As I was listening to the radio this morning, I came across this song: “Forever young, I want to be forever young.” Yes all of us want to remain young as long as we could. If there were such a thing called longevity pill, I bet people would rush for it. I once asked a girl "How old are you?" She replied “Cannot tell lah, very sensitive!” The female genders do not like to reveal their age. The word “old” conjures affiliation with trepidation, uncertainty, loneliness and incapacity. You know you are over the hill when the candles cost more than the birthday cake. When the fine contours running around your forehead are increasing. When people start calling you "Uncle". Old age is often associated with deteriorating health, problems of dementia, osteoporosis, arthritis, etc. The list goes on...... How fightening!
Few months ago I had this wonderful opportunity to conduct exercise sessions for senior citizens at a community club. We did a workout sitting on the chair. It was mostly low impact exercises done to music. What the senior citizens didn’t realise were that they were able to execute the exercises without much difficulty. They recognised the benefits of exercise & felt great after the workout. It was an achievement. And that reminds me of something. If you don’t use your muscles, you’ll gradually lose them over time. I’m certain most of us want to age gracefully and still look great. I'm glad that the dragonboat trainings have help me achieve this.
“Growing Old”. So what’s the big deal? It’s not about how long we live but rather how we live that matters. Active ageing does make a difference. Mr Ray Kroc revolutionised the fast food business - Mcdonald at the age of 52. Colonel Sanders used his $105 Social Security cheque to start a venture that eventually became Kentucky Fried Chicken. He was 65.
We shouldn't be too concerned about old age. You are either ill or not ill. If you're not ill, there is no need to worry. If you're ill, you either live or die. If you live, there is no need to worry. If you die, you'll go to heaven or hell. If you go to heaven, there's no need to worry. If you go to hell, you'll be busy shaking hands with your friends & you won't have time to worry.
If I do live to ripe old age one day, I know I don't have to be concerned about peer pressure. Most of them won't be around.
"You may be over the hill, but there’s always something new
To learn, to share and feel, What lies ahead is a splendid view"
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Thursday, July 19, 2007
This week's paraphernalia
Sun
Wow, not 5, not 10 but 20 newbies added zing to our dragonboat training session. This rowing season is gonna be a fun one as I get to find out more about the newbies. Finally I’m no longer the latest addition in the team. I was given the privilege to lead the warm up and circuit training. After circuit and a quick shower, some of us were off to catch the much-anticipated installment of Asian Boys trilogy at the Drama Centre. The first half was an adaptation-cum-deconstruction of an author when he was 20. The second half introduces the characters in the year 2007. Funny and some poignant moments.
Mon
It’s gym training today but this time a change of venue. My gym buddy cum personal trainer selected Yio Chu Kang which is less crowded and more equipped. Today we worked on chest and biceps.
Tues
It’s never a good thing when you rely too much on technology. Today my PC suddenly conked out. The cursor on the screen just refused to budge no matter how I move, shift or cajole the mouse. Of course, it got me very uptight, anxious and annoyed cos I have to access to my emails frequently. I realized that the wireless mouse is not working. Quickly made a trip to Funan Centre to get a cabled mouse. Happily installed it and discovered that I can’t use my keyboard. Horror, horror, horror! I discovered that the keyboard is also a wireless one. What a double whammy! Made another trip again. I remembered the last time I lost my mobile phone, it also got me extremely distressed. My mind was occupied with “What if I could have missed an important call? What if I could have missed a job opportunity?” The mind is filled with “maybe this, maybe that.” Maybe no one called.
Wed
My mum told me about celebrating my dad’s birthday this weekend. Would have to postpone it as I didn’t want to miss any of the dragonboat training session. Sorry, mum & dad, I promised to make it up to you some other time.
Gym training is getting more challenging but I kind of enjoy it. It feels good when I see my muscles grow! I’m pushing myself a little harder each time. Am I being masochistic?
Don’t think so, at least not yet.
Thurs
It’s nearing the weekend. Blogging at the moment.
Fri
T.G.I.F.! Probably catch a horror movie with my linedancing students. Haven’t seen a horror movie for a long time. There’s “Vacancy”, “Alone”, “Black Sheep”. Spoilt for choice!
