This beautiful poem was written by an African Child, and nominated by the UN as the best poem of 2006. Wanna share with one and all...
When I was born, I was black
When I grow up, I black
When i go in Sun, I black
When I scared, I black
When I sick, I black
[center][/center]And when i die, I still black
And you white fellow
When you born, you pink
When you grow up, you white
When you go in sun, you red
When you cold, you blue
When you scared, you yellow
When you sick, you green
And when you die, you grey
AND YOU CALLING ME COLOURED??
Saturday 15 November 2008
While he was sleeping...
I look at him as he lay asleep ...his handsome face gentle and seemingly at peace with himself, perhaps a sweet dream as his mouth twitched into the faintest hint of a smile, and his dark lashes resting on his soft cheeks, I look at that face and felt that sudden rush of overwhelming love for him flow through me...a most beautiful feeling which takes my breath away everytime.
He has been through a lot this past 2 weeks - a roller coaster of emotions. To miss me when I was hospitalised recently, to stay home alone with no one to talk to...and in that state to celebrate his birthday...alone. If not for his connection to the outside world through his Facebook page, no one would know of his birthday. I am glad he has many concerned friends in facebook.
The good news he claims now that he is finally a TRUE CERTIFIED MALAYSIAN...and many wondered why. He proudly claims, "Well, as of 11/11 I am officially 12. I shall be getting my MY KAD soon and that makes me a true Malaysian".
He is my baby boy, my youngest son who did me proud by scoring straight As for his UPSR and Mumtaz for his PSRA recently. My cheerful, witty ,excellent young son (that is the meaning of his name actually!). As I watch him asleep now, he seemed so much a little boy yet that I almost dont have the heart to wake him up for his fajr prayer.
Then it dawned on me...that my true measure of love for him is not by his achievements in the academic field only, but more than that I am glad that he is a young man who can be roused to wake up for the fajr prayer without much fuss and harrass, he is a young man who has been fasting ever since he was 6 and cherish the month of Ramadhan, that he is a young man who can quote verses of the Quran to highlight a point in his conversation.
Yet he is also the one who has caused commotion between two sisters who are vying for his attention, he is the one who gives out a good fight back when his peers made fun of him, he is the one who is aware that Linkin Park? is a singing group, yet he is the one who can go to bed at night only after ummi gives him a peck on the cheeks and hugs him. In short, he is that young boy who knows he is my baby..anytime.
And so, I realise that even though one he may grow up, and hopefully be successful in his studies, make a good career in his life, what I wish for more is that he turns out to be a man who knows of his duties to his Maker, of his responsibilities to his parents and family, of his commitment to the betterment of his society.
And it is my duty to make sure that he is set on the right path to success..So..i shall wake him up for his fajr prayer...
He has been through a lot this past 2 weeks - a roller coaster of emotions. To miss me when I was hospitalised recently, to stay home alone with no one to talk to...and in that state to celebrate his birthday...alone. If not for his connection to the outside world through his Facebook page, no one would know of his birthday. I am glad he has many concerned friends in facebook.
The good news he claims now that he is finally a TRUE CERTIFIED MALAYSIAN...and many wondered why. He proudly claims, "Well, as of 11/11 I am officially 12. I shall be getting my MY KAD soon and that makes me a true Malaysian".
He is my baby boy, my youngest son who did me proud by scoring straight As for his UPSR and Mumtaz for his PSRA recently. My cheerful, witty ,excellent young son (that is the meaning of his name actually!). As I watch him asleep now, he seemed so much a little boy yet that I almost dont have the heart to wake him up for his fajr prayer.
Then it dawned on me...that my true measure of love for him is not by his achievements in the academic field only, but more than that I am glad that he is a young man who can be roused to wake up for the fajr prayer without much fuss and harrass, he is a young man who has been fasting ever since he was 6 and cherish the month of Ramadhan, that he is a young man who can quote verses of the Quran to highlight a point in his conversation.
Yet he is also the one who has caused commotion between two sisters who are vying for his attention, he is the one who gives out a good fight back when his peers made fun of him, he is the one who is aware that Linkin Park? is a singing group, yet he is the one who can go to bed at night only after ummi gives him a peck on the cheeks and hugs him. In short, he is that young boy who knows he is my baby..anytime.
And so, I realise that even though one he may grow up, and hopefully be successful in his studies, make a good career in his life, what I wish for more is that he turns out to be a man who knows of his duties to his Maker, of his responsibilities to his parents and family, of his commitment to the betterment of his society.
And it is my duty to make sure that he is set on the right path to success..So..i shall wake him up for his fajr prayer...
Saturday 1 November 2008
Friday 24 October 2008
What happened to me?
O my Gosh...o my Gosh...I hadn't realised that it is over 2 months now since I last published any posts. Now why is that?
I guess the first month was excusable - it being the fasting month of Ramadan and all. I must admit of all the 5 obligatory duties of a Muslim, the one that I am the weakest is the third one - fasting in the month of Ramadhan. And so, to enable myself to go through the rituals of fasting as well as my daily routine, I have had to preserve my energy which meant less talk, less walk and of course going to bed early so I could get up on time to prepare the predawn meal or sahur for the family. All this meant that I had not much time (or energy) to even jot some simple thoughts for the day.
And then came Eidul Fitri - came and went so fast, I cannot believe the month is over! Just actually enjoyed it till the 5th of Syawal, before it was back to school. As usual, we went visiting, photo snapping and attending open houses. Many pictures were taken. At first I had intended to post them into my blog, but you know what? Lately, out of necessity, meaning to "oversee" what my nieces and nephews were commenting about my pictures which they post onto their Facebook accounts, I had to become active over there too, and subsequently I too have now posted my pictures there. Anyway, I am still hoping to really update this blog this upcoming holidays. Can't wait for holidays to comelah...truly and honestly bone tired...
And after that, lets see...ah yes..Ashraf's SMA, followed by my students' PMR, and then Zakiy's PRAI exams. And right now, the Form 4s are having their end of year exam, which means more marking for me. Finally, the SPM is scheduled to start on 11/11/2008.
I am hoping to move to my new house this December, get the pond done and settled in before 2009 starts. As slow as I am with my posting of blogs..the house developer and the municipal county is even slower with their work....bummer!
I guess the first month was excusable - it being the fasting month of Ramadan and all. I must admit of all the 5 obligatory duties of a Muslim, the one that I am the weakest is the third one - fasting in the month of Ramadhan. And so, to enable myself to go through the rituals of fasting as well as my daily routine, I have had to preserve my energy which meant less talk, less walk and of course going to bed early so I could get up on time to prepare the predawn meal or sahur for the family. All this meant that I had not much time (or energy) to even jot some simple thoughts for the day.
And then came Eidul Fitri - came and went so fast, I cannot believe the month is over! Just actually enjoyed it till the 5th of Syawal, before it was back to school. As usual, we went visiting, photo snapping and attending open houses. Many pictures were taken. At first I had intended to post them into my blog, but you know what? Lately, out of necessity, meaning to "oversee" what my nieces and nephews were commenting about my pictures which they post onto their Facebook accounts, I had to become active over there too, and subsequently I too have now posted my pictures there. Anyway, I am still hoping to really update this blog this upcoming holidays. Can't wait for holidays to comelah...truly and honestly bone tired...
And after that, lets see...ah yes..Ashraf's SMA, followed by my students' PMR, and then Zakiy's PRAI exams. And right now, the Form 4s are having their end of year exam, which means more marking for me. Finally, the SPM is scheduled to start on 11/11/2008.
I am hoping to move to my new house this December, get the pond done and settled in before 2009 starts. As slow as I am with my posting of blogs..the house developer and the municipal county is even slower with their work....bummer!
Wednesday 27 August 2008
In Praise of God
Salaam. You know what, as I sit and type here alone in my house, I only have praises for Allah Almighty in my heart. Although the weather outside is raining, with dark clouds and thunder clapping, but it is only joy and gratitude within. And you know why? Coz things are looking good for me. My last medical checkup shows my kidney to be functioning well, my liver cirrhosis is still in controlled state, despite the polyps that the doctors discovered recently. And I asked my favorite student@v.good doctor about the polyps, he said that as long as my liver functions are okay, it will probably be best to just leave the polyps alone...o I will leave those polyps well alone...hehehe...
And then of course, there is my first novel, finally born....I am thrilled to bits..and friends in school have something designed to celebrate the publication of this first novel. I am very very very embarrassed by it all....don't really know how to react. I just hope my novel wont disappoint them...
And most recently, we have been told that my new house is about to get the CF shortly. O please God, I am very hopeful and so looking forward to celebrate Raya over there. Water and electricity are available now. So you know what, hubby and I have decided to go ahead with our plan to celebrate raya there, even though we wont be moving in just yet, with or without CF. So we have met up again with our dear landscape artist, Mr. Loo, and confirmed our decision to have the garden and pond built, and he has immediately mobilised the work. And once again, I am so excited and thrilled to bits...coz you know why...more than the interior renovation of this new house of mine, I want a garden and a pond with running fountain for me to soothe my tired eyes after a hard day's work...while I sit on the chair on my wooden deck overlooking the pond and sip my hot cup of tea or vico...Aaah....that is the life for me now...And perhaps during the holidays, I might wake up early in the morning, and do my writing outdoors, the quiet sound of the running fountain a source of inspiration to me. O dear, I can't wait for the garden and pond to be completed. To my dearest hubby, thank you very much for understanding my wish, I highly appreciate your understanding, and thank you Mr. Loo for realising this wish of mine.
But above all, thank you Allah..for all YOUR blessings. With all my shortcomings and handicap, YOU never fail to make my dreams come true, one by one, and I know that YOU are always watching me, despite the moments when I have forgotten YOU. Just give me the strength o Allah, to be a grateful servant to YOU. O Allah, I can only hope and pray that YOU never ever abandon me, despite all my weaknesses and shortcomings.
And please Allah, bless all those who are dear to me too...my family and friends alike...and uncle and auntie...
p/s: And finally all praise be to Allah for the recent election in Permatang Pauh... God is the Best of all planners....and He knows Best!
And then of course, there is my first novel, finally born....I am thrilled to bits..and friends in school have something designed to celebrate the publication of this first novel. I am very very very embarrassed by it all....don't really know how to react. I just hope my novel wont disappoint them...
And most recently, we have been told that my new house is about to get the CF shortly. O please God, I am very hopeful and so looking forward to celebrate Raya over there. Water and electricity are available now. So you know what, hubby and I have decided to go ahead with our plan to celebrate raya there, even though we wont be moving in just yet, with or without CF. So we have met up again with our dear landscape artist, Mr. Loo, and confirmed our decision to have the garden and pond built, and he has immediately mobilised the work. And once again, I am so excited and thrilled to bits...coz you know why...more than the interior renovation of this new house of mine, I want a garden and a pond with running fountain for me to soothe my tired eyes after a hard day's work...while I sit on the chair on my wooden deck overlooking the pond and sip my hot cup of tea or vico...Aaah....that is the life for me now...And perhaps during the holidays, I might wake up early in the morning, and do my writing outdoors, the quiet sound of the running fountain a source of inspiration to me. O dear, I can't wait for the garden and pond to be completed. To my dearest hubby, thank you very much for understanding my wish, I highly appreciate your understanding, and thank you Mr. Loo for realising this wish of mine.
