It's rare, but I do feel somewhat regretful now.
I should not have accepted this advanced diploma course in information & communication technology that is currently ongoing right now in school.
This intensive course has taken away precious training and resting time from me. I need to do all those because this Sunday's the big race - the Standard Chartered Marathon.
In fact, just thinking about it sets my pulse racing.
I think it's because it'll be the hardest thing I'll be doing this year. I think my body isn't going to forgive me so easily for putting it under such punishment.
And so, while I am seated in front of the desktop, while the instructor rants on and on about the power of Excel and Word, sometimes my thoughts drift away. Suddenly I get transported to the remote Marina area, or the empty streets of Shenton Way, running, running and running in the Marathon. I'm already mentally preparing myself.
To the basketball boys, just to share with you that training is now in full flow. The coach and I have big plans for you all. We are committed towards training you all in improving your skills and team play. We need absolute commitment from each and every one of you. I'm talking about attendance and giving your 110% during each training. That's how you improve. That's how Fajar will improve.
We need to make the school proud of the Basketball CCA.
A special word of thanks to the players who have been very helpful to me - Haoming, Zhi Cheng, Vincent and others who have been so willing to help. That's the spirit guys. Keep up the good work. We still have so much more to do to strengthen the team spirit within us!
This computer course that I'm going through has prevented me from being with my basketball boys. I thank God then, that I have reliable players and a good coach who can help me to keep the CCA running while I am busy. Let me be very clear - I always want to be with my boys whenever they train. The reason is very simple. I am responsible for these boys and they are important to me.
Another reason why I am stuck to the computer lab is because there is an exam on Friday morning, which we all have to pass. I certainly do not want to fail. I am targetting a pass and I want to lay my hands on that certificate. So I have been paying attention to the instructor. Though he can be somewhat queer, I have to say that he has taught all of us plenty of tricks with Excel and Word and I am very grateful for that. I am very glad to be able to learn something new.
Once the exam is over, I have the Peer Leaders' Meeting to look forward to. That's going to be on Saturday morning. Sunday's the big 42km race and I know I'm going to be hitting the bed all day long after that, once I drag my body back from the Padang.
And the best thing is - I get to return back to school on the very next day for Basketball and other work. How exciting!
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
About doing things - my way
A conversation with a colleague left me contemplating a little bit more than usual about how I have been making conscious decisions about my career.
After spending 5 years in this job, my heartfelt opinion is that I have got one of the best jobs in the world. Nothing is surely more exciting than being able to interact with youths and mentoring them into leaders of tomorrow, through education, sports and outdoor adventure.
I could never imagine myself in a desk-bound job, or a job that required me to meet sales quotas. I don't think God made me that way.
So I am always thankful that I have found my purpose. Doing what I do has been satisfying. The students who have come into my life (from my very first class in Fajar - 3T1 2002) till the ones today - they have been very good and I have been blessed by them.
But the dilemma is: is job satisfaction more important than career advancement?
I think I have been very choosy in accepting offers or job titles that take me away from students. Sometimes, friends have told me that I'm a fool for doing so.
I disagree.
I know what I want in my life.
I'm very particular about what I want to achieve. Even if it means stepping on somebody's toes or crossing my superiors, I will still decline and say 'No' to that task or that job if I feel that it doesn't suit me or if it is something that I know I cannot cope with.
I will not always say 'yes'.
Maybe it's the way I've been brought up. Maybe it's how God has been gently guiding me through my career. But I get very sensitive when my personal time is affected. I get very sensitive when my family time is affected.
My family, my time, my community projects, my students, my church activities - all these I hold high in my list of priorities. Notice that my work is not in the 'list'.
How can it be? Does it mean that I do not give my all in my work?
Nay.
I very strongly believe that if I have a blessed private life, with a close relationship with my wife and our parents, then I will wield even greater power to do well in my career.
And I can testify solidly that in the past 5 years, praise God, I have succeeded in achieving both. I do not wish to be a public success, yet fail in my private life.
So, even though there have been some murmurs of me being choosy and what not, I do not care about what others think.
I am answerable only to my God and my family. They are important to me, and I make sure I save my energies for them. I will not fall into that trap of depleting my youth into the bottomless pit called work.
After spending 5 years in this job, my heartfelt opinion is that I have got one of the best jobs in the world. Nothing is surely more exciting than being able to interact with youths and mentoring them into leaders of tomorrow, through education, sports and outdoor adventure.
I could never imagine myself in a desk-bound job, or a job that required me to meet sales quotas. I don't think God made me that way.
So I am always thankful that I have found my purpose. Doing what I do has been satisfying. The students who have come into my life (from my very first class in Fajar - 3T1 2002) till the ones today - they have been very good and I have been blessed by them.
But the dilemma is: is job satisfaction more important than career advancement?
I think I have been very choosy in accepting offers or job titles that take me away from students. Sometimes, friends have told me that I'm a fool for doing so.
I disagree.
I know what I want in my life.
I'm very particular about what I want to achieve. Even if it means stepping on somebody's toes or crossing my superiors, I will still decline and say 'No' to that task or that job if I feel that it doesn't suit me or if it is something that I know I cannot cope with.
I will not always say 'yes'.
Maybe it's the way I've been brought up. Maybe it's how God has been gently guiding me through my career. But I get very sensitive when my personal time is affected. I get very sensitive when my family time is affected.
My family, my time, my community projects, my students, my church activities - all these I hold high in my list of priorities. Notice that my work is not in the 'list'.
How can it be? Does it mean that I do not give my all in my work?
Nay.
I very strongly believe that if I have a blessed private life, with a close relationship with my wife and our parents, then I will wield even greater power to do well in my career.
And I can testify solidly that in the past 5 years, praise God, I have succeeded in achieving both. I do not wish to be a public success, yet fail in my private life.
So, even though there have been some murmurs of me being choosy and what not, I do not care about what others think.
I am answerable only to my God and my family. They are important to me, and I make sure I save my energies for them. I will not fall into that trap of depleting my youth into the bottomless pit called work.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
About graduation
Thanks for the memories, 4e5 and the graduating students of 4E4NA4NT5N.
It was great to see so many of you come for Graduation Day, in spite of the wet weather. I think it's a good idea to come for a graduation event (even if it's not a prom night) because it is a rite of passage, a necessary piece of a teenager's adolescence years. It marks the start of young adulthood - of greater responsibilities, and more opportunities to make bigger decisions independently.
It was fantastic when some of you came up to speak to me. Thank you for your kind words.
I want to thank you too, for being having a heart to serve and to lead, to have a heart to learn and to be taught. You have all grown up right before my eyes!
So Graduation Day, for me, is a bittersweet affair. Sweet, because naturally I am proud of you all, that you've come so far, and will be embarking on the next stage of your lives; bitter, because I know I am going to miss those times we've talked and chatted with each other. I will miss teaching you all PE and English. I will miss seeing you all eating and chatting happily, when I make my rounds around the canteen next year.
To 4e5, I hope to receive 40 wedding invites from you all, a few years from now! When your baby is one month old, throw a party and get all of us together!
To my beloved 4e5 and to the graduated students, take good care. Remember to have a vision of your future. Think big. Get onto the shoulders of giants (successful people). Stay away from lazy and corrupt people. Be persistent. Be anchored on the right values (sincere, kind, generous, hardworking, honest, faithful etc).
You will then go far in life.
Of course, even though you've graduated, we still can keep in touch, isn't it!
"To laugh often and much,
to win the respect of intelligent people
and the affection of children,
to earn the appreciation of honest critics and
endure the betrayal of false friends,
to find the best in others,
to leave the world a bit better,
to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived.
This is to have succeeded!" - Emerson
It was great to see so many of you come for Graduation Day, in spite of the wet weather. I think it's a good idea to come for a graduation event (even if it's not a prom night) because it is a rite of passage, a necessary piece of a teenager's adolescence years. It marks the start of young adulthood - of greater responsibilities, and more opportunities to make bigger decisions independently.
It was fantastic when some of you came up to speak to me. Thank you for your kind words.
I want to thank you too, for being having a heart to serve and to lead, to have a heart to learn and to be taught. You have all grown up right before my eyes!
So Graduation Day, for me, is a bittersweet affair. Sweet, because naturally I am proud of you all, that you've come so far, and will be embarking on the next stage of your lives; bitter, because I know I am going to miss those times we've talked and chatted with each other. I will miss teaching you all PE and English. I will miss seeing you all eating and chatting happily, when I make my rounds around the canteen next year.
To 4e5, I hope to receive 40 wedding invites from you all, a few years from now! When your baby is one month old, throw a party and get all of us together!
To my beloved 4e5 and to the graduated students, take good care. Remember to have a vision of your future. Think big. Get onto the shoulders of giants (successful people). Stay away from lazy and corrupt people. Be persistent. Be anchored on the right values (sincere, kind, generous, hardworking, honest, faithful etc).
You will then go far in life.
Of course, even though you've graduated, we still can keep in touch, isn't it!
"To laugh often and much,
to win the respect of intelligent people
and the affection of children,
to earn the appreciation of honest critics and
endure the betrayal of false friends,
to find the best in others,
to leave the world a bit better,
to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived.
This is to have succeeded!" - Emerson
Friday, November 02, 2007
About knowing what you really want
Many thanks to my colleagues who teamed up with me to conduct the Peer Leader Selection Interviews.
