Much more than Cup Noodles

Many things happened this year. There were inspiring stories, there were unfortunate ones. The one major that has been circulating this time around is the Japan Earthquake Tsunami Incident. On the 11March2011, The fourth largest Earthquake ever measured hit japan off the northern coast of the island. If one blow wasn't enough, came in a 13ft wave tsunami that swept away cars, ships, homes and even family ties. Apparently two blows was not enough, because next came the third strike of radiation leak from a major nuclear plant, biggest nuclear accident since Chernobyl.

To illustrate how devastating the incident was, Death toll is close to 11,500, number of missing people is close to 16,500 and Financial damange of 235billion. (information correct up to 31March2011)

Imagine the dire state they are in at thie moment. Cities swept to the ground, shortage of food and supplies, Fear of uncertainty and trauma of loss would be enough to demotivate the country to its knees. It was so bad that even a cup noodle is enough to bring much comfort to survivors. I heard that the nissin cup noodle factory aims to produce more cup noodles during this difficult period to supply the demand from food shortage.

What happened in Japan could happen in any other country on earth. This cave of darkness bears a ray of light that came in a form of support and aid from hundreds of countries and thousands of organisations. It is an inspiring humane story that made the world realise that no man is an island, not even for a country that is comprised of 3000+ islands.

Those are the things that lingered in my thought as i walked pass the Japan Tsunami Relief Booth set up by Malaysian Red Crescent on my way to lunch. For those who are unfamiliar with this concept, it is a booth set up to collect relief fund to aid Japan following a series of unfortunate events.

While having my lonely lunch, I can't help but to think about the people there and the surge of negative feelings that befell them. While i am heartbroken over my recent failed relationship, they are there battling with everyday fear wondering if they can even survive past the day. I guess its not difficult to guess who is having a shittier day.

So, I figured there are people out there who needs hope more than me. Thinking of their situation, my tens of thousand dollar debt that is chaining my life seem so small and powerless now. So, I decided to donate some fund to them. After all, its a small amount that i could do without. I just hope that this small amount brings much hope to those who needs it.

I couldn't help it, but i wondered how many cup noodles could they benefit from this small amount. I'd imagine it would be enough to feed three or four family for a day. Its not so much of the feeding that brought a smile, but the hope i believe it will provide. And for the remaining of the day, I smiled once again, an act i've never been able to do sincerely ever since the breakdown of my relationship months ago.

*Sidenote: While writing this, I found out my keyboard had a stain of water drop. Was it tears? I guess its only manly not admit it was."

Malaysia 3rd Putrajaya Hot Air Balloon Festival

On the 18-19th of March, I was at the Putrajaya hot air balloon festival.

For those who are not familiar, Putrajaya hot air balloon is a yearly event where hot air balloons from all over the world gather in one place to be exhibited to be public, an event photographers would be most interested in. This year marks the third time this event has took place in Malaysia.

The main attractions would be the hot air balloons. The interesting ones were the upside down balloons,  there is the animal zoo hot air balloon, and the most epic of all had to be Darth Vader hot air balloon. When it was getting inflated from the ground, everyone had their cameras looked to the sight of Darth Vader balloon. It was so epic that spectator were humming to the tune of the Darth Vader theme song.

Other than the balloons, there were other minor attraction, such as clowns, the tall pirate, airplane rides, night fireworks and all. There was also an extreme sport section where booths were set up for people there to experience wall climbing, archery, orbing, biking, paintball and the likes.

Speaking of extreme sports, I was there throughout Saturday and Sunday to help out for the paintball booth. You see, a bunch of us paintball enthusiast decided to get together and set up a target range for people to shoot some paintball, and at the same time to expose the public all about paintball and the thrill it brings.

Throughout the 2days, I was tasked with a couple of different roles:
- Front Desk Reception
- Field Marshall
- Marketing / Flyer Distributor
- Equipment Guy

All in all, It was a successful event, one in which i learn a lot. Here are some photos

 

*Disclaimer: None of the firearms displayed above are real. They are for display purpose only.

My old friend, Its been a long time.

Below is an imaginary conversation between the author and his blog:

Me: Hi 3POINT8. Its been a long time haven't it?

3.8: Where have you been? You haven't been blogging for 2 years, you haven't visited for months, and you left without a word.

Me: Yea, sorry about that. I shouldn't have done that. I should have at least bid farewell, shouldn't I?

