Have you ever wondered how a moment of laziness could cost you a lifetime of regret? Okay, maybe I was exaggerating it but indeed I felt truly humiliated this afternoon when I boarded the public bus service 66 for home this afternoon.
The previous night, after attending another session of my weekly math tuition, I decided to take bus service 196 back from the centre, which was located along West Coast Road. I was delighted to find that the bus was pleasantly empty and I plopped myself onto the long aisle of seats on the first storey of the double decker bus. I recall that just a few days ago, the school had invited a guest to speak about the recent changes to the public bus services and promptly identified the service I was on as one of the newer bus models. Not that it made much of a difference. I was overcome with fatigue after finally completing my tests for the term and then having to go for tuition. I am not trying to be complacent or anything but tuition directly after the tests was a pushing it a tad bit too far. I just wanted to rest.
I arrived at the old Clementi bus station and took a short walk down the road to the new terminal just a traffic light away. I noticed that my EZ-Link card was already running out of money when I alighted from the bus but I couldn't care less. Why did the LTA just have to implement the new bus fare scheme? It's causing me to finish the topped up value in my card even after than usual and frankly speaking, I think it is burning a huge hole in my pocket.Oh wait, I am digressing again, aren't I? Well, back to the topic. I knew I needed to top up my EZ-link card. Otherwise I would have to pay more in coins when I traveled back from school the next day. The top-up machine was just an escalator ride away from the new Clementi Terminal. I chose not to top it up, reasoning that I would just do it the next day.
Incidentally, on the next day, as I boarded the bus service 66 for home, I was greeted by the unpleasant beeping of the EZ-link machine after I tapped it. I suddenly remembered that my EZ-link card was out of balance and as I fished out my wallet for coins, it came as an awful shock that I had already burned up all of them during recess on that play of chicken chop that I couldn't even finish. I tried to smile at the bus driver, who seemed to look increasingly incensed, and stepped out of the bus immediately, unable to utter a word. I swear I could hear a few guys snickering behind my back and a horde of girls talking amongst themselves. Procrastination, Jiankai? Think again.
Teachers had always preached about handing in work on time and preparing for examinations before the pressure begins. I never seem to get that lesson into my head and constantly choose to do things at the last minute. Perhaps I am too optimistic, hoping for a miracle, or I am just plain foolish. Even my parents have commented on this fact, urging me to try to make a change. For example, clearing the trash before I start giving myself excuses. However, old habits die hard and I don't think I will be getting more initiative any time soon.
In my opinion, procrastination only seeks to create frustration and stress. Yes, I am saying that procrastination has no benefits at all. When we pile up all our work to the last moment, we are indirectly building up pressure on ourselves, which damages the quality of work produced and if accumulated to an unprecedented level, might result in it being detrimental to health. People might argue that procrastination gives one more time to think about their work but it doesn't strike me that people who choose to procrastinate would use the free time they had gained to improve their work quality. Procrastination, to me, is just one of the long list of excuses we come up with to pardon our laziness or incapability.
The results of procrastination might eventually end up well, though. By dragging a deadline, we might produce a piece of work which still surpasses those who have completed it on time. However, I feel that it is will prove less productive as compared to the individual who has pushed himself to meet the deadline because the amount of effort put into the assignment is not congruent.
Therefore, though it might be hypocritical for me to say it, procrastination is indeed the thief of time and should be discouraged no matter what the circumstance. I wonder then, how am I supposed to get rid of this bad habit of mine?
Friday, August 20, 2010
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Change
Its been a while since the June Holidays ended, hasn't it? Time passes by so fast these days. Just two years ago, I was sitting through the agonizing PSLE period. Now, my little sister is the one taking the test. Singapore has gone through many developments over this past two years too. I notice the old Entertainment Centre located in the heart of the Jurong central torn down last year has been making quite a bit of progress since it began its operation works. I find bit a bit sad actually, to find that I no longer recognize some parts of Singapore that I spent in my early childhood. I recall this photo of my dad and I standing in front of a foodcourt that no longer exists. I was really fat then. "Everything decays over time" was a line said by an antagonist in a comic book I recently read. I am amused but somehow, I can't help but find myself agreeing with him.
In the June Holidays this year, my family and I had a long bus ride to Kuala Lampur to visit my dad who was posted there to work for his company. As I recall, that was my second trip to KL and I already prepared myself for a 5-hour bus ride on the understandably but extremely slow moving coach. I have to admit, my previous trip to KL wasn't especially pleasant, thanks to the unruly crowd on the subway which resulted in the discreet pickpocketing of my hand phone. Well, all of us make mistakes, right?
The bus trip was a long one. My mom sat a seat behind me, leaving me extremely vulnerable to her constant reiteration that I had to study Quadratic graphs during the trip. I listened, of course, but unknowingly, my mind was drawn away from the pile of papers on my lap, slowly falling on the scenery outside.
In my opinion, the view was simply breathtaking. A little coach, surrounded by miles and miles of greenery, virtually untouched by human hands. There were hardly any signs of a city around, creating an uniquely serene atmosphere in the region. Occasionally, I would catch glimpses of small towns down the highway we were travelling on, with tiny little figures moving around slowly. The houses looked ancient, like those you would see in those dramatic Chinese action films. My brother drew my attention to a cow he had spotted grazing on the hill. I was amazed. We certainly didn't see that often in Singapore. Roosters as well as dogs were common sights along the highway. Between you and me, I actually saw a tent erected near the border of a forested area and I still suspect that it was occupied by some illegal immigrant. Of course, my brother dismissed my claim, using his logic to determine that someone merely wanted to come out to camp for a night of two.
So unlike Singapore, I thought. In this region, time seemed to come to a standstill, leaving the natural beauties of gaia just as it was a long time ago. Singapore modernizes so fast. Forests are deforested to make way for industries. Old buildings are torn down to pave the way for newer commercial centres. Sometimes, I just feel that in Singapore, time passes too fast for us to readily appreciate what is already around us.
In a changing world, it is important for us to appreciate the beauty of the past. The past might be blissful, grievous or bloody, but as long as we take away something from our experiences, I guess we will be ready to greet change with open arms.
In the June Holidays this year, my family and I had a long bus ride to Kuala Lampur to visit my dad who was posted there to work for his company. As I recall, that was my second trip to KL and I already prepared myself for a 5-hour bus ride on the understandably but extremely slow moving coach. I have to admit, my previous trip to KL wasn't especially pleasant, thanks to the unruly crowd on the subway which resulted in the discreet pickpocketing of my hand phone. Well, all of us make mistakes, right?
The bus trip was a long one. My mom sat a seat behind me, leaving me extremely vulnerable to her constant reiteration that I had to study Quadratic graphs during the trip. I listened, of course, but unknowingly, my mind was drawn away from the pile of papers on my lap, slowly falling on the scenery outside.
In my opinion, the view was simply breathtaking. A little coach, surrounded by miles and miles of greenery, virtually untouched by human hands. There were hardly any signs of a city around, creating an uniquely serene atmosphere in the region. Occasionally, I would catch glimpses of small towns down the highway we were travelling on, with tiny little figures moving around slowly. The houses looked ancient, like those you would see in those dramatic Chinese action films. My brother drew my attention to a cow he had spotted grazing on the hill. I was amazed. We certainly didn't see that often in Singapore. Roosters as well as dogs were common sights along the highway. Between you and me, I actually saw a tent erected near the border of a forested area and I still suspect that it was occupied by some illegal immigrant. Of course, my brother dismissed my claim, using his logic to determine that someone merely wanted to come out to camp for a night of two.
So unlike Singapore, I thought. In this region, time seemed to come to a standstill, leaving the natural beauties of gaia just as it was a long time ago. Singapore modernizes so fast. Forests are deforested to make way for industries. Old buildings are torn down to pave the way for newer commercial centres. Sometimes, I just feel that in Singapore, time passes too fast for us to readily appreciate what is already around us.
