All are children but why do some suffer more than others???

Here are three stories reported in the news media. They show three contrasting behavior displayed by three adults on three different children. How can people be so different? See them for yourselves. They make one wonders why the children who are equally innocent, underwent different treatment under the adults and why each faces a different fate at this innocent stage in their lives.

Creeping inflation – unbearable burden – silent destroyer of peace and happiness!

Malaysian Insider’s article on the creeping prices versus the stagnant incomes and how it is affecting the middle class caused me to think of  the effect it has on a large portion of the Malaysian population … the senior citizens!

Natural beauties!

Twenty photographs of nature’s beauty are presented in  ‘Oprah’s Spirit Newsletter’ under the section ‘Breathing Space’. These photographs have brought a new dimension to each of the person who witnessed the beauty and who had taken the scenes to share with us. I am grateful to be able to see these photographs, hope you enjoy them too.

This may be the way to transform …

In everything bad there is a seed of goodness in it. The story below which I retrieved from the ‘BBC’ proves the point. This may be the way criminals or would-be-criminals can be influenced from carrying out their wrongful acts. Deep within one, one feels for others, using constructive emotions to bring out the goodness in one is certainly worth trying. Share this moving story with others. A very appropriate message for the festive season.

“Sit quietly, doing nothing, spring comes, and the grass grows by itself.” – Zen Saying

A Zen Saying
Sit quietly, doing nothing, spring comes, and the grass grows by itself.

What is this saying telling us? It is simply pointing out to us the futility of fretting, worrying and agonising over something which we have no control over or in which we can do nothing to change its outcome. We humans are very good at bringing sufferings upon ourselves.  We are master in turning problems into worries and anxieties and allowing them to fester inside us. We are amateurs, poor amateurs, at that, in letting go of things.

Great minds think alike/Fools seldom differ…

Hey, how do you like the two sayings. If all the ‘great minds’ think alike, then the subject matter could not be something unique or extraordinary, then, I do not think the ‘great minds’ are all that great.

If ‘fools seldom differ’ in their thinking on a subject matter. then these ‘fools’ are ‘great minds’ for they too think alike!

A ‘Cowboy country’, my Malaysia!?

This video shows an incident that happened in modern Kuala Lumpur. After watching it one is left with a very disturbing impression. It makes one wonders if there is still the ‘rule of law’ in Malaysia or has the country turned into a ‘nation of cowboys’?

A Heavenly smile !

Just received this ‘Heavenly smile’ photograph from a friend, Justin Choo. I am asked to share it. Even without being asked I still would not be able to resist sharing it.

You make sure you do not skip this. It will be at your own loss!

It is really an item sent to remind us to smile. Or are the birds telling us to smile more?

It is a photographer’s  dream to capture something so fantastic! Please pass this on and make others smile in the process.

All that glitters are bound to attract many !

The glitters from the tourist dollars are attracting much attention!

Almost all the states in the country are drawn to the potential of the tourist dollars. Some have gone in earlier than others. Some have gone in with clear advantages but some, especially the late-comers, are going in blinded by the glitters. They are ‘blinded’ by the good money the early birds are reaping  and they now decide to plunge in. But they are doing so without taking proper evaluation of their moves, without proper study of the viability of their undertakings. These projects they now intend to launch may not give them what they envisaged, they may cause their states huge losses later on.

Nature’s gift on my wedding anniversary.

Thirty-six Wedding anniversary, that is correct, yesterday was our 36th. anniversary! It was a day with special meaning, our children who are near us celebrated the occasion with us with a dinner together with a few of our close friends.

China’s President wants to visit Malacca.

President Hu Jintao of China is on a state visit to Malaysia. It is reported he requests to visit Malacca. Well, it is certainly a great honor for this “World Heritage City’ of ours. It is not a great surprise that President Hu made such a request, for Malacca was where the relationship between China and Malaysia all started.

Attractions that make Malacca such a great destination.

Malacca is really a wonderful destination … for those historical bugs, the place has so many historical sites (Here,  here, here, ) that they will keep them happy for days. The bonus is they are all within walking distance of each other.

The Beautiful and Precious treasures of China.

As part of our tour, we were taken to visit the Shanghai Museum. The complex has five floors. Our visit was very short, thus we were unable to see all the exhibits on display in all the floors. I could only viewed what they have displayed on the first and second floors.

Give some, sweat some instead of just shedding “crocodile’ tears!

What is the use of having altruism and compassion in your heart if there is no commitment and sacrifice on your part?

Altruism and compassion without commitment and sacrifice as their pillars are empty kindliness/concern for others. They do others no good, they bring them no benefits or relief. They just do not help anybody.

Serendipitous happenings.

My blog bears the name ‘Serendipity Hopeful’ and I am just that. I harbor in me the serendipitous expectation wherever I go and in whatever I do. Glad to say, most oftentimes, I am not disappointed. Serendipitous things do often happen, I have these wonderful shots as proofs.

On my birthday ……

My table-top gave me a surprise gift early this morning … it refused to boot up when I turned it on. No choice but to take it to the shop for formatting. That was why I could not express my thanks to all my well-wishers till late in the evening.

With the goodwill packed in all the good wishes given me by my friends , family members and loved ones, I would like to enjoin my birthday wish with theirs.

Wuzhen – The Water Village

The photographs I want to post here today are those taken of the water village – The Wuzhen Water village. It is a pleasant place, good for a leisurely rest. A day or two’s stay there would do wonders for the spirit.

Youth, robbery, grandmother, courage, prayer, defining moment.

Amazing things do happened, I take what happened in this clip as one of those great moments. View and see if you agree.

The mistake made, the courage displayed (both by the grandma and later by the youth), the unexplainable, mysterious power at work, the U-turn in life permitted as a result of it all allow a defining moment for the young man.

Dance of Attraction … Dance of Love

We all know male birds perform a dance routine to attract the female species when they want to get the female birds to mate. I was lucky to catch such a dance routine on film at my favorite spot (the Straits of Malacca) yesterday evening.

See how hard he tried but sad to report he failed in the end. The lady bird just showed no interest and moved away from him. Well, such is life, you win some, you lose some.

President Obama’s advice to you!

No matter whether one is young or old, one can easily be carried away by one’s new interest or one’s new toy.  The Facebook is fashionable and is a new toy for many of both generations.

The advise given in this clip is very good, it is certainly relevant and pertinent judging from what is posted on the Facebook daily. If it is heeded, it may save you unnecessary embarrassment, heartaches, pain, humiliation and miseries. So read it and share it with all your friends.

Hengdian, China – the Chinese ‘Hollywood’.

On reaching Hengdian, there is nothing but filming studios all over.  Hengdian is the Chinese ‘Hollywood’, many Chinese epics depicting the empires, emperors and dynasties of China’s past were filmed here. Many Chinese actors and actresses have made their presences here.

A Bank, yes, but what kind of bank is it?

This bunch of bank robbers think they have struck it rich when they managed to get the vault opened. I do not want to spoil the fun for you, you find it out yourself what surprise was in store for them!

Click here to find out!

They found the word ‘bank’ very tantalizing, so they took the risk to break in. First surprise was they found no money in the safe, but it was even a greater surprise when they took the ‘yogurt’!

A good one!

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Prayers – can they change things?

When do we usually indulge in prayers? Usually when we are in desperate need for help; when we need support when there is nowhere and/or no one to turn to; when things look bleak; or when we are utterly exhausted by our problems and worries.  But you should not be surprised there are those who pray out of habit, a habit they have intentionally cultivated.

Diwali Greetings to All Hindus around the world.

