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Why I Am A Baptist By Clarence Larkin
ISBN-10: n/a
ISBN-13: n/a
Publisher: Rev. Clarence Larkin Estate
Dates: October 1902, Reprinted 1991
Binding: Paperback
Pages: 54
Colors: Blue and White
Actual Weight: 2 ounces
Size: Length x Width x Height: 7.5″ x 5.25″ x .1″
Description:Why I Am A Baptist grew from the author's desire to place a comprehensive work in the hands of young converts and those desiring to know the distinctive principles of the Baptists. It is a compilation of facts and the arguments of others, which the author culled from numerous sources after careful and voluminous reading. – Why I Am A Baptist


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Problems with design pattern "Singleton" (3 messages)
The use of the design pattern "Singleton" is very common and the common implementation is using a static reference. However, according to Guy Korland, the problem with this implementation is that many times it leaves "floating garbage that is not in use." As a better solution, Joshua ben Jore has introduced WeakSingleton. This extention cleans the instance when all other references to the original instance have expired.
- Posted by: Regina Lynch
- Posted on: July 28 2006 11:25 EDT
Threaded Messages (3)
- Singleton Pattern's possible pitfalls by Swapnil Jagtap on August 09 2006 05:30 EDT
- Warning: Not threadsafe by James Watson on September 11 2006 11:27 EDT
- Warning: Not threadsafe by A C on June 19 2010 01:27 EDT
Singleton Pattern's possible pitfalls[ Go to top ]
Singleton is a commonly (mis) used design pattern. Users of this pattern should be aware of the scope & lifecycle control of the singleton object. Singleton could be at various scope levels. 1. Singleton object within a operating system environment or JVM. 2. Singleton object across clustered environments. It may not be considered singleton from application's perspective. 3. Singleton in a multi-threaded application. It should be thread safe for which programming Idioms are available.
- Posted by: Swapnil Jagtap
- Posted on: August 09 2006 05:30 EDT
- in response to Regina Lynch
Warning: Not threadsafe[ Go to top ]
The code given is not threadsafe and using volatile with 1.5 may not solve the problem.
- Posted by: James Watson
- Posted on: September 11 2006 11:27 EDT
- in response to Regina Lynch
Warning: Not threadsafe[ Go to top ]
- Posted by: A C
- Posted on: June 19 2010 01:27 EDT
- in response to James Watson
Why is the above code not threadsafe? why do u think using volatile with 1.5 not solve problems?
do u think a local variable should be used to create an instance and assign this vraiable to the other private variable?

subset: commoncrawl


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Wednesday, June 27, 2012
vintage garden gnomes...found!
I love Derbyshire and the Peak District, the rolling green hills and the history. Oh, and Chatsworth House! Not that I had time to visit Chatsworth, I was too busy trying to find more of the unusual and fabulous. And look what I found! Not one but two of these early 20th century gnomes.
I am not if these poor little gnomes know exactly what adventure awaits them...
5 comments:
Owwwww they are so cute....love Ria...xxx...ReplyDelete
Hi I'm Heather! Please email me when you get a chance! I have a question about your blog. HeatherVonsj(at)gmail(dot)comReplyDelete
They are rather cute in their own little way - will they be coming over to Tassie?! XReplyDelete
Yes, there journey will include travelling the high seas to Tassie!ReplyDelete
- Janine MarshallJuly 2, 2012 at 10:23 AM
Hi Tammy,ReplyDelete
I hope you are enjoying seeing all the beautiful things in your travels! What a great time to be in England.
From your last post I really loved the drum (wish my son was younger I would be so tempted to buy it for him) and I always love linen. I also really, really loved the ice-cream containers, very unusual.
Hope you are travelling well and look forward to your next post.
Take care
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)


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Tel: 214-329-9528 / 214-862-7298
Motel / Hotel Bedspreads are made with quality fabrics and manufactured under high standard quality control. The bedspread patterns list below are the most popular items that our customers order and we keep inventory in our warehouse regularly. We have a variety of pattern selection for customer order only. see more in Custom Bedspread Pattern and New Pattern Preview
|PB203-1 (Color: Maroon)
|PB203-3 (Color: Green)
|PB202-1 (Color: Blue)
|PB205-1 (Color: Multicolor)
|PB508-1 (Color: Brown)
|PB221-2 (Color: Blue)
|PB221-3 (Color: Green)


