Friend: Agus, I need to talk to you about something.
Agus: Yeah, go on.
Friend: Be very honest with me, how has your sex life been so far?
Agus: Uhm, not good, really.
Friend: Then you’re okay. I cannot stress this enough; SAFE SEX, ALWAYS. I was recently diagnosed with HIV. My result came out positive. I got the news early June, the first of June, to be exact… I’m only telling you this because, one, from being a 'friend of a friend' I have come to consider you as a close friend, … two, I don’t want you make the same mistakes I did.
… you can never be too sure. Yes, she’ll tell you she loves you and you trust her with all your heart. Of course she’s honest; she honestly has no clue she’s positive. And when you have a lifestyle like mine, the risk is higher. Sometimes you let your guards down and it slips.
.
.
the rest was all blur for a long while. I didn’t expect a routine weekend ‘teh tarik’ session during supper would be shockingly disturbing.
When I snapped back from daze, he was well into the ‘safe sex’ and ‘living positively’ evangelism. It was obvious; he was being mighty brave facing the grim reality. More than that, he is making sure others are well informed and afraid of the infectious disease instead of fearing the infected. He is using internet portals and forums, most of the times under a pseudonym, to allow discussions and outreach. His enthusiasm and dedication could be seen as channels to take his mind off the misery, regret and frustration. Either way, he is doing a good thing.
“This is very disturbing for me. I am disturbed, I am upset. Sorry. You must be getting a lot of this response by now. I am aware of the disease and I make it a point to protect myself. But having someone I know, infected, takes this awareness to another level” I told him.
“From the stories that you two shared just now, I thought you were talking about another friend of yours with HIV” I added.
“I was devastated when he broke the news to me over the phone. I couldn’t say anything for a long while. He was crying and I had nothing to say”, another friend at the table shared.
He understood, and the three of us continued talking; about the abrupt change of lifestyle to cope with the disease and medication, the additional tests to determine the level of infection, the psychological effect the news has to both the infected and the people they love, the shape of things to come, and the commitment and responsibility he is determined to shoulder. Needless to say, he was doing most of the talking.
“So, now you know. If you have any questions, or things you’d like to know, anything at all, just ask” he said.
“I will” I told him. That is for sure.
Showing posts with label society. Show all posts
Showing posts with label society. Show all posts
Monday, June 18, 2007
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Sex? Yes please...
We were in a book store’s language section, French, when Wegra noted “French is a gender biased language. Well, most European languages are.”
“Yeah, I agree. Even objects are classified male or female. It makes language learning very complicated!” I said.
“But they are improving English to be less biased. And most Asian languages are the least sexist” she went on.
“Hmm, that’s right! Malay for example, has ‘dia’ or ‘that person’ instead of he or she as a pronoun. But sometimes it is necessary to identify the gender as a more detailed description for a comprehensive and descriptive story” I added.
“Is it really necessary?” she asked.
“I think so. Because in Malay, a story can go on and on using ‘dia’ without a hint of the person being male or female, it creates the need to question ‘is the story referring to a female or a male?” I elaborated.
“Well, that’s the way you look at it” she said, ending the discussion.
Ironically, asking if the person is male or female may be construed as sexist. And you’ll probably get ‘what difference does it make, male or female?’ hurled at you.
The discussion may have stopped there but it kept me thinking. And a few clicks on the net proved how ignorant I was.
How ignorant exactly was I? Google up ‘gender biased language’ and see for your self. Here, let me help; follow this link http://www.google.com.my/search?hl=en&q=gender+biased+language&btnG=Search&meta=
I totally understand now why eliminating gender biasing is necessary. It eliminates discrimination on every level. It’s the first step to creating a fair and civilized society.
Go gender free. Yeah, I can do that.
Even squirrels can go gender free without losing their nuts.
But don’t start calling your mom and dad female and male parent. That’s weird.
“Yeah, I agree. Even objects are classified male or female. It makes language learning very complicated!” I said.
“But they are improving English to be less biased. And most Asian languages are the least sexist” she went on.
“Hmm, that’s right! Malay for example, has ‘dia’ or ‘that person’ instead of he or she as a pronoun. But sometimes it is necessary to identify the gender as a more detailed description for a comprehensive and descriptive story” I added.
“Is it really necessary?” she asked.
“I think so. Because in Malay, a story can go on and on using ‘dia’ without a hint of the person being male or female, it creates the need to question ‘is the story referring to a female or a male?” I elaborated.
“Well, that’s the way you look at it” she said, ending the discussion.
