tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32474853476328026572024-03-14T14:09:41.514+08:00My Masala Times"our backs tell stories no books have the spine to carry."Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03319137794193048745noreply@blogger.comBlogger363125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3247485347632802657.post-50549984671946453892018-01-26T01:15:00.000+08:002018-01-26T01:19:17.315+08:00THERE IS NO CALMNESS IN THUNDERSTORMS<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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THERE IS NO CALMNESS IN THUNDERSTORMS.</div>
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Why would we expect peace in the midst of chaos?</div>
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Why would we even anticipate clarity in muddiness? </div>
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Sukha & Dukha </div>
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Pleasure & Sufferings</div>
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Happiness & Unsatisfactory </div>
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Sharathji briefly mentioned that how we how to accept these duality, </div>
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that is also part of our lives.</div>
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We can be very happy at one point, and we can also find ourselves tumbling </div>
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down the rocky path very quickly.</div>
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Who knows whats for us next right? </div>
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It's interesting how much our minds work against us; </div>
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even after all the information we have uploaded to the brain;</div>
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even how we have used up all the intelligence juice to analyse those data.</div>
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And many things still didn't happen the way we wanted. </div>
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Almost equally, we have control over many things</div>
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as well as</div>
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many things are beyond our control.</div>
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And yet, given our intelligence,</div>
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we try to control things that are beyond our reach,</div>
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&</div>
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ignore those things that we have full authority over. </div>
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Why?</div>
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Nobody like to change themselves first.</div>
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Yet we expect others' to change for us, to fit into our requests.</div>
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Our acts, thoughts, perceptions, words, </div>
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behaviors, attitude, temperament;</div>
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So much to work on ourselves for ourselves. </div>
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For any change shall calls for a storm.</div>
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However major or minor, to go through any storms,</div>
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it required much effort, endurance, persistence and patience.</div>
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Till every particle settles. </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GfitQwLx7C0/WmoOSdQs74I/AAAAAAAAArE/Py0wBV_z728z0Xi6sGXt209AACRd6vdlgCLcBGAs/s1600/W8ed4437.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GfitQwLx7C0/WmoOSdQs74I/AAAAAAAAArE/Py0wBV_z728z0Xi6sGXt209AACRd6vdlgCLcBGAs/s400/W8ed4437.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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What if we sees that in order for the result of <i>sukha</i></div>
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we must go experience the process of <i>duhka. </i></div>
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Accepts that both states are</div>
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what make our lives alive.<i> </i></div>
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All things are transient.</div>
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Even the darkest clouds will dissolute</div>
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as rain. </div>
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Let's learn to look at our daily experience as weather;</div>
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see our life experience as climate. </div>
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adeline.Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06761201196631981397noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3247485347632802657.post-85601596770620395442017-12-30T00:16:00.003+08:002017-12-30T00:16:32.446+08:00Pain, you're such an enigma!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i>Current time: 8.45PM.</i></div>
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<i>I planned to wake up early next morning, maybe 3.30AM</i></div>
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<i>to get ready for LED class. In fact, to be in the queue for the 6AM class. </i></div>
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<i>So, instead of hitting my pillow ASAP, I flipped open my laptop.</i></div>
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<i>I was in the midst of shower, and gushes of thoughts waved through my head.</i></div>
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<i>I want to write them down before it washes off together with the shampoo on my hair.</i></div>
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<i> </i> </div>
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Pain is a good teacher. </div>
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Most time not friendly. </div>
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Sometimes not compassionate even. </div>
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Probably it even smirked off as " You deserved every bit of it."</div>
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Today, during practice, Sharath said to someone in a back bend " No pain, no gain."</div>
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It has been awhile i last heard this from anyone.</div>
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I took it well now, not earlier. </div>
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Looking 8 years back. </div>
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Young and invincible ( at least that was how i felt at that time), i didn't listen, and i wouldn't listen.</div>
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I just wanted to do what i wanted, because I CAN. </div>
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I was blessed with a well-preserved, soft & injury-free body ( in fact, because i was too lazy to move and exercise during my adolescent years). </div>
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Being flexible and bendy at the time was enough to WOW & impressed myself and the people around me.</div>
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So, i make good used of it. </div>
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Why not right? Because I CAN.</div>
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" You shouldn't bend like this, you will pinch your back once day." A few teachers said to me.</div>
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Did i listen? NO. </div>
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I couldn't understand or comprehend their precautions at all. </div>
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I could still pretzel or swiss-roll however i wanted without a second thought. </div>
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Nope, don't care. So long as i get what i wanted, I'm going to do what i want.</div>
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A good 5 years later, practice progressing & body changes; and its time for my abusive attitude to stop. </div>
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I pulled my Rotator-cuffs muscles, then my Lumbar was giving me issues, then the Piriformis...</div>
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and they kind of took turns to surface, whenever i wasn't aware enough and repeat my bad habits. </div>
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Oh... its pay back time. I thought. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-51jALQ5FP8g/WkZoN0DapSI/AAAAAAAAAp0/Mx-PWFZNpE0YHDwj1x7ykrv2HfwEuGh5wCLcBGAs/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1202" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-51jALQ5FP8g/WkZoN0DapSI/AAAAAAAAAp0/Mx-PWFZNpE0YHDwj1x7ykrv2HfwEuGh5wCLcBGAs/s400/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A sunny day out by the river bank checking out indians having cleansing bath;)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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At that point, I gave myself 2 options. </div>
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1. Ditch the practice.</div>
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2. Ditch my old habits & see what i can get from the practice.</div>
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I chose 2. </div>
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Because i have enough faith that the intention of the practice is to heal. </div>
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I held back my pride, back-off many steps back and humbly work my new way forward.</div>
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That also meant that i have to brush pass "pain" a few times to work my way through. </div>
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It was so frustrating, helpless & upsetting with all those struggles. </div>
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Many times, i do just want to victimized myself by saying </div>
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" oh poor me, why is this happening to me?" </div>
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You know, but an immediate response echoed, " Oh, you didn't listen, remember?" </div>
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I like how some teachers regards the practice as a life-time practice.</div>
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Its relatively, right?</div>
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If I'm going to commit to this for a long-time, my whole life time.... what's the rush?</div>
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What is the frustration all about? Where are you rushing to?</div>
