If I could surrender without any consequence, trust me, I would have wave that white flag from the start. It's not that I do not have guts, it's just that I'm more of a self-preservation sort. If I have known the horrors, would I still continue on? I don't think so.
My father once said that interns are no different from volunteers after I said that volunteers are cheap labour whom you only need to provide meals for. I don't think so. The major difference between interns and volunteers starts with the letter V.
Volunteerism means that you willingly go ahead with whatever you partake. You understand the clauses and go ahead with it because it means something to you. On the other hand, interns, at least for us, it's forced. FORCED, in capital letters.
I most certainly didn't agree or go ahead willingly. I don't understand the clauses and do not wish to sign on the dotted line.
Besides, volunteerism means you should be happy and it is justify that you don't get cash in return.
If there is one thing worse than cheap labour, it is free labour. I am having morbid thoughts about when and how we are getting our just payment. My mind is filled with "what-ifs". They are a failure if they think they can get away with that.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Monday, September 27, 2010
Singapore Grand Prix 2010
Singapore is called the "crown jewel" in the Formula One race. As a Singaporean, I couldn't agree more.
Singapore is so spectacular and amazing at night! The skyline is really beautiful, now that Marina Bay Sands stands proudly against the night sky. While it is not exactly dazzling, Singapore can be on par with other countries'.
This is the 3rd race in Singapore and it still is getting rave reviews from foreign viewers. Yesterday's race was indeed a good one, with crashes and fires and situations that makes your heart thump. Such is the case of Hamilton and Webber incident. I'm so glad that Mark Webber came out unharmed and finished in a podium finish.
Fernando Alonso won, fair and square this time. He maneuvered with style and was leading from start to finish.
This year, since my original favourite was not inside, I decided to support Mark Webber, Sebastian Vettel and Jenson Button. There are two who are in Red Bull and Jenson Button in McLaren.
Singapore is still the only country with a night race and it certainly up the standards. With the street circuit aglow with megawatt lights, it seems like the sun shines on the particular route.
The night race attracts people because it is something new and with the backdrop being picture-perfect, who could ask for more?
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Doing a Lucrative Business
One week in this entrepreneur company and I have the gist of doing a successful business. And I'll even share it here so that people will not be dominating the lucrative industry.
Actually, it doesn't take a genius to know this, but still, people may not thought of this before. First, charge your clients an exorbitant rate, say S$25,000 for a 3 day training programme. On the other hand, pay your staff the minimum wage rate, say S$440 for a month.
Thank you, Captain Obvious, for pointing out the huge difference in standards.
I've another tip for scoring in the area of cheap labour. Tie up with schools and keep looking for part-timers. Who needs full-time workers when you have part-timers aplenty? Interns will be gone after 3 months, no problem, there will always be another school sending their interns in.
To do a simple calculation, there will only need to be 4 schools sending in two interns per 3 months for them to achieve that success in monetary terms. And you have no idea how much they freaking earn!
Now you know. Go out there, start a business with minimum staff and maximum output and you can get rich, just like that.
And this is sarcasm, in case you wonder.
Actually, it doesn't take a genius to know this, but still, people may not thought of this before. First, charge your clients an exorbitant rate, say S$25,000 for a 3 day training programme. On the other hand, pay your staff the minimum wage rate, say S$440 for a month.
Thank you, Captain Obvious, for pointing out the huge difference in standards.
I've another tip for scoring in the area of cheap labour. Tie up with schools and keep looking for part-timers. Who needs full-time workers when you have part-timers aplenty? Interns will be gone after 3 months, no problem, there will always be another school sending their interns in.
To do a simple calculation, there will only need to be 4 schools sending in two interns per 3 months for them to achieve that success in monetary terms. And you have no idea how much they freaking earn!
Now you know. Go out there, start a business with minimum staff and maximum output and you can get rich, just like that.
And this is sarcasm, in case you wonder.
Friday, September 24, 2010
A Galore
I've been thinking up a perfect title to match my results for Semester 3.1. I've been harbouring hopes of pulling off another miracle this time round.
I didn't manage to sign up for the SMS service for the results and had to wait until 12 plus before the results are updated online.
Guess what? It's A galore indeed. I'm so happy, actually. But somehow, my mood just don't pick up. I guess I'm really feeling blue. Alas, my otherwise perfect score is marred by a blemish that starts with the letter B.
Product Development & Innovation, oh, how I hate thee! I knew the subject was bad news from the start. I just knew it because I know we couldn't pull this off. I had my doubts from the beginning. There were so many aspects that I just don't feel good about.
Let's do a recap for the grades of each subject.
Event Management - Distinction. I can't contain my glee when I saw that I have a distinction for it! It's really a big surprise for me.
I thought I had some regrets regarding the exam and the group project but I'm so glad the teacher actually liked it. I guess he's not so bad afterall.
Special Interest Tourism - Distinction. My hope from the start, it's good that it didn't let me down. I have a good feeling for this subject despite some reservations from the start.
After the group project presentation, I knew that we clinched the deal because, pardon me, I think ours is the most well-done in the class.
Managerial Accounting 1 - A. Phew. I managed to score an A. I was lowering my expectations to a B+ days before the main examination because I was so worried.
Strategic Entrepreneurship - A. This is the subject that we worked so hard on and to please the weird lecturer. I'm happy that we managed to please him.
Product Development & Innovation - B. I should have see this coming. It's actually a little surprise that I scored this grade. Oh well, what is done is done. It's a freckle that can't be erased.
I don't know why the CGPA isn't updated yet. Don't tell me that I'm stuck at this CGPA. But it can't be, there should be changes.
I've one last shot at graduating with honours and I'll be damned if I don't get it. I will give semester 3.2 my best shot if only I have the higher powers on my side. Please do not let there be any class changes. Not at this critical moment.
I didn't manage to sign up for the SMS service for the results and had to wait until 12 plus before the results are updated online.
Guess what? It's A galore indeed. I'm so happy, actually. But somehow, my mood just don't pick up. I guess I'm really feeling blue. Alas, my otherwise perfect score is marred by a blemish that starts with the letter B.
Product Development & Innovation, oh, how I hate thee! I knew the subject was bad news from the start. I just knew it because I know we couldn't pull this off. I had my doubts from the beginning. There were so many aspects that I just don't feel good about.
Let's do a recap for the grades of each subject.
Event Management - Distinction. I can't contain my glee when I saw that I have a distinction for it! It's really a big surprise for me.
I thought I had some regrets regarding the exam and the group project but I'm so glad the teacher actually liked it. I guess he's not so bad afterall.
Special Interest Tourism - Distinction. My hope from the start, it's good that it didn't let me down. I have a good feeling for this subject despite some reservations from the start.
After the group project presentation, I knew that we clinched the deal because, pardon me, I think ours is the most well-done in the class.
Managerial Accounting 1 - A. Phew. I managed to score an A. I was lowering my expectations to a B+ days before the main examination because I was so worried.
Strategic Entrepreneurship - A. This is the subject that we worked so hard on and to please the weird lecturer. I'm happy that we managed to please him.
Product Development & Innovation - B. I should have see this coming. It's actually a little surprise that I scored this grade. Oh well, what is done is done. It's a freckle that can't be erased.
I don't know why the CGPA isn't updated yet. Don't tell me that I'm stuck at this CGPA. But it can't be, there should be changes.
I've one last shot at graduating with honours and I'll be damned if I don't get it. I will give semester 3.2 my best shot if only I have the higher powers on my side. Please do not let there be any class changes. Not at this critical moment.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Utter Despondent
Urgh, another day of utter despondent. I was reduced to a delivery "man" again. Oh gods, I hope this is not becoming a habit.
I, and the other girl, went to collect the printing opposite the block. We were totalling rushing for time and it was raining. So, we were drenched in the rain as there is no shelter. We had to rush to Jurong Industrial area to deliver all the tools and files that they needed.
We took a cab down, which the fee will be paid back to me. It was again a mad rush to file 20 copies of notes for the training programme. Damnation, but the place is so warm and we had to hole-punched every single piece of paper.
Once everything was done, we had to get back to the office. Today and tomorrow, the office will only contain the two of us interns, since the two guys have corporate training going on.
I was counting on today to be more relaxing and fun because no one will be in the office. Who knows that something will happen.
When we reached Boon Lay Interchange, it was about 2.50pm. We went for our late lunch at Jurong Point and started the long journey back at around 3.30pm. We reached the office around 4.30pm and did some work before clocking out at exactly 6.00pm.
Hey, we totally deserved the time to eat our lunch. We may be supposed to be compliant but if we don't even have basic rights, I think it is high time someone put them in their shoes. By right, we have an hour for lunch and in that hour, we can do whatever we want.
If I want to surf the net during that time, I jolly well can do it because, technically, I am not faulting. Alas, if only everything is written out in black-and-white. Even then, there are still people who go against the contract.
What hope is there for us, lowly interns, who are no better than the construction workers out there? Heck, some foreign workers enjoy better pay and treatment than us!
We had to fork out our own money on the way home, it may be small amount, but to us, who are earning about S$2.20 a day, the transportation fare is not even enough to cover the "wage".
Cheap labour, we are. Exploitation, this is. I wonder how they managed to cope with the extreme shortage of staff before we arrived. Perhaps, they do away with the part-timers because we are here. Damn it.
Still, at least today passed quickly. Tomorrow will be a better day, if nothing drastic happens.
At least there is something to look forward to this weekend, what with the semester results and F1 Grand Prix. Woohoo!
I, and the other girl, went to collect the printing opposite the block. We were totalling rushing for time and it was raining. So, we were drenched in the rain as there is no shelter. We had to rush to Jurong Industrial area to deliver all the tools and files that they needed.
We took a cab down, which the fee will be paid back to me. It was again a mad rush to file 20 copies of notes for the training programme. Damnation, but the place is so warm and we had to hole-punched every single piece of paper.
Once everything was done, we had to get back to the office. Today and tomorrow, the office will only contain the two of us interns, since the two guys have corporate training going on.
I was counting on today to be more relaxing and fun because no one will be in the office. Who knows that something will happen.
When we reached Boon Lay Interchange, it was about 2.50pm. We went for our late lunch at Jurong Point and started the long journey back at around 3.30pm. We reached the office around 4.30pm and did some work before clocking out at exactly 6.00pm.
Hey, we totally deserved the time to eat our lunch. We may be supposed to be compliant but if we don't even have basic rights, I think it is high time someone put them in their shoes. By right, we have an hour for lunch and in that hour, we can do whatever we want.
If I want to surf the net during that time, I jolly well can do it because, technically, I am not faulting. Alas, if only everything is written out in black-and-white. Even then, there are still people who go against the contract.
What hope is there for us, lowly interns, who are no better than the construction workers out there? Heck, some foreign workers enjoy better pay and treatment than us!
We had to fork out our own money on the way home, it may be small amount, but to us, who are earning about S$2.20 a day, the transportation fare is not even enough to cover the "wage".
Cheap labour, we are. Exploitation, this is. I wonder how they managed to cope with the extreme shortage of staff before we arrived. Perhaps, they do away with the part-timers because we are here. Damn it.
Still, at least today passed quickly. Tomorrow will be a better day, if nothing drastic happens.
At least there is something to look forward to this weekend, what with the semester results and F1 Grand Prix. Woohoo!
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Errand Boy
So, I've been reduced to a errand boy now, huh?
I can't believe my luck when I received that call this morning. I was told to bring a CD from the office and bring it to Bartley Secondary School to deliver it.
In my mind, I went, Oh man, it's just my luck and I, of course, cursed. But what can I do? I'm here to serve. I can't help but to rant on the money I had to fork out to take the 2 stupid buses out and back again. What the freaking thing is this?!