We are aware that many students who sat through such Interviews would have been almost paralysed with fear and anxiety. I think that this anxiety is excerbated by the massive Conference Room table and the freezing air-conditioning in the Conference Room.
However, the Interviews fulfil a crucial task, and that is to sieve out those students of genuine quality and those with the potential to go far. Obviously your academic performances and daily conduct in school are essential factors in determining whether you get a shot at the Interview or not.
And so, it was extremely perplexing to us when a few students seemed to be overtaken by a spirit of muteness. They seemed incapable of answering simple questions.
No. Do not say that it is just a matter of that student being too nervous.
You must understand that in any Interview, it is your one chance to leave a positive impression on the board of interviewers and make an impact on them. Answering our questions capably and elaborating on them would go a long way in helping you progress beyond Round 1.
For those who had froze, you most likely lost your chance. You have to show us that you really want the job.
To the Peer Leader trainees, just remember, you are one step closer towards a life-changing milestone in your life. I am not exaggerating.
Becoming a Peer Leader opens up a multitude of doors in your life. These doors lead to greater opportunities for personal development and community service. Your life won't be the same, if the School deems you as worthy to be a Peer Leader.
Looking at the big picture, whether or not the photo of the PLs appears in the school magazine is an issue that pales in comparison to their deeds and acts of services. The School knows about the hard work that you have done all these years and deeply appreciates the difference that you have made in our school.
There will be tonnes to do next year, PLs. Just make sure that when school resumes in 2008, you are all set to serve.
At the moment though, I will soon be organising a meeting with all you Sec 3 PLs to discuss about your duties and responsibilities for this year's edition of the Peer Leaders' Training Camp in mid-December. We will be meeting once you are all back from OBS.
It's time for us to raise up a new generation of Peer Leaders. Are the Sec 2 trainees ready to rise up and step into bigger shoes?
We are aware that many students who sat through such Interviews would have been almost paralysed with fear and anxiety. I think that this anxiety is excerbated by the massive Conference Room table and the freezing air-conditioning in the Conference Room.
However, the Interviews fulfil a crucial task, and that is to sieve out those students of genuine quality and those with the potential to go far. Obviously your academic performances and daily conduct in school are essential factors in determining whether you get a shot at the Interview or not.
And so, it was extremely perplexing to us when a few students seemed to be overtaken by a spirit of muteness. They seemed incapable of answering simple questions.
No. Do not say that it is just a matter of that student being too nervous.
You must understand that in any Interview, it is your one chance to leave a positive impression on the board of interviewers and make an impact on them. Answering our questions capably and elaborating on them would go a long way in helping you progress beyond Round 1.
For those who had froze, you most likely lost your chance. You have to show us that you really want the job.
To the Peer Leader trainees, just remember, you are one step closer towards a life-changing milestone in your life. I am not exaggerating.
Becoming a Peer Leader opens up a multitude of doors in your life. These doors lead to greater opportunities for personal development and community service. Your life won't be the same, if the School deems you as worthy to be a Peer Leader.
Looking at the big picture, whether or not the photo of the PLs appears in the school magazine is an issue that pales in comparison to their deeds and acts of services. The School knows about the hard work that you have done all these years and deeply appreciates the difference that you have made in our school.
There will be tonnes to do next year, PLs. Just make sure that when school resumes in 2008, you are all set to serve.
At the moment though, I will soon be organising a meeting with all you Sec 3 PLs to discuss about your duties and responsibilities for this year's edition of the Peer Leaders' Training Camp in mid-December. We will be meeting once you are all back from OBS.
It's time for us to raise up a new generation of Peer Leaders. Are the Sec 2 trainees ready to rise up and step into bigger shoes?
Thursday, November 01, 2007
About a mournful reunion
Yesterday I had a brief reunion with several of my JC friends.
It's been years since I've last met some of them.
We got together at a quiet corner of Bukit Timah, and we weren't celebrating.
One of our JC mates have passed away, and we were there to take a last look at her.
She was a classmate of mine. One vivid memory I had of her was at the tennis courts of the old NJC. Together with a few others, we had a merry game of tennis during PE. She was quite a mean player. She was certainly a cheerful and confident lady.
After years of suffering from an illness, we know that she rests in peace now, free from all her struggles and sufferings.
We will always remember you, Jacqueline.
It's been years since I've last met some of them.
We got together at a quiet corner of Bukit Timah, and we weren't celebrating.
One of our JC mates have passed away, and we were there to take a last look at her.
She was a classmate of mine. One vivid memory I had of her was at the tennis courts of the old NJC. Together with a few others, we had a merry game of tennis during PE. She was quite a mean player. She was certainly a cheerful and confident lady.
After years of suffering from an illness, we know that she rests in peace now, free from all her struggles and sufferings.
We will always remember you, Jacqueline.
Friday, October 26, 2007
About mistakes that should never be repeated twice
When I flipped through the school annual, I was eagerly looking for the photo of the Peer Leaders.
To my dismay, there was no such photo. Neither was there any section devoted to the Peer Leaders.
I utterly exploded within me. Miss Shawna, standing beside me, took the year book from me and tried looking for it too, while I muttered unspeakeable words in the air.
I had already told them last year. Yet this mistake has been allowed to happen again.
I'm boiling because I know my Peer Leaders will also be asking questions about the obvious omission. They want their photo to be up there. For goodness sake they've done a lot for the school. It is also bloody obvious that the PLs mean a lot to me, simply because I have unshakeable belief in their capacity to serve the school day in, day out.
Needless to say, I am not one to hide my feelings. My colleague in the editorial committee bore the brunt of my agitated questioning. I asked her, 'Where's the PL photo in the yearbook?'
I was raging deep inside. Those students who collected the IHG Captain's Ball medals from me had no idea. Those students who sat through the English Paper 2 papers with me in the Concourse had no idea.
Nobody has any idea how mad I was.
What am I supposed to say? It is obviously a mistake, but I know not who is responsible for this glaring error.
But I will find out.
When something's not right, I do not intend to let the matter rest. I will rectify it.
To my dismay, there was no such photo. Neither was there any section devoted to the Peer Leaders.
I utterly exploded within me. Miss Shawna, standing beside me, took the year book from me and tried looking for it too, while I muttered unspeakeable words in the air.
I had already told them last year. Yet this mistake has been allowed to happen again.
I'm boiling because I know my Peer Leaders will also be asking questions about the obvious omission. They want their photo to be up there. For goodness sake they've done a lot for the school. It is also bloody obvious that the PLs mean a lot to me, simply because I have unshakeable belief in their capacity to serve the school day in, day out.
Needless to say, I am not one to hide my feelings. My colleague in the editorial committee bore the brunt of my agitated questioning. I asked her, 'Where's the PL photo in the yearbook?'
I was raging deep inside. Those students who collected the IHG Captain's Ball medals from me had no idea. Those students who sat through the English Paper 2 papers with me in the Concourse had no idea.
Nobody has any idea how mad I was.
What am I supposed to say? It is obviously a mistake, but I know not who is responsible for this glaring error.
But I will find out.
When something's not right, I do not intend to let the matter rest. I will rectify it.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
About my thoughts recently
The amount of work coming to me has been simply relentless.
Tomorrow's big event is just one of many projects that have come my way.
Over the next two months I can hardly see a window of time when I can truly sit back and relax. Sometimes I cannot bear to think anymore, when I've been thinking and planning so much. My mind's just so drained.
And then there's the line-up of races I've signed up for myself. Some are plain crazy, like the seventy-something storey Vertical Marathon up the Swissotel next month. There's the Osim Coporate Triathlon to train for. There's the 15 km REAL Run coming up in 2 weekends. And there's the small matter of the Stan-Chart 42km marathon in December. Just 3 days ago I completed a 2-hour run non-stop and man, it felt great, just to know that my body is getting stronger with every step. Every training run is going to help. These runs along the beach are like a dyke that protects my sanity from the eroding waves of work that keeps coming and coming and coming.
Sometimes, I sit back and think about my job, my family, my life, my faith, and then I realise that no matter how exhausted or how overwhelmed life can make me, I must then think this way: for every tough day life may deal me, I must remember the ten, twenty blessings that God has blessed me with. And then, once it becomes apparent that I am blessed, I need not be bothered anymore with unfavourable or tough circumstances, because I know I will come through them victoriously.
My thoughts are also with my dear students who are due to sit for the O Level examinations in a matter of days. It is good to see so many students who are disciplined enough to study everyday. It is brilliant when students come for the lessons during the special timetable and use the time wisely to get useful practice for those subjects. For my own class 4E5, it is very obvious - Ms Kum and I want each and every one of you to do well in the coming exams.
In particular, I am very inspired to see Peixuan and Yisan faithfully sitting in the Concourse, pursuing teachers to clarify their doubts and review their practice papers. The teachers are simply delighted to be able to help you, because you have an appetite to learn. Ask and it shall be given.
I am sure many others are studying hard too. Don't stop! If you're feeling tired and want to give up, tell yourself to snap out of it.
Remember, it's not over until the time is up for the very last O Level paper. Till then, make sure you are 110% prepared for every subject you sit for.
Finally, the one thing on TV that I look forward to with a keen sense of anticipation is the ongoing Rugby Union World Cup. I'm not ashamed to declare that the team I'm supporting is England. It has to be, having lived there for 4 years.
