I went for a ZUMBA class at the gym last night.
Boy, was the instructor full of energy and enthusiasm.
The class was incredibly fun.
No surprise that it was packed with people of all ages.
As I was having a good time in the class, suddenly I thought of Max.
I thought, he must have had this much of fun too.
I wondered if he's doing OK now.
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Button
Hours after his birth, a farmer discovered Breeze in poor health. He was brought to The Mare & Foal Sanctuary where he has received lifesaving care. Though staff is present around the clock, Breeze still needed companionship for the times when he was on his own. A giant teddy bear named Button was donated to fill the gap. Breeze is often seen playing and cuddling with his stuffed friend.
22 Things Happy People Do Differently
Taken from successify.net
1. Don’t hold grudges.
Happy people understand that it’s better to forgive and forget than to let their negative feelings crowd out their positive feelings. Holding a grudge has a lot of detrimental effects on your wellbeing, including increased depression, anxiety, and stress. Why let anyone who has wronged you have power over you? If you let go of all your grudges, you’ll gain a clear conscience and enough energy to enjoy the good things in life.
2. Treat everyone with kindness.
Did you know that it has been scientifically proven that being kind makes you happier? Every time you perform a selfless act, your brain produces serotonin, a hormone that eases tension and lifts your spirits. Not only that, but treating people with love, dignity, and respect also allows you to build stronger relationships.
3. See problems as challenges.
The word “problem” is never part of a happy person’s vocabulary. A problem is viewed as a drawback, a struggle, or an unstable situation while a challenge is viewed as something positive like an opportunity, a task, or a dare. Whenever you face an obstacle, try looking at it as a challenge.
4. Express gratitude for what they already have.
There’s a popular saying that goes something like this: “The happiest people don’t have the best of everything; they just make the best of everything they have.” You will have a deeper sense of contentment if you count your blessings instead of yearning for what you don’t have.
5. Dream big.
People who get into the habit of dreaming big are more likely to accomplish their goals than those who don’t. If you dare to dream big, your mind will put itself in a focused and positive state.
6. Don’t sweat the small stuff. Happy people ask themselves, “Will this problem matter a year from now?” They understand that life’s too short to get worked up over trivial situations. Letting things roll off your back will definitely put you at ease to enjoy the more important things in life.
7. Speak well of others.
Being nice feels better than being mean. As fun as gossiping is, it usually leaves you feeling guilty and resentful. Saying nice things about other people encourages you to think positive, non-judgmental thoughts.
8. Never make excuses.
Benjamin Franklin once said, “He that is good for making excuses is seldom good for anything else.” Happy people don’t make excuses or blame others for their own failures in life. Instead, they own up to their mistakes and, by doing so, they proactively try to change for the better.
9. Get absorbed into the present.
Happy people don’t dwell on the past or worry about the future. They savor the present. They let themselves get immersed in whatever they’re doing at the moment. Stop and smell the roses.
10. Wake up at the same time every morning.
Have you noticed that a lot of successful people tend to be early risers? Waking up at the same time every morning stabilizes your circadian rhythm, increases productivity, and puts you in a calm and centered state.
11. Avoid social comparison.
Everyone works at his own pace, so why compare yourself to others? If you think you’re better than someone else, you gain an unhealthy sense of superiority. If you think someone else is better than you, you end up feeling bad about yourself. You’ll be happier if you focus on your own progress and praise others on theirs.
12.Choose friends wisely.
Misery loves company. That’s why it’s important to surround yourself with optimistic people who will encourage you to achieve your goals. The more positive energy you have around you, the better you will feel about yourself.
13. Never seek approval from others.
Happy people don’t care what others think of them. They follow their own hearts without letting naysayers discourage them. They understand that it’s impossible to please everyone. Listen to what people have to say, but never seek anyone’s approval but your own.
14. Take the time to listen.
Talk less; listen more. Listening keeps your mind open to others’ wisdoms and outlooks on the world. The more intensely you listen, the quieter your mind gets, and the more content you feel.
15. Nurture social relationships.
A lonely person is a miserable person. Happy people understand how important it is to have strong, healthy relationships. Always take the time to see and talk to your family, friends, or significant other.
16. Meditate.
Meditating silences your mind and helps you find inner peace. You don’t have to be a zen master to pull it off. Happy people know how to silence their minds anywhere and anytime they need to calm their nerves.
17. Eat well.
Junk food makes you sluggish, and it’s difficult to be happy when you’re in that kind of state. Everything you eat directly affects your body’s ability to produce hormones, which will dictate your moods, energy, and mental focus. Be sure to eat foods that will keep your mind and body in good shape.
18. Exercise.
Studies have shown that exercise raises happiness levels just as much as Zoloft does. Exercising also boosts your self-esteem and gives you a higher sense of self-accomplishment.
