The Street Party

Today we had a street party for our community. It was requested by some of the residents quite some time ago and we decided to get on with it since the rest of the committee members were also enthusiastic about it, except me. I am not so much of a fan of these things. I didn't even attend the last one organised by the previous committee. Not that I am not supportive of what the community did, but I am just kinda an introvert, comfortable in my own world, though I do portray myself as someone who is an extrovert.

Anyway, we did it. I didn't think I did much as tasks were delegated and I had my supportive committee to be grateful for. All I did was 'yes, yes, yes' while they posted suggestions, or 'ok, ok, ok' when they asked for consensus. Everything that they suggested and did was great. And all I did was being updated periodically through emails and sms on what was going on. I really didn't know what to do, you see.

The turn out tonight was better than anyone had expected and thankfully, there was abundance of food, as in leftovers. A neighbour even baked a cake for the party, and another contributed lucky draw prizes. It was quite awesome. It was very heartwarming as I witnessed neighbours connecting with one another. I was like the butterfly hopping from one neighbour to another neighbour and to another. I don't know, I just felt moved to connect with all of them who were there.

What touched me, was the endless appreciation and comments I received on what a good job we've done thus far for the community. And the committee kept pointing back at me - it was Gerry. It was an interesting experience for me, as I felt that I did nothing and when I expressed that, strangely they too expressed the same, that they didn't do anything. Well, to put more honesty in our words, I trust that what we all meant was that with each of us co-operating, the tasks that we did was very little, but combining together all our little efforts, it tantamount a great effect which was enjoyed not only by us, but by the community.

Listening to neighbours comment that they now feel more secured and safer, that they could leave home without worry only did I realise what the committee and I had done actually did created such an impact on these families - that they could go about doing their stuffs with ease of knowing that their family and homes were safe. Can you imagine that peace of mind? Not only them, we feel it too. Of course, I get the most phone calls since I am the chairman - ma'am, hse 14 alarm went off and we can't locate owner; the gate for hse 8 is open and no one is at home; the dog ran out; the flood lights are out... Yes, I get that a lot and they get addressed or not, depending on situations... but so far, everyone seemed pleased.

It dawned upon me as I stood with my committee members later in the evening listening to yet another compliment we received from another neighbour, that when we all voluntarily took up the task, we didn't really know what we were doing. We only knew that we wanted to serve the community, to do what we can and we gave our best, sticking to a common objective and priority - which was and still is dedicated to the wellness of the community. And trust me, there are moments when we get a little overwhelmed that we feel like resigning the posts.

When I emailed one of my teachers the outcome of our failed AGM as there was no conclusion and I felt like leaving my position as the chairman, he asked me, "What would God do?" and I knew that God would serve, for the highest good for all. I remember making an aspiration after that, that if I could truly play that role to bring wellness to the community, then so be it. And in the repeated AGM, my committee and I were elected once again to serve the community, with two additional members.

Today it is evident once again, that I didn't have to do anything to be someone or to seek anyone's approval. All I have to do is to be myself, do what is true to me and to continuously give the best of myself without any expectations of being appreciated or gratified. And there, when my committee members and I just went about doing stuffs which were honest to us, we were appreciated and gratified for doing what we believed in doing.

This is a lesson of Love, where a service is performed without any form of returns and the rewards returned were plentiful in abundance, as in the support received. And this, I have my community to be grateful for, for allowing my committee and I to serve them and to experience this beautiful part of life; not forgetting my supportive committee members from whom I derived much joy and fun while working with them.

Patience

I guess when we are patient at times, we allow better opportunities to come along. I was waiting for this quotation which took ages to arrive. Finally when it arrived, I asked for a demonstration. He kept on saying that he is busy, and made me feel as if our community business is not as important. Perhaps because it is a sale to a Resident Association with low profit margins, but this is just my judgment anyway, and I am not happy with him, because I am not happy with my perception of him.

So I waited and waited for his call anyway which never came. And soon, I remembered that one of the street rep emailed me a number. I picked up the phone and called the number immediately. Not only was response fast! The boss was literally explaining to me how the whole system works already, as if I could understand! :/

The point here, besides the education, is that this new guy was very willing to share information with me and give me proper, professional advise on how to get the most benefits of the units which I was about to purchase for the community. Not only that, he even gave me suggestions on how to improve this and that around the neighbourhood. And later I found out, he used to stay in this exact neighbourhood years ago, but now moved to another garden. What is most pleasant to find out is that he is also a Vice President of his Resident Association!! No Wonder!!!! So his roll of advice went on and on... Because he understood the functions that I was playing, he gave me lots of pointers to consider. I was just too grateful and felt very much supported. :)

Well, I am waiting for a quotation, again. And this time, I am crossing fingers that this experience will be different from the previous! ;)

It's Over. :)

The most tedious part of what was required to complete, is now completed. When I say 'tedious', again I meant it in a 'volumized' manner and not with resentment. :p

With teamwork, all was sorted out by 3:30pm today. We went for a drink and chatted a little. Believe it or not, the minute I got home, which was about 5pm, I went straight upstairs, changed my shorts, on the air-con and went straight to bed... lols! I was so tired! It was not long that I found myself snoozing away... lols!

It was a lovely nap. If not for the bladder being full, the stomach growling a little (it's dinner time), and the voices of my hubby and Thea luring my 'wanting' to be surrounded by them, I think I'd still be in bed ;p.

So it's time for dinner now. Have a pleasant evening! :)

Diligent Presidency

You wouldn't believe what I am taking a break from!! Reading the old files of our Resident Association! Lots and lots of paper!! Dusty too! And it is giving me a wee bit of a sinus reaction.. ergh!