3.8: You should. So, what happened?

Me: Short Story, Career. Long story; I've found an area of life that i felt should be established at this time. As a result, most of time has been devoted to my career, including our time together. Besides, the starting of a career really does sap the energy out of someone. There is so much to learn, so much to explore.

3.8: I see... So, why come back now?

Me: Honestly I don't know. Cruel as it may sound, but I've thought of abandoning you totally, and really, its the logical thing to do considering i may not come back again after today. I mean really! There are so many factors that deter me from visiting you. Bad internet connection, low motivation, no time, no ideas, you name it.

3.8: Excuses! Those are excuses. If you wanted to pay a visit, you would. So, why come back now?

Me: Why return now? I don't know. Maybe you held so much of my past memories that i felt would be a waste if left just like that. Maybe its because i need a platform to hold my memories, my life, and the perfect candidate is still you.

3.8: So, I'm just a tool?

Me: .......... In a way, yea.

3.8: You ungrateful brat!

Me: Sorry. Why not see it this way. You've been dead. Treat this coming as a resurrection point. I'm offering a chance for you to be alive again. Would you like to take that chance?

3.8: Gee.... I don't know. I felt so used. Whats the point anyway?

Me: You see, writing is still my passion. There is much i want to tell the whole world, but i thought others might judge it as uninteresting, mundane. But you, you never judged my writing. For that, i am grateful. Through you, i can post what I feel like posting. Plus thats what you are good at, thats what you like to do, ain't it?

3.8: If you put that way......... Thats true.

Me: Then lets work together then. I'll come up with ideas, and you could hold these ideas as an open vault. Interesting in working together again?

3.8: Sure. After all, there is little i can do to defy you. The only person who can overwrite you are owners of blogger, which you have admit, seldom interfere with small blogs like me. Alrite, Sure. Let's do this!

Me: But this time, i want to do things differently. Its no longer for the public. Let's make this more personal, shall we?

3.8: Alrite. I trust you. You lead, I'll follow.


*And hence the blog 3POINT8 was reborn with one post. The author misses his blog so much so he could see his blog in his dreams night after night. For a long time, he couldn't confront his own blog fearing he had nothing to write, fearing that he won't be a regular blogger as before. Today he decided to walk closer to his shadow, and found out that a huge shadow do shrink upon confrontation. And so, the author decides to start blogging once again. Today is only one post, It is unsure if the author decides to continue with another posting.

[Back story sounds nice and all, right? If only this is true to the author's real life relationships.]

Reunion of Greatness

In my naive years of 2001, a young trainee teacher handed me a small note in which I kept with me for the next four year until high school graduation. In the note wrote a quote found in the movie 'Patch Adams'.

Though it wasn't mouthed by the Patch Adams himself, it was nevertheless a quote found in the movie Patch Adams. It was from this quote that I draw strength and inspiration in times of doubt. In a way, the quote was my life jacket. Many times upon the brink of giving up, it was this quote that adds a slight push reminding myself to persevere just abit longer. Often times, all it takes is a slight push to get me through tough times.

I could very well turn out to be a different person, caged in paralyzing dark dungeon of hopelessness had not for this quote. You could say that my high school life was indebted to this quote if it was capable of seeking payment in return. Sometimes it does make me wonder how much more motivation I could draw from the man himself if this short quote could motivate me this much

I'd imagine this quote is a mere waterdrop of greatness compared to what Patch Adams has done for the society. Now that i'm a grown up, a simple quote no longer fulfills my hunger for inspiration. Considering all greatness requires inspiration, I shall be on the look out for more. That is why I wish to meet Patch Adams, and 23 other inspiring figure in the Gathering of Great Minds. It is now my desire to attend this event.

By the way, if you are wondering, this is the quote that got me through high school:
"You're focusing on the problem. If you focus on the problem, you can't see the solution. Never focus on the problem!"

I feel this post would be incomplete without a real-life quote from the legendary Patch Adams himself.
"In Russia most of the hospitals don't have any pain medicine, they don't have any money. So if you're with kids with cancer, they can have metastases to the bone; which some say is the worst pain a human can experience. So a mother can be in a room with a child who hasn't stopped screaming in five months. ...85% of the time I walk in there as a clown they'll stop screaming."

---

Note: This is a contest entry Cybermate's Dungeon to win TWO Season Passes to The Gathering Of Great Minds worth RM988 each!
(For this contest, contestant are required to write an entry about The Gathering Of Great Minds and why you are excited to meet Patch Adams in person.)

