Monday, February 20, 2012

Minding change, changing mind 8:20 PM

Minding change, changing mindAs long as we see a need to know the truth, to understand things as they really are, there is a place in our lives for the Buddha’s teaching. We all need to awaken to true reality, so that, untroubled by greed, hate and delusion, we are able to bring true happiness and security to others, too. The greatest challenge to being a true Buddhist is our own ideas of ourselves. Such self-views are often conditioned by our culture (how we behave and speak as a race), childhood (family conditioning and peer influence), work (which we do most of our able waking life), religion (like going to a missionary school), or simply comparing ourselves to others (like thinking that to be rich and successful are bless­ings from some higher power). Despite such challenges, more and more people of different religions are finding Buddhism more mean­ing­ful and naturally feel it as a part of their lives. We often find something in Buddh­ism, especially its teachings of compassion and forgiveness, very healing. However, if we are very new to Buddhism, we might still be unsure of a lot of things about it. Our understanding of Buddhism might still be weak. There are a number of reasons that we might be weak Buddhists, for example, · We may be infants in Dharma (infants are weak).· We may be sick or diseased (by legalism).· We may be malnourished (from lack of good Dharma).· We may lack exercise (we need fellowship). We might be new to the Buddha’s teaching, like newly arrived in a strange foreign place. Since we are not sure of our directions, we simply follow what others tell us. Even then, we often do not hear the directions clearly, or we often misunder­stand them. We might keep on going in circles, or move farther away from our true des­tin­ation. However, if we are true to ourselves, we will realize that we are lost. But if we keep on moving, we would somehow reach our goal, even if this takes some time. We must go on asking questions about our motives in being religious, and be courag­eous to ques­tion others, especially the preachers and teachers. Infants are also very self-centred or narcissistic: they need to be, because they are helpless, and need to cry for attention to themselves for their own survival. We some­times find Buddhism a good way of getting attention from others. Yet we are not always infants. We can grow out of the craving for self-attention, by really caring for others, which means showing lovingkindness, especially to those close to us and those whom we work with. To best way to grow spiritually, is to be willing and able let go of our old views and past conditionings, even tempo­rarily, and listen to our hearts. There is always some­thing to learn from listening. That is why the Buddha’s saints are called “listeners.” “Sick or diseased” here means that as Buddhists or truth-seekers, we might be too careful so as not make any mistakes in our practice. Or, we fear that we might break any of the precepts. For example, we feel that being a vegetarian is the best way of keeping the first precept, which is actually true in some ways. However, we need to carefully examine the Suttas and related learning for the real reasons and purposes for such conduct. Or, we could be taking the Dharma too literally, word for word, without examining the proper context and meaning behind the words. The problem with taking Buddh­ism, or any religion, at its mere word, is that different people understand the word differ­ently. That is why even in the same religion, there are many sects and groups. This is also true of Buddhism, which is 2600 years old. It has spread into various countries, and changed into many new Buddhisms. We might mistake what are cultural or ethnic to be more important than the actual teaching itself. Or, we are simply shopping for some­thing that suits our pet views or plans. Or, we merely want to be part of a group and be accepted by others. The best reason for learning Buddh­ism is for our own inner peace and true happiness. We might begin learning about Buddhism from books, the internet, or from well known speakers. Everyone has their opinion on Buddhism. Yet Buddhism, like our breath, is a very personal thing. First, it is about keeping our body and speech whole­some: we begin by respecting our body and being harmonious in our communication with others. Next, we should spend some time examining and reflecting on the true teaching of the Buddha himself. This is the best place to begin because it goes right to the point, without the squint of later biases, strange rituals and cultural baggages. These early teachings or the Suttas also give us very clear and simple teachings on mental culti­vation. When we are well informed on the Buddha’s Dharma, we are better prepar­ed to recognize helpful teachings and teachers, and recognize our own weak­nesses before it is too late. As Buddhists, we are our own best teachers. We need to do three basic things for ourselves, and only we can do this ourselves. (1) We need to know our own mind for what it really us: this is the beginning of self-knowing. Notice how quickly our mind thinks and changes its ideas and feelings. Views are change, and meant to change. (2) We need to train our mind to be less lustful, less hateful, less fearful and less deluded. A good way to do this is to constantly reflect that our mind and body are impermanent. Occasionally, simply clear the mind of all ideas and views, and notice how peaceful it is. (3) We need to free our mind by less believing, to more knowing, to most feeling. To simply believe is to walk in the dark. Toknow is to turn on the light and look around. Then, tofeel; to know what is just right to do next. This is called directly knowing. When we emerge from such a personal training, we can think better. This means that our ideas no more control us, but we decide what to do with our ideas. This is a very vital early training that we need. If we neglect this, then our thoughts would seem to take lives of their own, and we begin to believe they are actually real and out there. This is called dementia.[1] Reflection 73Copyright by Piya Tan ©2012