But above all, thank you Allah..for all YOUR blessings. With all my shortcomings and handicap, YOU never fail to make my dreams come true, one by one, and I know that YOU are always watching me, despite the moments when I have forgotten YOU. Just give me the strength o Allah, to be a grateful servant to YOU. O Allah, I can only hope and pray that YOU never ever abandon me, despite all my weaknesses and shortcomings.
And please Allah, bless all those who are dear to me too...my family and friends alike...and uncle and auntie...
p/s: And finally all praise be to Allah for the recent election in Permatang Pauh... God is the Best of all planners....and He knows Best!
Friday 22 August 2008
Reflections
On 3rd of September 2007, I wrote a post called In Honor of Friendship. In that post I pay tribute to my friends who have passed away, namely Rose, Azland and Maulud. And I said that if my effort is realised, it is Inshaallah in memory of them.
Well you know what? The effort is realised. My first novel is finally out! And I dedicate that book to you guys. May Allah bless your souls and may He place you guys amongst the pious and the succesful. Ameen.
Well you know what? The effort is realised. My first novel is finally out! And I dedicate that book to you guys. May Allah bless your souls and may He place you guys amongst the pious and the succesful. Ameen.
Thursday 21 August 2008
Its Out - Finally!!
Salam. You know what????MY BOOK IS FINALLY OUT!!! Yes and I am so excited..my first baby...how can I even begin to describe my feelings of elation right now...what has always been in my computer now has a beautiful front and back cover, synopsis all in one.
So please...please...please... you guys out there, friends, family, students...support my effort okay. I come by the pen name Alma Zakiya (publisher's choice), and the title of my very first novel here is AFTER THE RAIN. Very affordable - only RM10.00..please get a copy for your children, your spouse, yourselves...:-)
For your support and encouragement. all this while. ..I THANK YOU ALL MOST SINCERELY...and HUMBLY.
To BLOOM, an imprint of ALAF21 - THANK YOU FOR ACCEPTING MY MANUSCRIPT...and start me off...
front cover
the back cover
the pen name
So please...please...please... you guys out there, friends, family, students...support my effort okay. I come by the pen name Alma Zakiya (publisher's choice), and the title of my very first novel here is AFTER THE RAIN. Very affordable - only RM10.00..please get a copy for your children, your spouse, yourselves...:-)
For your support and encouragement. all this while. ..I THANK YOU ALL MOST SINCERELY...and HUMBLY.
To BLOOM, an imprint of ALAF21 - THANK YOU FOR ACCEPTING MY MANUSCRIPT...and start me off...
front cover
the back cover
the pen nameTuesday 19 August 2008
20 years
Salaam. today marks the 20th year of my renal transplant. The first renal transplant in Malaysia was performed 16 years before my renal transplant! I hope the man is still doing okay. Whatever it is, God has been kind to all of us.
I had forgotten about today, until, this morning, when, during my extra Biology class with 13/27 students came for the extra class (not bad, just below 50% attendance), by the name of Yuthisthran, was given a happy 17th birthday wish. When told of the date today, it came rushing back to me about the importance of this day.
And so, after lunch, I went to Secret Recipe and bought a delicious Banana Chocolate cake to celebrate with most beloved sister, donor, ONI who happened to be at her daughter's house, Emma, together with her 2 grandsons, Imran and Adam.
And so we had what turned out to be a little cosy yet merry party to celebrate the 20th year of my renal transplant.
But you know what, I think I am going to make a little bit more elaborate "makan" for this occasion for the rest of my siblings, seeing that Ramadhan is now just round the corner...if Allah so Wills.
a special thank you cake for a very special donor!
Sis Oni cutting the "transplant cake!"
Donor sis and recipient me together...after 20 years...
I had forgotten about today, until, this morning, when, during my extra Biology class with 13/27 students came for the extra class (not bad, just below 50% attendance), by the name of Yuthisthran, was given a happy 17th birthday wish. When told of the date today, it came rushing back to me about the importance of this day.
And so, after lunch, I went to Secret Recipe and bought a delicious Banana Chocolate cake to celebrate with most beloved sister, donor, ONI who happened to be at her daughter's house, Emma, together with her 2 grandsons, Imran and Adam.
And so we had what turned out to be a little cosy yet merry party to celebrate the 20th year of my renal transplant.
But you know what, I think I am going to make a little bit more elaborate "makan" for this occasion for the rest of my siblings, seeing that Ramadhan is now just round the corner...if Allah so Wills.
a special thank you cake for a very special donor!
Sis Oni cutting the "transplant cake!"
Donor sis and recipient me together...after 20 years...ALL PRAISE TO ALLAH - 20 YEARS ALREADY!
Salaam. It is now 2130 hours - and I am stuck at chapter 5. Its not for the lack of plots and ideas, but more on how to connect one episode to another. So, whilst I wait for inspiration, I might as well write something on this blog...not simply write, but because 20 years ago, today, holds a very significant event in my life.
I cannot even begin to thank Allah that it has been 20 years already that I have gone through my renal transplant. Gosh...the wonders of modern medicine and modern science never cease to amaze me...and the miracle of God...yes, for every little thing that passes through our lives, that we take for granted, they all are miracles to me after my new lease in life ...from 20 years back. While many females shudder at the thought of sweat, I am grateful for being able to sweat again for these past 20 years.. a sign that my system is on the go, and that it is removing excess heat, and excess urea and nitrogenous waste products from my body. Trust me, it is no small deal when your body fails to remove excess heat from you - it makes you feel like being in a state of perpetual low grade fever - a very depressing feeling, I assure you.
Today I am taken back to that fateful Tuesday (wow ..and it was a Tuesday too), when my most beloved sis, ONI, and I were wheeled to the operation theatre for the transplant. I was a horribly thin (38kg) individual, dark, with dry skin and pale lips and childless...and now 20 years later, today, I am this chubby woman, still dark, but no longer pale and my skin is no longer dry. And above all, I am so grateful to Allah that I feel as good as any other healthy person out there. And you know what...many people are taken aback when I tell them that I am a renal transplant patient. My appearance today, all praise be to Allah, does not, in any way, give away any telltale sign of being a transplant patient. Even the moon faced syndrome due to steroid intake has reduced quite considerably.
But above all, above all, the greatest miracle following my transplant are my two handsome, intelligent, obedient young sons, Ashraf (who now prefers to be called Ilman, excuse me) and Zakiy. I am forever thankful to God for them both; I mean even some healthier women are childless today, but I am so blessed to be given this second chance in life.
And although taking steroid is not without its adverse side effects, I have been living this good life for 20 years now. Of course I pray that I live for many more years, in time to see some of grandchildren at least, but these 20 years of life, on most part have been very good to me, with both my boys beside me. My fate is in God's hands, and He is the Best to decide when my time is due... I surrender my fate to His Will. Allah has been kind to this servant of His, and today I stand humbled, and repentant over my sins and wrong doings. Yet, I believe that Allah, His Most Merciful accepts me as I am, weakness and all...I believe that of my Creator...
And it is for this love of God, you know what, that I am so thankful to all - my sister Oni, my husband, my parents, my brothers and sisters who all love me very much, and I can feel their love every moment, all the doctors, especially Dr. Zaki Murad, and my uncle, Dr. Prohoeman (who retired and returned to Sumatera just after my transplant), the nurses and all those who have crossed my path, relatives, friends and students who have prayed for me...THANK YOU all and may God reward you....
And as for my 2 gem - one of you guys, if not both...please be a doctor, and do service to mankind...at least I can comfort myself knowing that I have contributed to the good of mankind, through the both of you.
Whatever that comes now, and after this, I shall learn to take things in my stride. I was in my mid twenties when I had my transplant, and now I am in my mid forties...times have changed, many things have changed, some loved ones have come and gone, I have had my shares of ups and downs, my share of tears and laughter, my fill of joy and heartache. And you know what? All of this is possible...because of this day, 20 years ago, when I was given a new lease of life...and because of it, I embrace life now... and all it has to offer. And God knows best.
with a nephew, Emir just before transplant
with another nephew, Jimmy, just after transplant...fighting for the "most chubby" trophy!
still able to celebrate yet another birthday, all praise be to Allah!
and to fool around on other people's birthday - Mak's recent birthday.
I cannot even begin to thank Allah that it has been 20 years already that I have gone through my renal transplant. Gosh...the wonders of modern medicine and modern science never cease to amaze me...and the miracle of God...yes, for every little thing that passes through our lives, that we take for granted, they all are miracles to me after my new lease in life ...from 20 years back. While many females shudder at the thought of sweat, I am grateful for being able to sweat again for these past 20 years.. a sign that my system is on the go, and that it is removing excess heat, and excess urea and nitrogenous waste products from my body. Trust me, it is no small deal when your body fails to remove excess heat from you - it makes you feel like being in a state of perpetual low grade fever - a very depressing feeling, I assure you.
Today I am taken back to that fateful Tuesday (wow ..and it was a Tuesday too), when my most beloved sis, ONI, and I were wheeled to the operation theatre for the transplant. I was a horribly thin (38kg) individual, dark, with dry skin and pale lips and childless...and now 20 years later, today, I am this chubby woman, still dark, but no longer pale and my skin is no longer dry. And above all, I am so grateful to Allah that I feel as good as any other healthy person out there. And you know what...many people are taken aback when I tell them that I am a renal transplant patient. My appearance today, all praise be to Allah, does not, in any way, give away any telltale sign of being a transplant patient. Even the moon faced syndrome due to steroid intake has reduced quite considerably.
But above all, above all, the greatest miracle following my transplant are my two handsome, intelligent, obedient young sons, Ashraf (who now prefers to be called Ilman, excuse me) and Zakiy. I am forever thankful to God for them both; I mean even some healthier women are childless today, but I am so blessed to be given this second chance in life.
And although taking steroid is not without its adverse side effects, I have been living this good life for 20 years now. Of course I pray that I live for many more years, in time to see some of grandchildren at least, but these 20 years of life, on most part have been very good to me, with both my boys beside me. My fate is in God's hands, and He is the Best to decide when my time is due... I surrender my fate to His Will. Allah has been kind to this servant of His, and today I stand humbled, and repentant over my sins and wrong doings. Yet, I believe that Allah, His Most Merciful accepts me as I am, weakness and all...I believe that of my Creator...
And it is for this love of God, you know what, that I am so thankful to all - my sister Oni, my husband, my parents, my brothers and sisters who all love me very much, and I can feel their love every moment, all the doctors, especially Dr. Zaki Murad, and my uncle, Dr. Prohoeman (who retired and returned to Sumatera just after my transplant), the nurses and all those who have crossed my path, relatives, friends and students who have prayed for me...THANK YOU all and may God reward you....
And as for my 2 gem - one of you guys, if not both...please be a doctor, and do service to mankind...at least I can comfort myself knowing that I have contributed to the good of mankind, through the both of you.
Whatever that comes now, and after this, I shall learn to take things in my stride. I was in my mid twenties when I had my transplant, and now I am in my mid forties...times have changed, many things have changed, some loved ones have come and gone, I have had my shares of ups and downs, my share of tears and laughter, my fill of joy and heartache. And you know what? All of this is possible...because of this day, 20 years ago, when I was given a new lease of life...and because of it, I embrace life now... and all it has to offer. And God knows best.
with a nephew, Emir just before transplant
with another nephew, Jimmy, just after transplant...fighting for the "most chubby" trophy!
still able to celebrate yet another birthday, all praise be to Allah!
and to fool around on other people's birthday - Mak's recent birthday.Saturday 16 August 2008
mid term school break!
