Wish to share this interesting joke pick up from Reader's Digest June 2009.
"Guess what?" yelled my teenage son as he burst through the door.
"I got a 100 on my Spanish quiz that I didn't even know we were having."
"That's great!" I said.
"But why didn't you know about the quiz?"
"Because our teacher told us about it in Spanish."
To my dear friend who is a bit upset on her daughter's UPSR result, hope this joke lighten you up and trust me 'our kids are special and unique in their own ways...if your kid doesn't score, it doesn't mean that he/she is not good enough...'
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Monday, November 23, 2009
Picture worth a thousand words
Interesting enough to find out that having fun can be depressing. The question is since when?
Nathalie Blanchard, a Canadian, had been on leave from her job at IBM in Quebec for the past year after being diagnosed with major depression.
She received monthly sick-leave benefits from insurance giant Manulife. Everything went well as she stick to her doctor's advice "to have fun". She hanged around with friends at local bars and had a short getaways to fun destinations.
The fun activities were really good therapy and she lost her benefits once the insurance agent spotted her photos in her Facebook.
'Picture worth a thousand words' did little justice in this case......
Nathalie Blanchard, a Canadian, had been on leave from her job at IBM in Quebec for the past year after being diagnosed with major depression.
She received monthly sick-leave benefits from insurance giant Manulife. Everything went well as she stick to her doctor's advice "to have fun". She hanged around with friends at local bars and had a short getaways to fun destinations.
The fun activities were really good therapy and she lost her benefits once the insurance agent spotted her photos in her Facebook.
'Picture worth a thousand words' did little justice in this case......
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Modern Fairy Tale
Snow White, Cinderella and Bawang Merah could be wrong about their step mothers all these while...actually step mothers and step daughters could team up and be perfect buddy to plot and implement their bad intentions...
The fairy tale was revealed by 15 years old girl in Kota Kinabalu who was very friendly with her 25 years old step mother.
Anyway, the step mother played the same wicked role. She was jealous with the girl's mother, the first wife to the husband, and brilliantly plotted the murder ploy and had the girl's agreement to carry out her mission.
The 38 years old biological mother, was asleep when she was awakened by a burning sensation on her face.
She fended off her attacker and was shocked to discover that it was her own daughter. The girl attempted to kill her mother by smothering her mother with a sarong laced with formic acid (cuka getah).
The tale ended when both villains were arrested by police. In this case, it won't be the tag line 'they live happily ever after'...
The fairy tale was revealed by 15 years old girl in Kota Kinabalu who was very friendly with her 25 years old step mother.
Anyway, the step mother played the same wicked role. She was jealous with the girl's mother, the first wife to the husband, and brilliantly plotted the murder ploy and had the girl's agreement to carry out her mission.
The 38 years old biological mother, was asleep when she was awakened by a burning sensation on her face.
She fended off her attacker and was shocked to discover that it was her own daughter. The girl attempted to kill her mother by smothering her mother with a sarong laced with formic acid (cuka getah).
The tale ended when both villains were arrested by police. In this case, it won't be the tag line 'they live happily ever after'...
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Plastic Bottles
The issue of plastic bottles safety resurfaced. Earlier, there was argument that the reused of plastic bottles would pose greater risk of contacting cancer.
Anyway, the assurance by Lim Kok Boon, the chairman of Malaysian Plastics Forum (MPF) on the safety of plastic bottles (polyethylene terephthalate/PET) usage was really a relief.
His assurance was supported by the US Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) that the PET bottles met standards for food and beverages packaging for both single and repeated use.
PET bottles were subjected to the FDA review and regulations before they were allowed to be used as packaging material.
Lim also provided the report from the International Life Sciences Institute that PET is biologically inert and together with its other physical properties, it is particularly suitable for food packaging applications.
At least from now on, we could have peace of minds when we need to gulp from the PET bottles to quench ourselves........
Anyway, the assurance by Lim Kok Boon, the chairman of Malaysian Plastics Forum (MPF) on the safety of plastic bottles (polyethylene terephthalate/PET) usage was really a relief.
His assurance was supported by the US Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) that the PET bottles met standards for food and beverages packaging for both single and repeated use.
PET bottles were subjected to the FDA review and regulations before they were allowed to be used as packaging material.
Lim also provided the report from the International Life Sciences Institute that PET is biologically inert and together with its other physical properties, it is particularly suitable for food packaging applications.
At least from now on, we could have peace of minds when we need to gulp from the PET bottles to quench ourselves........
Friday, November 20, 2009
Farewell
Today is the last day of school for the year 2009. The kindergarten that my six years old son attended had organised a grand farewell party this morning.
It was packed of fun activities for the kids and a magic show by 'Hafidz Osman the great'. The kids enjoyed themselves and the magic show was really entertaining as some of the kids were called to volunteers.
Of course, party was not completed without food. It was a potluck party and every body brought home cook food ranging from pizza, spaghetti, fried chickens and varieties of desserts including ice creams.
During the party, he seemed to enjoy himself very much but it was rather upset when he returned home.
Sad to be departed from his friends (12 of them of six years old) as he is the only boys going to national school. The rest of the boy buddies will be entering vernacular school.
Similarly, my two girls ended their primary school sessions for this year minus the party. My eldest was also a bit upset as next year she would be in different class from her BFF (best friends forever). My second daughter seemed not to be affected as she simply said that she would come across new friends next year and was so eager to be a school prefect next year.
I also just bade farewell to one of my good friends last week as he was leaving for Saudi. It was not easy to say 'good bye' but every thing has to end somewhere.....
It was packed of fun activities for the kids and a magic show by 'Hafidz Osman the great'. The kids enjoyed themselves and the magic show was really entertaining as some of the kids were called to volunteers.
Of course, party was not completed without food. It was a potluck party and every body brought home cook food ranging from pizza, spaghetti, fried chickens and varieties of desserts including ice creams.
During the party, he seemed to enjoy himself very much but it was rather upset when he returned home.
Sad to be departed from his friends (12 of them of six years old) as he is the only boys going to national school. The rest of the boy buddies will be entering vernacular school.
Similarly, my two girls ended their primary school sessions for this year minus the party. My eldest was also a bit upset as next year she would be in different class from her BFF (best friends forever). My second daughter seemed not to be affected as she simply said that she would come across new friends next year and was so eager to be a school prefect next year.
I also just bade farewell to one of my good friends last week as he was leaving for Saudi. It was not easy to say 'good bye' but every thing has to end somewhere.....
Thursday, November 19, 2009
UPSR
UPSR results are out today. I've received a few good news from facebook contacts.
Anyway, I'm not going to talk about on the academic A's as they are well defined. As of this year, the year six students also need to complete the aptitude test as part of the UPSR exam.
The one-and-a-half hour test had 60 multiple questions to discover the students' performance on thinking skills, problem solving and decision making abilities.
The grade of the test was listed on the pupil's UPSR slip but does not carry any weightage to overall performance.
The analysis showed that generally the students were better on thinking skills than the other two areas.
Education director-general, Tan Sri Alimuddin Mohd Dom, said that based on the analysis, students should be given more training in the under performance areas.
However, I am a bit puzzle on the implementation process as normally aptitude test is carried out as a prerequisite or to determine placement in certain institutions.
For example, I had to sit for the aptitude test as a prerequisite test before given a placed at a university to pursue a tertiary education. Thus, I am not sure on the implication of the result to the students.
If the education ministry would like to introduce trainings or courses in these areas, they should be projected for long term objectives. The courses should not terminate once the students finish primary school as secondary and tertiary levels are deemed more crucial than primary in a later life although the primary level should serve as concrete foundations.
Personally, I think the test or analysis is more practical to be introduced starting at secondary level as the students are more mature and their experience exposure in lives are wider.
Normally, according to one article on children psychology, it mentioned that kids are not able to think rationally until they are above 12 years old.