Let me say, the month of October is the worst. September is almost ending and November will the start of the countdown to the end. So, October is definitely the limbo.
Bah, there's nothing much to be said except that why must I get all the "dirty" work done?
I can't believe my luck when I received that call this morning. I was told to bring a CD from the office and bring it to Bartley Secondary School to deliver it.
In my mind, I went, Oh man, it's just my luck and I, of course, cursed. But what can I do? I'm here to serve. I can't help but to rant on the money I had to fork out to take the 2 stupid buses out and back again. What the freaking thing is this?!
Let me say, the month of October is the worst. September is almost ending and November will the start of the countdown to the end. So, October is definitely the limbo.
Bah, there's nothing much to be said except that why must I get all the "dirty" work done?
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Best Moment
The best part of each day, at least for this period, is going home. Oh, what joy I felt when I saw the time approaching as the day wanes.
I can't stand this any longer! 10 weeks and 3 days to go, damn it! Why? Tell me why must the days pass so slowly?
This is only the second day and I am falling asleep because of the stupid, monotonous work. This is the second day that I'm writing on the cards, all day.
It doesn't help that my wounded feet are torturing me. This is the first time that something that grievous happened to me.
I can't stand this any longer! 10 weeks and 3 days to go, damn it! Why? Tell me why must the days pass so slowly?
This is only the second day and I am falling asleep because of the stupid, monotonous work. This is the second day that I'm writing on the cards, all day.
It doesn't help that my wounded feet are torturing me. This is the first time that something that grievous happened to me.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Dash It
I must say, this seriously stinks! How I wish this is all a bad dream. It certainly seems so now, when I back at home, typing this. Oh, if only wishes do come true. I want a genie.
Internship is not what I envisioned, especially this at all! I tried my best to go with an open-mind but it just had to go downhill from the start.
Firstly, I had a hard time finding the freaking office because the building construction is stupid enough to put the first two rooms outside in the carpark. I mean, what the holy? What kind of idiotic design is this?
Then, the name of the office don't tally. The form they had given us is X company but the company's name outside the door is Y. Double bloody hell.
Of course, I panicked. Treacherous tears threatened to leak out and I finally gathered my courage to call the Director as he is to be our supervisor. He answered and said he is at China now. This means that I have to pick up the phone bill.
All this while, my shoes are killing me. This is my fault because I don't know why I didn't choose proper the size at the beginning. Damn it!
I saw the other girl who will be working as well and finally the person came.
The whole day was kind of dull, not that I expected fun. I rather take mundane over anything else. Oh boy, I am scared for the future. I wonder what they have in store for us. I can't get over mulling the scary truth.
Lunch was just a take-away. Sighs, this is worse than I thought.
Then came the time to leave for the day. Woohoo! I can't wait for the end of the day! As you know, my shoes almost killed me and I gritted my teeth and limped all the way from station to station. Oh gods, how humiliating and painful.
Finally, I called my father to ask him to fetch me from the MRT station and I realised that my feet are injured pretty badly. As the blisters were injured, it is just so painful when I was taking a bath.
The only good thing that comes out from this is that the end time is supposedly 6pm instead of 7pm. But, there may be overtime or work on Saturdays if necessary.
Are they freaking kidding me? Because this is not funny at all. I may be forced to sign along the lines but I certainly didn't promise to sell my soul to the Devil. Pooh! I give them my weekdays and they expect me to sacrifice my weekends too? No way in hell!
Obviously, they can't expect me to do this, hey, people have plans, alright?
Only 10 weeks and 4 days left.
Internship is not what I envisioned, especially this at all! I tried my best to go with an open-mind but it just had to go downhill from the start.
Firstly, I had a hard time finding the freaking office because the building construction is stupid enough to put the first two rooms outside in the carpark. I mean, what the holy? What kind of idiotic design is this?
Then, the name of the office don't tally. The form they had given us is X company but the company's name outside the door is Y. Double bloody hell.
Of course, I panicked. Treacherous tears threatened to leak out and I finally gathered my courage to call the Director as he is to be our supervisor. He answered and said he is at China now. This means that I have to pick up the phone bill.
All this while, my shoes are killing me. This is my fault because I don't know why I didn't choose proper the size at the beginning. Damn it!
I saw the other girl who will be working as well and finally the person came.
The whole day was kind of dull, not that I expected fun. I rather take mundane over anything else. Oh boy, I am scared for the future. I wonder what they have in store for us. I can't get over mulling the scary truth.
Lunch was just a take-away. Sighs, this is worse than I thought.
Then came the time to leave for the day. Woohoo! I can't wait for the end of the day! As you know, my shoes almost killed me and I gritted my teeth and limped all the way from station to station. Oh gods, how humiliating and painful.
Finally, I called my father to ask him to fetch me from the MRT station and I realised that my feet are injured pretty badly. As the blisters were injured, it is just so painful when I was taking a bath.
The only good thing that comes out from this is that the end time is supposedly 6pm instead of 7pm. But, there may be overtime or work on Saturdays if necessary.
Are they freaking kidding me? Because this is not funny at all. I may be forced to sign along the lines but I certainly didn't promise to sell my soul to the Devil. Pooh! I give them my weekdays and they expect me to sacrifice my weekends too? No way in hell!
Obviously, they can't expect me to do this, hey, people have plans, alright?
Only 10 weeks and 4 days left.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Freak Out
I feel like puking.
This is like queuing for a roller-coaster ride, and I hate the feeling! The big problem here is that I've never been on a roller-coaster before. Well, there's always a first in everything.
But, oh gods, I just want to hide in a hole and cry. Is it silly? Is it naive? I should be glad that I, at least, have a companion, even though I am not acquainted with her.
It is natural to be freaking out, right? I've never done this in my short life. It's like going on a journey all by myself, which I'm planning to do so soon.
All I can tell myself is that this is all for the greater good. Want to have a good trip? You must do this internship well and thorough. Only then can I have the results to show that I deserve the trip. I swear that I'll reward myself properly.
Only tomorrow will tell whether all my worries are for naught. Only time will tell whether this is a good company. Only time will tell, darling.
I shall end here for now, tomorrow will be a brand new day and it will be just like travelling to a new school, meeting new people.
We'll see what happens, won't we?
This is like queuing for a roller-coaster ride, and I hate the feeling! The big problem here is that I've never been on a roller-coaster before. Well, there's always a first in everything.
But, oh gods, I just want to hide in a hole and cry. Is it silly? Is it naive? I should be glad that I, at least, have a companion, even though I am not acquainted with her.
It is natural to be freaking out, right? I've never done this in my short life. It's like going on a journey all by myself, which I'm planning to do so soon.
All I can tell myself is that this is all for the greater good. Want to have a good trip? You must do this internship well and thorough. Only then can I have the results to show that I deserve the trip. I swear that I'll reward myself properly.
Only tomorrow will tell whether all my worries are for naught. Only time will tell whether this is a good company. Only time will tell, darling.
I shall end here for now, tomorrow will be a brand new day and it will be just like travelling to a new school, meeting new people.
We'll see what happens, won't we?
Fare Thee Well
"The world as I know it will end tomorrow. Be afraid, be very afraid"
-
It's just like going to a new school, right?! The feelings are the same, the same breathlessness, the same fluttering, the same dread.
Trust me, I'm really nervous, my heart is all a-flutter. I can't think straight. I desperately want things to be good and yet I know that if I think too much, I'll just end up being disappointed.
I can please people, can't I? Haven't I been doing that since young? All I have to do is to be amiable and helpful-looking. If I really hate it, I can always rant on this blog, yes? Besides, it's only 3 months. It will be a lesson, no matter what.
However, I guess, because this is graded internship, the pressure is on whether you serve at the right dosage. I can't lose it all to a silly little thing like this which cost 8 CUs.
Oh, how I wish things are different. Still, this is the only opportunity for real sort of work. It'll certainly be an experience to remember.
I feel guilty for spending so much on the clothes and what not for this internship. Damnation! But, it is inevitable, what with me being in a office. I mean, I certainly have to wear office wear, non? For someone who only own jeans, shorts and T-shirts, this is a big investment. Of course, I need shoes too.
Then, I will have to spend another huge sum on the concession fare for transportation. $90 plus for a freaking month! I don't think the measly pay is able to cover my losses.
Cheers, to going home late, to squeezing with the working people on the MRT and bus, to be an entity. Cheers, for listening ears and sympathetic faces.
Trust me, I'm really nervous, my heart is all a-flutter. I can't think straight. I desperately want things to be good and yet I know that if I think too much, I'll just end up being disappointed.
I can please people, can't I? Haven't I been doing that since young? All I have to do is to be amiable and helpful-looking. If I really hate it, I can always rant on this blog, yes? Besides, it's only 3 months. It will be a lesson, no matter what.
However, I guess, because this is graded internship, the pressure is on whether you serve at the right dosage. I can't lose it all to a silly little thing like this which cost 8 CUs.
Oh, how I wish things are different. Still, this is the only opportunity for real sort of work. It'll certainly be an experience to remember.
I feel guilty for spending so much on the clothes and what not for this internship. Damnation! But, it is inevitable, what with me being in a office. I mean, I certainly have to wear office wear, non? For someone who only own jeans, shorts and T-shirts, this is a big investment. Of course, I need shoes too.
Then, I will have to spend another huge sum on the concession fare for transportation. $90 plus for a freaking month! I don't think the measly pay is able to cover my losses.
Cheers, to going home late, to squeezing with the working people on the MRT and bus, to be an entity. Cheers, for listening ears and sympathetic faces.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Screw It
Wheeeeee, I'm in such a good mood today once I realised this is the last they will see of me! Hip, hip, Hooray!
This is the last weekday I'll be working, at least for the next 3 months. Gosh, I need this.
I don't have to put up with those annoying children anymore and they don't have to put up with me. It's the best of both worlds. No more easy answers! No more feeling frustrated and annoyed! No more channeling bad vibes!
I have had enough of those disgusting children for a long time. I have to put up with their crap and whining and then I started putting up a strict front. It's bad for myself and them. I hate this aspect, you know.
I ignored them for most of the part, but there are times when you can't even bordered it up.
Ha! I shan't miss them. Now that I think of it, could the internship be a blessing in disguise? I need a change of environment real bad, and this is a good chance to compare. Too bad we're treated like cheap labour.
Whereas, in this job of mine, the pay is acceptable, but the children treat you like crap. Seriously, I often wonder how they do in school and what would happen when they grow up. I often find myself comparing because I can't fathom how they can go about life like this.
True, they are young, younger than I and I pity them. The world they are going to live in is not going to be easy, at all. If ours is bad enough, then theirs will be worse. It's something to chew on.
Oh well, I know what some people will say. It's just a godforsaken part-time job, for goodness sake, don't put so much heart and emotions into it. Frankly, I don't. I don't see myself investing my share of feelings and heart in this. I used to think of myself as a robot, marking and marking from start till finish.
So, once again, I found myself in a limbo, between a wall and a cliff. The cliff is looking good at the moment and please do not disappoint me. I will try to make the most out of it.
Saturdays though, I have to meet those damned children again. But, at least it's once a week. It's a gloomy thought, but I suppose my plans will make all these worth it.
It's a plan to conquer myself and humanity.
No hard feelings, eh?
This is the last weekday I'll be working, at least for the next 3 months. Gosh, I need this.
I don't have to put up with those annoying children anymore and they don't have to put up with me. It's the best of both worlds. No more easy answers! No more feeling frustrated and annoyed! No more channeling bad vibes!
I have had enough of those disgusting children for a long time. I have to put up with their crap and whining and then I started putting up a strict front. It's bad for myself and them. I hate this aspect, you know.
I ignored them for most of the part, but there are times when you can't even bordered it up.