Having seen them hit rock bottom by their hapless hammering by South Africa in the group stage, England have risen from the ashes to knock out Australia in the quarter-finals and France in the semi-finals. The funny thing was, nobody gave England a chance. I think the Englishmen's victory over the mighty Wallabies showed the world what resilience and tenacity is all about. It would be good for my basketball boys to watch their matches.
The final is coming up, and they will meet South Africa in the final. It's a re-match. I am not sure who will win, since South Africa is one of the best rugby nations in the world, in the same league as Australia and New Zealand.
But if the English play with the same passion and heart, then I am sure South Africa will find it very tough.
My prediction? England to win, with the handsome Jonny Wilkinson scoring the winning points.
Go catch the match!
Tomorrow's big event is just one of many projects that have come my way.
Over the next two months I can hardly see a window of time when I can truly sit back and relax. Sometimes I cannot bear to think anymore, when I've been thinking and planning so much. My mind's just so drained.
And then there's the line-up of races I've signed up for myself. Some are plain crazy, like the seventy-something storey Vertical Marathon up the Swissotel next month. There's the Osim Coporate Triathlon to train for. There's the 15 km REAL Run coming up in 2 weekends. And there's the small matter of the Stan-Chart 42km marathon in December. Just 3 days ago I completed a 2-hour run non-stop and man, it felt great, just to know that my body is getting stronger with every step. Every training run is going to help. These runs along the beach are like a dyke that protects my sanity from the eroding waves of work that keeps coming and coming and coming.
Sometimes, I sit back and think about my job, my family, my life, my faith, and then I realise that no matter how exhausted or how overwhelmed life can make me, I must then think this way: for every tough day life may deal me, I must remember the ten, twenty blessings that God has blessed me with. And then, once it becomes apparent that I am blessed, I need not be bothered anymore with unfavourable or tough circumstances, because I know I will come through them victoriously.
My thoughts are also with my dear students who are due to sit for the O Level examinations in a matter of days. It is good to see so many students who are disciplined enough to study everyday. It is brilliant when students come for the lessons during the special timetable and use the time wisely to get useful practice for those subjects. For my own class 4E5, it is very obvious - Ms Kum and I want each and every one of you to do well in the coming exams.
In particular, I am very inspired to see Peixuan and Yisan faithfully sitting in the Concourse, pursuing teachers to clarify their doubts and review their practice papers. The teachers are simply delighted to be able to help you, because you have an appetite to learn. Ask and it shall be given.
I am sure many others are studying hard too. Don't stop! If you're feeling tired and want to give up, tell yourself to snap out of it.
Remember, it's not over until the time is up for the very last O Level paper. Till then, make sure you are 110% prepared for every subject you sit for.
Finally, the one thing on TV that I look forward to with a keen sense of anticipation is the ongoing Rugby Union World Cup. I'm not ashamed to declare that the team I'm supporting is England. It has to be, having lived there for 4 years.
Having seen them hit rock bottom by their hapless hammering by South Africa in the group stage, England have risen from the ashes to knock out Australia in the quarter-finals and France in the semi-finals. The funny thing was, nobody gave England a chance. I think the Englishmen's victory over the mighty Wallabies showed the world what resilience and tenacity is all about. It would be good for my basketball boys to watch their matches.
The final is coming up, and they will meet South Africa in the final. It's a re-match. I am not sure who will win, since South Africa is one of the best rugby nations in the world, in the same league as Australia and New Zealand.
But if the English play with the same passion and heart, then I am sure South Africa will find it very tough.
My prediction? England to win, with the handsome Jonny Wilkinson scoring the winning points.
Go catch the match!
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
About a chance meeting on a bus today
It was great to walk out of school in the bright sunshine. Rarely do I get the chance to be able to head for home at 2.15pm sharp. But this week being the examination week, with no CCA or meetings, I thought I might as well just leave, and forget about the pile of work on my table for today.
But being a little bit of a workaholic, I did lug along my laptop. Who knows, I might end up in a cafe, on the way home, and get some work done, with a good ol cup of hot chocolate to keep me warm.
But the best thing that happened was actually when I was seated on a bus. A lady plonked herself next to me. I looked up and saw a very pleasant and familiar face.
You know, it's always fantastic to meet ex-students, and it's even better if we get to have a chat. And I did enjoy catching up with her. Hey XY, life in the polytechnic is never easy but keep working at it, and keep up with the new topics and notes regularly, and I'm sure you'll do fine. And holla, it's nice to know you're into triathlons too!
The bus eventually ended up at Suntec City. My ex-student had already gotten off the bus earlier. I was supposed to head for the nearby bus-stop for a bus transfer but I made a short detour to the Starbuck's and I really got myself a cup of hot chocolate and started to blog this entry.
Well, back to work!
But being a little bit of a workaholic, I did lug along my laptop. Who knows, I might end up in a cafe, on the way home, and get some work done, with a good ol cup of hot chocolate to keep me warm.
But the best thing that happened was actually when I was seated on a bus. A lady plonked herself next to me. I looked up and saw a very pleasant and familiar face.
You know, it's always fantastic to meet ex-students, and it's even better if we get to have a chat. And I did enjoy catching up with her. Hey XY, life in the polytechnic is never easy but keep working at it, and keep up with the new topics and notes regularly, and I'm sure you'll do fine. And holla, it's nice to know you're into triathlons too!
The bus eventually ended up at Suntec City. My ex-student had already gotten off the bus earlier. I was supposed to head for the nearby bus-stop for a bus transfer but I made a short detour to the Starbuck's and I really got myself a cup of hot chocolate and started to blog this entry.
Well, back to work!
Friday, September 21, 2007
About appreciation
Hats off to those who ran the 2.4km during this week's round of NAPFA re-tests.
You gave your best and it was such a bonus when you posted good timings, even though it must have been incredibly difficult. Well done. I'm immensely proud of you all.
To the rest of you in my PE classes, I have to say that nothing brings me as much pleasure and satisfaction than to be able to teach you in this subject.
To those who are fasting - happy fasting and look forward to Hari Raya. Take care.
You gave your best and it was such a bonus when you posted good timings, even though it must have been incredibly difficult. Well done. I'm immensely proud of you all.
To the rest of you in my PE classes, I have to say that nothing brings me as much pleasure and satisfaction than to be able to teach you in this subject.
To those who are fasting - happy fasting and look forward to Hari Raya. Take care.
Friday, September 14, 2007
About an incident that disturbed me profoundly
After a week of crafting testimonials for my class, I was nigh fatigued. Over the past few days, I used my leisure time in the evenings and the early mornings, poised at the laptop, to painstakingly type out testimonial after testimonial.
These testimonials are going to be very important to my 4e5 boys and girls, so I better make sure I do a good job!
Yesterday, after a productive morning (where I completed my 39th testimonial), I decided to get out of the Staff Room for a breather. One more second of staring at the computer screen, and I would have lost my marbles.
So I walked to the parade square, and observed some classes having their NAPFA re-tests.
Then, right in front of me was a girl getting ready to do the shuttle run.
And off she went. She ran at a very good speed.
Unfortunately, at the last stretch, she lost her balance just after she picked up the second bean bag and turned.
She stumbled. One, two steps to the side - she was out of control.
She crashed to the ground in a heap, unable to even break the fall.
Then in the next few moments, I saw the worst and best of people immediately after this incident.
Behind me were 3 students from the same class who did not participate in the PE lesson, as they were not in PE attire.
When the girl fell, their shrieking laughter filled the air.
It was obvious that they were laughing at the girl who fell.
My eyes burned with anger. But I did not turn back to reprimand them.
Though their actions were utterly detestable, they were of absolutely no import at that moment.
That injured girl was my priority.
Many pupils who were waiting for their turn to take the shuttle run sat by the side, when the girl stumbled and crashed.
When it happened, they did nothing.
They did not lift a finger to help, nor ask her, "Hey are you all right?"
All they did was to look and pass comments, as the PE teacher of that class tended to the injured girl.
Redemption came in the form of a few pupils from the class who rushed to the aid of the girl. They helped her up, cleaned her nasty wounds, and got her treated at the general office.
Alas.
Too few.
Today, during my English lesson with 4T1, I made it very clear to them:
Help those who need help. Do something. Check with them.
Do not think that 'somebody else will take care of that problem or that person.' Do not think that 'it's not my business.'
If we want the world around us to become a kinder place, we have to realise that it starts with us.
Every day, there are moments that reveal to us someone who will need help - such as help with a broken heart, sadness, homework, relationships. Sometimes all they need is a listening ear. Sometimes all they need to someone to offer them an encouraging word.
Let's keep our eyes open and be sensitive to the feelings of others. And when it is time, let us make a difference in other people's lives, by speaking kindly, and giving support and encouragement, whenever we can.
If we don't do this, then who will?
It's got to start with me, myself and I, isn't it?
Let us own our world. Let us take charge. Let us make the first move and make our world a better place.
4t1 - don't forget what I've taught you!
As for 4e5, the end of the Preliminary Exams is at hand.
I hope you appreciate the value of these exams. It will be the last full dress rehearsal for your O Levels.
Whether you do well or stumble badly, I hope you will reap some learning points from your strengths and weaknesses in your performances.
At this point in time, it is already meaningless to cajole and persuade you to study, study and study.
This is simply because you must already be doing it, at full steam, even right now.
I have to give you this sobering but stark warning: at this critical period of time, there is no such thing as taking a break.
