A Part of Our World.. Not A World Apart.

2010-06-26T13:20:00.031+08:00

Have you come across the Chinese proverb “It is the beautiful bird which gets caged” ? Seriously, if you take a stroll in the Bird Park with us, you will understand what it is trying to say. Just look at the beauty of those birds, it's more than enough to take your breath away. But yet the tags on them means they are forever caged, doomed to be on exhibits to Men till the day they breathe their last, with the faint hope that perhaps their sacrifice will bring about an awareness of the beauty Mother Nature has bestowed upon the world and thus, save the lives of their counterparts in the wild before it is too late.

2010-05-27T19:19:00.038+08:00

Pardon me for the trip down nostalgia isle people but recently, I have been haunted by the guilt of not fulfiling a promise I had made to the missus during our courtship days. A promise that reads; Let's go explore all the wonders of our sunny island. A promise I had found tremendously difficult to uphold given the combination of lame excuses like a lack of motivation and more conveniently, time shortage as well as my lady's big heart at overlooking this procrastinating side of me. But recently whilst reading, I stumbled upon a quote by Samuel Butler stating that oaths are but words and words but wind and that opened the floodgates for the waves of guilt to come roaring in. It was then did I start to reflect and realize there are more to a relationship than just making promises for the sake of it. More often than not, words are just the onset of a process of building trust with your partner. And trust is the basis to the foundation of every sturdy relationship. Like Aeschylus once said, it is not the oath that makes us believe the man, but the man the oath. As such, I decided to put aside everything and start making good my word in order to cement my commitment in this relationship. First stop, Singapore Zoological Gardens on 26 May 2010.

It felt more like homecoming than a visit back to my former education grounds ever did. Perhaps given my all-time ambition of a naturalist, it's because I relate better to animals than I ever will with teachers, peers and the likes. Nevertheless, the visit to the zoo was superb and the icing on the cake was the company. I can never ask for a better companion than the one I already have. Anyways, do have a look some snapshots of the sights we encountered that day and well, it is understandable if you do feel a tinge of jealousy at your heartstrings. You ought to.

Till the next time then everyone. Cheers!

2010-05-14T10:44:00.002+08:00

God sent children to the world because it needed the light that only a child can bring.

2010-05-11T21:15:00.018+08:00

Dear all,

After a long period of absence, I've finally found the motivation to unearth this blog from the dead and here I am again. I know it ainT often that you associate this link with words and personal insight of my life but today, let me make it an exception.

If I had not mentioned it yet, yesterday, 10 May 2010, marked the final day of my stint in the National Service. It has been a journey full of turbulence, being thrust from my comfort zone into a life in which most males have no wish to undergo. I can tell you, every step along the way has the potential of tripping you up and leaving you face flat on the ground before you know it, and I assure you, it was NEVER easy. But from where I stand now, I am surprised to see the results of the reflections of my journey in the army as such. The government always maintain that National Service is where boys turn into men and as I once scorned this belief, I now understand what they are driving at. As Anais Nin was quoted saying, "Life is a process of becoming, a combination of states we have to go through. Where people fail is that they wish to elect a state and remain in it. This is a kind of death.", when I first entered the force, it was as if I had died. I was lost and confused with the prospect of surviving the 'sentence' seemingly bleak. But it was only at my first bookout that I realized that being deprived of something I had taken for granted for ages made me open my eyes to the world. Like what Bernice Johnson Reagon has mentioned, "Life's challenges are not supposed to paralyze you, they're supposed to help you discover who you are." Only then did I understand there is much more to life than the little world I had been living in for the past 19 years. It was then that I decided to not let life's challenges daunt me and instead use it to my benefit and discover the inner strength that lies within. Whatever is thrown at me, I will just dodge and if it succeeds in knocking me over, I'll pick myself up, dust off and continue on. It was with this mindset that has carried me through the difficulties until today. And that was Lesson No. 1 which NS has taught me.

Lesson 2 opened my eyes and mind to the world around me and the people living in that world. My parents strongly believe that a person is made up of his/values and character and as such, I've been brought up in a civilized manner with such traits being inculcated deeply into my roots. Not to sound rude or perhaps conceited in any way, but it was indeed a shocking experience when I found myself living in close quarters with individuals from all walks of life. Through this though, I've found that not everyone is as fortunate as you and I. Some of them are fiercely prideful of their 'shortcomings' and some are just defeated by it but one thing for sure, their needs are just like ours. I learnt that beneath every hardened expression is a soft heart waiting for someone who cares enough to penetrate the external layer to find out the person within. And when you do that, you'll find that you've probably just found a friend for keeps. There were other colorful characters dotting my NS cycle too. Most are egocentric enough that you'll find which the only alphabet they know is 'I' and their best friend is a mirror. Some are experienced bootlicker, polishing their way to superior appointments and additional benefits. A couple are just so plain old weird that I even wonder if they're from this planet. They are the ones that showed me how false walls look like, how it is possible to be always heard but never seen, and how little some relationships can mean to them when faced with the dilemma of 'sacrificing the rest to save myself.' But come to think of it all, they were what made life in army so full of booms and bangs, lights and colors.

