Its a wonder how come some people make decisions with consulting others... A & B decided to go on trip. A promised someone that A & B will join them on diving trip with consulting B. B got fed up but compromise... Later on, it seems someone decided to go somewhere or different timings...
Then, A decided that A & B will accompany D in some parts of the trip, without consulting B AGAIN... Its a wonder why some people make decision with discussing with others...
Saturday, June 5
Monday, March 29
Awakening Moment???
Had quite a disturbed weekend.
Last fri, the P disclosed who are the promotees. I was not one of them. Frankly speaking, I was expecting to be one of them. Last year, i wasnt one of them and was quite disturbed by the fact that those with degress got their promotion eralier than me, though I did more than them. Even one of my fellow NIE classmate, three years older than me, got his promotion last year. This weekend, with disappointment, i spent quite a deal time pondering over my actions and deeds for last year.
True enough, i had a parent complaint and i didnt follow the SOW. And I thought that affected my promotion. Though indirectly, it didnt affect my promo, it still did in my PB.
E and S said something this evening that suddenly struck me. They said that I need to present myself as more mature and speak appropriately at times. Think this is what people say as grow up. I think its in my character that I belong to the more child-like type. Even as a leader, I would protray some child-like charateristics. When I led my team of adults to Laos this year, I also had a difficult time trying to be serious. Had a bit of difficulty. Had to act more mature and had to think a lot so as to let people entrust confidence in you. Not that I was super sucessful, but at least I tried. S also mentioned that i should stop my child-like manners.
Haiz... Think this is what they call grow up... Think its about time for me to grow up... Bye bye, Matthew...
Last fri, the P disclosed who are the promotees. I was not one of them. Frankly speaking, I was expecting to be one of them. Last year, i wasnt one of them and was quite disturbed by the fact that those with degress got their promotion eralier than me, though I did more than them. Even one of my fellow NIE classmate, three years older than me, got his promotion last year. This weekend, with disappointment, i spent quite a deal time pondering over my actions and deeds for last year.
True enough, i had a parent complaint and i didnt follow the SOW. And I thought that affected my promotion. Though indirectly, it didnt affect my promo, it still did in my PB.
E and S said something this evening that suddenly struck me. They said that I need to present myself as more mature and speak appropriately at times. Think this is what people say as grow up. I think its in my character that I belong to the more child-like type. Even as a leader, I would protray some child-like charateristics. When I led my team of adults to Laos this year, I also had a difficult time trying to be serious. Had a bit of difficulty. Had to act more mature and had to think a lot so as to let people entrust confidence in you. Not that I was super sucessful, but at least I tried. S also mentioned that i should stop my child-like manners.
Haiz... Think this is what they call grow up... Think its about time for me to grow up... Bye bye, Matthew...
Saturday, March 13
MINDS Family Day
Today was YEP ten year anniversary celebration. To commemorate this day, they had a Service Learning marathon which i participated.
I went to Fernvale Minds to help out in their Family Day.. Reach there at 10am to help set up the place. Went for lunch only at 1215pm.. Instead of catering lunch for us, they gave us $3 to let us decide what we want to eat.. Haha... This decision was so much the better...
Returned at 1pm to continue to see what we can do... The participants arrived at around 130pm... Though they were much what i expected, i was overwhelmed too..
Some of them were highly functional, which i think can jolly well take care of themselves in daily activities.. But what about those major decisions in life ? Are they able to make decisions ?
Come to think about it... What about those who are worse ? I see some who are already greying at the sideburns, but still holding on tightly to their ageing mother's hand. As much as the mother might be walking with a slight tremble, the mothers still worry about their son/daughter's next school day programme and stuff.. 天下父母心...
天下的父母一辈子为儿女操劳。他们何时才能放下这个重重的负担，享受天伦之乐，想清福呢？一生的儿女债，何年何月何日才能还清呢？
I went to Fernvale Minds to help out in their Family Day.. Reach there at 10am to help set up the place. Went for lunch only at 1215pm.. Instead of catering lunch for us, they gave us $3 to let us decide what we want to eat.. Haha... This decision was so much the better...
Returned at 1pm to continue to see what we can do... The participants arrived at around 130pm... Though they were much what i expected, i was overwhelmed too..
Some of them were highly functional, which i think can jolly well take care of themselves in daily activities.. But what about those major decisions in life ? Are they able to make decisions ?
Come to think about it... What about those who are worse ? I see some who are already greying at the sideburns, but still holding on tightly to their ageing mother's hand. As much as the mother might be walking with a slight tremble, the mothers still worry about their son/daughter's next school day programme and stuff.. 天下父母心...
天下的父母一辈子为儿女操劳。他们何时才能放下这个重重的负担，享受天伦之乐，想清福呢？一生的儿女债，何年何月何日才能还清呢？
Wednesday, March 3
Random Thoughts....
Was on bed just now thinking about things ive done last year... Suddenly think my PB this year will be quite low ba...
Sunday, February 28
Leaders Gathering
Went for the YEP Leaders gathering yesterday night. Haha.. To say its a leaders gathering is a bit too far stretched, cos onli 7 of us turn up. The other two who turned up are Aaron's friend and wife. But nevertheless, we had a great time.
This time round, our gathering is at Civil Service Club (Bukit Batok). Its a club hidden on the slope of Bukit Batok. Upon reaching inside, its like a resort away from the hustle of the busy Singapore life, except that you can still see some high-rise HDB flats not far away. We went to book the treehouse there. Quite a nice place to have a gathering.
This is the small treehouse that we booked.
This is the BBQ pit. Got two somemore. Actually got one more bt the person in-charge says that one is for rainy day purpose as it is a movable BBQ pit. But two BBQ pits re more than enough already la..
Cloer look into the treehouse
This is wht you will see when u look down from the treehouse....
