POKER'S BENEFITS
Poker Is A Great Teacher.
Poker Improves Your Study Habits.
Poker Develops Your Math Skills.
Poker Develops Your Logical Thinking.
Poker Develops Your Concentration.
Poker Develops Your Patience.
Poker Develops Your Discipline.
Poker Teaches You To Focus On The Long Term.
Poker Teaches You That Forgoing A Profit Equals Taking A Loss (And Vice Versa).
Poker Develops Your Realism.
Poker Teaches You To Adjust To Changing Situations.
Poker Teaches You To Adjust To Diverse People.
Poker Teaches You To Avoid Racial, Sexual And Other Prejudices.
Poker Teaches You How To Handle Losses.
Poker Teaches You To Depersonalize Conflict.
Poker Teaches You How To Plan.
Poker Teaches You How To Handle Deceptive People.
Poker Teaches You How To Choose The Best "Game."
Poker Teaches You The Benefits Of Acting Last.
Poker Teaches You To Focus On The Important Subjects.
Poker Teaches You How To Apply Probability Theory.
Poker Teaches You How To Conduct Risk-Reward Analyses.
Poker Teaches You To Put Things In Context And Evaluate All Variables.
Poker Teaches You How To "Get Into People's Heads."
by David Sklansky & Alan N. Schoonmaker, Ph.D.
http://www.twoplustwo.com/magazine/issue33/sklansky-schoonmaker-poker-good-for-you.php
Tuesday 17 November 2009
Monday 26 October 2009
Being a Reds fan taught me much
If you are a Liverpool fan you will know what it means to be supporting this team since Roy Evans era. I was a childhood supporter only because my brother was a Liverpool fan. I only started really understanding and watching Liverpool at the end of Roy Evans reign and when Houllier took over.
The ups and downs of a Liverpool fan is not for the faint of heart but it has taught me many things.
No 1 lesson: He who cannot master his emotions cannot master himself.
I use to spent my mondays drowning in sorrow after each Liverpool losses to second string teams or top 4 teams in the premier league. After a long struggle with these extreme mood swings, i learnt one very important thing. That is, to let go of your emotions and attachment of things that are beyond your control. I cannot play for Liverpool and help them win the league can I?
No 2 lesson: Patience and Determination
It ain't over until the fat lady sings. I must admit, I switch the television off and went to bed at half time when Liverpool was down 3-0 to A C Milan in Istanbul on that faithful night. They were outplayed and outclassed in the first half. I woke up in the morning and saw the barrage of messages on Liverpool's win. I was confused to say the least. After watching the replay on the telly, tears was rolling in my eyes. We did the Improbable, never will i give up before the final whistle. Thank you Gerrald, thank you Smicer, Thank You Alonso and thank you Dudek for the memories.
No. 3 lesson: Consistency
To win the War you have to win both the big and small battles. I realize that after Liverpool's win over Manu last night. These are the matches they win, they showed determination and their workrate all round was superb, you can see the players all fired up for this match. You don't see this when they are playing Wigan or Hull City. That is the difference.
So who said you cant learn anything from football? You'll never walk alone!
The ups and downs of a Liverpool fan is not for the faint of heart but it has taught me many things.
No 1 lesson: He who cannot master his emotions cannot master himself.
I use to spent my mondays drowning in sorrow after each Liverpool losses to second string teams or top 4 teams in the premier league. After a long struggle with these extreme mood swings, i learnt one very important thing. That is, to let go of your emotions and attachment of things that are beyond your control. I cannot play for Liverpool and help them win the league can I?
No 2 lesson: Patience and Determination
It ain't over until the fat lady sings. I must admit, I switch the television off and went to bed at half time when Liverpool was down 3-0 to A C Milan in Istanbul on that faithful night. They were outplayed and outclassed in the first half. I woke up in the morning and saw the barrage of messages on Liverpool's win. I was confused to say the least. After watching the replay on the telly, tears was rolling in my eyes. We did the Improbable, never will i give up before the final whistle. Thank you Gerrald, thank you Smicer, Thank You Alonso and thank you Dudek for the memories.
No. 3 lesson: Consistency
To win the War you have to win both the big and small battles. I realize that after Liverpool's win over Manu last night. These are the matches they win, they showed determination and their workrate all round was superb, you can see the players all fired up for this match. You don't see this when they are playing Wigan or Hull City. That is the difference.
So who said you cant learn anything from football? You'll never walk alone!
Saturday 24 October 2009
Warning: Working in the service industry may shorten life expectancy
I foresee that the service in industry will be bustling with hiring and promise as the 2 IRs are opening their doors 1st quarter next year. But before you comtemplate a change of industry into the abyss, here are some real life experience i encounter this morning and they both happen to be in the bank:
Scenario one:
Woman at OCBC: (Tries to push the glass door open even upon seeing that the bank was obviously closed in darkness and no service staff in sight)
Staff: Sorry M'dm, we are open at 11am. (Clock shows 10:15a.m.)
Woman: No its not 11am, its 10:15am now!
Staff: I mean we are close now and will open only at 11am
Women: What do you mean you are close? I need to deposit cash you know!
Staff: Oh why don't you say so earlier. Depositing puny amount of cash is the top priority for the bank, investing millions with us pales in comparison, we just want our customer to deposit your hundreds of dollars with us, we will even ask our staff to start work earlier just to facilitate your transactions at your personal convenience, our staff don't have a life you know. While we are at it, do you want us to call our CEO to entertain you while you wait for us to update your pass book?
-------- Enough Said-------------
Scenario 2
Woman to bank officer: I want to know why was my interest in my Fixed deposit paid one year ago instead of today when it matured?
(Bank officer poor thing, don't know how to explain because it is just rediculous. The bank pays customer upfront interest for placing FD and yet they complaint that they receive the interest first.)
Bank Officer: Mdm this is to your advantage as you receive the money first and choose to do with it as you please.
Woman: No this is wrong your bank should not have paid me my interest first. The order is wrong. I want it at the very end when it matures! I don't know how to keep track of the interest that was paid one year ago, i don't even know if it is still there?
