Jace 'n' Place: HiStory

Assisi's Garden Of Love

Fri, 07 Mar 2008 20:38:56 GMT

What a joyous occasion for both day-care and in-house residents at Assisi Hospice! A very interesting event, The Garden of Love, was held a few days ago by undergraduates from SMU.

Not only did they serenade everyone with folk songs (one of the guys sang a Teresa Teng's song bravely, despite his lack of karaoke talent... although I'm much worse.. hehe =p), a pot of flowery plant was given to each and every resident for them to take care of either in the garden or within the room. Kudos to these group of warm hearted youngsters for such a great idea to brighten up the mood and provide a therapeutic experience for them! *clap clap*

My mum absolutely loves plants with her array of pots along the corridor at home, and had chosen a pretty plant with pinkish flowers, while my aunt was quick to point out that the small leaves should be easy to maintain. I even brought a fitting spray bottle for our daily 浇花 session. Moreover, it was an event that she thoroughly enjoyed!

While I was there just now, it was a delight to see her fall asleep contentedly after given her a little massage, and with her favorite tunes (from the album 民歌100首) streaming softly in the background from the portable CD player. I was surprised to find it on the table one day.. thank you, Assisi staff! It is another good day for her. =)

I was utterly famished on reaching home that I bought a sumptuous $5 香港面 to curb my growling tummy. I think the coffee shop staff on night duty are starting to recognize me coming from afar.. *lol*. After washing some clothes and doing a bit more research on notebooks for IT Show (if you are buying a notebook during this weekend at Suntec, I think this list will be quite helpful), I reckon it is time to call it a day.. Ciao *fainting, exhausted, dreamy*

Solace In A Catholic Sanctuary

Tue, 04 Mar 2008 04:29:53 GMT

Many relatives and friends have been left in doubts for some time as I could not describe my mum's condition easily. Hence, I decided to divulge what I can in this post so I won't have to explain again:

It happened in early August last year, when my mum felt a numbness on the left side of her head and for once, nearly could not find her way back home from Bedok Central, a place she had been familiar with for decades. She visited the doctor at a Polyclinic and was referred to a brain specialist in SGH, but the given appointment date was in late December. She is such a fiercely dedicated mother in taking care of my sister and I that even though my family is financially not well off, we are blissfully pampered throughout our lives and home is always a comfort zone. Suddenly, she needed the occasional help in walking and experienced frequent dizzy spells. I stopped going to work and school completely to look after her, while my sister took on the responsibility of the sole breadwinner. Sensing something amiss, I decided to force her appointment through early by registering her as a private patient and a week later, we were in SGH to see the neurologist. For about 2 weeks, She had to go to hospital frequently for many tests, including MRI, blood, eyes and cognitive assessment.
In late August, the dreaded phone call came as a nurse informed us to see the doctor immediately, but she seemingly could not reveal the reason. Once we were there, a locum showed us an MRI scan on the screen, and it was strange. There was a large irregular mass on the left side of the brain and incredibly, the doctor could not explain it and at the same time, we were referred to a senior consultant in neurosurgery. He simply spoke in a forthright manner, saying that it was a large malignant brain tumor and needed surgery soon. Otherwise, my mum could only live for another 3 months. It was definitely a shock to me. However, the neurosurgeon spoke only in English, and my mum could not comprehend what he was saying. How on earth do I break this fact to her? Without me saying anything, she knew something was wrong and suddenly started to insist she would rather die than be operated on her head, and was absolutely stubborn on this. As we sat outside the doctor's room, I tried persuading her that the tumor must be removed to no avail, although I did not have the heart to convey the fact that it was malignant. In fact, both of us was simply numbed emotionally at this point of time, possibly a typical reaction to the shock realization.
Miraculously, a kindly auntie who was waiting for her appointment sat beside my mum, and out of the blue, told her that the neurosurgeon in the room is extremely good. She had also undergone a brain operation by him a year back and she said he is a doctor we can trust and kept talking to my mum for a long while, sharing her experiences and comforting her. It was a relief when my mum decided she must be operated on and be healthy again. To be able to recover and continue looking after us was her sole concern and motivation. I informed the doctor her decision and a date for the operation was scheduled a week later...

At this juncture, I realize it is quite hard for me to describe more in details. As a rejoinder, she was able to recuperate at home for the next 3 months, which was a wonderful and emotional period of time within the family while I accompanied her on daily trips to SGH for radiotherapy. However, a relapse occurred in December and she was warded in SGH again, and later transferred to Assisi Hospice for specialized care on the advice of doctors and medical social workers, especially Mr Gilbert of NCC who spent a lot of time with me, advicing me and doing his best for my mum. I would like to take this chance to sincerely thank many people, including Dr Tan Yia Swam for her calming nature and care of my mum during the operation, Dr See Siew Ju and Mr Gilbert of NCC for bringing me through a difficult decision-making period and trying time, as well as all nursing staff of SGH Ward 74 during the second stay, especially Megawati, Jingsi and Tingting, for their tireless and professional care. Most of all, I am grateful to Yuqing for being there for me and listening when I was at my lowest point, Marcus, Aaron, Wenhui, Shimin, Zhiren, Xianmei, Huiyi and many more whom I may have missed out (sorry...) who have accompanied me throughout the difficult times.