Ha! I shan't miss them. Now that I think of it, could the internship be a blessing in disguise? I need a change of environment real bad, and this is a good chance to compare. Too bad we're treated like cheap labour.
Whereas, in this job of mine, the pay is acceptable, but the children treat you like crap. Seriously, I often wonder how they do in school and what would happen when they grow up. I often find myself comparing because I can't fathom how they can go about life like this.
True, they are young, younger than I and I pity them. The world they are going to live in is not going to be easy, at all. If ours is bad enough, then theirs will be worse. It's something to chew on.
Oh well, I know what some people will say. It's just a godforsaken part-time job, for goodness sake, don't put so much heart and emotions into it. Frankly, I don't. I don't see myself investing my share of feelings and heart in this. I used to think of myself as a robot, marking and marking from start till finish.
So, once again, I found myself in a limbo, between a wall and a cliff. The cliff is looking good at the moment and please do not disappoint me. I will try to make the most out of it.
Saturdays though, I have to meet those damned children again. But, at least it's once a week. It's a gloomy thought, but I suppose my plans will make all these worth it.
It's a plan to conquer myself and humanity.
No hard feelings, eh?
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
LA & North Carolina
My father was back from the States and he brought with him Ralph Lauren goodies! Oh, how wonderful! If only I was there too.
-
He bought me a bag, one which I have coveted for a long time. Too bad it's the only piece left, I had another one in my mind, oh well, nevermind, I can save that for my Christmas present next time. In fact, as soon as I have the time, I will do a post on things I want to get.
-
The bag was going for a huge discount, there's why he bought it. Thank god for end-season sales. -
He bought some polos from the outlet at Beverly Hills. I guess it's pretty certain that the store at Beverly Hills targets high-end customers. The clothes are not cheap at all, and all the bags are made of leather.
-
It's just so lucky my father got that last piece in North Carolina.
He also got pins from Hard Rock cafe at Los Angeles and Hollywood. Sighs, now I really want to go there on top of going to Orlando.
I guess within the first few years of my career, I will take vacations as long as I can afford them. This goal means that I've to work extra hard and save. But, I think it's worth it, to do something that I like, for a change.
-
He bought me a bag, one which I have coveted for a long time. Too bad it's the only piece left, I had another one in my mind, oh well, nevermind, I can save that for my Christmas present next time. In fact, as soon as I have the time, I will do a post on things I want to get.
-
The bag was going for a huge discount, there's why he bought it. Thank god for end-season sales. -
He bought some polos from the outlet at Beverly Hills. I guess it's pretty certain that the store at Beverly Hills targets high-end customers. The clothes are not cheap at all, and all the bags are made of leather.
-
It's just so lucky my father got that last piece in North Carolina.
He also got pins from Hard Rock cafe at Los Angeles and Hollywood. Sighs, now I really want to go there on top of going to Orlando.
I guess within the first few years of my career, I will take vacations as long as I can afford them. This goal means that I've to work extra hard and save. But, I think it's worth it, to do something that I like, for a change.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Take A Moment & Ponder
"Out of the frying pan, and into the fire"
I think it is an apt description to what I'm in for. Each time I tell myself that today will be different, it just ends up the same, with me being irritated by the kids.
It's not that I even like the job, to be frank. I'll do my work and I get paid, that's a good combination.
Anyway, I keep telling myself that this week will be the last I see of them before I go for an "extended vacation". In some ways, I am thrilled to drop what I am doing now and embark on a new journey, a "real" job, some may say.
On the other hand, like that idiom suggests, it's not as if I'm really in for something big. It's a graded job with me being kept on my toes all the time. I really hope to be at least happy in it.
Now that I'll be gone, I won't say I'll miss those ickle children. I don't necessary like my position now because they keep asking me for help and what not. I don't think I am up to the job of being a patient person.
Due to this week being my last week working during the weekdays, I will try to be extra tolerant and giving. They always say, be at your best when it's your last. Sighs. However, I've signed myself up for Saturdays and you know that Saturdays are always the worst.
Why? It is because that is almost no ending time. At least on weekdays, by 10 plus, we'll be packing and getting ready to leave. But on Saturdays, if there are other matters to do, it means we have to stay back, unless I pull a fast one and balk. Obviously, I can't do that everytime. It makes my credibility go down and god know that I'm extremely pliant, most of the time.
My feelings on this? It's mixed, to be sure. I love the idea of not reporting to this job but it just means I have to report on the other job. I'm not happy, just numb, like always.
We do not exist for ourselves. When we are young, we exist for school, it is all for the future, they say. If you want to be successful when you grow up, you have to slave in school.
When that future comes along, you exist purely for work; your boss and your company. You slave even more, towards that bright light at the end of the tunnel. You want material things in life to make your future substantial.
There's almost no time to relax, to take a step back and exclaimed, this is not what I want.
But, I guess what is even more frightening is to really find out that what you are doing for, it's all for naught. Perhaps, you have seen the light and decided that worldly things don't matter anymore. Perhaps, it's better late than never.
But to start over, it's just plain discouraging and taxing.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Last Paper, Last Hurrah
So, I finally finished my examinations. It seems like a long time but in actual fact, there are only 2 papers.
Event Management was fairly alright, I guess. I had some regrets but I believed I did my best and the ball is not in court anymore. I just hope that my A is still being maintained.
I can't believed that he didn't put one single question on Youth Olympics at all! I thought that will surely come out but looks like I underestimated him. Oh well.
The questions weren't exactly that tough but I kind of forgot some factors. But, I think I can still do well. Fingers crossed.
Now, the time is mine to spend as I like, however, I am sort of afraid that I won't be able to accomplish what I told myself I have to do. I only have 6 days left before my last hurrah is gone. I want to go out with a bang but it's going to be more or less, a candle being snuffled by the wind.
I'm truly scared about what my internship will bring. Everything is so uncertain and shaky. I want so much but am so frightened by the prospect of things not going smoothly for me. There is so much apprehension and feelings.
Event Management was fairly alright, I guess. I had some regrets but I believed I did my best and the ball is not in court anymore. I just hope that my A is still being maintained.
I can't believed that he didn't put one single question on Youth Olympics at all! I thought that will surely come out but looks like I underestimated him. Oh well.
The questions weren't exactly that tough but I kind of forgot some factors. But, I think I can still do well. Fingers crossed.
Now, the time is mine to spend as I like, however, I am sort of afraid that I won't be able to accomplish what I told myself I have to do. I only have 6 days left before my last hurrah is gone. I want to go out with a bang but it's going to be more or less, a candle being snuffled by the wind.
I'm truly scared about what my internship will bring. Everything is so uncertain and shaky. I want so much but am so frightened by the prospect of things not going smoothly for me. There is so much apprehension and feelings.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Common Sense is Overrated
I'll tell you why. This is because if everyone have common sense, the world will be a much better place.
Anyway, back to my topic, Event Management is sort of based on common sense, at least that is what I think. However, if my common sense is as good as it seems, I'll do well in this exam. Let's hope so. Let's hope my common sense will not abandon me for that 2 hours.
Like I said before, when you are facing with Death, you won't be afraid, unless you are not really meant to die. I am truly afraid, because I've such high expectations for it.
But, come to think of it, it's not that high an expectation, I've 70% secured with an A, this exam is 30%. It's a no-brainer that I can do well, but I don't just want to do well, I want to do very well and get an A for my overall grade.
I need it like I need air. If there is a miracle, I will get all As again for this semester. Oh, if wishing make it so.
I've tried my best, truly I did. I made some mistakes in the past and I hope to have learnt from it. I did what I can to remedy it. I even do some research on potential events that the lecturer can ask.
All I want is an A for my Event Management, is that so much to ask?
Anyway, back to my topic, Event Management is sort of based on common sense, at least that is what I think. However, if my common sense is as good as it seems, I'll do well in this exam. Let's hope so. Let's hope my common sense will not abandon me for that 2 hours.
Like I said before, when you are facing with Death, you won't be afraid, unless you are not really meant to die. I am truly afraid, because I've such high expectations for it.
But, come to think of it, it's not that high an expectation, I've 70% secured with an A, this exam is 30%. It's a no-brainer that I can do well, but I don't just want to do well, I want to do very well and get an A for my overall grade.
I need it like I need air. If there is a miracle, I will get all As again for this semester. Oh, if wishing make it so.
I've tried my best, truly I did. I made some mistakes in the past and I hope to have learnt from it. I did what I can to remedy it. I even do some research on potential events that the lecturer can ask.
All I want is an A for my Event Management, is that so much to ask?
Friday, September 10, 2010
All These Talking
What is wrong with me?! Goodness, I realised I have a penchant for masochism. No, no, no! It is so dumb, why did I like last-minute study so much? At least, I think so. Because I can't bring myself to start early.
Anyway, I will be free once Monday comes along. Then, it will be my last Hurrah before I turned myself in. *Gasp* I can't believe I am comparing going for internship like being married or going to jail.
Let me just enjoy my last days as a free person.
So, there has been a highly controversial act going on. If you don't know what it is, then you are living under a rock all this while. It has resulted in much backlash and fear from the world as we are living in these trying times.
2010, so many years of civilisation and yet, we still can't seem to get out of ancient pettiness and feuds. Perhaps, it is made worse by technological advancements and the "I-am-better-than-you" syndrome.
It's so silly that we are taking two steps forward and one step backward. It just makes us enter a period of slow-moving advancement in terms of softer aspects.
Oh well, I'm not going to comment on anything to do with religion and what not, because it's becoming too controversial and sensitive a topic to even talk about.
Anyway, I will be free once Monday comes along. Then, it will be my last Hurrah before I turned myself in. *Gasp* I can't believe I am comparing going for internship like being married or going to jail.
Let me just enjoy my last days as a free person.
So, there has been a highly controversial act going on. If you don't know what it is, then you are living under a rock all this while. It has resulted in much backlash and fear from the world as we are living in these trying times.
2010, so many years of civilisation and yet, we still can't seem to get out of ancient pettiness and feuds. Perhaps, it is made worse by technological advancements and the "I-am-better-than-you" syndrome.
It's so silly that we are taking two steps forward and one step backward. It just makes us enter a period of slow-moving advancement in terms of softer aspects.
Oh well, I'm not going to comment on anything to do with religion and what not, because it's becoming too controversial and sensitive a topic to even talk about.
Wednesday, September 08, 2010
Tough Cookie
Well, I guessed yesterday's Managerial Accounting 1 paper was fine. I reached school at around 7.30am because I hitched a ride with my father as he was leaving for the States.
I just spent the next two hours revising again and again. Truth be told, I was preparing for the worse. I'm that afraid.
However, just like I said, when you are facing with Death, the feeling will be different. I think I managed to do quite alright. Maybe, there will be a chance to get an A?
Now, there's Event Management left. Oh boy, it's another tough cookie and I've yet to start revising, again. What's the matter with me?!
I just spent the next two hours revising again and again. Truth be told, I was preparing for the worse. I'm that afraid.
However, just like I said, when you are facing with Death, the feeling will be different. I think I managed to do quite alright. Maybe, there will be a chance to get an A?
Now, there's Event Management left. Oh boy, it's another tough cookie and I've yet to start revising, again. What's the matter with me?!
Monday, September 06, 2010
Facing with Death
Argh! I don't think I'm ready for Managerial Accounting 1 paper tomorrow! How?!!!! If only I could make it all better...
It's killing me, it doesn't make sense at all! I feeling so apprehensive over it! I guess the older you get, the harder it is to watch yourself fall. In the past, if I really didn't do well, that's just it. I'll probably cry over it.
Now, if I get back my results with a blemish, after so long, I don't know what I'll do. I have to get on with life, non? It will be a lesson well learnt.