Ironically, asking if the person is male or female may be construed as sexist. And you’ll probably get ‘what difference does it make, male or female?’ hurled at you.
The discussion may have stopped there but it kept me thinking. And a few clicks on the net proved how ignorant I was.
How ignorant exactly was I? Google up ‘gender biased language’ and see for your self. Here, let me help; follow this link http://www.google.com.my/search?hl=en&q=gender+biased+language&btnG=Search&meta=
I totally understand now why eliminating gender biasing is necessary. It eliminates discrimination on every level. It’s the first step to creating a fair and civilized society.
Go gender free. Yeah, I can do that.
Even squirrels can go gender free without losing their nuts.
But don’t start calling your mom and dad female and male parent. That’s weird.
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Leaking
Is your roof waterproof?
Trust the minister to tell you it needs to be. He puts the roof in waterproof. He’ll also tell you it’s going to cost a lot.
Trust the minister to tell you it needs to be. He puts the roof in waterproof. He’ll also tell you it’s going to cost a lot.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
This ain't a scene
Two Saturdays ago (yeah, it’s been a while), I walked into Nando’s Restaurant at Bangsar Village to have late lunch while my car underwent regular service at a workshop nearby.
I ordered my favorite extra hot whole leg with mediterranean rice and fresco salad. A complete meal.
“Your chicken will be ready in ten minutes” said the waiter.
“Thank you”
I sat facing the entrance, a vantage point for people watching. A few groups of people entered and their orders taken.
While I waited there was a commotion at the cashier counter behind me.
“Oh that’s just great. 58 bucks flying out of my pocket!” said a waiter.
“How come they just walked out without paying?” asked a waitress.
“Well, maybe they thought they’ve paid so they just took a damn hike!” the waiter guessed, obviously furious.
The discussion spilled into the kitchen and after a while I heard the waiter said “Ok, that would be 58 bucks divided by four. Damn! Fourteen fifty out of my pocket, just like that!”
Having done a fair share of waiting I know this kind of crap happens no matter how hard you try to avoid it. It sucks.
All that and I was still waiting.
When ten minutes became fifteen I started to take note of other diners waiting for their food.
“Yeah, they were already seated when I came in. Them too. Ah, that mother and teenage son came in after me. If and when their food comes before mine, I’ll speak.”
After twenty minutes, sure enough, they started eating.
“Oh this is not right. Where’s mine. What happened to ‘first come first served’? As if bad timing isn't already a problem” I thought.
I flagged a waitress and asked about my order which was supposed to arrive ten minutes ago.
She went to the computer and started to click through the order database, just to get back to me with “uhm, the waiter didn’t key in your order earlier”
“But he said my chicken will be ready in ten minutes” I told her.
“Let me check with the kitchen” her panic expression surfaced and she toddled like a chicken toward the kitchen.
Another discussion ensued at the counter behind me. Thinking like only a customer would, I got up, approached the counter and participated in the discussion for what it's worth.
“Is my chicken even on the stove yet? Do you see that mother and her teenage son? (I pointed) They came in five minutes after me and they’re now tucking in nicely” I firmly explained my situation.
“It’s ready now sir” said one of them as she pointed to the plate over the dispatch counter.
“Huh? That fast? Ok then”
“We’ll send it over right away” she confirmed as I turned to walk to my seat. I can’t help but wonder who’s plate they instantly shoved as mine.
A waitress placed the plate in front of me and said softly “Sir, my manager said you don’t have to pay for this one”. I sensed a ‘gulp’ in her speech.
“I don’t have to pay?” I repeated.
“No sir” she answered.
“Ok.” I couldn’t decide how to set my facial expression so it was left void. I mean, should I smile when just a nanosecond ago I seemed mildly agitated?
As I started to dig in, another woman approached me. Probably the manager.
“I’m very sorry for that mistake sir. You don’t have to pay for the meal. It’s on me.”
“Seriously? You don't have to take it that far” I suggested. It's rhetoric, I know.
“Yes, seriously. Your time is more important. Enjoy your meal”
“Thank you very much”
Needless to say, it wasn’t just a meal, for a whilrwind of thoughts rushed in as I was munching away.
“Oh that was too easy. It almost made me look like I was waiting for this to happen. Wait a minute, that don’t sound right. Neither does it look right.!” I thought.
Indeed it was an unsatisfactory service but that doesn’t mean I deserve a free lunch, not on someone else’s expense. It ain't a scene that I wanted; I just wanted someone to know they screwed up and learn from it. Strive to improve. People make mistakes and everyone deserves a second chance, provided they don’t take it for granted.