My focus now shifts to this exceptional and quiescent catholic sanctuary for cancer patients in their last journey; Assisi Hospice, an outreach service of Mount Alvernia Hospital and Franciscan Missionaries of the Divine Motherhood Sisters:

Having been here daily for the past months, I cannot but be impressed and overwhelmed by the dedication and sacrifices shown by all the doctors, nurses, assistants, social workers, sisters and volunteers in their persevering and unflagging efforts to provide excellent palliative care and emotional support to both patients and family, and a tranquil environment for my mum. Outings and events, such as the CNY Chinatown trip and upcoming SMU's Garden of Love and Assisi Charity Fun Day, are always interesting, gratifying and organized in a fun way. I am thankful for this group of extraordinary people.

Hospice and Last Journey are words that were strange to me a year back until I saw the k-movie "The Garden of Heaven (하늘정원)" and the j-drama "One Litre of Tears (１リットルの涙)" back then, which seemingly prepared me for the trials ahead...

Soapbox Video: The Depth of Life

하늘정원：Life is like a dream, with some having longer dreams than others. Life is worth living regardless of any setbacks, and it is not length of life, but depth of life that matters. Life in a hospice is vividly described in the video as the doctor becomes the focus of attention.

Google Video: 3月9日

１リットルの涙：努力生存下去，学会珍惜生命，无悔地度过每一天，不给自己的青春留下一丝遗憾. Based on the real-life struggles of a 15-year-old girl named Aya who suffered from an incurable disease, but lived life to the fullest until her death at 25.

I will be spending even more time with my mum in her ward in the foreseeable future, and I know it is hard to contact me these days. But, I know you will understand. Take care everybody, and hope we meet up some time later. My mum and family are coping well so please don't worry ok? There are many trials, tribulations, happiness and sorrow that we must go through in life and it is important to always stay strong and optimistic. Take heart and 홧팅! ^^

" 비가 와도 모진 바람 불어도 다시 햇살은 비추니까 "
无论下雨还是刮着凌厉的风，阳光会再次照耀

Last but not least, I hope to share this lovely song with you:

聽媽媽的話 (listen)

作曲：周杰倫
填詞：周杰倫

小朋友　你是否有很多問號　為甚麼
別人在那看漫畫　我卻在學畫畫　對著鋼琴說話
別人在玩遊戲　我卻靠在牆壁背我的ABC
我說我要一架大大的飛機　我卻得到一只舊舊螺旋機
為甚麼　要聽媽媽的話　長大後你就會開始懂得這種話　哼

長大後我開始明白　為甚麼我跑的比別人快　飛的比別人高
將來大家看的都是我畫的漫畫　大家唱的都是　我寫的歌
媽媽的辛苦　不讓你看見　溫柔的事　是否在她心裡面
有空就多多握握她的手　把手牽著一起夢遊

聽媽媽的話　別讓她受傷　想快快長大　才能保護她
美麗的白髮　幸福中發芽　天使的魔法　溫暖中慈祥

在你的未來　音樂是你的王牌　那王牌談個戀愛
而我不想被你教壞　還是聽媽媽的話吧　晚點在戀愛吧
我知道你未來的路　幹嘛比我更清楚　
你因為太多學習的同學在這塊寫東寫西
但我在　媽媽我會用功讀書　用功讀書　怎麼會從我嘴巴說出
不想你輸所以要叫你　用功讀書嗎

媽媽交給你的毛筆　你要好好收著
因為不許告訴我　也告訴他我還留著
對了　我會遇到了周潤發
所以你可以跟同學炫耀　賭神未來是你爸爸

我找不到你寫的情書　你喜歡的要承認
因為我會了解你　會在操場上牽她
你會開始喜歡唱流行歌　因為張學友開始準備唱吻別

`·.¸¸.☁‧: From littleoslo :‧☁,.¸¸.·´

A Good Day To Treasure And Hopefully More...

Fri, 29 Feb 2008 00:55:16 GMT

Yesterday was the most beautiful day to treasure in recent memories, the unbridled joy coursing through me due to my mum that I could not describe properly in words (though I am trying to do it now =p). It was a happiness that wasn't really showing on my face, but my heart was bursting with fireworks and then more!