Will it be better for me if I lower my expectations a little? I mean, with 50% secured with an A, I just have to about 70 marks for my paper to still get a B+. Oh gods, this is bad, really bad.
There is less than 24 hours to go, and I'm sure that I make through this alive.
-
I just have to deal with it, right? If it's meant to be, it will be.
-
We're all afraid of dying, but when you are facing with Death, I reckon the feelings will be different. Afterall, you are already on the shore. It's not Death we're of, it's the path going there, the pain, the sorrow, the fear of unknown that results in all these. Like Dumbledore said, death is but another journey.
We'll see what I post tomorrow. The ball is no longer in my court and I could only pray for luck and help.
It's killing me, it doesn't make sense at all! I feeling so apprehensive over it! I guess the older you get, the harder it is to watch yourself fall. In the past, if I really didn't do well, that's just it. I'll probably cry over it.
Now, if I get back my results with a blemish, after so long, I don't know what I'll do. I have to get on with life, non? It will be a lesson well learnt.
Will it be better for me if I lower my expectations a little? I mean, with 50% secured with an A, I just have to about 70 marks for my paper to still get a B+. Oh gods, this is bad, really bad.
There is less than 24 hours to go, and I'm sure that I make through this alive.
-
I just have to deal with it, right? If it's meant to be, it will be.
-
We're all afraid of dying, but when you are facing with Death, I reckon the feelings will be different. Afterall, you are already on the shore. It's not Death we're of, it's the path going there, the pain, the sorrow, the fear of unknown that results in all these. Like Dumbledore said, death is but another journey.
We'll see what I post tomorrow. The ball is no longer in my court and I could only pray for luck and help.
Sunday, September 05, 2010
Feels like the First
"Everytime feels like the first time"
-
-
I realised that my previous entries are really angst-y.
Anyway, I'm not going to talk about the internship now, because I've sort of lose steam over it. I've pretty much speak what I want to.
Examinations! I hate them with a passion. I know, it's not a doubt that I prefer exams over projects because I can have a greater control over them. Even though it has been close to 13 years of taking exams, each time still feels like the first time.
I hate them now! I feel as if I'm been spoilt over time. Thinking back, I truly wonder how I make it through secondary school. Look, I mean, we had like 7 subjects back then, all of which required memorising and theoretical stuff.
Now, I only have to deal with 2 examinations, which is pretty much common sense, although, Managerial Accounting 1 is going to cost me. I can't believe I am thinking unsavoury thoughts about alternate endings.
I am consoling myself what if I didn't make that ace. What if? There will be no one to disappoint but myself.
I really wanted to learn my lesson and start early, but why, I failed myself! Once again, I found myself stuck. I didn't mean for it to happen! If I can but to remedy this, I promise I'll do it right.
I am so worried over Managerial Accounting 1 and Event Management. MA1 is really difficult for me, I can learn all I could from the notes, but the exam never fails to add in some stupid questions to twist my mind.
I stink at equations and numbers, really I do. It get worse when the questions are not that straightforward.
Why?! The teachers aren't doing a good job if it means that us students can't do the questions. What is the use of the lectures when all they gave us are easy sums and suddenly, wham! they came up with mind-boggling questions for exam?
Oh gods, please just let me safely pass through this difficult period, it's just 2 papers, for goodness sake! It is preposterous to think that I can't even handle two papers when I had managed to do more than 7 in the past.
Anyway, I'm not going to talk about the internship now, because I've sort of lose steam over it. I've pretty much speak what I want to.
Examinations! I hate them with a passion. I know, it's not a doubt that I prefer exams over projects because I can have a greater control over them. Even though it has been close to 13 years of taking exams, each time still feels like the first time.
I hate them now! I feel as if I'm been spoilt over time. Thinking back, I truly wonder how I make it through secondary school. Look, I mean, we had like 7 subjects back then, all of which required memorising and theoretical stuff.
Now, I only have to deal with 2 examinations, which is pretty much common sense, although, Managerial Accounting 1 is going to cost me. I can't believe I am thinking unsavoury thoughts about alternate endings.
I am consoling myself what if I didn't make that ace. What if? There will be no one to disappoint but myself.
I really wanted to learn my lesson and start early, but why, I failed myself! Once again, I found myself stuck. I didn't mean for it to happen! If I can but to remedy this, I promise I'll do it right.
I am so worried over Managerial Accounting 1 and Event Management. MA1 is really difficult for me, I can learn all I could from the notes, but the exam never fails to add in some stupid questions to twist my mind.
I stink at equations and numbers, really I do. It get worse when the questions are not that straightforward.
Why?! The teachers aren't doing a good job if it means that us students can't do the questions. What is the use of the lectures when all they gave us are easy sums and suddenly, wham! they came up with mind-boggling questions for exam?
Oh gods, please just let me safely pass through this difficult period, it's just 2 papers, for goodness sake! It is preposterous to think that I can't even handle two papers when I had managed to do more than 7 in the past.
Friday, September 03, 2010
Gotta Fly Once
Does it make me a lesser being the way I act with the idea of internship, particularly under this circumstance? I don't think so. Just like how it doesn't make one a greater person by being so accepting and thrilled.
There is, ultimately, only one path to go. If I have to be dragged, kicking and screaming into this insanity, I might as well feed my inner-self. As least one of us will be happier. Oh, I can be very accepting and supportive, this is just not the right situation.
I have done some soul-searching and have came up with this conclusion. In fact, I'm not upset over the general thought of internship, because I know it's a rite of passage that I've no choice but to go along. It's the mere thought of being exploited in a first-world country that makes me fumed.
I am toying with the idea on writing to someone, somewhere about whether all these are justify. Even if it doesn't help, hey, at least I know a bit of the law, right? And I will know that under what kind of circumstances I can draw a line at.
All I wanted was to better understand my rights as an employee, even though I'm actually an intern.
What a load of crap! Ok, I am still going to work during Saturdays, in my part-time job. I guess I'm eating my words now, because once upon a time, I ranted about quitting once September rolls in. Sighs, I am certainly not being forced or coerced into this.
I just thought that I should continue, afterall the job is very flexible, and I can treat it as a form of supplement to my measly pay.
You know what? All these just makes me more determined to make that trip to USA as a form of reward for all the crap I put up with this 3 years. I mean, if I have to do all these, I should have a form of "carrot", non? I hope to concrete my plans once the year ends.
Oh boy, Year 2010 kind of stings, me thinks.
The only way I'm calling it quits is when the end is nigh. I think, that's when nobody will care whether it reflects good on them or affect their goals. Now's that when I'll say "take your job and shove it".
There is, ultimately, only one path to go. If I have to be dragged, kicking and screaming into this insanity, I might as well feed my inner-self. As least one of us will be happier. Oh, I can be very accepting and supportive, this is just not the right situation.
I have done some soul-searching and have came up with this conclusion. In fact, I'm not upset over the general thought of internship, because I know it's a rite of passage that I've no choice but to go along. It's the mere thought of being exploited in a first-world country that makes me fumed.
I am toying with the idea on writing to someone, somewhere about whether all these are justify. Even if it doesn't help, hey, at least I know a bit of the law, right? And I will know that under what kind of circumstances I can draw a line at.
All I wanted was to better understand my rights as an employee, even though I'm actually an intern.
What a load of crap! Ok, I am still going to work during Saturdays, in my part-time job. I guess I'm eating my words now, because once upon a time, I ranted about quitting once September rolls in. Sighs, I am certainly not being forced or coerced into this.
I just thought that I should continue, afterall the job is very flexible, and I can treat it as a form of supplement to my measly pay.
You know what? All these just makes me more determined to make that trip to USA as a form of reward for all the crap I put up with this 3 years. I mean, if I have to do all these, I should have a form of "carrot", non? I hope to concrete my plans once the year ends.
Oh boy, Year 2010 kind of stings, me thinks.
The only way I'm calling it quits is when the end is nigh. I think, that's when nobody will care whether it reflects good on them or affect their goals. Now's that when I'll say "take your job and shove it".
Wednesday, September 01, 2010
Limbo of the Working Class
"My way or the highway"
Ha! I did some background check and found out that interns in Singapore are covered under the Employment Law. So, we too are entitled rights. What I need now is advice from a lawyer.
So, basically, once interns hit the 44 hours per week mark, employers are liable to pay us overtime. Seeing that my hours per week hit a whooping high of 50 hours per week, they better do so. Should they fail to do that, it means that I am in a position to bring this issue to the Liaison Officer, right?
I mean, I most certainly didn't sign any stupid contracts with fine print saying that I will sell my soul to the company.
For gods sake, I did a check on the average working hours per week in Singapore and around the world, Singaporeans still clocked in higher-than-average working hours than others. Normally, Singaporeans hit the 40 hours per week.
Well, I guess at least we get paid while getting tortured. And it's a good thing I am not in the hotel industry, they have shift work and some work for more than 12 hours. Are you freaking kidding me?! Never, I rather stick with office work.
They literally have us stuck between a wall and a cliff. It's my way or the highway, to put it bluntly. We couldn't say no to the Polytechnic, right? And once the company have been decided for you, you can't change it.
We are not given any choice in the matter at all. Unless, you count that pathetic excuse of self-secure. *roll eyes*
Whatever happen to the calm and poised approach I wanted? I thought that since this is something I have to go through anyway, I will be more open-minded. But, no, seems like I still freak out over it.
Sighs, whatever happen to my wishes? I am destined to get stuck in this limbo of the working class for as long as I live. Unless, a miracle happens.
Anyway, I'm not going to think so much, because whenever I think too much, everything just turn for the worse.
I'm not determined to hate it when I haven't even experience it. I am just writing what I feel and think. Let me pass my judgement on Judgement Day.
I still can't believe I am not even worth $2.20 per hour! Gosh, am I worse than say a typical construction worker? My mother's company certainly pay their foreign workers better.
Consequences Be Damned
They treat us like vermin, sir"
If there are no consequences, or better still, consequences be damned, would I still go ahead with all these? You bet not.
I finally know where I got posted to for my internship. It just have to be in Ubi, out of all the places. And the pay just has to be the minimum, a measly amount of $440 a month. Here is the "best" part, the hours are from 9.00am to 7.00pm.
So, what it means is, I am not even worth $2.20 per hour. Eh, I have double the pay for every hour I work in my part-time job, alright?
Now, now, the definition of internship is to gain experience without pay. I know that in the States and other countries, internship literally means no pay at all. So, in a masochistic way, I suppose I should be grateful that I even have a pay at all.
But, they can't treat us like cheap labour! This is like exploitation in a first-world country. What? They treat us no better than second-rate citizens! This is outrageous!
I don't know. For me, internship is just another pesky aspect of school that I have to get through. I don't necessary like, but nothing can be done. I might as well give in my best, which I have to anyway, because I am not going to mess up my plans.
I didn't exactly sign myself up for all these, OK? Between 2 choices, people usually choose the one they like. For me, since I don't like anything, I just have to choose the one I can tolerant better than the other. See the difference?
That being said, I didn't sign myself up for this course and what not because I like it, it's just because I have a higher tolerance level for this rather then another course.
I am having a break-down here. I'm freaking out, so as to speak. I don't know if I can do this well. It's freaking 8 CUs, and I have to get the Pass with Commendation. I just have to. Oh gods. And I don't think I'm ready for the real world, not yet.
It's all too overwhelming. Suddenly, I don't want to grow up, I rather pick school over work any other day. That is for certain. Unlike others, I don't see working as an escape, it is a prison, where you will get stuck for the rest of your life.
I already know what I like and dislike. In a sense, I don't need a reality check. In fact, what those lecturers said don't include me. I don't want this, get it? I see it as a chore I have to do.