Besides, in less than an hour, this would make the second incident of forking out the staff’s cash after a group of diners simply walked out without paying. These guys have had a rough day. Plus the manager owned up and apologized. I would feel real awkward, not to mention guilty, just walking out of that joint. It's almost like saying 'thanks for lunch, suckers...'
“Alright, here’s what I’ll do; I’m gonna ask to pay for this meal, at least settle for a discount. Yeah, they could take my drink off the bill. If that doesn't work, I'll just leave a ten ringgit tip. That's a fair price. Yeah, I always enjoy Nando's chicken, so it's worth it. ”
That settled, I continued to finish my lunch.
Instead of calling for the bill, I went straight to the cash register and asked to speak to the manager again. While one of them went to call the manager out, I scanned the counter for a tip box; none.
“I want to pay for my meal” I told her.
“No sir, it’s on me” she said.
“No, I mean it, let me pay”
“The bill’s already taken care of” she said smiling.
“You have the courtesy of owning up and apologize. Now I need to feel better” I exposed my agenda.
She smiled more and said “No, it’s fine. Next time sir. Next time you bring your friends here”
“Alright then. Thank you very much”
Geez, some people just have to have the last word. But trying to be the better man didn’t fail, for I dealt with a good woman.
I ordered my favorite extra hot whole leg with mediterranean rice and fresco salad. A complete meal.
“Your chicken will be ready in ten minutes” said the waiter.
“Thank you”
I sat facing the entrance, a vantage point for people watching. A few groups of people entered and their orders taken.
While I waited there was a commotion at the cashier counter behind me.
“Oh that’s just great. 58 bucks flying out of my pocket!” said a waiter.
“How come they just walked out without paying?” asked a waitress.
“Well, maybe they thought they’ve paid so they just took a damn hike!” the waiter guessed, obviously furious.
The discussion spilled into the kitchen and after a while I heard the waiter said “Ok, that would be 58 bucks divided by four. Damn! Fourteen fifty out of my pocket, just like that!”
Having done a fair share of waiting I know this kind of crap happens no matter how hard you try to avoid it. It sucks.
All that and I was still waiting.
When ten minutes became fifteen I started to take note of other diners waiting for their food.
“Yeah, they were already seated when I came in. Them too. Ah, that mother and teenage son came in after me. If and when their food comes before mine, I’ll speak.”
After twenty minutes, sure enough, they started eating.
“Oh this is not right. Where’s mine. What happened to ‘first come first served’? As if bad timing isn't already a problem” I thought.
I flagged a waitress and asked about my order which was supposed to arrive ten minutes ago.
She went to the computer and started to click through the order database, just to get back to me with “uhm, the waiter didn’t key in your order earlier”
“But he said my chicken will be ready in ten minutes” I told her.
“Let me check with the kitchen” her panic expression surfaced and she toddled like a chicken toward the kitchen.
Another discussion ensued at the counter behind me. Thinking like only a customer would, I got up, approached the counter and participated in the discussion for what it's worth.
“Is my chicken even on the stove yet? Do you see that mother and her teenage son? (I pointed) They came in five minutes after me and they’re now tucking in nicely” I firmly explained my situation.
“It’s ready now sir” said one of them as she pointed to the plate over the dispatch counter.
“Huh? That fast? Ok then”
“We’ll send it over right away” she confirmed as I turned to walk to my seat. I can’t help but wonder who’s plate they instantly shoved as mine.
A waitress placed the plate in front of me and said softly “Sir, my manager said you don’t have to pay for this one”. I sensed a ‘gulp’ in her speech.
“I don’t have to pay?” I repeated.
“No sir” she answered.
“Ok.” I couldn’t decide how to set my facial expression so it was left void. I mean, should I smile when just a nanosecond ago I seemed mildly agitated?
As I started to dig in, another woman approached me. Probably the manager.
“I’m very sorry for that mistake sir. You don’t have to pay for the meal. It’s on me.”
“Seriously? You don't have to take it that far” I suggested. It's rhetoric, I know.
“Yes, seriously. Your time is more important. Enjoy your meal”
“Thank you very much”
Needless to say, it wasn’t just a meal, for a whilrwind of thoughts rushed in as I was munching away.
“Oh that was too easy. It almost made me look like I was waiting for this to happen. Wait a minute, that don’t sound right. Neither does it look right.!” I thought.