Something came to me this evening to start calculating the annual security fees vs the annual collection from the participating/contributing residents. It is either I am really bad at calculations, or no one has really double-calculated the figures that the final equation (according to my calculations) came up with surpluses. I quickly called Terence and Keem (I wanted to call Kevin too but I am guessing that he must be pretty busy now - his wife just delivered so he must be busy being an old daddy, a new daddy and a grateful hubby! hah! ;p) to share my discovery! Not much was discussed though. So after I put Thea to bed, I was determined to find out how the previous ratio between the type-A, type-B and type-C houses (which the unhappy neighbour strongly suggested we re-adapt) were derived.

At the moment, I still can't find it... and I am already sneezing away due to the dust. I remember my eye doctor told me once that I ought to stay in space where it's free from dust! lols!

Flipping through the history of the formation and selfless contributions by the previous committees, I discovered how my perception on a dutiful Residents Committee deferred from theirs. Of course, security feature was a commoner, but the other additional stuffs that they do for the neighbourhood and community are amazing!! From communications with the developer, constant liaison with the Majlis Bandaraya, street parties, gotong royong, Merdeka get-togethers and etc. Impressive!! Though I will admit that besides the gotong royong bit (which I may only resort to picking dry leaves - I don't even clean my own house for Pete's sake!!), I hardly think I'd join in the fun; so that probably explains why it never really crossed my mind to be hosting or organising such events for the community! In my perception, the main and only concern was security of the neighbourhood. If we make a conscious effort to get in touch with our neighbours anyway, we don't really need parties like these to do so. Of course, having said that, it is always nice to have a gathering. I'd have to admit that the reason I know a lot more wonderful neighbours now in my neighbourhood is because of my previous post as the Street Rep and my current position as the President!! Still...

Obviously, there is comparison. Don't know why though, I observed within myself that there seems to be no dire need for an action-oriented competition or copy-cat attitude. Possibilities of ideas churn in, but the inspiration is lacking. Poor neighbours! Deprived of parties because of a lazy president.. lols!

Just to share, when I was about to sleep last night (or rather this morning), I received a call at 1:10am from the security guard explaining that his friend (which was the other guard on duty) was bitten by my new neighbour's dog. Without further delay, I made a call to the owner of the dog, dressed up and subsequently proceeded to check on the security guard.

Ah... no biggie at all - just a little swell.

The owner apologetically took him to a 24-hour clinic for a jab. This morning, the owner and I had a short, sweet chat. She later texted me words of acknowledgement after we put down the phone! Ask me if I live for moments like these being President of the Residents Association? Nah... I am happy to be able to do my part. Actually come to think about it, all I did was pick up the call from the security guard, make another call to her, changed, walked out of the house to make sure that the guard is taken care of, and then went back to bed. So technically, I didn't do anything!! Lols!! But I know what she meant, and I appreciate her acknowledgement :). Best part - came evening, I received a cheque from her as her contribution for the security fees. No, no.. she didn't contribute because of what happened last night... I am just happy with the speedy collection! :D

Ok lah.. time to go back to 'work'! Sweet dreams all!

To satisfy one and sacrifice all; or to satisfy all and sacrifice one.

Remember my unhappy neighbour?

Today I had another meeting with the committee members and we discussed alot about this issue. Most just kept quiet and observed while Terence and I debated (healthily and diplomatically, of course!). His opinion was that 'if we were to please one, we'd sacrifice the others'. My view point was, 'let's look at his point of view to see if we could do anything to address this issue'.

But a huge burden was released off all our shoulders when we suddenly remembered that it is not within our power or jurisdiction to do anything; but for the residents to conclude in an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) or the upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM). Thank God we've got Terence on board!! He's a lawyer. :)

My unhappy neighbour (type-A owner) stressed on fairness, and coming from his point of view, I do see his stand; on the committee's and other residents' view point (from type-B and type-C), it seemed that the way to go about it was through a majority's vote. Hubby shared his views with me that the decision to be imposed by the committee must be of unanimous. Terence explained that it was impossible. Now, I begin to understand why it is hard to run a country. No persons would ever be satisfied or pleased! Someone from somewhere would surely oppose to something because of different ideas!!!

Look at our country for instance. Most are unhappy that the Malays (who are majority) get most benefits and there is no equality. If I am not mistaken, there is some kind of ratio for entrance to a public uni, governemnt work place and even scholarships. Honestly, I am ignorant to all these (information came from friends' sharings) because I don't see how I am affected by all these at all. I say this whatever that they receive is their entitlement and likewise. We could sit around and whine about it, or appreciate that we have the opportunity to experience our own adventure! While I admit to some experience of being outcast when I was working in a malay-dominated company, but it was not because I was Chinese - but of some other reasons! So I had never really experience racism, being a minority or any of those sorts. I guess I never felt short of what I was being told that I am being deprived of. I am curious how some people think that they are the minorities and hence have to fight for their voices to be heard; and I am equally shocked by how some people think that as long as the majorities are fulfilled, some small sacrifices will have to be made.

Can there be no other way?

Gosh, I sound like I am contradicting myself. First I am not affected, but then I am questioning! :-S

Perhaps I come from a mentality of acceptance. I am not at war per se about this majority-minority stuffs really. I am more concern of what comes through for me through individuals affected by it. Do I feel injustice? No. Do I feel like you-deserve-it? No. But I do get to get some sort of understanding from where they come from - especially the minority. Could it be some sort of being-victimised mentality? And when we turn the tables aroung, could it be some sort of superior-mentality?