Anyway, I'm not going to talk about on the academic A's as they are well defined. As of this year, the year six students also need to complete the aptitude test as part of the UPSR exam.
The one-and-a-half hour test had 60 multiple questions to discover the students' performance on thinking skills, problem solving and decision making abilities.
The grade of the test was listed on the pupil's UPSR slip but does not carry any weightage to overall performance.
The analysis showed that generally the students were better on thinking skills than the other two areas.
Education director-general, Tan Sri Alimuddin Mohd Dom, said that based on the analysis, students should be given more training in the under performance areas.
However, I am a bit puzzle on the implementation process as normally aptitude test is carried out as a prerequisite or to determine placement in certain institutions.
For example, I had to sit for the aptitude test as a prerequisite test before given a placed at a university to pursue a tertiary education. Thus, I am not sure on the implication of the result to the students.
If the education ministry would like to introduce trainings or courses in these areas, they should be projected for long term objectives. The courses should not terminate once the students finish primary school as secondary and tertiary levels are deemed more crucial than primary in a later life although the primary level should serve as concrete foundations.
Personally, I think the test or analysis is more practical to be introduced starting at secondary level as the students are more mature and their experience exposure in lives are wider.
Normally, according to one article on children psychology, it mentioned that kids are not able to think rationally until they are above 12 years old.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
The Separation
Normally, separation involves emotional tense especially with the love ones, but in case of twins, Krishna and Trishna, it was something to look forward to.
The twins, would be three next month, with conjoined heads had been successfully separated in a 32 hours marathon of high risk operation by Australian surgeons.
Besides conjoined heads, the twins also shared the fate of being rescued from certain death in Dhaka orphanage. Their legal guardian, Moira Kelly, who I think has a very good heart, had took the trouble to brought the twins from Bangladesh to Australia.
As of now, there was a new development as one of the twins was showing good sign as she already started talking and behaving normally after being woken from a medically induced coma.
The other one, had to be slowly brought out of coma as the separation brought more changes to her body and brain's blood circulation.
Hopefully she would make it as the MRI scans after the operation showed no sign of brain injury. Initially, the doctors said it was a 50-50 chance that one of the girls could suffer brain damage from complicated separation.
The twins, would be three next month, with conjoined heads had been successfully separated in a 32 hours marathon of high risk operation by Australian surgeons.
Besides conjoined heads, the twins also shared the fate of being rescued from certain death in Dhaka orphanage. Their legal guardian, Moira Kelly, who I think has a very good heart, had took the trouble to brought the twins from Bangladesh to Australia.
As of now, there was a new development as one of the twins was showing good sign as she already started talking and behaving normally after being woken from a medically induced coma.
The other one, had to be slowly brought out of coma as the separation brought more changes to her body and brain's blood circulation.
Hopefully she would make it as the MRI scans after the operation showed no sign of brain injury. Initially, the doctors said it was a 50-50 chance that one of the girls could suffer brain damage from complicated separation.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Sweet Killer
President of Malaysian Diabetes Association, Prof Dr Ikram Shah Ismail said that diabetes posed a bigger threat than H1N1 virus or AIDS to Malaysians unless we changed to healthy lifestyles.
President of the Consumers Associations of Penang (CAP), S.M. Idris, said sugar was devoid of nutriens and 'acted more like a drug', was linked to more than 60 ailments like cancer, diabetes, obesity, heart problems, osteoporosis, kidney problems, asthma and allergies.
Reader's Digest, Nov 2009 highlighted on the 7 tips of food intake to better control the blood sugar (glucose) :
1. Choose low glycemic-index (GI) and keep carb portions moderate.
(Dense bread with wholegrains, linseed, stoneground flour and sourdough, light fruit yogurt, dried fruits and long grain white or medium grain brown rice).
2. Make three of your carb servings wholegrains
3. Eat 2 serves of fruits and 5 serves of vegetables daily
4. Eat protein at every meal
5. Favour good fats
6. Eat smaller portions
7. Add acidic food to your meals
Here are some tips on how to add acids to your meals.
1. Use mustard, which is made of vinegar instead of mayonnaise.
2. Eat pickles with sandwich.
3. Mix pickle liquid with a little olive oil and chop fresh herbs as food marinade.
4. Eat citrus fruit such as fresh grapefruit.
5. Pick sourdough bread.
Besides controlling the blood glucose, these diet also helps to lose weight.
President of the Consumers Associations of Penang (CAP), S.M. Idris, said sugar was devoid of nutriens and 'acted more like a drug', was linked to more than 60 ailments like cancer, diabetes, obesity, heart problems, osteoporosis, kidney problems, asthma and allergies.
Reader's Digest, Nov 2009 highlighted on the 7 tips of food intake to better control the blood sugar (glucose) :
1. Choose low glycemic-index (GI) and keep carb portions moderate.
(Dense bread with wholegrains, linseed, stoneground flour and sourdough, light fruit yogurt, dried fruits and long grain white or medium grain brown rice).
2. Make three of your carb servings wholegrains
3. Eat 2 serves of fruits and 5 serves of vegetables daily
4. Eat protein at every meal
5. Favour good fats
6. Eat smaller portions
7. Add acidic food to your meals
Here are some tips on how to add acids to your meals.
1. Use mustard, which is made of vinegar instead of mayonnaise.
2. Eat pickles with sandwich.
3. Mix pickle liquid with a little olive oil and chop fresh herbs as food marinade.
4. Eat citrus fruit such as fresh grapefruit.
5. Pick sourdough bread.
Besides controlling the blood glucose, these diet also helps to lose weight.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Oats
My father has been on oats diet for so many years. His habit starts early even before the claims that oats lower cholesterol level.
The first thing that most guests notice in his kitchen is his treasure of a row of "Quaker Oat" mugs nicely arrange on the shelf.
He manages to stick to oats be it rain or shine, even to the extend of breaking fast during Ramadhan. His life is incomplete without oats.
Interestingly, Reader's Digest Nov. 2009, published an article on "Oats Stand the Test of Time".
Eating oats may reduce blood concentrations of total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol without affects on levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol or triglycerides - American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine.
So far, his diet couple with healthy lifestyles and activities proven to be fruitful. At 75 years, he still goes strong without serious illness like hypertension, diabetic or heart problem.
The first thing that most guests notice in his kitchen is his treasure of a row of "Quaker Oat" mugs nicely arrange on the shelf.
He manages to stick to oats be it rain or shine, even to the extend of breaking fast during Ramadhan. His life is incomplete without oats.
Interestingly, Reader's Digest Nov. 2009, published an article on "Oats Stand the Test of Time".
Eating oats may reduce blood concentrations of total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol without affects on levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol or triglycerides - American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine.
So far, his diet couple with healthy lifestyles and activities proven to be fruitful. At 75 years, he still goes strong without serious illness like hypertension, diabetic or heart problem.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Cloud Seeding
It was reported that the unusual snow storms in north-central China had claimed 40 lives. The storms also caused thousands of buildings to collapse and destroyed almost 200 000 hectares of winter crops.
Surprisingly, the heavy snowfall was induced through cloud seeding as stated in the Chinese state media.
Interestingly, this is the first news I came across highlighting on the side effect of cloud seeding. Actually, I was curious of cloud seeding as Malaysia is so prone to utilise the technology as to overcome the haze problems.
I was concerned on our safety due to the cloud seeding which could be related to the occurrence of tsunami when we interrupt the mother nature.
Since the last tsunami in 2004, scientist had done researched and reported that the movement under the sea bed was triggered faster initiated by the launching of nuclear testers and finally the outcome is tsunami.
Cloud seeding is a process of spreading either dry ice (commonly, silver iodide aerosols) into the upper parts of clouds to try to stimulate precipitation process and form rain.