Sat
Today is gonna be a busy one for me. I got to spend the first half of the day to train some teachers who will be appearing in a new exercise video. From 4pm to 10 pm, it’s my second linedance jam this year. This time, the location is at Toa Payoh HDB Hub. Gonna expect some crowd!
Sun
Dragon boat, dragon boat, dragon boat but definitely NO DRAG on boat!
Wow, not 5, not 10 but 20 newbies added zing to our dragonboat training session. This rowing season is gonna be a fun one as I get to find out more about the newbies. Finally I’m no longer the latest addition in the team. I was given the privilege to lead the warm up and circuit training. After circuit and a quick shower, some of us were off to catch the much-anticipated installment of Asian Boys trilogy at the Drama Centre. The first half was an adaptation-cum-deconstruction of an author when he was 20. The second half introduces the characters in the year 2007. Funny and some poignant moments.
Mon
It’s gym training today but this time a change of venue. My gym buddy cum personal trainer selected Yio Chu Kang which is less crowded and more equipped. Today we worked on chest and biceps.
Tues
It’s never a good thing when you rely too much on technology. Today my PC suddenly conked out. The cursor on the screen just refused to budge no matter how I move, shift or cajole the mouse. Of course, it got me very uptight, anxious and annoyed cos I have to access to my emails frequently. I realized that the wireless mouse is not working. Quickly made a trip to Funan Centre to get a cabled mouse. Happily installed it and discovered that I can’t use my keyboard. Horror, horror, horror! I discovered that the keyboard is also a wireless one. What a double whammy! Made another trip again. I remembered the last time I lost my mobile phone, it also got me extremely distressed. My mind was occupied with “What if I could have missed an important call? What if I could have missed a job opportunity?” The mind is filled with “maybe this, maybe that.” Maybe no one called.
Wed
My mum told me about celebrating my dad’s birthday this weekend. Would have to postpone it as I didn’t want to miss any of the dragonboat training session. Sorry, mum & dad, I promised to make it up to you some other time.
Gym training is getting more challenging but I kind of enjoy it. It feels good when I see my muscles grow! I’m pushing myself a little harder each time. Am I being masochistic?
Don’t think so, at least not yet.
Thurs
It’s nearing the weekend. Blogging at the moment.
Fri
T.G.I.F.! Probably catch a horror movie with my linedancing students. Haven’t seen a horror movie for a long time. There’s “Vacancy”, “Alone”, “Black Sheep”. Spoilt for choice!
Sat
Today is gonna be a busy one for me. I got to spend the first half of the day to train some teachers who will be appearing in a new exercise video. From 4pm to 10 pm, it’s my second linedance jam this year. This time, the location is at Toa Payoh HDB Hub. Gonna expect some crowd!
Sun
Dragon boat, dragon boat, dragon boat but definitely NO DRAG on boat!
Saturday, July 14, 2007
The road is long, so what!
In 1984, I became a volunteer with MINDS. Back then, I just came out of army, got an 8 – 5 job, therefore I had plenty of spare time. I thought volunteering was just helping out during the weekends. It turned out to be more than I asked for. MINDS is an organization that serves the needs of intellectually disabled people. I was asked to initiate a project at Margaret Drive – serving the needs of intellectually disabled adults. (ID person for short). The name of the project was called Reach Out. It was formed so that adult IDs could come together and take part in social and recreational activities, just like normal adults enjoy. With the help of the social worker, I was given a list of names of ID persons. “You mean I have to go to every ID’s house?” The initial part was tough. A few volunteers and I took the list, and conducted home visits of IDs. When we knocked at the door of some IDs house, their families were not so keen to let us in. Most of them were protective of their ID children or siblings. One house visit made it special. It was Sunny’s home. Sunny was a Down Syndrome child. His parents were very supportive of the programme. The father told us that Sunny has nowhere to go after work and normally stay at home to watch TV. Joining such a programme would benefit him. Sunny likes to draw. He showed me some of his pictures. He has dreams. He drew himself getting married. But he told me that his parents said it was not possible. I remain silent and didn’t know what to say.
