Cotton Farm

2011-07-16T02:29:00.003+08:00

Life has been good so far, I'm carrying a mixture of feelings going back school.. I feel it's normal, something that most people will agree due to uncertainties and well.. to be in a new environment. I believe after a short period of time adapting to the life as an undergraduate, I wouldn't be feeling this way.

Relating back to the previous post, I've made progression by learning mathematical induction. I do not claim to be really proficient in solving just any problems, but I'm grateful that I managed to solve 3/4 of NYJC's tutorial on the topic. Hope my thirst on always wanting to learn something new will continue and not cease!

PGPR application had been unsuccessful, I'm currently placed on the waiting list. Wanqi told me that the chances of securing the residence should be pretty high for freshmen, I just hope things will work out well in the end. Nevertheless, I shouldn't be a sitting duck waiting for that to happen, time to adjust my lifestyle just in case I couldn't secure one when school begins.

Other things have been on my mind, pretty encouraged by Sing Jie, a poly graduate who scored CAP 4.64/5.00 for his very first semester in NUS. I am grateful as well that he replied my email! He shared with me some of his insights on life in school coming from poly background as well as giving me advice on academic matters. Really appreciate it for the fact that we do not know each other and he is willing to lend a helping hand.

Very grateful for everything that's happening! I'm setting my sights high but with a realistic outlook.

2011-06-29T01:10:00.003+08:00

All right! I am down with probably 1 month or so before school starts. I'm having mixed feelings, haha, it's like you have always look forward to this day and when the day comes, somehow you do not really want it to come that quick.

Yeah, I do not know if I am prepared mathematically so to speak. Throughout the past 1 year, I have been reading up on calculus pertaining to my second math module in school, but somehow I feel it's not enough. Perhaps its the fact that I am going through a self-education, I do not know if its really substantial although all of the tutorial questions I did are correct, either that or I understood the mistakes I made.

Ever since I left the army I have been going through H2 mathematics on trigonometry and complex numbers in the hope that I would be able to do decently for my first math module. In the process of learning new things, I discovered that there are certain areas notably pre-calculus in which I am weak. I really hope there is time for me to patch up this old wound before I am plunge into the nus system.

Then again, I thought to myself, at least I should be thankful that I made the effort to better myself in the past years, even if things didn't go well, God knows I did my best. Right.

Till then, I just hope to revise H2 content of vectors and to learn mathematical induction before school starts. Oh yes, I hope my application to stay in PGPR will be accepted! I will know it by tomorrow! :)

2011-06-14T01:45:00.001+08:00

Looking back at my last post, it just seemed as though time just fly by like this isn't it?

This 2 years in army had been memorable despite the pits I've fallen during the first year. I am thankful for God's faithfulness in bringing through all this while.

In about 1 month and 2 weeks, I'll be starting school in nus, it's another phase of my life, I'll do my best! :)

2009-12-27T17:45:00.002+08:00

"Soldiers apply an acid test to their officers that only the true leader can survive." - General of the Army Dwight D. Eisenhower

inspirational! :)

2009-12-24T00:23:00.003+08:00

Today marked the end of Service Term. =)

I'm happy for my friends who fought the good fight, who went through the gruelling 24 km route march held at 2120 hrs that lasts all the way till 0530 hrs.. which ends at the top of Elephant hill.

On my part, I feel I'm no longer in low spirit with regards to the path one has to take to become an officer. When I see xueyang, yaitai and alvin, in their genuine expression going through the tough and rigorous outfield, and still there to encourage me to fight on when I get back on course to become an officer.. I just couldn't let them down!

Some went to armor, some to signals, some to logistics, some to infantry and some to engineers.. on the last day when we were together, it's heartwarming to hear they will come back to my commissioning parade. They would have long been a 3 months old Officer by then.

For once, I felt the sense of brotherhood. Thank you all for giving me the strength, the motivation to fight on! I will never forget them. I have learn much, about life, about people, truly I've grown.

I'll never what Yai Tai told me. I will remember =) Am I overly friendly? to the extent I appeared too boyish? I believe so. Maybe it's about time.

Till then, be it Army Wing or Air Wing ( which I genuinely wish to join the Airforce), I have more reasons to keep going. Never going to let my brothers down.

2009-11-15T11:41:00.005+08:00

Time certainly flies. How fast, that I do not know; at least, for now, this period.

It's been roughly 1.5 month since I got into Officer Cadet School (OCS). Experiences so far, when I think back of what I did, despite all the "grievances" that I have, hahaaa, I have to agree that it's fruitful, it's once a lifetime experience learning here in the OCS.

Life's been regimental, I feel. Asked my friends who are in Specialist Cadet School, I don't hear much about discipline and regimentation, which apparently, is so strong and pungent here in OCS.

I remember the first week when I got into OCS, to note first, I was really motivated in working on towards my aspiration to become an Officer. Some of the nights, just before I close my eyes to sleep.. on my bed, lying down, gazing at the rotating fan.. with the room filled with darkness and silience, and somehow, tears started flowing out, i wasn't crying, just tears flowing out and in my mind, I was questioning myself, "Why am I here?"

Those beginning days have long since passed. And with 7 months more before the grand commissioning parade, of all the days that I'm passed through here in Officer School, I thank God for His unfailing love, for hope, for vision, for being here with me. When I'm physically draining with the combat load and the terrible weather, when they echoed with deafening voice, "Prove to us that you are worthy to be in OCS! Someone out there thinks you are special, show it to us! Prove to us that you are worthy to be an Officer Cadet!" there and then, when my own strength is failing..

God is there. When all else fails, when my strength and my wits crumbles, when my friends and family can't be there, He is there.

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Huiyun! if you happen to be browsing by, thank you so much! Hope studies are fine for you! This time i won't get it wrong. You are studying in SIM-UOL right? ;) Let's grow more in the Lord!

2009-09-18T11:43:00.003+08:00

ePosting is out!

I'm posted to Officer Cadet School (OCS) Army Wing! haha, happy for one thing. Yet, I am sad that for the next 9 months, I will miss my friends dearly. At least I have put some photos into my mp3. I think I will put more inside.

9 months to commissioning! 22nd September marks the start of 77/09 Officer Cadet Course.

2009-08-30T02:31:00.003+08:00

"What I think about, I bring about. The thought of success will foster success. The thought of love will foster love. The thought of security will foster security. What am I thinking about today? "

- Rita Davenport

2009-06-26T22:15:00.005+08:00

Today is my first day out of Tekong island whee~! =)

I was enlisted into the Service on 12 June 09, thank God that Siew Peng and Samuel came to send me off. Really appreciate them =) I could see the Changi Airport Tower clearly from my room... the vast sea... the jetty... oh! when the weather is clear, I could see the Central Business District as well (no joking). I'm quite surprised to see that, it really goes to show how small Singapore is.

There's a lot of regimentation and discpline over here as compared to the civilian living. Everywhere we go, either we march or we run. My section mates are nice people although our background are pretty much diversified. There are "ah bengs".. and "civilised" people. Ah, don't really know how to describe, nevertheless, they are nice people =) I could mingle with them pretty well except on some issues. Ever since the day I introduced to myself..what I did in Polytechnic.. ah, felt quite funny =\ My section mates sometimes called me "scholar" or "wiser", my platoon mates occasionally called me that too. Felt weird. After coming into the Army, I really thank God that after NS, i could return to studying.. cause over here, i'm quite surprised to learn that in fact, there are less than 8 people out of 45 of my platoon heading over to University.

Okay, on the training... every night, generally, we sleep at 10:30pm, and the next day, wake up at 5:30 am and to assemble at the parade square by 5:45am. Usually I woke up pretty early, around 4.00am plus I would wake up to do my laundry.. settle my spirit.. visualize my future. We do Physical Training (PT), Combat Physical Training 1 (CPT 1), Combat Physical Training 2 (CPT2), Strength Training (ST) and also Basic Close Combat Training (BCCT). To add on, we also do road marching. To date, we have completed 9 km of road march. The load we carry is pretty heavy! Oh dear. And it's not even full battle order (FBO). Okay, items include this stupid helmet, body vest, a jack knife, 1 full water bottle, 1 full water bag, 1 bayonet, 1 rifle and sling. The vest itself included magazine pouches, utility pouch, grenade pouch, SOG pouch and torch light pouch. Personally, I enjoyed the Basic Close Combat Training alot alot! =) They taught us how to fight using fists, elbows and legs. We were taught at which part of the body we should target to inflict maximum damage to the enemy. We were also told to be aggressive. Every move we did, we shouted with all our might and there was swiftness in our movements.

On one day, which I considered quite miserable.. we wore all of the above.. did 3 km of road marching.. came back, super drained.. cause of the super hot weather, by the way, I have become much tanner than before, had sunburnts in my left and right shoulders... exhausted already, and guess what? with all the stupid helmet, sweat, vest, rifle, water bottles.. they gave us 1 minute to run and assemble at the 5th storey (the highest level in the block) and we can only use 1 staircase. Obviously this is not possible, 45 people dashing up a staircase and to assemble in an order manner? And true enough, just when I reached the top, super exhausted, they gave new command, in 1 min, run down and assemble. We dashed down once again, in all our rush, making sure our rifle is in good condition (if not we would have hard time maintaining the condition). Okay, now gasping for breath, we were given military commands to execute drills. We screwed up big time. When it was supposed to turn right, I believe because of all the "crazy stuffs" that the Sergeants gave.. our fellow platoon mates can't differentiate the command clearly. Some turn left and some turn right. And this error kept going on.. until.. the Platoon Sergeant shouted, "******************************!!!!!!!!! can't even do a Keluar Baris (dismissal from the parade)?? What the ************** you are doing? ***** you!" He spoke that so loud that even the Whiskey and Scorpion company recruits turn their heads back to look at us. And we were given 5 minutes to run up again and assemble. Sounds good? 5 mins instead of 1 min.. by the time we reached.. our bunk just had a tornado, everything was flipped over and we were at pumping position.

Oh yes, everyday, without fail, we need to do many chin ups. At least 45 chin ups a day when I included the CPT 2 requirements. My arms hurt badly now. During the 2nd day after I was enlisted, I could do 10 pull ups in one shot. Now, after going through the training, my muscles ached so badly that I could only do 1 or even 0. My commander said it is normal, so hopefully things may improve. So to hit the 45 chin ups target, is... really...tiring.. I need to split them up in many sections. 2.4 km running is fun! =) I enjoy running the coastal line... could listen to the waves.. feel the howling wind... enjoy the sun!