19. Live minimally.
Happy people rarely keep clutter around the house because they know that extra belongings weigh them down and make them feel overwhelmed and stressed out. Some studies have concluded that Europeans are a lot happier than Americans are, which is interesting because they live in smaller homes, drive simpler cars, and own fewer items.
20. Tell the truth.
Lying stresses you out, corrodes your self-esteem, and makes you unlikeable. The truth will set you free. Being honest improves your mental health and builds others’ trust in you. Always be truthful, and never apologize for it.
21. Establish personal control.
Happy people have the ability to choose their own destinies. They don’t let others tell them how they should live their lives. Being in complete control of one’s own life brings positive feelings and a great sense of self-worth.
22. Accept what cannot be changed.
Once you accept the fact that life is not fair, you’ll be more at peace with yourself. Instead of obsessing over how unfair life is, just focus on what you can control and change it for the better.
1. Don’t hold grudges.
Happy people understand that it’s better to forgive and forget than to let their negative feelings crowd out their positive feelings. Holding a grudge has a lot of detrimental effects on your wellbeing, including increased depression, anxiety, and stress. Why let anyone who has wronged you have power over you? If you let go of all your grudges, you’ll gain a clear conscience and enough energy to enjoy the good things in life.
2. Treat everyone with kindness.
Did you know that it has been scientifically proven that being kind makes you happier? Every time you perform a selfless act, your brain produces serotonin, a hormone that eases tension and lifts your spirits. Not only that, but treating people with love, dignity, and respect also allows you to build stronger relationships.
3. See problems as challenges.
The word “problem” is never part of a happy person’s vocabulary. A problem is viewed as a drawback, a struggle, or an unstable situation while a challenge is viewed as something positive like an opportunity, a task, or a dare. Whenever you face an obstacle, try looking at it as a challenge.
4. Express gratitude for what they already have.
There’s a popular saying that goes something like this: “The happiest people don’t have the best of everything; they just make the best of everything they have.” You will have a deeper sense of contentment if you count your blessings instead of yearning for what you don’t have.
5. Dream big.
People who get into the habit of dreaming big are more likely to accomplish their goals than those who don’t. If you dare to dream big, your mind will put itself in a focused and positive state.
6. Don’t sweat the small stuff. Happy people ask themselves, “Will this problem matter a year from now?” They understand that life’s too short to get worked up over trivial situations. Letting things roll off your back will definitely put you at ease to enjoy the more important things in life.
7. Speak well of others.
Being nice feels better than being mean. As fun as gossiping is, it usually leaves you feeling guilty and resentful. Saying nice things about other people encourages you to think positive, non-judgmental thoughts.
8. Never make excuses.
Benjamin Franklin once said, “He that is good for making excuses is seldom good for anything else.” Happy people don’t make excuses or blame others for their own failures in life. Instead, they own up to their mistakes and, by doing so, they proactively try to change for the better.
9. Get absorbed into the present.
Happy people don’t dwell on the past or worry about the future. They savor the present. They let themselves get immersed in whatever they’re doing at the moment. Stop and smell the roses.
10. Wake up at the same time every morning.
Have you noticed that a lot of successful people tend to be early risers? Waking up at the same time every morning stabilizes your circadian rhythm, increases productivity, and puts you in a calm and centered state.
11. Avoid social comparison.
Everyone works at his own pace, so why compare yourself to others? If you think you’re better than someone else, you gain an unhealthy sense of superiority. If you think someone else is better than you, you end up feeling bad about yourself. You’ll be happier if you focus on your own progress and praise others on theirs.
12.Choose friends wisely.
Misery loves company. That’s why it’s important to surround yourself with optimistic people who will encourage you to achieve your goals. The more positive energy you have around you, the better you will feel about yourself.
13. Never seek approval from others.
Happy people don’t care what others think of them. They follow their own hearts without letting naysayers discourage them. They understand that it’s impossible to please everyone. Listen to what people have to say, but never seek anyone’s approval but your own.
14. Take the time to listen.
Talk less; listen more. Listening keeps your mind open to others’ wisdoms and outlooks on the world. The more intensely you listen, the quieter your mind gets, and the more content you feel.
15. Nurture social relationships.
A lonely person is a miserable person. Happy people understand how important it is to have strong, healthy relationships. Always take the time to see and talk to your family, friends, or significant other.
16. Meditate.
Meditating silences your mind and helps you find inner peace. You don’t have to be a zen master to pull it off. Happy people know how to silence their minds anywhere and anytime they need to calm their nerves.
17. Eat well.
Junk food makes you sluggish, and it’s difficult to be happy when you’re in that kind of state. Everything you eat directly affects your body’s ability to produce hormones, which will dictate your moods, energy, and mental focus. Be sure to eat foods that will keep your mind and body in good shape.