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Is Education Qualifications/results important? 11:07 PM

To a general extent, many layman will respond that it is not that important after all because it all blinds down to attitude and working performance. I agreed to this instint. Many also succeeded without a pior education certificate. In today's world, the hard realities sets up as we are now not living in the older generation, we must agreed that education qualifications is of paramount importance. Because without the mere knowledge, how can one be successful just based on hardwork?

Today is the biggest career fair in NTU. Many companies are displaying the need to engage graduates and undergraduate with the future perspective. Pay scheme always follow the qualification you are holding. Every industry that I came to would ask for your result in the conversations.

Last week, news reported that education minister Mr Heng came to a conclusion that Singaporean lack the drive in doing things after a dialogue session with CEOs. Are Singapore too feasted with results and just results? Time to be realistic and adept to the global world.

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Triggered the past relations where I cherish 8:37 PM

Great disappointment will naturally arise when you try to bond with a degrading level of sentiment being. I recalled taking to a minority of troopers from my platoon during my stint as a platoon commander. I feel to grateful and appreciative having the honour to be their leader.

Just yesterday, my colleague from another department requested to visit my place and I agreed with a number of anonymous people I didn't even know. I was disappointed with the fact that most of them have no values at all. What do I mean by values - action that doesn't seem fine to people. I would not elorbrate it but triggered my memories during my national service in a unit. I believe that one will only understand when they are at the position and that I am at that position now.

Thinking back, I frankly admit that my expectations is rather too high for some to follow. In fact all of them have been such a wonderful people only after I've exposed to an eye opener of yesterday's event. Well, through I feel disappointed, at the same time. I feel treasure to be able to experience something unique and terribying. I now smile to myself of such incident and that all these are actually what it is from the start and I didn't notice it.

My ST LCP Toh Wei Ta and Jimmy Tan suddenly appeared in a blink in my mind and that they are so so much better than anyone I've met. They have the values that I admired and that people like them will be successful in the future. ^^

Monday, January 16, 2012

Fond memories 8:28 PM

I recalled the first day of my enlistment day on 14 Sept 2009, where I reported to CMPB at depot road to join in the parade of affiliation ceremony. Opps I arrived late and my mum accompany me. Thinking that my loved one is beside me, probably nothing bad will happen. Luckily, there is another session for the next batch and don't need to travel to another unit as so coincidence, was posted to CMPB as well. After the ceremony, I was directed to a hall to collect my logistics, that include my no 3 uniform. I was rather happy and unmotivated! Happy in a sense that I don't have to go through the rigeous training. Unmotivated in a sense that there is no accompliament at all.

I started feeling happy and free where enrolled as ASA with OJT (on job training) for the first 2 weeks and there attached to the admin branch for admin work. Life is bored and everyday is just looking forward to go home. After some time, I entirely lost interest in this role. Allow me to share the reasons for upgrading my pes status.

1) With a NSF pay of $420 including the payment of insurance, that is just merely not enough Because that includes my transport and meal cost as CMPB do not have a cook house.
2) There is no sense of achievement and nothing to look forward to
3) As a able body person, I believe in making a difference in people's life
4) All my friends are just mentioning about life in BMT aka puala tekong. I would also like to experience a life of a normal soldier
5) I saw a friend who is an OCT, he came to CMPB for a medical checkup and he was rather sarcastic will he saw me. That is really a motivation to be where he is or even heighter.
6) I believe that I am healthy and physically fit person.