During my free time... I read my book I bought in Malaysia.. I'm glad I brought that book in, if not I would be bored to death.. and probably grow smaller in my inner being. Because most of the talks that my section mates involve hmmm.. mature themes, which is in conflict of my values and my vision, I usually walk away to the windows facing the sea to read my book while they talk about their "experiences". I brought in the NUS calender thingy as well.. everytime i read the bible or the Law of Attraction, I will take that out.. and tell myself 2 more years.. just 2 more years, I will enter into NUS... 4 more years... I see myself excelling in NUS.. visualize the smile of my face.. feel the gentleness of my spirit... gaze at the radiant bright white light. hahaa! Yup =) I played English Chess too with my section mates. So far.. hmm, lost 1 match only. hee, the rest all win. xD

Another worse day was fire drill... I was sleeping halfway... suddenly the Commanders executed the fire drill. I got up quickly, took my dog tag, took my helmet, took my First Aid Dressing (FAD) and dash down to the parade square. Luckily my weapon and bayonet have yet to be presented to me back then. If my rifle and knife are in my cupboard, I would need to bring them down as well. The evacuation of the building took the Company 4 minutes. I thought it was a good timing, but ended up, I was wrong. Haha, we received scoldings from the officers. Just yesterday afternoon... i was caught unprepared when my Commander came into my room. I was taking afternoon nap ah!! very tired. Luckily my buddy woke me up and I dashed out of my bunk to assemble. not bad huh! I think I'm more alert these days. Last time, when i sleep, it's hard to wake me up.

Area cleaning is the worse.. ah, shall not talk about that. So unreasonable.. we got punished with regards to our standardization and cleaniness despite trying our best. How to ensure 100% dust free condition? How to ensure no strands of hair would not fall on our corridoors? For that, all we heard was, "knock it down!! down down down down down down down.......down down down.." and we echoed.."1, 2,3,4,5,6...". Super shag.

Today when I left Tekong island... as I was heading back home in MRT, saw some infants and children sleeping soundly on the carrier.. guess they are tired ba.. so coincidental huh, most of the children I came across were sleeping. =) They looked so innocent and beautiful. And on that moment, I felt a sense of purpose why I'm serving my country. It led me to recall the song we sang during road march...

Training to be soldiers

Training to be soldiers,
Fight for our land,
Once in our life, two years of our time.
Have you ever wondered?
Why must we serve
`Cause we love our land and we want it to be free, to be free, YA!

Looking all around us,
People everywhere,
Children having fun,
While we are holding guns
Have you ever wondered?
Why must we serve
`Cause we love our land and we want it to be free, to be free, YA!

There's another song that I like it very much as well.. the rhythm and the tone of the song attracted me. It goes like this..

Battalion Square

When the whistle blow,
Silence everywhere.
When the Flag goes up,
In the Battalion Square.

Soldiers all around,
Never let you down.
`Cause we are the BEST,
In the SAF.

(Chorus)
Oh Echo-oOo echo out loud YA!
Ulysses warriors marching into town ya!
Oh Echo-oOo echo out loud YA!
Ulysses warriors never let you down ya!

Up in the sky,
Planes fly high.
When the parachutes blooms,
Like flowers in the sky.

I wanna be,
A Ulysses warrior!
`Cause they are the BEST,
In the SAF.

Repeat Chorus (x1)

For my weekends.. I would be revising my Mathematics, backtrack alittle.. and then progress! YEA! NUS! my vision. I can do it!

2009-06-04T23:18:00.003+08:00

It was a good day spent with wanqi and cheryl. We went m`sia together!

Although the day was rather simple... I'm still kinda happy :) Perhaps that's the beauty of simplicity. Oh ya! thank wanqi's mum for the lunch. haha.

Well, I don't really know why and how. Just felt.. life... is truly a roller coaster? one moment, you can be happy, and who knows, you did be sad the next moment. I don't know what I can do to make her feel better, but I am here, and I do understand.

keep going strong! life is hitting you hard, but as friends, we are here :) forever we will be here cheering and supporting you. you are an overcomer; don't say you aren't. you have the power over the future; don't say you do not poessess it. Yes, you may feel it's too overbearing, but hang in there friend, trials and tribulations will pass, and that will be the time where you shall shine. For your character have been molded in the days of the fire.

2009-05-31T17:17:00.022+08:00

I'm very sober about what's about to come, anyway, watching the scenery in my school seems to have a therapeutic effect. Often, I will tell Richmond, my time is running out already, pei me sit down and watch scenery. =P He will tell me I spoke as if I'm leaving the world. haha!

It was in the early morning when I took this picture, the canteen was pretty secluded then. The atmosphere was tinted with a scent of joyfulness and childlikeness because of the kids!

Practically slacking at this place in the afternoon. It was pretty windy then, a good fusion of warm and cooling feeling. The canteen was not really packed then, so it does makes the spirit goes deeper in reflection if you are attempting to. :)

2009-05-13T00:15:00.000+08:00

I want...

to....

learn....

dancing :)

2009-05-03T01:16:00.003+08:00

when will the wind blow in the direction of my desire?

for how long does the tree of character takes to grow and blossom into its form?

how drastic would changes take place for a given period of time?

when will I fully dispel the energy of the rising antagonism within me and to set forth to be a person I dream to be?

sharpen my vision. aggrandize my views and contemplations. let me grow in the hardest of soil and to see/hope beyond the duration.

my heart has failed me. gird me in your gentleness and love.

when will I see you again? to hover in the midst of your presence? to commune with you?

do not leave me, my friend.

2009-04-17T22:51:00.008+08:00

I was so certain on my decision with regards to NUS until today.. I took a step back on the decision when I met Mr. Kwan.

Well, i was about to head to library for some light reading with Richmond before returning for work when I gave a wave to Kwan. He taught me for Power Electronics when I was in semester 2.2 ( year 2007).

Guess what? haha, before I waved at him.. he was heading toilet to respond to nature call. When he saw me, he turned back and asked if I was busy and we ended up in a staff room talking. Talk alot alot of things. About universities... about his life... about industries... his plans. So funny come to think of it (just when he's gg to toilet and to be diverted straightaway).

He's young actually. haha, 30 years old ! Nonetheless, he has PhD from NTU (under their Postgraduate Scholarship), First Class Honors from NTU (Electrical and Electronic Engineering), a Gold medallist in IEEE Power Engineering Chapter (Singapore). Young as may seem.. he's part of the committee member of Power Engineering Chapter of IEEE Singapore section. Hearing his achievements at such age, I feel so proud of him as well. And what's more? He isn't a borned genius. I asked him why he did not choose NUS after A levels.. he told me his grades were not that good and so.. chose NTU. But not bad.. can rise to this level.

Anyway, I told him I was offered Electrical/Electronic Engineering from both NUS and NTU. I'm glad he gave me a holistic view of opportunities and challenges from both Unversities. And also from his experience, about advantages a Polytechnic graduate would seem to have in University. I can feel his sincerity when he spoke with such neutrality. Really appreciate his time talking to me.

I remember before I made University application, he told me that because he frequently have University level projects in NTU, so he's quite close to Professors over there, especially in Electronics programme, and so, without me asking he offered to write letter for me if I need one. Whoa, so good right. And today... he offered again. He told me if I were to choose NTU, he could help me find the right supervisors when I need to choose Projects. He shared with me his story of knowing a friend whom have been performing well; been at the Dean's List for all semesters except the last. What happened was, just when his friend was on the way to achieving First Class Honours, his project was marked a "C" grade. Reason was the supervisor dislike him. I question if his friend's character a little flaw type but he said he's a nice and mild person. His friend ended up with a Second Lower instead.

Well well.. I don't know. Good reasons to choose NTU, but, personally, I feel more towards NUS. Really love their environment. Even Kwan agrees NTU environment appeared to be rugged. He's having projects with NUS later this year, see how it goes. Probably will ask him more about the Professors over there.

Till then, I thank him for believing in me, so encouraging to hear about him saying I should aim for First Class Honor and in trusting I have the ability (when I do doubt myself currently). I told him my plans... and he laughed. haha, well, I'm serious about it. Will work on it as well.

I hope my decision going to National University of Singapore is a good choice. I think it will be. YES! it will.

keep going kenny!

2009-04-16T21:55:00.013+08:00

It's been 2 weeks since I started working in school!

Can't imagine how much things we have covered at such short period of time! I would say I have been pretty much involved in planning. For the first plan, I pondered over the curriculumn that is to be taught. It's about 10 pages written in ink, covering things like 1) objectives of the curriculumn, 2) aspect of the competition, 3) topics of related programming, 4) actualization, 5) how to measure progression.

With regards to the second plan, I contemplated on my own experience of the competition and observations of the various teams (during training and the event itself). Consolidation was done from the beginning of my life in the competition until the end. All in all, it is about 15 pages in microsoft word with no pictures except for the cover page. For this, it cover areas which I feel is important and worth building on like 1) Perception and mindset, 2) Vision setting and motivation, 3) Emotional stability, 4) Qualities of a participant and that of a team, and not to mention 5) Strategies and tactics of competition. There is a drastic difference between considering strategy and tactics, and that's one of the things I would like to highlight in my own review. Oh yes, I have also included what went wrong for my team in the competition.

The third plan, which is still on-going, is about how we should go about attracting students. We will be giving talks once school-reopens, and the question is really how are we going to unleash within the students that kind of spirit that thirst to bring honor to School. How can we inspire them. It's an amazing journey so far. I think it will be great.

And the forever on-going plan that's in my head, is always to think about each day's objectives, what we will be doing, the quantity of work we can accomplish and also the designation of workload to my friends who are working along with me as well.

I've completed Anne Frank's diary. I admire her courage and maturity of thoughts at such tender age. I salute her for the optimism she showed in her walk through the warring period. It left an imprint in me on life when the book ends off on how the Frank and van Daan families were been caught by the Secret Police. It gave me a question.. a question that's still growing into its form.. and it is constantly hovering around my mind. A question that relates to life on trust... on love.. on the power of human spirit. I have yet to embark on my journey to find the answer, yet, I can sense the enrichment of my soul already.

Though I could not read as often as before, I still set aside a portion of time to read. In the morning before I start my day, I would read for around 30 mins on "Day of Empire" and during lunch break, I would read periodicals at the library. At least I find growth in the midst of work :)

Oh yes! I have received offer from NTU already as well. I'm glad I've got my first choice from both Universities. Nevertheless, as some would have guessed... I accepted NUS offer!

Yup :) I'm glad! I do have my own plans on how to sharpen myself for University. And it will begin real soon.

National University of Singapore - Faculty of Engineering :)

2009-03-26T23:48:00.007+08:00

Yesterday was kinda disappointed initially. We failed to get into the theatre! The crowd was truly overwhelming. A long and curvy que indeed!

But it was fun still :) Why? Because hearing the rantings going on between cheryl and yong reminded me of the good old days in MI. I'm really glad to see them yesterday, I guess, it's over a year since we last met. Even though cheryl is in the same school as I do, but still, we seldom meet. But the day ended well. :) We went to MOS burger and talk alot. Though the time wasn't that lengthy, but still, I'm contented to see them happy with their lives. Yong is the still same, as bubbly as ever, her energy seem to be forever up to the brim!

Today, I accompanied Kenneth back to secondary school. Initially, quite sad. The security guards actually chased us out! Can you believe it? So hurting can. Totally rejected us. Any utterances we made, were replied with, "Sorry... ". Thank goodness Hui Ying was there to help us. I'm quite surprised to see Mrs Quek remembering me. She has become much skinnier than before! Really skinny. Oh no. As for Ms Ong, she's the same still, I could recognize her so so so much easier compared to Mrs Quek.

Time truly flies. It's been 3 years since we left secondary school days. I'm glad that the drink stall uncle and auntie are still around though! :) I think I came back school for them instead? I spent so much time talking to them! They have been working for 11 good years in the school. And they were saying so many teachers have left, in fact, they could count with their hands how many actually remained (those teachers present in our days). They were very warmth and, as loving as ever. Haha, hope my marriage in future can be like them!