It all started at 7.15am when Marcus managed to get me out of bed for an early basketball game. I told him I just wanted a good start to the day, hence the morning dew still shimmering on the hoop. Despite shrinking over 5kg through the last few weeks, a lack of proper exercises for the last few months, and losing elasticity in my steps over the years, I had somehow emerged victorious over the formidable Marcus, who have always maintained his tone muscles, finesse and stamina, on aggregate 19-18 over 3 games! It is rare for me to blog about beating him in thousands of games since young, and I held bragging rights in only 2 posts. The feat accomplished of course, not without 2 big bruises, 1 reddish scar and aching limbs he inflicted on me under the still lazing sun, which he easily placated by treating me to a hearty Macdonald's Big Breakfast at East Coast.

The clock just ticked 9.30am when I set off to school to settle some weighty administrative matters that luckily went off without a hitch and by 12.45am, I was at Clementi Fairprice purchasing some adult diapers and freshening wipes. Happily, I was able to utilize some gift vouchers courtesy of SCS. When I sat beside my mum in her ward, it was still an early 2.10pm. Initially, it seemed she was no different from the last few days when her condition deteriorated to a greater extent. For the past few weeks, I could only watch helplessly as her mind slowly sank into confusion and increasingly, she was not able to communicate sensibly with people around her. It was painful to see her like this. As my aunt arrived followed by my sis, we went for a scheduled meeting with the doctors, nursing officer and medical social workers at 3pm. For most parts, it was an important update of my mum's current condition for both my aunt and sis which I could not convey at length myself otherwise, and to have a chance to share our concerns with one another.

It was almost 5pm when we went back to the ward as my sis's boyfriend, Lexiang, and his cell leader, Paul, also arrived by then. I could see my mum's attention perked up considerably in the crowded ward while we maneuvered her to a more comfortable semi-sitting position. Paul initiated an animated chat with my mum in fluent Cantonese as he spoke about my mum's past and his own family. It was incredible, when my mum started to reply with vivid clarity as all of us listened and laughed along to his funny tales, and soon, she was in the thick of actions with her wits and little jokes entirely beyond our expectations while enjoying the mee hoon dinner I was feeding her with relish. That wonderful moment lasted almost 2 hours and she was not tiring at all, as Paul continued spinning about his own misfortune with relationship and seeking my mum's help which she gladly agreed, as the lady in demand, another cell leader, Huimin, was coming later. It was a great joy to see my mum the way she was, like she always is.

Everyone left a little after 7pm and with me alone with her, she was speaking of just the two of us in the room in a warmly way. A while later, she talked a little about certain things troubling her, and in ways not seen in the last few weeks, she lucidly listened and replied to me. There was a certain clarity in her thoughts that I wished deep inside that I could hold on to as long as possible. She ate a lot during lunch and dinner rather surprisingly, so the sole frantic moment was to find the nurse assistants to help clear her loose stool which was affecting her quite a bit. Huimin arrived promptly at 8pm, and being equally adept at chatting as Paul, my mum was again enraptured by her words and was in a good mood. Although her stay was not as long, the half hour she spent with my mum was likewise memorable and sweet. After she left, I continued chatting with my mum amidst the joy dancing through my heart. Once I told her she had forgotten to serenade Paul to Huimin as promised and she was like "Oh no! I had forgotten! How?", and it was heartening to see her jovial self. Moreover, she could tell me softly that she had talked a lot today and was a little tired, and a little cold as I lowered the fan speed, and she would try to sleep before I go. I was moved...

All these, she had apparently lost for the last week, as she was previously mumbling about imaginary things and scenarios, such as her insistence on lifting a baby, cake or rope that wasn't there, making impossible demands, and often too agitated to sleep even under sedation on a daily basis. At that moment as she gradually fell asleep, her breathing was serene, and gave me a sense of calm and bliss. I waited until 9.30pm before taking the long journey home, but not before sharing my experiences excitedly (or crazily should I say..) with the staff nurse at her counter, a nursing assistant who walked past, calling my aunt up and sending smses to Qingwan, who has looked after my mum's needs since her stay at the hospice. My sis was as soundly asleep as the samsoon pig next to her when I reached home around 11.30pm but I managed to mutter a bit about Huimin rather sleepily before she left for work. =p

My mum has fought this battle with GBM for 7 months, and will not give up without a fight being the fighter and protector she is to my sis and I, and a big sister to her eight younger siblings in a tough Malaysian village. Yesterday was a day I treasured so much and I pray for more good days ahead. The previous night was the first time in months that I could fall sleep with joy in my heart. ^^

Surprise From Taiwan

Sat, 09 Feb 2008 10:18:19 GMT

真的是一个很意外的惊喜！！！

今天早上忽然收到从台湾寄来的邮包，原来是从知己玉庆的！真的很开心，也很细心的打开。。

WOW！很特别的生日礼物和新年祝福。你一定用了很多功夫包装吧？我会好好珍惜和使用里面的一切。今天还是年初三，新衣服晚上可以穿！怎么信封有韩国邮票？帖子还有你的名字！哈哈。。很可爱 ^^

玉庆，谢谢你！

2月10日更新：哈哈。。其实我年初四才穿，很COOL 的T-恤！！！我很喜欢！

Mum's Chinatown Outing 2008

Tue, 05 Feb 2008 22:52:16 GMT

Wonderful memories from the trip to Chinatown with my mum last Wednesday. ^^

A big Thank You to all staff and volunteers of Assisi Hospice for making this trip possible!

