07:00

AK896, the flight no. I’m taking to Thailand for my first bag packing destination, Chiang Mai. Not to forget the number RM125, the price I pay for my air ticket (inclusive taxes, fuel surcharges & travel insurance : )

This bag packing trip will ultimately last for a month or two the most as no return air ticket has been purchased. However, the thing about bag packing is that you can always expect the unexpected. Not to mention the rewarding experience you get from exploring the different cultures and the people you met along the journey. The mystery of getting to know one person from a different background and having an interesting repartee, it’s amazing!

As mister B once said, "Thousands of candles can be lighted from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared." Sometimes, an unnoticeable thing, person or an experience can inspire you to think about your life, dreams or even make you a better person. Thus, I’m bringing my joy and an open mind to see what I can unravel during this trip.

Even though I've got a lot to do, packing my bag, back up my design work & planning my routes but nonetheless like the Thai will say “jai yen yen”, Relax, take it easy. The best way to travel in Thailand is to follow the Thai way. What more can I say or do? ;) Thus I shall Relax, Hold Back & Break Free....

For more updates on my magical Thai travelogue, do log on to another blog site I’ve dedicated for this coming bag packing trip at http://www.magicalthai.blogspot.com/

An inspirational speech by Anne Hathaway on Human Rights for the LGBT!

2008-06-25T01:53:00.000-07:00

Fatulous!

2008-06-24T18:52:00.000-07:00

Few weeks ago, I bumped into my ex-colleague whom is “stick” thin making a comment about my weight. The unanticipated sharp words, "Hey, you've been gaining weight" took me by surprise. After a few months not seeing each other and that's the first thing you can say about me. How about “how are you” to begin with? Then a strangest thing happen, never in my life have I been so comfortable to reply that I'm truly happy with how I look and my weight right now.

First of all, fat is not a sin. Gluttony is. In my life, I’ve always been struggling with 2 major issues. Fat & Love. When I was 13, I’m an abusive eater. I ate so much that my greatest gain is carrying over 110kg of fats in my 43 inches school pant. Not to mention, of course the school pant have to be especially tailor made according to my new found achievement. Once again, I’m humiliated with the fact that I’m fat.

After about 8 yrs of losing 35kg to the recent weight of 75kg (Beware: there might be a chance of gaining all those fats back) I realize perhaps the reason I’m still single is because I’m nevertheless fat. Am I too fat not to be loved? I remember watching the channel 8 drama series, it used to say that there is always someone out there meant for you but how come after years of losing weight, “wearing the right underwear” & reading all the self-help magazines about what’s love fails to get me attached. My friend even recommends drinking peach blossom green tea on the first day of Chinese New Year to increase my romances!! There are fat people who got attached. So why not me? I’m not even that portly.

Then I understand just like a piece of artwork. Everyone have his own ideal of perfect partner. It’s subjected to your preferences. Therefore, I don’t want to try hard to become that perfect eligible bachelor that the society or the magazine that you read deems so. The well-built 6-pacs torso with brown delicious tan living around the central business district! I’m not going to be the society victims. I don’t want to feel sorry for myself. We are all equal in the search for our own happiness, regardless of sizes and I mean the other kind of size as well. I just want to be myself and become the delicious apple of someone’s eyes. We would both share the sinful potato chips on a Saturday night naked on the sofa without been ashamed of my wobbly tummy declaring war against me. Till then, I’m not afraid of telling everyone that I’m single and fatulous!!

Hillarious Thai Ad!

2008-06-22T18:28:00.001-07:00

Repeat Entry: Solitude is not loneliness!

2008-06-18T23:27:00.000-07:00

Recently, a chum of mine, KC whom is ridiculously accuse by her cousin that it's fake to being single and indulge her solitude. Only a desperate and dependent needy girl will say such thing because she has never enlightened by the power of singlehood. For me, the difference between solitude and loneliness is that solitude is something you WANT and feel comfortable with, a peaceful, relaxing and inspirational space, and loneliness is an UNWANTED experience of being on your own.

I believe one of the greatest fears we have is the fear of loneliness, especially the loneliness that we feel when we are without a lover.

This fear traps many of us into unfulfilling or destructive relationships, or leads us into pursuing the wrong person just to AVOID being on our own. When The Hermit appears in your life, it may represent the loneliness you feel at the time. And remember, it is possible to feel more isolated and lonely in an unhappy relationship than when you are actually on your own!

Why do you feel lonely? What can you do to help turn unwanted loneliness into welcome solitude?

Do you believe you can transform your loneliness into solitude? I believe you can. Focus on contemplating positive opportunities and outcomes. Spend your time reflecting on past joys and accomplishments. Consider what you can do with your life to create more satisfaction and fulfillment.