The above summaries my motivation to upgrade my PES status and that also spurs me to work hard in BMT. Wait on for my next blog.

Thursday, January 12, 2012

A little problem about leadership 5:55 PM

This essay below is written by a good friend while commenting on a letter from my peers.


The little problem with leadership


"Beware, so long as you live, of judging men by their outward appearance." Jean de La Fontaine


I’ll dive straight into the substantive of your question. I don’t think that it is a case of either-or. It is a false dichotomy that people put forth on whether playing by the rules cannot be in tandem with earning the respect and popularity amongst your subordinates.

Thus, anyone who tries to tell you that it is not possible probably isn’t well versed with management theories. But that aside, I also have to stress that the demographics of the people whom you are leading makes a substantial difference as to whether you will be able to achieve what is set forth as the expected respect which you plan to earn.

Specifically in this particular case, the people whom you are leading are at best ignorant and at worst – arrogant and conceited. I believe the characterisation is warranted. It is the lack of knowledge that one does not understand what people at the top are thinking and doing. Things are far more complicated than you view them at the bottom. There is realpolitik, there are challenges and KPIs to be met and expectations to fulfil. There are balancing acts that can only be felt if you sit in a conference room and a confluence of decision points that need to be addressed. Conversely, what one sees at the bottom has nothing of this sort. It is the blasé attitude that causes one to achieve what is perhaps a very poor understanding of the grand scheme of events. Furthermore, your subordinates may be challenging the very system which is essential for a seamless process. Granted, there are times when there are faults and there may be shortcomings, but this does not mean that the overall network is flawed. A conscious choice not to take orders or play by the rules will definitely lead to mistakes and consequences. The bearer of the consequence is the leader, and for which he or she must maintain control.

You must not be placed in a situation where you are no longer in control. By that, I characterise lacking control as giving in to whims and fancy of either your peers or subordinates. That is not right. For until they hold the rank and the appointment, they are in no position whatsoever to make snide remarks on your decisions. Of course, this does not mean that you are allowed to abuse the power vested within you to do as you please, but the system makes allowances for that. As should you make allowance for their doubting too, there are appropriate channels to voice grievances and it is the responsibility of the leader to ensure that these feedback channels are kept open. Mutual respect is therefore of significance.

Having dealt with your question, I move on now to some of the points raised in the letter. I shan’t go into much detail on the many praises and commendations which you have received; for I think that it is shown clearly that your intentions are genuine. I suppose they are not questioning your sincerity as they are questioning your methods. Though we shall make the case that some of your methods have proven to be particularly effective – such as, in birthday celebrations, your exemplary conduct and speaking for someone else’s behalf.

Rash decisions and keeping cool is definitely something that all of us can work on. While we do appreciate the candour of your men realising it, I suppose it does show failing in your ability to mask your fears, unpreparedness and perhaps helplessness. For that, I suggest that you train yourself to stay calm under pressure and be able to maintain a level head throughout. For that, perhaps the military is a great place to train in this respect.

As mentioned earlier, the many decisions on choosing the best method varies with circumstances. I stand by your decision to adopt a harsher, albeit more militant, approach to dealing with disciplinary issues. There should be no problem with that. It is a matter of styles and matter of choice. And since you have made it clear, as many of your men can palpably see your ‘do the right thing’ attitude, then clearly, they should know better than to test the system.

You aren’t at the top – anyway. It wouldn’t be fair of them if they place the blame on you that you are in control of everything and yet you choose not to side with them. You side with reason. You side with justice. You side with what is right. It must be made in the clearest of ways that you will not stand for ill-discipline, poor attitude, rebellious characters or lacking standards. Openness must be the order of the day. There are individuals above you for whom you have to answer to, and there are complications that many others do not know. The point on you pulling rank is therefore, rather irrelevant.