A Meaningful Birthday Card

Sun, 03 Feb 2008 23:26:42 GMT

A birthday card from Cheng Wan that I really appreciate with my heart, and her words had changed my perspectives in a different way.

Front:

Inset:

Back:

A New Year Card For Michelle

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 22:10:44 GMT

During the 15 days visiting the ward, I met many wonderful people who had shared with me their experiences in life, such as Ah Ma *bed 7*, Ah Ma *bed 9*, Jimmy *livewire* and Michelle *cool lady*. Listening to both Ah Ma at their bedsides was always a tender moment, and at times, I could see their tears when they spoke of the past and more so the cheerfulness as they happily urged me to go for meals. Jimmy often gave me invaluable advices that only someone who had gone through and seceded from a colorful life can give. Moreover, his fierce determination in protecting his parents, previously and now, left a deep impression on me.

Once, I was taking a stroll outside the ward when I came alongside Michelle. We ended up having a long chat as we walked leisurely through the hospital and sat at Polar, and it was a very meaningful encounter with her. Her serene yet assertive manner in dealing with her hitherto unconfirmed medical condition was simply amazing and I could always feel a sense of strength in her words, or in her unspoken expressions. There are times when it wasn't easy but for her unwavering faith in God.

It was supposed to be a simple new year card before *evolving* through the night into a lightscribe CD that I had given Michelle before her discharge, that she may enjoy the music as she recuperates at home.. Sometimes, I find myself listening to the songs in the same order as that in the CD over and over again :)

You Raise Me Up (Kenny G)
You Raise Me Up (Lena Park)
You Raise Me Up (Josh Groban)
The Prayer (Charlotte Church and Josh Groban)
August Rush (Mark Mancina)
Dueling Guitars (Heitor Pereira)
Bari Improv (Kaki King)
Light The Fire In My Heart (Sonicflood)
Someday (John Legend)
You Were Born To Be Loved (Phil Dave)
당신은 사랑받기 위해 태어난 사람 (Bada)
きみは愛されるため生まれた (原田博行 and 森古優香)
God Will Find A Way (Wow Worship)
You Raise Me Up (Celtic Woman)
Variations On Pachelbel's Canon In D (Jeffrey Michael)
Anthem of Love (Silvard)

Listen (open with windows media player)

Early Yuletide Cheers

Fri, 21 Dec 2007 17:59:11 GMT

Raffles String brought music and warmth to the wards of Singapore General Hospital, and put a smile back to those who will be spending Christmas within...

...and then more!

Birds Of A Feather

Sun, 04 Nov 2007 15:07:34 GMT

Recently, two little birds have been visiting the flower pots kept outside my corridor at least once a day without fail.

They will dance amidst the branches for a couple of minutes, chirping away in unison, and seemingly oblivious of my attempts to observe them (although it is extremely hard to get them to pose for pictures together...) =p

The very unique feature about them is that they seem to be from different species (I assume...) and yet, they are often seen together as a pair. One has a yellow underbelly while her good friend has a striking red crest on the head that runs along the back. What an interesting pair!

What type of birds are they?

Household Chores

Sat, 15 Sep 2007 12:17:28 GMT

The recent turn of events has led me to take up the gauntlet of tackling the full chunk of household chores by myself. With mummy's selfless devotion in keeping my sis and I ever so pampered since we were young (I guess we will always be a child in mummy's eyes irregardless of our age =p), I'm not embarrassed (but admittedly guilty.. ㅠㅠ) to reveal that I lack the motherly skills of keeping my home spick-and-span.

I had never fully appreciate her efforts in waking up at the mere hint of dawn to do the laundry, nor comprehend the need to start so early. But now I do know. After struggling through my own terrible efforts to handwash the clothes, speaking of even guilt and admiration would be diminishing her love and dedication. Throughout the days, I find joy in rushing through the hours to accomplish the chores and looking after her, as the fulfillment of lessening her burden has never been so invigorating.

Well, except for one issue: ~~I'm really awful at housework~~! The CEO and chief inspector of *Mummy, Inc.* can never rest her mind as long as I am in charged. She is constantly worrying over every little thing, and enjoying her time laughing and nitpicking over my mistakes and stupidity. At times, it can be hilarious too!

Thankfully, having my auntie over for the time being to take care of her and keep her company has definitely calmed the whole family, and I could not thank her enough. In the times ahead, I will not relinquish these responsibilities, and be determined to remain strong for her.

