Yesterday, I went go-karting with Jia Jie and his friends at the Plentong Go-Kart Circuit. We took the SBS public transport into Malaysia and then took a cab to the circuit. A 10-minute session on the circuit cost S$15! It was such a good price compared to S$45 per session in Singapore. =]
After go-karting, we had Bah Kut Teh for lunch. Jia Jie and I then departed for track training in NUS. I felt really good during the track intervals compared to how I felt weeks ago prior to the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon. I have indeed ran the wall down. =]
I look forward to greater sporting success in the new year. 2009, here I come!
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Christmas and the weekend..
Christmas has finally arrived this year, and it marks yet again another year passed..On boxing day, my cousin Huiqi got married. It was the third wedding in my family this year! Counting down chronologically, the next in line should be me! Boy, doesn't time pass so quickly..
The wedding yet again allowed the extended family to interact and catch up with one another. It was good to see Zhen Yi back from the UK during his school break. We had a good time that night, fooling around like we always do =]
The next day, on Saturday, I had my NUS aquathlon time-trial at Sentosa. To be perfectly honest, I was not ready AT ALL for this time-trial. I just returned from Cambodia and since pre-CA2, I have not been training that regularly for weeks, even months! Furthermore, I was down with flu and sore-throat after my trip. Adding salt to the wound, that Saturday morning, I had diarrhoea. I did not want to go through the time-trial, but upon seeing everyone in the team gearing up for it, I changed my mind. I decided to try and complete it. Just complete it.
This was yet another instance where my body decided to act in contrary with my mind. I managed to complete my time-trial in 1hr 15mins 24secs. It was not exactly a very good timing, and there is still a lot to improve from here. =] I am just glad that I managed to complete it.
Later that day, I attended my NUS cell group's year end party where we invited friends over to have a time of fun, fellowship and food. It was a huge success! There were a total of 56 friends brought and I believed that they all had their share of fun, felllowship and food. =] I hope that we ride on this success and continue to reach out.
Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” - Matthew 9:37-38
The wedding yet again allowed the extended family to interact and catch up with one another. It was good to see Zhen Yi back from the UK during his school break. We had a good time that night, fooling around like we always do =]
The next day, on Saturday, I had my NUS aquathlon time-trial at Sentosa. To be perfectly honest, I was not ready AT ALL for this time-trial. I just returned from Cambodia and since pre-CA2, I have not been training that regularly for weeks, even months! Furthermore, I was down with flu and sore-throat after my trip. Adding salt to the wound, that Saturday morning, I had diarrhoea. I did not want to go through the time-trial, but upon seeing everyone in the team gearing up for it, I changed my mind. I decided to try and complete it. Just complete it.
This was yet another instance where my body decided to act in contrary with my mind. I managed to complete my time-trial in 1hr 15mins 24secs. It was not exactly a very good timing, and there is still a lot to improve from here. =] I am just glad that I managed to complete it.
Later that day, I attended my NUS cell group's year end party where we invited friends over to have a time of fun, fellowship and food. It was a huge success! There were a total of 56 friends brought and I believed that they all had their share of fun, felllowship and food. =] I hope that we ride on this success and continue to reach out.
Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” - Matthew 9:37-38
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
PSLE English Paper 2, Section 4: Editing for Spelling and Grammar – 10 marks
I saw this pasted on the lift at my block, try to spot the error.. =]
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Project Lokun
I'm back from my Medical mission trip to Cambodia! There were so many things waiting to be done the moment I touched down. Sometimes I wonder whether I could really cut myself loose from the things of this world and just live the life. This reflection helped me wrap up the experiences I had from this trip.
I realised that I was gettting closer to my desired outlook on life the moment my plane cruised along the runway in Changi International Airport. For once in my life, I did not feel the onslaught of emotions that I usually get. I felt neutral. I was not THAT happy to be back home, but neither was I unhappy. Neutral. That was the most apt description.
Anna was a spanish architect whom I had great pleasure of making friends with on this trip. She, I believe, was someone placed in my life to guide me in my journey through life. Recounting a book I read long ago by Mitch Albom entitled "The Five People You Meet in Heaven", it beautifully elucidates that all lives are connected to each other, directly or indirectly, and whether we realize it or not. I could not agree more on this concept! Anyways, Anna had been in Cambodia for 5 months already, aiding the people there by building houses. Her next stop will be Australia. Watching her face glow whenever she describes her experiences in different parts of the world, something within me resonated with her, begging to be able to identify similar encounters.
I feel that most people (myself included) are too afraid to step out of their comfort zone to step into something that is uncertain. We tend to make sure that everything is planned before taking that first step. Where is the faith?
On the 5th day of my project, we conducted health education and clinics at Kampong Luon floating village. Our team split into 2 groups, one conducting health education at the floating church's school and the other group running the clinic at the community's health centre. After 4 days of doing health education, screening and clinics in schools around CROAP, this was a new experience. Helping at the floating village set me thinking about a lot of things. It made me question things that I thought I always had the answers for. This was good, it provides me with an opportunity to be grounded in foundation once again. Also, I feel that this allows me to grow; when you stop asking questions, that is when you stop growing.
I also had the priviledge to experience 'house moving' in the floating village. The floating church and school I was on was towed out into deeper waters when the tide dropped too low. According to the locals, this 'house moving' is done whenever the waters get too shallow. Other than allowing houses to float on them, the water in the Tonle Sap lake is also used for bathing, cooking, washing, waste disposal, playing and for catching the fishes that live in them. It came as no surprise to me that the bowls I used during lunch was washed by the same water which I had pee-ed into minutes ago.
Lastly, I did not allow myself to bring any luxury items (facial wipes, mp3 player, etc) on this trip. All I had was my handphone which was used in the case of emergency when we need to contact one another and a tube of SAF insect repellent. I did not feel at all lacking without those things. In fact, I felt free, so carefree. It was an amazing feeling.
Through this trip, I made 2 more Cambodian friends, Chhong Mao and Sinath. They were very friendly and hospitable. They are people that I will hold dear to and keep in contact with. I might return to Cambodia prior to my Ironman in Switzerland next year for the same project to work alongside them again.
I believe that this project benefitted me more than it did for the Cambodians. There was only so much we can do to help them as students compared to help rendered by a doctor. However, I hope and pray that this experience will catapult me further into the unknown where real faith is needed. God use me.
I realised that I was gettting closer to my desired outlook on life the moment my plane cruised along the runway in Changi International Airport. For once in my life, I did not feel the onslaught of emotions that I usually get. I felt neutral. I was not THAT happy to be back home, but neither was I unhappy. Neutral. That was the most apt description.
Anna was a spanish architect whom I had great pleasure of making friends with on this trip. She, I believe, was someone placed in my life to guide me in my journey through life. Recounting a book I read long ago by Mitch Albom entitled "The Five People You Meet in Heaven", it beautifully elucidates that all lives are connected to each other, directly or indirectly, and whether we realize it or not. I could not agree more on this concept! Anyways, Anna had been in Cambodia for 5 months already, aiding the people there by building houses. Her next stop will be Australia. Watching her face glow whenever she describes her experiences in different parts of the world, something within me resonated with her, begging to be able to identify similar encounters.
I feel that most people (myself included) are too afraid to step out of their comfort zone to step into something that is uncertain. We tend to make sure that everything is planned before taking that first step. Where is the faith?
On the 5th day of my project, we conducted health education and clinics at Kampong Luon floating village. Our team split into 2 groups, one conducting health education at the floating church's school and the other group running the clinic at the community's health centre. After 4 days of doing health education, screening and clinics in schools around CROAP, this was a new experience. Helping at the floating village set me thinking about a lot of things. It made me question things that I thought I always had the answers for. This was good, it provides me with an opportunity to be grounded in foundation once again. Also, I feel that this allows me to grow; when you stop asking questions, that is when you stop growing.
I also had the priviledge to experience 'house moving' in the floating village. The floating church and school I was on was towed out into deeper waters when the tide dropped too low. According to the locals, this 'house moving' is done whenever the waters get too shallow. Other than allowing houses to float on them, the water in the Tonle Sap lake is also used for bathing, cooking, washing, waste disposal, playing and for catching the fishes that live in them. It came as no surprise to me that the bowls I used during lunch was washed by the same water which I had pee-ed into minutes ago.
Lastly, I did not allow myself to bring any luxury items (facial wipes, mp3 player, etc) on this trip. All I had was my handphone which was used in the case of emergency when we need to contact one another and a tube of SAF insect repellent. I did not feel at all lacking without those things. In fact, I felt free, so carefree. It was an amazing feeling.
Through this trip, I made 2 more Cambodian friends, Chhong Mao and Sinath. They were very friendly and hospitable. They are people that I will hold dear to and keep in contact with. I might return to Cambodia prior to my Ironman in Switzerland next year for the same project to work alongside them again.
I believe that this project benefitted me more than it did for the Cambodians. There was only so much we can do to help them as students compared to help rendered by a doctor. However, I hope and pray that this experience will catapult me further into the unknown where real faith is needed. God use me.
Monday, December 15, 2008
The end of one of my many semesters..
Today marks the end of my 1st semester in NUS Medical school.. Looking back at the past few months, it seemed that time was fast-forwarded, everything went by so quickly and I was, as usual, busy with so many things to do.. After looking back at this semester, I would say that it was nothing like I expected it to be!
I thought I had everything all planned out. I will walk closely with God, be super-alert in lectures so that I waste little time during revisions; I would then use that extra time to train for my various events, give tuition, lead the kids well in church, enjoy sunday football, etc.. In essence, I have planned to have a very well-balanced life in University, seeing myself grow in all areas of my life and developing into a better person.
Well..Things turned out ok in some areas and not so ok in others. To cut the long story short, my plans failed. I could scarcely summon the discipline that saw me through VJC when I trained 6 times a week for soccer. I did not make full use of the time given to me to do things of greater value. I simply wasted time, a gift always under-estimated.
Today, during my 3hr long CA2, I was taken aback by the paper. It did not seem as friendly as CA1, it was out to kill. I felt drained (something I never felt before during exams), reading the questions 6 times to focus my mind on it. I simply did not feel like doing the damn paper. I even comprehended walking out of the examination hall, but I did not. I took the time while doing the paper to reflect on where I've gone wrong this semester. What have I done and not done leading to me feeling this way now? Perhaps it was complacency, thinking that I did well in CA1, therefore CA2 will also be another walk in the park. Indeed, I have slacken off towards the 2nd half of this semester.. I thought of all the time wasted watching movies on my laptop during revision and mugging in the build up to my paper (a grand total of 19.5 movies - 0.5 as I haven't finished watching it).
There were so many things I've identified during this short 3hrs that could be improved in the next semester. I want to improve, I want to do justice to my plan, I must succeed! Well, amidst all the negative points, there are also positive ones. One that comes right off the top of my head is training with the NUS Aquathlon team.
I used to think that people in NUS Aquathlon was proud, unfriendly and all the bad stuff (I don't know why I felt this way, but yea..). After my 1st training with them, I realised that this was a group where like-minded people come together to do things that they enjoy. They were friendly, ever so ready to help with their 2 cents worth. The team bonding is really tight and it feels like family.
Therefore, the 1st thing I thought off after my very discouraging paper was to go for training later in the day at 7pm. I wanted to whack the sets and vent my frustrations in the pool, and most importantly, to meet my family in NUS. Training today was tough, with us completing 3.9km worth of sets. The breathing drill made me feel that I was earning my right to breathe; with each breath, I covered more ground with my strokes.