Bank officer: Madam, all transactions are recorded in your passbook, the interest has been credited a year ago stated right here in your bank book.
Woman: Can you run your system to check if the money is there? Can you help me add up the transaction in the pass book?
Bank officer (L.P.P.L*) :Okay, i will key in each transaction for you and you can see that the figures all adds up. (Starts keying in and adding/subtracting each transactions line by line in the bank book, few pages long)
Woman: I still don't see my interest amount for my FD? This is ridiculous, how can your bank pay me my interest first? This confuses me!
Bank officer: SHUT UP!!! F**K OFF!! GO GET A F**KING LIFE!!! YOU ARE RIDICULOUS! You should go for a brain scan before you ask questions. I will feedback to my management, an additional step is needed before we start an account for customers, it is call an IQ test. People with no brain and no IQ cannot start any account with the bank!!!!
Bold Italic is writer's frustration and make believe scene in his warped mind.
* L.P.P.L: Landing point point of landing aka Suck thumb
Scenario one:
Woman at OCBC: (Tries to push the glass door open even upon seeing that the bank was obviously closed in darkness and no service staff in sight)
Staff: Sorry M'dm, we are open at 11am. (Clock shows 10:15a.m.)
Woman: No its not 11am, its 10:15am now!
Staff: I mean we are close now and will open only at 11am
Women: What do you mean you are close? I need to deposit cash you know!
Staff: Oh why don't you say so earlier. Depositing puny amount of cash is the top priority for the bank, investing millions with us pales in comparison, we just want our customer to deposit your hundreds of dollars with us, we will even ask our staff to start work earlier just to facilitate your transactions at your personal convenience, our staff don't have a life you know. While we are at it, do you want us to call our CEO to entertain you while you wait for us to update your pass book?
-------- Enough Said-------------
Scenario 2
Woman to bank officer: I want to know why was my interest in my Fixed deposit paid one year ago instead of today when it matured?
(Bank officer poor thing, don't know how to explain because it is just rediculous. The bank pays customer upfront interest for placing FD and yet they complaint that they receive the interest first.)
Bank Officer: Mdm this is to your advantage as you receive the money first and choose to do with it as you please.
Woman: No this is wrong your bank should not have paid me my interest first. The order is wrong. I want it at the very end when it matures! I don't know how to keep track of the interest that was paid one year ago, i don't even know if it is still there?
Bank officer: Madam, all transactions are recorded in your passbook, the interest has been credited a year ago stated right here in your bank book.
Woman: Can you run your system to check if the money is there? Can you help me add up the transaction in the pass book?
Bank officer (L.P.P.L*) :
Woman: I still don't see my interest amount for my FD? This is ridiculous, how can your bank pay me my interest first? This confuses me!
Bank officer: SHUT UP!!! F**K OFF!! GO GET A F**KING LIFE!!! YOU ARE RIDICULOUS! You should go for a brain scan before you ask questions. I will feedback to my management, an additional step is needed before we start an account for customers, it is call an IQ test. People with no brain and no IQ cannot start any account with the bank!!!!
Bold Italic is writer's frustration and make believe scene in his warped mind.
* L.P.P.L: Landing point point of landing aka Suck thumb
Wednesday 7 October 2009
What's going on?
There’s something wrong with the world today, I don’t know what it is… It is a world filled with many unnatural natural disasters, earthquakes, typhoons, financial meltdowns, viruses spreading and mutating.
If we sum up all the happenings in this decade alone, it is enough for you to lose sleep for the next decade. I was just watching the 911 tragedy on History channel the other day and I cannot help but cringe when I see people jumping off the burning building and people irregardless of their status, age and race running away from the bellowing smoke and debris threatening to engulf them when the Tower collapsed. It was literally Hell on earth.
The world as we know it is at a breaking point, it is at a “What’s next?” point. People are starting to want to search for answers rather than looking for answers within themselves. We can never find the answers, the world leaders cannot give you the answers even as they are seraching for it.. Nuclear war will be the next issue on their agenda, but can they resolve it peacefully?
We as a human race are coming to the end of ourselves, we are like the builders and the people in the time of the Tower of Babel. We trusted in our wisdom and intellect and built a tower so tall but in the end it was only foolishness and all things will crumble.
We human are too predictable, once we see any sign of recovery in the economy, we will jump right back on the bandwagon of greed forgetting what has transpired in the recent financial meltdown.
I can only say dear friends, take care and hold on tied to what is really important, they are not your riches and possesions but your love ones and people who are close to you.
“Trust the Lord your God with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding”
Shalom!
If we sum up all the happenings in this decade alone, it is enough for you to lose sleep for the next decade. I was just watching the 911 tragedy on History channel the other day and I cannot help but cringe when I see people jumping off the burning building and people irregardless of their status, age and race running away from the bellowing smoke and debris threatening to engulf them when the Tower collapsed. It was literally Hell on earth.
The world as we know it is at a breaking point, it is at a “What’s next?” point. People are starting to want to search for answers rather than looking for answers within themselves. We can never find the answers, the world leaders cannot give you the answers even as they are seraching for it.. Nuclear war will be the next issue on their agenda, but can they resolve it peacefully?
We as a human race are coming to the end of ourselves, we are like the builders and the people in the time of the Tower of Babel. We trusted in our wisdom and intellect and built a tower so tall but in the end it was only foolishness and all things will crumble.
We human are too predictable, once we see any sign of recovery in the economy, we will jump right back on the bandwagon of greed forgetting what has transpired in the recent financial meltdown.
I can only say dear friends, take care and hold on tied to what is really important, they are not your riches and possesions but your love ones and people who are close to you.
“Trust the Lord your God with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding”
Shalom!
Saturday 26 September 2009
Why i didn't win the $9 Mil Toto
I ask God why i didn't strike Toto last night, all i got was 3 number. As i was reading this morning's devotion, somehow i got a promting from the Holy Sprit. "You didn't strike Toto because if you did, your trust and focus would be on the money and not God. You will believe that this amount of money will see you through your tough times and not God"
What a revelation! God always wants us to live our lives with him, in Him and through Him. I am sure that by learning to do that, the prosperity and riches will come. Not just monetary gains but clessings many folds, more than i can ever get from striking Toto.