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Make things right again & let it blossom again. Take time lady!</div>
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<i>My school teacher once said the same thing.</i></div>
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<i>" tell a kid not to touch the lighted candle"</i></div>
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<i>"next moment you see the kid want to go near it"</i></div>
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<br /></div>
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<i>" warn the kid again or few more time that the flame is hot, don't go near it." </i></div>
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<i>" next moment, the kid will go near the flame again."</i></div>
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<br /></div>
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<i>" you know what? just let the kid get burn."</i></div>
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<i>" just one time he gets burnt, he will learn"</i></div>
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I do see myself being teacher, sometimes nag at students a couple of times about the practice.</div>
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And i could totally relate to them for not listening unintentionally.</div>
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Well, so then i waited. They taught me to extend my level of patience indeed. </div>
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I waited to the day they felt something was off or some pain is happening;</div>
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The day that their ears open willingly & ready to take in some information;</div>
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That my words are now more worthy to them, that's the right time for both of us. </div>
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So even if pain seems like a heartless teacher;</div>
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not a nice teacher.</div>
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But definitely a good teacher with lots of tough love!</div>
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adeline.Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06761201196631981397noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3247485347632802657.post-59656728457581096202017-12-15T00:25:00.002+08:002017-12-15T00:30:45.993+08:00WHO HAS BEEN THE GREATEST INFLUENCE THIS YEAR?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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" WHO HAS BEEN THE GREATEST INFLUENCE THIS YEAR?"</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Who has been my greatest influence this year?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I guess i should say who has i allow myself to be influenced greatly.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">My teacher in Singapore, James.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Because, he put in a great amount of effort to understand me as a person first. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">With
full sincerity and consistency. Never a time he pressurized me until
I'm ready for my turn to understand what his teachings. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As years pass by, i have learn to be really selective with the people i spend time with. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Looking back, i often laughed at myself how naive i was; yet of course i have no regret at all for what i had went through. </span></div>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K-KX912oJV8/WjKlWlmpqtI/AAAAAAAABSQ/D4WoF8iGu-c63cXrjcBa3g81M57SDN8NwCLcBGAs/s1600/7dfc5d2740a050ac65aed3f2150a90d7.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-K-KX912oJV8/WjKlWlmpqtI/AAAAAAAABSQ/D4WoF8iGu-c63cXrjcBa3g81M57SDN8NwCLcBGAs/s400/7dfc5d2740a050ac65aed3f2150a90d7.jpg" width="400" /></a> <br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>" You are too young & naive"</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>" You are so blur!" </i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>" You are too emotional"</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>" You are not being smart enough"</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>" You are such a push-over"</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>" You don't have to be so nice"..... and on & one.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Remarks that i received too often:)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes i thought, if i have a chance to re-live those years again, i would probably make the same choice.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">" What if I'm going to die today? There are still things i have yet done."</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">No kidding. This is something i told myself regularly.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">How far are we going to plan our life before we can savor it? </span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Not being adult, too playful? Maybe.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">At least I'm glad that i manage to fulfill my bucket list that i owed myself for years. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Yeah, good & bad experiences keep me going forward, to who i am today:) </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Actually,I'm pretty proud of myself the way i turn out to be now! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"> <b>" Make mistakes, go ahead and make many mistake. But, make different ones.</b>"</span><span style="font-size: large;">J<span style="font-size: medium;">ames used to say this pretty often.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">I believe that at every stage of our lives, there we meet a person just at the right time to make that turn in our journey. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">But of course, if we follow every turn, we will end up confused, lost and nowhere we want to end up in. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">A wise choice, a wise turn, & a wise change.</span><br />
<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>There was a question that was pretty interesting:</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>There are 4 paths ( A,B,C,D) </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Only 1 path leads to your destination.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>How would you go about this journey?</i></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03319137794193048745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3247485347632802657.post-21567350430167164162017-08-06T10:59:00.001+08:002017-08-06T10:59:27.244+08:00The demanding ashtangi<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i>" An advanced yoga practitioner is not one who has tasted the most advanced poses,</i></div>
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<i>rather one who has gain advancement in their attitude and character as a person</i></div>
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<i>even in the simplest form of practice in their lifetime." </i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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At least to me. </div>
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</div>
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It was all about the pose when i started. </div>
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And somehow overtime, it isn't all about the pose, but through the poses we learn many other values in life. </div>
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</div>
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In
the primary series, a handful of student will hit their first hurdle in
Marichiyana D ( a seated deep twisted that looks like a pretzel). </div>
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Every time when i go to them to adjust or assist them, they would asked </div>
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" When will i ever get to do this myself? I have been trying for 6 months already, its still not happening!"</div>
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</div>
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Most
times, i laughed it off and told them that i struggled for 3 years
without a teacher before the magic happened to me. I'd been through that
" feel bad" and frustration enough to empathize them. Still, the
reality is, our bodies need time to condition. </div>
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Don't be unreasonable!</div>
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</div>
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Then what, the next hurdle at Supta Kumasana took me 6 years! </div>
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Even now and then i still need help, should i sit down and cry? <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LhHlLVrZXSc/WYaFnteWPcI/AAAAAAAABQw/GUyvHYhrvNc6h3vTmu9ZM2Fc-D6PMWiGQCLcBGAs/s1600/lotus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LhHlLVrZXSc/WYaFnteWPcI/AAAAAAAABQw/GUyvHYhrvNc6h3vTmu9ZM2Fc-D6PMWiGQCLcBGAs/s640/lotus.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It's
funny how we love to allocate timeline on different stages in our lives and
similarly how we allocate timeline for achieving each pose.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Who say so? Who set the timeline? Who frame that limitation?</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Instead of being demanding towards those poses, why not demand for more patience, persistence and endurance in the practice? </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03319137794193048745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3247485347632802657.post-19018207462171726402017-01-23T13:23:00.000+08:002017-01-23T13:30:41.162+08:00What is the sound of ( your) homecoming?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The beeping sound of the automatic car-lock at the carpark below our block.<br />
Somehow, we knew that beeping sound must be from our dad's car.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><i>Mmmummm! Dad's is downstairs at the carpark liao! *singlish</i></span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #351c75;"><i>Endless giggles, jokes and teasing among the sisters. </i></span><br />
<i><br /></i>
The anxious clanking of the pots and pans, chopping and sizzling from the kitchen.<br />
Mum was just rushing out the last dish.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><i>Come, help me taste if the soup is nice or should i put some more seasoning.</i></span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><i>Ok ah? Can ah? Then get ready to set the table, your daddy is reaching home soon ah! * </i></span><br />
<br />