However, I guess they are right about one thing. It's only 11 weeks, it will pass very soon. I have endured nearly 2 years in the Poly, haven't I? What's another 11 weeks? Well, for one, it stinks big time.
I have to do my best and hope for the best. Hey, in fact, give me all the mundane tasks, I welcome those. I really wish for a good working environment.
So, I will have to cross the bridge when the time comes and I will be back among the living in December. Oh dear, December seems so faraway.
Goodbye to holidays~
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Celebrating 600th Post
This is to celebrate my 600th post! Hip, hip, hooray!
-
I can't believe I managed to reach this far! It's pretty amazing for me. To think that I felt apprehensive when I first started this blog because I was so worried about what people are going to comment.
-
I guessed I gave myself too much credit. My lack-of-experience in the past made me think that people put emphasis on blogs. I am not famous, for one. Besides, I don't publicise my blog like some people do. Nor do I forbid others from reading them. There are but a few posts I privatised due to various reasons.
-
Now, this blog was set up for myself. It is the only site I can do free writing. I love fanfiction but I don't write them. This is the only place I can practice my English skills since I don't take English as a subject anymore.
-
This blog is very different from others, say other teenagers. I have seen quite a few who wrote about their outings and lives, period. Ahh, that's where I differ.
-
I do write about outings and what I thought to be pathetic stuff like school and Life. But, I also do reviews for books, movies and thoughts about current affairs, world issues and anything under the sun!
-
As long as I have the inspiration and time, I will pen them down. I considered myself to be a rather self-righteous person. I am opinionated, and I can't take things lying down, especially when it just begs to be written. I don't see myself debating, just giving my views.
-
I don't always read what others have to say, because most of the times, they are narrow-minded individuals who can only see what is and not what it can be. I am talking about current affairs here, like the recent Youth Olympic Games. Only when I feeling a little masochistic, will I read those comments for fun and then I will get all riled up.
-
Another thing to take note, I dislike changes. Therefore, my blog display remains pretty much the same when I first started out. I just couldn't bring myself to make a change because all the formatting and stuff will be gone. Though, if I have a nice title, I will do a new title banner.
-
Here's to many years to come, and many more entries. Hopefully, it will be filled with good things and not the bad.
-
Christmas in August, I like the sound of that!
-
I can't believe I managed to reach this far! It's pretty amazing for me. To think that I felt apprehensive when I first started this blog because I was so worried about what people are going to comment.
-
I guessed I gave myself too much credit. My lack-of-experience in the past made me think that people put emphasis on blogs. I am not famous, for one. Besides, I don't publicise my blog like some people do. Nor do I forbid others from reading them. There are but a few posts I privatised due to various reasons.
-
Now, this blog was set up for myself. It is the only site I can do free writing. I love fanfiction but I don't write them. This is the only place I can practice my English skills since I don't take English as a subject anymore.
-
This blog is very different from others, say other teenagers. I have seen quite a few who wrote about their outings and lives, period. Ahh, that's where I differ.
-
I do write about outings and what I thought to be pathetic stuff like school and Life. But, I also do reviews for books, movies and thoughts about current affairs, world issues and anything under the sun!
-
As long as I have the inspiration and time, I will pen them down. I considered myself to be a rather self-righteous person. I am opinionated, and I can't take things lying down, especially when it just begs to be written. I don't see myself debating, just giving my views.
-
I don't always read what others have to say, because most of the times, they are narrow-minded individuals who can only see what is and not what it can be. I am talking about current affairs here, like the recent Youth Olympic Games. Only when I feeling a little masochistic, will I read those comments for fun and then I will get all riled up.
-
Another thing to take note, I dislike changes. Therefore, my blog display remains pretty much the same when I first started out. I just couldn't bring myself to make a change because all the formatting and stuff will be gone. Though, if I have a nice title, I will do a new title banner.
-
Here's to many years to come, and many more entries. Hopefully, it will be filled with good things and not the bad.
-
Christmas in August, I like the sound of that!
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Missing You
Gods, it never fails to move me to tears whenever I watched those snippets of athletes and the journey they and we have come. Those songs sung at the end of the Closing Ceremony are really touching.
-
I don't know why is it that only this Olympics, albeit the Youth Olympics, invoke such strong sentiments and emotions from me.
-
Perhaps, it has to do with pride as a local. The Games won't be a success without the public's passion. Still, I feel as if I'm part of the gigantic celebration and milestone, even though I am not a volunteer.
-
And now, of course, the Games were over and literally, so is my "honeymoon" period. I've to start revising for the 2 exams. I can't bring myself to sit down and do this, my brain don't seem to work at all! What should I do?
-
I don't know why is it that only this Olympics, albeit the Youth Olympics, invoke such strong sentiments and emotions from me.
-
Perhaps, it has to do with pride as a local. The Games won't be a success without the public's passion. Still, I feel as if I'm part of the gigantic celebration and milestone, even though I am not a volunteer.
-
And now, of course, the Games were over and literally, so is my "honeymoon" period. I've to start revising for the 2 exams. I can't bring myself to sit down and do this, my brain don't seem to work at all! What should I do?
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Slowly, Softly, Sweetly End
With the tune of a single flugel-horn, and the beating of drums, the sacred flame was slowly, softly, sweetly extinguished. This brought out a torrent of emotions from me.
I didn't even watch the whole closing ceremony, just snippets of it. But, I think it was a fitting finish, it's very touching and reflective. As with the dramatic and youthful opening, the closing is a finish of promises to come.
As the young athletes bid goodbye to each other, the night was still young as the closing ceremony was dedicated to them and the volunteers. It was just reward for them as for the past 12 days, they have toiled and competed.
Ahh, how great it is to be young!
It's been too awesome a journey to put into words. Kudos to the team of volunteers, who have stories of sacrificial to tell. Kudos to the team of reporters and media who bring us news. Kudos to the people manning the twitter account and Facebook, whom a lot of people rely on for live updates.
Kudos to the organisers and committee who did it despite all odds. For a major event like this, past experiences are crucial when it comes to decision-making. Only from mistakes made in the past, will the current host country delivered a better event. Therefore, for us, without any main guides, we did well.
The IOC president akin the birth of the YOG to that of the birth of a child. In that short 12 days, the "child" has grown up and is ready to move on, in the words of Mr Ng Ser Miang.
Indeed, for many of us, how could we forget the day history was made? It has been two weeks of celebrations, competition and mingling. I'm extremely pleased with the rave reviews from athletes.
Through the Cultural and Educational Programme, athletes and volunteers learnt about different countries. The clinics and talks held by some Olympic medallists is great as well.
This is not farewell, because the Youth Olympics is just the beginning and the stepping platform for many of these athletes.
As spoken by Mr Jacques Rogge, goodbye and see you in Nanjing, China. The spirit of the YOG will live on and all this starts in Singapore. I hope that by Summer Olympics in London in 2012,
we can see many of these athletes again.
I didn't even watch the whole closing ceremony, just snippets of it. But, I think it was a fitting finish, it's very touching and reflective. As with the dramatic and youthful opening, the closing is a finish of promises to come.
As the young athletes bid goodbye to each other, the night was still young as the closing ceremony was dedicated to them and the volunteers. It was just reward for them as for the past 12 days, they have toiled and competed.
Ahh, how great it is to be young!
It's been too awesome a journey to put into words. Kudos to the team of volunteers, who have stories of sacrificial to tell. Kudos to the team of reporters and media who bring us news. Kudos to the people manning the twitter account and Facebook, whom a lot of people rely on for live updates.
Kudos to the organisers and committee who did it despite all odds. For a major event like this, past experiences are crucial when it comes to decision-making. Only from mistakes made in the past, will the current host country delivered a better event. Therefore, for us, without any main guides, we did well.
The IOC president akin the birth of the YOG to that of the birth of a child. In that short 12 days, the "child" has grown up and is ready to move on, in the words of Mr Ng Ser Miang.
Indeed, for many of us, how could we forget the day history was made? It has been two weeks of celebrations, competition and mingling. I'm extremely pleased with the rave reviews from athletes.
Through the Cultural and Educational Programme, athletes and volunteers learnt about different countries. The clinics and talks held by some Olympic medallists is great as well.
This is not farewell, because the Youth Olympics is just the beginning and the stepping platform for many of these athletes.
As spoken by Mr Jacques Rogge, goodbye and see you in Nanjing, China. The spirit of the YOG will live on and all this starts in Singapore. I hope that by Summer Olympics in London in 2012,
we can see many of these athletes again.
Good Times Fly
"Good times fly"
Ahhh, I'm getting the post-YOG blues!
It's with a lump in my throat that I typed this post.
I'm feeling a little forlorn, dejected and a flurry of sentiments over this whole event. I now get what people call the "emotion factor". This is the most powerful tool, to ignite passion and pride and get the country together.
It's that period of time when everything ends and you feel like there's a part of you missing. With all that daily action and news articles, it is hard for life to go back to normal.
It's been a wonderful 12 days of action, with all those athletes and news coverage. For Singapore, we have displayed our best and won medals.
With such a grand opening, the closing will be bittersweet as another chapter comes to a close. It's too bad that we can't go there live or for me, even watch the closing at home during the designated time. Because I have to work!
Sigh, as with everything, good times fly and we should be happy that we have the honour of hosting the inaugural Games. Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happens. But all good things end too quickly, before we warm up, things are coming to an end.
I'll remembered YOG 2010 for the passion it brought to a lot of people, of putting Singapore in the Olympic history, of showing the world who we are, of attracting young talent to have a taste of local culture. I'm proud that I have a chance to have a piece of history to myself.
Because this is the first, memorabilia will be more priceless and memorable than the subsequent events.
I'll remembered YOG as the time that Singapore did it and show that positivity can win over negativity. Also, this is a good chance to see what whiners some people are.
Most Singaporeans are what marketers called "late adopters" and this is usually the bane of their existence. It is difficult to foresee what and when they will buy.
People always wait till the last minute before making purchases or feel the passion for something. When the tickets were first made available, it seems that no one wanted them, then when the event is half-way there, they started scrambling for tickets and gifts.
It amused me to see almost all things sold out on the online counter. I'm so lucky to have bought them before YOG was even hot. Still, I hope I can get some more items.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Sweet Victory
In case you haven't heard the news, Singapore hauled in 2 bronzes during this fateful day. It was a good day for us, especially from the football field.
We beat Montenegro 4-1 in the bronze medal match and it is sweet victory for us. It's been too long since something good came from the football field. If only we went in to the gold medal match instead...
Thank you, Cubs! For bringing joy to Singapore and invoking passion and belief in local football action again. I sincerely thank you guys.
I guess it is easy for by-standers to say "no, you did all this wrongly", "you should have done this, done that". But, by putting yourself into another's shoes, would we still keep these in mind? I think not. It is so different when on the pitch and sitting on the stands.
It had definitely been a roller coaster of emotions when I viewed the match on TV. I'm literally biting my fingers when Montenegro players were in better shape than ours. I believe, with stronger regiment and more experience, the young athletes will flourish and bring glory once again for Singapore.
From sailing, we won a bronze in windsurfing and lost out on the other two segments. Still, sailing is more difficult than other sports because there are 16 matches to compete in and sailors have to be in top shape all the way.
There will be good days and bad days and you just have to deal with the elements and luck.
With that, the YOG will come to a close, seeing that the athletes are nearly done. Improvements are obvious but normal Singaporeans should stand behind these athletes who gave in their best despite not necessary gaining the utmost experience during their training.
Because, we, unlike other countries' athletes have lives and other aspects to look into, like school. It is to my belief that some countries' athletes just dedicated their whole lives to that sport and perhaps, even never have proper education if they have to train from young.
Who knows what goes behind closed doors, right? All we see are stars, medals and accomplishments, but behind closed doors, who knows what punishments they get when they fail?