A very very happy Diwal from The Himalayan Beacon

 

I wish all Hindus around the world celebrating the ‘Diwali’ a Happy and Joyous occasion. May  good Health be enjoyed by all! May Good be triumphant and may Harmony prevail in the world.

Watch this video of a bunch of happy dancers.

It’s confirmed, it’s confirmed, the evidence is clear … inhalation of second-hand smoke is risky!

There are many skeptics, especially amongst the smoking population, that it is harmful for non-smokers to inhale secondhand smoke. But with the latest findings put out by the Institute of Medicine in the United States (see article below), the non-smokers now have an even stronger case to have the ’smoke-free laws’ enacted to protect them from risk of heart attacks cause by cigarette smoke..

Shanghai stands tall – thanks to Deng Xiao Ping.

Click  HERE to view the photos I’d taken of Shanghai when I was there in the third week of September, 2009.

Shanghai has experienced the greatest foreign influences than any other cities in China.  Today, as you look up at the buildings you can see names of foreign companies and names of foreign goods splashed across them.

Poor thing, can this be considered as ‘child abuse’?

Now, who was disturbing who? The poor baby was trying to get to sleep, but the loud snoring startled him every time. Each time the man snored the baby jumped up from his sleep. A small black device can be seen placed on the pillow at top of the baby. Was this a speaker placed by those filming the clip? If it was, is this clip so funny then?

Not everyday is a sunny day!

Everyone of us know that ‘not every day is a sunny day’, but most of us , especially when we have been having a good spell, tend to forget this. We tend to live as though the good time will continue to roll on and on and on for us. We choose to ignore the reality of things. But the rain will surely fall on your parade.

If this can’t change your mind, nothing will!

View this video and see how you feel.  The method employed here in killing the dogs is extremely crude and cruel. In this case it is killing of dogs but daily there are other animals that are being killed, some in similarly crude manner, some in more modern and more humane manner.

Huangshan – Unbelieveable sights ! To be seen to be believed!

Been meaning to post the photographs taken on my recent trip to South China covering Shanghai, Nanjing, Huangshan, Hangzhou, Hengdian and Wuzhen,  but because of other schedules it has to be delayed till today.

Boat ride experience in dry land!

I am not too sure if this is a unique motor experience reserved for only Malacca road users or is it a common phenomenon in many other places around Malaysia also?

Malacca road users and visitors to our Historic City can have the unique experience of having a boat ride on dry land.

Wordsmiths of the highest order!

I love aphorisms, sayings and quotes. The choice words used are usually packed with tons of wisdom that leave us amused, amazed and astound.  In some instances, it may inspired us to act in more positive manner, helping us make the necessary U-turns in our lives.

Brilliant idea of Farmer John.

Going by the books or trying to solve problems by strictly following the rules may not bring about the desired results.  As the story below indicates an understanding of human nature or, better still, an understanding of human weaknesses may provide answers to more effective problem-solving.

Teasures hardly noticed!

When I went past a mangrove swamp in the past, I was not particularly impressed by the look of the wasteland nor was I interested in what it has to offer. In fact, sometimes when I went past a swamp on very warm days I found  the smell emitting from the mud very unpleasant and were repulsed by it.

Heart at the right place, brain on the right track!

I took the article by Sharyn Lisa Shufiyan from Dr.Hsu’s blog and post it in totality here because she has sparked up my hope. HOPE FOR MALAYSIA !

What have been coming out from the mouths of our national leaders,

Your apple for the day!

‘An apple a day keeps the doctor away’. Well, here is your apple for the day … it is through the courtesy of FFO (Fun And Fun Only) – A Dash of Laughter. We can all do with a dash of laughter anytime of the day, don’t you agree?

Quotes are crystalization

Obvious and not-so obvious treasures.

I did not realize there are so many things that inhabit the mangrove swamps till I took up photography as a hobby. There are treasures in these swamps, both very evident to the eyes and those not so evident.

My captivating model !

A few of my photography classmates frequently have beautiful ‘chicks’ for their photo sessions. Well, yesterday I found myself a model. A beautiful one at that. I don’t know if my fellow classmates paid any fees for the posing sessions to their models. I didn’t pay a cent. No, it’s not that I’m a cheapskate, it is just that she 

Rubbish is not what we want to dish out !

The Malacca government has pruned up the streets of the historic city. The places where tourists frequent have received its attention but no much can be said about the rubbish that has gathered at its beaches. Bus-loads by bus-loads of foreign tourists are brought to this bridge to see the Malacca Straits and to witness  the beautiful sunset scenes there. But little attention has been paid by the authorities  on the cleanliness of the place. Please take a look at the photographs posted here and see what I mean.

A request for prayers

Received this request from a friend in my Facebook for prayers for a accident victim. Please do your part,  pray for recovery for this boy and for comfort for his family.

“Prayers needed for 12yr old Avi Ben Stella who, after a serious car crash, is now in a critical coma. Pls change your status for 1 hr so more people can become aware and add to the prayers. We would do it for your son, pls. do this for somebody else’s son. Thank you. “

Various sunset scenes in one evening.

I love capturing sunsets on photographs. Sunsets are very fascinating to watch. Within minutes the colors of a sunset can change dramatically. The composition of a scene can also change very quickly with the unceasing interplay of the clouds, the winds and the setting lights. If you have not witness such a fast-changing 

A wonderful, beautiful vocal rendition!

Once in a while you get a wonder, something so beautiful that you want to share it with as many people as possible. This is one of those things, please view it and send it along to all your friends and relatives. They will appreciate it for sure.

View here.

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To buy or not to buy or dying to buy

Because of our whims and fancies, we become very gullible to accept anything that promises to satisfy these whims and fancies. Many products have been thought out and marketed because this insatiable urge of ours provides money-churning opportunities for

A 86 years-old tycoon’s working philosophy!

Do you want to have  a workable life philosophy? Do you really want one? Really want one means you want to read about it and then put it into action. No wanting it just for your reading pleasure.

Everybody knows how to raise children, except ….

P. J. O’Rourke says :-

Everybody knows how to raise children, except the people who have them.

For those who are parents, these words would strike a familiar chord. Those who do not have children or are yet to have children or who just have babies seem to have all the right

Our specialty – jumping to conclusions.

Based on half stories or on parts of what we have heard each of us have made judgments and form opinions of people and of situations. In most  instances than not, the hasty conclusions have  brought us only 

Post online at your own risk.

Reuters has a very relevant article for those of us who post online. Two career counselors speak of the peril we may unintentionally exposure ourselves by the unguarded comments and revelations we may have made of ourselves.

This is a

This is what makes the US great!

Take time to view the video clips -  here from CNN on the return of the two women journalsits imprisoned by  North Korea. Listen to the words spoken then we may have some ideas what makes the United States such a great nation.

See how

The Pain and Agony … and maybe even death !

I post here a dozen photographs which depict the pain and agony (and maybe even death) that had to be endured in silence for a bad decision made.

This post is not ‘for or against’ anything or anybody. It is said that ‘ every picture has a story to tell’. What story

Are we talking on the same frequency?

When people say “Now….”, they do not really mean now.

They are actually referring to things and events that had happened in the distant past or even in the past past. This is even more so if they are arguing – they are digging up past events, things that were said before and past stories to

AFFLUENCE – The unreognised and wanton killer.

Does the title surprise you? It may, as we usually associate affluence with pleasant, pleasurable, satisfying, good and agreeable things. Seldom do we link it with things of unpleasant, disparaging, malicious and offensive nature.

So, does affluence have an

Bill Gates’ billions.

