The Great Seagull Run

Camels

2012-01-27T00:05:00.002Z

They are lumbering, slow, and the exact representation of what a "take it easy" mentality should be.

We had a great time riding them in the desert.

Say a prayer? :)

Joe and I, we got along. ;)

Song That Saved My Dawn

2012-01-20T09:15:00.004Z

Just back from an awesome 10 day trip to Morocco. You can check my compilation video out at my larryen90 channel here! Look for the Morocco vid (obviously)

Feels like a brand new year. Studies get tougher, but so does my resolve. Strength is the Lord's to provide, the rest is mine to manage.

The past is dead, and it doesn't need a resurrection. It's a freedom that feels true, at last. Free to grow, and free to love and live and laugh. Interestingly it was this song that nailed it for me:

"And it's hard to dance with a devil on your back
So shake him off"

"I'm always dragging that horse around, all of his questions, such a mournful sound
Tonight I'm gonna bury that horse in the ground"

True ain't it? Sometimes we carry the worst of burdens around, as if they would matter. And who would be happy enough to see you down but the devil 'imself. It's time to bury it in the ground.

Naked Heart, a new song

2012-01-04T03:11:00.003Z

Wrote this song today, recorded it with three instruments, if you count the percussions as a separate one it would be four. But I just banged the guitar, that's all really :) ENJOY!

A Quiet Stand

2011-12-27T21:15:00.001Z

I seek not a pretentious faith,
of false righteousness,
I speak only what I have experienced,
and believe to be true in ancient pages,
I shall be tested by my actions,
the intentions of my ugly heart,
Let this man be tied,
to the rock of his principles.

His grace amidst my many failings,
His power amidst my weakness,
His purpose amidst my desires,
His blood as my ransom.

It's been a year of God's grace, a quiet stand. I've spoken less, listened more. Checked myself. Been misunderstood by the close ones; felt like I was dashed against the rocks. I think, sometimes, we try to push God away because we know the things we do don't exactly match up to His standards. Other times, we're probably trying to live life on our own account, which seems easier, 'cuz we only ever have to answer to ourselves. Yet, deny as we may, humans are inclined to deeper things, to meaning, and to a certain morality. We see it in the very condemnation of war, the desire for freedom and democracy, the hatred at the news of sexual, racial and physical abuse. We cringe at the news of breakups, and rejoice in successful relationship and friendships. We want answers, fairness, etc.. We are inclined to righteousness. Big word, but simple meaning. A good place to start to to ask: "where is my baseline truth?"

Have a meaningful New Year, folks.

Reflective Christmas

2011-12-25T17:34:00.000Z

To pause, to speak less, and listen and reflect. Merry Christmas.

Summer Summer

2011-12-21T00:06:00.001Z

I spent the night searching for summer travel opportunities. The adventure bug in me is burning hungry for fresh seas and new landscapes. I got this picture from one of the crew sites:

Wouldn't you wanna do THAT?

I feel like this phase of my life is all about challenging myself for greater things. New skills, new people, new culture, pushing my body to the limit while I still have that youth in me. The world is so vast, and there's so much left to see and experience.

Skydiving in Morocco soon! WHOOOTZAH!!!

Hope in Man

2011-12-20T12:39:00.000Z

Put your hope in man, and when he is gone, you break.

The human capability to rely on someone/something is displayed by our grief at its loss.
This Christmas season, we've to ask ourselves where our hope is, and whether that hope is eternal.

Psalms 24

2011-12-11T19:27:00.001Z

I think it was my 13th birthday. I had just entered secondary school, and was in a particular stage of teenage angst. My mother had returned home, and passed me a cassette of Hillsong United's "To the Ends of the Earth", and if I remember correctly, had mentioned that it was "..rock, so you should like it." I was skeptical at first, but that album was the beginning of a love affair.

My housemates and I sang this song today for devo, because we were reading Psalms 24, and suddenly realized the lyrics were taken from the verses.

The gigs I've been to, never amount to the experience of a worship concert. You're just enjoying yourself in a gig, sweating it out, laughing, and appreciating good talent. But worship is a deeper, more meaningful atmosphere. And I do miss it, so much. Dublin is quite devoid of such events, to say the least.

Still, worship is a lifestyle, and that's what's more important in the end. Music can only bring you so far. For now, it's me, Youtube and my headphones.

Overseas Voting - GE2012

2011-12-07T04:04:00.001Z

The time is nearing. The next Malaysian General Election.

For us students living overseas, here's how we can vote:

Dear Malaysian students above the age of 21,

As part of UKEC’s vision of student empowerment and self development, we would kindly ask you to check with your nearest Malaysian Embassy or High Commission on your voting status or alternatively by following this link http://daftarj.spr.gov.my/NEWDAFTARJ/ and entering your IC number.

1) If you have REGISTERED to vote in Malaysia, you will still NOT be allowed to vote in the next general election from your overseas location. To be eligible to vote from overseas, you must go AGAIN to the embassy to register as an ABSENT voter.

2) If you have NOT REGISTERED to vote in Malaysia, please access your nearest embassy or high commission. All you need is your PASSPORT & IC to register to vote. There seems to be a deadline for this registration process which is due by 31st December 2011.

Grr where's my snow?

2011-12-06T12:28:00.001Z

There are a few subjects, very few, that you study just because you have to. Today, I'm attempting Endocrine, while avidly watching videos on Youtube, listening to new music (Florence and the Machine!) and...expecting snow.

Yes. My table faces the window. And I wait and wait but it's all rain or clouds...

In fact, check out the weather forecast!

Looks like rain's on the menu...all the western parts are wet, and Dublin (the middle cloud on the right side) is..well, bound to rain too.

Soup. Socks. Warm laughter. Occasional bickering over exams. We'll make it through fine.

But I want a snowfight, so badly!

Yep this was last year's study week.

Obviously my better-disciplined housemate (in the window) was unperturbed by my impending harassment.

Save. Live.

2011-12-05T17:45:00.001Z

I saw this photo on a link for the year's 45 most influential pictures. It was harrowing and drove me on the brink of tears. You can read the story here. There's a look of certain release on the girl's face, a despair that has long but given up. She hangs, limp in his arms. He has her by the neck, and according to reports, was almost going to lose her but he held on with the help of others around.

I hope she finds the courage to keep on living.

I Ain't Buff, But...

2011-12-03T16:00:00.001Z

When it comes to fitness, the internet is awash in advice and recommendations. I was searching for info on protein requirements, and the results were surprising. Most bodybuilding sites will encourage you to say, take your weight, and multiply it by a value of 2 to 2.5 (I saw 2.75 on one website!). That's probably 130-140g for me, but it's almost double my current intake.. :(

So I went to Pubmed and read some research journals, and their recommendations were more realistic. Top athletes are advised for a factor of 1.6, normal people 0.8-0.9. I guess I'll go for a middle value of 1.3? Papers showed that doubling your intake compared to the normal value, doesn't really make a difference.

That being said, I suppose a crazy massive intake would make you look like Brock Lesner, but who wants that anyway? The goal is overall fitness, strength, and filling out your clothes ; )

Unexpected Places We Go

2011-11-29T00:16:00.001Z

It was bound to be a God-get-me-through-today day, the typical dread of fatigue that scuba would bring and barely recovering from a flu; I'd try to work for an exam tomorrow. Then my phone buzzed right after the (final) Creative Writing class, and an Irish classmate had an extra ticket for Foster the People!

I ditched scuba, and a few hours later a bunch of us were throwing wild antics in the plush for-classical-stuff Olympia theater as FTP did what they do best; drive crowds crazy. It was funny how inquisitive I became during the song intervals (it was probably the Hillsong-ish keys whom my friends remarked were 'highly meditative') and I picked up a few tips for performance (get strobe lighting, make it follow the beat of your song, constantly devour your audience's eyes with them, and always, always end with the strobes flying somewhere). And the songs themselves? Oh epic. "Pumped Up Kicks" is HARDLY the most attractive, really. It was the encore of course, with Mr. Lead Singer jumping into the crowds and driving the song through a bazillion wonderful choruses and we couldn't get enough really.

Picture courtesy of: Abdul S. We were quite close to the front! :D

But what kicked things off best, was that "Houdini" was played first. I was stoked for the whole night after.

Not sure who these guys are? Earphones on, and check these vids out.

Slippin' Stories

2011-11-23T10:05:00.001Z

Tried to find a title that would sum up the past week. I'm sick (finally) with an unusually resilient form of cold, a hacking cough and weird things emerging when I spit. It doesn't seem normal, but there hardly is time to go and see the doctor. It doesn't help that classes are still full steam and the end of the semester lectures are highly crucial. I'll get through fine, though. I just hope my friends aren't offended by my lack of patience or sullen mood, I'm pretty sure I've upset one or two already.

Gig! I love pub gigs (having been to only three so far) and so you could imagine my joy when Liz Lawrence (check her out here) announced she'd be playing the Ruby Sessions. So last night, a bunch of us cozied up in a small room above the pub and were serenaded by acoustic bliss.

