Last week, I heard of this sad news from my colleague at work that her neighbor's son passed away the night before in a car accident.
It was really sad to hear of news like these, but the shocking part was yet to come.
It was a hit and run accident, and the young guy was only 20 years old!
The neighbor's son was only 20, and he was a bright and promising student who had a great and prospective future laid out in front of him and all that vanished in one night.
It seemed that he was riding his motorcyle along the road that fateful night; around 11+ at night when he was hit by a car which landed him on the side of the road, badly injured.
The car sped off and left him there, bleeding on his own.
God knows how long he had been lying there until a kind Samaritan on another motorcycle stopped by to lend him a hand and managed to contact his father through the speed dial numbers on his phone.
The man also called for an ambulance which arrived promptly and rushed him to the nearest hospital for immediate medical aid.
However, when he arrived at the hospital, he was pronounced dead.
According to his mother and as related by my colleague, there were not much physical injuries which can be seen on his body or his limbs but the fatality lies in the head which was bleeding very badly and the doctor had mentioned that he had a very bad concussion which led to the constant bleeding.
I think the boy probably bled himself to death.
It is really sad and shocking to hear of such news and to think of what could have happened had the person who knocked him in the first place took the time to stop, get down and send him to the hospital.
If the irresponsible driver had done that, he could probably be saved, but then again, if he had done that, he would not have been labeled irresponsible by me in the first place.
My first thought is that this driver was probably too scared when he first hit the motorcycle and he was afraid and he just took off.
Secondly, he was also afraid of facing the consequences of the accident or to be penalized if the boy was injured or dead and he took off.
Worse, the driver could be without a driving license and the second reason is valid if he is caught.
Maybe, he was drunk and could not see/feel (highly impossible) or he thought that it was a ghost since it was during the 7th month in the Chinese lunar calendar anyway.
However many reasons I can think of for his taking off, not one of them could justify for his actions and what could have happened had he just stopped and send this victim to the hospital for immediate medical attention instead of succumbing to his own anxieties and fears.
Now, with his dreadful actions and inhuman decision, he had cost and taken away a life; a young and deserving life who could have seen much more of what the world has to offer and not to be cruelly deprived of his opportunity.
No one has the right to take away the life of another; only our Creator has because HE created us.
He may not have intended to kill the boy that night when he drove but inevitably, he DID hit him and he could have saved him if he had wanted to.
Instead, he chose a wicked and irresponsible decision to walk away and leave the boy to die, which to me, is just equivalent to robbing another of their lives.
With this incident which clearly happened, much as the driver would like to erase it from his memory, it would remain there and would constantly return to haunt him.
It is a guilt and consequence he has to deal with for the rest of his lives and personally, I think that would be worse than any imperial punishment or imprisonment.
I hope he is feeling every inch of the guilt at this point now; that he had just killed someone (running away makes it first degree murder) and he had also brought misery and devastation to a mother and a father and ripped apart a perfect and happy family.
His life will definitely be filled with guilt and insomnia, and I think, even if he were to finally own up, it would have been too late, as the guilt will eat at his gut forever and ever.
I pray for the poor boy and his family and for the rest of us out there, please be careful when you are on the road.
May his soul rest in peace
Monday, August 23, 2010
GIVE WAY
Have you ever been driving from a junction to meet the main road and having to wait for a good few minutes before finally joining the other cars in line on the main road? (And that is also, if you dare to swerve your car out immediately to avoid the long waiting time for the road to be empty)
I guess most of us who have been driving on the road for some time now have gone through that same situation somewhat or another.
It is frustrating sometimes although we do understand that we came from the junction and that we do have to give way to those who were driving straight and as the highway code specifies, drivers have to always give way to those on the right.
I do that all the time, but reverse the situation, if you were the one driving on the main road and you spot a car coming out of the small junction/road, would you give way to them?
I DO, I always flicker or flash to show them that they can come out now and I don't mind them driving ahead of me.
Of course, that depends on whether the cars behind me are speeding or I could risk getting my own car hit from the back as well and getting labeled reckless driver.
My point is, it is never a bad thing to give way to cars; sometimes I even give way to drivers on the left lane who are trying to go to the right lane.
Sometimes they may have reasons;
1. They made a mistake by going left when they are supposed to be going right
2. They are tourists and not familiar with the road (by this I mean not only international tourists, even local Malaysians from other states, they are also tourists)
3. There was a last minute change in their initial decision and they changed their destination and the driver was informed tad a bit too late.
There are many reasons, but it will not harm to just give way to people and if you find it hard and really competitive to not be able to give way, just ask yourself, "What are you really competing for if you can't even find space in your mind/heart to give way to others?"
"Will it make you late to an event, and be severely punished if you were late to the event?"
Some people drive like they are on a racing track; as if they were participating in a car race or something; fast and furious and just so "Snappy".
"Snappy" means they tailgate the car in front of them so closely and move immediately the car moves, leaving no space for others or even breathing space for the cars. Some are just this close to 'kissing' the bumper of the car in front of them.
Heaven forbid that if you were to make a turn into their lane, they would maneuver their car with all their rage and might to make sure you do not get in; even to the point of seriously 'almost' hitting your car's headlights or the side of the car.
If you were the same raging driver trying to get into the lane yourself and forced your way in, be prepared for some serious and loud honking and flashing and vulgar profanities hurled at you behind your back.
Sometimes, these could lead to road bullies incidents as well whereby the two parties end up fighting and killing each other over the fact that he overtook him and ended knocking his car.
I mean, think about all this, is it not just plain ridiculous that we have to resort to solving a simple problem like that this way?
Did that really require violence?
Even if there was not a fight, there will be unseen or trapped anger raging inside the two drivers and if some of them were mean enough, they could take down the number plate and plot for revenge in the future.
It is eerie how driving can sound like some battlefield sometimes.
Think of it, what if the car which was just trying to get into others' lane was rushing for an emergency and he had to swerve in and out to get to this destination in the shortest possible time.
It might sound uncanny but it could be true too, right?
That brings me to another issue; ambulances, fire brigade and police cars, in short, any vehicle with a siren and serving the public and government are always in emergencies.
There are no question about that.
While it comforts me that our society is still educated and cultured enough to give way to ambulances with loud sirens, it also bothers me that that seems to be the only vehicle they give way to.
Please be mindful that besides ambulances and fire engines, police cars are also to be treated with respect, regardless of the general perspective there is on policemen.
These police cars could be rushing to nab a thief or a dangerous wanted and armed criminal; or they could also be rushing to the aid of a trapped young child who called 999 because his/her house had been broken into and waiting for help before the robbers discovered him/her.
You may think this is active imagination on my part, but can you be totally sure that is not the case?
There were a few times where I found some people blocking the way of an ambulance and a fire engine at a traffic light.
The ambulance was right behind this first car and the traffic lights have just turned red and even with much honking and flashing, the car was afraid to budge and just moved an inch at a time.
C'mon, for the love of God, just breach that traffic light rule for once, and let the ambulance through!
The other cars at the other junctions would definitely stop when they spot the ambulance!
Do they understand every second; or even microsecond counts when it comes to emergencies?
It is funny how people would rush against the traffic lights when it turns amber to red but yet would obediently abide the law when there's an emergency van behind them?
Oh, and while you are giving way to the ambulance, sometimes if you spot a car that seems to be rushing along behind the ambulance, do give way as these could be their family members and loved ones who wanted to rush to the hospital at the same time in case if it is that last time.
Of course, undeniably, there would also possibly be other drivers who just take advantage of the emergency situation and just form another line to beat the traffic, but then again, who could tell?
If we had given way, we could have done a good turn.
I think all these require just plain common sense, which I sometimes feel may have died in this world.
Imagine if you had a loved one lying inside the ambulance and the time is crucial to ensure that he/she gets to the hospital in time for immediate medical aid and you are stuck in a traffic jam.
Imagine if your loved one is inside the ambulance and you are following his car and while the ambulance got through, other cars would not give way to you and you could not get to the hospital in time to see them for the last time.
Imagine if you are trapped inside a building on fire, and you are waiting and praying (not to mention suffocating) for the arrival of the fire truck, and you are almost dying from the smoke
That's why, the easiest thing to do is to just give way, whatever it takes, and be mindful of others who are driving on the road.