I felt strong in the water today. I remembered what Nicolas always tell me, "Feel like you're a knife slicing through butter." I felt like that knife today. It is a pity that I will miss training for a week as I will be leaving for Cambodia 7hrs from now for a medical mission. Will be doing my share of running and stretch cords with Shaun though. =]
I left training feeling better about life in general. Encouragement from Aldrich was really touching and it reinforces my theory that Aquathlon is more than a CCA, it is my way of life in NUS. I look forward to the new year and the new semester for it brings hope for improvements. I thank God that He revealed so much in my life that needs to be worked on. I will do my best, with God doing the rest.
Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. - Hebrews 11:1
I thought I had everything all planned out. I will walk closely with God, be super-alert in lectures so that I waste little time during revisions; I would then use that extra time to train for my various events, give tuition, lead the kids well in church, enjoy sunday football, etc.. In essence, I have planned to have a very well-balanced life in University, seeing myself grow in all areas of my life and developing into a better person.
Well..Things turned out ok in some areas and not so ok in others. To cut the long story short, my plans failed. I could scarcely summon the discipline that saw me through VJC when I trained 6 times a week for soccer. I did not make full use of the time given to me to do things of greater value. I simply wasted time, a gift always under-estimated.
Today, during my 3hr long CA2, I was taken aback by the paper. It did not seem as friendly as CA1, it was out to kill. I felt drained (something I never felt before during exams), reading the questions 6 times to focus my mind on it. I simply did not feel like doing the damn paper. I even comprehended walking out of the examination hall, but I did not. I took the time while doing the paper to reflect on where I've gone wrong this semester. What have I done and not done leading to me feeling this way now? Perhaps it was complacency, thinking that I did well in CA1, therefore CA2 will also be another walk in the park. Indeed, I have slacken off towards the 2nd half of this semester.. I thought of all the time wasted watching movies on my laptop during revision and mugging in the build up to my paper (a grand total of 19.5 movies - 0.5 as I haven't finished watching it).
There were so many things I've identified during this short 3hrs that could be improved in the next semester. I want to improve, I want to do justice to my plan, I must succeed! Well, amidst all the negative points, there are also positive ones. One that comes right off the top of my head is training with the NUS Aquathlon team.
I used to think that people in NUS Aquathlon was proud, unfriendly and all the bad stuff (I don't know why I felt this way, but yea..). After my 1st training with them, I realised that this was a group where like-minded people come together to do things that they enjoy. They were friendly, ever so ready to help with their 2 cents worth. The team bonding is really tight and it feels like family.
Therefore, the 1st thing I thought off after my very discouraging paper was to go for training later in the day at 7pm. I wanted to whack the sets and vent my frustrations in the pool, and most importantly, to meet my family in NUS. Training today was tough, with us completing 3.9km worth of sets. The breathing drill made me feel that I was earning my right to breathe; with each breath, I covered more ground with my strokes.
I felt strong in the water today. I remembered what Nicolas always tell me, "Feel like you're a knife slicing through butter." I felt like that knife today. It is a pity that I will miss training for a week as I will be leaving for Cambodia 7hrs from now for a medical mission. Will be doing my share of running and stretch cords with Shaun though. =]
I left training feeling better about life in general. Encouragement from Aldrich was really touching and it reinforces my theory that Aquathlon is more than a CCA, it is my way of life in NUS. I look forward to the new year and the new semester for it brings hope for improvements. I thank God that He revealed so much in my life that needs to be worked on. I will do my best, with God doing the rest.
Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. - Hebrews 11:1
Saturday, December 13, 2008
This is so damn sick!
"...I will prescribe regimens for the good of my patients according to my ability and my judgment and never do harm to anyone..." - line from the Hippocratic Oath
Would a doctor:
1. Ask if you wanted to re-attach your middle finger or your ring finger after telling you how much it will cost to re-attach each finger?
2. Ask if you have money or insurance premiums before treating you of your disesase or relieving you of your pain?
3. Refuse to treat you or your loved ones if you of they are not covered with insurance?
4. Refuse to treat you or your loved ones if you or they have no money?
5. Dump you at some NGO (non-government organisation) hospital if you had no money to pay for your treatment?
6. Charge you US$120 for a medicine that costs US$0.05 elsewhere?
Well, apparently the answer to all the questions posted above is an astonishing "YES" in the United States of America. The man in 1. could only afford to have his ring finger attached, and it was because he wanted to still have his wedding band on. 2 ladies in 2. have to watch their loved ones (1 husband and 1 child) die because doctors refuse to treat them as they have no insurance premiums. Many people in 5. were thrown into a cab and driven to NGO hospitals, some still having their IV catheter in their hands or were in semi-healed state.
This really blew my mind after watching Michael Moore's Sicko. I seriously cannot comprehend why these doctors do what they do. Even a normal civilian would stop to help someone in need, what more a doctor? Someone who is called to serve, someone with a higher calling, someone whom others see as a hope. I am utterly thankful and blessed to call Singapore my home...
“No Singaporean will be denied needed healthcare because of lack of funds” - PM Goh
Would a doctor:
1. Ask if you wanted to re-attach your middle finger or your ring finger after telling you how much it will cost to re-attach each finger?
2. Ask if you have money or insurance premiums before treating you of your disesase or relieving you of your pain?
3. Refuse to treat you or your loved ones if you of they are not covered with insurance?
4. Refuse to treat you or your loved ones if you or they have no money?
5. Dump you at some NGO (non-government organisation) hospital if you had no money to pay for your treatment?
6. Charge you US$120 for a medicine that costs US$0.05 elsewhere?
Well, apparently the answer to all the questions posted above is an astonishing "YES" in the United States of America. The man in 1. could only afford to have his ring finger attached, and it was because he wanted to still have his wedding band on. 2 ladies in 2. have to watch their loved ones (1 husband and 1 child) die because doctors refuse to treat them as they have no insurance premiums. Many people in 5. were thrown into a cab and driven to NGO hospitals, some still having their IV catheter in their hands or were in semi-healed state.
This really blew my mind after watching Michael Moore's Sicko. I seriously cannot comprehend why these doctors do what they do. Even a normal civilian would stop to help someone in need, what more a doctor? Someone who is called to serve, someone with a higher calling, someone whom others see as a hope. I am utterly thankful and blessed to call Singapore my home...
“No Singaporean will be denied needed healthcare because of lack of funds” - PM Goh
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Brilliant!
This was a clip I saw on HBO when I was watching TV a few weeks back! Super hilarious and brilliantly done! Enjoy!! =]
Flight of the Conchords - Inner City Pressure
Someone once asked me...
"hey...do you very much believe in fate? :)"
If this looks familiar to you, you're pretty sharp.. =] Someone once asked me this question on my tagboard. Someone who goes by the name passerby. Actually I had an answer immediately, but I dare not post it because it seemed so idealistic.. If I may, I will like to change the question to what I perceived it to be...
"hey...do you very much believe in destiny? :)"
This was how I saw it. I believe that we as God's children have the liberty to exercise our free will as long as it is within moral grounds. A friend once told me, "love God and do anything". It was so simple yet profound. Can we really do anything? Let me put it this way, if you really love God, you will do things that pleases Him.
As the days go by, the answer that I wanted to give became more and more clear..now I'm prepared to answer that question truthfully..
Destiny is the bridge you build to the one you love. - My Sassy Girl
You have to do something even if things were meant for you. It does not mean that you can just sit back and hope that it will turn out as you dreamed or wished. However, before you start building that bridge, are you sure about the one you love?
If this looks familiar to you, you're pretty sharp.. =] Someone once asked me this question on my tagboard. Someone who goes by the name passerby. Actually I had an answer immediately, but I dare not post it because it seemed so idealistic.. If I may, I will like to change the question to what I perceived it to be...
"hey...do you very much believe in destiny? :)"
This was how I saw it. I believe that we as God's children have the liberty to exercise our free will as long as it is within moral grounds. A friend once told me, "love God and do anything". It was so simple yet profound. Can we really do anything? Let me put it this way, if you really love God, you will do things that pleases Him.
As the days go by, the answer that I wanted to give became more and more clear..now I'm prepared to answer that question truthfully..
Destiny is the bridge you build to the one you love. - My Sassy Girl
You have to do something even if things were meant for you. It does not mean that you can just sit back and hope that it will turn out as you dreamed or wished. However, before you start building that bridge, are you sure about the one you love?
Monday, December 08, 2008
Mike's wedding
I attended another wedding last night. This time it was my superior and close friend, during my term as instrutor in the School of Armour, Captain Mike. He is someone who really inspires me to better myself and I really learnt a lot from him throughout my time in National Service.
I can still remember vividly the many times we just sit around after training doing nothing but talk about things in life. He always seem to know what I was feeling or thinking about..and was most of the time right. Whenever I need help with advices on certain issues pertaining to issues in life, I will seek his perspective on things. He never fails to simplify the problem for me. Perhaps I think too much sometimes...
Anyways, the day before I was just looking through some photos taken during my instructorship tour back in the School of Armour and this one particularly grabbed my attention.
Jeremy, Jeck, Wee Ten, Me and Meng Wee
These were the instructors that I worked closely with. We were the 2LTs of the Tank Officer Cadet Course. I was looking at the picture and a thousand memories just swarmed back. I really miss those times. National Service was indeed a life-shaping journey..
At the wedding, I was delighted to see them and all my superiors too. It was a time to catch up and reminisce the good times. I also realised that everyone who was at Officer Training Wing was posted out to other units, leaving behind only Captain Mike and Warrant Yeo. Warrant Yeo was another person who taught me many things. He was like a father to me. Last night, OTW was reunited.
I still maintain my stand that people in OTW during my 2nd batch as instructor was the coolest bunch! =] We had so much fun working and playing and training. Life was never boring..Hahas..
However, life moves on..We all move on in life on different paths, glad that in a point in time our paths cross and we get shaped by one another, taking away something from each other that will remain in us forever.
"What is a friend? A single soul dwelling in two bodies." - Aristotle
Sunday, December 07, 2008
The last race of the year..
This morning's Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon was my final event for the year. When I woke up at 4.10am, I was still thinking whether or not to run this race as I haven't really been training for it due to a minor burnout I sustained. SMSes on my handphone from friends wishing me the best tilted my decision to the other side. I decided to just run to complete.
The day couldn't have started better with me stepping into a muddy hole on the way to deposit my baggage. The whole place was a mud-fest! As I was supposed to meet Jonathan to follow his pace (he wanted to do a 4hr 30min run), I quickly deposited my bag and went to search for him. The place was a mess and to cut the long story short, I failed to find him. Hence, I went to the start point to wait for him, hoping that I will see him coming down the stairs doing his trademark 'hand on bottom edge of shirt' stunt. That too did not happen. However, he manage to spot me from a multitude of people and we began the run together.
I held up well with Jonathan until the 13-14km mark when I felt that he was going too fast; he was not going at the pace for our targetted time. I decided to be dropped by him. So the majority of the race was done alone. 2 thoughts fought for dominance in my mind then - to go faster to try and hit the timing or to just maintain a slow and steady pace to complete the race. I succumbed to the 1st thought which was a bad move as I haven't been training for this race. At the latter part of the race, the consequence of my wrong decision was made evident. It was really pretty painful in the last 10km. I even walked abit (something I always feel strongly against).
As I had loads of time alone during the run, I pondered about what my boss in army told me, "Sports is war in peace time." What a succinct description. I think he is right. Just take a look at the Olympics, and you will see countries like the United States and China battle it out for top spot. The latter even famous for training schools who take children in when they are very young, training them for just a particular event. 'Athlete harvesting' if you ask me.
So during the race, I came to realise that I did not perform well in any of my races this year! I think I lack the knowledge and discipline on how I should prepare for a particular event. I always finish a race thinking that I could do better. Thinking about if only I trained earlier, harder, was more focused. The thousand and one 'if onlys'...and I totally dislike that feeling! Next year, there will be more races, and I seriously hope to do well in the majority of them.