Clicking of the footsteps outside the house, the sound of the keys clinking.<i> </i>First unlocking the heavy-duty lock from the metal gate, then the sturdy wooden door.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><i>Daddy! You are back, can have dinner liao!*</i></span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><i>Hmmm. I go shower first, you all get ready. </i></span><br />
<br />
Symphony of table-setting: choptstick, ceramic bowls & spoons, a few episode of shouting from mum, pushing chairs around to make space...<br />
<i> </i><br />
Finally, everyone was on the dining table for dinner as a family.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><i>Haiz, finally can sit down, so busy at the kitchen whole day. Come, let's start, drink the soup first hor, its very flavourful, i used slow- cooker to prepare it for hours.... ....... *</i></span> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZAYCV5InXeM/WIWSoMths0I/AAAAAAAABQE/Nz-Uc5kPNJYQMSFf12xP6FN7SCDOcALwQCLcB/s1600/homeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZAYCV5InXeM/WIWSoMths0I/AAAAAAAABQE/Nz-Uc5kPNJYQMSFf12xP6FN7SCDOcALwQCLcB/s640/homeRender.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
That was the sound of home-coming when i was young.<br />
The sounds from my parents, the familiar sound when a door unlocks... the anticipation still triggers a reaction inside me.<br />
<br />
Year after, and today... homecoming probably feels more like a state of comfort, security and reassurance i provide for myself. The moment when a steady silence is still maintain regardless of how chaotic and exciting fun time the world is having.<br />
<br />
Not always though, it is much challenging then i ideally wanted it to be; however, whenever i catch a period of the inner voice of silence, i think feel safe and nice:)<br />
<br />
<i>* singlish </i><br />
<i>singapore version of english. It is a mix of dialects, languages and no-sense expression.</i><br />
<i>Its heavily used as part of our communication with friends and family. </i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i><br /></i>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03319137794193048745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3247485347632802657.post-35462771358632314752017-01-01T23:23:00.002+08:002017-01-01T23:28:43.338+08:002016 ----> 2017 <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<i>We always move forward, even it doesn't feel like it. </i><br />
<i>Even with every setback, we may feel like stepping back; it is also part of the process to move forward. </i><br />
<br />
Those were the words my teacher, James highlighted during the last few coffee sessions before i headed to Mysore.<br />
I guess, that pretty much sums up my year of 2016!<br />
<br />
<b>2016</b> hasn't been easy, but it has been smooth and fulfilling. Many things happened, and i did have to work doubly hard than i planned to, just to make this year end trip happen.<br />
Always thankful for the good people around me who made me feel damn lucky!<br />
<br />
I've always hear others hopping for a better next year. Or even accumulating years of resolutions, which probably remain untouched till the following year.<br />
I used to believe in resolution, and finding myself getting a long list of " have- not- do- list'. <br />
<br />
The more i look at it, the more i felt that I'm going to regret living a life like this.<br />
<br />
So i stopped. I stop listing down resolution, i stop hoping a better year ahead.<br />
<br />
I had a good year, and it cannot be better than the way it unfolded for me.<br />
<br />
I am looking forward to having more opportunities and necessary changes in my life.<br />
And all i ask from myself as a reminder, is to be firm with my boundaries and enjoy the process.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f_e_fYd0mwc/WGkelyVPHsI/AAAAAAAABPw/ig9clUM7eTc47yxrqtM_d77qYDheHub9gCLcB/s1600/490f178c11ee2042306ed93a8aa2270e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f_e_fYd0mwc/WGkelyVPHsI/AAAAAAAABPw/ig9clUM7eTc47yxrqtM_d77qYDheHub9gCLcB/s640/490f178c11ee2042306ed93a8aa2270e.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
---- No social party in the process, i slept through, very well rested:) ----- <br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">On the first day of 2017, </span></h2>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Headed to Operation Shanti for play time with the kids. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">I first met them when i was 22, and now I'm 30. </span></div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Every time when i looked at the older kids, i'm amazed by how fine and well they have grown up to be. </span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Given a conducive environment & proper education, any kid from any birth background can excel in their life--- when they are willing to work hard for it. </span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;">And this applies to us, grown- up adults too.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Isn't it? Just that along the way, we forgotten about it & cries how life has been treating us badly. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;">To get a little more introspective, just few days before,</span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;">I've friends gave birth to lives & people who passed on. </span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Everything happened too quickly, and the whole process was too surreal. </span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">And that we are all in the process of living and dying. </span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;">I do not wish to have another death to remind me how much we should appreciate each breath we are taking. </span><br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">On the last day of 2017,</span><span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></h2>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">I wish we all have become a better version of ourselves from today, Happy New Year folks! </span></h2>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
</h2>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03319137794193048745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3247485347632802657.post-49890383534028748572016-12-29T23:52:00.002+08:002016-12-29T23:55:21.361+08:00Hi & Bye! #operationshanti #joannemdm #shirlymdm #2016<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Among many hi(s) and bye(s), i guess nothing can be as uplifting on arrival & emotional on departure with the kids of Operation Shanti.<br />
<br />
Today marked the last visit of Operation Shanti of my two buddies-- Jo & Shirly. <br />
<br />
While i still have 2 more months to burn with them, witnessing their farewell wasn't easy for me too. Every season, we sink deeper, and it is getting more tricky to pull out. We are more involved with their engagements & activities.<br />
<br />
Over the years, we watched them changes as much as they observed our changes.<br />
<br />
<i>We know they are growing up and doing well when the older kids finally pronounced our names pitch-perfect!</i><br />
<br />
<i>Jo- Han ---> Joanne </i><br />
<i>Jelly ---> Shirly</i><br />
<i>ABC mdm ---> Adeline </i> <br />
<br />
Personally, i could never imagine completely what they are going through inside.<br />
Probably with the older kids, when sometimes they would express their thoughts during proper conversations.<br />
<br />
Of course, vice versa, they would throw us with many innocent questions about our life back home. And could never imagine the bigger world beyond their reach ( at the moment).<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8JXwCzyKFCQ/WGUw5xApEKI/AAAAAAAABPg/bc-Fj8lFDNYnfY3G8YQOtGiH8vXC6_qYQCLcB/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8JXwCzyKFCQ/WGUw5xApEKI/AAAAAAAABPg/bc-Fj8lFDNYnfY3G8YQOtGiH8vXC6_qYQCLcB/s320/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With the awesome tuition teachers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This evening, sitting at a corner watching them rushing up & down preparing for their tuition classes, Shirly & I thought, " I wonder how will they be like in 10 years time....."<br />
<br />
" Happy journey to Singapore Joanne mdm & Shirly mdm" <br />
Today they had the longest goodbye to Jo & Shirly. <br />
<br />
" No drama, no crying."<br />
* That didn't happen as planned.<br />
<br />
" Happy journey to Gokulam Adeline mdm, see you next year ( 2017)"<br />
* They are really cheeky & tricky!<br />
<br />
See you 2017 kiddos, let's finish up the painting together!<br />
<br />
<br />
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03319137794193048745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3247485347632802657.post-84736613212342702502016-12-11T17:16:00.003+08:002016-12-11T17:19:22.057+08:00Do you oil bath?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: large;">Oil bath.</span><br />
An activity that highly recommended as part of the routine with the Ashtanga practice.<br />
I put it as an activity, because, it takes time & effort to go through the whole process.<br />
<br />
Yesterday in the conference, Sharath did mentioned about oil bath again.<br />
Good for muscles soreness.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">" Just apply, don't massage" he emphasized.</span><br />
<br />
I've been oil-bathing myself couple of times with coconut oil.<br />
And i love it. Its relaxes my muscles.<br />
Who don't enjoy warm oil on skin, on a tired body? ( though i know friends who don't enjoy putting oil on skin)<br />
<br />
So, I've also heard enough tales about using castor oil.<br />
Thicker than most other oil, therefore more effort needed in the application step.<br />
<br />
No soap is good enough to completely clean off the oil. Rather a dual mix of herbal powder is recommended for cleaning. <br />
<br />
And the final thing i heard about the effect: You will feel tired, so get some rest after castor oil bath.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kBlIJUK8mtY/WE0ZU7o9EYI/AAAAAAAABPQ/8n3x32KO99oAqLaUNh8HfntQqTL3rjRnQCLcB/s1600/FullSizeRender%25284%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kBlIJUK8mtY/WE0ZU7o9EYI/AAAAAAAABPQ/8n3x32KO99oAqLaUNh8HfntQqTL3rjRnQCLcB/s400/FullSizeRender%25284%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
So, today is a good day. No practice.<br />
I decided to give castor oil bath a try, since i already have what is needed in the house.<br />
<br />
Warm up the oil. Prepared the herbal mix for cleaning later.<br />
The thick oil does not spread on the skin easily, it takes just a little more time.<br />
I excluded my hair, I'm not ready for it yet.<br />
<br />
Wait for 15 mins.<br />
( I practically remain standing and walking around in the room. )<br />
<br />
Ah! Time to wash!<br />
<br />
Warm water shower using the herbal mix.<br />
Clean & scrub the bathroom floor as the herbal mix was splattered everywhere.<br />
( and got stuck on the tiles) <br />
<br />
How do i feel?<br />