In a changing world, it is important for us to appreciate the beauty of the past. The past might be blissful, grievous or bloody, but as long as we take away something from our experiences, I guess we will be ready to greet change with open arms.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Harmony, overcoming even time
As Racial Harmony Day draws near, I thought it would be appropriate to recall a memorable experience of a particular incident on the bus in the June holidays. Honestly speaking, I would not have thought about posting this online(even though I was aware of it) if not for the fact that I was in charge of a Racial Harmony Day stall at school.
The weather was nice, not too hot but not too cold either. I was on bus 333, returning from the new tuition centre I had decided to try out in an attempt to improve my math results. Thinking about that crippling "C" still makes me wince. As I leaned on the window pane, staring at the clouds, I was rudely disturbed by the ear-piercing scream from the front of the bus. I reacted quickly to the abrupt sound, turning to with a raised eyebrow. A Chinese woman sat with her arms akimbo, her eyes narrowed into a sharp glare at a young, pale little boy who sat beside her. Her son? Most probably. In Mandarin, she blabbered away, scolding, "You shouldn't be reading on the bus! Close that comic book!" From afar, I could not really make out his facial expression but I could see that he obediently put away the book, without a word of dissent. Not long after, as we passed by the Jurong East Library bus stop, a family of three boarded the bus. They seemed to be Indian and consisted of a lady, her husband and their daughter, who coincidentally must have been about the same age as the young Chinese boy mentioned earlier. The family settled into the seats directly opposite the young boy and his mother. Whether it was a twist of fate or a chance encounter, I think no one would have expected the events that unfolded thereafter.
All of a sudden, the little Indian girl burst out in tears. Okay, maybe it was because I had dozed off and wasn't really aware of what was happening. The parents of the Indian girl tried to pacify their daughter, hugging her and muttering tiny words of comfort. She continued bawling. Frankly speaking, it was very, very annoying. Can't anyone have some rest on the bus? Just like in all action movies, there would be a righteous male hero who would save the damsel in distress. However, I did not ever think that this hero would turn out to be the Chinese boy. In an astonishing gesture of childlike innocence, he held out the comic book he was reading earlier on, as if offering it to her. She sniffed for quite some time before she took the book with her own little hands, flipping through the book with an awed expression on her face, still flushed from her crying before. As she composed herself slowly,the lady beside her quickly returned the book to the boy, a distinct smile on her face. Amazingly, this small act of kindness just helped solve an otherwise uncontrollable problem. Two children. Two races. One family.
It is very heartening yet mildly surprising to see that racial harmony still exists up till today. I mean, I never lived in the turbulent times when the PAP was first established but from all that I have read up on Singapore's History last year, I can gather that it was not so peaceful then as it is now. There were numerous racial riots erupting between the Malays, Eurasians as well as the Chinese. The lack of understanding between each race's customs and traditions as well as the manipulation of the media indirectly sparked riots such as the Maria Hertogh case, where the Malays and the Europeans fought over the custody of a Dutch girl raised in a Malay family. It is instances like this that truly test Singapore's claim as a multi-racial community where everyone is expected to abide to the principles of Equality. This principles have even been incorporated into our Singapore Pledge, thus holding us responsible for maintaining peace and harmony between the various races. I am sure that over the years, there must have been several instances whereby the different races inhabiting this island has clashed but over time, they have settled their differences. Singapore no longer experiences the traumatic times it used to go through everyday in the past but Singapore is still equally vulnerable to racial clashes. Hence, it is of substantial importance that we, the new generation sired to lead the next, learn to cooperate with one another, overcoming social and racial obstacles, and maintain the harmony that has been passed down from our forefathers.
The weather was nice, not too hot but not too cold either. I was on bus 333, returning from the new tuition centre I had decided to try out in an attempt to improve my math results. Thinking about that crippling "C" still makes me wince. As I leaned on the window pane, staring at the clouds, I was rudely disturbed by the ear-piercing scream from the front of the bus. I reacted quickly to the abrupt sound, turning to with a raised eyebrow. A Chinese woman sat with her arms akimbo, her eyes narrowed into a sharp glare at a young, pale little boy who sat beside her. Her son? Most probably. In Mandarin, she blabbered away, scolding, "You shouldn't be reading on the bus! Close that comic book!" From afar, I could not really make out his facial expression but I could see that he obediently put away the book, without a word of dissent. Not long after, as we passed by the Jurong East Library bus stop, a family of three boarded the bus. They seemed to be Indian and consisted of a lady, her husband and their daughter, who coincidentally must have been about the same age as the young Chinese boy mentioned earlier. The family settled into the seats directly opposite the young boy and his mother. Whether it was a twist of fate or a chance encounter, I think no one would have expected the events that unfolded thereafter.
All of a sudden, the little Indian girl burst out in tears. Okay, maybe it was because I had dozed off and wasn't really aware of what was happening. The parents of the Indian girl tried to pacify their daughter, hugging her and muttering tiny words of comfort. She continued bawling. Frankly speaking, it was very, very annoying. Can't anyone have some rest on the bus? Just like in all action movies, there would be a righteous male hero who would save the damsel in distress. However, I did not ever think that this hero would turn out to be the Chinese boy. In an astonishing gesture of childlike innocence, he held out the comic book he was reading earlier on, as if offering it to her. She sniffed for quite some time before she took the book with her own little hands, flipping through the book with an awed expression on her face, still flushed from her crying before. As she composed herself slowly,the lady beside her quickly returned the book to the boy, a distinct smile on her face. Amazingly, this small act of kindness just helped solve an otherwise uncontrollable problem. Two children. Two races. One family.
It is very heartening yet mildly surprising to see that racial harmony still exists up till today. I mean, I never lived in the turbulent times when the PAP was first established but from all that I have read up on Singapore's History last year, I can gather that it was not so peaceful then as it is now. There were numerous racial riots erupting between the Malays, Eurasians as well as the Chinese. The lack of understanding between each race's customs and traditions as well as the manipulation of the media indirectly sparked riots such as the Maria Hertogh case, where the Malays and the Europeans fought over the custody of a Dutch girl raised in a Malay family. It is instances like this that truly test Singapore's claim as a multi-racial community where everyone is expected to abide to the principles of Equality. This principles have even been incorporated into our Singapore Pledge, thus holding us responsible for maintaining peace and harmony between the various races. I am sure that over the years, there must have been several instances whereby the different races inhabiting this island has clashed but over time, they have settled their differences. Singapore no longer experiences the traumatic times it used to go through everyday in the past but Singapore is still equally vulnerable to racial clashes. Hence, it is of substantial importance that we, the new generation sired to lead the next, learn to cooperate with one another, overcoming social and racial obstacles, and maintain the harmony that has been passed down from our forefathers.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
We Slept With Our Boots On~ An Analysis
Point of View:
The poem is written in the POV of well...Steve Carlson, a soldier fighting in the Afghan war. We can identify elements of life as a soldier in the poem, including "30 seconds they yelled, Lock N Load and grab your shit" and "Get ready to go and make it quick". This creates the genuine feel of receiving orders through commanding officers in the platoon from the higher-ups, which increases his credibility. From his tone, we can assume that he is a veteran, who has gone through war and understands the rush of fear and perhaps the angst of soldiers when he stated that "Everyone loses their innocence when they carry guns' and "Brothers aren’t born they’re earned".
Situation and setting:
The poem is probably set in the Afghan war, due to the presence of the "Hindu Kush". The situation is fast moving at the start of the poem, with apt description of the heat of the battlefield and then slowly resides into that of tension where the persona reflects on everything he had been through and on how he had lived through another day of violence and bloodshed.
Language and Diction:
In my opinion, not many language devices are used. As for diction, the poet uses a lot of terms that I think is used in the army, such as "Paratrooper" instead of the conventional "soldiers", " pulling the trigger and reloading and pulling some more" instead of just "shooting" and "30 seconds they yelled, Lock N Load and grab your shit" which refer to the officers ordering his men to prepare for battle. This helps illustrate the real war time experience which is rushed, filled with anxiety and fast-paced.
Personal Response:
I think the poet is trying to pass on his experiences to the future generations. I do not really think his is taking a stand on whether war is good or evil but he is just trying to express the sentiments of a soldier when he is really in the war time situation. Due to this, I think readers will begin to feel that war is not as glorious the government makes it to be but actually a cold materialization of cruelty, bitterness and faith.