All of us at the committee are just volunteers. It is true that it is an avenue for me as an individual to grow. And during the discussion, I came to realise that all of us at the committee are somehow just facilitators and executors. Facilitators in the sense that we organise and probe probable options to be voted for/against for decisions to be made, and then to be executed - by us. So we don't really play any part in being victim ourselves or victimising anyone. Whether the decision is unanimous or based on majority votes, we are not there to judge or to even conclude that. But as facilitators, we do have to step in to mediate at some point, to allow both parties to see things from each other's points of views - that is, if they are open to it.

I salute those that have voluntarily taken up this position to serve their very own community without any fringe benefits whatsoever (including myself). When I ask myself "what's in it for me?", I answer myself "nothing much la.. just contributing my best to the community, especially with the wonderful support of the committee and community." I've received pretty wonderful response and comments so far (not about me but directed towards the committee as a whole) and we feel appreciated. And then I asked myself again "what if we were not appreciated?", the answer says "it's ok, because we are not doing it to be appreciated. we are doing it because we want to. it's just simply a way for us to serve our neighbourhood, our community, our children and ourselves!".

I told the committee the other day that we ought to take this up for at least two years, if we are chosen again to be part of the team. Sincere members agreed; and all of them are sincere.

Love. :)

An Unhappy Neighbour

I just put down the phone with an unhappy neighbour bout half hour ago. He sounded really frustrated voicing out his concerns on the recent increase in our security fees contribution. The rates were all pre-agreed at the previous AGM, and the type-A owners who were present agreed to it (he is from type-A). Apparently, his wife who was also present disagreed, but no one heard her. Hmm.. I couldn't recall anyone objecting to the increase that night.. I guess I must have been in my own world.

He had his valid reasons and principles. Initially, when we heard of his dissatisfaction months ago, we could not understand why and the president then (who was a also type-A owner and now moving out of the neighbourhood) volunteered to speak to him. It sounded right. He was the president and he stays in a type-A too.. so same lingo should speak to the same lingo right? I'd be damned!! Not any form of communication was made with our unhappy neighbourhood. No wonder his tone of voice while we spoke on the phone!! So his unpleasantness remained unaddressed. Poor unhappy neighbour!

Just 2 days prior the new year, the streetrep responsible for my street resigned due to her personal commitments. Since there was only half year to go before the next term, I volunteered to take up the responsibilities as well (apart from being the President) since I was also a streetrep the term before. I figured that it was something that I could handle. And yes, it IS something that I could still handle. :)

Diligently, I text my friendly neighbours on my street to request for their contribution to the security fees fund. Response was pretty good. But I did not hear from our unhappy neighbour (he happens to be on my street too, you see), until today. He texted and asked for the name to be addressed in a cheque and presented that he would only contribute RMxx amount which was lesser than what was pre-agreed in our previous AGM. I replied via text if he could consider contributing the full amount instead. He replied explaining that he had written a letter to the Chairman to voice out his views and that he was standing by his principles. Hmm.. this was the an unhappy neighbour, it would be polite to call instead of smsing, I thought. 

The conversation was long. He was full of frustrations while trying to explain his rationale to his disagreement to the revised pro-rated contribution, trying to make me understand where he was coming from. I was mindful to listen to what he had to say and express, being mindful not to interrupt or defend what had been pre-agreed. He had his points. His views and ideas on fairness. A view that we (the previous & present committee) had not seen or considered. Coming from my understanding of his perspective, there was validity in what he said and felt. Thank goodness for my courage to make that call, I had learned another perspective into looking at this by putting myself in his shoes to see things. You see, the committee members previously and presently consists only of type-B & type-C owners and we did not have a voice from the type-As. To add to our ignorance and negligence, the type-A were the minority of the neighbourhood. He brought up politics as an analogy, which made me see how minorities are so conveniently forgotten.

With due respect to him, I apologised on behalf on our previous and present committee for our ignorance, neglicence and failing to see things from his view point. And I assured him that I would address this issue (since I am currently the President, right?).

I knew I was handling this right when the reflections came back like these...

When apology was expressed and his frustrations acknowledged

"I feel bad having to talk to you this way. I can feel it in my voice, but it is very frustrating not to be comforted when an issue is being brought up and not confronted."

When appreciation for his views were expressed and assurance was given that we will try our best

"Aiya, you are so nice until I also don't know how to go on talking about this."

When humility was expressed (I said that I was probably one of the youngest owner in the neighbourhood hence lacked the experience to serve this community up-to-mark)

"No, I don't see that you are young. I see that when you are in the committee, I see you as a potential leader. In fact, I already see you as a leader, that is why I am speaking to you about this."

When courage was shown and no parts of the conversation was taken as a defense or an attack

"I really appreciate you calling me and talking to me about this."

*The replies from my unhappy neighbour were not in exact words, but in what I could recall and perceive.*

Of course, after I hung up the phone, I knew that I had to write an email to the rest of the committees that this was something serious enough to address asap. Although the committee was solely set up for the purpose of coordinating the neighbourhood security, this was an unhappy neighbour who felt that he had been 'misunderstood', 'violated' and 'excluded' because he felt that he was not heard. We didn't want that.. oh no... As much as I am aware that we are unable to please everybody within the community, but we have to address the concerns of our unhappy neighbour because whatever points he brought up served as a lesson for us to improve ourselves not only as a committee but also as individuals.

I am grateful for my courage to pick up the phone to call my unhappy neighbour and I surely hope that he is feeling happier now after having expressed his view points. We've heard you, thank you so much for showing us another way to look at things. :)

A Visit to Siddharthan Home II

An update from Navitha.

She told me so joyfully that the kids were so happy upon receiving and opening their christmas presents. Although I was not present to witness it, but the excitement from Navitha's voice brought tears to my eyes. She told me that all the presents received by the kids were their christmas wishes.. it must have touched them even more than how it has touched me, just the listener of such sweet news...