Salaam, usually I would be elated whenever school break comes. But this time, I am just relieved it is finally here. Too much work in school, plus the impending tension of my baby's upcoming UPSR exams. He got 4As and a B for his trial - which is a bit upsetting for me...hopefully he will perform better for his real exams. And then as soon as school reopens, big boy will be facing his trial SMA exams. I hope he will perform better than little brother. So, there wont be any distant traveling throughout this holiday. Not even for my niece Ana's engagement event in Kuala Terengganu tomorrow. Sorry Ana...but anyway, congrats!
And you know what? It is as if the system is envious of us teachers enjoying a holiday. As usual, I am bogged down with exam papers to mark..the PMR trials. And on top of that I am going to do extra Biology classes for the 5th formers in school, beginning Tuesday right up to Friday. I don't really mind that actually because that would help me catch up with the syllabus with those boys. The only worrying thing is the turn up on Tuesday. I just hope they will all turn up and remain steadfast for the rest of the 3 days. But before that, on Monday I have yet to go for my routine medical check up. Pray God that all will be well.
But one thing is for sure, I am going to utilise this holiday maximally with writing as much as I can with my second novel, Inshaallah. Because you know what???? Yea...I have just received my first advanced royalty for my first novel. And you know what that means? It means that inshaallah, my book is that close to being in the book stores. O God ..I am soooo excited. To all friends and family who happen to read this post...please please please support me and get a copy for yourselves okay. ;-)
O and one more thing, Mak, will be released from hospital today, after 1 week in hospital because of atrial fibrillation. She is now put on Warfarin, which renders her blood thin, so we must all make sure that she doesn't injure herself. All praise be to Allah, hope she will feel better now. Is there anybody out there who knows about warfarin and advise me on it? Its pros and cons... or direct me to a good website to enlighten me on the matter?
Okay..gotta get back to my second novel, while I am still in the mood. Somebody asked me how far I am with the second novel...its progressing ... its progressing...
And you know what? It is as if the system is envious of us teachers enjoying a holiday. As usual, I am bogged down with exam papers to mark..the PMR trials. And on top of that I am going to do extra Biology classes for the 5th formers in school, beginning Tuesday right up to Friday. I don't really mind that actually because that would help me catch up with the syllabus with those boys. The only worrying thing is the turn up on Tuesday. I just hope they will all turn up and remain steadfast for the rest of the 3 days. But before that, on Monday I have yet to go for my routine medical check up. Pray God that all will be well.
But one thing is for sure, I am going to utilise this holiday maximally with writing as much as I can with my second novel, Inshaallah. Because you know what???? Yea...I have just received my first advanced royalty for my first novel. And you know what that means? It means that inshaallah, my book is that close to being in the book stores. O God ..I am soooo excited. To all friends and family who happen to read this post...please please please support me and get a copy for yourselves okay. ;-)
O and one more thing, Mak, will be released from hospital today, after 1 week in hospital because of atrial fibrillation. She is now put on Warfarin, which renders her blood thin, so we must all make sure that she doesn't injure herself. All praise be to Allah, hope she will feel better now. Is there anybody out there who knows about warfarin and advise me on it? Its pros and cons... or direct me to a good website to enlighten me on the matter?
Okay..gotta get back to my second novel, while I am still in the mood. Somebody asked me how far I am with the second novel...its progressing ... its progressing...
Saturday 26 July 2008
updates
Salaam. It has been nearly a month I think since I last wrote anything onto this blog. July - is always a terribly busy time of the year for me... this is the time when all the PEKA (Science Practical Assessment) assessors would be after us science teachers for the students PEKA marks for both SPM and S=PMR. And I am involved with both. This is the time that I would sudenly realise that one or two of my nincampoops students have not submitted their work at all. Also for the very slow and weak classes, I must make sure that they produce something to get minimal marks at least. I never minded teaching, but its the chasing after students to get their lab reports that tire me off.
No matter how I try to keep abreast with the work that needs doing in this month, year after year, I will be hard pressed for time. This is the month (or just prior to this), that class teachers meet up with parents for a report of their children's performance. And yes...I am a class teacher as well. From collecting the marks, preparing the mark sheet, right up to meeting the parents themselves, can be quite stressful. We have to make sure that the marks that are keyed in are correct, but what is worse is chasing after the subject teachers for marks, and the odd one or two students for their report cards, just to be sure we meet the deadline for passing up the report cards to be signed by the administrators and returned to us before the parent-teacher day! Stressful...as a result, i was so exhausted and even blacked out in school one afternoon...bummer!!
This is the time too that the third monthly test papers needs to be prepared. By right I should be reprieved this month, considering I had prepared the midyear exam papers. But upon looking at my colleague who is pregnant, and as her Science Panel Chief, I have not the heart to let her carry that burden on top of the obvious burden she is carrying in her now. So, yet again, I assume the responsibility, at least in the name of frienship. Same goes with Biology paper. And, truth be told, I have yet to submit those papers for printing. But they will be ready, God Willing. I adhere this time to the saying, "IF not for the last minute jobs, many things would not be done," hahaha...lame excuse I know..
Still there is lots to rejoice in this month. Big brother Apek's birthday celebration was a blast. I finally got the chance to show off (hmmm) and try out the camera on my new Samsung smartphone. Got the chance to meet up with all my sisters and brothers too...something I always look forward too, not forgetting the food.
Then, it was also report card day for both my boys. Reports that came back make m ever more grateful to God for having them. Ashraf as usual with his string of all As, with his deeniyah scoring an almost perfect 100% score, 97 ++%...really I was and still impressed. As for his academics, all A1s except you know what...Biology! and Add. Maths. Well done son. And as for my little baby, he scored 4As for his UPSR subject, getting a B for BM. But as the teacher told me, no one got an A because the particular teacher had set an "extra" difficult paper - for what purpose I fail to see. I would rather he set a paper in line with the national exam standards and format. Well, he has his own reasons I suppose. But the best part, my baby Zakiy got 1st position in class this time, for the second time, You know what, I think he is slowly maturing, and catching up with his brother.
Still more to come, Finally I got the agreement letter to my novel. And the last information is that, God Willing the book will be out in the market in 3 weeks time. Look out for it okay. And please please please, support my first novel. Get them for your children, for your friend's children, for yourselves if need be hahaha...Please pray for me....and my first born novel...more on this later. But for now, I am looking forward to unwind with my siblings at mom's birthday potluck party tonight...inshaallah.
p/s: Uncle, I strive to update this blog for you and auntie ok...smiles...
No matter how I try to keep abreast with the work that needs doing in this month, year after year, I will be hard pressed for time. This is the month (or just prior to this), that class teachers meet up with parents for a report of their children's performance. And yes...I am a class teacher as well. From collecting the marks, preparing the mark sheet, right up to meeting the parents themselves, can be quite stressful. We have to make sure that the marks that are keyed in are correct, but what is worse is chasing after the subject teachers for marks, and the odd one or two students for their report cards, just to be sure we meet the deadline for passing up the report cards to be signed by the administrators and returned to us before the parent-teacher day! Stressful...as a result, i was so exhausted and even blacked out in school one afternoon...bummer!!
This is the time too that the third monthly test papers needs to be prepared. By right I should be reprieved this month, considering I had prepared the midyear exam papers. But upon looking at my colleague who is pregnant, and as her Science Panel Chief, I have not the heart to let her carry that burden on top of the obvious burden she is carrying in her now. So, yet again, I assume the responsibility, at least in the name of frienship. Same goes with Biology paper. And, truth be told, I have yet to submit those papers for printing. But they will be ready, God Willing. I adhere this time to the saying, "IF not for the last minute jobs, many things would not be done," hahaha...lame excuse I know..
Still there is lots to rejoice in this month. Big brother Apek's birthday celebration was a blast. I finally got the chance to show off (hmmm) and try out the camera on my new Samsung smartphone. Got the chance to meet up with all my sisters and brothers too...something I always look forward too, not forgetting the food.
Then, it was also report card day for both my boys. Reports that came back make m ever more grateful to God for having them. Ashraf as usual with his string of all As, with his deeniyah scoring an almost perfect 100% score, 97 ++%...really I was and still impressed. As for his academics, all A1s except you know what...Biology! and Add. Maths. Well done son. And as for my little baby, he scored 4As for his UPSR subject, getting a B for BM. But as the teacher told me, no one got an A because the particular teacher had set an "extra" difficult paper - for what purpose I fail to see. I would rather he set a paper in line with the national exam standards and format. Well, he has his own reasons I suppose. But the best part, my baby Zakiy got 1st position in class this time, for the second time, You know what, I think he is slowly maturing, and catching up with his brother.
Still more to come, Finally I got the agreement letter to my novel. And the last information is that, God Willing the book will be out in the market in 3 weeks time. Look out for it okay. And please please please, support my first novel. Get them for your children, for your friend's children, for yourselves if need be hahaha...Please pray for me....and my first born novel...more on this later. But for now, I am looking forward to unwind with my siblings at mom's birthday potluck party tonight...inshaallah.
p/s: Uncle, I strive to update this blog for you and auntie ok...smiles...
Monday 30 June 2008
My new Samsung i780
Salaam. You know what? I am so excited that as of yesterday, 29/06/08, I am the proud owner of a beautiful. slick black Samsung SGH i780 pda phone. Can't really believe I was actually getting it...
It happened that I am always getting hand-me-down pdas from hubby, except of course my 1st ever e-book which I won from the Pertandingan Membina Rancangan Mengajar together with Cikgu Karim fr SMK Kg Jawa.
Since then, hubby, everytime he wanted to change to a new pda, would hand down his old one, and then buys a new one for himself. Since I am not really pda savvy, I am normally just happy enough to accept whatever is given to me..especially appreciate the fact that I can do my writing, wherever I am and then to synch into my computer.
At first it didn't bother me much that after using the 2nd hand pda after some time, it starts giving me minor but irritating problems. And what is more, before it got too irritating, hubby was ready to get another new one... another, more recent hand-me-down for me. And I was happy again.
But I realise that once the problem starts, I cant enjoy the gadget anymore. And i get rather put off to even try to rectify the problem. It is like I simply give up because it is just a hand-me-down and so I can't really pinpoint when the damage originally started.
So when my present palm treo 650 started giving me problems bit by bit, I got really put off...especially when it started to switch off on its own. I thought deep and hard, and told hubby I want a new pda of my own - first hand this time!
Hubby then briefed me about the latest palm one pda - the palm centro. I was open minded, lets go and check it out. So off we went to Megamall IT World. The palm centro cost RM1300 - okay, affordable. Hubby had agreed to top up the price difference after rm1000. I was thinking 300 he could afford. But then suddenly, out of the blues, hubby suggested the samsung i780 pda. It costs a bit more than 1300.
One look at the slim, slick blak pda I was hooked to the looks. Yet I had to trust hubby about its functionality and so on and so forth. I was told of its multi functionality...3G, wi-fi, GPS - all terms I hear often enough, but have no idea what they are about. And what encouraged me more was the boys eager response to my choosing this pda. So the original plan to get a palm centro was changed to owning a black samsung.