The final lesson I took away from this experience is that no matter how terrible life may seem at that point in time, it is crucial to stay true to myself. The path may seem inviting to follow when you see others sucking up to superiors and reaping all the benefits. And yes, there is nothing wrong with doing what's best for oneself but what if the superiors' doings are just not right and you know it? Will you close one eye and still follow him like a dog, wagging its tail and waiting to be fed? Or will you stand up for what is right? Well, all you need to do is ask yourself this, "What different are you from him if you follow in his footstep?" I was once told that this is a dog-eat-dog world and to survive, you have to be the biggest dog or you can bask in his glory. I know for a fact that I'm not the alpha male in the pack, but the values inculcated in me taught me to stay away from anything that I do not believe in. This way, even if by standing up against him will incur his wrath, at least you know you've stayed true to your beliefs and that nothing will sway you. That in itself is a lesson in mental toughness.

As much as I hate to admit it, NS did its job in my metamorphosis in life. There are lessons to be learnt in it that you'll be hard-pressed to find in the outside world. Indeed, people do grow through experience if they meet life honestly and courageously. This is how character is built. I've been through the toughest spell of my life and conquered it. Time for the next adventure to unfold!

And before i sign off, here's a list of fantastic people whose efforts made it possible:

Oreo gang. You guys have been my pillar of strength in camp and excellent mates for canteen breaks, PT sessions, and other random activities. Thank you for making the bunk not seem as cold and unappealing as it is when none of you is around. Thank you for the fun and laughters anywhere and everywhere. And thank you for being there at all times. Let's all drop our lives for one day and off to Ubin we'll go. Who's with me?

PKS brothers. Brothers, it's been 5 years since we've known each other but still, it's amazing to see how we always manage to pick things off from where we left them. To Kheng Loon, my ex-bunkmate and future NIE-mate, thanks for the times when we can just lie on our respective beds and just talk about anything and everything. Thanks for being my support and also my listening ear. Happy ORD anyways! To Sean, my random commrade-in-arms, thanks for organizing the outings that allowed us to foster the bond we all share. Your belated (pardon us for that) birthday celebration is next, wait for it. To Jonathan, thanks for always extending your invitation to your place for random chit-chat and chilling sessions. Meet up for supper soon alright? To Nesh, thanks for always livening up each PKS outing with your exchanges with Loon. It always enjoyable to have a hearty laugh away from army life. Hang in there and I'll see you in NIE, and of course at Sean's birthday celebrations.

Wanpin & family. You are just like my second family. All the times you've graciously accomodated me into your home and listened to my complaints, I seriously cannot find the words to adequately express my gratitude. All I can say is thank you for the constant support and now let me do my part in enriching the lives of your two little angels. I've missed quite a bit in their growth and development but I believe it still ainT too late. Let's start with equipping them with the best education possible first and then we'll tackle enrichments in time to come.

Carina. Mummy, thank you for everything. For the past 5 years, you've been like a dumping ground for me to empty my emotions, my problems and my worries. You just do not realize how important your listening ear was in the first year of NS. It's what kept me sane and ticking properly. Although you may have handed over this duty to mei mei for the past 9 months plus, never undermine the power of your support. Remember, I'm here too whenever you need an outlet. For the record, I still owe you an ice-cream. Validity till month end only though.

Juehui. Baby! My best friend, my soulmate, my love, my one & only, my everything. The moment you stepped into my life is probably the time when all my worries disappeared. That is when I know whatever problems I have, there is someone there to support me through them and assure me that come what may, I'm not alone. Your texts, forever high in sugar content, can naturally induce a smile and are the only stimulus for me to function. Your nightly phonecalls gave me something to look out for during the day. Our weekend getaways provide not only motivation to act rationally in camp in times of tension but also a source of memories to look back to for the week. Your antics made me laugh, your words warmed my heart and basically just about everything of you lifted me up like no other. 'Thank you' these two words hardly do justice to you. I'm forever indebted to you and now, let me use actions to pay it off. I love you.