The amazingness of Government Issued Leave

Back in School, the only thing i look forward to is school holiday. The same goes for college and university. Even after 2 years of graduation, it hasn't changed much. Now that I'm in the professional workforce, Public Holiday thrills as much as striking a winning lottery ticket.

After all, how could anyone not love the sensation of a massive cash flowing endlessly into your own bank account, especially when its on a public holiday. Its only unfortunate that it will never happen because for obvious reasons, the lottery workforce doesn't work on public holidays.

Still, the anticipation of a public holiday is enough to provide me with energy of a thousand chocolate bars. And do you know what is the equivalent of a million chocolate bar?

A government approved holiday issued just for you. Now! That is a worth a million creamy chocolate bars of the highest quality.
Yes, the government issued a holiday for me, for two days, and its well written in this letter. Just this letter makes me want to pay my tax.

I know i know... I'm the coolest kid in town.
Want my autograph?

Can Football Unite the World?

"Always support your team, unless they suck"

---- Kiffa World Mug ----

With FIFA happening right now, the football hype is here YO!

Let me start of by saying that Football is a funny game, consisting of 22 skilled players, one impartial referee, two eagle eyed referee's assistants and one stupid ball. If you can't fathom the thought of 22 people chasing after one ball, then I doubt you'll understand the idea of 736 players aiming for one Stupid Cup that doesn't even hold water.

Think Unification! Football unites people. In a football team, players play together for a common goal. In a fan club, fans rally behind their favorite team to provide moral support. It does bring people together, on and off the field.

You see, I know two office workers who doesn't see eye to eye. They don't even have the courtesy to greet the other, let alone talk to each other. By miracles, I saw them together discussing politely over a problem, which I swear will never ever happen in a hundred lifetime had they not support the same team in FIFA.

It makes me wonder if people can be united through Football (or any major sport event). It bands friends together, it allows for an epic conversion topic and it is a great way to meeting new people. Not to mention 700 million individuals globally watched the 2006 FIFA World Cup Finals. Plus, it was estimated that 2billlion people watched the 2006 FIFA World cup. Thats 1/3 of the world population.

You have to admit, that is some serious figure. I'd imagine Sports will give religion some serious competition given how it unites people. The bigger question is: Can Football Unite the World?

The Legendary Red Knight

Started its first production in 1995 and ended in 2005, I have to say that Proton Satria is one of Malaysia's favourite National Car. The Proton Satria is a 3-door hatchback with its designed inspired from the Mitsubishi Mirage. The name Satria means knight in Sanskrit, a name that does justice in reflecting the sportiness of the car.

My family once had a Proton Satria. Memories of the car is pretty much fond within me as it has accompanied me throughout the year when I was in high school all the way to 2010. What comes next after this paragraph is pretty much a boring recount of my experience with that car.

I remember the first time I drove the car. It was a Saturday back in 2002 when my dad was sitting next to me trying to get me familiarise with the car. Because it was a manual transmission car and it had a long clutch, the car dies everytime I switch from 'neutral' to 'first gear'. Every junction was a nightmare to me. I had to multi-task like I'm a freaking quad processor chip. I had to be mindful of oncoming traffic, feel the vibration of the engine with one leg on the clutch and the other on the accelerator, one hand on the wheel, the other on the gear, and at the same time face humiliation by the loud horn from the car behind and also to tune out my dad's nagging. That's keeping track of 8 things at a time, and believe me, it wasn't easy. Nevertheless it was a great experience.

Other than the first memories of my first time driving, I also remembered the day when I first drove it alone. It was a Sunday at about 4.45pm driving to school for karate class. The first song that came out from the radio was "Hot in Here" by Nelly. I remembered that moment because it was a freaking hot day.

I also remember the fear of driving in a storm. That day I was heading home after having to attend International Understanding day hosted by the Interact club of Damansara Utama School. It was the most frightful day in my driving experience. It was a heavy storm that came pouring out of the sudden and visibility was so bad that I could only see 10m ahead (which is about the length of two cars). And it doesn't help that I had to rely on signboards to get back home as I was unfamiliar with the road back. I almost got into an accident that day because of bad visibility. But it was all good.