If you give way to one another, you will find that the roads will be a better place to drive on and everyone would be happy like in Utopia.
Now, to those troublemaker drivers and queue jumpers, just remember, that what goes around comes around, it is all in the circle of life.
I hope we can truly carry this thought in our mind when we drive on the road and we will definitely be happier and safer on the roads than before =)
I guess most of us who have been driving on the road for some time now have gone through that same situation somewhat or another.
It is frustrating sometimes although we do understand that we came from the junction and that we do have to give way to those who were driving straight and as the highway code specifies, drivers have to always give way to those on the right.
I do that all the time, but reverse the situation, if you were the one driving on the main road and you spot a car coming out of the small junction/road, would you give way to them?
I DO, I always flicker or flash to show them that they can come out now and I don't mind them driving ahead of me.
Of course, that depends on whether the cars behind me are speeding or I could risk getting my own car hit from the back as well and getting labeled reckless driver.
My point is, it is never a bad thing to give way to cars; sometimes I even give way to drivers on the left lane who are trying to go to the right lane.
Sometimes they may have reasons;
1. They made a mistake by going left when they are supposed to be going right
2. They are tourists and not familiar with the road (by this I mean not only international tourists, even local Malaysians from other states, they are also tourists)
3. There was a last minute change in their initial decision and they changed their destination and the driver was informed tad a bit too late.
There are many reasons, but it will not harm to just give way to people and if you find it hard and really competitive to not be able to give way, just ask yourself, "What are you really competing for if you can't even find space in your mind/heart to give way to others?"
"Will it make you late to an event, and be severely punished if you were late to the event?"
Some people drive like they are on a racing track; as if they were participating in a car race or something; fast and furious and just so "Snappy".
"Snappy" means they tailgate the car in front of them so closely and move immediately the car moves, leaving no space for others or even breathing space for the cars. Some are just this close to 'kissing' the bumper of the car in front of them.
Heaven forbid that if you were to make a turn into their lane, they would maneuver their car with all their rage and might to make sure you do not get in; even to the point of seriously 'almost' hitting your car's headlights or the side of the car.
If you were the same raging driver trying to get into the lane yourself and forced your way in, be prepared for some serious and loud honking and flashing and vulgar profanities hurled at you behind your back.
Sometimes, these could lead to road bullies incidents as well whereby the two parties end up fighting and killing each other over the fact that he overtook him and ended knocking his car.
I mean, think about all this, is it not just plain ridiculous that we have to resort to solving a simple problem like that this way?
Did that really require violence?
Even if there was not a fight, there will be unseen or trapped anger raging inside the two drivers and if some of them were mean enough, they could take down the number plate and plot for revenge in the future.
It is eerie how driving can sound like some battlefield sometimes.
Think of it, what if the car which was just trying to get into others' lane was rushing for an emergency and he had to swerve in and out to get to this destination in the shortest possible time.
It might sound uncanny but it could be true too, right?
That brings me to another issue; ambulances, fire brigade and police cars, in short, any vehicle with a siren and serving the public and government are always in emergencies.
There are no question about that.
While it comforts me that our society is still educated and cultured enough to give way to ambulances with loud sirens, it also bothers me that that seems to be the only vehicle they give way to.
Please be mindful that besides ambulances and fire engines, police cars are also to be treated with respect, regardless of the general perspective there is on policemen.
These police cars could be rushing to nab a thief or a dangerous wanted and armed criminal; or they could also be rushing to the aid of a trapped young child who called 999 because his/her house had been broken into and waiting for help before the robbers discovered him/her.
You may think this is active imagination on my part, but can you be totally sure that is not the case?
There were a few times where I found some people blocking the way of an ambulance and a fire engine at a traffic light.
The ambulance was right behind this first car and the traffic lights have just turned red and even with much honking and flashing, the car was afraid to budge and just moved an inch at a time.
C'mon, for the love of God, just breach that traffic light rule for once, and let the ambulance through!
The other cars at the other junctions would definitely stop when they spot the ambulance!
Do they understand every second; or even microsecond counts when it comes to emergencies?
It is funny how people would rush against the traffic lights when it turns amber to red but yet would obediently abide the law when there's an emergency van behind them?
Oh, and while you are giving way to the ambulance, sometimes if you spot a car that seems to be rushing along behind the ambulance, do give way as these could be their family members and loved ones who wanted to rush to the hospital at the same time in case if it is that last time.
Of course, undeniably, there would also possibly be other drivers who just take advantage of the emergency situation and just form another line to beat the traffic, but then again, who could tell?
If we had given way, we could have done a good turn.
I think all these require just plain common sense, which I sometimes feel may have died in this world.
Imagine if you had a loved one lying inside the ambulance and the time is crucial to ensure that he/she gets to the hospital in time for immediate medical aid and you are stuck in a traffic jam.
Imagine if your loved one is inside the ambulance and you are following his car and while the ambulance got through, other cars would not give way to you and you could not get to the hospital in time to see them for the last time.
Imagine if you are trapped inside a building on fire, and you are waiting and praying (not to mention suffocating) for the arrival of the fire truck, and you are almost dying from the smoke
That's why, the easiest thing to do is to just give way, whatever it takes, and be mindful of others who are driving on the road.
If you give way to one another, you will find that the roads will be a better place to drive on and everyone would be happy like in Utopia.
Now, to those troublemaker drivers and queue jumpers, just remember, that what goes around comes around, it is all in the circle of life.
I hope we can truly carry this thought in our mind when we drive on the road and we will definitely be happier and safer on the roads than before =)
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Price Hike affects everything!
I ordered one of my favorite sweet dessert soup; the sweet potato soup with sago from this stall I used to blog about in my food blog in the Cecil Road market a few weeks ago and I was surprised to be asked for an additional payment of 30 cents to the usual price I paid.
The bowl of 'tong sui' now costs RM1.50; where it used to cost RM1.20 (previously it was only RM0.90, then RM1 if you were to have it there. Only take-aways will be charged at an additional price of 10cents)
I have not even asked the question but the old auntie straightaway explained that the sugar price had increased and they had to increase the price of their desserts.
Yeah, that was definitely a reasonable and justificable explanation for the price increase; only this; the price of sugar increased by 25 cents per kg.
Hawkers or food providers truly take full advantage of the situation by increasing each plate/bowl/serving of their food by the same amount which the increase is applicable to kgs.
It is definitely outrageous and despicable; do you honestly think we are going to buy the story that you used the whole kg to make this one bowl of dessert soup?
I find it ridiculous how these vendors are justifying themselves on something which seemed so illogical; just to maximize their profits despite calls by the government warning vendors not to increase prices in their sector drastically.
It seemed that these calls fell on deaf ears.
Everyone is affected; of course, despite the assurance that there will be controls over unreasonable vendors like these.
The price of sugar was not the only one affected too; as we have been hit with yet another round of price hike in petrol.
I have even lost count of the number of times petrol has increased in this year; and this year alone.
What is going on here?
If everything is facing dire circumstances due to the revoking of subsidies, then how about the wages of us working people?
We have been stretched to work our butts off to earn a decent living to be able to afford some basic necessities and to place food on the table and by the time we earn enough, things are not the same anymore and we find that we need to work even harder.
Our wages do not seem to be taking after the same pattern; one hike after another.
There are some who were much worse, they have even lost their jobs.
Do we really want to force people to the extent of robbing or stealing from others in order to send their children to school, or to put food on the table?
Do we really want the next hike to be in the crime rates as well?
It has been a neverending story of the reason of all the price hikes; and fuel itself has already been ascending that ladder since, I can't even remember when.
The price hikes are not minimal nor negligible; as the price hike of 20 cents and above do make a great difference.
Just the other day, I was trying to replenish the supply of my products, and I was surprised to be told that the prices would increase soon too.
What, since when beauty products/cosmetics use sugar or fuel too?
For goodness sake, these are not even local products.
Then I went for dinner and parked the car in the carpark which usually charges RM1 flat rate for the parking and you guessed right, they told us that it is now RM1.50
Yeah, do you pave your car park floors with sugar and fuel?