Taking on The Global Killer

There are estimated 1.3billion smokers worldwide: 300million of them are in China; 120million are in India, and 50 million are in Russia. (The source for statistics quoted is the PLoS Medicine).

Now billionaires

How do we rate ourselves?

Are we human beings complicating our own lives?  Are we too confident of our own abilities and do we over-estimate our intelligence? Are we too smart for our own good?

“Insanity is hereditary.”

When we hear the word ‘hereditary’ we think it is something passed down from our parents. Seldom, or even never, do we think it is passed up from our children. Here we have Sam Levinson who declares :

A very keen observer of human nature !

“There was a time when we expected nothing of our children but obedience, as opposed to the present, when we expect everything of them but obedience” …. Anatole Broyard

I do not know much about 

Good Publicity … bought or Earned???

It has never been my intention to write anything concerning politics in my blog and I do not intend to deviate from it. So, the posting below is not about politics but it is my take on government and its responsibilities.  May I hear your views, do you think RM20mil. should be spend to …..   build

Learning through a good scare !

“A good scare is worth more to a man than good advice.”

Having lived in this world for more than 60 years, I find the above quote sums up very well the way young people prefer to learn. Instead of  ……..

Danger of using liquid hand sanitizer the wrong way !

After reading this from a parent whose child has suffered the consequence of using the hand sanitizer wrongly, I decide to post the message in its entirety. This, I hope, will serve as a warning to parents who have bought the sanitizer to protect their children against germs. Read the instructions labelled and teach …..

English Saying : “To Strike While The Iron Is Hot”

From the book, ‘By Hook Or By Crook’ by Tony Wootton and Gwen Zanzottera where all the sayings I have posted till today were taken is coming to the end.After today’s saying, there are only four more left.

They have also authored another book,

Are you aware that there is free Guidance available?

Many wise teachers of the past and present have leave us with profound sayings. These sayings if taken seriously and digested can provide us with unceasing source of inspiration. But how many of us make use of what has been so readily available to us. When we are discouraged, felt let-down and are down in the dumps we seldom make effort to tap into this rich,  penetrating and  insightful source of wisdom. How unfortunate, if we have been more conscientious we could spare ourselves plenty of heartaches.

Here are some examples of the inspiration just a click away:-

• The whole idea of compassion is based on a keen awareness of the interdependence of all these living beings, which are all part of one another, and all involved in one another. –Thomas Merton

• “Remember that there is no happiness in having or in getting, but only in giving. Reach out. Share. Smile. Hug.” — Og Mandino

• He who obtains has little. He who scatters has much. –Lao-Tzu

• Leaders are more powerful role models when they learn than when they teach. –Rosabeth Moss Kantor

• And sometimes it’s the very otherness of a stranger, someone who doesn’t belong to our ethnic or ideological or religious group, an otherness that can repel us initially, but which can jerk us out of our habitual selfishness, and give us intonations of that sacred otherness, which is God. –Karen Armstrong

• The greatest good you can do for another is not just share your riches, but reveal to them their own. –Benjamin Disraeli

• When I look back, I am so impressed again with the life-giving power of literature. If I were a young person today, trying to gain a sense of myself in the world, I would do that again by reading, just as I did when I was young. –Maya Angelou

• “The best portion of a good man’s life is his little, nameless, unremembered acts of kindness and of love.” – William Wordsworth

• Life’s most urgent question is: What are you doing for others? –Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

• “Tenderness and kindness are not signs of weakness and despair, but manifestations of strength and resolution.” – Khalil Gibran

I thank you for reading this. Do not take too long to visit again.

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Men, have a good laugh!

Received this from a friend. I have a suspicion that this must be put up by a feminist to frighten us men,  to remind us to open door for the ladies, to walk beside them, to let the ladies enter the room first,  to allow the ladies have the window seat and to practise ‘ladies first’. Anyway, it provides a light moment and it is also good courtesy that to put into practice. Thank you, friend.

Cybercrime spreads on Facebook

FaceBook is the fastest growing social networking cyber platform and many are using it without giving a thought to the the danger of them falling preys to fraudsters. I, for one, am also guilty of this. Hope this article will create the awareness that such a danger exists and users should stay on guard when using this modern convenience. 

Down Memory Lane – My UK Trip … London

Last year at this time, my wife and I were in the United kingdom, we spent about three months there with our third daughter.

It was a pleasant and enjoyable time for us, getting to be with our daughter who we had not seen for the past two and a half years then, we could  take in the many things and places of interest and beauty at a leisurely pace. We really enjoyed the experience. Looking at the photographs taken there, pleasant memories start floating back.

What a Happy Coincidence!!! Serendipity???

At about this time last year, the wife and I went to the UK to attend our third daughter’s convocation and took the opportunity to visit many parts of the UK. We went on the 21st June, by the stroke of luck, on the 21st.of June of this year (yes, the  same date) my daughter is back here to visit us. What a coincidence!!!  What a lucky month June is for us! She has a working appointment to keep in Beijing and manages to squeeze in a week to spend with us.

“To Put A Spoke In Your Wheel” – How did this originate?

It’s Tony Wootton and Gwen Zanzottera’s turn today, They are going to tell us how the phrase,”To Put A Spoke In Your Wheel” originate. What do you think it means?

“To Put A Spoke In Your Wheel”

This comes from the days when cartwheels were solid except for one or two holes into which a long round wooden pin could be placed. This would act as a brake to stop the wheel turning or the cart running away and now if you want to stop doing something or carrying out a plan, you put a spoke in their wheel.

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Malaysia’s Oldest Temple – The Cheng Hoon Teng

The Cheng Hoon Teng (the Clear Clouds Temple) is the oldest Buddhist temple in Malaysia. The temple was built in 1645,  in 2003 it won the UNESCO award for architectural restoration. The locals called it the ‘Kuan Imm Teng’ because it houses the Boddhisattva Kuan Yin or the Goddess of Mercy. It is a highly venerated temple amongst the Chinese population here because it is believed the Goddess answers most of the heartfelt prayers offered to Her. Don’t fail to pay it a visit when you are in Malacca.  You can find it in Jalan Tokong or the ‘Temple Street’. It is a major tourist destination for many foreign visitors.

Purpose in Life and Longevity

Many people (both the retired and the to-be-retired)  seem to dread retirement. The most-feared thing is what to do with the time. Many seem not to have a clear idea what they can do with the time that is now at their disposal. Fortunately, though retired what to do with my time has not really been a problem to me.

I keep myself busy with maintaining my blog and the Facebook, with reading, with relating with my friends and relatives (having lunch and drinks), indulging with my hobby (photography), doing some charity works and taking care of my spiritual needs. All these take up a large chunk of the time, thus I don’t feel lost at all. In fact, time flies like a breeze and I enjoy having retired. I’m doing things at my own pace without the dictate and pressure of time. That’s is really something!

Kitchen Tap or Toilet Handle – which is Dirtier?

Another fascinating and revealing research, this one carried out by the Hygiene Council of Great Britain. It reveals the kitchen tap is dirtier than the toilet handle. Who would have thought this would be the case. It seems the cloths used to wiped down kitchen surfaces are the contributing culprit!  The Hygiene Council says it finds the findings alarming – I am sure you will defintely agree that it is so.

Speechless, Totally Speechless But Also Totally Amazed!!!!

Ladies and Gentlemen, please don’t skip this video from YouTube. You will be floored by the courage of this truly amazing courageous woman. What she does should put a full stop to all our grouses and moaning. Please get as many of your relatives and friends to watch the video. There are definitely occasions we need to be encouraged, and occasions where we need to be reminded of our good fortune.