My beloved family. They say blood runs thicker than water. Now i truly understand it. I've seen your pain in my pain and I realize my actions have not just an impact on myself but also yours. I apologize for making you victims to the constant stream of verbal assault each weekend. I apologize if I'd been in a foul mood and had hurt you by accident. I apologize for being the unreasonable brat and demanding things my way in the past. And most importantly, I apologize for taking you all for granted. I am a changed person now. I thank you for accomodating me at all times. In fact, thank you for making me the person I am now. I owe my life to you all and nothing I do will ever clear my debts. Just let me do what I can whilst I can.

My fellow NS mates, commanders and troopers alike, we've sweat, bled and suffered together. Thank you for the memories. Happy ORD to you guys!

And of course, finally to the many other individuals who made a difference. Thank you all.

With that, I'm out.

Yours sincerely,

J K Tan, Daryl.

2009-06-06T09:39:00.004+08:00

[6 Jun '09].

Hope is important because it can make the present moment less difficult to bear. If we believe that tomorrow will be better, we can bear a hardship today. -Thich Nhat Hanh

2009-05-24T18:18:00.005+08:00

[24 May '09].

There are dark shadows on the earth, but its lights are stronger in the contrast. -Charles Dickens.

2009-05-24T17:53:00.005+08:00

Most people give up just when they're about to achieve success. They quit on the one yard line. They give up at the last minute of the game, one foot from a winning touchdown. -Rose Perot.

2009-05-23T13:07:00.001+08:00

[23 May '09].

Celebrate your success and stand strong when adversity hits, for when the storm clouds come in, the eagles soar while the small birds take cover.

2009-05-22T07:24:00.010+08:00

[22 May '09].

People are like stained-glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within. -Elizabeth Kubler Ross

2009-05-08T07:58:00.003+08:00

[08 May '09].

For everything you have missed, you gain something else;

And for everything you gain, you lose something else.

It is about your outlook towards life.

You can either regret or rejoice.

2008-12-31T18:28:00.005+08:00

[31 Dec '08].

I know it seems hard sometimes, but remember one thing, through every dark night, there's a bright day after that. So no matter how hard it gets, keep your chest out, keep your head up and handle it.

2008-11-22T23:24:00.001+08:00

[22 Nov '08].

May the love hidden deep inside your heart find the love waiting in your dreams. May the laughter that you find in your tomorrow wipe away the pain you find in your yesterdays.

2008-11-12T09:07:00.003+08:00

[12 Nov. '08].

Imagination is everything. It is the preview of life's coming attractions. -Albert Einstein.

Imagine you're in a wet market (or supermarket if you prefer it) and you're by a fruit stall. Have you ever stopped to wonder, 'How does this fruit grow? Is it like grapefuits, hanging by the dozens on trees? Or does it follow grapes, which grows in clumps on vines? As a kid, i've always been curious about the nature of the dragonfruit. I would pester my parents to get me one and would meddle with it until i'm satisfied before requesting to consume. Anyways, i shall not bore you with anecdotes of my past but a question that has always been burning in me is, 'What does a dragonfruit plant look like?' (Has that question flashed across anyone's mind? Or is it just the weird kid in me?)

Fortune has it that recently, ARC(S) Enrichment organized an outing to Hay Diaries Goat Farm and wait for it, the Dragonfruit Plantation! I jumped straight in with the prospect of finally answering one of life's mysteries. Well, to cut things short, the trip to the plantation was definitely enriching despite the fact that it wasnT dragonfruit season yet. Take a trip down my memory lane and who knows, you may find fascination beyond your imagination!

P.S. - Pardon the assortment of pictures.

2008-09-20T20:05:00.000+08:00

[20 Sep '08].

You can close your eyes to the things you do not wish to see, but you cannot close your heart to the things you do not want to feel.

2008-09-20T14:01:00.004+08:00

From Punggol, With Love.

2008-09-17T09:51:00.019+08:00

[17 Sep '08].

“For every beauty there is an eye somewhere to see it.
For every truth there is an ear somewhere to hear it.
For every love there is a heart somewhere to receive it.”

Ivan Panin

2008-09-11T07:55:00.003+08:00

[11 Sep '08].

Greetings everyone! With this post comes resurrection of this site. Pray may be, I do hope for time to keep the pictures flowing once more but do bear with the layer of rust for now. On the road to brushing them off. Cheers! =)

2008-09-11T07:28:00.001+08:00

To appreciate the true beauty of the rainbow, you must first weather through the storm.

2008-07-11T07:21:00.002+08:00

[11 Jul. '08].

The beginning of a new dawn.

2008-06-21T07:40:00.001+08:00

[21 Jun. '08].

A fairly disappointing start to the day.

2008-06-19T21:44:00.004+08:00

[19 Jun. '08].

