小强的日记 - A Cockroach’s Diary

2008-07-31T12:51:00.001+08:00

A Full Circle…

I have this feeling,
That in between 2003 to 2008,
My Life has been mainly filled with a hidden sense of depression,
Something hidden in the world of my own,
That didn’t wish to be seen, felt, or be found.

How should I put it ……

When there are Expectations weighing on your shoulders,
When people have Hopes pinned on you,
There is an invisible Pressure on you to fulfill your so-called duty.

And depending on how your family,
Your teachers,
Your friends,
And most importantly, how your personal aspirations failed to materialize,
There is a Massive Stone that will find its way into you,
And this burden you will carry,
For as long as you cannot let it go.

Finally,

I can say that this Stone of mine,
Has been Lifted and Dumped in some deserted corner,
And hopefully stay that way.

While I look @ the different doors in front of me now,
I recalled a certain teacher back in Junior College,
Who said,
“You will never succeed in Singapore without a proper Degree”

Well,
While the Job Market says so,
There are still numerous opportunities out there for the DETERMINED,
To still succeed in a different capacity.

That being said,
I still have to thank her,
Because, the very statement that she said,
Is the same motivation I strive to Prove people wrong.

2008-07-25T02:13:00.000+08:00

The DAMN long UPDATE that those who wishes to KNOW,
How have I’ve been…

Let’s start.

First off,
Graduated from NYP with Dip in Sport & Wellness (merit)
Awarded the adidas Silver award (since I finished second behind Stacy)

Next,
Finally finished my NS LIABILITY to the SAF.
Singaporean Male – have to defend his nation
National Service.
So…ORD
Operationally-Ready Date à meaning you can now ready to fight a War,
Or at least be Deployable in an Operation / Mission.

And then,
Applied for university places both domestically and on greener patches of pastures out there.
I can only conclude that,
The LOCAL SYSTEM (as in almost everything)
Is trying SO HARD to attract the right FOREIGN TALENTS,
Yet at the same time creating so much GLASS CEILINGS and GREY AREAS in the workplace,
That there is no WONDER that most Singaporeans are heading overseas,
With the view of not coming back.

Simple,
If you wish to make Singaporeans happy
Keep your promises / not wasting time decorating all the HDB estates this NDP
Keep your promises / whatever is mentioned in RALLIES and GOVERNMENT policies and the REGULATIONS, pls….exercise some effort ….

And,
Comes the IRONY.

GIVE BIRTH TO MORE BABIES
CREATE A EVEN MORE COMPETITIVE ENVIRONMENT

WIN LIAO !!!!

So … the last thing…
Will be looking for a nice place to WORK.
Somewhere really NICE
Somewhere my talents and contribution is not only recognize
But APPRECIATED.
Not in terms of the FINANCIAL BENEFITS.
Let’s AIM higher… Emotional and Social Well-being in the Organization
How about that ?

And to finally fulfill my first ever ambition,
Turning professional in Soccer,
And playing for the one and only club that I have ever supported.

LFC – YNWA !!!

until....(another post in a few more mins ?? )

2008-07-25T01:54:00.000+08:00

When you are lonely, who would you think of ?

Was singing this song a couple of days ago @ K Box….
And it prompted me to think a little out of the BOX.
Whenever we are lonely,
Or when we are not doing anything in particular,
There will be someone who we will think about.
It could be that ‘Special Someone’,
Your shopping buddy?
Your Enemy?

However,
The likelihood of us thinking about our family,
Is so much lower…
Which brings up another thought,

Are we taking our family members for granted?

Do we always expect dinner to be ready @ Home?
Do we always expect pocket money to be given,
Do we always expects the TV remote to be handed over so that we can catch our favourite shows?

And,

Do we stay out late with friends instead of spending a little more time with our dad or mum?

I wonder,
Because I dun think I have done my part as a Son.
There are so many things I should have done but haven’t.
There are days that I take it that Things will be Ready.

My Mum needs that extra bit of love I have never gave her.
Something not commercial
Rather, something from the heart.

My Dad, whom I have grow to respect further and further,
Would be more like an advisor,
And someone I would talk to when a problem arises.

Well…
Til the Urge to blog again.

Xiaoqiang OFF!!

2008-06-07T18:25:00.000+08:00

I’m not so sure why,
But it seems that doing my National Service again,
Gave me the clearest indication,
That although I do not have ill feelings about the SYSTEM,
Nor do I have the tendency to evade all arrows send from the top,
Or there is the slightest sign that I dislike the training and lesson,
I am very certain of 1 thing,
That I am not suited to pursue a military career.
Aka, Sign On as a REGULAR.

That aside,
There isn’t very much happening for me.

Although in the past couple of weeks,
I have enjoyed catching up with some of my former Superiors,
And some NSmen whom I have enjoyed training,
Been clubbing a little more than I should.

I guess that’s about it for now.

2008-05-11T23:32:00.001+08:00

Was having this conversation with a couple of colleagues @ camp.
We concluded, with evidence,

That most (not everyone), who are born after 1986,

Are more selfish in nature,
Are more sheltered by their parents,
Are educated in schools who do not corporal punish them,
Are not necessary smart, but acts as if they knew everything,
Are definitely more pampered by their parents,
Are behaving as if the world owes them a living
Are born with keypads @ their finger tips, constantly on MSN, SMS
Are tactless in their comments, and usually offensive in nature.
Are able to start an argument by themselves.
Are keeping contacts with friends through social networking website rather than over coffee.

And the list can GO ON & ON.

That’s my honest opinion,
Not meant to have a BIAS view on this group of people.

But as compared to anyone born,
Say between 1980 to 1985,

We grew up in an age,
Where our parents let us stay with our grandparents,
And that’s where we could at least take up the Dialects.

We go to school,
Where teachers are willing to take out the cane to whip our lazy asses,
Whenever we are in-attentive in class.

We work part-time,
Mostly to cover our school fees, personal expenses,
Rather than to pay for new mobile phones and branded goods.

We made friends
@ playgrounds, playing soccer in the void decks.
Probably only have a few 10 cents on our legs to show off back then,

My point is,
I’m not sure if I can tolerate some of the RUBBISH,
Some of these youths in this particular group,
Who are so self-obsessed with their ‘assumed’ superiorities and abilities,
That I really hope some of them will wake up from their Virtual Worlds.
Coz I have seen too many cases of Big-headed people in various environments,
Acting as though they are the Kings and Queens of their miniature societies.

Anyway,
I needed an outlet to voice this matter…
Well,
That being done,
Shall proceed to my Kopi Session later.
Genuine meeting with Kakis…

Til I’m inspired !

2008-05-10T20:57:00.000+08:00

‘International’ Shutdown Day
May 3 2008 – Saturday

Can we really shut ourselves from the Digital World.
And that includes Internet, mobile communication, television and music.

I shall try the CHALLENGE myself.
Maybe…
Some time soon.

2008-05-06T21:48:00.002+08:00

Organizing my thoughts yet again,
since i have the time to do so.

Just found out that the PSC scholarship application,
Has over 2000 applicants,
With approx 60 to 80 places available.
Like Yes….I will get short-listed.
Crap…

Competition.

We get that everywhere.
Queuing up,
getting in line,
fighting for a piece of everything.

I think sometime in life,
We do certain things just for the sake of doing,
While on the other hand,
We willingly do some other things simply to follow the crowd.
Because the majority say so.
And everyone is doing so.

One instance,
Is perhaps setting up different profiles in different website.
The Friendster’s, Facebook’s, Myspace…

Let’s put it this way,
Maintaining a profile on sites like Facebook,
Which I recently became a member,
Is for some of us to keep in touch with all our friends,
And make new friends along the way.

Some of us are simply looking @ others’ information (stalker),
Viewing profiles of strangers (usually guys looking @ pretty ladies’ profiles)
I dun think Gals do that .... searching for good-looking guys' profiles
Or act like some tabloid journalist waiting in the wings for juicy gossips (busybody).
For Me,
I’m just adding friends, playing Poker, and a couple of games which interest me.

As for Friendster,
Let’s just keep it for the moment.
That's Old-School,
That's so 2002....

Off
Got to Go...

2008-05-04T20:07:00.000+08:00

It’s been quite a while since I started writing.
I guess there wasn’t much happening,
More so,
I dun have the inspiration to blog,
There wasn’t much to write about anyway.
Been gathering my thought ever since…

Thinking of moving from the Xiaoqiang ‘era’
Change directions a little.
Maybe a different blog name will do.
Nothing fancy.

Anyway.
Done with studies @ NYP,
With the graduation in due time,
At least the last 3 years is pretty fruitful.

Now serving the Nation yet again,
The remainder of my National Service,
@ the same camp/unit where I was,
Some familiar faces still around,
But I’m disappt that there has not been any significant improvement.
And the changing of names, uniform alterations are only superficial.
Real improvement and a more efficient system should be in place.
At least I hope it was.
Well….

Have decided to carry a ‘going-through-the-motion’ attitude,
Get this over and done with,
And carry on to the next step in life.

That’s another thing to think carefully about.
Well,
That’s for another day.

Thoughts – Drained / Contemplating
Taste – Bitter / looking for more Inspiration.

2008-04-27T15:46:00.001+08:00

It's been a long long time.
i know.

will gather my thoughts for a little longer.
setting some things straight.

will blog again.

2008-02-04T22:21:00.000+08:00

Haven't been Blogging for more than a month
'still lost in the woods'
will write again...