On a positive note, I turned to the internet for help in my desperation to grasp the essence of the routine chores (secretly =p). Interestingly, VideoJug came to my rescue! It is really a living encyclopedia of life, with a multitude of professional How-To videos amongst other themes. The community comments below the videos can be very useful to assess the accuracy too. Here is one on handwashing for noobs like me:

VideoJug: How To Hand Wash Your Laundry

Despite being at a beta stage, I'm sure the website will have something for everyone, and definitely many for me! If you continue to browse further, you can find many cheeky and exceptional videos as well, especially for LOVE. Here are some that tickled my ribs, and do look out for the useful SUPERMAN stance!!!!

(Oct 7) The more I do, the more I feel.. that maybe I'm not that bad afterall. Since the day when the doctor revealed that she has gbm, the shock and the despair are long gone. It is ever so important to treasure each and every day ahead, a day at a time together...

HiStory: Kindergarden Blues

Tue, 01 May 2007 03:41:52 GMT

I studied in Geylang Serai Education Center from 1984 to 1985. I remembered vividly that I was doing well during the first year but somehow, I started to dislike learning English as I gradually progressed to the second year. Consequently, my father had to resort to hiding near the windows and giving me hints via *hand signals* whenever I had an English spelling test (each and every time)!

My performance records over the 2 years can be quite contrasting:

1984 (Age on 1st Jan: 4 yrs 11 mths)

English: 18.5/20
Mandarin: 20/20
Arithmetic: 20/20
Passed

1985 (Age on 1st Jan: 5 yrs 11 mths)

English: 3/20
Mandarin: 11/20
Arithmetic: 14/20
Failed

From being graded 6th in class in K1 to 24th out of 30 in K2, the glum face says it all. What a grumpy graduation.. =p

A Splitting End

Sat, 07 Apr 2007 01:09:48 GMT

How terrible can it be when your brand new textbook does a full split the first time it is opened?

哼~~~！！！！！

RI Supper

Sat, 21 Oct 2006 08:47:12 GMT

I staggered home at about 11 plus as if I am totally jet-lagged, after an exhaustive day of listening to a *self improvement expert* in the morning (mental torture #1), intensive *excogitation* in the north spine for the whole hazy afternoon (mental torture #2) and attending a *mind-boggling* language class through the night (mental torture #3), not to mention the 5 long hours of travelling (mental torture #4). *faint*

I had not been sleeping well for the past few days, and hence, I was so thrilled with my tiredness that I even prepared a big cup of Milo to ensure my stomach was satisfied as well, as it would surely culminate in a wonderfully blissful night in slumberland till a lazy Saturday morning. Just then, an MSN Messenger window popped up:

11:11:14 PM Phqsouleater: yo
11:14:16 PM Jacen*제이슨: hi..just came back from school
11:14:33 PM Jacen*제이슨: what are you doing now?
11:14:38 PM Phqsouleater: what u doing??? want to go for coffee???
11:14:47 PM Jacen*제이슨: now?
11:14:52 PM Phqsouleater: then
11:15:00 PM Jacen*제이슨: where are u?
11:15:06 PM Phqsouleater: at home lah
11:15:16 PM Jacen*제이슨: tomorrow coffee u mean?
11:15:32 PM Phqsouleater: no now idiot
11:15:39 PM Jacen*제이슨: where leh?
11:15:48 PM Phqsouleater: u think loh
11:16:03 PM Jacen*제이슨: hahaha.. siglap coffee shop
11:16:31 PM Phqsouleater: i call u later
11:16:39 PM Jacen*제이슨: ok
11:17:00 PM Phqsouleater: u bath first
11:17:23 PM Jacen*제이슨: bath already
11:17:30 PM Jacen*제이슨: u call me
11:17:38 PM Phqsouleater: ok ok

In just 15 minutes, his Black Yamaha R1 roared into my void deck, all the way from Tampines! Despite my initial lethargy, his cheekiness in telling me the reason he asked me out was only because he wanted to eat an ice-cream inexplicably perked me up! We then rode to a nearby Hong Kong Cafe at East Coast Road (I simply don't understand why it is always so crowded this late at night) and ordered his Mango King Ice Blended with Ice-Cream. With my gung-ho encouragement, we also ordered some 'Bo Lo' Buns, Kaya French Toast, Steamed Fresh Shrimp Dumplings, more Steamed Pork And Shrimp Dumplings, and a Red Bean Mountain Float!

