The Virtue of non-dilligence

Have been more relaxed lately and enjoying mundanities of life. Sometimes, the thought floated so far away that the mind lost it's senses. The moment of paralysis is simply marvelous. The virtue of dilligence is non-existence. Dilligence is a physical activity, Mental activity is not a physical activity but exercise of the mind.

What is the world without such exercise? The purpose of such exercise is to improve, and how can it be a non-virtue when the purpose is positive? Maybe the mind is too used to the rigidity of what is and what is not. Sadly, changes are required but feared.


Guru Osho wrote of what self-consciousness meant and i felt reassured by it.


Self-Consciousness


When you are self-conscious you are in trouble. When you are
self-conscious you are really showing symptoms that you don't
know who you are. Your very self-consciousness indicates that you
have not come home yet.
-----------------


Whenever you are self-conscious you are simply showing that
you are not conscious of the self at all. You don't know who you
are. If you had known, then there would have been no problem---
then you are not seeking opinions. Then you are not worried what
others say about you--- it is irrelevant! In fact, nobody ever says anything
about you--- whenever people say something about you, they are saying
it about themselves.
----------------


Nobody can say anything about you. Whatsoever people say
is about themselves. But you become very shaky, because you are
still clinging to a false center. That false center depends on others,
so you are always looking to what people are saying about you.
And you are always following other people, you are always trying
to satisfy them. You are always trying to be respectable, you are
always trying to decorate your ego. This is suicidal.
Rather than being disturbed by what others say, you should
start looking inside yourself. To know the real self is not so cheap.
But people are always hankering for cheap things.
It happened:


When the pain in Mulla Nasruddin's back became un-
bearable, he reluctantly went to a specialist to diagnose his
problem.
"Well," said the doctor, "your problem can be cured
by an operation, two weeks in the hospital and six months
totally horizontal."
"Doctor, I can't afford the cost of all that!" shouted
Nasruddin.
"Well then, for twenty-five dollars I can retouch the
X ray," suggested the doctor.


This is cheap! ---retouch the X ray--- but it is not going to make
you healthy. That's what we are doing, continuously retouching
the X ray and thinking that somehow the miracle will happen.
When you are decorating your ego you are retouching the X ray.
That is not going to help in any way, it is not going to help you
become healthy. It is cheaper ---no operation is needed, no expense
is involved. But what is the point? Your misery remains.
You become respectable and your misery remains. You be-
come highly praised by the society--- your misery remains. You are
decorated with gold medals but your misery remains. These gold
medals are not going to destroy your misery; they are like retouch-
ing the X ray. All decoration on the ego, for the ego, is nothing
but deceiving yourself. And you go on becoming weaker and
weaker and weaker because the ego goes on becoming weaker
every day. Your body will become weaker, your mind will become
weaker, and by and by the ego that you have created out of the
body and mind combination will become weaker. Fear will become
greater and greater; you will be sitting on a volcano that can any
day explode. It will not allow you rest. It will not allow you relax-
ation, it will not allow you any moments of peace.
Once you understand it then the whole energy is put into
another direction. One has to know oneself. One has not to be
worried about what others say about you.

The day many were washed away by the seaside

A beautiful morning and a disaster struck. Please rest in peace and let's pray together the day peace will reign. God bless.

No Surprises

They say life is full of suprises. What is not surprising is Utama's life for the past few years; leading a monotonous life pursuing a dream, which is unrealistic but necessary in the eyes of the beholder.

Born as a Prince, the obligations are immense. If there wasnt a period for thy to pursue my dreams, then when? Through this trying period, there were many obstacles, potholes, trials and tribulations. Basically, it's a tough time out there fighting a lone battle. The comforts were discovery of treasures and jewels, strengthening the armor for thy battle. Of course, there were good and bad times even in the worst of one's experience.

What is Surprise for? I reckon it's not for the faint-hearted, good or bad ones! HA!

Stress stress stress!!!

Utama is stressed. I have never been so stress in my life. After all, being a royalty allows me to enjoy the finer things of life(which i just realised how fine it is. haha.)

At this moment, i only wish to get over with it but the more i desire, the pressure becomes overbearing. Isnt it such a contradiction? Shouldn't it be the other way round as in feeling motivated?

Supposedly, this is a case of putting the mental to test on it's stress level. Maybe my stress threshold is too low. Hrmmmm...i think it is..

Alright. Probably good to up a few notches of it then!

Upgraded!!!

Yesterday, Farquhar came back from China and brought with him new invention. It's the wonderful technology of capturing moving pictures, PLUS sound!!! How great is that? Sadly, there are limits of using this technology due to restrictions imposed by the adminstration. I think we need to hold a meeting regarding this issue. In the mean time, enjoyz!

See thru

Today in the market, i saw this painting with people belong outside of this island, clueless of their origin. They look like human yet at the same time, dont seem human. When did human have wings? When did human has no flesh? Is it my imagination?
What i know is that the boys are very naughty!