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Got your chef's hat set? What about the pots and pans? Well, it's official folks – SinoVision has partnered with the International Culinary Center (ICC) to produce the network's first cooking show, Asian Kitchen, a 12-episode series featuring chefs who graduated from the renowned cooking school headquartered in Soho, New York. The talents – all rising stars in New York City and graduates of either ICC's Culinary or Pastry programs within the past 14 years – share their interpretations and influences of Asian cuisine for American audiences, including cooking demos and tips. Think of it as a one on one crash course with some of the hottest chefs around. The simple and unique recipes they will share are enjoyed by thousands of New Yorkers at their local restaurants, and now they're going to be all yours.
Asian Kitchen will premiere Saturday November 15 at 7 PM on both NYC Channel 73 and WMBC Channel 63.3 as well as Sunday November 16 at 7 PM on WMBC Channel 63.4.
The show is being hosted by Christie Clements and Tian Zhu and will feature the following talents:
- Chaz Brown, Executive Chef of Seoul Chicken and Seoul Noodle, NYC, creates Asia-meets-Dixie cuisine
- Eton Chan, Founder of Eton's Dumplings and Sous Chef at Facebook, NYC, specializes in dumplings, buns and hand-pulled noodles
- Christina Lee, Pastry Chef of Recette and The Gander, NYC, draws her inspiration from modern art
- Ben Pope, Executive Chef and Partner of 2duckgoose, Brooklyn, NY, where the Hong Kong native brings a European twist to classic Cantonese dishes
- Suchanan Aksornnan (also known as Chef Bao Bao), Executive Chef of Baoburg, Brooklyn, NY, adds Spanish and Asian influences to French cuisine
- Kee Ling Tong, Chocolatier and Owner of Kee's Chocolates, NYC, makes chocolates flavored with seasonal ingredients
- Jonathan Wu, Executive Chef and Partner of Fung Tu, NYC, is known for his creative, personal Chinese-American food
More About the International Culinary Center
Founded as The French Culinary Institute in 1984, the International Culinary Center (ICC) is the global expert in professional culinary and wine education, with programs in New York and California. The renowned six-month Total Immersion program has produced other talents as Bobby Flay, David Chang, Dan Barber, Hooni Kim, Christina Tosi and 15,000 more under the guidance of deans including Jacques Pepin and Jacques Torres. Awarded the International Association of Culinary Professionals' "Culinary School of Excellence" for its career programs—the industry's top honor—since 2010, ICC provides students with the credentials, confidence and connections to chart a successful career anywhere in the world. The White House announced ICC, along with the James Beard Foundation, will imagine and build the USA Pavilion at the World EXPO in Milan in 2015.


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President Barack Obama will focus on job creation during his three-day trip, which takes in Minnesota, Iowa and Illinois.
He said he will put "a very specific plan to boost the economy, to create jobs and to control [the] deficit" before Congress when it returns from summer recess and challenged lawmakers to take action.
"Hopefully when they come back in September, they're going to have a wake-up call that says we need to move the country forward," said Mr Obama.
The President's plan for economic growth includes extending a payroll tax cut, finalising free-trade pacts and promoting infrastructure projects to create construction jobs.
With US unemployment mired at just above nine per cent, Mr Obama is trying to distance himself from public anger caused by the US's faltering economy.
Jobs are expected to be the central issue for voters in next year's presidential and congressional elections.
However, Mr Obama's hands are tied by a divided Congress, where Republicans oppose any significant spending measures to stimulate growth.


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Designers David Davidson, Ray Hudson the SANBI team, staff and volunteers had been on tenterhooks since Sunday night, when all the finishing touches to the exhibit were complete and it was ready for judging and a visit by Queen Elizabeth who tours the exhibits after the judges have made their decision.
"The waiting is so difficult," said Lihle Dlamini, SANBI's Director of Marketing and Communication, who is part of the team at the show. "But this makes all the hard work worthwhile. We are so proud to be receiving another gold medal as well as the President's Award for South Africa. It is just fantastic!"
The euphoric designers, David Davidson and Raymond Hudson, said that receiving the President's Award was beyond their wildest dreams. They could not stress enough that this win was a team effort and it would not have come together without the help of the wonderful group of SANBI staff and volunteers.
With its theme Windows on Biodiversity, the circular exhibit with its stunning backdrop of Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden and Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden is a rich and varied voyage of discovery.
On display are plants that represent all ten of South Africa's National Botanical Gardens: Free State, Hantam, Harold Porter, Karoo Desert, Kirstenbosch, Kwelera, Lowveld, KwaZulu-Natal, Pretoria and Walter Sisulu.
"The richness of our biodiversity is one of South Africa's greatest natural assets," said Dr Tanya Abrahamse, SANBI CEO. "South Africa is home to nearly 10% of the world's plants and contains three regions that have been declared global biodiversity hotspots, so it is fitting that we celebrate this heritage this year at Chelsea."
SANBI CEO Tanya Abrahamse had high praise for the team. "They have given of their best, and can be very proud of their success. I am so grateful to be completing my tenure as CEO on such a high note."
A win at Chelsea has a far-reaching effect. The SANBI stand is one of the "must-see" attractions of the Chelsea Flower Show, drawing many of the over 150 000 visitors to the grounds of the Royal Hospital over the five days of the event.
"Once again the important role that botanical gardens play in contributing to the country's tourism statistics is underscored," Dlamini said. "Our exhibit provides a snapshot to the country's botanical heritage and many people decide to visit our country after seeing what we have on offer here."
As always, the success of the stand depends on the enthusiastic team of volunteers who join the designers and SANBI representatives in ensuring that our display is perfect in every way. This year the SANBI team will include Lihle Dlamini, Lufuno Nenungwi, Mashudu Nndanduleni and Felicity Poole.