Take your time and chill out, don’t make any hasty or impetuous decisions, THINK about the issues in your life carefully and from a more open-minded perspective and with a more positive attitude’

You should be patient, as it may take a little more time before the period of unwanted loneliness you are suffering will pass. Of course, it can also mean don’t let the fear of loneliness hold you back from making an important decision!

Don't rush any decisions, take time out to think about and contemplate your options carefully, and if you feel lonely consider how you can change the way you view your ‘loneliness’ to create a sense of solitude instead...

Amazing Illustrations!

2008-06-16T23:20:00.000-07:00

OFFF NYC 07 Catalogue by VASAVA

Intriguing Typography!

2008-06-14T05:11:00.000-07:00

The typography from Watafak is intriguing

What a chair!

2008-06-14T05:09:00.000-07:00

Fredik Farg's Coat Chair

Can luxury save the world?

2008-06-08T04:21:00.001-07:00

Luxury is a word that takes on different meaning according to your ever changing lifestyle. For instance, if you work non-stop for five days from 8 to “8” or sometime even longer like my chum KC, your definition of a treat is probably 2 hours full body massage, a good book to read or a nice dinner with your family. For busy mothers like my another chum, Mary, with a daily schedules that juggles home, work & family, her most precious hours must surely be that overused yet underachieved “me time”. When your life is full of late night parties and sexual escapades which I don’t happen to have a friend which encompasses that intriguing habit, you might long for a night in with a few close friends and a pizza together watching Sex and the City.

How about a single guy whom have been busy freelancing and volunteering for the past 2 months?

Well, a bag packing trip to Thailand & Laos shall do the trick. Not to exclude the research and the itinerary I’ve planned for the countries almost 3 months. That amount of time rationalizing the maps and transport system is opulence to me.

However, in these more eco-friendly times where channel 5 is showing horrifying images of a plastic toy boy bleeds from the sawing to encourage us to save the earth (Gaia), defining luxury has converted into a new found meaning. Suddenly, excessive consumption and impulsive shopping especially during GSS is unbearably passé. Stocking up the fridge with supermarket-bought air freighted goods at cheaper prices looks less like great value rather more like a cost for harming the planet. Similarly, covetable fashion merchandise in your wardrobe appears tawdry when you realize it’s been sewed by an exploited labor made in India.

True luxury, we’ve come to unravel must represent something that makes you feel good while not detrimental to those around you and the world. It’s a decision you make that will last not just for your own but the future generations. Thus, in my coming bag packing trip, rather than enjoying a 5* hotel treatment and sleeping on a 500 thread count Egyptian bed sheet cover. I’ll save the world a little by little by checking in to the guest house and perhaps, maybe & probably a cold shower...

The story of my pencil...

2008-04-27T22:21:00.000-07:00

A grandmother once told a little boy the story of a pencil while he is doing his homework. She said: There are five qualities you've to learn from a pencil.

First: You write your own story in life. You're capable in great things and is responsible for your own actions. For every good and bad deed, it's all written by your own hand. You've a choice in every choice you made. There is no such thing as no choice. Everyone has a choice. Nobody can write your story except for yourself thus use the pencil and write it well.

Second: Every once in a while, you've to stop writing and use a sharpener. Sometimes, life is a little harder to go by but you've to keep on writing. The sharper you are, the wiser you'll be.

Third: When you make an error in your writing, the pencil allows you to rub it off with an eraser. It's not a terrible thing so don't keep reprimanding yourself once you make a mistake. Correcting something that you've done and learn from it, rub out your mistakes and move on.

Fourth: What really matters in a pencil is not its wooden exterior; it's the graphite inside that is more important. Don't ignore the childhood dreams that your heart once have. Don't forget to cultivate yourself and reflect what your purpose in life is.

Fifth: The pencil always leaves a mark, not just in the paper but for anyone who read your story. Be mindful and try to be conscious in everything you say or do.

Funky Camera

2008-04-16T04:47:00.000-07:00

As if Lomo camera is not enough, Corbis created a website with camera design template that can be downloaded as pdf, together with full instructions on how to turn a piece of paper into the workable pinhole cameras. Now, who say D.I.Y is boring?

http://www.corbis.com/readycam

Graphic Cushion Cover

2008-04-04T20:34:00.000-07:00

You might be surprised! My indulgence since 1998 sometimes is not shopping for clothes or shoes but cushion cover and bed sheet cover.

The thing about a well-designed print on a cover is that it brings life into your room and personal style. Thus, don underestimate the covers as there are equally important as in your inner beauty, undergarment!!

designed by: http://www.bonjourmoncoussin.com/index.php?act=1,1

Think out of the box?