I remember being the first among my peers to obtain a driving license back in high school. I was also the second person in my school year privileged enough to drive to school. Too bad, i wasn't a cool kid back then. Else I would have seduced a lot of pretty girls. Nevertheless, I still remembered the many night outings when I'm among the unlucky soul who ain't suppose to get drunk all because I will the one responsible to ferry everyone back home. Hence, the car was well known as the 'The Legendary Red Knight' among my peers.

Such fond memories as I try to relive the wonderful moments with the car. Though it ain't some fancy Ferrari, I sure did have countless great times with that small humble car.
Early April this year, the car has been sold off.
Gone so fast are these nine years. Farewell, Lengendary Red Knight.

Back to the Blog

"Even zombies come alive after death. It is as if they belong to neither heaven & hell."

The previous blogpost was meant to be the last blogpost. Back then I expect that I wouldn't have the time, energy & creativity to keep up with my blogging needs. Its either i force myself into blogging, or quit totally. Quitting back then seems to be the sanest choice.

Over time, I was exposed to so many experiences. Experiences I felt compelled to blog about. But for some difficult-to-explain reason, I refrained myself from penning it down in my blog. As time pass by, I grew envious by the blog entries made by avid bloggers. Reading their blogpost reminds me of the excitement I once had when I was a hardcore blogger.

I've thought about this for the past 4months whether I should pick up blogging again. Today, I've made up my decision to revive this blog. Except this time, I'll hope this blog more personal than ever. I write not for the public audience anymore, I will write for myself. This is so that I'll be able to relive the awesome experience of every blogpost sometime in the future.

It's good to be back.

Death served Fresh

The other day I was watching the cooking channel and they were talking about prawns: How to handle it, how to serve it, how to cook it, down to how to eat it.

The only thing I got off from the show is that; prawns are best served fresh.

Does it ever make you wonder to why death taste so good when its fresh?

Reprisal against Superior

Colleagues. Today the boss has installed CCTV to our cubicle. He won't stop until he caught our wrongdoings. He didn't come here to leave us without work and fear, and struggle arguments. He'll be trying to achieve his selfish objective.

Our boss thinks that he knows too much enough to instill fear to the common workers in this company. He thinks that our weakness pushed us into silence. And should he think this for real?

I'll tell you, colleagues. He don't know about our unbreakable bonds - our friendship, brotherhood and fraternity. He just cannot imagine the power of our mind. He's not aware enough of our skills and experience. He thinks that we would surrender easily under his shout.

No, my colleagues! Whatever would happen, we shall stay on our ground. We will give our Boss nothing, but complains and problems. Remaining by one strong force, we will pressure the boss.

But we need to stand united. In this office hour, which will check our perseverance and willpower. Through this time, we are as one. As one mighty workforce. As one mightiest workforce. That so be the proper motivation and way of acting. We cannot fail our integrity.
So be it, Colleagues! On your canteen seats!

---

Its amazing how something great still sounds great when used on another context. I didn't exactly come up with the writing above. I copied it from excerpts of Warhammer and changed it to an office-related theme.

---

Here is the original excerpt:
'Brothers. Today the enemy has unlocked the lock to our door. He won't stop until he'll defeat us. He didn't come here to leave us without blood and pain, and struggle defeat. He'll be trying to achieve his selfish objective.
Our enemy thinks that he knows much enough to repel the Ultramarines from this planet. He thinks that our weakness pushed us into defence. And what he should thinks for real?
I'll tell you, Brothers. He don't know about our glorious past - our expansions, honour and unity. He just cannot imagine the power of our Chaplain. He's not aware enough of our skills and experience. He think that we would surrender easily under his shout.
No, my Brothers! Whatever would happen, we shall stay on our ground. We will give our enemy nothing, but bolter and chainsword. Remaining by one strong force, we'll crush the enemy. But we need to stand united. In this dark hour, which'll check our faith and strength. Through this time, we are as one. As one mighty legion. As one mightiest legion. That so be the proper motivation and way of acting. We cannot fail the Chapter!
So be it, Brothers! On your battle stations!'
---- Space Marines - To Me, Brothers! ----

Corruption is in my blood

“The more corrupt the state, the more laws.”
----Publius Cornelius Tacitus quotes ----

Tradition and Culture, is it possible to abolish tradition and culture knowing the society have practiced it for eons?
For instance: Wedding Ring, Chinese New Year Ang Pao, Christmas Presents, Sunday Church Service, Respect the Elder. These practices were established long before you first drew your first breath. Other than rebels & fanatics, Hardly anyone would refrain you from practicing such traditions. After all, trouble is all they are looking for if they forbid you to practice practices which is so deeply fused in your life.