In 1960's, it was reported that National Hurricane Center began series of experiments in seeding of hurricanes to reduce the their intensity. However, the experiments failed.
Although the report of this cloud seeding was still unjustifiable and not supported by scientific data and studies, at least it should caution us on the actions and reactions equation.
Surprisingly, the heavy snowfall was induced through cloud seeding as stated in the Chinese state media.
Interestingly, this is the first news I came across highlighting on the side effect of cloud seeding. Actually, I was curious of cloud seeding as Malaysia is so prone to utilise the technology as to overcome the haze problems.
I was concerned on our safety due to the cloud seeding which could be related to the occurrence of tsunami when we interrupt the mother nature.
Since the last tsunami in 2004, scientist had done researched and reported that the movement under the sea bed was triggered faster initiated by the launching of nuclear testers and finally the outcome is tsunami.
Cloud seeding is a process of spreading either dry ice (commonly, silver iodide aerosols) into the upper parts of clouds to try to stimulate precipitation process and form rain.
In 1960's, it was reported that National Hurricane Center began series of experiments in seeding of hurricanes to reduce the their intensity. However, the experiments failed.
Although the report of this cloud seeding was still unjustifiable and not supported by scientific data and studies, at least it should caution us on the actions and reactions equation.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
New Hope
I read the touching story of Wafa Sarhan, a mother of two in Gaza City, whose two sons suffered hearing loss in 2004 when the Israeli drone fired missiles at a group of militants near their home.
Since the incident, Wafa and her husband tried to get the boys treated outside the coastal strip and the nearest place for cochlear implant available was in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Unfortunately, Wafa could not afford to bear the treatment cost of USD60 000
(RM202 500).
She said helplessly, " If we gave them everything we own it would not cover a fourth of the price."
Her innocent kids have been the war victims and had to bear the consequences while she could not afford to treat them. This was against her wish and instinct of being a mother.
I understand her predicament as once I was so worried when my youngest son did not show any verbal sign though he was three then.
Quite a number of people consoled me that normally boys were delayed in speeches compared to girls.
I took their advise but deep in my heart, I was freaky afraid if he had hearing loss problem.
I tried a few tricks like calling his name and gave him verbal instructions just to ensure that he had no such problem.
I was happy as he responded to the commands. At one stage, I went on listing on words that he could babble and finally he started to talk at 3-1/2 years.
Today, he celebrates his 4th birthday and he is almost like a chatter box.
However, Wafa sadness had been lifted with the help of Dr Hajeri from United Emirates Arab (UAE), who was moved to provide free treatment to the kids after hearing the news aired through satellite.
Wafa was on cloud nine as her sons get new lease of life as she told reporter that her kids have been born again after the successful operations.
Dr Hajeri kindness and generosity had been extended to other 50 children to date.
Since the incident, Wafa and her husband tried to get the boys treated outside the coastal strip and the nearest place for cochlear implant available was in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Unfortunately, Wafa could not afford to bear the treatment cost of USD60 000
(RM202 500).
She said helplessly, " If we gave them everything we own it would not cover a fourth of the price."
Her innocent kids have been the war victims and had to bear the consequences while she could not afford to treat them. This was against her wish and instinct of being a mother.
I understand her predicament as once I was so worried when my youngest son did not show any verbal sign though he was three then.
Quite a number of people consoled me that normally boys were delayed in speeches compared to girls.
I took their advise but deep in my heart, I was freaky afraid if he had hearing loss problem.
I tried a few tricks like calling his name and gave him verbal instructions just to ensure that he had no such problem.
I was happy as he responded to the commands. At one stage, I went on listing on words that he could babble and finally he started to talk at 3-1/2 years.
Today, he celebrates his 4th birthday and he is almost like a chatter box.
However, Wafa sadness had been lifted with the help of Dr Hajeri from United Emirates Arab (UAE), who was moved to provide free treatment to the kids after hearing the news aired through satellite.
Wafa was on cloud nine as her sons get new lease of life as she told reporter that her kids have been born again after the successful operations.
Dr Hajeri kindness and generosity had been extended to other 50 children to date.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Beauty
The anti-aging ad that I'd like to see is a baby covered in cream saying,
" Ah! I've used too much!"
- Reader's Digest (Nov 2009)
I chuckled at this ticklish joke. Just to share, my 11 years old girl is not exceptional, she is influenced with the beauty of Diana Rafar who casts as "Nenek Kebaya" in the series.
Yesterday, she spent plucking and collecting fresh fragrance flowers from my garden to bathe.
Basically, beauty is not separable from female worlds back to ancient times like Cleopatra who had strict beauty regime to stick too in order to sustain her youths.
Even our traditional ancestors used 'susuk' to preserve their looks. In modern days, we have more like 'botox', slimming products and plastic surgery.
Earlier I have written two topics, "The Fair Treatment" and "Expiry Date" which touched on the same issues.
In fact today, there is another case reported on the cosmetic surgery treatment left the women with permanent scar on her right arm.
My conclusion is whatever we do to preserve our youthfulness, there is always price to it besides the monetary portion.
" Ah! I've used too much!"
- Reader's Digest (Nov 2009)
I chuckled at this ticklish joke. Just to share, my 11 years old girl is not exceptional, she is influenced with the beauty of Diana Rafar who casts as "Nenek Kebaya" in the series.
Yesterday, she spent plucking and collecting fresh fragrance flowers from my garden to bathe.
Basically, beauty is not separable from female worlds back to ancient times like Cleopatra who had strict beauty regime to stick too in order to sustain her youths.
Even our traditional ancestors used 'susuk' to preserve their looks. In modern days, we have more like 'botox', slimming products and plastic surgery.
Earlier I have written two topics, "The Fair Treatment" and "Expiry Date" which touched on the same issues.
In fact today, there is another case reported on the cosmetic surgery treatment left the women with permanent scar on her right arm.
My conclusion is whatever we do to preserve our youthfulness, there is always price to it besides the monetary portion.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Neighbours
I guess in the modern era, it is hard to find good and caring neighbours regardless where you stay.
I live in a very quiet neighbourhood. Everybody seems to have busy and hectic life. Early in the morning, majority of the residents would rush to works and late evening or nights only coming back.
It is so stressful life after long hours spending time working and facing traffic jams. Weekends are for leisure and family days. So, most of the residents would occupy with one's activities.
I seldom see, meet and what more enjoying companies from neighbours. Normally, the maids are the messengers and pass useful information but sometimes might pose danger to the employers.
I only heard that my behind neighbours went on family vacations to Hong Kong recently through her maid.
Previously, I had a friendly neighbour living in front of my house and shared common issues as she also had small kids. I missed the moments since she moved out a few years ago.
I believe that this is a normal scenario within neighbourhoods nowadays. Anyway, I still consider myself lucky as my aging next door neighbour is not that bad.
Occasionally, I manage to talk to him and discuss on certain current affairs.
A few of Muslims from distant neighbours would organise open houses during Hari Raya Celebrations and bring chances for the neighbourhoods to meet up. Although it is kind of once in a blue moon occasion, it is better than none.
It is sad news as the neighbourhood spirits deteriorate as time progress. Actually, good neighbours can help prevent crimes and make the neighbourhood safe for our children to live in.
Interestingly, a study conducted in Chicago found that some adolescents are less likely to engage in sexual activities if they lived in neighbourhoods where adults were monitoring them closely.
Children tend to engage in healthy and positive activities if they grow up in a close-knit community. Friendly and concerned neighbours can help us raise good children.
A study conducted by researchers from Harvard Medical School who published their findings in the British Medical Journal claimed that living next to a happy neighbour could boost our own happiness.
Likewise, having a nasty and inconsiderate neighbour can be devastating to family life as reported in the Star today.
So, each and everyone of us should play the role as good neighbour to revive and promote the spirit of neighbourhoods within our communities.