Staring at our supper, it really did seem excessive. To our surprise, the dishes were remarkably appetizing and were gobbled up in no time. Above all, it was really relaxing to chat with him through the night, his cheerfulness and jokes were especially heartening, despite all that he had been going through for the past week. He has a maturity far beyond his age, and I really admire his steadfastness in doing what he believes in, and his fortitude in dealing with his inner feelings. Because of this meeting, I had a nice spin on his dazzling bike home and most of all, a great day today! ^^

My Korean Teacher

Sun, 08 Oct 2006 07:06:32 GMT

~~~ The Lessons ~~~

Some weeks ago came the conclusion of the Korean language course I had been attending conscientiously for the last 3 months. From stumbling in no men’s land in the early lessons to a fruitful conclusion, I can’t wait to move up to higher levels!

From the day I stepped into the classroom, the initial impulse to learn was overwhelmed by a terrifying experience; a teacher who taught mostly in her native Korean that early in the course, a mind of mine who could comprehend neither her teachings nor her jokes, and a class full of students who could mostly understand her. The feeling of not being able to laugh along with the rest while she was joking was really hard to take in. Having attended an introductory class a year ago where everything was taught comfortably and conveniently in English, I was in for a *cultural shock*!

After 3 lessons, my stress level was reaching saturation point. Then, the realization gradually set in as I remembered a rare occasion where she spoke in English, telling us in a serious tone that she could teach us grammar, making sentences, proper usage… but for vocabulary, we simply have to learn and memorize through our own efforts. There is simply no other shortcut to learning a language well…

~~~ The Resolve ~~~

With a new resolve, I buckled down to understanding and memorizing all the words in the textbook whenever I could spare the time, be it in the subway, on the bus, or even in the toilet. Indeed, that was what she had often encouraged in jest: train-bus-toilet!!! Moreover, the task of completing all the given homework and worksheets was of equal importance. *sweat*

From lesson 5 onwards, I was seeing light at the end of the tunnel, as though her effectiveness in teaching shone through. In discouraging the use of English and translation in class, she had progressively instilled in us a much sharper sense of *hearing*, as well as indirectly challenging us to bring our understanding to another level. The sheer delight of interpreting each of her sentences properly was in itself a reward for learning.

~~~ The Presentation ~~~

And finally, the final presentation loomed. I was one of the earlier ones to present a passage (translated as “The Shepherd Boy and the Wolf”) because a classmate I hardly knew surprisingly cajoled me to go forward. *sabo :p* I took a deep breath and before I knew it, that breath took all my words away! Seemingly, the passage was erased from my memory; my mind absolutely blank amid the roars of laughter from the class! *jialat*

I struggled to keep my nerves and miraculously, I managed to recite the first sentence perfectly resulting in the whole class clapping in unison, and then another roars of laughter. I simply could not recite the second sentence! Thoughts started to flood into my mind; of my initial resolve to do well for this presentation, of getting a stage fright, of embarrassing myself and of everything becoming so terribly wrong now…

There were a few drawings on the white board, deliberately placed by the teacher to guide us along. Yes, the drawings! I focused hard on them, deep in concentration and alas, I could gradually piece together the pictures with some fragments from my memory. Haha.. I think I am making it all too dramatic through my narration but somehow, I made it through my recitation huffing and puffing, speaking quite comically at times and also with numerous subtle hints from my teacher and classmates. *thanks*

~~~ Couque D'asse ~~~

The teacher promptly decided to reward a present to the best speaker of the class, as she had brought along a box of Korean chocolate! *wow* Names were flying and it all narrowed down to a young lady who was absolutely brilliant in her recitation. But... unbelievably, she nominated me on the spot! The teacher pondered for a while over the two of us and said she liked her presentation very much, and we could learn a lot from her fluency and accuracy. Then, she handed the present to me! She simply smiled and said my effort was quite interesting! I sat dazed and stunned throughout with no visible facial expression but deep down inside, I was very touched and bursting with joy!!!