Indeed it was an unsatisfactory service but that doesn’t mean I deserve a free lunch, not on someone else’s expense. It ain't a scene that I wanted; I just wanted someone to know they screwed up and learn from it. Strive to improve. People make mistakes and everyone deserves a second chance, provided they don’t take it for granted.
Besides, in less than an hour, this would make the second incident of forking out the staff’s cash after a group of diners simply walked out without paying. These guys have had a rough day. Plus the manager owned up and apologized. I would feel real awkward, not to mention guilty, just walking out of that joint. It's almost like saying 'thanks for lunch, suckers...'
“Alright, here’s what I’ll do; I’m gonna ask to pay for this meal, at least settle for a discount. Yeah, they could take my drink off the bill. If that doesn't work, I'll just leave a ten ringgit tip. That's a fair price. Yeah, I always enjoy Nando's chicken, so it's worth it. ”
That settled, I continued to finish my lunch.
Instead of calling for the bill, I went straight to the cash register and asked to speak to the manager again. While one of them went to call the manager out, I scanned the counter for a tip box; none.
“I want to pay for my meal” I told her.
“No sir, it’s on me” she said.
“No, I mean it, let me pay”
“The bill’s already taken care of” she said smiling.
“You have the courtesy of owning up and apologize. Now I need to feel better” I exposed my agenda.
She smiled more and said “No, it’s fine. Next time sir. Next time you bring your friends here”
“Alright then. Thank you very much”
Geez, some people just have to have the last word. But trying to be the better man didn’t fail, for I dealt with a good woman.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
What it takes
Recent turn of events, tragic as they may be, gave me the impression of how things really work around here.
A workmate took a few days off to take part in the recent by election in Machap. He returned to work feeling good about all the developments going around in Machap.
"That small town is abuzz with activities! The mosque has a new set of paint, the roads are freshly paved and repaved, the community hall is finally taking shape and there's a new park in town! There is good in the demise of the representative, it seems" he concluded.
The second wave is hitting Ijok and the people has reasons to p'p'p'party! They are banking on new promises as dead projects are resurrected and new ones are born. Sleepers wake up and those with agenda scramble to please the people. It is one of those times, if not the only time the people are made to feel in power.
I know I've illustrated the obvious but can you blame me? The circus is in town!
A workmate took a few days off to take part in the recent by election in Machap. He returned to work feeling good about all the developments going around in Machap.
"That small town is abuzz with activities! The mosque has a new set of paint, the roads are freshly paved and repaved, the community hall is finally taking shape and there's a new park in town! There is good in the demise of the representative, it seems" he concluded.
The second wave is hitting Ijok and the people has reasons to p'p'p'party! They are banking on new promises as dead projects are resurrected and new ones are born. Sleepers wake up and those with agenda scramble to please the people. It is one of those times, if not the only time the people are made to feel in power.
I know I've illustrated the obvious but can you blame me? The circus is in town!
Friday, February 16, 2007
La Luna
Happy Chinese New Year everyone.
It'll be a long holiday in Malaysia.
Happy Holiday!
The year of the Fire Boar this time. That's hot!
It'll be a long holiday in Malaysia.
Happy Holiday!
The year of the Fire Boar this time. That's hot!
Thursday, January 04, 2007
Greetings to 007
Receiving countless text wishes for Christmas and New Year was such a delight, but the guilt and frustration came just as swiftly, because like many others, I was unable to respond to any incoming text messages due to overwhelming traffic. Honestly!
I’m on DIGI, see.
I couldn’t even make a single call after frantically trying to reply text wishes. I gave up trying after accepting the fact (and believing) that one could be sending the same message to numerous people in his contact list. Remembering one another on the occasion then becomes mutual, whether there is a response or not. It was just a matter of who does it first, with the help of one’s contact list of course.
“Haha! I got to you first!”
Scrolling down the list will also make you say “Hmm, I didn’t know she’s still in my contact list…”
And how about that delayed response eh? I got a crazy new year wish from a friend which managed to squeeze the words suck, lick, thrust and ejaculate in a single sentence. I tried hard but I still can’t reproduce it here, or ever, but all it meant to say was have a great new year ahead. It gave me the broadest grin of course, and so I drafted a simple and appropriate response. However, due to limited bandwidth, I couldn’t send it out until the next day. I don’t know how my friend reacted when he read “You crazy b*tch! Happy New Year!”
I just hope he gets it.
P/S: I know I’m not the first one to wish all of you a Happy New Year. Heck who does? It’s been said since human counted the first year ever. Even then it was not accurate. Maybe if I wish you a Happy New 2008?