Watch now this very up-lifting video:

Truly Amazing Woman

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Beautiful gift.

Yesterday while I was driving home, I caught a beautiful cloud formation over the Malacca sky. The traffic light at the junction had turned red and I quickly took out the camera to capture the sight. Captured two of the photos from the car. The scene was slightly spoiled by the electric wire that is there. I stopped the car  along the road to take the third one.

I’m posting them here, hope you like them, too.

Good Food – what has Malacca Got to Offer???

Malacca has plenty to offer in terms of food. It has a very wide varieties and the choices available is enormous. There are the Portuguese cuisine, the Nyonya dishes and delicacies, and the diverse varieties of Chinese cuisines – those of the Hokkien (the Hokkien mee, the ‘po piah’, the ‘mee hoon kueh’),

Saying It Differently!

In August of last year, I wrote a post wondering if a parent’s role ever ends .

Today, reading through some of the postings of the other bloggers I came across another blogger saying the same thing but in her own unique style. She entitled her post as passing the torch .

I was amused at how much similarities both articles are to each other, though the writers are worlds apart geographically. It just goes to show humans are humans, we are the same the world over.

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It’s a Small World!

Good and bad are the flip sides of the same coin. In every good there is a bad side to it. Along with prosperity there are the down-sides. The survey done by Joseph Rowntree Foundation shows the down-sides prosperity has brought to the United Kingdom. Seven ‘evils’ are  highlighted by 3,500 participants. From what I see is happening in our Malaysian society, things are not much different. Malaysian society has also enjoyed a span of prosperous time, ugly heads have also surfaced here. Reading the article by Steve Doughty who writes for the MailOnline, we see we are experiencing exactly the same symptoms. Is this enough to wake us up from our slumber.

Pesta Sungai Melaka (Malacca River Festival)

The start of the school hoidays was also the start of the Pesta Sungai Melaka. The photographs posted here were events organised for the closing ceremony. There were fire-works, decorative boats competition, stage shows, and lucky draws.  The different communities of Malacca (the  Chinese, the Indians, the Chittys, the Portuguese and the Malays) had representatives dressed in their traditional customes to welcome the dignitaries. It was a noisy affair that went far into the night.

Just A Photograph!

Yes, it is just a photograph, so what can it mean?

Nearly each and every one of us take photographs of our children. We capture them in our moments of love, of tenderness, of hopes, of joy and in our moments of hopes of a happy future. We also capture  them in their moments of playfulness, of gaiety, of laughter and in the ‘triumphant’ moments. Behind each photograph is pinned our hopes and dreams of a bright and good future for the children, our unseen love permeates every atom of each photograph.

Infants, Television and Learning – the connection.

For young parents with infants, the following article should be of immense interest for you. Your little ones’ development is shown to be linked, intricately linked to the numbers of hours they are put in front of the ‘idoit boxes’. Human contact and interaction are always best for a child’s development, so ensure  your child gets a healthy portion of human attention.

Manhood Sacrificed for the sake of Love!

True love knows no bound, how should the girl, for whom the sacrificing man has paid such a high price to demonstrate his love, react or feel in such situation? You can see traditions still hold strong sway in many countries. Is status still so important? Status definitely plays a large part in the  refusal of this father for the son to marry the girl he loves. Sad, real sad!

It’s school holiday season – want to do something memorable with the family?

School holiday season is about to begin, so it is an opportunity for parents to spend some time with the children. What do you have in mind? Want to do some sight-seeing, taste some nice foods, have some fun and memorable times with your loved ones. Something that would not hurt your pocket too much and yet allow all the family members to have a good time? If you have these in mind, Malacca has all that you desire. Look no further, head towards this World Heritage City!

Boycott – how did this word originate?

The word ‘boycott’  is an oft-used word, the actions associated with it usually denote confrontation, conflict, disagreement and divergent views. But do we know how the usage of this word was derived? Our friends, Tony Wootton and Gwen Zanzottera, again come in to ……..(to find the answer, click on the red bar below)

Malacca with All its Uniqueness!-Part 7

This is supposed to be the last part of my 7-part pictorial series but the more I ventured out to ferret out places of interests and beauty for you, the more such items I discover. So, this may be the last of the 7-part series but I will still be posting more snapshots of the other places of interests  and beauty to keep you up to date.

Malacca with All Its Uniqueness!-Part 6

Besides the Eye-on-Malaysia, the state government has also built a revolving tower (called the Menara Taming Sari) to cater for the tourists. This draws in good crowds during the holidays, proving it is popular with the tourists. Like the Eye-on-Malaysia, it offers a good view of the City. You can practically take in the view of the whole City as there are very few tall buildings to block your view.

Shopping trolleys … full of germs!

When you go shopping the next time, be beware of the danger you are encountering in one of the normal acts you usually perform. This health warning seems to come from the Dubai government, it’s pertinent that’s why I post it here to share with my readers.

Seniors, let’s have a good laugh at ourselves!

It’s always good to have a laugh, a good laugh at ourselves certainly bring freshness and happiness into our lives. The pictorial scripts posted here have element of truth in them. This makes it more realistic and funny. Hope we can all enjoy the fun.

Seniors (whom I am one) amongst ……..(to enjoy the jokes, click on the red bar below)

Malacca with All Its Uniqueness! No. 5.

The Historic City has not only natural attractions, it has also numerous man-made attractions to draw in the tourists. One of the recent inclusions is the Eye-on-Malaysia. It is placed near the mouth of the Malacca River which faces the Straits of Malacca. Up in one of the capsules, you can take in the view of the City, as well as the Straits and its surrounding small islands.

A Gem in Jonker Walk – do you know it exists?

There is this tranquil place right in the heart of Jonker Walk which I believe many who explore the Walk don’t even know it exists. If you are at the Walk during the day and you wish for a place to escape the sorching heat, visit this peaceful place with pleasant surroundings. Immediately you enter the place you will feel yourself

Good things also follow one after the other!

Yes, good things do follow one after the other, it’s not only the bad things that do that. Have that ever happened to you? Last  night was my lucky night, as two things happened consecutively that brought me back to the present. I am sure you have your share of such astonishing moments. These were moments of ………(to read  more, click the red bar below)

Display of Emotions – the ulgy and the beautiful!

In this short clip many emotions are displayed – it starts with the opening where the bear cub was frolicking around in a wide open space (enjoying a few care-free childhood moments), there was a moment of high expectation on the part of the lioness (dream of a full meal), the lioness sized up her odds of overpowering the cub (survival of the biggest and strongest), then the sense of impending danger (instinctive response), the fear

Malacca with All Its Uniqueness!-Part 4

Most visitors, when they visit our Historic City, usually visit the ancient, historical sites in the Heritage Zone. They normally seek to sample the local cuisines, spend time on the cruises, or tour the City in the tourist buses, take a ride in the Eye-on-Malaysia or go view the panoramic view of Malacca on the Menara Taming Sari.

The Ravages of Time – no escape at all!

Many of us are obsessed with how we look and how we appear to others. This obsession is not confined only to the younger set but it also afflicts many of the not-so-young. The aging process does care who you are, it ravages your good looks and take away your fine physiques no matter whether you ……..(to view the photos, click on the red bar below)

Malacca with All Its Uniqueness!-Part 3

Today we have the third part of this seven-part series of pictorial Malacca. The photographs presented show the famous Malacca Clock Tower. This part of the historic city definitely has historical significance as it was actually built by the Dutch when they were the rulers. The buildings surrounding the Tower are known  as the Stadhuys. This was built in 1650 as the official residence of the Dutch governors and their officials. The buildings are preserved in its original state. Part of it is now occupied as the Historic Museum. They are painted red as it is believed this was the original color of when the Dutch left the city.