The person that coordinated this outing (Reservation and stuff but sucks at BBQ food)
The Professional fire starters at work.
Fire Starters cum Chefs at work with two eye power people at the back.. :)
As to all New Year gathering, gambling will always take place. So here's evidence to our fav hobby. Even during our training in Pulau Ubin, we also play this during our free time (during and after dinner).
As the place close at 11pm, we proceed on to Mac @ AMK Park... All 8 of us were there.... playing cards as usual..
This time round, our gathering is at Civil Service Club (Bukit Batok). Its a club hidden on the slope of Bukit Batok. Upon reaching inside, its like a resort away from the hustle of the busy Singapore life, except that you can still see some high-rise HDB flats not far away. We went to book the treehouse there. Quite a nice place to have a gathering.
This is the small treehouse that we booked.
This is the BBQ pit. Got two somemore. Actually got one more bt the person in-charge says that one is for rainy day purpose as it is a movable BBQ pit. But two BBQ pits re more than enough already la..
Cloer look into the treehouse
This is wht you will see when u look down from the treehouse....
The person that coordinated this outing (Reservation and stuff but sucks at BBQ food)
The Professional fire starters at work.
Fire Starters cum Chefs at work with two eye power people at the back.. :)
As to all New Year gathering, gambling will always take place. So here's evidence to our fav hobby. Even during our training in Pulau Ubin, we also play this during our free time (during and after dinner).
As the place close at 11pm, we proceed on to Mac @ AMK Park... All 8 of us were there.... playing cards as usual..
Wednesday, February 24
Tugging
Juz finished sch Student Council Investiture. At the investiture, our ex-principal went to support her niece, who is also our student...
Upon seeing her, I suddenly felt like missing her. I didn't work with her for long, only abt 1 year, on & off.. When she recieved the sounding round of applause to welcome her back to school, I felt tears welling up, which I immediately controlled.
Why do I feel this way ?
Upon seeing her, I suddenly felt like missing her. I didn't work with her for long, only abt 1 year, on & off.. When she recieved the sounding round of applause to welcome her back to school, I felt tears welling up, which I immediately controlled.
Why do I feel this way ?
Monday, February 15
CNY & Valentine's Day
Coincentally, Valentine's Day fell on the First Day of the lunar new year this year.
Wanted to get a bouquet of flowers for dear. Went to a nmber of florists but think they were too expensive. Then on fri, i pass by the flower shop at the market near my school. Went to check it out and the florist pass me a brochure. One design caught my sight and i went to ask how much. The auntie said $80. I found it too ex and hence, put down the brochure and wanted to go off. Seeing tat i was about to leave, the auntie asked hw much was my budget. I said $50~60. She then said o la, $60, $60 lo... Can u imagine? 11 roses, she mentioned $80 and then reduced to $60 within a matter of seconds. Wow... How much do they earn during Valentine's Day? But ok la... Since i sid $60, then $60 lo.. Never bargain further... Moreover, they are open on 1st day of CNY....
On CNY first day, went to Grandma place fr lunch then went dear's house. Stayed there for a whle then it was a mad rush to the florist, AMK Hub to buy a cake for dear as well, then went back home to get the gift, delivered it to Slivery Moon and went back to to fetch dear..
Though it was a mad rush, it was worth it. We enjoyed the night thoroughly and even had time for a stroll along Pasir Ris beach.Then sat by a beachside cafe, enjoying the cooling sea breeze and having a drink. Throughly enjoy... Then went to KBox to sing...
Though i didnt spend much as compared to previous Valentine's Days, but i throughly enjoyed it. I bought her a couple bracelet and she bought me a diving watch... I mentioned that i wanted to get one in November last year and she actually remembered till now... Truly touched. We spent some precious time together, in a simple natural enviroment, with precious unforgetable moments.
Wanted to get a bouquet of flowers for dear. Went to a nmber of florists but think they were too expensive. Then on fri, i pass by the flower shop at the market near my school. Went to check it out and the florist pass me a brochure. One design caught my sight and i went to ask how much. The auntie said $80. I found it too ex and hence, put down the brochure and wanted to go off. Seeing tat i was about to leave, the auntie asked hw much was my budget. I said $50~60. She then said o la, $60, $60 lo... Can u imagine? 11 roses, she mentioned $80 and then reduced to $60 within a matter of seconds. Wow... How much do they earn during Valentine's Day? But ok la... Since i sid $60, then $60 lo.. Never bargain further... Moreover, they are open on 1st day of CNY....
On CNY first day, went to Grandma place fr lunch then went dear's house. Stayed there for a whle then it was a mad rush to the florist, AMK Hub to buy a cake for dear as well, then went back home to get the gift, delivered it to Slivery Moon and went back to to fetch dear..
Though it was a mad rush, it was worth it. We enjoyed the night thoroughly and even had time for a stroll along Pasir Ris beach.Then sat by a beachside cafe, enjoying the cooling sea breeze and having a drink. Throughly enjoy... Then went to KBox to sing...
Though i didnt spend much as compared to previous Valentine's Days, but i throughly enjoyed it. I bought her a couple bracelet and she bought me a diving watch... I mentioned that i wanted to get one in November last year and she actually remembered till now... Truly touched. We spent some precious time together, in a simple natural enviroment, with precious unforgetable moments.
Thursday, February 4
So Frustrated.....
I just dont understand some people.
We make the effort to try to organise some convenient lunch for others, so that they dont eat the same thing over and over again. Then they comment that its too expensive and eating so expensive stuff is like 对不起those who are living in poverty. Then there are others who question you why they paid so much and why is the food still not nice to eat? Why am I willing to suffer the brunt of it all? Is it that next time we just don help the teahers order anymore and just leave all of us to think of what to eat for their own lunch? Is that how people will be happy?