Nah… anyway, have a great 2007! We might just be lucky enough to get a surprise 007 flick this year. Unfeasibly appropriate don’t you think?
I’m on DIGI, see.
I couldn’t even make a single call after frantically trying to reply text wishes. I gave up trying after accepting the fact (and believing) that one could be sending the same message to numerous people in his contact list. Remembering one another on the occasion then becomes mutual, whether there is a response or not. It was just a matter of who does it first, with the help of one’s contact list of course.
“Haha! I got to you first!”
Scrolling down the list will also make you say “Hmm, I didn’t know she’s still in my contact list…”
And how about that delayed response eh? I got a crazy new year wish from a friend which managed to squeeze the words suck, lick, thrust and ejaculate in a single sentence. I tried hard but I still can’t reproduce it here, or ever, but all it meant to say was have a great new year ahead. It gave me the broadest grin of course, and so I drafted a simple and appropriate response. However, due to limited bandwidth, I couldn’t send it out until the next day. I don’t know how my friend reacted when he read “You crazy b*tch! Happy New Year!”
I just hope he gets it.
P/S: I know I’m not the first one to wish all of you a Happy New Year. Heck who does? It’s been said since human counted the first year ever. Even then it was not accurate. Maybe if I wish you a Happy New 2008?
Nah… anyway, have a great 2007! We might just be lucky enough to get a surprise 007 flick this year. Unfeasibly appropriate don’t you think?
Friday, December 22, 2006
All decked up!
25 December falls on Monday this year. Wish it would fall on Sunday so we Malaysians could use Monday to recuperate after a long and hard Christmas party. All ready and willing for work on Tuesday. Those fortunate enough to get leaves days after that, rejoice.
But whatever.
Hear me cheer.
Bring all your merry bells out and jingle them all about!
Christmas’ right on time this year, can you hear the red nose reindeer?
Some dream of white, others have a blue, but you know what? I don’t have a clue.
See I’m running out of schnapps, and I’m too old (and heavy) for Santa’s lap
So all I want for Christmas is to do whatever I want to do.
Be it dim, be it bright, it sure won't be a silent night.
As for a holy night, well, you go'head'n decide.
While you’re at it, add to this bit by bit, just don’t give me any sh*t.
It's Christmas y'all.
But whatever.
Hear me cheer.
Bring all your merry bells out and jingle them all about!
Christmas’ right on time this year, can you hear the red nose reindeer?
Some dream of white, others have a blue, but you know what? I don’t have a clue.
See I’m running out of schnapps, and I’m too old (and heavy) for Santa’s lap
So all I want for Christmas is to do whatever I want to do.
Be it dim, be it bright, it sure won't be a silent night.
As for a holy night, well, you go'head'n decide.
While you’re at it, add to this bit by bit, just don’t give me any sh*t.
It's Christmas y'all.
Thursday, December 07, 2006
How you doin'
For a long while this space has shown ‘Jealous and insecure’ without any hint of a refreshing change. What a statement to leave eh…
The past month has been filled with all sorts of interesting events, from bizarre work-related flight delay right through a beautiful wedding. Gosh, I really need to document them before I lose all the details and emotions worthy of posting. There’s one magical word which describes the way things went all this while. It conveniently explains everything and it says ‘Busy’.
But this post is not about an apology (neither is it necessary). I’m just giving myself (and those who still visit) advance notice of the things I should see here. Sometimes I do ask myself ‘I wonder what I’ve been up to these days’. Because lately things happen so fast that I could barely keep track. It’s almost Christmas and pretty soon it will be two thousand seven!
Meanwhile, the fun keeps on coming!
Come next weekend I will be in Kapit for another round of my best friend’s wedding reception. All in good times.
The past month has been filled with all sorts of interesting events, from bizarre work-related flight delay right through a beautiful wedding. Gosh, I really need to document them before I lose all the details and emotions worthy of posting. There’s one magical word which describes the way things went all this while. It conveniently explains everything and it says ‘Busy’.
But this post is not about an apology (neither is it necessary). I’m just giving myself (and those who still visit) advance notice of the things I should see here. Sometimes I do ask myself ‘I wonder what I’ve been up to these days’. Because lately things happen so fast that I could barely keep track. It’s almost Christmas and pretty soon it will be two thousand seven!
Meanwhile, the fun keeps on coming!
Come next weekend I will be in Kapit for another round of my best friend’s wedding reception. All in good times.
