Thriller

I don't know what triggered the nightmare. Oh wait, I do have an idea, I'll leave that for later though.

To be honest, it was the one of the scariest dream I've had yet.

I don't often dream a lot, or remember my dreams, but this one in particular had strikingly vivid details.

But I had a slight suspicion as to the factor.

If I die young, bury me in satin,

Lay me down on a bed of roses,

Sink me in a river at dawn,

Send me away with the words of a love song.

The sharp knife of a short life....

Ok, so I admit, I've been slightly addicted to this wonderful-sounding song that I've naturally memorized some part of the lyrics, particularly the chorus above.

I couldn't help it because the Perry girl (not Katy Perry yeah) is like a new Taylor Swift to me, the same big wavy blond hair, same country style singing, and also really nice melodies to the song.

Though I've only heard that one hit song, and it was enough to convince me that The Band Perry are really good.

So the downside was that I had this song stuck inside my head, although the lyrics weren't about romantic relationships like Swift's. It was about death.

Ultimately, my brain kind of malfunctioned (that's what I think happened lah) and my evening nap today was completely ruined when it morphed into the scariest nightmare ever. No kidding.

I won't go into the details, but yes, I dreamt that I was nearly killed. If I die young... WTF.

Worse still, the nightmare was similar to the lyrics! In the sense of the sharp knife of a short life... yes, the whole nightmare was about someone attempting to murder me. I was pleading with the murderer to spare my life while running and running away from the weapon. You guessed right. It was a. sharp. knife. !!!

Truly, I was like a victim character from a movie scene. And you know how the murderer is always the person the character least predicted, e.g. a close acquaintance?

I wonder how my friend would feel if I told her she was seriously trying to kill me O.O With a knife and all. Haha, she'll think I've gone cuckoo because of assignments workload.

Anyway, when I escaped death and woke up again, I was feeling so weird and still reeling from shock. For someone who've never encountered violence before, the dream was such a spine-chilling eye-opener. I really did briefly experience the whole ordeal (of an innocent murder victim), albeit only in a dream.

So I guess the only conclusion is not to listen TOO deeply into a song, especially if it has some funny lyrics, which could make the perfect ingredients for a nightmare!

*Curiousplayfan thinks she might just stick to her other favourite genre, classical music for a while, since it's an obviously safe choice!

What matters least/what matters most

These days, even before you open your mouth to speak, you are already being viewed and judged. People can assess or form thought based on many things, even if they don't really know you.

That's the very reason why it is extremely important to create a good impression. (Or clear your tainted record/bad reputation!)

The all-purpose basics:

1) Smile. Appear friendly when people make eye contact or when starting to strike up a conversation. It relaxes the atmosphere and creates a more pleasant feel.

2) Not being late. Specifically (in Malaysian culture) 10-15 minutes is generally acceptable, however, being any later could possibly land you in trouble.

3) Look presentable. Dress up depending on the scenario. Looks can go a long way and work wonders, you'll never know!

4) Give everything you've got and don't hold back. Hard work, talent, determination, and putting in effort counts. Hopefully, you'll reap the rewards later on, meaning the effort has truly paid off!

5) Be humble. Don't be put off (annoyed/hurt) when people correct you or tear apart what you deemed a decent piece of work. Any learning experience/constructive criticism/feedback is valuable.

It doesn't always turns out perfectly though; no method is fail-proof, even guidebook for dummies require patience and self-discipline!

Besides, I have learned not to place expectations on people because sometimes a small thing will shatter the whole. It's like how a crack can make the glass break/shatter!

It is not worth the disappointment when people can't meet your expectations (especially when it is someone you know), so it is really better to have none, or lower them.

A word of caution: Trust cannot be given freely to anyone, protecting yourself comes first. As the saying goes, it is better to be safe than sorry!

Ideally, your reputation matters, so does your loved ones. Cherish and nourish both to see the change/growth.

*Curiousplayfan thinks people can put on a 'mask' and act indifferently to how the society views them, but deep down, every person cares about what others think.

An Evening of Togetherness for Puteri 11 folks

The hard work of the Residents Association of Puteri 11 paid off when they managed to pull off a memorable night on 16^th September to celebrate the Moon Cake Festival with the residents turning up in full force and further graced by the presence of several VIPs.

It was an evening of togetherness as merry laughter and joyful chatter can be heard from every table as young and old participate in this annual traditional celebration overlooking the scenic hilltop at Puteri 11, which started at around half-past seven. Even the damp weather did nothing to deter the festive mood and high spirits as residents happily tucked in the food and children busied themselves playing with lanterns.