You honestly have to see her live to experience the energy of her set. It's infectious, and it's quite unique. She was of little words last night, compared to her gig last year opening for Brooke Fraser, but made up for it with the sheer lyrical brilliance she carries so well into those swaying chords.

Her single "Ooh Song" is out on Itunes.

Galia Arad was the act before her, and was a marvelous singer too. She has a quirky fun lyrical movement to her. You can find her here.

Met Liz outside the pub right before the gig. Much grateful to my friend for bringing her Instax.

Now, exams are looming, Christmas is coming.

Along the Shore

2011-11-12T17:47:00.001Z

Last night was a classmate's 21st, definitely one of the best times socializing that I've had in a long time.

The best part? (besides the craic, food and drink)

The beach.

I just get these tremendous waves of satisfaction when I sea the sea.

I've to go back in summer. I want to swim!

Ice Cream

2011-11-10T15:40:00.001Z

So I'm sitting here with a tub of Ben & Jerry's, realizing that its consistency is much thicker than Haagen Dazs. And so much sweeter.

It's been a good week, quite moments at times, no exams to really prepare for (yet) and just keeping up with classes. Last weekend was a flurry of three birthdays and three surprises; cold weather and warm weather (fancy that, a pre-snow taste).

Like good ice-cream, life is quite consistent when we've rooted into the rhythm of things, filled with purpose or at least a hint of a goal to achieve. Then there are the simple pleasures from time to time, a joke shared over lunch with friends, and the more dramatic events like a new couple (congratulations).

There are yearnings yet fulfilled, and patience to learn. And there is the art of letting go, and letting God. Of realizing that there are things that I can't fully comprehend, people and relationships that didn't work out but are still blessings. How does a human being survive the onslaught of life's tipsy turns without the reassurance from his Creator that "it's gonna be alright" (Romans 8:28). It's an everyday learning curve.

And here's what we read for devotion today: "The prospect of the righteous is joy" Proverbs 10:28
Another version uses "hope" to replace joy. Lovely, ain't it? Have a good weekend, people.

Rooftop Photos From A Dublin Sky

2011-10-31T00:47:00.000Z

Today was one of the rare warm days. So my housemates and I climbed out my attic window. It was a beautiful night, without the stars, because the clouds were moving across and over us like patchwork, a beautiful quilt of the heavens.

I've always been a fan of night shots. Slow shutter speeds and the glaze that it produces.

Hope you enjoy these shots.

This is the convent behind my house.

Victor discovered (by shouting my name) that echoes actually bounced back. Sorry, sleeping nuns.

Swift clouds.

A different colour tone.

Houses, houses, houses.

Electric cable.

Rustic Rainbow Cafe

2011-10-28T17:51:00.002+01:00

Was up in Belfast over the weekend (a bit of a breather before exams) and my friend took me to a nice little cafe called the Rustic Rainbow Cafe. It was nice, great service and friendly peeps.

The cool part was all the hanging motivational stuff. Like this one.

Morning

2011-10-27T10:44:00.001+01:00

I wake, after my first slumber without an alarm clock to end it.
Eyes open to a clear blue sky.
Eyelids heavy. Noon beckons and I have to get up.
Head heavy in an ache.
The room is a mess, clothes strewn everywhere, over every surface.
Notes intersperse underwear and t-shirts.
I told myself I'd keep it livable through the exams.
Muscles ache for some strange reason.
I don't regret this life, but I feel exhausted and strange thoughts arise.
'You want someone to come home to at the end of a long day.'
'No food in the fridge. You'll starve.'
You wish it could be easier. Or less exhausting.
You wish you had more time to connect with people you love.
Skype sessions have diminished. Gatherings are an effort.

Two exams in a day can pull a lot of heavy fibers in the energy department. Time to recharge!

Introducin' Various Cruelties

2011-10-26T09:24:00.002+01:00

I rarely discover good bands by chance, but this one I can't stop listening to! Introducing Various Cruelties (what a name!). From the UK comes an accent-riddled voice and vibrant strung chords, which all adds into a very nice waterfall-like vibe. I don't know why I chose waterfall, it just felt that way.

Courage and Decision

2011-10-21T18:13:00.005+01:00

Had a great (chilly) lakeside quiet time today with the fellowship. What I got from it was a passage from 1 Kings 19, where Elijah met God. The poor dude was running away from the evil queen after defeating her false prophets. In modern terms, that would pretty much be like escaping the national security after defying status quo.

The funny thing about this meeting is that God sent three things initially; a windstorm, earthquake, fire. But He wasn't in any of 'em. He appeared in the gentle whisper that came after all the others had subsided.

At various points in our life, we're challenged with things we don't understand. Some things strike so hard, that we run from them, suppress them, substitute them. And one of us shared, "Being in the academic field, we're constantly trying to understand things, and make sense of them. But (and she quoted from Isaiah) God's ways and thoughts are not ours. We need the faith to comprehend what cannot be humanly understood."

Elijah was on the run. He was a servant who had pretty much given up on his Master, the Big Guy. I know I personally have felt that way with God at times. Intense disappointment at failed relationships or not seeing things happen the way I'd hoped them to.

The temptation is of course, to regress into a non-caring attitude. Less expectation, less disappointment. Lots of people are at that stage where they'd rather not care. I was at that place recently. But are we to expect less of our lives when God has promised so much abundance (John 10:10)?

So God said, go back. And I will make sure you're alright. And he was alright.

Good decisions in life are rarely safe. This doesn't just correlate to faith, or religion (although that is the biggest decision you'll make). Sometimes we are called to challenge status quo, to challenge our own prejudices, to be courageous. Because you know it's the right thing to do. Because you're fighting against yourself to do something you know should be done.

And how do you know what's right? Go to the Maker.

I'm at the crossroads, quite often these days. Strap on Courage, and strap on Humbleness. They'll keep our heads out of the clouds, and our hearts intact..

Just a few thoughts for the day. Opinions are personal, but shared in good faith.

Char-It-Aye!

2011-10-20T21:58:00.001+01:00

If you didn't get the title word, it's a take on the Irish slang for the word "charity".

Of the many photos I took for Med Day

(a once a year day of collecting donations on Dublin streets, pom poms by the buff and courageous male classmates, and another reason to skip lecture for good craic), I only present two here.

Partly because, photos of skimpily-dressed guys are, well, quite disturbing for my younger readers.

I'll leave that to imagination.

Each face betrays a certain emotion. Candid. Ultimately original expressions.

He was the fabled hero of the day, the guy who was, I quote, "hobbling up to every pedestrian and car he could see" bravely explaining the charities being donated for and asking for people's generosity.

The Letter

2011-10-16T21:46:00.000+01:00

I'll write you a letter

in pen ink or carbon strokes

White paper

lined not blank

to ask of things

that are on my heart

fingers press heavily when

I write those things

and lightly when

I write your name

a tender thought

a gentle sigh

then seal it up

in folded symmetry

addressed delivered received

opened sighed perceived

you won't blink

just read and peruse

maybe decide to choose

a chance to take

I'll write you a letter

and keep it here

it's not my fear

preserving what's dear

All that's right

is the friendship left

Could you have another

someone more than a brother

could I have never bothered

the flames will be smothered

I'll write you a letter
on your magical day
an aisle flowers lights
a walk of a lifetime
I'll be there
a zebra in a tux
two words to say
two souls to grey
or
I'll be there
in a crowd
of people we both know
people we don't
a guest
but not the star
still smiling
from afar

I wrote poems before I started songwriting. Kinda fun to get back to this sometimes.

Souvenirs - Switchfoot Cover

2011-10-15T09:59:00.002+01:00

Sometime along each person's listening journey is a song that touches the soul.
Here's one that I really liked.

Taken off their latest Vice Verses album, Souvenirs is a heartfelt song about memories and naivete. Making memories our souvenirs. Made me think of my childhood and the friends I left in the States, and at every stage in life, high school, then college and now; people I'll say goodbye to here in Dublin.

Early Morning Hue

2011-10-14T18:00:00.002+01:00

I woke up today at a bit past four, exhausted from a long week that had not yet ended. It was cold as I remember it, and for some reason I had dreamed of someone pointing me to the window. So I got up and opened it. Fog everywhere, like a blanket shrouding everything for as far as I could see.

Red coloured sky.

Took my camera on instinct and snapped a few pictures.

Of course, being half asleep I only got one clear photo.

Borrowed two more books today, McGahern and McKenna again.

One book on Irish rural life.

Another on friendship and love.

Bury bury bury myself.

Lensa Dunia

2011-10-13T16:34:00.001+01:00

Lensa is the Malay word for lens. Dunia means world. New words for you to learn!
I got myself a pair of 50mm, F2 primes a few days ago. Here are two test shots.

Slightly over blue because I didn't adjust the white balance, but there's a marvelous depth of field right there. Working on a script now to shoot a little short for everyone's viewing pleasure.

Now on to a decent mike.

Irish Writer

2011-10-11T18:32:00.002+01:00

Just finished John MacKenna's memoir "Things You Should Know". A splendid read, often tear jerking (couldn't let myself cry in the college library could I?) and always, always evoking a sense of nostalgia. Those of you who don't know this Irish playwright and novelist will soon realize his ability to write with simple words, but leave a huge impact. It's not surprising that he was said to "hoard his words".