After that, I went to library and popular to search for books already :) I spent my time these days reading. I think I'm getting more and more interested in fictional books. Not much on those adventurous ones though, books that narrate about life, relationships -- along these traits.

This is how I spent my day these days :

Morning -- Read motivational/political science books

Afternoon -- think about the past, present, future

Evening to Night -- Fictional books

Anne Frank said, "Paper is more patient than people." Is it true?

2009-03-24T22:31:00.007+08:00

We've ended our flying competition last week!

Our team (Richmond, Lucas, Zikai, Daniel and I) won 3 medals! Although there wasn't monetary incentives, but, it's alrighties! :)

Team Temasek! Both Category D and Category E winners

Singapore Polytechnic's Quadcopter (Category D challenge)

Temasek Polytechnic's Tricopter (Category E challenge)

Theory of Flight (Silver)
Besty Performance (Bronze)

Besty Pressie (Bronze)

Minister for Defence questioning my teammates!

that's all! :)

2009-03-18T20:47:00.002+08:00

AR HAR!

I received the letter of offer from NUS :) Quite efficient! Monday, I checked online and it reflected that I'm given a place in Faculty of Engineering, and the immediate next day, I received the mail.

I'm waiting for NTU's offer. But I think, I know where I want to be already :) At least for now, I love NUS scenery alot.

I would like to thank Mr Foo and Mr Lee for their advice. I remember last week, Mr Foo spoke in front of me, "Don't think you are topping in TP means it would happen the same in university, especially NUS." Yah, love it. May seem discouraging huh? But I just love it, I felt encouraged instead. Strange but true. Maybe because I felt his sincerity.

And yesterday, Mr Lee spoke to a few of us on where to buck up on, yeah. I'm working on it now :) Not diving into it that fast, but a gradual switch, a gentle gradient. I must be discipline enough to contiune in NS yah?

Can't wait for the day when I've prepared myself, enduring even in the midst of service to country and when that's over, to stand at the gate to university life.

That day, must be a day of great hope and expectancy. I will do my best!

2009-03-15T22:38:00.006+08:00

good friend.

a line. a call.
a concern. a booster of hope.

in rough waters, in uncertainties,
the flying star upon the starry sky.
A giver of strength and faith.

in joyous occasions, the amplifier of happiness.

the invisible shadow. the soft, whispering voices of cheer.

Then again, the line.

Good friends, are we? =)

2009-03-04T00:26:00.002+08:00

time may be tight, pressure could be mounting.

Nevertheless, I stand embraced by tranquility.

thank God.

2009-02-16T02:02:00.000+08:00

A new transformation plan on its way

2009-02-14T00:10:00.000+08:00

I have not felt this way for a very very long time.

2009-01-21T01:51:00.002+08:00

what can I do for you?

how can I tear down the veil separating your facade and truth?

at which hour does your heart takes over your mind in hearing and comprehending?

tell me.

2009-01-10T21:46:00.003+08:00

It's a new year!

Somehow, I don't really feel it's a new year although it is. Perhaps it's the individual factor that has yet to be dealt in consideration. Polytechnic education ending in about 6-7 weeks? Time really flies!

Recently, I bought a book called, "Day of Empire" written by Amy Chua. I haven't really dived into the pool of interesting wealth of information it offers on the nature of a hyperpower. But I'm intrigued by the introduction of the book already. I did not pursue into the subsequent chapters as I have yet to complete reading the book I borrowed during the last term vacation called "On War", which is written by a Prussian military general known as Carl Von Clausewitz. Similar along the trait, I'm fascinated by the kind of military thinking he has and how he expressed his thoughts and theories in such a manner that it does not put in any form, the resemblance of some kind of "formula" in which you can apply without undermining the changes in the variables involved in warfare. In fact, this is the 2nd time I'm reading the book. :) Enjoyed it.

Two days back, I borrowed Sun Tzu, Art of War from library. This is the newest commentary the School bought! I requested for it a month ago! And guess what, I have only 7 days to finish the book. I think it's impossible. As in, if you want to read for the sake of reading, definitely achieveable. However, to read but yet consider the depth of the simplicity, it would take some time. So, I guess, I need to selectively, choose some of the chapters to really study before returning. If I'm not wrong, this would be the 5th or 6th commentary book on Art of War by Sun Tzu I'm reading.

This week, 7 Jan '09, went to NUS for faculty talks in which they sent their invitation letter few weeks back. It was great! I'm considering FASS to some extent. But if suppose I am considering the Engineering discipline, probably I did wish to take up the Electrical and Electronics programme. The campus scenery is AWESOME! Haha, I really really love the hilly-like feeling and the big patch of greenery all over. I have a feeling in me that tells me to join NUS after poly. keke. I also met Kenneth at NUS. I'm glad to know some of his friends also, like Marilyn, Li Ting, Alvin and a Vietnamese. All of them are from NYP.

See how it goes! 17 Jan 2009, I would be having NTU talk at their campus. Would be meeting up with Kenneth and his friends again. I think it would be fun :)

2008-12-03T01:37:00.003+08:00

I was reading on maneuver warfare and I thought it was quite complicated these days. In the times where revolutionizing technologies are emerging, there are too much variations in warfare than before and a greater need of inter-dependent strategies to support one's role.

Perhaps this is one of the reason why our armed forces developed the C4I to better prepare our forces to implement the network-centric warfare doctrine. I don't really kind of able to differentiate between the raw doctrine of a maneuver and that of a network-centric. One stresses on rapid deployment, targeting enemy's center of gravity and to weaken one's will. Another, to use information and superior intelligence to better make decisions, but the end result is also the same as that of minimize collateral damage, casualties, and to weaken the will of the enemy through rapid actions, too much for the enemy to handle and cope with the battleground changes.

But even so, with the new doctrine of capitalizing on information technology to edge out opponents, hmms.. it does have its weakness as well. It's quite absurd to see how expensive gadgets and systems could be destroyed by using low technology weapons. Not forgetting this form of new doctrine against quite of a old doctrine, insurgency and guerilla warfare. And when all these form of doctrines requiring low technology equipments to utilize, to fight against technological superior foe, one generally try to make full use of the minds and hearts of the population. This way, warfare is slowly elevating to a level of ideological type of battle. When the people are together in one thoughts along with the army, it would take a very long time and requires extensive resources even for a superior technological army to defeat and to stabilize the situation. Fighting a war is one thing, re-building from the war is another. When the minds and hearts are not won sincerely, fightings and sudden strikes are bound to occur. Herein lies another form of warfare, psychological.

I think it's very interesting to understand warfare. It's a big topic, I may not fully comprehend the complexity of warfare, but I am really interested in uncovering what warfare is all about.

2008-11-28T00:05:00.005+08:00

The morning was greeted with the smiles from Hui yun. Her smiles are beautiful! I think I saw her on tuesday or wednesday also. Anyway, good to know her MP judging was quite alright. Hmms, pray for wisdom as she makes her decision on what to do after Polytechnic education.

Also, coincidentally boarded the same bus to school with Jacqueline on wednesday. Arhhs, I could not talk as freely as I want to because of my cold. >< But again, good to know things are alright, especially the MP part. I knew her since I was like Primary 4 or 5 ? :)

1 week or so back, met up with Kenneth. Long time friend also, I'm elated to know he's doing well in Nanyang Polytechnic. Hopefully he will be a little bit more patriotic =P. Consider taking up a government scholarship lahs! Tong tong been good too with venessa :) They have been together for a very long time le, hope things will contiune as it is now or even better =)

I think these are wonderful and precious news, to know my friends are hanging there in life :) In the kind of culture and fast-paced society we are in, I wonder how much good does development has to offer inconjunction with the possible deterioriating of moral values. Of course, then again, human development brought better living standards. Just hope that as a metropolitan city, we could still retain some traditional asian values and not been entirely influenced due to westernization. I like people who do things reflecting their true self. I don't like people who are kind of hypocrites. That's easily identifiable when we are given a chance to see how people work and behave under stress. It's enough to give a good estimate of one's character, in my opinion.

On my side, I hope I can graduate from Temasek Polytechnic with a GPA of 3.94 or 3.95. I think it's possible. :)

2008-10-26T00:25:00.003+08:00

I very proud of my worldskills team. Both Zikai/Lucas and Richmond/Daniel !

Many weeks of training, the good and the bad, I believe they have learnt more about themselves, their limitations and not forgetting what are their strength and weak points :)

As a team, we got a Silver medal for WorldSkills Mechatronics! I'm happy of course. Not only for the team that won the award, but also got the team that didn't win any. During competition, I can sense that Zikai/Lucas are trying to stay in control of the situation, they have done their best, but although things don't turn out well as they would like to be, they choose to remain calm although their mind and emotions may be clustering and hovering from one point to another. :)

On that note, I am happy for the performance for Lucas and Zikai team. claps claps! During training, I remembered we would do research together, especially zikai and I, exchanging pointers and then, we went on to share what we discovered to Richmond and Daniel :)

I also remembered the many days where I 讲道理 to Richmond, Zikai, Daniel and Lucas. haha, and they sian ji phua. Many months of hard work. I'm glad that as a student coach and trainer for their Finals, I'm proud of them, yes, whether they win or not, I'm proud of them.

2008-08-17T02:03:00.002+08:00

All of my life, I have long for you.

I walk as you guide me and your goodness follows me.

2008-08-09T23:55:00.024+08:00

hey yo~!

This week was kinda great! Went to SMC Pneumatics (SEA) Pte Ltd at Tuas area to learn more in Mechatronic Systems and Control. haha.. pretty far yea.. (talking in view of Singapore's size). The class we were in.. hmms, haha, think we are the youngest? The rest were like in their 20s,30s or even 40s?

They are from their respective industries ba.. I know some are working for the production of medical related instruments... but remember one person is working in SkyNet Automation. Another person is a business man with no engineering background. haha, but he was very humurous lar.. his jokes and stuff. Lols. But all in all, not bad. Though we are younger, but no problem in talking to them if need to.

Photos!!

IF..if.. travelling by bus & mrt. It's crazy. really.
near 3 hours journey

Reception area of SMC Pneumatic (SEA) Pte Ltd.

Enjoying a cup of coffee during tea break.
They've got morning tea break as well as "smoke" break.
There's also melody been played through the PA system to
inform their colleagues. cooolss!~

Lunch break.. Daniel,Richmond and Sir Lucas

Relaxing before lunch break is overrs~

Daniel ("大鸟") and Jes..

Sneak peek!!~~ =P

One of their training modules.. that cost...~~ err hmmphs.

One of their modules as well. Integration of 3 mod i think.

Cross section view of a pressure regulator.
Tension of the spring has an effect to the pressure of the
compressed air been led out.

Valves been stacked (Ganged Sub base)

my design circuit (ladder diagram)
to operate a module

Translating my design.. to a working program.

Green.. green.. green in an industrial site. haha, i like trees.

It was a great experience bahs.. their service is very good. Good hospitality demonstrated by them throughout the entire course, although.. again, we are students. :)

2008-07-07T20:49:00.015+08:00

Heys...!