Someone should definitely do a study on this aspect of sport, of sacrificial and failure. It will be nice to know.
We beat Montenegro 4-1 in the bronze medal match and it is sweet victory for us. It's been too long since something good came from the football field. If only we went in to the gold medal match instead...
Thank you, Cubs! For bringing joy to Singapore and invoking passion and belief in local football action again. I sincerely thank you guys.
I guess it is easy for by-standers to say "no, you did all this wrongly", "you should have done this, done that". But, by putting yourself into another's shoes, would we still keep these in mind? I think not. It is so different when on the pitch and sitting on the stands.
It had definitely been a roller coaster of emotions when I viewed the match on TV. I'm literally biting my fingers when Montenegro players were in better shape than ours. I believe, with stronger regiment and more experience, the young athletes will flourish and bring glory once again for Singapore.
From sailing, we won a bronze in windsurfing and lost out on the other two segments. Still, sailing is more difficult than other sports because there are 16 matches to compete in and sailors have to be in top shape all the way.
There will be good days and bad days and you just have to deal with the elements and luck.
With that, the YOG will come to a close, seeing that the athletes are nearly done. Improvements are obvious but normal Singaporeans should stand behind these athletes who gave in their best despite not necessary gaining the utmost experience during their training.
Because, we, unlike other countries' athletes have lives and other aspects to look into, like school. It is to my belief that some countries' athletes just dedicated their whole lives to that sport and perhaps, even never have proper education if they have to train from young.
Who knows what goes behind closed doors, right? All we see are stars, medals and accomplishments, but behind closed doors, who knows what punishments they get when they fail?
Someone should definitely do a study on this aspect of sport, of sacrificial and failure. It will be nice to know.
Saying Goodbye to Fond Memories
As Day 11 of the Youth Olympic Games winds down, you know it's time to snuff out the flame.
Tomorrow, the closing ceremony for the Singapore 2010 Youth Olympic Games will take place and Nanjing, China will be the next host, in 2014.
Soon, YOG 2010 will become a distant but fond memory to many, for me as well. As some may rejoice life going back to normal, many will suffer withdrawal symptoms. Already, I can feel the panic settling in, because it will be D-Day soon. As soon as the YOG closes, it is technically, the end of holidays as well.
I will never forget this period of time, I have been, from the start, an active participant in all things YOG. While I did not sign up to be a volunteer, I was there when the flame arrived in Singapore. I was there, live, for the Opening Ceremony. I bought lots of memorabilia, from collectibles such as collar pins to official coin to DBS card. I have my daily dose of YOG action online and on TV.
It has been a great lesson for us all. For me, YOG 2010 is a crash course of Event Management, from risk management to staging to volunteerism to sponsorship.
Of course, how could I forget the hostility and negativity some Singaporeans had? It has truly been a good time to filter out all these people. Now I understand how some people, adults and what not, can whine and groan and complain at everything. For god sake, this is a joyous occasion, and yet it has to be marred by these people. And please, posting all these negativity online, where the whole world can see what whiners they are? And in turn, they may form bad impressions on Singapore.
Although, I must say, in every major event and decision, there will be people for or against it. Perhaps, it is the smaller-scaled here in Singapore. Perhaps, other places have it worse, what with riots and demonstrations.
For us, at least, they are confined to online sources and "fake" newspapers. These naysayers and trolls are on a roll and by right, the most efficient way to deter them is to ignore them. Their minds are so twisted and narrow that nothing positive can go in.
Frankly, we should ignore them and don't care about them. But, sometimes, they just get on people's nerves and you feel like rebutting them.
Anyway, it's ending. I am so angry that I will miss the live feed of the closing ceremony because I am working! It's too bad we are not going for ceremony, but we have already spend a lot on the opening.
Tomorrow, the closing ceremony for the Singapore 2010 Youth Olympic Games will take place and Nanjing, China will be the next host, in 2014.
Soon, YOG 2010 will become a distant but fond memory to many, for me as well. As some may rejoice life going back to normal, many will suffer withdrawal symptoms. Already, I can feel the panic settling in, because it will be D-Day soon. As soon as the YOG closes, it is technically, the end of holidays as well.
I will never forget this period of time, I have been, from the start, an active participant in all things YOG. While I did not sign up to be a volunteer, I was there when the flame arrived in Singapore. I was there, live, for the Opening Ceremony. I bought lots of memorabilia, from collectibles such as collar pins to official coin to DBS card. I have my daily dose of YOG action online and on TV.
It has been a great lesson for us all. For me, YOG 2010 is a crash course of Event Management, from risk management to staging to volunteerism to sponsorship.
Of course, how could I forget the hostility and negativity some Singaporeans had? It has truly been a good time to filter out all these people. Now I understand how some people, adults and what not, can whine and groan and complain at everything. For god sake, this is a joyous occasion, and yet it has to be marred by these people. And please, posting all these negativity online, where the whole world can see what whiners they are? And in turn, they may form bad impressions on Singapore.
Although, I must say, in every major event and decision, there will be people for or against it. Perhaps, it is the smaller-scaled here in Singapore. Perhaps, other places have it worse, what with riots and demonstrations.
For us, at least, they are confined to online sources and "fake" newspapers. These naysayers and trolls are on a roll and by right, the most efficient way to deter them is to ignore them. Their minds are so twisted and narrow that nothing positive can go in.
Frankly, we should ignore them and don't care about them. But, sometimes, they just get on people's nerves and you feel like rebutting them.
Anyway, it's ending. I am so angry that I will miss the live feed of the closing ceremony because I am working! It's too bad we are not going for ceremony, but we have already spend a lot on the opening.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Cultural & Educational Programme
The mission is to engage and educate young athletes. It’s not just about being a winner. The 3 key values are “excellence, respect, friendship”.
-
Therefore, when hosting the games, a separate programme is going on at the same time. This is known as the Cultural and Educational Programme. It seeks to educate these young athletes and promote friendship and interaction.
-
As a youth myself, I feel that this programme is extremely welcomed. If I am a young athlete, I would have the time of my life, taking part in these activities and learning about the different countries cultures. It all seems so fun and this would appeal to me. But, obviously, as someone who detests taking part in sports, I would never be one of them.
-
But, it’s ok, because I can just view all these on the side-lines and cheer them on.
-
Sometimes, it makes me ponder, the world is made of so many different kinds of individuals.
-
On one extreme, there are those who have goals and dreams when young, they know what they want and how to get it. The young athletes kind of belong in this category. They push and challenge themselves, breaking personal records and gaining the admiration of their country.
-
Then, there are those who partake in all sorts of vices: drinking excessively, smoking, drugs and all. Don’t they notice that they are wasting their lives away? Why not be normal, if not extraordinary?
-
To add on, I love the feel of the Olympic Village in NTU.
-
It seems like a home away from home. Everything seems meticulously planned out for the total comfort of these athletes. And what is heartening to know is that those athletes appreciate all that. It’s great to know and great to see how they are enjoying themselves after the competitions.
-
I know that if I am an athlete, the time I would treasure the most is to make new friends and enjoy what the host country has to offer. Being a pin-collector, I just love how the hobby of pin-collecting is actually well and alive in the Olympics! I didn’t know that until recently.
-
Athletes are given their own country pins and they can exchange them for other countries pins. It’s just so awesome! I wish I have the chance to do this too. But, my pins are one and only so there wouldn’t be much exchanging going on.
-
I have made up my mind for London Olympics 2012, I will buy pins online. But, it’s kind of insane as the shipping fees is going to cost so much more than those pins. We’ll see.
-
Therefore, when hosting the games, a separate programme is going on at the same time. This is known as the Cultural and Educational Programme. It seeks to educate these young athletes and promote friendship and interaction.
-
As a youth myself, I feel that this programme is extremely welcomed. If I am a young athlete, I would have the time of my life, taking part in these activities and learning about the different countries cultures. It all seems so fun and this would appeal to me. But, obviously, as someone who detests taking part in sports, I would never be one of them.
-
But, it’s ok, because I can just view all these on the side-lines and cheer them on.
-
Sometimes, it makes me ponder, the world is made of so many different kinds of individuals.
-
On one extreme, there are those who have goals and dreams when young, they know what they want and how to get it. The young athletes kind of belong in this category. They push and challenge themselves, breaking personal records and gaining the admiration of their country.
-
Then, there are those who partake in all sorts of vices: drinking excessively, smoking, drugs and all. Don’t they notice that they are wasting their lives away? Why not be normal, if not extraordinary?
-
To add on, I love the feel of the Olympic Village in NTU.
-
It seems like a home away from home. Everything seems meticulously planned out for the total comfort of these athletes. And what is heartening to know is that those athletes appreciate all that. It’s great to know and great to see how they are enjoying themselves after the competitions.
-
I know that if I am an athlete, the time I would treasure the most is to make new friends and enjoy what the host country has to offer. Being a pin-collector, I just love how the hobby of pin-collecting is actually well and alive in the Olympics! I didn’t know that until recently.
-
Athletes are given their own country pins and they can exchange them for other countries pins. It’s just so awesome! I wish I have the chance to do this too. But, my pins are one and only so there wouldn’t be much exchanging going on.
-
I have made up my mind for London Olympics 2012, I will buy pins online. But, it’s kind of insane as the shipping fees is going to cost so much more than those pins. We’ll see.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Footballers' Dream
Damnation!
Singapore football team lost to Haiti's in the semi-finals football match. In a stadium fulled of mostly Singapore supporters, all decked out in red, it's heartening to know that these people are behind the Cubs.
But, now that we lost, will the same people who cheered them on, turned around and accused the players? We, people, are a practical bunch, but there has to be a limit to it. So, I think the best therapy and consolation for our young players is full support. Please, don't let these players down.
I can't believe we lost. However, in every game, there will be winners and losers. We just happen to fail this time.
So, now, Singapore is off for the bronze medal or the fourth place. Be it either of the two, let us be proud that these footballers have come this far, bringing football passion into people's lives again.
Although, I sure hope we can get a bronze medal.
Cheers for Team Singapore! Cheers for our footballers!
Singapore football team lost to Haiti's in the semi-finals football match. In a stadium fulled of mostly Singapore supporters, all decked out in red, it's heartening to know that these people are behind the Cubs.
But, now that we lost, will the same people who cheered them on, turned around and accused the players? We, people, are a practical bunch, but there has to be a limit to it. So, I think the best therapy and consolation for our young players is full support. Please, don't let these players down.
I can't believe we lost. However, in every game, there will be winners and losers. We just happen to fail this time.
So, now, Singapore is off for the bronze medal or the fourth place. Be it either of the two, let us be proud that these footballers have come this far, bringing football passion into people's lives again.
Although, I sure hope we can get a bronze medal.
Cheers for Team Singapore! Cheers for our footballers!
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Perils of Holidays & Universal Studios Singapore
Alright, I am totally procrastinating. There. I finally used that word. I used to think that the word don’t apply to me and doesn’t exist in my dictionary. But, this time, I shall admit it.
-
Gosh, where have the last 2 weeks gone?!
-
Why must time pass so fast that I can’t catch up with it? Day after day after day, I just couldn’t bring myself to complete my tasks. Why?! Argh, the perils of holidays! Oh, the pain! Of seeing my time slipping away.
-
Trust me, I am having the time of my life. But, I can’t help but to get guilty over not studying for the exams, yet. This time, though, I WILL learn my lesson and revise early. Really, I will.
-
On Monday, 16th August 2010, I went on to Universal Studios Singapore located at Resort World Sentosa with my cousin’s family. It was fun indeed and has been the place I want to go since it first open. They have an extra ticket so I went with them.