On to the story. Without spoiling it, this book tells of the author's struggles as a father, husband and son. Very male-based perspective, I'd say, but any lady who wishes to understand a man's struggles would do well to explore the mind of John. I found myself relating to some of the things I read, understanding why my own father did what he did. But what was more compelling was the emotional depth carried in the book. It leaves me happy, sad and still wanting more.

Memoirs have the uncanny ability to slip into a dull state of affairs, but this one keeps its reins, constantly surprising us with interesting individuals and wise lessons for life.

I wonder how I'd remember things 20 years from now?

Scuba

2011-10-11T00:17:00.001+01:00

Second session down, many more to go. I decided a few weeks ago to take up scuba diving under the Irish board CFT. It's gone down pretty well so far. The instructors are firm, which means they don't let you off lightly, but they aren't strict to the max either. I love the challenge, and it's good to be in water once a week, where I feel free.

Met so many new people in just two sessions, I suppose when everyone's in the same boat, every talks to each other. Less inhibitions.

Cycled up the N11 today, which was quite the muscle-stretcher. It's all about fitness, I reassure myself. One day I'll explore the frigid seas of Ireland, something I may never do in the near future. So this has got to be worth it. And as a plus, it keeps my mind off of THINGS.

Speaking of fitness, the instructor told us all to up our ante. So I'm due to pick up my jogging shoes again, and keep the workout regime going. No time for slacking.

Steve Jobs & Death

2011-10-06T01:03:00.000+01:00

Out of curiosity, I opened one column in Tweet deck for #stevejobs. At mind-blowing speed, I watched as tweets rushed down the column, so fast that I couldn't catch what each said. The world is shocked.

Go to the Apple site and you will come face to face with the man who revolutionized our world today, technology-wise. I've never been an Apple user. But I have high regards for the amazing technology that my peers hold in their hands.

We are, as always, shocked and saddened by the departure of people we have come to look highly upon, or know well. It's moments like this that remind us, once again, of life's briefness. Blessed assurance, has no greater meaning, than when we look at death and it's swift power.

Writing and Wiring

2011-09-28T10:32:00.000+01:00

As of late, I've been writing notes down from lectures. I still remember the first semester, furiously printing notes while noticing (and ignoring) the fact that my peers were simply writing stuff into notebooks.

Yesterday I was in CAL lab and overhead my professor saying something about writing and enhancing memory. Some neural component associated.

This morning, reading the Word with my housemate, I thought of that too. Centuries of memories and events, in my hands. Words that still impact me today as they did when I read my first David and Goliath story many years ago.

And I think of love letters, pen pals, and letters that parents write to their children, or little cards for birthdays and such. I think of the significance of handwriting and why we adore good handwriting. Why it's so much more precious to hold a handwritten piece than read an email, or text message. Of course, these occasions are rare, confined to special events. But what about the writer? I believe there is a satisfaction in writing words of endearment by hand, to see each stroke and dot out on paper; and to imagine your loved one reading it.

Then again, I'm in thinking mode now, having just awoken from a nice slumber in my alternative bed. Tell you more about that bed next time. :D

5/4 and the Sway

2011-09-27T15:46:00.002+01:00

What a song. I sway with this song everytime I play it. There's just an effect it has. Still maybe the lyrics convey a certain sadness, like he's running to her, only to find she's not in need of him anymore. But he keeps waiting for her to call. Waiting.

Random Smile

2011-09-20T21:49:00.000+01:00

My camera couldn't capture the full elegance of your smile.
I couldn't capture your laughter either.
Or that cute nose from that favourite angle.

So I left this space blank.

Fountains of Pain

2011-09-18T20:57:00.000+01:00

My beautiful Saturday night and Sunday...ruined because of diarrhea.

At least it isn't as bad as last year's unprecedented visit to St. Vincent's Hospital.

Sleep. Water. Toilet visit. Repeat.

(p.s. what a quirky post title huh... :D Sorry if it caused unwanted imagery)

Malaysia Day

2011-09-16T22:25:00.004+01:00

It's the end of the week. What a heavy week, too! I followed my Singaporean friends down to the city for a play called "I Like This". Abstract, emotional, funny. I loved every bit of it. I think at one point I almost felt like screaming and crying at the same time, in a good way of course. It was honestly my first proper play.

Then we headed for dinner. I saw a Tapas restaurant down the road and we decided to eat there, being ravenously hungry already. Nothing beats a glass of wine, oysters and cheese after a week like this. They did something wonderful with the cheese and aubergine, making it taste like glorified lasagna. The girls had seafood and lamb and so did Reub.

It was my first time having oyster, I realized. Which was funny for the rest. I guess from my background, spending was always economical, so oysters were never really on the bill for us. It's interesting to see two perspectives on food though. A slight memory takes me back to my visits to the longhouse, and eating simple dishes served by joyful people. What's that proverb in the Bible about how it's better to have a simple meal and joy rather than a fancy one and angry people at the table? Smart words, Solomon.

It's Malaysia day, technically the day our country was formed!

A beaut of a song. You might have to watch it on Youtube.

Reminds me of this...

Psalm 42:7-8

⁷ Deep calls to deep

   in the roar of your waterfalls;
all your waves and breakers
   have swept over me.
⁸ By day the LORD directs his love,
   at night his song is with me—
   a prayer to the God of my life.

Beautiful huh? :D Have a good weekend.

Lives

2011-09-14T19:15:00.002+01:00

What a busy week. Satisfyingly sadistic schedule. That's 3 S's in a sentence. Yesterday had 2 dissections, 1 Computer Lab and a Lecture in a 6 hour time frame. Today's was 4 lectures in 6 hours.

But such is medicine and now it's starting to really feel like a hill to climb.

My roots are set, but the branches are unsure. Ask me about this line. Interpret :D

Had a new song written on the plane to Dublin, it's on my Youtube channel.

The new room's really setting into me, and while last year was all about escaping the bounds of the university for getaways, suddenly I'm starting to like it up here. I can't imagine living in a house without the sky in view all the time, after this room.

And yeah, when we got our internet connection, my housemate hugged me, another screamed, I cheered. We were THAT desperate.

Been realizing that growing up is an internalization of certain feelings. The ability to keep things inside and not feel the need to explode. Say what I have to say only if it fits the situation. Keep the rest inside for the benefit of all. Seems to be the norm these days.

Listenings: Electric Pop-ish Stuff

2011-09-10T20:57:00.001+01:00

Meet Foster the People, an American band that plays an interesting mix of synth, guitar, electropop, and what I find extremely repetitive drum beats. I had heard far too many times of the bright future this kind of music has, so one day I decided to check them out. I got their album and gave it a full listen.

I was quite impressed! Creativity abounds in the realms of electronic sounds (a rhyme wee!)

So while you may know them for their popular single "Pumped up Kicks" here's another one worth the fame from their album. Also, check out "Wasted".

School starts Monday. I am not excited. Probably it was all the doomsday-style talk about how tough this semester would be. HAHA. :/

Friends are coming back to Dublin. I am highly excited. :D And the juniors are here! Wonderful bunch they are. So talented and lighthearted.

The Right Moment

2011-09-01T10:43:00.000+01:00

My brother caught this shot at the moment the flash went off from the wedding photographer. I thought it was quite compelling. The couple are caught in a moment of prayer, right before the majestic kiss. :D Congrats, man.

Cousins

2011-08-31T15:37:00.000+01:00

My cousin and I were chatting late last night about life and he mentioned how, as a kid, he felt intense feelings whenever our other cousins were around for the holidays. How he'd cry when they'd have to leave. How happy it was to just have them over, even if it was just for a few days.

It's the bonding age, I'd call it. We probably recall some moments like what my cousin had experience. I know I do.

Cousins can be like siblings to us; or just mere acquaintances. As kids, it really depends on parents to bring us together. But sooner or later, the responsibility of getting to know each other starts to be ours.

I don't remember which holiday it was; but I suddenly realized the need to really know my cousins, by name and also foster a friendship (or familyship, if that's ever gonna be a legit word). I'd seen the irony behind the formality of greetings that occurred once a year, the shadow of faces that flitted by from house to house, year after year, without any true relationship or bonding, the awkward smiles and unspoken words that I so desired to speak.

For example...
"How are you?" was really a desire to say "I'd like to know you better after all these years of hellos! What's your story?"

But such are relationships in life, certain people are meant to be closer, others not so. What's important is that we make effort to maintain the ties that matter. There is beauty is knowing another soul, and it brings more meaning and joy to festivities and events that are shared communally.

I've been blessed to know some really awesome cousins. We have good laughs, good times over good food and drink, and while we see each other less than we see our own friends (probably could be improved on that), every get together still brings good memories in the days that follow.

And there are still yet cousins who are distant, whom I've only begun to talk to. The years to come should cement a proper kinship.

A Wedding

2011-08-30T19:29:00.002+01:00

The greatest of these is love.

Scones

2011-08-22T09:50:00.000+01:00

I wonder how long I'll go without a blog post about love. Those labels are just itching to be tagged.

Heh. Just kidding.