Christianity is not a religion, it is a relationship with a person. Someone who is there for you always, closer than your closest friend and even closer than your family.
Live life, Live Christ!
What a revelation! God always wants us to live our lives with him, in Him and through Him. I am sure that by learning to do that, the prosperity and riches will come. Not just monetary gains but clessings many folds, more than i can ever get from striking Toto.
Christianity is not a religion, it is a relationship with a person. Someone who is there for you always, closer than your closest friend and even closer than your family.
Live life, Live Christ!
Friday 25 September 2009
Don't confused yourself with what people say
I love to read, i love to read to learn new things, to learn about other people's perception. I now realised that my interest in reading started with the book Rich Dad Poor Dad. It was such an easy book to read and the concepts within were rather interesting. The concept of "paying yourself first" was easy to understand but tough to practice.
The only issue that i have with a good book is every month there will be at least one good book on the shelves of Borders/Kino/MPH etc. Sometimes you lose focus on the good concepts presented in the book you read earlier and moved on to the next without exploring it further.
The books i like to read are typical, books on money management, investing, poker/gaming theory, sales and sometimes books on living life which are more christian in nature.
I have come to realize that there are many nuggets of truth that can be learnt through the multitudes of books. Truths that can benefit you for life. So why aren't everybody running to the bookstores or clicking all the books from Amazon right into their homes and reading them till there is no tomorrow?
All i can deduced is the reason why books don't always benefit readers is the fact that readers are just readers and not practitioners of the many useful truths that can be found in the books. In fact many readers are cynics and skeptics who just reads and doubts in his/her mind before trying to absorb the authors viewpoint. My ex boss always taught me, "one good idea" from a book you read will be worth many times the cost of the book you paid for.
Truth be told not every book you will read is the bible truth but even if the author is wrong, you learnt from his "wrong" as you learnt from what is "right"
If i were to condensed all that i have learnt through the ways from the many books that i have read, it will be this, Learn to manage and master yourself, your spirit, your mind and your body. All other things will fall into place.
Proverbs 25:28
Whoever has no rule over his own spirit. Is like a city broken down, without walls.
You cannot have prolonged success in life without being able to master yourself, your mind, your emotions and your body most importantly your spirit. I believe submitting to the authority of God is the way to go.
The only issue that i have with a good book is every month there will be at least one good book on the shelves of Borders/Kino/MPH etc. Sometimes you lose focus on the good concepts presented in the book you read earlier and moved on to the next without exploring it further.
The books i like to read are typical, books on money management, investing, poker/gaming theory, sales and sometimes books on living life which are more christian in nature.
I have come to realize that there are many nuggets of truth that can be learnt through the multitudes of books. Truths that can benefit you for life. So why aren't everybody running to the bookstores or clicking all the books from Amazon right into their homes and reading them till there is no tomorrow?
All i can deduced is the reason why books don't always benefit readers is the fact that readers are just readers and not practitioners of the many useful truths that can be found in the books. In fact many readers are cynics and skeptics who just reads and doubts in his/her mind before trying to absorb the authors viewpoint. My ex boss always taught me, "one good idea" from a book you read will be worth many times the cost of the book you paid for.
Truth be told not every book you will read is the bible truth but even if the author is wrong, you learnt from his "wrong" as you learnt from what is "right"
If i were to condensed all that i have learnt through the ways from the many books that i have read, it will be this, Learn to manage and master yourself, your spirit, your mind and your body. All other things will fall into place.
Proverbs 25:28
Whoever has no rule over his own spirit. Is like a city broken down, without walls.
You cannot have prolonged success in life without being able to master yourself, your mind, your emotions and your body most importantly your spirit. I believe submitting to the authority of God is the way to go.
Thursday 13 August 2009
Part 2: Chapter 1
I am beginning to see the light. It’s almost like a mathematical equation falling into place right before my eyes. When you realised the right numbers to use and put them in place into the right formula. Viola! You can almost hear a click sound and the wheels start to be set into motion.
It seems that chapter one of my life has finally started. Or rather Part 2:chapter one. Joel Osten spoke in “Becoming a better you” That God gives every individuals different giftings and inclinations which makes us unique. This can be used as indications and directions that points us in the right directions.
Lets take a look at different examples. Some people can stare at numbers everyday and just have that eye for details when it comes to auditing company numbers, they make great auditors or CPAs.
Some have the gift of the gab and more importantly gift of high EQ and they make their sales pitch seems effortless and become top sales people in their industry.
Others are born to please and have such a pleasant personality and patience and they make great PR or service industry personnels. The cruz of it is that you know that you are there when you are there.
Don’t get me wrong, your job does not necessary equate to the calling in your life. Some people get by just by doing a job and spent the rest of their time on their calling, i.e missions, outreach to the poor or even a hobby that they are pursuing outside of their work time. Many of those whom God place them in their career and that is their calling. There lies the assignment that God has given you.
If you are less than motivated where you are now, you drag yourself out of bed every morning. Chances are you have not yet realised the assignment that God has given you on earth.
Do continue to ask God the important questions: Who, what, when, where, why and how? Who can help me find out my assignment Lord? What is the assignment? Does it have anything to do with my interest and inclinations? When will this happen? Help me prepare for it Lord. What is the purpose of this assignment? What is your will to be done? And finally when all the above questions has been answered, teach me Lord? I cannot do this by myself, Tell me how to do it.
At the beginning of this year, God revealed to me that this year will be a year of redemption for me, redemption for lost time, lost wealth and lost relationships. Now that we are at the third quarter mark, everything seems clearer now what God is doing in my life.
I thank God for placing me in New Creation Church, I never knew that my beliefs were all along so self centred and not Christ centred. I never knew I had such a poor opinion of God, sub consiously believing that I deserve the bad things that are happening to me because of my imperfections and disobedience.