18. Exercise.
Studies have shown that exercise raises happiness levels just as much as Zoloft does. Exercising also boosts your self-esteem and gives you a higher sense of self-accomplishment.
19. Live minimally.
Happy people rarely keep clutter around the house because they know that extra belongings weigh them down and make them feel overwhelmed and stressed out. Some studies have concluded that Europeans are a lot happier than Americans are, which is interesting because they live in smaller homes, drive simpler cars, and own fewer items.
20. Tell the truth.
Lying stresses you out, corrodes your self-esteem, and makes you unlikeable. The truth will set you free. Being honest improves your mental health and builds others’ trust in you. Always be truthful, and never apologize for it.
21. Establish personal control.
Happy people have the ability to choose their own destinies. They don’t let others tell them how they should live their lives. Being in complete control of one’s own life brings positive feelings and a great sense of self-worth.
22. Accept what cannot be changed.
Once you accept the fact that life is not fair, you’ll be more at peace with yourself. Instead of obsessing over how unfair life is, just focus on what you can control and change it for the better.
Sunday, July 28, 2013
"God made you for a reason. And He wants you to share that reason with other people" - Lizzie Velasquez.
A few years ago Lizzie discovered that internet bullies cruelly voted her the "ugliest girl on the Internet." She does not have body fat and cannot gain weight. Rising above her bullies, she has gone on to succeed greatly in life.
A few years ago Lizzie discovered that internet bullies cruelly voted her the "ugliest girl on the Internet." She does not have body fat and cannot gain weight. Rising above her bullies, she has gone on to succeed greatly in life.
Thursday, July 25, 2013
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
The 20 Things You Need To Let Go To Be Happy
1. The Approval Of Others - Who gives a sh*t what other people think? If you are happy with the decisions you have made, then whose business is that but your own? Think of how much you could achieve if you stopped letting other people’s opinions dictate the way you live your life. Do you, and engage in whatever actions you think might better your life.
2. Anger/Resentment - Anger will eat at you from the inside. Learn how to make peace with those who have wronged you. This isn’t about letting the other person off the hook; it’s about alleviating the pain that resonates within you. Keep in mind that he who angers you, controls you. “Life becomes easier when you learn to accept an apology you never got.”
3. Negative Body Image - There is only one person’s opinion you should be concerned with when it comes to your body and that is you. No one person determines what the “correct” body type is. If you are comfortable in your own skin, and you are healthy, then that should be the only thing that matters. Do not let others tell you that you’re not beautiful because if you believe you are, then you are.
4. Idea Of A Perfect Partner - There is no such thing as a perfect partner, so throw your checklist out the window. In life, what prevents us from moving forward is looking at the perfect image of a partner we concoct in our minds. Find the right person for you: one that you can love with all your heart, one you feel comfortable with and one that accepts you for the person you are. The sooner you realize there isn’t one perfect person out there for you, the better off you will be.
5. Perfect Life -Just like there is no perfect partner, there is also not a perfect life. Life is what you put into it, so if you are not willing to work hard and put forth effort, you will most likely end up miserable. The choices you make will directly reflect the life you lead. It is up to you to create the best possible world for yourself.
6. You’re Going To Be Rich - Too many people live their lives with the thought that they will be millionaires. While this can be a realistic goal for some, it is not something that can be achieved without hard work and dedication. Stop letting money be your sole motivator; find a career you are passionate about and immerse yourself in it completely.
7. The Idea That Good Fortune Will Arrive At Your Doorstep You need to go out into the world and actively look for fulfillment. You cannot take a backseat in life and expect things to happen for you. Appreciate the life you live, and be grateful for what you have. Value each minute of every day. Live like there’s no tomorrow, and make the most out of any situation.
8. Excuses - Make no time for excuses. You want to work out, but you don’t have the time? Wake up early and get your gym on. Excuses are only rationalizations that make you feel better about yourself for not doing something you want/need to be doing. You desire results? Stop bitching, and start doing.
9. Thoughts Of Your Ex This person is your ex for a reason. If you are going to think of him or her at all, try and think only about the lessons the experience taught you. Do not linger on any old feelings, as this will only prevent you from being happy with someone else in the future.
10. Stubbornness I know it’s hard to admit, but sometimes you are just wrong. Other people have just as much capability as you do in providing the correct answer, so stop being stubborn and just embrace it. The less stubborn you act, the more open you are to learning new things. Think of all you could be exposed to if you stopped believing in opinions other than your own.
11. Procrastination - Stop thinking you will finally get to whatever task is at hand tomorrow. Live in the present, and get your sh*t done when it needs to be done. Maximize your time to the best of your ability. Complete each task you need to as soon as you can. This allows you to feel free from worry and stress by getting things out of the way as soon as possible. You also allow yourself more free time to enjoy the things you love.