Everything is on the rise, and I am telling you, poverty and crime rates will soon follow.
I am disappointed with all these constant hikes; and I pray for those who are struggling to get through their daily lives with a meager earning of less than a 1,000 and even those who are jobless.
Let's hope that there will be more consideration before the next hike and also that all those vendors would also be more rational in their pricing.
The bowl of 'tong sui' now costs RM1.50; where it used to cost RM1.20 (previously it was only RM0.90, then RM1 if you were to have it there. Only take-aways will be charged at an additional price of 10cents)
I have not even asked the question but the old auntie straightaway explained that the sugar price had increased and they had to increase the price of their desserts.
Yeah, that was definitely a reasonable and justificable explanation for the price increase; only this; the price of sugar increased by 25 cents per kg.
Hawkers or food providers truly take full advantage of the situation by increasing each plate/bowl/serving of their food by the same amount which the increase is applicable to kgs.
It is definitely outrageous and despicable; do you honestly think we are going to buy the story that you used the whole kg to make this one bowl of dessert soup?
I find it ridiculous how these vendors are justifying themselves on something which seemed so illogical; just to maximize their profits despite calls by the government warning vendors not to increase prices in their sector drastically.
It seemed that these calls fell on deaf ears.
Everyone is affected; of course, despite the assurance that there will be controls over unreasonable vendors like these.
The price of sugar was not the only one affected too; as we have been hit with yet another round of price hike in petrol.
I have even lost count of the number of times petrol has increased in this year; and this year alone.
What is going on here?
If everything is facing dire circumstances due to the revoking of subsidies, then how about the wages of us working people?
We have been stretched to work our butts off to earn a decent living to be able to afford some basic necessities and to place food on the table and by the time we earn enough, things are not the same anymore and we find that we need to work even harder.
Our wages do not seem to be taking after the same pattern; one hike after another.
There are some who were much worse, they have even lost their jobs.
Do we really want to force people to the extent of robbing or stealing from others in order to send their children to school, or to put food on the table?
Do we really want the next hike to be in the crime rates as well?
It has been a neverending story of the reason of all the price hikes; and fuel itself has already been ascending that ladder since, I can't even remember when.
The price hikes are not minimal nor negligible; as the price hike of 20 cents and above do make a great difference.
Just the other day, I was trying to replenish the supply of my products, and I was surprised to be told that the prices would increase soon too.
What, since when beauty products/cosmetics use sugar or fuel too?
For goodness sake, these are not even local products.
Then I went for dinner and parked the car in the carpark which usually charges RM1 flat rate for the parking and you guessed right, they told us that it is now RM1.50
Yeah, do you pave your car park floors with sugar and fuel?
Everything is on the rise, and I am telling you, poverty and crime rates will soon follow.
I am disappointed with all these constant hikes; and I pray for those who are struggling to get through their daily lives with a meager earning of less than a 1,000 and even those who are jobless.
Let's hope that there will be more consideration before the next hike and also that all those vendors would also be more rational in their pricing.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Housewarming or 'blood-warming'?
Buying and moving into a new house is always an exhilarating, if not exhausting experience.
In fact, it is also an occasion worth celebrating, if I may say the least.
Hence, we see all those housewarming parties thrown by eager hosts and proud owners of new houses.
This is particularly popular around the world; perhaps especially so in the Asian region or may I say, my own country Malaysia. I am sure they have it in Western countries or anywhere else around the world; as after all, it is a time to share their joys and happiness with their relatives and friends.
It is a preference and an enjoyable moment for those who are keen on it.
As for me, I am kinda different on this issue; call me eccentric or whatever, but I am never too keen on housewarming or even throwing one myself should there even be a need in the future.
I don't think I owe it to anyone to explain why should I not throw a housewarming party if I ever move or buy a new place because again, this is entirely my personal preference and decision to make.
It is not being selfish or being secretive, again as some would unfairly put it, but honestly, I just find it a whole trouble to organize and to have people from everywhere trampling and touching every single thing all over the house. It is blood curdling to have kids jumping around on that new sofa and their parents would never have the good sense to stop them and you have to have that fake smile plastered on your face even deep down inside, you feel like dissecting that kid and wonder what's gotten into his body to have that amount of spring to unload onto your poor sofa.
At the same time, serving food means you will be having your guests walking around your house with food in their hands, or worse, on their fingers.
Imagine when they pay a visit to your bedroom, there goes without saying what you will lying upon to slumber that night, to the scent of fried chicken or beehoon sticking on your pillow or blanket.
Besides that, you would have to go through all those hassle of organizing and arranging for the caterer or if you are your own caterer, prepare the food and drinks and the whole house which you have just spend an unimaginable time for your living into a museum for one night.
It is horrendous when the guests leave, leaving you with gifts and loads of rubbish for you to pick up until the wee hours of the morning while they are probably discussing about how bad your taste is in selecting that curtain for the main hall or how distasteful it is to have a red lounge chair right in the middle of the study, while at the same time commenting on how bad your cooking is.
Face it, we are all natural critics, whether we like it or not. Even when we do have compliments for others, the criticsms always outweigh the compliments for whatever reason.
Another reason I do not quite welcome the idea of housewarming is a very simple concept and perhaps, this is the most important reason of all, is that I view my home as a very personal and divine space to be enjoyed by myself.
I think this is a very simple and uncalled for reason.
In the Western countries, it is even considered rude to invite yourself to another's home. I think the same way too, and I hate how some people often self-invite themselves, "Hey, I wanna go to your house this week" where you are left with no choice but to say yes while you secretly think how much work you need to do to clean up the house.
Even when the house is not entirely messy, you will be like, I will need to spare a few hours to entertain these people and shift my whole schedule for that day.
That is how people are, they do not care whether you like it or not or they do not even have the fine courtesy or common sense to realize that the host did not mention nor offer an invitation to their house and they are so bursting of curiosity that they had to just break the bubble and decide to self-invite themselves.
I think it is rude to go to someone else's house without an invitation.
Home is our solitary space and represents our inner self; hence it is a place to be treated with respect and not just some fun fair or museum where you can walk straight into.
It is like an intrusion into someone's privacy and sadly, not a lot of people understand that.
That being said, I am not against people throwing open houses and housewarming parties, as I have said, that is entirely their own choice and preferences and if they open up for an invitation, it means they want you to go.
However, for those who did not invite or say anything even when they have just moved into a new place/house, please, please, be polite and resist the urge, no matter how curious you are, to invite yourselves to others' houses as it is really rude and annoying to have company where not needed.
It just takes a little bit of common sense and courtesy to figure this out
In fact, it is also an occasion worth celebrating, if I may say the least.
Hence, we see all those housewarming parties thrown by eager hosts and proud owners of new houses.
This is particularly popular around the world; perhaps especially so in the Asian region or may I say, my own country Malaysia. I am sure they have it in Western countries or anywhere else around the world; as after all, it is a time to share their joys and happiness with their relatives and friends.
It is a preference and an enjoyable moment for those who are keen on it.
As for me, I am kinda different on this issue; call me eccentric or whatever, but I am never too keen on housewarming or even throwing one myself should there even be a need in the future.
I don't think I owe it to anyone to explain why should I not throw a housewarming party if I ever move or buy a new place because again, this is entirely my personal preference and decision to make.
It is not being selfish or being secretive, again as some would unfairly put it, but honestly, I just find it a whole trouble to organize and to have people from everywhere trampling and touching every single thing all over the house. It is blood curdling to have kids jumping around on that new sofa and their parents would never have the good sense to stop them and you have to have that fake smile plastered on your face even deep down inside, you feel like dissecting that kid and wonder what's gotten into his body to have that amount of spring to unload onto your poor sofa.
At the same time, serving food means you will be having your guests walking around your house with food in their hands, or worse, on their fingers.
Imagine when they pay a visit to your bedroom, there goes without saying what you will lying upon to slumber that night, to the scent of fried chicken or beehoon sticking on your pillow or blanket.
Besides that, you would have to go through all those hassle of organizing and arranging for the caterer or if you are your own caterer, prepare the food and drinks and the whole house which you have just spend an unimaginable time for your living into a museum for one night.