As a compromise for the lack of a sunrise today, here are the sights of the Southern Ridges.

2008-06-18T07:52:00.001+08:00

[18 Jun. '08].

For you who have missed it.

2008-06-17T15:08:00.000+08:00

[17 Jun. '08].

To new beginnings.

2008-05-31T18:27:00.000+08:00

[31 May 'o8].

Singapore Zoological Garden.

2008-05-17T07:48:00.000+08:00

[17 May '08].

2008-04-30T18:35:00.001+08:00

[30 Apr. '08.]

"Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow" (Albert Einstein)

2008-04-09T11:07:00.001+08:00

[9 Apr. '08].

"And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom." (Anais Nin)

2008-04-09T10:24:00.003+08:00

Only those who have waited in darkness will fully appreciate the true beauty of a sunrise.

2008-03-28T07:52:00.003+08:00

[28 Mar. '08].

With each sunrise, we start anew.

2008-03-27T19:50:00.001+08:00

[27 Mar. '08].

"Clouds come floating into my life, no longer to carry rain or usher storm, but to add color to my sunset sky." (Rabindranath Tagore)

2008-03-27T07:35:00.004+08:00

"Weeping may go on all night, but in the morning there is joy." (Psalm 30:5)

2008-03-24T23:40:00.002+08:00

[25 Mar. '08].

Punggol End.

2008-03-23T10:44:00.004+08:00

[23 Mar. '08].

" God didn't promise days without pain, laughter without sorrow, sun without rain, but He did promise strength for the day, comfort for the tears, and light for the way. "

2008-03-07T16:11:00.008+08:00

[7 Mar. '08].

Promises are like the full moon, if they are not kept at once they diminish day by day. (German Proverbs)

An ounce of performance is worth pounds of promises. (Mae West)

Just remember; Promises breed trust and trust spawns promises.

2008-02-29T16:25:00.003+08:00

An Epic Tale of Two Brothers.

Acknowledgements

Special thanks to the three gentlemen who made this tale possible; Jonathan Szeto, Sean Lee, and Ong Kheng Loon.

And to all of you, never understimate the power of your encouragement and support.

2008-02-29T16:20:00.005+08:00

Prologue

Jon and Sean were born and raised together. They shared the same cot, showered together, went to the same school, even chased and got rejected by the same girls. In the mystical spirit of brotherhood, they believed that all men are brothers. As such, they put trust in each other to share the good times and tide through bad times as one. They believe in walking through fire and ice together. Above all, they lay emphasis in the mantra 'One for all and all for one'.

Words come cheap. When tested to the limits, will the chains of brotherhood be broken? Throughout the childhood and adolescence years where the bond was forged, it showed no real sign of breaking, save for the occassional squabbers. But afterall, which brothers do not have their arguments at times?

2008-02-29T16:02:00.003+08:00

Storyline

Out sprang a hot chic, Loon, from out of the blue. Both Jon and Sean immediately noticed her and in this world where 'Love at first sight' exists, they fell for her. Being brothers, Jon shared his feelings with Sean and listed in explicit details how he would go all out to woo her whatever the cost. Unknown to him, Sean felt torn as he would give almost anything to be with her. But sacrifice his brother? No, he just could not bring himself to do that.

So began Jon's attempts to win over Loon's heart. And unknowing to both brothers, the tiniest of cracks had started to appear in their brotherhood.

2008-02-29T15:01:00.005+08:00

For many moons, Jon tried but to no avail. He invited her over to Jewel Box to dine with him but she played him out, causing him to wait alone with an empty stomach till closing time. He bought her a sparkling diamond necklace only for her to ask where he stole it from. He even pretended to faint to at least gain her sympathy but she just left him there on the pavement without a single backward glance.

"Her heart must be made of carbon to not melt despite my best efforts," he said to himself after yet another failure. Out of sheer desperation, he resorted to stalking her.

The cause for his failure is largely due to the fact that Loon's heart is already out to someone. She is aware of Jon's unbashful attempts to woo her but the only reason why she agreed to communicate with him is because she wanted to use him to get closer to Sean. However, it seemed that everytime she is near, Sean always skulked away.

"No matter what, one day, I'll get him cornered and I'll confess my feelings to him," Loon thought.

One day, the window of opportunity opened for her and she jumped right into it. She spotted Sean alone at a park. He just seemed to bow his head and go into his inner world. It was like he was thinking hard, thinking intensely of a woman he could never have. She covered the distance between them in mere seconds.

"Hey!" She said, startling him.

'Hey," he replied, somewhat awkwardly.

"There.. ," she hesitated and then thinking 'What the hell', she bit the bullet and continued, "Tthere is something I've been wanting to tell you. I think about you all the time." She flushed bright red.