I learned to make scones a few days ago at a church member's house. She's from the UK, and bakes wonderfully, so it was nice of her to share her baking finesse with me and another pal. He's headed for London soon, so she figured he needed a baking lesson too.

I didn't take any photos, but we had a delightful breakfast, and later on I messed around on the antique piano. My sight-reading is officially messed up, I discovered. *wince*

We spent a few hours talking about life, God, children (I've never seen such gentle yet disciplined parenting, definitely a gift from God), food and career.

Young people need older mentors. 'nuff said :D

Train of Thought

2011-08-18T19:40:00.000+01:00

Wise parenting -> (Eventually) wise kids -> Wise leaders -> Wise decisions -> Better society -> Better environment -> reconnect to parenting and a growing up kid in a great environment.

Logical, ain't it.

Of course not everyone is blessed with good parenting. All parents make mistakes. Even mine. Over the years, I've learnt to communicate some issues with my parents, and talk it out, and learn to accept things about them which I could improve on as a parent, but also be grateful for everything that they gave. Thankfulness is #1, numero uno, di yi (hope that's correct)!

We see the importance of looking up, looking up at a role model, father figure, brother-like person. It's ingrained in our human nature. In our soul.

As mentioned in Proverbs, words can bring life, or the opposite; so what are we as parents (speaking generally, in case you're a parent reading this) speaking to our children? Words of life? Or death (discouragement). The Asian culture has much to learn from the expressiveness of the Westerners; the words of spoken love and physical touch. Yet the Westerners have much to learn about family values too, and family loyalty and community.

But I know parenting's hard. I can't imagine myself a dad; yet.

But for now, what a single person would have to build in himself is faith, to know what his/her values are, and direction in life; or at least to have an idea of where he/she would like to go. And that's what this time is for.

It's not about gaining enough "life points" to qualify to be a parent. It's more about the willingness to step into that commitment of raising a new kid.

I know I'm out of line speaking this. I've just seen quite a few bad examples of late; observed the effects of it on the children and had some thoughts to share (my thoughts have always been rambling since a young age).

What do you think about parenting?

Interracial Baby!

2011-08-17T15:21:00.001+01:00

Yeah, I am one.

And it wasn't easy for my parents to cross the cultural divide that existed between them. But it worked out well, and by the time I was conscious enough to realize my 'unique' mix (it was more of an awkwardness stemming from the fact that I wasn't really dark enough to be Dayak, or capable of speaking Chinese either) it hit me that maybe what this country needs is more mixing.

I could go on about Chinese-Dayak relations, because there was always a bit of prejudice and tension there too. I knew a mixed guy like me, who told me, "Some of my Chinese friends will never shake off their image of me as different and inferior, just because my name has an anak (son of; a phrase in every Dayak's name) in it." And everyone knows what they call the Dayaks; la-kia = uncivilised beings.

To be fair, the Dayaks have their own prejudices towards the Chinese.

Malaysia has put its citizens in a bit of a tight spot, and hence the "issue of the dominant religion and race issue". Conversion is mandatory if anyone were to marry a certain race. Not to mention the racial rights issue, and bias policies in public service (endless stories). Hence there is still a divide, until that law changes.

My friend asked me one day whether things would ever change in this country. Let's face it, every race is hurting in some way or the other. Even if we're not fighting each other, some of us have chosen to retreat into our race circles in silence. Ironically, I saw it happen not in Malaysia, but when we went to Dublin. Fair enough, some activities don't suit the more conservative, but maybe fear has motivated retreat, and there's a need for open-mindedness and breaking down of prejudices. And to be fair, there's no harm organizing events that suit everyone (hence a wonderful suggestion by my good friend to have non-alcoholic barbeques).

And the people in power are not making it easier for us; we see how issues are explosively exploited in the media to make people angry. What do you think will happen if all this continues?

I'll leave it there as just food for thought.

Here's something light to wrap it up : )

Quote "You can't be racist to a mixed person, it's too hard". (watch from 1:09 and laugh). Sorry about the title of the video, if it offends you ladies.

The Tattooist's Brother

2011-08-16T15:27:00.000+01:00

Back and blogging again. I remember telling myself ages ago that if I were to ever write, it would be to encourage; share the stories of others that I've seen and heard, and share my faith journey. The weeks that have passed with silence on this blog were filled with journeys, a road trip, many outings with friends, time well spent with loved ones, money well spent on simple pleasures.

This is a story of the tattooist's brother. I teach in a weekly class for underprivileged kids in church, part of a social justice program that reaches out to the needy around the city. Each 'teacher' takes a kid, and I got a young teen Iban boy, partly because I could speak his mother tongue. Small sized, skinny, handsome features and eager eyes; he was mine to hone for 2 hours a week.

As the weeks passed, he would share little snippets of his life with me, sometimes eagerly asking questions about my life too. He was intrigued that a Chinese-looking guy could speak and teach in his language, but then understood with eager nods as I explained my multi-ethnic background. He shared about his life, his hobbies (football, modifying motorbikes) and how he viewed studies.

Why do I call him the tattooist's brother? We had just completed an hour plus of math exercise when he told me, "Hey, let's draw!". So he proceeded with a few strong strokes on paper, obviously a practiced work of art. I was amazed at the product; a fish, in almost pinpoint perfect dimensions and perspective in space from the view of an artist (not that I am much, really). I asked him where he learned to do that, and he told me of his brother's job as a tattooist, and how he'd snoop into his work at night, learning the designs and modifying it to his taste.

Later on he told me about his sister, and how she was already married with a child. "How old is she?" I enquired. "20" he said, "How old are you?"

"21," I replied. To which he said, "Where's your wife?"

I laughed and replied that I wasn't married yet, and wouldn't for another few years. He smirked and asked whether it was because I was planning to have fun. I told him about studies and how my life would go.

Such are the musings behind the meeting of two from different backgrounds. I wish I had more time with him, but Dublin is calling me back, and I have to go. I think of their lives, these people who struggle through with little opportunity, and I pray that the younger generation will be given hope and the motivation to improve.

Social work is only effective when it teaches the man to fish, instead of giving the fish. We all know that principle.

Spiritually, social work in God's perspective is deeper, a willingness to share His love and peace with those devoid of it. It looks beyond the superficial, and deep into the heart of the matter. The problem that underlies a lot of social problems is; as I have seen among my own race; a lack of peace and direction in life. It influences how they spend money, how they view work, studies, purpose, and action. It influences motivation behind what we do and how we do it. Till we realize that we can't solve issues by our own strength, we will not be driven to our knees in prayer as to how God can change our and their hearts and lives by His Spirit.

The Blog Stays

2011-07-23T13:43:00.000+01:00

I couldn't bring myself to completely delete the blog. And many of you sent me messages, commented here, etc. There are good things to be had from this blog, so it stays. But I'll be slowly reviewing old posts, taking away junk, and keeping the helpful stuff.

The honest story? I teared up when I wrote the previous blog post. I suppose, something so dear to you, to have to write about its end is hard. So the blog stays, for the final say!

Death of a Blog

2011-07-21T04:38:00.000+01:00

I've been musing it for a while. And pondering. And thinking it over. This blog will close in a matter of hours/days. It's been good, really, but everything feels so saturated nowadays, with Facebook, and Twitter. And I feel like in past years, this blog was an escape at times, a refusal to face life head on, especially when it came to emotional issues. Run home to the screen and type it all out. It's different now; there's a realization that life happens in reality, and has always happened there.

Other times I love to blog about travel. And I still do love to tell these stories. Though maybe I need a clean slate for that. A new site, perhaps, will emerge after this.

And what about faith? Well, I'd love to keep writing about that, but maybe through other channels.

And photography? Pictures will remain what they are, personal captures. Those of you whom I have as friends on FB will find my shots there. Others will find solace in the marvel that is Tumblr.

Some of you are loyal readers, and for your sake I leave this link alive for a while. As for my writing, a departure is on the way.

Civil Wars...new song!

2011-07-21T04:17:00.000+01:00

I just love this duo.

I wonder if they'd be in love, sometimes.

Borneo Beaches

2011-07-19T06:22:00.001+01:00

Out and about. I've been driving, swimming, eating, drinking, and basically on my feet for the last week. Side effects are, of course, a slight flu and (this one's a good thing) a maintained tan :) Feast your eyes on these shots. Lovely, lovely, lovely is my home island of Borneo.

There's my two pals, Daniel and Albert.

Admittedly this shot was a mistake in exposure setting, but suddenly I saw what appeared to be an illlustration of a dream. I keep looking at this photo, for some reason it mesmerizes me.

Sunset.

My buddies Ced and Dian spent a few days here, and boy did we have a grand time. It was fun. Miss you guys!

You Always Belong

2011-07-18T05:19:00.000+01:00

Yesterday I was kayaking in the South China Sea off the coast of Damai beach with a long time friend, Albert. We were a long way out (much to the convincing of my "let's keep going") and decided to stop and listen to the quietness. What ensued was the sound of lapping water against the hull of our kayak, the birds in the trees, and a total atmosphere of peace. For a while, we spoke nothing. It's one of those moments where you feel awed by God's creation. When you feel like He made this all for our admiring. The splendor of it all just blows you away when you're just a small speck in the large ocean, at the mercy of the waves and wind He created.