The poem is written in the POV of well...Steve Carlson, a soldier fighting in the Afghan war. We can identify elements of life as a soldier in the poem, including "30 seconds they yelled, Lock N Load and grab your shit" and "Get ready to go and make it quick". This creates the genuine feel of receiving orders through commanding officers in the platoon from the higher-ups, which increases his credibility. From his tone, we can assume that he is a veteran, who has gone through war and understands the rush of fear and perhaps the angst of soldiers when he stated that "Everyone loses their innocence when they carry guns' and "Brothers aren’t born they’re earned".
Situation and setting:
The poem is probably set in the Afghan war, due to the presence of the "Hindu Kush". The situation is fast moving at the start of the poem, with apt description of the heat of the battlefield and then slowly resides into that of tension where the persona reflects on everything he had been through and on how he had lived through another day of violence and bloodshed.
Language and Diction:
In my opinion, not many language devices are used. As for diction, the poet uses a lot of terms that I think is used in the army, such as "Paratrooper" instead of the conventional "soldiers", " pulling the trigger and reloading and pulling some more" instead of just "shooting" and "30 seconds they yelled, Lock N Load and grab your shit" which refer to the officers ordering his men to prepare for battle. This helps illustrate the real war time experience which is rushed, filled with anxiety and fast-paced.
Personal Response:
I think the poet is trying to pass on his experiences to the future generations. I do not really think his is taking a stand on whether war is good or evil but he is just trying to express the sentiments of a soldier when he is really in the war time situation. Due to this, I think readers will begin to feel that war is not as glorious the government makes it to be but actually a cold materialization of cruelty, bitterness and faith.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
We Slept With Our Boots On
"We Slept With Our Boots On" is a piece of war poetry written by Steve Carlson in the 2003-2010 period, after he was discharged from the army. In his 3 years in the American Army, he had been deployed into Kosovo and Afghanistan as a paratrooper, otherwise known as an airborne soldier. Hence, it can be assumed that the poem is based on his experiences in either of the two countries, if not both. The poem demonstrates the toughness of war and the misery that war brings about.It also has a tie in to religon, shown subtly in the bottom end of the poem.
We Slept With Our Boots On
They unloaded the dead and maimed right before our eyes
They washed out the blood, we loaded our ruck’s and then took to the skies
Over the mountains, villages, and valleys we flew
Where we would land we had not a clue
Bullets are flying, the LZ is hot
We’re leaving this bird whether we like it or not
30 seconds they yelled, Lock N Load and grab your shit
Get ready to go and make it quick
My heart is pumping adrenalin through all of my veins
I run as fast as I can through the lead rain
The noise is tremendous, terror I can’t define
The only reason I survived that day was divine
I kept pulling the trigger and reloading and pulling some more
You do what you have to do, with that I will say no more
We fought from the valleys to the mountain peaks
From house to cave, to car to creek
Dirty and tired and hungry and scared
We slept with our boots on so we were always prepared
Those majestic mountains so steep, so high they kiss the skies
The Hindu Kush has changed so many lives
Up the mountains with heavy loads we trod
Who knew hell was so close to God
Beauty and terror are a strong mixed drink
So we drank it like drunkards and tried not to think
Good men and bad men, Mothers lost son’s
Everyone loses their innocence when they carry guns
Washed in the blood, and baptized by fire
I will never forget those who were called higher
They say blood is thicker than water, well lead is thicker than blood
Brothers aren’t born they’re earned. In the poppy fields, the tears, and the mud
And when I get to heaven to Saint Peter I will tell
Another Paratrooper reporting for duty sir, I spent my time in hell
Steve Carlsen
We Slept With Our Boots On
They unloaded the dead and maimed right before our eyes
They washed out the blood, we loaded our ruck’s and then took to the skies
Over the mountains, villages, and valleys we flew
Where we would land we had not a clue
Bullets are flying, the LZ is hot
We’re leaving this bird whether we like it or not
30 seconds they yelled, Lock N Load and grab your shit
Get ready to go and make it quick
My heart is pumping adrenalin through all of my veins
I run as fast as I can through the lead rain
The noise is tremendous, terror I can’t define
The only reason I survived that day was divine
I kept pulling the trigger and reloading and pulling some more
You do what you have to do, with that I will say no more
We fought from the valleys to the mountain peaks
From house to cave, to car to creek
Dirty and tired and hungry and scared
We slept with our boots on so we were always prepared
Those majestic mountains so steep, so high they kiss the skies
The Hindu Kush has changed so many lives
Up the mountains with heavy loads we trod
Who knew hell was so close to God
Beauty and terror are a strong mixed drink
So we drank it like drunkards and tried not to think
Good men and bad men, Mothers lost son’s
Everyone loses their innocence when they carry guns
Washed in the blood, and baptized by fire
I will never forget those who were called higher
They say blood is thicker than water, well lead is thicker than blood
Brothers aren’t born they’re earned. In the poppy fields, the tears, and the mud
And when I get to heaven to Saint Peter I will tell
Another Paratrooper reporting for duty sir, I spent my time in hell
Steve Carlsen
Sunday, May 9, 2010
What makes us do what we do?
Me and my friend, Jinlin, almost meet daily on the same bus on our way to school every morning. The "52" bus service was always a crowded one, with middle-aged civil servants lining the walkway while the average secondary school student leaned drowsily against the slippery window pane or kept his nose deep inside a thick chemistry textbook. I always saw the same crowd of people whenever I took the bus. A fellow Secondary four senior whom I did not know by name but was all too familiar by face, a River-Valley High boy going to school along with his younger brother, my fellow Tae-Kwon-Do club practitioner who was one year my senior and of course, Jinlin. But there was always this old lady, frail yet always so serene, holding out a card with the figures "52", "154" and "151", holding a walking stick and traipsing blindly into an unaccommodating crowd.
Later, after conversing with Jinlin, who obviously knew what happened on the bus clearly than I did, I realized that she was blind. Partially or completely, I didn't know and I never would. Usually, she would stand at the front of the bus, presumably to ease herself when she needed to get off the bus. However, every now and then, she would want to sit down, and moved carefully towards the rear of the bus. It might have been public pressure that prompted all the young men I had seen so far to get off their seat hurriedly whenever she approached them. Whatever it is, she always got a seat.
I always wondered how the human psyche worked. When we see something that, by moral standards or personal dignity, had to be done, why is it that sometimes there's just that peculiar force that pulls us back. It is sort of like how a fly is attracted away from a tasty looking fruit towards a more vibrant and exotic pitcher plant. Somehow, I think lust for personal benefit and the sole interest in personal gain prompts us to do the "wrong" thing. However, in this case, what would have prompted these young men to do such a simple act of courtesy? Was it Pride? Was it Ego? I just could not understand.
Well, I could not understand until the day I gave up a seat myself.
I was on the bus service "52". My bag was heavy. The dead weight of the Toshiba Laptop and my uncomfortably soaked judogi nearly anchored me to the ground. It was one of the days I wished I brought enough money for a cab. I was resolved to take any opportunity I could get my hands on to obtain a seat and eventually, I got one...in the sitting area "reserved exclusively" for the elderly, handicapped and pregnant. I couldn't care less at the time.
Then, She boarded the bus. This time, I don't think she had much of a choice. The bus was even more packed than usual and she was prompted by the bus driver to move to the rear of the vehicle, where there were obviously no seats available. Apparently, the bus driver had assumed someone would give up their seat for her. She walked my way. I looked around and to my surprise, saw nonchalant, apathetic faces all around me. Where were the few young men who always offered their seats?
For the first time on the bus, I felt the gaze of the whole bus resting upon the group of four people sitting along the "reserved" seating area. It was as if they were forcing me to get up and give away my seat. I was indignant. If they were so high and mighty, why not they do it? I challenged them silently. However, another feeling burned steadily within me. It was fiery, but it was unlike anger, unlike envy, unlike anything I had felt before. Naturally, I stood up and walked off. As I passed, I saw something glitter behind those pair of dull, monotonous eyes and her warm smile made something within me flutter. I felt a ripple in the cool ocean of my heart. So that was what it felt like.