I live in a very quiet neighbourhood. Everybody seems to have busy and hectic life. Early in the morning, majority of the residents would rush to works and late evening or nights only coming back.
It is so stressful life after long hours spending time working and facing traffic jams. Weekends are for leisure and family days. So, most of the residents would occupy with one's activities.
I seldom see, meet and what more enjoying companies from neighbours. Normally, the maids are the messengers and pass useful information but sometimes might pose danger to the employers.
I only heard that my behind neighbours went on family vacations to Hong Kong recently through her maid.
Previously, I had a friendly neighbour living in front of my house and shared common issues as she also had small kids. I missed the moments since she moved out a few years ago.
I believe that this is a normal scenario within neighbourhoods nowadays. Anyway, I still consider myself lucky as my aging next door neighbour is not that bad.
Occasionally, I manage to talk to him and discuss on certain current affairs.
A few of Muslims from distant neighbours would organise open houses during Hari Raya Celebrations and bring chances for the neighbourhoods to meet up. Although it is kind of once in a blue moon occasion, it is better than none.
It is sad news as the neighbourhood spirits deteriorate as time progress. Actually, good neighbours can help prevent crimes and make the neighbourhood safe for our children to live in.
Interestingly, a study conducted in Chicago found that some adolescents are less likely to engage in sexual activities if they lived in neighbourhoods where adults were monitoring them closely.
Children tend to engage in healthy and positive activities if they grow up in a close-knit community. Friendly and concerned neighbours can help us raise good children.
A study conducted by researchers from Harvard Medical School who published their findings in the British Medical Journal claimed that living next to a happy neighbour could boost our own happiness.
Likewise, having a nasty and inconsiderate neighbour can be devastating to family life as reported in the Star today.
So, each and everyone of us should play the role as good neighbour to revive and promote the spirit of neighbourhoods within our communities.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Is it a Blessing?
" Talent hits a target no one else can hit;
Genius hits a target no one else can see"
- Arthur Schopenhauer
It was reported in the paper that the genius ten-years-old boy, Adi Putra Abdul Ghani, is charging RM6000 per hour for lecturing at certain local universities. On top of that he is also the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for two companies.
He has stopped schooling and studied from home. He's interested in mathematics, physics, chemistry, geography and biology but not history and politics.
He dislikes reading books but prefer to browse the Net for study materials.
Wikipedia defines genius as follows :
Genius may show itself in early childhood as a prodigy or later in life, either way, geniuses eventually differentiate themselves from the others through great originality.
Genius often have crisp, clear-eyed visions of given situations, in which interpretation is unnecessary, and they build or act on the basis of those facts, usually with tremendous energy.
Accomplished geniuses in intellectual fields start out in many cases as child prodigy, gifted with superior memory or understanding.
Howard Gardner, Harvard University Professor, had come up with hypothesis on multiple intelligence. His book 'Frames of Mind' published in 1983 stated the 7 types of intelligences.
Well, Adi is a gifted prodigy and has achieved what adults envy for. His hourly rate might be equivalent to senior lecturer paying scheme for a month.
However, is this what he really wants? What about another 10 or 20 years down the line? Will he be happy enjoying his labour of works or will he end up burn out?
We have come across earlier of a case of Sufiah, a child prodigy, studied Mathematics at Oxford University, got married, divorced and finally became a social escort to support her life.
So, is it a blessing to have or be a gifted kid?
In my opinion, they are super normal kids with high IQ and should be given opportunity to express their expertise and intelligence. However, as kids they need guidance and supervision to nurture their special gifts into proper channels.
They also need to balance up their social lives in order to minimise the gap among their peers. To me, the parents should not take advantage of the situations.
Genius hits a target no one else can see"
- Arthur Schopenhauer
It was reported in the paper that the genius ten-years-old boy, Adi Putra Abdul Ghani, is charging RM6000 per hour for lecturing at certain local universities. On top of that he is also the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for two companies.
He has stopped schooling and studied from home. He's interested in mathematics, physics, chemistry, geography and biology but not history and politics.
He dislikes reading books but prefer to browse the Net for study materials.
Wikipedia defines genius as follows :
Genius may show itself in early childhood as a prodigy or later in life, either way, geniuses eventually differentiate themselves from the others through great originality.
Genius often have crisp, clear-eyed visions of given situations, in which interpretation is unnecessary, and they build or act on the basis of those facts, usually with tremendous energy.
Accomplished geniuses in intellectual fields start out in many cases as child prodigy, gifted with superior memory or understanding.
Howard Gardner, Harvard University Professor, had come up with hypothesis on multiple intelligence. His book 'Frames of Mind' published in 1983 stated the 7 types of intelligences.
Well, Adi is a gifted prodigy and has achieved what adults envy for. His hourly rate might be equivalent to senior lecturer paying scheme for a month.
However, is this what he really wants? What about another 10 or 20 years down the line? Will he be happy enjoying his labour of works or will he end up burn out?
We have come across earlier of a case of Sufiah, a child prodigy, studied Mathematics at Oxford University, got married, divorced and finally became a social escort to support her life.
So, is it a blessing to have or be a gifted kid?
In my opinion, they are super normal kids with high IQ and should be given opportunity to express their expertise and intelligence. However, as kids they need guidance and supervision to nurture their special gifts into proper channels.
They also need to balance up their social lives in order to minimise the gap among their peers. To me, the parents should not take advantage of the situations.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Love
"In the arithmetic of love, one plus one equals everything, and two minus one equals nothing"-Mignon McLaughlin
"Love is the history of a woman's life; it is an episode in man's" - Germaine De Stael
"But love is blind and lovers cannot see
The pretty follies that themselves commit;
For if they could, Cupid himself would blush
To see me thus transformed to a boy"
-William Shakesphere
True enough that love is blind and feeling in love is the masterkey to the heart that creates happiness. However, the feeling of rejections are worse as it takes the course as what happen to the elderly couples in Kuala Sungai, Kubang Rotan, Kedah.
The woman's life ended as history and the man's has started a new episode in his life followed by the dark tragedy. As he was overpowered with love, he had lost his judgment.
MasyaAllah, at the golden age, it was shocked, unbelievabled and most regretted actions. May Allah give us His guidance and be protected from all the unwanted incidents.
The 80-years-old husband could not control his emotions after series of rejections from the 73-years-old wife had decided to end the life of his estranged spouse.
The pain of rejections was unbearable as the husband tried his best to reconcile and on the fated day, he spent 1 hour to persuade the wife. His failure had turned him irrational and committed the most hideous crime.
It was really sad to see an old man in white baju melayu, pelekat sarong and 'kopiah' being handcuffed and held by policemen at the crime scene.
I believe that he must have regretted of the action too much but it was too late.
The lesson is never let your emotions control oneself and the most sacred love is the love to the Creator. He will never reject anyone at anytime.
"Love is the history of a woman's life; it is an episode in man's" - Germaine De Stael
"But love is blind and lovers cannot see
The pretty follies that themselves commit;
For if they could, Cupid himself would blush
To see me thus transformed to a boy"
-William Shakesphere
True enough that love is blind and feeling in love is the masterkey to the heart that creates happiness. However, the feeling of rejections are worse as it takes the course as what happen to the elderly couples in Kuala Sungai, Kubang Rotan, Kedah.
The woman's life ended as history and the man's has started a new episode in his life followed by the dark tragedy. As he was overpowered with love, he had lost his judgment.
MasyaAllah, at the golden age, it was shocked, unbelievabled and most regretted actions. May Allah give us His guidance and be protected from all the unwanted incidents.
The 80-years-old husband could not control his emotions after series of rejections from the 73-years-old wife had decided to end the life of his estranged spouse.
The pain of rejections was unbearable as the husband tried his best to reconcile and on the fated day, he spent 1 hour to persuade the wife. His failure had turned him irrational and committed the most hideous crime.