Friday, November 17, 2006
Jealous & Insecure
Is there anything worse than having a jealous and insecure partner? How about severe bitchy attitude? How about having limited friends and dictating how you should go about keeping yours. How about not making up for the things that she lacks; looks and charm? But instead going about being possessive and feeling threatened by every girl that comes near you. The world could end if she ever forgets to wear that long face every time she’s not happy about something. As if that’s not enough, she’s making all kinds of absurd accusations about you being disloyal, flirty and scandalous.
How does anyone keep being this way? Why is there so much distrust and senseless judgment? The negative psychological behavior is not only irritating others but eating the person as well. And don’t even get me started about the effect it has on the relationship. And how long can this kind of relationship last? Would it surprise you if I told you one still exist after more than three years of endurance? Yeah, more grueling than Le Mans and Paris-Dakar Rally I tell you.
Is there an end to this baffling journey? Can the relationship be saved? Is it worth the headache and mental disturbance? Is she worth all that?
I guess it depends on the other party’s priority, reasoning and whatever else that holds him back.
As a friend, I have to accept the decision he makes in charting his own life's path, even if the reason is beyond me. He has after all repeatedly acknowledged the problem and tries to address it from time to time.
He has not however asked my opinion and advice on the course of action.
Seriously, if it was up to me, the title of this post should really read ‘Dump’. A freaking long time ago I must add.
How does anyone keep being this way? Why is there so much distrust and senseless judgment? The negative psychological behavior is not only irritating others but eating the person as well. And don’t even get me started about the effect it has on the relationship. And how long can this kind of relationship last? Would it surprise you if I told you one still exist after more than three years of endurance? Yeah, more grueling than Le Mans and Paris-Dakar Rally I tell you.
Is there an end to this baffling journey? Can the relationship be saved? Is it worth the headache and mental disturbance? Is she worth all that?
I guess it depends on the other party’s priority, reasoning and whatever else that holds him back.
As a friend, I have to accept the decision he makes in charting his own life's path, even if the reason is beyond me. He has after all repeatedly acknowledged the problem and tries to address it from time to time.
He has not however asked my opinion and advice on the course of action.
Seriously, if it was up to me, the title of this post should really read ‘Dump’. A freaking long time ago I must add.
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Happy hours
Exactly last week, I was at a bar with some friends. Nearby was this middle aged man drinking with his friend. Our friends talked and it was only a matter of time that we did. We introduced ourselves and got the small talk going on. I asked him what he does and he told me he was in the insurance business. He didn’t reciprocate immediately. But when he did, he added one startling question, right after asking ‘where do you work and what do you do?’ Guess what the question was…
‘Are you happy?’
What the …..am I happy?! What’s that suppose to mean?
“I’ve been there four years. I’m happy with the environment. I like how things are done. No permanent stress. Heavy work load is seasonal. It suits me just fine.” I explained.
“It’s all about excelling in life. Where do you see yourself five years from now? You must have a plan. Even the government has a five year plan” he said.
“First you set what you want to achieve in five years and the steps to get there. After that five years you evaluate where you stand and trace your steps, improvise and customize your strategies. Set your plan for the next five years” he added.
I just smiled and listened, that’s as polite as I get.
“You see, there's not as much time as you think. When people graduate, they’re in their twenties. As soon as they finish their studies, they look for a job. After a while, you know what they do? They look for another job, a better one. And it goes on like that until they're satisfied with their positions. When people reach my age, there's not much time left. People my age can’t afford to change jobs anymore. Options are limited. So it's very critical to step on it while you’re still young and full of energy” he passionately elaborated.
All that left me thinking ‘when did I seek career consultation? Who does he think he is?’
“I train people to earn half a million each year. On average. Even those not doing so well earn two hundred thousand a year! I’ve been in this business for quite a while. Let me give you my card. Give me a call if you’re interested.” He concluded.
I took his card, gave it a quick look under the dim lighting and put it in my pocket. He was quiet for a while. A glance to the TV made him change the subject. “Hey, how about Schumacher in Japan eh?” he said to another regular. They talked long and hard about the race in Japan. I added the little that I know.
“Eh, switch to 8TV. I think they’re replaying the A1 race. I want to see how Malaysia won the race.” He requested to one of the bartenders.
I waited for him to turn to me and close his recruitment deal but I was spared. I was ready with the backhand smash should he decide to press on. I guess the lack of interest to earn half a million gave it away. Not everyone has the same priority and purpose in life. Sure we all want to earn a fortune, but the end never justifies the means, and neither is it fixed.