I think a good deed is not done out of ego or pride or shame. One cannot really say what truly prompted them to do what they did when they witnessed that moment of helplessness. But I guess, as some try to explain, we call it "doing it out of our heart".
Later, after conversing with Jinlin, who obviously knew what happened on the bus clearly than I did, I realized that she was blind. Partially or completely, I didn't know and I never would. Usually, she would stand at the front of the bus, presumably to ease herself when she needed to get off the bus. However, every now and then, she would want to sit down, and moved carefully towards the rear of the bus. It might have been public pressure that prompted all the young men I had seen so far to get off their seat hurriedly whenever she approached them. Whatever it is, she always got a seat.
I always wondered how the human psyche worked. When we see something that, by moral standards or personal dignity, had to be done, why is it that sometimes there's just that peculiar force that pulls us back. It is sort of like how a fly is attracted away from a tasty looking fruit towards a more vibrant and exotic pitcher plant. Somehow, I think lust for personal benefit and the sole interest in personal gain prompts us to do the "wrong" thing. However, in this case, what would have prompted these young men to do such a simple act of courtesy? Was it Pride? Was it Ego? I just could not understand.
Well, I could not understand until the day I gave up a seat myself.
I was on the bus service "52". My bag was heavy. The dead weight of the Toshiba Laptop and my uncomfortably soaked judogi nearly anchored me to the ground. It was one of the days I wished I brought enough money for a cab. I was resolved to take any opportunity I could get my hands on to obtain a seat and eventually, I got one...in the sitting area "reserved exclusively" for the elderly, handicapped and pregnant. I couldn't care less at the time.
Then, She boarded the bus. This time, I don't think she had much of a choice. The bus was even more packed than usual and she was prompted by the bus driver to move to the rear of the vehicle, where there were obviously no seats available. Apparently, the bus driver had assumed someone would give up their seat for her. She walked my way. I looked around and to my surprise, saw nonchalant, apathetic faces all around me. Where were the few young men who always offered their seats?
For the first time on the bus, I felt the gaze of the whole bus resting upon the group of four people sitting along the "reserved" seating area. It was as if they were forcing me to get up and give away my seat. I was indignant. If they were so high and mighty, why not they do it? I challenged them silently. However, another feeling burned steadily within me. It was fiery, but it was unlike anger, unlike envy, unlike anything I had felt before. Naturally, I stood up and walked off. As I passed, I saw something glitter behind those pair of dull, monotonous eyes and her warm smile made something within me flutter. I felt a ripple in the cool ocean of my heart. So that was what it felt like.
I think a good deed is not done out of ego or pride or shame. One cannot really say what truly prompted them to do what they did when they witnessed that moment of helplessness. But I guess, as some try to explain, we call it "doing it out of our heart".
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Traversing Cyberspace with caution and respect
Bidding a quick farewell to my pals at the Clementi MRT station, I noticed a bus numbered "52", blurred through my stained spectacle lenses. Instinctively but recklessly, I sped towards the bus, knocking into several of my fellow Singaporean commuters, with my bag bobbing unnaturally behind me. I managed a few hurried apologies as I stepped into the bus just in the nick of time. Lucky me.
I found a row of empty seats at the back of the bus. I always assumed people did not sit at the back because it would be troublesome for them to alight especially when the bus was crowded. Or maybe, it was because people did not want to associate themselves with the youths sitting at the back. I have observed that during off-peak hours, the back few rows would be occupied by teens, dressed flamboyantly or dolled up excessively. Perhaps others perceive them to be punks or rebels based on their appearance and refuse to go close to them. I admit, I am also just one of the Singapore majority who felt this way, but under the circumstances(I was carrying my heavy judo gi), I did not really have much of a choice. I did not regret my decision.
There were two teens sitting next to me. Judging by their tanned and muscular figure, I presumed that they were perhaps new NS enlistees or at the very least, JC 2 graduates. Putting that aside, I fished for my Nintendo DS Lite and flicked on the switch. After another exhausting day in the dojo, I was intent on having a bit of fun before I reached home, where all my work were waiting for my return.
I was halfway through a challenging puzzle(I never finished it) when I heard one of the two teens utter "Facebook" and "kids shouldn't be allowed access to it". I was lucky to have resisted the impulse of looking at the pair. I calmed myself down and settled back down, this time listening attentively to catch the remaining of their conversation.
Here's what I heard(Not all of it is exact):
I wish I could have heard the remaining conversation between them but I had to alight. However, I think these two teens had expressed a million words with just this short exchange.
There have been a lot of talk over Facebook these days, especially with the recent sacking of a principal in the Europe due to one of her students flaming her on Facebook. Being a Facebook user myself, I cannot say that it is completely useless and harmful but I can say that it comes with its own set of rules and penalties, as with all other social networking sites. The development of Facebook helps encourage many positive aspects of social interaction with friends from all walks of life, relatives living abroad and even teachers working through the night to answer the numerous queries we all have. This was what Facebook was created for in the Facebook, right? However, everything has its limits and its disadvantages. For example, the ability to post any comment, make any remark or accept any friend request with the simple click of the mouse makes Facebook users prone to rash behaviour. Do we think, before we angrily post an enraged lament online? Do we think, before we comment stupidly on our friend's post? Do we think, who are we actually hooking up with? The disadvantage of Facebook is that it merely a platform of trust between users. No one really knows who is behind that familiar name or that believable profile picture. Going one step further, we are prone to expressing our thoughts and feelings without any hesitation or doubt because we think we are being surrounded by our friends. This may sound paranoid but, who are our REAL friends? Can we really trust those people whom we accept friend requests from?
I think it all boils down to respect and safety. Whatever we do, whatever we say, we must respect those who would see or hear about it. This way, we would not offend anyone mistakingly or send friend requests to people we do not know. We are one community. We should respect those around us and not pry into their life if they do not want us to or insult them. If there is a feud between us, we should settle it face to face, and not let our argument transverse into cyberspace. Also, we must be careful when treading though the vast oceans of the social network. Due to the internet's secretive nature, we never know who we really are conversing or hooking up with. Hence, it is important that we have a strong sense of cyber-awareness which encompasses taking care of our personal information. We must see through a disguised friend and we must not trust a cyber fiend.
A safe network...what a Utopian dream...
I found a row of empty seats at the back of the bus. I always assumed people did not sit at the back because it would be troublesome for them to alight especially when the bus was crowded. Or maybe, it was because people did not want to associate themselves with the youths sitting at the back. I have observed that during off-peak hours, the back few rows would be occupied by teens, dressed flamboyantly or dolled up excessively. Perhaps others perceive them to be punks or rebels based on their appearance and refuse to go close to them. I admit, I am also just one of the Singapore majority who felt this way, but under the circumstances(I was carrying my heavy judo gi), I did not really have much of a choice. I did not regret my decision.
There were two teens sitting next to me. Judging by their tanned and muscular figure, I presumed that they were perhaps new NS enlistees or at the very least, JC 2 graduates. Putting that aside, I fished for my Nintendo DS Lite and flicked on the switch. After another exhausting day in the dojo, I was intent on having a bit of fun before I reached home, where all my work were waiting for my return.
I was halfway through a challenging puzzle(I never finished it) when I heard one of the two teens utter "Facebook" and "kids shouldn't be allowed access to it". I was lucky to have resisted the impulse of looking at the pair. I calmed myself down and settled back down, this time listening attentively to catch the remaining of their conversation.
Here's what I heard(Not all of it is exact):
"... Facebook."
"Oh that, I think kids shouldn't be allowed access to it. They post things like 'stupid'and insult others. Childish."
"Yeah, but..."
"I mean, I was from ACS. I have a friend who is a trainee teacher at... I think it was Nanhua. She corresponds with some of her students through facebook, to hold discussions and stuff. I have seen the way her students reply to her, it was...okay, she is quite a shy person...but the way they replied to her were... their replies could be improved, like to show a little bit more respect."
"I think this is just..."
I wish I could have heard the remaining conversation between them but I had to alight. However, I think these two teens had expressed a million words with just this short exchange.