So what is my calling in life? I am called to influence! To become a bearer of light. To make a positive difference in the lives of the people around me. Though I am not perfect now, and I can be such a pain the rear sometimes, but I still want to be able to influence the people around me positively. This will not be done my my efforts but through Christ.
In order to do that, God will be blessing me with all good things, health, wealth, love and life. And the good news is God’s strength is made perfect in my weaknesses. My heavenly father sees me as righteous as He sees Jesus righteous.
It seems that chapter one of my life has finally started. Or rather Part 2:chapter one. Joel Osten spoke in “Becoming a better you” That God gives every individuals different giftings and inclinations which makes us unique. This can be used as indications and directions that points us in the right directions.
Lets take a look at different examples. Some people can stare at numbers everyday and just have that eye for details when it comes to auditing company numbers, they make great auditors or CPAs.
Some have the gift of the gab and more importantly gift of high EQ and they make their sales pitch seems effortless and become top sales people in their industry.
Others are born to please and have such a pleasant personality and patience and they make great PR or service industry personnels. The cruz of it is that you know that you are there when you are there.
Don’t get me wrong, your job does not necessary equate to the calling in your life. Some people get by just by doing a job and spent the rest of their time on their calling, i.e missions, outreach to the poor or even a hobby that they are pursuing outside of their work time. Many of those whom God place them in their career and that is their calling. There lies the assignment that God has given you.
If you are less than motivated where you are now, you drag yourself out of bed every morning. Chances are you have not yet realised the assignment that God has given you on earth.
Do continue to ask God the important questions: Who, what, when, where, why and how? Who can help me find out my assignment Lord? What is the assignment? Does it have anything to do with my interest and inclinations? When will this happen? Help me prepare for it Lord. What is the purpose of this assignment? What is your will to be done? And finally when all the above questions has been answered, teach me Lord? I cannot do this by myself, Tell me how to do it.
At the beginning of this year, God revealed to me that this year will be a year of redemption for me, redemption for lost time, lost wealth and lost relationships. Now that we are at the third quarter mark, everything seems clearer now what God is doing in my life.
I thank God for placing me in New Creation Church, I never knew that my beliefs were all along so self centred and not Christ centred. I never knew I had such a poor opinion of God, sub consiously believing that I deserve the bad things that are happening to me because of my imperfections and disobedience.
So what is my calling in life? I am called to influence! To become a bearer of light. To make a positive difference in the lives of the people around me. Though I am not perfect now, and I can be such a pain the rear sometimes, but I still want to be able to influence the people around me positively. This will not be done my my efforts but through Christ.
In order to do that, God will be blessing me with all good things, health, wealth, love and life. And the good news is God’s strength is made perfect in my weaknesses. My heavenly father sees me as righteous as He sees Jesus righteous.
Friday 31 July 2009
What's "Majulah Singapura" got to do with it?
If you have been reading the news lately, you would have noticed many people bringing up the issue of the fact that our national anthem was not sung during the Singapore-Liverpool match last week.
This is a classic example of making a mountain out of a molehill. I believe that the reporters in Singapore have no more news to report and started instigating certain fans to voice their "displeasure". Okay take a chill pill everyone. Although it would have been nice to have the national anthem played but verily i say unto you, even if the anthem was sung, You'll never walk alone" will still be a few times louder and sung by the fans. If that would have happened, we will still be questioning the same issue. i.e. lack of support for the home team, we don't love our lions, that was the reason why the lions lost.
Let's face some facts here.
Fact no 1:
This was meant to be, as organizers are trying to create an anfield experience for the fans. Anfield = Liverpool home ground = support for home team = support liverpool not lions
Fact number 2:
The fans did in fact buy tickets to watch liverpool and not the lions.
Fact number 3:
National day is just around the corner, you can sing majulah singapura with even more people around you. They will still be wearing red what!
So i don't really see whats the problem, the fans support good football, if the lions play well we will cheer for them, if they don't we wouldn't jeer at them. The liverpool fans support liverpool so whats wrong with that. If you want a match with the supporters supporting the lions, then FAS should bear all the marketing cost and create the publicity for the fans to do so.
This whole things just so Bo liao and mindboggling
This is a classic example of making a mountain out of a molehill. I believe that the reporters in Singapore have no more news to report and started instigating certain fans to voice their "displeasure". Okay take a chill pill everyone. Although it would have been nice to have the national anthem played but verily i say unto you, even if the anthem was sung, You'll never walk alone" will still be a few times louder and sung by the fans. If that would have happened, we will still be questioning the same issue. i.e. lack of support for the home team, we don't love our lions, that was the reason why the lions lost.
Let's face some facts here.
Fact no 1:
This was meant to be, as organizers are trying to create an anfield experience for the fans. Anfield = Liverpool home ground = support for home team = support liverpool not lions
Fact number 2:
The fans did in fact buy tickets to watch liverpool and not the lions.
Fact number 3:
National day is just around the corner, you can sing majulah singapura with even more people around you. They will still be wearing red what!
So i don't really see whats the problem, the fans support good football, if the lions play well we will cheer for them, if they don't we wouldn't jeer at them. The liverpool fans support liverpool so whats wrong with that. If you want a match with the supporters supporting the lions, then FAS should bear all the marketing cost and create the publicity for the fans to do so.
This whole things just so Bo liao and mindboggling
Thursday 30 July 2009
My Sit and go results after almost 500 games
Just started discovering the profitability of Sit and go tourneys on Pokerstars about 2 months ago. Thought i will share my results provided by Sharkscope. You can check my states by following this link. https://www.sharkscope.com Search database and enter my nick aq17 and you will be able to see my states on pokerstars of course. My ROI is a decent 23%. This is due to the fact that the microstakes are just so full of fishes.
My next target is to move up to $6 SnG!!!!
10 years
The world moves on without a care for what is happening in your life. Okay, lets not be too ambitious here to address the whole world since the furthest country i have ever been is Australia. So, lets start over again.... Singapore moves on and doesn't even care to cast a glance at you even if you are lying flat on your face in the middle of Orchard road right outside ION orchard.