Death, the Uncertainty.

Lord Death wont tell you when you are going to die, what your punishment would be, and what you will be after. Lord God admonished you to walk the right path to be on the same side after life.

Raffles told me that we need to be the main dominating adminstration in this tiny island for quick growth, whereas Farquhar said we cannot compromise growth with virtues because material gain is easier to achieve than moral gain. He continued, we cannot have a society that is heartless.

Duality. The Good and bad, the Bad and good. Which side would you like to be? Of course, the good side. But why, still, are people still heading to the bad side? Do they not have the mental capacity to differentiate between dualism?

Sometimes, we do not have a choice to choose between Heaven and Hell, it depends on the type of society, surroundings, and influences of the individual. For e.g. the child of a secret society leader who has to take over his position once he pass away in this traditional and conservative culture of the chinese. Even though the child has desire to practice virtues but surrounded by negative influences and having to learn the roles of the leader, how can he break free from the chains of his birth? Of course, there are many choices available but as a fillial son, he choose to respect his father wishes. Besides, isnt filial piety a virtue? So this son is perform an act of virtue but was judged by his non-virtue act. Hence, how do we judge a person's character correctly?

This is just an example of a one particular culture, but there are many different cultures in Temasek and in the world where they uses their own system to influence and judge. Therefore, what is Heaven and Hell? Which is the real one?

Certainty of Life

I was told that the only certainty in life is death but im still alive. Is Utama immortal? Does he wish to be immortal? What is the purpose of living when life is waiting for death? When, where, how, no one knows. But right now, i know im happy and contented, which is more important isnt it? Why think so far, right?

Unexciting world

Temasek is really a boring island. If not for my promise to learn management to my Papak, i would have left for a more exciting place. Everyday, i have to think of ways to increase excitement in my life, my surrounding, my world, and in fact that's what management is all about, except its benefitting the adminstration.

Hence, i think people like Leonardo are important. They present another side of the human facade and even increases it which diversify the general facade.

Having a young heart, there are still so much to explore and learn about management. I hope one day i can make this island an exciting place to live in.

God bless Temasekians!

Mona Lisa

Hrmmmm...I dont understand what so great about this painting except for the fact that the painter is well-known. Some say there are riddles in it, some say it's a great work of art. There are definitely different opinions and interpretations of this painting. But the question is: does it truly deserve the attention and fame?

Past or Future?

This morning at the beach, i found a bottle which contain a note inside and after reading it, i wonder when was it written as i only understand part of it. The concept and language it used was different, strange even. Anyway, here it is:

Cheem-logy. Here is mine, simple-logy:

I always remember this opening sentence by Ali G of one of his interviews and it goes,"I have rights, You have rights, do animal have rights?"

We can even ask further by asking," Do plants have rights?"

Oh well, i must cursed for my radical views again for it's totally off.

Rightfully, according to the social customs of many, right doesnt exist for its practices are which the strongest survive (sorry i dont have any example to quote but you guys should understand where im coming from cos we live in one!).

However, does it mean we should deny rights a place for our society? And yes, i am refering to Human Rights, not animal or plant.

Since the non-existence of Right have been air, i shall water the existence of Right.

Why should Human have Human Right?

Well...In the beginning, God created the heavens and earth, then light and separated it from darkness, then clouds, water, and land...and finally man and woman. After creating so many stuffs, i guess Human Rights must have been forgotten due to heavy workload and we shall not point finger of who is to blame. No one is to be blame. All we need is to create Human rights and tadaa, Human has Human Right. How simple isnt it.

Once we have Human Right, how shall we deal with it? Hrmmmm...take away others right, give away mine or we share?

a) when i take away your right, i win cause i have one more than you,

b) When i give away mine, i lose cause im have one lesser than others,

c) Sharing of right is a show of respect for each other regardless its position and hence, no winner or losers.

a) and b) are very much the way most of us behave in our society but not c). If c) approach is adopted, Human Right will exist.

Of course, these 3 options are too simplified, and/or general even but the choice is yours.

And let me end with a closing, rephrased, sentence of Ali G.

"I have Right, You have Right, Shall we share our Rights?"


;)

Bliss

Today, while reading, suddenly i felt the inner peace warm inside my heart, liberated from hatred of a dead man last wish being denied all in the name of religion. At the same time, this religion has also taught me to love. Thank you very much, C.

Follow the way?

Just now, Master Lil asked me,"Which one would you use to make decision: Heart or Mind?"

I stumbled and contemplated awhile for an answer, but couldn't give one...

Is there an answer?

String theory

This afternoon while playing around with the strings, i discovered an amazing theory. This is an simple but yet, can be complicated. Amazing right?

Well, this is my hypothesis: A string is a long straight line which if you jumble it, it can get extremely complicated, tangled. When in such a state, it would requires a lot of effort to untangle. Just imagine just a small act, you can cause much distress to your ownself.