There have been a lot of talk over Facebook these days, especially with the recent sacking of a principal in the Europe due to one of her students flaming her on Facebook. Being a Facebook user myself, I cannot say that it is completely useless and harmful but I can say that it comes with its own set of rules and penalties, as with all other social networking sites. The development of Facebook helps encourage many positive aspects of social interaction with friends from all walks of life, relatives living abroad and even teachers working through the night to answer the numerous queries we all have. This was what Facebook was created for in the Facebook, right? However, everything has its limits and its disadvantages. For example, the ability to post any comment, make any remark or accept any friend request with the simple click of the mouse makes Facebook users prone to rash behaviour. Do we think, before we angrily post an enraged lament online? Do we think, before we comment stupidly on our friend's post? Do we think, who are we actually hooking up with? The disadvantage of Facebook is that it merely a platform of trust between users. No one really knows who is behind that familiar name or that believable profile picture. Going one step further, we are prone to expressing our thoughts and feelings without any hesitation or doubt because we think we are being surrounded by our friends. This may sound paranoid but, who are our REAL friends? Can we really trust those people whom we accept friend requests from?
I think it all boils down to respect and safety. Whatever we do, whatever we say, we must respect those who would see or hear about it. This way, we would not offend anyone mistakingly or send friend requests to people we do not know. We are one community. We should respect those around us and not pry into their life if they do not want us to or insult them. If there is a feud between us, we should settle it face to face, and not let our argument transverse into cyberspace. Also, we must be careful when treading though the vast oceans of the social network. Due to the internet's secretive nature, we never know who we really are conversing or hooking up with. Hence, it is important that we have a strong sense of cyber-awareness which encompasses taking care of our personal information. We must see through a disguised friend and we must not trust a cyber fiend.
A safe network...what a Utopian dream...
Monday, May 3, 2010
Cowardice Vs Indifference
I was looking through my LA paper just a few days ago, happy that for once I did well in a Literature test. I focused on Q2 of the paper, which asked about the forms of "courage" displayed in the Novel To Kill a Mockingbird. In a minute of mischief, I imagined myself as Atticus Finch and pondered over how I would explain what courage was to Scout Finch. I had always like to form personal philosophies in my head and echo them to my classmates. Meaningless words floated in the my head as I attempted to piece together a surprising complicated puzzle. Gosh, Philosophers do have it hard.
After a while, it finally clicked. The sentence reverberated in my head a few times before I finally whispered it out.
"False Courage is what compels you to do something when no one else would; True Courage is what compels you to do the right thing when no one else would."
I felt that it was a bit corny at first but then I thought of our society and well, it sort of made sense. Isn't our society made up of people who would willingly step forward for the benefit of the people and those who would not even move a muscle when they see someone in need?
I am not just talking about incidents out of the ordinary, like those people who watch wordlessly as a robber snatches a heavy purse away from a frail old lady or those who stand safely on shore as a young girl flails desperately in a murky canal. I am also referring to the common, everyday situation which everyday people like ourselves experience. Take our school life foe example. We have spent nearly our entire 13 years in this environment. Hence, it would be an obvious and blatant lie if any of us say that we have never seen a schoolmate struggling with his homework or a teacher appealing to the class to clear up the class. The next question is, have we ever failed to step up and offer a hand of assistance?
I can see two reasons for our lack of action. The first is cowardice. The second is indifference.
I define cowardice as the fear of doing what is right or what one believes in. I think a lot of us have a strong sense of what's right and what's wrong. However, when we witness injustice occurring, like when a classmate is being mocked at by your peers for something unjustifiable, we dare not step up because we are afraid that our actions are not justified, that others do not support us or simply because we are fearful of the shame of being mocked by our peers if we make a mistake. In my opinion, Cowardice is something we have to overcome ourselves. I think we must learn to trust our gut feeling and go through with what we think is right. I mean, stating all your thoughts in black and white and then being being laughed at is better than keeping all your frustration and indignation bottled up inside yourself, right? If you get laughed at but your intervention helps relieve someone's suffering, I think it is worth it.
On the other hand, I define indifference as the unwillingness to help or plainly ignoring someone in need. I think this is the evil in its most despicable form. How could someone just stand at a side and look on as someone suffers? I think the root cause for this is our upbringing in a calculative society. In Singapore, almost everything is subjected to a kind of grading system, be it a remark by someone of higher authority or a performance record. Everything, right down to what we say, is judged by people and put into numbers to so-called "reflect" our character. If we have a good grade or record, it means we are good, conscientious and the "model" for others to follow. If we get marked down with mediocre achievements, no one would spare an eye for us. Therefore, it our "jobs" as Singaporeans to excel in our own personal line of work and make sure that we ourselves do exceptionally well and stand out among the crowd. I think that this has lead us towards the direction of thinking that only the only people who matter in this society are ourselves and that everyone else is scum. Self-interest and materialistic gains triumph over a good heart and noble intentions in this society.
Unlike the problem of cowardice, the issue on indifference is not so easily fixed. Personally, I think this trend deteriorates following each generation. This inherent problem must be removed at the root, but right now, I think the roots are already too thick to be scraped.
After a while, it finally clicked. The sentence reverberated in my head a few times before I finally whispered it out.
"False Courage is what compels you to do something when no one else would; True Courage is what compels you to do the right thing when no one else would."
I felt that it was a bit corny at first but then I thought of our society and well, it sort of made sense. Isn't our society made up of people who would willingly step forward for the benefit of the people and those who would not even move a muscle when they see someone in need?
I am not just talking about incidents out of the ordinary, like those people who watch wordlessly as a robber snatches a heavy purse away from a frail old lady or those who stand safely on shore as a young girl flails desperately in a murky canal. I am also referring to the common, everyday situation which everyday people like ourselves experience. Take our school life foe example. We have spent nearly our entire 13 years in this environment. Hence, it would be an obvious and blatant lie if any of us say that we have never seen a schoolmate struggling with his homework or a teacher appealing to the class to clear up the class. The next question is, have we ever failed to step up and offer a hand of assistance?
I can see two reasons for our lack of action. The first is cowardice. The second is indifference.
I define cowardice as the fear of doing what is right or what one believes in. I think a lot of us have a strong sense of what's right and what's wrong. However, when we witness injustice occurring, like when a classmate is being mocked at by your peers for something unjustifiable, we dare not step up because we are afraid that our actions are not justified, that others do not support us or simply because we are fearful of the shame of being mocked by our peers if we make a mistake. In my opinion, Cowardice is something we have to overcome ourselves. I think we must learn to trust our gut feeling and go through with what we think is right. I mean, stating all your thoughts in black and white and then being being laughed at is better than keeping all your frustration and indignation bottled up inside yourself, right? If you get laughed at but your intervention helps relieve someone's suffering, I think it is worth it.
On the other hand, I define indifference as the unwillingness to help or plainly ignoring someone in need. I think this is the evil in its most despicable form. How could someone just stand at a side and look on as someone suffers? I think the root cause for this is our upbringing in a calculative society. In Singapore, almost everything is subjected to a kind of grading system, be it a remark by someone of higher authority or a performance record. Everything, right down to what we say, is judged by people and put into numbers to so-called "reflect" our character. If we have a good grade or record, it means we are good, conscientious and the "model" for others to follow. If we get marked down with mediocre achievements, no one would spare an eye for us. Therefore, it our "jobs" as Singaporeans to excel in our own personal line of work and make sure that we ourselves do exceptionally well and stand out among the crowd. I think that this has lead us towards the direction of thinking that only the only people who matter in this society are ourselves and that everyone else is scum. Self-interest and materialistic gains triumph over a good heart and noble intentions in this society.
Unlike the problem of cowardice, the issue on indifference is not so easily fixed. Personally, I think this trend deteriorates following each generation. This inherent problem must be removed at the root, but right now, I think the roots are already too thick to be scraped.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Hypocrites~ Even on the bus
Haven't posted anything in ages. Here goes.