It is horrendous when the guests leave, leaving you with gifts and loads of rubbish for you to pick up until the wee hours of the morning while they are probably discussing about how bad your taste is in selecting that curtain for the main hall or how distasteful it is to have a red lounge chair right in the middle of the study, while at the same time commenting on how bad your cooking is.
Face it, we are all natural critics, whether we like it or not. Even when we do have compliments for others, the criticsms always outweigh the compliments for whatever reason.
Another reason I do not quite welcome the idea of housewarming is a very simple concept and perhaps, this is the most important reason of all, is that I view my home as a very personal and divine space to be enjoyed by myself.
I think this is a very simple and uncalled for reason.
In the Western countries, it is even considered rude to invite yourself to another's home. I think the same way too, and I hate how some people often self-invite themselves, "Hey, I wanna go to your house this week" where you are left with no choice but to say yes while you secretly think how much work you need to do to clean up the house.
Even when the house is not entirely messy, you will be like, I will need to spare a few hours to entertain these people and shift my whole schedule for that day.
That is how people are, they do not care whether you like it or not or they do not even have the fine courtesy or common sense to realize that the host did not mention nor offer an invitation to their house and they are so bursting of curiosity that they had to just break the bubble and decide to self-invite themselves.
I think it is rude to go to someone else's house without an invitation.
Home is our solitary space and represents our inner self; hence it is a place to be treated with respect and not just some fun fair or museum where you can walk straight into.
It is like an intrusion into someone's privacy and sadly, not a lot of people understand that.
That being said, I am not against people throwing open houses and housewarming parties, as I have said, that is entirely their own choice and preferences and if they open up for an invitation, it means they want you to go.
However, for those who did not invite or say anything even when they have just moved into a new place/house, please, please, be polite and resist the urge, no matter how curious you are, to invite yourselves to others' houses as it is really rude and annoying to have company where not needed.
It just takes a little bit of common sense and courtesy to figure this out
Thursday, September 10, 2009
9/11 - A History which should not be repeated
On one fine morning, when they are getting ready for work; gobbling down their breakfasts, having lively chats with their wives, sending their children off to school, rushing for the underground train, looking for a parking space in the carpark, calling their wives to remind them of the dentist's appointment, or bidding goodbyes to their familes as their cars leave the porch, little did they know, that that day would be the last time they could ever do that.
They, were just like you and me, heading to a workplace which had seemed so familiar and comfortable for them, looking forward to a brand new day at work.
What was on their minds that morning were just the lists of appointments and tasks to complete, the number of meetings they had to attend, and how long will the day gets till they get back to home sweet home.
It would never cross that mind that it was a day that something is about to happen which will register fame and mark history and that, THEY are going to be a part of it.
How could anyone, including you and me, dream that something extraordinary is going to happen to you on a day?
We dream, and of course, wish, everyday, that it will definitely be a great day; perhaps a raise in salary, a promotion, or a pat on the back from your boss on the great job done.
It was far from the scene that was plastered on the television that whole day after noon, a scene which affected the minds and lives of many until this day.
It was a scene which seemed to be edited and cropped from an astounding thriller movie to be made into a trailer to attract viewers.
A movie which clearly had such great visual effects that it seemed so realistic that it had the television viewers around the world looking forward to catch another 'cool' movie.
Sadly, the 'Movie' turned out not to be a movie after all, in fact, it was a real-time reporting from the Big Apple that the World Trade Center/Twin Towers had indeed collapsed from the crashing of two planes into it.
It was a chaotic scene as we see the building burst into thick clouds of flame and smoke and then the camera focused on the ground where rubbles of stone are falling down and people were screaming and running frantically, running for their lives
The live CNN reporting had everyone in shock, and it was hard to believe, that the United States of America, was indeed under attack.
It was massive attack planned carefully and launched simultaneously to cause this huge damage.
It was like the same day of infamy which was relived from the past; as the words were uttered from President Roosevelt when Pearl Harbor was under attack by Japan during World War II.
The same tragedy was marked as a day of infamy in the history of the United States of America, and given the same circumstances, it seemed like the Twin Towers was evidently a repetition in history.
The fact is, it was the period of World War II while this, was clearly during a time which was long after World War and it was a time which the whole world had lived in harmony and peace for decades after the world war has declared its end.
Was it a sign of the beginning of World War III?
No one knew, and while we soaked in the information of the times of the attacks and pray for the victims, the next piece of news which came in was the attack on the Pentagon.
It was clearly a launch of complacency and power, to aim for the headquarters and main Defense Dept of the States.
Attacks seem to be everywhere at that point, and the world watched in fear and anxiety as the tragic incidents were continuously played on the television screens.
While we were praying for the victims and their loved ones, we were also praying that this will not lead to the next world war where the whole world is definitely going to be affected.
The news which hit the world had a tremendous domino effect as phone lines went dead when frantic relatives and friends were trying to reach those they know who worked there or reside in New York.
It was clearly a day which kept adrenalines rushing and blood gushing to everyone's mind and hearts.
For the victims, who were screaming in agony and fear, they must have had the millions things they wanted to do rushing through their minds and the goodbyes they had wanted to say.
For the families, they prayed in hope that their loved ones miraculously survived and will be home at that day. It was a hope which they feared would not happen and dreaded that reality would sink in.
For the viewers around the world, they try to recover from their shock and prayed hard that the casualties will be low, although deep down inside, we all know that it is not close to reality; given that time of the attack.
For the authorities, it was a SLAP in their face and a shock which registered and anger on the major insult which they vowed to repay. They had to count the casualties and to send their best medical and emergency teams to action and request for intervention from helpful countries. It was a time where they knew they could not go home that same day to review the attacks and plan for the country.
For the attackers, it was an achievement after their God-knows-how-long of careful planning for this major destruction. They were the only ones who were rejoicing at the successful attacks launched and the damages caused.
They were probably the ONLY ones in the world smiling at the news which thundered across the whole world.
For the rest of the world, it continues to be a day of grief and pain, especially for those families of the victims; a feeling which surpassed beyond the memorials and consolations from the world and a grief which they will live to remember forever.
A regret which will never leave their hearts each time they are reminded of the incident; of how much they loved them and never told them, of how they argued over trivial matters and never get to say sorry, of how they never went for that vacation they planned, and many many what ifs and how they could have done so.
No one will be able to comprehend the grief and sorrow which clouded their hearts.
Neither would the victims imagine, how they have made the statistics in the part of history and how they would never leave their office alive after work that day.
It was not just a Tragedy to the States for to the whole world who prayed that it was just a prank on the television; that it was just a mega trailer from a new movie.
We prayed for all the IF only, and also the MAYBEs; although deep down inside, the red logo of CNN splattered across the screens told us otherwise.
The whole world prayed hard; calling out to God to make this merely a show, that it never happened and that everything is alright.
It was a call we know that God heard, but at the same time, it is real.
Miracles do happen when we believe, but at that moment, prayers of miracles existed so strongly in each and every one of us that it clouded our practical minds.
It was miracle that those terrorists and whoever planned it got away with it; that is ONE miracle I can say.
No ONE deserved what happened that day; no matter how huge the conflict or hatred and resentment exists in one's heart.
No ONE caused the conflict or the anger in the attackers' minds.
No ONE should be punished with their lives
No ONE prayed for success of a damage so huge
No ONE should claim that it is an act of bravery or for God when they ripped others of their lives
No ONE would ever want anything bad to happen to their loved ones at all
No ONE had any right to harm or strip another human being of their lives
No ONE would ever forget September 11 2001; and lived to remember that fateful day
No ONE could wipe away that pain and grief from losing their loved ones and friends
It was a tragedy which cannot be removed
A miracle prayed for which never happened...
A story filled with pain and grief to be remembered and passed from generation to generation...
A part of History which we prayed was never made...
They, were just like you and me, heading to a workplace which had seemed so familiar and comfortable for them, looking forward to a brand new day at work.
What was on their minds that morning were just the lists of appointments and tasks to complete, the number of meetings they had to attend, and how long will the day gets till they get back to home sweet home.
It would never cross that mind that it was a day that something is about to happen which will register fame and mark history and that, THEY are going to be a part of it.
How could anyone, including you and me, dream that something extraordinary is going to happen to you on a day?