It was really sad to see an old man in white baju melayu, pelekat sarong and 'kopiah' being handcuffed and held by policemen at the crime scene.
I believe that he must have regretted of the action too much but it was too late.
The lesson is never let your emotions control oneself and the most sacred love is the love to the Creator. He will never reject anyone at anytime.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Be Sensitive
The Shah Alam mayor, Mazalan Md Noor, informed that 17 out of 79 7-Eleven outlets in the city located in Section 1 to 24 had decided to stop selling alcohol beverages.
The positive move shows the support and respect of the non Muslims to ensure harmony relations with the Muslims counterpart.
Earlier, there was a miscommunication on the enforcement law when MBSA offices confiscated the alcohols from 7-Eleven stores in Sect. 9. Dr. Hasan Ali has fully supported the idea to ban the sales of alcoholic drinks in the majority Muslims communities.
The issue had sparked controversy between the politicians. Selangor Mentri Besar had ruled out that stores should conduct self regulate by storing the alcohol drinks in separate refrigerators. Also, the drinks should be sold to non Muslims and above 18 years old.
At this instance, I remembered my experience in the US more than 2 decades ago. It was just a few months, the six of us, arrived in the States.
One of the lecturers had treated us to her family's Thanksgiving party cum a welcome party during the festival break.
As a tradition, Thanksgiving was not complete without a roast turkey. We were about to politely making an excuse for not eating the main dish, when the lecturer, Mrs King, had a full smile on her face.
"Ya, don't worry about the turkey. It is halal. My mother got a slaughter one."
We were so embarrassed as the 80 year old granny nodded. Mrs King went on " My mom used to study Islam during her college days. So she understands the requirements."
However, I figure out that not all non Muslims in Malaysia have the awareness and sensitive towards Muslims especially involving halal foods.
The understanding was as long as the food does not contain pork, it is halal. To certain extend, the halal certification also been questionable.
I also wish to voice my dissatisfaction on non Muslims who have dogs as pets. I am not totally against the ideas but what upset me are the way most pets' owners treat their pets.
Normally, the owners will take their lovely pets for morning or evening walks. It is annoying to see the pets are trained to urinate at specific trees and leave their droppings along the ways.
There are also cases where the owners misuse the playground facilities where as there are big signboards clearly specified 'no dog'.
The worst scenario that I experience is that the owners just keep the pets for the sake of guarding their houses. So, the dogs ransack garbages as their food staple.
So, hopefully, the non Muslims in Malaysia could have the awareness and give due respects to sensitive issues like this as a first step to visualise the 1M nations.
The positive move shows the support and respect of the non Muslims to ensure harmony relations with the Muslims counterpart.
Earlier, there was a miscommunication on the enforcement law when MBSA offices confiscated the alcohols from 7-Eleven stores in Sect. 9. Dr. Hasan Ali has fully supported the idea to ban the sales of alcoholic drinks in the majority Muslims communities.
The issue had sparked controversy between the politicians. Selangor Mentri Besar had ruled out that stores should conduct self regulate by storing the alcohol drinks in separate refrigerators. Also, the drinks should be sold to non Muslims and above 18 years old.
At this instance, I remembered my experience in the US more than 2 decades ago. It was just a few months, the six of us, arrived in the States.
One of the lecturers had treated us to her family's Thanksgiving party cum a welcome party during the festival break.
As a tradition, Thanksgiving was not complete without a roast turkey. We were about to politely making an excuse for not eating the main dish, when the lecturer, Mrs King, had a full smile on her face.
"Ya, don't worry about the turkey. It is halal. My mother got a slaughter one."
We were so embarrassed as the 80 year old granny nodded. Mrs King went on " My mom used to study Islam during her college days. So she understands the requirements."
However, I figure out that not all non Muslims in Malaysia have the awareness and sensitive towards Muslims especially involving halal foods.
The understanding was as long as the food does not contain pork, it is halal. To certain extend, the halal certification also been questionable.
I also wish to voice my dissatisfaction on non Muslims who have dogs as pets. I am not totally against the ideas but what upset me are the way most pets' owners treat their pets.
Normally, the owners will take their lovely pets for morning or evening walks. It is annoying to see the pets are trained to urinate at specific trees and leave their droppings along the ways.
There are also cases where the owners misuse the playground facilities where as there are big signboards clearly specified 'no dog'.
The worst scenario that I experience is that the owners just keep the pets for the sake of guarding their houses. So, the dogs ransack garbages as their food staple.
So, hopefully, the non Muslims in Malaysia could have the awareness and give due respects to sensitive issues like this as a first step to visualise the 1M nations.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Watch Dog
As far as I remembered, maids were among the hot topics that been discussed among my ex-colleagues, neighbours and relatives. It was pepper hot especially for the first timer employer or 'new maid on board'.
The list went on from difficult maids, lazy maids, non-hygienic maids to stupid maids.
Once, one of my relatives was really stressed out with her maids which was categorised as stupid. She worked like a cow but eat like a horse. The employer ended up had to finish off her unfinished tasks and forked extra expenses for food and utilities.
Then, she got a difficult maid as a replacement. The maid was with her for about a month or so before she ran away. She decided to make a police report.
A surprised awaiting her at the police station when the police told her that the maid was picked up by police. The maid told the police that her employer abused her and showed all the bruises (which was self inflicted).
It did not end there, as she was slammed with RM500 fined for run away maid.
Another friend considered herself lucky and proud of her 8 years maid. She praised the maid a lot and infact the maid received a special treatment.
The maid was well dressed with branded clothings and was given a handphone as an appreciation token. The maid was totally put in charge of the house even when the employer went outstation for few days.
A few months down the line, she was miserable as she explained that the maid ran away at last. The most affected one was her youngest daughter who was so attached to the maid.
Then she kept on changing few Indonesian maids thereafter and finally given up and chose a Cambodian. The similar cycles went on as she claimed that the quality of the Cambodian maid was not much different from that of the Indonesian.
In fact, she said it was more troublesome as she faced communication break down and had to pay extra salary.
Being a working parent previously, I shared the same predicament as I had to rely on maids to look after my kids and do the house chores.
I had enough with the maids that I decided to be a stay at home mom which was an appropriate choice at that moment.
Yes, I guess my decision was right then as I have less headache nowadays.
However, cases of made being abused had got media coverage starting from Nirmala Bonat and recently Manik.
As a result, Indonesia had freezed the maids entry until few issues been resolved including the monthly raised were addressed.
To overcome the problem, the Government had decided to put officers from the Manpower Department and Home Ministry to be watch dogs and check on the maids welfare.
The employers gave mixed reactions towards the move especially the one involve securities and questions on the successful of the plan.
The list went on from difficult maids, lazy maids, non-hygienic maids to stupid maids.
Once, one of my relatives was really stressed out with her maids which was categorised as stupid. She worked like a cow but eat like a horse. The employer ended up had to finish off her unfinished tasks and forked extra expenses for food and utilities.
Then, she got a difficult maid as a replacement. The maid was with her for about a month or so before she ran away. She decided to make a police report.
A surprised awaiting her at the police station when the police told her that the maid was picked up by police. The maid told the police that her employer abused her and showed all the bruises (which was self inflicted).
It did not end there, as she was slammed with RM500 fined for run away maid.
Another friend considered herself lucky and proud of her 8 years maid. She praised the maid a lot and infact the maid received a special treatment.
The maid was well dressed with branded clothings and was given a handphone as an appreciation token. The maid was totally put in charge of the house even when the employer went outstation for few days.
A few months down the line, she was miserable as she explained that the maid ran away at last. The most affected one was her youngest daughter who was so attached to the maid.
Then she kept on changing few Indonesian maids thereafter and finally given up and chose a Cambodian. The similar cycles went on as she claimed that the quality of the Cambodian maid was not much different from that of the Indonesian.