Face it, the world doesn't revolves around just you, it certain doesn't maintain its gravitational pull because you are on it. The sun is not a giant spot light that shines on you whenever you break out into a song and dance.
Just think about where you were and what you were doing 10 years ago. Fav. places that you go to, things you like to do, have they changed? I am sure the prices have but thats beside the point. 10 years ago i was fresh out from Poly and doing my NS stil trying to figure out whats next. I hang out at Olio dome during the weekends with my Jie Meis stirring a cup if their famous Ice Chocolate, btw that Olio Dome is now Balaclava at suntec. 10 years ago i was broke and can hardly afford the ice chocolate at dome but today... wait today i still can't afford it. damn it!
Well let's take a look at how things have changed around here in Singapore, Can you even remember how Marina Square looked like before it was renovated? Do you even know that it didn't looked like what it was today? The Marina area is the best example of how Singapore has managed to transformed itself to an up and coming cosmopolitan and one of the top ten cities in the world! We are now able to attract talents to become citizens, Movie stars like Gong Li, Jet Li just to name a few.
Friends, my point is, if you have so much complaint about the government and how Singapore is runned, then please run away. Many people from all over the world will be willing to take your place here in Singapore in a heartbeat. They will rejoice that there is now more space and oxygen for them to breathe. Thry are willing to work hard to prove that they belong here.
You may ask why are we allowing the so called "Foreign Talent" into Singapore. The reason is simple, we have to, we need to stay competitive and stay ahead. The locals are not willing to take up the work that the foreigners are willing to.
The service industry is a prime example of this, how many people see the service industry as a long term career and willing to start off from the very bottom rung of the ladder. How many are willing to start off as casino dealers to work their way up. I can tell you the rest of the Asean countries pray and wait to be in our position. They pray that the locals continue to have the mindset that they are superior and will not take a step back to look at the changing economy today. Then the government will have no choice but to allow the MNCs to employ more foreigners and lower the quota for locals.
The dynamics are changing, don't take another 10 years to see it coming.
Face it, the world doesn't revolves around just you, it certain doesn't maintain its gravitational pull because you are on it. The sun is not a giant spot light that shines on you whenever you break out into a song and dance.
Just think about where you were and what you were doing 10 years ago. Fav. places that you go to, things you like to do, have they changed? I am sure the prices have but thats beside the point. 10 years ago i was fresh out from Poly and doing my NS stil trying to figure out whats next. I hang out at Olio dome during the weekends with my Jie Meis stirring a cup if their famous Ice Chocolate, btw that Olio Dome is now Balaclava at suntec. 10 years ago i was broke and can hardly afford the ice chocolate at dome but today... wait today i still can't afford it. damn it!
Well let's take a look at how things have changed around here in Singapore, Can you even remember how Marina Square looked like before it was renovated? Do you even know that it didn't looked like what it was today? The Marina area is the best example of how Singapore has managed to transformed itself to an up and coming cosmopolitan and one of the top ten cities in the world! We are now able to attract talents to become citizens, Movie stars like Gong Li, Jet Li just to name a few.
Friends, my point is, if you have so much complaint about the government and how Singapore is runned, then please run away. Many people from all over the world will be willing to take your place here in Singapore in a heartbeat. They will rejoice that there is now more space and oxygen for them to breathe. Thry are willing to work hard to prove that they belong here.
You may ask why are we allowing the so called "Foreign Talent" into Singapore. The reason is simple, we have to, we need to stay competitive and stay ahead. The locals are not willing to take up the work that the foreigners are willing to.
The service industry is a prime example of this, how many people see the service industry as a long term career and willing to start off from the very bottom rung of the ladder. How many are willing to start off as casino dealers to work their way up. I can tell you the rest of the Asean countries pray and wait to be in our position. They pray that the locals continue to have the mindset that they are superior and will not take a step back to look at the changing economy today. Then the government will have no choice but to allow the MNCs to employ more foreigners and lower the quota for locals.
The dynamics are changing, don't take another 10 years to see it coming.
Sunday 14 June 2009
Basking in past glories
The first part of most if not all christian service is praise and worship, and every time the worship is ongoing and you are singing and worshiping, what goes through your mind?
For the longest time a certain scene kept flashing through my mind for some reason that i never could put my finger on.
The particular scene was the bus interchange in Toa Payoh many years ago before the whole place was air conditioned. That particular time frame was when i was still in secondary school. I can tell because it was alway zoomed in on the bus berth for Bus 142, right opposite the 7 eleven with the mama shop right behind. For those who were ex saints know it well, that was the only bus that travels directly to our secondary school. I never knew what God was trying to say to me until last wednesday during the Healing and financial seminar.
In the midst of the service it became clear to me that for the longest time i was depending on past experiences with God to sustain my faith and beliefs. Past experiences are great only if they propel you forward in search of new ones that God has in store for us.
For the longest time i have kept God in a small little box in the corner of my head. I thought that this was it, all the past 16 years of being a christian with its ups and downs, trials and temptations is what God is all about, nothing more... maybe less. I was puting God in a box so small that i was limiting His power in my life.
Lunch with Charles took longer than expected so i didn't make it for third service though i did make it for the last service.
It was a powerful message, simple but powerful. If we can look at our lives and see some of the challenges that we are facing, this will probably be the area that God wants to strengthen us.
All things work for the good of those who love God who were called according to His
purpose.
Do we truly believe that? If we do. our mindset should change radically when we face the challenges in our lives. We should be able to do as Paul did. That is to rejoice in His trials because that is the area that God has His superabounding grace to wrap us in. That is the area in our lives that God wants to place more responsiblility with us and that is our training ground.
Sometimes we ask ourselves, after some many years why the hell am i experiencing the same thing for crying out loud?!?!? It probably meant that we have not learnt the lesson well. God is not interested to sooth your pain as much as He is interested to heal your heart by healing the root cause of it.