So the pda is being charged now ..need to go for another 2 hours. And afer that I still cant use it..till big son Ashraf teaches me how to.
So, till then, I will try and keep the progress of my new pda updated...
Seeing that I am still awake, I might as well wait for the finals UEFA cup - Germany versus Spain....go Spain...
It happened that I am always getting hand-me-down pdas from hubby, except of course my 1st ever e-book which I won from the Pertandingan Membina Rancangan Mengajar together with Cikgu Karim fr SMK Kg Jawa.
Since then, hubby, everytime he wanted to change to a new pda, would hand down his old one, and then buys a new one for himself. Since I am not really pda savvy, I am normally just happy enough to accept whatever is given to me..especially appreciate the fact that I can do my writing, wherever I am and then to synch into my computer.
At first it didn't bother me much that after using the 2nd hand pda after some time, it starts giving me minor but irritating problems. And what is more, before it got too irritating, hubby was ready to get another new one... another, more recent hand-me-down for me. And I was happy again.
But I realise that once the problem starts, I cant enjoy the gadget anymore. And i get rather put off to even try to rectify the problem. It is like I simply give up because it is just a hand-me-down and so I can't really pinpoint when the damage originally started.
So when my present palm treo 650 started giving me problems bit by bit, I got really put off...especially when it started to switch off on its own. I thought deep and hard, and told hubby I want a new pda of my own - first hand this time!
Hubby then briefed me about the latest palm one pda - the palm centro. I was open minded, lets go and check it out. So off we went to Megamall IT World. The palm centro cost RM1300 - okay, affordable. Hubby had agreed to top up the price difference after rm1000. I was thinking 300 he could afford. But then suddenly, out of the blues, hubby suggested the samsung i780 pda. It costs a bit more than 1300.
One look at the slim, slick blak pda I was hooked to the looks. Yet I had to trust hubby about its functionality and so on and so forth. I was told of its multi functionality...3G, wi-fi, GPS - all terms I hear often enough, but have no idea what they are about. And what encouraged me more was the boys eager response to my choosing this pda. So the original plan to get a palm centro was changed to owning a black samsung.
So the pda is being charged now ..need to go for another 2 hours. And afer that I still cant use it..till big son Ashraf teaches me how to.
So, till then, I will try and keep the progress of my new pda updated...
Seeing that I am still awake, I might as well wait for the finals UEFA cup - Germany versus Spain....go Spain...
Monday 16 June 2008
Errata
Salam. Due to certain reasons, the latest post was taken off this blog. Thank you for your viewpoints...
Sunday 8 June 2008
Busy World, Busy People
Recently I received an SMS text from a friend whom I have not been in contact with for a long time. The text just read this, "Busy World, Busy People".
And you know what? That simple message made me stop in my tracks. I am just a mere teacher, yet someone thinks I have been too busy to notice friends around me who might be missing my company, or my hello. It came as a realisation to me, how fast paced our life has become, and how sad the whole situation is. Everyone is so rushed for time, we hear constantly that we should manage our time wisely and prioritise our tasks. Unfortunately, we prioritise according to what that brings us profit/benefit. Just taking time to smell the roses, to pick up the phone and say "hi", is no longer particularly high up in our list.
I am just a simple teacher. Today marks the last day of the midyear school break. 14 days of no schooling, no teaching. But on the last day of school I brought back with me 11 sets of exam papers to be marked! In between, because it is a holiday, I had to make time for traveling - first to JB and then to KB to watch my son participate in his nasyid competition. That is time that needed to be allocated for traveling. Then, there was this day or two when I was feeling a wee bit under the weather and couldn't do anything much. Suddenly, before I know it, school holidays are over. And I find myself asking the question - when do I get the time to smell the roses, or to just watch the sun set or to just sit doing nothing but watch my kids play at the seaside/on the field? What with the rush between marking papers and traveling, I find myself just as exhausted as when I was before the school holidays.
So my mind wonders off to those high profiled individuals...morning meetings and evening discussions, the non stop business phone calls, the business emails to be answered, the papers to be completed and office tasks to be finished. Why are we so driven to rush, rush, rush...how did this come about? Why has everything else become so important, but the actions and efforts that can enhance our human relationships get progressively less and less attended to?
At the end of the day, when we claim to have made it, to have succeeded in life, I just hope that we dont turn around and look around us, only to find that there is nobody, no one beside us to share in our success, that we have gone up there ...only to find ourselves alone up there! I can only pray, that I never receive another such SMS with an added clause: busy world, busy people, lonely people...and God knows Best!
And you know what? That simple message made me stop in my tracks. I am just a mere teacher, yet someone thinks I have been too busy to notice friends around me who might be missing my company, or my hello. It came as a realisation to me, how fast paced our life has become, and how sad the whole situation is. Everyone is so rushed for time, we hear constantly that we should manage our time wisely and prioritise our tasks. Unfortunately, we prioritise according to what that brings us profit/benefit. Just taking time to smell the roses, to pick up the phone and say "hi", is no longer particularly high up in our list.
I am just a simple teacher. Today marks the last day of the midyear school break. 14 days of no schooling, no teaching. But on the last day of school I brought back with me 11 sets of exam papers to be marked! In between, because it is a holiday, I had to make time for traveling - first to JB and then to KB to watch my son participate in his nasyid competition. That is time that needed to be allocated for traveling. Then, there was this day or two when I was feeling a wee bit under the weather and couldn't do anything much. Suddenly, before I know it, school holidays are over. And I find myself asking the question - when do I get the time to smell the roses, or to just watch the sun set or to just sit doing nothing but watch my kids play at the seaside/on the field? What with the rush between marking papers and traveling, I find myself just as exhausted as when I was before the school holidays.
So my mind wonders off to those high profiled individuals...morning meetings and evening discussions, the non stop business phone calls, the business emails to be answered, the papers to be completed and office tasks to be finished. Why are we so driven to rush, rush, rush...how did this come about? Why has everything else become so important, but the actions and efforts that can enhance our human relationships get progressively less and less attended to?
At the end of the day, when we claim to have made it, to have succeeded in life, I just hope that we dont turn around and look around us, only to find that there is nobody, no one beside us to share in our success, that we have gone up there ...only to find ourselves alone up there! I can only pray, that I never receive another such SMS with an added clause: busy world, busy people, lonely people...and God knows Best!
Wednesday 28 May 2008
The Beauty of Time
It is now 1316. Wednesday,28/5/08. I am alone in Johor. Nothing much to do, nowhere special to go. The quiet surrounding seems to be very peaceful to me, and oh..for the luxury of having my own time to do as I please. And certainly what pleases me most is having the time to write...my mind, my thoughts, my opinion. Write and write and continue writing...
My son Ashraf, he would be the first to agree with me how much school demands of our time, he as a student, and I as a teacher. Almost all my time is dedicated to doing school work, and when the weekends come, it is devoted to becoming the driver/maid. Writing becomes a dream only. But now the school holidays are here, and what more I am alone here in Johor, I find myself very focused and you know what, this is my 3rd post in a row that I am posting.
I hope this fever stays on, and I pray that once I am back, I will still have precious time like now to do my writing...what a way to release all my stress..aah for the love of writing!
Alas...11 piles of exam papers await me at home...
My son Ashraf, he would be the first to agree with me how much school demands of our time, he as a student, and I as a teacher. Almost all my time is dedicated to doing school work, and when the weekends come, it is devoted to becoming the driver/maid. Writing becomes a dream only. But now the school holidays are here, and what more I am alone here in Johor, I find myself very focused and you know what, this is my 3rd post in a row that I am posting.
I hope this fever stays on, and I pray that once I am back, I will still have precious time like now to do my writing...what a way to release all my stress..aah for the love of writing!
Alas...11 piles of exam papers await me at home...
Teacher's Day - ACS Style
Last Friday, 23/5/08, the last day of the first semester, we celebrated our Teacher's Day celebration. On the whole, it was a great celebration - some new innovations on the agenda. I particularly liked the multimedia show..an insight to the goings on in school throughout the year. Great job done - oklah...I will mention the names, Darleen and Amelia, and all the Fraternity club AJKs! Heartiest congratulations on a task well executed.
The point that I am interested to highlight though is this...you know what? On that particular day, we were instructed to wear our formal batik attire, the red silk batik designed specifically custom made to be made the ACS formal batik attire/uniform for teachers. Now if that wasnt an issue in itself. When suggestions were made to have teachers to wear a common formal batik attire, I was probably the only Malay teacher opposed to the suggestion. As to the other non malay teachers, quite a few objected as well. I wasn't particularly interested to be in uniform, it felt to me like a loss of one's individuality. Finally, a vote was made, and it was in favour of having that formal batik uniform - red in colour, never my favourite colour. But, a decision is a decision made, and I bow to the unanimous vote..., after all it was just an issue of batik dressing, the fashion is left optional to us. So I figured that it doesnt really affect my principles, except for my distaste to the colour red. This formal uniform is to be worn on special occasion, such as on this Teacher's Day celebration.
A bit about this batik wearing day. I think everyone knows by now that this is the idea of Pak Lah, in memory of his late wife, who championed the Malaysian batik industry. And this instruction is to be acknowledged by all government employees - from the highest ranking right down the line.
And so, on this auspicious teacher's day, reluctantly I wore my red batik baju kurung, telling myself it is a directive from the head of the government himself (...more frighteningly... from mdm Darleen hahahah...gotcha). But ironically, most ironic, in ACS, I was immensely surprised to witness some teachers not wearing the formal batik attire. And most disconcerting was that, those that purposely or unpurposely did not wear this batik were the higher ranking administrators...which made me wonder why? I have heard prior to this. that some teachers were not too happy with the choice of colours...what??then why did you guys agree with the colour in the first place? Once a vote is made, then the decision stands, over riding individual preference. And what is worse..was that, those who did not wear the formal batik were mostly the non malay teachers...how come, why so? My mind strays, I dont voice it out, but I am putting it down here on my personal blog. Is it because you guys associate it with something Malay? Perhaps it used to be...but now it is a nation's issue..propagated by the Premier himself. Maybe you guys do not like the pattern, the colour choice, but surely, it is not big deal to get another batik design...as long as it is batik..just to get into the mood of unity on that day.
Maybe some will argue that it is not compulsory. Well maybe so...but it is propagated and made as instruction by the PM, so as far as I can say, at least, at the very least. the administrators should show. even just apparently so, their support of the government's campaign. After all. they are the administrators, what they do, reflect the school and affect the other staff members. If an administrator does not see it in her/him to show respect for the government's campaign, what more is to be expected of the teachers...the students? You guys are the administrators, decision makers of the school, and the top liners who are supposedly the ones who preach implementation of the various government policies. I remember everytime a teacher is found to be lacking in his/her service, it will be droned into his ear. "If you don't feel you are up to doing this job, then leave...change profession". Then perhaps it should be said too that, "If you as administrators cant find it in you to appear to be supporting the government's campaign, even if seemingly so... then shouldnt you...." It is said that once you gain power in the government, then the more you have to comply to their commands, or else....It is for this very reason, that many people refrain from working with the government...any government today for that matter.