Another question. Why do parents send their kids to school if they are so scared that their little precious will get hurt because their classmate push them, have a few scratches because they climb out of the drain, soccer is too rough a sport.. If they are so scared of that, why don't they just keep the boy in school and do home schooling and they can treat their little precious at home and wrap him all up in bubble wrap so that he doesn't get hurt wherever he goes.
If you need to accompany him to camp so that you can protect him, then DONT sent him to camp. What is the purpose of having a camp? It is so that the boys can bond and go through some 'tough' times' together and learn how to become resilient. If you restrict your child to so called vigorous activites,don allow him to climb the SAFE treetop trail and let him miss the chance to go through something to toughen him up, then keep him at home with a leash.
Beter yet, keep your precious darling in a safe so that he can be safely locked up in your care so that YOUR PRECIOUS DARLING will be safe and sound and NEVER GROW UP!
We make the effort to try to organise some convenient lunch for others, so that they dont eat the same thing over and over again. Then they comment that its too expensive and eating so expensive stuff is like 对不起those who are living in poverty. Then there are others who question you why they paid so much and why is the food still not nice to eat? Why am I willing to suffer the brunt of it all? Is it that next time we just don help the teahers order anymore and just leave all of us to think of what to eat for their own lunch? Is that how people will be happy?
Another question. Why do parents send their kids to school if they are so scared that their little precious will get hurt because their classmate push them, have a few scratches because they climb out of the drain, soccer is too rough a sport.. If they are so scared of that, why don't they just keep the boy in school and do home schooling and they can treat their little precious at home and wrap him all up in bubble wrap so that he doesn't get hurt wherever he goes.
If you need to accompany him to camp so that you can protect him, then DONT sent him to camp. What is the purpose of having a camp? It is so that the boys can bond and go through some 'tough' times' together and learn how to become resilient. If you restrict your child to so called vigorous activites,don allow him to climb the SAFE treetop trail and let him miss the chance to go through something to toughen him up, then keep him at home with a leash.
Beter yet, keep your precious darling in a safe so that he can be safely locked up in your care so that YOUR PRECIOUS DARLING will be safe and sound and NEVER GROW UP!
Sunday, December 20
First Day at Phuket
Reach Phuket at 2pm (Thailand Time), however, only reach accomodation at 4pm.
First Impression, like a lazy Malaysia town at first. But, when near to Patong Beach, the scene comes alive.
Night time should be more happening. Can see people setting up night market. Shall go check it out now.
First Impression, like a lazy Malaysia town at first. But, when near to Patong Beach, the scene comes alive.
Night time should be more happening. Can see people setting up night market. Shall go check it out now.
Tuesday, December 1
Going out with my tuition Kid
Went out with Darris today.
I have taught Darris ever since he was Primary 4. I still rmb when i first saw him, he was slithering on thbe floor,acting like a snake. Hahah... How time flies.. Now, he had already finish PSLE and looks down on childish behaviour.
He scored very good results with all As and Distinction in Mathematics! As a reward, I decide to treat him to something good. Hence, with his mum's permission, I brought him out for a movie.
However, upon reaching The Cathay, he cant find a movie that he wanted to watch. He suddenly suggested Arcade... Hhahah... Kids, being Kids. Hence, brought him to Downtown East to play at the huge arcade there...
I bought a $10 card and we went to survey the ground. It was mediocre and only a few games that both of us are interested in. Competed in a car racing game and i lost!
Next, we found a game that uses a lot of force and can vent watever you have inside u. Basically, just bang and bang on the machine. The result is just sore arms and lots and lots of tickets...
Darris decide that he was aiming for the cheapo soccer ball which cost about 630 points. Hence, we worked towards that... I spent $40 and he spent $10 on working towards that 'cheapo' ball... lol...
Ok la, in the end, we got what we wantd and even managed to redeem another 3 cans of soft frinks at 43 points each...
Following that, we went to cure our hungry stomach. We went pass Seoul Garden and was looking at the price. Then I turn around and ask Darris whether he wants to eat at this outlet or not. He jus very softly say "don wan unless u are treating", haha... He left onli about $5... OK la, I treat him to Seoul Garden lo, cos he like very poor thing... Want to eat there but no money.
Dinner was quite enjoyable... Ate quite a bit of things and chat quite a lot.
这就是我所向往的目的。教书，不只是麻木地灌溉知识给这群幼苗。教书也是一种人与人之间的一种满足感。虽然在教他补习的时候，我所收他的学费不多但我所得到的满足感却超出了金钱所能衡量的。
打个比方，新年的时候。他的妈妈说三文鱼买得太大条了，所以分了一些给我。所以，第二次去他家得时候，我买了一些干粮和橘子去他家。补习之后，他的外公还给了我一份$60元的大红包，而他的妈妈也给了我一份$20元的红包。我不是因为他们给了我两份大红包而喜欢他，而是我知道他们懂得感激。
教师节时，Darris也亲自做了一些cookies给我。虽然费用不高，但也是一份真诚的感谢。后来，连过中秋节时，我也给了他们一盒月饼。
这个补习学生，提醒了我为什么要加入这一行。
接下来的几天，我也会和几个小六生出去。这样的师生关系，才是我所想得到的，而不止是停留在教书和读书的阶段。
I have taught Darris ever since he was Primary 4. I still rmb when i first saw him, he was slithering on thbe floor,acting like a snake. Hahah... How time flies.. Now, he had already finish PSLE and looks down on childish behaviour.
He scored very good results with all As and Distinction in Mathematics! As a reward, I decide to treat him to something good. Hence, with his mum's permission, I brought him out for a movie.
However, upon reaching The Cathay, he cant find a movie that he wanted to watch. He suddenly suggested Arcade... Hhahah... Kids, being Kids. Hence, brought him to Downtown East to play at the huge arcade there...