My skin feels good though, soft and smooth.<br />
<br />
Do i feel tired?<br />
Yes, a little.<br />
But am not sure was it the direct<br />
effect from the castor oil bath, or from too much washing after the oil bath... or maybe, its my nap time!<br />
<br />
For a regular oil bath, i will still prefer using coconut oil.<br />
For a once-in-a-blue-moon oil bath, i will go for castor oil! <br />
<br />
<br />
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<br />
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<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03319137794193048745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3247485347632802657.post-12403641389181667402016-12-03T12:45:00.005+08:002016-12-03T12:45:40.950+08:00[ > ] [ II ] [ > ]<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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--</style>Happy to be back in Mysore, as always<span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">:) </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Weather is getting more cooling; taking my time to daze off
& people watch;</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And Uber ride is everywhere! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
[ > ] [ II ] <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>[
> ]</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I didn’t feel as relax as my previous trips; rather I feel
more grounded than before. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My mind is still hyperactive, body filled up with
accumulated tension and my patience wasn’t too ready to be patient. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But I have to say; I am enjoying quality sleep, without
having to battle with the alarm clock at least!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7mCFj5nTJ6E/WEJNh9BkbnI/AAAAAAAABO8/5yFv0igeYfcG0vkdJdhfEO3FBMdLr3VugCLcB/s1600/IMG_2392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7mCFj5nTJ6E/WEJNh9BkbnI/AAAAAAAABO8/5yFv0igeYfcG0vkdJdhfEO3FBMdLr3VugCLcB/s400/IMG_2392.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
My current read: [Un- Train Your Brain] by Mike Weeks. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Last night, flipping through pages, he highlighted a
question </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
[What’s so good about being right all the time?] </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I stopped at this page and ponder for a while… maybe not a
while, overnight. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Putting this idea into context, haven’t we been around with
people,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Constantly trying to be right about everything?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
It is a social standard.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
It is a security driven statement.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
It is narcissistic.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
It is a full- stop.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
It is a denial. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
It is rigidity. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Of course, I do catch myself in situations and debates of
trying to be right, just for the sake of saving my ego. And thinking back, it
was just so silly!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So then, what’s NOT so good about being right all the time?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Well…. Self- limitation kicks in. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We become less willing to understand or check out other
options. We stop to discover alternatives & new ideas.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And this, by shutting the door of being right, it is already
a losing game. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sometimes, it is good to [pause] for a while, just to
understand how our<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“ Responsive mechanic” works inside us. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And maybe, we get to discover better ideas than just being
right?</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03319137794193048745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3247485347632802657.post-48958870522466936302016-09-13T14:45:00.002+08:002016-09-13T15:01:18.968+08:00What if... no one came?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>What if no one came?</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>What if just one student turned up?</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>" What would you do?"</i><br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Would you cancel the class and send that one student who appeared at the door away?</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br />
Would you continue the the class as usual?<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Are you going to feel upset & pathetic about the situation for the empty space?<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i> </i></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
Or decide to be happy and focus on that one who make that effort to appear?</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Maybe you will get frustrated about those who didn't put the practice as top priority? </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
Maybe you can understand and respect everyone's priority in life at a moment is personal? </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kn6NFiQ79Hs/V9egWyMrjFI/AAAAAAAABOk/xsLLIBxNO8MiSddLkHCj2vnlZlFG5rZ7gCLcB/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kn6NFiQ79Hs/V9egWyMrjFI/AAAAAAAABOk/xsLLIBxNO8MiSddLkHCj2vnlZlFG5rZ7gCLcB/s400/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="395" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>" Investing energy on those who show up. Those who didn't, don't matter. " </i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i> </i> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I do learn my own ways of doing things through many many ups & downs. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Gaining that immunity to teach the way i intended to regardless of situation.<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: right;">
"Everything in Equanimity ", I always keep this in mind, in attitude. </div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
Full house or empty room, the door is still open, I will still be at the same place, doing my thing.</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03319137794193048745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3247485347632802657.post-41298988212202025432016-07-19T12:59:00.005+08:002016-07-19T13:00:59.990+08:00The alarm clock inside went off--- i decided to ( stop snoozing) wake up. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I've been known as " the old soul" for the longest time that i know; among friends and peers.<br />
And i often have to remind myself that I'm not that old!<br />
I'm just being more reflective:)<br />
<br />
I am convinced that everyone has an alarm clock inside us.<br />
Mine went off just a little earlier and louder.<br />
<br />
When it rings--- we either snooze it, or we wake up and move. I knew exactly who I was before my alarm went off.<br />
I knew that girl, who hated homework and tuition;<br />
who loved to day dream and watch time passes everyday;<br />
who was frustrated trying to understand numbers and formulas;<br />
who look forward to school only to be with friends;<br />
who enjoyed so much but work so little... ...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-usUDP3DLPjg/V42zf4HBKoI/AAAAAAAABOM/8xkhyWc40osqu0ItGU8-PY_kJjUc3oVGgCLcB/s1600/54be800c801e069e1787e8ab5d2d5f60.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-usUDP3DLPjg/V42zf4HBKoI/AAAAAAAABOM/8xkhyWc40osqu0ItGU8-PY_kJjUc3oVGgCLcB/s1600/54be800c801e069e1787e8ab5d2d5f60.jpg" /></a></div>
Until the alarm rang, one day. So loudly that i got a shocked and woke up since.<br />
Somehow, I didn't want to play my time away, anymore.<br />
Somehow, I wanted to explore the potential I see in myself.<br />
Somehow, I really had enough of how bad others ( myself) had made me felt.<br />
Somehow, i told myself that I can be better.<br />
<br />
People around you are going to doubt you. They are going to test you. All the time, anytime.<br />
Friends, peers and even family.<br />
<br />
To me, those doubts are distractions and chatters.<br />
If we give too much attention to them, our intention and focus will be diluted in no time.<br />
<br />
<i>We cannot control what they want to say about us.</i><br />
<i>I cannot control how i feel about them. </i><br />
<i>They cannot control how we feel about ourselves. </i><br />
<br />
I heard my alarm. They didn't.<br />
Till they heard theirs. We will meet again.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Izzcwp6Z9ns/V42zpW4MduI/AAAAAAAABOQ/eX83sHcFuioUAeuXmgIeHmpawuxgphrRQCLcB/s1600/a6c40041b2e2c60259e57221e3cd5295.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Izzcwp6Z9ns/V42zpW4MduI/AAAAAAAABOQ/eX83sHcFuioUAeuXmgIeHmpawuxgphrRQCLcB/s400/a6c40041b2e2c60259e57221e3cd5295.jpg" width="311" /></a></div>
I was the girl who chose to ignore the alarm, and snooze on.<br />
I can totally understand why i did that, and why i continue to snooze.<br />
<br />
I am the same person, who got a shocked and decided to response to the alarm by waking up.<br />
I can totally understand why i did this, and why i continue to be awake. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03319137794193048745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3247485347632802657.post-75155071018334273332016-07-19T12:59:00.004+08:002016-07-19T13:00:04.505+08:00The alarm clock inside went off--- i decided to ( stop snoozing) wake up. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I've been known as " the old soul" for the longest time that i know; among friends and peers.<br />
And i often have to remind myself that I'm not that old!<br />
I'm just being more reflective:)<br />
<br />
I am convinced that everyone has an alarm clock inside us.<br />
<br />
When it rings--- we either snooze it, or we wake up and move. I knew exactly who I was before my alarm went off.<br />
I knew that girl, who hated homework and tuition;<br />
who loved to day dream and watch time passes everyday;<br />
who was frustrated trying to understand numbers and formulas;<br />
who look forward to school only to be with friends;<br />
who enjoyed so much but work so little... ...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-usUDP3DLPjg/V42zf4HBKoI/AAAAAAAABOM/8xkhyWc40osqu0ItGU8-PY_kJjUc3oVGgCLcB/s1600/54be800c801e069e1787e8ab5d2d5f60.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-usUDP3DLPjg/V42zf4HBKoI/AAAAAAAABOM/8xkhyWc40osqu0ItGU8-PY_kJjUc3oVGgCLcB/s1600/54be800c801e069e1787e8ab5d2d5f60.jpg" /></a></div>
Until the alarm rang, one day. So loudly that i got a shocked and woke up since.<br />