Hence, if you apply it onto life. Similarly, if you dont handle your affairs well, you can also cause distress to yourself but others as well.

Ok. I have tangled the strings and now, i have to untangle. Only myself to blame and apologies if i have cause distress.

Bo-the-ring to-o ma-ch wit-h pee-ople

It's so easy when you read by the silly-ble, as you can see from the title. However, when you form them together into words, phrases then sentences. The meaning of it moves to another level, which depends on each to higher or not.

Frequently, the lack of understanding becomes a fear for being read as a silly-ble. As the word itself, Silly-ble, is self-explanatory, i shalln't explain any further.

Assumingly the silly-ble is not self-explanatory, what happen next? 2 As: Ask or Assume. Which is a tougher task? Former or latter? Latter right? Because it requires the functioning of the brain, which requires more energy than we even realise.

Strangely, the former is forsaken for good-ness sake(you know, we cannot look bad in the eyes of many, many). Why so? For-sake-n, you know, a-band-on for what? As simple as it is, for Silly-ble. Because being a silly-ble is as silly as it seems. Hence, pee-ople skip to words and phrases in order to be seem as a sentence, or sentences.

As confusing as it is, the sentence turns out incoherent but logical if imagination and common sense are put into use.

If you still dont understand the silly-ble, what should you do to understand? Many, many times, we forget. But, we live and learn, ah.

Mind bog-ling

Mind is so occupied that the only rest i get is short nap in-between. I even had dreams when i sleep!

It's little wonder how one can think of Mee Siam Mai Hum...mee siam mai hum?! When did Mee Siam have Hum in the first place! Needless to say, the sentence speaks for itself. I hope this person who thought of this wont be holding given big responsibilities. But you know, one mistake might actually do many many good-s.

Thorns Thorns, Skin Skin.

Raffles is such a pain in the ass. I told him Durian is the king of fruits but he said Grape.

I explained that Durian has a distinct and unique taste that none other fruits possessed, whereas grape taste pretty much alike Guava or Berries.

Then he claimed that im sprouting nonsense when i added that every durian is like the art of drinking wine.

He added how can eating durian be the same as drinking wine when one uses the hand to eat messily while the latter is such an cultured activity.

I said you cant based entirely on the physical approach because understanding and finding a good durian is not as simple as it seems. It takes skill, just like grapes and wine.

Look at the thorns! How can a fruit be delicious which look threatening? he retorted.

Well, you wont know if it's good or bad grapes untill you taste it. Small doesnt mean it's the best, you know.

Okok. I like my skins, you like your thorns. So be it. Dont bother me with your rhetoric. Everyone has their own preferences.

Ok...It all depends on perception. Some people say the cup is half-full, some say the cup is half-empty.

Malam luar biasa

Tonight is a night for me to remember for a long long time. Havnt had such a delicious dinner, great conversation, soothing music, beautiful night and a little experiment in a short span of time. What a night! Sweet!!

Gunjingan

Today, while sitting by the road-side stall, watching people. I asked Guru Ping,"Why do people gossip?"

"Because their hearts are empty."

I ponder.

Real

Some say Utama is not real, some say he doesnt exist at all. Some also say he is human too.

Suay di

Life is beautiful when it's full of, good and bad, surprises.

Another one

One more strikes and hit on Java this time. Why are the people still living there? The means to alert must be quickly install. Relocate them to a place safer for living.

Life is not cheap at all. If i can give certain material worth to a life, what is the point of living? Please, don't cheapen your life. Not everything in this world needs to be quoted.

Updating

You scored as Philosophy. You should be a Philosophy major! Like the Philosopher, you are contemplative and you enjoy thinking about the purpose for humanity's existence. Engineering 100% Philosophy 100% Theater 92% Mathematics 92% Journalism 92% Psychology 92% Sociology 92% Anthropology 83% Art 75% Biology 75% Linguistics 75% Dance 67% English 58% Chemistry 42% What is your Perfect Major? (PLEASE RATE ME!!<3) created with QuizFarm.com

A Full O

Went hunting at the western part, which is also hilly, and within, the highest hill in the island. It was quite a journey as up and down we trekked and through thick forest.

As Temasek is a very small island, a small area, comparatively with Palembang. Travelling from west to east would take a full day - sunrise untill sunset - by horse and slightly less from north to south, whereas it would require 3 full days from west to east in Palembang. Hence, having in mind the size of the island, i decided to venture into the area where it's most hilly. As the hills are where all the excitements are.

Upon reaching the hills, we hiked up the highest point for a panaromic view of the island. The furthest we could see would require travelling from sunrise till midday, also by horse. It's really a low hill. We were up in a jiffy, before i even break sweat. And seeing the high density on the north side from the hill, i decide to explore it.