Ever wonder what happens if the government decides to ban Church Service? Naturally some people won't be happy about it and they would very possibly cause a huge drama. Even if the government insist on the ban, do you think people would just stop Church Service all together? No, they would probably do in the dark, in secrecy, close to the public view.

Now, try to imagine this. A society where bribery and corruption are commonly practiced. What happens if the government decides to crack down bribery? In a society where bribes are considered as gesture of goodwill, Could you break this culture that is so deeply ingrained and carefully preserved in the society?

I don't know about that, nor I have extensive knowledge on the dark world of corruption. But from what I gathered, a certain level of corruption is essential to maintain the working structure of a society. The way I see it, no current government system can totally wipe out corruption from a society. The most a government can do is to CONTROL corruption. After all, each of us has to protect our own interest by hook or by crook. If we do not, who else would do it for us?

Corruption. I do not think ill nor do I feel good about it.
What do you think about it?

Why the Grim Reaper work alone

"You can be a king or a street sweeper, but everybody dances with the Grim Reaper"
---- Robert Alton Harris ----

Ever wonder who makes the worst HR personnel? Its not the lazy, its not the incompetent, and it is definitely not those who rejected your job application. It is the grim reaper.

This is how I would imagine an interview between a human and a grim reaper.

"Morning Sir!"

"Living Flesh, have a sit. Your name is Kif yes? That is a rare name. Tell me more about it"

"Nah, it is just a made up name. I mean, I'm pretty sure you have interviewed millions of Aarons, Jamies, and Mary. I want to be different from other candidates and so I registered myself as Kif."

"Interesting! So tell me, what experience do you have with death?"

"Erm...not much. I mean, I graduated from Law. Unlike doctors engineers and false prophet, I don't get many oppurtunity to kill. The closest experience I have with death are a couple generation of dead ancesters"

"Thats ok. This is a niche business, We don't expect new hires to have experience, though suicide bombers will be given priority. Anyway, what your thought on mass genocide?"

"Erm.... I'm willing to get my hands dirty if there are promotions"

"Good. You are hired. Come on, let me give you a tour to Hell"


That is one scary conversation. I'd also imagine that it will no easy task to talk to an emotionless skull. Even if the scary skeletal structure doesn't scare you, perhaps the dark robe and the scythe will.

But I gotta warn you, never never ever shake the grim reaper's hand when you do get the job offer. Imagine an employee comes in for a job interview when they get the job, they shake the grim reaper's hand. There goes the new employee, well done human resources!

Speaking of the grim reaper, Would you want to have his job when you grow up?

Save something. Don't use unless its necessary

"Save a tree. Don't print this e-mail unless it's really necessary."
---- Anonymous ----

They are like dumb blonds, you see them everywhere. In emails, papers, next to xerox machine & printers. They are like parasites clinging on to every document.

Question is: How much paper can the world save from this? How many trees can you save?

Trees grow! It is a waste of space if we don't chop them down. We can never plant new trees if we don't chop down the old trees. And if we can't plant new trees, we get less paper. With all these restriction, the world will be short of millionaire tycoons who is in the destructive business of environment. Its a lose-lose situation.

Even if the tree argument is flawed, we have a thing called 'recycled paper'. I don't see how I can save any trees if all I'm using are recycled papers.

Don't mind me. I know its a flawed argument, but i couldn't refrain myself from mockery. I just had to make fun of trees, papers and the environment because its fun. But seriously kids, take my advice: "Save a tree. Don't print anything unless it's really necessary"

Which comes to my next point: The way I see it, this is just a start. I would anticipate similiar lines like these to appear more often in the future.

"Save the fossil. Do not use plastic bag unless it's really necessary"
"Save your time. Do not read this line unless it's really necessary"
"Save the economy. Do not save money unless it's really necessary"
"Save your effort. Do not wake up unless it's really necessary"
"Save humanity. Do not piss people off unless it's really necessary"
"Save Africa. Do not eat unless it's really necessary"

What other witty lines can you think of?

True or False? Money is the root of all Evil

"One injustice starts a thousand riots. One law stops a thousand crimes."
---- Lawbringer Creed, Lawbringer ----

The first thing that came to my mind when I read the quote above was: "Gosh, This is so true."
The second thing that came to my mind was: "Money is the root of all evil."