The bus 66 seems to house the most intriguing Singaporeans and the morning proves to be the best time to see Singaporeans at their most annoyed. Why do I say this? Observation. Working-class adults leaning flimsily against the glass windows, brows twitching inconsistently and irritably as a youth blasts music so deafening that it escapes the overwhelmed ear phones. A group of teenagers complaining endlessly over the unpleasantness of school life, while a group of equally dissatisfied group of adults look on, envious of their youth and freedom. But today, I am not going to delve into how unhappy Singaporeans are with their current lifestyles, I want to talk about a certain incident on this particular bus just a few weeks back.
I boarded the bus 66 in a dream-like state, not in the mood for conversation or listening to music. The bus was crowded. Very Crowded. It got on my nerves. A few students were clogging up the passageway, unbudgingly leaving their bags lying on those two empty spaces lining up the path to the back of the bus. Move in! For crying out loud, can't you see that empty space at the back! Then, I felt quite a singe of restraint and a slight tinge of embarrassment. Well, I did not really deserve to say much about the matter since I was guilty of similar inconsideration before. And I couldn't deny it. In a way, I was a hypocrite too. However, judging on what happened next, I think I could have forgiven myself...
It happened as I settled myself comfortably at a corner of the bus. I don't even know how I got there myself. Wait, don't stray off from the topic. There was this man, dressed impeccably in a suit, who boarded the bus. He was stuck at the entrance as kids and adults alike jammed the passageway. I was not really paying attention until he shouted in a hoarse voice, "Hey, can you all move to the back? There's still space there!" or something like that, I cannot remember too clearly. I thought he was crazy, demanding something like this even after surveying the uncomfortable mess in the bus. It worked, though.
The thing that shocked me was that after the bus' crowed cleared a bit, he was the one standing at the passageway! It might have been a bit brave for him to discipline the crowd a moment's ago but now, he turned on his own words! Was this inconsideration? Or maybe a wild lust for comfort? I knew it boiled down to hypocrisy.
I don't know. Hypocrisy is not all bad, is it? I mean, all humans are hypocrites, based on their words or actions. We must have all committed a hypocritical act in our 14 years as a person. Like some people say that it is wrong not to complete homework even when they are busy but in the end, they themselves give tall tales on why they have not completed their assignments. Well, this is only one of the many examples in this miserable world. Want more examples, come to my class and observe us for just 30 minutes. I am sure you will receive an eye-opening experience.
Hypocrites dot the world, standing in the shadows of every living human. We can't condemn them, so let's just try to keep unnecessary, idealistic and unfulfillable comments to ourselves.
The bus 66 seems to house the most intriguing Singaporeans and the morning proves to be the best time to see Singaporeans at their most annoyed. Why do I say this? Observation. Working-class adults leaning flimsily against the glass windows, brows twitching inconsistently and irritably as a youth blasts music so deafening that it escapes the overwhelmed ear phones. A group of teenagers complaining endlessly over the unpleasantness of school life, while a group of equally dissatisfied group of adults look on, envious of their youth and freedom. But today, I am not going to delve into how unhappy Singaporeans are with their current lifestyles, I want to talk about a certain incident on this particular bus just a few weeks back.
I boarded the bus 66 in a dream-like state, not in the mood for conversation or listening to music. The bus was crowded. Very Crowded. It got on my nerves. A few students were clogging up the passageway, unbudgingly leaving their bags lying on those two empty spaces lining up the path to the back of the bus. Move in! For crying out loud, can't you see that empty space at the back! Then, I felt quite a singe of restraint and a slight tinge of embarrassment. Well, I did not really deserve to say much about the matter since I was guilty of similar inconsideration before. And I couldn't deny it. In a way, I was a hypocrite too. However, judging on what happened next, I think I could have forgiven myself...
It happened as I settled myself comfortably at a corner of the bus. I don't even know how I got there myself. Wait, don't stray off from the topic. There was this man, dressed impeccably in a suit, who boarded the bus. He was stuck at the entrance as kids and adults alike jammed the passageway. I was not really paying attention until he shouted in a hoarse voice, "Hey, can you all move to the back? There's still space there!" or something like that, I cannot remember too clearly. I thought he was crazy, demanding something like this even after surveying the uncomfortable mess in the bus. It worked, though.
The thing that shocked me was that after the bus' crowed cleared a bit, he was the one standing at the passageway! It might have been a bit brave for him to discipline the crowd a moment's ago but now, he turned on his own words! Was this inconsideration? Or maybe a wild lust for comfort? I knew it boiled down to hypocrisy.
I don't know. Hypocrisy is not all bad, is it? I mean, all humans are hypocrites, based on their words or actions. We must have all committed a hypocritical act in our 14 years as a person. Like some people say that it is wrong not to complete homework even when they are busy but in the end, they themselves give tall tales on why they have not completed their assignments. Well, this is only one of the many examples in this miserable world. Want more examples, come to my class and observe us for just 30 minutes. I am sure you will receive an eye-opening experience.
Hypocrites dot the world, standing in the shadows of every living human. We can't condemn them, so let's just try to keep unnecessary, idealistic and unfulfillable comments to ourselves.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
The unspoilt empire
While browsing through an online news site a few minutes ago, I came across an article regarding Mrs Jean Yip's approach on dealing with her children. In a short interview with a reporter, she revealed that she was a 'very strict and result-orientated mother', albeit owning an enormous fortune. Describing herself as a mother who "encourage(s) them[Her children] to try a lot of activities' while emphasizing "that if they start an activity or class, they have to finish it. There's no such thing as doing something halfway", she indicates that she limits her children's expenditure, insists that they complete their education and make them do house chores, despite the presence of three maids in the house.
You may ask why a extremely wealthy family running an extremely lucrative business would set such "extreme" limitations on their youths?
The answer is quite simple: To keep them from being Spoilt.
In this day and age, everything, from clothes to books to toys to food, are readily made available for the children by their parents. It bears almost no resemblance to the "old days", where I heard that families, including the young children, had to plant their own crops to obtain food and a source of income. Due to this, I think, children take what they have for granted and demand for more from their parents without sparing even a thought for the amount of blood and sweat their parents have put in. Of course, parents do not usually speak out against their children, in an attempt to please their kids.
I am not saying that it is our parents fault, neither am I saying it is ours. I mean, how could immature kids like us appreciate what our parents were providing us? For example, I remember a year ago, my brother received an expensive action figure from my parents and thanked them enthusiastically. A week later, however, my sister reported that the action figure with its colour fading, floating atop the tremulous surface of the bathtub water, while my brother stood in my parents room later that night whining for a new toy.
I guess in this materialistic society, we are not used to expressing our gratitude. However, I think this is something we should all embrace. No matter what we do in this life, or the next, we will never be able to repay our parents for what they have done for us. The time, the effort, the blood, the tears, the money. We will never be able to repay them, but for each of their gifts, we should thank them.
You may ask why a extremely wealthy family running an extremely lucrative business would set such "extreme" limitations on their youths?
The answer is quite simple: To keep them from being Spoilt.
In this day and age, everything, from clothes to books to toys to food, are readily made available for the children by their parents. It bears almost no resemblance to the "old days", where I heard that families, including the young children, had to plant their own crops to obtain food and a source of income. Due to this, I think, children take what they have for granted and demand for more from their parents without sparing even a thought for the amount of blood and sweat their parents have put in. Of course, parents do not usually speak out against their children, in an attempt to please their kids.
I am not saying that it is our parents fault, neither am I saying it is ours. I mean, how could immature kids like us appreciate what our parents were providing us? For example, I remember a year ago, my brother received an expensive action figure from my parents and thanked them enthusiastically. A week later, however, my sister reported that the action figure with its colour fading, floating atop the tremulous surface of the bathtub water, while my brother stood in my parents room later that night whining for a new toy.
I guess in this materialistic society, we are not used to expressing our gratitude. However, I think this is something we should all embrace. No matter what we do in this life, or the next, we will never be able to repay our parents for what they have done for us. The time, the effort, the blood, the tears, the money. We will never be able to repay them, but for each of their gifts, we should thank them.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
An interesting conversation
Today, while traveling home on bus 66, I chose a seat nearly at the back of the bus, since I was feeling a little down that I had forgotten to file one assignment into my Chinese file and delayed my submission.