Setting Reach Out was tough, challenging and taxing. We had to plan programmes, work out the budget and source for facilities. Out of 30 home visits, finally 3 IDs decided to join us. During the planning stage, I really felt like giving up. I told myself, “What and why am I doing all these for?” Why don’t I spend my weekends hanging out with friends?” But a fellow volunteer persuaded me. “Don’t give up, Mike. Because if you give up, we’ll give up as well.” We decided to persevere. We were quite demoralized at only 3 but 3 were better than none. At least 3 families believe in us that it will work. From weeks to months, we gradually got more IDs joining us. Volunteers’ strength also increased. We managed to have a total of 30 IDs and volunteers. That day I learnt what it means to persevere.
A year passed. We decided to organize a singing contest among the IDs. We practised and rehearsed very hard. There was this ID. Her name is Lily. Lily was one of the better singers. So the volunteers focused their efforts on her. During the contest, we invited the IDs families, friends and volunteers. More than 100 guests turned up for the event. We were overwhelmed by the response. Lily had no problems during the rehearsals. We knew she was going to win. Then her turn came. She was dressed in very nice outfit with light makeup. The moment she went on stage, she looked at the audience and her face drew a blank. She was too overwhelmed by the environment. She has never seen so many people before. Then she started to cry. The volunteers thought. We better take her away so that she don’t feel embarrassed. But instead Lily started to sing. It was supposed to be a lively song “Can’t smile without you?” But she sang in tears. “You know I can’t smile without you.” As she sang, the audience joined her to clap along. She regained her confidence and completed the song. Lily got second that night. I was inspired by Lily’s courage to overcome her fears.
Another experience that still left a deep impression was the Special Olympics. 2 of our IDs, Tiong Hung and Koon Loo were participating in a telematch race. It was a race for the disabled. When the race started, Tiong Hung and Koon Loo were leading, then suddenly Tiong Hung tripped and fell. Koon Loo was the best runner so we pinned our hopes on him. But Koon Loo did not run forward. He turned back to help Tiong Hung. Together they completed the race. During that moment, I felt a lump in my throat. Although they did not win, we were very proud of them. I was touched by Koon Loo’s selfless conduct and sacrifice. I learnt why Special Olympics was extra special. To him, his friend is far more important than the medal.
A few years ago, I was invited by the School of Visually Impaired to conduct English lessons. Though I was apprehensive, I accepted the offer anyway. In the class, I had a conversation with this teenager. I asked him “What do you do during your free time?” He told me he liked going to movies. I curiously asked him “How?” He replied “We listened to the dialogue and paint images in our mind. The imagination, the thoughts and the visualization are constantly playing at the back of the mind. He’s able to feel the emotions and the story. He also told me about his goals and career - that he wanted to be the best masseur in town. In the world of darkness, his life was brighter than anyone.
Today, “Project Reach out” is 22 years old. I’m no longer a volunteer. I last heard they had 60 IDs and volunteers. I was supposed to make a difference in their lives. But instead I learnt valuable lessons that made a difference in my life. I witness deeds of courage, affection and sincerity. In a world of ordinary people, they were most extraordinary. To them, achieve a simple goal in life may be like walking a long and arduous road. But in their pursuit of goals, the journey in life is tough and to them, the road maybe long, but so what! They live like normal people.
Setting Reach Out was tough, challenging and taxing. We had to plan programmes, work out the budget and source for facilities. Out of 30 home visits, finally 3 IDs decided to join us. During the planning stage, I really felt like giving up. I told myself, “What and why am I doing all these for?” Why don’t I spend my weekends hanging out with friends?” But a fellow volunteer persuaded me. “Don’t give up, Mike. Because if you give up, we’ll give up as well.” We decided to persevere. We were quite demoralized at only 3 but 3 were better than none. At least 3 families believe in us that it will work. From weeks to months, we gradually got more IDs joining us. Volunteers’ strength also increased. We managed to have a total of 30 IDs and volunteers. That day I learnt what it means to persevere.