Somehow, I didn't want to play my time away, anymore.<br />
Somehow, I wanted to explore the potential I see in myself.<br />
Somehow, I really had enough of how bad others ( myself) had made me felt.<br />
Somehow, i told myself that I can be better.<br />
<br />
People around you are going to doubt you. They are going to test you. All the time, anytime.<br />
Friends, peers and even family.<br />
<br />
To me, those doubts are distractions and chatters.<br />
If we give too much attention to them, our intention and focus will be diluted in no time.<br />
<br />
<i>We cannot control what they want to say about us.</i><br />
<i>I cannot control how i feel about them. </i><br />
<i>They cannot control how we feel about ourselves. </i><br />
<br />
I heard my alarm. They didn't.<br />
Till they heard theirs. We will meet again.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Izzcwp6Z9ns/V42zpW4MduI/AAAAAAAABOQ/eX83sHcFuioUAeuXmgIeHmpawuxgphrRQCLcB/s1600/a6c40041b2e2c60259e57221e3cd5295.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Izzcwp6Z9ns/V42zpW4MduI/AAAAAAAABOQ/eX83sHcFuioUAeuXmgIeHmpawuxgphrRQCLcB/s400/a6c40041b2e2c60259e57221e3cd5295.jpg" width="311" /></a></div>
I was the girl who chose to ignore the alarm, and snooze on.<br />
I can totally understand why i did that, and why i continue to snooze.<br />
<br />
I am the same person, who got a shocked and decided to response to the alarm by waking up.<br />
I can totally understand why i did this, and why i continue to be awake. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03319137794193048745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3247485347632802657.post-39993411251970959612016-07-05T12:08:00.004+08:002016-07-05T12:22:06.323+08:00Are you that demanding freak too?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<i>It has indeed been a long while since my last blog post. </i><br />
<i>Been busy, most importantly enriching too. </i><br />
<br />
<i>Every yoga class is like a mind battlefield to me--- of course not forgetting the ample opportunities for me to understand about one another. </i><br />
<br />
<i>Investing more time learning under the belt of my teacher, he who loves to flip ideas, perceptions & traditions. Loads of information in need of digestion. </i><br />
<br />
<i>" Patience". That's what he always say. </i><br />
<br />
<b>It is way easy to demand. </b><br />
<br />
<b>But how about letting go?</b><br />
<b>Loosening the grip?</b><br />
<b>Closing one eye and give it a pass?</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VFbVWHPRLoA/V3syfaSrTXI/AAAAAAAABN4/8ms0i8J7Y1YlmoMaW57GziatPoxEcYEuwCLcB/s1600/cute-smile-quotes-smile-it-confuses-people.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VFbVWHPRLoA/V3syfaSrTXI/AAAAAAAABN4/8ms0i8J7Y1YlmoMaW57GziatPoxEcYEuwCLcB/s400/cute-smile-quotes-smile-it-confuses-people.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<b> </b>In today's society, we are spoiled brats & the pampered royals.<br />
We, who are unconsciously wired to think that the world has to compromise to our worlds.<br />
<br />
If we want to demand, there are thousands of dissatisfaction we can pick on.<br />
We will always be looking for faults, imperfection, the chipped corner, the hairline crack... anything.<br />
<br />
Go to the market, pick up the first orange. What do you look at?<br />
Go to the florist, you pick up a rose. What do you look for?<br />
Go meet a friend, on the first conversation. What do you talk about?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aabGnm28rd0/V3symPurXEI/AAAAAAAABN8/msYsGkXmBJEkGitZQbB0cmZtc9E7VRDVQCLcB/s1600/eb802a3188d5bfd18a3f4fcbf57a3ca9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aabGnm28rd0/V3symPurXEI/AAAAAAAABN8/msYsGkXmBJEkGitZQbB0cmZtc9E7VRDVQCLcB/s400/eb802a3188d5bfd18a3f4fcbf57a3ca9.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
For the past years, i caught myself red-handed too quick to demand and drop complaints.<br />
But when it comes to giving compliments, i would take forever. <br />
<br />
Honestly, when i realized my own behavior, i didn't like it.<br />
I didn't like how i jumped into conclusion without taking any effort to understand.<br />
<br />
I stopped.<br />
I stop myself rushing into my tenancy. And i decided to reverse.<br />
<br />
I decided to make an effort to take note of the service people who had done well;<br />
Remember their names and write in compliment notes via social media.<br />
<br />
I decided to be that customer who will go to them, look at them and tell them " thank you".<br />
I want to be that patron who will try to first understand when things didn't go too well, and then feedback.<br />
<br />
<i>A smile always work better than a frown.</i><br />
<i>A compliment always work better than a complaint. </i><br />
<i>An act of love always win an act of ego. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Why not do it different, do it better?</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03319137794193048745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3247485347632802657.post-23994333352818359812016-07-05T12:08:00.002+08:002016-07-05T12:08:52.275+08:00Are you that demanding freak too?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<i>It has indeed been a long while since my last blog post. </i><br />
<i>Been busy, most importantly enriching too. </i><br />
<br />
<i>Every yoga class is like a mind battlefield to me--- of course not forgetting the ample opportunities for me to understand about one another. </i><br />
<br />
<i>Investing more time learning under the belt of my teacher, he whole loves to flip ideas, perceptions & tradition. Loads of information in need of digestion. </i><br />
<br />
<i>" Patience". That's what he always say. </i><br />
<br />
<b>It is way easy to demand. </b><br />
<br />
<b>But how about letting go?</b><br />
<b>Loosening the grip?</b><br />
<b>Closing one eye and give it a pass?</b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VFbVWHPRLoA/V3syfaSrTXI/AAAAAAAABN4/8ms0i8J7Y1YlmoMaW57GziatPoxEcYEuwCLcB/s1600/cute-smile-quotes-smile-it-confuses-people.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VFbVWHPRLoA/V3syfaSrTXI/AAAAAAAABN4/8ms0i8J7Y1YlmoMaW57GziatPoxEcYEuwCLcB/s400/cute-smile-quotes-smile-it-confuses-people.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<b> </b>In today's society, we are spoiled brats & the pampered royals.<br />
We, who are unconsciously wired to think that the world has to compromise to our worlds.<br />
<br />
If we want to demand, there are thousands of dissatisfaction we can pick on.<br />
We will always be looking for faults, imperfection, the chipped corner, the hairline crack... anything.<br />
<br />
Go to the market, pick up the first orange. What do you look at?<br />
Go to the florist, you pick up a rose. What do you look for?<br />
Go meet a friend, on the first conversation. What do you talk about?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aabGnm28rd0/V3symPurXEI/AAAAAAAABN8/msYsGkXmBJEkGitZQbB0cmZtc9E7VRDVQCLcB/s1600/eb802a3188d5bfd18a3f4fcbf57a3ca9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aabGnm28rd0/V3symPurXEI/AAAAAAAABN8/msYsGkXmBJEkGitZQbB0cmZtc9E7VRDVQCLcB/s400/eb802a3188d5bfd18a3f4fcbf57a3ca9.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
For the past years, i caught myself red-handed too quick to demand and drop complaints.<br />
But when it comes to giving compliments, i would take forever. <br />
<br />
Honestly, when i realized my own behavior, i didn't like it.<br />
I didn't like how i jumped into conclusion without taking any effort to understand.<br />
<br />
I stopped.<br />
I stop myself rushing into my tenancy. And i decided to reverse.<br />
<br />
I decided to make an effort to take note of the service people who had done well;<br />
Remember their names and write in compliment notes via social media.<br />
<br />
I decided to be that customer who will go to them, look at them and tell them " thank you".<br />
I want to be that patron who will try to first understand when things didn't go too well, and then feedback.<br />
<br />
<i>A smile always work better than a frown.</i><br />
<i>A compliment always work better than a complaint. </i><br />
<i>An act of love always win an act of ego. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Why not do it different, do it better?</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03319137794193048745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3247485347632802657.post-87134823464024534862016-05-15T21:00:00.003+08:002016-05-15T21:34:07.277+08:0010 years ago, i didn't know. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
Looking back at myself a decade ago, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
i then realized how much i don't understand about me, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
about life. </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
10 years ago i didn't know,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
i didn't know a lot.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I didn't know</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ideals are like fairy tales,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The more we fantasize, the further we are.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Youth makes me felt like I'm invincible,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Yet as time flow by without batting an eye,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm nothing but a speck of dust on this earth.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
First love felt so sweet & fluffy like cotton candy,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Heartbreaks literally made me gasped to stay alive,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The pain was so real that I was not ready to take it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Saying Yes to everything made everyone happy, but me.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Articulated my first No was the best thing i did for myself. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Not feeling guilty ever. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Some friendships could actually be broken off regardless of years,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Some friendships could dive so deep so quickly regardless of years. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VYym3rL6gSE/Vzhy3ozriJI/AAAAAAAABNk/SJnM6sgJ_wQTJ_hBN6ZKe_jslHkyP329gCLcB/s1600/IMG_7962.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VYym3rL6gSE/Vzhy3ozriJI/AAAAAAAABNk/SJnM6sgJ_wQTJ_hBN6ZKe_jslHkyP329gCLcB/s400/IMG_7962.JPG" width="400" /></a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Whatever decision i make, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Anyone would always have something to comment.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Damn if i do, damn if i not</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I will just do it anyway. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I cannot change the world i hope for,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But i can change the way i perceived,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I be the change. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This girl once lazy & fat,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