I may have puzzled your quizzical mind to why I thought of MONEY out of the sudden. After all, what connection does riots and law have with money? Some may even perceive me as an immature materialistic kid since money is the cause of all material things.

Really, money was what I was thinking as the quote sinks into my mind. Allow me to explain why:

"One injustice starts a thousand riots. One law stops a thousand crimes." Ever heard of the butterfly effect? A flap of a butterfly's wing causing a tornado in the other side of the world. In order words, one small little action may cause an occurrence of another unrelated event.

Just reading the words 'Riots' & 'Crimes' made me ponder about all evilness in general. I guess you can say that one negative word evokes another. I mean, look at those three words, Riot Crime & Evil, they are like sticks and glue, always together. Place the side by side and most would assume that they are triplets.

I am a man who is very much interested in the concept of bribery. When you mention words like 'Law' and 'Injustice', especially in one single sentence, bribery comes to mind. And like most bribery cases, money is one big factor.

Next comes the "One starts a thousand" concept. It suggest that you could trace similiar multiple events to one particular cause, the root of the tree. Combine this idea with the Evil and Money, what do you get?
"Money is the root of all evil"

So here I am fed with the quote: "Money is the root of all evil". And what do I do with it?
I Ponder....
Pause here and predict what kind of mind-blowing ideas I have to write below before you read any further. If you are any close to what I was thinking, you are GOOD!

*Think and see if you are thinking the same thing as I was*
*Ready to move on?*

Anyways "Money is the root all evil". I thought to myself, man, this quote is so damn vague. I mean, whoever came up with that quote "money is the root of all evil" is a damn freaking good. In my opinion, I think its a both a false and a true statement.

Wealth, the creation of money is not evil.
Greed, the selfish pursuit for money can possibly be classified as evil.
Destruction, to destroy the concept of money is definitely evil.

Money makes the world go round. Money is the root of all evil. Combine those two, you end up with this statement: "Evil makes the world go round", which is a total bullshit.

Money makes people happy. It is an essential thing to obtain in this modern age. With no money, you live in misery. I am aware that this doesn't apply to everyone, but i am pretty sure it applies to most people living in this era. Money is essential for survival. It is essential for a comfortable lifestyle. It an important ingredient to the pursuit of the legendary myth called HAPPINESS.

*Sudden Pause*
You know what, I take back on all the things I wrote. Happiness is a myth. Besides, who ever said you can't be happy and evil at the same time? Money is the indeed the root to all evil

(Note: If you are regular reader of my blog, I'm pretty sure that you are well aware that I'm out of blogging material. So, what better way to blog is there than to write out my thought process?")

Check out my other money-related post, Fireproof money

So what do you think? True or False?
"Money is the root to all evil"

Move along, Nothing to read over here

Anyone would assume that a great genius would heaps of mind-blowing ideas to share after a long disappearance act. After all, a genius wouldn't know how to spend his time other than exploring many of the mysterious thought provoking ideas.

As much as I would like to be that genius, I'm afraid to say that I no genus.....at least not now. I have no new ideas to share with you guys. Actually, what I'm trying to say is that, I won't have anything much to blog about. Scary thing is that this might last for a long time, perhaps maybe permanently.

I used to have great ideas back then when I was a blog-addict. Whenever I start to type, I couldn't stop composing. I would just go on and on and on until the keyboard breaks. I used to be GOOD!

I guess times have change. I've passed my prime, I've lost my writing touch. Now, I can't compose an article anymore. I couldn't even get pass the first paragraph. In fact, I couldn't even write a proper opening sentence. This article is an exception because this article alone took me 5days to write.

Sigh, there goes my career as a writer. How disappointing... Oh well, I guess I was never meant to the be one to revolutionize the world with words alone. Curse you, Fate!

Oh well, as how my friends console me "Think positive". I did, and I'm glad I that I can even compose this article.

Purple Rose

Other than a digital image, I have never receive, send, nor seen a real purple rose before. So there is no reason for me to think of a Purple Rose. But for some reason, my mind thinks of Purple Rose from time to time.

Sometimes the image of a Purple Rose is so strong in my mind that it is all that I'm thinking of. On rare occassion, the Purple Rose stuck to my mind so much so that I couldn't think of any other thing despite all effort to distract my mind. Power, Sex, Money, Temptation, Dreams, Ambition, nothing can get rid of this image. It is as if I'm a war orphan constantly haunted by the image of fire, ash and mutilated bodies. except the image haunting me is a potrait of a Purple Rose.