I bought a $10 card and we went to survey the ground. It was mediocre and only a few games that both of us are interested in. Competed in a car racing game and i lost!
Next, we found a game that uses a lot of force and can vent watever you have inside u. Basically, just bang and bang on the machine. The result is just sore arms and lots and lots of tickets...
Darris decide that he was aiming for the cheapo soccer ball which cost about 630 points. Hence, we worked towards that... I spent $40 and he spent $10 on working towards that 'cheapo' ball... lol...
Ok la, in the end, we got what we wantd and even managed to redeem another 3 cans of soft frinks at 43 points each...
Following that, we went to cure our hungry stomach. We went pass Seoul Garden and was looking at the price. Then I turn around and ask Darris whether he wants to eat at this outlet or not. He jus very softly say "don wan unless u are treating", haha... He left onli about $5... OK la, I treat him to Seoul Garden lo, cos he like very poor thing... Want to eat there but no money.
Dinner was quite enjoyable... Ate quite a bit of things and chat quite a lot.
这就是我所向往的目的。教书，不只是麻木地灌溉知识给这群幼苗。教书也是一种人与人之间的一种满足感。虽然在教他补习的时候，我所收他的学费不多但我所得到的满足感却超出了金钱所能衡量的。
打个比方，新年的时候。他的妈妈说三文鱼买得太大条了，所以分了一些给我。所以，第二次去他家得时候，我买了一些干粮和橘子去他家。补习之后，他的外公还给了我一份$60元的大红包，而他的妈妈也给了我一份$20元的红包。我不是因为他们给了我两份大红包而喜欢他，而是我知道他们懂得感激。
教师节时，Darris也亲自做了一些cookies给我。虽然费用不高，但也是一份真诚的感谢。后来，连过中秋节时，我也给了他们一盒月饼。
这个补习学生，提醒了我为什么要加入这一行。
接下来的几天，我也会和几个小六生出去。这样的师生关系，才是我所想得到的，而不止是停留在教书和读书的阶段。
Monday, November 30
Countdown
Today Monday already...
5 days later, starting from tomorrow, I will be leading a group of largely first time volunteers to Laos..
Somehow, i feel this great burden on me. Many of them are volunteers going overseas for the first time and this first experience might jus decide whether they will continue to do so or jus let this exp be their first and last time. If I forget something or nvr plan something, it will just add on to the frustration of all the group members and might led to them not going on overseas service-learning trips anymore.
Only recently did I realise that I carry on this burden as a leader.
Hours are counting down and as days goes by, my confidence level gets lower and lower. Taking on such an important role, even though I don know whether I am up to it or not.....
5 days later, starting from tomorrow, I will be leading a group of largely first time volunteers to Laos..
Somehow, i feel this great burden on me. Many of them are volunteers going overseas for the first time and this first experience might jus decide whether they will continue to do so or jus let this exp be their first and last time. If I forget something or nvr plan something, it will just add on to the frustration of all the group members and might led to them not going on overseas service-learning trips anymore.
Only recently did I realise that I carry on this burden as a leader.
Hours are counting down and as days goes by, my confidence level gets lower and lower. Taking on such an important role, even though I don know whether I am up to it or not.....
Saturday, November 28
Emotional Coastal Ride
Ever since Wednesday evening, its had been a emotional coastal ride for me.
25 November 2009 (Wednesday)
As lying on my bed watching Animal Planet, suddenly remember that tmr is the PSLE result releasing day. The stress start to creep up on me. The many 'what if' slowly flood my thoughts. What if.... What if...... What if...... Fell asleep only in the early morning.
26 November 2009 (Thursday)
Reach school in the morning. Saw the results. 5 of my F subj students didnt pass chinese. Though it doesnt matter as chinese is not counted as part of the result, i still felt as if I let the school down. Last year was a whooping 100% pass and this year is only 75% pass, I felt very down and depressed. However, i still put on a strong front and act as if nothing happen. However, deep inside, I was thinking about how others will think. Am I really that lousy?
Saw all the P6 pupils and tons of pupils in the hall, all waiting for the release of results. Some were smiling and some were nervous.
All went back to the classrooms to get their results. Some were happy when they got their results but some broke down immediately upon receiving the news.
One student got my attention. B was smiling all the way till the moment he got his result. He was retained. His smile went away immediately and became silent. He went back to his seat and tears start to drop. I knew him for two years and this is the first time i saw his tears drop. Never had i imagine that he could be so disappointed. Nomatter how i console him, his tears flowed like a stream.
Looking outside, i saw WH standing there,looking in. His eyes were also red and before long, his tears start to flow as well. He went to askhim what happen.. He said that he cried because he felt sad for B and as well as he coundlt bear to leave the school ,after 6 years of studying. Truthly speaking, at the point of time, I felt like crying as well.
The Prem asked me over. I was thinking why she called me in a rush. Then i went into the classroom and saw M trying to grab hold of E. E was inconsolable cos he was scared that his Dad might jus give him a good beating. He even thought of committing suicide. Reading this, you might feel that he is just acting. But if you were on the scene, you will know that he actually meant it. But finally, he managed to cool down and we managed to call his mum to speak on the phone with him. After a long while, i released my hold on him. Felt very anggry at his mum for treating him like this.
In the afternoon, realised that I forgot to order the YEP t-shirt while on the way to NCHS to deliver the cheques. Hence, had to return back to school to order the shirts. After which, had to go to NUH to buy the group medicine and then to IMM to buy First Aid kit.
27 Novenber 2009 (Friday)
Went for tuition in the afternoon then followed by badminton with WH, B, SJ and JY. It was raining soon after and hence, did just managed to play for a while. I managed to had a short talk with B. He admitted that he initially had confidence that he will pass PSLE. Hence, was very disappointed and angry with himself that he didnt managed to pass. He said that this was a good wake up call for him and he had to put in more efforts in his studies. Hopefully, he really woke up.