I too learned my lesson. If someone asks ‘are you happy?’ after asking about my job, I’d say I most definitely am. I come to drink and have a good time damn’it! Not to be told that my job is less rewarding and I could do better. Much better. I’ll change when I want to. When I see fit. I don’t mean to be rude but it’s my life. Have a nice day *Insert Bon Jovi songs here*
And the nerve. It’s almost like asking ‘how’s your marriage? Are you happy? Can I butt in?’
Oh, and it’s a good thing that he only goes there on Monday nights. There rest of the nights he’s at home. Including weekends! How’s that for a life.
‘Are you happy?’
What the …..am I happy?! What’s that suppose to mean?
“I’ve been there four years. I’m happy with the environment. I like how things are done. No permanent stress. Heavy work load is seasonal. It suits me just fine.” I explained.
“It’s all about excelling in life. Where do you see yourself five years from now? You must have a plan. Even the government has a five year plan” he said.
“First you set what you want to achieve in five years and the steps to get there. After that five years you evaluate where you stand and trace your steps, improvise and customize your strategies. Set your plan for the next five years” he added.
I just smiled and listened, that’s as polite as I get.
“You see, there's not as much time as you think. When people graduate, they’re in their twenties. As soon as they finish their studies, they look for a job. After a while, you know what they do? They look for another job, a better one. And it goes on like that until they're satisfied with their positions. When people reach my age, there's not much time left. People my age can’t afford to change jobs anymore. Options are limited. So it's very critical to step on it while you’re still young and full of energy” he passionately elaborated.
All that left me thinking ‘when did I seek career consultation? Who does he think he is?’
“I train people to earn half a million each year. On average. Even those not doing so well earn two hundred thousand a year! I’ve been in this business for quite a while. Let me give you my card. Give me a call if you’re interested.” He concluded.
I took his card, gave it a quick look under the dim lighting and put it in my pocket. He was quiet for a while. A glance to the TV made him change the subject. “Hey, how about Schumacher in Japan eh?” he said to another regular. They talked long and hard about the race in Japan. I added the little that I know.
“Eh, switch to 8TV. I think they’re replaying the A1 race. I want to see how Malaysia won the race.” He requested to one of the bartenders.
I waited for him to turn to me and close his recruitment deal but I was spared. I was ready with the backhand smash should he decide to press on. I guess the lack of interest to earn half a million gave it away. Not everyone has the same priority and purpose in life. Sure we all want to earn a fortune, but the end never justifies the means, and neither is it fixed.
I too learned my lesson. If someone asks ‘are you happy?’ after asking about my job, I’d say I most definitely am. I come to drink and have a good time damn’it! Not to be told that my job is less rewarding and I could do better. Much better. I’ll change when I want to. When I see fit. I don’t mean to be rude but it’s my life. Have a nice day *Insert Bon Jovi songs here*
And the nerve. It’s almost like asking ‘how’s your marriage? Are you happy? Can I butt in?’
Oh, and it’s a good thing that he only goes there on Monday nights. There rest of the nights he’s at home. Including weekends! How’s that for a life.
Monday, September 25, 2006
Fast but not furious
Ramadhan, the fasting month for Muslims around the world is here again.
Selamat berpuasa. Make it count, make it blessed, people...
How does that affect me?
Well, for sure, food bazaars will be everywhere in the evening. There'll be all kinds of food, traditional and international style dishes for starters, main course and deserts. There'll be loads of 'kuih' varieties to choose from, those are knick knacks or local tapas.
Then there's the late supper. An assurance that food will be available up to 4 am! Piping hot! Very convenient during the weekends, especially after football matches.
The pantry will be smoke free for a good month. Nothing like the smell of cigarette smoking to announce one's non compliance. I'm loving the fresh air already.
And just this morning the boss announces that office will close at 5pm, an hour earlier, giving time for everyone to get home and prepare to break fast at sun down. Good news. Ah, that means it's 20 minutes before I get the heck outta here. That was fast!
I suspect the journey home would be a nightmare though. Well, here goes nothing. Diff... diff... (Japanese for 'drift')
Selamat berpuasa. Make it count, make it blessed, people...
How does that affect me?
Well, for sure, food bazaars will be everywhere in the evening. There'll be all kinds of food, traditional and international style dishes for starters, main course and deserts. There'll be loads of 'kuih' varieties to choose from, those are knick knacks or local tapas.