We dream, and of course, wish, everyday, that it will definitely be a great day; perhaps a raise in salary, a promotion, or a pat on the back from your boss on the great job done.
It was far from the scene that was plastered on the television that whole day after noon, a scene which affected the minds and lives of many until this day.
It was a scene which seemed to be edited and cropped from an astounding thriller movie to be made into a trailer to attract viewers.
A movie which clearly had such great visual effects that it seemed so realistic that it had the television viewers around the world looking forward to catch another 'cool' movie.
Sadly, the 'Movie' turned out not to be a movie after all, in fact, it was a real-time reporting from the Big Apple that the World Trade Center/Twin Towers had indeed collapsed from the crashing of two planes into it.
It was a chaotic scene as we see the building burst into thick clouds of flame and smoke and then the camera focused on the ground where rubbles of stone are falling down and people were screaming and running frantically, running for their lives
The live CNN reporting had everyone in shock, and it was hard to believe, that the United States of America, was indeed under attack.
It was massive attack planned carefully and launched simultaneously to cause this huge damage.
It was like the same day of infamy which was relived from the past; as the words were uttered from President Roosevelt when Pearl Harbor was under attack by Japan during World War II.
The same tragedy was marked as a day of infamy in the history of the United States of America, and given the same circumstances, it seemed like the Twin Towers was evidently a repetition in history.
The fact is, it was the period of World War II while this, was clearly during a time which was long after World War and it was a time which the whole world had lived in harmony and peace for decades after the world war has declared its end.
Was it a sign of the beginning of World War III?
No one knew, and while we soaked in the information of the times of the attacks and pray for the victims, the next piece of news which came in was the attack on the Pentagon.
It was clearly a launch of complacency and power, to aim for the headquarters and main Defense Dept of the States.
Attacks seem to be everywhere at that point, and the world watched in fear and anxiety as the tragic incidents were continuously played on the television screens.
While we were praying for the victims and their loved ones, we were also praying that this will not lead to the next world war where the whole world is definitely going to be affected.
The news which hit the world had a tremendous domino effect as phone lines went dead when frantic relatives and friends were trying to reach those they know who worked there or reside in New York.
It was clearly a day which kept adrenalines rushing and blood gushing to everyone's mind and hearts.
For the victims, who were screaming in agony and fear, they must have had the millions things they wanted to do rushing through their minds and the goodbyes they had wanted to say.
For the families, they prayed in hope that their loved ones miraculously survived and will be home at that day. It was a hope which they feared would not happen and dreaded that reality would sink in.
For the viewers around the world, they try to recover from their shock and prayed hard that the casualties will be low, although deep down inside, we all know that it is not close to reality; given that time of the attack.
For the authorities, it was a SLAP in their face and a shock which registered and anger on the major insult which they vowed to repay. They had to count the casualties and to send their best medical and emergency teams to action and request for intervention from helpful countries. It was a time where they knew they could not go home that same day to review the attacks and plan for the country.
For the attackers, it was an achievement after their God-knows-how-long of careful planning for this major destruction. They were the only ones who were rejoicing at the successful attacks launched and the damages caused.
They were probably the ONLY ones in the world smiling at the news which thundered across the whole world.
For the rest of the world, it continues to be a day of grief and pain, especially for those families of the victims; a feeling which surpassed beyond the memorials and consolations from the world and a grief which they will live to remember forever.
A regret which will never leave their hearts each time they are reminded of the incident; of how much they loved them and never told them, of how they argued over trivial matters and never get to say sorry, of how they never went for that vacation they planned, and many many what ifs and how they could have done so.
No one will be able to comprehend the grief and sorrow which clouded their hearts.
Neither would the victims imagine, how they have made the statistics in the part of history and how they would never leave their office alive after work that day.
It was not just a Tragedy to the States for to the whole world who prayed that it was just a prank on the television; that it was just a mega trailer from a new movie.
We prayed for all the IF only, and also the MAYBEs; although deep down inside, the red logo of CNN splattered across the screens told us otherwise.
The whole world prayed hard; calling out to God to make this merely a show, that it never happened and that everything is alright.
It was a call we know that God heard, but at the same time, it is real.
Miracles do happen when we believe, but at that moment, prayers of miracles existed so strongly in each and every one of us that it clouded our practical minds.
It was miracle that those terrorists and whoever planned it got away with it; that is ONE miracle I can say.
No ONE deserved what happened that day; no matter how huge the conflict or hatred and resentment exists in one's heart.
No ONE caused the conflict or the anger in the attackers' minds.
No ONE should be punished with their lives
No ONE prayed for success of a damage so huge
No ONE should claim that it is an act of bravery or for God when they ripped others of their lives
No ONE would ever want anything bad to happen to their loved ones at all
No ONE had any right to harm or strip another human being of their lives
No ONE would ever forget September 11 2001; and lived to remember that fateful day
No ONE could wipe away that pain and grief from losing their loved ones and friends
It was a tragedy which cannot be removed
A miracle prayed for which never happened...
A story filled with pain and grief to be remembered and passed from generation to generation...
A part of History which we prayed was never made...
Monday, August 17, 2009
Are we all RACISTS or not?
In conjunction with the upcoming National Day, I was compelled to write an article (or a few perhaps, if I am into it) about the things we love (or hate) in Malaysia.
I was drafting my article on race and racism when I was sent this link by my good friend
http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/index.php/opinion/zaidel-baharudin/34943-so-okay-im-racist-just-a-bit-i-mean-like-really-tiny-
An interesting article; if I may say so which talks about racism in such a light-hearted and carefree style and I enjoyed reading the article very much – kudos to the talented author.
I am even starting to bookmark his blog for further reading, no joke.
Anyway, I have decided to jot a few lines about my thoughts on the author’s thoughts towards the end of my article as well as there were also slight similarities in the topic and our thoughts (hope it is not plagiarism)
Speaking of the races, it is the beauty of Malaysia as one of the only countries (or perhaps the ONLY country) in the world which can boast of the many different races staying together in harmony and unity on the same land (or are we really that harmonious and united?)
I was born and raised in Malaysia; and received my education in my homeland all the way as well.
Of course, being in the same place all my life does make me wonder about life elsewhere and fantasize about being in another country which has ranches, four seasons where we can parade in thick fur coats and stylish boots and also enjoy the carefree and fun loving life painted in my mind.
That is beside the point; as scrapping that fantasy aside, I am still very much a Malaysian just like any one of you out there and I do appreciate the tropical beauties found within my country.
After all, what is there not to like about my country?
We have a great weather (where else can you get summer all year round?), bountiful supplies of crops and natural resources, a colorful array of costumes, dances, languages, and cuisines.
This is definitely something which cannot be found elsewhere; a harmonious fusion of the cultures stemming from the multi-racial/cultural society we live in here in Malaysia.
When it comes to the different races, inevitably we are also part of the society which handles this subject with care, treading on the right ground to maintain the harmony within the country.
Furthermore, Malaysia is home to not just one or two but more than five races; Malay, Chinese, Indian, Eurasian, Kadazan, Iban, Melanau, Bidayuh, just to name a few.
Yet, the amazing part is how we are living on the same land and peacefully; proclaiming ourselves as Malaysians.
In such a multi-racial country, is there truly no issue of racism or discrimination at all, you may ask.
Well, this is rather a tough question; but rest assured we are not having any civil war or any major issues which can bring the country to war.
Racism is a connotation used to describe the sentiments and emotions welled up due to the differences and conflicts among the races.
There is hatred and sometimes so much anger where they would harm and go to extent of offending other races.
Racism, to me is as described above. In a way, we start to differentiate each other from the races/cultures we have and finding fault with others who are not like us.
In fact, the biggest difference lies in the skin tone/color and also the lifestyles.
Some of us are born fair-skinned, medium, or dark-skinned with a range of tan brown, yellowish tan, dark brown, white, or black.
I personally dislike it when the differentiation starts from here; where we start to judge people based on their skin color.
That to me, is how I define racism in which I think is to a higher degree.
Racism is practiced everywhere; and remains an unresolved issue.
I do not want to mention the names of countries in particular; as I think everyone is at fault and the issue exists everywhere, whether we like to admit it or not.