A year passed. We decided to organize a singing contest among the IDs. We practised and rehearsed very hard. There was this ID. Her name is Lily. Lily was one of the better singers. So the volunteers focused their efforts on her. During the contest, we invited the IDs families, friends and volunteers. More than 100 guests turned up for the event. We were overwhelmed by the response. Lily had no problems during the rehearsals. We knew she was going to win. Then her turn came. She was dressed in very nice outfit with light makeup. The moment she went on stage, she looked at the audience and her face drew a blank. She was too overwhelmed by the environment. She has never seen so many people before. Then she started to cry. The volunteers thought. We better take her away so that she don’t feel embarrassed. But instead Lily started to sing. It was supposed to be a lively song “Can’t smile without you?” But she sang in tears. “You know I can’t smile without you.” As she sang, the audience joined her to clap along. She regained her confidence and completed the song. Lily got second that night. I was inspired by Lily’s courage to overcome her fears.
Another experience that still left a deep impression was the Special Olympics. 2 of our IDs, Tiong Hung and Koon Loo were participating in a telematch race. It was a race for the disabled. When the race started, Tiong Hung and Koon Loo were leading, then suddenly Tiong Hung tripped and fell. Koon Loo was the best runner so we pinned our hopes on him. But Koon Loo did not run forward. He turned back to help Tiong Hung. Together they completed the race. During that moment, I felt a lump in my throat. Although they did not win, we were very proud of them. I was touched by Koon Loo’s selfless conduct and sacrifice. I learnt why Special Olympics was extra special. To him, his friend is far more important than the medal.
A few years ago, I was invited by the School of Visually Impaired to conduct English lessons. Though I was apprehensive, I accepted the offer anyway. In the class, I had a conversation with this teenager. I asked him “What do you do during your free time?” He told me he liked going to movies. I curiously asked him “How?” He replied “We listened to the dialogue and paint images in our mind. The imagination, the thoughts and the visualization are constantly playing at the back of the mind. He’s able to feel the emotions and the story. He also told me about his goals and career - that he wanted to be the best masseur in town. In the world of darkness, his life was brighter than anyone.
Today, “Project Reach out” is 22 years old. I’m no longer a volunteer. I last heard they had 60 IDs and volunteers. I was supposed to make a difference in their lives. But instead I learnt valuable lessons that made a difference in my life. I witness deeds of courage, affection and sincerity. In a world of ordinary people, they were most extraordinary. To them, achieve a simple goal in life may be like walking a long and arduous road. But in their pursuit of goals, the journey in life is tough and to them, the road maybe long, but so what! They live like normal people.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
High!
My life appeared to have undergone some transformation within these few months. It’s not because I’m Optimus Prime or Megatron. After that unpleasant experience months ago, I’ve looked at life in a different perspective. I’m so pleased that I’ve resumed dragonboat training. It spurs me to take gym training seriously. It compels me to improve my cardiovascular endurance. It helps me to develop my mental strength. It stops my mind from wandering and inspires me to direct my energy into the sport. I’m blessed to have met many amazing teammates. I’m glad to be given the opportunity to participate in the race at Bedok Reservoir.
The most memorable has to be the 1 star kayaking certification. I spent 2 wonderful days at Kallang River. When I signed up for the 1 star kayaking certification, I didn’t feel keen or enthusiastic initially. In fact, I almost chicken out! But I decided to give it a go anyhow.
After a brief introduction about the nuts and bolts of kayaking, it was straight into some aquatic action. Gosh, maneuvering and navigating the kayak was a tough feat. To head straight and maintaining it was far more challenging than I thought. Then we had the 50 m swim test, the capsized drill and learning some basic paddling strokes. Never mind, I drank plenty of grimy sea water. I managed to overcome my phobia of being submerged in the water. Not once! Not twice! But thrice. At the end of day 1, I obtained instant gratification.
Day 2 was even more fun and exciting! We learnt how to rescue a capsized boat. We took turns to role play victim, rescuer and assistant of which I thought rescuer’s mission was a tall order. The most exhilarating time has to be the Captain’s Ball – Kayaking style! Boy, I didn’t know my teammates were such aggressive creatures when it comes to competition. So much so that a few of them capsized during the game. Haha! But it was jolly good fun!
Of late, I could sense a strengthening of our bond within the team. Other than rowing, we’ve watched all the recent blockbusters. We went for makan sessions after training. Attendance at the kayaking and dinner at Hans were fantastic. Soon, we’ll be watching a play. We are a team - a group of people with collective identity working together towards a common goal. When we row in harmony, the chances of enjoying the journey and achieving our goals are greatly enhanced.