Received some pictures on Qualifying Round at Nanyang Polytechnic... so I decided to post some up! =D

Briefing before the actual start of the competition...

Competition about to commence..

Richmond and Daniel -- Temasek Poly Team 1

Zikai and Lucas -- Temasek Poly Team 2

Jesmond and I -- Temasek Poly Team 3

Encountering some probs... troubleshooting.

Singapore Polytechnic Team 1/3

Nanyang Polytechnic Team 1/3

Ngee Ann Polytechnic Team 1/1

Republic Polytechnic Team 1/2

Institute of Technical Education Team 1/3

CALLED!

Temasek Poly Mechatronics Competitors -- End of Project 1

That's all! Hope we could enter Finals together :)

2008-06-27T00:00:00.005+08:00

WOOHOO~

Update a little.

Things don't really look good for me at what happened for the Qualifying Round at Nanyang Polytechnic. Slim chances of getting into Finals I would say.

Nonetheless, haha, strange to say... at the end of the day, though knowing for a matter of fact, I spend quite some time, roughly a year devoted to this competition, and bearing in me that things may well fall off.. I kind of appreciate this occurrence, not that I would want it to happen(of course I hope I could get into Finals) but towards life and of what I learnt in books pertaining to warfare.

In as much as we seek to be prepared, there's always an element that is possibly, beyond our mortal capability to date. That is the Heavens element. For me, what screwed up on that day was one of the sensors went malfunctioning in the afternoon. But guess what, it was working perfectly fine the morning. Haha, yeah. Like what the art of war mentions, 奇正相合,孰能穷尽?

What that means roughly, was, when the known and the unknown mixes and blends, who could exhaust their possibilities and combinations it brings? ^^

I was disappointed lahs, at that day. But, I found i learnt much more in terms of character and life. By the time I'm about to sleep that night, I had put on smiles on my face -- I know where I've came from, where I'm going, what are my objectives.

Consider this,

One who turned to grow stronger in passion and enthusiastism over an subject of focal point, and that the main reason surrounding this change was been successful in that subject.

Another, who was been led down by a subject at one time, but remained enthusiastic and optimistic over the same subject after which.

Of the two individuals, which amongst them showed us more of the power of the human mind and spirit? I am inspired by it :)

2008-06-16T23:08:00.003+08:00

System check, everything is in place. All testing programs for preload runs to be used at Nanyang Poly are done. Checklist ; equipments; components are accountable for.

I am ready

2008-06-10T23:33:00.008+08:00

18th June 2008.

I will be heading to Nanyang Polytechnic, 0830 hrs at School of Engineering (S Block) for WorldSkills Competition -- Mechatronics Trade.

Time passes by isn't it? As summer soon fades and autumn grows to prominence, so shall it be that nature has declared, change as the constant of all entities.

All I ask for and seek to do, is that I may bring honour to my institution. All that have been devoted, would then, be truly be of a worthy cause and sacrifice.

Temasek Polytechnic granted competitors from Industrial Electronics, Mechatronics and Mobile Robotics the opportunity to stay at School's Apartment, fees been waived for, of course. :)

These are the pictures!

Not a bad view from one of the room huh?

Thank God for the support the School gives to us!

Reading a book during one of the days..

Till then, I assure, the very step I take, into NYP campus, would be the moment that I would be fully charge up for the cause.

2008-06-04T22:40:00.004+08:00

"They will probably persist in their errors for some time, and submit to be repeatedly defeated, before they will be reconciled to such a change -- so reluctant are all nations to relinquish old customs."

- Field Marshal Maurice Comte De Saxe, French Army

I felt it's really true. Although the only constant is change, yet, we would still prefer the old ways of doing things unless a heavy conviction lies deeply in us that we have reached the tipping point.

2008-05-29T22:12:00.001+08:00

There are known knowns, known unknowns and unknown unknowns.

Sets me to ponder..

2008-05-21T22:14:00.001+08:00

I kind of like this,

"Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead!" from Admiral David Farragut.

Yea, that's the way it should be.

2008-05-11T21:15:00.003+08:00

what ideology do you carry?

Does it mean there must not be any connectivity between one who carries different from yours?

As diverse to which one may differ from another in thoughts, where both are rooted in the same situation, one may then permit an investigation in understanding whether similarity in circumstances may otherwise lead to an increase in connectivity amongst people.

I find this relatively complicated, when attempting to understand and comprehend things in general, that though when one comprehends theoretically, it may seem to be reasonably sound to say, sure it does that one would in varying degree agree to the statement that relationship among one another would invariably increase due to the bonding achieved when facing the situation together.

But, considering that when we talk about situations, again, what are the degrees of danger exposed? Danger, in this sense, may not necessary dictates a direction where it's a matter of life and death. It is a notion that expresses the degree to which one carries fear/worries of something. It could be a fear towards authority for doing something wrong, worries of what would happen in future, at its foundation, worthy to describe, it is born not out of individual, but born out of teamwork. So if we were to think based on these, it seem rightfully to argue that it would enhances our relationship after what we've been through together.

Again, the complexity of our mind does not permit us to stop at this point. Other factors that are vital also, would be dependable upon the core values of the individual. To the minority, some who have indomitable spirit of enduring what is set upon them, would not allow themselves to be influenced by their counterparts. They would strive to influence, to change the set of inputs that are already present and seen through their daily motions. Through time, one who has grown weary of resisting this invisible force, would finally sets in, to attempt for one moment, to understand and seek to know whether it makes sense. And when it does, it would be liken to great flushing streams of water breaking through a fallen dam. The power that the momentum brings, is simply irresistible.

So does it mean, influence is occurring every now and then, to see who is right and who is wrong? It is again, a yes and a no. A yes because of the fact, where politics comes into picture, influence is a critical point in its discussion. A no, because of the fact that human emotions bring about decisions and contemplations that one would never think that they would be able to do it.

To me, i would say that this is indeed the beauty of life. Technology and knowledge alone, simply can't unravel the nature of life and time in its essence. Future, present and the past, who has fathom them all? I remembered a statement that I thought pretty much to be true, something that goes like this, "What we know of the universe today is comparatively much smaller than what we have yet to discover about them."

Give me the strength to keep going and fight the good fight of faith.

2008-04-16T23:08:00.005+08:00

Saw many friends this week, haha! Michael and the rest due to the opening of Lufthansa Technical Training course for aerospace peeps.

Also, went running at bedok reservoir and played tennis. Shiok man the feeling. After a whole day of drilling in assembly and consuming all the brain cells for programming.. after exercising, really felt so relax..

I think i'm pretty blessed lo yesterday. I was running halfway without any shelters nearby when I saw lightning striking somewhere near the reservoir and lots of thunders roaring. Tada~, few minutes later, it poured heavily until I couldn't even see clearly with spectacles. I took it out and kept running till i found someone waving at me at about 50 metres ahead of me, which is LUCAS!

In the end, he waited for me to catch hold of my breath before we decided to finish off the remaining distance and back to school.

Just reach school....

We finished the race and kept the faith!

2008-04-13T20:05:00.011+08:00

Fear

Much discussion of this topic is kept enclosed within the walls of a person soul. Hmms, there are so much variations to which fear can storm our daily lives without us knowing. It is indeed an invisible force that oversees us, our everyday movements, yet it is also a force that is capable of seeing through our heart.

In my opinion, it seems that just as much how powerful this force may appear to be; in order for it to enter the vicinity of our soul, it requires our authorization. Let us pause for a moment to consider this. We all know that emotions are temporal, we may be happy now, and at a later hour, be disappointed. Whoever that tries to slip itself in during this transition phase of one emotion to another is easily detectable by our mind. This is to say, though it is advancing at a reasonable pace initially, it is not until the time when we made up in our mind that what we feel (which may not be the true picture -- illusion) is possibly correct can the full power of that emotion be surfaced.

Fear terrorized our being and sets a stage for confusion to grow and multiply. It is an extension of what panic is. For with a greater clarity of the ground, when people understand that there are concrete reasons to which why others are panicking, panic is elevated to its next stage. Fear is highly infectious and is projected to a much wider audience through the use of technology made available today.

But one thing remains; if boldness is present in the midst and not recklessness, so to speak in varying degree, faith would have be present. Fear and Faith are counteracting each other, which, one being negative and the other positive respectively. Faith builds while fear seeks to destroy what had been established. It is evident that boldness is been suppressed as one moves up the chain of command for the very fact that the commander needs to attend to the many directions of considerations before embarking on the chosen one. Boldness should go hand in hand with the superior mind that enables one to a higher elevated status. For who is the person who sits at a powerful position yet is morally weak to do something when it is conceivably the right moment to do so?

Let faith extricate your fear today, do not see what is present, do not view situations by what your eyes offer. Yes it is good, for as what people said, you believe what you see. Then again to think of, what glory is there to trust in what you see than to trust in what is unseen but knowing it will come to pass?

So then, close the door you have willingly open for fear to enter and in time to come, faith will surround your life.

I trust in You.

2008-03-29T01:00:00.003+08:00

tiring week!!!

Went jogging on monday (2.4 km), wah.. cannot arrs.. 2km, battery life low le. hahas, after which,
rest awhile more, back to do competition stuffs till quite late; 9pm.

Thursday was another exercising day as scheduled. This time, play badminton for 2 hours at SAFRA Tampines. After which, walk to School... when we reached, Lucas and I jog to the Stadium.
Finally.. went to take a shower. And same routine, haha, rest awhile, back to competition stuffs

tired tired tired

2008-03-21T12:27:00.006+08:00

This week was kind of tiring. Physically draining i would say. But i guess the most dramatic thing that happened was when i was fixing some parts, I caused a fuse to blow. LOL, I was stunned lar! There came sparkling white light from the 3 pin plug and then ends off with a soft "boom..". Then, the next thing happened was, no air-con, computers turned off.

Top left hand corner of the plug burned (black spots)

Mr Foo told me quite normal for such cases, just learn from experience will do. Haha, at least I don't feel so condemn lars! Lucas, Richmond,Jesmond couldn't use computers because of me. So paiseh.

After yesterday's internal competition, a bit shag le... so after Richmond left, the remaining 4 of us connect computers to 1 hub and started playing game through LAN le. Lols, like LAN Shop seh. keke. That's all!

2008-03-16T15:21:00.006+08:00

On Thursday, hmms, actually wednesday evening, haha, results were out!

I'm pleased with my performance so far. I estimated 3 to 4 Distinctions after exams. True enough, it's within this range. It's been an amazing semester despite the many crazy problems faced in projects; big and small (lab reports), i think it's well over 10.

I believe I came out of this semester learning a lot on organizing projects as well as disposition of resources. Praise God for it!

2008-03-05T00:24:00.001+08:00

Exams over! Anyway, I have only a week break before heading for WorldSkills Training. Pretty awesome yea?

I'm quite looking forward to it. It's an opportunity for those along with me going to show what TP is capable of!!!!!!

hmmph!

tata~

2008-02-21T23:16:00.001+08:00

I'M READY

2008-02-03T02:29:00.000+08:00

CDS officially over by the end of this week. Time flies.

Haha! I still remembered when i first met Jean and Kelly discussing our project. Cold cold de.. but along the way.. quite fun working with them.. we stayed at times till 9pm.. doing while chatting.. so good lahs! They always called me siao. lols.. so.. that's it.