By chance, I overheard a conversation between two youths who apparently just started work. One of them said something like, "you know ah, my friends told me yesterday that I did not act like a Singaporean". The other replied, "Aiyah, go to eat Mee Siam ans drink Kopi O lah." Then the former added on, "Chicken rice too." And that was it. End of a could-be-more-developed conversation.
Still, from this short but meaningful conversation, I would like to comment on their opinions on what the "being Singaporean" is. To them, the "being Singaporean" is following the same set of behaviour that all Singaporeans should follow. I think this has become some sort of culture for us. However, the culture I am referring to does is not race and religion. I am talking about behaviour and preferences. We have a deep rooted Singaporean Culture, an example of which is our supposed love for the Chili crab dish and Chicken rice.
Then again, does it stop there?
Personally, I do not think so. I think being a Singaporean just means that we need to have pride in our country. It is not so much of showing off to other countries that we have the best batch of educated students or that we have the most unique culture. I think as we grow up, we are influenced by the adults around us, who have already integrated into society as the "model Singaporean". I do not rally support this attitude. I mean, how can a country survive with exactly identical people, doing exactly identical things, living an exactly identical live and have an exactly identical preference? I am not denouncing the idea that Singapore should have a special culture, but the culture cannot control us. I do not think we should be judged based on the Singapore culture. We cannot criticise others for not acting like a Singaporean because in the end, it is us, the Singaporeans of today, who will have the say in what "being Singaporean" is.
By chance, I overheard a conversation between two youths who apparently just started work. One of them said something like, "you know ah, my friends told me yesterday that I did not act like a Singaporean". The other replied, "Aiyah, go to eat Mee Siam ans drink Kopi O lah." Then the former added on, "Chicken rice too." And that was it. End of a could-be-more-developed conversation.
Still, from this short but meaningful conversation, I would like to comment on their opinions on what the "being Singaporean" is. To them, the "being Singaporean" is following the same set of behaviour that all Singaporeans should follow. I think this has become some sort of culture for us. However, the culture I am referring to does is not race and religion. I am talking about behaviour and preferences. We have a deep rooted Singaporean Culture, an example of which is our supposed love for the Chili crab dish and Chicken rice.
Then again, does it stop there?
Personally, I do not think so. I think being a Singaporean just means that we need to have pride in our country. It is not so much of showing off to other countries that we have the best batch of educated students or that we have the most unique culture. I think as we grow up, we are influenced by the adults around us, who have already integrated into society as the "model Singaporean". I do not rally support this attitude. I mean, how can a country survive with exactly identical people, doing exactly identical things, living an exactly identical live and have an exactly identical preference? I am not denouncing the idea that Singapore should have a special culture, but the culture cannot control us. I do not think we should be judged based on the Singapore culture. We cannot criticise others for not acting like a Singaporean because in the end, it is us, the Singaporeans of today, who will have the say in what "being Singaporean" is.
Monday, March 1, 2010
E-learning: Interview with my grandfather(Interpersonal)
Well, I just completed a simple interview with my grandfather concerning hios views on Prejudice and Discrimination.
Interview:
JK: What do you think is prejudice in your opinion?
Grandpa: Prejudice is the root cause of misunderstanding. For example, in a multiracial nation like Singapore, it can create social unrest.
JK: What are your views on discrimination, then? How does it, well, begin?
Grandpa: Discrimination destroys fair play or equality, social equality, gender equality. It stirs up hatred among those who are discriminated against. Consequently, social harmony will break down. Discrimination often results from prejudice.
JK: Are there any instances in History where Prejudice or discrimination is shown?
Grandpa: Several decades ago, the American Blacks, due to cultural and social prejudice, were discriminated against in their work place, politics or even daily lives which happened even in the United States of America. 40 years ago though, when I was in school in the early 1970s in the USA, Black men on the streets seen with white women were beaten, sometimes to the death. However, even now, there was some unrest when President Barrack Obama ran for presidency.
JK: Is prejudice and discrimination wrong? In your opinion of course.
Grandpa: 你是不是在开玩笑？
Interview:
JK: What do you think is prejudice in your opinion?
Grandpa: Prejudice is the root cause of misunderstanding. For example, in a multiracial nation like Singapore, it can create social unrest.
JK: What are your views on discrimination, then? How does it, well, begin?
Grandpa: Discrimination destroys fair play or equality, social equality, gender equality. It stirs up hatred among those who are discriminated against. Consequently, social harmony will break down. Discrimination often results from prejudice.
JK: Are there any instances in History where Prejudice or discrimination is shown?
Grandpa: Several decades ago, the American Blacks, due to cultural and social prejudice, were discriminated against in their work place, politics or even daily lives which happened even in the United States of America. 40 years ago though, when I was in school in the early 1970s in the USA, Black men on the streets seen with white women were beaten, sometimes to the death. However, even now, there was some unrest when President Barrack Obama ran for presidency.
JK: Is prejudice and discrimination wrong? In your opinion of course.
Grandpa: 你是不是在开玩笑？
E-learning: Diary of Jem (Intrapersonal)
Dear Diary,
It isn't fair, is it? How could the Maycomb Jury convict Tom Robinson after all the evidence given? He was innocent, wasn't he? This... this is all nor right. It was Bob Ewell. He was the one, not Tom, not Tom Robinson. I can't accept this. I have lived here all my life. Sometimes life was hard, sometimes it was cruel but this! This is not just. I don't know what to be believe in anymore. How can I ever believe what anyone tells me now?
Atticus, how can this be possible? Answer me! Atticus!
Jem Finch
It isn't fair, is it? How could the Maycomb Jury convict Tom Robinson after all the evidence given? He was innocent, wasn't he? This... this is all nor right. It was Bob Ewell. He was the one, not Tom, not Tom Robinson. I can't accept this. I have lived here all my life. Sometimes life was hard, sometimes it was cruel but this! This is not just. I don't know what to be believe in anymore. How can I ever believe what anyone tells me now?
Atticus, how can this be possible? Answer me! Atticus!
Jem Finch
My learning profile
Woah...I will never know how the Birmingham Grid for learning works. Its results are right on the dot.
They are arranged from my best area:
Interpersonal
Intrapersonal
Naturalistic
Kinaesthetic
Visual
Linguistic
Logical
Musical
There is no use to deny my failure in music. I cannot play a musical instrument without creating havoc, cannot memorise my notes through a rhythm without angering my sister and absolutely do not bother to try again. On the other hand, I am quite wary of others around me, proving that the analysis of my interpersonal skills is accurate. That is why, for all those who wanted to know, I do not hurl abuses at others, throw people for no good reason and keep an eye on my classmates behaviour.
Well, this was just a short analysis of the results from my point of view. Now, time to start on the real work.
They are arranged from my best area:
Interpersonal
Intrapersonal
Naturalistic
Kinaesthetic
Visual
Linguistic
Logical
Musical
There is no use to deny my failure in music. I cannot play a musical instrument without creating havoc, cannot memorise my notes through a rhythm without angering my sister and absolutely do not bother to try again. On the other hand, I am quite wary of others around me, proving that the analysis of my interpersonal skills is accurate. That is why, for all those who wanted to know, I do not hurl abuses at others, throw people for no good reason and keep an eye on my classmates behaviour.
Well, this was just a short analysis of the results from my point of view. Now, time to start on the real work.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Singapore's National Identity defined by Singaporeans- Our Mother Tongue
Recently, there has been quite a debate going on over the teaching of Mandarin in Singapore, with less youths seeing the importance and the need to study Chinese. Minister Mentor Lee himself commented that nowadays, Mandarin had to be taught in such a way that it suited the youths, suggesting that an element of fun should be introduced into the current system of teaching. Be it Drama or Information Technology, teachers were advised to adapt their lessons to capture the interests of the student body. In addition, he noted that listening and conversation skills should be the primary focus before incorporating reading and writing into our education, reasoning that doing it the other way round or worse, together, could potentially put students off at a very young age. "Flexibility" in teaching Chinese was of utmost importance in this day and age.
Personally, I feel that changing the current system of studying Chinese will be similar to using a double-edged sword. This is due to the fact that while some students will benefit from the change, some would remain passive towards the Chinese Language and even take advantage of the system.