"What do you mean?" Sean asked in the same tone, but something in his eyes just ignited.

"Do i have to spell out everything to you? Gosh! I like you.. Do you get it? That is why i even bothered to talk to your friend Jon. I've been trying to get closer to you!" Loon stated in a flustered state.

Now it was Sean's turn to go red, "Truth is, I have the same feelings about you as well. It's just that I cannot afford to lose my brother Jon."

There was an awkward silence and Loon broke it by exclaiming, "Look, a plane!" Sean turned smiling, his arm somehow finding itself over her shoulders.

The mood might have lifted between the two of them but in the shadows, it darkened. Jon, hiding behind a bush, had heard the confession too!

2008-02-29T14:57:00.001+08:00

'To be in love is merely to be in a state of perpetual anesthesia: To mistake an ordinary young man for a Greek god, or an ordinary young woman for a goddess.' (H.L. Mencken)

Or so to say, love clouds one's mind to the extent that one simply loses all sense of reasoning.

"YOU!" Jon bellowed, exposing himself to startled gasps from Sean and Loon. "You claim to be my brother! You claim to be happy for me when I told you I've fallen for her. You claim that it was a matter of time before I won her heart. It was all lies! I thought I knew your measure, my brother. But I was WRONG! I should never have trusted you, you two-faced freak!"

2008-02-29T14:42:00.001+08:00

"She's MINE!" Jon screamed hysterically.

Thus began a tug-of-war between the two brothers.

2008-02-29T14:32:00.002+08:00

"You're hurting me, both of you!" whined Loon. Aware of this, Sean let go.

"HA HA HA! I've won! Just like i've always beaten you in everything" Jon sniggered.

Sean sighed, "I'm so disppointed in you, my brother. How can you say such things? You're willing to sacrifice all these years of brotherhood for a girl who does not even like the sight of you?"

"Yes I am! Didn't I tell you I'll win her over whatever the cost? Even if that means losing you." Jon replied without the slightest sign of emotion.

"You...," Sean began.

"Stop trying to make me feel bad. It will not work!" Jon interrupted.

"You know," Sean continued sadly, "To think that all these years I've been watching your back for you, letting you have things your way, even sacrificing myself in the process."

"How noble of you!" Each word was riddled with sacarsm.

"Not today. Not after seeing you exposing your true colors. Today I'll stand and fight for my own happiness."

Jon laughed mirthlessly, "Bring it on! To the death."

2008-02-29T14:15:00.001+08:00

The fight was as brutal as they come. Fuelled by love and anger, they looked like mirror images exhanging blows, employing identical evasive and defensive moves.

But Sean maintained sufficient humanity to not strike to kill and unleashed a wild swing which Jon punished without mercy.

He caught the loose arm...

2008-02-29T14:11:00.001+08:00

And drove a thundering fist into Sean's midriff! Sean recoiled, completely winded and gasping for air.

Jon was not finished with him though.

2008-02-29T14:05:00.002+08:00

He tackled Sean around the waist and lifted him clear off the ground.

2008-02-29T13:55:00.005+08:00

'Man, I am getting my ass kicked here,' thought Sean. And he can't even move any of his limbs to fight back!

All he needed was one opening, one chance to turn the tide in his favor.

As Jon adjusted Sean to get a better grip to hurl him to the ground, Sean's right leg swung free. Seizing this one and only opportunity, he kneed Jon in the chest.

The blow striked home.

Jon gasped in shock and pain..

2008-02-29T13:50:00.003+08:00

And they both collapsed in a heap to the ground.

With no time to lose, both untangled themselves and re-engaged in battle.

2008-02-29T13:44:00.003+08:00

A break from all those scenes of raw violence and savagery, let's turn our attention to Loon for a moment. Given that she is an avid photographer, despite the fact that the alpha-males were battling it out for her, she simply could not resist whipping out her 2.0 megapixel mobile to snap action shots.

2008-02-29T13:37:00.004+08:00

Battered, bruised, exhausted and with nothing to lose, Sean leapt from a rock and soared through the air, with the intention to knee Jon in the face. For a good second, Sean hung in the air and a turn-around seemed possible until cool as a cucumber, Jon raised his own knee and it collided with Sean's crotch.

The pain was immense and Sean felt the fight leave him.

2008-02-29T13:33:00.003+08:00

Now, it was all one-way traffic.

Jon pummeled Sean with renewed ferocity. With no energy left to fight, Sean just staggered back unsteadily with each blow.

Then, quick as a cobra, Jon delivered a swift upper-cut and Sean's head snapped backwards, his arms flailing after him.