Had a a short talk with WH as well. He was happy that he managed to pass but he got real down when he talked about leaving the school. His eyes got red again. When i taught him at P5 initially, i nvr thought that he can become so emotional. Haiz... How time flies and children mature... I even made a pact with WH and B to celebrate Xmas next year, cos this year I celebrating Xmas in Phuket. Hahah.. Hope this pact can come to pass....
25 November 2009 (Wednesday)
As lying on my bed watching Animal Planet, suddenly remember that tmr is the PSLE result releasing day. The stress start to creep up on me. The many 'what if' slowly flood my thoughts. What if.... What if...... What if...... Fell asleep only in the early morning.
26 November 2009 (Thursday)
Reach school in the morning. Saw the results. 5 of my F subj students didnt pass chinese. Though it doesnt matter as chinese is not counted as part of the result, i still felt as if I let the school down. Last year was a whooping 100% pass and this year is only 75% pass, I felt very down and depressed. However, i still put on a strong front and act as if nothing happen. However, deep inside, I was thinking about how others will think. Am I really that lousy?
Saw all the P6 pupils and tons of pupils in the hall, all waiting for the release of results. Some were smiling and some were nervous.
All went back to the classrooms to get their results. Some were happy when they got their results but some broke down immediately upon receiving the news.
One student got my attention. B was smiling all the way till the moment he got his result. He was retained. His smile went away immediately and became silent. He went back to his seat and tears start to drop. I knew him for two years and this is the first time i saw his tears drop. Never had i imagine that he could be so disappointed. Nomatter how i console him, his tears flowed like a stream.
Looking outside, i saw WH standing there,looking in. His eyes were also red and before long, his tears start to flow as well. He went to askhim what happen.. He said that he cried because he felt sad for B and as well as he coundlt bear to leave the school ,after 6 years of studying. Truthly speaking, at the point of time, I felt like crying as well.
The Prem asked me over. I was thinking why she called me in a rush. Then i went into the classroom and saw M trying to grab hold of E. E was inconsolable cos he was scared that his Dad might jus give him a good beating. He even thought of committing suicide. Reading this, you might feel that he is just acting. But if you were on the scene, you will know that he actually meant it. But finally, he managed to cool down and we managed to call his mum to speak on the phone with him. After a long while, i released my hold on him. Felt very anggry at his mum for treating him like this.
In the afternoon, realised that I forgot to order the YEP t-shirt while on the way to NCHS to deliver the cheques. Hence, had to return back to school to order the shirts. After which, had to go to NUH to buy the group medicine and then to IMM to buy First Aid kit.
27 Novenber 2009 (Friday)
Went for tuition in the afternoon then followed by badminton with WH, B, SJ and JY. It was raining soon after and hence, did just managed to play for a while. I managed to had a short talk with B. He admitted that he initially had confidence that he will pass PSLE. Hence, was very disappointed and angry with himself that he didnt managed to pass. He said that this was a good wake up call for him and he had to put in more efforts in his studies. Hopefully, he really woke up.
Had a a short talk with WH as well. He was happy that he managed to pass but he got real down when he talked about leaving the school. His eyes got red again. When i taught him at P5 initially, i nvr thought that he can become so emotional. Haiz... How time flies and children mature... I even made a pact with WH and B to celebrate Xmas next year, cos this year I celebrating Xmas in Phuket. Hahah.. Hope this pact can come to pass....
Monday, November 23
Thoughts
Today just have the P6 Prom.
I was seated next to 6C. I realised though i didnt teach 6C this year, I was closer to them as compared to my 6K whom I was teaching this year. I was joking and laughing with them and hanging around with them.
NW was taking the initiative to interact with me, which is something new as compared to when i met him the first time last year. He actually says to both AL and me that he will miss the both of ud. And we could really sense that he really meant what he says from his eyes. This appreciation are really the rewards that I joined this service for. Not the monetary, but the ones that money cant buy.
R and E was asking me today what will happen if I take F subj next year again. They were actually quite shocked to hear theat i will request to leave the sch if I am assigned to F subj again. They always thought that I am coping well this year and is able to control.
But the fact is, I felt really demoralised teach F subj. I drag myself to work whenever I have class with F subj. I no longer felt the eagerness to interact with the kids. Whatever i showed, was just to overcome the demoralised feeling I have deep inside me. What passion do you have when u practically have to drag yourself out of bed almost everyday?
Opting for another pasture might seem like a coward act to others but I seriously cant take it. I am a person that is not comfortable with moving to an unfamiliar place but if this goes on, that leaves me with no choice. The feel I get from the working place is that once they find that you are able to cope with his environment, you are doomed for this environment. I caanot see myself in this environment for long. If i continue to let this go on for years, it will be a matter of time before it breaks.
But anyway, back to happier thoughts. I felt good that that 6C still remembers me though i didnt taught them for one year alr. I felt appreciated when they take the initiative to say hi to me and treat me as their confidate. This is my motivation, for staying on....
I was seated next to 6C. I realised though i didnt teach 6C this year, I was closer to them as compared to my 6K whom I was teaching this year. I was joking and laughing with them and hanging around with them.
NW was taking the initiative to interact with me, which is something new as compared to when i met him the first time last year. He actually says to both AL and me that he will miss the both of ud. And we could really sense that he really meant what he says from his eyes. This appreciation are really the rewards that I joined this service for. Not the monetary, but the ones that money cant buy.
R and E was asking me today what will happen if I take F subj next year again. They were actually quite shocked to hear theat i will request to leave the sch if I am assigned to F subj again. They always thought that I am coping well this year and is able to control.