For polytechnic studies, die die must complete 3 CDS before graduation. My 3rd is over. hahas, the last lab test did on thursday.. hmms, should not be a problem bahs. Monday meeting up with jean and kelly once more for finalizing details for report. Maybe last time le :(. I guess in terms of group-work, i enjoy most with them for this semester. ^^

tk care jean and kelly!

2008-01-26T15:35:00.000+08:00

Don't felt really good these past weeks. Not really sure how to write or comment on events that happened.. nonetheless, it just seem so fast that it's weekend NOW! oh my.

Many problems as usual.. I just get irritated or upset when it's supposed to be a group work and everyone is kind of doing their stuffs waiting for me to give instructions. hmmms.. where's the time conscious? And when I begin stressing on important factors, they said I'm been way too 'kan chiong'. Wait a minute... 'kan chiong' ? hummms.. I given you 7 days to complete a task and you couldn't complete it. Alright, since this had happened, I help you out alittle to ease your burden. Next, you kept nodding with whatever I said but the work you given me did not carry elements of what I said. Deadline coming. okay, ' kan chiong ' ?

Phoooshhh.. just when my heart is feeling kind of upset of how people are treating me. For instance, I have designated to each what their task were. I understand that things don't go as planned. But there's one thing a leader can't control, that's, the character of the members. If it can be controlled, everyone would be a programmable robot isn't it? The day before it's supposed to be submitted.. person A said, " I don't know how to complete it, I'm currently busy with other materials that needs my attention." Wait a minute again... so you are commenting that I have NO absolute things to attend to? Or hmms.. you are trying to ask me complete it for you? (= Wouldn't that makes a better statement ?

Ya, back to the first sentence of the last paragraph.. just when I felt so much so much overwhelming feelings, I felt a 'door' that opened, with a sudden on surge of these feelings flushing away. Peace and calmness. I felt the Holy Spirit saying, " Kenny, I am moulding your character. Do not fear, though you are facing difficulties, I'm here with you." This week the only comforting thing ever in school was the chat I had with Joyce. And I felt she have given me understanding that opened up my eyes and sank deep in my heart.

Trust me, it's not easy to be a leader. (= I'm learning as well. I CAN BE A OVER-COMER! yes I can!

2008-01-19T22:20:00.001+08:00

went jogging with lucas yesterday 5.45am. Hmms, initially, wahhh.. the body kept saying, 'please continue with your sleep'. But anyway, i managed to overcome this cognitive dissonance within me and went preparing for the run.

I guess i haven't been running for at least a year. The run was pretty good, I just like the ambience in the morning. I told myself to try jogging continuously but still.. can't help to think if i would ever stop halfway. I think i learnt something that morning. The distance wasn't far like those of a marathon kinda, but i would say, not so near as well. There were many points where I wanna give up, and the feeling of giving up rose to its peak whenever i turned my head back to see how much I've covered.

Somehow in my heart, i saw how this analogy is connected to my life! We should never stay at the past. Perhaps, sometimes, in life.. the present wasn't as glorious as what had passed on and people tend to reminisce the good old days. And with that, my mind seemed to be reconfigured to the run once more, I looked ahead and kept jogging and I felt this 'burden' liven up as I focus on what's ahead. Never give up, i told myself! FIGHT ON!

Side track abit, i saw several school peeps going to school. Haha, it reminded me of pri/sec school days. yup. Once again, time flies.

Anyway, in the end i managed to run to the end without stopping. But there's a price to pay... i guess i didn't do warm up properly, resulting in aches all over my body. But still, hmmph! I think i learn something valuable that morning.

the equivalent of giving up in life is failure in its making. To wrestle along with the problems faced is courage and the molding of character which in return, prepares the way to victorious living.

2008-01-13T00:47:00.000+08:00

Today is a resting day for me! hahas, been sleeping for longgg hours... Anyway, somehow came across this site and took a test.

http://www.yourleadershiplegacy.com/assessment/assessment.php

Your Leadership Style Assessment Results

Your assessment results show that you have the characteristics of these types of leaders:

• Ambassador – your score is 22 points out of 25
• Advocate – your score is 21 out of 25
• People Mover – your score is 18 out of 25
• Truth-Seeker – your score 19 out of 25
• Creative builder – your score is 22 out of 25
• Experienced guide – your score is 24 out of 25

Ambassador

Ambassadors instinctively know how to handle a variety of situations with grace. They tend to be the people diffusing nasty situations. The ones getting involved in conflicts on behalf of broad constituencies, as opposed for their own benefit. They are apt to be persistent in a gentle way -- to be persuasive and at the same time respectful.

An Ambassador, for example, might be someone who can introduce a whole host of people-assessment and development frameworks with the result that employees understand and accept the new order easily.

Advocate

Advocates instinctively act as the spokesperson in a group. They tend to be articulate, rational, logical, and persuasive. They also tend to be relentless (in the positive sense of the word), championing ideas or strategic positions. Advocates tend to use both linear and non-linear approaches when they argue a point.

Top managers who are natural Ambassadors may do very well at navigating through rough waters. But for Advocates, being in rough waters is part of the reason they revel in their work. (Many Advocates tend to see things in black and white only. Advocates very often need Ambassadors on their senior management teams -- to help them temper their messages and persuade employees to “buy into” their decisions.)

People Mover

Think: Talent-spotter, career-builder, motivator, someone with parental, nurturing qualities. People Movers instinctively take the lead in building teams. They’re also instinctive mentors. They generally have large contact lists; they are always introducing new people to new ideas and new paths. They’re also generally mindful of their employees’ lives outside of work; they view performance through the larger lens of potential.

There is a certain “holiday card joy” that comes with being a People Mover; when people continue to update you on their progress because they know you’ll care, even if you have nothing in common with them and are effectively out of touch with them, you know you’re a People Mover.

Truth-Seeker

Think: fairness, good judgment, equalizer, level-headed, process-oriented, scrupulous neutrality, objectivity is the high standard. This is the only role for which there is a “prerequisite;” Truth-Seekers are unfailingly competent in their field; their competence is unquestioned.

Truth-Seekers instinctively level the playing field for those in need. They also help people understand new rules and policies. They act to preserve the integrity of processes. They try to identify the root-cause issues, or pivotal issues. They also step in to ensure the just and fair outcome if the process has failed to yield the same.

Successful individuals in the Human Resources function are generally natural Truth-Seekers. Truth-Seekers also tend to gravitate towards line-manager positions.

Creative Builder

These individuals are visionaries and entrepreneurs – they are happiest and most driven at the start of things. They instinctively: see new opportunities for new products, new companies; spot niche markets; take ideas and make them real. They’re also often “serial entrepreneurs” over time, even if they remain in one leadership post.

Creative Builders instinctively understand that building is not necessarily about invention, but about process of making an invention real. Builders are constantly energized by new ideas, yet they have the staying power to see them through to fruition.

The issue is rarely simply the idea; builders aren’t “Hey Dave, what’s your latest scheme?” people. Builders are fascinated with implementation. Real estate developers are often “builders” in this way (beyond the obvious connection); they feel most rewarded when a project gets underway, or is newly completed.

Builders sometimes get into trouble if they remain in one place for too long. There are case studies, too numerous to mention, of entrepreneurs whose legacies are negative because they became enmeshed in the day-to-day operations of the companies they created, and didn’t know when it was time to leave. Builders can successfully remain in a single leadership position only if they figure out how to feed their own need for new projects.

Here’s an equation to try on yourself if you identify with the role of builder:

Strength of belief in end result + Ability to tolerate the process = Creative Builder

Experienced Guide

The term “Experienced Guide” conjures up an image of someone very old and wrinkled, with the experience that comes with age. That’s not incorrect, but Experienced Guides don’t have to be old, or necessarily experienced. What they do have to have is an ability to listen, and to put themselves in others’ shoes. They have a way of helping people think through their own problems; they are natural therapists. Often, they are seemingly bottomless wells of information on a diverse range of topics. These are the people who can always be counted on to supply the right quotation or the right historical connection.

They are not necessarily mediators, yet the experienced guide is often the person who finds him or herself “in the middle,” with people on both sides of a conflict seeking advice. When a corporate meeting has been particularly stressful or fraught with conflict, the “post-meeting, closed-door meeting” often takes place in the Wise One’s office.

Remember the “family lawyer” of old? The person, outside of the family, who knew (and kept) all the family secrets, and was often sought for advice? The experienced guide role naturally lends itself today to the position of minister, counselor, trusted advisor.

Renato Tagiuri, emeritus professor at the Harvard Business School, noted that natural “experienced guides” are often found one level down from the top in organizations. They get their greatest satisfaction helping others get through the day and helping others see the bigger picture. They empathize.

sleep sleep!

2008-01-09T00:17:00.001+08:00

Quite stress wor, this term. Humms, projects projects. I think most of the time during journey back home, i'm sleeping lo. haha, really tired.

term test's results.. quite okay ba, but I guess can do better in some areas.

Thermal Fluid Engineering - 50/50

Engineering materials - 47.5/50

Circuit Control System - 93.5/100

Power Electronics - 100/100

4-5 more weeks to exams. Time flies.

2008-01-01T12:46:00.000+08:00

It's a new year! Still struggling with the projects. Collasping? Not yet. But certainly a little stress.

"Big" Project : Satellite Position Control System [Tracker]

: Fuels and Lubricants (Aerospace Application)

: Power Electronics and Drive ( DC to DC Motor ; Circuit )

: Project Management Module

Along the way.. there are many things that caught me unprepared to deal with them. Hmmms, like when things don't work out the way you've planned and it got to be done quickly. Although i feel pretty much weigh down.. I think i do learn something in handling and facing uncertainties. (= Perhaps i should think on this direction and not how life is difficult in planning and executing what I've planned on these 4 projects.

3-4 months to WorldSkills Singapore 2008 Qualifying Round! Pretty excited over it. Gonna train hard with Jesmond for it. G0-ld! Go-ld! Go-ld!

2007-12-25T15:24:00.000+08:00

It's been so so so long since I updated. A lot of things happened along the way... nevertheless, though at that point may be a little down. I've picked myself up and walk the road again. Many projects, but YES! I planned all the necessary route to take for each project as of today. Feeling so so so relieved!

In my opinon, it's much simpler (though it can difficult as well) to receive instructions into execution of some events, than to seek the necessary path for the particular task. Along the way of the project meetings, many things cropped up as well, but I do learn something, and this learning was maximised when I read about strategy again. It says that no matter how comprehensive a plan may be, uncertainty is an element that's necessary to be part of strategy. If this isn't, strategy in its sense will be methodical isn't it? But well, we do know strategy is an art, that's dependable on many variables. How true is that!

The following night after the incident, went out with tong tong and kenneth at about 11:15pm ba... we spoke over many areas, and i really mean alot. haha. It's quite heart-warming to see them as well, friends for a very long time. We went strolling, can't remember how far we actually walked, but I end up reaching home at 2am.

Also! quite pleased with my worldskills training. Feeling not that okay that day due to that incident, but deep within, when the task is at hand, i pushed those feelings aside and concentrate. yea! that's the way.. so pretty happy about it! pictures up!

Emptied station except Air Service Unit (lazy to take off)

See all the equipments! quite messy though.