We cannot fully explain why others hate us similarly as we are hard pressed to find out why we hate others. This goes for liking someone as well. For that, we have to humbly admit that it is more art than science, and there shows no proven theories which can explain the conundrum of human relations. I disagree strongly with the notion that spending more time with people will breed a closer relationship. It does not always work this way, and a leader need not always be on the ground. Many equate an ‘on-the-ground leader’ with the correct form of leadership. This is false. We can choose to be cold and distant for instance, and yet still be effective leaders.

However, being sensitive to others’ views is important. As I stressed on the importance of a liberal education or an open curriculum, being accepting of another’s perspective is essential. I understand that it may prove to be difficult, but we will not go far if we maintain a narrowed viewpoint. It breeds bigotry and intolerance. And that is the last thing we want in any community.

I wish to quote something I wrote for Nicholas more than a year ago.
And the final thing I wish to say is about the military. Some may belittle the military, but we who are engaged in its very foundations know that it is where people stand tall. Although I know that it has many harsh contentions, it is still the arena that sets the heart beating a little faster. If it is, on many occasions, the place of low skulduggery, I believe when we finally do see the big picture, it is also the place for the pursuit of noble causes. We in the business of defense understand that a military matters to a country, and we fight today because we fight for what we believe in. I think it has been mentioned many a times that I believe in freedom, and we fight for freedom daily no less when we remain in the armed forces. Despite you and I feeling jaded at times, let us attempt to keep the macro perspective in mind.

And I applaud you for taking in comments and criticisms. And on that final note, I will share with you Rudyard Kipling.

IF you can keep your head when all about you Are losing theirs and blaming it on you,If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you,But make allowance for their doubting too;If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,Or being lied about, don't deal in lies,Or being hated, don't give way to hating,And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise:
If you can dream - and not make dreams your master;If you can think - and not make thoughts your aim;If you can meet with Triumph and DisasterAnd treat those two impostors just the same;If you can bear to hear the truth you've spokenTwisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,And stoop and build 'em up with worn-out tools:
If you can make one heap of all your winnings And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss,And lose, and start again at your beginningsAnd never breathe a word about your loss;If you can force your heart and nerve and sinewTo serve your turn long after they are gone,And so hold on when there is nothing in youExcept the Will which says to them: 'Hold on!'
If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,' Or walk with Kings - nor lose the common touch,if neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you,If all men count with you, but none too much;If you can fill the unforgiving minuteWith sixty seconds' worth of distance run,Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it,And - which is more - you'll be a Man, my son!

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Happy ORD 8:36 PM

Thursday, November 10, 2011

Exams 8:07 PM

Exams are coming! It is just in a slip of time and that will be in 1 week time. I hope everything is alright for everyone. The culture change is more of a dorm for polytechnic students however, if you are consistent in your everyday life, it shouldn't be a problem.

While I am studying, I suddenly recalled about my stint in my ocs days as a cadet. As a cadets going through rigorous training and attain the honour at the end of the day is fulfilling. However, it is exchange with much blood, sweat and tears. Going through 2 overseas training is enriching at the same time much unbearable. I can recalled that my parents accompany me from home to airport and the return trip as well. Their words of encouragement is like a source of energy and motivation to complete whatever comes my way. I missed that feeling at the point of time and place.

I will be serving my remaining stint back in my unit in the holidays. I do not know why but look forward to it. Probably because I got a sense of belonging? I think I'm insane!^^ I always believe in doing the right thing and I'm rather disappointed when others misled or misunderstand my concern. Thus, in today's world, we really need to clarify the rationale and intention in everything you are doing.

To end this, I hope and wish everyone taking the examination a fruitful one and pass with flying colours.

Sunday, October 30, 2011

Is money the root of all evil? 11:19 PM

Is money the root of all evil? I believe this has been debated at all times since we were young. I wish I can say that to a certain extend however in reality, we all must agreed that it is indeed the root of all evil. Why do I say so?

Having live for more than 23 years in this earth, I have seem many valuable and insightful scenes. When money is concerned, it will automatically shown a person's true colour. I can recall an true incident that when someone is in trouble because he/she is in debt, the relatives only mind their own business. I was surprised but to accept the harsh realities of the hard truth.

Another incident where my friend borrow some amount of money and until today, he did not bother to return despite the repeated callings. What does this shows? Money can really harm the friendships and kinships. As far as I am concerned, I try to salvage this issue or sometimes avoid the chapter.