who were lucky enough to received both doubts & supports,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
who surprises herself for the amount of effort</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
she never knew she could give.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Number is not just a number, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Getting old is kind of scary.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But getting old without growing </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
is scarier. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
10 years later from today,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I would realized,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
there are so much more i didn't understand</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
about me, about life. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03319137794193048745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3247485347632802657.post-62898938165762863962016-04-19T11:12:00.001+08:002016-04-19T11:25:30.591+08:00Knowing Your Worth !<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Came across this interesting story recently...<br />
<br />
<i>A professor started his lecture take a $20 note from his back pocket and he asked, </i><br />
<i>" How many of you would like this note?"</i><br />
<br />
<i>Hands started going up. </i><br />
<br />
<i>He said, "I am going to give this $20 to one of you - but first, let me do this." <br /><br />He proceeded to crumple the $20 note up. He then asked. "Who still wants it?" </i><br />
<i>Still the hands were up in the air.<br /><br />"Well," he replied, "what if I do this?" He dropped it on the<br />ground and started to grind it into the floor with his shoe. He picked it up, now crumpled and dirty. "Now, who still wants it?"</i><br />
<i>Still the hands went into the air.</i><br />
<i></i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NmPVIqiC-GA/VxWh4q26QAI/AAAAAAAABNU/cA5UTnRHV24mD6zfRhB4a3dNN0WoeU2fgCLcB/s1600/handful-of-money.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="284" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NmPVIqiC-GA/VxWh4q26QAI/AAAAAAAABNU/cA5UTnRHV24mD6zfRhB4a3dNN0WoeU2fgCLcB/s320/handful-of-money.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<i>"My friends, you have all learned a very valuable lesson. </i><br />
<br />
<i>No matter what I did to the money, you still wanted it because it did not decrease in value. </i><br />
<i>It was still worth $20.</i><br />
<i><br />Many
times in our lives, we are dropped, crumpled, and ground into the dirt
by the decisions we make and the circumstances that come our way. </i><br />
<br />
<i>We
feel as though we are worthless; but no matter what happened or what
will happen, you will never lose your value. </i><br />
<br />
We either get devalued by our own insecurities & self-doubts or by the opinions of others.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-otUj1UH17cw/VxWhsgFmtRI/AAAAAAAABNQ/DgpQo9HCbWg8xC_z8bMjXjj0tZ1gZaC3QCLcB/s1600/65932_20130215_093210_v.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-otUj1UH17cw/VxWhsgFmtRI/AAAAAAAABNQ/DgpQo9HCbWg8xC_z8bMjXjj0tZ1gZaC3QCLcB/s400/65932_20130215_093210_v.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
But none of these are necessary.<br />
None of these is going to propel us to move forward.<br />
<br />
During our usual meeting after class, my teacher pointed " If you truly know what you are doing, that you are good, you don't have to be in the mercy of others.'<br />
<br />
I remember the days when teaching yoga in corporate sectors was challenging for me. I was heavily judged:<br />
<br />
- Too young ( i started at 23) CHECKED<br />
- Too little experience CHECKED<br />
- Too expensive CHECKED<br />
- Unacceptable outfit ( slippers) CHECKED<br />
- Bosses & Top management too important CHECKED<br />
<br />
Noted.<br />
<br />
There was one interesting incident that taught me well.<br />
<br />
A yoga-related lunch-time workshop for a company.<br />
<br />
The lady who liaised with passed down all judgements * from the above list * at one shot over a brief meeting.<br />
<br />
" They are all our top management and bosses. Very important people. Please don't screw up."<br />
" Please wear something that cover the feet, its not very appropriate to have slippers in this building." <br />
<br />
She noted.<br />
I smiled.<br />
<br />
" Will you be joining the class too?" I asked.<br />
" Oh~ no, no."<br />
<br />
The following day, i appeared in the class in my usual slippers.<br />
Smiling my way through some rolled-eyes.<br />
<br />
The class started with all well dressed-up ladies & gentlemen.<br />
<br />
And ended with shoes & socks off, ties off, unbuttoned collars, rolled up sleeves, watches off, loosen belts, relaxed shoulders and lots of laughter.<br />
<br />
The bosses were happy, i was happy & the lady was happy.<br />
<br />
So i thought, how was the worrisome before even necessary?<br />
<br />
Thankful to that particular day, ( that i would never forget) that i received a great lesson for myself..<br />
<br />
People can pass judgements easily on us, that doesn't matter much at all.<br />
More importantly is, what kind judgement are we passing upon ourselves? <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03319137794193048745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3247485347632802657.post-41683248217791386142016-01-27T14:34:00.001+08:002016-01-27T14:38:07.274+08:00If you can't get what you love. You learn to love the things you've got :)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Well if you can't get what you love<br />
You learn to love the things you've got<br /> </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>If you can't be what you want<br />
You learn to be the things you're not<br /> </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>If you can't get what you need<br />
You learn to need the things that stop you dreaming<br /> </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>All the things that stop you dreaming</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
~<i> Mike Rosenberg </i><i></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
<i><br /></i>On a bus ride to class this morning, i am among many others commuters heading to start our day. </div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
Everyone seems to be tired & sleepy. Everybody got up the bus, and found a seat and settle in quietly.<br />
I plugged on the ear piece and got into my playlist on <i>Spotify.</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
</div>
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<i>ah~ that was all i need in any morning before class. </i></div>
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</div>
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This music came along. I thought a little.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Many things we wish it happen, but it didn't.</div>
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Many things we hope it don't happen, but it did.</div>
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So, what do we do?<br />
<br /></div>
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</div>
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I always believe the idea of being appreciative of what we have & what we don't. </div>
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We can never almost possess anything, not even ourselves.</div>
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</div>
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Always at one point, if we didn't learn how to set things free; what need to go will just dissolves in front of us. Or we will have to learn it through pain. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sS5CSERHK5Q/VqhjHPp8HtI/AAAAAAAABNA/gJXkVvYsuqY/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sS5CSERHK5Q/VqhjHPp8HtI/AAAAAAAABNA/gJXkVvYsuqY/s400/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
<i>Love what you do and do what you love. </i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
<i>In life, there are many things we may not totally love doing.</i><br />
<i> </i> </div>
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</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
In the bus i was on this morning, i counted my blessing for looking forward to class and the students. I'm even a little excited every time thinking about the things i planned to work with them on the mat.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
To many others may be just another day getting to work, going through the routine, having to feed families and raise kids.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
For this, i totally respect them for what they are getting up early for--- for putting their comfort aside and provide for their loved ones.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
Realistically, there are way too many things in life we have no control over. </div>
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</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
But we can always choose how we feel, our attitude and how we choose to manage.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
<br />
Yeah, that much we can do. That can already make a huge difference to our own little world!</div>
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</div>
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<br />
We can be happy seeing the sun rise or upset when the sun sets. </div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
Don't forget, in the dark sky, there are still the moon and twinkling stars!</div>
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</div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
<br />
<i>Want to check out this song that i listen this morning? </i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
<i>Check it out here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VJfnELzAOCA" target="_blank">Things Stop You Dreaming~ Passenger</a></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; border: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;">
<br /></div>
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Enjoy!</div>
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</div>
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<br /></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03319137794193048745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3247485347632802657.post-51650965708687392612015-12-31T16:00:00.001+08:002015-12-31T16:03:47.358+08:00On the last day of 2015, i just want to say... <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: center;">