Down we go and into the forest. After bashing through many many trees, i turned left without informing, as i thought my convoy would be closely following behind me, or at least haolian would. Apparently, i was wrong. None of them did, because they were busy helping each other to untangle from the torns, roots, and bush that wrapped around certain part of their bodies. With a knife in hand, i simply chop anything off in my way. Realising that i'm alone, i shouted but there was no response. I figured that the forest was too thick for any sound to travel far enough, at the same time not willing to backtrack for sighting a waterfall ahead of me. I continued, thinking my trail would lead them to me.

The waterfall was a small one with water falling, onto a flat rock, into the small circular pond. I took a mouthful of water and felt my mouth froze for a second. It was cold and refreshing under the hot sun. Seeing that it's only midday, i went for a swim and some waterfall therapy. I had such a great time that time passed unknowingly.

Feeling hungry, i went to search for food in my sack. It carries no food. Seeing the sun setting soon. I quickly dressed up and backtrack. But, i cant find the trail. This struck me hard that im lost. Decision decision decision. I decided to head back to the waterfall for the night and find my way out the next morning. This is only logical and rational. While trekking, i saw a banana tree and pluck some to satisfy the hungry stomach.

Darkness soon overwhelm my entire surrounding. It was pitch dark. I couldnt even see my hands. All i can hear is the sound of the waterfall, which was extremely soothing and fell asleep while listening to the it.

Then i heard a voice, it said and faded away, "Utama, you can have the kingdom but lose your soul. Behold of what is important and dont lose it. With kingdom, you control your territories. With soul, you have the respect of your people. Remember, each of us has it's limits. Act wisely."

Awaken by the croaking sound of the frogs, i look around but saw no one with the sun rising. It was only me, the frogs, the waterfall, the forest and the sun. I washed myself and find my way out of the forest by the flow of the stream. Soon after, i reached a village and back home safely. Everyone was worried back in the Istana but i assured them the everything is fine or even better, because i have found something i lost.

Perayaan?

Yesterday, i saw this strange man making lots of noise by using his utensils. They said he was celebrating. He is making music with it.

'That's great'
i thought,
and inquired,
"For what occasion?"

The man replied,
"My wife's death".

I had a shocked and asked,
"Why are you celebrating death and especially someone so close to you?"

He explained,
"The reason is because my wife is liberated from life's sufferings. To live is to handle problems, we aren't living if there are no problems. Hence, death is the liberation of all these problems, which are the main cause of life's sufferings."

I paused and contemplated.
Then asked,
"Don't you think it's cold-hearted?

"Cold-hearted? Why so?"
he rebuked,
and continued,
"Why should i be sad when i know that she would be in a happier place. This world we are living in are fighting everyday. Does it make you happy knowing it? Would it be a wonderful place to live where everyone is peaceful, helpful, sharing and hospitable. You may say that this is not possible. Everything is not possible if you think it's not. It's not possible because one never try, or try hard enough. The mind is one's greatest strength and weakness. You may also argue that human nature is selfish. True. Why? Because they aren't taught the proper values. Selfishness is one single factor that had lead to how our society function currently, which works under the basis of survival of the fittest. Just imagine, if people of the society practiced just one of the those values i mentioned, do you think it will make the place wonderful to live in? Would you want it? Would you love living in such an environment? If you don't, it shows what kind of heart you have - cold-hearted. Therefore, do you still consider myself being cold-hearted?"
,explained the man.

Astounded as i am but cannot denied his rhetoric even though it may be difficult to be accepted.

Followingly, he smiled and said these before he left,
"You are a hot-blooded, impatient man. The day when you see the moon in the eye, these temperaments will be under control."

Dumbfounded and thought,
"What a day for celebration!"

Earthquake eaRthquake!

When the earth quakes, the world standstill and there is peace for that period of time. This is the only time when people stop fighting and the effect of the aftershock is people begin to love each other. Love is something many are poor at. Why? Is loving so difficult?

I remember some chinese guy saying,' It takes 3 seconds to be evil, but 3 years to learn to be good'. Someone even said that 'The human nature is evil!'. However, what does love have to do with being evil and good? Nothing, i suppose.

Love is just love. To love is giving and to be loved is a blessing. So when the ground you are standing on are shaking, you know that love is on the way.

Baru Zona

After studying the town plan made by Raffles, i realised there is a need for a different zone. In the town plan, there are Malay village for malays, Little India for indians, Chinatown for chinese and Commonwealth for westerners. This clear segregation of races somewhat implied racialism in the society which is, also somewhat, undenialable. Hence, in order to bring these races together, a zone which is free for all races should be created. There shouldn't be a management by the central adminstrator, Farquhar. It should be manage freely by it's own district head, who is nominated by it's community.

However, there is one big problem. Will Temasekians be willing to live in an environment that is "race-less", which also mean culture-less? And, where should this zone be? Or maybe, should i wait for the poisonous gas from Gunung Merapi to exterminate all races before forming the zone for a single new race? But, am i still capable of forming the zone once the poisonous gas spread across the world?