God wants to mould and change us by getting to the root cause. I use to think it is about digging up the past and finding out what went wrong in my childhood and whatsoever. Yes, this may help me identify what caused my insecurities when it comes to relationship, with my parents, brothers and even my friends. Why i do certain things to pissed people off especially those who are close to me. But this will not heal or cure me and make me stop doing what i am doing. Knowing that God accepts me and loves me despite all my flaws will change my heart and ultimately free me. Being without and not understanding God's love for us is the root cause of all problems.
I believe that this is the message of the cross, of how Jesus chose to hang on the cross so that the undeserving can receive forgiveness no matter what we have done wrong in our lives. The only reason why we cannot receive this free gift of Grace is when we believe that we can earn salvation by our own strength and works, in short self righteousness.
How wrong can we be? I have spent the last 16 years believing that i have to live my life right in order to draw near to Jesus and believing that one day i will conquer all my weaknesses and attain holiness, how wrong was I?
God meant for us to draw near to Christ and know that nothing we can do will make us pure and righteous but only through Christ. And when we reach the end of ourselves then will we understand and begin to fathom the depth of our Father's love for us.
Right believing will bring about right living. Whereas Right living will not give you right beliefs
For the longest time a certain scene kept flashing through my mind for some reason that i never could put my finger on.
The particular scene was the bus interchange in Toa Payoh many years ago before the whole place was air conditioned. That particular time frame was when i was still in secondary school. I can tell because it was alway zoomed in on the bus berth for Bus 142, right opposite the 7 eleven with the mama shop right behind. For those who were ex saints know it well, that was the only bus that travels directly to our secondary school. I never knew what God was trying to say to me until last wednesday during the Healing and financial seminar.
In the midst of the service it became clear to me that for the longest time i was depending on past experiences with God to sustain my faith and beliefs. Past experiences are great only if they propel you forward in search of new ones that God has in store for us.
For the longest time i have kept God in a small little box in the corner of my head. I thought that this was it, all the past 16 years of being a christian with its ups and downs, trials and temptations is what God is all about, nothing more... maybe less. I was puting God in a box so small that i was limiting His power in my life.
Lunch with Charles took longer than expected so i didn't make it for third service though i did make it for the last service.
It was a powerful message, simple but powerful. If we can look at our lives and see some of the challenges that we are facing, this will probably be the area that God wants to strengthen us.
All things work for the good of those who love God who were called according to His
purpose.
Do we truly believe that? If we do. our mindset should change radically when we face the challenges in our lives. We should be able to do as Paul did. That is to rejoice in His trials because that is the area that God has His superabounding grace to wrap us in. That is the area in our lives that God wants to place more responsiblility with us and that is our training ground.
Sometimes we ask ourselves, after some many years why the hell am i experiencing the same thing for crying out loud?!?!? It probably meant that we have not learnt the lesson well. God is not interested to sooth your pain as much as He is interested to heal your heart by healing the root cause of it.
God wants to mould and change us by getting to the root cause. I use to think it is about digging up the past and finding out what went wrong in my childhood and whatsoever. Yes, this may help me identify what caused my insecurities when it comes to relationship, with my parents, brothers and even my friends. Why i do certain things to pissed people off especially those who are close to me. But this will not heal or cure me and make me stop doing what i am doing. Knowing that God accepts me and loves me despite all my flaws will change my heart and ultimately free me. Being without and not understanding God's love for us is the root cause of all problems.
I believe that this is the message of the cross, of how Jesus chose to hang on the cross so that the undeserving can receive forgiveness no matter what we have done wrong in our lives. The only reason why we cannot receive this free gift of Grace is when we believe that we can earn salvation by our own strength and works, in short self righteousness.
How wrong can we be? I have spent the last 16 years believing that i have to live my life right in order to draw near to Jesus and believing that one day i will conquer all my weaknesses and attain holiness, how wrong was I?
God meant for us to draw near to Christ and know that nothing we can do will make us pure and righteous but only through Christ. And when we reach the end of ourselves then will we understand and begin to fathom the depth of our Father's love for us.
Right believing will bring about right living. Whereas Right living will not give you right beliefs
Wednesday 3 June 2009
The recession is from within
I have not have the best of time during this week. Over the weekend, my brother blacked out in the toilet and we had to call for the ambulance to send hm to the nearest hospital. It was pretty traumatizing as thoughts that he may not wake up again flashed in mind. The worried look on my mother's didn't helped either. Finally we managed to get him to the hospital at around noon after several ECG and scans the doctor confirmed that he was alright and we left the hospital around 5pm in the evening.
Today my mother just told me that my brother had to take no pay leave for 2 months as he was on medical leave after the blackout saga. Which means he will be without income for 2 months. Life goes on and expenses has to go on as well...
I was in orchard road to meet Mrs Lum today, she noticed the same thing as me. Recession? what recession? The LV and the Montblanc and all the branded stores in Ngee ann city are packed! Hour glass Dior Burberry all packed with people. Yes it is the GSS but it is still the recession right?
At least i know that the recession in my home is real. I try to stay at home and minimize my trips out unless very necessary. I have also stopped driving to minimize the fuel cost and parking charges. I am waiting for God's blessing to pur out to bring me out of this stage of my life. May the blessings of Abraham be upon me soon.
Today my mother just told me that my brother had to take no pay leave for 2 months as he was on medical leave after the blackout saga. Which means he will be without income for 2 months. Life goes on and expenses has to go on as well...
I was in orchard road to meet Mrs Lum today, she noticed the same thing as me. Recession? what recession? The LV and the Montblanc and all the branded stores in Ngee ann city are packed! Hour glass Dior Burberry all packed with people. Yes it is the GSS but it is still the recession right?
At least i know that the recession in my home is real. I try to stay at home and minimize my trips out unless very necessary. I have also stopped driving to minimize the fuel cost and parking charges. I am waiting for God's blessing to pur out to bring me out of this stage of my life. May the blessings of Abraham be upon me soon.
Friday 22 May 2009
No Music no dream
Recently, i made a list of things that i am good at. Sort of like a strength and weaknesses kind of list. I wanted to remind myself that i am good for something. Things that God has placed in my life that i have not manifest to the best of my abilities. One of the area that i have identified was Music. God has given me a great sense of hearing, a discerning pair of ears. I was always good with picking up a tune and remembering how a particular song goes and how a singer sings the song naturally without trying real hard.