The grim reality is, you are competing with thousands of O Level students across the island to clinch a spot in those ultra-limited courses you fancy in the polytechnic/ junior college.
Just don't get left out. Compete!
These testimonials are going to be very important to my 4e5 boys and girls, so I better make sure I do a good job!
Yesterday, after a productive morning (where I completed my 39th testimonial), I decided to get out of the Staff Room for a breather. One more second of staring at the computer screen, and I would have lost my marbles.
So I walked to the parade square, and observed some classes having their NAPFA re-tests.
Then, right in front of me was a girl getting ready to do the shuttle run.
And off she went. She ran at a very good speed.
Unfortunately, at the last stretch, she lost her balance just after she picked up the second bean bag and turned.
She stumbled. One, two steps to the side - she was out of control.
She crashed to the ground in a heap, unable to even break the fall.
Then in the next few moments, I saw the worst and best of people immediately after this incident.
Behind me were 3 students from the same class who did not participate in the PE lesson, as they were not in PE attire.
When the girl fell, their shrieking laughter filled the air.
It was obvious that they were laughing at the girl who fell.
My eyes burned with anger. But I did not turn back to reprimand them.
Though their actions were utterly detestable, they were of absolutely no import at that moment.
That injured girl was my priority.
Many pupils who were waiting for their turn to take the shuttle run sat by the side, when the girl stumbled and crashed.
When it happened, they did nothing.
They did not lift a finger to help, nor ask her, "Hey are you all right?"
All they did was to look and pass comments, as the PE teacher of that class tended to the injured girl.
Redemption came in the form of a few pupils from the class who rushed to the aid of the girl. They helped her up, cleaned her nasty wounds, and got her treated at the general office.
Alas.
Too few.
Today, during my English lesson with 4T1, I made it very clear to them:
Help those who need help. Do something. Check with them.
Do not think that 'somebody else will take care of that problem or that person.' Do not think that 'it's not my business.'
If we want the world around us to become a kinder place, we have to realise that it starts with us.
Every day, there are moments that reveal to us someone who will need help - such as help with a broken heart, sadness, homework, relationships. Sometimes all they need is a listening ear. Sometimes all they need to someone to offer them an encouraging word.
Let's keep our eyes open and be sensitive to the feelings of others. And when it is time, let us make a difference in other people's lives, by speaking kindly, and giving support and encouragement, whenever we can.
If we don't do this, then who will?
It's got to start with me, myself and I, isn't it?
Let us own our world. Let us take charge. Let us make the first move and make our world a better place.
4t1 - don't forget what I've taught you!
As for 4e5, the end of the Preliminary Exams is at hand.
I hope you appreciate the value of these exams. It will be the last full dress rehearsal for your O Levels.
Whether you do well or stumble badly, I hope you will reap some learning points from your strengths and weaknesses in your performances.
At this point in time, it is already meaningless to cajole and persuade you to study, study and study.
This is simply because you must already be doing it, at full steam, even right now.
I have to give you this sobering but stark warning: at this critical period of time, there is no such thing as taking a break.
The grim reality is, you are competing with thousands of O Level students across the island to clinch a spot in those ultra-limited courses you fancy in the polytechnic/ junior college.
Just don't get left out. Compete!
Thursday, September 06, 2007
About an aural assault
The moment I stepped into the mall, I really wanted to make an exit.
Yesterday, waiting for my wife in Millenia Walk became a nauseating affair.
Of course, it has completely nothing to do with her.
It's noise, that assails you from every angle.
Some are thinly disguised as music, blared out loudly from the ubiqitous boutiques and electronic stores. The lunchtime crowd's incessant chatter raised the decibels up several notches.
It's hard to think and it's hard to talk.
No wonder we can get edgy at the slightest thing - our souls can never be at rest if we are constantly provocated by noise. Even our buses now no longer provide a haven of peace and serenity. The tv shows on the dull screens are irksome, to be honest.
Maybe it's the crowds. Maybe it was something that someone said earlier that disturbed me.
But I know clearly that when my mood's not right, I ain't going anywhere near somebody or some place that stays noisy. It won't help.
Yesterday, waiting for my wife in Millenia Walk became a nauseating affair.
Of course, it has completely nothing to do with her.
It's noise, that assails you from every angle.
Some are thinly disguised as music, blared out loudly from the ubiqitous boutiques and electronic stores. The lunchtime crowd's incessant chatter raised the decibels up several notches.
It's hard to think and it's hard to talk.
No wonder we can get edgy at the slightest thing - our souls can never be at rest if we are constantly provocated by noise. Even our buses now no longer provide a haven of peace and serenity. The tv shows on the dull screens are irksome, to be honest.
Maybe it's the crowds. Maybe it was something that someone said earlier that disturbed me.
But I know clearly that when my mood's not right, I ain't going anywhere near somebody or some place that stays noisy. It won't help.
Sunday, September 02, 2007
About being thankful and satisfied
3 days of rest have done a world of good to my body.
I could feel the healing. I could slowly go further in my range of movement. Pain subsided slowly and surely.
I did not touch the painkillers at all. I felt that I didn't even have to take them. Yes, there was pain, but it was bearable. By the second day, the pains were reduced to nagging aches, dull and throbbing.
In the hours spent at home, I continued to work, refining the plans for the massive Teachers' Day Games, reading up on my book and comics, and getting plenty of rest in-between.
I've been obedient, doctor.
Just so you know, I'm gonna make sure I recover from this. I still want to complete that marathon in December.
I thank God for my parents who have travelled the inhibitive distances between our homes to bring me dinner. I cannot express enough how thankful I am of them and their kindess and generosity.
I must thank my wife, who also laboured to ensure I was well-rested and met my needs, while I was confined at home. She has been absolutely great.
So complete was my recuperation that, 3 days after the injury happened, I was back to school on Friday, to oversee the Teachers' Day Games. It is no exaggeration to say that this was one of the biggest projects the school has embarked.
Planning for the orderly and coordinated movement of 37 classes in one morning is no mean feat.
It could have been a potential nightmare, had planning been any less meticulous.
Countless meetings with the planning committee, numerous revisions to the movement plan, plan B (for wet weather), deployment of teachers, deployment of student leaders, safety considerations, venues, logistics, a workable scoring system etc - there were so many variable factors we had to consider.
Funnily enough, I relished taking on this massive task.
I think we did well. There was favourable feedback from various quarters.
The best feedback that gave me the deepest satisfaction came from teachers who came up to me and said that they had fun.
This is bacause, at the end of the day, what we've worked so hard for, is not so much for the students.
It's Teachers' Day, after all.
Instead of staging a concert, we broke out of our comfort zone and decided to have a day where teachers could play with the kids.
Teachers are a cool lot of people, don cha think.
With all due respect, lawyers, doctors, engineers, CEOs - these kind of jobs pay well and are well-respected.
But I think no other job commands more respect than that of a teacher.
Think about it. My life has been changed because I have been blessed by the words of inspiring teachers in my schooling life. No doctor or lawyer could have ever done that.
By being a teacher today, I am stepping into gigantic shoes. Teaching and imparting knowledge are crucial, but I see imparting values and a love for learning as even more essential aspects of my job. It's my responsibility to groom the youths under me to be imbued with the right character traits and values.
The teachers in my life had shown me the way. Now it is my turn to do the same in Fajar.
I could feel the healing. I could slowly go further in my range of movement. Pain subsided slowly and surely.
I did not touch the painkillers at all. I felt that I didn't even have to take them. Yes, there was pain, but it was bearable. By the second day, the pains were reduced to nagging aches, dull and throbbing.
In the hours spent at home, I continued to work, refining the plans for the massive Teachers' Day Games, reading up on my book and comics, and getting plenty of rest in-between.
I've been obedient, doctor.
Just so you know, I'm gonna make sure I recover from this. I still want to complete that marathon in December.
I thank God for my parents who have travelled the inhibitive distances between our homes to bring me dinner. I cannot express enough how thankful I am of them and their kindess and generosity.
I must thank my wife, who also laboured to ensure I was well-rested and met my needs, while I was confined at home. She has been absolutely great.
So complete was my recuperation that, 3 days after the injury happened, I was back to school on Friday, to oversee the Teachers' Day Games. It is no exaggeration to say that this was one of the biggest projects the school has embarked.
Planning for the orderly and coordinated movement of 37 classes in one morning is no mean feat.
It could have been a potential nightmare, had planning been any less meticulous.
Countless meetings with the planning committee, numerous revisions to the movement plan, plan B (for wet weather), deployment of teachers, deployment of student leaders, safety considerations, venues, logistics, a workable scoring system etc - there were so many variable factors we had to consider.
Funnily enough, I relished taking on this massive task.
I think we did well. There was favourable feedback from various quarters.
The best feedback that gave me the deepest satisfaction came from teachers who came up to me and said that they had fun.
This is bacause, at the end of the day, what we've worked so hard for, is not so much for the students.
It's Teachers' Day, after all.
Instead of staging a concert, we broke out of our comfort zone and decided to have a day where teachers could play with the kids.
Teachers are a cool lot of people, don cha think.
With all due respect, lawyers, doctors, engineers, CEOs - these kind of jobs pay well and are well-respected.
But I think no other job commands more respect than that of a teacher.
Think about it. My life has been changed because I have been blessed by the words of inspiring teachers in my schooling life. No doctor or lawyer could have ever done that.