We are teachers, first and foremost. What we do, what we say, knowingly, or unknowingly, are being watched and evaluated by our students. Sometimes, I begin to glimpse the reason why some students here just dont seem to have the respect for other people's race and culture, and forever insisting on theirs. But...it is no longer that..the batik is now a national issue...a Malaysian issue, there is no need to prove that you have your own culture at this point...Wallahualam.
The point that I am interested to highlight though is this...you know what? On that particular day, we were instructed to wear our formal batik attire, the red silk batik designed specifically custom made to be made the ACS formal batik attire/uniform for teachers. Now if that wasnt an issue in itself. When suggestions were made to have teachers to wear a common formal batik attire, I was probably the only Malay teacher opposed to the suggestion. As to the other non malay teachers, quite a few objected as well. I wasn't particularly interested to be in uniform, it felt to me like a loss of one's individuality. Finally, a vote was made, and it was in favour of having that formal batik uniform - red in colour, never my favourite colour. But, a decision is a decision made, and I bow to the unanimous vote..., after all it was just an issue of batik dressing, the fashion is left optional to us. So I figured that it doesnt really affect my principles, except for my distaste to the colour red. This formal uniform is to be worn on special occasion, such as on this Teacher's Day celebration.
A bit about this batik wearing day. I think everyone knows by now that this is the idea of Pak Lah, in memory of his late wife, who championed the Malaysian batik industry. And this instruction is to be acknowledged by all government employees - from the highest ranking right down the line.
And so, on this auspicious teacher's day, reluctantly I wore my red batik baju kurung, telling myself it is a directive from the head of the government himself (...more frighteningly... from mdm Darleen hahahah...gotcha). But ironically, most ironic, in ACS, I was immensely surprised to witness some teachers not wearing the formal batik attire. And most disconcerting was that, those that purposely or unpurposely did not wear this batik were the higher ranking administrators...which made me wonder why? I have heard prior to this. that some teachers were not too happy with the choice of colours...what??then why did you guys agree with the colour in the first place? Once a vote is made, then the decision stands, over riding individual preference. And what is worse..was that, those who did not wear the formal batik were mostly the non malay teachers...how come, why so? My mind strays, I dont voice it out, but I am putting it down here on my personal blog. Is it because you guys associate it with something Malay? Perhaps it used to be...but now it is a nation's issue..propagated by the Premier himself. Maybe you guys do not like the pattern, the colour choice, but surely, it is not big deal to get another batik design...as long as it is batik..just to get into the mood of unity on that day.
Maybe some will argue that it is not compulsory. Well maybe so...but it is propagated and made as instruction by the PM, so as far as I can say, at least, at the very least. the administrators should show. even just apparently so, their support of the government's campaign. After all. they are the administrators, what they do, reflect the school and affect the other staff members. If an administrator does not see it in her/him to show respect for the government's campaign, what more is to be expected of the teachers...the students? You guys are the administrators, decision makers of the school, and the top liners who are supposedly the ones who preach implementation of the various government policies. I remember everytime a teacher is found to be lacking in his/her service, it will be droned into his ear. "If you don't feel you are up to doing this job, then leave...change profession". Then perhaps it should be said too that, "If you as administrators cant find it in you to appear to be supporting the government's campaign, even if seemingly so... then shouldnt you...." It is said that once you gain power in the government, then the more you have to comply to their commands, or else....It is for this very reason, that many people refrain from working with the government...any government today for that matter.
We are teachers, first and foremost. What we do, what we say, knowingly, or unknowingly, are being watched and evaluated by our students. Sometimes, I begin to glimpse the reason why some students here just dont seem to have the respect for other people's race and culture, and forever insisting on theirs. But...it is no longer that..the batik is now a national issue...a Malaysian issue, there is no need to prove that you have your own culture at this point...Wallahualam.
Sunday 25 May 2008
APC
Last Thursday, 22/5/2008, I finally went to Goldcourse Hotel in Klang for the APC award ceremony (see previous posts). Johari, Azman and Noradila car pooled with me, and we had Johari driving my vehicle...(thank God..on the way back, the town was heavily jammed). We left school in time to reach the hotel in Klang by 8 am. Once there, the others, Rajamokan, Mr. Surinder, Mr. Lee Tsai Fui and Jaja were alreaday there. They had come on their own.
I am not always comfortable in formal situations, but upon registration, I was happy to be greeted by so many friends from my previous schools - especially the teachers who were in my Science Panitia once when I was head of the Science panel in SMKKJ - Vanitha was there, and so were Romizah, Shafiqah, Rupitah, Cikgu Mat Aris, and a few others, whose names have escaped me right now. I am so glad they are getting the award too (APC = Anugerah Perkhidmatan Cemerlang/Excellent Service Award) for their tireless effort in teaching. Vanitha and Rumizah once worked with me in the Science Panel, and I must admit I admire their dilligence and commitment to their jobs. I am just glad that their efforts are being recognised finally.
We, the ACSians were placed upstairs in the hall, table 57. As usual, speeches were made by the VIPS. As we listened and waited, the butterflies in my stomach grew in numbers and fluttered wildly within. As I said, I am never comfortable in formal situations, where protocol must be observed, and even worse when I have to go upstage...for any reason at all. I prefer to be just one of the backbenchers...anytime. Thank God, messages from friends encouraging me proved useful in calming my nerves.
And then, as usual, the barrage of speeches ensued. I could see many were not listening, I try to as much as I can. Interesting to find out what our supreme education officers have to say. One comment made by the Selangor Pengarah Pendidikan, Datin Hamidah Nordin, caught my interest, and sparked off my brain into thinking. She made a reference to the present community today who dare speak up, in loud and clear voice, their dissatisfaction with what the government was doing. Point accepted. Then ironically she continued and questioned whose fault is it? that we have created a generation of citizens who dare criticise the government? And, according to her, guess whose fault it is? yup...she blames it on the teachers who have probably built a generation of ingrates.
Excuse me!!! What does the education system in our country really wish to achieve? Just a breed of "yes master", "yes massah" zombies? Just a generation of youngsters who are experts on sucking up? What is wrong in criticising the goverment, if the mass thinks it is erring in its ways? At least it acts as a check and balance mechanism, I should think. That the citizens of Malaysia can see and criticise, is an indicator that the new generation is a thinking one...able to discern what is acceptable and what is not.
And why are we teachers to be blamed? I believe the majority of us teachers adhere to the pledge we take...we realise our position is one that has high impact on the future generation. We adhere to what is good, what is moral, what is true...and we propagate it. And I believe, if the truth sometimes hurt, so it hurts! But the crucial thing is to learn from our mistakes..not blame others ..or what is worse..accuse others, such as us teachers as being the propagators of ingrates. I think that is a wee bit uncalled for. If an unjust is done, it will be seen somehow or rather, sooner or later, and we teachers certainly don't need to highlight it.
As a teacher, I am a paid employee, meaning I am paid for the service I render...and by saying so, what I do for my living, what my relationship is with my employer, should not, in any way, undermine my freedom of thoughts, the principles I believe in. My movements might be restricted to a certain extent because I work with the government, but certainly not my thoughts. The freedom to think and to discern what we deem good or bad, is our birthright, and as a teacher, I am not prepared to deprive my students of that right. Wallahualam.
P/S: You know what...when i returned to school that afternoon, the most beautiful hand bouquet of macdonald's lilies were waiting for me on my table..it was only signed from a "you know who". Boy..if I wasn't the envy of the day! Well You Know Who..you know who you are, thank you so very much...it was such a lovely and most unexpected surprise. Needless to say, it made this happy day for me, almost perfect...yea.. a bouquet for teacher Hafizah...
I am not always comfortable in formal situations, but upon registration, I was happy to be greeted by so many friends from my previous schools - especially the teachers who were in my Science Panitia once when I was head of the Science panel in SMKKJ - Vanitha was there, and so were Romizah, Shafiqah, Rupitah, Cikgu Mat Aris, and a few others, whose names have escaped me right now. I am so glad they are getting the award too (APC = Anugerah Perkhidmatan Cemerlang/Excellent Service Award) for their tireless effort in teaching. Vanitha and Rumizah once worked with me in the Science Panel, and I must admit I admire their dilligence and commitment to their jobs. I am just glad that their efforts are being recognised finally.
We, the ACSians were placed upstairs in the hall, table 57. As usual, speeches were made by the VIPS. As we listened and waited, the butterflies in my stomach grew in numbers and fluttered wildly within. As I said, I am never comfortable in formal situations, where protocol must be observed, and even worse when I have to go upstage...for any reason at all. I prefer to be just one of the backbenchers...anytime. Thank God, messages from friends encouraging me proved useful in calming my nerves.
And then, as usual, the barrage of speeches ensued. I could see many were not listening, I try to as much as I can. Interesting to find out what our supreme education officers have to say. One comment made by the Selangor Pengarah Pendidikan, Datin Hamidah Nordin, caught my interest, and sparked off my brain into thinking. She made a reference to the present community today who dare speak up, in loud and clear voice, their dissatisfaction with what the government was doing. Point accepted. Then ironically she continued and questioned whose fault is it? that we have created a generation of citizens who dare criticise the government? And, according to her, guess whose fault it is? yup...she blames it on the teachers who have probably built a generation of ingrates.
Excuse me!!! What does the education system in our country really wish to achieve? Just a breed of "yes master", "yes massah" zombies? Just a generation of youngsters who are experts on sucking up? What is wrong in criticising the goverment, if the mass thinks it is erring in its ways? At least it acts as a check and balance mechanism, I should think. That the citizens of Malaysia can see and criticise, is an indicator that the new generation is a thinking one...able to discern what is acceptable and what is not.
And why are we teachers to be blamed? I believe the majority of us teachers adhere to the pledge we take...we realise our position is one that has high impact on the future generation. We adhere to what is good, what is moral, what is true...and we propagate it. And I believe, if the truth sometimes hurt, so it hurts! But the crucial thing is to learn from our mistakes..not blame others ..or what is worse..accuse others, such as us teachers as being the propagators of ingrates. I think that is a wee bit uncalled for. If an unjust is done, it will be seen somehow or rather, sooner or later, and we teachers certainly don't need to highlight it.
As a teacher, I am a paid employee, meaning I am paid for the service I render...and by saying so, what I do for my living, what my relationship is with my employer, should not, in any way, undermine my freedom of thoughts, the principles I believe in. My movements might be restricted to a certain extent because I work with the government, but certainly not my thoughts. The freedom to think and to discern what we deem good or bad, is our birthright, and as a teacher, I am not prepared to deprive my students of that right. Wallahualam.
P/S: You know what...when i returned to school that afternoon, the most beautiful hand bouquet of macdonald's lilies were waiting for me on my table..it was only signed from a "you know who". Boy..if I wasn't the envy of the day! Well You Know Who..you know who you are, thank you so very much...it was such a lovely and most unexpected surprise. Needless to say, it made this happy day for me, almost perfect...yea.. a bouquet for teacher Hafizah...
Saturday 17 May 2008
Innertalk
Salaam. Today, I attended the Innertalk Stress Management Talk from 10 am to 12.30 am in Damansara Perdana. Actually, I came to know about this talk when I bought two of the Innertalk CDs during the recent BookFair. However, I have heard of Innertalk programmes since last year, but only now decided to get into this programme.