2007-12-18T21:49:00.000+08:00

Maybe the Holidays couldn’t have come at a better time.

There’s so many things to be sorted out,
My room is in a mess,

So much books
So much thingys
So much clothes
So much junk

There’s so much assignments to be completed in the next 9 to 10 weeks

Projects, means there’s Presentations too
Tests, means mugging needs to be done
Exams, means it’s the last one in Poly for me.

There’s so much I wanna accomplish in Life,
Or at least before the year is up,
Or at least in the next 12 months.

Graduate, at least with Grades that I can be proud of.
Driving License, I think it’s time to get it?
Clear my SAF liability, it’ll be 3 years since I wore Green,
Image makeover, maybe I need to feel better as a person.
Travel, like I’ve never travel before. (so many chances, so many failed trips)
Get a Job that i Like
Make some money, I want to have Financial Freedom!
So many, so many more things I want to do!

Hope to put everything in order!
Should be getting started later…(at least pack my room)
Hopefully, things can get started!

2007-12-17T09:01:00.000+08:00

Going Thru the Motion...
kinda best describe the past 3 weeks or so.

It's juz one of those time,
where everything seems so insignificant and meaningless
where you go about completing your chores just because you have to.
i probably look like some lost soul. wandering around.

Wonder why though?

Hopefully the next couple of days,
i can find some kind of 'enlightenment'
somehow,
i've lost that bit of Enthusiam.

2007-11-27T11:30:00.000+08:00

Corporate Rap Video.
Made in Singapore.
100% Awkward.

2007-11-21T19:15:00.001+08:00

There is always the Right Time to do the Right Thing.
As you grow older, you will realize this Point.

Let’s makes things a little easier to comprehend.

Example 1.
The School does not allow students to wear slippers / skimpy clothes.
This ‘supposedly-enforced’ rule states very clearly what are the expectations.
But since everyone else does it, you might as well follow the crowd.
If you choose to ‘follow the school rule’
You actually stand out.
You will be constantly teased by your friends,
For What?
So…do the right thing.
Wear slippers / skimpy (revealing) clothes, everyone’s doing it anyway.
The lecturers dun even care!

Example 2.
Certain people have certain expectations of you, so you might as well behave well.
If your ‘CHER’ thinks highly of you,
Have the impression that you are a Good, well-mannered student,
You should just behave properly in front of him / her.
There is no point in making his or her life difficult / miserable.
Even worse,
Others might feedback to him / her that actually you are not so well-mannered after all.

Example 3.
My Personal Favourite – Army Days (Act Blur, Push the Blame)
Whenever there is an ORDER given by a Superior,
Please, follow the instruction and Do It.
Simple.
Whenever there is a REQUEST from a Colleague,
Try, to Do It.
Still pretty simple.
Whenever there is a subordinate who ask you something,
Depending on your mood, Do as you may.
Very Simple.

HAHAHA.

My Point,
Some things just age better, and taste better.

(why the hell am I blogging so much these days?)

2007-11-19T18:44:00.000+08:00

Move On.
Dun just stay Stagnant, Contented.
Easily Satisfied.

Strive a little harder,
Put in a little more effort,
That bit of Luck will come!
That bit of Good Fortune will strike you!

These days,
It seems like many people around me,
Have lost that DRIVE in them.

To put it simply,
There is no more determination and hunger in the person anymore.

On the flip side,
There are some who are SO determined to become instant Millionaires and achieve Financial Freedom.
That they can seem so FOCUS, they are actually living in a World of their own.

Depending on your pt of view,
I’m pursuing my own dream,
Paving way for my future,
Career advancement,
Alternative career paths,
Study plans.

But I choose to stay ‘Grounded’.
Because I still think that the wildest dream will come true,
But it will end eventually.
Even if I become an instant Millionaire,
There is only so much Material wants that I can obtain.
Suddenly there will be many more friends and many more family members…
Suddenly that million dollars will disappear in taxes, wastages, unnecessary spending.
Then Immediately, you are once again a Normal Guy.

My point is,
I believe I will eventually ‘MAKE IT’ one day.
But the process will require all the right moves,
Failure will surely happen,But if I fall hard, I will pick myself up and MOVE ON!

2007-11-18T23:12:00.001+08:00

Been some time since i have some pics to share...

Here's some.

Hey!

my life isn't that bad with so much fun going all around.

2007-11-17T12:45:00.000+08:00

The Final Burst
The Race to the Finish Line.
Last Semester @ NYP awaits.

Cluster Activity @ SSS went well.
Minimal Glitches, Maximum Fun.
Hopefully everyone enjoyed themselves.

Back to School on Monday.
6 more modules, Many more projects and papers to come.

Looking for a Part time job yet again to pay the bills.
Wonder what should I do this time round?
Will continue to train hard to fulfill my dreams of turning Pro.
Will continue to train hard for the marathon in 15 days.

I need a BREAK away from reality.
I need a BREAK from all the Dining Hall food I have been having the past 12 weeks.

Looking forward to the SR Chomp Chomp Dinner later.
But I’ll be sweating it out first @ SAFRA Yishun Adventure Club.

Heh Heh Heh… You Sure?

2007-11-10T00:47:00.001+08:00

Sometimes I wonder,
Why are some people more successful than others?

Are they more talented?
Are they more hardworking?
Are they more ‘lucky’ than others?

I think,
Successful people deserve to be Better Off,
Because they make better use of their time.

I really think so.

Because ‘God Knows since which moment ago’…
I’ve this Revelation. (So to say….)

Maybe I should just make every waking hour meaningful,
Maybe I should spend a little less time lazing in bed in the mornings.
Maybe I shall watch less TV, surf the Net less,
Maybe I shall spend time wisely.
Maybe I should plan my time,
Maybe I should watch the clock a bit more,
Maybe I shall set alarms at different time of the day to remind myself,
Maybe I shall get a new diary too (its about time anyway!!!)

I should,
I shall.
I think I can!

2007-11-09T20:43:00.000+08:00

Sad... to leave a place i called home for 11 weeks.
Tired... working hours can be considered as (5 x 24 hours) a week.
Enriched... having learned so so much.
Determined... to carry on my acquaintance with everyone i've met @ Sports School.

That's about sum up my past 77 days @ sports school.

On another note,

I juz had a fantastic Cab ride Home..
The Driver was so reckless,
so gung-ho,
that it took merely 20 odd mins to reach home,
(when the PIE is jammed...)
What a Ride!!!

I think i should buy 4D tmrw...
I'm lucky to 'survive'.

2007-10-15T07:56:00.000+08:00

it's been a while since i blogged about myself.
it's been a while since i chattted with anyone on MSN.
it's been a while since i talked to any classmate.

it's been a while.

Perhaps its due to the fact that i have been busy.
busy planning my next route to take,
as a Adult.

a new Career, Career Prospects, possible Career Advancements... ...

Now that i've spent nearly 8 weeks @ Sports School
It has become quite clear,
that i would taking up any position in Sports.

Be it a Coach,
a Manager,
a Sports Scientist.

It's simply in my Blood.

While it will take a bit more time to decide,
i'm definitely going to contribute to Singapore Sports!
Definitely.

Have to Recce for the next Cluster Activity for Sports School.
'I'm Lovin this Life !
See Ya..

2007-10-13T10:09:00.000+08:00

Grandma,

It's been a 100 days.
i hope you have been well in Heaven.

Your dear grandson.

2007-10-06T08:15:00.001+08:00

Dead Tired from working everyday in the Week.
Other than that,
nothing else to report.

Over and Out
Xiaoqiang.

2007-09-24T01:43:00.000+08:00

Seems like the IPP (attachment / internship) experience,
Can be very different and contrasting,
Depending on where you are posted.

Period.

Been reading blogs, Chatting with classmates,
And Comparing working conditions.

Poly students or University undergrads are NOT Cheap Labour.
We have learned enough in our classrooms and done our fair share of projects,
A large percentage of us also have been doing Part Time Work during the holidays or even during our school terms,
We are in one way or another prepared for IPP.

Pls,
If you are an ‘employer’,
Dun treat us like we have no working experience.
And giving us Mediocre jobs.

We are BETTER than THAT!

In saying that,
I must say that my first 4 weeks @ Singapore Sports School,
Could not have turned out better.

It’s probably rare for someone who can actually enjoy his working life so much.
The transition from Student to Working Adult.
Perhaps my duties are still not fully fledged,
Not yet the full portfolio of a Student Development Officer,
But, I’m loving every minute of my Job thus far.

As a People’s Person,
Interacting with everyone,
From Coaches, Team Managers, Teachers, Security Guards,
And my beloved students…
Is like the perfect fitting pair of jeans.

It could juz be a simple greeting of ‘Good Morning’,
A chit chat to find out if the student’s preparation for his/her ‘O’ Levels Prelims is smooth,
Or finding out how long an athlete would be out of action.
It’s as though it is in my blood.

Remembering the 300 odd names is still a mountain to climb,
Dealing with the occasional troublesome students can be frustrating,
Helping them in their homework can remind me of how much I’m detached from secondary studies.
Hearing nonsensical excuses can tickle my funny bones too.

Hey,

I even counsel them on how to deal with BGR.

More fun and challenges awaits me.

Here's an exclusive pic of me... ...

2007-09-07T01:05:00.000+08:00

It’s been a activities filled last weekend.

30/08

2100 to 2300 hrs – Soccer @ The Cage with Team Raven.