THANK YOU.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
for all that had been received & all that had been given.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
for all that i wanted & all that i don't want. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
for all the likes & dislikes.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
for all the pleasures & pain.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
for all the ups & downs.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
for all the light & darkness.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
for all the sweet & bitter.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
for everything that had happened to me. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Af38J-xOkKg/VoTgSQLuGoI/AAAAAAAABMc/cNYEFAGjJg8/s1600/ipoh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Af38J-xOkKg/VoTgSQLuGoI/AAAAAAAABMc/cNYEFAGjJg8/s400/ipoh.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am as excited about 2016 as i was for 2015. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
What lies ahead is planned yet unknown. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Like how those clouds taking shape constantly </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
because of the wind. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Watching them, we can fit in our imagination on them,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
free & wildly.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Who is to judge, except us?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Just be playful & foolish happily! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-654ZMJYZQw0/VoTgRrHWr2I/AAAAAAAABMY/YDe_0taEnTo/s1600/ipoh2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-654ZMJYZQw0/VoTgRrHWr2I/AAAAAAAABMY/YDe_0taEnTo/s400/ipoh2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>It is never too late or too soon.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>It is when it supposed to be. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>~ Mitch Albom, The Time Keeper</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
H A P P Y N E W Y E A R 2 0 1 6 </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
F R I E N D S :) </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03319137794193048745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3247485347632802657.post-1569167214106714872015-12-18T15:51:00.000+08:002015-12-18T15:51:04.383+08:00I don't fancy C2H5OH. I am not sorry. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We are all smelling x'ams-sy, aren't we?<br />
Presents, parties, hugs, laughter, drinkings... <br />
<br />
At this time of the year, friends around me get a chance to know me better on just ONE thing:<br />
I don't fancy alcohol. I can't handle it.<br />
<br />
In most time, i have to be up early the next day... a hangover yoga class--- Bad idea. <br />
<br />
If i do drink, it probably means i trust the people around me very much.<br />
<br />
And I don't feel sorry about that at all:) <br />
<br />
Most of my friends can handle alcohol very well.<br />
I totally do envy them for the ability to manage the effect. <br />
<br />
One year, I was celebrating my X'mas in India. We went to a club in Bangalore.<br />
We ordered drinks and i wanted a fruit juice. I got stared by a friend.<br />
<br />
" What?! How on earth are you going to enjoy on the dance floor if you don't drink?"<br />
<br />
I smiled.<br />
<br />
I thought.<br />
<br />
" Not necessary. I can enjoy better when I am clear headed."<br />
<br />
In fact, the smell of alcoholic drinks reminds me of nail polish--- It almost feels like I'm sipping a glass of O.P.I --- hmmm... i prefer to have it on my nails:)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UukYLDJRJ2I/VnO6k-wf2UI/AAAAAAAABME/e6HU2irxgmM/s1600/OPI_Lacquer_Logo_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="314" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UukYLDJRJ2I/VnO6k-wf2UI/AAAAAAAABME/e6HU2irxgmM/s320/OPI_Lacquer_Logo_large.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Initially, most friends felt more uncomfortable than me for not fitting in.<br />
Very glad for me, that they have gotten used & respected my choices all the time.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-niVPMYczf88/VnO6j_fU05I/AAAAAAAABMA/D7NAks9X2LM/s1600/febcd95fb679e9bd83b6cc21e9d9a852.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-niVPMYczf88/VnO6j_fU05I/AAAAAAAABMA/D7NAks9X2LM/s320/febcd95fb679e9bd83b6cc21e9d9a852.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
You have your beers and shots, i have my juice and coffee. No problem! :)<br />
<br />
To all my dearest friends, I appreciate the respect, support and enjoyment you all had shared with me all these years. <br />
<br />
Many more happy time to come!<br />
<br />
Cheers!<br />
<br />
<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03319137794193048745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3247485347632802657.post-67033433683125469262015-12-08T12:34:00.002+08:002015-12-08T12:35:58.085+08:00A LOVESHINES trip to Siem Reap, Cambodia 2015<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
" The mind, once stretched by a new idea, never returns to its original dimensions." ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson<br />
<br />
We can never unseen something that had been seen.<br />
<br />
My recent trip to Siem Reap with<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Loveshinessg/?fref=ts" target="_blank"> LoveShines</a> had really made me think these days.<br />
Though it was not my first time, I'd seen a fair share of slump areas and families living in extreme conditions during multiple trips to India.<br />
<br />
Having most of my time living in a city, one can never get used to seeing people living literally having close to nothing.<br />
<br />
Once, i stood in front of a house from a distance. I could already see everything inside. I could even count how many items were in there--- not more than 3.<br />
<br />
So many times, i asked myself " How, how on earth can anyone live with so little and still carefree?"<br />
I almost felt bad having so much back home, too much-- and hardly anyone is happy.<br />
<br />
Why?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3YureLwVXgU/VmZO5B23twI/AAAAAAAABLo/bBTD7Jo2sIs/s1600/IMG_1565.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3YureLwVXgU/VmZO5B23twI/AAAAAAAABLo/bBTD7Jo2sIs/s400/IMG_1565.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: Darren Lim</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Its a great reminder that there is no comparison of lives--- this is indeed a great wake up call for us who is trap in #firstworldproblem.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ruh8ABtv7K0/VmZO7jHBmYI/AAAAAAAABLw/vTWqbwKavCw/s1600/AA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ruh8ABtv7K0/VmZO7jHBmYI/AAAAAAAABLw/vTWqbwKavCw/s400/AA.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Scarcity and Abundance is just a flip of perception of life.<br />
How much effort of self-inquiry throughout our lives we need, in hope to gain a little more knowledge and wisdom--- we need so little to be content and happy.<br />
<br />
This trip, instead of saying they benefited from us;<br />
Rather, we had received so much more from them :)<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03319137794193048745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3247485347632802657.post-39963437076224209462015-11-08T19:09:00.002+08:002015-11-08T20:19:47.632+08:00A story: A box of Ferrero Rocher <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Does anyone of you like chocolate? I like.<br />
Besides satisfying my sweet-tooth, chocolate reminds me of story from my school day.<br />
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<b>A box of Ferrero Rocher </b></div>
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Mr Simon Lim was my POA ( Principle of Accountancy ) teacher in my final year of high school. As the exam date got closer, we were anxious, so did the teachers.</div>
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Mr Lim was probably one unpretentious teacher i ever met. </div>
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His lanky physical was clothed with his usual fashion--- prim & proper.</div>
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Off white long sleeves shirt; he left one button opened showing his Adam's apple.</div>
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Well pressed dark brown trousers matched with a clean soft leather shoes. </div>
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Small face roofed with a thin, sleek & carefully side parted hair. </div>
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In a composed manner, he would walked into the classroom carrying </div>
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an unbranded grey shopping plastic bag. </div>
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He gently put down his " briefcase" on the table with confidence;</div>
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took out the textbook and started the class. </div>
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A man with a retro fashion sense. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FaTW99Tqvzs/Vj8tQzOKhmI/AAAAAAAABLU/kpl5NccHPnQ/s1600/Ferrero-Rocher.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FaTW99Tqvzs/Vj8tQzOKhmI/AAAAAAAABLU/kpl5NccHPnQ/s320/Ferrero-Rocher.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Once, he took out a box of Ferrero Rocher, we got so excited.</div>
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" See this box of chocolate?" </div>
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He extended his arms 45 degree upwards like a magician.</div>
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Carefully, he opened the lid, and asked the naughtiest boy to take a piece.</div>
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Once the boy lifted off a piece from the box, his expression changed,</div>
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" So light! Its empty inside! I got tricked!"</div>
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The boy took another piece randomly and exclaimed,</div>
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" Teacher you bluffed me! No chocolate, only wrapper!"</div>
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Satisfied with the outcome, Mr Lim laughed, we laughed, the boy laughed too.</div>
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Shortly, he resumed to his poker face and said,</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">" Student, do you want to be like this empty box when you enter into the exam hall?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Do you want to not know what to give when you have not put anything into your head?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Please study, so you can enter the exam hall with a box full of sweetness and confidence."</span></div>