One incident took place when I was in my secondary school. It was coming to a year end and these group of friends decided to come out with a celebration in a chalet. One suggested for one to book a place first and then split the cost equally among ourselves. But no one came forward to do the paying job and it came to me, I pushed it off. Why do I do so? Because I believe that if everyone is interested, then everyone should have come together to foot the bill. Am I right to say? So when I asked this question, what a reply I got is that not everyone have the capital to do so. Haiz, so if that is the case then why don't we wait for the amount the come in and get the action done? Well money is an sensitive issue you see but I must say that it still depends on individual. You may not agreed with what I am saying now is because you have not experience it before. In the end, the person who came up with the amount suffered losses because not everyone had paid the amount.Disappointed with all these stories? Of course I am! We just have to move on in life.

In my tertiary education days, I have also seems some person like that. This will easily differentiate between the character of the person. In addition, it seems very interesting because without my knowing, most of my other friends also realised it. So always remember. If you take care of your character and moral values, everything else is being taken care of!

However, this does not happen to me and my family members and I just hope it will not ever happen.

Sunday, October 23, 2011

What does this mean to u? 8:23 PM

A clever person watches others, but he watches with wisdom, not with ignorance. if one watches with wisdom, one can learn much. But if one watches with ignorance, one can only find faults- No Ajahn Chah - Reflection 135

Saturday, October 22, 2011

Personal 9:12 PM

This is rather personal and I've decided to write it down in words because I believe in conveying it to anyone on this anonymous sentient being of mine. It is also rather abstract to explain the every detail and idealism behind it.

Those are the days which had the most impact of my life had gone thus far,
I believe it will never happen again but the feeling is still immense.
I know that it is just a matter of time,
And I really doubt your sincerity.
A man/leader must be able to put it up at the same time, able to put it down,
For that, I must try to conquer!
For everything that still remains currently,
I just hope that it will remains forever.

Friends 12:06 AM

I got an uneasy feeling when meeting up with my best poly mates. Probably because it seems and deemed that it's takes some frequency since the last meetup. As I told them, I was rather elated with this session on the other hand, after session which seemed like short bus ride, I felt uncomfortable because good times is going to end - just like coming back from a great holiday.

I was rather guilty of being oblivious of the past happenings. However, it is really a good time to catch up. Well students are just students! We started to chat about studies which I dread to talk about because it just remind me about the stress and the many catch up to do.

I shared that for friends to meet up whether regularly or occasionally, there are 2 conditions. I used the word condition because it is that that bonds people together.
1) Friends willing to meet up are people who have been through the good and bad, thick and thin times together.
2) Second is where people have a specific date(s) in a year (times) where they had agreed to have a session and hopefully, it became a routine.

Monday, October 17, 2011

Women fashion week 2011 1:00 AM

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

The purpose of it 10:14 PM

Today I've attended a Dharma class on stress in university, "a way forward". I've decided to attend this class but because I am really stress but I felt that Dharma is something spiritual that directly and indirectly affect the way we think and feel.

Allow me to describle the speaker who is a vunerable, age about 30++, who has lot's of humour and definately a wise person. He keeps you thinking by asking you question when you asked a question. Wait a minute! He started asking question and how can he address you and started to ask for my name as well. As expected, after replying my name, he asked whether am I local. Do I do as if I am not local? Well I guess that it is the way I present myself.

I've learnt 3 things to contain stress.
1) Know yourself, know your calibra
2) Are u able to reach a certain level
3) How can you do so.

Initially, I am very concern about studies as I've received my quiz result and it didn't turn out to be good and demoralising. But after his speech, I felt relieved. It is sometimes unusual to feel relieved or calm when you didn't do well in the things you are expected to do well. However, he said, when you are worried about the result or the outcome, it shows that you did not put in the best effort. Very true isn't it? Whatever the outcome is, the utter most important is that the best effort must be put it and there is no need to feel worried because it will not solve the problem.