God bless those children... including those volunteers of LoveHeals who made this event/experience possible for us all...

Love.

A Visit to Siddharthan Home

I was invited by LoveHeals to visit Siddharthan Home today, 26th December 2009. Together with Lai Fun, we arrived at the Home at about 10am. My bad, 'cause I woke up late.. the event started at 9am. :/

When we arrived, we were awed and surprised by the decorations that greeted us at the Home. Chairs were lined up properly and all the kids were gathered at the open area with some volunteers of LoveHeals. There were even small cute soft toys hung up from the ceiling, christmas trees and balloons all over! The volunteers and kids were having some dance competitions so we were also welcomed by the sounds of music, the loud voice of instructions coming from the microphone and the laughters of children. :)

As I sat on the chair, observing my surroundings and having small chit-chats with Lai Fun about the mind (I couldn't miss the opportunity to learn more from my teacher!! ;p), I could feel the loving and easy energy surrounding the Home. It was truly blissful.

This camera man was filming the whole event, capturing the cherished moments of the day.

The volunteers and the kids were playing some Chicken, Dog & Cat game here after the dancing competition. I am guessing that the volunteers (the ones in t-shirt) had to sound like either a Chicken, Dog or Cat to coax the children to follow them to a certain chair in the open yard. The team that finishes first, wins. Navitha's team won. :)

The volunteers from LoveHeals laughing away...

Christmas pressies from the volunteers to the beautiful children at the Home.

The beautiful children of Siddharthan Home. :)

Everyone present were asked to play the 'Musical Chair' game, Lai Fun and myself included. I don't know about Lai Fun, but I felt pretty awkward because I've not played this game since I was a kid!! But I was surprised to find myself laughing away with the kids; even when I was out of the game! I was holding on to my camera, enjoying myself seeing the kids gleam with love, happiness and joyfulness!! Check out the happy faces of the kids below!!

See? Even Santa joined us in the game... See how happy the kids were?? They did not hesitate one bit to pose in front of the camera too!!!

And this young man, ladies and gentlemen, is Vasanthakumar. He is 3 years old and a darling who blessed me with a received opportunity to give him a Christmas present. So many times I had the urge to just grab him to hug him, but don't know why.. I didn't. Actually, I knew why.. I was just shy! Lols...

Lai Fun and I left before 12pm because I promised hubby to be home for lunch. After dropping Lai Fun home, I was thinking about the kids. I am so glad and grateful to have an opportunity to experience this. The kids were well-behaved, well-dressed and well-mannered. In the games, they really looked out for each other, especially the younger ones despite being in the game themselves! It was truly a warm sight. Navitha shared this with me during one of our short moments together, "The kids deserve the best that we could give them. We don't give them any second-hand stuffs." How very loving of Navitha and the rest of the volunteers... And this has really taught me something too! That these kids; orphaned, abandoned or disabled; are not smaller or weaker than our own children or even us; they deserve to give and receive love the way our children and we do. If we could love and nourish them without conditionality, then they too would grow up to be beautiful beings of Love and Hope.

Thank you, LoveHeals, for inviting me on this loving journey with you and allowing us to share our abundance with the kids. It has been an utterly loving and heartwarming experience... Love. :)

Body, Mind & Spirit Event (BMS Event) @ Clove&Clive, Kelana Jaya - OUTCOME

Is it my imagination, or all other friends really have nothing to update about their experiences?!? They have been quiet. :/

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Today is the last day of the Body, Mind & Spirit Event (BMS Event). I must say that the turnout was really good, considering the fact that some practitioners who initially did not have any appointments ended up with appointments so full that the Event ended kinda late.

Angel would say that I am abundance, that's why (lols); but I'd say that it was all divine order. :)

I served as a volunteer at the registration counter. Registering the participants, ensuring comfort for the practitioners, circulated the financial appreciation between the participants to the practitioners and had fun chatting with whoever that came into the center. It was mostly fun. Today, was really fun because I finally saw Angel! I had not seen her for a few days!! She turned up at the center with her whole family (she was not feeling well for the past few days which was why I was mostly running on a one-man, opps, woman show with some assistance and support from Lee Yuen and Steven). It was fun chatting and gossipping with her. And then Lilie came, Bee came, Jer Lin came, my uncle Stewart came.. and oh yes, Mom and Chow came too yesterday for a session! It was really good to see them at the center experiencing the sessions conducted.

Although I am a little tired after the Event but I'd say that it was all worthwhile. It felt good to see satisfied participants walking out of the center with more clarity or some form of relief on their issues. :)

I am utterly grateful and appreciative for the practitioners who participated in this Event and for the participants who gave themselves, the practitioners and us (Clove&Clive) a chance to experience what it's really like. It feels great! :)

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So, I have neglected 'Eclipse'. I am going to catch up on it soon... Night night!

Body, Mind & Spirit Event (BMS Event) on 7th & 8th Nov @ Clove&Clive, Kelana Jaya

One of the activities that I assist and support Clove&Clive is the Body, Mind & Spirit Event. It is the 4th time that they are hosting this event within the span of 2 years. So far, the response has been good.

You see, besides Clove&Clive's vision to be a centre which reaches out to people to live and love consciously through mindfulness, it also serves to educate and conduct experiential sessions of the alternative therapies available in the local market besides our very conventional moden medicine which mainly consist of drugs, drugs and drugs! More like, instead of treating the symptoms, let's just get to root cause of any discomfort (health, personal, money) to dissolve it  nature's way (without the intoxication of drugs and going under the knife, that is). When there's balance in the body, mind & spirit, one is able to function more completely in life. The motivation behind this move gave birth to the Body, Mind & Spirit Event.