Referring to the article above, I do agree that to a certain extent, there is also stereotyping which started from the skin color issue.
We tend to associate the races based on their skin color; and then further stereotyping them to our own jurisdiction and that, itself makes all of us racists in one way or another.
I do protest against racism; but even I cannot be a hypocrite by saying that I totally am non-racist; not even a tiny weeny bit.
So there, I did not deny anything.
Let’s face it, we all do that mentally in our minds sometimes. We do stereotype to a certain extent; no matter what race you are.
Take our country for example; as mentioned in the reference article
When we go to government offices, we often associate that it will take a long time because those people are lazy and take their own sweet time in working.
When we go to a shop/restaurant to buy something, if we see a Chinese, he will always say, “I am giving you the best price already lar; I don’t earn anything”
You will be thinking in your mind, “Yeah right, these Cina Apeks…extorting my money so that he can buy a big house and car!”
When we go to condominiums or office buildings and don’t see a security guard, you will be thinking, “Where is the Indian guard? Slacking on the job again”
These are all little scenarios which run through our minds subconsciously; and you may not speak it out for fear of being reprimanded for your thoughts, but does that makes us any less racist?
Have you not thought or even curse when you see crime rates increasing in the country, and you associate them to the foreign labor?
Or how you crinkle your eyebrows when you hear that there will be foreign immigrants moving next to your house?
We all do that; consciously or subconsciously.
Why?
It’s because we are just normal human beings with an ego to satisfy. It makes us feel like we are superior to others when we have thoughts like these running through our minds.
Psychologically speaking, most of the time, the human minds do play images of worse things than them to feel better and then find a better image to inspire/motivate themselves.
So, don’t feel too guilty about it; but if you are going to the extent where you want to wipe out a certain race through killing and staging major protests, then that may be a problem already.
After all, who is not a racist in any society?
Even governments and the authorities are practicing it.
When filling up a form; you see the checkboxes for you to select your race.
You pay different prices if you are the national of the country; and slightly more if you are not.
All the races have their differences; which make them all the more unique and different from others. Apart from stereotyping each other in the bad way, we should also focus on the good stereotypes which Malaysians have learnt and adapted to our lifestyles.
For instance, the Malays serve the best nasi lemak and they are the most friendly and helpful neighbors to have. They are carefree and spend lots of time on their homes; and they are never hesitant to invite people to their homes and enjoy making kueh for their guests.
Don’t you just love that hospitality and admit it, you love the spread of food even more!
They make the best tour guides, hotel owners, customer service, restaurant owners, homemakers (as in the business itself), managers (definitely nice to employees), etc.
Chinese has the widest variety in their cooking styles; ranging from frying, steaming, pan-frying, grilling, deep-frying, boiling, baking, etc. It is endless to the ways they can prepare a particular food. They focus on commercialism and on generating revenue; and yet, they save their money and teach you a thing or two about banks. They make the best bankers, brokers, insurance agents, real estate agents, accountants, salesmen, investors, chefs, engineers, etc.
Indians serve the best curries; and you usually look for them for good coconut water as well.
They are often the most religious and holy to their worships and they are always devoted to their faith. They also make the best English teachers, doctors, lecturers, lawyers, consultants, etc.
So, see, the differences are in fact the ones which have molded the identities; and blending them together, don’t you think it just makes a harmonious picture?
Malaysians have definitely achieved this; and we do love peace and harmony in our country; and we are happy with the way we are.
Racial issues stipulation are often frowned upon and scorned by most of us because it will stir and create the disharmony in the existing life we are living now; one which we are all happy with.
After all, where else can we find a country where the citizens can speak a minimum of two languages and also mix and blend more than two languages in one sentence when communicating and still understand each other so well?
As the King of Pop said himself, it doesn’t matter if you’re black or white….
We are all Malaysians; one nation and we are proud of it…
So, thamby and tangechi, jom, let’s go makan and pi yumcha….Mai Chui Su-lar….diam-diam, semua happy!:)
I was drafting my article on race and racism when I was sent this link by my good friend
http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/index.php/opinion/zaidel-baharudin/34943-so-okay-im-racist-just-a-bit-i-mean-like-really-tiny-
An interesting article; if I may say so which talks about racism in such a light-hearted and carefree style and I enjoyed reading the article very much – kudos to the talented author.
I am even starting to bookmark his blog for further reading, no joke.
Anyway, I have decided to jot a few lines about my thoughts on the author’s thoughts towards the end of my article as well as there were also slight similarities in the topic and our thoughts (hope it is not plagiarism)
Speaking of the races, it is the beauty of Malaysia as one of the only countries (or perhaps the ONLY country) in the world which can boast of the many different races staying together in harmony and unity on the same land (or are we really that harmonious and united?)
I was born and raised in Malaysia; and received my education in my homeland all the way as well.
Of course, being in the same place all my life does make me wonder about life elsewhere and fantasize about being in another country which has ranches, four seasons where we can parade in thick fur coats and stylish boots and also enjoy the carefree and fun loving life painted in my mind.
That is beside the point; as scrapping that fantasy aside, I am still very much a Malaysian just like any one of you out there and I do appreciate the tropical beauties found within my country.
After all, what is there not to like about my country?
We have a great weather (where else can you get summer all year round?), bountiful supplies of crops and natural resources, a colorful array of costumes, dances, languages, and cuisines.
This is definitely something which cannot be found elsewhere; a harmonious fusion of the cultures stemming from the multi-racial/cultural society we live in here in Malaysia.
When it comes to the different races, inevitably we are also part of the society which handles this subject with care, treading on the right ground to maintain the harmony within the country.
Furthermore, Malaysia is home to not just one or two but more than five races; Malay, Chinese, Indian, Eurasian, Kadazan, Iban, Melanau, Bidayuh, just to name a few.
Yet, the amazing part is how we are living on the same land and peacefully; proclaiming ourselves as Malaysians.
In such a multi-racial country, is there truly no issue of racism or discrimination at all, you may ask.
Well, this is rather a tough question; but rest assured we are not having any civil war or any major issues which can bring the country to war.
Racism is a connotation used to describe the sentiments and emotions welled up due to the differences and conflicts among the races.
There is hatred and sometimes so much anger where they would harm and go to extent of offending other races.
Racism, to me is as described above. In a way, we start to differentiate each other from the races/cultures we have and finding fault with others who are not like us.
In fact, the biggest difference lies in the skin tone/color and also the lifestyles.
Some of us are born fair-skinned, medium, or dark-skinned with a range of tan brown, yellowish tan, dark brown, white, or black.
I personally dislike it when the differentiation starts from here; where we start to judge people based on their skin color.
That to me, is how I define racism in which I think is to a higher degree.
Racism is practiced everywhere; and remains an unresolved issue.
I do not want to mention the names of countries in particular; as I think everyone is at fault and the issue exists everywhere, whether we like to admit it or not.
Referring to the article above, I do agree that to a certain extent, there is also stereotyping which started from the skin color issue.
We tend to associate the races based on their skin color; and then further stereotyping them to our own jurisdiction and that, itself makes all of us racists in one way or another.
I do protest against racism; but even I cannot be a hypocrite by saying that I totally am non-racist; not even a tiny weeny bit.
So there, I did not deny anything.
Let’s face it, we all do that mentally in our minds sometimes. We do stereotype to a certain extent; no matter what race you are.
Take our country for example; as mentioned in the reference article
When we go to government offices, we often associate that it will take a long time because those people are lazy and take their own sweet time in working.
When we go to a shop/restaurant to buy something, if we see a Chinese, he will always say, “I am giving you the best price already lar; I don’t earn anything”
You will be thinking in your mind, “Yeah right, these Cina Apeks…extorting my money so that he can buy a big house and car!”
When we go to condominiums or office buildings and don’t see a security guard, you will be thinking, “Where is the Indian guard? Slacking on the job again”
These are all little scenarios which run through our minds subconsciously; and you may not speak it out for fear of being reprimanded for your thoughts, but does that makes us any less racist?
Have you not thought or even curse when you see crime rates increasing in the country, and you associate them to the foreign labor?
Or how you crinkle your eyebrows when you hear that there will be foreign immigrants moving next to your house?