Another value lesson I've learnt is how to let go things? Very simple. It is because you are too free. Why are you so concern about the things that there is no hope and not focus on the present state? You just have to do it, forget about the incident and move on (forward). It really set me thinking about the past where we regret the things we know we have to do and not doing it until the last end. Always remember that if the things is not done because of procastination, it will general lead to a bigger problem.

I would like to end this by saying we need to know the purpose of life. What exactly are our priorities? For that I hope will set you thinking if not we are like in a maze wasting time finding the way out for the purpose.

May all merits be shared and attained by sentient beings!

Friday, October 7, 2011

In Praise of your Commissioned Officer 12:44 PM

This is actually written by my BMT mate Bryan Chow currently a first year student in the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, NUS. I met Bryan on the first day of Basic Military training and was impressed by his level of literacy and speech. In your free time, we usually engaged ourselves on debating on current issues and setiments being rights. That was the time it actually inspired me to read up and get into the real reality world. The below is an essay written by him on the last day of my service before disruption in CTAB.


30 July 2011

To your Second Lieutenant Kennedy Boh

IN PRAISE OF YOUR COMMISSIONED OFFICER

I write this often enough.

Perhaps not as often as I would like to, but still, considering that my essay writing skills have been perhaps honed consistently by my writing, I belong to an age where I believe that writing is of the singular and highest of methods in the conveyance of messages and information.

Thus, please pardon me as I begin writing this letter, which is very much in praise of your commissioned officer. It is my sincere hope that you will read this and perhaps it will allow you to humanise Kennedy and to allow you to understand your officer at CTAB Security which has just recently completed a term of service with the Singapore Armed Forces at the conclusion of this month.

Blaise Pascal is famous for many things. Of which the French polymath has been credited with included the scientific method and the tabular presentation for binomial coefficients. But far from his contribution to science and technology, Pascal once remarked, “Can anything be stupider than that a man has the right to kill me because he lives on the other side of a river and his ruler has a quarrel with mine, though I have not quarrelled with him?”

You see, patriotism is a very scary word. Of which philosophers over the centuries and intelligentsia across the world have easily manipulated it to sometimes be something which it is not. Sacrifice though, is often considered the pinnacle of patriotism. In a postmodern world today, it seems almost hilarious that many would forget about this. It seems ludicrous to many that conscription and service in the military is still being impressed upon.

I first met your Second Lieutenant Kennedy on my first day in Basic Military Training at Kestrel Company. This fateful day was memorable on so many different fronts. Yet one of which on that hot and dry morning in December 2009 was perhaps the fact that I met Kennedy in my section bunk. This was the start of seventeen weeks of training with him. Sounding confident and assuring on the very first day, he quickly allayed my fears and immediately told my section what we were to expect in the coming days and months ahead.

You see, the fact that Kennedy was arguably more knowledgeable than any of his fellow section mates was because he was serving his National Service prior to this already. He was doing administrative work at the Central Manpower Base before changing his Physical Employment Status (PES) so that he could attend the Enhanced Basic Military Training in hopes of admission to the Officer Cadet School. His ultimate aim therefore, was to earn his commission and attain his rank. The tenacity and gumption which Kennedy has shown even prior to the start of training was particularly striking for me. And this is something which I believe you observe clearly enough in your day to day dealings with him.
Throughout the entire phase of training, Kennedy displayed wherewithal, perseverance and tireless dedication to his work and attitude. I shall not mention the complete details of him being my section mate, but I wish to highlight three characteristics which I see in Kennedy. I choose to highlight them because they are unique and you probably will not be able to find them elsewhere in many other people.

1. Willingness to learn

I must say that the start of my National Service was also the end of my time in junior college where I have completed my GCE A Levels no less than ten days prior to my enlistment date. The student mentality is perhaps something which was still very much present within me as I fell in and had a water parade for the first time. Amongst other things, I was still of the opinion that academic success and academic pedigree was of paramount importance above all else.

During sessions after sessions, debates and discussions on current affairs, news, economic development, political changes as well as social issues both within and outside of Singapore have been the hallmark of our free time. Whatever spare time we have in the bunk, it is often used to discuss the latest United States central bank policy or the state of Singapore social developments. Despite his initial lack of hard knowledge and understanding in many things, Kennedy never tried to distance himself from the conversations.