The first VIP invited on stage for a speech was none other thanTeresa Kok, a Malaysian Member of Parliament from the Democratic Action Party (DAP) and Selangor state executive councilor. Kok got the ball rolling by talking good-humoredly about the Prime Minister’s gift to all Malaysians today. She expressed joy that the ISA and PPPA will be abolished but joked that there will still be certain new laws in place to be wary about. She also voiced her approval and appreciation for the Residents Association for their tedious work of coming up with this event.

“I hope more programmes like this will be organized, so we know who our neighbours are… who the police officers are... It (building relationships like these) can prevent crime from happening in our neighbourhood,” said Kok. She wrapped up by wishing everyone a “Happy Mid-Autumn Festival” and “Happy Malaysia Day” before departing due to her tight schedule.

Alice Choo, head of Residents Association meanwhile said, “We are all brothers and sisters, let us stand together”. She stated, “The reason why we are having the Moon Cake and Malaysia Day celebration together is to emphasize the importance of unity”.

She credited her team members for making the event come true while not forgetting to send her appreciation to the residents, saying, “your support is our strength!”, setting the crowd clapping in support of her words.

The residents were then treated to a variety of performances which included Chinese yoyo, Chinese harp, Bian Lian (face-changing performace), flute music, traditional Chinese dance and magic shows. It was an in-house party affair as all performances were solely produced by the residents themselves.

There was also another surprise special event at hand. Datuk Samson and Datin Jo, who were invited as guests/VIPs to the event, were promptly greeted with a warm welcome as the Residents Association celebrated Datin Jo’s birthday and presented her with a birthday cake. After some cajoling by the crowd, Datuk Samson agreed to present a kiss to his wife as her birthday present, and much to everyone’s amusement, the duo did it on stage, much similar to the Will-and-Kate kiss!

MP Puchong YB Gobind Singh was also present at the celebration and was subsequently invited to judge and deliver the results for the Children’s Lantern-Making Competition.

The celebration ended slightly past midnight with a spectacular show of fireworks and a final round of lucky draw.

Spoilt for choice: Mothers selecting lanterns for their young ones.

Popular: Angry Birds lanterns were all the rage.

Token of appreciation: YB Teresa Kok accepting a gift from the head of Residents Association, Alice Choo.

A taste of Shanghai: A traditional Chinese dance performance.

Traditional Chinese musical instrument: Gu Zhen

Face changing: Bian Lian

Birthday girl: The Residents Association presenting Datin Jo her birthday cake.

The kiss: Datuk Samson's birthday present to his wife.

Cheerful: (From left) MP YB Gobind Singh, Datuk Samson and Datin Jo, RA Head Alice Choo.

Out with a bang: Spectacular fireworks ended the night.

Surviving the frenzy- ongoing!

Have you ever felt like there's so little time, so much to do?

Modern lifestyle is indeed fast-paced.

It is truly much more so when you are a student.

The avalanche of assignments is never-ending. It's like a bout of lightning striking one after the another!

We seldom acknowledge the fact or think about it, but we are actually a privileged bunch of people to be studying! Not everyone is fortunate enough to afford education in the first place! (Sorry, I just had to say this after going through the Famine 30 ordeal and starved myself silly.)

Having said that, it doesn't stop me from groaning and complaining of the workload! The halcyon days are over when you are a degree student.

And a scholarship holder.

We didn't even had assessments or tests yet but we are already being judged and slammed.

The pressure and expectations are so high! The lecturer requested us to stay behind, and well, lectured us, albeit in a kind motherly manner.

At that moment, I felt like a child being reprimanded.

Mainly, she wants us to be vocal in class. Scholarship holders must, at all times, exhibit outstanding personalities to prove our worth, for example, like grabbing every opportunity to answer her questions by giving prim and proper, intelligent feedback.

Come on, you got to be kidding, I'm so not Hermione Granger!

In fact, I had to work my ass off in the exams (last year) to secure a spot for the scholarship!

So we got a 'punishment'.

To make up for her bitter disappointment, we are to be mentors to the weak students. Under our guidance, they are supposed to flourish.

Ok, this just increases my workload and add another burden so to speak. Since I'll have to 'attend' to other people, it is like doing twice or thrice the work of a usual student.

She stressed that we cannot be selfish to share our knowledge. It is actually a good way to help us build up confidence and trust in our own abilities.