Under construction...

Fitting in the tubings...

tada! completed!

Hmms, some wirings and tubings still not that positioned nicely enough. Will work harder de! Hmmph!

2007-11-29T23:39:00.000+08:00

Guess I left 1 week or so before Term Test. Been feeling sick lately. Fever, sore throat. Nevertheless... somehow feel really OK in school. Once school's over, I'm feeling tired and weary.

Hmmms, I did 6 tests so far I guess, I got back 3 le. One i was 2nd in Class (Just a mark away from full) , and the other two I was top in Class ( One mark away and another full). Thank God this is like.. a good start of the semester! This semester isn't like previous sem. I am appointed leader in 8 areas ( projects + labs). This does not include worldskills team leader. But still, manage to get that score, just motivate me to do even further.

HOOAH!

2007-11-22T01:01:00.000+08:00

Tests, tests, projects, projects. Guess these words best described what the few weeks ahead will be. I'm tired, but persevering.

Life in aerospace, kinda competitive and stress at times, everyone seem to be equal. But well, it helps me too bahs. Somehow don't feel the heat, although lots of stuffs keep pouring for me to solve. Its good actually, just remain calm... easy... think positively, help me in worldskills ma, haha. Survive in this environment probably do me good in that competition nxt year. But well, we are humans, still finding something missing.. nevertheless, I'll focus on my objectives!

Ok! Guess gonna go sleep le. Sighs, hopefully by this saturday, i hope lahs, can complete my minutes and send back to secretary. That's all!

Gold Gold Gold!

2007-11-13T23:41:00.000+08:00

Lots of projects underway! 1st from Circuit Control System, next from Power Electronics Drive, next from Engineering Materials and finally Organisational Communication (sporadic). Need some space to breathe! hahas.

Last friday saw enyu walking towards blk 19 at engineering block. Time really flies. All the best for his worldskills competition at Japan tomorrow. Do Singapore proud i pray!

Some of the pictures captured during training..

Geared up for the challenge!

Man versus Machine

2007-11-04T00:31:00.000+08:00

Yesterday there was a briefing for Aerospace Engineering & Electronics people. Generally, students need to take up attachment with Lufthansa Technical Training during Semester 3.1. It sounded pretty much impressive during the presentation about what the programme would offer.

Since I can only take up this or world skills competition, I thought about it days before this briefing, and I know that WSC is really what I want. I can't assure victory in it, but I know for sure I have the passion. Nevertheless, I accompanied Andy, Daniel, ZiKai and Lucas to ask Course Manager if they could take up both.

I hope they could stay in the team since I guess after all the months of preparation and selection, we should have been purified through all the tests and trials. If they were to leave, then it's quite sad le. Though i hope they could stay so that we can strive to bring Gold for our school, I won't psycho them to stay for WSC. hahas, yups (= Can understand their perspective if they really want to embark on Aerospace Industry in future, this program (LTT) would be a good platform to launch them.

Nevertheless, despite all this crap, weighing between options, the six of us studied the previous WorldSkills Competition for our category by watching 3-4 caskette tapes taken from videocam.
It's nice arh, when all having 1 vision. YUP!

2007-10-25T23:04:00.000+08:00

This semester is interesting, but tiring! I hope to do even better than last semester. I'll try my best!

Interesting notification yesterday. =X

2007-10-11T00:06:00.000+08:00

An update on the progress of the selection test for world skills.

Been a tiring day. We have to deal with many unexpected changes, restrictions on the given tasks. All of them were Unknown Stations, thereby as the name suggests, we can't pin point the exact question. 8 of us were present and each of us have 7 tasks to complete. The whole test started from 10am and ended at 3pm. It's really tiring! Each tasks last roughly 30 minutes, some were earlier. It's really pressurizing when they said , " You left 3 minutes 49 seconds.... 59 seconds... 20 seconds." and knowing that you are still stuck somewhere along the way. Anyway, prior to the start of the entire tests, we were brief and told about the things that the Judges are looking for. As most of us quite equal in knowledge of the MPS and programming area, they said they are looking for team work, ability to take pressure and stress. Nonetheless, I know I did my best, come what may, conscience clear. keke.

One thing I enjoy alot throughout this ~2 months period of intensive training is that despite knowing each of us are 'competitors', we were pretty united. Lol, we joke and scoff on some of the stuff together. Haha, so, at least, made some friendships in school as well. ^^

hmmmm

2007-10-04T21:56:00.000+08:00

Time flies ! I left 2 weeks before School reopens, and sad to say, I do not have any days in which I could say I'm having Holidays. I'm tired and drained, but somehow, I feel a little excited to do programming in the training lab. I've done all the questions, so now, I'm thinking of other ways in operating the machines. (= I just hope all the hardwork would be sufficient to pull me through. Most importantly, i pray the judges could see the passion that's in me with regards to the category.

I felt I learn something about more life today too, from my friends as well as the impression the Holy Spirit imprinted within me.

2007-10-03T18:46:00.000+08:00

What a tough fight today. As most of us are competent in the Modular Production Stations (MPS), the Judges decided to take us on at the Unknown Station.

This is precisely the station where previous TP teams were weak in. We were split into 2 groups by drawing lots. The task is relatively simple but the time given was kinda short.

We gonna transport a tennis ball from Table A to Table B. Once released from Table A, the tennis would move to Table B and stop at once. The process is automatic and the distance between them was approximately 1.2 metres. We were given 30 minutes to construct using the equipments provided, mostly plastic I would say. But still, lols, all of us managed to do it.

As such, the Judges wants to have a 3rd Selection test next week. But there's a slide progress in the test as 1 candidate was eliminated. 2 more is needed to leave from the current total strength.

2007-10-02T17:18:00.000+08:00

Time to impact in less than 15 hours! woohooo~, I'm PREPARED! YEA.

I did programming today, mechanically, not forgetting to take note of the GERMAN STYLE wiring and stuff.

I re-do 1st Selection Test question from scratch. Mechanically, I'm glad I did it in 53 minutes, that encompasses Troubleshooting, all aspects of workmanship. Programming, hahas, shouldn't be a problem. Also, did Processing Station programming, found out several loopholes in the codes and managed to fixed it. yup. So, when all these are done...

Took a short break, hehe, played Risk 2 with Lucas, Zi Kai via the routers inside the training lab while jesmond provides us with early warning when any teacher is approaching. hahas.

I've did my best, hopefully I will be proven when under fire tomorrow.

2007-09-30T22:09:00.001+08:00

eee.. 2 more days before Wednesday is at the door step. The objective for today inwhich I gave myself was to do programming visualizing myself under many watchful eyes, feeling the pressure and the stress. And that while these forces are acting upon me, I'm keeping track on my emotions, so that I would remain compose, calm in the face of difficult situation. It's quite good today. I did comparison with what I did last week, and the timing for the same copy of specification is improving. Good sign though. Tomorrow I will be bringing these codes to test and troubleshoot should the need arise.

Also, I'm preparing to strategize for next semester's studies. See ya.

2007-09-29T11:06:00.000+08:00

Okay. The results for yesterday's competition is finally out.

The report says all of us has done very well and is hard to differentiate who's better. Hence, the Judges decided to have a 2nd Selection Test held on Wednesday 1000 hours.

Luckily after the competition I have not let my guard down, been studying what went right and wrong as well the various programming codes I've typed.

2007-09-27T22:19:00.000+08:00

Today was the Selection Test for the world skills. Hmmms, I really enjoyed it despite the challenges and I'm proud to say I did my best and gave my all.

The test was based on past year World Skills Competition questions. We were given 2 hours to firstly, assemble the station from a mess up shape except 1/4 intact. Next, to program the machine according to the specification given. Finally, to commission the machines to the Judges that all have been done and ready for operation.

Initially, I was tensed as Mechanical aspect, I wasn't much positive about it. But I thank God for His peace as I assemble it.

1) It took me roughly 30-40 minutes to assemble the machine.

2) Took me roughly 10 minutes to program the specification

3) Took me another 20-30 minutes to do trouble-shooting (etc. sensors, valves, tubings, ..+)

So at the end, I was really happy to commission the machine in less than 2 Hours. Most of the competitors today used up the stipulated given time.

But, when the Judges came to inspect, I didn't know been clean, tidy, wires gonna be tied up in German style, all fragments need to be cleared. So I was a little shaken lahs. Cause I came to understand that I missed out 1 area that I should have zoom in too.

Overall, I'm glad that I managed to do it in roughly 1 hour 30 minutes. Results will be out next wed/thursday. Without a doubt, I did my best and now give the rest to the Lord.

2007-09-26T22:36:00.000+08:00

Time to impact in less than 24 Hours! I'm Ready!

2007-09-22T18:31:00.000+08:00

Wow! Today was a great day for me. Learnt many things that really motivated me for the greater cause.

Initially, I was doing housechores as usual, then I came across a fan that's operating nonsensically. I realized that it's faulty lo. Quite sian at the moment cause of the mechanical work have to be done. Nevertheless, my mind was flashed with the mechanical work of WSSC. So in the end, i decided to spent some time repairing it. Hehe, gain some more experience outside the lab. In the end, it is working fine again (=

I did Dynamics questions, those requested by Jasper. Sounds abit absurd to do those questions again when exams are over. But I guess education itself is not liken to a pool in which there are two openings. One at the front, another at the end. Where water flows in from one opening, fills the pool to a certain level. Then, when it reaches the height of the opening at the other end, it flows out. So I look as an opportunity to pit myself to see how much I still know (x

I just love today! I spent 2 hours or so later reading a military book + an article. I'm really impressed by this one very simple statement that most would know but, do not execute actions that corresponded to the needs of the particular situation due to prior findings/experiences.

It is said by Carl Von Clausewitz, in his work, "On War" that the only certainty in war is uncertainty. Therefore men should not reduce strategy to a mere formula. Although the subject is of war, but it is applicable in our daily lives. The problems we faced individually, such as stress, relationship with one another to name a few. We shouldn't make plans with the knowledge that we will be in safety. If not, plans... hmms, just a mere procedures to follow, nothing spectacular. But rather, it taught me that though plans are the backbone from which one is calm because of knowing something to lean on, we should always be vigilant to the changes around us so as to tap on the opportunities that's appearing before us after calculating the risks involved. Coincidentally, it also teles with the material I read in Art of War where Sun Tzi emphaizes in warfare, tap on the Strategic Power to crush the opponent. Strategic Power is the advantage that one has where opportunity arises. It may or may not remain definite.

what an awesome day!!

2007-09-21T21:50:00.000+08:00

Another week is about to end. Haha, time flies huhs. A statement I always say. Anyway, damn tired as well this whole week. Feeling sick, flu, dryness in my throat, occasional coughing along the way... but I only know one thing, to persevere through!!

I'm pleased with my progress so far, been making improvements in timing as days passes by. One thing I need to buck up at this moment apart from further improving my timing with more features in the program is how fast I could assemble up the machines in its respective positions. I tried to assemble one machine from scratch with my partner. It was horrendous! I mean, it took us roughly 1 day to establish 3/4 of the station. It's wayyy too long. During the competition, it is 1 person job. If i'm not wrong, it should be done in <= 4 hours. This is an area we are gearing up for. As a result of the mechanical stuff, lol, my shirt was filled with oil stains due to the lubricant in both machine and the pneumatic equipments.