I also realised that in my life so far, I have always been a very impatient person. I could think of many instances where my impatience cost me to fail in a situation, like the bad decision I made during the race! Another example was a very big mistake that was also made due to my impatience, not once but twice. I think that was and still is the biggest mistake of my life. I hope that as my life unfolds, it will no longer be...I thank God that He revealed this to me today about myself. This is really something that has to be addressed and changed.
I continued walking/running until the this last 1km, where I met my soccer senior and medicine senior, JR and Jega. We completed the race together. I did the marathon in a time of 4hr 38min, Jonathan did it under 4hrs. =]
Finally, my learning point from this marathon: I have to make use of this marathon to catapult me into next year's training for my races. I have to learn to be disciplined and to be patient. I want to give all that I have and do well. That is the best feeling anyone can ever have.
"Now you have to go through hell, worst than any nightmare that you ever dream; but in the end, you know you'ld be the last one standing." - Coach Duke to Rocky Balboa before the latter fought Ivan Drago
The day couldn't have started better with me stepping into a muddy hole on the way to deposit my baggage. The whole place was a mud-fest! As I was supposed to meet Jonathan to follow his pace (he wanted to do a 4hr 30min run), I quickly deposited my bag and went to search for him. The place was a mess and to cut the long story short, I failed to find him. Hence, I went to the start point to wait for him, hoping that I will see him coming down the stairs doing his trademark 'hand on bottom edge of shirt' stunt. That too did not happen. However, he manage to spot me from a multitude of people and we began the run together.
I held up well with Jonathan until the 13-14km mark when I felt that he was going too fast; he was not going at the pace for our targetted time. I decided to be dropped by him. So the majority of the race was done alone. 2 thoughts fought for dominance in my mind then - to go faster to try and hit the timing or to just maintain a slow and steady pace to complete the race. I succumbed to the 1st thought which was a bad move as I haven't been training for this race. At the latter part of the race, the consequence of my wrong decision was made evident. It was really pretty painful in the last 10km. I even walked abit (something I always feel strongly against).
As I had loads of time alone during the run, I pondered about what my boss in army told me, "Sports is war in peace time." What a succinct description. I think he is right. Just take a look at the Olympics, and you will see countries like the United States and China battle it out for top spot. The latter even famous for training schools who take children in when they are very young, training them for just a particular event. 'Athlete harvesting' if you ask me.
So during the race, I came to realise that I did not perform well in any of my races this year! I think I lack the knowledge and discipline on how I should prepare for a particular event. I always finish a race thinking that I could do better. Thinking about if only I trained earlier, harder, was more focused. The thousand and one 'if onlys'...and I totally dislike that feeling! Next year, there will be more races, and I seriously hope to do well in the majority of them.
I also realised that in my life so far, I have always been a very impatient person. I could think of many instances where my impatience cost me to fail in a situation, like the bad decision I made during the race! Another example was a very big mistake that was also made due to my impatience, not once but twice. I think that was and still is the biggest mistake of my life. I hope that as my life unfolds, it will no longer be...I thank God that He revealed this to me today about myself. This is really something that has to be addressed and changed.
I continued walking/running until the this last 1km, where I met my soccer senior and medicine senior, JR and Jega. We completed the race together. I did the marathon in a time of 4hr 38min, Jonathan did it under 4hrs. =]
Finally, my learning point from this marathon: I have to make use of this marathon to catapult me into next year's training for my races. I have to learn to be disciplined and to be patient. I want to give all that I have and do well. That is the best feeling anyone can ever have.
"Now you have to go through hell, worst than any nightmare that you ever dream; but in the end, you know you'ld be the last one standing." - Coach Duke to Rocky Balboa before the latter fought Ivan Drago
Saturday, December 06, 2008
Run like an animal
Having tried searching high and low for this poster to no avail, Aldrich, my Aquathlon captain, sent us this scan that he made a few days ago. =] Brilliant! I thought the words on it were very inspirational...
RUN EASY IS AN OXYMORON.
What is it about running that scares people so much? Why do people feel they have to put friendly modifiers next to running so that everyone can feel good about it? Well here's the ugly truth: Everyone shouldn't feel good about running. It's hard. It hurts. Running requires sacrifices and heart and guts. Any attempt to water it down with feel good adjectives is a slap in the face to those of us who still hold running sacred. In fact, if you are running easy, odds are you're not running at all. You're jogging. So do us a favour, don't run easy. Run hard. Run like an animal. - Pearl Izumi
I have a marathon tomorrow..can I run like an animal?
Wednesday, December 03, 2008
Beauty in even the most mundane things..
In the midst of the numerous renal corpuscles, collecting tubules and ducts and macula densa cells on my kidney slide, I found this beautifully shaped structure...
Believe me, it was really hard to take this photo with my camera phone =] I only finally managed to snap this on my 3rd attempt after what seemed like an eternity of adjusting. This is probably a cross-section of a blood vessel in the kidney.
Upon seeing this heart, I was immediately reminded of God's love for us. A love so great and sacrificial that He sent His Son Jesus to die for us on the Cross. At that moment, I was deeply humbled...
"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." - John 3:16
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Spinning wheels and blurry roads...
I've officially started my build up to my Ironman next year in July. Will be doing some preparatory training to make sure that my body is up for it when base training begins. =] As Jiajie, Jason and I have discussed over coffee at Starbucks last night, we will be posting our training programme on our blogs so that we can refer to the trainings and make amendments to our own one. =] This is indeed 'the adventure of a lifetime' as Jason puts it!
Well, I did 70km on the bike with buddy Nicolas this morning, and it felt pretty good. I don't deny that I was pretty tired though. Hahas..180km in Switzerland is a long way to go...However, with training I believe I can overcome!
Linking back to life, it is indeed like spinning wheels and blurry roads...It is so fast it passes you by, and things are not as clear as they seem to be. Time indeed flies as I once again realised after attending yet another 21st birthday party hours ago. We all look the same to one another, but things change and they don't seem as clear as we thought they are..
I hope one day, the fog before me in the path of life clears and things are not so blurry anymore...
Well, I did 70km on the bike with buddy Nicolas this morning, and it felt pretty good. I don't deny that I was pretty tired though. Hahas..180km in Switzerland is a long way to go...However, with training I believe I can overcome!
Linking back to life, it is indeed like spinning wheels and blurry roads...It is so fast it passes you by, and things are not as clear as they seem to be. Time indeed flies as I once again realised after attending yet another 21st birthday party hours ago. We all look the same to one another, but things change and they don't seem as clear as we thought they are..
I hope one day, the fog before me in the path of life clears and things are not so blurry anymore...
Monday, November 24, 2008
Love...
I renounce all selfish goals and choose the ultimate goal of love.
"The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith." - 1 Timothy 1:5
I choose to obey the 2 greatest commandments: To love the Lord my God with all my heart, soul and mind, and to love my neighbour as myself.
"And he said to him, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbour as yourself."" - Matthew 22:37-39
Indeed, in life most things are down to decisions. =]
"The aim of our charge is love that issues from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith." - 1 Timothy 1:5
I choose to obey the 2 greatest commandments: To love the Lord my God with all my heart, soul and mind, and to love my neighbour as myself.
"And he said to him, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbour as yourself."" - Matthew 22:37-39
Indeed, in life most things are down to decisions. =]
Friday, November 21, 2008
I'm Ironstruck!
I was just thinking about my Ironman in Switzerland next year and realised that there was really a lot to prepare for which I have not done. I also realised that I have to seriously map out a training programme that will prepare me to complete the event.
This will no doubt be a challenge for me, balancing school work, biathlon training, church and family with this life-changing event. I believe that in the training for such an event will inevitably help to make you more disciplined, focused and hone skills for long-term planning. This is seriously going to be an epic journey for me! =]
I will end of this post with a quote I saw while searching for some training tips.
"A challenging journey is not without risks. Often we feel we can go no further, we can do no more, and that one more step is impossible. In that one moment we face the abyss, the ultimate challenge of mind, body, and spirit and discover an inner strength we never new existed and in a glorious revelation realize that our lives have changed forever." - Ironstruck
This will no doubt be a challenge for me, balancing school work, biathlon training, church and family with this life-changing event. I believe that in the training for such an event will inevitably help to make you more disciplined, focused and hone skills for long-term planning. This is seriously going to be an epic journey for me! =]
I will end of this post with a quote I saw while searching for some training tips.
"A challenging journey is not without risks. Often we feel we can go no further, we can do no more, and that one more step is impossible. In that one moment we face the abyss, the ultimate challenge of mind, body, and spirit and discover an inner strength we never new existed and in a glorious revelation realize that our lives have changed forever." - Ironstruck
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Idiopathic Thrombocytopenia Purpura...
Another week is almost over again..My goodness how time flies around this part of the world. Anyways, I did not manage to complete my 24km nor 32km yesterday. I stopped short at 16km because my legs were dying and I really felt like shit. I don't really understand what is going on inside of me recently, but I tend to feel nauseated days after the long run. My legs are also feeling more tired than ever, I hope I'm not burn-out, please please please not a burn-out.
Next week, I have only 5hours of school for the ENTIRE week! Is that insane or what? Praise the Lord as I can use the time to catch up on Physiology for respiration and the cardiovascular system. The title of this post, if you're wondering, is the longest name for a disease I've come across so far. Hahas! It simply means unknown purple-ing of the skin due to lack of platelets in the blood. =] Quite a feat to squeeze the whole description into just 3 words don't you think? Medical jargon is just poser-ish.
Lastly, I've recieved the results for my CA1 and it is quite good! Praise the Lord! Yay! I will work harder for my CA2! =]
Next week, I have only 5hours of school for the ENTIRE week! Is that insane or what? Praise the Lord as I can use the time to catch up on Physiology for respiration and the cardiovascular system. The title of this post, if you're wondering, is the longest name for a disease I've come across so far. Hahas! It simply means unknown purple-ing of the skin due to lack of platelets in the blood. =] Quite a feat to squeeze the whole description into just 3 words don't you think? Medical jargon is just poser-ish.
Lastly, I've recieved the results for my CA1 and it is quite good! Praise the Lord! Yay! I will work harder for my CA2! =]
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Supper-o-dinner with brothers from Aquathalon!
A couple of hours ago, I was having a very very late dinner with Nicolas, Jiajie, Jason and Jonathan at their hall. It was a steamboat fellowship, and we had loads of fun catching up and enjoying the food. The spread was quite elaborate for a cook-in and the company was superb!
Even though it was in the midst of their studying break before the exams next week (my CA2 is still another 1 month from now), they never fail to enjoy in the company of friends. I love this team...
=] Am back in my bunk now almost completing my notes on the haematopoietic system. I want to sleep...24-32km run later after my lecture at 9.30am! I hope to complete it as there is only another 18days to my marathon on the 7th of December 2008! Drats..
Even though it was in the midst of their studying break before the exams next week (my CA2 is still another 1 month from now), they never fail to enjoy in the company of friends. I love this team...
=] Am back in my bunk now almost completing my notes on the haematopoietic system. I want to sleep...24-32km run later after my lecture at 9.30am! I hope to complete it as there is only another 18days to my marathon on the 7th of December 2008! Drats..
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Ethics..