And it's those times you sit back and remember where you belong. Natural beauty is a foretaste of something more beautiful, and that is heaven, our final home. I am constantly reminded that the creator of all this awesome views, also created me. How He loves us all. The times that leave us weary and tired can only remind us of the NEED to rely back on our Saviour and friend, Jesus for his reminder that we belong to him.

This song is dedicated to you readers who need such assurance.

You run, you hide
As tears fall from your eyes
They fall like snow
From a wounded soul
You hold inside
The hurt of great divide
The hole is starting to get old

So come back to the light
To the love, you will find
It's been here all along
So come back to the start
And you'll find in your heart
That you always belonged
To me

Just take the rope
I won't let it go
Give in
We can start again
I'm life, I'm hope
And I'm ready to explode
With how bad I want you back home

You're my daughter, you're my son
You're the one I long to love
And you've heard I chose to die
Do you know you're the reason why?

Locals and Commonfolk - Kuching Photowalk

2011-07-11T15:26:00.001+01:00

I live in a touristy city of Kuching, the capital of Sarawak (Land of the Hornbill); and the entry point to Borneo for most tourist and wildlife lovers. Enough photos have been taken of the famous sites, so when my friends and I decided to do a photo walk today, I mused for fresh perspective. The following are a selection of local people photographed this afternoon, candid, and in their niche.

Calling 'em common folk is probably slightly understating what they do and are. But let's just say I love people like this. I wonder what their lives are, what their stories are, and how they view life. Many of the following are the people we'd rather keep OUT of our photo frames. Many times, we walk past without acknowledging the slightest their contribution. Here goes.


	His face betrays amusement, as if he were to break out into a grin. There is weariness etched into it too, for half the day is gone, but probably most of his energy. He speaks little to tourists, only answering if asked, but prefers to shyly smile when they opt for his boat to cross the river. Hunched from years of labour, he's probably a grandfather.

Mother and son. The son is probably returning from school. Look closely and observe mom's expression.

The sweepers that clean the Waterfront are regularly unnoticed. Yet we owe them our clean avenues.

Old and young man. Same uniform.

Laughter! He may have been a boatman, or a roadside businessman selling 'local gambir'. But he was definitely having a bit of afternoon fun.

I like this shot. It's a backpacker! Obviously you know...

Kuching has zebra crossings. They are rarely adhered too by drivers, hence pedestrians cross anywhere. It's a simple lesson really. Stand patiently at a zebra crossing and you'll never get across. Unless you're a tourist. In a group of tourists. Who still have to take a first step forward to alert drivers to press those brakes!

The kids saw our cameras, and probably our outfits (touristy) and probably took us for tourists. We had fun photographing them. The perfect example of primary school children. Uniform, backpacks, sweat on their foreheads and yes, KEROPOK (chips).

Golden

2011-07-04T18:14:00.000+01:00

My brother turns 14 today. Young young man, eager to take on the world, with his personal perception. I've always had a heart for the young; maybe it was my rough years as a teenager, maybe the things I've heard and seen too. I know one thing: it's a vulnerable period. Much is to be learnt, gathered and decided upon; much is unconsciously received. Confidence is either built or crumbled.

If parents/teachers/leaders could be as edifying as this song, our youth would grow up better.
(honestly I think the song's a message from God to a human being. Being Jon Foreman's lyrics)

Every leaf dies for a season,

must it be revived?

In every trial there is beauty,

living character grows,

I find myself more of a man,

amid the turmoil of youth.

Bersih 2.0, Coldplay and Rebels

2011-07-02T18:03:00.000+01:00

There's a part in Coldplay's new song that appeals to me.

I TURN THE MUSIC UP, I GOT MY RECORDS ON
FROM UNDERNEATH THE RUBBLE SING A REBEL SONG
DON'T WANT TO SEE ANOTHER GENERATION DROP
I'D RATHER BE A COMMA THAN A FULL STOP

Recent events in the nation have been shadowed by a looming rally on the 9th of July. Bersih, or "clean" in Malay, is calling for fair elections among other aims. Facing huge opposition from authorities, the supporters are rallying and I can only imagine what will happen on Saturday if both sides don't come to a compromise.

The lyrics above convey the dream of our generation. We don't want to see our generation, or another generation drop. We'd rather be comma-s, and continue the story. History. A rebel song, it may be, to those in power, but it seeks to better the land.

Just my take on the song in times such as this.

In other news, I fiddled around with Garage Band yesterday, and came up with my latest song.
It's called "Five Minutes". A few of my friends gave really awesome constructive comments and I hope there'll be better quality stuff in the future. I don't see myself pursuing serious recording while in college though, considering my study commitments. Still seeing where those dreams will go :/

In the meantime, it's a hobby and it keeps my soul "coloured" :D Enjoy.

LYRICS:
Talk about the way your hair falls in your face
Talk about the way our curves fall into place
All the simple moments are fragments of his grace profound,
you are beautiful

Chorus:
And the longest five minutes of my life were spent waiting for you
Yet the years that follow with our love; they are beautiful
So tell me how you feel
I'm standing at the shores
Of your lonely heart's door

Verse:
Talk about the way our lonely souls collide
Talk about the way this love is day and night
All the simple moments are fragments of his grace profound,
you are beautiful

Bridge:
Five minutes waiting for your call, five minutes and I'm standing tall
Five minutes to tell the girl, " I want you. would you be my world?"
Five minutes and I'm on my knees
Hands sweaty with a diamond ring
I take your hand and you start to cry
I love you would you be my wife
Marry me

Thankfulness

2011-07-01T10:06:00.001+01:00

Learning it everyday. :)

Such hot weather. Such rude and inconsiderate people sometimes. Generally thinking about themselves on the road, in the plane, at a queue.

Yet such warm laughter, gentle advice, hugs and the look that tells you "I enjoy the time we have together". That means much more.

Family!

Tell your parents about this. PERIOD.

2011-06-30T14:32:00.002+01:00

It's here. Trashing. Redefining the art of urban photography, it'll take over planking in the next year. I believe so. :D

It's a concept I termed with my brother and a friend today. We loved it so much, we made a video! And a Facebook group called Trashing Not Pranking!

Be impressed.

:D

My, How They've Grown

2011-06-28T22:30:00.000+01:00

Family is where the heart lies. And my how my brothers have grown. In stature, in speech, in musical ability.
I am touched. And excited for the time we shall spend in days ahead.

Your rare shot of a personal moment. My mum says I might be able to keep this hair. Yay.

New song and why I wrote it

2011-06-22T17:49:00.001+01:00

The new song is about, quite obviously, social justice. To put it short (and I got this from Wiki), social justice is basically about a society where human rights are upheld. In retrospect, my comment in the video about "people getting what they deserve" is probably not accurate, what I mean is to stamp out negative influences of corruption, poverty and abuse; giving the victimized what was taken from them.

In the video I explain where the idea came from (A friend). But there's a deeper part to it. Most of the verse lyrics are paraphrased from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount (Luke 6), and I mean to reflect what Jesus bringing across. It's hard to talk about social justice without God, since it's His kingdom that is flawless. Ours is a messed up world, one that cries for renewal. Where is God, people cry. What is He doing? I believe He's moving through the hearts and hands of those who hear his call and heed, but the final restoration we will see at the end of this age. Sounds deep, I know, but it's the hope to carry.

Musically, the final riff is actually what I intended to start the song with. It's a very Irish sort of feel. The main riff of the song (three chords, repeat!) came only when the melody was being thought of.

Dachau

2011-06-21T12:53:00.000+01:00

Thanks to an ultimate lack of researching the places I would visit, I'd not known that the first concentration camp was on my journey route. The Holocaust has always been on my heart, even as a kid. I suspect it was a particular book I read about a Holocaust survivor, a gripping tale of her family's struggle, the loss of her parents and her own survival story as they endured the horror of Auschwitz (which is in Poland, by the way).

Anyway, on our way to Munich after visiting an old friend in Aalen (small town), we dropped by the camp for a good 4 hours.

What you see in the picture above is the foundation of one of the 34 barracks that housed the prisoners here. I couldn't smile. The whole place was a horror, a reflection of what men can do when allowed to carry our their darkest desires.

And we shall not forget this important piece of history. I liked one of the memorials by the church of Reconciliation, where they talked about...well...reconciliation. :) It reminds me, and hopefully reminds you too, that sin ultimately is the problem; and that only reconciliation with God will restore us.

Munich

2011-06-20T11:24:00.002+01:00

was...

Beer and pork.

We spent loads of money in the infamous Hofbrauhaus in Munich, where the best beer and pork are located. But it was nice to meet some German people and interact with them.

A First of Many Stories

2011-06-16T14:48:00.000+01:00

I'm back! It's been a great three weeks travelling around Europe. I guess I'll start off with a list of countries visited.

Sweden
Germany
Austria
Croatia
Belgium
Holland

And for your first story, here's the shot.

These ASICS babies brought me around Europe with full maximum comfort. :D

I'm brimming with tales, but I'm too tired to get it out now. So that's all I leave you with. See you soon, readers.