2008-04-01T18:40:00.000-07:00

This is the classic example of unintended corporate irony: invoking a wretched cliché in a vain attempt to inspire creativity. The guy who utters this crap has never actually set foot outside the box. He would not in fact know a triangle if it stabbed him behind his back. As a highly respected corporate "square", he is skilled in the art of squeezing a few more pounds of shit into a box rather than declaring thinking out of it. If not, he is trying to experiment with designer’s effort to boast his ego thus he can tell people that the design is done by him.

Also, you don't get a box out from the square!

Ear buds or earrings?

2008-03-27T20:26:00.000-07:00

Now, this is interesting!! An ear buds for earphone...Doesn't that look like wearing earrings? The husband and wife team Jonathan and Kate Hall are the ones to create this cool & funky accessory. With teenagers trying to different themselves, a personalize ear buds might be a good idea!

Mobility = Function?

2008-03-20T18:57:00.000-07:00

Everything is mobile nowadays, mobile phone, mobile TV, mobile movie player and how about this mobile working desk with filing functions included!!

Live your life!

2008-03-18T19:54:00.000-07:00

Everyday an estimated number of 118 babies will be born and 51 people will die in Singapore. While this figure might not seem to be interesting but what we don’t realize is that we’re once and going to be part of this statistics.

I think in our culture most people find it a taboo to talk about death. They rather spend their lives worrying about absurdities; talking about the weather; postponing their dreams and slave themselves to society’s expectation. They complain a lot but are afraid to take action. They want everything to change but yet they are reluctant to make changes.

Death is unavoidable. When birth arises, death follows. Everyday we are dying and getting closer to our day of demise. Instead of avoiding talking about death or be frightened by death, let’s all confirm this nature of life, because all of us, sooner or later are going to die. And only those who accept this fact are prepared for life.

P/S: I delicate this blog to my godson, Alfonso Yew, may you find courage in the darkness to pursue the light and live each day as if it’s your very last day.

Obsession with Nippon

2008-03-16T20:31:00.000-07:00

An illustrator living and working in Melbourne, Australia and a self-confessed nipponophile. There is no denying the influence of her exposure to Japanese culture had on her work. Themes range from investigations into the cult of otaku to traditional Japanese folk tales and Japanese textiles and their meanings.

A Free Man!

2008-03-16T19:12:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I met a man. Not your average kind of man. He is deaf, mute and has travelled Three-quarters of the globe, Six continents & 47 countries.

All done with one beat-up BMW bike and a whole lot of quiet enthusiasms.

I saw him outside the peace centre besides a renovated shop where he displayed most of the photos on the countries he had traveled. Not to mention, the 2 big luggages that hang on both sides of his motorbike.

He explains his ambition with a white laminated sheet of A4 paper. It reads: 'I want to enter the Guinness Book of World Records as the only deaf and mute who has travelled all of Europe, Africa, Americas, Australia and Asia on a motorcycle.' What is more astonishing is that he is not subjected to his physical conditions in order to fulfill his dreams.

Now, that inspires me to travel. If traveling opens up your mind and be liberated then I’m not afraid to detach myself from my wealth & possessions. I’m not afraid to make changes. And I’ve no regrets. You see changes are constant and they are here to stay.

Sometimes, in life, we tend to take the easiest way out. What we don’t realize is that challenges bring growth, only by taking the road that few people travelled can suggest the difference between ordinary and extraordinary. I’m not afraid to face the unknown. For all you know, I’m able to make my own changes and I'm accountable for it.

Mr Yarets' journey can be tracked on http://www.yarets.com./index_eng.html

Free Tibet...through peaceful means.

2008-03-16T07:00:00.000-07:00

Before 1951, Tibet is an independent country. The country had its own administration and the 14th Dalai Lama was served as a spiritual leader. However, independence didn't last for long. When the Communist Party in China gained control and formed the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in 1949. The PRC propagate "People’s Liberation Army must liberate all Chinese territories" and one of the territories is Tibet. Thus, the Tibetan Government wrote to China’s leader, Mao Zedong, suggesting talks to resolve all boundary feuds. This document was also delivered to the governments of India, Great Britain and the United States, and even though these countries were and are fully against the expansion of Communism, they still supported Tibet’s negotiations with the PRC in order to prevent military action.

During the talks, the PRC’s ambassador insisted that Tibet agree to a two-point proposal, which said that henceforth, China would control Tibet’s national defense and that Tibet would be acknowledged as an official part of China. The Tibetan Government refused to comply with this and the discussions were terminated.