By being a teacher today, I am stepping into gigantic shoes. Teaching and imparting knowledge are crucial, but I see imparting values and a love for learning as even more essential aspects of my job. It's my responsibility to groom the youths under me to be imbued with the right character traits and values.
The teachers in my life had shown me the way. Now it is my turn to do the same in Fajar.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
About an unexpected injury
The moment it gave way, I knew that's the end of the game for me.
Reaching for a ball, done thousands of times previously, led to the injury that left me struggling to walk.
I berated myself. I slowly realised that this pain wasn't going to leave so easily.
I berated myself for being so foolish. To play a game, so enthusiastically, just after a half-marathon. Should have rested more.
I don't know.
Don't have the bloody answers.
It's a miracle (or beyond reason, whichever way one looks at it) that I continued to stay in school till the late afternoon, for God knows what reasons. Isn't it supposed to be like that - work pales in importance to health?
And when I finally extricated myself from school, I finally did the thing that made all the sense in the world - and checked myself into the A & E ward.
I only got to see the doctor 2 and a half hours later. I was mumbling to my wife that next time, I'll fork out a little more, do myself a favour and go to a private hospital next time - and save myself from wasting all those frustrating hours of waiting.
Thanks for the painkillers, doctor. Taking it on the first night helped numb the pain in my back. Thank God I could still sleep in peace.
I realised that every single move I made caused the pain to shoot from my back. Is my back that important? Unfortunately it is.
I wonder what this injury means for the future?
Reaching for a ball, done thousands of times previously, led to the injury that left me struggling to walk.
I berated myself. I slowly realised that this pain wasn't going to leave so easily.
I berated myself for being so foolish. To play a game, so enthusiastically, just after a half-marathon. Should have rested more.
I don't know.
Don't have the bloody answers.
It's a miracle (or beyond reason, whichever way one looks at it) that I continued to stay in school till the late afternoon, for God knows what reasons. Isn't it supposed to be like that - work pales in importance to health?
And when I finally extricated myself from school, I finally did the thing that made all the sense in the world - and checked myself into the A & E ward.
I only got to see the doctor 2 and a half hours later. I was mumbling to my wife that next time, I'll fork out a little more, do myself a favour and go to a private hospital next time - and save myself from wasting all those frustrating hours of waiting.
Thanks for the painkillers, doctor. Taking it on the first night helped numb the pain in my back. Thank God I could still sleep in peace.
I realised that every single move I made caused the pain to shoot from my back. Is my back that important? Unfortunately it is.
I wonder what this injury means for the future?
Sunday, August 26, 2007
About the longest Sunday in a long long while
Feeling quite worn out now, even as I type, but otherwise, I'm doing quite well.
Not bad, for someone who has just completed the 21km Army Half-Marathon this morning. And man, I feel great!
I have to say that running and playing sports makes me feel really good. The other leisure activity that would come close is reading a really good book.
It's quite a miracle really (and for this I have to thank God), that I completed the race without a single tinge of cramp in my leg muscles. This is amazing, as my training for this endurance event has been patchy, at best. The longest run I'd done, prior to this morning, was only an 8 km run - hardly sufficient at all!
Undoubtedly, for December's full marathon, I am determined to set aside time each week to clock in the mileage. I may have breezed through this race today, but the 42km run in December is on another level (physically and mentally) altogether.
My wife ran in this event too and I must say she did a brilliant job today. Her hard training in London and New York has no doubt helped her. To the friends who ran today - congratulations on a job well done!
Finally, as usual, for such marathons, inspirational quotes are ubiquitously placed along the running route. One quote which particularly caught my attention was, "You will never know the impossible until you push beyond the limits of the possible."
Quite right there, I must say.
Not bad, for someone who has just completed the 21km Army Half-Marathon this morning. And man, I feel great!
I have to say that running and playing sports makes me feel really good. The other leisure activity that would come close is reading a really good book.
It's quite a miracle really (and for this I have to thank God), that I completed the race without a single tinge of cramp in my leg muscles. This is amazing, as my training for this endurance event has been patchy, at best. The longest run I'd done, prior to this morning, was only an 8 km run - hardly sufficient at all!
Undoubtedly, for December's full marathon, I am determined to set aside time each week to clock in the mileage. I may have breezed through this race today, but the 42km run in December is on another level (physically and mentally) altogether.
My wife ran in this event too and I must say she did a brilliant job today. Her hard training in London and New York has no doubt helped her. To the friends who ran today - congratulations on a job well done!
Finally, as usual, for such marathons, inspirational quotes are ubiquitously placed along the running route. One quote which particularly caught my attention was, "You will never know the impossible until you push beyond the limits of the possible."
Quite right there, I must say.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
About self-fulfilling prophecies and the power of your word
Today, I had an invigorating English lesson with 4e5.
The English Oral examinations, for them, is merely days away. Needless to say, I was more than ready to make sure that every single one of them is properly trained and given sufficient practice in class.
It is particularly heartwarming to have students coming up (in spite of their hesitancy, fear of making mistakes in front of others, watching and waiting for others to go first) to have authentic practice in front of me and my lovely fellow 'examiner', Janelle (yesterday it was elegant Izzianie who was my partner).
During moments when everyone seemed hesitant to sit in front of Janelle and I for the exam practice, I remember bellowing my voice at them saying, "For Heaven's sake, if I were you, I'd be thinking to myself that I should get myself seated on that chair, in front of Mr Ng, and get myself some useful practice!"
The class concurred that the picture discussion section of the oral examination was the most difficult for them.
Swiftly, I told them this, "Drop this attitude. Stop thinking that the picture is difficult. If you go into the exam room with the thinking that you won't do well, you most probably won't. If you think that you will be defeated even before the battle starts, you'll most probably lose."
My point to them is, positive thinking - even under impossible or challenging situations - can actually give you victory from the jaws of defeat.
What you say is what you get.
Confession IS possession.
Proclaim good things over situations in your life (even in the most dire of circumstances) and you will find that life will be easier on you.
I have given you a secret in living a victorious life, 4e5.
Applying this big idea to the picture discussion component, you will need to go into this exam with self-confidence.
I have given you tips. You have gone through the practice. You even know what the examiners are looking out for.
You are fully equipped to take on this exam.
I say to you: go into this exam, expecting to do well, with ALL your effort.
You can do well!
As a final word, your MT results, on the whole, hasn't been very flattering.
For those who have had that smug air about them, thinking that you would bag that A1 or A2, I hope reality has bitten you real hard.
There is no such thing as a free lunch. If you put in minimal results and put in sub-standard effort in your daily work, then do not say to yourself that you will score distinctions. It won't happen.
For those who are disappointed in your results, I say to you: move on, and get used to the fact that you need to study for your MT again.
It's important to reflect on your attitude in your studies. Sometimes, if you think real hard about it, there are changes that need to be made in the way you think towards studies, revision and exams.
Don't expect to get different results with the same old methods of revision. Improvise. Make sure the time spent on revision is effective and productive.
Switch off that mobile phone. Shut down the computer. Be alone if you need to. Just study!
You have less than 20 days before you start the Fajar exams. This will be the last school exams you will take.
You don't have much time.
Use the remaining days wisely, 4e5.
And you have my assurance that the 4e5 teachers will be here to help you in your quest for success, as you draw near to the big O.
The English Oral examinations, for them, is merely days away. Needless to say, I was more than ready to make sure that every single one of them is properly trained and given sufficient practice in class.
It is particularly heartwarming to have students coming up (in spite of their hesitancy, fear of making mistakes in front of others, watching and waiting for others to go first) to have authentic practice in front of me and my lovely fellow 'examiner', Janelle (yesterday it was elegant Izzianie who was my partner).
During moments when everyone seemed hesitant to sit in front of Janelle and I for the exam practice, I remember bellowing my voice at them saying, "For Heaven's sake, if I were you, I'd be thinking to myself that I should get myself seated on that chair, in front of Mr Ng, and get myself some useful practice!"
The class concurred that the picture discussion section of the oral examination was the most difficult for them.
Swiftly, I told them this, "Drop this attitude. Stop thinking that the picture is difficult. If you go into the exam room with the thinking that you won't do well, you most probably won't. If you think that you will be defeated even before the battle starts, you'll most probably lose."
My point to them is, positive thinking - even under impossible or challenging situations - can actually give you victory from the jaws of defeat.
What you say is what you get.
Confession IS possession.
Proclaim good things over situations in your life (even in the most dire of circumstances) and you will find that life will be easier on you.
I have given you a secret in living a victorious life, 4e5.
Applying this big idea to the picture discussion component, you will need to go into this exam with self-confidence.
I have given you tips. You have gone through the practice. You even know what the examiners are looking out for.
You are fully equipped to take on this exam.
I say to you: go into this exam, expecting to do well, with ALL your effort.
You can do well!
As a final word, your MT results, on the whole, hasn't been very flattering.
For those who have had that smug air about them, thinking that you would bag that A1 or A2, I hope reality has bitten you real hard.
There is no such thing as a free lunch. If you put in minimal results and put in sub-standard effort in your daily work, then do not say to yourself that you will score distinctions. It won't happen.
For those who are disappointed in your results, I say to you: move on, and get used to the fact that you need to study for your MT again.
It's important to reflect on your attitude in your studies. Sometimes, if you think real hard about it, there are changes that need to be made in the way you think towards studies, revision and exams.
Don't expect to get different results with the same old methods of revision. Improvise. Make sure the time spent on revision is effective and productive.