12. Your Baggage - We have all been hurt one time or another by someone we loved, or we thought we loved. Carrying negative feelings into future relationships will only prove to be disastrous. No two people are the same, so it’s unfair to hold a future partner to a standard set by an ex. Try to begin each new relationship with a clean slate.
13. Negativity What you put out into the universe will come back to you, so change the way you think, immediately. Stop thinking of life as a glass half empty, but rather, half full. You have so much to be grateful for, if only you took a moment to appreciate it. Anything is possible in the mind of a positive thinker.
14. Judgmental Thoughts - Why do people feel the need to constantly worry about what is going on in other people’s lives? If we spent as much time worrying about our own behaviors as we do worrying about those of others, our lives would be a whole lot more meaningful. You have no idea what is going on in another person’s life, so who are you to pass judgment on the way they act?
15. Jealousy - Happiness is not having what you want; it’s wanting what you have. Stop envying others and learn to appreciate what you have. Everyone’s life is unique; you have certain things to offer that others cannot. When we act in a jealous manner, all we do is bring negative feelings into our lives. There is absolutely nothing to gain from behaving this way.
16. Insecurity -Happy people tend to have extremely high levels of self-esteem. They accept who they are and work it everyday of their lives. They radiate confidence, flaunt their pride and give off positive vibes. There is no reason to be insecure in life. If there are things you are self-conscious about, go out into the world and seek to change them. Only you have the ability to create the best version of yourself.
17. Depending On Others For Happiness - At the end of the day, the only person you can count on 100 percent of the time is yourself. Do not make the unfortunate mistake many people do and put your happiness in the hands of others. A relationship is not going to fulfill the void if you can’t even make yourself happy. You need to achieve happiness on your own before you can find someone else to share it with. This creates a detrimental dependency that will prevent you from becoming self-sufficient.
18. The Past Stop living in the past! - There is virtually nothing you can gain if you wallow in mistakes you have previously made. Take past mistakes as lessons learned, and move forward. You cannot wholeheartedly move on to a better future if you are constantly looking behind you. Things happened, and that’s that. Take them with a grain of salt and move on.
19. The Need For Control - Sometimes you just need to let life happen the way it is meant to. You cannot spend your life stressing about things that are outside of your control. Try to relax, and let things play out naturally. Embrace the unknown, as this is where you will be surprised the most. Let yourself be whisked into unforeseen endeavors, and relish in the excitement they bring.
20. Expectations -Managing your expectations is the key to happiness. If you let go of expectations, you will never be disappointed. Often, we tend to believe that the way we treat others will be the way we are treated in return. Unfortunately, this does not always happen. Do not expect a certain result from any given situations. Go into an experience with an open mind. This will allow you to fully immerse yourself, without the pressure of living up to preconceived notions.
2. Anger/Resentment - Anger will eat at you from the inside. Learn how to make peace with those who have wronged you. This isn’t about letting the other person off the hook; it’s about alleviating the pain that resonates within you. Keep in mind that he who angers you, controls you. “Life becomes easier when you learn to accept an apology you never got.”
3. Negative Body Image - There is only one person’s opinion you should be concerned with when it comes to your body and that is you. No one person determines what the “correct” body type is. If you are comfortable in your own skin, and you are healthy, then that should be the only thing that matters. Do not let others tell you that you’re not beautiful because if you believe you are, then you are.
4. Idea Of A Perfect Partner - There is no such thing as a perfect partner, so throw your checklist out the window. In life, what prevents us from moving forward is looking at the perfect image of a partner we concoct in our minds. Find the right person for you: one that you can love with all your heart, one you feel comfortable with and one that accepts you for the person you are. The sooner you realize there isn’t one perfect person out there for you, the better off you will be.
5. Perfect Life -Just like there is no perfect partner, there is also not a perfect life. Life is what you put into it, so if you are not willing to work hard and put forth effort, you will most likely end up miserable. The choices you make will directly reflect the life you lead. It is up to you to create the best possible world for yourself.
6. You’re Going To Be Rich - Too many people live their lives with the thought that they will be millionaires. While this can be a realistic goal for some, it is not something that can be achieved without hard work and dedication. Stop letting money be your sole motivator; find a career you are passionate about and immerse yourself in it completely.
7. The Idea That Good Fortune Will Arrive At Your Doorstep You need to go out into the world and actively look for fulfillment. You cannot take a backseat in life and expect things to happen for you. Appreciate the life you live, and be grateful for what you have. Value each minute of every day. Live like there’s no tomorrow, and make the most out of any situation.
8. Excuses - Make no time for excuses. You want to work out, but you don’t have the time? Wake up early and get your gym on. Excuses are only rationalizations that make you feel better about yourself for not doing something you want/need to be doing. You desire results? Stop bitching, and start doing.
9. Thoughts Of Your Ex This person is your ex for a reason. If you are going to think of him or her at all, try and think only about the lessons the experience taught you. Do not linger on any old feelings, as this will only prevent you from being happy with someone else in the future.