Those of you who knows you have the same ability don't take it for granted, use it go further into exploring music, in singing, playing a music instrument and even creative song writing. I am delving in it myself as well. Think of those people who are tone death and couldn't even hold a tune. Worst is that they don't even realized it! Take hold of your God given talent People.
I have always wanted to make a living out of singing but was unable to do so. I realized that thi s year is not only a year for God to redeem my lost time but also God's moulding in being faithful in the little things He has placed in my life. I am really living each day as God has given me, every thing still seems fuzzy.
Though i see right now through a glass rather dimly.... But i see enough to know that i need God's guidance each step of the way as a loving Father leads his Son.
I vaguely see some light at the end of the tunnel but i see enough to know my life is insignificant by itself but Significant in the eyes of my abba father.
Those of you who knows you have the same ability don't take it for granted, use it go further into exploring music, in singing, playing a music instrument and even creative song writing. I am delving in it myself as well. Think of those people who are tone death and couldn't even hold a tune. Worst is that they don't even realized it! Take hold of your God given talent People.
I have always wanted to make a living out of singing but was unable to do so. I realized that thi s year is not only a year for God to redeem my lost time but also God's moulding in being faithful in the little things He has placed in my life. I am really living each day as God has given me, every thing still seems fuzzy.
Though i see right now through a glass rather dimly.... But i see enough to know that i need God's guidance each step of the way as a loving Father leads his Son.
I vaguely see some light at the end of the tunnel but i see enough to know my life is insignificant by itself but Significant in the eyes of my abba father.
Saturday 7 March 2009
It all boils down to perspective
I haven't much time to blog due to the fact that i am broke and need to find ways and means to earn the extra income and also due to helping out with my family. (See previous entry) I see life at this stage of my life pretty differently, my insignificantly singnificant life was birth out of sharing about my life thoughts and views. More importantly it is about finding directions in my life.
It has been a great tool for me to pen down my thoughts and bring clarity to certain things in my life. It has done a great job of milestoning the past few years of my life, what i have achieved or not achieved. Here are some of the things i have achieved:
1. The right attitude towards life.
In my 20s, i have had really big dreams but i was never good at doing the small things well to achieve those dreams. I have come to point in my life where i value certain things more than the monetary returns and dreams that i use to value. God, family and friends. These matters.
2. Found something that i love to do and passionate about it
If you love music, go all out and immerse yourself in it. If you love movies, likewise do the same. Be so good at it that when someone ask you something about it, you can share on the topic for hours. Be crazy about it! In return, you will find that your passion will be the one that wakes you up in the morning and keep you up in the wee hours of the morning on the internet doing research.
3. A life of fruitfulness and happiness
In the midst of all my trials and struggles, i realize that i am truly blessed. I have many good friends who love me. My mother who cares and spoils me to bits even at my advance age now. My family is still intact despite the health status that they are currently in. My bosses are the most understanding in the world, giving me a job when i need one and standing by me giving me guidance. The one thing that Max shared with me has been the reason why i am able to face my reality: "I use to complain that my feet has no shoes to wear, until i saw those who had no legs"
It's all about perspective.
If you are complaining about the 30% pay cut you just had, think about those who lost their job and have 100% cut.
If you have lost your job, think about those who lost their fortune in the stock market or even lost their love ones when money cannot buy them back.
And if you have lost your love ones recently, think of those who may have lost their whole family in disasters like the recent australia bush fire or even Katrina, 911 etc. The list can go on and on.
Be thankful today about what is right in your life and be grateful about what went wrong in your life is not worst off then it is. Be still and know that HE is God.
It has been a great tool for me to pen down my thoughts and bring clarity to certain things in my life. It has done a great job of milestoning the past few years of my life, what i have achieved or not achieved. Here are some of the things i have achieved:
1. The right attitude towards life.
In my 20s, i have had really big dreams but i was never good at doing the small things well to achieve those dreams. I have come to point in my life where i value certain things more than the monetary returns and dreams that i use to value. God, family and friends. These matters.
2. Found something that i love to do and passionate about it
If you love music, go all out and immerse yourself in it. If you love movies, likewise do the same. Be so good at it that when someone ask you something about it, you can share on the topic for hours. Be crazy about it! In return, you will find that your passion will be the one that wakes you up in the morning and keep you up in the wee hours of the morning on the internet doing research.
3. A life of fruitfulness and happiness
In the midst of all my trials and struggles, i realize that i am truly blessed. I have many good friends who love me. My mother who cares and spoils me to bits even at my advance age now. My family is still intact despite the health status that they are currently in. My bosses are the most understanding in the world, giving me a job when i need one and standing by me giving me guidance. The one thing that Max shared with me has been the reason why i am able to face my reality: "I use to complain that my feet has no shoes to wear, until i saw those who had no legs"
It's all about perspective.
If you are complaining about the 30% pay cut you just had, think about those who lost their job and have 100% cut.
If you have lost your job, think about those who lost their fortune in the stock market or even lost their love ones when money cannot buy them back.
And if you have lost your love ones recently, think of those who may have lost their whole family in disasters like the recent australia bush fire or even Katrina, 911 etc. The list can go on and on.
Be thankful today about what is right in your life and be grateful about what went wrong in your life is not worst off then it is. Be still and know that HE is God.
Monday 9 February 2009
Year of the Ox
In December last year, my father was diagnosed with colon cancer. He had to undergo an emergency surgery to remove the tumor which was causing blockage in his colon. The doctor professed that he has not seen such a hugh tumor in a long while. Were we supposed to be comforted by that?
At that time, i could still tell myself life still goes on pretty much, my Dad has lived a a fruitful life of 75 years with many children, the cancer cell was pretty much localized and under control at stage 3, not the end of the world pretty much. All we wanted for him was that he will be happy and resting at home enjoying his retirement finally. I was more worried for my mother who seem strong on the outside but i can be sure she wasn't feeling too good inside.