But the fact is, I felt really demoralised teach F subj. I drag myself to work whenever I have class with F subj. I no longer felt the eagerness to interact with the kids. Whatever i showed, was just to overcome the demoralised feeling I have deep inside me. What passion do you have when u practically have to drag yourself out of bed almost everyday?
Opting for another pasture might seem like a coward act to others but I seriously cant take it. I am a person that is not comfortable with moving to an unfamiliar place but if this goes on, that leaves me with no choice. The feel I get from the working place is that once they find that you are able to cope with his environment, you are doomed for this environment. I caanot see myself in this environment for long. If i continue to let this go on for years, it will be a matter of time before it breaks.
But anyway, back to happier thoughts. I felt good that that 6C still remembers me though i didnt taught them for one year alr. I felt appreciated when they take the initiative to say hi to me and treat me as their confidate. This is my motivation, for staying on....
Friday, November 20
Catching Up
Yesterday, went to meet up with some of my former students.
It was quite impromtu. Was coming out from the Gents then saw them loitering around the compound. They called out to me and hence, went to join them. After a few mins of senseless talking, we decide to ajourn to Mac to chat somemore.
Upon arriving at Mac, saw serveral others. We ordered our own food (luckily they nvr ask me to treat) and sat down to chit chat.
Talked about a number of things. From one end of the world to the other. Felt that they have really matured a lot. We even talked about sensitive issues of feelings and emotions which i felt was quite amazing.
We sat there for about 2 hours. Even saw another stuents' mum who treat us to 3 packets of fries! Hahah... So nice of her!
Reflecting....
Isnt this what I have been looking forward to ? Isnt this my motivating factor for joining the service? Fights and tugs has made me lost my track and now, I suddenly found back the rightful track again. To empower others, to biuld rapport, to make new friends...........
It was quite impromtu. Was coming out from the Gents then saw them loitering around the compound. They called out to me and hence, went to join them. After a few mins of senseless talking, we decide to ajourn to Mac to chat somemore.
Upon arriving at Mac, saw serveral others. We ordered our own food (luckily they nvr ask me to treat) and sat down to chit chat.
Talked about a number of things. From one end of the world to the other. Felt that they have really matured a lot. We even talked about sensitive issues of feelings and emotions which i felt was quite amazing.
We sat there for about 2 hours. Even saw another stuents' mum who treat us to 3 packets of fries! Hahah... So nice of her!
Reflecting....
Isnt this what I have been looking forward to ? Isnt this my motivating factor for joining the service? Fights and tugs has made me lost my track and now, I suddenly found back the rightful track again. To empower others, to biuld rapport, to make new friends...........
Saturday, November 14
Thursday, November 12
Tuesday, November 10
IPhone goes to Starhub !!!
Yeah!! Official liao.... IPhone to coming to Starhub end of this year !
Third Singaporean Mobile Operator to Offer IPhone
By Sumner Lemon, IDG News Service - Sun Nov 8, 2009 9:50PM EST
Add articles about technology to your My Yahoo!
Singaporean mobile operator StarHub will start selling Apple's iPhone before the end of this year, the company said Monday.
The announcement means all three of Singapore's mobile operators will offer the iPhone, which is currently only available from Singapore Telecommunications (SingTel), which began selling the handset last year. In October, MobileOne said it had reached an agreement with Apple to offer the iPhone.
"StarHub and Apple have reached an agreement to bring iPhone to customers in Singapore later this year. StarHub looks forward to offering iPhone and a range of tailored service plans to customers in Singapore," the operator said in a statement that used the same wording as the statement released by M1 last month.
Neither StarHub or M1 has yet revealed price plans for the iPhone. SingTel's plans range from a monthly charge of S$39 (US$28) to S$205, and offer from 500MB to 3GB of data downloads before excess data charges kick in for users. The cheapest plan offers 100 minutes of talktime on outgoing plans, while the most expensive offers 1,500 minutes.
For SingTel's cheapest iPhone plan, users pay from S$398 for an iPhone 3G 8GB to S$678 for an iPhone 3GS 32GB. Users that sign up for more expensive plans get the handsets for free.
Third Singaporean Mobile Operator to Offer IPhone
By Sumner Lemon, IDG News Service - Sun Nov 8, 2009 9:50PM EST
Add articles about technology to your My Yahoo!
Singaporean mobile operator StarHub will start selling Apple's iPhone before the end of this year, the company said Monday.
The announcement means all three of Singapore's mobile operators will offer the iPhone, which is currently only available from Singapore Telecommunications (SingTel), which began selling the handset last year. In October, MobileOne said it had reached an agreement with Apple to offer the iPhone.
"StarHub and Apple have reached an agreement to bring iPhone to customers in Singapore later this year. StarHub looks forward to offering iPhone and a range of tailored service plans to customers in Singapore," the operator said in a statement that used the same wording as the statement released by M1 last month.
Neither StarHub or M1 has yet revealed price plans for the iPhone. SingTel's plans range from a monthly charge of S$39 (US$28) to S$205, and offer from 500MB to 3GB of data downloads before excess data charges kick in for users. The cheapest plan offers 100 minutes of talktime on outgoing plans, while the most expensive offers 1,500 minutes.
For SingTel's cheapest iPhone plan, users pay from S$398 for an iPhone 3G 8GB to S$678 for an iPhone 3GS 32GB. Users that sign up for more expensive plans get the handsets for free.
Sunday, November 8
一个Kelong的学习之旅
Went to a Kelong yesterday to have a rough it out 2D1N. As usual of steeping into a foriegn territory, I needed some time to get used to it. The floor was quite dirty and i was quite skeptical about sitting on it. But i was looking around my team mates and i realise that i don take the initiative to sit on the floor during group discussions, my team will never sit down in a group and share. Do in the end, I did.