31/08

1100 to 1300 hrs – Resistance Training @ NYP Bodywatch.
1400 to 1700 hrs – Retail Therapy (Window Shopping) @ Novena Velocity / Far East / Paragon / Heeren.
1700 to 1715 hrs – Visit to Orchard California Fitness to visit Hamzah & W Yang.
1715 to 1900 hrs – Preparation for Back-packing trip (Feb 2008)

01/09

0900 to 1730 hrs – Tumble Tots Punggol Open House
1830 to 2030 hrs – 7th Month Celebration @ Deco Base.
2100 to 0030 hrs – Agel Business Venture.

02/09

0900 to 1500 hrs – Tumble Tots Sim Ming
1500 to 1700 hrs – Team Raven Versus Opposition @ Balestier ITE.
1800 to 2000 hrs – Makan.
2230 - Book in to SSS.

Well...

This weekend seems pretty much filled up as well....
Retail Therapy (Actual Payment) awaits...

2007-08-28T07:47:00.000+08:00

Yoo hoo...

Exams ended last thur, but been spending the time doing pretty much nothing,
less working on the weekends,
managed to catch up on sleeping also,
and squeeze in a bit of soccer as well on sunday evening.

This time round,
dun think my grades will be fantastic,
just hope to maintain the standards,
nothing more, nothing less.

IPP, aka attachment has started,
though i prefer to call it internship.
So far so good i guess,
been handed my first project on the first day,
Sandcastle building in 3 weeks.
My workplace rocks totally - will post some pics soon.
Will have a great time there, Definitely!

One more thing,
since my internship requires me to stay-in,
from monday to friday evenings,
with me working on the weekends,
i guess there isn't much SOCIAL LIFE for the next 11 weeks.

In other words,
I'm only available on Sat and Sun evenings...
Book in advance if there's anything.

Nothing else then,
shall prepare for booking in later...
'Woodlands Camp'

2007-08-16T00:30:00.001+08:00

2 Places that makes me happy... at this moment.

Have started work @ Tumble Tots on the weekends,
Dun really consider it 'Work'
since i'm having fun guiding the toddlers about their physical play.
A smile on their innocent faces,
Bringing so much joy and anticipation during weekdays.

Will start attachment @ Sports School on 27 Aug.
11 weeks to actually work within a Sports organization.
Good chance to really find whether sports is my calling.

Exams awaits,
preparation is not exactly ideal, can't seems to be focus.
easily distracted.Maybe the remaining 30, 40 odd hours will be fruitful...

2007-08-11T22:05:00.000+08:00

怎么隐藏我的悲伤失去你的地方
你的发香散的匆忙我已经跟不上

闭上眼睛还能看见你离去的痕迹
在月光下一直找寻那想念的身影

如果说分手是苦痛的起点
那在终点之前我愿意再爱一遍
想要对你说的不敢说的爱
会不会有人可以明白

我会发着呆然后忘记你接着紧紧闭上眼
想着那一天会有人代替让我不再想念你
我会发着呆然后微微笑接着紧紧闭上眼
又想了一遍你温柔的脸在我忘记之前

心里的眼泪模糊了视线你已快看不见

2007-08-03T01:37:00.000+08:00

Dropping in to leave some footprints,
since the past week has been hectic.

Project Hell week is almost done (less 1 last project).
Mentally drained, lack of sleep, plenty of panda eyes.
Well, at least i know the class put in the effort to do well.

Well Done !
Especially to those who sacrifice sleep.

Here's a special Thank You to Mr Flashmech for his help,
but wait, there's still some more work to be done...
You've volunteered your service, can't run away now.

The weekend ahead is once again packed with Work, Work and more Work.
I'm turning into a Workaholic...
Perhaps its my way of keeping myself occupied,
Think less, Work more.
And i guess my fitness is in a bad shape without exercising for quite a while, with all the late night snacking...
With exams coming up, better do some running and weights...
If not i will be back to my chubby self again.

2007-07-25T17:07:00.000+08:00

another video...but do exercise viewer discretion.
Explicit language and images included.

2007-07-23T19:11:00.000+08:00

Here’s something very controversial from our neighboring Malaysia,
And the Singer is now a Wanted Man.

2007-07-22T02:05:00.000+08:00

Updates...

Interview went well, should be starting work soon @ Tumble Tots.
3 jobs / working almost everyday.
what to do?
have to pay for my endowment plans.

Been facing my computer practically every time i'm not @ home.
Rushing the 6 reports / presentation ahead.
i think my myopia will get worse.
Can't teachers spread out the work out??

One more thing,
kena SABO to take part in the SIM Management Competition,
school paid $200 for the team.

So attended the briefing yesterday.

Still need to have a life,
it's the weekend!

Cancelled tuition with my boy,
'showed me attitude right? ... ... Good, dun teach you this week'
Lazed around @ a quieter side of Orchard for almost 3 hours.
Did my NSA & Coaching reports,
Spent $15 on coffee / cookies / tea.

Met up with the Gang of 4E4 to makan @ Village (former MAche @ Heeren)
$30 each, feast on the likes of Rotti, Pizza, Seafood Combo, Ice cream waffles.
Introduced the finer side of wine-tasting to the boys...
Rounded off the night chatting @ NAFA TCC.

Great couple of hours to take my mind off the immediate 10 over days of Project Hell Week.
Recharged &
Ready for Battle!!

2007-07-20T11:17:00.000+08:00

Looking forward to the weekend.
Quite a few things to do,
besides all the project submission ahead.
All the reports that needs to be compiled.

Still.

We have to enjoy life.
22 hours to go!

1 more thing,
i hope the interview later goes well!
Til next post...

2007-07-15T13:04:00.000+08:00

6 Jugs of Tiger Beer,
5 mates,
4 hours,
3 am we finished,
'2' much alcohol i guess,
1 massive headache / hangover now....

2007-07-13T20:54:00.000+08:00

If you dun know the latest local news, here’s the juicest.

MINDEF takes PM Lee's son to task for contravening orders

SINGAPORE: The Defence Ministry has formally charged and reprimanded a full-time National Service officer after he contravened orders by broadcasting a letter of complaint to other servicemen.
Second Lieutenant Li Hongyi, who is a son of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, had apparently sent an email to the Defence Minister to lodge a complaint against another serviceman.
2LT Li is believed to have copied the email to other servicemen who are not directly under his command and are not in an official capacity to deal with the matter.
His action has been a subject of several on-line discussions here.
MINDEF says there are proper channels within the SAF to address grievances or concerns.
And in this incident, 2LT Li is said to have written a complaint against another officer whom he alleged had been absent without leave on two occasions.
According to a statement by MINDEF, 2LT Li had also said in his letter that he had reported the matter to the officer's supervisors but disciplinary action had not been carried out. MINDEF adds that arising from 2LT Li's complaint, an investigation was conducted and appropriate disciplinary action has been meted out to the officers concerned.
The officer who was found to have been absent without leave will be court-martialled.
Two supervising officers have been issued warning letters for poor judgement in administering inappropriate disciplinary action.
MINDEF says to maintain organisational discipline, all SAF servicemen with complaints or grievances should take them up through proper channels for redress.
This is to ensure due process and to protect confidential information.
All complaints which are not anonymous are investigated and dealt with properly.

Source – CNA.

PRIME Minister Lee Hsien Loong’s son, Li Hongyi, who is serving his national service, has been reprimanded by the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) for not following proper procedures in e-mailing a letter of complaint to many other servicemen.
Second Lieutenant Li Hongyi had alleged that another officer from his unit, had been absent without leave or AWOL on two occasions.
In the June 28 email, which was sent to the Defence Minister and senior SAF officers, among others, 2nd Lt Li also stated that he had reported the matter to the officer’s supervisors, but no disciplinary action had been taken.
In a statement on Thursday, Mindef’s director of public affairs, Colonel Benedict Lim said: ‘2nd Lt Li was found to have contravened the General Orders of Mindef by broadcasting his letter of complaint to many other servicemen - almost all of whom were neither directly under his command, nor in an official capacity where they could deal with the matters contained in his letter of complaint.’
Col Lim added: ‘He has been formally charged and administered a reprimand after a summary trial.’
A summary trial deals with less serious military offences and is normally presided over by a senior disciplinary officer who may serve with the soldier’s own unit or appointed to oversee the trial from another unit.
Penalties include being warned by the senior disciplinary officer, fortfeiture of days off or shouldering extra duties.
Mindef added that following 2nd Lt Li’s complaint, an investigation was conducted and the officers concerned have been disciplined.
The officer who was found to have been AWOL will be court martialled and two supervising officers have been issued letters of warning for poor judgement in administering inappropriate disciplinary action.
In a court martial, which deals with more serious offences, can result in a range of penalties if they are found guilty of misconduct. These include discharge from service, detention in the SAF Detention Barracks, a reduction in rank, forfeiture of seniority, fines and reprimand.
Mindef issued the statement on Thursday in response to media queries about the internet chatter on Mr Li’s email.
Several sites were abuzz with details of the email and comments on how the authorities would respond.
Col Lim stressed that the SAF takes a serious view of misconduct by any serviceman.
‘To maintain organisational discipline, all SAF servicemen with complaints or grievances should take them up through proper channels for redress, to ensure due process and to protect confidential information.
‘All complaints which are not anonymous are investigated and dealt with properly.’Mr Li, who is the third of the PM Lee’s four children, has received a Public Service Commission scholarship and will soon be leaving to study economics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the United States

Source - Straits Times

So,

2 Lt Li Hongyi’s fault,
Simple,

First, being who he is, already has high expectations and unwanted attention.