Quake of change

The supreme law in this universe is nature; human law is insignficant for the fact that its controllable. The power of nature is unfathomable, unpredictable and irreversible. If humans are able to manipulate nature, would it still be the supreme law? Or maybe nature is not the supreme law in the first place? Or probably man's intelligence is higher than nature?

When the day nature is under the discretion of mankind, the knife sink deeper into the heart of the world. sigh.

The world is O

Yesterday, we had a coconut competition. It was called at the last minute. All thanks to Raffles, as usual, demanding one to be held on the day. I decided to go with him because of his arrogance. He seemed to have a secret recipe that guarantees a win. The competition was annouced to the public immediately. The news of the competition was spread like wildfire and the island is awakened, as it's the biggest competition of the island. All Temasekians will attend by hook or by crook.

The competitors are Haolian - my representative, Humble - Raffles's representative and Ham chee - Farquhar's.

The rule of the competition is to collect as many coconuts as possible within the given time, which is five minutes, in three rounds and put them in the allocated baskets. The coconuts will be spread throughout the field, and there are hundreds of them. The competitor with the most coconuts wins the competition.

Before the competition, each of the competitors is to make a speech to garner supports from Temasekians.

Haolian was the first. He walked up to the podium, and said,"Dear fellow Temasekians, I, humble servant of the Prince, would hope you will support me in this competition not because of my relation with the Prince but of my own ability. Please see me as an individual. I understand that i am the weakest, however i have a strong determination. I would fight till the very last amount of strength i could muster." Everyone cheered and I was proud of Haolian.

Then came Humble. He walked up confidently and said,"Hello Temasekians, I would like you all to support me because of my ability to win the competition. I have been training for months. As an unselfish person, I am willing to teach anyone who is interested to win by joining my school (However, everyone knows only the selected few will be admitted). Please give your support to me as i will defintely win." The cheering of the crowd was scattered and Raffles stood there beaming.

Lastly, it was Hum chee turn. Walking up nervously to the podium, he said softly,"My fellow Temaskians, i am Faruqhar's representative. My job is a coconut seller. I know nothing but coconuts. Thank you." Everyone knows his ability for he is definitely the best out of the three. Then Someone shouted,"Have a mind of your own!" and the other,"Don't be afraid!"

The first round will begin before the sunset as according to the custom of the competition. This is to signify optimism.

The empire went up to the small tower and this indicate for all competitors to get into position. Up at the tower, the empire hold out a coconut and drop it. All eyes were on the coconut. Immediately after it hit the ground, Humble dashed to collect the coconuts, followed by Haolian, then Hum chee. Humble was physically strong and was running explosively grabbing as many coconuts. When he saw Hum chee running pass him towards the basket, he kicked his leg, which caused it to hit the other leg and tripped. This served as a warning to him. Hum chee quietly pick himself up and walked towards the basket. Haolian saw it and ran up to the empire to complain about the incident. Sadly and coincidentally, he was distracted by some mob barking loudly behind him. Haolian continued and was determined to make sure he filled the baskets with coconuts to the brim.

First round ended with Humble having the most coconuts - 45, Haolian - 30, Hum chee - 22.

15 minutes later, all three of them went back to his position. Most of the people were supporting Humble after watching his raw performance.

Start of the Second round. This time, Haolian was out first followed by Hum chee. Humble was very confident that both of them won't be able to catch up knowing he is in the safety zone so he took his time. However, Haolian was determined and, Surprisingly, Hum chee began to increase his speed. Humble saw and waited for another chance to trip him. He signalled to his friends and they began barking at the empire. Then came the opportunity. He kicked his leg but Hum chee turned one round, balance himself and continue running. The crowd was delighted and cheered. Suddenly, everyone is supporting Hum chee and Haolian worked his ass off for this round.

At the end of round two, the score was: Humble - 55, Hao lian - 52, Hum chee - 48. This break lasted for half an hour.

Half an hour passed. All three of them were recharged, and charged up. Supporters started to chant their names. Humble supports decreased due to that tripping incident. Most of them switched to Haolian and Hum chee.

At the position, Hum chee said to himself,"My greatest enemy is myself. I have to overcome it!" Once the coconut hits the ground, off went Hum chee with the speed of a horse. Humble was struggling after 2 minutes. He knew he is going to lose if this continue. He signalled and one of his cronies began to throw rocks at Hum chee. The rest started barking as usual. The empire saw rock being thrown at Hum chee. He shouted for him to stop but his voice was drowned by the barkers. Hum chee wasnt intimidated by the rocks. He avoided the rocks with his agility and speed. The crowd saw the injustice and unfairness which would be an insult to their diginity if no action was taken. They surrounded the rock-thrower and hurl him back to the end of the crowd. He was totally blocked and his cronies didnt even rescue him. They simply continued barking like an obedient dog. So he decided to throw from afar, out of sight, the rocks fell onto Humble instead. One of them even hit his head. He fumed and signalled for the end of it. Hum chee saw the support given by the crowd and was highly motivated that he doubled his speed matching a cheetah. Humble also increased his speed. Haolian was as determined not to fall behind.