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<i>Decade years from then, i would still remember what Mr Lim had said whenever i see a box of Ferrero Rocher. I have past the days of studying and exams papers-- to many tests in life. </i></div>
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<i>The difference is...</i></div>
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<i> In school, we learned the lessons before the test. </i></div>
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<i>In life, </i><i>we learned the lessons after the test.</i></div>
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<i></i><br /></div>
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<b><i>" Sometimes in life, your situation will keep repeating until you learn your lesson... </i></b></div>
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<b><i>i guess in most times are like that."</i></b></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03319137794193048745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3247485347632802657.post-20114189641422142022015-10-30T23:40:00.000+08:002015-10-30T23:48:18.273+08:00A good teacher would probably never be a popular one. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I was having some discussions with some friends about work- related topic;<br />
and i blurted out a thought: <i> </i><br />
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<i>A good teacher would probably never be a popular one. </i><br />
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Yeah, they are probably those who push all the buttons of the students;<br />
Annoy them or even make them cry;<br />
Challenge their every act and decision;<br />
And make them feel so unsure and uncomfortable about themselves.... first.<br />
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But! They are also probably those who are ready to take all the sh*t from the students;<br />
Being there through the tides and show them how to manage their own personal issues;<br />
Encourage them to be strong enough not to fall easily into conformity;<br />
And allow them to have their own space and watch them flourish in their own skin as awareness expands. <br />
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I have seen enough to make me realize that <i>i don't need to please everyone and make everyone happy. Practicing truthfulness ( satya) is the least i can do for the students. </i><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03319137794193048745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3247485347632802657.post-90898537026572866102015-09-17T23:01:00.003+08:002015-09-17T23:03:13.510+08:00Too fast, too furious--- and I feared.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<i>I am afraid, of moving forward to fast.</i><br />
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This is the second time i had this feeling.<br />
The previous one was about 5 years ago, it took a tour somewhere;<br />
and came back to me again. Today.<br />
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<i>Is there something wrong with me? Progressing no doubt is a good thing.</i><br />
<i>But there is a strong nudge towards an unknown, calling out for a change.</i><br />
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After i had a talk with my teacher, James on <i>what's next?</i><br />
I'm kind of excited and scared-- A long train of thoughts running in my head.<br />
I was feeling really restless of no particular reason-- and took a leisure walk by myself around to let out some gas.<br />
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<i>I am afraid, of moving forward to fast.</i><br />
<i>That i couldn't catch a breath to enjoy the leap. </i><br />
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Surely, i don't like to stay in this bubble of uncertainties--- but i guess it put me just on the right spot for self-confrontation. That I don't eventually self-sabotage the plan. Again.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-egbBCoWYKKA/VfrVwMYiONI/AAAAAAAABLE/uufEq9Etk1I/s1600/FullSizeRender%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-egbBCoWYKKA/VfrVwMYiONI/AAAAAAAABLE/uufEq9Etk1I/s400/FullSizeRender%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
When the change is not an idea anymore.<br />
When the change is appealing for an execution.<br />
When the change is so ready to take flight ( and I'm not sure if i am too).<br />
I freaked out. ( yet still hungry for it).<br />
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<i>I recite my dreams every night before i sleep.</i><br />
<i>I think about it every now and then as i walk down the streets.</i><br />
<i>And things are taking shape slowly, calling out for the need of adaptability---</i><br />
<i>Now that all i feel is hopeful & afraid. </i><br />
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<i>So shall be it.</i><br />
<i> </i> <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03319137794193048745noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3247485347632802657.post-82016316000232727292015-09-04T07:14:00.003+08:002015-09-04T07:20:06.023+08:00Hold that faith- we will understand it one day. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 16px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">Every thing happened, happens for a reason. Even we don't know, or don't understand or don't accept the reason right now.</span><br />
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In the moment of whirlpool of thoughts, we may feel angry--- on the fact that there a world out there beyond our control. </div>
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We may throw tantrum like a child, blaming everyone & including ourselves.</div>
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But, hold that faith--- that one day as we mature, we will finally understand why some things don't happen the way we wanted. </div>
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" ... Because God has got better plan for you." A friend would always says.</div>
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Things don't happen to us, they happen for us ;)<br />
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adeline.Lhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06761201196631981397noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3247485347632802657.post-16040046924687672362015-08-30T20:29:00.002+08:002015-08-30T20:45:13.058+08:00A Library in the City, Yay!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i>I've heard people talking about it,</i></div>
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<i>I've seen snap-shots of it on Instagram,</i></div>
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<i>I've walked past it many time,</i></div>
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<i>I've ignored it each time,</i></div>
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<i>I've waited for the hype to reach calmness,</i></div>
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<i>I've finally visit it,</i></div>
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<i>Library @ Orchard,</i></div>
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<i> I'm very thankful for this birth.</i></div>
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I never used to enjoy reading, and somehow my dislikes & likes are swopping places as i get wiser.<br />
Reading = Dazing in blank = Day dreaming = ZZzzzz</div>
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Recorded in history. </div>
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I started picking up one book and many servings one after another.</div>
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Looking forward to spend a fraction of my day in the library, especially gaps in between classes.</div>
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Reading = Mental travels = Vocabulary income = Self- reflection = Give Me More!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--EmM8lMyxOk/VeL2n6mQb0I/AAAAAAAABKc/gQBpGPYVTDI/s1600/orchard-library-1-420x240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--EmM8lMyxOk/VeL2n6mQb0I/AAAAAAAABKc/gQBpGPYVTDI/s400/orchard-library-1-420x240.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Sunday classes are always in town, the waiting period however is quite a handful to spend.</div>
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As the shops start their operations, people begin to crowd.</div>
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Me, after a whole morning of teaching is exhausted. </div>
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I need to recharge before the noon class.</div>
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Getting away from the bustle is my priority.</div>
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Dragging my feet towards the entrance, </div>
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with a heavy bag sitting on one shoulder, i entered with a joy of relief. </div>
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Finally! I found you!</div>
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I love parquet flooring, it feels home.</div>
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I love how the decibel drops gradually but quick enough to feel the softness of the atmosphere. </div>
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I love to window shop among the bookshelves, with nothing in particular I am looking for. </div>
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My glances are always chasing after my ( very slow) stroll.</div>
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Among the crowd, there will always be one title that waves frantically at me.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zo6j5WzHh64/VeL6yGI6MAI/AAAAAAAABKw/ssMW-oUSYJA/s1600/IMG_6458.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zo6j5WzHh64/VeL6yGI6MAI/AAAAAAAABKw/ssMW-oUSYJA/s400/IMG_6458.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">" Once you stop looking for what you want, you will find what you need"</span></div>
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I spotted it & pulled it off the shelf.</div>
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I'm grateful for the options of chair and floor seats.</div>
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Too much "chair time" gives me rigidity & backache,</div>
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Walked over to the mellow 3- tier flat surface of parquet. </div>
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Gingerly, I sat down and let out a phew!</div>
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Stretched out my legs fully... ah! Feel so much better now.</div>
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Ready to unleashed my reading fantasy! </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03319137794193048745noreply@blogger.com0