Switch off that mobile phone. Shut down the computer. Be alone if you need to. Just study!
You have less than 20 days before you start the Fajar exams. This will be the last school exams you will take.
You don't have much time.
Use the remaining days wisely, 4e5.
And you have my assurance that the 4e5 teachers will be here to help you in your quest for success, as you draw near to the big O.
Friday, August 10, 2007
About our nation
Mr Yong's and Mr Ong's outstanding sharing about their NS experiences stood out from a packed programme for our school's National Day celebration.
Their sentiments resonated with me.
We serve NS, not because we have to. It's because this island nation has given me opportunities that no other country can. This country is a safe and secure haven for my family and I.
I have travelled widely and I can say this with absolute certainty that there is no other place I'd rather be, than to be in Singapore.
And I will sing that Anthem and recite the Pledge. Patriotic? I'm proud of it.
Singapore is worth defending and it is this generation of students (who are tomorrow's leaders) who will have to strive to bring Singapore to greater heights of success, prosperity and ensure her continued security, even in this volatile world that we live in.
And underpinning our continued prosperity is the fact that we have a very capable armed forces that is technologically one of the most advanced in Asia. Operated by a well-trained and well-educated citizen army, it is no wonder that the SAF is highly regarded by nations all around the world.
Of course, state-of-the-art technology can be rendered completely useless, if the youths of today lack a strong sense of loyalty and responsibility to our nation.
All it takes is to have one generation of young people to feel nothing (or even a little) and it can undo all the hard work that the pioneers of our nation have sacrificed so much to build up.
National Service is a key pillar in our continued security. No one will defend this island for us. We will need to do this on our own. The boys who will be serving NS in the near future - look forward to it. With a positive attitude, NS can be one of the best times of your lives .
Their sentiments resonated with me.
We serve NS, not because we have to. It's because this island nation has given me opportunities that no other country can. This country is a safe and secure haven for my family and I.
I have travelled widely and I can say this with absolute certainty that there is no other place I'd rather be, than to be in Singapore.
And I will sing that Anthem and recite the Pledge. Patriotic? I'm proud of it.
Singapore is worth defending and it is this generation of students (who are tomorrow's leaders) who will have to strive to bring Singapore to greater heights of success, prosperity and ensure her continued security, even in this volatile world that we live in.
And underpinning our continued prosperity is the fact that we have a very capable armed forces that is technologically one of the most advanced in Asia. Operated by a well-trained and well-educated citizen army, it is no wonder that the SAF is highly regarded by nations all around the world.
Of course, state-of-the-art technology can be rendered completely useless, if the youths of today lack a strong sense of loyalty and responsibility to our nation.
All it takes is to have one generation of young people to feel nothing (or even a little) and it can undo all the hard work that the pioneers of our nation have sacrificed so much to build up.
National Service is a key pillar in our continued security. No one will defend this island for us. We will need to do this on our own. The boys who will be serving NS in the near future - look forward to it. With a positive attitude, NS can be one of the best times of your lives .
Saturday, August 04, 2007
About the denouement of a great adventure
It is only appropriate that I end off my series of posts with one final flurry of pictures of my last full day in Copenhagen.
It had been a tremendous experience so far. Bergen exceeded all expectations. Oslo proved to be a slight disppointment, but I still admire its First World standards in civility and transport system. Copenhagen is much more cosmopolitan.
We realised that we had only one full day in Copenhagen left, as we were due to catch the late morning flight back to Singapore on the next day.
So once we reached dry land again, after the overnight ferry ride from Oslo, we immediately went to the central train station in Copenhagen and left our backpacks in the luggage lockers.
The central train station is a massive building, and acts like a nerve centre, where one can be connected to local cities and other destinations in Europe from this station.
While roaming along the streets of central Copenhagen, we decided to take the path less trodden and head away from the main shopping street, into the minor sidewalks. We were richly rewarded, when we stumbled upon, by accident, this shop called Friis and Company. My missus loves the bags, shoes, belts and accessories from this boutique. Its hallmark is that of a crown found on all its items. I have to say that their products are really quite pretty. It's a pity then, that Friis and Company has not yet found its way into our shores yet.
We spent a lot of time in there, as my wife nearly wanted to get everything she saw. I didn't help - I actually stirred her up even more, by encouraging her!
She was trying to decide which bag to buy, as it came in two colours - pink and grey.
In the end, I recommended the pink one, and she got it! Here's her making her payment at the counter. She was certainly one very happy customer.
And here she stands, right outside the shop, with her glorious buys.
Along the way, we saw some interesting sights:
All that walking made us very hungry, so we chanced upon this Chinese joint, and decided to have our lunch there.
The food was quite palatable, sometimes awful, but it did its job in filling our stomachs.
In the late afternoon, we stopped by this cafe for a drink, so we ordered 2 hot chocolates and watched the world go by.
We agreed that the waitress was quite pretty so we asked her if she could have a picture with my wife. Here you go - a blonde Norwegian beauty and a gorgeous Singaporean babe - a lethal combination.
After a satisfying dinner at our favourite Thai joint, we made our way back to the central train station to collect our backpacks, and took a bus back to our hostel after that. We lost no time in heading back to the comfort of the hostel room to rest our overworked legs.
The next day, the bus ride to the Kastrup Airport went without any hitches. It was good to be on that plane, back to Singapore.
In the airport, however, I came across this large advertisement:
In Shakespeare's Hamlet, I remember how one of the soldiers, after an encounter with the ghost of Hamlet's murdered father, chillingly remarked to his spooked colleague that, "There is something rotten in the state of Denmark." This advertisement resonated with me, having studied Hamlet in my A Levels some years back. It is a terrific book, I must say.
It's now early August, and sometimes my mind starts flirting with thoughts of my next holiday destination. It might be Shanghai, Moscow, Barcelona, Tokyo, Christchurch... who knows? But wherever we may go, we will surely have a great and memorable time. Being away, in a strange and foreign land, is one of the best things you can do.
Finally, a big part of why this trip was magnificent is because I have the perfect travelling partner - my beautiful wife.
It had been a tremendous experience so far. Bergen exceeded all expectations. Oslo proved to be a slight disppointment, but I still admire its First World standards in civility and transport system. Copenhagen is much more cosmopolitan.
We realised that we had only one full day in Copenhagen left, as we were due to catch the late morning flight back to Singapore on the next day.
So once we reached dry land again, after the overnight ferry ride from Oslo, we immediately went to the central train station in Copenhagen and left our backpacks in the luggage lockers.
The central train station is a massive building, and acts like a nerve centre, where one can be connected to local cities and other destinations in Europe from this station.
While roaming along the streets of central Copenhagen, we decided to take the path less trodden and head away from the main shopping street, into the minor sidewalks. We were richly rewarded, when we stumbled upon, by accident, this shop called Friis and Company. My missus loves the bags, shoes, belts and accessories from this boutique. Its hallmark is that of a crown found on all its items. I have to say that their products are really quite pretty. It's a pity then, that Friis and Company has not yet found its way into our shores yet.
We spent a lot of time in there, as my wife nearly wanted to get everything she saw. I didn't help - I actually stirred her up even more, by encouraging her!
She was trying to decide which bag to buy, as it came in two colours - pink and grey.
In the end, I recommended the pink one, and she got it! Here's her making her payment at the counter. She was certainly one very happy customer.
And here she stands, right outside the shop, with her glorious buys.
Along the way, we saw some interesting sights:
All that walking made us very hungry, so we chanced upon this Chinese joint, and decided to have our lunch there.
The food was quite palatable, sometimes awful, but it did its job in filling our stomachs.
In the late afternoon, we stopped by this cafe for a drink, so we ordered 2 hot chocolates and watched the world go by.
We agreed that the waitress was quite pretty so we asked her if she could have a picture with my wife. Here you go - a blonde Norwegian beauty and a gorgeous Singaporean babe - a lethal combination.
After a satisfying dinner at our favourite Thai joint, we made our way back to the central train station to collect our backpacks, and took a bus back to our hostel after that. We lost no time in heading back to the comfort of the hostel room to rest our overworked legs.
The next day, the bus ride to the Kastrup Airport went without any hitches. It was good to be on that plane, back to Singapore.
In the airport, however, I came across this large advertisement:
In Shakespeare's Hamlet, I remember how one of the soldiers, after an encounter with the ghost of Hamlet's murdered father, chillingly remarked to his spooked colleague that, "There is something rotten in the state of Denmark." This advertisement resonated with me, having studied Hamlet in my A Levels some years back. It is a terrific book, I must say.
It's now early August, and sometimes my mind starts flirting with thoughts of my next holiday destination. It might be Shanghai, Moscow, Barcelona, Tokyo, Christchurch... who knows? But wherever we may go, we will surely have a great and memorable time. Being away, in a strange and foreign land, is one of the best things you can do.
Finally, a big part of why this trip was magnificent is because I have the perfect travelling partner - my beautiful wife.
Sunday, July 29, 2007
About that good ol' familiar rush of adrenaline
All morning, I was throbbing with anticipation.
I got up at 6, and went about preparing my personal equipment. Bicycle - checked. Number tags - checked. Goggles - checked. Running shoes & socks - checked. Oakley shades - checked. Bicycle helmet - checked.
Bearing a backpack, I walked with my trusty bicycle to the food centre just next to my block, to have a breakfast with some mates and their wives.