The first thing we did when we settle down was to cook lunch, with the lunch team preparing it. I didnt ate much. As per my usual habit, I need a few hours to get used to the the environment and while I am at it, my food intake was super low. It might be also contributed by the fact that the environment was not very hygenic as compared to the ones I lived in. Also, the porridge was a bit cold. But nevertheless, kudos to the lunch team to cook something decent for us so that we don have to go hungry.
After lunch was a series of facilitation sessions. Everything went quite well except that it was quite serious. Don know why I cant get the ambience to a more relaxed and joyful feel.
Dinner was served a bit late but it was real good! It was a one dish meal but it was SUPER NICE. Thks to the dinner team, I two bowls of rice and 3 pcs of chicken. It might be due to the fact i ate very little for lunch. The grp update was a bit draggy and not everyone was listening. But at least the impt points were covered and agreed upon.
During the late at night, we did a sharing of our fears. It went relatively well but still fall short of what i expect. Hmmm... Maybe i'm expecting too much.
After the last activity, i went to sleep on a sofa and my eyes closed after a few mintues. But, i did not get a good night sleep. I kept waking up every 45 mins or so. Cnt get to real sleep and I do not know the reason why? Is it due to stress or is it due to getting used to the sofa? This, i cnt even answer myself.
Finally, at the last time i open my eyes, dawn was breaking. Seeing such a nice scenery not to be missed, i got out my notebook and pen and went to the edge of the kelong to admire the hard-to-find scene and as well as to do some reflection.
Below are my reflection as I sat by the kelong.
" 现在是6.30pm， 我在Kelong上。在Kelong上的早上，有一种莫名的宁静。坐在Kelong的一个角落，随着发电机的杂声，仿佛来到了另外一种世界。
日出的第一道柔光划过碧蓝的天空，为蓝蓝的天空增添不少色彩。码头的起重机举得高高的，又闪着点点星光似的。早晨的阳光好像在唤醒大地，叫我们起床了。
随着Kelong的摇摆，安静地听着发电机的旋律，看着无边无际的大海；我觉得一身的平静。
回想昨晚，真是令我打开眼界。我从来都不知道晚上的Kelong可以是那么地热闹。虽然Kelong的装饰算不上堂皇，但是还是有不少热爱钓鱼的同道中人前往Kelong来钓鱼。他们一手拿着夜宵和睡袋，另外一只手拿着钓鱼竿，开开心心地踏上Kelong。人生的乐趣不是不过如此吗？和几个志同道合的好友或至亲享受几个小时无手机铃声的时光，那也不是一种享受？每次都到霓虹灯闪烁的夜间场所，偶尔到了没有流行音乐的领域，也是另一种乐趣。
回到了现在，太阳好像是一粒圆圆的蛋黄袅袅地升到上空。人们开始工作的吵杂声开始了，一天的忙碌又从这里开始。"
马特
2009年11月8日
The first and only activity for the second day went pretty well. Some of the characters were easy to guess while others were difficult. After the first activity, i asked around how they felt about this entire trip. Most commented that this trip was good as it gives us the chance to know each other better and gel togther. However, I felt that the team was still not very bonded together. Agan, am I expecting too much or what?
But anyway, we came to the end of the trip. We packed up pretty fast and left the kelong. I was so tired on the taxi that i feel asleep almost immediately when my head touched the head rest. When i reached home, I actually slept for 5 hours before i open my eyes again to eat my dinner.
The first thing we did when we settle down was to cook lunch, with the lunch team preparing it. I didnt ate much. As per my usual habit, I need a few hours to get used to the the environment and while I am at it, my food intake was super low. It might be also contributed by the fact that the environment was not very hygenic as compared to the ones I lived in. Also, the porridge was a bit cold. But nevertheless, kudos to the lunch team to cook something decent for us so that we don have to go hungry.
After lunch was a series of facilitation sessions. Everything went quite well except that it was quite serious. Don know why I cant get the ambience to a more relaxed and joyful feel.
Dinner was served a bit late but it was real good! It was a one dish meal but it was SUPER NICE. Thks to the dinner team, I two bowls of rice and 3 pcs of chicken. It might be due to the fact i ate very little for lunch. The grp update was a bit draggy and not everyone was listening. But at least the impt points were covered and agreed upon.
During the late at night, we did a sharing of our fears. It went relatively well but still fall short of what i expect. Hmmm... Maybe i'm expecting too much.
After the last activity, i went to sleep on a sofa and my eyes closed after a few mintues. But, i did not get a good night sleep. I kept waking up every 45 mins or so. Cnt get to real sleep and I do not know the reason why? Is it due to stress or is it due to getting used to the sofa? This, i cnt even answer myself.
Finally, at the last time i open my eyes, dawn was breaking. Seeing such a nice scenery not to be missed, i got out my notebook and pen and went to the edge of the kelong to admire the hard-to-find scene and as well as to do some reflection.
Below are my reflection as I sat by the kelong.
" 现在是6.30pm， 我在Kelong上。在Kelong上的早上，有一种莫名的宁静。坐在Kelong的一个角落，随着发电机的杂声，仿佛来到了另外一种世界。
日出的第一道柔光划过碧蓝的天空，为蓝蓝的天空增添不少色彩。码头的起重机举得高高的，又闪着点点星光似的。早晨的阳光好像在唤醒大地，叫我们起床了。
随着Kelong的摇摆，安静地听着发电机的旋律，看着无边无际的大海；我觉得一身的平静。
回想昨晚，真是令我打开眼界。我从来都不知道晚上的Kelong可以是那么地热闹。虽然Kelong的装饰算不上堂皇，但是还是有不少热爱钓鱼的同道中人前往Kelong来钓鱼。他们一手拿着夜宵和睡袋，另外一只手拿着钓鱼竿，开开心心地踏上Kelong。人生的乐趣不是不过如此吗？和几个志同道合的好友或至亲享受几个小时无手机铃声的时光，那也不是一种享受？每次都到霓虹灯闪烁的夜间场所，偶尔到了没有流行音乐的领域，也是另一种乐趣。
回到了现在，太阳好像是一粒圆圆的蛋黄袅袅地升到上空。人们开始工作的吵杂声开始了，一天的忙碌又从这里开始。"
马特
2009年11月8日
The first and only activity for the second day went pretty well. Some of the characters were easy to guess while others were difficult. After the first activity, i asked around how they felt about this entire trip. Most commented that this trip was good as it gives us the chance to know each other better and gel togther. However, I felt that the team was still not very bonded together. Agan, am I expecting too much or what?