He took time to listen, take down notes and judiciously added points of his own during the discussions to better his understanding of Singapore and global affairs. He never failed to impress me with his ever willingness to learn and to be updated on the schools of philosophical thought and latest theories. This is important within that of a leader, and the SAF needs people like him because the commitment which he has shown to lifelong learning is more essential to the workings than just simple facts and figures.

What was supposed to be an attempt to safeguard our brains from mental stagnation has turned, for Kennedy, into a learning opportunity.

2. Listening ear

To listen well, is as powerful a means of influence as to talk well, and is as essential to all true conversation. Not many orators or speakers around the world are good listeners. In my opinion, the skill of being able to listen is far more important than the ability to complete a task or to convey a message. Kennedy has shown me his ability to listen to opinions, listen to facts and listen to the points of view of others.

This is a result of his respect for every single individual. For without respect, one would not be bothered to actually listen to what he or she wishes to say. From hearing the section’s and my grouses about the tiring training regime to the complaints over the many minor things in life which irk us to no end, Kennedy has shown that he is able to listen. As to whether or not he is able to solve a problem we have is immaterial to the argument. But I believe that we are all for the better having known that there is someone, somewhere who will listen to us as long as we seek him out.

I have no doubt that this side of Kennedy has been pronounced enough for it to be evident for you too. For having worked under him for such a long time, I am sure as his colleagues, all of you will have seen the fact that Kennedy spares no effort in trying to lighten your burden and to make the entire environment a more pleasant place to work in. I have no qualms about him being able to seek for views and canvass for opinions from his subordinates.

3. Change and Irony

I remember vividly that I once mentioned to Kennedy that the single biggest compliment I can receive at the conclusion of my National Service term would be for someone to tell me that I have not changed one bit since the very first day of my enlistment. He replied, rather coolly during our second book-out that it would be impossible not to have been changed by the whole process.

In my self-righteous attitude, I stood by what I said until the dying weeks of my Basic Military Training. Events unfolded during the last few weeks of my training which has caused me to rethink my proposition. At the conclusion of it during my Graduation Parade, I have to concur that Kennedy is right and that I have indeed been changed by the very system which I sought to be resistant to.

Irony, perhaps? Not as much as Kennedy’s ability to be able to see things which have still not come to pass. He has reminded me that sometimes change has to happen and that instead of fighting it, we need to embrace it for what it is and what it holds. We need to look upon it for what it can do and not what it destroys. And that is as important a lesson for me, as it must definitely be for you. It is often easy to forget while we are in the middle of the jungle to ask why we are doing this. It is simple enough to cast aside our desire for success when we are faced with momentary pain and momentary discomfort.

I do not see such flaws in Kennedy’s character. I do not find such poor attitudes residing within Kennedy. He is an epitome of what it means to be worthy of carrying the commission and the appointment for him to command and control.


Thus, I write this letter so that you can understand the circumstances which have made Kennedy who he is today. I am very proud that he managed to achieve all that he has set out to attain in National Service since I met him on the first day. As he begins his studies at the Nanyang Technological University, I wish him every success and my very best wishes.

As his first group of section mates, I daresay that Kennedy enjoyed himself very much throughout his period of working alongside us. In fact, he probably is very proud of the fact that he has had the worthwhile opportunity to meet us all.

And therefore, perhaps the salutation at the start of this letter is inaccurate. He is your Second Lieutenant as much as I am proud to call him mine.


Bryan Chow

Education 10:51 AM

The topic on increasing the number of unversity places in Singapore have been a hot spot after an announcement by Singapore Prime minister that unversity places will be increased by 2000 places and all will be given to Singaporeans. In today's strait times article by education minister, Mr Heng on unversity's places, it talk about an alternative way of route where students can't have a place in the local university for example private places like the Singapore Institute of Management Unversity ranking and research also topped the strait times. For example, in today's news as well, NUS fell in ranking, where NTU moves up 5 places by Higher times magazine. Last month, the release of the QS result, ranks NTU 58 place in the world university, which had an improvement of 16 places compare to the previous year. The honour also goes to NUS which had improve as well. Dean of college enginnering of NTU is also featured in the life section in the strait times on why she decided to come to NTU. Yesterday news on NTU going to be the furst to invent to smart robort that is first in the world, shows that NTU had move to a research base university.