Altogether, there were three of us who were going to cycle down to East Coast Park's start point for the Osim Singapore Triathlon's Sprint Event - 750m swim, 20km cycle and 5km run.
While eating, we took the permanent markers that were provided in the race pack, to write our 4-digit race tag numbers on our arms and legs. Some of the elderly folk saw us writing our 4-digit numbers, and gleefully told us that they would be buying our numbers for the weekend's 4-D draw. Hilarious.
I realised that it took me a while to figure out how to write '2' and '5' on my legs, while standing - I got it wrong the first time round and had to seek help from my mates!
Once we reached the start point, near the famous food centre, there was already a frenzy - the morning races (for the kids' triathlon and the mini triathlon) had already started and there were so many participants scampering from the sea (after completing the swim leg) to collect their bicycles at the transition area. Some were completing their cycling leg and were rushing to park their bicycles before heading out to the running route.
It was all very new, very exciting, and very fun - after all, it's my first triathlon!
Anyway, we proceeded to the transition area - this huge grass patch that was guarded by security. Bicycle racks lined up within this transition area, and we were only permitted to enter when we showed our wrist bands (bearing our names and number tags) so that we could park our bicycles and personal belongings.
I learnt from my mate (who took part in the 2006 edition) that it's important to lay out your running shoes, shirt, shades, and helmet conveniently, so that minimal time is wasted once you enter the transition area after emerging from the sea. Once you get to your bike, you'd have to get into the cycling gear quickly before moving out of the transition area onto the cycling route.
After some high-fives of good luck, we stepped into the start point area on the beach, right before the sea. The starter, obviously an Aussie, was cracking all sorts of jokes, and he sure made all of us feel less nervous. Right before us, we could clearly see the swimming route - a triangular route that was patrolled by safety kayaks. I could not recall the last time I swam in the pool, and here I was, embarking on a competitive swim in the sea. Well done, I thought.
When the air-horn went off, all of us crashed into the sea, and some started pounding freestyle while some kicked the breaststroke.
It was pandemonium. It was difficult to find any space at all to do a proper stroke. Breaststroke is my best stroke but there were times I thought I kicked somebody behind me, and there were also times when my arms were kicked by swimmers in front. And then there were some clowns who simple barged into us and steamrolled on.
Even with goggles, it was impossible to see anything underneath. To be sure I was not swept away by the sea current, I had to keep my head up regularly, so that I could see the ropes that demarcated the route.
It was mayhem at the turning point. Everybody wanted to stick as close as possible to the buoy (for obvious reasons) and that was where I thought the most kicks took place underwater. It took me a while to get away from the turning point, and once I got some distance away, it became easier as the swimmers spread out again.
It took me just over 25 minutes to reach the beach again. I still had plenty of energy even though I felt the slight pangs of cramp in my calves. I was just thankful I cleared the most difficult leg. The cycling leg would be much easier.
Jogging into the transition area, I took record time to put on my shirt, my running shoes, helmet, and even managed a big gulp of water, before running out with my bike to the bicycle route. Once there, I mounted the bicycle, and off I went!
It's the same good old single-speed bike so it couldn't go very fast. But it's fine with me. The 20km cycling took us past the PA Sea Sports Centre, OBS, National Sailing Centre, to the very end near Changi Coast, before there was a U-turn back to the start point. We had to do 2 laps, and that took me about an hour of non-stop cycling.
Once I reached the transition area again, I dismounted and ran with my bike to the bicycle rack, parked the bike, drank water, and went off to the 5km running route.
I was telling myself, 'Keep going baby, it's only 5km, thank God,' and I was still in high spirits. Yea, by then, I was quite tired, of course, but running's never been a problem for me and I knew finishing this triathlon would never be in doubt.
The running route took us in the other direction, past the lake, the seafood restaurants, the chalets, fitness corner, before making the U-turn at the old tennis courts.
Halfway through, the skies poured and I've never felt so free, so liberated, so refreshed, as I revelled in the heavy rain. It made the run easier even though all of us who were running were soaking wet.
I've never felt so good, after crossing the finishing line after 2 hours of non-stop action. I remember clenching my fist in victory. I made sure I looked good for the photographers at the end line!
After collecting the finisher's medal, I met up with my friends at the end line. They were waiting for me already (they had much faster bikes than mine!) and to my shock, 2 of them said that they were forced to stop their run midway, due to lightning! So they did not actually complete the full triathlon. I felt sorry for them but they were still in high spirits even though they must have felt disappointed deep inside.
From there, it was quite an arduous trip back home, cycling with aching quadricep muscles back to my home.
It has been a fantastic experience for me. It was challenging (especially swimming in the sea) but wow, finishing the race was absolutely satisfying. Oh, that triumphant feeling! Feels exactly the same when I finished my first marathon. Yummy!
My shoulder's still aching from all that swimming, but the bigger headache for me now is that I have to set aside some time to scrub my bicycle - all the mud and dirt. I'm just so tempted to take the shower head and wash the whole bike! Yes, it is that dirty!
I got up at 6, and went about preparing my personal equipment. Bicycle - checked. Number tags - checked. Goggles - checked. Running shoes & socks - checked. Oakley shades - checked. Bicycle helmet - checked.
Bearing a backpack, I walked with my trusty bicycle to the food centre just next to my block, to have a breakfast with some mates and their wives.
Altogether, there were three of us who were going to cycle down to East Coast Park's start point for the Osim Singapore Triathlon's Sprint Event - 750m swim, 20km cycle and 5km run.
While eating, we took the permanent markers that were provided in the race pack, to write our 4-digit race tag numbers on our arms and legs. Some of the elderly folk saw us writing our 4-digit numbers, and gleefully told us that they would be buying our numbers for the weekend's 4-D draw. Hilarious.
I realised that it took me a while to figure out how to write '2' and '5' on my legs, while standing - I got it wrong the first time round and had to seek help from my mates!
Once we reached the start point, near the famous food centre, there was already a frenzy - the morning races (for the kids' triathlon and the mini triathlon) had already started and there were so many participants scampering from the sea (after completing the swim leg) to collect their bicycles at the transition area. Some were completing their cycling leg and were rushing to park their bicycles before heading out to the running route.
It was all very new, very exciting, and very fun - after all, it's my first triathlon!
Anyway, we proceeded to the transition area - this huge grass patch that was guarded by security. Bicycle racks lined up within this transition area, and we were only permitted to enter when we showed our wrist bands (bearing our names and number tags) so that we could park our bicycles and personal belongings.
I learnt from my mate (who took part in the 2006 edition) that it's important to lay out your running shoes, shirt, shades, and helmet conveniently, so that minimal time is wasted once you enter the transition area after emerging from the sea. Once you get to your bike, you'd have to get into the cycling gear quickly before moving out of the transition area onto the cycling route.
After some high-fives of good luck, we stepped into the start point area on the beach, right before the sea. The starter, obviously an Aussie, was cracking all sorts of jokes, and he sure made all of us feel less nervous. Right before us, we could clearly see the swimming route - a triangular route that was patrolled by safety kayaks. I could not recall the last time I swam in the pool, and here I was, embarking on a competitive swim in the sea. Well done, I thought.
When the air-horn went off, all of us crashed into the sea, and some started pounding freestyle while some kicked the breaststroke.
It was pandemonium. It was difficult to find any space at all to do a proper stroke. Breaststroke is my best stroke but there were times I thought I kicked somebody behind me, and there were also times when my arms were kicked by swimmers in front. And then there were some clowns who simple barged into us and steamrolled on.
Even with goggles, it was impossible to see anything underneath. To be sure I was not swept away by the sea current, I had to keep my head up regularly, so that I could see the ropes that demarcated the route.
It was mayhem at the turning point. Everybody wanted to stick as close as possible to the buoy (for obvious reasons) and that was where I thought the most kicks took place underwater. It took me a while to get away from the turning point, and once I got some distance away, it became easier as the swimmers spread out again.
It took me just over 25 minutes to reach the beach again. I still had plenty of energy even though I felt the slight pangs of cramp in my calves. I was just thankful I cleared the most difficult leg. The cycling leg would be much easier.
Jogging into the transition area, I took record time to put on my shirt, my running shoes, helmet, and even managed a big gulp of water, before running out with my bike to the bicycle route. Once there, I mounted the bicycle, and off I went!
It's the same good old single-speed bike so it couldn't go very fast. But it's fine with me. The 20km cycling took us past the PA Sea Sports Centre, OBS, National Sailing Centre, to the very end near Changi Coast, before there was a U-turn back to the start point. We had to do 2 laps, and that took me about an hour of non-stop cycling.
Once I reached the transition area again, I dismounted and ran with my bike to the bicycle rack, parked the bike, drank water, and went off to the 5km running route.
I was telling myself, 'Keep going baby, it's only 5km, thank God,' and I was still in high spirits. Yea, by then, I was quite tired, of course, but running's never been a problem for me and I knew finishing this triathlon would never be in doubt.
The running route took us in the other direction, past the lake, the seafood restaurants, the chalets, fitness corner, before making the U-turn at the old tennis courts.
Halfway through, the skies poured and I've never felt so free, so liberated, so refreshed, as I revelled in the heavy rain. It made the run easier even though all of us who were running were soaking wet.
I've never felt so good, after crossing the finishing line after 2 hours of non-stop action. I remember clenching my fist in victory. I made sure I looked good for the photographers at the end line!