She wants us to inspire, lead and motivate the other students, for scholarship holders are supposed to be role models.

I have nothing against it, it's all very intriguing really, except that I possibly lack the charm and charisma for being inspiring.

I certainly hope no one gets on my nerves for being irritatingly impossible to handle. Or that they might be some form of tension or unwelcome/hard feelings.

But I am ready to do my part. Challenge accepted. This will be good practice to improve my (barely there!) people skills.

It's true, we could all use some form of reliable help. The Internet is amazing (tribute to FB as well), but then, so is having a real person helping you out. Even yours truly occasionally refer to the seniors for guidance. But caution must be exercised in order not to become a nuisance/cause inconvenience!

What say you? For me, ultimately, it still boils down to our own preparation and efforts.

We should all strive for excellence and throw in our best attempts, but don't you find it funny when the saying goes, 'Practice makes perfect' , yet no one is perfect?

*Curiousplayfan thinks that it's now the norm to be worried/concerned about one's future, all thanks to the increasingly competitive society. Oh, the burdens of youth who just wish to be carefree... would you understand?

A helping hand!

I am so grateful right now.

I never knew that the spirit of 'neighbourliness' is still well and alive in this modern town/city.

I needed urgent access to the Internet. The dreaded assignments! I was under intense pressure! All the documents and details for the assignment were on the student portal.

I have approximately 24 hours to complete a mind-boggling 1000 word paper!

My freaking internet connection had to be down at that particularly CRUCIAL moment.

Dad tried but failed to fix it.

I was already in 'panic' mode! The stress was already wearing me down.

The good Samaritans who came to my rescue were none other than my neighbours, who borrowed me their Internet access (by giving me their password to login).

Gratitude overflowed.

I hadn't particularly been too involved with them. You know what I mean. Other than exchanging pleasantries, I kept to myself.

It seems like there are people out there who care to lend a helping hand too.

Thank you, all the good Samaritans!

*Curiousplayfan says...pay more attention to your surroundings and you might make someone's day by offering a gesture of kindness when they need it:)

Double-edged sword

It cuts both way. Something that can help you can also hurt you.

I have fallen into a psychological trap.

The very people that I have admired and shaped me into a better person have turned their backs on me and given me the silent treatment.

The cause is undetermined. But I would have to let it slide since they can't be bothered because of their status.

As of now, there is zero chance of real life confrontation.

The superficial relationship is now reduced to dust and the previous kindness/friendliness shown was only obligatory or perhaps out of moral conscience. At least I figured that much.

These people wield no control over me, but they have been a brief, important chapter of my life and their influence/presence is still strongly felt.

I have always recognized my place and knew I played an insignificant role in theirs, barely scratching the surface as I can only view them from a limited perspective. I know so much yet so little about them.

At any rate, my existence is now ignored, yet I am unable to cast the light off the shadows.

I've improved as a result of the exposure they've given me and I will not forget the polite 'thanks' sometimes muttered for my efforts.

It's a different case now. I am outside the circle.

I can't completely dissolve the ties or sever the bonds because no matter how slight or tiny, there exists a form of emotional attachment. Even if it is unknown to them.

Emotional attachment is bad, as the brain is automatically linked strongly to memories. There is no stopping you picturing and thinking of someone in your mind although you try very hard not to. Memories flow like water and no force can withstand it if it decides to gush out instinctively.

The only thing I can think of doing now is to let them forget me and emerge as a new person.

If we happen to cross paths again in the future, we will or might just recognize each other. At best, it will be a friendly exchange of pleasantries and nothing else.

I will always be me and they will always be them.

Nothing will have changed.

Everything, every experience is there for us to learn from.

So although I have never been favoured, merely tolerated, I resolve to not have any hard feelings and will keep my head held high.

That is all.

Coming from the uninitiated

So much has happened lately. And perhaps not surprisingly, it has made me stop and reflect for a while.

The world of journalism is complex. And varied. Now being a journalist means many different things!

In BRATs (a workshop for aspiring young journalists), we learned (in a really fun way! :D) about the basics of newsmaking. News content are typically divided into hard news and soft news.

For someone who steers away from (not very fond of) serious, hard-core issues (such as politics and law), writing for soft news was more relaxing although it requires more effort put into writing.

You see, reporting for hard news is usually laying out the facts 5W+1H in a straightforward manner, whereas in soft news, you need to determine a good angle and present the story interestingly, usually with a sense of humour/storytelling/informal tone to it.