'Gong~'gong~'gong~'

End of round three. The empire went to the baskets and started counting. To ensure equity, he had three guards stationed at each competitor allocated baskets. By the way, the empire is none other than Justice Bao himself and the guards are ordinary Temasekians. The reason for hiring ordinary Temsekians because he trusted their integrity and ability and believed they are equally capable as the mercenaries even though they had not attended school.

Once the counting was completed, he walked to the podium. Up on the podium, with the competitors behind, Justice Bao announced,"The final result of the Coconut competition with the total number of coconuts by Humble is 66, followed by Haolian is 65, and Hum chee 78! Hence, i declare the winner is Hum chee!" Everyone jumped for joy. One shouted,"Humble is beaten into a pie!" Everyone laughed and jeered at him. This struck me that the crowd is actually supporting Hum chee deep in their hearts and truly believed of his ability. It was a beautiful moment for i have not seen such genuine joy of people of all ages.

Guru Jeya came beside and said,"Look at the night sky. The cresent moon is shining brightly together with six bright stars. Shall we make it the symbol of Temasek?" I smiled and agreed.

Dream come true?

I had a dream that the pigs lost the battle against other animals in the farm. It's a good sign.

The brain with no brain

What do you do when you see a wall in front?

I hurt myself most of the time.

Sleeping beauty

Wouldnt it be great that one can function well without the need for sleep?

lasreveR

tsaL thgin ta ohsO, i was a puorg fo sdik gniklaw sdrawkacb. tI kcurts em tahw fi ruo hcaorppa fo gnivil si sdrawkcab oot, morf dlo ot gnuoy; decneirepxe ot ecneconni; morf etihw riah ot kcalb riah. t'ndluoW taht eb ecin? I kniht os.

oT eid ta eht ega fo ecneconni, suoivilbo ot eht dlrow seitixelpmoc. enO, eid ni ecaep! Sweet! oops. haha ;P

Di zona

The Importance of a Count

During the meeting in the afternoon, i told Raffles and Farquhar about my thoughts about the child-following-thing and his reaction was one of unsatisfied and furious - for god knows what reason. I think it's probably due to his lack of that he is furious. Farquhar wasn't please but was pleasant.

I said "This issue is not as simple as it seems because Temasek is a multi-culture society. The minangkabaus has a matrilineal system, while most of the other races have a patriarchal one, so We can't decide as we wish even though we are the adminstrator of this island. We need to respect people beliefs"..."unless you can convince them to agree with you", murmured Farquhar. "Yea, that's right", exclaimed Raffles. "Convince them!" he shouted. Farquhar slapped his forehead, regretting what he just said and rebutted,"Isn't the act of convincing also an act of not respecting their beliefs?" "How ethical are you, Raffles", he snared. "Farq, I don't care about ethics or morals. I'm a business man. I'm pragmatic and ensure the existence of my profits.". "Who says a businessman can ignore ethics or morals?" refuted Farquhar. He continued,"Ethics and morals are about dealings with people regardless of the transaction. Do you think people would still continue to do business with you if they realise the lack of ethics or morals?" "Well, if i am the only supplier for that particular demand, do you think they would continue to do business with me?" Raffles replied smugly. Farquhar argued,"In this case, do you mean you can do as you please and yet they will continue to do business with you even the prices are ludicrously priced, since you are in a demanding position?". "Well...it depends." Raffles replied softly. Seeing that the topic is digressing, i interrupted,"The issue here now is whether who the Child should follow, the father or mother, and not business and ethics". Then i suggested,"Why dont we vote?". "Good idea!" both acknowledged. "when shall we vote?" Farquhar asked. Raffles proposed,"At the dining table in my mansion" "NO", shouted Farquhar and continued "Utama, you decide". After some contemplation, i proposed,"Evening at the Padang?" "Awwwww" Raffles groaned and said," it's hot and crowded there, can we choose another place?" I answered,"The crowd is the main reason why i proposed the location. We need witnesses and they are our witnesses. Besides, we can go for some satays afterwards. It's nearby." Farquhar agreed without much thought.

As we know, Farquhar and Raffles has their own position but not me. I'm still undecided and, more or less, neutral. After the meeting, Raffles came over after he saw Farquhar left. He said,"Utama, if you support me, i will give you 20 percent of my profits." I replied,"Huh", "Ok. 25 percent?" He bargained. I said,"It's not about money, Raffles. I have to be fair to Farquhar and respect this voting system. It's a matter of principles". "Oh c'mon, I will give you 35 percent of my profits and that is the furthest i can go. Don't push your luck." he said. "It's not about money, Raffles...It's principles." I defended. Then he threatened,"Ok, fine. You just becareful in future. What goes around comes around.", "Yes, i will..." I replied and he left. Knowing that he will try to influence the voting committee members, i requested only the head of the ballot to be solely in-charge of the balloting without anyone knowledge. With one person handling this balloting, rigging would not be possible as the positions of four of us are clear. Any discrepancies are easily identified and traced. Besides, the head is a man of honor, who is well-known for his impartialness, and he is none other than Bao Gong - Justice Bao, the Black-face Magistrate.