I've just returned to my bunk in PGP from the Singapore Medical Association Ethics Convention 2008. The topic of the forum is "Compensation or Incentives for Donors in Organ Transplants: Possibilities & Pitfalls"
It was an eye opening forum for me - seeing so many professionals gathered in a place to discuss about an issue and sharing their points and opinions. Some big shots were Dr Thomas Murray, President and CEO of The Hastings Center, from the United States and Professor Jeremy Chapman, President of The Transplantation Society, from Australia. The rest of the panel were made up of our local professors, doctors and legal advisor. It was cool to see some of my ethics lecturers in the panel! The discussion was very enriching and it dawned upon me that ethics was an important area that I have to deal with when I graduate. The new and improved curriculum that we are undergoing now as medical students includes ethics, and I think that it is very good! =]
I decided to attend this forum as recently we (year 1 medical students) just had a lecture and tutorial discussion on organ donation and trading. I thought it was cool to check this forum out as the Health Minister is in the midst of trying to implement some new law that might affect me in the future as a doctor. I am not sure if I was the only year 1 medical student there, but I sure did not see any other fellow classmates. =] Anyhow, I had quite an enlightening experience, and I look forward to more of such forums! =]
It was an eye opening forum for me - seeing so many professionals gathered in a place to discuss about an issue and sharing their points and opinions. Some big shots were Dr Thomas Murray, President and CEO of The Hastings Center, from the United States and Professor Jeremy Chapman, President of The Transplantation Society, from Australia. The rest of the panel were made up of our local professors, doctors and legal advisor. It was cool to see some of my ethics lecturers in the panel! The discussion was very enriching and it dawned upon me that ethics was an important area that I have to deal with when I graduate. The new and improved curriculum that we are undergoing now as medical students includes ethics, and I think that it is very good! =]
I decided to attend this forum as recently we (year 1 medical students) just had a lecture and tutorial discussion on organ donation and trading. I thought it was cool to check this forum out as the Health Minister is in the midst of trying to implement some new law that might affect me in the future as a doctor. I am not sure if I was the only year 1 medical student there, but I sure did not see any other fellow classmates. =] Anyhow, I had quite an enlightening experience, and I look forward to more of such forums! =]
Saturday, November 08, 2008
What!?
I have people coming up to me asking me if I really believed that there is a Department for Appropriate Behaviour..Argh! I was tricked! The notice that was pasted on the original advertisment was a smart publicity gimmick! My goodness..Perhaps they are trying to use reverse psychology on us? =] Well, you never know..
Was talking to Jesselyn on Thursday before cell started and she shared many killer stuffs about the processing powers of the brain. Are you aware why whenever you watch a horror movie you get so scared? Or perhaps why you bought something at the spur of the moment but realise later that you don't need it at all? I think I might just have the answer for you! =]
From what she told me, producers of horror films place a really horrific/scary picture in a single frame in the entire movie so that it flashes by so fast that your eyes cannot pick up the image, but your brain can. What happens is that your brain processes the image without you knowing it and in doing so, you get the scary feeling. In shops where they play music, they mix the music with another track that goes "buy it, buy it, buy it...". The latter you can't really hear as the music is tuned to drown that out, but somehow, your brain processes that information again and you get that strong feeling to purchase that unnecessary product. Hahas..this is way cool! Our brain indeed is mysterious =]
Was talking to Jesselyn on Thursday before cell started and she shared many killer stuffs about the processing powers of the brain. Are you aware why whenever you watch a horror movie you get so scared? Or perhaps why you bought something at the spur of the moment but realise later that you don't need it at all? I think I might just have the answer for you! =]
From what she told me, producers of horror films place a really horrific/scary picture in a single frame in the entire movie so that it flashes by so fast that your eyes cannot pick up the image, but your brain can. What happens is that your brain processes the image without you knowing it and in doing so, you get the scary feeling. In shops where they play music, they mix the music with another track that goes "buy it, buy it, buy it...". The latter you can't really hear as the music is tuned to drown that out, but somehow, your brain processes that information again and you get that strong feeling to purchase that unnecessary product. Hahas..this is way cool! Our brain indeed is mysterious =]
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Updates and interesting stuffs..
Hello people! Here's a update to the case of the alledged spoilt brat. As I hve guessed correctly, The Strait's Times have indeed hit a new low. It is really sick. All I can hope for is that the matter will slowly subside and that life will return back to normal for Agnes who was the target of Nur Dianah Suhaimi's inaccurate and irresponsible reporting.
On a lighter note, I saw this at the bus stop outside NUS while waiting for the bus to school.
On a lighter note, I saw this at the bus stop outside NUS while waiting for the bus to school.
It reads: "As this television programme conflicts with our moral standards, the public is hereby DISCOURAGED FROM VIEWING CALIFORNICATION FX, CHANNEL 87 STARHUB TV Notice authorised by the Department for Appropriate Behaviour"
Never in my life in Singapore had I known that such a cool department existed! I really think this notice is seriously killer concept and amusing! =] CaliFORNICATION is indeed not a very nice word and it does seem to connote certain disappropriate behaviours in society...
Well, just to share the interesting things that I come by.. =] No quotes for this post..hahas..
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Agnes Lin case: Words - The most powerful weapon..
I refer to the article that was published on Sunday, 26th October 2008 regarding a certain spoilt brat who is still splurging her parents' money amidst the looming financial crisis.
For 20-year-old undergraduate Agnes Lin, the recession could just be academic.
The Nanyang Technological University first-year student has never been in need: She carries a $2,000 Louis Vuitton handbag to school and uses only Shiseido cosmetic and skincare products. She carries around the latest mobile phone and goes on overseas vacations with her friends where she would bust $1,000 on shopping alone. Twice monthly, she shops at her favourite stores - Topshop, Zara and Forever21.
Mum, a private tutor, and Dad, a businessman selling polythene bags, pay for her expenses.
Miss Lin is aware that Singapore faces a recession but the news does not bother her. She said: 'I think it is okay for me to maintain my current lifestyle. I may be spending a little bit more than my friends but I don't think I'm overspending.'
At the moment, she has her eyes on the latest mobile phone in the market, the HTC Touch Pro, which costs about $700. Although her mother has said 'no' to her buying yet another mobile phone, Ms Lin has an inkling she will still get it. 'I think my mum will still buy it for me. My birthday is coming up!' she said with a giggle.
She confessed that since young, she has never run out of cash. Her parents give her money whenever she asks. Since she was 16, her monthly pocket money has been $500. She has an older brother, also an undergraduate. The family live in a four-room flat in Marine Parade.
She thinks a friend of hers, who is left with $20 to last until the end of the month, is silly to consider taking up a part-time job to earn some extra cash. 'I don't understand why she cannot just ask her parents for money,' sighed Miss Lin.
She will enter the working world only after three years but she is already planning ahead. With her first pay packet, she will buy a $4,000 Chanel bag. 'After that, I will probably get more bags and watches,' she added.
Mum & Dad will provide
For 20-year-old undergraduate Agnes Lin, the recession could just be academic.
The Nanyang Technological University first-year student has never been in need: She carries a $2,000 Louis Vuitton handbag to school and uses only Shiseido cosmetic and skincare products. She carries around the latest mobile phone and goes on overseas vacations with her friends where she would bust $1,000 on shopping alone. Twice monthly, she shops at her favourite stores - Topshop, Zara and Forever21.
Mum, a private tutor, and Dad, a businessman selling polythene bags, pay for her expenses.
Miss Lin is aware that Singapore faces a recession but the news does not bother her. She said: 'I think it is okay for me to maintain my current lifestyle. I may be spending a little bit more than my friends but I don't think I'm overspending.'
At the moment, she has her eyes on the latest mobile phone in the market, the HTC Touch Pro, which costs about $700. Although her mother has said 'no' to her buying yet another mobile phone, Ms Lin has an inkling she will still get it. 'I think my mum will still buy it for me. My birthday is coming up!' she said with a giggle.
She confessed that since young, she has never run out of cash. Her parents give her money whenever she asks. Since she was 16, her monthly pocket money has been $500. She has an older brother, also an undergraduate. The family live in a four-room flat in Marine Parade.
She thinks a friend of hers, who is left with $20 to last until the end of the month, is silly to consider taking up a part-time job to earn some extra cash. 'I don't understand why she cannot just ask her parents for money,' sighed Miss Lin.
She will enter the working world only after three years but she is already planning ahead. With her first pay packet, she will buy a $4,000 Chanel bag. 'After that, I will probably get more bags and watches,' she added.
Nur Dianah Suhaimi
Sun, Oct 26, 2008
The Straits Times
Sun, Oct 26, 2008
The Straits Times
This is only THEIR side of the story. I think for any issue that surfaces, it is always important to look at both sides of the picture and not be overly-biased toward a certain viewpoint. This way, you will not be manipulated by THEM. This is her side of the story. I never did expect The Strait's Times to stoop to such levels. It is indeed a new low for them...
Is it just me? Or am I starting a new trend on my blog? Ending off with quotes/verses..hahas.. This, however, really depicts the whole issue beautifully. Now I understand why celebrities commit suicide because of the false reportings of the paparazzi. Nur Dianah Suhaimi, you might have just changed the life of a certain individual, but I guess you don't give a damn do you? All you want is that fat-ass paycheck awaiting you with such a 'hot' report. Aren't you as materialistic? Where is the true spirit of journalism? I guess that question seriously begs an answer in the screwed up society we now live in...
"Death and life are in the power of the tongue..." - Proverbs 18:21
I love the team!
Back from my usual Wednesday aquathlon training. We did 10km run today, clocked my PB (39mins 21secs) for the route pacing behind Jonathan and Joshua. I don't think that the route was 10km, perhaps it was abit shorter, just somehow didn't feel 10km-ish.
Anyways, the usual dinner guys went for dinner after the training and we chatted abit before dispersing to mug. Dinner today was focused. On normal days, it could drag to 2hrs! We all realised that if not for the team, life in NUS will be a whole lot more dull and boring. It could not go on... =] Seriously, it is the team that pushes me week in week out. It is the team that makes me look forward to trainings (even though I know I will suffer when the training starts). I think it is essential for us to find something in life that pushes you on, and do that with a group of close friends. It is only through this way that you can ride through life's tougest storms and setbacks, not forgetting God of course! =]
Anyways, the usual dinner guys went for dinner after the training and we chatted abit before dispersing to mug. Dinner today was focused. On normal days, it could drag to 2hrs! We all realised that if not for the team, life in NUS will be a whole lot more dull and boring. It could not go on... =] Seriously, it is the team that pushes me week in week out. It is the team that makes me look forward to trainings (even though I know I will suffer when the training starts). I think it is essential for us to find something in life that pushes you on, and do that with a group of close friends. It is only through this way that you can ride through life's tougest storms and setbacks, not forgetting God of course! =]
NUS Aquathlon
I will end off with a quote from the movie 'Friday Night Lights':
"Being perfect is not about that scoreboard out there. It's not about winning. It's about you and your relationship with yourself, your family and your friends. Being perfect is about being able to look your friends in the eye and know that you didn't let them down because you told them the truth. And that truth is you did everything you could. There wasn't one more thing you could've done. Can you live in that moment as best you can, with clear eyes, and love in your heart, with joy in your heart? If you can do that gentleman - you're perfect" - Coach Gary Gaines
I understand it now...
I think I finally understood the reasons behind all the problems that I have been facing these past few months... I know it is always so easy to put the blame on the bloody devil, that all things bad must come from him. However, we cannot neglect the fact that we entertained his ideas, his promptings, his temptations... We are also to blame for our own circumstances.
So yes, after all that is said above, I'm still going to say that the devil is to be blamed. I really thank God for my strong and capable mother who is always there to help me no matter what. She shed light on my current situation.
So yes, after all that is said above, I'm still going to say that the devil is to be blamed. I really thank God for my strong and capable mother who is always there to help me no matter what. She shed light on my current situation.
"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly." - John 10:10
This was what she said, and everything fell into perspective. The devil does what he does best, to destroy things that took time to establish, to steal our time away from God and to kill our spiritual being. God on the other hand always seeks to love and to build.
"But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you." - Luke 6:27-28
God goes as far as to say that we should love our enemies, it is a command. Therefore, if we are to love our enemies, what more our close loved ones in relationships which have been forged and established?
I think I am closer to where I truly belong.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Superb break...now for the next chapter!