To elaborate more about the basis of this Event, we invite several practitioners in the local market whose objectives are similar, that is, to reach out to people with love and compassion. For this round, the therapies include aura & chakra readings, dorn therapy, fairy card readings, digital meridian system reading (which is actually a health reading), tarot card reading and past life regression. We (yes, including me) at Clove&Clive believe that to tackle any discomfort in our lives, be it mental stress, physically pain or outside issues (career, relationships and etc), we need to go back to the source of the so-called problem/issue.

In such sessions, say, if you have a health problem (backache, constant headache and etc), a relationship problem (spouse, girlfriend/boyfriend, in-laws, children, boss, maid...), a money problem (career or business), depending on the type of therapies you choose, you might be able to derive either some answers to your situation or some guidance to lead you out of your 'problems'. Of course, it is also subjective to your own willingness. If your intention is just to try it out just for fun, it works that way too! ;) You'd be surprised what you could find out about yourself too! SERIOUS!!!

Anyway, just to brief you on the details in case you are interested (and I sincerely hope that you are interested!): -

Date: 7th & 8th November 2009

Time: 930am - 6pm

(if you have already secured an appointment, then you may just arrive 15 minutes before your appointment time)

Venue: Clove&Clive

F-02-02 Dataran Glomac, Jalan SS6/5B, Pusat Bandar Kelana Jaya, 47301, Petaling Jaya, Selangor.

Click here for the map.

Therapies/ Duration per session/ Financial Appreciation/ Dates Available/ Practitioner's Name

Digital Meridian System (DMS) Reading/ 30 mins/ RM30 per session/ 7th & 8th November/ Chong Lee Yuen

Dorn Therapy/ 45 mins/ RM100 per session/ 7th & 8th November/ Terry McCarthy

(btw, this is FULL)

Past Life Regression Workshop/ 3 hours (9:30am - 12:30pm)/ RM100 per pax/ 7th November only/ Selina Chew

(this is a really special rate, seriously!! if you have always been curious about your past life, don't miss this one!)

Past Life Regression Private Session/ 90 mins/ RM280 per pax/ 7th November only/ Selina Chew

Aura & Chakra Reading/ 15-20 mins/ RM30 per session/ 8th November only/ Selvi & Ishtar (this is GOOD!! My personal experience!!)

Fairies Card Reading/ 15 mins/ RM30 per session/ 7th November only/ Jacob Kho

Tarot Card Reading/ 30 mins/ RM50 per question/ 8th November only/ Adrienne Tan

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You have nothing to lose but an experience. :) If you are interested in any of the above, click here to assess more information or call me (if you already have my number). :)

Hope to see you there! Namaste.

Assignment

Hubby gave me an assignment to do - to help him type out a full chapter of one of the manuals he has to submit soon.

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Finished the job in 2.5 days with intervals of going out and hula-hula.. ;p

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Will be claiming my reward tomorrow. YAY!!!!!!!!!!! :D

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Damn, I am efficient.... ;p

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Love.

Article from the Kidz: Lessons Learned, Forgotten and Remembered

Got this magazine, Kidz, from my old school when I was submitting a document to the Advisor of the Alumni. Read this article and find it really meaningful and would love to share it with you: -

^^^^^^

A little over two weeks ago, someone broke into my house and severely beat my wife. It was horrible, unimaginable and a shock to us all in the community, friends and family all over the world.

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It left many of us asking why? And why did this happen to her? I am not sure we'll ever know the answer to that.

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It happened mid-day and she was locked presumably safely in our house.

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If you have ever been a victim of a crime then you know that you feel violated, angry, and vulnerable when someone invades your private 'space' like that.

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Compound that with the brutal beating of someone you love and you also feel rage, guilt, sadness and finally relief when you know that everything will be OK in the long run. Trust me, you feel almost every imaginable human emotion.

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Yes, you feel guilty for not being there to help. You feel rage and want to find the guy and make him pay for his actions. You feel grief and sadness when you see someone you care so much for in that physical and emotional state.

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All of those are viable emotions, and from my perspective, quite natural and healthy to feel. But you can't dwell on them, focus on them or let them consume you.

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I can tell you why.

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Those negative emotions and feelings aren't constructive. They don't build anything new. They don't replace the loss. They don't help the healing process that must take place. And ultimately those negative emotions are counterproductive and destructive.

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The only truly worthwhile emotion is love. It is the only way to rebuild what was destroyed or lost. Love is constructive. It helps everything heal.

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Of course, you already know that. This is just a reminder.

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Whether you know it or not you are part of an incredible community that extends outward and encompasses all of humanity. Everyone from parents, staff, colleagues and administrators to friends and family around the entire world reached out to us quickly and lovingly. Total strangers offered their sympathies and help.

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People around the world cried for us. People all over the planet have been praying for us and sending positive energy and thoughts. Everyone gave us the best thing they could... their love, positive thoughts and support.

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And here's the catch. Some of those people aren't necessarily our best friends. Some are strangers. And... how to say this... some are the very ones that get on our nerves at times or annoy us the most. Some of the people that responded with the most love are the very same ones that give us the most trouble.

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That is astounding.

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You know these people. We all have them in our life. It is the colleague or parent that doesn't necessarily get along with you very well. It is the acquaintance in the community that you never really had time to get to know. Or someone that just puts you off for some reason or another.

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And countless well wishes and prayers from so many different types of people: Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus, Christians, Jews, Atheists, Indians, Indonesians, Malays, Americans, Australians, Africans, Brits, Thai, Canadian, Filipinos... and the list goes on and on.

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Not to mention from every layer of the society: students, maids, maintenance guys, parents, police, managers, workers, rich people, poor people... their station in life didn't matter. They all rushed to our side.

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You name it... we got it and accepted their love and caring with open arms. Love doesn't discriminate or know those boundaries and definitions.