The talk was a very relaxing one, with only 8 attendees...very cozy indeed. You know what, I could relate to many of the information presented by the speaker, Chandran. So it looks like I am stressed out hahaha. To summarise, stress is basically related to these 2 fields of life: work and relationships. He cited examples about stress faced by people in different walks of life ; pregnant mothers, parents of ADHD children, teachers (me..me...me...) and between spouses and so on and so forth.
Then, as suggestions to solving the stress issues, Chandran pointed out that any external solutions will not be effective in the long run, for as long as we do not take charge of ourselves from within, from focusing our inner strength and detoxifying all negative thoughts which have been embedded in our subconscious, sublimal mind - etches or pictures which we call ENGRAMS. These engrams are like the triggering word/phrase that hypnotists use to instruct the person being hypnotised to carry out instructions that have been told to them when in state of hypnotism. The trigger wordphrase make us react without us having control of our actions. So, just imagine if negative thoughts have been embedded in our thoughts for so long, they can have real dire repercussions on our lives!
Stress must be addressed ...and handled. The thing is for us to be a Master, having control of our stress, instead of being the Victim, where we are helpless to manage our stress. This strength must come from within, and it starts off by detoxifying our minds from all previous negative affirmations we have heard directly or indirectly before. The INNERTALK programme is basically a series of CDs which on the outward appear to be soothing or rejuvenating music or sounds, but in effect, sublimally, in the low frequency background, positive messages, positive affirmations are being sent to us simultaneously. It is sublimal, so it means that once we put the CD on, we can go about our business as usual, as the messages reaches us in our subconscious minds no matter what.
My boys and I have been trying out these CDs for about a month now..and slowly, almost unconsciously, unawares, I begin to see subtle changes within me, and the boys. The CDs which I have bought so far are basically to aid learning, i.e. Accelerated Learning, Concentration and Creative Writing. One of the participants who attended the Stress Management today, was a lady from India, who has an ADHD child, and she claims that after tirelessly trying to help her child, she has finally found that the Innertalk CD on ADHD actually succeeded in helping her son..and I could see she is a staunch supporter of this programme.
You know what...anyone reading this, should just give it a go. The whole brain talk programme caters for most of our needs. It is easy to use, it addresses our subconcious minds, so the results will come almost unawares, and the positive affirmations will only make our outlook to life much better...nothing to lose actually.
Anyway, for those interested, try logging on to www.Innertalk.com.my
O by the way..I bought 3 more cds today, two are for improving my stress level...am hoping to detoxify my mind and help me handle stress better, only so I can avoid giving stress unconsciously to my boys and students. This is my investment.
The talk was a very relaxing one, with only 8 attendees...very cozy indeed. You know what, I could relate to many of the information presented by the speaker, Chandran. So it looks like I am stressed out hahaha. To summarise, stress is basically related to these 2 fields of life: work and relationships. He cited examples about stress faced by people in different walks of life ; pregnant mothers, parents of ADHD children, teachers (me..me...me...) and between spouses and so on and so forth.
Then, as suggestions to solving the stress issues, Chandran pointed out that any external solutions will not be effective in the long run, for as long as we do not take charge of ourselves from within, from focusing our inner strength and detoxifying all negative thoughts which have been embedded in our subconscious, sublimal mind - etches or pictures which we call ENGRAMS. These engrams are like the triggering word/phrase that hypnotists use to instruct the person being hypnotised to carry out instructions that have been told to them when in state of hypnotism. The trigger wordphrase make us react without us having control of our actions. So, just imagine if negative thoughts have been embedded in our thoughts for so long, they can have real dire repercussions on our lives!
Stress must be addressed ...and handled. The thing is for us to be a Master, having control of our stress, instead of being the Victim, where we are helpless to manage our stress. This strength must come from within, and it starts off by detoxifying our minds from all previous negative affirmations we have heard directly or indirectly before. The INNERTALK programme is basically a series of CDs which on the outward appear to be soothing or rejuvenating music or sounds, but in effect, sublimally, in the low frequency background, positive messages, positive affirmations are being sent to us simultaneously. It is sublimal, so it means that once we put the CD on, we can go about our business as usual, as the messages reaches us in our subconscious minds no matter what.
My boys and I have been trying out these CDs for about a month now..and slowly, almost unconsciously, unawares, I begin to see subtle changes within me, and the boys. The CDs which I have bought so far are basically to aid learning, i.e. Accelerated Learning, Concentration and Creative Writing. One of the participants who attended the Stress Management today, was a lady from India, who has an ADHD child, and she claims that after tirelessly trying to help her child, she has finally found that the Innertalk CD on ADHD actually succeeded in helping her son..and I could see she is a staunch supporter of this programme.
You know what...anyone reading this, should just give it a go. The whole brain talk programme caters for most of our needs. It is easy to use, it addresses our subconcious minds, so the results will come almost unawares, and the positive affirmations will only make our outlook to life much better...nothing to lose actually.
Anyway, for those interested, try logging on to www.Innertalk.com.my
O by the way..I bought 3 more cds today, two are for improving my stress level...am hoping to detoxify my mind and help me handle stress better, only so I can avoid giving stress unconsciously to my boys and students. This is my investment.
Saturday 10 May 2008
The New House is Ready...finally!
Salaam. At last...at long last, today hubby and I went to see Mr. SK Lau, the site supervisor to the new house which I bought...like 4 years ago...and which was supposed to be ready in March 2005...to perform our final inspection.
Alhamdulillah, our patience has finally paid off, by the Will of Allah. It is not that we are desperate to move out..it is just that the kids were saying that, with our present home, the only place they can go to is up and down..up and down. They don't go out of the house much, mainly because the front porch is always blocked by the car, which leaves very small space to do much else. Outside the gates ...well, it is not their habits in the first place to roam out of the gates.
So, it was one evening, 4 years ago, that the boys and I were as usual unwinding at Tesco on the way back home from their school, that we saw this kiosk advertising a new housing area, in Andalas Jaya, very close to Andalas area. I have always liked living in Andalas, after all, the housing area was named by beloved Abah himself many years ago.
So back to the kiosk story. The boys and I noticed that the area was ideal enough, and the houses sold were proposed semi-D's. Hmm...interesting, we thought. Then we looked at the price range, and with a little mental calculation, I deduced my loan legibility could well cover the price. So, after discussing the issue over dinner at KFC with the boys, we decided to simply fill in the booking form first at no cost, with the understanding that, should we agree to purchase the house, a booking fee of rm2000 was necessary.
Back home, the meeting and discussion was further brought to hubby's attention, the house plan and area presented to him...for the final nod.
And so, that was how, by the Will of Allah, we came to own this house in Andalas Jaya. Between the kids and I, up till today, they would laugh when they remember how Ummi.."does not only shop for groceries at Tesco, she even bought a house at Tesco..."
Unfortunately, the happy eager wait turned to anxiety, and then plain worry..and finally graduated to, "it'll be ready when its ready...". Ashraf has finished his pmr, Zakiy will be going to form 1 soon, and only now it looks as if we are finally going to shift in by June, I'nshaallah. All their eager excited talks have quietly faded away, and they are not as excited as they were 4 years ago when we booked the house. They have grown up since..but I believe once the moving house fever is on...they will catch up again on the excitement and thrill of moving into a new home. At least today, I hear Ashraf thinking out loud of getting a new study table for his new room, and Zakiy has never forgotten my promise to get him a bicycle once we move in to this new housing area, which is definitely more quiet and safer in terms of traffic for him to ride his bike outside the gates. My only wish is that, my boys' dreams of inviting their friends over and having tea in the front lawn, without disturbing Ummi's privacy inside the house will come true for them soon. Ashraf will be in his final year of secondary school soon enough.
And finally, you know what? As far as I am personally concerned, I am just glad that I am earning enough to provide for my kids...and my family. All praise be to Allah...
Alhamdulillah, our patience has finally paid off, by the Will of Allah. It is not that we are desperate to move out..it is just that the kids were saying that, with our present home, the only place they can go to is up and down..up and down. They don't go out of the house much, mainly because the front porch is always blocked by the car, which leaves very small space to do much else. Outside the gates ...well, it is not their habits in the first place to roam out of the gates.
So, it was one evening, 4 years ago, that the boys and I were as usual unwinding at Tesco on the way back home from their school, that we saw this kiosk advertising a new housing area, in Andalas Jaya, very close to Andalas area. I have always liked living in Andalas, after all, the housing area was named by beloved Abah himself many years ago.
So back to the kiosk story. The boys and I noticed that the area was ideal enough, and the houses sold were proposed semi-D's. Hmm...interesting, we thought. Then we looked at the price range, and with a little mental calculation, I deduced my loan legibility could well cover the price. So, after discussing the issue over dinner at KFC with the boys, we decided to simply fill in the booking form first at no cost, with the understanding that, should we agree to purchase the house, a booking fee of rm2000 was necessary.
Back home, the meeting and discussion was further brought to hubby's attention, the house plan and area presented to him...for the final nod.
And so, that was how, by the Will of Allah, we came to own this house in Andalas Jaya. Between the kids and I, up till today, they would laugh when they remember how Ummi.."does not only shop for groceries at Tesco, she even bought a house at Tesco..."
Unfortunately, the happy eager wait turned to anxiety, and then plain worry..and finally graduated to, "it'll be ready when its ready...". Ashraf has finished his pmr, Zakiy will be going to form 1 soon, and only now it looks as if we are finally going to shift in by June, I'nshaallah. All their eager excited talks have quietly faded away, and they are not as excited as they were 4 years ago when we booked the house. They have grown up since..but I believe once the moving house fever is on...they will catch up again on the excitement and thrill of moving into a new home. At least today, I hear Ashraf thinking out loud of getting a new study table for his new room, and Zakiy has never forgotten my promise to get him a bicycle once we move in to this new housing area, which is definitely more quiet and safer in terms of traffic for him to ride his bike outside the gates. My only wish is that, my boys' dreams of inviting their friends over and having tea in the front lawn, without disturbing Ummi's privacy inside the house will come true for them soon. Ashraf will be in his final year of secondary school soon enough.
And finally, you know what? As far as I am personally concerned, I am just glad that I am earning enough to provide for my kids...and my family. All praise be to Allah...
Thursday 1 May 2008
1/5/2008 - Workers Day.
I just realised that I have not written anything throughout the month of April. Many things have happened in April, and by right many things to write about. But I guess I just didn't have the time nor the drive to post it into my blog. Not good....I must learn to break away from this nasty habit of procrastination...
Many interesting things did indeed happen throughout April, some good ones, some less fortunate ones. Firstly, on one morning in April, in my rush to get to school, I reversed my car out of the house...right into the bumper of my Viva...kena lagi viva tu... the bumper of the CRV got misaligned because of that. Hmmm...I know it is my fault for not looking at the rear view mirror when reversing, but, hubby too should have parked the viva in the usual place or at least told me that he had not parked the car in its usual place prior to my reversing the CRV. Anyway, thats that...
Then on another occasion when I was in school and went up to the office for some errand, the clerk came up to me. And you know what? I had received the Anugerah Perkhidmatan Cemerlang (Excellent Service Award) from the District Education Office! Thats encouraging...at least it makes what I do for the kids in school seem worthwhile. I can only thank God for that...
so its one unfortunate event neutralised by one good news...more about this later after I attend the ceremony I hope.