Today was quite encouraging for me. I came to the lab at about 8.30am.Having running nose as usual, throat damn dry, so while programming, Mr Foo dropped by. He told Jes and I that he could see our passion towards the competition and the spirit of perseverance. I'm glad Lucas, Zi Kai,Jes and I came everyday from the stipulated 9am till ~ 5.30pm.

Next week will be the internal competition! Feeling quite unpredictable, hahas, but I'll try my best (=

2007-09-19T23:18:00.000+08:00

Today I guess was a day that's filled with many lessons regarding life. I reached school quite early today, same thing that goes on. Been practising for days by now for World Skills. I don't say I'm really that fantastic. But I do thank God for the improvements I made everyday, at least till now. I went upon Mr Fu when I was heading back to my lab after grabbing a bite. He spoke to me about Higher Engineering Maths and from there, goes on to life principles. Although we chat for about 30 minutes, I learnt alot of lessons from the casual conversation.

Tomorrow onwards, I'll be focusing on my time taken for Programming the station. If there's a need for troubleshooting, which I guess most of the time do appear due to my imperfection in programming everything in just 1 try, I'll do it. hahas. I think troubleshooting is a technique as well as skill to track back where went wrong since the equipments I'm using is.. hmm, messy but in its messed up shape, neat.

See ya

2007-09-16T23:06:00.000+08:00

It has been a tiring and draining week. Woke up 6.30am everyday and head back home at 5.30pm. Each day after the training, all i could think of is to sleep. The moment i hopped onto bus 27, that's it, sleep.

Some of my friends asked me why I would want to go back everyday to train although its still possible that I could take days off and come back and practise at a much more flexible time. For me, i think I need to be discipline. To be able to wake up punctually and to persevere throughout the day of the training with the mindset of accomplishing the objectives I laid for myself, i think, that's discipline. Even if I should be out or so in couple of weeks, at least I know, I did my best. And even if I'm in, it will only serve to motivate me further for one thing,

I enter not to stay average, but to win and been disciplined is certainly a gateway.

2007-09-12T20:20:00.001+08:00

i'm damn happy ! thank God for my results! Came quite unexpected, yea. happy ending for the day! =D

2007-09-11T22:31:00.000+08:00

arrrrrrr... screwed screwed.

I am kinda disappointed of myself, but I certainly did my best. Past two days of the MPS training, I don't think I'm that good. I don't know how to use senselink to synchronise the entire five stations with the individual IP address. feeling so down, but i did my best.

i guess its just 2 days and i must tell myself not to expect much. I'm going to practise everyday till 2 wks later.

2007-09-07T14:04:00.000+08:00

" Nothing in the world could take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination are omnipotent."

- Calvin Coolidge

Yesterday after finishing up the remaining contents of the Unorthodox Strategies, i borrowed two more books. I came across this quotation and in a way or another, sets my mind into thinking once again. I don't really understand fully what that means, but two words penetrated deeply into what I'm thinking. Determination & Persistence.

As I sat at my sofa earlier today, pretty much enjoying a quiet environment, I began to think about the few notable events that occured last semester. Friendship is a serious isue that I thought I've placed priority in, I guess I'm terribly wrong. I can't give comments on who's right and who's wrong since there's different views taking on different perspectives. It just came into my remembrance that in life, there's so much influences going round. Media;family;friends; even in your predicament, influencing how you think and eventually leading to the making of decisions.

To me, influences can't be controlled unless you have the power to control what's going around.
It all depends whether you allow these influences to shape the way you think. That's all it matters to me. I'm sad about this broken friendship even though I tried to resolve it but to no avail.

It's relatively easy to look back and see the path we all each walk, be it a mild or hard one. Sometimes I wonder why wouldn't we think as though we travel ahead of time to relieve ourselves from the much spectrum of stress to deal with. Nevertheless I thank God for the determination and persistence I've seen today of my past acts in the last semester.

I'll always remember the days we had.

2007-09-03T21:46:00.000+08:00

lots of thinkings and flashbacks today. hmmms, nothing special, things looked black and white with no vivid feelings felt throughout the day except coincidentally saw Selina on bus 82. haha, i guess PST is still the best CDS so far i've taken. I still remember the days where we rush for the projects, hang out during the night at compass point to finish the charts and ppt. time certainly flies.

next week another hectic week but challenging one. Monday- Tuesday schedule were out. Gonna meet course manager, lecturers for some stuff. Afternoon having MPS training from FESTO i guess, that marks the first World Skills training. Not forgetting Thursday, release of results and also heading back school for PLC Programming.

2007-08-31T16:57:00.001+08:00

woohoos, holidays time. went back to school today with jes. we discuss a little of our expectations and made plans for wsc. we don't say we are very confident over it, but all in a whole both of us have the vision for earning something for the School before we leave our stay here. I guess intrinsic motivational factors are more crucial than what wsc has to offer. thank God for a partner like him.

the previous time we did the plc programming wasn't that optimistic either. spent hours over 2 sequence that we gave ourselves. but today was great, we did roughly 2-3 times the volume we did the previous time for the same hours. yea! i think the peak for the whole practise today was we managed to program 4 cylinders in less than 20mins. We did another 3 programs for the same sequence under less than 10 mins. that means under 30mins, we did ~3 programs for 4 cylinders! our school project for plc programming requirement was 3-4 cylinders under a time duration of 6 weeks. So , that adds on to our joy! (=

2007-08-30T05:59:00.003+08:00

exams over in few hours to come. yeahs.

i see.

2007-08-30T05:59:00.001+08:00

exams over in few hours to come. yeahs.

didn't know there are ingrates around me. =X

2007-08-23T20:29:00.000+08:00

Friday TT

00:13:28:30 ( time--)

defcon1 && emercon 1 == 24/08- 30/08

Reminder
----------
O.O.B.

24/08

Flanking MCT 0930 - 1130

time>1130

LD DY-0x30

ANDN Ch-PR

ANDN WD

ANDN amf

ST Var 1

LD ME - 0x28 (<-)

ANDN Sect C. / F.S./Pbb

ANDN Var1

ST Friday - 24/08/07

defcon1 != emercon1 -> cancel opt

2007-08-12T00:53:00.001+08:00

Okay, finally, projects are cleared. All. Few days back I was been briefed about World Skills. There's another team coming in, making it 4. TP can only send 3 teams. So we were told, after exams are over, we would be going for 2 days FESTO workshop, and there would be internal competition. I ought to be filled with anxiety, but I guess, it does nothing in resolving my concern. So, i spoke to my partner about it and we agreed to step up in our training even in the midst of exams. Yep, that's right. That does not mean my exam preparation would be diluted, what it meant would be time management.

Yesterday i read an military article with regards to network-centric warfare that really blew me off. For the recent years, have been hearing about positive aspect of this new type of warfare. As such, I was taken by surprised when the article's header reads, "Network-centric warfare is useless". Before clicking it, i reasoned with myself why would Singapore then concentrate so much in it. So anyway, after I read about it, i come to know that network-centric warfare is effective only when substanial characteristic and resources of a country is availiable. Interesting.

Right now, I really need wishdom and guidance in dealing with this urgent matter. F1 ! F1 !

F1 = help ( in comp.) hee

2007-08-05T15:14:00.000+08:00

Yesterday was great! went for Festival of Praise at indoor stadium. The que was so long! Nonetheless we managed to get in. Haha, I was wondering if cloud could actually get in too initially. The presence of God is really strong! I'm glad I took the 8 hours of time for the event.
I just feel the nearer the exams, the more I need Him and thirst for His word. Sometimes i do consider people saying why should I be wasting time doing something else instead of reinforcing my studies? The 1 year in Poly has make me trust Him so much more. If I did my best, He will do the rest. Just as faith without works is useless. Work without faith is of no use.

Psychology exam on saturday morning was alright. Although I would say the time was not enough, I believe out of the 30% weightage,I would have a good chance of getting 25% and above. Psychology presentation was also wonderful! I guess I managed to fend off every questions Prof. Tay was asking my group. Initially during the presentation I didn't realize I was answering most of the questions. It was after the whole ppt, Thomas told me that! Praise the Lord! I got back my Programmble Auto test this week as well, thank God once again for been top in the class (=

I take pleasure in worshipping You my Lord

2007-07-28T14:00:00.000+08:00

Exams are coming~ Yups. I have studied one round in all subjects. Nonetheless, i still have loopholes here and there, I decided to study 3 more times since I still have 3 more weeks before Exams. YES! The joy of MY LORD is indeed my strength [= I ALWAYS feel energized after service, especially when I am stepping out of the house of God.

Yesterday was great. It's the first time my dad actually came to my award ceremony. I won something in 2 categories out of the 3 categories. Anyway, i didn't know I was sitting next to Enyu, lols. He would be representing Singapore for World Skills International 2007 over at Japan. I just felt a peace or stroke of fire that passes my heart, is it a hint Lord? hahas.

World Skills Singapore 2008, here I COME!!!! Recently I have been briefed twice by Mr Foo about what we are expected to do in the Mechatronics category. Its really an eye-opening thingy for me. The equipments we are about to use is kind of like high tech? Fully automated, conveyor belts, 3 fold sensors, really cool gadgets. A formal briefing would be held soon, and that's where I would see the other 4 members who are part of the school's team to be sent. I'm glad that I've been given this opportunity!!!

Thank you Lord

2007-07-21T23:51:00.000+08:00

tests coming up in 2 weeks time! Psychology's common test (kind of like an exam) falls on saturday! drats. This semester has been filled with projects rather than written papers.

I spent today doing Prog. Auto and MCT. Although I couldn't duplicate the exact signal for a particular section of the 7 segment for MCT, I'm glad I'm close to it. How nice it would be if the two pieces of 7 segment are not joined together in its internal connection to a single power source. Yup yup. I learnt many ways inwhich the program would fail in the process as well. So yep, give my group a week's time, and I guess, we could clinch the bonus marks for this duplication of signals to light up 2 sections at a go.

Another thing, I guess it's not possible to be blasted at over a simple incident that most people would easily get over on or at the least, been relieved on after some time. It must have been accumulated over a period of time that leads to the final detonation of feelings. So then, the words that says "I forgive", does it really mean what the meaning says it is? I guess no. Been always trying to give in to circumstances does not necessary mean one's weak. If you think it is, then, carry on thinking with this mindset. (X

2007-07-17T22:11:00.000+08:00

Prayer

I thank You Lord for all the things You've blessed me with.
Things hasn't been on track as it is, but Lord I know You chasten those whom You love. Save me from the claws of those who inwardly oppose me whom I have no knowledge of O Lord. My heart is heavy with burdens, nevertheless , I choose to sing You praise. You've enlightened my mind with your wishdom and expanded my understanding. Lord, I do not care what others think of me but I want to follow and do the will You spoke to me. It's hard and I'm facing difficulties. Show Yourself strong before my adversaries! Take haste towards my rescue. My mind is shut from all the hopes on my strength, Lord I know it does not please You that I rely on my strength. Teach me Your ways, teach me that indeed Your laws will be imprinted within me. Annoit me from the crown of my head to the sole of my feet. Tomorrow is a new day, let's walk through the day together! Give me Christ victory! Amen.