2008-02-29T13:30:00.004+08:00

Pumping on adrenaline, Jon sprang high up in the air and without battling an eyelid, he drove the nail into Sean's coffin with breathtaking force and malice!

The fight was over at last.

2008-02-29T13:25:00.004+08:00

Jon bended over to examine the body of the fallen Sean. With every ounce of his remaining strength, Sean reached out to grasp Jon's hand.

His departing words were, "My dear brother, all my life I've lived and loved you. If your love for Loon is as simple as you think it is, I would have gladly just taken a step back and let you live your life. Unfortunately it is not. To seduce her mind, you will have her body. To find her soul, she's yours forever. Do you understand? She will never love you truly unless you capture her heart. Perhaps when I'm gone and you persevere, someday she will fall for you. I believe behind that hot head, there is a kind soul that will appeal to people's hearts. I do not blame you for what you've done today. I just hope you'll find your true happiness someday. Take care my brother."

With that, Sean breathed his last.

As he lifted the limp body of the person he once-called brother, one single thought flitted through his mind and tears streaked down his face.

'What have i done?'

2008-02-29T13:18:00.007+08:00

At this point, it would be nice to end the story with 'And they live happily ever after...' But such is just the stuff of fairy tales.

Given the outcome of the duel, you may say that Jon has Sean settled and Loon locked in his grip. However, as in the case of true love like what Sean has pointed out, to possess through brute force may only win one's physical being. What is the point of owning one when the heart already belongs to someone else? Why hog an empty shell? As a trophy? That, my dear readers, is not what you call love.

As for Jon, his brother's last words brought his whole world crashing down. He was spared the life imprisonment for manslaughter as the death of Sean has, to say, unhinged him. He is now spending the rest of his days in a cell in the asylum. Visitors all agree that these are the only words that are coming out from his mouth now;

'One for All and All for One'

2008-02-29T13:11:00.005+08:00

Epilogue

As for Loon, after the incident, she can only look to the skies and reminiscence her only moments with Sean.

'So dear I love him that with him, All deaths I could endure. Without him, live no life.' (William Shakespeare)

With that thought, she could bear the pain no longer and leapt off a twenty storey building. Her body was found sprawled on the pavement, broken and pulverized beyond recognition.

All that remained was the mobile phone and the contents within...

2008-02-29T12:35:00.001+08:00

The End.

2008-02-29T12:28:00.003+08:00

What Critics Say:

"Two Thumbs Up!"

2008-02-29T12:19:00.000+08:00

"Simply Number 1!'

2008-02-23T12:33:00.000+08:00

[23 Feb. '08].
Take flight to greater heights.

2008-02-20T23:11:00.002+08:00

[20 Feb. '08].
Feathered friends.

2008-02-15T13:03:00.011+08:00

[15 Feb. '08].
The Singapore Zoological Gardens may have been mourning over the recent passing of two Orang Utans. But gloom and doom was not looming around on the day of visit.

Introducing two new beings at the zoo and marvel the perspective of an ultra wide-angle lens. =)

2008-02-15T12:30:00.005+08:00

In memorial of the recent deaths in the Singapore Zoological Gardens, here are a couple of pictures of the 23 remaining Orang Utans.

Also show-cased are other residents of the Zoo.

2008-02-15T09:15:00.002+08:00

Feline focus.

2008-02-12T23:28:00.000+08:00

[12 Feb. '08].
PKS Reunion Dinner.

2008-02-11T21:09:00.000+08:00

[11 Feb. '08].
Skipping Lunar New Year.

2008-02-10T12:09:00.000+08:00

Wishing Everyone Out there a Happy

Lunar New Year!

Pray for blue skies and calm seas.

Have a splashing good time!

Soar to greater heights.

Crawl to greener pastures.

Stand out from the rest.

2008-01-01T00:27:00.000+08:00

[1 Jan. '08].
No beautiful literature, no fanciful words, no exaggerated wishes. Just a simple chorus of 'A Happy New Year' to all out there! Let the new year begin.. =)

2007-12-31T09:37:00.000+08:00

[31 Dec. '07].
The sun rises for the last time in 2007 and marks a grand finale to the closing chapter of what has been a splendid year.

2007-12-30T12:44:00.000+08:00

[30 Dec. '07].

“Today a new sun rises for me; everything lives, everything is animated, everything seems to speak to me of my passion, everything invites me to cherish it.”

--Ninon de Lenclos.--

“I, not events, have the power to make me happy or unhappy today. I can choose which it shall be. Yesterday is dead, tomorrow hasn't arrived yet. I have just one day, today, and I'm going to be happy in it.”

--Groucho Marx.--

How eloquently these quotes orate.