In fact, she said it was more troublesome as she faced communication break down and had to pay extra salary.
Being a working parent previously, I shared the same predicament as I had to rely on maids to look after my kids and do the house chores.
I had enough with the maids that I decided to be a stay at home mom which was an appropriate choice at that moment.
Yes, I guess my decision was right then as I have less headache nowadays.
However, cases of made being abused had got media coverage starting from Nirmala Bonat and recently Manik.
As a result, Indonesia had freezed the maids entry until few issues been resolved including the monthly raised were addressed.
To overcome the problem, the Government had decided to put officers from the Manpower Department and Home Ministry to be watch dogs and check on the maids welfare.
The employers gave mixed reactions towards the move especially the one involve securities and questions on the successful of the plan.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Expiry Date
The Star today highlighted that more Malaysians are considering cosmetic surgery to improve appearance. It looks like the cosmetic surgery industries are blooming despite few reports on fatality cases involving negligence or complications.
Earlier, I came across the article "It's face or figure, after all" in Reader's Digest (Nov 2009) issue.
It touched on the issue that belongs to age group over 40 revealed that a full face might be the secret to youthful looks.
President of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgery, Dr Peter Callan, said "As you get older, it tends to be a case of face or figure. If you keep your figure, and your face can end up looking gaunt."
He added " Fat on the face is like carpet beneath the skin. Without it, the face loses volumes and looks almost deflated."
A US study on identical twins found that those over 40 with a slightly higher body mass index (BMI), an average four points higher than their thinner sibling, appeared younger in the face.
In my opinion, this is may be one of the reasons why individuals turn to cosmetic plastic surgery. No pain no gain.
Believed that the advancement of science and technologies might do wonders. Is it true that you really can hide your original age through your physical appearance?
What about your internal organs...are there any booster or replacement (at the moment only transplants available, yet it's not at your own comfort)?
Or the scientists are on the way to create youthful portions...
This reminded me of the movie "Till Death Do Us Apart" in the '90s starred by Meg Ryan, Merryl Streep and Bruce Waynes.
Anyway, believe that "rules of nature", everything has expiry date....
Earlier, I came across the article "It's face or figure, after all" in Reader's Digest (Nov 2009) issue.
It touched on the issue that belongs to age group over 40 revealed that a full face might be the secret to youthful looks.
President of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgery, Dr Peter Callan, said "As you get older, it tends to be a case of face or figure. If you keep your figure, and your face can end up looking gaunt."
He added " Fat on the face is like carpet beneath the skin. Without it, the face loses volumes and looks almost deflated."
A US study on identical twins found that those over 40 with a slightly higher body mass index (BMI), an average four points higher than their thinner sibling, appeared younger in the face.
In my opinion, this is may be one of the reasons why individuals turn to cosmetic plastic surgery. No pain no gain.
Believed that the advancement of science and technologies might do wonders. Is it true that you really can hide your original age through your physical appearance?
What about your internal organs...are there any booster or replacement (at the moment only transplants available, yet it's not at your own comfort)?
Or the scientists are on the way to create youthful portions...
This reminded me of the movie "Till Death Do Us Apart" in the '90s starred by Meg Ryan, Merryl Streep and Bruce Waynes.
Anyway, believe that "rules of nature", everything has expiry date....
Friday, November 6, 2009
Unforgiven Sins
I read the news in The Daily Chilli about a 33-year old father in Mumbai, India jabbed sedatives into his eight-year-old daughter before raping her or sending her out to other men in exchange for cash (RM10) or whisky. This case was revealed by the grandfather.
I was speechless for a moment as I couldn't imagine the trauma that the little innocent girl had gone through. I just could not imagine the impact of the physical, mental and emotional abused to her life in future.
It was really sickening to learn her ordeal as the responsible person was her father, her own flesh and blood, had the heart to commit such an unforgiven sins just to fulfil his own lust.
The father was worse than animals. A father was supposed to provide love and protect her but it turned out the other way infact. I just couldn't believe that a father had such a heart to do all this to his own little girl...(please read my write-up on IVF)
As an eight-year-old girl, she was supposed to be happily going to school, socialize with other kids and playing with her friends.
I also learned that the police had called for the father be given death sentence. Even, if he's dead he had ruined a life. Hopefully, the girl would recover from her misery and trauma with the supports from the psychiatrists and other family member.
This case also reminded me to "Nurin Jazlin" and "Sharleeni" who were nine and eight years old respectively when they were abducted. Nurin's body was discovered in a bag after she was molested and murdered while "Sharleeni" was not heard off.
I was speechless for a moment as I couldn't imagine the trauma that the little innocent girl had gone through. I just could not imagine the impact of the physical, mental and emotional abused to her life in future.
It was really sickening to learn her ordeal as the responsible person was her father, her own flesh and blood, had the heart to commit such an unforgiven sins just to fulfil his own lust.
The father was worse than animals. A father was supposed to provide love and protect her but it turned out the other way infact. I just couldn't believe that a father had such a heart to do all this to his own little girl...(please read my write-up on IVF)
As an eight-year-old girl, she was supposed to be happily going to school, socialize with other kids and playing with her friends.
I also learned that the police had called for the father be given death sentence. Even, if he's dead he had ruined a life. Hopefully, the girl would recover from her misery and trauma with the supports from the psychiatrists and other family member.
This case also reminded me to "Nurin Jazlin" and "Sharleeni" who were nine and eight years old respectively when they were abducted. Nurin's body was discovered in a bag after she was molested and murdered while "Sharleeni" was not heard off.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
The Mistake
IVF (In vitro fertilization) has been successfully proven method of treatment for infertility. It gave new hopes for childless couples to have their own precious special gifts and I was one of the lucky one who benefited from the treatment.
It was still freshed in my mind, I was disbelieved when the nurse from Gleaneagles Hospital broke the promising news to me confirming that I was pregnant (probably multiple pregnancy as my HGL level reading was over 200).
I just couldn't explain my emotions at that time. Excited, happy, unbelievable and grateful were all mixed up as I had underwent series of unsuccessful fertility treatments earlier.
The news really brought happiness to my husband. He was the one who experienced all the morning sickness for few days...Alhamdulillah, finally our prayer was answered after been waiting for 8 years...
However, I was chilled after when through the StarTwo today, "Seeds of Doubt" by Maggie O' Farrel. It was reported that around 12 500 babies a year are born in Britain as a result of IVF.
However, humans are imperfect. A lot of IVF errors were reported as the frozen embryos in petri dishes were mixed up and ended up to wrong couples. The mistakes had put the unfortunate couples to go through the unnecessary emotional stress and grievances besides had to go through the stressful treatment.
Here, were few cases reported related to the incidents.
1. Carolyn Savage from Ohio, US handed over her baby to its biological parents. She had been implanted with the wrong embryo after a mix-up at a fertility clinic.
2. A couple from Cardiff, Wales were told that their last remaining frozen embryo had been mistakenly implanted in another woman, who had since had it aborted.
3. A white Northern Irish couple had given birth to a mixed-race baby, after being given the wrong sperm.
4. A Californian woman was awarded US1mil in 2004 after a fertility specialist gave her the wrong embryo and hid the mistake until the baby was 10 months old.
5. A white New Yorker gave birth to a black baby in 1998, sparkling complex, two-year wrangle between the couples for visitation rights.
Hopefully, more stringent procedures should be enforced by the fertility clinics and only reputable clinics should be allowed to carry out the procedures.
I concurred and sympathised with the unlucky couples who suffered as the process of going through the string of infertility treatments were taxing both financially and emotionally.
Also, childless couples are also bound to receive pressures from relatives and concerned societies of the conditions 'state of the art'...
It was still freshed in my mind, I was disbelieved when the nurse from Gleaneagles Hospital broke the promising news to me confirming that I was pregnant (probably multiple pregnancy as my HGL level reading was over 200).