10. Stubbornness I know it’s hard to admit, but sometimes you are just wrong. Other people have just as much capability as you do in providing the correct answer, so stop being stubborn and just embrace it. The less stubborn you act, the more open you are to learning new things. Think of all you could be exposed to if you stopped believing in opinions other than your own.
11. Procrastination - Stop thinking you will finally get to whatever task is at hand tomorrow. Live in the present, and get your sh*t done when it needs to be done. Maximize your time to the best of your ability. Complete each task you need to as soon as you can. This allows you to feel free from worry and stress by getting things out of the way as soon as possible. You also allow yourself more free time to enjoy the things you love.
12. Your Baggage - We have all been hurt one time or another by someone we loved, or we thought we loved. Carrying negative feelings into future relationships will only prove to be disastrous. No two people are the same, so it’s unfair to hold a future partner to a standard set by an ex. Try to begin each new relationship with a clean slate.
13. Negativity What you put out into the universe will come back to you, so change the way you think, immediately. Stop thinking of life as a glass half empty, but rather, half full. You have so much to be grateful for, if only you took a moment to appreciate it. Anything is possible in the mind of a positive thinker.
14. Judgmental Thoughts - Why do people feel the need to constantly worry about what is going on in other people’s lives? If we spent as much time worrying about our own behaviors as we do worrying about those of others, our lives would be a whole lot more meaningful. You have no idea what is going on in another person’s life, so who are you to pass judgment on the way they act?
15. Jealousy - Happiness is not having what you want; it’s wanting what you have. Stop envying others and learn to appreciate what you have. Everyone’s life is unique; you have certain things to offer that others cannot. When we act in a jealous manner, all we do is bring negative feelings into our lives. There is absolutely nothing to gain from behaving this way.
16. Insecurity -Happy people tend to have extremely high levels of self-esteem. They accept who they are and work it everyday of their lives. They radiate confidence, flaunt their pride and give off positive vibes. There is no reason to be insecure in life. If there are things you are self-conscious about, go out into the world and seek to change them. Only you have the ability to create the best version of yourself.
17. Depending On Others For Happiness - At the end of the day, the only person you can count on 100 percent of the time is yourself. Do not make the unfortunate mistake many people do and put your happiness in the hands of others. A relationship is not going to fulfill the void if you can’t even make yourself happy. You need to achieve happiness on your own before you can find someone else to share it with. This creates a detrimental dependency that will prevent you from becoming self-sufficient.
18. The Past Stop living in the past! - There is virtually nothing you can gain if you wallow in mistakes you have previously made. Take past mistakes as lessons learned, and move forward. You cannot wholeheartedly move on to a better future if you are constantly looking behind you. Things happened, and that’s that. Take them with a grain of salt and move on.
19. The Need For Control - Sometimes you just need to let life happen the way it is meant to. You cannot spend your life stressing about things that are outside of your control. Try to relax, and let things play out naturally. Embrace the unknown, as this is where you will be surprised the most. Let yourself be whisked into unforeseen endeavors, and relish in the excitement they bring.
20. Expectations -Managing your expectations is the key to happiness. If you let go of expectations, you will never be disappointed. Often, we tend to believe that the way we treat others will be the way we are treated in return. Unfortunately, this does not always happen. Do not expect a certain result from any given situations. Go into an experience with an open mind. This will allow you to fully immerse yourself, without the pressure of living up to preconceived notions.
Monday, July 22, 2013
Angels in my midst
Scene 1
I was feeling slightly blue despite being in the Body Combat class.
Suddenly, the instructor did a Michael Jackson pose at the end of the track.
The whole class burst out laughing.
I did too.
Scene 2
Again, I was feeling blue.
A Facebook friend forwarded me a very hot guy's photo taken in one of her running events.
Her comments about how the other ladies acted around him were too amusing for me to keep a straight face.
I was grinning from ear to ear in front of the monitor.
Scene 3
I was reminded of the darkest period of my life.
My eyes were tearing up.
A student saw that my eyes were red.
He deliberately stayed with me just to chat.
He didn't ask me why, but I guess he just wanted to make sure I'm ok.
Thank you ANGELS.
I'm grateful.
I was feeling slightly blue despite being in the Body Combat class.
Suddenly, the instructor did a Michael Jackson pose at the end of the track.
The whole class burst out laughing.
I did too.
Scene 2
Again, I was feeling blue.
A Facebook friend forwarded me a very hot guy's photo taken in one of her running events.
Her comments about how the other ladies acted around him were too amusing for me to keep a straight face.
I was grinning from ear to ear in front of the monitor.
Scene 3
I was reminded of the darkest period of my life.
My eyes were tearing up.
A student saw that my eyes were red.
He deliberately stayed with me just to chat.
He didn't ask me why, but I guess he just wanted to make sure I'm ok.