Any wonder it was voted the Best E-mail of 2008!

I like this pictorial reminder, thus am posting it here to share. It is a timely wake- up call. We often take things for granted and are unmindful of the suffering and pains still prevalent around us. Our good fortune has often dessensitized us to the extent we don’t feel for others anymore. Good fortune has been ours and good things have been placed at our ……..(to read and view the rest, click on the red bar below)

Malacca with All Its Uniqueness-Part 2

The first part of this pictorial series I posted a few snapshots of the Flora de la Mar. This is a replica of a Portuguese ship which sunk carrying loots from Malacca to Portugal. For part two, I will now post some photographs of the Water Wheel. This is a relatively new feature built for the tourists. The Dutch had once conquered and ruled Malacca in the past. This, I supposed, is to reflect this part of its history.

I offer you Flowers!

I posted for help on the May 2, but up till now I’ve not received a single help. Isn’t there anyone out there who know the names of some , if not all, the flowers?

On the Serendipity Hopeful’s Photo section, at the bottom of my blog, I’ve posted about thirty varieties of flowers from the United Kingdom. As I only know how to appreciate the beauty they radiate and are ignorant of their names, i did not put in any caption or tag them. I am hoping someone out ……..(for more, click the red bar below)

Malacca with All Its Uniqueness!-Part 1.

I have this affinity with Malacca. Born here, went through my primary and secondary education here, I spent only a few years overseas. When I started working, it was in Port Klang, after that with only few short periods sent out to do relief work, I was never out of the state.  I had spent my whole working life in Malacca. As I have mentioned before, this is a pleasant place to retire to.

Make yourself Calm and Happy each day the natural way.

In the hustle and bustle of daily lives, in the mad rush of trying to meet deadlines, we end up most of the time freaked out, burnt out, feeling tensed and agitated. We become quick to anger, unhappy, irritable and we make ourselves vulnerable. Most of us don’t really know how to handle such situations. Fortunately, we have people who have answers for us, these are people who have spent years seeking the peace, calm, freshness and solidity we want in our daily lives.

The familiar ‘V’ sign – how did it come about?

We all know this two-fingered sign means we are victorious, that victory has been achieved. In the war times it was Winston Churchill who made this sign familiar to one and all. In modern times, it was Richard Nixon who used it frequently.  Now we have Tony Wootton and Gwen Zanzottera’s  ……..(to read more, click on the red bar below)

Looking at things from Different Angles!

People only see what they are prepared to see.

~ Ralph Waldo Emerson’s Quotes

This is precisely what this article is trying to tell us, we only see what we are prepared to see. But no one can convince us unless we ourselves are willing to be convinced.

If the values we hold are faulty,  the views, the perceptions our minds project out will be colored.

Ladies, know your rights, know this Malaysian Law – it can save you from being raped!

I received this email from a friend, it is of importance for safeguarding all ladies in the community. Ladies,  please take time to read it for your own safety for there are many unscrupulous men prowling in our society, waiting to take advantage of unsuspecting ladies to satisfy their lusts.

Gallstones removal the natural way -a proven method!

Each one of us has gallstones inside us, but most of them are too insignificant to cause much discomfort. But for those who have suffered from the pain these gallstones can cause, it is no laughing matter.

I have a friend who, about three weeks ago, felt some pain in the abdomen area. Initially he thought he had gastritis. He went to a few general practitioners, they also

Profits, Greed, Contamination, Health, Destruction.

This Associated Press Writers’ report highlighted the irresponsibility of the US pharmaceutical companies and the highly negligent supervision act of th US federal government. This has resulted in pharma-tainted water which is (……. to read more, click the red bar below)

Help each other with useful tips!

While having a drink yesterday in a cafe, saw this on the television. It seems to make sense and I would like to share this. It gives tips on what each of us can do to ride through this economic hard time. The tips are simple but I think they are practical and when applied mindfully can help …….. (to read more, click at the red bar below)

NASA captures giant cosmic hand on photo!

Take a look at the photo below. What do you make out of the hand-shaped image captured on photos by NASA?  It is telling us something or is it just a fluke shot? I stand in awe, I dare not make any comment as this is beyond me. The news shared here is taken from …….. (to read more, click at the red bar below)

Positive By-product of our Troubled times: Gratitude instead of Attitude

If what this article claims is true, then the “Big Recession will be licked in no time. This returning to the’ simpler things’ is a good indication that the human spirit knows when to readjust itself to survive. In the ‘growth time’ of the recent past, it was really a major concern to see how wasteful  and how …….. (to read more, click the red bar below)

A 97 year old Doctor has this to say…

Whether you want to live to your ninties or not, there are many things you can learn from this fine doctor. Dr Shigeaki Hinohara is a impressive person as can be seen from this article. He has done a lot for humanity, he has a positive outlook of life and also a great philosophy. All these are laid out here for us.

When people like him speak, we should pay …….. (to read more, click the red bar below)

Why take it out on others?

Related here is an experience I myself had just gone through. It started out very innocently, at least on my part. I came across a blog by a lady who says she cannot cease to be amazed by the ever-ready willingness her in-laws are prepared to offer to their children ( in her own words …..”who will drop everything and come running if their child needs them…”).

She continues  she could ‘never been able to look at my father as someone to go to in times of need’. That he has failed her so …….. (for more, click the red bar below)

Aren’t Ships supposed to be on water?

Ships are built for the deep seas but in Historic Malacca, there is a ship built for the land. You cannot miss it when you are visiting the state. It is placed right in the middle of town and in the middle of Malacca’s historical sites. It is next to the mouth of the Malacca River, near to the Menara Taming Sari, the Red Clock Tower  and the Old Fort.

This is a replica of ‘Flor de la Mar’ (Flower of the Sea) – a maritime museum piece. It is 34 meter …….. (for more click bar below)

Affluence, a Curse or a Blessing?

Is affluence a blessing or a curse?  Affluence is usually associated with pleasant, pleasurable, satisfying, good and agreeable things. Seldom do we link it with things of unpleasant, disparaging, malicious and offensive nature.

So, does affluence have an insidious side to it? Has it not awarded us with a comfortable and pleasant lifestyle? Has it not bestowed on us quality, delicious and nutritious foods, the kinds …….. to read more click below

UN declares today as Autism Awareness Day.

The United Nations has designated today as Autism Awareness Day. How many of us is aware that this neurobiological disorder is more common than pediatric cancer, diabetes and AIDS combined. Though autism is so widespread, many people are still not too clear what exactly autism is, how to detect it early and just as many know exactly know what to do about it.

I have gathered some facts on ……..

April First – April Fool’s Day

In old medieval times (the Middle Ages, aka archaic or primitive times), the fire in the kitchen of the house was very important and it was never allowed to go out. The fire being banked up at night to ensure that it could just be poked into life in the morning. Lighting the fire was a complicated job, particularly as there were no matches (could you believe it, no matches) at that time and one had to use a flint (a hard stone) and tinder (any dry substance that ……..

Want to live to a hundred and more???

Most people want to live to a hundred and beyond (with the proviso that they maintain good health).  This is understandable as they would not want to be a burden to others. Below are 10 individuals who met the two criteria and thus are qualified to be placed in this enviable category. Each of them is asked to …….. more

Little Things Do Mean A Lot

In this age of instant gratification, this attitude permeates into everything we want to do. If there is anything we choose to do we want to see the end result immediately. In this unreasonable haste to want to have the thing the very next minute we have thought of owning it have caused us to look down on the many small steps we have to take to get the big reward.