On the 2nd day of new year, we had to rush him back to the hospital as he was feeling alot of discomfort with passing motion through the bag. The good news was that these discomforts were normal according to the doctor after the sugery. A week later he was discharge.
Right before the discharge, my 2nd brother broke the news to us that the doctor has confirmed that he has nose cancer pending further tests to confirm the status of the cancer cells. As i was sitting in the foodcourt as SGH with my mother, i tried comforting her that everything is going to be alright. I could tell that she was holding back her tears, the crowded foodcourt didn't managed to drown out the sound of her voice and i can still remember what she said that day. She question why all her life she had to endure so many hardships and good things never seem to fall upon her. I wish i could do more to comfort her but i could do was to tell her that she still had 2 healthy sons in the family, my elder brother and myself.
I question myself what have i really done for her all my life. Sadly, i couldn't answer that question.
Today, the doctor confirmed that my brother is in stage 4 of nose cancer, it is a pretty late stage. To top things off, he is diabetic. More scans will be done to see if the cancer cells has spread to the other organs. The doctor recommend radio and chemo therapy for him. Which means he will not be able to work for the next 6 months.
For now, i just want to spend time with my mother and brother and make sure that i can do everything within my means to make it easier for the family. Everything seems so surreal. The wierd thing is that there is not really sadness within me now. It is more of a realization that i cannot be sad especially in front of my family. Life has to go on. Life must go on.
Guess i will have to look for another job that pays better now. All my impractical dreams may have to left on the shelf for the time being. The job market is bad, more layoffs are happening all around us. I only pray that God will show mercy and let my family finally have some good news for the remaining year of the Ox.
At that time, i could still tell myself life still goes on pretty much, my Dad has lived a a fruitful life of 75 years with many children, the cancer cell was pretty much localized and under control at stage 3, not the end of the world pretty much. All we wanted for him was that he will be happy and resting at home enjoying his retirement finally. I was more worried for my mother who seem strong on the outside but i can be sure she wasn't feeling too good inside.
On the 2nd day of new year, we had to rush him back to the hospital as he was feeling alot of discomfort with passing motion through the bag. The good news was that these discomforts were normal according to the doctor after the sugery. A week later he was discharge.
Right before the discharge, my 2nd brother broke the news to us that the doctor has confirmed that he has nose cancer pending further tests to confirm the status of the cancer cells. As i was sitting in the foodcourt as SGH with my mother, i tried comforting her that everything is going to be alright. I could tell that she was holding back her tears, the crowded foodcourt didn't managed to drown out the sound of her voice and i can still remember what she said that day. She question why all her life she had to endure so many hardships and good things never seem to fall upon her. I wish i could do more to comfort her but i could do was to tell her that she still had 2 healthy sons in the family, my elder brother and myself.
I question myself what have i really done for her all my life. Sadly, i couldn't answer that question.
Today, the doctor confirmed that my brother is in stage 4 of nose cancer, it is a pretty late stage. To top things off, he is diabetic. More scans will be done to see if the cancer cells has spread to the other organs. The doctor recommend radio and chemo therapy for him. Which means he will not be able to work for the next 6 months.
For now, i just want to spend time with my mother and brother and make sure that i can do everything within my means to make it easier for the family. Everything seems so surreal. The wierd thing is that there is not really sadness within me now. It is more of a realization that i cannot be sad especially in front of my family. Life has to go on. Life must go on.
Guess i will have to look for another job that pays better now. All my impractical dreams may have to left on the shelf for the time being. The job market is bad, more layoffs are happening all around us. I only pray that God will show mercy and let my family finally have some good news for the remaining year of the Ox.
Thursday 22 January 2009
Officer's Creed
I am an officer of the Singapore Armed Forces.
My duty is to lead, to excel and to overcome.
I lead my men by example.I answer for their training morale and discipline.
I must excel in everything I do.I serve with pride, honour and integrity.
I will overcome adversity with courage, fortitude and determination.
I dedicate my life to Singapore.
Looking forward in 2009, this creed holds true to all who are worried and heavy laden. All men are leaders in their own rights. First we lead our lives right before we can lead other lives.
To lead, an exceptional life by example
To excel in all things we do with pride honor and intergrity.
To overcome all adversities.
In this difficult times where retrenchment abound and pay cuts a neccessity to keep the job. We must be resillent. This crisis is not just an american problem, as much as Obama can inspire and lead the American public, we as singaporean should not only look to the leadership of the government but also to ourselves to overcome the adversities. Inner strength will determine your external circumstances.
So lets us all recite the creed!
We are the leaders of our own lives.
My duty is to lead a fruitful life, excel despite circumstances and overcome all negativity
I answer for all the things that is not right in my life, i am responsible for them and i blame no one.
Despite the economic downturn, i will remain positive and not blame the Americans or the mini bonds. I have made my choice today, and my chiice today is to trust in God and leave the rest to Him in all i do.
My duty is to lead, to excel and to overcome.
I lead my men by example.I answer for their training morale and discipline.
I must excel in everything I do.I serve with pride, honour and integrity.
I will overcome adversity with courage, fortitude and determination.
I dedicate my life to Singapore.
Looking forward in 2009, this creed holds true to all who are worried and heavy laden. All men are leaders in their own rights. First we lead our lives right before we can lead other lives.
To lead, an exceptional life by example
To excel in all things we do with pride honor and intergrity.
To overcome all adversities.
In this difficult times where retrenchment abound and pay cuts a neccessity to keep the job. We must be resillent. This crisis is not just an american problem, as much as Obama can inspire and lead the American public, we as singaporean should not only look to the leadership of the government but also to ourselves to overcome the adversities. Inner strength will determine your external circumstances.
So lets us all recite the creed!
We are the leaders of our own lives.
My duty is to lead a fruitful life, excel despite circumstances and overcome all negativity
I answer for all the things that is not right in my life, i am responsible for them and i blame no one.
Despite the economic downturn, i will remain positive and not blame the Americans or the mini bonds. I have made my choice today, and my chiice today is to trust in God and leave the rest to Him in all i do.
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