What a fantastic break I had for the past 3 days! After intra-aquathlon biathlon on Saturday, Jiajie, Jason, Nicolas, Jonathan and I went for dinner at Brewerkz as Nicolas had a $70 voucher! =] It was such an amazing time of fellowship and bonding for us aquathlon freshies. The food was good, atmosphere was good, company better.
The next day, Jiajie, Jason and I went about our usual bike training, but this time the location was in the west and the group was our aquathlon team. We did about 70km and had our lunch back at NUS's MacDonalds. =] Later in the day, I played soccer as usual with my buddies from VJC. It was a very tiring day, but it was fun all the same!
I had swim training in school today, and it seems like I have not really rested much, but I feel I did. I feel even more charged up for the next chapter that is to come in Medical school! Bring it on! =] This reminds me that I have to buy my Physioloy textbook...
Lastly, this is a quote from my friend Amy which I think is really very true.
"...and strangely during times when we need God most, we tend to run away from Him..."
She really drove the point home so succinctly! Beautifully put, and we have to beware of it. I will run, but this time it is towards His arms and not away...
The next day, Jiajie, Jason and I went about our usual bike training, but this time the location was in the west and the group was our aquathlon team. We did about 70km and had our lunch back at NUS's MacDonalds. =] Later in the day, I played soccer as usual with my buddies from VJC. It was a very tiring day, but it was fun all the same!
I had swim training in school today, and it seems like I have not really rested much, but I feel I did. I feel even more charged up for the next chapter that is to come in Medical school! Bring it on! =] This reminds me that I have to buy my Physioloy textbook...
Lastly, this is a quote from my friend Amy which I think is really very true.
"...and strangely during times when we need God most, we tend to run away from Him..."
She really drove the point home so succinctly! Beautifully put, and we have to beware of it. I will run, but this time it is towards His arms and not away...
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Updates for the Intra-Aquathlon Biathlon
Hello people! The update that I promised.. =] I completed the above-mentioned event with a time of 1hr 14min 14sec. I thought it was quite a good timing, considering that I clocked 1hr 48min at the Singapore Biathlon earlier this year! Breakdown of time - swim: 28mins 53secs, run: 45mins 21secs (much work have to done for the swim still, but for now, i'm elated with my new PB!)
This event has really encouraged me a lot, affirming me that the time and effort I spent going down for training is really helping me improve. Nothing in life comes easy, nothing without labour, Nil Sine Laboure! VJC! =] hahas..For those who are struggling out there with discipline problems, I just wish to share this with you: There are so many times that I toss around in bed, not wanting to leave the comforts of my sheets to torture myself during trainings. However, I still drag my limp body out of bed for trainings, and there WAS NEVER A SINGLE TIME that I regretted making such a decision. It is always worthwhile after the training has ended and that you tell yourself that you're much stronger now.
This ties in with the spiritual aspect of our lives as well. How many times have you wanted to seek God but you did not. Applying the same principles as stated above, there will also NEVER BE A TIME that you regret spending time with the Creator of the universe and of you and I. He will bless you in ways and means you can never imagine. Keep the faith my friend.
Leaving you guys with this quote from my brother Nicolas: Never live your life in regrets.
This event has really encouraged me a lot, affirming me that the time and effort I spent going down for training is really helping me improve. Nothing in life comes easy, nothing without labour, Nil Sine Laboure! VJC! =] hahas..For those who are struggling out there with discipline problems, I just wish to share this with you: There are so many times that I toss around in bed, not wanting to leave the comforts of my sheets to torture myself during trainings. However, I still drag my limp body out of bed for trainings, and there WAS NEVER A SINGLE TIME that I regretted making such a decision. It is always worthwhile after the training has ended and that you tell yourself that you're much stronger now.
This ties in with the spiritual aspect of our lives as well. How many times have you wanted to seek God but you did not. Applying the same principles as stated above, there will also NEVER BE A TIME that you regret spending time with the Creator of the universe and of you and I. He will bless you in ways and means you can never imagine. Keep the faith my friend.
Leaving you guys with this quote from my brother Nicolas: Never live your life in regrets.
Week wrap up
=] is how I can describe my feeling right now, except for some other minor things (which I'm not free to share here) I had my CA1 today, it was a pretty fun paper! =] After the 3hr paper, after collection of the OTAS sheet, the Biochemistry department gave the answers to the 40 MCQs! It was so shocking! Hahas..To cut the long story short, got 31/40! Praise the Lord! =] At least now I'm more relaxed about the remaining 60% of Biochemistry tested at the end of the academic year in May 2009. There is still the 40 MCQs for Anatomy though, that have not been discussed yet.
After the CA, Chin Ee, Xu Sheng and I went for our usual swim session again at the SRC pool and had lunch before heading down to lecture at 3pm. What a plan to have lectures after a CA! It was so darn wrong la! Weird. Later in the evening, we had the killer 'xiaolongbao' buffet at Crystal Jade at Holland Village. My goodness, I almost exploded...
Anyways, I have a biathlon tomorrow, so I have to go rest now. =] I wonder how I could swim and run after eating so much...I hope I survive. A long weekend awaits me, with classes starting at 11am on Tuesday too! Man! What a long weekend! I am going to relax the whole way to recharge for the next hurdle... =]
Leaving you guys with this killer talented guy called David Sides =]
His rendition of Apologize by One Republic
After the CA, Chin Ee, Xu Sheng and I went for our usual swim session again at the SRC pool and had lunch before heading down to lecture at 3pm. What a plan to have lectures after a CA! It was so darn wrong la! Weird. Later in the evening, we had the killer 'xiaolongbao' buffet at Crystal Jade at Holland Village. My goodness, I almost exploded...
Anyways, I have a biathlon tomorrow, so I have to go rest now. =] I wonder how I could swim and run after eating so much...I hope I survive. A long weekend awaits me, with classes starting at 11am on Tuesday too! Man! What a long weekend! I am going to relax the whole way to recharge for the next hurdle... =]
Leaving you guys with this killer talented guy called David Sides =]
His rendition of Apologize by One Republic
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
The past 3 days..
I have no idea but suddenly, weird thoughts start popping into my mind and I'm feeling really confused and down for the past 3 days.. The only time I feel alive is when I train with my team mates from aquathlon. That is the ONLY time I feel alive. We did 5 x (200m swim, 1km run) transition training today. It sounds easy yah, but trust me, you need a lot of determination to finish the sets! =] It was really a very fun session today. However, the moment it ended, I was thrown back into reality, facing my problems again. Damn.
Thankfully, I sought help from mum (we had dinner together). I told her all my problems and her advices were pretty much relevant. I will stick to it now and see how things go from here. I hope I feel better, I really do.
On a side note, after training today, I realised that my left big toe is ready to be 'harvested'! It has been badly injured due to soccer and I have just been waiting for it to fall off. Today, I took things into my own hands! =] Maybe this can be something to be happy about...
Thankfully, I sought help from mum (we had dinner together). I told her all my problems and her advices were pretty much relevant. I will stick to it now and see how things go from here. I hope I feel better, I really do.
On a side note, after training today, I realised that my left big toe is ready to be 'harvested'! It has been badly injured due to soccer and I have just been waiting for it to fall off. Today, I took things into my own hands! =] Maybe this can be something to be happy about...
Monday, October 20, 2008
I am not alone!
It is only human nature that we start to feel a little better when we realise that what we are going through now is being experienced by other people also. Yesterday, after cell group, I was talking to Ching Lu about her work and somehow we managed to drift into talking about our spiritual lives. This was where the conversation started to kick off. We both realised that the other person's spiritual life is not doing too well too!
It was such a connection..we then decided to keep one another in check and to also come up with a checklist that we have to adhere to strictly on a daily basis. I hope this works, for if it does not, I am really going to be even more lost... God, show me your hand in my life again...
It was such a connection..we then decided to keep one another in check and to also come up with a checklist that we have to adhere to strictly on a daily basis. I hope this works, for if it does not, I am really going to be even more lost... God, show me your hand in my life again...
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Model day!
Today was the 1st time in medical school that I felt I was actually productive! Had practicals in the day, identifying the lower limb muscles was facilitated by watching Acland's the night before =] It was really good, and for once I felt quite confident.
After lunch I headed back for a quick nap and started my tutorial. Normally 7 questions will take around 14-21hrs to complete. However, I managed to complete it in less than 6hrs! I even went for a 16km run at 5pm, clocking 77mins. It was quite a good aerobic exercise I felt, but my legs are pretty tired.
This could be the start of something really exciting! At the start of this week, I decided to once again commit everything into His hands and let Him show me the way. For through the past 8 weeks I was treading the waters ALONE and was just short of drowning. He is going to show me how to walk on the water! This I am very sure... All praise be to God for today.
Happy like mad! Finally, an early night which I will cherish very very much.
This is just a quote that really impacted me a lot, hope you guys get to glean something out of it too. =]
I am careful not to confuse excellence with perfection. Excellence, I can reach for; perfection is God's business. - Michael J. Fox
After lunch I headed back for a quick nap and started my tutorial. Normally 7 questions will take around 14-21hrs to complete. However, I managed to complete it in less than 6hrs! I even went for a 16km run at 5pm, clocking 77mins. It was quite a good aerobic exercise I felt, but my legs are pretty tired.
This could be the start of something really exciting! At the start of this week, I decided to once again commit everything into His hands and let Him show me the way. For through the past 8 weeks I was treading the waters ALONE and was just short of drowning. He is going to show me how to walk on the water! This I am very sure... All praise be to God for today.
Happy like mad! Finally, an early night which I will cherish very very much.
This is just a quote that really impacted me a lot, hope you guys get to glean something out of it too. =]
I am careful not to confuse excellence with perfection. Excellence, I can reach for; perfection is God's business. - Michael J. Fox
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Was it a set-up?
After training on Saturday, my mum came to pick us (Nicolas, Jonathan and I) up from NUS to the bike shop to get our stuffs. On the way down the AYE, we met an accident. Our car was happily travelling down lane 2 when suddenly from lane 1, a Mercedes swerved out and wanted to change lanes. Due to the amazingly fast reflexes from mummy, we did not hit that idiotic/retarded/should-get-his-license-suspended driver in his Mercedes. All of us were also not hurt during the accident, except for Jonathan who got a slight neck sprain.
That was not the end. 4-5secs later, we all felt a strong thud from behind. We were rammed into by a car from behind. The story begins now. Immediately (and I was pretty sure about the time frame), there was the EMAS recovery team. The man in the green vest immediately came up to control traffic and there was this car repair shop guy going around handing out namecards. My goodness! I was so appalled that the EMAS recovery came so quickly!
The car repair shop guy managed to talk his way into our car, and we drove off, headed for his garage (we were kind of rushing for time, maybe that's why he managed to persuade us). He said that he will settle everything for us. We left the scene, not without the license plate numbers of all the cars involved.
On the way there, I questioned him regarding the speed at which the EMAS recovery team and him managed to arrive that the accident scene. His reply left a lot to be questioned: 'We have cameras and we saw that an accident had happened'
My hypothesis:
1. Big brother is indeed watching, so much so that once an accident happens, EMAS recovery team is IMMEDIATELY activated and reaches the scene in minutes.
2. The car repair shop guy together with the Mercedes driver planned for such an accident. Firstly, they have nothing to lose if the Mercedes was hit by another car; in the eyes of the law, the driver of the car that hit the Mercedes have to pay for the repairs, and Mercedes repairs are not cheap. Secondly, any car that is hit will have to be repaired, there comes the business. Lastly, the timing combined with the weak explanation really pushes me to think that it was all a set-up.
You guys be the judge, what is your view? =]
That was not the end. 4-5secs later, we all felt a strong thud from behind. We were rammed into by a car from behind. The story begins now. Immediately (and I was pretty sure about the time frame), there was the EMAS recovery team. The man in the green vest immediately came up to control traffic and there was this car repair shop guy going around handing out namecards. My goodness! I was so appalled that the EMAS recovery came so quickly!