Instead we now focus all our attention, energy and time on the big things.  We concentrate our attention on events and personalities that ……..more

‘The Loo’ – how did it originate?

The word chosen today is ‘The Loo’, this is of very common usage. Tony Wootton and Gwen Zanzottera give us their take on how this word originate. Hope when you use the word next time you remember to thank the both of them for bringing you its origin.

“The Loo”

This is used quite commonly for a lavatory and is said to come from the phrase ‘gardez l’eaeu’ (be careful of the water) to warn unsuspecting people below when chamberpots were emptied out of……..more

How do you fathom life?

Please read the article taken from ‘thestar online’ and see if you can fathom how, though we each has a life, it always turns out to be different for each of us.

Friday March 27, 2009

Baby dies, drunk parents forgot to feed him

By Stephen Then -  ‘thestar online’

MIRI: A baby boy, less than a month old, starved to death after his parents allegedly forgot to feed him because they were too drunk.The baby died in the intensive-care unit of Miri Hospital yesterday morning and a police report has been lodged.

Police now want to question……..more

Man of the House an Umbrella???

Our Umbrella

March 26, 2009 by littlerhody

It shields us from anything foul heading our way. It takes the constant pelting so we never have to feel the sting. It blocks the harmful rays from us. It makes sure we are properly sheltered. It keeps us protected in our current climate.

It will take a beating from the damaging elements each day. Sometimes an unexpected surge will come along and even turn it inside out and maybe even bend the frame a bit but the central rod will not bend. It will get tattered. It will be worn in spots and it will gray. It will age.

But we will never toss……..more

AIG Bonuses – Is it greed, righteous claim or would compassion counts?

The AIG colossal payouts as bonuses to some of their top executives has stirred up the wrath of the majority of the American public. The US Government is angry, its president is angry, the lawmakers are furious and some Americans even demonstrated in front of the homes of some of the executives.

This whole episode, is it pure greed on the part of the AIG executives? Or is it total stupidity on the part of the top, top executives in AIG? Or is it the righteous claims……..more

Little Things mean a Lot

The little things that we can do and say tend to get lost in the course of our daily  activities. These little things can uplift the spirits, bring a smile to others’ faces, bring a ray of sunlight into the lives of others, they can even unintentionally save a person’s life. Yet in the hustle and bustle of modern living, we start to treat these as unimportant and we neglect to participate in them.

Reflecting on them, I find the small things are really the big things. How many  times can we really always do big things for our loved ones in our daily lives? How many occasions are there in lives for us that offer us opportunities to do the big things? How many of us have the money to always do……..more

Realistic and Courageous man! Admirable!

Read the article and share what you think of this man. Would you do the same thing if you were in his position? Talking about ‘biting the bullet’ and ‘ taking the bull by its horns’. Man!

Ken Karpman — From CEO to pizza delivery boy

Written by Jake on document.write (localTime) Mar-21-09 2:41am/20/2009 18:41 GMT

He used to earn six figures,…..MORE

Letters – Reminders of Love

Today I happened to chance on a post by  rubyeliot on the pomegranate apple

In it she tells of the joy and happiness she feels when she receive a letter from her father.

Reading about her feelings, I can’t help to think what fine sentiments they are. Most fathers would know the feeling going through her father’s heart when he reads of her feelings. How happy and joyful he would be.

But I would like……..

‘Tell It To The Marines’ – how did it originate?

“A lot of people think that this was first said in the Second World War, but in fact it goes back long before that.

Sailors used to think that the marines were not worth anything at all and would believe anything told to them, and Sir Walter Scott first coined the phrase when he wrote ‘tell that to the marines, the sailors won’t believe it’.“

Well, there you have it,……..

Short, short memories of ours!!!.

Remember the time when we  are short of money, remember the time when we have to count our dollars and cents when we wish to spend , the time when we watch others able to spend, seemingly without having have to have second thoughts, remember the time when we wish the days will come when are in financial abundance, when we can spend without having to count every cent and having to think of how the money can be put to a better use.

But when the day of abundance does finally appear, we end up totally forgetting to apply any restraint in  the way we spend our wealth.

Adapt them to the local conditions and Save Big Money

All of us are well aware the Nasty and Ugly Recession is upon us. No one can ignore the ravaging ruins it has inflicted on many families and will continue to inflict on many more. Thus, it is a good measure for us to be careful with the use of our money,

The article posted below is taken from ‘Shine’(Yahoo). The tips are plain but are totally applicable in everyone’s life. We can adapt them……..

Way to Happiness and Peace but you have to work for it.

Most of us look normal to others but each of us know this is not the case. Deep inside, each of us is a bundle of nerves. Our happiness is only skin-deep, it is here this moment and gone the next.

Happiness makes its appearance and it is quickly replaced by confusion, which is in turn replaced by perplexity. This emotion vanishes and agitation takes its place. Disturbance, anger, chaos, uncertainty, distraction or……..

It is not a surprise that grandparents still have their use.

It is not a surprise that grandparents still have their usefulness. The article here is the result of a study conducted by the Hebrew University of Jerusalem which confirms grandparents do give solace to their grandchildren when they are having difficulties at home. It shows emotional support and a show of love and care are important in a youngster’s life.

Inequality, Pain and Love

In most families, some the siblings harbor the feeling of unequal treatment or favoritism practised by the parents. Some children express it openly but some harbor this feeling throughout their lives, without giving it expression.

In Chinese families when parents encounter such complaint or expression of frustration from one of their children they normally reply this way: ‘If the hand is stretched out and any two fingers ……..

10 tips for better sleep

It is hope this article on insomnia will help those who find it difficult to fall alseep at night. And there are many people who are having such problem around us. For those of us who don’t face such a problem, we could not truly understand what agony these people go through daily. Sincerely…….

Ignore this at your own loss!

This link appeared in Dr. Hsu’s Forum. He implores us to view it and I would like to add my appeal to his. What is said in the link is felt right in the hearts of countless parents, this message speaks out on behalf of this ’silent section’ of the population.

Love, toddlers, their IQ, educational videos and DVDs, pros and cons.

Study:   Want a smart baby?    TV’s not going to help

An article by Madison Park
CNN

(CNN) — Watching television does not make babies smarter, according to a study released this week…….

Saliva – Does More Than Just Makes Your Mouth Water

Spit happens:   Saliva’s mysteries revealed

An article by  Elizabeth Landau
CNN

We have too much of bad news everyday, this article brings some rays of hope in our fight against diseases and crimes.

Since people have different eating habits in different places, you might think an American’s saliva might look a lot different from, say, a South African’s…..

This is how bad things are.

An article by Dan Simon
CNN

SAN FRANCISCO, California (CNN) — Every Thursday afternoon, the San Geronimo Valley Community Center opens its doors to the needy. It becomes a food bank to serve the most vulnerable citizens of Marin County, California.

 

A California community center says it’s seeing more working professionals visit its food bank.

Bread, fruit, canned vegetables, meat and cereal are all available for free.

Here in the San Francisco Bay Area, as well as nationwide, more people are coming to food banks. In 2008, demand for emergency food assistance went up by 30 percent compared with the previous year, according to Feeding America, a national hunger relief charity.

Where is mankind’s hope?

Let us take a tour around the world. In Australia, there are fires and strong winds ravaging the forests. In Thailand, the people is demonstrating against the government. In Sudan, the militia is battling the local troops, piracy is rampant in Somalia. In Guatemala, the drug war is raging on, in Mexico, armed robberies are committed against the travelers.

Unique Tourist Attractions of Historic Malacca.