So much so on our local university, higher education in Singapore such as private university namely SIM, MDIS and PSB have also been doing well. I am proud of my good friend who will be graduating with a first class honours in April 2012 from PSB in Electrical engineering. This is so in line with the education minister speech that mention that there are actually other routes if one is willing to put in the effort.

A sharing with a friend on Thursday 6 October, also allows me to have an insight on the differences in mindset of polys and JC students. Both have their interesting side but I believe that we just need to be responsible on our decisions would it affect us in the future. Last but not least, I believe success is not gain just by luck, but sheer hardwork and determination.

Sunday, March 21, 2010

5:44 PM

Sunday, March 14, 2010

12:02 PM

At last, I've finished all my high keys events and here it comes again the physical stress.

First of all, I would like to congratulate all the personnel who had passed out from their sispec and attain the rank of third sergeant especially my good friend, he is an honour graduate in ASLC. Full of envy and to be frank a little of jealousy!! ^^ (haha)

In life, I believe in hardwork. When you want to achieve something, hardwork is inevitable. But I've learnt a phase some year back from a tv comedian "When you want to succeed, hardwork is inevitable but doesn't mean you would succeed." This is so truely applied to some of many people which I've seen the hardwork put in and the result is disappointing. Why is this so? Just inexplicable. This is just life.

Humans are a weird and greedy mammals kind. No matter how much you have achieve, sentiments will never be contended. How much achievement is enough? Where the line is drawn? Whether is it on academic, job satisafaction, masterialise and so on. Always remember do it upon your limits and never compare with other (which i like to compare everytime -__-) but step out of your own shoes and look around your peers. What others have probably you don't have but vice verse what you are other don't have as well. That I believe would bring us into the real reality of what exactly we want.

Sunday, March 7, 2010

A new revolution 2010 5:14 PM

Sunday, November 1, 2009

10:47 AM

Sunday, October 18, 2009

12:36 AM

Times have changed! We are not living in the past where our fates are control. People are always changing. And this few moments, i have learnt a lot from all my good friends. Well, sadly to say i really miss those times.

Today NP EE is in newspaper again. EE project "smart bed" had been recogise and it from our project group PLD.

Happy deepavali to all. Today Hari invited us to her place and they ar all talking about NS non stop and in the end, we are playing monopoly and as usual, i'm the loudest over there and we had a great time. Dinner at bukit timah plaze and then we went to play pool.

Suddenly thinking of going to pub, so we just went there for a drink.

Sunday, October 4, 2009

8:42 AM

Just to share some photos with the kids in my ex workplace. Not to mention I miss those days with them. Well their final exams are coming, Wishing them all the best.

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

7:29 PM

Time really flies ar!!! Have been posted to cmpb for quite some time and i still can't use to the timing as i need to wake up at 6 everyday. Not forgetting leisure, I've watch some movie - gamer, alian in the attir, the ugly truth ............. and done lots of shopping. Celebrate my good friend birthday as well.

My working environment is actually an enjoyable place and people there are funny and i can't stop laughing cos it's damn lots of nonsense la!!! Had been posted to many department for training and saw many friends as well. OMG the most coincidence thing is i saw OJK (secondary friend) at MMI!

Many things i had seen and been through that actually changed my view in almost everything. Things are always unpredicted and different people had different point of view but always laugh and be happy that is the most important in life i believe.

Guitar!!! Had not been touching so often when gx went into tekong. But still when i'm free will still be playing. And of course not forgetting my business plan, we plan to do it 15 years later, too early to say now but we need to start now.

Reading had recently been my hobby especially the principal of economics book and just a minute ago, my ex boss called and told me tat my student's dad had just passed away from heart attack and the child is so young. Poor thing rite. Well as i say life is very unpredicable de.

A phrase i wrote to my teacher just to share:

The precious moments i've learnt from u, I would never forget!!