And oh! dont forget, April is the Book Fair Week! The family went on Saturday, 5/4 after the boys' tuition class and as is the norm at every book fair, I finished my money there...this time buying the INNERTALK CDs - two of them. I have heard and read about how INNERTALK, helps to deal with our subconcious mind before, but this time I actually went out and bought 2 of the CDs - one for Zakiy, on "Concentration", and the other for Ashraf and I, on "Creative Writing." We have been playing them over and over again for about a month now. I like it. I think, subconciously the innertalks hidden behind the music are getting to us.
What else? Aaahhh yes...mustn't forget the Money Mastery Boot Camp that hubby and I attended on 12 -14th April. Wow! What an eye opener and humbling learning experience for me there. More of this in a separate post.
And last, but not least, the boys' Prize Giving Day on Saturday, 29/4 and what ensued before that. Also hopefully in a separate post...
Must push myself harder to write...no buts, no excuses...I plan to..that is the positive action word...so ...
I just realised that I have not written anything throughout the month of April. Many things have happened in April, and by right many things to write about. But I guess I just didn't have the time nor the drive to post it into my blog. Not good....I must learn to break away from this nasty habit of procrastination...
Many interesting things did indeed happen throughout April, some good ones, some less fortunate ones. Firstly, on one morning in April, in my rush to get to school, I reversed my car out of the house...right into the bumper of my Viva...kena lagi viva tu... the bumper of the CRV got misaligned because of that. Hmmm...I know it is my fault for not looking at the rear view mirror when reversing, but, hubby too should have parked the viva in the usual place or at least told me that he had not parked the car in its usual place prior to my reversing the CRV. Anyway, thats that...
Then on another occasion when I was in school and went up to the office for some errand, the clerk came up to me. And you know what? I had received the Anugerah Perkhidmatan Cemerlang (Excellent Service Award) from the District Education Office! Thats encouraging...at least it makes what I do for the kids in school seem worthwhile. I can only thank God for that...
so its one unfortunate event neutralised by one good news...more about this later after I attend the ceremony I hope.
And oh! dont forget, April is the Book Fair Week! The family went on Saturday, 5/4 after the boys' tuition class and as is the norm at every book fair, I finished my money there...this time buying the INNERTALK CDs - two of them. I have heard and read about how INNERTALK, helps to deal with our subconcious mind before, but this time I actually went out and bought 2 of the CDs - one for Zakiy, on "Concentration", and the other for Ashraf and I, on "Creative Writing." We have been playing them over and over again for about a month now. I like it. I think, subconciously the innertalks hidden behind the music are getting to us.
What else? Aaahhh yes...mustn't forget the Money Mastery Boot Camp that hubby and I attended on 12 -14th April. Wow! What an eye opener and humbling learning experience for me there. More of this in a separate post.
And last, but not least, the boys' Prize Giving Day on Saturday, 29/4 and what ensued before that. Also hopefully in a separate post...
Must push myself harder to write...no buts, no excuses...I plan to..that is the positive action word...so ...
Saturday 29 March 2008
Friends...
Salaam. Surprisingly, my last post seemed to draw more attention than the other previous posts, especially to some people who are genuinely close to me, God bless them. Actually, you know what...that post was written on the spur of the moment...when I was momentarily lost in my emotions...lost my cool, so to speak...and I was caught on the post! Hahahah...I guess those people suddenly saw a side of me they probably never saw before, and I don't know if that is good or bad.
Nonetheless friends, I am okay. As I said it was just a one-off event when I threw all caution and care to the wind. No big deal. But the response to the post showed me one thing though. When friends come up to me and say,"Hey..what is all that post about? You wanna talk about it? Are you okay? I am here for you okay..." it showed me just how true friends go out of their way to support you in moments when you just feel down and alone. They don't only leave it on the comment box, considering I only had 1 comment, but they call, and/or actually speak to me personally. That is great...and cool.
And in the end, it is the human relationships, human emotions, the nitty gritty events of everyday living, that strikes at the human heart, that brings people together - a shared moment, comrades in hardship so to speak.
But the real lesson that I get here is...wow! am I lucky to have some very good friends around me....thanks guys...you are a gem!
Nonetheless friends, I am okay. As I said it was just a one-off event when I threw all caution and care to the wind. No big deal. But the response to the post showed me one thing though. When friends come up to me and say,"Hey..what is all that post about? You wanna talk about it? Are you okay? I am here for you okay..." it showed me just how true friends go out of their way to support you in moments when you just feel down and alone. They don't only leave it on the comment box, considering I only had 1 comment, but they call, and/or actually speak to me personally. That is great...and cool.
And in the end, it is the human relationships, human emotions, the nitty gritty events of everyday living, that strikes at the human heart, that brings people together - a shared moment, comrades in hardship so to speak.
But the real lesson that I get here is...wow! am I lucky to have some very good friends around me....thanks guys...you are a gem!
Friday 21 March 2008
When things get too much...
Salaam, sometimes life simply sucks! Of people breaking promises to us, of people who do not mean what they say, of people betraying our emotions.
What does one do in moments of harsh reality like these? You feel like lashing out, but to whom? Nobody is there to listen to our lashings. You only end up in frustrated tears, and a heart that feels betrayed, hurt beyond repair.
But time heals, and God is always there. Sometimes, one just has to remember that it is He in the first place who puts all these trials before us...and it is only He Who can repair these damages. One just has to be patient as to when God decides to heal it all.
As for now...life goes on...and you know what, I think so should I...
What does one do in moments of harsh reality like these? You feel like lashing out, but to whom? Nobody is there to listen to our lashings. You only end up in frustrated tears, and a heart that feels betrayed, hurt beyond repair.
But time heals, and God is always there. Sometimes, one just has to remember that it is He in the first place who puts all these trials before us...and it is only He Who can repair these damages. One just has to be patient as to when God decides to heal it all.
As for now...life goes on...and you know what, I think so should I...
Wednesday 19 March 2008
Yeah...we made it!
Salaam, you know what? I am very excited to write this blog. Today, it was raining when I reached school at 7.30 am, a bit late, due to the extra heavy traffic jam because of the rain. By all accounts I was late, since I had to bring my Lower Secondary Science Team for the District Level Inter school Science Quiz. As soon as I made it to school, I jumped out of my car, dashed to the school foyer where my 3 + 1 team members were already waiting. They were Rahupathy, Ng Shang Ying, Arvinraaj and reserve, Pravin.
We had to go to Sm(P) Kapar, which was quite a distance from ACS, and with the rain and traffic jam I was worried I could not make it by 8 am. However, I comforted myself with the thought that other participants would be late too in this kind of weather; so they would probably start off the quiz at a later time too.
True enough, by the time we reached the school in the real downpour, we were obviously not the last. And my prediction that the quiz would start of later was true - it finally started at 9.15 am. So, whilst waiting, I sat with the boys and started asking Rahupathy who was seated next to me some general questions...like the virus which causes SARS, the meaning of SARS, the scientific name for man, the component of the blood that is used in the test for determining HIV, World Kidney day, number of human chromosomes and a few other. One or two of these questions I managed to forward to the other 3 students as well.
Once again, as in previous years, I was one of the marking team after the test for all participants ended 30 mins from its commencement. So, it followed that I got access as to which school would go to the finals. Previously, ACS lost out to a chance question when it tied marks with another school, and so was ousted from the 5th finalist line up.
Again, this year, I was apprehensive when the judges said there was a tie for the sixth place. O no! not again, I had specifiically hand picked my team members this year, really they were the creme de la creme of science in the school. And I had given them workbooks to do their revision and test their skills during the 1 week midterm break. I was determined this time not to be frustrated by sheer bad luck.
Thank God, it turned out that the 2 finalist involved were not from ACS. On the contrary, we had scored the second highest marks! I was hopeful.
Hurrying back to where my students were, I slowly let out the good news and told them we had scored second position. One of the team members was a bit jittery, so I told him we can beat the others and make it to the top. He turned around and asked me, "All I need to do is be relaxed, right teacher?". The poor sweet boy. It was no joke for him ...the idea of representing the school! I simply nodded and patted him on the shoulder for encouragement and moral support.
The team from SMK Kuang Hua, who was the leading team, was a real tough contender, obtaining a perfect score of 6. But then, so were the gentlemen of ACS. I was getting excited and anxious at the same time. It finally came down to a draw for us - once again, but this time a fight for 1st place. Each 1st member had answered correctly, then the 2nd member of the rival school managed to give an extra mark for her team. Then, our 2nd team member was asked, "What component in our blood is used to detect HIV?" O my God, I had asked the question to Rahupathy earlier on...but not to the other 2 members. Alas, he did not know the answer...and so we lost by 1 mark to SMK Kuang Hua...and came second.
But it was a good match, we were up against a worthy opponent. ACS has not won these past years, and I am so thankful, at least, my team members have retained our honour as one of the premier schools in this state. Coincidentally, whilst my team was out battling for the prestige and honour of ACS, in school a celebration was going on to celebrate the school's 115th birthday. A day to remember indeed.
And so, still in the mood of celebrating our victory, I took the boys for a treat at KFC, Teluk Pulai. They were good boys, and from my conversations with them, they all had parents who are caring and nurturing. These boys remind me of my own 2 boys... I hope that they too will do their school proud before they leave one day.
And so, next Monday, I will announce this good news during assembly. Well done boys!! Way to go ACS...
We had to go to Sm(P) Kapar, which was quite a distance from ACS, and with the rain and traffic jam I was worried I could not make it by 8 am. However, I comforted myself with the thought that other participants would be late too in this kind of weather; so they would probably start off the quiz at a later time too.
True enough, by the time we reached the school in the real downpour, we were obviously not the last. And my prediction that the quiz would start of later was true - it finally started at 9.15 am. So, whilst waiting, I sat with the boys and started asking Rahupathy who was seated next to me some general questions...like the virus which causes SARS, the meaning of SARS, the scientific name for man, the component of the blood that is used in the test for determining HIV, World Kidney day, number of human chromosomes and a few other. One or two of these questions I managed to forward to the other 3 students as well.
Once again, as in previous years, I was one of the marking team after the test for all participants ended 30 mins from its commencement. So, it followed that I got access as to which school would go to the finals. Previously, ACS lost out to a chance question when it tied marks with another school, and so was ousted from the 5th finalist line up.
Again, this year, I was apprehensive when the judges said there was a tie for the sixth place. O no! not again, I had specifiically hand picked my team members this year, really they were the creme de la creme of science in the school. And I had given them workbooks to do their revision and test their skills during the 1 week midterm break. I was determined this time not to be frustrated by sheer bad luck.
Thank God, it turned out that the 2 finalist involved were not from ACS. On the contrary, we had scored the second highest marks! I was hopeful.
Hurrying back to where my students were, I slowly let out the good news and told them we had scored second position. One of the team members was a bit jittery, so I told him we can beat the others and make it to the top. He turned around and asked me, "All I need to do is be relaxed, right teacher?". The poor sweet boy. It was no joke for him ...the idea of representing the school! I simply nodded and patted him on the shoulder for encouragement and moral support.
The team from SMK Kuang Hua, who was the leading team, was a real tough contender, obtaining a perfect score of 6. But then, so were the gentlemen of ACS. I was getting excited and anxious at the same time. It finally came down to a draw for us - once again, but this time a fight for 1st place. Each 1st member had answered correctly, then the 2nd member of the rival school managed to give an extra mark for her team. Then, our 2nd team member was asked, "What component in our blood is used to detect HIV?" O my God, I had asked the question to Rahupathy earlier on...but not to the other 2 members. Alas, he did not know the answer...and so we lost by 1 mark to SMK Kuang Hua...and came second.