I definitely did not do well, and there were many classmates that were more deserving, and despite mentally going through the event many a time, I still could not fathom her decision. Nevertheless, the main reason for my joy is very simple: it is the teacher’s acknowledgement that I have always needed. I was not able to sleep throughout that night and the excitement was unflagging as I went through all of it with Marcus during the sumptuous *roti prata* breakfast next morning :p

~~~ A Conclusion Rejoinder ~~~

I didn’t take this course as a pastime, but as a goal in life. She had indeed fostered a challenging yet fun way of learning, and the early pressure seemingly transcended into a much needed source of motivation; to be precise, a challenge to improve. Despite holding a BA in English Language and Literature, she has a unique way of teaching without English indeed. Ironically, I also cannot forget the few useful English words that she had occasionally used in class, such as "kick the bucket out", "light or heavy” and ”old info new info” ^^

Most importantly, I would like to say: 이선생님, 정말 감사합니다!!! ^ㅡ^

Lady Han's Visit

Sun, 20 Aug 2006 14:50:05 GMT

From the moment she stepped into the conference room, you could sense an aura of elegance and kindness radiating from her. Korean actress Yang Mi Kyeong (양미경 교수님), who is popularly known as Court Lady Han in Jewel in the Palace (대장금), made an official visit to our school, and a chance for us to participate in a little Q&A session with her.

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What struck me most is her lovely smile; warm, motherly and truly heartfelt. It was a delight seeing her up close, an exceptionally beautiful lady despite her understated yet classy dress. The way she listened intently to our questions and her infectious enthusiasm in replying was a moment to treasure too.

As a professor in her native country, our teacher revealed that she is very interested in the development of the Korean language overseas and especially in Asia, hence her visit last Thursday as part of the Asean-Korea Dialogue Partnership.

Earlier in the day, she had also visited an elderly cancer-stricken fan in her Serangoon Gardens home and thereafter, she continued to touch hearts by meeting her 1000-strong fans at Jurong Point Shopping Mall.

In an interview she did with The New Paper through an interpreter, she revealed that, like Lady Han, she is a good cook. She said she would whip up Korean dishes for her husband and son at home. “It's now summer in Korea and we like to eat ginseng chicken soup,” she said. “So I cook that often, and I'd like to recommend that Singaporeans eat it for good health.” (Source: TNP)

Be sure take her advice ^^

Burly, Shorty And Lousy

Tue, 04 Jul 2006 12:11:47 GMT

Yesterday, I had a lively game of basketball with Marcus in the evening. Usually, he should be all over me with his immerse physical strength, ultra spinning layups and yucks.. his *irritatingly* accurate three-pointers. Surprisingly, I was shoving him around and scoring so easily.. ahahaha.. he complained loudly that I have become FAT!!! Aiyo, where got lah? :p

A while later, three young Ah-Bengs (I shall call them Burly, Shorty and Lousy) *jio* us to a game of 3-vs-2. Burly is a consummate shooter with a heavy body to throw around; hehehe.. I left him to Marcus to handle! Shorty is the savvy passer and dribbler that I had a hard time shadowing. What about Lousy? Well, lets just say he lived up to his name. One piece of advice: never guard against Lousy. His flaring arms left me with accidental slaps and long scratches.. Ouch! Overall, it was a very enjoyable game which ended in a draw, and a good workout for us too!

At the end, I simply laid flat on the court resting, my eyes transfixed on the greying sky. Often, Marcus and I will chat about everything under the sun (or the moon) after a game, and I enjoy listening to his experiences and insightful thoughts. Guess the topic we talked about that night? hehehe.. the type of women we like! Hmm.. I shall not disclose the intriguing discussion we had over here. :p

Robbed In Johor

Thu, 08 Jun 2006 11:59:15 GMT

Have you ever seen your close friend being threatened with a parang? Well, I have, and it all happened in an unexpected robbery yesterday.

After a sumptuous seafood supper at Taman Sri Tebrau Hawker Centre in Johor Bahru, Marcus, Xiaowei and myself headed for our car, completely unaware that someone was tailing us. While I was in the backseat, I could fleetingly sense a shadow before slamming the door shut. Everything just unfurled in an instant as a shabbily dressed Chinese man dashed in from our blind side and threw himself between the front door and Marcus, who was adjusting himself in the driver seat.

Marcus simply had no chance to react whatsoever. The first thing that hit us was that he is a beggar, with his unkempt appearance, filthy attire and a nauseating smell. He was demanding money and Xiaowei, who was in the front passenger seat, immediately reacted by speaking to the man, and telling him not to do this. Unexpectedly, the situation escalated as the robber intimidated that he has Aids, and he was going to die anyway. It was becoming obvious that we were not going to hand over the money as Xiaowei was locked in an argument with him.

The atmosphere had become increasingly tense as the desperation of the foul-mouthed robber was apparent. Then, the unthinkable happened. He pulled out a curved parang menacingly from under his shirt and the fact hit us like a cold slap on our face. Damned! We were being robbed! He was armed and my closest friend’s life was in grave danger!

The time frozed as the robber gripped the front door tightly, and Marcus was indeed in a compromised position. Life was at stake and anything could go wrong now.

I could sense that Marcus was very calm and collected, as he handled over a stack of notes in his wallet, even telling the robber to count himself! At the same time, Xiaowei bravely kept up the negotiations with him, pleading with him to go away. The last few seconds were an excruciating wait, and all that I could think of at that moment was for the robber to “just **** off!”! He had the money and yet he was still trying to explain his bloody actions!