The car repair shop guy managed to talk his way into our car, and we drove off, headed for his garage (we were kind of rushing for time, maybe that's why he managed to persuade us). He said that he will settle everything for us. We left the scene, not without the license plate numbers of all the cars involved.
On the way there, I questioned him regarding the speed at which the EMAS recovery team and him managed to arrive that the accident scene. His reply left a lot to be questioned: 'We have cameras and we saw that an accident had happened'
My hypothesis:
1. Big brother is indeed watching, so much so that once an accident happens, EMAS recovery team is IMMEDIATELY activated and reaches the scene in minutes.
2. The car repair shop guy together with the Mercedes driver planned for such an accident. Firstly, they have nothing to lose if the Mercedes was hit by another car; in the eyes of the law, the driver of the car that hit the Mercedes have to pay for the repairs, and Mercedes repairs are not cheap. Secondly, any car that is hit will have to be repaired, there comes the business. Lastly, the timing combined with the weak explanation really pushes me to think that it was all a set-up.
You guys be the judge, what is your view? =]
Friday, October 10, 2008
So many things to buy!
The end of the week! A relief and yet more stress. Time is ticking down to my 1st CA! ...=[ Anyways, it's going to be a happy weekend for me! I'm going to buy stuffs! Whoots!
Things to be bought:
1. Cycling shoes and pedals (long, long overdue)
2. Finger paddles (it is supposed to improve your strokes)
3. Timex watch (I realised that my current Timex watch does not go well with clothes, so I'm selling it)
There are also so many things to do in these 2 days!
1. NUS aquathlon swim training on Saturday 9am-12pm
2. Problem-based learning assessment online (Saturday to Sunday)
3. Biochemistry revision for CA1
4. TRI21 bike training on Sunday 8am-10.30am
5. Soccer at VJC 5pm-7pm
This is my weekend almost every week. I wonder when I can ever have the privilege to just relax for a day...
Time is a gift from God, once it passes, it never returns. Make full use of it!
Things to be bought:
1. Cycling shoes and pedals (long, long overdue)
2. Finger paddles (it is supposed to improve your strokes)
3. Timex watch (I realised that my current Timex watch does not go well with clothes, so I'm selling it)
There are also so many things to do in these 2 days!
1. NUS aquathlon swim training on Saturday 9am-12pm
2. Problem-based learning assessment online (Saturday to Sunday)
3. Biochemistry revision for CA1
4. TRI21 bike training on Sunday 8am-10.30am
5. Soccer at VJC 5pm-7pm
This is my weekend almost every week. I wonder when I can ever have the privilege to just relax for a day...
Time is a gift from God, once it passes, it never returns. Make full use of it!
Thursday, October 09, 2008
The past 1 month...
Sorry folks! This blog has been dead for another month. =[ Well, there are some good things and some not so good ones to share..hmm, where shall I start? The past 1 month seemed to just whizz past me in a flash. Time seriously flies in University.
Ok, the good stuff! I can see myself improving after training with the NUS aquathlon team for more than 2 months. Did a swim time-trial yesterday and clocked in at 30mins 03s. It is still not fast enough, but hey! I sliced off 2mins+ from my previous PB! Whoots. I hope to hit 28mins by the end of the year. =]
Studies so far has been ok. We've completed the upper limb and moving on to the lower limb. I'm still trying to figure out a way to study anatomy because I think I'm too much into details. Hope I find a way soon, lower limb is kind of killing me now! -_-`
In terms of plans for both my term breaks (3 weeks in December 2008 and 3 months in May-July 2008), I have already settled it. =] I will be going on a medical trip to called Project Lokun in December. We will basically be there to educate the village children in Cambdia on health issues and the prevention of certain diseases. We will also be doing health screening for the villagers and doing house-to-house education. I can hardly wait to embark on this trip! There will be so much to learn and experience!
For my one and only 3 month break next year, I will be going to Switzerland to take part in the Ironman Triathlon. After which, JJ, Jason, Melvin and I will tour Europe and have some fun! =] I made this decision because if I do not pursue my passion now, I might not have the opportunity to do it again in the future. Training has been pretty much good leading up to that event. Swimming is more or less settled by Zhiyun who 'tortures' us twice a week in the pool. Cycling training is done every Sunday with pals from TRI21. What is left is running, long long distance running..
I have already signed up for my virgin 70.3 Half-Ironman next year in March as a warm up for the Ironman Switzerland 3 months later. So much stuffs are coming my way. This is really exciting.
Ok, for the not so good stuff. Things have been a little better since the last post. Spiritually I am still not back on track yet, but I guess I'm making headway in this area. Slowly trying to claw my way back to the 'strait and narrow path that leads to righteousness'. The Christian life is likened to an endurance race I feel, when you're in it, it is a struggle. However, there is always a rainbow at the end of a storm, a light at the end of a tunnel, a finishing line at the end of a race. I must get there!
'I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.' - 2 Timothy 4:7
Oh, how I wish I can say that at the end of days. I must persevere!
Ok, the good stuff! I can see myself improving after training with the NUS aquathlon team for more than 2 months. Did a swim time-trial yesterday and clocked in at 30mins 03s. It is still not fast enough, but hey! I sliced off 2mins+ from my previous PB! Whoots. I hope to hit 28mins by the end of the year. =]
Studies so far has been ok. We've completed the upper limb and moving on to the lower limb. I'm still trying to figure out a way to study anatomy because I think I'm too much into details. Hope I find a way soon, lower limb is kind of killing me now! -_-`
In terms of plans for both my term breaks (3 weeks in December 2008 and 3 months in May-July 2008), I have already settled it. =] I will be going on a medical trip to called Project Lokun in December. We will basically be there to educate the village children in Cambdia on health issues and the prevention of certain diseases. We will also be doing health screening for the villagers and doing house-to-house education. I can hardly wait to embark on this trip! There will be so much to learn and experience!
For my one and only 3 month break next year, I will be going to Switzerland to take part in the Ironman Triathlon. After which, JJ, Jason, Melvin and I will tour Europe and have some fun! =] I made this decision because if I do not pursue my passion now, I might not have the opportunity to do it again in the future. Training has been pretty much good leading up to that event. Swimming is more or less settled by Zhiyun who 'tortures' us twice a week in the pool. Cycling training is done every Sunday with pals from TRI21. What is left is running, long long distance running..
I have already signed up for my virgin 70.3 Half-Ironman next year in March as a warm up for the Ironman Switzerland 3 months later. So much stuffs are coming my way. This is really exciting.
Ok, for the not so good stuff. Things have been a little better since the last post. Spiritually I am still not back on track yet, but I guess I'm making headway in this area. Slowly trying to claw my way back to the 'strait and narrow path that leads to righteousness'. The Christian life is likened to an endurance race I feel, when you're in it, it is a struggle. However, there is always a rainbow at the end of a storm, a light at the end of a tunnel, a finishing line at the end of a race. I must get there!
'I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.' - 2 Timothy 4:7
Oh, how I wish I can say that at the end of days. I must persevere!
Thursday, September 04, 2008
A wake up call from within..
It has been easier said than done..So much for depending on God and drawing on His strength. I have been depending on my own for the past 3 weeks, and I'm feeling really tired. So many times have I tried to wake up early to spend at least an hour in the morning to fellowship with Him, but I fail to drag my weary body out of the bed.
So much time was wasted in doing things that are a complete waste of time, so undisciplined was my life. I always knew that things were not going in the right direction, but the motivation to steer back on track was always lacking. I think I'm definitely heading in the wrong direction now!
I thank God that He has always been there for me when I needed Him most. I thank Him for giving me this wake up call that I can change before it is too late. Now all I need is His strength to be with me as I embark on this journey through school, exercise and life with Him once again.
So much time was wasted in doing things that are a complete waste of time, so undisciplined was my life. I always knew that things were not going in the right direction, but the motivation to steer back on track was always lacking. I think I'm definitely heading in the wrong direction now!
I thank God that He has always been there for me when I needed Him most. I thank Him for giving me this wake up call that I can change before it is too late. Now all I need is His strength to be with me as I embark on this journey through school, exercise and life with Him once again.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
First few days in a new phase of my life..
Whoah! That'a all that I can come up with for the past few days I had in Medicine. Although the pace has not really kicked in yet, and everything seems relaxed on the outside, in actual fact, it's not so calm on the surface. Lecture notes and documents are flooding my IVLE account and my time management skills are put to the test (this explains why I'm typing this entry at such a time!)
On a brighter note, I feel very blessed to be able to study Medicine in NUS this year because the syllabus is new, more challenging and will prepare us better for the future when we become doctors. I am looking forward to learning new things about our body! Will keep you all updated! =]
On a brighter note, I feel very blessed to be able to study Medicine in NUS this year because the syllabus is new, more challenging and will prepare us better for the future when we become doctors. I am looking forward to learning new things about our body! Will keep you all updated! =]
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
One for the nation!
This is a video made by my church, Lighthouse Evangelism, and it depicts Singapore from it's starting stages until now. When I watched it, I was immediately overwhelmed with emotions and it gave new meaning to my reservist years.. I hope this touches you the way it did for me.
The Singapore Song
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
I'm coming back into Your arms..
Finally, I feel like I'm inching closer back to God again. It has been really tough without Him. I admit those days are hard to survive, and everything that could go wrong will go wrong. Perhaps Murphy wasn't much of a Christian. =]
A few updates about what happened between the last post and now:
1. Did pretty shitty for the OSIM triathlon. Timing was worst than my Bintan triathlon. No excuses, have to train harder. Port Dickson triathlon was missed because the person in-charge of arranging transport went AWOL. So I guess that's all for me this year for triathlon.
2. I will be running at the AHM (Army Half Marathon) and the Nike + Human race this month.
3. I will be starting school on the 11th of August 2008. Freaking fast man time flies, 9 months after ORD just whizzed pass like that! My goodness...
4. I saw something cool and here it is:
A few updates about what happened between the last post and now:
1. Did pretty shitty for the OSIM triathlon. Timing was worst than my Bintan triathlon. No excuses, have to train harder. Port Dickson triathlon was missed because the person in-charge of arranging transport went AWOL. So I guess that's all for me this year for triathlon.
2. I will be running at the AHM (Army Half Marathon) and the Nike + Human race this month.
3. I will be starting school on the 11th of August 2008. Freaking fast man time flies, 9 months after ORD just whizzed pass like that! My goodness...
4. I saw something cool and here it is:
Louie Giglio - Laminin
Indeed, we are fearfully and wonderfully made by God who has left His fingerprints and signature in everyone of us. Awesome and magnificent is He!
Thursday, July 03, 2008
Perseverance does yield results!
Hello people! I'm glad that I can update this blog finally! =] Been training these days for my upcoming 2 triathlons namely the OSIM Singapore Triathlon and the Port Dickson Triathlon in Malaysia. I've been training since I've returned from my Taiwan trip in June and initially I was quite discouraged at the progress I was making. However, I decided to stick with my training regime even though it really requires a hell lot of discipline to swim, cycle and run everyday!
About 1.5 weeks have past since my training, and I'm seeing the results already! Finally, I went below 33min in the pool today, clocking in at 32mins 39s for the 1.5km. Will be looking forward to the running later and I hope to hit the 45mins mark. =] Perhaps I will combine running with the bike training. Well, my timings are not the best in the field, but a little progress is better than none. =] Will strive to improve!
Await the good news my friends! =] Till then, stay glued for updates!
About 1.5 weeks have past since my training, and I'm seeing the results already! Finally, I went below 33min in the pool today, clocking in at 32mins 39s for the 1.5km. Will be looking forward to the running later and I hope to hit the 45mins mark. =] Perhaps I will combine running with the bike training. Well, my timings are not the best in the field, but a little progress is better than none. =] Will strive to improve!