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I hope you know what I mean. I find it truly amazing. I can't stop thinking about it.

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So what does that teach us and help us remember?

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What it reminds me to remember is that all those differences are superficial. They really don't matter. The minor differences. The annoying quirks and idiosyncrasies. They aren't what we should focus on. They don't define the essence of the person.

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Race, religion, socio-economic status and beliefs don't erase or mask what we truly are or can be at the core of it all: loving, caring human beings who struggle through this existence with one another, side by side, trying to make sense of it all.

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As I've journeyed through this life I've learned, forgotten and relearned many times over this simple fact: as we swim through this ocean of experience we try not to drown. We teach each other to stay afloat. We support each other and we build life rafts out of community, friendship and love because we know deep down inside that we are all stronger when we work together. We are not alone in our confusion and struggle.

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It is indeed our greatest commonality and asset. This life. This collective struggle. This shared existence.

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In our time of need all of those superficial things dropped away like the petals of dried flowers and exposed this fact. Everyone that responded did so in the same exact way. With kindness, love, respect and gave what they could. Because in our hearts we all know we are in this together. Although sometimes we tend to forget that basic tenet.

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Of course, you already know that. This is just a reminder.

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So here is my challenge to you and what I have learned, forgotten and relearned through this experience:

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Cherish these moments you have on this Earth, especially with loved ones. Don't dwell on the emotions that aren't worthwhile. And next time someone is getting on your nerves or causing you problems, look beyond the thin veneer of their quirks and idiosyncrasies and gaze deeply into the core of their humanity.

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Look at them through the lens of our common human experience and you'll see yourself reflected there. And if you do this, I promise you will recognise that they are indeed just like you in their essence. You will recognise yourself in them.

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Because one of the most profound things I have heard lately came from my wife when she said 'I stopped being a victim the moment he stopped hitting and kicking me. Now I am a survivor."

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This makes sense to me because I truly believe and feel in my heart we are all surviving together in this existence and experience day-by-day in our own way, collectively.

^^^^^^

*Article from the Kidz magazine, July-August 2009 issue*

Brain Dead

I am literally brain dead. My mind is so tired that I feel as though the juice in my brain is all dried up. What have I been up to? Plenty. I don't understand why I make myself soooo busy... and no, it is not that I don't enjoy what I am doing (will story you on what I have been doing in a bit) - I enjoy it.. but I get tired, get what I mean.. because of this mentality of always wanting to complete EVERYTHING on time or ahead of schedule which allows me little rest and is what makes me run around like a headless chicken for the past few weeks. The best part about this is, I buy into this mentality!!!

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Told you about the Secretarial Post with the Sri KL Alumni right? Yeah, I was pretty busy with that for the past week of checking the minutes, letter writing, organising meetings, planning this and that.. but that has been done and tasks had been delegated. Now we just have to wait for NEXT week to follow up and finalise some details and to shoot out some more appreciation letters. Great job huh?

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And then, last Thursday (this, I didn't mention), I was 'promoted' from the post of a Resident Committee's street representative for my street to the Treasurer of the Resident Committee of my neighbourhood!! Ya, I know.. I could have said no. But one of my neighbours had a point when he suggested that since the ex-committee (which was the committee I was working with) did such a great job (which I think so too) and had executed certain planning towards enhancing the security of the neighbourhood, at least one of the ex-committee ought to stay back another term with the new elected committee members to sort of 'guide' the new committee through. OBVIOUSLY, all the other ex-committee members gave reasons like work commitments, too many years in committee and etc etc etc... so when my name was suggested (initially the President post which I had uprightly rejected due to my level of maturity to handle such a role) for the post of the Treasurer, I said 'ok'. So there is a meeting tonight.. in fact, in 15 minutes.. so let's see if I can finish this entry before heading there! hahaaha...

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And this other 'job', which I would say the longest job in terms of time in comparison with the two mentioned above, was absolutely the most challenging for me. To edit articles for a book to be published by a meditation centre which I am quite closely associated with. Why I say closely associated is because, I am pretty close to the people there and offer my assistance in some programmes or free talks that they offer to the public, but I don't exactly consider myself as belonging to the centre although the management recognises me as one of their fun team member which I am awfully grateful for. So, this adhoc job was offered to me by BB. He was coming up with this book which I think is a good one to encourage people to take responsibility of the world that they create. Of course, there are many other good lessons in it... but I won't speak much of it here now since it is not yet published and I am pressed for time! :{

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So I took on the job as an editor for the first time. What I thought was a simple task of just 'proofreading' articles led to me changing people's articles not only in terms of sentence structures but literally re-phrasing what they mean to the extend of altering what they had initially meant. Why I did that? Honestly, I don't know. Whenever I edited, it was not like I thought of HOW I wanted to edit the article. The words and the meanings just flows right through my fingers and onto the screen! I am not saying that I have no part in it.. but what I am trying to say is that there is a certain kind of energy that comes through me... Amazing! But ulltimately, my ONE & ONLY concern was and still is that all the articles are in line with the objective of the book - otherwise there's really just no point. Anyway, editing 20 some articles is no joke to me. Once again, I declare that I am brain dead.

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And in addition to this project where to me, the hard work is finally over, I was invited to look at another of BB's work. So so beautiful... it is about nature and trees... I feel so honoured and privileged to be one of the first to view this book before it is published to inspire many. Anyway, I could have waited till next week to start the 'job' so to speak, but I just couldn't wait. So I have finished proofreading BB's new work, but due to the limitations of the body and time which makes it somewhat a drag to send out my comments to BB tonight or almost immediately... I decided to do myself this favour... I am going to rest for the night and for the next few days. Why? BECAUSE I AM BRAIN DEAD and will be going to KK!!!! YAY!!!!!!!!