We all do that; consciously or subconsciously.
Why?
It’s because we are just normal human beings with an ego to satisfy. It makes us feel like we are superior to others when we have thoughts like these running through our minds.
Psychologically speaking, most of the time, the human minds do play images of worse things than them to feel better and then find a better image to inspire/motivate themselves.
So, don’t feel too guilty about it; but if you are going to the extent where you want to wipe out a certain race through killing and staging major protests, then that may be a problem already.
After all, who is not a racist in any society?
Even governments and the authorities are practicing it.
When filling up a form; you see the checkboxes for you to select your race.
You pay different prices if you are the national of the country; and slightly more if you are not.
All the races have their differences; which make them all the more unique and different from others. Apart from stereotyping each other in the bad way, we should also focus on the good stereotypes which Malaysians have learnt and adapted to our lifestyles.
For instance, the Malays serve the best nasi lemak and they are the most friendly and helpful neighbors to have. They are carefree and spend lots of time on their homes; and they are never hesitant to invite people to their homes and enjoy making kueh for their guests.
Don’t you just love that hospitality and admit it, you love the spread of food even more!
They make the best tour guides, hotel owners, customer service, restaurant owners, homemakers (as in the business itself), managers (definitely nice to employees), etc.
Chinese has the widest variety in their cooking styles; ranging from frying, steaming, pan-frying, grilling, deep-frying, boiling, baking, etc. It is endless to the ways they can prepare a particular food. They focus on commercialism and on generating revenue; and yet, they save their money and teach you a thing or two about banks. They make the best bankers, brokers, insurance agents, real estate agents, accountants, salesmen, investors, chefs, engineers, etc.
Indians serve the best curries; and you usually look for them for good coconut water as well.
They are often the most religious and holy to their worships and they are always devoted to their faith. They also make the best English teachers, doctors, lecturers, lawyers, consultants, etc.
So, see, the differences are in fact the ones which have molded the identities; and blending them together, don’t you think it just makes a harmonious picture?
Malaysians have definitely achieved this; and we do love peace and harmony in our country; and we are happy with the way we are.
Racial issues stipulation are often frowned upon and scorned by most of us because it will stir and create the disharmony in the existing life we are living now; one which we are all happy with.
After all, where else can we find a country where the citizens can speak a minimum of two languages and also mix and blend more than two languages in one sentence when communicating and still understand each other so well?
As the King of Pop said himself, it doesn’t matter if you’re black or white….
We are all Malaysians; one nation and we are proud of it…
So, thamby and tangechi, jom, let’s go makan and pi yumcha….Mai Chui Su-lar….diam-diam, semua happy!:)
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Celebrating the Life of the King of Pop
The world used to cheer to the King of Rock & Roll; an iconic symbol of music in the form of Elvis Presley. He was loved for his charms and suave looks, which has brought most of his fans weak in the knees.
His death was mourned by many; and he is crowned the King of Rock & Roll for his music; one which will be remembered until today.
It was a loss perceived by many; especially his fans who loved him and his ballads, until a new star arise not long after.
He was first noticed by the audience as the adorable child who was also one of the lead singers in the siblings band fondly known as the Jackson Five.
A young boy who was not shy of his talents; he clearly stood out and won the hearts of the audience; as he continuously charms the music lovers with his voice, belting ballads one after another.
He soon soared to a new height with his talents as he started his solo singing career, and broke the record with Thriller which sold a hundred million copies worldwide; a record which no male singer from the Hot 100 era could beat and that remains even to this very day.
Besides being a singer, this talented boy (who is now a young man) composed his own songs and wrote his own lyrics himself. He could also play a few musical instruments on his own.
If there was ever anyone to be crowned a multi-talented artist, this was one that amazes everyone who knew him.
His career continued to fly to greater heights as he produced many more hits which held his fans in abated breath as they danced to his popular Beat It, Billie Jean, Bad. As he continues to unleash his magical charms through his breath-taking hits, he also came up with the brilliant idea of choreographing his dances and recording them in a sequence in the form of a music video.
His fans not only can listen to his voice and sing along to the beat they hear on the cassette/radio; they can now see him on the screen and dance along with him; or how the song is danced!
It was truly a revolution to the music industry; and this man has brought a whole new meaning to music appreciation!
He was quickly known for a pop singer; and one who outshone others. His music enticed so many followers from all over the world; and there is not one who has not heard of him; young or old, and regardless of which nationality you came from.
His albums sold like hot cakes which were just taken out of an oven, and his dance moves are practised everywhere by boys and girls alike and even the stiff music lovers found themselves swaying and nodding their heads to each rhythm of the beat.
It soon spread like fire, and some may even call it a cult; for his influence in music was so strong!
He almost had his fans faint in anticipation and anxiety as they observe his breath-taking move of sliding across the dance floor like being dragged on air.
It became his famous trademark; a move which was fondly remembered as the amazing Moonwalk which many tried and failed initially; and it continued to be the subject of awe and admiration of many.
He became a god-like icon in the music industry; as many worshipped the grounds he walked on.
His music continues to charm everyone; and some even say it has a trance-like effect. You can never get bored of listening to the same song over and over again, because it is just so enchanting and heart-throbbing!
He continued to prove his song talents when he released romantic slow ballads such as I just can't stop Loving you, Remember the Time, Man in the Mirror and You're not Alone.
He also showed his concern and desperate anxiety for the ailing environment as he wrote Heal the World and Earth Song.
He even tried to create the awareness of the racial issues haunting the world; and being an African American himself, he tried to patch the differences by gathering all the singers to perform the touching We are the World.
Then in the 90s, he created an uproar and controversy as he released his single, Black and White which had a unique rendering of the changing faces and races of the people at the end of the music video.
Initially there were even some explicit sexual content which was edited and removed prior to the release to which the great man himself apologized.
Every song of his was remembered and remained an evergreen ballad; and will never perish with the coming of time.
It is often fondly spoken of and each and everyone of us had in a way connected to the great ballads at one point of our time, weaving our personal experience with the songs.
The singer has garnered huge public and media attention with his record-breaking hits and his talents continued to wow many. He was known as a man with compassion for the children through his many contributions to the little ones. However, in the late 90s to the 2005 era, he was slapped with allegations of child sexual abuse; a news which shook the whole nation as they gasped in fear at the prospect of the superficial front the singer may be posing upon.
At the same time, his fans continue to stand unwavered by his side and soon enough, all charges were dropped and he is once again, loved by all and accepted by the public.
Besides his famous Moonwalk which started its premier in Billie Jean, he was well known for his short-of-breath and yelps in his singing. He was also chided by some for his infamous sexual implications as he touches his chest, torso and crotch as he performs on the stage; in front of a huge public.
Good or bad, they soon became the iconic styles of this pop star and he continued to be remembered across generations for his wonderful contributions to the world of music.
People boldly step forward to impersonate him; and all hailed him as the King of Pop.
He was indeed one who has gone against the tradition and inspired many through his genuine style of creativity and innovation. His style is admired by many and yet envied by most too; although they continued to bow down to this legendary star; one who has yet to meet his match.
As time pass us by and his intermittent releases of his albums soon left the people to entertain themselves with the descendants of the pop music and contemporary music; while having the King of Pop at the back of their minds.
Then we hear about the great comeback tour scheduled this year; and everyone started recalling those fond memories of his great performances as they wait in anxious anticipation for the reputed comeback of the century.
Everyone has had him in their mind and looked forward to watching his performance and his organizers must have laughed at profits they are making out of the fully-booked tickets to the concert.
Then on the 25th of June (US) and 26th of June (Asia) respectively, tragedy struck as the King of Pop breathed his last and was pronounced dead to the whole world.
All were in shock; and in disbelief of the passing of the legendary man.
It was as though he never left us; as we start recalling the memories of his legacy.
Everyone was not just in shock; his dear fans were in unconsolable grief.
It was news which took everyone by surprise; and no one could have predicted that the King of Pop has indeed left us.
He is only 50!
I have personally grown up listening to the King of Pop, and who could resist dancing to the beat of all his songs?
I loved the meaningful lyrics of Heal the World, Man in the Mirror, and We are the World. It is an awakening to the whole world to see the issues plaguing our perfect world.