Second, addressing the email to entire battalions of army personnel, failing to follow proper chain of command (him contacting the likes of the Minister of Defence and Chief of Defence Force), which is an abuse of his family ties.

Third, the lack of punishment (if any, we have no idea anyway).

I leave you to think about the whole matter.

Personally,

The apparent special treatment he has received is just part and parcel of living in Singapore, so, there’s nothing much you can say. But the fact that he stood up and made his point, hey, that’s brave of him, give him a little credit.

Otherwise, let the chap off.
Singaporeans have better things to do.

If you want more netizen’s views on the matter, you can click on the link below: http://theonlinecitizen.com/2007/07/13/li-hong-yi/#more-380

2007-07-11T20:20:00.000+08:00

The fine day (after the gloomy past couple of days)

Thought the weather isn’t exactly ‘fine’ with all the rain,
But everything else is looking better.

I’m just glad the sea is now calm…

Been talking a lot,
With so many people,
That I feel a little wiser.

It’s true that the elders are always wise,
No matter how little education they may have,
It’s work & life experiences that counts.

So it seems that my future after graduation will still be unclear,
With more considerations, more details, more updated information,
The whole UNIVERSITY degree Vs Start WORK decision has taken a twist…
Shall not talk about that.

Had a little chat with Miss Prema during the day,
About some things,
Yah, I’m in talkative mood.
Feedback session of some sort,

The SW class should do something about their attitude in lessons and towards lecturers/tutors, our reputation is not getting any better.
Knew a little more Miss Prema’s recovery, please get better soon!
A bit of talk about family matters (if you know, you will know)
Then she made the point,
That some lecturers in school are still not recognizing that SW students are those who can excel academically,
Despite graduates getting top awards, like Clara’s achievements.

“So she can play tennis well? And the class just play sports and can score high GPAs?”

Yes.
Words can hurt.

I have no intentions to find out who this lecturer is.
But, maybe proving him or her wrong is a better option.
Just wait.
I'm planning to do something (it remains a secret for now!)

Til more to talk!
Uncle shall now prepare for battle with the textbooks, printers, websites, and Microsoft Word.

2007-07-07T15:15:00.001+08:00

Dear Grandma,

I thank you for taking care of me when I was much younger,
I thank you for the wisdom you have given me,
I thank you for guiding me, giving me advice, shining your light on me.

I will miss your smile,
I will miss your touch,

I will miss you so

2007-07-03T02:07:00.000+08:00

It’s becoming harder to blog,
Becoz nothing seems to be interesting in my Life so far.

Finding small doses of joy,
Like fooling around with my new ‘God son’ Jae,
Piggy-backing, Fireman lifting...
Keeps me from the harsh reality of facing the projects that will pile up in weeks to come.

Meantime,
The Garmen distributed the GST offset (thanks for the $300),
Smoking is banned in most night spots (YES! No more 2nd hand cigarette smoke!)
Great Singapore Sale still have 20 odd days left (I can do some shopping with a budget)

With little spare time,
Doubt I’ll be blogging much…
Til something that’s worth mentioning…

(Btw, Jae’s the son of my boss at my current workplace.)

2007-06-22T15:12:00.000+08:00

There is something very therapeutic about riding bicycles.
I'm not sure what it is.

Perhaps its the feeling of wind-in-your-face,
Perhaps its the bumpy roads,
Perhaps there's an element of speed,
Perhaps its to have control over a piece of metal.

Nonetheless,
It's been so long since i had the time to ride around Singapore aimlessly.
Now, I'm ready to face all the approaching challenges in my way.

First stop - all the dreaded tests and projects that lead up to August...
Balancing these with work (2 at one time), damn.

Til i have some more time,
to blog or to ride...

Out!

2007-06-12T11:32:00.000+08:00

This is an important announcement.

小强 is currently looking for a willing partner,

who is free on Sunday, July 14.

willing to part with some cash,

dun mind running, sweating,

fall down(hopefully not).

Ready for some adventure around sunny Singapore.

Pls contact me!

More info available @

http://www.citychase.com/country.asp?evt=singapore

2007-06-11T23:40:00.001+08:00

When Soccer has become Hand Ball yet again...

and, it has a resemblance with this.

What can we say about Argentines?

except they are good with their hands?

2007-06-08T23:38:00.000+08:00

Quick Word...

Didn't expect to get a Gold for Napfa test.
Did 7 Chin-ups,
Took 11:20 to finish 2.4km,

what the heck,
it's over.

Time to train for the year end marathon?

2007-06-04T07:52:00.000+08:00

Time to wake up...

I think i have been 'asleep' for the past couple of weeks.
living in some kind of world of my own.
despite all that is happening around.
i'm just going through the motion.

On the surface,
maybe i do not reveal anything.
in fact,
i may seem perfectly alright.

but,
i guess it's time to wake up,
and start the engine going.
coz there's many i do not wish to disappoint.

Maybe taking time off during this coming term break,
will be what is needed.

Taking the Runaway Train
to somewhere...
anywhere...

2007-05-31T01:51:00.000+08:00

The Go Global Journey...

Well,

been tied up with the Go Global Business Plan competition

the last couple of weekends.

Felt Old (amongst peeps 3-4 years my junior)

Felt Odd (can't really appreciated the RP's way of teaching - PBL)

Felt Alive (meeting new peeps, would loved to make more friends though)

Some pics to share...

actually quite a bit.

Here's Part 1.

The Group...less Ernest

The Extended family of Group 15.

A moment during lunch...(they fed us pretty well)
小强...yawning and got caught.
小强...not yawning, but not looking too photogenic anyway.

A family photo of all participants
The fateful night, of planning before the war.. , discussing...
3 am. - still discussing.10 a.m - still discussing

12 pm. - not discussing, moments before battle!

2007-05-31T01:44:00.000+08:00

Part 2...

It carries on...

Group Pic before the presentation..

小强 is being mischievious...

小强 is being mischievious still.

Ask a question,Get a cert in return...not bad.
The 2 peeps, useful to guide to the toilets and log on to RP computers...not much contributions

At the end of the journey....
Last feeding session for the hungry people.
Rose among the thorns.
5 guys and one (not-quite-a-guy)
One last pic to round off....

2007-05-16T08:37:00.000+08:00

Another picture update,

can't be bothered with what's happening around me,

so i have no constructive opinions to share.

Took part in a dialogue session with him, nice guy. (handsome...but married, sorry gals)

Took part in the above competition,
(sabotage by the school, everyone's younger than Uncle 小强),
felt really 'matured' surrounded by everyone my junior.

Long Ge, 小Jan, and 小强.

The Men, who are still very much like Boys.

Group picture.
Would consider the gang as my only classmates back in JC.

Til later...

2007-05-05T00:04:00.000+08:00

A Picture Update.

Dun have much thoughts anyway.

Just let the following pics do the talking.

Up to some mischief during Times Expo.

Some of the numbers i face during vacation work.

The source of entertainment during Idle time spent @ office

Not exactly the neatest place to be, when the work space is filled with paper after paper after paper.

2007-05-05T00:02:00.000+08:00

Another of those things we do during work - obviously it gets bored...

How Sentosa's IR will look like - exhibit A

How Sentosa's IR will look like - exhibit B

Me, sleeping @ work, caught on camera, and quite proud of it.

The mess on my table that has piled up during the course of the past few weeks

A slightly neater room, tidied during the wee hours of one morning not too long ago.

The amount of books stacking up @ home, courtesy of Times Expo.

My Bike, without the front wheel (stolen by someone very kind i must say)

2007-04-23T20:49:00.000+08:00

a little bored,

decided to play some Chinese oldies Pop music

Grasshopper (草蜢)'s music.

nice or not?

you decide for urself.

i'm reliving the 80's and 90's.

Kinda...

Can't help but smile anyway...

Nostalgic.

will look for more of such music soon....

HAHA.

2007-04-22T19:10:00.001+08:00

School’s starting in a week,
Wouldn’t say I’m looking forward to it.
I wonder why also.

Will miss the fun that I have had,
With the crazy gang @ The Books warehouse Sale
And the wonderful people @ M&C.
Vacation work has been a nice experience.

There’s this odd feeling I’m having,
Something pretty strange actually
Something I have no idea what is it.

I dun really know where to begin.

There seems to be an emptiness,
A void that has appeared
It’s like a vacuum
I dun seem to have an answer for it.
I dun even know how to describe this feeling I’m having.

Maybe the start of school would be nice.
Perhaps it’s what is needed,
Perhaps I should look forward to it.
Perhaps.

It could be a welcomed distraction.
Let’s hope so.
Let’s really hope so.

(sorry for not posting recently)

2007-04-10T00:39:00.000+08:00

My Journey today!

Fantastic Shit.

2007-04-09T23:14:00.000+08:00

Have neglected my blog the past 10-over days.
Been too busy to update.
Holding a few temp jobs is pretty hectic.

What to do?
Trying to save up a bit, not enough vitamin M (money)
Been planning a backpacking trip next summer (aka June/July).
What to do?

F&B job @ Robertson Quay (Tasting Notes).
Admin @ Shenton Way (M&C Services Pte Ltd)
Temp Sales Staff @ Singapore Expo (The Books Warehouse Sale)

Hopefully, more assignments are on the way.
Looking forward to another 2 opportunities.
Still to be confirmed.