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So off I go on a holiday with my family, accompanying me my G10. Aaahhhh.... I ask to be inspired to capture many beautiful memories and serene displays of nature. Till I come back... Be good to yourselves! :)

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Namaste.

My Lessons with Hari from IRAH - Home of Healing

I had a session with Hari today. What I had hoped would turn out to be an interview, was actually more of an "inner view" of him, and also me.

My first meeting with Hari was sometime in September or October, 08 I think. I had marital problems then (or so I thought!!) and he helped me understand what was, in reality happening. Although I already knew that I had a part to play for my seemingly troubled marriage then, he pointed several issues that I needed to look inwards more deeply - to love myself. It's amazing how my heart is now swelling with gratitude and love for Hari as I recall my several sessions with him. For he has pointed me to a direction that I had forgotten to look into - LOVE; Love always starts from witin me. If I didn't love myself, how could I make myself available to love others? Did you know, Love Heals? If you didn't, well, now you know. :)

I subsequently discovered my gifts - or so many would call it, my level of wisdom, my 'real' age, who I really am, why I am here and etc.. and this journey - oh, this simple yet complex journey of self discovery, of Truth - sometimes it makes me crazy - the challenges, sufferings, pain, anger - crazy all because I've stopped playing the blaming game. There is no one to blame but me. I would remember Hari telling me - they are all you, a reflection of you. As long as my finger is still willing to point at someone else for my pain, I am only condemning myself further, burying myself deeper of what I am not willing to look within myself. This, besides crediting myself for the hardwork, Tuck Loon, Lai Fun (through MSP), Angeline and Christopher Moon played major roles in this part of my journey of looking inwards. What to do with the pain? Hari says, "Surrender!" :)

At this stage, Hari also shared with me about oneness. When I first heard the word, "one with God" from Hari - it felt as if it was a familiar yet distant statement. And today's session, I learnt some more from him. I shared with him that sometimes I felt inspired to be a healer (note: I am actually on a journey of interviewing healers, teachers and lightworkers for a website - will announce later) each time I see one, and yet... that is not my calling. Well, it's not that I don't want to be a healer - it's just that I don't want to be one without clarity. It's the mind that we need working on, not the physical body. The physical body is just temporary - and yet, I am not suggesting that we shouldn't take care of our body; just not to be attached to it. Tuck Loon always said, it is ok to have things - as long as you are not attached to it. And Hari said the same thing today. He said, "it is ok to want a BMW, and soon, you will realise that it is not about having the BMW, it is about the journey to getting the BMW. And it is ok that you get bored with it too, you just surrender it and get another type of car! It is the journey of having that BMW, that when you have it, you'd know that you are God."

I know, it's quite absurb for most of us to agree that we are God. I remember Alice telling me how she freaked out when Hari told her that she is God. And although I can relate to her frustration of not understanding it, there was a part of me that knew that Hari was right; because God is in all of us. The bible says, 'Our body is a temple of Gods'. Do you believe it? Do you think, the fact that you almost always get what you want is really because you are His favourite? Well, how do I put it... yes, and no. EVERYONE is His favourite! You get what you want is because you are the creator of your own reality; as the Law of Attraction recites.

One thing Hari said today that touched me was, in one of his conversations with God, God said, "all My Creations love at least one thing in their life, unconditionally." It reminded me of the many criminals and crooks we see on movies. They can be as mean or heartless as how we perceive or judge them to be, and yet there'd always be that one thing; one person that they each hold deeply in their hearts - be it a dad, mom, spouse, partner, friend, child or even a pet... it's still Love.

And it is with Love, that Hari does his work. I've met him only 5 times so far (including today), and I doubt that it has totalled up to 24 hours. Yet, I am aware of this profound deep love I have for him. And I know deep down, he loves me too. As ironic as it may sounds, he loves you too - you just don't know it.

There is too much I'd like to share about Hari and what he has taught me. Words and space are really just limiting. When he rejected my request to interview him, I didn't understand and had thought that perhaps it was me that he didn't want an interview with; or perhaps he was just shy and wanted to remain low profile. But when I found out the real reason why he had lovingly declined my request, I was touched - and the reason is still Love, with Love.

Thank you Hari, for being here with us. Thank you, for doing this work for us. Thank you, for pointing me to the direction of the Truth, lovingly with detachment. I am forever grateful for the unconditonal love that you possess for each one of us here.

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For those of you who would like to meet Hari for a healing session, please visit http://www.irah-healing.com/ for more information. Healing is by donation. Please also visit http://www.loveheals.com.my/. I am not sure if Hari has a part to play in this website, but I know that this website was created by 2 beautiful angels who assist Hari to do his work.

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Blessed Be, Be Loved, Be Love - because Love Makes It Happen (quoted from LoveHeals website).

Freezing Correctly

Came across an article in the magazine which gave advice on how to freeze correctly. I thought it was good to share what I've learnt so here it is, just for you... :)

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Freezing food is a good way to save time in the kitchen. Freezing preserves food for extended periods because it prevents the growth of micro-organisms - bacteria, yeast and mold that cause food to spoil. However, improper freezing can change food texture and taste, or even more, just spoil it outright. To keep your food safely frozen, follow these 8 tips.

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SIZE UP YOUR CONTAINER!

Choose a suitably-sized container according to the quantity of food. A small amount of food stored in a huge container traps a lot of air, increasing the likelihood of freezer burn or food deterioration. Poor quality containers can cause changes to food texture, taste and flavour when defrosting and causes food to spoil faster. The trick is to freeze with as little air as possible and to keep all moisture and water in.