Malacca has a lot to offer, just take a look at of the sights (here,  here, here , here , here , here, here, here , here , ) the sunrise/sunset scenes ( here ), the flowers ( here ) the birds (see the photos of the birds)  I have captured on photos. It is a nice little city where the pace is not too hectic, a nice place to visit and to consider retiring to.

Duckling listening to the thunder.

This Chinese aphorism is used to indicate that what is being said is wasted on the people whom the saying is given to  – they are oblivious to the meaning but instead are only aware of the sound. It is usually used in frustration, after the advices, the teachings, the coaching, the counseling or the warnings have been repeatedly given and have been overlooked, discounted, forgotten or ignored.

Something for Nothing? Free? You must be Joking!

Is there nothing in this world that’s free, nothing at all? People are really skeptical nowadays when they see anything offered or advertised as free. Most are incredulous when they see something is offered for nothing. They suspect a trap and they usually react with total disbelief. They are not to be blamed for having such cynical attitude. For everything that has been labeled today as free has turned out to be a hoax. In nearly all areas in our lives, ‘free’ is deceptively used to capture our attention, and too many had fallen victims to such dubious claims.

But recently I personally had come across a case where everything is just what it says – that’s it is all for free! I am not joking, I wasn’t taken for a ride. I was not cheated of anything, in fact, I came away most happy.

Sudden Change in Personality.

When you are visiting a foreign land and happen to find yourself getting a good bargain for the things you are buying how do you normally feel? Do you feel exhilarated and just relish your good fortune, or do you feel proud of your  haggling skill?   Or are you just grateful that the strength your country’s currency is strong that it could give you this advantage?

“Soap Opera” … How did it originate?

Back to Tony Wootton and Gwen Zantottera and their book,  ” By Hook and by Crook “. The saying taken for post today is ” Soap Opera” which should be familiar to most, as television stations the world over are spending millions upon millions to outdo each other to gain top spots for their own ’soap operas’.

‘Sleep Tight’ … How did it originate?

It has been quite some time that I have taken something from the book “By Hook or by Crook” to pass it along. Today the phrase is “Sleep Tight” and Tony Wootton and Gwen Zonzotterra explain:-

“Stop Gap” … How did it originate?

Here Tony and Gwen, tell us how this phrase came about. For those new to my blog, Tony Wootton and Gwen Zanzottera are the authors of the book, “By Hook or by Crook” from which this and many of the phrases that I’ve posted were taken.  Pick up a phrase and know how it originated.

“Spooning” … How did it originate?

Here we see Tony Wootton and Gwen Zanzottera give their take on the phrase – “Spooning”. You can get explanations for many more of the English sayings in their book, “By Hook or by Crook”. I got the book when I visited Stratford-upon-Avon last August.

“Teetotal” … how did it originate?

From their book -”By Hook Or By Crook”- Tony Wootton and Gwen Zanzottera bring us the origin of “Teetotal”. From it you can see even a ’stutter’ can contribute something of universal usage. It is very interesting, read on.

Allowing Embarassment to turn into Anger

In our daily lives, there are countless occasions when we let embarrassment turns into anger. In more instances than we care to admit, we intentionally allow it to become so. This aphorism has something valuable for us, let us read on.

Malacca in Full Splendor.

During the Chinese New Year period, Historic Malacca was all decked out in its best for all – the locals and the visitors.

Skillful craftsmen from China were invited here to construct this beautiful and huge dragon for display and to bring the real feel of the Chinese Festival to the City. It certainly achieved  the objective admirably.

“Swinging The Lead” …. how did it originate?

We turn to Tony Wootton and Gwen Zanzottera again to help out. In their book -’By Hook Or By Crook’ – they tell us how this English phrase came into being. Let us learn the origin of another phrase.

What is most feared is coming true in the US.

Following Obama’s election as president there was a pervasive feeling of euphoria in the US. But behind this feeling is the people’s hope of better things to come.  They were celebrating the chance for change. They were sick of being despised as a nation around the world and they want to regain their past glory. The gloom of the advancing economic crisis were hanging over their heads and they felt Obama is the one who can best deliver this change.

Tens of Thousands are losing their Jobs Daily.

It is sad to see things are getting worse and worse by the days instead of better. This depressing scenario is being played out in every country around the globe. Today, even President Obama admits that the problems facing the United States are worse and more complicated than he himself had anticipated.

Paying Homage and being Thankful.

Today every Hokkien (those originating from Fujian province in China) household around the world will be busy making preparations to pray to the Jade Emperor God. Tonight they will pray to the god, paying homage to him, thanking him for saving the Hokkien race from annihilation and for the good things they have enjoyed over the past year. Legend has it that to escape being wiped out by a persecuting general the Hokkien ancestors went into the sugar-cane plantation to hide. The day they emerged from hiding fell on the Jade Emperor God’s birthday, each year after that all Hokkien mark the day with prayers and paying homage to the Emperor God.

Wherever you may wander…

Many young people of college age are now departing their hometowns and leaving their parents to complete their studies.  For many, this will be the first time they will be staying on their own, away from total parental supervision. They will having their first taste of freedom. Now they can do what they want, be with who they wish, free to choose when to study and when not to study. They can now choose to sleep to their hearts content, and are free to strew their clothes all over the room. There will not be anyone around to check on how late they stay out, or what time they go to bed.  They are their own masters now, no one at all to pester them to study. And free from any requests to help around or to run errands for dads and moms.

Simple Things You Can Do To Bring On The Smiles.

It is so easy to make them smile, it is so easy to make others glow! Life is so simple but we make them so complicated, so disruptive, so stressful and so difficult for ourselves and for others.

Just the simple act of not talking back brings on the smiles as it creates a congenial atmosphere where conflicts, arguments and verbal tirades are kept to a minimum. But we tend to do more of the opposite – we shoot back immediately as soon as we hear of things that differ from what we hold to be true or believe.

Simple Things are enough to bring on the Smiles!

Young dads and moms, how do feel, what are your reactions and responses when your little treasures smile at you and you see them happy? Do your hearts swell with joy and the glow in them lasts for hours? Don’t they make you feel cheerful and keep you in an expansive mood for hours? I am sure they do and I am also sure you enjoy the exhilarating feelings these smiles and their happiness provide.

Do your Parents Deserve the Cold Shoulder Treatment?

Are you being carried away by your new-found friends, new-found jobs or new-found interests? Have you been distracted by your new-found wealth, successes, achievements or your new-found girlfriends? Or do you think your recent tiff, disagreements or arguments with your parents give you the appropriate excuse to avoid your basic filial duty? Are you just taking advantage of your recent anger, unhappiness and disappointment with your parents to avoid spending time with them on this festive occasion?

Chinese New Year – Auspicious and Propitious.

To people of Chinese origin, no matter where they are in the world, the Chinese New Year is a very special occasion. To them, this day has special auspiciousness and it holds propitious properties. If  their hopes and dreams are made on such an occasion, the chances of them materializing are said to be better.

Everyone has hopes and dreams, so you can safely say every Chinese offers prayers,  makes new wishes and dreams new dreams on this auspicious day. The foremost wish heads of Chinese households usually make is that their families be blessed with good health, good luck and good fortune during the whole year. Each occasion they will take to petition without fail when the Chinese New Year Day comes around.

Life, Prayers, Hope, Recovery, Happiness.

The Chinese New Year is just 3 days away. To the Chinese,  this is a day packed with thousands of years of cultural traditions. In most Chinese households around the world, preparations are being made to hold reunion dinners on the Eve of the auspicious day.

Which household does not look forward to such happy reunion dinners.  But sadly, some families will not be able to enjoy the warm, love, laughter, the gaiety and the joy that such dinners usually offer.