The Road so Far

2011-06-05T17:37:00.002+01:00

Sleeping on floors, endless trains, hours turn to minutes and vice versa, thinking, dreaming, listening to music, watching His creation. This is an adventure.

Les Moments: Gone Fishing

2011-05-23T12:22:00.001+01:00

Saw this couple fishing on the Loire. It's nice to do things together with the people you love.

Caption Blunder - Irish Times

2011-05-23T10:40:00.000+01:00

It's rare to see something like this. I even wonder if it was done on purpose, or just a dose of Irish humour.
It's a picture of fish and chips, but when you read the caption, you're bound to blink and re-read it. Obama?

Check it out here.

Don't worry Irish Times, we still love you (despite an erroneous article months back about Malaysia)

Les moments: Goûter

2011-05-20T12:32:00.000+01:00

We arrived one afternoon at the house of a friend of our host. Our host apparently forgot her house, and in haste had led us to climb the gate to check out the boat in the backyard. We scrambled out (see the video on Facebook).

The couple arrived later, with the lady bringing her own homemade Paris-Brest cake.

Goûter is the French version of an afternoon tea. As we proceeded to the backyard of their wood panelled home, I spotted an apple desktop in one corner (apparently the boyfriend is a designer).

The house was a bit raised, so it had delightful steps that led down to the garden. In a tree nearby, our new friend pointed out that some baby birds had just hatched in a nest and we had to be careful not to startle the new family.

We sat in the sun as we tasted the sweetness of the cake and drank lemon flavoured water. The couple spoke English, so that was a delight as we conversed with them about French living, baking, boatmaking (the boyfriend is quite talented) and I was inspired for a new travel idea: rent a boat and head to sea for a few days.

Once in a while I'd catch him looking adoringly at her as she smiled shyly after we'd complimented her cake (which was amazing, by the way). She had her way of teasing him too, and it was quite cute to see.

Thank you for having us.

Les moments: Rainbows and Water

2011-05-20T02:27:00.001+01:00

Chalonnes is one of the small towns that lie along the great Loire, a river which often splits to reveal islands of varying lengths. After our swim, we cycled on one of these islands, as Estelle shared of the fertile soils and the great floods. In 1910, there was a flood so great that everyone used a boat to get around. The crops of course were submerged. Now as you cycle through the houses that dot the island, you'll notice inscription marks on their outer walls to commemorate the levels that the floods reached that year. 1910. And every house seemed to have a boat. Why?

"The flood is said to arrive every century."

That's soon! 1910 is...2010.

But floods also remind me of the rainbow, God's promise to mankind to never again completely flood the earth as he did in Genesis. We cycled pass these huge revolving water sprays, laughing and screaming as we tried to avoid the water. It was like some arcade game.

See the two figures cycling in the photo? It was the two kids, who decided it was so fun that they'd cycle back just to get sprayed :D But notice also the rainbow on the right. God's grace.

Looking Up

2011-05-17T15:32:00.000+01:00

One of the things I like to do is photo editing (when I have the luxury of time).

I didn't take this photo, but it caught a very interesting moment when everyone was looking up into the sky on the shores of the Loire.

I don't know why we looked, but it makes for a good poster. :D

Shared for you.

The story behind My CEKU entry

2011-05-16T17:32:00.000+01:00

I recently joined a photography/poem competition and got shortlisted to win a film camera. You can like my entry to help me win it if you like :D. Here are the stories behind the photos.

This photo was taken on the wooden planks of my longhouse jetty by the Rajang River. My cousins and I were hanging out one evening and out of boredom I plucked the leaves of the "money" plant and made this.

I never thought I'd have usage for this photo, but I illustrated the "close one eye" phrase with this in my poem. It was taken in a car while driving through the night. The light you see is a streetlight.

This was taken at a cafe in Kuching, where I hung out with two friends from college one night. It reminds me of the good times I have having supper in the warm evening air; a luxury not possible here.

I shot this in Phoenix Park, Dublin. The split in the path was quite iconic with all the grass around it and a single row of trees in the horizon so I got my friend to pose.

Also taken at my longhouse jetty. The strands of rope appealed to me at the time as being very artistic.

Also taken at my longhouse is an image of coals during a BBQ. Shutter speed was lowered to create the flowing effect of the smoke.

Untitled #1

2011-05-12T04:04:00.000+01:00

Facebook Leak

2011-05-11T10:39:00.001+01:00

Apparently, apps have been leaking our personal information on Facebook. Read this.

But they've resolved the issue now, and Facebook will be heading for a more secure system, as announced today. It's daunting though, realizing how much info is out there in the undetected years.

In lighter news, check out my new video on youtube.com/larryen90

Exams are over by tonight! Last push!

Butterfly and the Bluebell

2011-05-10T20:38:00.000+01:00

Yup, that's the title of my new song. It's easy listening, trust me.

Random thoughts when I should be studying

2011-05-10T16:00:00.000+01:00

-what is it like to be a bluebell and a butterfly. So I wrote a song.
-People don't like to hear sob stories in songs, but they don't like entirely happy sugar-coated tunes. So I wrote neither.
-It's 4pm. So I should study now and get off the social network.
-My Iban and Sarawak Malay speaking skills have deteriorated. So much for being multi-lingual.

End of an Ordeal

2011-05-10T00:17:00.001+01:00

One more paper left. Vascular Biology. There will be tons of branches to learn, all about our blood system. But tonight, it was chill and dwell in laughter, strings and a good movie. The exams have been better than survivable, and God has been good to all of us. Weather's been bearable. The papers have been quite bearable.

We all need a friend to walk beside us. Waddle waddle.

I suppose there was a point not too long ago when I realized that examinations are pretty much what they are, just a chance to display understanding. I used to fret madly over exams, lose sleep and be under pressure (upbringing? Asian culture?) but a few things made me realize:

They aren't white when they're babies! Transformations.

1. You can study and at the same time have emotional issues, go through the weirdest crap. I learnt this the tough way many years ago, and also seeing my friends cope with their issues. It's like, exams don't really consume your whole life, unless you allow it to (although in medicine it pretty much consumes most of it, haha!)

Elegance.

2. The moments I remembered from high school wasn't the exams. At all.

3. It's always gonna be ok, cuz' God sez so :D how reassuring.

But while I've been able to overcome the losing of sleep and nervous wrecks, I haven't been able to manage:
1. My room's cleanliness.
2. The kitchen's cleanliness.

I suppose those things I'll leave for good craic and to laugh over. After all, every night I just have to move my clothes from my bed...to the floor/luggage bag. Just drape em' everywhere.

Enjoy this lovely tune.

Swans at the lake...wind in the leaves.

2011-05-08T20:31:00.000+01:00

Something for our quiet moments.

(P.s...read my previous post...)

Need your help, readers

2011-05-08T16:49:00.000+01:00

I joined this photography competition by the UKEC, and guess what? It's shortlisted! Wasn't expecting it at all.

So if you could just head over to my entry here and at the bottom there's a likey likey button. But hey, check out the poem and the pictures too yeah? :D

I just might win that Polaroid.

Freedom comes Early for the Early-hearted

2011-05-08T01:15:00.000+01:00

3 papers are down and the back to back marathon is over. So relieved! There are two papers left, but they have one day gaps. So today we relaxed.

And I watched the "King's Speech". Marvelous. I could just feel emotion oozing out.

It's not just drama, it's a pretty funny laugh too! WATCH IT!

And here's a cute lil' animation for one of my admired bands, Snow Patrol's hit, "You Could Be Happy".
They're Northern Irish! WootZ. I always thought they were Scandinavian for some peculiar reason, maybe because of their heavy usage of repetitive chords, twinkly sounds and just the atmosphere of curling up by a fire with a warm hot chocolate and marshmallows. That's what Snow Patrol is to me. Maybe it was the word 'snow'. I'm rambling. Good bye :D

Out n' About

2011-05-06T22:43:00.000+01:00

I rarely go out. Honestly I dislike the getting ready and the dressing up, as little as it can be for men. Alright, I'm a hippy-hobo whatever. I just like to keep things less fancy.

But, on occasion, stuff like birthdays, here we are in a decent place with awesome food.

Friends. Huge plates. Beer and cider.

Haha. A lil' twist on picture editing.

My plate of Irish stew. Not really a fan. Oh well.

Exams are going well so far. Have been listening to all sorts of music and posting madly on FB and Twitter. Recovery mode, I suppose.

One Down, Four to Go

2011-05-05T21:37:00.000+01:00

Cardiac Biology was very past year-y haha but it was definitely worth the study put in.

On to Respiratory! This is a heavy one, being less than 12 hours away and I have to sleep in between. I refuse to give up my 7-8 hours! :D

Oh wait. That leaves me with. 4 hours?!

Gotta go folks.

Studying and the Big Picture

2011-05-04T01:02:00.000+01:00

Not too long ago, I was a young fledging in college, doing the A-levels. I remember talking to a 2nd year medicine student about how to study. And I remember his words so well.