With it being annoying, naturally I had to break it down to small little pieces and find out why is this image apparent in my mind.
Purple rose = Purple + Rose
Purple = Colour of mystery
Rose = Flora; a flower usually used to symbolise love or a human connection

If those were my initial thoughts, then it is very likely that I'm subconciously drawn to anything that is related to a mysterious human connetion. A mysterious love perhaps. Mysterious Love.... Crush... Obsession... Infatuation... Those were the that strikes my mind when I think of the word 'Mysterious Love'.

Love...
Crush...
Obsession...
Infatuation...

These words mean little if an image of a person is absent. If I could only attach these emotions to a figure, a person, then perhaps I can finally solve the mysterious image of the Purple Rose. So, attach it to a person is what I did. I desperately went back at all the years I've lived. Starting from my career life to my uni life, on to my college life, even way back to my school days as my mind drifted to search for the girl whom I can attach these emotions to.

Remembering the past, I do remember an occurance when a girl mentioned that her favourite flower is purple rose. If I could just remember who that was. If I could, then perhaps I finally lift this curse out of my life. In spite of being a curse, I was rather hoping this turns out to be a blessing.

Purple Rose, If I could just remember who that was~~~~
.
.

Happiness v1

[Welcome back guys. I know I haven't been active in the blogosphere lately. Worse, I don't even know if I'll stay active in the blogosphere. Anyways, there is this article I've drafted exactly a year ago which I would love to publish it someday. Perhaps today is the day.]

Happiness is a very subjective issue. From what I observed, there are 2 general method of being happy

Method no.1
1) You see something I want. This thing will be able to make me happy as long as i have it.
When i have it, it gives me a sense of achievement, a sense of satisfaction & happiness.
Most people find happiness through this way.
In short, in your current state, you want something better.

Method no.2
2) I come across a sad story, or an experience of others that is far worse than what I'm experiencing now. (eg:Homeless people). It made me rethink of the things i take for granted and it makes me appreciate stuff more.
Though finding happiness through this way is very uncommon, but I think this way is more powerful method than method1.
You'll be contented knowing that you are far better of as compared to other people.
In short, in your current situation, you realize that you are in a far better position compared to most people.

If we take a scale of a ruler
0----5----10
10 being the highest happiness gauge and 0 being the lowest happiness.

We are at 5. If we get to 10, it gives us a sense of achievement. We feel happy.
We are at 5. If we get to know that there are people who are in 0, it makes us content that we have more than enough.

Inactive by lightning strike

Do you realize if it weren't for Edison we'd be watching TV by candlelight?
---- Al Boliska ----

My blog has been inactive for almost a month. Here is a list of things I could point my finger at:
- Mighty Thunderstorm
- Frail Modems
- Inferior Computer
- Lousy Service Centers

If you haven't got the hint, 3 modems and 2 desktop and my own personal laptop got smite by the MIGHT himself - THUNDERSTORM. Its a pity that my family doesn't believe in this primitive technology known as 'lightning arrestor'. Even after so many damage and after much persuasion, my family is only willing to allow ONE lightning arrestor to be in my living quarters.

It is not that they have a grudge against lightning arrestors. They are, however, biased against all things technological. Some may call it descrimination, but I prefer term: PREFERENCE. If possible, my family would prefer to move away from the chaotic world there are no loud surround speakers, UV emitting screens, cancer causing handphones, and the foul smell of burnt circuit logics. No, their perfect home can be described as a heaven with ample oxygen producing greens, a place where birds chirp with the stars brightly sparkles above their heads, and cooling breeze gently passing over the skin.

Well...you could argue saying that it is TECHNOLOGY that provides us light in the dark, cure in sickness, music when there are none, easy access to clean water, stomach satisfying instant food and graphics that stimulates pleasure. But to my family, the only good thing they claim that technology has brought them is ASTRO, malaysia's cable TV. Everything else technology-related is vile and evil.

My father has this cool quote hanging on the walls of his trophy room "Why do we have to submit ourselves to the belly of a clothing when we can be kings of the world?" I do not know where he got that from, but I think its a pretty cool quote. That just proves how much my family detest the material world which ultimately came from technology.