2007-07-13T00:18:00.000+08:00

Strange Feelings

I like the phrase that says the only constant in the world is change. Ever since several incidents happened of which I don't know what are they, somehow they left imprints in my heart. The things that I percieved now is kind of different. I do not know who are my friends all of a sudden, grins. Who's with me ? I don't know the answer, except God alone.Perhaps its a sign that I'm growing up. Strange week, things just looked strange. Nevertheless, I still thank God for the opportunity to enter WSC.

sign off~

2007-07-10T00:41:00.000+08:00

friends

am I a good friend? I guess not bahs, sigh.

tata!

2007-06-30T00:08:00.000+08:00

Backs for updating. First week of school was pretty hectic. Projects submission reports, lab test and of course facing the moment of truth for Term Test papers. I was kind of convinced that probably wouldn't do as well as Year 1 term tests, especially for Dynamics since I made mistakes. Nevertheless, I didn't expect to top in every paper i took in my home class. Yah! Praise God for it!

Anyway, I learn also one thing during tuesday's lab test. Despite been the top in the subject, it doesn't mean you would be the best. Its truely the case, I felt been pressurized whenever my teacher walk past me since I know she has high expectations on me. To make matter worse, my circuit was utterly wrong. It was an 1 hour lab test, most completed it within half and hour, yet I still could not figure it out what went wrong. The sight of people leaving the room kind of make thinking whether its going to be the first time i'm getting ZERO for a test. I left 15minutes by then. I felt abandoned in some way, cause I was one of the last. But I thank God somehow I felt His presence ever stronger in the "going to be" empty room.

He said, "even if your friends forsake you, I won't, take out all your wires, re-patch." I followed. Took out a bunch of messy wires once and for all, and re-patching line by line. Just few minutes before the end of the lab test, from zero to full marks. It's one of my vivid experience of been led by Holy Spirit.

Went home with cloud the other day and kind of touched by what she said, shining for Christ in school. Yup! We will shine for Christ!! All the best to our psychology project although different group cloud!! [ if you are reading this =D]

2007-06-25T19:01:00.000+08:00

woohoos~, its a new term. I'm ready for it! Anyways, I shall observe from a distance. For words and actions should proceed out of cognitive processes. Hence, a direct answer at certain times only shows the degree of how provocation can lure you into a hostility. ((: Feigned retreats does not mean a defeat. lols

2007-06-18T23:31:00.000+08:00

'Holidays' ending in days. For a matter of fact, I don't think the term vacation is ever right for mine in some sense. Projects have been problematic for me, though its countable with bare hands. I guess the most difficult thing is how to coordinate & communicate with group members. Yeps. Most of my friends are working, so to find the appropriate time to meet, could be as drastic as early in the morning, and as drastic as late in the night. Nonethless, it's an experience.

So, as a result, I only had 1-2 days out of this 2 weeks that is considered free. Been reading military strategies once again, carrying on the other 50 strategies that I haven't finish last semestral break. On top of that, reading an account about Vietnam War, not the typical kind by westerner's point of views, rather on the communist's side. I read 2 books so far that's written in view of the Americans and French and it's kind of bias in some way or another. Of the military studies, Psychological Warfare is still the hardest for me to understand yet I find it most interesting. Afterall, Psychology is a young science that spans 100~150 years.

Anyway, didn't know Kai Qing changed so much in her thinking until yesterday! Had a wonderful time having lunch with her at airport and chat for a while. In a way, I'm really proud of her! That's right!

2007-06-15T01:33:00.000+08:00

should I fall, let me fall in Your mercy. For Your mercy is great.

-uncertainty looms ahead

2007-06-07T15:47:00.000+08:00

arrrrrsss... Term Test over! Guess I make some mistakes on my very last paper '(, wells, I did my best (= Going out with michael and the rest laterr. finally can take a short break ^^

2007-06-06T00:18:00.000+08:00

tmr is my final hurdle before entering World Skills Competition. .... Lord, you know I did my best, I'll place it in your hand right now. Clothe me in your presence.

Amen.

2007-06-02T00:54:00.000+08:00

I received the hardware given by school for my group's micro-controller technology-Radio Frequency Identifcation. First sight of it, haha, can't help to think that its pretty sophisticated. But as I begin plugging in the wires onto the needed project target board's microcontroller unit (brain), i realised its not as I thought. haha, i want to be humble innerly and outwardly! I'll try my best to attain to there. (X Anyway, good thing was, I fixed the target board up and downloaded the program. Its fun, doing interfacing with computer and hardware. hahas. must take care of that arr!! costs $500+ for a like A5 size paper.

Term tests nearing.. infact, 2 more days from now. I did my best already and still revising. I felt I have too much things to do, never going to unleash my fullest potential. Perhaps its the sign of a going to-be mental illness (to be a perfectionist). I thank God for my results since the start of my Year 2. All the tests I took, I scored full marks in all areas, except a single test, i was a mark away from been full. Its so darn weary doing things in my strength. Even the youths will be weary (in the bible). But to those who wait upon the Lord will renew their strength. Yesterday spent half a day i would say in church! It's great, although I know term test is round the corner, i guess its better to seek Him and His approval in the things i am doing. TANK, if i spelled it correctly, came to our church yesterday as well, so do FIR. So yah, was pretty surprised to know TANK is a christian!

2007-05-28T00:13:00.001+08:00

damn it.

why things are turning out in such a mess ?

2007-05-19T14:40:00.000+08:00

its been some time since i updated this.. blog. firstly, i got to thank tong tong for his understanding. Been darn busy with the projects especially on the Radio Frequency Identification one. I met up with cheryl yesterday in school, what she said really strike deep into my heart. when did I ever stop been busy ? It's a question I have yet to answer not only to her, but to me. I really want to go for the outings and to do catch ups, but I want to get away and done with the things I am doing with a peace of mind, knowing I have done my best and that's it. Even if i were to fare badly, I know I did my best. For this reason, I got to reject many pals. '( to cheryl, pamela, tong tong +. I'm really sorry.

2007-05-04T16:41:00.000+08:00

pheewww~ another week had passed in a twink of an eye. I saw cheryl in school today ! hahas. was quite surprise to actually see her standing right at the entrance of Engineering School. Anyways, couldn't talk with her for long to see how's things out so far.. ><, i had maths test. But i guess she's coping well in her work (= keep it up cheryl !

During Dynamics tutorial today, mr tay gave answers for the class to copy before explaining. One of them was wrong. =\ I spoke with him with regards to the answer and he still said his answer is correct. Nevertheless, he went to tried it out himself again, calculating the values. Finally, he agreed that his answer was wrong. hahas. just some careless mistakes. I`ve learnt a valuable lesson through his mistake too (= yup yups.

2007-05-01T23:17:00.000+08:00

wasn't prepared for a sudden test yesterday on machining technology. I don't really have much interest into mach. tech as it's like DNT. Nevertheless, i believe passion and interest can be harness with the correct attitude. Christ himself was once a carpenter dealing with cutting wood and stuff. haha, probably I can follow his footstep on it. =O Anyway, i had 5 out of 6 pts.

Psychology was fun so far. understanding about behaviors and stuffs. Probably one thing i don't really enjoy about is the ethnical issue of using animals as testing objects. I did my first test as well yesterday night and had full marks. whee~

I'm afraid good results will create in me the trust of believing in myself entirely. That's not what I want, somehow, at certain point in the course of studying, I trusted my ways in working. I did rather accomplish nothing than to rely in myself and not in Christ. Side track alittle, Word Skills Competition 2007 is round the corner in months to come. My teacher told us if we were to do well in the subject, the school will send us to take part. That alone really excites me. haha, I'll try my best to enter that ! yups.

Glory not unto me, but to God.

2007-04-27T00:32:00.000+08:00

My mind is pretty clear of any structural doubts in my plan now. Been spending some sorting out the various areas to lock on. Can't say very much what's the future. But I will do to the best of what I can.

not by might nor by power, but by Your spirit.

2007-04-24T22:48:00.000+08:00

well, its much taxing than I initially expected. But i believe that's because I have not yet set the structure of revising the various subjects. Things are pretty much not as I expected in the area on how the lessons are run. Some are non-examinational YET they do have term test. And the theories have their own set of knowledge that got to be acquired (more on characteristic of the devices) ; in labs, you got to know more on how to make use of it. So, 1 subject, yet, I had to focus in 2 areas, unlike the past. All in all, its pretty mess up in my mind right now what should I place priority in. ><

Anyway, I did a good thing this morning, I went school as usual taking bus 88 before changing to bus 15. I sat beside a secondary school student, somehow, she dropped her phone. I didn't notice it at all! lolx. It vibrated thrice, but twice, i thought someone is playing prank or so, and I get back to sleep. The third time, I find it really strange, and decided to stretch out my hand to find if there's any phone. True enough, there is. When I alight, the mother of this student called and so had a short conversation. She's like.. scare that i would take her phone away? I was thinking, If i want to take it away, haha, would I bother to even pick up the call ? =X. Whatever it is, i gave it to the transitlink office. Yep. Concious.. clear. hehes.

2007-04-22T22:48:00.000+08:00

caught by surprise ! haha. kai qing out of nowhere called me said she reaching church liaos. been sometime since I last saw her in church toos. that's great! Li Hui also, haven't been seeing her for like months and today saw her coming back. yup yup!

school is starting tomorrow! yeah. I am no longer afraid of the new semester thanks to many who encouraged and gave me insights of what the modules would be like. Furthermore, I`ve done what I could even during the holidays to cope with the new semester work. So yea! Give the word! and i will engage all the obstacles,crushing them along the way. ^^

2007-04-17T17:06:00.000+08:00

RAWRRR... shouting with a voice of triumphant. YEA. it's was a fruitful and joyous one. First of all, why was it a fruitful day? I went school to do some research, and yea! All the questions i have been asking myself had been resolved!!! I spent 3-4 hours okayy. haha. Secondly, tong tong was damn happy today in his gaming side.. he said its his best gaming score so far. So, yeah. Lastly, cheryl is coming TP!! yah yah ! Thank God for that miracle upon her life. ^^ I hope pam would be in TP too. hehe. (= that's all!

VICTORY!

2007-04-16T01:52:00.000+08:00

i`ve did the best in preparing for the next semester. Both mentally and physically to anticipate the load I would be facing. Of course I hope with the plannings I`ve made, in a way or another, I would be secured. But to some, life is like a road you are walking down inwhich at the forefront, covered with mist, never know if you are bumping onto a rock.

pray pray pray ! hahas, some may not know actually I`ve been praying for them behind the veil.(=

Proverbs 16:9 "We should make plans- counting on God to direct us." (TLB)

2007-04-15T00:23:00.000+08:00

Healing Crusade

What can I say ? The annoiting was so strong at the ending part. Those who went should have withness how people ; pastors began falling under God's presence. I experienced twice. It was a sharp feeling equivalent of having electricity passing through you, and the next thing you know is, you fall nicely onto the sit. There were numerous reports of the lame began walking ! cancer been healed! Yeah! I love the song that goes along with violin.. "El Shaddai...+++", very meaningful!

If i am not mistaken, El Shaddai is God Almighty but written in Hebrew. Praise God for the crusade!