The sun rises yet again this day. It's time to start living once more.

2007-12-28T22:04:00.000+08:00

[28 Dec. '07].
Living the high life of a fisherman by the sea.

2007-12-22T18:48:00.000+08:00

[22 Dec. '07].
Sharing the panoramic sights of a place we call home.

2007-12-22T18:21:00.000+08:00

[22 Dec. '07].
View from Fairmont Hotel.

2007-12-19T22:53:00.000+08:00

[19 Dec. '07].
Say, M&Ms anyone?

2007-12-09T13:17:00.000+08:00

[9 Dec. '07].
A B&W perspective of the creatures that share our world.

2007-12-09T10:50:00.001+08:00

[9 Dec. '07].
The power struggle between light and dark.

2007-12-08T20:00:00.000+08:00

[8 Dec. '07].
A walk by the riverside.

2007-11-17T00:07:00.000+08:00

[17 Nov. '07].

Love is in the air.

2007-11-16T23:48:00.000+08:00

Let life's colors bloom with a boom.

2007-11-16T22:54:00.000+08:00

To chase the gloom to its doom.

2007-11-14T19:23:00.000+08:00

[14 Nov. '07].
A special dedication.

When darkness threatens to overwhelm one's life, always bear in mind that light will shine for those who seek it.

2007-11-08T20:13:00.000+08:00

[8 Nov. '07].

Yet another upwards flick in the last digit of one's constantly increasing age. Two contradictions arise out of nowhere; One rejoices over the flipping off the previous chapter to a new one fresh with new twists and turns at every page of it, whereas the Other ponders on the reason for popping the champagne over the process of ageing. While one is sitting on the fence watching the battle rage on, upon further reflection, one realizes there are more than meets the eye.

For all of one's smiles and laughters, they are all but a facade. Appreciation of effort is one thing, but to claim genuine bliss is of a different matter. As recently as this day itself, one was questioned on how one's life is. For that, one does feel a twinge of guilt prickling at one's heart for misleading the concerned parties into the meadows where all is pretty. If only they knew the bogs and marshes lying within. Well, for once, let one share alittle insight with those who wants to know.

So they say, a picture tells a thousand words. One finds that the chosen one relates best to current situations. A winding road spreads before one. The only way is to go forward. But what lies ahead seems dark and lonely. A heavy mist falls upon it, heightening one's hestitation to embark of this journey into the unknown. But yet, one's heart is tugging at one, forming an arrow that is without a doubt pointing the way forward. The heart cries out that somewhere beyond the countless bends, there is light. One just has to be gallant enough to overcome the uncertainties that lies yonder, and only then would one reap what one has sown. However, one's mind is trying to keep one's feet rooted to the ground. It only has one say though; What if one gets lost in this voyage?

And such is the way life is now.

2007-11-04T21:47:00.000+08:00

[4 Nov. '07].

God, grant one the serenity to accept the things one cannot change, the courage to change the things one can, and the wisdom to know the difference. For all who lay their eyes on it, the difference is as distinct as black and white. But then, one would rather be a could-be if one cannot be an are; because a could-be is a maybe who is reaching for a star. One would rather be a has-been than a might-have-been, by far; for a might have-been has never been, but a has was once an are. Such is the power of love. =)

2007-11-04T21:18:00.000+08:00

Precipitation.

2007-10-31T21:23:00.000+08:00

[31 Oct. '07].
Imagine a day in which the colors of your life leaves you. How monotonous everything would seem. Your flowers would look no different from weeds. Buildings would have the same tone as stone. Even, the sun will not appear to be shining anymore. All would seem to be just enshrouded by mist and nothing more, leaving one in a state of depression that words cannot do justice to.
So, why let the colors leave your life? Live your life expecting nothing and wanting not of everything.. This way, should Life throw you a lousy dice, it would not seem as if a blanket of grey has fallen over you. And always remember; regret not of yesterday, rejoice today and receive tomorrow with open arms! =D

2007-10-26T09:14:00.000+08:00

[26 Oct. '07].
Who dare claim ownership for this? =P

2007-10-25T21:29:00.000+08:00

[25 Oct. '07].
Hark, the beauty of Nature's phenomena; Sunsets. Yet in all its glory and exquisiteness, one does get the forlorn feeling of loneliness when drinking in the sights. Perhaps the desire to share such moments with a special someone does tug at one's heartstrings...
So, to the distinguished individual, since one is unable to catch the sunset together with thou, one can only bring it back for thou's viewing pleasure. Enjoy! =)

2007-10-25T20:39:00.001+08:00

[25 Oct. '07].