All I’m feeling these days,
Is that no matter where I work,
Or what I do,
As long as I feel a sense of belonging,
As long as I feel that I’m ‘wanted’ and my work is appreciated,
I would be willing to put in the effort.

Sleep is a luxury,
Food is just for the energy to carry on,
Drink is merely for hydration purposes.

Enjoying every moment of recreation time I have also.
The ‘Cage’ every wed if possible,
The soccer matches for the weekend uncles club,
The basketball face-off with Leo-nel,
Bicycle trips with my bike - ‘Gary’.
Not forgetting the precious time I try to spend with my friends and family.

Well,
Let me sign off here.
Shall update again,
Hopefully soon!

Uncle 小强, Out !!!

2007-03-28T09:31:00.000+08:00

footballers' twins.

enjoy.

it's juz a filler.

more fillers to come.

2007-03-26T08:31:00.001+08:00

Met up with a couple of Old friends over the last few days.
Everyone who knew congratulated.
Everyone else noticed a different Me.
The Yuchi of the Old.

The Cheerful Chap in Class.
The Athletic (meaning sun-burned) Guy.
The boy with the Sunny smile.

Yah…
I’m back.

And there is one reason,
Why I found my motivation to Work so Hard.
Only One.

It’s because of someone.

Someone…
Who revived my passion in Life,
Who brought sunshine,
Who made me feel special,
Who is willing to listen to my jokes,

Someone…
Who cares about the blisters and cuts on my hands.
Who traveled 90 mins to give me another (cockroach’s diary),
Who listens to my problems,
Who is willing to cook for a hungry me,

Someone…
Who I could bring along for my explorations
Who asks about my semi-permanent ankle problems
Who gives a decent Back Massage.
Who is the only one who I’m fine with her calling me UNCLE.

Thanks, in more ways than one.
I’m working hard.
I want to make sure that there will be a Beautiful Ending.

Although it means that come April,
Xiaoqiang will officially be very BUSY.
Because @ current standing…there are so many part time jobs available.
So many choices, only 24 hours a day.

Please,
Anyone who needs a vacation job,
Sms me,
I have assignments on hand.
I can’t do everything myself.

GTG then,
Next assignment calls, but it’s for the last week of ICAs for TEP Classical.
Cheeros !!!

2007-03-21T03:25:00.000+08:00

Yes..

I'm still awake @ this hour.
just knocked off from work,
5 hours before a test i haven't prepared,
body shagged from 7 hours of standing, serving, and smiling.
still managed to have a quick game of pool before heading the books in a while.

You probably ask,
why work so hard?
Do you have enough money to use?

Well...that's pretty much the truth.
And, i rather occupy myself with work,
to at least Save enough.
to satisfy my own personal material wants.

Not like some out there,
only shamelessly asking their parents for pocket money.
and demanding the best things in life,
when their parents can barely support their lifestyle.

Sorry,
Coz i rather earn my own living.
Self-Independence.
I rather work for every single dollar out there,
so that i know that money is hard to come by,
and that i enjoy every single meal i eat,
every drink i have,
every clothes i purchase,
every coffee i drink

Everything,
should be earned...
Not,
By sticking your hands out to your parents for Money.

2007-03-19T00:57:00.000+08:00

Maturity

It comes with AGE,
It really does.

It’s simply because as we grow up,
We see more, we listen more,
We have experienced more.

When we are younger,
All that matters is FUN.
Movies & Karaoke
Sports & Play Pool,
Hanging Out matters.
Studies…Nah…
Last minute work will do.
Project submission can always be completed the night before.

Late nights out means we are Independent from our parents.
Spending money, having the ATM card means spending power.
Having the latest mobile or the Armani Exchange shirt means you’re Hip.

That was all in the past.

Personally,
I think I have aged more than my peers.
It’s probably in the genes,
It’s perhaps the environment I’m in,
It’s maybe due to all my influences, positive or negative,
It’s just who I have become.

I have matured quite a bit the last 3 years.
Falling down hard especially after the ‘A’ Levels helped the cause as well.

Planning the journey, taking the next step.
Organizing my thoughts, having a goal to work towards.

Yes. I have grown up!
Yes. I’m no longer childish.
Yes. I have clear directions to follow.

Doors have opened in front of me.
All that is left,
Is to maintain the momentum…

2007-03-15T17:30:00.000+08:00

I think i seriously need to sort out certain things,
that's happening in my life.

How to allocate my time, for:
Everyone (that matters) &
Everything (aka the responsibilities)

A duty to do well academically,
An obligation as a son/grandson/big brother,
A part time job (actually there may be more to come) to juggle,
A commitment to a relationship i hold dear.
A brotherhood of friends which i'm still very part of.

Been glad that my grades this semester is still in good shape.
still healthy i would say.
The final push for final year @ Poly awaits.
I dun really wish to hold back anything.
Exploring the various avenues available,
Scholarships (is there any?)
Bonds (probably some around?)
Study Loans Options (plenty...)
Borrowing (Yes, my uncle is supportive

Although @ 24 years old (next year),
it would seems that stepping into the working world is the natural thing.
But arming myself with a degree,
should at least be like a safety net for future employment.

Still,
There's several considerations to be made.
Becoz as the eldest = family responsibilities.

While,
that's the heavy stuffs in this post.
Something else then.

Donuts.
Yes, those @ Raffles Place.
120 minutes of Patience was worth it.
only one donut turned out a little disappointing.

Well,
what matters is that you do things,
for your loved ones.

Okay then.
shall sign off here.
while i keep a certain someone company @ her workplace.

Cheero!

2007-03-12T23:08:00.000+08:00

It's been a while……

Since I’ve traveled to the extreme end of our island,
Did a bit of domestic chores,
Made friend with a hostile pooch,
As well as taking care of the physically challenged.

The ‘old’ lady,
Got herself temporally paralyzed for the next few days,
Got this uncle worried,
Thus,
The trip down to the rural countryside.

Feed the hungry mouth,
Loan out one half of my antique crutches,
To facilitate her moving around the house,
Hopefully someone appreciated the effort.

Was mentally prepared to face a fierce bow wow,
Was pre-warned anyway,
But still,
Got a hole in my already twice torn jeans,
Well,
At least we got to know each other a bit better,
Blackie…
We can make it work…I’m confident.

It’s a lazy afternoon spent,
Though the main chunk of the time,
Was on the couch watching Taiwanese Teen drama,
Enjoyed the company nonetheless.

Rest well,
Recover soon,
Dun try to act tough,

And please try to be good at least for another 48 hours,
For the pig leg to reduce swelling.

Tahan!
You can make it thru.

……………………………....…………………………………………………

BTW…

Uncle Xiaoqiang has found financial aid,
In terms of a Part time job.
Therefore, it’s with regrets that acockroachsdiary,
May face a shortage of posts in future,
If time do not permit the author to pen his thoughts.
However, every effort will be made to continue entertain all readers,

That’s a promise

(you actually think I will give up blogging? Nah…won’t happen!)

2007-03-11T00:03:00.000+08:00

What kind of a lover are you?

Here's some thoughts...

Are you someone who’s Possessive, or simply Protective of your loved ones?

Are you more Practical, or prefer something more Romantic?

Are you leaning towards Metrosexuality, or one who is Retrosexual?

Are you easily Jealous, or Have Complete Trust?

Would you Dress Up most times, or choose to be Casual and Comfortable?

Would you give 999 Roses, or a bright Sunflower?

Would you propose with the buying a HDB flat question, or something more Creative?

Do you do something extravagant, or Spend Quality Time Together in a nice littlle corner?

Do you spend at a Posh Restaurant, or do you go for a Picnic at a Beach?

Do you go to the Same Old Places, or take every opportunity to Explore Something New?

I’m the latter,
and as i explore further into my new found love life,
how about you?

Happy 1 month/4 weeks/28 days anniversary to my favourite fruit,
the cheerful Pineapple from Jurong.

(i'm like a few mins late to post this entry, should be posted on the 10th)

2007-03-08T16:06:00.000+08:00

Have not been bloggin for the past couple of days.
My home PC is giving me plenty of problems.
Irritating to say the least.

Maybe a visit to the PC show is what's needed.
Perhaps robbing my mum to get a laptop could make ammends for the week's IT mishaps.

Let's see how it goes.

2007-03-04T11:50:00.000+08:00

Google Earth

The Microscopic Intrusion into your Life - Part 3

Here's 2 videos from the people who brought you Google Earth. Enjoy.

If you like what you see so far, and is totally clueless about the Google Earth Programme, the 2 links below will serve you well.

http://earth.google.com/
http://www.gearthblog.com/index.html

Meantime, i shall carry on invading others' privacy...

2007-03-03T07:25:00.000+08:00

Google Earth

The Microscopic Intrusion into your Life - Part 2

The display of some More wildlife, photographed from outer space.

2007-03-02T11:34:00.000+08:00

Google Earth

The Microscopic Intrusion into your Life - Part 1

The display of some wildlife, photographed from outer space.

2007-03-02T09:53:00.000+08:00

Been having some lessons in school,

where the tutor has been teaching us,

The 'How-to' for Multimedia Presentation.

So i was working on the Graphics aspect the other day,

and created the following masterpieces.

Pathetic attempt @ art after so long.

Sad.

2007-03-01T08:00:00.000+08:00

Broke.
Financially-wise.

The wallet is feeling so light and empty,
The numbers in the bank account dun look too good either.
Taking every steps on the road,
involves looking for coins and money notes on the ground.

The minds drifts,
of every possibility of striking lottery.
Hongbao Toto this friday,
is not helping either.