I could go on and spread more lies on how my family hated technology, but I had to stop just here mainly because they are lies. Everything written here is a lie. Well....everything except the fact that 1 laptop, 2 desktops and 3 modems got fried by lightning within 4 weeks. Which explains to why I haven't been blogging for a month.

Sigh...... Lightning...... Curse You!

Assuming everything here is a lie and nothing is the truth, why do you think I was inactive for so long?

Earth Hour 2009

"Hypocrites are those who pledge full loyalty to Earth Hour by leaving a blog comment at that precise hour"
---- 3POINT8 ----

Earth Hour 2009, the event at which people show their love to Mother Earth by switching off their household lights for an hour from 8.30pm till 9.30pm on Saturday, 28 March 2009.

This all started in Sydney and made such an impact that it has grown globally. We all know that reducing energy consumption reduces the amount of carbon put into the atmosphere. Therefore, it makes sense that every person who participates does make some difference! [Source]
Last year I joined Earth Hour 2008 by turning off whatever lights switches I can find. At that time, I was all alone in my room for an hour, so the only switch I managed to turn off: is my room's light switch.

Then I figured, this is a mighty good idea. Imagine how much electricity can be saved if a light bulb was turned off for an hour. You know how dream works, the more you indulge in it, the bigger it becomes. It wasn't long until my mind drifted to imagine how nice it would be if everyone supported this cause.

This year, I intend to join Earth Hour 2009. But this year, I'm going for the extra mile. Instead of just turning off my lights, I intend to turn off all my household appliance. Then I figured, I can do more than just this. If i am able to turn off my stuff, I should be able to lend a helping hand and assist less able people to do the same thing. So, this year, I'm switching off my neighbour's power supply for an hour whether they like or not.

I then came to realise that if a common citizen like me can do this much, a powerhouse like the government can do even more. So, I was thinking, what's gonna happen if suddenly the government decides to announce its full support to Earth Hour by switching off all major electricity generator in its country? That would be so cool! (OR distorted, depending on how you see it)

To those who are showing their support in Earth Hour 2009: remember it is only a painless hour. You can resume your daily habit of screwing up the planet until Earth Hour 2010 when you can do your bit for the environment again.

Either that, or you can use candles, lighter, fireworks (that is what Sydney used last year. Source) during Earth Hour and waste other valuable resource. So as long as you cutting down on your electricity consumption, I guess you can proudly say that you are pledging your support to Earth Hour.

On a more serious note, Earth Hour is designed for supporters to turn off non-essential lights. Its purpose is to battle climate change. Other than turning non-essential lights, can you think of any other actions you can do to show your support?
(Remember, I am monitoring my blogger-comment time-stamp. If I see anyone commenting during Earth Hour in my blog...........I will do nothing. Its not like I can do anything to you, yes?)

*Note: Do not attempt to go on a frenzy rampage to turn off light switches that is not yours to control.

Blogger United Blog Review: 3POINT8

"A bad review is like baking a cake with all the best ingredients and having someone sit on it."

---- Danielle Steel ----

Peer reviews are important as it is an indication to how well we are doing as compared to our peers. But whether is it a good indication is a debatable topic. I stumbled across this website which explores three myths about scientific peer review:
1) Scientists have always used peer review
2) Peer review is reliable
3) Peer review is the way we determine what’s right and wrong in science
Then again, this is no scientific review as my blog has recently been reviewed by Kelle. Check it out here at 3POINT8 BU Blog Review.

In point form, my blog has the following:
1) Mighty unique super niche URL
2) Lightning loading speed
3) Awesome beginning quotes
4) Thought provoking end questions
5) Updated timely
6) Catered for lazy people
7) Facts and information in its ultimate truth
8) Nice ogling Google pictures

Ok, so maybe those are not the exact words used by Kelle, but still, that is how you should interpret it because my blog is just that awesome. I deserve a million subscriber for this. (In blogger's terms: I deserve a freaking medal or 20 for this.)
You can increase my subscriber count by registering your email to my blog subsciption. [Click here to subcribe]

Do check out Kelle's blog @ http://www.kellemah.co.cc
[Btw, she is a big fan of The Sims 2. Could she be looking into starting a family? Perhaps she might interest you. Drop by her blog and get to know her.]

My heartwarm thanks to Kelle for reviewing my blog.

A review may be an indication to how well you are doing. How often do you like your work to be reviewed?

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[Top Comment by Tekkaus]
Now that really leave a lot to be thought of. =)