Inauguration and High Hopes.

Tzu Chi’s Recycling Program – more than just recycling.

Many may wonder what is so unusual in a simple act of recycling. It is just a mere act of collecting waste from the environment, sorting it and then exchanging it for money. Tzu Chi’s own catch-phrase –  ’turning waste into gold’ – seems to confirm this view.

Calling all my friends in America, Canada and Europe.

You all are facing a bitterly cold winter this year. How are all of you, I cannot do much to relieve you of the immense discomfort but I want to let you know I care.

Keep your spirits up and if it helps to talk to someone , do feel free to write me.

BLESS YOU ALL !

Come visit again, thank you.

Dazzled and mesmerized by Citibank’s Success.

Before this financial meltdown, Citibank was viewed as the ultimate in the banking circle. Many people looked up to it in awe for its prowess, its might and its dexterity in capturing a big chunk of the financial market for itself. In boardrooms across the world praises were sung in admiration. Many envied its prominent position and were dying to emulate its abilities and expertise.

The Vultures, the schemers, the ’show-offs, the naive, the caring and others

If you are working  you bound to have others working alongside you or working under you. It would not take too long for you to find out that there are many different types of  personalities as there are of different species of fishes in the sea.

I will try to name the different types of personalities that make life so interesting and at times so frustrating.

Vietnam – recovering nicely … the last day

The breakfast on the last day of our tour was a leisurely one as there was no fixed itinerary. We headed to a market near our hotel after the breakfast to do some last minute shopping. An Dong market has a wide range of things to entice you to part with your money. There are clothing, cloths, souvenirs, dried foods and fruits, gold and cheap jeweleries, and it even has stores serving meals. This seems a favorite place of the Asian tourists as they could get sea-cucumbers and other Asian delicacies.

A Heart of Stone?

Cholera attacks the country killing more than 2,000 of the Zambabwe’s  young and old and the death toll is still climbing, yet Mugabe could choose to go overseas with his family for a holiday!

It was reported in the CNN yesterday that Mugabe had just got back from Malaysia where he and his family members had gone for a sojourn. I find this hard to fathom – a leader of one of the poorest nations in the world where its families are  suffering extreme poverty and the consequent hunger going oversea to enjoy a vacation with his family. He must have delusions that he has been working hard for his fellow-Zambabweans and needed a rest.  Just wonder what is Mugabe’s heart made of???

You consider yourself fortunate?

For those who consider themselves fortunate, there is an unforeseen opportunity opened to you in this grim economic environment . This is an unplanned and unexpected opening for us to extend much needed help to the truly deserving.

When times were good, when everything was bright and rosy, when the mood was sanguine and the environment cheerful and optimistic, donations in money and in kind were easy to come by for these deserving organizations which provide care, money and food for the less fortunate.  These caregivers depend largely on public support for their very existence. They would normally received more than enough for their operation.

Vietnam Tour – Recovering nicely – Day Six

We woke up on the morning of the sixth day of our tour at Vung Tau. Before breakfast I took a stroll on the beach hoping to catch some photographic opportunities. I was happy I found some opportunities:

Vietnam Tour – Day Five

Our fifth day in Vietnam turned out to be the 25th. of December, that is right Christmas Day.

This is the day the Christian world celebrates the birth of the Prince of Peace and here we were in Vietnam visiting the battleground of the Vietnam War. Our tourist guide must have a keen sense of history. I didn’t mind as it gave me something worthwhile to contemplate.

The sad fact states that the fatal casualties recorded in this war is 58,159, – a senseless waste of human lives.

These above photos show the intricate underground system devised by the Viet Congs to camouflage their movements and to conceal their whereabouts from the adversaries. These tunnels allowed them to move around the area without detection, even from the air.

The photos preceding this sentence, show the booby traps set up by the North Vietnamese army in their fields  to catch their adversaries unaware and to paralyze them.

These photos show the entrance, the mid section and the exit of the underground tunnel. We took a short tunnel that only took us about 5 minutes to go through. There are longer tunnels, the short ones are for tourists who may not have the stamina and are claustrophobic. The scrunching position required to move in these tunnels can be very demanding and tiring.

The photo on the left shows the kitchen cum dinner area for the soldiers.  This is only a resemblance of the ones built underground. The middle photo shows the ‘boots’ wore by the North Vietnamese army. These are made out of used tires of vehicles. You can now buy them as tourist items. The photo  on the right shows the operating table used during the war time for the seriously wounded. That was all they could managed.

This little mountain of earth hides the air-circulating system of the underground tunnels. Air flows in and out of the holes made inside these little mountains. See the smoke coming out of the gaps in the  snapshot on the right. Smokes from the cooking was emitted through such gaps made in parts of the forests. All these are well-planned out to conceal the existence of the tunnels. Ingenious!

Come visit again. Thank you.

Vietnam Tour – Day Four

It was Christmas Eve, when we left Hanoi to fly to Ho Chi Minh City. Before the then South Vietnam fell to its Northern compatriots the city was known as Saigon.

It may have been because of the American influence Ho Chi Minh City was all spruced up to celebrate Christmas. All the major hotels and the streets of the shopping area were all well lighted up and beautifully decorated.

Some time back the major form of transportation was the bicycles but now motor-bikes has taken over the roads. Another thing one can’t fail to notice in Ho Chi Minh City is the big mass of dangling telephone wires in every street.

In the early evening, the Vietnam National Football Team has beaten The Thai National Team in a footbal match. This turned the occasion into a double celebration – Christmas Eve and national soceer victory. The streets were taken over by celebrating youths who rode their motor-bikes speeding down streets waving the Vietnamese National flags and shouting at the top of their voices. The roar from the engines was deafening, and it really gave the night a very festive atmosphere.

Come visit again. Thank you.

Vietnam Tour – Day Three

On this day we went up a junk to cruise the Ha Long Bay. This cruise is a major tourist activity, there  are numerous junks at the bay ready to take tourists on the tour. Lunch is part of the package of such tours. And there are others which offer nigh stay on-board the junks.

We were told Vietnam has 1969 of such lime stone islands. Vietnam has a very long coast line.

Our trip took up six hours, during which we were brought to the floating platoons where fresh fishes and prawns were sold. The food can be bought and took up the junk to be cooked and served for lunch.

We saw some very nice natural scenery of the sea fills with lime-stone islands and littered with junks and small fishing boats. The snapshots taken turned out to look like paintings.

We climbed up the limestone hills to visit the Thien Cung and Dau Go Caves. Over time nature has crafted some artistic pieces of work in these two caves. It has sculptured some fascinating and beautiful pieces to let your imagination run wild. We climbed Titop Hill to take in the panoramic view of the Bay.

In the evening, we took in a dance performance in which traditional village dances were highlighted. A water puppet show followed. This is quite unique as it portrayed Vietnamese way of life in the rural areas. The artists are very skillful. I appreciate their stamina as they do their work under water.

Hope you get to enjoy Vietnam.

Come visit again. Thank you.

Vietnam – photos of the tour

Another new month, another set of photographs for the ‘Flickr’ set. I have posted the snapshots taken during my tour of Vietnam during the Christmas season. Hope they give you the same pleasure I got taking them.

Vietnam is a beautiful country, the impression I got of the people is that they are peaceful and are not too demanding. It seems odd that this country was engaged in a internal strife of thirty odd years.

Vietnam Tour – A country recovering – Day Two (2)

The photos in this row are areas covered under the Ho Chi Minh’s Complex. The first photo is of HCM’s museum. The whole complex is worth visiting.