I like to dedicate this song to my teammates. It’s a 1999 song called “High” by Lighthouse Family. I like this part of the lyrics:
Don’t you think its time you started
Doing what we always wanted
One day we're gonna get so high
Cause even the impossible
Is easy when we got each other
One day wer'e gonna get so high
The most memorable has to be the 1 star kayaking certification. I spent 2 wonderful days at Kallang River. When I signed up for the 1 star kayaking certification, I didn’t feel keen or enthusiastic initially. In fact, I almost chicken out! But I decided to give it a go anyhow.
After a brief introduction about the nuts and bolts of kayaking, it was straight into some aquatic action. Gosh, maneuvering and navigating the kayak was a tough feat. To head straight and maintaining it was far more challenging than I thought. Then we had the 50 m swim test, the capsized drill and learning some basic paddling strokes. Never mind, I drank plenty of grimy sea water. I managed to overcome my phobia of being submerged in the water. Not once! Not twice! But thrice. At the end of day 1, I obtained instant gratification.
Day 2 was even more fun and exciting! We learnt how to rescue a capsized boat. We took turns to role play victim, rescuer and assistant of which I thought rescuer’s mission was a tall order. The most exhilarating time has to be the Captain’s Ball – Kayaking style! Boy, I didn’t know my teammates were such aggressive creatures when it comes to competition. So much so that a few of them capsized during the game. Haha! But it was jolly good fun!
Of late, I could sense a strengthening of our bond within the team. Other than rowing, we’ve watched all the recent blockbusters. We went for makan sessions after training. Attendance at the kayaking and dinner at Hans were fantastic. Soon, we’ll be watching a play. We are a team - a group of people with collective identity working together towards a common goal. When we row in harmony, the chances of enjoying the journey and achieving our goals are greatly enhanced.
I like to dedicate this song to my teammates. It’s a 1999 song called “High” by Lighthouse Family. I like this part of the lyrics:
Don’t you think its time you started
Doing what we always wanted
One day we're gonna get so high
Cause even the impossible
Is easy when we got each other
One day wer'e gonna get so high
Sunday, July 1, 2007
No Sacrifice, No Victory!
Went to GV Vivo City to get tickets for the movie “Transformers”. Gosh, every single show on Saturday was sold out! Fortunately managed to get 8 tickets for Sunday. 
Transformers is a movie about alien robots divided into good (Autobots) and evil (Decepticons) raging a war between each other while searching for a cube known as Allspark which is a source of life for them that has found its way into earth. When the battle comes to Earth, all that stands between the evil Decepticons and ultimate power is a clue held by young Sam Witwicky. An average teenager, Sam is consumed with everyday worries about school, friends, cars and girls. Unaware that he alone is mankind’s last chance for survival, Sam and his girlfriend, Mikaela find themselves in a tug of war between the Autobots and Decepticons. With the world hanging in the balance, Sam comes to realize the true meaning behind the Witwicky family motto–“No sacrifice, no victory!”
The transformations of the robots are simply amazing and awesome. The CGI fits in seamlessly with the live action. The robots morphed themselves effortlessly into auto-vehicles, helicopters and jet-planes.
I was completely blown away by the visual effects and genuinely entertained. I had a lot of expectations for this film especially with all the hype and anticipation surrounding it and I'm very glad to say that at least for me, it delivers! This is definitely one of those movies that set out to entertain you and does a wonderful job in doing so. It may not be the perfect movie, but it's definitely worth your while and your money. It's engaging, funny and has tons of "Wow" factor.
On another note, it’s time to start my fitness regime on Monday for the Regatta race. Time to sacrifice some time and effort on gym training, running and mental preparation, only then would we see some transformation and taste the fruits of victory!