Because of his songs and his contributions, the world has also come to refer to him as the World ambassador for peace and environment.
So true of a man who lived to serve others.
Despite his many faces; which continuously suffered pain and failure from the plastic surgeries, he was well-loved by everyone for his subtlety and humble self.
He is known as a soft-spoken person, a man who is down-to-earth despite being in the limelight for all his life.
It was indeed a great loss to the world, for how many could counter the amazing standards set by a prodigy like himself?
He was an icon in the music industry; in fact, he was music himself.
He has dedicated his whole life to music; and has contributed so much to creating an identity for music that it would be just to refer to him as the Pulse of music.
He brought life to the music industry; introducing brave moves and fast beats which he carefully choreographed into dance moves which are then produced into a short music video or MTV as what we know today.
He has ignited interests in music among those deaf and blind to the musical notes, and created such a revolution.
His legacy has indeed outshone that of his predecessor; the great King of Rock & Roll for his is a revolution; a new life to music.
His talents are uncounted for, and he has set records for a undefeatable competition for many generations to come.
He is the 80's, the 90's and for many more generations.
He may have left us today, but his legacy stays forever in our hearts...
A prayer for Michael Jackson; may heavens rejoice at his coming for the King of Pop shall dwell with the King of Rock & Roll in heaven and we shall remember his legacy in our hearts and minds down on earth..
Rest in Peace, Michael Jackson...you will definitely be missed
His death was mourned by many; and he is crowned the King of Rock & Roll for his music; one which will be remembered until today.
It was a loss perceived by many; especially his fans who loved him and his ballads, until a new star arise not long after.
He was first noticed by the audience as the adorable child who was also one of the lead singers in the siblings band fondly known as the Jackson Five.
A young boy who was not shy of his talents; he clearly stood out and won the hearts of the audience; as he continuously charms the music lovers with his voice, belting ballads one after another.
He soon soared to a new height with his talents as he started his solo singing career, and broke the record with Thriller which sold a hundred million copies worldwide; a record which no male singer from the Hot 100 era could beat and that remains even to this very day.
Besides being a singer, this talented boy (who is now a young man) composed his own songs and wrote his own lyrics himself. He could also play a few musical instruments on his own.
If there was ever anyone to be crowned a multi-talented artist, this was one that amazes everyone who knew him.
His career continued to fly to greater heights as he produced many more hits which held his fans in abated breath as they danced to his popular Beat It, Billie Jean, Bad. As he continues to unleash his magical charms through his breath-taking hits, he also came up with the brilliant idea of choreographing his dances and recording them in a sequence in the form of a music video.
His fans not only can listen to his voice and sing along to the beat they hear on the cassette/radio; they can now see him on the screen and dance along with him; or how the song is danced!
It was truly a revolution to the music industry; and this man has brought a whole new meaning to music appreciation!
He was quickly known for a pop singer; and one who outshone others. His music enticed so many followers from all over the world; and there is not one who has not heard of him; young or old, and regardless of which nationality you came from.
His albums sold like hot cakes which were just taken out of an oven, and his dance moves are practised everywhere by boys and girls alike and even the stiff music lovers found themselves swaying and nodding their heads to each rhythm of the beat.
It soon spread like fire, and some may even call it a cult; for his influence in music was so strong!
He almost had his fans faint in anticipation and anxiety as they observe his breath-taking move of sliding across the dance floor like being dragged on air.
It became his famous trademark; a move which was fondly remembered as the amazing Moonwalk which many tried and failed initially; and it continued to be the subject of awe and admiration of many.
He became a god-like icon in the music industry; as many worshipped the grounds he walked on.
His music continues to charm everyone; and some even say it has a trance-like effect. You can never get bored of listening to the same song over and over again, because it is just so enchanting and heart-throbbing!
He continued to prove his song talents when he released romantic slow ballads such as I just can't stop Loving you, Remember the Time, Man in the Mirror and You're not Alone.
He also showed his concern and desperate anxiety for the ailing environment as he wrote Heal the World and Earth Song.
He even tried to create the awareness of the racial issues haunting the world; and being an African American himself, he tried to patch the differences by gathering all the singers to perform the touching We are the World.
Then in the 90s, he created an uproar and controversy as he released his single, Black and White which had a unique rendering of the changing faces and races of the people at the end of the music video.
Initially there were even some explicit sexual content which was edited and removed prior to the release to which the great man himself apologized.
Every song of his was remembered and remained an evergreen ballad; and will never perish with the coming of time.
It is often fondly spoken of and each and everyone of us had in a way connected to the great ballads at one point of our time, weaving our personal experience with the songs.
The singer has garnered huge public and media attention with his record-breaking hits and his talents continued to wow many. He was known as a man with compassion for the children through his many contributions to the little ones. However, in the late 90s to the 2005 era, he was slapped with allegations of child sexual abuse; a news which shook the whole nation as they gasped in fear at the prospect of the superficial front the singer may be posing upon.
At the same time, his fans continue to stand unwavered by his side and soon enough, all charges were dropped and he is once again, loved by all and accepted by the public.
Besides his famous Moonwalk which started its premier in Billie Jean, he was well known for his short-of-breath and yelps in his singing. He was also chided by some for his infamous sexual implications as he touches his chest, torso and crotch as he performs on the stage; in front of a huge public.
Good or bad, they soon became the iconic styles of this pop star and he continued to be remembered across generations for his wonderful contributions to the world of music.
People boldly step forward to impersonate him; and all hailed him as the King of Pop.
He was indeed one who has gone against the tradition and inspired many through his genuine style of creativity and innovation. His style is admired by many and yet envied by most too; although they continued to bow down to this legendary star; one who has yet to meet his match.
As time pass us by and his intermittent releases of his albums soon left the people to entertain themselves with the descendants of the pop music and contemporary music; while having the King of Pop at the back of their minds.
Then we hear about the great comeback tour scheduled this year; and everyone started recalling those fond memories of his great performances as they wait in anxious anticipation for the reputed comeback of the century.
Everyone has had him in their mind and looked forward to watching his performance and his organizers must have laughed at profits they are making out of the fully-booked tickets to the concert.
Then on the 25th of June (US) and 26th of June (Asia) respectively, tragedy struck as the King of Pop breathed his last and was pronounced dead to the whole world.
All were in shock; and in disbelief of the passing of the legendary man.
It was as though he never left us; as we start recalling the memories of his legacy.
Everyone was not just in shock; his dear fans were in unconsolable grief.
It was news which took everyone by surprise; and no one could have predicted that the King of Pop has indeed left us.
He is only 50!
I have personally grown up listening to the King of Pop, and who could resist dancing to the beat of all his songs?
I loved the meaningful lyrics of Heal the World, Man in the Mirror, and We are the World. It is an awakening to the whole world to see the issues plaguing our perfect world.
Because of his songs and his contributions, the world has also come to refer to him as the World ambassador for peace and environment.
So true of a man who lived to serve others.
Despite his many faces; which continuously suffered pain and failure from the plastic surgeries, he was well-loved by everyone for his subtlety and humble self.
He is known as a soft-spoken person, a man who is down-to-earth despite being in the limelight for all his life.
It was indeed a great loss to the world, for how many could counter the amazing standards set by a prodigy like himself?
He was an icon in the music industry; in fact, he was music himself.
He has dedicated his whole life to music; and has contributed so much to creating an identity for music that it would be just to refer to him as the Pulse of music.
He brought life to the music industry; introducing brave moves and fast beats which he carefully choreographed into dance moves which are then produced into a short music video or MTV as what we know today.
He has ignited interests in music among those deaf and blind to the musical notes, and created such a revolution.
His legacy has indeed outshone that of his predecessor; the great King of Rock & Roll for his is a revolution; a new life to music.
His talents are uncounted for, and he has set records for a undefeatable competition for many generations to come.
He is the 80's, the 90's and for many more generations.
He may have left us today, but his legacy stays forever in our hearts...
A prayer for Michael Jackson; may heavens rejoice at his coming for the King of Pop shall dwell with the King of Rock & Roll in heaven and we shall remember his legacy in our hearts and minds down on earth..
Rest in Peace, Michael Jackson...you will definitely be missed
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