I need a Part time Job badly.
In fact, i will do nicely balancing 2 jobs, maybe 3 jobs.

Help greatly appreciated.
Assistance very much needed.

Xiaoqiang feels Poor...

2007-02-25T22:09:00.000+08:00

30 odd mins on the pitch.
body-checked an opponent which resulted in a penalty.
missed a one-on-one chance against the goalkeeper.
sustained no injuries,
couldn't keep up with the pace @ times.

that's my first game as a weekend soccer warrior.
more to come in the coming weeks.

Ohh...the jersey is rather tight'

2007-02-24T10:14:00.001+08:00

I can’t really sleep since last night.
The coughing is still there, never seems to go away.
Breakfast is tasteless,
Surfing the net feels so aimless.
No mood for basketball or anything.
Can’t even finish listening to any songs on iTunes.

I dun know how to end this entry.
Let’s just leave it till later.

2007-02-23T15:45:00.000+08:00

Having Lab lessons in the School Com labs.
Can't seems to blog @ home,
I think the singnet connection @ home is crappy.

Been thinking a lot for the past 24 hours.
There will also be plenty to talk about on Sat.

The coming weekend is pretty exciting to look forward to.
Dinner with beau
(i need to spend more quality time with the "Devil")

Weekend Soccer match @ St Wilfred.
(let's hope i dun get injured)

Signing off...
teacher comin!

2007-02-23T07:56:00.000+08:00

Went for a movie date on the 3rd day of CNY,
Been quite a while since my last movie outing (poor man - what to do)

But i am not going to comment much about the movie,
just that Ghost Rider is not a movie to catch,
Graphics was decent,
but storyline is non-existent.

Instead, i would like to use the time,
to share this list of irritating things to do at the cinema,

Enjoy.

Instead of the usual talking on your cellphone, putting your feet up on the seats in front of you, upgrade your skills at the theatre with the following list of Must-Do:

1. During the trailers, shout, “Fast forward! Fast forward!”
2. Wear a very tall hat.
3. When people come in late, say “Orrrrrhhhh” very loudly.
4. During opening credits... point at a character and say loudly, "He dies at the end."
5. After every gunshot, scream "take cover!" and hit the floor.
6. Use a laser pointer and point the beam at the screen, especially at character’s *cough* parts.
7. Go “tsk tsk tsk tsk tsk” loudly at every kissing scene.
8. Throw popcorn in the air and yell, "It's snowing! It’s snowing!"
9. Clap and cheer whenever one of the good guys gets killed.
10. Urge everyone in the cinema to start a Mexican wave. (Kallang Wave also can!)
11. During love scenes, say loudly in Mandarin, “Ngggh! Bu yao, ma!” (“Don’t!”)
12. During horror movies, keep singing the theme to “Jaws” (dum dum… dum dum…dum dum dum dum dum dum…)
13. Sit on old people, pretending not to know they are there
14. Go to an afternoon screening. Go out of your way to sit next to the only other person in the cinema. Smile at him/her suggestively. (Recommended: waggle your eyebrows for added effect.) 15. Repeat all dialogue ten seconds after it's said on screen.
16. Bring in durians for your movie snack.
17. Or bring in a bowl of noodle soup, and slurp it up loudly.
18. During a sensitive scene, stand up and say loudly, “I go shee-shee now, can?”
19. Eat the snacks of the person sitting next to you.
20. Lick the person sitting next to you.

Please proceed with the above with caution...

2007-02-19T09:00:00.000+08:00

For a moment,
It was like the longest 1 hour that ever was.
For that very instance,
I thought it was over.

Compatibility?
Chemistry?

All seems to be lost.

I was so afraid,
Something so special actually started to crack.

Your first words was hurtful,
My email said what I felt.
Your email showed me your fears.
My reply healed the cuts before they could get worse.

We shall find the inner strength we have.
We shall give it our best shot.
I want to make sure it’s probably the first,
And the last one I will have.

We shall face the road ahead together.
Because,
You have become such an important part of my life.
That without you seem so lonely.

I’ll wait.
And 2 weeks is really too long….

From a slightly EMO xiaoqiang

on a bright sunny Monday.

2007-02-19T01:00:00.000+08:00

A preview of the upcoming skin...

quite orange...

but i like!

2007-02-18T11:32:00.000+08:00

It’s rather odd,
Something kinda unusual as compared to the past.

There will not be any House-visiting this Day 1 of CNY for my family.
Without a family car,
The unwillingness to take a Cab (there’s $3 extra surcharge)
The inconvenience of the MRT / Bus transport system (actually I dun think we want to squeeze with anyone else, and it takes too long to travel to places like Tampines).

So, no visits for Day 1.
At least for now (that’s why I’m blogging)

Also,
Everyone in the family is SICK, less my brother (he’s just tired, NSF syndrome)
Flu, Cough, Sore Throat,
My ankles also feel like Crap.

Maybe we shall visit my Fourth Uncle and Third Auntie.
They’re single.
The hongbao should be pretty decent…

Anyway,
Happy CNY to all.

Especially to my beloved … pineapple!

2007-02-16T22:15:00.000+08:00

It’s Friday.
Prelude to the CNY weekend.

This CNY…
What are your wishes?

Reunion Dinner?
Some of you can choose KFC as your reunion dinner.,
So does it meant anything today?

Hongbaos probably dun matter.
Because most of you out are already working,
Or you already have a nice enough pocket money.

New clothes?
I think you probably buy more apparel throughout the year.

Visit your relatives?
I think you rather stay @ home and relax.

………………………………………………………………………………………………

To Xiaoqiang,

While I still try to do my part,
As a son,
As a grandson,
As a brother to my siblings,
Is only to fulfill my responsibilities.

Although,
The feasting,
The takings from Hongbao collection,
The gambling,

Chinese New Year
Is still Good to me!

Happy CNY to all readers!
May you have a great time.

it's the 3rd post today.
it only means that i m DAMN FREE!!!

2007-02-16T12:43:00.001+08:00

The New England Kits have been launched.

Singaporeans (England) Fans,

You know what you have to do!

Me?

Nah...

I prefer the Nike Singapore Jerseys.

Can't Wait to get one though

2007-02-16T10:45:00.000+08:00

For the past 23 years,
My Valentine's Day has always been revolving around Schoolwork, Army Assignments and other duties.

There wasn't a someone there to spend quality time with.
Never has been the case.
I haven't found that someone.

That was back then.

I'm blessed to tell my friends,
that ever since a couple of days ago,
There's a big change in my life

I no longer feel lonely,
when i see couple hanging out, holding hands.
I no longer felt left out by the Love Cupid.

Holding you @ the beach,
The simple cake,
The gift exchange,
Another of our 'first'
Bear hugging,
The Occasional tickle.

Thanks.
My Valentine.

Enough of the lovey dovey...
we shall focus on what we do best for the next 2 weeks.
Multi-tasking....

2007-02-14T08:01:00.001+08:00

Sending Offs…

Changi Airport can be a sad place.
Departures getting EMO,
Friends and Families saying their goodbyes to loved ones.

Australia will be a place for you,
Somewhere you would like,
The Beer,
The Chicks,
The laidback lifestyle
You probably will have one hell of a time there.

Meantime,
As a friend,
All I would say is Good Luck!
Study Hard,
And get an Ang Moh girlfriend!

Ohh…
Happy Valentine’s Day on the plane…

All the best,
Ernest ‘Frankie Chaps’ Lim.

2007-02-12T19:53:00.000+08:00

February 10

It’s a Special Day.
Just for the 2 of us.

The Botanical Gardens,
A field with a simple mat,
A night where the stars are out,
A moment,
Where the breeze was cool,
When it felt so right.

I asked,
You said yes.

I almost can’t believe it,
But that sparkle in my life,
One that has been there for me the past months,
Just shone ever so brightly.

Holding your hands,
Having you beside me,
Making you giggle,
Telling you a joke.
With you in my arms,
I can’t ask for anything more.

It’s our first,
And I will give everything I have,
To make sure we only have happy times,
Ride through the tough times,

I used to like you,
But now,
I’m D.I.L with you.

Ohh…who is she?
It’s for me to know,
For you to find out.

A secretive xiaoqiang…

2007-02-09T23:48:00.000+08:00

Walt Disney's Latest Ads -

'Year of a Million Dreams'

featuring David Beckham, Beyonce and Scarlett Johansson

Arty Farty @ it's best!

2007-02-04T09:02:00.000+08:00

A Cockroach's Diary will be taking a one week self-imposed suspension,
as the author is trying his hardest to be a good student,
and complete his immediate school assignments.

Anyway,
The Creative Department is facing a shortage of ideas,
and a severe lack of aspiration to write new blog entries.

Apologises!

2007-02-03T17:41:00.000+08:00

Courage.
I've been trying so hard to put it together,
Only to falter at the last moments.

It's possibly,
Now or Never.

I'm ready.
or perhaps i'm too passive & not proactive?

2007-02-01T14:36:00.000+08:00

Watching a ‘Live’ Soccer Match,
Is one hell of an experience.

Too bad,
It was possibly the last time @ Kallang Stadium,
Where a competitive match will be played before the new Sports Hub will take it’s place.

It’s nice to be part of history,
Got to be there.
Die, Die also have to be there.

Thanks to my classmate who bought us the tickets,
About half the SW class joined the 55000 strong crowd,
To watch Singapore take on Thailand.