Finally, he backed off and Marcus immediately drove away. An incredible wave of relief washed over us as the harrowing ordeal was clearly over, and knowing that Marcus was unharmed. All of us were unharmed and this is the most important thing. On reflection, worse things could have happened and it is heaven’s will that everything is alright now; my dearest friends are safe and sound....

Watching from the back seat, the whole ordeal seemed so surreal, like taking a page out of the evening newspapers which frequently report similar and even more horrible robbery cases in Malaysia. I used to *heck care*, or should I say, I am numbed by such reports for years. But now, I have experienced it first hand and I can no longer ignore the dangers of traveling to Johor, especially in a Singapore registered car.

Marcus was exceptionally calm and unruffled under pressure, despite being threatened with his life, and Xiaowei, with her unflappable spirit and doggedness, bravely carried the negotiations for us throughout, even when the parang was brought out. I truly admire their amazing courage!

Do check out Xiaowei's blog for her lovely prayer and a detailed account of the robbery, and Marcus's blog for his important reflections on that fateful chain of events:

"it was not a question, it was a d-e-m-a-n-d.
i turned in mars' direction, there was this smelly MINGER standing right beside him.
nothing's wrong with that, i'd tot initially, i was soo soo wrong.."
-- Xiaowei

"Next he begin to name his price..first he said at least give him $100 to $200 SING..so my immediate reaction was to say I dun have cos I really dun have ya..then next he lower his expectation and say ringgit also can..then I stretched my hand into my wallet, which was already on my hand actually, and gave him some money. He asked,” how much?” I say I dun know and ask him to count himself."
-- Marcus

A Minor Surgery

Sun, 04 Dec 2005 14:58:27 GMT

I went for a little surgery to relieve a swelling on my back and the experience was kind of...Ouch !!! I have never been on a treatment table all my life and thus, way before the stipulated appointment, my mind was inevitably tense and swirling but holding on still, thanks to a reassuring message from Kyong.^^

The anaesthetic injection was the most excruciating, especially on a bare back, and while seeing stars around my head, the feisty doctor even asked me in jest, "shiok right?!?!" I blurted out a determined "shiok" in reply, plus in shock and in pain!

The remaining procedures were rather expected, and amusingly, the doctor was arguing with his nurses over the age of the antique radio in the room the whole time (no doubt distracting me with the beautiful music streaming from it :p). However, it did occurred to me, sporadically, that the local anesthesia wasn't working as desired..

I guess I will be stuck indoors, at least for the next week, other than the daily visits to the nurses for the routine dressing change.

*Shiok - originally a Malay exclamation, but now a typical Singaporean expression denoting extreme pleasure or the highest quality (extracted from the Coxford Singlish Dictionary)

Lazing At Coffee Club

Thu, 01 Dec 2005 14:06:34 GMT

Lazing with old-time buddies over the tantalizing iced mocha vanilla coupled with a very muddy mud pie, while overlooking the dazzling Christmas light-up and outdoor fountain, and later strolling alongside in the night breeze, is always a marvelous way of bringing an eventful day to a close.

Especially so, when the humid afternoon consists of a painful back treatment, mindless rushing through subway lines, jammed expressways, and thronging through crowds with much less busy intentions, and above all, silently urging that niggling pain in my back to go away all the while.

The memories returned to the good old days, of the five of us, inundated with endless chatters, laughter, jokes, and a good deal of 废话 (which I'm answerable for.. =p). Hope to see you all again this Christmas!

Strength In Adversity

Sat, 12 Nov 2005 12:14:06 GMT

I attended a funeral wake late last night, as my fellow colleague's father had passed away. Of losing his father to liver cancer, years after the passing of his mother and brother, I cannot fathom the depth of loss and sorrow that George has to bear. Tragedy brings forth the resilience in man, evidently in him and his brothers. Despite his hidden grief, I can sense that at his age, he needs neither sympathy nor reassuring words, but for a presence and a kindly smile.

We traded light-hearted anecdotes over peanuts and green tea, of his work and my travels. Once, he asked me plainly which is more painful, of me facing this in my childhood, or him experiencing this in his 30's. In reply, I said he has what it takes to see it through. I surmised, to a certain extent, it is as painful as one's age can bear. I feel for him deeply, silently urging him to take heart and move on.

After saying farewell to him, it is amazing that even in the dead of the night, I was glad to have my buddy, Zhiren, to accompany me at the neighbouring 'kopitiam' for a tasty supper of minced meat noodles and ice kacang, while pouring all my exam woes upon him. =P

Prior to my habitual (and much dreaded) revision that night, I did a little reading and chanced upon these relevant words from the maxim of Sunyata:

To Treasure Everything (in this moment) as All is Transient;
To Be Unattached to Everything (in this moment) as All is Transient.

Midnight Revision

Fri, 11 Nov 2005 11:50:44 GMT

For the last few nights, I've been burning the midnight oil at a secluded but tranquil spot in school (at the backend of northspine). With not a soul in sight, and in the companionship of like-minded bugs and winged ants, it is an ideal place to study. In addition, with a nearby washroom and the hot-drinks machine that disperses shimmering nescafe mocha, teh tarik and milo, I could not have wished for more.

It is a frantic race to the next paper, and a tad stressful of late. Thankfully, the calming influence of the place of lush, misty view in front, tempered by an icy yet surprisingly invigorating breeze, and the occasional light rains, had done nearly enough to dispel the gloom.

A hearty breakfast of fried bee hoon with hash brown, scrambled egg and an iced milk tea, and I'm off to a gratifying sleep, albeit with the sunshine teasing my butt. =P