Evening came and while i was walking towards Padang, Farquhar appeared in front of me and said,"Utama, I know you are a man of principles but that doesnt mean you are ethical and moral. I hope you are fair and true to yourself when you vote. Don't be sway by others' influences." I nodded and begin contemplating the consequences of my vote to either sides and made a position.

People started to crowd at the middle of the field where the ballots was set up by our independant voting committee. The judiciary is in-charged of the committee, which provided an impression of fairness and justice.

Once Bao Gong announced the start of the balloting, people begin shouting support for Raffles and Farquhar. As expected, they cast their votes into the respective box. When my turn came, people were shouting, requesting my support to Farquhar or Raffles. I just kept quiet and walk straight to the box i have decided.

Immediately after i casted my ballot, Bao Gong went in to confirm the votes. After awhile, he came out. Everyone kept quiet and looked at him. He then announced,"With respect of the votes counted from the independant voting committee, the decision regarding the Child following the Father or Mother is non-conclusive as all three boxes contained one ballot each. Hence, the Child is not obligated in any circumstances, by law, culture or practice, to follow the Father or Mother regardless of race. Hearby, i declared the decision held as conclusive unless further appeal". The reaction from the crowd was of relief and disappointment. I guess no one really wanted to change the current way of living and questions struck me: Is changes really so detestable? Why are people so replusive and fearful of changes? Why? WHY!?!?

Emptiness of the Mind

After some time of pondering about the previous question, i figured that whether the child is to follow the father or mother depends on the idealogy of the creator regardless common sense or biological evidence is applied. It only matter how people, practices and problems will be affected. No one really cares of the child following the father or mother, one only knows whether which is best for them.

So why bother? Only the stupid bothers about something no one cares, the intelligent one just live their life happily away, indifferent to their surrounding.

Which line?

Had a long meeting today. It's the longest meeting in the shortest notice. Raffles came storming into my room and demanded i call for an urgent meeting, which was against the procedure but i decided to go against the norm.

The normal procedure is to give one day notice according to management practice and our offices being located in different locations - which was rather impratical as the locations are within 5 km distances, and there are only 3 of us for the meeting: myself, Raffles and Farquhar. So you can see why i went against the norm...sometimes there are just too many redundant and incomprehensible procedures that affect the efficiency of management. Sometimes, we just love making illogical rules or follow them blindly.

Anyway, the meeting was commenced in less than one hour. Farquhar came immediately once informed. The reason for this meeting was to discuss 'Who should the child follow between the Father and Mother?' Some say father, some say mother, i say it's a dilemna. Ok, let's look at the process of the creation of child. We shall look at the father first, no particular preference but because the word 'father' begins with the alphabet F which is before M. Don't say im bias.

Father, the male gender, usually masculine, extroverted, thinking and demanding, possess the pole, when harden, becomes the exit for the tadpole to find it's home in the watery cave.

Mother, the female gender, usually feminine, introverted, emotional and possessive, possess the crevice of watery cave which has many homes for the tadpole to choose. However, only when the pole enters into the crevice can then the tadpole be able to choose the many homes and once selected they will base on the side of the watery cave and derive energy for growth till the cave is too small - however this process can be unsuccessful and at times generate more that it could.

Now the main issue is "the figure", not the tadpole, which we shall call it the child. By the way, the tadpole will grow into a figure at home. For a he or she, normal or abnormal, is not for the father or mother to decide, nature is the decision-maker.

Raffles said the child should follow the mother because she possess the watery cave which is the source of energy for the tadpole to grow at home for the period before its entrance to the world.

Farquhar said the father because it is a dangerous world outside the watery cave and he have to brave obstacles to find food for their survival and also protects them from harms way, as in the strong shall protect the physically weak.

Raffles argued that without the mother, there will be no home for the tadpole to derive the energy from the watery cave to grow, which made perfect sense as the father is unable to provide that function.

However, Farquhar rebutted that without the tadpole, the homes will be empty and thus redundant. This make sense too.

While both of them made logical senses, i was thinking what if they can take turns to manage the watery cave. Hrmm...interesting...

Let's not digress. From here, we can see that both of them has their own strengths and weaknesses, and purposes. They are dependant on each other. So how will they survive on their own? How will the species of man, Homosapiens, grow? Which species will be the majority if not mankind? How will earth look like then? Questions upon questions, but there aren't the one i'm asking now.

As you can see, i'm in a dilemna even after such a long discussion. I just wish an answer will appear...

Gado Gado

Food food food food is all my brain is occupied with and why is this so? when my stomach is full, the brain is unoccupied.

Are these two organs in conflict with each other?