On the positive side, the transition of the education system from text-based to IT or Drama-based would grab the attentions of those eager to learn, giving them access to a greater basin of resources as well as articles written from the perspectives of intellectuals across the globe. This will undoubtedly contribute to their learning experience, expanding their intellectual horizons. Furthermore, introducing drama into the curriculum could help students gain more confidence in articulating their thoughts and words in Chinese, instead of using English in every circumstance.
On the negative side, this change would invite abuse from the students. As we all know, this the computer age, where the current generations of youngsters reign supreme. As a result, we know all the little tricks and tweaks to make our online venturing undetectable, which would give us the opportunity to cover up our history of computer gaming and idle social-networking when we were expected to do our work. The initiation of Drama in the Chinese curriculum could also have adverse effects. For example, students might fail to realise the point in participating in Chinese Drama and treat it as another one of the "useless and not counted in my academic score" activities in the curriculum. In turn, the new phase in teaching Chinese would just produce results similar or worse results than the current system.
In my opinion, students need to know the reason they are learning Chinese. If students think Chinese is useless, than no happen what new scheme is thought up by the ministry, no matter how interesting it might seem, it would all be for naught.
Understand our culture, embrace our heritage, glorify our language.
Personally, I feel that changing the current system of studying Chinese will be similar to using a double-edged sword. This is due to the fact that while some students will benefit from the change, some would remain passive towards the Chinese Language and even take advantage of the system.
On the positive side, the transition of the education system from text-based to IT or Drama-based would grab the attentions of those eager to learn, giving them access to a greater basin of resources as well as articles written from the perspectives of intellectuals across the globe. This will undoubtedly contribute to their learning experience, expanding their intellectual horizons. Furthermore, introducing drama into the curriculum could help students gain more confidence in articulating their thoughts and words in Chinese, instead of using English in every circumstance.
On the negative side, this change would invite abuse from the students. As we all know, this the computer age, where the current generations of youngsters reign supreme. As a result, we know all the little tricks and tweaks to make our online venturing undetectable, which would give us the opportunity to cover up our history of computer gaming and idle social-networking when we were expected to do our work. The initiation of Drama in the Chinese curriculum could also have adverse effects. For example, students might fail to realise the point in participating in Chinese Drama and treat it as another one of the "useless and not counted in my academic score" activities in the curriculum. In turn, the new phase in teaching Chinese would just produce results similar or worse results than the current system.
In my opinion, students need to know the reason they are learning Chinese. If students think Chinese is useless, than no happen what new scheme is thought up by the ministry, no matter how interesting it might seem, it would all be for naught.
Understand our culture, embrace our heritage, glorify our language.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Singapore's National Identity defined by Singaporeans- Complains
I was just browsing through the web when I discovered this website discussing the Singaporean Identity. Truth be told, it is a little bit old but I guess it might still be a little relevant to Singapore's condition today.
Some describe the our national identity as "A nation of hard workers, untiring complainers" while others think of it as "the way we speak makes us special". Another source feels that "Everything revolves around economics". At least these are the few points that I wish to highlight in my next few posts. Tonight, since I am busily mugging for my Science test on Friday, I will only discuss the point about Singaporeans being "A nation of hard workers, untiring complainers".
The claim "A nation of hard workers, untiring complainers" unspoken of but true. The source identifies Singaporean's are best described as people who complain a lot, but get the job done in the end. I have no qualms about agreeing to this statement. Perhaps it is because I am looking at it from a 13-year old with biased opinions and reckless outspokenness but I have observed that people around me complain about almost anything. With a slight increase in workload, parallel to a slight increase in taxes, we do nothing but open or mouths in protest. We groan, we moan, we murmur behind teachers' backs. However, in the end, we still get the job done.
I don't really know. Perhaps it is because we have our own ideals and opinions but are too afraid or passive to say it out. Maybe this has restricted us to mere complaining but no action. Maybe it is just better to follow the crowd and do well enough to survive in this world. Nevertheless, there is always a chance that we just don't care about what is done as long as we get our pay and our results.
In the end, I persist that Singaporeans should not waste their energies on complaining but not moving a hairline. Solutions to what we are not contented with is what we need. We need Solutions, not complains. We need Activeness, not passiveness. We need to be Singaporeans.
Some describe the our national identity as "A nation of hard workers, untiring complainers" while others think of it as "the way we speak makes us special". Another source feels that "Everything revolves around economics". At least these are the few points that I wish to highlight in my next few posts. Tonight, since I am busily mugging for my Science test on Friday, I will only discuss the point about Singaporeans being "A nation of hard workers, untiring complainers".
The claim "A nation of hard workers, untiring complainers" unspoken of but true. The source identifies Singaporean's are best described as people who complain a lot, but get the job done in the end. I have no qualms about agreeing to this statement. Perhaps it is because I am looking at it from a 13-year old with biased opinions and reckless outspokenness but I have observed that people around me complain about almost anything. With a slight increase in workload, parallel to a slight increase in taxes, we do nothing but open or mouths in protest. We groan, we moan, we murmur behind teachers' backs. However, in the end, we still get the job done.
I don't really know. Perhaps it is because we have our own ideals and opinions but are too afraid or passive to say it out. Maybe this has restricted us to mere complaining but no action. Maybe it is just better to follow the crowd and do well enough to survive in this world. Nevertheless, there is always a chance that we just don't care about what is done as long as we get our pay and our results.
In the end, I persist that Singaporeans should not waste their energies on complaining but not moving a hairline. Solutions to what we are not contented with is what we need. We need Solutions, not complains. We need Activeness, not passiveness. We need to be Singaporeans.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
I spy with my little eye
Well, I really am lost for a topic to centre this blog around. I mean, last year we could write about anything and anything, right? So why restrict ourselves this year? So,I sat on a three seater, red and rusty bench in the park below my flat and thought. Nothing came to mind. And I mean it. Nothng.
I watched with complete boredom as neighbours, some friends, some strangers jogging past me. Then, I saw this plump kid jogging past me. Okay, honestly speaking, my pet turtle from two years ago could crawl faster than him. His red, puffy cheeks were soaked in sweat and his titanic belly bounced with an ominous rhythm. He was exhausted, I could tell. But something about just seemed very familiar...
Then, I watched as I saw two little children cycle past me with zest. They were only about six, judging by their scrawny composure, pimple-free and round faces. If I remembered correctly, one was shouting "What the ****, how come u so fast one?" Sigh, I do not ever recall myself being so offensive during my childhood. However, what shocked me more was the need for competition at such a young age. My oh my, why are Singaporeans so competitive in everything? It sort of reminded me of the so called "battle" between RI and HCI. Chuckling, I imagined both of them growing up to enter these two schools...
In a brief moment of amusement, I finally found my interest. I found something worth blogging about. I am going to write about the "Singapore Ideology". You know, that funny topic we did for the first CA discussion? Yeah, that is the one.
What do the government expect of us as Singaporeans? What do we expect from ourselves as Singaporeans?
I watched with complete boredom as neighbours, some friends, some strangers jogging past me. Then, I saw this plump kid jogging past me. Okay, honestly speaking, my pet turtle from two years ago could crawl faster than him. His red, puffy cheeks were soaked in sweat and his titanic belly bounced with an ominous rhythm. He was exhausted, I could tell. But something about just seemed very familiar...
Then, I watched as I saw two little children cycle past me with zest. They were only about six, judging by their scrawny composure, pimple-free and round faces. If I remembered correctly, one was shouting "What the ****, how come u so fast one?" Sigh, I do not ever recall myself being so offensive during my childhood. However, what shocked me more was the need for competition at such a young age. My oh my, why are Singaporeans so competitive in everything? It sort of reminded me of the so called "battle" between RI and HCI. Chuckling, I imagined both of them growing up to enter these two schools...
In a brief moment of amusement, I finally found my interest. I found something worth blogging about. I am going to write about the "Singapore Ideology". You know, that funny topic we did for the first CA discussion? Yeah, that is the one.
What do the government expect of us as Singaporeans? What do we expect from ourselves as Singaporeans?
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