When I think about it, both are equally hard, but it seems quite clear that soft news would the one with a lower stress level! Not to mention, quite possibly, a chance to rub shoulders with high-profile people. To add on, less risks of being injured/killed as well.

Of needs and wants:

So I formed a thought that people, in general need hard news but want soft news.

But I think age is a factor too. Most youngsters would head straight for the pullout containing leisure, celebrity and gossip news, events, premieres, concerts, but others would feel the necessary need to find out what (elections/politicking/war/development/current affairs) is going on.

Which is easier to write? Which is easier to interview? Which is easier to report?

Well, I know there is unlikely ever to be an easy way out, as much depends on your own skills, but with guidance/experience etc, everything can be clear-cut. (At least I hope so!)

I'm sure that everything we do/experience, no matter how insignificant, is no doubt a start (and a good way) to learn!

Wait, it is somehow strange that some news contains the writer's byline while some news don't. Without the byline, is it worth the effort?

Hmm.

But for any profession, work is still work.

Challenges included.

Teohlogy@Bookfest KLCC

"There's nothing that can replace reading. Words generate imagination" -Patrick Teoh

The last day of the KLCC Bookfest on September 4 saw the venue packed with an eager crowd. Since it was the last day sale after all, like yours truly, most had the feeling that they must buy something (or anything!) since they had taken the trouble to come all the way.

To my delight, I arrived promptly without any trouble (it was my first time driving to KLCC!) and was in the nick of the time to catch an author's sharing session, and it was none other than Patrick Teoh!

Without hesitation, I bought the book and got myself seated in the audience.

The very engaging and charismatic Patrick Teoh did a great job at connecting with the audience and kept them entertained with his witty sense of humour.

"My book is about what the typical Malaysians talk about in the mamak (stalls) daily", said Patrick Teoh.

He jokes about being an actual 'author' as he explains that his Teohlogy book is actually a compilation of his (Teohlogy) columns featured in Off The Edge magazine which he had been writing for 5 years until it became defunct.

"My son said, Daddy, you are not an author leh, you are a compiler," said Patrick, drawing laughter from the crowd.

Patrick Teoh is the voice of the ordinary Malaysian as he explores (in his book) about the things in public and private life that frustrates us.

During the sharing session, he drew on personal examples, which worked quite well to amuse and entertain the crowd.

"It (Teohlogy) is about the life in Malaysia... politics... social issues..." Patrick briefed.

"Not much has changed in Malaysia," he muses.

"Since back in 2005, things have pretty much remained the same, and what I've been writing about are the thoughts and complains that still affect us until (the present) 2011. On how things have improved or not."

Patrick then asked the audience to refer to his book and proceeded to read an excerpt from the chapter "Duyung Sampan" to elaborate on his point made earlier.

"By the way, I am still writing for the (Teohlogy) column in The Selangor Times", Patrick informed the crowd and urged people, the Selangorians in particular, to pick up a copy of The Selangor Times as it contains useful news and information on the state.

(Apologies, I wasn't aware of the Selangor Times' existence!)

For a brief moment, Patrick then shed some light on the generation nowadays and laments that his children have also not escaped the compelling grip of modern technology.

"You people here ah, look at the baskets that are full now, I can guarantee half of the books are coming from that side," said Patrick pointing to the Children's book section. He highlighted the fact that most parents are buying books for their children to read, and not reading enough themselves! once again making the crowd laughed out loud.

"There's nothing that can replace reading, not the TV, not the iPad."

"Words generate imagination".

(Nice saying!, but Patrick seems to have forgotten the iPad has e-books stored on it?)

Before ending the session, Patrick talked about his current occupation, which includes: running 2 restaurants, one in PJ and another in KL, being a full-time writer (who also blogs), and at times a working actor in film & TV.

"You can see me soon in In Perfect Harmony, it's the 40th anniversary celebration of The Star, taking place at KLPAC", says Patrick, asking the crowd to Google it if they are interested.

He cheekily asked the crowd to "come and support me lah" before the MC announced the cue for the autograph session.

(No idea why the photo turned out like this! But) That's me talking to Patrick as he signs my book.)

*Curiousplayfan is an avid reader of The Bangsar Boy column and wonders if it is possible for it to be published into a book. Katz Tales and Teohlogy seems to be doing well at any rate:)

Reality check with maid

I don't know why. But it bothers me. Maybe I am too concerned with people, whether or not they give a damn about me. It's always been that way.