"It's no longer about cramming information like you can do for A-levels. You need to see the big picture, connect dots and ideas and understand." He proceeded to fire me a question on the causes of a runny nose, before giving a mind map of what leads to it. I was thoroughly impressed.

Since coming to UCD, I've found out how crucially essential his advice was. Especially when it comes to essay writing for the finals.

One thing I like about studying here is just the certain degree of freedom provided to explore. It's funny how sometimes I'm tempted to think of it in such a "confined" way. What points to write exactly. How much information should I include. How much I need to write to get a good mark.

Scrap that, that's the message here. Learn for the passion of learning. In the finals, demonstrate that you understand the whole point of something. Put what you know, and put it in with proper ideas and correct facts. And carry it on with you in the years to come.

After all, it's a lot of papers to mark, and all they'd want to see is a grasp of understanding.

Too early to prove my words true in terms of exam, but the big picture? Essential.

New Lens - 80-200mm Macro

2011-05-01T22:21:00.000+01:00

Can't rotate the picture for some reason. Hmm..

Look what came today! An expected distraction from my studying. But I am much happy with it. Did a few video shots and found them sufficient for my project plans (if they ever materialize, I'd be making a short romantic comedy).

Anyways, was much refreshed in church tonight. I've been a weary soul for so long, and He beckons me come and rest.

Exams are dawning, so it's back to the notes for me.

In the meantime, something sweet to enjoy:
It's about long distance relationships, and this time, a REAL one that ended in a marriage. Nice eh? :D

I wouldn't try it though. Long distance = tough. 100% of the time. Just sayin'.

Trees and Sun

2011-04-30T00:06:00.000+01:00

A path just in front of my apartment. Stare at the green long enough and you'll sigh in delight.

Delighted?

No?

Oh well. XD

They looked delicious.

It was as if the little vine was escaping from the yellow flowers.

Somehow these remind me of tenderness.

A dandelion.

A Royal Wedding

2011-04-29T14:18:00.000+01:00

A nice diversion from my studying was the wedding of Will and Kate :D History in the making.

The church was beautiful, and all the ladies in their hats and men in their best wear was amazing to see.

Finals

2011-04-28T15:39:00.001+01:00

Studying for midterms. The finals look something like this.

Lie to you, I will not. This isn't easy stuff.

And thank God for Wiki :D And loads of other resources.

Build Me Up Buttercup - The Foundations (ukulele cover)

2011-04-26T13:58:00.000+01:00

You all need to check out Orla Gartland, 16 year Youtube sensation from Dublin!

Strong vocals, the occasional queer stare and funny expressions in the camera...

she'll go far.

Good luck and all the best to you, Orla.

Egg Heart Egg Heart

2011-04-25T19:44:00.000+01:00

It's always been my experience that even with a heart-egg, I can study for the exams.

haha

Liz Lawrence is Acoustic Bliss...

2011-04-24T00:08:00.001+01:00

I promoted her before, under the post for Brooke's gig, but I feel she's so good she deserves an individual post.So here it is! Presenting: LIZ LAWRENCE!

A Google-d shot. She's mighty expressive when performing live.

Head over to her page here. Start with the song "Monday Morning" and let it just run through the list.

She will not disappoint.

On a non-related point, I'm shifting my songs to Youtube, if you haven't heard. Basically I felt it's better to source my music in one place, instead of having it on Facebook too. And I need to slow down my FB-ing activity. It's time-consuming, unhealthy too. Gosh.

So visit my channel too, if you have the time.

And now for some nice soothing photos. We went to Phoenix Park today. It's this huge park in Dublin, and it looked so much better now in Spring than it was last time in September.

Sorta looks like red cabbage.

Met a little friend. He was the 1st squirrel I saw that wasn't scared of humans.

Handsome dude.

Hocus pocus...

Lazing around in the sun. On of the things I'll definitely miss when we're back in Malaysia.

A single flower.

Many flowers.

That's all for now. Smile!

With Age, Comes...

2011-04-23T19:02:00.000+01:00

With age, comes maturity. You start to see things in a different light. Arguments seem to be more easily settled, less 'crazy', more logical and well, more gentle I would say. Love becomes a matter of seeing someone more on their inside rather than out. Friendship, true friendship, becomes harder to find, but that wouldn't be an age issue I would say.

One of my friends remarked recently that medicine students seem to all have some sort of messed up background, something that drives them to do the 'right thing' and help humanity. General as that comment is, it would be interesting to do a survey and find out!

If you ask me, I'd say that medicine students are generally very driven. That drive in itself must have been instigated by different factors. And it also makes them harder on themselves and others. So I suppose it all correlates.

Now, before this becomes a psychology/sociology essay, I'll stop.

With age, comes the realization that I'd like someone by my side.

Someone who reminds me of God's grace and love.
Someone who loosens me up.
Someone who ~~sincerely~~ laughs at my 'jokes'.

:D EXAMS are around the corner.

I feel. Normal.

But I shall study.

Spontaneous song"writing"

2011-04-22T17:49:00.000+01:00

In an unconventional manner, I decided to write a song without any prior lyrics.

So I took out my camera, and sung. I did have a basic chorus loop, but other than that, everything comes on the spur of the moment. :D

Those Who Sow In Tears

2011-04-22T14:24:00.000+01:00

Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy.
Psalms 126:5

It's Good Friday. In a rapid escalation of events, I find myself at the foot of the Cross, in tears, and humble remembrance of Jesus' sacrifice.

Wrote another song... :D

2011-04-21T22:07:00.000+01:00

So. I wrote this song last week. :D

Lyrics are in the video...so watch it and enjoy.

Music Pick o' the Week 2

2011-04-21T17:16:00.000+01:00

Been a while since I've introduced some music to you all. So here goes!

The Swell Season is the famous pair from the movie "Once", Irish singer-songwriter Glen Hansard and Czech pianist-singer Marketa I. Soothing, deep, heartfelt.

Damien Rice is also Irish, famously the former singer of Bell X1, a rock band. Personally though, his songs have a sad-lonely tone about them, yet leaves you wanting for more.

I personally like another song, "Accidental Babies", but its lyrics, albeit beautiful, are explicit.
There, you're probably going to Google it up now. I can't help liking the phrases.

You've gotta love the way Tinie Tempah speaks. Growing up in the London suburbs, he's got a beautiful accent. His songs: straightforward lyrics with head-bobbing beats. Check out "Pass Out", a popular party song here among students. He came to UCD last year during Orientation ball but I didn't go,

not knowing his prowess at the time.

I'd almost dare to name this song my life anthem, but I suppose it's more of a motivating tune for my adventurous side. Escapist, inspiring, and just makes you wanna run away.

Of course, reality proves more than this. A great song to dream on for.

UCD Lake Duck Found Dead, Swan Prime Suspect

2011-04-19T21:31:00.001+01:00

Duck Found Dead, Swan Suspected

Tuesday, April 19 - The UCD lake heralds as one of the institution's best attractions, especially come spring. Students gather on the grass, soaking in the sun and watching the ducks and the swans. Except, today, a tragic occurrence has smashed the once-strong peace in the lake.

Many of the students and staff recall the white swans that inhabit the lake in a seemingly idyllic co-existence with the ducks there. But in weeks of past, the male white swan has been on a seemingly wild rampage. Its victim? A poor brown duck.

The duck was found dead at around 3pm today by a couple in the bushes near the lake. "We were scouting around for baby acorns to make our dinner," says Rebecca Walsh, a fourth year engineering student. "Robby saw something brown, and exclaimed that it looked too big to be an acorn. That's when we noticed it was a duck." Apparently the swan had dragged the duck into the bushes and mutilated it, before calmly leaving the scene of murder.

Some feel such an act was due to his mate's recent nesting activity. "He's starved of intimacy. He wants her, but all she's doing is sitting on that mound minding their future generation," states Hesram Vapapa, a second-stage medicine student who frequents the lake with his friends for lunch.

Others disagree, stating that the swan is merely chasing after easier victims for his bullying habit. "Many years ago he snatched a baby from its carriage while the parents were looking away minding another child, and ate it up," exclaimed an anxious looking bystander of the scene.

The authorities have closed the case upon terms of "murder without incitement" and are unable to bring the swan to court due to logistic issues. Students and staff of UCD are called to be patient in the process of bringing the swan to justice. A memorial funeral will be held for the duck tomorrow at the mound of the Egg-that-was, at 2pm. All attendees are required to be dressed in brown. The funeral will be presided over by the local parishioner. Security guards from that-all-famous-campus-guard will be at ready with stun guns and Tasers in case the swan dares to make its appearance. -SKMS News

Swan Feathers and Wildflowers

2011-04-18T21:10:00.002+01:00

Time flies, and before you know it the seasons have changed. One of the loveliest experiences I've had recently is to laze on the grass in front of our university lake with friends, just having a good time. These are moments I know I won't have back home because of the heat, the mosquitos lurking in Malaysian bushes, the bugs crawling over the ground, the grass texture, and the list goes on...

Sun through red shadows

Our exams are coming in about two weeks time. Hard work is necessary, prayer essential, companionship much needed. Friendship really takes a high role during these hard-packed times. And a tub of Ben & Jerry's.

Lazing in the evening sun.