Then there's the late supper. An assurance that food will be available up to 4 am! Piping hot! Very convenient during the weekends, especially after football matches.
The pantry will be smoke free for a good month. Nothing like the smell of cigarette smoking to announce one's non compliance. I'm loving the fresh air already.
And just this morning the boss announces that office will close at 5pm, an hour earlier, giving time for everyone to get home and prepare to break fast at sun down. Good news. Ah, that means it's 20 minutes before I get the heck outta here. That was fast!
I suspect the journey home would be a nightmare though. Well, here goes nothing. Diff... diff... (Japanese for 'drift')
*Selamat berbuka
Monday, September 18, 2006
You kissed?
On my way to work this morning, at a long traffic light stop, I felt a slight impeded jerk forward, my handbrake was on.
“Oh not again. Who’s it this time” I grumbled as I looked at the rear view mirror. The woman behind looked concerned. She pulled the hand brakes and just sat there. That just means one thing; she doesn’t care and I have to make her.
The light was still red and I glanced to my side for incoming motorbikes. Clear. I got out and walked to see the damage. She instantly opened the door and motioned half her body out.
I looked at my bumper and saw no scratches, bumps and bruises. Oh well, it’s nothing. I turned my head toward her as she gave an inquisitive shrug, as if asking ‘Is everything okay? Are we cool then?’
What a way to start the morning eh? Imagine that. Not even an instant apology. Not even a fake ‘oh, I’m so sorry…’ I was pretty agitated so I gave her a cold look and turned away. If my behind could talk, it’d say ‘yeah, whatever, retard’. I walked straight to my seat. Soon it was time to go.
Huh? What’s that? I’m mean? Hell yeah. Try minding your own business when suddenly someone gives you a rude nudge on your butt. Better yet, get it pinched. And no, they’re not sorry at all. You’ll see what I mean. Besides, we were in the middle of the road. I’m not used to stopping the traffic. And by her looks, she won’t either.
Huh? What’s that? I’m mean? Hell yeah. She can consider herself lucky she’s not my type (read: I'm not amused). Otherwise I’d ask for a chat by the roadside. And maybe her number too. You’ve read bumper stickers and car signs that say ‘You kiss, you pay’. Well, she didn't have to. End of story.
“Oh not again. Who’s it this time” I grumbled as I looked at the rear view mirror. The woman behind looked concerned. She pulled the hand brakes and just sat there. That just means one thing; she doesn’t care and I have to make her.
The light was still red and I glanced to my side for incoming motorbikes. Clear. I got out and walked to see the damage. She instantly opened the door and motioned half her body out.
I looked at my bumper and saw no scratches, bumps and bruises. Oh well, it’s nothing. I turned my head toward her as she gave an inquisitive shrug, as if asking ‘Is everything okay? Are we cool then?’
What a way to start the morning eh? Imagine that. Not even an instant apology. Not even a fake ‘oh, I’m so sorry…’ I was pretty agitated so I gave her a cold look and turned away. If my behind could talk, it’d say ‘yeah, whatever, retard’. I walked straight to my seat. Soon it was time to go.
Huh? What’s that? I’m mean? Hell yeah. Try minding your own business when suddenly someone gives you a rude nudge on your butt. Better yet, get it pinched. And no, they’re not sorry at all. You’ll see what I mean. Besides, we were in the middle of the road. I’m not used to stopping the traffic. And by her looks, she won’t either.
Huh? What’s that? I’m mean? Hell yeah. She can consider herself lucky she’s not my type (read: I'm not amused). Otherwise I’d ask for a chat by the roadside. And maybe her number too. You’ve read bumper stickers and car signs that say ‘You kiss, you pay’. Well, she didn't have to. End of story.
Monday, September 04, 2006
Sad day
I received a text from a friend saying Crocodile Hunter was killed by a sting ray.
I thought 'Oh! Not another prank news about poor Stevie. Last time it was a crocodile. Now a sting ray?'
I instantly browsed the internet and found several sources which confirms this tragic news.
Here's one. And another. How I wish this is just another prank.
Not a good day today. My deepest condolence to his family and friends. I will miss his antics. Watching his documentaries will never be the same again.
Farewell mate.
I thought 'Oh! Not another prank news about poor Stevie. Last time it was a crocodile. Now a sting ray?'
I instantly browsed the internet and found several sources which confirms this tragic news.
Here's one. And another. How I wish this is just another prank.
Not a good day today. My deepest condolence to his family and friends. I will miss his antics. Watching his documentaries will never be the same again.
Farewell mate.
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