Keropok,
Coke - PLENTY of Ice Cubes, very little Coke,
$1 curry puff,
Yes,
It feels a little like the nostalgic 1970s, 1980s,
Ok…maybe also the hey-days of 1990s Malaysia Cup era.

People arriving at the stadium without tickets,
People already at the stadium with plenty of tickets to sell.
People ever so willing to pay for black market prices to watch and not stay disappointed.

It took a little more time,
Friends, Family,
Students, Working Professionals,
Strangers,
Some ang-moh here and there,
Singaporeans in general,
Packed the stadium to capacity by 815pm.

Stomping of the feets awaits,
The in-coming Kallang wave that went round,
Confetti everywhere.
The ‘Referee Kayu’,
The many ‘Bu Toe’,
The ‘Ole, Ole, Ole, Ole’,
The atmosphere was fantastic.

The match lived up to the hype,
Cagey affair at times,
Not to mention,
The Thai players did their best to fall down every 5 –10 minutes,
Trying to put the Lions off,
Giving the referee plenty of hard work to control the match.

And the drama is completed,
During the 80 plus minutes,
When Singapore was awarded a penalty,
All the Thai players walked off the pitch,
Refusing to continue play – disagreeing with the referee’s decision.

Everyone in the stands were impatient,
Shouting, Cursing,
While the Singapore team could even pass around the ball,
The Thai opponents choosing to delay play,
Until 15 minutes or so later,
Returning to the field again.

2-1 the Final Score,
Good result to end the evening of drama.

Well,
We sing our hearts out (national anthem singing also can cork up)
We lost our voice (momentarily or semi-permanent)
We broke every possible traffic rules (jay-walking across road dividers included)
Making our way home was like doing an obstacles course with 55000 other people.
Motorcycles, Cars, Pedestrians,
Traffic at standstill.

The only irony was that the Singapore supporters in Red,
Looks like we are rooting for the Thais,
Who wore red on this night!

But,
Let say it again.

It was one hell of an experience!

& sadly,
the S-league is not anywhere close…

2007-01-31T10:57:00.000+08:00

The Last Competitive Football Match
to be played @ the National Stadium.

Singapore Vs Thailand

Wed, 31st Jan
8 PM.
Tickets selling out Fast.

I'm Going.
How about You?

2007-01-29T13:31:00.000+08:00

In our pathetically stressful hectic existence,
We should try to sleep more.
A lot more.
(No, I dun mean a 12-hour coma during the weekends)

If it’s impossible to do so,
Please take every opportunity to take naps once in a while.
Here’s 5 reasons to take naps

1. Increased Alertness And Productivity

The mid-afternoon dip in alertness and intellectual ability occurs, because “It seems Nature definitely intended that adults should nap in the middle of the day, perhaps to get out of the midday sun,” said William Dement, director of the Sleep Disorders Clinic and Research Center at Stanford University.

David Dinges, a sleep researcher at the University of Pennsylvania, found that “If you didn’t get enough sleep the night before, an afternoon nap will improve your alertness and give you a feeling of more energy, so you can take on more tasks”.

2. Less Stress

Curling up in a sunny patch on the floor or even lying your head down on your desk for a quick snooze brings relaxation.

So find a quiet, comfortable spot and take a nap. Even a short power nap can leave you feeling refreshed, renewed, and more focused. Studies have shown that people who spent 30 minutes each day napping had one third less heart disease than those who didn’t nap.

3. Improved Memory And Learning

Naps aren’t just for the very young, old, and slothful. Daytime dozing may enhance a person’s capacity to learn certain tasks. That, at least, is the eye-opening implication of a new study in which college students were challenged to detect subtle changes in an image during four different test sessions on the same day.

Participants improved on the task throughout the first session, says psychologist Sara C. Mednick of Harvard University and her colleagues. The students’ speed and accuracy then leveled off during the second session. The scores of the participants who didn’t nap declined throughout the final two sessions. In contrast, volunteers who took a 30-minute nap after completing the second practice session showed no ensuing performance dips. What’s more, 1-hour nappers responded progressively faster and more accurately in the third and fourth sessions.

“Napping may protect brain circuits from overuse until those neurons can consolidate what’s been learned about a procedure,” says neuroscientist Robert Stickgold of Harvard Medical School, a coauthor of the new study.

4. Increased Coginitive Functioning

In a recent study, researchers at NASA showed that a thirty to forty-minute power nap increased cognitive faculties by approximately 40%! Tests carried out in one thousand volunteers proved that those who continued working without rest, made lower scores in
intelligence tests like the IQ test.

Also Dr. Sara Mednick (scientist at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies) has found through MRIs of nappers that brain activity stays high throughout the day with a nap; without one, it declines as the day wears on.

5. Better Health

Napping in general benefits heart functioning, hormonal maintenance, and cell repair, says Dr. Sara Mednick who is at the forefront of napping research. A power nap, says Mednick, simply maximizes these benefits by getting the sleeper into and out of rejuvenative sleep as fast as possible.

Everyone, no matter how high-strung, has the capacity to nap. But the conditions need to be right.

Sleep Well!

2007-01-26T14:35:00.000+08:00

SW0501,
has a strong affiliation with water.

Upon the completion of an event,
or to mark a special day.

We prefer to spark off the celebration,
with splashes,
or in some cases,
downpours.

I hope you enjoy,
while we go dry ourselves up.

2007-01-23T00:23:00.000+08:00

It came as some kind of a shock,
rather,
it took us by surprise.

When great minds think alike,
while genius found eureka @ the same time,
where 2 people share identical taste

@ a time,
when out of the blue,
u spotted someone,
who is like a long lost brother of yours,

Coincidence?

Nah...
We juz wore the same thing without realising ...

2007-01-21T14:12:00.000+08:00

That’s one question,

Where the atmosphere needs to be right,
When things are almost certain.
Only at the right moment,

That could only be answered.
By a certain someone,

With a simple … …

Yes.

2007-01-19T15:15:00.000+08:00

Sorry if you are a Smoker,

But i think this is one of the more creative signs out there to deter smokers!

2007-01-18T14:08:00.000+08:00

As promised, the pics from the 2E2 gathering.

Discussion 01 - what are we having??

Group Picture 01

3 guys deep in thought

Group Picture 02

2007-01-15T10:09:00.000+08:00

I am thankful for how the past week has been.

The weather was kind on Wednesday,
With our SPT pet project,
The NYP Biathlon completed smoothly.

Hope that our grades will be kind to us as well.
With the successful completion of the event.

Attempted to mix some music,
For an aerobics performance next week.
Although it was an ‘Arrow’ from the top,
It’s still a task to be completed.

Being metrosexual here,
Showing off one’s hidden ‘feminine’ side,
But let’s forget about the idea of wearing tights.

Ankles are still holding on fine.
Hopefully can Tahan until after the performance.
Though I doubt I will go for any treatment.
Self-administrated massaging of the joints and ligaments,
Should do the job.
Not really keen to stop exercising.
No bandages can ever keep a nut like me down.

Ponder over my future education path.
Dropped by the Australia University Open House.
The remainder of this year should be spent looking at the many options that lie ahead.
And there’s every chance of heading Down Under for further academic studies,
Possibly employment opportunities to follow.
It’s time to explore beyond the shores of Singapore.

Not that I dislike the island city
Nor that I’m not up for the challenge of foreign talents influx,
Hell no that I’m disloyal to the country.

But going abroad,
Presents endless possibilities,
Having the chance to expose oneself to a variety of culture,
Living in a new environment,
Would give me an insight to how do the outside function as a society.
Adapting to a different world would be a whole new challenge altogether.

A lesser but still significant decision remains.
Nope,
Not the previous issue,
It’s something else.
Still deciding whether to play weekend soccer on a rainy Sunday.
On one end is the long-lost desire to play ball
At the opposite end is the dirty laundry to be cleaned at final whistle.

How??? Tell me.
Yet, a water-logged pitch made the decision for us.
Let’s hope next week we have better luck.

Will continue the post….
It’s incomplete as of now.

2007-01-11T12:36:00.000+08:00

As promised, here’s the Tips

1.You don't have to be rich to retire early. Such a sad fallacy. You simply have to reduce your expenses without really reducing your quality of life. Hence, if you can get along very well on say $1,000, you really don't have to be a millionaire.

2.To be totally retired can be boring and costly. So, it's best to have some work to do. If your work brings in say, $400 a month, you only need $600 from your savings or investments.

3.Decide which are the things you value most, and which give you the greatest pleasure. Go for what is most necessary to you and allocate money to these first, for example, a home, food, transport etc.

4.Be creative. If you are a sociable person, then share a home with someone. Or if you have your own place, rent out your rooms. If not, rent a room. Cook your own meals - that saves heaps.

5.Enjoyment. Very necessary. Otherwise what would life be? If you want to retire on very little, you probably wouldn't have much money here. Well, I decided to be radical. Sold off the TV. No more plays and theatre. But there are many cheap and enjoyable things to do. I've gone on $200 trips to Chiangmai, and $1,000 holidays to Australia. And a one-month trip to France and Spain for less than $2,500. Including delicious food, ballet performances, the Louvre (free first Sunday of the month), many other museums, the French Alps, Gaudi's Holy Family Church, Euro Disney, etc.

6.Cheap enjoyment? The credit card 1-for-1 offers are great.

7.It is also best to keep your careful ways to yourself. Most people don't seem to appreciate that you don't have to work while they do. They'd rather that you were mortgaged to the hilt. Don't let them know your careful ways or they'll use it against you.