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FREEZE SMALL PORTIONS

Pack food in small or individual portions so they freeze quicker. This ensures a higher quality product when defrosting making it easier. The FreezerMate range (from Tupperware brand) has a variety of sizes to ensure food is frozen in the portions required. Small items will also defrost quicker, which helps save time.

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PREPARE BEFORE STORING

Most vegetables are best blanched (immersed in boiling water) as this halts enzyme action. Raw vegetables with high water content like lettuce, celery and choy sum don't freeze well as they are vulnerable to damage from ice crystals. Meat should be jointed and excess fat removed. Some foods can be frozen as they are. Others may need liquid added or certain ingredients removed until after defrosting.

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FREEZING LIQUID

Liquids expand upon freezing. So leave some space in the container. It's recommended to leave up to 2 inches for a litre. When using FreezerMate just fill up to the indicated line. This allows sufficient room for expansion.

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PLAN AHEAD

Consider how food is going to be cooked or reheated once defrosted. Unbaked pies can be frozen in ovenproof dishes so you can move them straight into the oven. Likewise, foods that will be reheated or defrosted in the microwave should be stored in microwave-safe containers like Rock 'N' Serve.

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COOL FOOD BEFORE FREEZING

All food must be cooled completely before going into the freezer because warm or hot food can cause the freezer's temperature to fluctuate and rise. This may affect other food and the food you're about to freeze.

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If the temperature rises above 0 degree Fahrenheit (-18 degree Celsius), foods that are already frozen could defrost slightly and then refreeze, leading to deterioration.

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KEEP IT FROZEN

Once a product is frozen, it should stay frozen and not undergo changes in storage conditions that affect quality when defrosting. Fluctuating temperatures lead to freezer burn, which may destroy food.

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The cooler the food that's about to be frozen, the quicker it freezes. Foods that freeze rapidly are not structurally damaged by the freezing process. The quicker food freezes, the more moisture, vitamins, texture and flavour it retains. FreezerMates are specially designed with thin walls to allow fast-freezing.

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COOL IT QUICKLY

Food intended for freezing should be cooled quickly and safely in the refrigerator or in a sink/bowl of ice water, which should be changed frequently to ensure quick cooling. Best not to cool food, especially poultry, seafood, eggs or meat at room temperature. This causes bacteria to multiply and food to be contaminated and deteriorate rapidly.

On a complimentary note, Tupperware is having promotions this month on the FreezerMate range. Please feel free to call or email me to enquire. No obligations. :)

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And on a personal note, I find this range really useful and practical - my food stay fresher for a much longer time. My freezer has not become not only neater, but I also find that not much ice is trapped when I use Tupperware. Before this when I was using the normal tupperware or the those plastic ones (the ones that restaurants give us when we pack food), ice just accumulates on the food itself. Could also tell that it isn't that airtight hence ruining the quality of the food. Anyway, just my 2 cents. Have a great Sunday! Cheers!

The First Service - Oracle Card Reading

Today I am no longer a virgin in oracle card reading. I did a reading for a new friend whom I didn't know of her life. I told her that after that reading, I will most likely forget whatever it is that I interpreted because those information were for her anyway, so no point of me being attached to it. I reminded her to try to remember whatever that I said that could guide and help her, because I may not be able to repeat them again.

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It took about an hour plus. If it wasn't because I had to pick up Thea from TT, I think we could have had lunch together. But the whole process was good for me. It was a platform for me to share my gift and to help her understand the support that she was obtaining from the Divine. And for that, I received my first token as an exchange of energy in kind. Thank you Lilie for allowing me to be your instrument to connect to your Divine Guides. :)

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And thank YOU, for the blessings of this journey.

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Blessed Be.

Oracle Card Reading Services

I am now taking this public. Some of my friends already know that I do this, because I have done this for a few friends. Now, I am guided to advertise myself on my own blog to provide this service to anyone within Klang Valley.

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First of all, I need to declare that I am a newbie. I got into card reading for my own benefits and find that it gives me clarity on my situation and guidance to proceed on my journey or my situation. When I started to do reading for hubby and even some friends, I find that I could intuitively relate and interpret the underlying meanings of the cards, somehow. I believe that I was guided by a force higher than me. And the reason why I am doing this? Is because I would like to help bring clarity and guidance to people relating to their situations, life purposes or whatever issues that is clouding their mind and also, to serve as a platform for my own practice to perfect my skills.

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Perhaps, I should introduce a little about what card reading really is.

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Oracle Cards are an ancient divination tool that allow you to clearly receive messages from your higher self, the Divine Spirits (which could be your deceased ones), Angels, Goddesses, Ascended Masters or even God. Every card that you draw out of the deck comes to you for a reason. The spiritual law of Law of Attraction and with the help of your higher guides (depending on your beliefs) will guide you to pick cards that mirror your current thoughts and emotions. Sometimes, they are also able to tell you the likely future outcome based on your current energies, beliefs and conditions.

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The questions posed can be as simple as the messages for the day, your career, life purpose, money/abundance, relationships, marriages, soulmates or any other questions that you may have in mind. You will either be asked to draw cards, or I may draw them for you. However, I do ask of you to be willing and open during the session. By being willing and open doesn't mean that you need to tell me anything that you don't want to; but simply by eing open and willing in your heart to receive these messages from your guides. They are, afterall, meant just for you.

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There are no frightening pictures in Oracle Cards. Unlike Tarot Card reading, the cards doesn't really tell you the future or predict the future. They guide you, with blessings of love and light.

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I dare not say that I am good, but I can be pretty accurate. I do not demand that you come to me, but only when you are ready and willing. I do not wish to be paid (at least not yet), but I do ask for a donation of any amount as an exchange of energy.

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I am reachable by email: gerrykpy@yahoo.com

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Blessed be.