When nature and urbanization crosses path, there will always be victims in the battle for survival. This day marks another calamitous encounter and Mother Nature has lost another of her son/daughter to the rampaging force of urbanization. All bemoan the passing of such a beauty specimen of cobra whose life has only begun but was claimed on this faithful day. =(

2007-10-23T15:45:00.000+08:00

[23 Oc. '07].
Long overdue post; Sentosa trip dating 7 Oct. '07. Itinerary features Images of Singapore and Underwater World.

Special dedication goes out to none other than my companion for that memorable day. Hope u do like these mediocre pictures. =D

(P.S. - A note to all; I apologize for the lack of my usual 'style' in these pictures. Somehow a combination of poor lighting, gear limitations, and especially top-class company led to a half-heartedness that i seldom experience when looking through a viewfinder. I'll be back with a bang soon. Till then, cheers everyone!)

2007-09-19T21:14:00.000+08:00

[19 Sep. '07].
Hey guys.. As promised, do indulge in the sights of KL. I apologize for not doing the place justice as this was just a vacation trip and not one meant for shooting.. In fact, i only took my camera for a walk on the first day. Not my usual standard for image quality, but given the limitations of shooting in a foreign land, here's just what i can present to you.. Cheers! =D

2007-09-14T16:53:00.000+08:00

[14 Sep. '07].
Here's the products of an overseas PKS vacation in KL and Genting Highlands that spread over a period of four days (9 Sep. to 12 Sep.).

2007-08-26T21:14:00.000+08:00

[26 Aug. '07].
Fountain of Wealth.

2007-08-18T14:23:00.000+08:00

[18 Aug. '07].
Singapore Fireworks Celebrations 2007.
Excellent fireworks display. Horrific photo-taking experience. I dare confidently say this; the bursts are so inconsistent, the colors are constant (red, orange, green, white), rapid fire of bursts, extreme smog, etc. But for the sake of those who had missed it, here's a glimpse of how it was like..

[ P.S. - A note to my mum; I'm terribly sorry. =( As such, I'll dedicate this batch of pictures to you.. Hope you'll like them. )

2007-08-14T20:08:00.000+08:00

[14 Aug. '07].

Green Crested Lizard.
A native species of lizard which population is on the decline due to competition from the Changeable Lizard. I had the luck to spot this fellow in the Singapore Zoo today.. It's my second time catching them in the wild and i guess for those who know me, i surely wouldnT let this opportunity pass me. As a result, i spent one and a half hour trekking after this beauty in the section 'Australian Outback'.. It first appeared on the railing and then scurried up a tree after some disturbance by visitors. Spent 45 minutes there (i had to climb the railing to get pictures of it!) and finally came back down.. Scampered around in the grass looking for prey and went up the railing to bask in the sun. And before it disappeared for good, i had one last chance to capture it on some black tree support.. What a catch! It is saddening though to imagine how our fragile ecosystem may no longer contain such a lovely species of reptile.. Hope you guys will appreciate this fellow as much as i do. =)

2007-08-14T18:28:00.000+08:00

[14 Aug. '07].
Hey guys.. My apologies. It's the same old place again.. But it's the only place in which i do not mind going alone.. Here's my take for today. The theme is 'Cute'.. Hope you guys will like it! =D

(P.S. - Sorry, i cannot resist taking the big cats.)

2007-08-11T08:46:00.000+08:00

[11 Aug. '07].

After so many moons of not being able to get out and shake off all the dust, do expect rust from me. Put to that one new equipment (a 1.4x TeleConverter) and having to take through glass often (note the soft dreamy effect), go easy on the critics wonT u? Anyways, presenting the zoo to you once more as of how the day went through a viewfinder.. Many thanks to my buddy for the company. Well, Enjoy! =)

( P.S. - May i dedicate this entire series to two individuals of extreme importance in my life; Cari mummy and Ron buddy.. A note to my mum though, cheer up! There's always a solution to each problem.. And remember, i'm all ears. Hope you guys like the pictures! =D )

2007-06-28T08:36:00.000+08:00

[28 June '07].
Some rural place in Singapore. =)

2007-06-28T08:28:00.000+08:00

Dinner with Philip Koh at Holland Village (18 Jun' 07).

2007-06-12T17:23:00.000+08:00

[12 June '07].
First scaly encounter in the wild (Ubin).

2007-06-09T13:41:00.000+08:00

[9 June '07].

Next stop, guess where? =D

2007-06-09T12:39:00.000+08:00

Dug out from my archive dated 26 May '07.

2007-05-24T11:54:00.000+08:00

[24 May '07].
Singapore Zoological Gardens.

2007-05-12T12:23:00.000+08:00

[19 May. 07].
What more can I say? I'm back! =)