Our professor ended his Vascular lecture series today telling us to pursue our dreams. He said, "Somewhere during your studies, something will hit you so clear. I want you to be open to it". He told us his sister's story, about how she became a professional mountain climber.

I started to wonder about my other passions (I love medicine, don't get me wrong).

Haunting pose. I didn't plan this angle.

I haven't written a decent song for so long. Inspiration has run dry. It's hard to write about love these days.
I keep thinking about what life would have been if I'd taken a different direction.

But through the tangle of the trees, you begin to realize that with maturity comes a clearer beauty. Stability, security. Maybe these are the things that make boys into men. The realization that life is real and has responsibilities.

Waiting on a woman.

You see, I'm quite the serious type. It takes a certain kind of person to appreciate posts like these.

Or maybe you enjoy the photographs :)

Made this out of swan feathers and wildflowers.

Vote...

2011-04-18T17:37:00.000+01:00

Amazing video!

St. Paddy's

2011-04-17T16:44:00.000+01:00

It's a celebration that brings people together onto the streets and into the pubs. St. Paddy's! I'd just arrived from my Spring Break on the day of the parade, so I was so bummed. Most of the photos were taken by my friend. I took these photos though, except the second one.

Army of hats.

Above the crowd!

Love the smiles.

Dayak Voting Mentality

2011-04-17T10:50:00.001+01:00

Credits: This article was not written by me, but by a friend of mine. Credits are to J. Chunggat. I feel it provides an excellent view into the mindset of Dayak voters and why things didn't work out in the rural areas. It has to be noted that there may have been other factors in play during this election.

The aftermath of the recent state elections has left me dumbfounded. PBB won in all 54 seats they contested. A 100% win. PKR hardly even made a kink in their armour let alone a dent.

Despite all the issues plaguing the state of Sarawak, the rural, semi-rural voters still vouched for BN. Despite all the scandals surrounding the incumbent Chief Minister, everyone still gave him the mandate to lead the state. What with the spin and propaganda by NGO’s and the opposition parties via a guerilla style radio show, VCD’s, CD’s and pamphlets, the rural voters still voted for the BN government.

I am deeply disappointed with how the rural voters, in particular longhouse dwellers, voted. Have they not realised how much misery they have been in all these years under an apathetic government ignorant of their pleadings?

How can it be possible that they have not the slightest conscience to try to change the leadership that has deprived them of basic ammenities such as water and electricity?

How is it possible that after being robbed off their wealth for donkey years, they still want these thiefs to lead them?

Have the Dayaks no sense of logic? Have they no integrity voting for such a corrupt leadership?

The Dayaks in the longhouses were the ones carrying the weight to determine whether Sarawak can become an advanced and mature state, economically and politically. Furthermore, they were the kingmakers in determining whether BN shall stay or leave come next General Election.

But basing on today’s outcome of the State Election, I believe the Dayaks are still too foolish to realise the bigger picture.

The Dayaks have been known to vote for familiar entities. They will either follow the symbol, or the person. First case in point will be the 1987 snap elections for Sarawak. Many SNAP leaders resigned from the party and hopped over to PBDS prior to that election. This lead to a face-to-face battle between SNAP and PBDS in rural seats. The Dayaks, having associated themselves with familiar faces of past leaders in SNAP who are now contesting under the PBDS symbol, voted for PBDS. The Dayaks prefer something familiarof which in this case were State ministers and incumbent State Assemblymen of PBDS (9 were incumbents) versus many new faces in SNAP. PBDS won 15 seats while SNAP won only 3. This concept of individualism is something characteristically found in Dayak voters. Second case in point would be the 2006 State Election, whereby PKR a peninsular based party came to contest in Sarawak. Dayak voters did not trust such an unfamiliar entity, hence their factionalism instinct kicked in hence, voting for familiar symbols of PBB, PRS, SUPP and PRS. PKR only won 1 seat in that election. Dayaks in general are afraid of new things, much reflected in the two cases above.

Any entity that are alien to them i.e: a Peninsular based party like PKR, will never be trusted by the majority of Dayaks. The 2011 Sarawak State Election is testament to this statement.

"A man takes a drink... . .

2011-04-13T23:29:00.000+01:00

...and the drink takes the man."

It's part of college life for a majority of students here, do check out this article. But I do think it impairs a lot of possible potential that the students have to expand their opportunities and social circle too. A lot of things aren't remembered after a night out.

For Lovers

2011-04-11T19:43:00.000+01:00

From the band who made you nostalgic every time it was 1.15 because you started singing, "It's a quarter after one, I'm a little drunk and I need you now..."

Muscles, Nerves & Physiotherapy

2011-04-11T16:20:00.000+01:00

I never expected to go for physiotherapy. I suppose it's one of the benefits of medical services here; in terms of its completeness and availability.

I recently went to my doctor over an ankle injury that had been bugging me since my INTEC days. I never bothered. To cut the story short, he emphasised better shoes for running, and physiotherapy to strengthen my balance and handling.

Shoes. It never occurred to me how important they were, especially since I have high arched feet. I suppose it would apply to anyone who runs.

Yet I also read an article today about how feet experts have got it all wrong.

Of course, the general, logical consensus is that: roads are hard so get some good shoes.

I also have been going for dry-needle treatment. While they tell me it's a problem that isn't going away completely, ever, I remain positive that I can one day run and not feel pain. As my physiotherapist puts it, it's all about loading those tendons, promoting healing, and not overloading them in the future.

Brooke Fraser & Leprechauns

2011-04-10T01:11:00.002+01:00

Talented gem from New Zealand; taking the world by storm

Unofficial Gig Review
I went to see Brooke Fraser play the Sugar Club tonight. Dublin being always welcoming and supportive as it is, it was her first sold-out show in her UK tour. Three cheers! Brooke Fraser. In contemporary Christian circles, she caused stirs for her epic song, "Hosanna", but there is much more to explore from her personal albums. Her newest, "Flags" is a tale of love, life and the battle for hope, and is a must-listen. For me it was "Deciphering Me" that got me hooked to her creations. (So my intense JOY when she played it tonight!)

There is something hauntingly honest yet sincere in her lyrics, and integrity in her demeanor. I read somewhere that her shows are always very intimate, casual and I sought to experience for myself, whether this was true. So very glad I was when a good friend of mine informed me that she'd be coming to Dublin, and so I snapped up the tickets.

Could scarce contain my excitement. Actually, it was the flash being too bright.

So on to the show! Liz Lawrence opened for her. I didn't know her before this, but I'm a fan now! Check her out here.

Brooke came onstage with two others (five, if you count the three guitars she coyly named), a drummer and a guitarist. She introduced herself, we cheered, but I had the shock of my life when she introduced the guitarist. How had I not seen him? Michael Guy Chislett! Hillsong's very own axe man. This was a double blessing, to be able to see both of them live.

I don't exactly remember the whole set list, but it was "Orphans, Kingdoms", "Betty", "Who are We Fooling", "Deciphering Me", "C.S. Lewis Song", "Flags", "Albertine", "Crows and Locusts", "Something in the Water", "Coachella" and "Arithmetic" as far as my memory goes. I was so happy she sang "Who Are We Fooling" (personal favourite), although a duet would have been awesome.

As she played, we sat and watched, entranced. The drummer was really solid, really passionately into it; eyes closed half of the time or so it seemed. And Mike was doing a great job on the guitars. Brooke herself was loving it, enjoying the crowd and at times dropping in comments about Ireland and what she liked about it. Her vocals were superb!

So the show ended, but there was more for us. Brooke kindly signed autographs. And I got my ticket signed! A photo... and also I got to invite her to Malaysia.

YAY!

I also wanted to meet Michael, so asked the guitar tech, and he said, sure! Michael came out and I was chat with him a while.

Michael Guy is da' man.

An epic night.

It gets me thinking, too,

that these are really normal souls,

but who have been keeping their passion alive;

doing what they really love to do.

And Brooke, keep writing those awesome heartfelt tunes.

April 9 2011. :D

New List of Places to See

2011-04-06T23:14:00.000+01:00

To go:
Normandy, France - Abbey of Mont St. Michel.
Antartica.
Madagascar.
See the bluebells in Norfolk.
Cedars of Lebanon.

'Never Let Me Go' Brief Thoughts

2011-04-02T09:11:00.000+01:00

Its rare these days to find a film that reaches deep into the soul of the viewer, perusing and causing the viewer to drown in the speechless glory of emotion. But yes, there are still 'deep' filmmakers willing to do so, and this movie is one. Excellent acting (eyes that betray emotion) and a slight twist of science fiction will leave you neither settled nor anxious. It is just hauntingly beautiful. Watch "Never Let Me Go".

My favourite quote:
"It had never occurred to me that our lives, which had been so closely interwoven, could unravel with such speed.
If I'd known, maybe I'd have kept tighter hold of them and not let unseen tides pull us apart."

Panorama with Photoshop

2011-03-30T01:33:00.000+01:00

Part of my photography elective work is compiling a folio.

Here is a glimpse of a finished product!

A merging of 6 photos. Sardinian landscape from the top of a mountain. Click it to see the full size image.