I just couldn't explain my emotions at that time. Excited, happy, unbelievable and grateful were all mixed up as I had underwent series of unsuccessful fertility treatments earlier.
The news really brought happiness to my husband. He was the one who experienced all the morning sickness for few days...Alhamdulillah, finally our prayer was answered after been waiting for 8 years...
However, I was chilled after when through the StarTwo today, "Seeds of Doubt" by Maggie O' Farrel. It was reported that around 12 500 babies a year are born in Britain as a result of IVF.
However, humans are imperfect. A lot of IVF errors were reported as the frozen embryos in petri dishes were mixed up and ended up to wrong couples. The mistakes had put the unfortunate couples to go through the unnecessary emotional stress and grievances besides had to go through the stressful treatment.
Here, were few cases reported related to the incidents.
1. Carolyn Savage from Ohio, US handed over her baby to its biological parents. She had been implanted with the wrong embryo after a mix-up at a fertility clinic.
2. A couple from Cardiff, Wales were told that their last remaining frozen embryo had been mistakenly implanted in another woman, who had since had it aborted.
3. A white Northern Irish couple had given birth to a mixed-race baby, after being given the wrong sperm.
4. A Californian woman was awarded US1mil in 2004 after a fertility specialist gave her the wrong embryo and hid the mistake until the baby was 10 months old.
5. A white New Yorker gave birth to a black baby in 1998, sparkling complex, two-year wrangle between the couples for visitation rights.
Hopefully, more stringent procedures should be enforced by the fertility clinics and only reputable clinics should be allowed to carry out the procedures.
I concurred and sympathised with the unlucky couples who suffered as the process of going through the string of infertility treatments were taxing both financially and emotionally.
Also, childless couples are also bound to receive pressures from relatives and concerned societies of the conditions 'state of the art'...
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
The Golden Egg
I am sure as kids we were familiar with the fable story of poor farmer who had found a goose that laid a golden egg on each day. However, greedy and lust had overcome him and made him slaughtered the goose to get all the golden eggs in the stomach one shot which would definitely overturned his fortune.
However, greedy and lust did not do justice. He lost the goose and his fortune as the goose was dead with empty stomach.
Similarly, the principle applied to the Slumdog Millionaire kids stars, Azharuddin and Rubina. A lot has been reported on their ordeals after been casting in the blockbuster movie which wrapped up 8 Oscars in the Academy Awards.
Seven weeks after the Oscar, Rubina's father was arrested for attempting to sell her for USD365 000 to a London tabloid reporter. However, the charges were drop off due to lack of evidence.
The latest report was in yesterday paper,whereby the two kids were reminded not to play truancy if they would want to continue receiving their monthly allowance of US120 each from the Jai Ho Trust.
The trust had been established by the movie's British director and producer. Their noble intention was to ensure that the kids would not drop out of school and by 18, they would see their pot of gold.
Both of the kids gave the same excuses during an interview by NDTV about their truancy. "My father died and I had to go through the rituals so I couldn't attend."
Honestly, it was hard for me to take the lame excuses...I pitied the kids. The kids were victimised just to fulfill their flesh and blood greed and lust...
I believe that there are many more kids out there who shared the same destiny...
Source : Reader's Digest (October 2009) and The Star (3 Nov 2009)
However, greedy and lust did not do justice. He lost the goose and his fortune as the goose was dead with empty stomach.
Similarly, the principle applied to the Slumdog Millionaire kids stars, Azharuddin and Rubina. A lot has been reported on their ordeals after been casting in the blockbuster movie which wrapped up 8 Oscars in the Academy Awards.
Seven weeks after the Oscar, Rubina's father was arrested for attempting to sell her for USD365 000 to a London tabloid reporter. However, the charges were drop off due to lack of evidence.
The latest report was in yesterday paper,whereby the two kids were reminded not to play truancy if they would want to continue receiving their monthly allowance of US120 each from the Jai Ho Trust.
The trust had been established by the movie's British director and producer. Their noble intention was to ensure that the kids would not drop out of school and by 18, they would see their pot of gold.
Both of the kids gave the same excuses during an interview by NDTV about their truancy. "My father died and I had to go through the rituals so I couldn't attend."
Honestly, it was hard for me to take the lame excuses...I pitied the kids. The kids were victimised just to fulfill their flesh and blood greed and lust...
I believe that there are many more kids out there who shared the same destiny...
Source : Reader's Digest (October 2009) and The Star (3 Nov 2009)
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Stay at Home Mom
Aha...thankyou the Star (Nov 3, 2009). These tips come handy just in the nick of time...Being a stay at home (without a helper) for 5 years really a tough test as I have to work 24 hours around the clock and 365 days in a year without any leave.
The worse part is that this profession is salaryless. Some of my friends envy me by calling "a woman of leisure". If only they were in my shoes than ... Well, the grass is always greener on the other side.
I am not only a stay at home mom but A to Z mom. I have to juggle my time from being a mother, chef, chauffeur, judge, gardener, nurse, babysitter, laundry lady, teacher and housekeeper. At the end of the day, I hardly have enough time for myself...
However, all the hard works seem to wash away when you see their face glowing with happiness and satisfactions especially when they get back from school...a sense of security...(just as my four-year old son cried "mama 3x" the moment he saw me fetching him and the brother from preschool).
The beauty of this profession is that it made you become tougher, tolerable, realistic and humane. It also requires extra patience...
The only set back (besides the financial constraint) of being a stay at home mom means restricting my social activities and I do feel lonely at times especially now that my kids have grown up.
So, I have restarted my baking hobby and picking up on sewing while the kids are at school as to kill times. Of course, my favourite pass time is to update my blog. I find that these are fun, enjoyable and mind challenging hobbies as well...
These are the tips listed in the Star on how to be happy as a stay-at-home mom
1. Keep a positive attitude even if you have been awakened four times throughout the night by a sick two-year-old. These days will fly by and someday you will miss such times.
2. Find something you love to do,such as baking or gardening and do it.
3. Join a mom's group to keep you connected with mom of all ages who are going through the same things that you are.
4. Remember that you are a valuable person and that you are doing the hardest work on earth.
5. If you are feeling resentful about it, take a look at your children and know that they are worth your being home and being there for them when ever they need you.
So, to all stay at home mom, do not regret on the decisions that you made up. The rewards are similar to the 'jihad' (those who were killed in the war to safeguard Islams). Alhamdulillah...
The worse part is that this profession is salaryless. Some of my friends envy me by calling "a woman of leisure". If only they were in my shoes than ... Well, the grass is always greener on the other side.
I am not only a stay at home mom but A to Z mom. I have to juggle my time from being a mother, chef, chauffeur, judge, gardener, nurse, babysitter, laundry lady, teacher and housekeeper. At the end of the day, I hardly have enough time for myself...
However, all the hard works seem to wash away when you see their face glowing with happiness and satisfactions especially when they get back from school...a sense of security...(just as my four-year old son cried "mama 3x" the moment he saw me fetching him and the brother from preschool).
The beauty of this profession is that it made you become tougher, tolerable, realistic and humane. It also requires extra patience...
The only set back (besides the financial constraint) of being a stay at home mom means restricting my social activities and I do feel lonely at times especially now that my kids have grown up.
So, I have restarted my baking hobby and picking up on sewing while the kids are at school as to kill times. Of course, my favourite pass time is to update my blog. I find that these are fun, enjoyable and mind challenging hobbies as well...
These are the tips listed in the Star on how to be happy as a stay-at-home mom
1. Keep a positive attitude even if you have been awakened four times throughout the night by a sick two-year-old. These days will fly by and someday you will miss such times.