Thank you ANGELS.
I'm grateful.
Saturday, July 20, 2013
KAJANG - An accountancy student from Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) has chosen to end his life by jumping from the fifth floor of the teaching block. His body was found at a parking lot.
Speculation is rife about his cause of suicide, but his family members recalled that the boy had expressed his difficulties in making friends earlier. He was also reportedly to have apologised to his old schoolmates in the past two weeks without any explanation.
He was also said to have attempted to get into the social circle in his university but to no avail. He was quoted as saying that, "I tried, but I still couldn't...".
The deceased, identified as Lim Ming Chun (transliteration), is a high-achiever in national examinations, scoring 12A and 4A in Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) and Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) respectively.
Speculation is rife about his cause of suicide, but his family members recalled that the boy had expressed his difficulties in making friends earlier. He was also reportedly to have apologised to his old schoolmates in the past two weeks without any explanation.
He was also said to have attempted to get into the social circle in his university but to no avail. He was quoted as saying that, "I tried, but I still couldn't...".
The deceased, identified as Lim Ming Chun (transliteration), is a high-achiever in national examinations, scoring 12A and 4A in Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) and Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) respectively.
Tsang Tsz-Kwan is blind, severely hearing impaired, and has limited sensitivity in her fingers. Instead of giving up on reading, though, the 20-year-old from Hong Kong has taught herself how to read Braille with her lips.
And she's met great success -- Tsang scored within the top 5 percent of almost all of her subjects in Hong Kong's college entrance examination, CNN reports. Because of her disabilities, she could have opted not to take the tests, according to the South China Morning Post.
But she decided that wasn't an option. "I have to accept I'm disadvantaged ... I decided to take the challenge whatever the results," she told the paper. "I think the most important thing is the courage to face the challenge."
She now hopes to study translation in college so she can share with the world the things she loves to read. According to the Hong Kong Standard, Tsang is also working to urge her government to not scale back on courses for the disabled.
"The inconveniences and limitations [my impairments] bring will follow me my whole life," Tsang told CNN. "And I must have the courage to face the facts ... I'm going to treasure what I still have."
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
I'm learning to practise gratitude.
Woke up in time for gym.
Had a good meal using the discount coupon I bought online.
Saw the very amiable restaurant co-owner.
She's very pretty and she wore a really nice Korean fashioned dress.
Bumped into my good colleague/friend and chatted a little while just before clocking in for work.
Had a good time teasing each other.
Found a newspaper cutting that offers free movie preview.
Gave the newspaper cutting to a very grateful colleague. ( I think I made a new friend!)
Managed to rectify a mistake I made earlier at work.
In the process, I gotten to know a new colleague who was very helpful.
Chatted with M (my karaoke colleague/friend).
She gave me a very cute key chain which says "DON't GIVE UP". The other side is a MIRROR- subtly stating that I shouldn't give up on myself =)
Signed up for a charity event. Got another colleague interested too. She just might join me.
Came home and had a very good home-made chocolate ice cream cake given by the neighbour.
Meditated awhile just before a reasonably good night's rest.
See? So many happy events in the day.
So why does my mind need to keep replaying that one petty event. That biatch is so not worth it.
Remember teasips, my mind is a garden which I'm entirely in charge of.
And I'm planting beautiful flowers...
Woke up in time for gym.
Had a good meal using the discount coupon I bought online.
Saw the very amiable restaurant co-owner.
She's very pretty and she wore a really nice Korean fashioned dress.
Bumped into my good colleague/friend and chatted a little while just before clocking in for work.
Had a good time teasing each other.
Found a newspaper cutting that offers free movie preview.
Gave the newspaper cutting to a very grateful colleague. ( I think I made a new friend!)
Managed to rectify a mistake I made earlier at work.
In the process, I gotten to know a new colleague who was very helpful.
Chatted with M (my karaoke colleague/friend).
She gave me a very cute key chain which says "DON't GIVE UP". The other side is a MIRROR- subtly stating that I shouldn't give up on myself =)
Signed up for a charity event. Got another colleague interested too. She just might join me.
Came home and had a very good home-made chocolate ice cream cake given by the neighbour.
Meditated awhile just before a reasonably good night's rest.
See? So many happy events in the day.
So why does my mind need to keep replaying that one petty event. That biatch is so not worth it.
Remember teasips, my mind is a garden which I'm entirely in charge of.
And I'm planting beautiful flowers...
"If you'd let me, I'd make your world a lot happier"
Claire Johnson and Mark Gaffey first met last March during a two-week guide dog training course where their Labradors, Venice and Rodd, seemed to be drawn to each other. "They were always playing together and nuzzling up together," Gaffey, 52, told the Telegraph. "The trainers said that they were the love and romance of the course, and they brought us together."