Leben

Life, what is life? Sometimes i wonder what am i living for because death is how our life is going to end. So what is the point of living since we know that once we die whatever we have done will not be remembered, unless we do get a chance to be recorded of our deeds or sins but will it be true or use to the benefit for a certain purpose?

Questions questions questions. Utama just have too many questions lately. Guess he is still a boy at heart as much as he hate to be a grown man. But self-denial is being escapist, reality still govern the way you lead a life.

Reality and Ideal, which one would you choose?

Membalik

Today in the market, overheard someone saying what if we live our life from old to young; reverse the current mode of living? Interesting!

A piece of paper

I found this piece of paper with drawings of a human and she looks blissful. I wonder how the real person actually look like.

5 Pengertian

Everyone has the basic 5 senses: Sight, Sense, Smell, Sound and Taste, whereas some extraordinary people have 6, the extra one: mental. Within these 5 senses, which one would you rather not keep if you have to lose it?

Out of palace

This visit back home to nenek had gave me some insight into the grassroot of our magnificient empire.

Nenek was as strong and healthy as she has been. Doing well and she can't wait to carry her great-grandchild. Yea, that's what you would love to see when you are of an age especially seeing all of her grandchildren grown up and married. A great-grandchild in her arms would be real sweet. I am not of that capability but my cousin is.

Speaking of my cousin, he went back to pay a visit to my nenek at the same time as myself. What a coincidence! So with him back, i knew i can sneak out to see the world beyond mine.

I told haolian, my assistant, to get me some common clothes and i left the palace immediately.

I took out my map and decided to head north towards Bukittinggi, where it is 930metres above sea level. And so i travelled hours in our Benteng before reaching. Once up at the top of the Bukittinggi, i felt my nose blocked and had difficulty breathing. It was rather irritating and disturbing but luckily only for a short while.

Bukittinggi is a busy town bustling with activities, unlike temasek. It's full of life! There are people everywhere, students, hawkers, young adults, aunties, uncles, grandfathers and mothers, and of course, children. Basically, almost everyone is out in the town making money, shopping for basic necessities, or chatting. From the town, i can see Gunung Merapi and Gunung Singgalang, the former an active volcano and the latter dead.

According to history by a local whom i spoke to, Gunung Merapi is worshipped by the very first people who came to this land from India 2500 years BC. There were five families and thru years, the population grew. I wondered why didnt they worship Gunung Singgalang as well. This is a question without an answer cause who will know what the very first people are thinking of, unless we can communicate with them directly thru any kind of medium possible. Otherwise, it's all speculation without actual fact but i shall leave it as it is and respect the wishes of the very first people.

While walking around the town, i chatted with numerous locals and they all complained about the poor system in place in this empire. They can systematically describe how corrupted the governance is. I never thought these people understood anything since they are worrying about meals everyday. I thought they wouldn't have the time or strength to think. All of these were told by my bapak. My bapak said, when people are struggling to survive, they don't bother with politics. He is dead wrong. In fact, they will find out the very reason that are causing their misery because how can life goes wrong when you are doing the right things. Hence, i concluded that the best governance is the one that brings meals to the table; satisfying the very basic needs of human. Without food, people will grow discontent and detest the very people who are in control.

After realising the truth from the lie of my bapak, i am sadden by the dishonesty of someone so close to me. I felt betrayed. Why did he have to lie? Maybe it's better not to know so much. Just live the life that is destined for you.

Sumatra

Time flies. I have been in Temasek for 10 months. Tomorrow, i'm going back home to visit my Nenek. I missed her. She is the strongest woman i ever know.

Pengertian

I can sense war coming from my Middle of East

Heart bleeding?

The painter name this painting 'Heart Bleeding', and i dont see it bleeding. I can feel mine though.

What is wrong with artists? They seem to be a bunch of confusing people, difficult to understand. Can't they make life simpler? I certainly wish so for mine.

Anyway, i'm planning a short trip back home. I miss home.

Utama, ohhh Utama

What is happiness? Is it some kind of extreme emotion or is it ordinary? What is it that make one happy? To be able to live the life one desired, or to live through life rollercoaster uncertainty?

Guru Chicksentmehighee describes it as "being completely involved in an activity for its own sake. The ego falls away. Time flies. Every action, movement, and thought follows inevitably from the previous one, like playing jazz. Your whole being is involved, and you're using your skills to the utmost."

Is he sure that happiness is of what he described?

I think happiness is a heightened state of being, like you feel very different and genuine, real you know.

I heard of this theory called 'Reverse Psychology'. It means that you do something opposite of what you desire. So when i want to be happy, i should make myself sad. It makes sense right? But then when i am happy and sadness is undesirable, can i be not be sad? However, this is a situation where i should be happy cause i'm sad, happy to be sad. And it make sense, no?

God. Just these two state of emotions can create a whole fuss about living. Everyone wants to be happy, can it happen?

Is this a better way to live?