2. Find something you love to do,such as baking or gardening and do it.
3. Join a mom's group to keep you connected with mom of all ages who are going through the same things that you are.
4. Remember that you are a valuable person and that you are doing the hardest work on earth.
5. If you are feeling resentful about it, take a look at your children and know that they are worth your being home and being there for them when ever they need you.
So, to all stay at home mom, do not regret on the decisions that you made up. The rewards are similar to the 'jihad' (those who were killed in the war to safeguard Islams). Alhamdulillah...
Monday, November 2, 2009
Winds of Change
The winds of change has brought the monsoon season to Malaysia and claimed another 3 lives of UNITAR undergraduates. The tragedy was a week apart from the earlier one when the three were drowned after been swept by strong current at the Batu Berangkai waterfall in Kampar.
The winds of change also affected the world season when Beijing, Inner Mongolia and the provinces of Jilin and Liaoning welcomed the first sighting of snow, the earliest in a decade.
The winds of change also generated new waves of thinking for the Trengganu state government. Earlier, they became the nation spotlight with the proposals of 1 toilet and free second honeymoon for the problematic couples.
This time round, they managed to identify the culprits for the marriage failures. The factors were body odour, humdrum sex and boring pyjamas.
To overcome the problems, they had come up with list of do's. One was to invite cosmetic firms to introduce exotic and sensous fragrances that can arouse sexual desire and the next move was to encourage couples to bathe together.
In one statement, Muhammad Ramli Nuh, the deputy chairman of State Religious and Information Committee mentioned that he knew a couple splitted because the spouse smelled of fish crackers.
Hey, wait a minute...fish crackers...are this referring to the keropok leko? Oh dear, my kids love this keropok leko so much and I have to replenish the stock everytime I patronise the pasar tani. Believe that many others share the same taste of buds...
Well, I don't mean to crack a joke here...but body odour (BO) is something that is hard to tolerate.
My father used to car pool with his colleagues and one of them was a single lady. She was nice looking except that she had BO. My father had a hard time cracking his head how to inform the lady by not hurting her...
There was another incident whereby my ex-officemates were talking behind the BO person. They could not tolerate the smell especially during office hours within the air condition environment.
Nevertheless, will perfume resolve the BO. As far as I know, perfume will react with body chemicals and reproduce a different smell from its original state. So, the best thing is to teach people with BO about hygenic and cleanliness. Also, check their body toxic level as normally the body will emit toxic(which produce bad smell) through sweating.
Maybe the BO individuals need to go for detoxyfication process.
The winds of change also affected the world season when Beijing, Inner Mongolia and the provinces of Jilin and Liaoning welcomed the first sighting of snow, the earliest in a decade.
The winds of change also generated new waves of thinking for the Trengganu state government. Earlier, they became the nation spotlight with the proposals of 1 toilet and free second honeymoon for the problematic couples.
This time round, they managed to identify the culprits for the marriage failures. The factors were body odour, humdrum sex and boring pyjamas.
To overcome the problems, they had come up with list of do's. One was to invite cosmetic firms to introduce exotic and sensous fragrances that can arouse sexual desire and the next move was to encourage couples to bathe together.
In one statement, Muhammad Ramli Nuh, the deputy chairman of State Religious and Information Committee mentioned that he knew a couple splitted because the spouse smelled of fish crackers.
Hey, wait a minute...fish crackers...are this referring to the keropok leko? Oh dear, my kids love this keropok leko so much and I have to replenish the stock everytime I patronise the pasar tani. Believe that many others share the same taste of buds...
Well, I don't mean to crack a joke here...but body odour (BO) is something that is hard to tolerate.
My father used to car pool with his colleagues and one of them was a single lady. She was nice looking except that she had BO. My father had a hard time cracking his head how to inform the lady by not hurting her...
There was another incident whereby my ex-officemates were talking behind the BO person. They could not tolerate the smell especially during office hours within the air condition environment.
Nevertheless, will perfume resolve the BO. As far as I know, perfume will react with body chemicals and reproduce a different smell from its original state. So, the best thing is to teach people with BO about hygenic and cleanliness. Also, check their body toxic level as normally the body will emit toxic(which produce bad smell) through sweating.
Maybe the BO individuals need to go for detoxyfication process.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
The Love
Basically, this is the reason why I quited my job 5 years ago. The love to my kids beat the odd although I knew the decision was hard for my husband to agree.
Finally, he gave the blessing for me to resign after much consideration of my arguments. Although we had to sacrifice a lot due to financial constraint but the bond between us became stronger.
The kids would have a kind of look and a lot of worries, if I sought their 'approval' should I have to go back to the industries. Well, wish to share a good write up by Nor Aliza Samad on her dilemma of being a stay at home mom. Contradict to me, she became the stay at home mom on her husband's request.
I have been staying home much too long. Now that my daughters no longer need me to wake up at 3am to feed them, I want to be back at work like my college friends, who take home handsome salaries.
(In my case, I have to leave my kids around 10pm and came back around 5am and had to go back to work by 7.30am as I was assigned to take care off night constructions after my confinement of my son. The handsome salaries I brought home could not compensate it!)
And what has he got to say about this?
"Well, that's very sensible of you. Frankly, I find working women more attractive and intellectual stimulating."
(This is true for my husband who I knew since college days. He preferred an independent female companion. But what to do, he got me the conservative person. Stimulating ehh...I had to leave for Bintulu for 3 days while I still breastfed my son. I had to endure the pain and sore of my breast during those trip...)
Wait a minute! Wasn't it you who said many moons ago that working women were selfish, individualistic and the cause of family disintegration?
"Gee, did I say that? Well, I guess you have to forgive me, I was green then."
It's very cute of you to admit the slip of the tongue. But we have two children now and had it not been for my nose, even my mother would have mistaken me for Roseanne Bar!!!
The story went on with the husband apologised and encouraged her to apply for jobs.
She broke the news to the kids and like mine, they gave that worry look...
This is the interesting part...The children were in bed. I walked to the bed. There he was, arms wide open, his eyes looking straight into mine.
"Loving you is stimulating enough," he said.
Hopefully, my husband realizes that my love is more stimulating and incomparable...
Finally, he gave the blessing for me to resign after much consideration of my arguments. Although we had to sacrifice a lot due to financial constraint but the bond between us became stronger.
The kids would have a kind of look and a lot of worries, if I sought their 'approval' should I have to go back to the industries. Well, wish to share a good write up by Nor Aliza Samad on her dilemma of being a stay at home mom. Contradict to me, she became the stay at home mom on her husband's request.
I have been staying home much too long. Now that my daughters no longer need me to wake up at 3am to feed them, I want to be back at work like my college friends, who take home handsome salaries.
(In my case, I have to leave my kids around 10pm and came back around 5am and had to go back to work by 7.30am as I was assigned to take care off night constructions after my confinement of my son. The handsome salaries I brought home could not compensate it!)
And what has he got to say about this?
"Well, that's very sensible of you. Frankly, I find working women more attractive and intellectual stimulating."
(This is true for my husband who I knew since college days. He preferred an independent female companion. But what to do, he got me the conservative person. Stimulating ehh...I had to leave for Bintulu for 3 days while I still breastfed my son. I had to endure the pain and sore of my breast during those trip...)
Wait a minute! Wasn't it you who said many moons ago that working women were selfish, individualistic and the cause of family disintegration?
"Gee, did I say that? Well, I guess you have to forgive me, I was green then."
It's very cute of you to admit the slip of the tongue. But we have two children now and had it not been for my nose, even my mother would have mistaken me for Roseanne Bar!!!
The story went on with the husband apologised and encouraged her to apply for jobs.
She broke the news to the kids and like mine, they gave that worry look...
This is the interesting part...The children were in bed. I walked to the bed. There he was, arms wide open, his eyes looking straight into mine.
"Loving you is stimulating enough," he said.
Hopefully, my husband realizes that my love is more stimulating and incomparable...
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)