The dogs' friendship prompted Johnson and Gaffey, who live just a mile and a half apart, to meet up after the sessions concluded. What began as coffee and play dates for their dogs soon turned into something more. "Each time we met the lunches were getting longer and the waitresses were tapping their fingers waiting for us to leave,"
Gaffey told the Sentinel. By Valentine's Day, the couple was engaged, and they plan to wed next March--with their dogs at their sides. "Rodd and Venice...are as much a couple as me and Mark," Claire told the Telegraph. "They will be walking us down the aisle and be ring bearers. This wedding is down to them."
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/07/08/blind-couple-guide-dogs_n_3562258.html?utm_hp_ref=good-news
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
Monday, July 15, 2013
Today is one of those days.
My heart literally hurts.
My mind is absorbing all the negativity like a sponge.
Damn.
I desperately need to drag my ass to the gym tomorrow morning.
The change in work schedule is taking a toll on me.
Have not seen my favorite instructor for two weeks in a row!
Damn.
Won't be seeing him for another 3 freaking weeks!
My heart literally hurts.
My mind is absorbing all the negativity like a sponge.
Damn.
I desperately need to drag my ass to the gym tomorrow morning.
The change in work schedule is taking a toll on me.
Have not seen my favorite instructor for two weeks in a row!
Damn.
Won't be seeing him for another 3 freaking weeks!
Saturday, July 13, 2013
My good friend brought this book all the way from Thailand for me.
She purposefully handed this book to me, assuring me that this is a good read.
I am still struggling with my concentration level but I promised her that I 'd read it.
I have turned the last page and now I'm flipping the pages again to jot down some notes.
It really means a lot that I have such a friend.
**Grin**
"All the energy and influence we ever want in life is controlled by one thing : whether or not we are purposefully acting as our highest selves. From that place of character flows grace and love, and in that place we find happiness and meaning"
""Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." - Margaret Mead US anthropologist & popularizer of anthropology (1901 - 1978)
She purposefully handed this book to me, assuring me that this is a good read.
I am still struggling with my concentration level but I promised her that I 'd read it.
I have turned the last page and now I'm flipping the pages again to jot down some notes.
It really means a lot that I have such a friend.
**Grin**
It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles,
or where the doer of deeds could have done them better.
The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena,
whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood;
who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming;
but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions;
who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.
--Excerpt from the speech "Citizenship In A Republic" by Theodore Roosevelt - delivered at the Sorbonne, in Paris, France on 23 April, 1910""Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." - Margaret Mead US anthropologist & popularizer of anthropology (1901 - 1978)
Tuesday, July 09, 2013
1. Donate. Forrest's mama said, "There's only so much fortune one man needs, the rest is just showing off." Keep what’s serving you, and let go of what is not.
2. Heed good advice. “Run Forrest, Run!” Those who love us are good at pointing out our strengths. They may take you far - like across the country.
3. Keep your promises. Forrest kept his promise to Bubba to open a shrimping business, and it eventually benefitted Forrest, Lieutenant Dan and Bubba’s family.
4. Let the universe take care of you. No matter where Forrest was in his life, he never was one to worry.
5. Be loyal to your friends. Love unconditionally. "Bubba was my best good friend, and even I know you can't just find that around the corner."
6. Pray. To whomever you pray to, and one day, when the time is right, all the shrimp that you need will appear.
7. See the glass half full. “The good part about being shot in the buttocks was the ice cream,” Forrest said. “They gave me all the ice cream I could eat.”
8. See the world with fresh eyes. Forrest’s innocence helped him see people without judgment. Practice seeing the world through innocent eyes.
9. Listen to your body. Forrest ran for a long time, but one day, he just felt like stopping, and he stopped. “When I got tired, I slept. When I got hungry, I ate. When I had to go, you know, I went.” Nuff said.
10. Don't be anxious, have faith that everything will work out! “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.”
Taken from Anne Jones
2. Heed good advice. “Run Forrest, Run!” Those who love us are good at pointing out our strengths. They may take you far - like across the country.
3. Keep your promises. Forrest kept his promise to Bubba to open a shrimping business, and it eventually benefitted Forrest, Lieutenant Dan and Bubba’s family.
4. Let the universe take care of you. No matter where Forrest was in his life, he never was one to worry.
5. Be loyal to your friends. Love unconditionally. "Bubba was my best good friend, and even I know you can't just find that around the corner."
6. Pray. To whomever you pray to, and one day, when the time is right, all the shrimp that you need will appear.
7. See the glass half full. “The good part about being shot in the buttocks was the ice cream,” Forrest said. “They gave me all the ice cream I could eat.”
8. See the world with fresh eyes. Forrest’s innocence helped him see people without judgment. Practice seeing the world through innocent eyes.
9. Listen to your body. Forrest ran for a long time, but one day, he just felt like stopping, and he stopped. “When I got tired, I slept. When I got hungry, I ate. When I had to go, you know, I went.” Nuff said.