But anyway, we came to the end of the trip. We packed up pretty fast and left the kelong. I was so tired on the taxi that i feel asleep almost immediately when my head touched the head rest. When i reached home, I actually slept for 5 hours before i open my eyes again to eat my dinner.
Tuesday, November 3
Confused
Why am i getting the feeling that most of the people are not interested? Is my leadership skills that dull and unmotivating ? Is it really that sianz to work under me ? Why, why, why.................
Feel so down but yet, still must carry on. Is that part of the learning package?
Feel so down but yet, still must carry on. Is that part of the learning package?
Saturday, October 31
LHF
Light Hearted Friday!
Yesterday, I went to take care of the class. It was post PSLE period and I let them do what they wan. I expect to see the entire class divide into different groups and play but to my surprise, they did not. Yes, they did divide themselves into 3 groups but only one group played games. The other group sit down and just chit chat while the last group came to my table and chit chat with me.
We chat about many things. Memories of the past flodd back as we chat about the funny antics of the past. HOe i tried to act fierce when i first stepped into the classroom, how i tried my best to stop a particular someone from throwing the table.... We just chat and chat while memories turned and flowed.
After about a period or so, E came to me. I was quite surprised when he started to talk some philosophical stuff with me. He even shared some personal matters with me like his family and friends, even without me probing him. He just came like water gushing out. I wonder if thats the result of too much control at home. He started talking like a 20 year old and how his character is like.
I think his main problem with his friend is 太讲义气,which is what i used to be. I would stand up for my friend and forgive and forget very quickly. But as I grow up, this 太讲义气starts to regress and now hides in a corner,with cobwebs spinning. Does the pressure from the society thumbs you down or is it that this 太讲义气 too childish that i start to grow out of it?
Next, I went to Tea Chapter with some of the P6 students, tog with a few teachers. They had a hands on Mooncake making session and tea appreciation time. I sat down with two groups and we laughed and talked. One particular group i didnt really know them but nevertheless, when i sat down with them, they just include me inside their conversation.
At that spilt of the moment, I began to understand why my ambition is to become a teacher. Not to rise up among the ranks, not to 勾心斗角with one another, but to appreciate time with the kids and mould them,to the best of our ability. Though i was not in the service for long, i managed to have a class that fulfil this dream, though it was a regret that i didnt managed to bring them up to graduation.
My 3 and 4s were equally nice though at times, they really make me puke blood. Whenever i informed the class that i need go for other stuff and could not go into class that particular day, they will always go "Huh? 为什么您每次都去上课的？" Maybe that is also the result of they not liking the relief but i just felt happy that they wanted me to teach them. I didnt managed my dream of letting them play a game each week and I just teach normally. But they seemed to like my style and a few students even managed to improve their grades throughout the year.
It was a good consolation and motivation for me to carry on in this service.
Yesterday, I went to take care of the class. It was post PSLE period and I let them do what they wan. I expect to see the entire class divide into different groups and play but to my surprise, they did not. Yes, they did divide themselves into 3 groups but only one group played games. The other group sit down and just chit chat while the last group came to my table and chit chat with me.
We chat about many things. Memories of the past flodd back as we chat about the funny antics of the past. HOe i tried to act fierce when i first stepped into the classroom, how i tried my best to stop a particular someone from throwing the table.... We just chat and chat while memories turned and flowed.
After about a period or so, E came to me. I was quite surprised when he started to talk some philosophical stuff with me. He even shared some personal matters with me like his family and friends, even without me probing him. He just came like water gushing out. I wonder if thats the result of too much control at home. He started talking like a 20 year old and how his character is like.
I think his main problem with his friend is 太讲义气,which is what i used to be. I would stand up for my friend and forgive and forget very quickly. But as I grow up, this 太讲义气starts to regress and now hides in a corner,with cobwebs spinning. Does the pressure from the society thumbs you down or is it that this 太讲义气 too childish that i start to grow out of it?
Next, I went to Tea Chapter with some of the P6 students, tog with a few teachers. They had a hands on Mooncake making session and tea appreciation time. I sat down with two groups and we laughed and talked. One particular group i didnt really know them but nevertheless, when i sat down with them, they just include me inside their conversation.
At that spilt of the moment, I began to understand why my ambition is to become a teacher. Not to rise up among the ranks, not to 勾心斗角with one another, but to appreciate time with the kids and mould them,to the best of our ability. Though i was not in the service for long, i managed to have a class that fulfil this dream, though it was a regret that i didnt managed to bring them up to graduation.
My 3 and 4s were equally nice though at times, they really make me puke blood. Whenever i informed the class that i need go for other stuff and could not go into class that particular day, they will always go "Huh? 为什么您每次都去上课的？" Maybe that is also the result of they not liking the relief but i just felt happy that they wanted me to teach them. I didnt managed my dream of letting them play a game each week and I just teach normally. But they seemed to like my style and a few students even managed to improve their grades throughout the year.
It was a good consolation and motivation for me to carry on in this service.
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