Await the good news my friends! =] Till then, stay glued for updates!
Tuesday, June 03, 2008
Indeed..support is very important..
Support in the Christian community is important. This is a fact we all know in theory, but in practice, few do it, me included. It is not until today that I fully understand the importance of this spiritual support. To be caught up in a problem and have no support at all whilst facing it can be a very daunting task. It is today that I've made up my mind to be a support to someone else, even though I myself am not really riding on a spiritual high. I pray that God will use this experience to teach me something, draw me back to Him, and solve the problems of my friend whom I'm going to help through this period of his life. Amen.
So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. - Romans 12:5
So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. - Romans 12:5
Thursday, May 29, 2008
As promised..
Pictures from my triathlon in Bintan
Relaxing in a cafe hours before the race.
Posing for the camera before my swim.
Transition 1: After the swim, on to the cycling. I'm the one circled in green!
Going out for my bike leg.
Lap 1 of my 10km run.
Lap 2 of my 10km run, let's play with sponges!
When it's all over, time to catch a breath..
Exiting the transition area after the race.
Victory! Completed the race. =]
Lastly, thanks for your support! =]
Monday, May 26, 2008
Bintan conquered!!!
Whoah! Finally, I've completed my 1st ever triathlon..Well, the Bintan Triathlon was a very good experience, and I'm looking forward to Singapore's OSIM Triathlon in July. While in Bintan, I made many friends there who are experienced in the field of triathlon, and I've learnt loads from the talk we had and the pointers they so freely gave when they heard that I was participating for the 1st time. =]
Well, for the statistics, I shaved off a whooping 10mins from my previous open-sea swim in March this year at the Singapore Biathon. I did 38mins for the swim leg. For the bike leg, I took 1hr 27mins. Lastly, for my run, I took 58mins, which was insanely lousy. Well, that's where I have to improve on for the next event! =]
Overall, my virgin triathlon timing is 3hrs 6mins.
It was really by God's grace that I even managed to complete the event. =] Was thinking that the injury to my left ribs will hinder me in the running leg, because a few days before the event, there was swelling in the region. However, it subsided radically just 2 days before Bintan, praise be to Him that it was ok.
Ok, that's all for now, will upload the pictures when I get hold of the camera. =]
Well, for the statistics, I shaved off a whooping 10mins from my previous open-sea swim in March this year at the Singapore Biathon. I did 38mins for the swim leg. For the bike leg, I took 1hr 27mins. Lastly, for my run, I took 58mins, which was insanely lousy. Well, that's where I have to improve on for the next event! =]
Overall, my virgin triathlon timing is 3hrs 6mins.
It was really by God's grace that I even managed to complete the event. =] Was thinking that the injury to my left ribs will hinder me in the running leg, because a few days before the event, there was swelling in the region. However, it subsided radically just 2 days before Bintan, praise be to Him that it was ok.
Ok, that's all for now, will upload the pictures when I get hold of the camera. =]
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Humbled
I'm truly humbled by the way the Lord blesses me..All praise be to God that I've been successful in my application to Medicine in NUS! =] This is indeed nothing short of amazing. Thank You Father! Your grace continue to cover me as I finish up the final administrative work.
Sunday, May 04, 2008
You go before me, You shield my way..
Hello people! I'm back! More updates.. =] This past week has been one filled with many ups and downs! Well, I will focus only on the good ones and give thanks for them. Earlier this week, I've beaten my personal best in the pool and clocked 32mins 17s! Praise the Lord man, I can really see loads of improvement, but I will have to work on my running soon, it's really in the doldrums! =] Second, I wish to give thanks for my interview for medicine admission on Saturday. All praise be to the Lord, I was asked mainly about my army life and about myself. Now, all has been said and done, the waiting begins. I will now place all my prayers and desires into His hands. Yay!
Monday, April 28, 2008
It's all in His hands now..
I went for the essay test for medicine admissions yesterday, and the essay question was HARD! -_-` Goodness man..'If you could change one aspect of the medical profession, what would it be and why? Discuss based on your observations and experiences.'
Well, there is nothing that I can do now, it is all in God's hands. Frankly speaking, 45mins is not a lot of time to think, plan, conceptualise and execute. You have to be very quick, on the balls of your feet, and multi-task. It is quite a challenge I would say. Nevertheless, 1 hurdle is down, with 2 more to go! Come on!
Well, there is nothing that I can do now, it is all in God's hands. Frankly speaking, 45mins is not a lot of time to think, plan, conceptualise and execute. You have to be very quick, on the balls of your feet, and multi-task. It is quite a challenge I would say. Nevertheless, 1 hurdle is down, with 2 more to go! Come on!
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Thank you Lord!
It's been a really marvelous week last week! Received the medicine shortlisting letter! Finally! After all the long wait and prayers..it's finally here!!
Well, the journey has just begun..from here on it's 3 more hurdles left. Amen, in God I shall place my trust.
Well, the journey has just begun..from here on it's 3 more hurdles left. Amen, in God I shall place my trust.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
I can see Your hand..
Hellos! =] This is a thanksgiving entry! Whoahoas! Firstly, I want to give thanks to God that I've passed my driving test yesterday! I can finally drive! Whoots! It's super miraculous man I tell you. Before my test, the car was experiencing some technical problems and it was almost certain that it will be sent for repairs and that I will have to re-schedule my driving test date. But praise to the Lord, the car somehow 'recovered' and I was able to take my test without any glitch! Amen to that! I finally was able to send my baby home! Boy, wasn't it fun..
Another area I wish to give thanks it for my swimming training. =] As you all know, I'm busying training for my Bintan triathlon in May this year, so have been working real hard for my swimming! I've cut another minute and a half this week, that makes it a 5mins 30s improvement in 2 weeks! Woopies! So cool yah, I've never imagined myself being able to do that, because in reality, it's not me doing it, but God strengthening me! Yay, excited for more training..
Ok, I will go now, have a tuition class to rush to. I will update this space again! Byes! =]
Another area I wish to give thanks it for my swimming training. =] As you all know, I'm busying training for my Bintan triathlon in May this year, so have been working real hard for my swimming! I've cut another minute and a half this week, that makes it a 5mins 30s improvement in 2 weeks! Woopies! So cool yah, I've never imagined myself being able to do that, because in reality, it's not me doing it, but God strengthening me! Yay, excited for more training..
Ok, I will go now, have a tuition class to rush to. I will update this space again! Byes! =]
Friday, April 11, 2008
Chase the blur..
Whoahoas! This week has been the most fruitful week of all of my holidays since I ORDed! I've officially embarked on my training for the triathlon in Bintan. Thanks to mum who is constantly ensuring that I train regularly, resulting in me having no room to slack or feel like 'haiz, don't want to train today man'.
Through this week I am reminded of my VJ days when I trained almost 6 times a week for soccer, and still was able to juggle with my work and church and God. Discipline was the key, and is always going to be the key for success or improvement.
I am proud to say that I've improved on my swimming time! Whoots, praise the Lord =] Ok, will update more the next time, till then Godspeed!
Through this week I am reminded of my VJ days when I trained almost 6 times a week for soccer, and still was able to juggle with my work and church and God. Discipline was the key, and is always going to be the key for success or improvement.
I am proud to say that I've improved on my swimming time! Whoots, praise the Lord =] Ok, will update more the next time, till then Godspeed!
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
I can't feel the lower half of my body!
Drats! Training for the triathlon is not easy AT ALL! Just returned from a REAL bike training with buddy Yong Tat..It was really an eye-opening experience! Bloody madness man! I could hardly keep up and was almost as good as paralyzed by the end of it. Anyways, I think this training is really going to help in improving my timing for the biking leg in the triathlon, therefore, I will grit my teeth and persevere!
Ending off here with a quote from cycling great Lance Armstrong:
Pain is temporary. It may last a minute, or an hour, or a day, or a year, but eventually it will subside and something else will take its place. If I quit, however, it lasts forever.
Ending off here with a quote from cycling great Lance Armstrong:
Pain is temporary. It may last a minute, or an hour, or a day, or a year, but eventually it will subside and something else will take its place. If I quit, however, it lasts forever.
Sunday, March 09, 2008
Bintan! Here I come!
Hellos dudes! I'm officially going to Bintan for the Triathlon this 24th May 2008. Super cool man I think. =] I will be starting my training tomorrow for the event. Feeling so happy now..Whoots!
Thursday, March 06, 2008
He always has a plan!
Hello people, I'm back again..Really trying to update this space regularly man, hoorays me! I wish to share something about my current job now - tuition. There was this new student that I got recently. He lives super far from me, and I'm charging him super cheap too, due to his family circumstances. I really don't feel like taking up this job, but something in me just said that I should bless this boy, like how God has blessed me in my current job.
Therefore, I took it up. The first lesson was killer difficult. His standard was quite bad and I was really at my wits end on how to teach him. However, somewhere in the middle of the lesson something hit me again. I felt that it was His purpose to shape me through this boy. Today's lesson really lifted up my morale. He learnt the things that I taught him and finally grasped the concepts. I was super happy I tell you! =] God will shape me, I will gladly let him be the potter.
On another note, I am considering taking part in the Bintan Triathlon on the 24th of May 2008. Super exciting man, still have to sort out some stuffs before I make the final decision. So keep a look-out here to know more! =] Till then, training, training and more training..
Therefore, I took it up. The first lesson was killer difficult. His standard was quite bad and I was really at my wits end on how to teach him. However, somewhere in the middle of the lesson something hit me again. I felt that it was His purpose to shape me through this boy. Today's lesson really lifted up my morale. He learnt the things that I taught him and finally grasped the concepts. I was super happy I tell you! =] God will shape me, I will gladly let him be the potter.
On another note, I am considering taking part in the Bintan Triathlon on the 24th of May 2008. Super exciting man, still have to sort out some stuffs before I make the final decision. So keep a look-out here to know more! =] Till then, training, training and more training..
Monday, March 03, 2008
What an experience!
Saturday, 1st March 2008, I went for my first ever Biathlon. Boy, wasn't it a wonderful experience! My goal in taking part was to see how it was like to swim in the sea because ultimately I am interested in taking part in the triathlon later this year. I figured out that I might take an hour in the sea, but things worked out better.
I took lesser time than that and the entire swim felt...good. Hahas! It exceeded my expectations. Woohoos, so all in all it was a very fun. Everything fell in place nicely that day. Weather was cooling and she was there to support..=] cool. Ok, that's all for now, take care and God bless loads in this new month of March!
I took lesser time than that and the entire swim felt...good. Hahas! It exceeded my expectations. Woohoos, so all in all it was a very fun. Everything fell in place nicely that day. Weather was cooling and she was there to support..=] cool. Ok, that's all for now, take care and God bless loads in this new month of March!
Saturday, February 23, 2008
What an advertisment!
This is super-duper ironic man! Look at this photo and try to decipher the twist behind it! Kekes..
I was at the bus stop after my swim session at Katong Swimming Complex when I saw this..Irony irony..the advertiser must be a MCP. =] Just joking lah! Anyways, if you still cannot figure what I'm trying to say, this is how I interpreted the advertiser's aim for choosing such a picture.
The golf ball smashing glass kinds of tells me that the golfer ain't that professional because her golf ball did not end up on the green, but smashing through some glass object - perhaps a car's windscreen. Also, the words below the picture did nothing to help at all. 'Watch Out! Catch the best women golfers in action' just goes to show that even the best women golfers end up smashing glasses. Man! Watch out indeed! What a wicked twist to this advertisment.
This is just something that I found amusing, and wanted to share with you all. It's amazing how we can look at things from different angles and interpret it differently. Ok, that's all for now! =]
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
The journey.