8.So, look rich. But don't spend much. Do a bit of research. Take the Crystal Jade restaurants, for example. If you're just having dimsum, go to Crystal Jade Palace. The dimsum there costs about 15 per cent more than the dimsum at Crystal Jade Kitchen. But the service and ambience and general good feeling you get is more than worth it.

9.Oh yeah. a bit about cutting down. Clothes. Fifty years ago, people used clothes till they were worn. Nowadays, people seem to throw away brand new clothes. Well, I have items which are 15 years old. And people compliment me on them. Another thing, if you can do something yourself, then do so. I cut my own hair. So, I only go to the barber once or, at most, twice a year. But make sure doing it yourself doesn't cost you more in the long run, for example, buying all sorts of ingredients just to make a cake that can be bought more cheaply.

10.One more. Turn a hobby into a money maker. I happen to know Thai. And I enjoy teaching. I've been teaching Thai at various community centres - mainly for the fun of it.

My take.

I would probably follow certain tips given, so as to enjoy the maximum while spending much less. Point 9 is possibly the hardest, while Point 10 is what we all aim to achieve in our career.
However, i still dun quite get Point 7. The only understanding of it, is that people do often somehow expect you to want for yourself what they want for themselves.

2007-01-09T09:33:00.000+08:00

Interesting Model For A Life

The article below is from AsiaOne. It is about Mr Melvyn Chew, someone who semi-retired at age 37. He is not fabulously rich - simply very clever at living very cheaply. I don't really admire his lifestyle, but I do admire his courage in daring to live a life so different. Also, being single definitely has cut down plenty on your living expenses.

The article:

You can enjoy retirement on $20 a day
By Narendra Aggarwal - Oct 20, 2006

Not many people are as lucky as Mr Melvyn Chew, who quit full-time work at age 37 to go into semi-retirement.He decided to drop out of the rat race to opt for an easier pace of life.

Trained as a lawyer, he worked as a legal assistant in a law firm here for just three years when he decided to move on to acting and teaching, which he has been doing on a part-time basis since."I started thinking about not having to work full-time since I was in my 20s," Mr Chew, now 42, tells AsiaOne in an interview.

Said the bachelor: "Many people don't want to go to work every morning because they do not enjoy what they are doing. Coming from an acting background, I have many friends who, like me, don't like the idea of being tied down to full-time work.I don't have a budget. I think I don't really have to work at all, if I keep expenses at this level. But it's fun to do so."You do not need a lot of savings to go into semi-retirement. But I made sure that I paid up my housing loan before I decided to take it easy.

You don't really need huge savings to retire. I think if you have $50,000 put away, semi-retirement is a workable option.''Being single helps as this frees him from the financial commitments which a married man would be saddled with. He gets by on less that $20 every day. Breakfast is at home, lunch costs about $2.50, and dinner, $3. Add another $3 for transport. "I really don't understand what people spend on - you do not need much money for your day-to-day expenses," he says.

He loves cooking, so he doesn't eat out as often. But once a week, he gives himself a treat and goes to "a nice place to enjoy the finer things in life,'' he confesses. And despite his modest means, he has been able to suss out cheap holidays to Chiangmai on $200, Australia for $1,000 and even toured France and Spain for less than $2,500.

As for getting around, he uses public transport. "I live in a small walk-up private apartment, the size of a three room HDB flat, in Novena. So it's very convenient taking the MRT.''His part-time jobs - teaching business law at Singapore Management University and Nanyang Polytechnic and some acting assignments - provide him enough to get by every month."My income is irregular. Some months it is in the hundreds, while in some other months I make a few thousand. I really don't keep track of the money. All I know is that I spend less than what I make.

''But he has to manage his tight budget carefully. "Budgeting to me is a game of some sort, while most people find it a chore and give it up after a while,'' says Mr Chew, but he declined to say how much of savings he has and how that money is invested.What about the future? And old age?"I do not worry too much about the future. I am a Christian and believe that God is looking after me''

(Interesting? Next blog entry will be on Mr Chew’s tips for semi-retirement)

2007-01-08T09:13:00.001+08:00

Let's sample some Latin Pop music,
I give u - Para Tu Amor by Juanes..

(this is actually my 200th post, and i can't think of writing anything!!!)

2007-01-07T22:49:00.000+08:00

Had a nice gathering with Sec 2 classmates over the weekend,
(pics will be in once i receive them)

Makan @ Hong Kong Tea House (Katong area)
then desserts at Fresco (still Katong area)
- i must say that the prices are reasonable -

i think we will probably have meetings like this twice a year.
it's great to have classmates that you have bonded so well back then.
let's hope that every gathering,
we will be able to welcome someone else who have drifted away.

As semi-adults,
(Look, admit it, some of us have chosen to grow up, others still dun really act their age)
we really missed the good old days.
where fun and games precede over grades,
where the boys were still wearing shorts in lower secondary.

GTG first...
the adult world awaits !

2007-01-04T23:00:00.000+08:00

Responsibilities.

No matter in the workplace,
Or in a school scenario,
There are responsibilities.

To be responsible, is to do your job properly.
It may not be something you’ve volunteered for,
Most likely someone arrowed you the task,
Or the assignment is just part of your job scope anyway.
Escape?
You can’t.
Just simply do it.
Like it or not.

However,
Some people on earth are supposedly born to evade responsibilities.
It’s like some kind of an innate ability,
To escape from being responsible for anything.
Yes.
Anything.

I wouldn’t like to say bad things about people,
Especially people you see almost on a daily basis.
Yet,
I feel that some people are simply wasting their every waking hours away.
Face the music they don’t,
Giving hundreds and thousands of excuses is their forte,
It’s like second nature.

Things are piling up.
Several things in fact.
Step up the play,
You lazy buggers.

Because,
A very angry me,
Can make things really ugly.

Meantime,
I would do my part,
Try to seek relaxation and meditation if possible,
Or perhaps turn to alcohol???

Escapism lies ahead,
I just need someone,
Anyone,
Shine Your Light
To be there for me.

2007-01-04T13:53:00.000+08:00

Simple Exercise for Computer Addicts - Part 2.

2007-01-03T08:56:00.000+08:00

Simple Exercise for Computer Addicts - Part 1

The start of the new year,
I shall prescribe some exercises for all addicts,
So as to avoid that shoulder strain,
back ache,
and whatsoever we suffer from long hours in front of the Computer.

Hope it's useful.
more to come tmrw!

2007-01-01T15:27:00.000+08:00

Gappy Mew Xear...
Sorri,

Can't seems to type properly (as if)

Anyway,
never went to any Countdown party.
Preferred something quiet.
Family Dinner,
Slept just after midnight.

Simple start to the new year.
Working on a new blogskin.
(a little tired of the black, blue, white combination).

New Year, New Start.
New Hopes, New Dreams.

&...Perhaps a me,

whose comments can be more honest,
whose fitness level can be heighten,
whose studies can be yearning better results.

Gappy Mew Xear once again!!!

2007-01-01T14:53:00.000+08:00

Top 10 events that young Singaporeans did in 2006.
(translated from Zaobao on 27th Dec 2006.)

· The NYP-Tammy incident
· Wee Shu Min elitism scandal
· 2 youths convicted for illegal music download and distribution
· The Ups and Downs of Mr Brown
· Gary Tan’s illegal tapping of wireless Internet connection
· P65 MPs dancing hip-hop and blogging.
· The triumphant return of our athletes from Doha Asian Games.
· The gambling problem as a result of FIFA World Cup 06
· Channel U’s Campus Superstar mania
· Investigations of the Youth Challenge management irregularities

(take this as a filler, and a reminder of what happened in 2006.)

2006-12-31T20:33:00.000+08:00

Things has been rather quiet the last couple of days.
It should be.
Some things happened too quickly,
Others are of their usual slow pace.

Attachment @ gym is pretty mono,
since it's the term break in school.
gym goers have dropped a fair bit.

continued with more aerobics and cardio exercises to improve my fitness.
soccer, water polo (that's nice), basketball ...
but the tummy still remains...wonder why?
must be the festive season..

Ohh...the new year is coming...

Maybe instead of resolutions,
i should look back at the 2006.
to be more precise
my life so far,
all 22 years of it.

So many things could have been better.
So many things that happened shouldn't have.
So much disappointment has taken place, i've lost count.
So few things have gotten right.

Failure would sound too disillusioned,
yet, it would be considered below average at best.
striving for excellence is a long road ahead.
and at an age where there are so many paths ahead, it gets kinda confusing,
there are so many decisions to be made,
there are so many different directions,

Should it be university after diploma?
Should i just start to work?

That's just the few of many things to think about.

Yet,
there always something positive about the New Year.
Looking forward...
Setting a couple of goals,
hopefully i can fulfill some, if not all of them.

Physically,
Mentally,
Socially,
Psychologically,

And...

i hope that,
Just so you know.

2006-12-31T17:39:00.000+08:00

Came across this cool paper bag while browsing the Net...
Fantastic idea i've got to say.
Genius!

Sorry...this is a filler

2006-12-25T23:59:00.000+08:00

How Christmas is Celebrated - 03

Spent Christmas evening with my buddies,
Had a sumptous dinner @ a quiet restaurant @ Millenia Walk,
With desserts @ Big O.
(Got civil servant to sponsor part of the bill)
(Wallet isn't too thin at the end of the day)

Catching up with friends is always nice.
Remembering good times.

Sorry...
We never took any photos!
We are shy people!