Ok, so Mom had rejected her request to buy an iPhone4. But she should know where she stands among us. Right, I know a maid is entitled to human rights, but hey look, even I don't have an iPhone4! Or an iPhone for that matter. It's not like she can't use a regular phone.

But you see, I am kind. It worries me, strangely. So I have been trying to read her poker face. Finally I've had it. I decided to say something to cheer her up. You know, she really is just a young girl like me, just slightly older.

So I offered. "You know, I can copy song from my phone to yours".

Wow, instantly, the mood changed. She smiled.

"Now?"

"Yes, but your phone can only keep 1 song. If you want, you have to choose."

"Only 1 song", I reminded.

"Only 1 song", she repeated.

Then...

"Never mind lah. When I go back, I can copy Cambodian song".

So that was that.

The brief conversation made both of us feel better though. She should have picked up the subtle hint that I care about her, at least.

Well, to be honest, the last thing I want is to have a sulky-faced member in the household. Hence, my motivation:)

And yes, I really love asking people "(Insert name,) Are you ok?"

*Curiousplayfan thinks it's crazy that maids are so expensive (RM12,000 for a maid!, screams the Star headline!) when all they do is carrying out chores. Still, she hates doing chores and feels lucky that she has a maid at home.

Resurrection

Hurray. Back from lovely hometown. Lots of stuff happened while I was away.

1) Niki Cheong resigned from R.AGE, The Star.

2) BRATs camp is ongoing from 1st Sep to 4th Sep.

3) Feeling pressured, just a little, by assignments.

So, I really only care about the first two...

1) The photo of the empty desk evoked a tinge of nostalgia and a little sadness. But by dedicating a whole post to him (Out of The Blue), it made me feel better. Plus, he still tweets, Facebook and blogs occasionally. So it's fine as long as he is still using the social media. Haha. Well, it's not like we know each other personally anyway. Just in passing, in the past, and only for the (insert: precious) two months.

2) This comes back full circle. Powerless, I am only able to stand by and watch. Or spam the BRATs Facebook page. Or read, actually. Next issue will have the BRATs in their moment of fame. I suppose this is a never-ending thing, one workshop after another, three rows in a year, year after year. But it's good to see the great 3 writers having fun. They really are the pillar of strength of R.AGE.

3) Doing summaries, academic essays and academic readings just feel... bland. Expressionless. Doing articles for The Star, at least, has a feel-good vibe to it, even if you are rushing for the deadline.

The motivation level is understandably different when you are writing for the nation's number 1 daily rather than writing a paper solely for your lecturer to mark.

Well, you can't be sure people will read your insignificant article but then seeing it published makes it worth it already. Oh, and the delight of seeing your byline.

In the meantime....

I shall continue my current journey as a degree student!

Out of the blue

Ouch. Nothing hits you harder than the truth. The bizzare truth that is.

It's too sudden! Out of nowhere!

Since I wasn't really a member of the team, I was spared the news and gossips.

My first reaction was shock when I read his blog post.

Ho-hum, that was why he mentioned it was his last CH*** event.

Yeah, he who has the guts to drop everything and gallop off in the sunset. And when he finally made his way to top of the youth ladder too.

He held the coveted post. Leader of the pack. It isn't much, but unbeknown to him, he has inspired young journalists wannabes.

Shallow, I know, but then I couldn't picture it any other way, except this: the alpha-male has abandoned his position.

And then, understanding dawned. For the same reason one of my friends left, the reason stated is he has to. pursue. his. studies.

Hardly surprising, given everyone is flying off overseas nowadays to enter some sort of prestigious university. Sigh. Is it any good for me to stay here? Am I considered to be on par?

For that matter, I don't believe local graduates are any less talented or any less deserving of opportunities than their counterparts who had returned from overseas. I just hope my future employers think so too. Hmm, they couldn't be biased, could they?

Then, I remembered it was London. I remembered all those nice, friendly people then the last time I visited. But considering the recent happenings, he would have to tread with caution.

Finally realization. He has decided! So why am I even questioning his decision? Show a man some respect for his bravery, why don't you.

The boss dictates how his show is run, and if he thinks London is the next destination to set his new chapter for his story/journey, that should be that.

It is final.

So, although reluctantly, the subordinates bid farewell.

(Heck, even the kids who have only really known him for 4 days are touched!)

And whole-heartedly, we wish him all the best.

P.S. It's a free world, there are no rules except your own! ...is what I learned. Thanks again:)