On October 7, 1950, the enemy attacked the Tibetan frontier in six places simultaneously." These forty thousand soldiers from China’s Red Army easily overwhelmed Tibet’s small territorial army of eight thousand in merely two days, killing more than half of Tibet’s troops and detaining the Regional Governor. In 1959, the 14th Dalai Lama was forced into exile in India after the Chinese military occupation of Tibet.

If the matter of Tibet's sovereignty is murky, the question about the PRC's treatment of Tibetans is all too clear. After invading Tibet in 1950, the Chinese communists killed over one million Tibetans, destroyed over 6,000 monasteries. A quarter of a million Chinese troops remain stationed in Tibet. What's more, currently in Tibet, any "Tibetan culture, religion, and national identity are considered a threat" to China.

Regardless, where is the justice or who started the riot? One thing we can be sure is that peace can never be achieved through violence...

http://www.freetibet.org/

Cookie Cutters

2008-03-13T01:07:00.000-07:00

Who say sex and cookie cutter don't go well together? That's the way to spice things up in the kitchen!!!

Je vais vous dire un secret...

2008-03-09T21:53:00.000-07:00

It’s not the title of Madonna’s Confession Tour.

Everyone has a secret, their own dirty little secret, if not, many secrets. We keep our secret from preventing our closest friends or family from being hurt. Sometimes we hide our secret because it’s too embarrassing. We conceal ourselves by having secret. We keep secret from people to know us better. Most of the time, we hide our secret from people just to protect ourselves. In another words, we’re not truthful. We hide and lie. However, as times goes by, you’ll realize when the secret is out, a new kind of freedom had been found. What exactly is my secret? It’s for me to know and for you to find out…

A twist in Bangkok Love Story (Pheuan... Guu rak meung waa)

2008-03-06T19:15:00.002-08:00

Last Oct, I saw the review of this arty Thai film. Since then, I'm deeply attracted by the theme song sang by Calories Blah Blah. Yes, that's the name of the Thai artiste. As I begin to love the song even more, I thought the chances of seeing this movie in Singapore is minuscule. However, recently Golden Village Plaza & Vivo brought in this movie to Singapore. Then I realize it's such a depressing movie. (Think Broke Back Mountain but not as good)

Few good things about this movie is that it talks about discrimination and stigmatisation in AIDs from our society. Also, LOVE that transcends more than just sexual preferences. I mean to wait for someone you love for over 40 years. Same goes for the movie, The Leap Years. What are the odds? Is it a silly or noble thing to do? That answer I'll leave it to individual. For me personally, It's good to know some people do spent their life waiting for someone they love, it might sound nice and devoted but it's not an ordinary thing to do.

Nonetheless, if you love the theme song, check out the video below.

Intricate Illustrations

2008-03-05T04:43:00.000-08:00

I came across this Bejing illustrator that did a lot of intricate and fascinating illustrations. Some which juxtaposes Buddha image makes the illustration with a strong east mixed west fusion. Enjoy!

The Zen master & the 14 year old

2008-02-28T18:21:00.001-08:00

I was watching "Charlie Wilson War" yesterday as you all know I'm a big fan of that big mouth, JR. Amazingly, it's always amazing to see her on the big screen. She shines in the movie. It's not a slow paced movie as I've expected. The dialogues are witty and the repartee between JR & TH is wickedly hilarious! The part where JR grabs TH butt is memorable. Not to mention JR is a total b*tch in this movie. She calls name like slut! That's a small surprise to me as JR is always so down to earth.

Then coming to the end of the movie, the philosophy of the movie unravels. PSH asked TH, Do you know the story of the Zen Master and the fourteen years old? TH appears to know as if he knew. Thus PSH narrates, once there is a boy who got a bicycle for his fourteen years old birthday, then everyone in the neighborhood said “Wow, That’s so nice!!!” and the Zen master said, “Let’s wait and see” 2 years later, he rides the bicycle and met an accident, He is not able to walk again, then everyone in the neighborhood said “That’s too bad!!!” The Zen master replied, “Let’s wait and see” After a few months, the country is recruiting all young men for war and because he is a handicap, he is exempted from the war, and then everyone in the neighborhood said “You’re so lucky!!! The Zen master replied again, “Let’s wait and see”

Thus what does the story tells us? Life is full of ups and downs. Just when you thought the worst thing had happen, it turns out to be a total blessing in disguise. Everything serves a wonderful purpose and the only way to find out is to move on & discover. Face your life fearlessly and embrace the challenges ahead of you. Isn’t that what life is made up of?

As mister B once said;

Like a solid rock that is not shaken by the wind,
So does the wise men are not moved amidst blame & praise