-
It’s too bad that it rained earlier that morning, but the weather cleared after we reached there. Wow, the place is really filled with tourists all around the world, even for a Monday. Although, I must say, the whole area looks so small compared to the bigger scaled cousins like the famous one in Orlando, Florida.
-
Still, it was pretty enjoyable even though I don’t play a lot of rides. The whole atmosphere is quite fun, especially Hollywood and New York section.
-
I love the shops the most. I bought quite many pins and a shirt. I could spend all day there.
-
In the evening, after watching a couple of performances, we ate dinner and walked around the other parts of the resort. We saw the beautiful hotels and Festive Walk. I really want to thoroughly explore the whole place and I am in luck since my parents will be going to Universal soon. I won’t be going inside with them because the price is atrocious. I rather spend the money on something more substantial like clothes or bag.
-
I can’t wait to go to Universal Studios Orlando because I know I will spend till I drop.
-
On another note, I hope that we can stay for a night at one of the hotels within the resort, but I doubt so. Sigh, why must the price be so darn high? Seriously, why? Because they cater to the rich and tourists, that’s why.
-
-
Gosh, where have the last 2 weeks gone?!
-
Why must time pass so fast that I can’t catch up with it? Day after day after day, I just couldn’t bring myself to complete my tasks. Why?! Argh, the perils of holidays! Oh, the pain! Of seeing my time slipping away.
-
Trust me, I am having the time of my life. But, I can’t help but to get guilty over not studying for the exams, yet. This time, though, I WILL learn my lesson and revise early. Really, I will.
-
On Monday, 16th August 2010, I went on to Universal Studios Singapore located at Resort World Sentosa with my cousin’s family. It was fun indeed and has been the place I want to go since it first open. They have an extra ticket so I went with them.
-
It’s too bad that it rained earlier that morning, but the weather cleared after we reached there. Wow, the place is really filled with tourists all around the world, even for a Monday. Although, I must say, the whole area looks so small compared to the bigger scaled cousins like the famous one in Orlando, Florida.
-
Still, it was pretty enjoyable even though I don’t play a lot of rides. The whole atmosphere is quite fun, especially Hollywood and New York section.
-
I love the shops the most. I bought quite many pins and a shirt. I could spend all day there.
-
In the evening, after watching a couple of performances, we ate dinner and walked around the other parts of the resort. We saw the beautiful hotels and Festive Walk. I really want to thoroughly explore the whole place and I am in luck since my parents will be going to Universal soon. I won’t be going inside with them because the price is atrocious. I rather spend the money on something more substantial like clothes or bag.
-
I can’t wait to go to Universal Studios Orlando because I know I will spend till I drop.
-
On another note, I hope that we can stay for a night at one of the hotels within the resort, but I doubt so. Sigh, why must the price be so darn high? Seriously, why? Because they cater to the rich and tourists, that’s why.
-
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Youth Olympic Games Opening Ceremony
The Youth Olympic Games 2010 Opening Ceremony at The Float at Marina Bay was held on 14th August 2010.
-I felt honoured and privileged to be there live in action, together with my family. There were an estimation of around 27,000 viewers sharing this special moment. We parked at Marina Square at around 5pm plus. Unfortunately, we were off to a glitch because we ended up queuing for entrance at a hotel for officials. We were directed out and headed off for the green zone.
-Boy, was the conditions tough at the stands! The earlier rain had stopped, making the conditions extremely humid and hot. I was perspiring away just sitting at the seat. It seemed that there were quite a lot of foreigners and tourists there, which kind of surprised me.
-It was supposed to be free seating yet we have to sit packed to the sides first. I can understand that but the system will be better if they allowed us to choose the seats in the beginning, just like booking for cinema seats. They can also disallow people from leaving spaces in between.
-The goodie bag wasn't as good as the National Day's. For one, there was only a muffin to eat. And fans should be provided as well. I hid beneath a huge pair of sunglasses and used a pamphlet as shade.
-Already I tried to dress as minimally as possible. This beat some officials who wore long sleeves and jackets.
-As the day waned, the heat sweltered on, more and more people arrived. As the sun set, a mild breeze blew past and everyone sighed in relief. Alas, dark clouds gathered on the horizon. As the time ticked by, the dark and heavy clouds moved steadily towards us, people began to unpack their ponchos. It was such a bad timing if it was to rain.
-We saw the clouds moved above us and slowly, as if a miracle, moved onwards near to Marina Bay Sands instead. It's almost time for the ceremony to start.
-Luckily, as the day turned into night, the clouds disappeared into the dark skies and the show went on with nary a problem.
-The Opening ceremony was unlike others, it was upbeat and not that solemn. It was like a gigantic party, which fits the theme as this is the Youth Games afterall. It's young and energetic and the songs used kept your feet tapping. We rummaged our goodie bags for the torches and mini flags.
-Furthermore, this is a special place to host the opening, traditionally, opening and closing ceremonies are always held in stadiums, whereas in Singapore, we held the ceremonies in an outside setting, on a floating platform no less. That has to count as something.
-Athletes arrival was done in a quick manner, it was not wishy-washy and they were quickly led up to their VIP seats in the middle. It must be great for them, to be able to sit in the stands and witnessed the opening as well. In my experience, athletes always don't have a chance to watch the ceremonies, as they have to be in the middle of the stage.
-The flags bearing was done in record time too. I salute them for that. The flags came in one after another and was handed over to the volunteers.
-The appearance of the golden dragon was something special for us as it was driven by my cousin. The dragon head looked fantastic in shimmering gold scales and fire-breathing nostrils! He drove up the slope without any problem and the "body" made of of carps followed closely. Although, I have to say that the "tail" of the dragon didn't follow as closely, so it looked disembodied.
-Pretty soon, it was time to "Blaze the trail" as the sacred flame which had travelled through the five continents and the whole of Singapore finally arrived in a grand fashion, on a Phoenix no less.
-The whole bay was dark and over the distance, I can see lights as the dragon boats entourage came into sight. The gigantic Phoenix-designed boat held the flame and it was so whimsical and gorgeous. I bet no one thought of arriving like that before.
-
-
In a zig-zag fashion, the flame was passed from bearer to bearer and finally, it arrived on stage. The final torch-bearer, whose identity has been kept hush-hush until then, ran across the reflecting waters and literally, lit up the beacon. The flame travelled in a spiralling pattern, until it set the "lighthouse" on fire.
-Wow, what a grand spectacle! The people behind all these sure know how to create an entrance. It was sure a grand finale.
-The fire burned on strongly, unlike other ceremonies. Up close, it looked like a tornado of flames.
-Fireworks lit up the skies, but I felt it wasn't as good as the National Day's There was too little variations and colours.
-And we cheered! For Singapore and the world. I felt so proud at that moment, it's finally our turn and I have the chance to witness this.
-We saw my cousin on the way out and we took a photo with the dragon head, unfortunately, it wasn't lit.
-The journey back took a long time, because of road closures and what not. We reached home at around 12am plus. But, looking back, it was all worth it.
Friday, August 13, 2010
Singapore Youth Olympic Games
Because nothing else comes close.
After nearly 2 years since winning the bid to host the inaugural Youth Olympic Games here in Singapore, after passing the 99 days countdown, all those planning, organising and rehearsals will finally take form tomorrow!
-
Congratulations, to those who make this happen and work! You all deserve so much more than just another echo of thanks.
-
Tomorrow, we'll show the world what we are like and what we have to offer. Tomorrow, hopefully, people will form new perceptions of us. A small country, an island to be exact, has manage to come this far and the first ever to host the Youth Olympic Games, which is the first big-scale event for us.
-
By big-scale I mean that it is a smaller-scale version of the Olympics which can never occur in Singapore, likewise for FIFA Worldcup and others. Therefore, it is a blessing that the Youth Olympics comes along and small countries like us will now have a chance to welcome the world too.
-
I'm so excited for tomorrow's opening ceremony because we're given a chance to be part of a historical moment. Yes, it may cost a lot but I think it will be worth it. There could only be one Opening and there could only be one chance to view it live, perhaps in this lifetime, especially so for my parents.
-
How many years will it take for Singapore to host the Olympics again, perhaps never, perhaps in the not-so-near future. And when you think of it this way, it will make you feel better because a chance lost will never be found again.
-
Even if the Games does come back, I'll be no longer the same person I am now, a youth. I'll no longer be feeling the same, the excitement and pride of a young person.
-
I'm so glad we are going to be part of this movement. As Singaporeans, I feel that we should all have a part in this. Of course, the Opening Ceremony will be an eye-opener as well as a lesson.
-
I will be really surprised if the Event Management exam does not have a question on the Olympics. Knowing the kind of person he is, the lecturer will surely pose questions on this, be it on sponsorship or volunteerism or event planning and staging. I want to do well and there are all these articles which are real-life examples of what we learnt in classroom.
-
Now, I really feel the event management is a big business and all, but too bad, there are no more lessons. I feel that we can really discuss a lot in class. Surprising, huh?
-
Once again, I'll not have the time to update again until I return home tomorrow night. Tomorrow is a long day, what with work in the morning and going to Auntie's house in the afternoon and leaving for the Floating Platform in the evening.
-
I can only hope that it will not rain tomorrow, especially in the afternoon and night.
-
Here wishing all the best to the performers who have come so far for this big day!
-
Cheers!
Issues on YOG
“You can lead a horse to water but cannot make it drink”
Isn’t that true in this case?
-
Many Singaporeans are clueless and have a "heck-care" attitude when it comes to such important events. My lecturer was right about the “if it’s here, so what, it doesn’t concern me” attitude.
-
"If the Games are here, so be it. If there isn’t, we’re not missing anything. I won't waste money and time supporting them, even if the atheletes are Singaporeans". How pathetic.
-
Maybe we’re still a young nation, that’s why there is no sporting culture yet, or maybe we’re just too harsh upon ourselves. Perhaps it is the case of “the grass is greener on the other side” syndrome. We keep seeing the beautiful things that are of other countries and compare ourselves to them.
-
In my opinion, Singapore do lack the softer aspects of culture, be it arts or sports. And that is where we fail. We are so fixated on doing things in monetary terms and expecting our wills be heard and done.
-
Singapore has successfully win the bid and is doing its best to make it a memorable experience, if those who don’t wish to bask in this glory, who is to stop them and more to the people who are enthusiastic and passionate anyway.
-
We are going down in history and it’s laughable that some don’t care. Oh well, let them be stuck in thier tiny well and looking at the same piece of sky. Here wishing to a beautiful night at the opening ceremony!
-
What makes me madder is the fact that some pathetic people state that Youth Olympics is a waste of time. Perhaps it is useless to these naysayers, seeing that they are neither athletes nor youth. Obviously, it don't matter to them. *roll eyes* But the very least they could do for this generation is to let them have a chance to compete at world's level.
-
Why should you deny others a chance?
-
"Better to remain silent and be thought a fool, than to open your mouth and remove all doubt"
-
I, on the other hand, am so thrilled by this. I am excited and want to catch some action, but circumstances don’t allow me so. I just have to content myself with pictures and maybe more.
-
Finally! The sacred flame has arrived to Singapore after making its way through 5 continents.
-
It started out at ancient Olympia, where the sun-rays lit up the cauldron and was bore by the High Priestess. The ceremony was just so intriguing and amazing! It combines ancient ceremonials with modern technology and one just has to wonder how far humanity comes.
-
And it is finally picking up steam in Singapore.
-
Call me petty or whatever but this time, finally, we’ll be getting full coverage of an Olympics! So there.
-
Time and again, I wish desperately for live full coverage of the various Olympics and I was completely disappointed. Maybe the media company just don’t have the money to bid for the rights to broadcast.
-
But in my opinion, since it’s the Olympics, the world should share the joy together. Why, all these so-call major sports events are turning into money-grubbing business. Very, very, realistic.