This is a cool song by Linkin Park from the soundtrack
Transformers is a movie about alien robots divided into good (Autobots) and evil (Decepticons) raging a war between each other while searching for a cube known as Allspark which is a source of life for them that has found its way into earth. When the battle comes to Earth, all that stands between the evil Decepticons and ultimate power is a clue held by young Sam Witwicky. An average teenager, Sam is consumed with everyday worries about school, friends, cars and girls. Unaware that he alone is mankind’s last chance for survival, Sam and his girlfriend, Mikaela find themselves in a tug of war between the Autobots and Decepticons. With the world hanging in the balance, Sam comes to realize the true meaning behind the Witwicky family motto–“No sacrifice, no victory!”
The transformations of the robots are simply amazing and awesome. The CGI fits in seamlessly with the live action. The robots morphed themselves effortlessly into auto-vehicles, helicopters and jet-planes.
I was completely blown away by the visual effects and genuinely entertained. I had a lot of expectations for this film especially with all the hype and anticipation surrounding it and I'm very glad to say that at least for me, it delivers! This is definitely one of those movies that set out to entertain you and does a wonderful job in doing so. It may not be the perfect movie, but it's definitely worth your while and your money. It's engaging, funny and has tons of "Wow" factor.
On another note, it’s time to start my fitness regime on Monday for the Regatta race. Time to sacrifice some time and effort on gym training, running and mental preparation, only then would we see some transformation and taste the fruits of victory!
This is a cool song by Linkin Park from the soundtrack
Learning from Setbacks
"The road to success is not straight. There is a curve called Failure, a loop called Confusion, speed bumps called Challenges, red lights called Enemies, caution lights called Friends. You will have flats called Jobs. But, if you have a spare called Determination, an engine called Perseverance, insurance called Faith, and a driver called You, you will make it to a place called Success."
We did not make it through the semi-finals on 30 Jun 2007. On both heats, we were lagging behind quite a number of boats from the other teams. I don’t dare count how many. I asked myself, “What did I learn about myself? What did I learn about those around me? What did I learn about performing in stressful circumstances? What did I learn about that can help me in the future?” We have a lot to work on our fitness level, including my own. We have a lot to work on our coordination, rapport, mental and physical strength.
We tend to be most susceptible to feeling down when we expect to do well and do poorly instead, when we expect to win and we lose, when we expect love or acceptance and experience rejection. In such cases, sometimes our expectations have been unrealistic; sometimes we have not prepared or focused as well as we could have, and we can work on this. Sometimes we have done everything in our power to make things happen given the constraints of our time and resources and events do not go as we hoped or planned.
Loss can make us feel miserable, inadequate or helpless. But it can also challenge us to draw upon our strengths, persist through obstacles, get to know ourselves better, examine our priorities, put things in perspective and reflect on where we are going, why and how.
The route to excellence is full of ups and downs, progressions and regressions, great leaps forward, backslides and plateaus. But as long as the overall direction is up, we will ascend our many mountains in life, ride many waves in dragonboating. The better we can cope, the more fulfilled we will be. Finding the lessons in loss is a way of putting us back in control. So, Regatta, here we come!
We did not make it through the semi-finals on 30 Jun 2007. On both heats, we were lagging behind quite a number of boats from the other teams. I don’t dare count how many. I asked myself, “What did I learn about myself? What did I learn about those around me? What did I learn about performing in stressful circumstances? What did I learn about that can help me in the future?” We have a lot to work on our fitness level, including my own. We have a lot to work on our coordination, rapport, mental and physical strength.
We tend to be most susceptible to feeling down when we expect to do well and do poorly instead, when we expect to win and we lose, when we expect love or acceptance and experience rejection. In such cases, sometimes our expectations have been unrealistic; sometimes we have not prepared or focused as well as we could have, and we can work on this. Sometimes we have done everything in our power to make things happen given the constraints of our time and resources and events do not go as we hoped or planned.
Loss can make us feel miserable, inadequate or helpless. But it can also challenge us to draw upon our strengths, persist through obstacles, get to know ourselves better, examine our priorities, put things in perspective and reflect on where we are going, why and how.
The route to excellence is full of ups and downs, progressions and regressions, great leaps forward, backslides and plateaus. But as long as the overall direction is up, we will ascend our many mountains in life, ride many waves in dragonboating. The better we can cope, the more fulfilled we will be. Finding the lessons in loss is a way of putting us back in control. So, Regatta, here we come!
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