But it was a good match, we were up against a worthy opponent. ACS has not won these past years, and I am so thankful, at least, my team members have retained our honour as one of the premier schools in this state. Coincidentally, whilst my team was out battling for the prestige and honour of ACS, in school a celebration was going on to celebrate the school's 115th birthday. A day to remember indeed.
And so, still in the mood of celebrating our victory, I took the boys for a treat at KFC, Teluk Pulai. They were good boys, and from my conversations with them, they all had parents who are caring and nurturing. These boys remind me of my own 2 boys... I hope that they too will do their school proud before they leave one day.
And so, next Monday, I will announce this good news during assembly. Well done boys!! Way to go ACS...
Saturday 15 March 2008
Taking a breather
Mevlana Nasruddin was supposedly a wise, but somewhat cynical religious scholar who the Turkishc people claim to have lived in Turkey. His popularity and wise words have had many nations to claim him as their once upon a time citizen. Anyway, here is something which I would like to share to show his wittiness and sharp mind.
Once Nasruddin was asked his age. He answered, "I am 40." The man who asked him that question, then said, "I thought you said that a few years ago?"
Nasruddin answered,"Yes that shows how consistent my answers always are"
I love his answer....hehehehehe
Once Nasruddin was asked his age. He answered, "I am 40." The man who asked him that question, then said, "I thought you said that a few years ago?"
Nasruddin answered,"Yes that shows how consistent my answers always are"
I love his answer....hehehehehe
Unforgettable Turkey -Day 6: Cappadocia -Ankara-Bolu
Early morning, on 6th day, the sympathetic smile on Enis's face, left me despondent. It looked like the weather was not on our side. It was once again, finally confirmed that we wouldn't be flying the hot air balloon over Cappadocia. If that is the Will of God, then I accept that there must be some wisdom behind it. My only regret is that, I have been told that this hot air balloon ride is one of the cheapest of balloon rides over the world. O well...I wasn't going to let one disappointment (albeit a major one) bring my spirits down.
The signboard with a brief history of this Caravanserai
That morning, we made a slight detour. Instead of heading straight to Ankara, we went first to the Caravanserai that we missed 2 days before. Mashaallah! You know what, the place really brought be back in time, more like towards the medieval times (or maybe even earlier). And, strangely, looking back at the photos, I think I was even dressed for the occasion! Okay, a bit about this caravanserai...
This Caravanserai - The Aksaray Kayseri Caravanserai was one of the stops that was built during the Silk Route era, this one in particular was built in the Seljuk Dynasty. It served as a free stopover for weary traveling tribes, with each individual provided with 100g of meat for each of the 3 days maximum that he/she was allowed to stay over. Although it was built in the 14 century, but one marvels at the safety system of the place. The doors would open in the morning, and closed at night. The safety system insisted that each traveler wrote a report of all their personal goods to the officers in charge, and prior to leaving, all those items would be rechecked. Any damages to their goods would be redeemed. This particular caravanserai did not allow animals into the sleeping quarters, although there were some in which the animals bunked together with their owners - mainly for shared warmth. The place resembled some form of dormitory lifestyle - communal kitchens, conference room,a mosque(mescid in Turkish) in the centre. This particular serai could fit to about 100 individuals, which meant that if a tribe contained 25 strong, then at any particular point, there would be about 4 tribes stopping over.
I was really brought back in time, feeling myself pulled back into the times of those travelling tribes that once must have stopped at some point in this Serai. The relics were still in comparatively good shape, with pigeons making their homes there now. The cold wintry weather and the bleak grey skies added to my sense of imagination as to how those travellers appreciated this kind of stop over just to rest and recuperate, not forgetting to socialise; after spending days on the silk route. I was mersmerised, really getting a feel of the place as it once might have been in all its glory centuries ago...come share this moment with me to go back in time..
The signboard with a brief history of this Caravanserai
The bus stops in front of the caravanserai fort wall
The walls surrounding the caravanserai
the entrance to the Caravanserai
The walls surrounding the inside of the caravanserai
The walls surrounding the caravanserai
The walls surrounding the inside of the caravanserai
Certainly they were not as happy-go-lucky as this madam!
View from the archway
View from the archway
Presumably once used to wash the hands?
Mosque at the centre of the Caravanserai
Mosque at the centre of the Caravanserai
Stairs leading to the Prayer Hall of the mosque
The separate sleeping quarters
From here on, we started our journey towards Ankara. I realised then, from looking at the map we were on our second half of our journey - homeward bound. But as yet there was still much to be seen and captured. I was certainly looking forward to visiting the Blue Mosque in Istanbul.
Houses few and far between en route to ankara
Bleak empty vastland -wonder if much has changed from those caravanserai days
With vast open lands like this, a stop-over would be heaven sent!
Modern day amenities - stopover for petrol... and toilet!toilet!toilet!
In Ankara we stopped for lunch at a restaurant which was built in1961. After lunch, we headed for a nearby mosque to pray zohr/asr. The water was chillingly cold right to the bone. If I had never lived in UK before I would certainly have freaked out.
View of the restaurant where we had lunch in Ankara
The mosque in Ankara where we prayed zohr/asr
The surrounding, the weather, reminded me so much of Salford in late Autumn!
After prayer we went straight into Ankara, where we visited the Mustapha Kamal Mausoleum. The place was impressive; the museum portraying the various aspects of his life was educational. The picture gallery that portrayed his victory into transforming Turkey to what it is today, a fully secular muslim nation, tells the sad tale of the end of the Muslim Caliphate. Unfortunately for us, his success meant the End of the Glorious Days of Islamic Caliphate. Looking at the lifestyle of the caliphs and kings, it was understandable for Mr. Kamal to want to rid the country of their powers and influence. But unfortunately he went too far I think in totally wiping out the Islamic culture, up to having the Islamic alphabets changed to the Turkish alphabets, and having the azaan be recited in Turkish. His approach of uniting Turkey under one united nation seemed to appeal to the young, who adhere to his teachings (there is even a book for the youngsters to refer to - The Attaturk Doctrine so to speak) with no questions asked. This is such a pity, because Mr, Kamal, in his zeal to rid of the errant final Caliph, went overboard so as to totally overlook the true Islamic principles, which will not only unite the nation, but also has the potential to unite the world! And by prohibiting Islam to be practised freely, he has deprived the Turkish populace for so long from the opportunity to understand the beauty of fundamental Islam. At least this is my opinion. In trying to 'free' Turkey from the clutches of affluent caliphs, he had imprisoned the minds of the youngsters from understanding and opening up to the real beauty of true Islam. Well....at least that is what I think.
Anyway, looking at his tomb, and the heavily protected grounds of this mausoleum, I reach the conclusion that in the end, he too, was nearly as affluent as the last caliphs of the Ottoman Empire. Hmmm... Looking at the guards that protect his tomb, I pity Mr. Kamal, even in death he had to be protected...from whom I wonder? Alas, no pictures were allowed in the museum buildings.
Interestingly enough, we met fellow tourists from Ezmir and got the chance to snap some photos with the local people Turkey visiting the mausoleum.
Entering Ankara City - Attaturk 's City
Meeting up with some local tourists
Late evening we finally made it to Bolu, one final stop en route to Istanbul. That will be in the next post okay.
The separate sleeping quartersFrom here on, we started our journey towards Ankara. I realised then, from looking at the map we were on our second half of our journey - homeward bound. But as yet there was still much to be seen and captured. I was certainly looking forward to visiting the Blue Mosque in Istanbul.
Houses few and far between en route to ankara
Bleak empty vastland -wonder if much has changed from those caravanserai days
Modern day amenities - stopover for petrol... and toilet!toilet!toilet!In Ankara we stopped for lunch at a restaurant which was built in1961. After lunch, we headed for a nearby mosque to pray zohr/asr. The water was chillingly cold right to the bone. If I had never lived in UK before I would certainly have freaked out.
View of the restaurant where we had lunch in Ankara
The mosque in Ankara where we prayed zohr/asr
The surrounding, the weather, reminded me so much of Salford in late Autumn!After prayer we went straight into Ankara, where we visited the Mustapha Kamal Mausoleum. The place was impressive; the museum portraying the various aspects of his life was educational. The picture gallery that portrayed his victory into transforming Turkey to what it is today, a fully secular muslim nation, tells the sad tale of the end of the Muslim Caliphate. Unfortunately for us, his success meant the End of the Glorious Days of Islamic Caliphate. Looking at the lifestyle of the caliphs and kings, it was understandable for Mr. Kamal to want to rid the country of their powers and influence. But unfortunately he went too far I think in totally wiping out the Islamic culture, up to having the Islamic alphabets changed to the Turkish alphabets, and having the azaan be recited in Turkish. His approach of uniting Turkey under one united nation seemed to appeal to the young, who adhere to his teachings (there is even a book for the youngsters to refer to - The Attaturk Doctrine so to speak) with no questions asked. This is such a pity, because Mr, Kamal, in his zeal to rid of the errant final Caliph, went overboard so as to totally overlook the true Islamic principles, which will not only unite the nation, but also has the potential to unite the world! And by prohibiting Islam to be practised freely, he has deprived the Turkish populace for so long from the opportunity to understand the beauty of fundamental Islam. At least this is my opinion. In trying to 'free' Turkey from the clutches of affluent caliphs, he had imprisoned the minds of the youngsters from understanding and opening up to the real beauty of true Islam. Well....at least that is what I think.
Anyway, looking at his tomb, and the heavily protected grounds of this mausoleum, I reach the conclusion that in the end, he too, was nearly as affluent as the last caliphs of the Ottoman Empire. Hmmm... Looking at the guards that protect his tomb, I pity Mr. Kamal, even in death he had to be protected...from whom I wonder? Alas, no pictures were allowed in the museum buildings.
Interestingly enough, we met fellow tourists from Ezmir and got the chance to snap some photos with the local people Turkey visiting the mausoleum.
Entering Ankara City - Attaturk 's City
Mr. Kamal's last words
A view from the outside
Real life guards watching over the entrance and exit - as stiff as dummies -except for the faintest smiles when photos of them were taken!
entrance
...exit
The tomb where Attaturk is laid to rest
The sober surroundings within the mausoleum
Hello...is this little Missy trying to liven things up a bit? hmm...
The view surrounding the mausoleum - museums and galleries
The mausoleum from outside
To give an idea of how vast the compound is
Inscriptions outside the mausoleum
A view from the outside
Real life guards watching over the entrance and exit - as stiff as dummies -except for the faintest smiles when photos of them were taken!
entrance 
...exit
The tomb where Attaturk is laid to rest
The sober surroundings within the mausoleum
Hello...is this little Missy trying to liven things up a bit? hmm...
The view surrounding the mausoleum - museums and galleries
The mausoleum from outside
To give an idea of how vast the compound is
Inscriptions outside the mausoleum
Ancient Egyptian drawings decorate the walls outside the mausoleum.
Flowers arranged to make up the map of Turkey outside the grounds
Meeting up with some local touristsLate evening we finally made it to Bolu, one final stop en route to Istanbul. That will be in the next post okay.
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