10. Don't be anxious, have faith that everything will work out! “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.”
Taken from Anne Jones
The hippopotamus, nicknamed Owen and weighing about 300 kilograms was swept down Sabaki River into the Indian Ocean, then forced back to shore when tsunami waves struck the Kenyan coast on December 26, before wildlife rangers rescued him.
"It is incredible. A-less-than-a-year-old hippo has adopted a male tortoise, about a century old, and the tortoise seems to be very happy with being a 'mother'," ecologist Paula Kahumbu, who is in charge Lafarge Park, told AFP. "After it was swept and lost its mother, the hippo was traumatized. It had to look for something to be a surrogate mother. Fortunately, it landed on the tortoise and established a strong bond.
They swim, eat and sleep together," the ecologist added. "The hippo follows the tortoise exactly the way it follows its mother. If somebody approaches the tortoise, the hippo becomes aggressive, as if protecting its biological mother," Kahumbu added. "The hippo is a young baby, he was left at a very tender age and by nature, hippos are social animals that like to stay with their mothers for four years," he explained.
Taken from TriviaManiaOfficial
Saturday, July 06, 2013
Pay it forward...
First of all, I wish I had taken a photo to illustrate this event...
I was in queue at the highway toll, but the line was not moving.
I was 3-4 cars away and I could see that the 1st car in line was having difficulty.
The 2nd car driver got out of his car and paid for the 1st car using this 'Touch N Go' card.
However, when it was his turn, this good Samaritan's card was rejected.
I suspect that the machine refuse to recognize his transaction due to the abnormality of payment order.
As the booth was solely for 'Touch N Go' payment only, this driver was going to have a hard time reversing his car.
It was easier for my car to move into the next booth, because I was farther away.
After I 'beeped' my payment, I drove to the side, parallel to the booth as not to obstruct oncoming traffic and ran back to the Samaritan's booth and 'beeped' his payment with my card.
That booth didn't reject my card as my car's payment was from a different booth.
Just as I was getting back into my car, the Samaritan waved.
I waved back.
It feels good to be alive.
I was in queue at the highway toll, but the line was not moving.
I was 3-4 cars away and I could see that the 1st car in line was having difficulty.
The 2nd car driver got out of his car and paid for the 1st car using this 'Touch N Go' card.
However, when it was his turn, this good Samaritan's card was rejected.
I suspect that the machine refuse to recognize his transaction due to the abnormality of payment order.
As the booth was solely for 'Touch N Go' payment only, this driver was going to have a hard time reversing his car.
It was easier for my car to move into the next booth, because I was farther away.
After I 'beeped' my payment, I drove to the side, parallel to the booth as not to obstruct oncoming traffic and ran back to the Samaritan's booth and 'beeped' his payment with my card.
That booth didn't reject my card as my car's payment was from a different booth.
Just as I was getting back into my car, the Samaritan waved.
I waved back.
It feels good to be alive.
Wednesday, July 03, 2013
Mitchell's journey
“Let me tell you why I think you’re as strong as people get: real strength is doing the right thing when nobody is looking … and you have always done that. You are trustworthy and obedient and good. I am so proud to call you my son. Strength, the kind of strength that matters, isn't found in the body, but in the soul. And Mitch, you have a very strong soul. I love you so much.”
There have been agonizing moments, while stumbling in the pitch darkness of grief and loss that my soul has cried out “if anyone deserved to live, it was my son”, and that I should have been taken instead. Then a whisper to my soul reminded me death is not punishment, but rather a transition from one state of being to another.
I was reminded of an 18th Century philosopher who said “We are not human beings having a spiritual experience; we are spiritual beings having a human experience.” The purpose of life: a masterfully calculated landscape of hardship, happiness and putting trust in things that are invisible to the eye but discerned spiritually … all in an effort to refine our souls.
And while the world seems in a constant state of unrest and war … I find myself ever more concerned about the quiet battles of the soul … the kind of battles that destroy us from within. Those, too, are battles worth fighting – and fighting well. Taken from Mitchellsjourney
There have been agonizing moments, while stumbling in the pitch darkness of grief and loss that my soul has cried out “if anyone deserved to live, it was my son”, and that I should have been taken instead. Then a whisper to my soul reminded me death is not punishment, but rather a transition from one state of being to another.
I was reminded of an 18th Century philosopher who said “We are not human beings having a spiritual experience; we are spiritual beings having a human experience.” The purpose of life: a masterfully calculated landscape of hardship, happiness and putting trust in things that are invisible to the eye but discerned spiritually … all in an effort to refine our souls.
And while the world seems in a constant state of unrest and war … I find myself ever more concerned about the quiet battles of the soul … the kind of battles that destroy us from within. Those, too, are battles worth fighting – and fighting well. Taken from Mitchellsjourney
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)