-
At least make the other means of watching the coverage easier, it makes me feel like I’m in a different world altogether with all these “blocking-because-of-your-region” business. Yes, I get it that I live so far away from the States and all, but need you rub it in? Even the sharing-channel, Youtube, doesn’t work in this instance.
-
For goodness sake, I thought it is the committee job and vision for the Olympics to travel far and wide? Why are you blocking videos to prevent others from enjoying them? Copyright issues, yeah right. It’s the official website, for god’s sake. I can’t even watch the whole of the opening and closing ceremonies.
-
This sort of circumstances are what make people turn to illegal stuff. The legal and right way is just too tedious.
-
Anyway, I’m so happy that it’s others turn to question why isn’t their local media broadcasting the YOG. Why indeed?
-
Maybe there is, but the publicity isn’t there or maybe they just have to pay. Money can go anywhere, isn’t it? Money make the world goes round and it can open doors for you.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Wolf Charm Lost
I miss my wolf charm so much, it's so beautiful and I just had to lose it. I will get another, that's for sure, but when and how are the questions.
Singapore is a difficult place to get the charm I want because of shipping and all that. I could ask my friend to help me get it but then, I will have to wait a long time. Well, it's better than nothing.
We'll see. I want something nice, very detailed and cheap. All these Internet business sounds and looks dodgy. I don't really dare to try online shopping, what if they took my money and never give me the goods?
Should I wait at least till the end of the year to ask? Or should I ask soon. With her keeping possession of it till she come back or I go there. Because I plan on going to the States next year, that's what makes me linger over the decision.
Singapore is a difficult place to get the charm I want because of shipping and all that. I could ask my friend to help me get it but then, I will have to wait a long time. Well, it's better than nothing.
We'll see. I want something nice, very detailed and cheap. All these Internet business sounds and looks dodgy. I don't really dare to try online shopping, what if they took my money and never give me the goods?
Should I wait at least till the end of the year to ask? Or should I ask soon. With her keeping possession of it till she come back or I go there. Because I plan on going to the States next year, that's what makes me linger over the decision.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
JYOF - Northwest District
Oh yes! I'm so thrilled as I took shot after shot of the Journey of the Youth Olympic Flame, right here, literally at my doorsteps.
-
I had this planned since Saturday. I tracked the flame progress live online and was so shocked that it started raining heavily around 1 plus. I just couldn't bear to be disappointed.
I had this planned since Saturday. I tracked the flame progress live online and was so shocked that it started raining heavily around 1 plus. I just couldn't bear to be disappointed.
-
My brother managed to skip his CCA session and came home to catch this moment with me. We made our way downstairs around 3.40pm, once I saw the flame icon was moving again on the screen.
-
It was supposed to arrive around 3pm but perhaps due to the bad weather, they were deterred. I was so nervous, my heart was beating unevenly, when the flame stopped for so long. I even went twitter to ask why.
-
I was so worried that I won't manage to take good shots but I did. The whole thing happened so fast. The entourage came on two open-top buses, the traffic police, the torch-bearer and the accompanying runners and more buses following behind.
-
We saw the exchanging of torch as well. And then, they were off.
-
Ahhh, it feels so satisfying to manage to catch this live, it's indeed a moment of a lifetime. This Saturday, I will part of Singapore's history as well.
-
Musings on Life
It is what we want in life that shapes the person within.
It’s true, we all started out more or less the same, as time passes, people change, for better or worse. And when we are in our twenties and look back at where we started, would we wish to change things then?
It is the priorities one has in life that makes him do the things now. Do you want to be a sportsman? If then, what would you sacrifice to get what you want?
I have priorities, in life and in schoolwork. Because I'm not that kind of person who go about life in a haphazard manner. Just like how you have a million and one things to acquire, but only have the means to get what are the most important first and leave the rest for later, or perhaps never.
I'm sure I'll regret not choosing the other paths, but won't Life even be more pathetic if I keep thinking about the "have-beens" and "may-bes"?
If I have a time-turner, I would love to go back in time and see the other paths. Would I have chosen them then, or would I still choose this, ultimately?
Lately, I've been thinking a lot. The meetings with friends and the suddenness of seeing myself out there, I have been thinking about life.
I don't regret going through my school years oblivious of the trivial things that had been going around. Firstly, I am not one for gossip. Secondly, frankly, I don't see myself gasping in horror or otherwise just because this guy goes out with this girl.
I've always been oblivious to the surroundings since young and maybe I don't plan on changing now. Still, it will be good to keep up with times now and then.
I am too afraid of being pathetic, of being stuck in nowhere. I want to change, you know? But it is harder than I thought. The human mind is resilient and I'll just have to believe.
Like what my lecturer said, "it's about the mindset, you can't be competing with people all the time, because you'll end up falling or getting a brain hemorrhage. Just compete with and push yourself. Just because you are lecturer and a friend is a CEO doesn't mean you fail as an individual. If you keep thinking about how unfair life is, then you will get nowhere."
Another lecturer said, "to be successful doesn't necessary mean in monetary terms or credentials. Perhaps, your parents are successful because their child has come so far. This is a form of success too".
It’s true, we all started out more or less the same, as time passes, people change, for better or worse. And when we are in our twenties and look back at where we started, would we wish to change things then?
It is the priorities one has in life that makes him do the things now. Do you want to be a sportsman? If then, what would you sacrifice to get what you want?
I have priorities, in life and in schoolwork. Because I'm not that kind of person who go about life in a haphazard manner. Just like how you have a million and one things to acquire, but only have the means to get what are the most important first and leave the rest for later, or perhaps never.
I'm sure I'll regret not choosing the other paths, but won't Life even be more pathetic if I keep thinking about the "have-beens" and "may-bes"?
If I have a time-turner, I would love to go back in time and see the other paths. Would I have chosen them then, or would I still choose this, ultimately?
Lately, I've been thinking a lot. The meetings with friends and the suddenness of seeing myself out there, I have been thinking about life.
I don't regret going through my school years oblivious of the trivial things that had been going around. Firstly, I am not one for gossip. Secondly, frankly, I don't see myself gasping in horror or otherwise just because this guy goes out with this girl.
I've always been oblivious to the surroundings since young and maybe I don't plan on changing now. Still, it will be good to keep up with times now and then.
I am too afraid of being pathetic, of being stuck in nowhere. I want to change, you know? But it is harder than I thought. The human mind is resilient and I'll just have to believe.
Like what my lecturer said, "it's about the mindset, you can't be competing with people all the time, because you'll end up falling or getting a brain hemorrhage. Just compete with and push yourself. Just because you are lecturer and a friend is a CEO doesn't mean you fail as an individual. If you keep thinking about how unfair life is, then you will get nowhere."
Another lecturer said, "to be successful doesn't necessary mean in monetary terms or credentials. Perhaps, your parents are successful because their child has come so far. This is a form of success too".
National Day Parade 2010
Happy 45th Birthday, Singapore!
-
-
National Day Parade 2010 was wonderful and the lighting effects are so good! The theme this year is “Live Our Dreams, Flag Our Flag”.
-
One thing that got me was how they butchered the beloved national songs. I can hardly stand to hear them.
-This year, the Parade was held at the Padang due to the Floating Platform being reserved for the YOG Opening and Closing Ceremony.
-Guess what? For a once in a lifetime experience, my family blew S$400 on the tickets for the YOG Opening ceremony. It will be worth it because how fast will the flame come back to Singapore again? Not at least till many years, perhaps.
-So, it’ll be Singaporean pride there. Even though our seats are the second cheapest, can you imagine us buying the grandstand which cost a whooping S$200 each? It’s too crazy.
-Anyway, back to the NDP 2010. The fireworks are magnificent, with the new Marina Bay Sands as a beautiful backdrop. Who is to say Singapore skyline isn’t comparable to other countries? It’s just as beautiful, if not better.
-The military march-in and the mobile column are some of the best highlights. Each year, I can’t help but to be teary-eyed as I think of how great it is that I’m in Singapore.
-I also noticed that this year, the word “grateful” keep popping out, this is indeed a timely reminder to us that we must not take what we have for granted. Just because we have all these up-to-date weapons and military, does not mean that we just forsake ourselves in our trivial battles.
-Everytime I watched the parade, the mood never fails to grab me by the throat and squeeze. I get chock-up over the pride.
Saturday, August 07, 2010
Letters to Sir
Because I didn’t get to do teacher evaluations this time round, and since I have a lot of things to write, this will have to sate. I wonder why the lecturers didn't give the evaluation to us, were it just plain coincidence?
Dear sir,
I get it that you have tons of experience in the working industry, but do take note that you are not in that kind of environment anymore, where looking down at your subordinates is the norm. Even then, there are all kinds of protocol that "forbids" this. I would like to remind you that, first and foremost, this is an educational institution.
We, as students, are here to learn and get good grades. True, the school may be preparing us for the working world, but this is, alas, not THE working world. Do take care of you treat us.
Please, regarding that attitude of yours, you could always be a little bit more approachable and friendly instead of keeping a distance away. We need your advice and help.
Yours sincerely.
My dear sir,
I get it that you have the best intentions for us, but please tone down your enthusiasm. It’s really getting on, I can only assumed, everyone’s nerves. Since Day 1, you have been repeating and repeating yourself over and over again that we can quote directly.
And you really need to work on your time management skills. Do not treat us like fools. When you say something, do make sure you adhere to it, only then, can you use your authority to make sure your students stick with the regiment.
It’s pretty unbelievable that you said one thing and did the complete opposite.
Stop the nagging! I wish you well in your endeavours.
Yours truly.
It’s over. Hooray!
I told myself that this will be the last post on my depressing life in school for this semester. But, the teacher just had to nag and nag and nag and blah his way through the last lesson. There really is something wrong with him.
Everytime a student shared, he will add in his 10 minutes speech and you get the point. An originally short lesson turned out to be a full-blown session with him. For freaking sake, this is terrible, extremely terrible.
But, it’s over and I’m glad. It is hard to hate someone when he gave good grades to us. My discontentment with them has gone down a notch after these few days. I can even say I feel fondly of them, too bad, it just have to be the last day before the feeling come.
Dear sir,
I get it that you have tons of experience in the working industry, but do take note that you are not in that kind of environment anymore, where looking down at your subordinates is the norm. Even then, there are all kinds of protocol that "forbids" this. I would like to remind you that, first and foremost, this is an educational institution.
We, as students, are here to learn and get good grades. True, the school may be preparing us for the working world, but this is, alas, not THE working world. Do take care of you treat us.
Please, regarding that attitude of yours, you could always be a little bit more approachable and friendly instead of keeping a distance away. We need your advice and help.
Yours sincerely.
My dear sir,
I get it that you have the best intentions for us, but please tone down your enthusiasm. It’s really getting on, I can only assumed, everyone’s nerves. Since Day 1, you have been repeating and repeating yourself over and over again that we can quote directly.
And you really need to work on your time management skills. Do not treat us like fools. When you say something, do make sure you adhere to it, only then, can you use your authority to make sure your students stick with the regiment.
It’s pretty unbelievable that you said one thing and did the complete opposite.
Stop the nagging! I wish you well in your endeavours.
Yours truly.
It’s over. Hooray!
I told myself that this will be the last post on my depressing life in school for this semester. But, the teacher just had to nag and nag and nag and blah his way through the last lesson. There really is something wrong with him.
Everytime a student shared, he will add in his 10 minutes speech and you get the point. An originally short lesson turned out to be a full-blown session with him. For freaking sake, this is terrible, extremely terrible.
But, it’s over and I’m glad. It is hard to hate someone when he gave good grades to us. My discontentment with them has gone down a notch after these few days. I can even say I feel fondly of them, too bad, it just have to be the last day before the feeling come.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)