After collecting the finisher's medal, I met up with my friends at the end line. They were waiting for me already (they had much faster bikes than mine!) and to my shock, 2 of them said that they were forced to stop their run midway, due to lightning! So they did not actually complete the full triathlon. I felt sorry for them but they were still in high spirits even though they must have felt disappointed deep inside.
From there, it was quite an arduous trip back home, cycling with aching quadricep muscles back to my home.
It has been a fantastic experience for me. It was challenging (especially swimming in the sea) but wow, finishing the race was absolutely satisfying. Oh, that triumphant feeling! Feels exactly the same when I finished my first marathon. Yummy!
My shoulder's still aching from all that swimming, but the bigger headache for me now is that I have to set aside some time to scrub my bicycle - all the mud and dirt. I'm just so tempted to take the shower head and wash the whole bike! Yes, it is that dirty!
Friday, July 20, 2007
About the sporty side of Fajar
These past couple of days have been quite fantastic.
On Thursday, the Peer Leaders did quite an effective job in running the Sec 2 Captain's Ball Inter-House Games.
This event was clearly quite a stressful event for them, but I recognised that it was a perfect opportunity for my Peer Leaders to get some valuable experience in planning and executing it.
On the whole, the event went smoothly. There was superb effort from the competitors, in spite of the hot weather.
A key moment, for me, was when there was a case of a team who had fielded 2 players who weren't registered in that team!
So I sent 2 of my Peer Leaders to launch an enquiry. It was clear to me that the captain of that team had a lot to answer for.
I already knew what I had to do, but it was more important to see what was the response of the captain.
Would she defend her actions, even though it was wrong?
Or would she submit to the rules and accept the penalty for breaking the rules of sportsmanship, by fielding 2 ineligible players?
As it turned out, the captain ran to me and the first words from her mouth were, 'sorry, Mr Ng.'
She said that she would gladly accept any disciplinary action but pleaded with me not to disqualify her team from the whole competition.
It became very straightforward for her team and me, once she apologised. She was clearly remorseful and I made it very clear to her that since she was the captain, then she would have to bear the full responsibility for her negligence.
The final decision I took was that her team forfeited the match 0-3 to the other team.
It is ok to make mistakes, but what is quite unforgivable is that when you make a mistake, you refuse to acknowledge it.
On the other hand, if you hold up your hands and say, 'yep, I messed up and I take responsibility for it,' then I will do my best to help you and find a solution together.
I thought that the captain of that team had the correct attitude and I respect her for that.
Congratulations to all the House teams who participated in the IHG. Remember, winning and losing is part and parcel of competition. What matters most is that you have taken part and have given your all during the time you compete. It is crucial that you complete your game with NO regrets, knowing that, deep in your heart, you've given your best efforts and fully played your part as a member of a sports team.
And of course, it is only proper to congratulate the other team for a good game, whether you have won or lost.
Today, on the other hand, was a mixed day. It started well, then dipped for a while, before it got better and better.
All week, I have looked forward to having my form class, 4E5, for PE. I enjoy teaching them English, of course, and I still have so much to do with them, now that the O Levels are so so near.
But my favourite subject has always been PE!
Teaching sports and getting youths to be engaged in games is quite simply a joy in itself for me.
And my class was really hilarious and it was very uplifting to see that the vast majority of them enjoy soccer - their sport for this term.
It was hilarious when the two teams were called 'Lego' and 'Barbie' (thanks to Janelle)! The boys seemed to enjoy being in 'Barbie' team!
As usual we ended the game with the adrenaline-rushing penalty shootout and there were some great saves and some stupendous shots. You should see the girls in my class, so garang! They can sure play a mean game of soccer!
But all that satisfaction evaporated in a second, when a colleague of mine came straight to me and made a formal complaint about the behaviour of the boys in my class in the computer lab. She was so exasperated (normally she's very cheerful) that it dawned on me that the actions of those culprits must have gone too far.
This incident blackened my mood for the whole afternoon. I cannot condone irresponsibility and disrespect from boys under my charge.
As far as I am concerned, I work on the principle of mutual respect. It's really very simple: whether I fancy you or not, it doesn't matter. I will speak to you with courtesy and in the correct tone.
I will also not withhold my anger if I find you guilty of being rude and disobedient to any of my teachers. You will learn, soon enough, that it takes 2 to clap, and if you want to be highly respected by teachers and fellow students, then you have got to show it first.
In the late afternoon, I accompanied my fellow PE teacher, Mr Ong, to ITE Dover for a sports competition. We sent our soccer girls and basketball boys to participate and I was very pleased with their behaviour.
In particular I was quite impressed with the calmness and composure of my basketball boys, when they had to go through the nerve-wrecking free-throw shootout against 6 other schools, where the outcome would determine the trophy winners.
To their credit, they did well enough to reach the gold medal round. Though in the end, their opponents did brilliantly to cope with the crushing pressure to score more baskets than us. Nonetheless, I was still very satisfied because throughout the nervous tension, they were remarkably cool and applauded all their opponents whenever they scored or missed. So well done boys!
Finally the weekend's here, and I am in dire need for some rest. It's been a long long week and I really could enjoy a longer sleep-in tomorrow. Thank God for weekends!
On Thursday, the Peer Leaders did quite an effective job in running the Sec 2 Captain's Ball Inter-House Games.
This event was clearly quite a stressful event for them, but I recognised that it was a perfect opportunity for my Peer Leaders to get some valuable experience in planning and executing it.
On the whole, the event went smoothly. There was superb effort from the competitors, in spite of the hot weather.
A key moment, for me, was when there was a case of a team who had fielded 2 players who weren't registered in that team!
So I sent 2 of my Peer Leaders to launch an enquiry. It was clear to me that the captain of that team had a lot to answer for.
I already knew what I had to do, but it was more important to see what was the response of the captain.
Would she defend her actions, even though it was wrong?
Or would she submit to the rules and accept the penalty for breaking the rules of sportsmanship, by fielding 2 ineligible players?
As it turned out, the captain ran to me and the first words from her mouth were, 'sorry, Mr Ng.'
She said that she would gladly accept any disciplinary action but pleaded with me not to disqualify her team from the whole competition.
It became very straightforward for her team and me, once she apologised. She was clearly remorseful and I made it very clear to her that since she was the captain, then she would have to bear the full responsibility for her negligence.
The final decision I took was that her team forfeited the match 0-3 to the other team.
It is ok to make mistakes, but what is quite unforgivable is that when you make a mistake, you refuse to acknowledge it.
On the other hand, if you hold up your hands and say, 'yep, I messed up and I take responsibility for it,' then I will do my best to help you and find a solution together.
I thought that the captain of that team had the correct attitude and I respect her for that.
Congratulations to all the House teams who participated in the IHG. Remember, winning and losing is part and parcel of competition. What matters most is that you have taken part and have given your all during the time you compete. It is crucial that you complete your game with NO regrets, knowing that, deep in your heart, you've given your best efforts and fully played your part as a member of a sports team.
And of course, it is only proper to congratulate the other team for a good game, whether you have won or lost.
Today, on the other hand, was a mixed day. It started well, then dipped for a while, before it got better and better.
All week, I have looked forward to having my form class, 4E5, for PE. I enjoy teaching them English, of course, and I still have so much to do with them, now that the O Levels are so so near.
But my favourite subject has always been PE!
Teaching sports and getting youths to be engaged in games is quite simply a joy in itself for me.
And my class was really hilarious and it was very uplifting to see that the vast majority of them enjoy soccer - their sport for this term.
It was hilarious when the two teams were called 'Lego' and 'Barbie' (thanks to Janelle)! The boys seemed to enjoy being in 'Barbie' team!
As usual we ended the game with the adrenaline-rushing penalty shootout and there were some great saves and some stupendous shots. You should see the girls in my class, so garang! They can sure play a mean game of soccer!
But all that satisfaction evaporated in a second, when a colleague of mine came straight to me and made a formal complaint about the behaviour of the boys in my class in the computer lab. She was so exasperated (normally she's very cheerful) that it dawned on me that the actions of those culprits must have gone too far.
This incident blackened my mood for the whole afternoon. I cannot condone irresponsibility and disrespect from boys under my charge.
As far as I am concerned, I work on the principle of mutual respect. It's really very simple: whether I fancy you or not, it doesn't matter. I will speak to you with courtesy and in the correct tone.
I will also not withhold my anger if I find you guilty of being rude and disobedient to any of my teachers. You will learn, soon enough, that it takes 2 to clap, and if you want to be highly respected by teachers and fellow students, then you have got to show it first.
In the late afternoon, I accompanied my fellow PE teacher, Mr Ong, to ITE Dover for a sports competition. We sent our soccer girls and basketball boys to participate and I was very pleased with their behaviour.
In particular I was quite impressed with the calmness and composure of my basketball boys, when they had to go through the nerve-wrecking free-throw shootout against 6 other schools, where the outcome would determine the trophy winners.
To their credit, they did well enough to reach the gold medal round. Though in the end, their opponents did brilliantly to cope with the crushing pressure to score more baskets than us. Nonetheless, I was still very satisfied because throughout the nervous tension, they were remarkably cool and applauded all their opponents whenever they scored or missed. So well done boys!
Finally the weekend's here, and I am in dire need for some rest. It's been a long long week and I really could enjoy a longer sleep-in tomorrow. Thank God for weekends!
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