People! I just came back from a 10km run! Woohoos, it was nothing short of a journey to me man. Even before reaching the halfway point, I felt like I was going to give up anytime. It was super tiring and I thought I could hold on no longer. However, I held on and continued to run, after turning back from the halfway point, which was just 5mins away from my 'felt tired point', it was easier to run liaos. =]
Throughout the run, I learnt something that can be applied to our lives. The tiring point will come inevitably in everyone's life. There will bound to be obstacles and problems that you will encounter in life too. However, the trick is to hold on and push on! Only then you will learn the most things, and only then you will realise that success and breakthrough is just around the corner!
Leaving you guys with a very inspiring poem from an unknown author. This poem sustained me through my 'O' Levels and subsequently gave me the positive and never-say-die attitude that I cling on to for my life.
Don't Quit
When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,
when the road you’re trudging seems all uphill,
when the funds are low and the debts are high,
and you want to smile, but you have to sigh,
when care is pressing you down a bit-
rest, if you must, but do not quit.
Life is queer with its twists and turns,
as every one of us sometimes learns,
and many a failure turns about,
when he might have won had he stuck it out;
don’t give up though the pace seems slow—
you may succeed with another blow.
Often the goal is nearer than,
it seems to a faint and faltering man,
often the struggler has given up,
when he might have captured the victor’s cup,
and he learned too late when the night slipped down,
how close he was to the golden crown.
Success is failure turned inside out—
the silver tint of the clouds of doubt,
and you never can tell how close you are,
it may be near when it seems so far,
so stick to the fight when you’re hardest hit—
it’s when things seem worst that you must not quit.
Throughout the run, I learnt something that can be applied to our lives. The tiring point will come inevitably in everyone's life. There will bound to be obstacles and problems that you will encounter in life too. However, the trick is to hold on and push on! Only then you will learn the most things, and only then you will realise that success and breakthrough is just around the corner!
Leaving you guys with a very inspiring poem from an unknown author. This poem sustained me through my 'O' Levels and subsequently gave me the positive and never-say-die attitude that I cling on to for my life.
Don't Quit
When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,
when the road you’re trudging seems all uphill,
when the funds are low and the debts are high,
and you want to smile, but you have to sigh,
when care is pressing you down a bit-
rest, if you must, but do not quit.
Life is queer with its twists and turns,
as every one of us sometimes learns,
and many a failure turns about,
when he might have won had he stuck it out;
don’t give up though the pace seems slow—
you may succeed with another blow.
Often the goal is nearer than,
it seems to a faint and faltering man,
often the struggler has given up,
when he might have captured the victor’s cup,
and he learned too late when the night slipped down,
how close he was to the golden crown.
Success is failure turned inside out—
the silver tint of the clouds of doubt,
and you never can tell how close you are,
it may be near when it seems so far,
so stick to the fight when you’re hardest hit—
it’s when things seem worst that you must not quit.
Thursday, February 07, 2008
What a beautiful time together!
Heys! Happy Lunar New Year! Gong Xi Fa Cai! Wan Shi Ru Yi! Xing Xiang Shi Cheng! Hoorays! Today it was a joyous occasion for the family, for ALL of us met up and had dinner at my Big Aunt's place. Dinner was seriously secondary, but fellowship was invaluable and of utmost importance!
Lunar New Year visiting, as I once thought, is boring. However, as we get busier and busier during the other times of the year to even meet up for a simple meal, the tradition of visiting has enabled the extended family to come together at least once a year to catch up and reminisce of the good old times.
It was really nice meeting up with my cousins tonight, and boy wasn't it a killer fun time! We played block catching! Fancy all of us above the age of 14 doing such a thing. =] It is really nice once in a while to just let down your hair and let the fun overwhelm your senses and just enjoy the little time that you have with those people you hold dear to..I'm really glad that people still observe such a tradition nowadays during Lunar New Year!
Have fun with your remaining visitings! May God continue to bless us with good weather, and His blood of protection be upon us whilst we travel from place to place. Take care and watch that stomach! =]
Lunar New Year visiting, as I once thought, is boring. However, as we get busier and busier during the other times of the year to even meet up for a simple meal, the tradition of visiting has enabled the extended family to come together at least once a year to catch up and reminisce of the good old times.
It was really nice meeting up with my cousins tonight, and boy wasn't it a killer fun time! We played block catching! Fancy all of us above the age of 14 doing such a thing. =] It is really nice once in a while to just let down your hair and let the fun overwhelm your senses and just enjoy the little time that you have with those people you hold dear to..I'm really glad that people still observe such a tradition nowadays during Lunar New Year!
Have fun with your remaining visitings! May God continue to bless us with good weather, and His blood of protection be upon us whilst we travel from place to place. Take care and watch that stomach! =]
Saturday, February 02, 2008
It's Chinese New Year month!
I'm back in Singapore! "This is home, truly, where my dreams wait for me." It has been a really cool backpacking trip with Li Keng and Wei Lynn man! We've experienced travelling in all sense of the word. We travelled using aeroplanes, buses (seats), buses (beds), pick-up truck (Li Keng and I), car (8 people squeezed in 1), boat, train, motocycle, and the conventional walking. =]
I've learnt alot about the history of Cambodia/Cambodge/Kampuchea, thanks to Wei Lynn! It has really opened my mind to travelling. That it should be about understanding everything about the country and not just to see the tourist attractions, because most of the times, those do not tell the true story about the country. They just provide the tourist with what they would like to see.
On other matters, when it was drawing near to our return to Singapore, I felt that I was getting very unfit. All the good and cheap food over there really spoilt me! Therefore, I went for a run this morning to get myself in shape for the Singapore Biathlon which is only 28 days away! It was a disaster, the run. I felt so tired and had no motivation to go on. It was one of the worst runs that I have ever done. Well, I hope this is just due to the accumulated fatigue from the trip that will wear away soon, paving the way for my route to fitness once again. =]
Till then, take cares and God bless!
I've learnt alot about the history of Cambodia/Cambodge/Kampuchea, thanks to Wei Lynn! It has really opened my mind to travelling. That it should be about understanding everything about the country and not just to see the tourist attractions, because most of the times, those do not tell the true story about the country. They just provide the tourist with what they would like to see.
On other matters, when it was drawing near to our return to Singapore, I felt that I was getting very unfit. All the good and cheap food over there really spoilt me! Therefore, I went for a run this morning to get myself in shape for the Singapore Biathlon which is only 28 days away! It was a disaster, the run. I felt so tired and had no motivation to go on. It was one of the worst runs that I have ever done. Well, I hope this is just due to the accumulated fatigue from the trip that will wear away soon, paving the way for my route to fitness once again. =]
Till then, take cares and God bless!
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
From Siem Reap..
People! Hellos! Greetings from Cambodia..=] Well, this trip has really been an eye-opening experience for the three of us (Lynn, Keng and me). We were at first pretty jaded only after 3 days! Felt like we've been away from home for about a week! However, as we immersed more into the local culture, we're beginning to feel that 2 weeks ain't going to be enough to backpack around much.
So far, we've taken a bus from Ho Chi Minh City across the border to Phnom Penh, and then a boat to Siem Reap. We are going to check out the famous Angkor Wat for the whole of tomorrow before setting off to the Eastern Provinces of Cambodia to live with the locals. Well, most of the time spent is on travelling from place to place, which is seriously a waste. What we fear now is that there will be little time left to explore Laos, a land of natural beauty.
The trip so far has really made me feel how blessed I am to be born into a country like Singapore where everything is provided for, and the government wise and good (can't think of any other word to describe). This backpacking trip has so far transported me out from the busy city life in Singapore to a pretty much laid back lifestyle over here in this region of Southeast Asia. I feel that all of us has been ingrained to rush and have our schedules packed to the brim to really slow down and appreciate the things and people around us. This is really important because such things cannot be taken for granted. Better to appreciate now then to regret not appreciating when all is gone and it's too late, no chance left.
Ok, so I'm leaving you with this thought for now, will try to update this space again when I have the opportunity to do so. Take care and God bless in the meanwhile! =]
So far, we've taken a bus from Ho Chi Minh City across the border to Phnom Penh, and then a boat to Siem Reap. We are going to check out the famous Angkor Wat for the whole of tomorrow before setting off to the Eastern Provinces of Cambodia to live with the locals. Well, most of the time spent is on travelling from place to place, which is seriously a waste. What we fear now is that there will be little time left to explore Laos, a land of natural beauty.
The trip so far has really made me feel how blessed I am to be born into a country like Singapore where everything is provided for, and the government wise and good (can't think of any other word to describe). This backpacking trip has so far transported me out from the busy city life in Singapore to a pretty much laid back lifestyle over here in this region of Southeast Asia. I feel that all of us has been ingrained to rush and have our schedules packed to the brim to really slow down and appreciate the things and people around us. This is really important because such things cannot be taken for granted. Better to appreciate now then to regret not appreciating when all is gone and it's too late, no chance left.
Ok, so I'm leaving you with this thought for now, will try to update this space again when I have the opportunity to do so. Take care and God bless in the meanwhile! =]
Saturday, January 12, 2008
A knife cutting through butter..
Dude! The past few days have been pretty exciting for me. =] Tuition now is getting tougher for me, teaching 6 hours for a stretch ain't no mean feat I tell you. I'm just glad that I'm taking a break soon to backpack with Li Keng and Wei Lynn to Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Malaysia. I believe this trip is going to be wack!
Anyways, as I said before in my previous post, I've signed up for the Singapore Biathlon 2008 and they require me to do a swim trial, swimming 30 laps below 40mins. I've started training already, and I'm glad to say that I've been making good progress! Praise the Lord! So far, my timing has dropped from 41mins+ to 39mins 45s to, as of 110108, 37mins 45s! Woohoo! Tuesday is my swim trial date, I believe He will be there sustaining me in the pool. I will bring you guys good report. Till then, take good care, drink loads of water, and don't forget to exercise if you can!
Anyways, as I said before in my previous post, I've signed up for the Singapore Biathlon 2008 and they require me to do a swim trial, swimming 30 laps below 40mins. I've started training already, and I'm glad to say that I've been making good progress! Praise the Lord! So far, my timing has dropped from 41mins+ to 39mins 45s to, as of 110108, 37mins 45s! Woohoo! Tuesday is my swim trial date, I believe He will be there sustaining me in the pool. I will bring you guys good report. Till then, take good care, drink loads of water, and don't forget to exercise if you can!
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
Reflections from my medical attachments
Finally! The last of my medical attachments has ended today. =] It was all in all a very insightful and wonderful experience for me. Through these 4 attachments, I have gathered enough information to make a very informed decision about applying to medical school. Also, through these 4 attachments, I have stopped to think twice about whether medicine is really for me.
I believe that there is a purpose for everything. That I did not apply to medical school at the end of my JC life was a brilliant example, and I thank God for that decision. I honestly feel more matured and ready to make this life-altering decision of taking up medicine as a subject, career, passion and life-long commitment. I would not have dared say that 2 years back, but I'm ready. God has worked in ways so fantastic in me, and by just thinking of it, I am reassured of His great love for me. I feel really blessed.
On top of that, I have the support of my family and the most important person in my life that I am holding on forever. There is no better time than now, the time is right! These 4 attachments has taught me many things which I feel will serve me well in the future, enabling me to be the best doctor I can to glorify God!
I believe that there is a purpose for everything. That I did not apply to medical school at the end of my JC life was a brilliant example, and I thank God for that decision. I honestly feel more matured and ready to make this life-altering decision of taking up medicine as a subject, career, passion and life-long commitment. I would not have dared say that 2 years back, but I'm ready. God has worked in ways so fantastic in me, and by just thinking of it, I am reassured of His great love for me. I feel really blessed.
On top of that, I have the support of my family and the most important person in my life that I am holding on forever. There is no better time than now, the time is right! These 4 attachments has taught me many things which I feel will serve me well in the future, enabling me to be the best doctor I can to glorify God!
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