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Register: online or by mail form Preregister by September 9, 2019
Costs: (includes seminar, breakfast, lunch, and a networking reception) Section Member Seminar Registration–$75; Section Student Member Seminar Registration–FREE*; Non-section Student Member Seminar Registration–$20*; All other seminar registrants–$125;
Section Annual Meeting (does not include seminar, meals, or reception)—FREE *Students must register using their law school email address.
Limited onsite registration available—for a $30 fee in addition to seminar cost.
As in previous years, this promises to be an educational and entertaining event. The cost of the seminar includes a light breakfast, lunch, and a complimentary cocktail reception. The annual IT Law Section and council meetings will be held during the luncheon and will include election of the 2019–2020 council members and section officers.
8:00–9:00 a.m. Light Breakfast | 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Seminar (Annual Meeting during lunch) | 4:00 p.m. Networking Reception
Moderator: Robert Rothman, Privacy Associates International LLC
9:00 a.m. Welcome & Introductions
9:15 a.m. How to Have a Strong CIO-Attorney Relationship Mark Chuey and Stacy Lynett, General Motors; Phil Bertolini, Deputy County Executive and CIO, Oakland County; Joellen Shortley, Corporation Counsel, Oakland County
10:05 a.m. Liability Limits & Indemnities—Practical & Tactical Perspectives Mark Malven, Dykema; George Kimball, Wiggin and Dana LLP
10:55 a.m. Networking Break
11:10 a.m. Big Data Analytics Jeremiah Posedel, Drinker Biddle
Noon Lunch & Annual Section Meeting
1:15 p.m. Negotiating Security Addenda Kimberley Crouch, General Motors; Brian Balow, Dykema
2:05 p.m. Cyber Security Governance & Best Practices Waleed Haddad, Security Compliance Director, Access Interactive
2:55 p.m. Networking Break
3:10 p.m. You've Got Ransomware or Other Cyber Security Nightmares, Panel Discussion Thomas Doty, Director, NuStrategies LLC; Furney Brown, Senior Manager, Plante Moran; Bill Jobes, Jobes Technology Solutions LLC; Waleed Haddad, Access Interactive
4:00 p.m. Closing Remarks, Prize Drawing, & Networking Reception
Dykema Privacy Associates International LLCTest


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Implementation refers to the actual offering or carrying out of the program. Critical to program implementation is the internal capacity of the organization to deliver the program and the recognition that it may take 6 to 9 months to prepare for implementation.
Addressing program implementation issues
Most issues or problems in implementation occur because of lack of capacity of the organization to deliver a program and/or inadequate preparation of the site for delivery of the program. For successful program implementation, it is important to address a number of issues, including:
- A commitment of ongoing resources to support the program, including staff time and participation.
- Involvement of stakeholders in planning and selection of programs to implement.
- The creation of an implementation task force made up of consumers and stakeholders.
- The identification of resources for extra costs related to the program, e.g., equipment, manuals, recruitment activities, access to needed expertise, re-training of staff, and other incidental needs and materials.
All of this requires a strong commitment by the organization to fully implement the program with integrity to its original design (fidelity). It is also important to think about what action is required to make the program sustainable over time so that your time and effort are well spent.
Resources to help with program implementation
A Road Map to Implementing Evidence-Based Programs
This course provides guidance to facilitate selection and implementation of evidence-based programs related to prevention and treatment. You will learn how to select the program that best matches your organization's needs and carry out the steps necessary to implement the program you choose.
Implementing and Adapting Evidence-Based Programs
This website provides information, tools, and supports to improve the quality and outcomes of evidence-based interventions funded through federal investments.


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See adjusted dates below due to the COVID-19 Virus
Spring 2020 Fencing
Class Name: Fencing
Tentative Dates: Wednesdays, April 15, 22, 29; May 6, 13, 20, 27; June 3
- Grades 3-5: 6:00-7:00
- Grades 6-8: 7:00-8:00
Hourly Classroom Time: 1 hour
Weeks of Program: 8 weeks
Location: Summit Community Center, 100 Morris Ave, Summit, NJ
Course Description: Fencing is one of the top scholarship sports in the country and can greatly increase a kid's chance of getting into the country's top schools. Fencing provides an extra opportunity for kid's to stand out in the college admissions process. Many of the Ivy League schools have major fencing programs and are always recruiting new members. Most fencers are intelligent and creative and apply those qualities to help them excel in the sport. Many of the top fencers also get the opportunity to travel the world as many of the international competitions are held in Europe, Asia and South America.
Come try the 8-week program with Coach Nick and give your children an advantage in the college admission process. Your child will also be challenged mentally and physically to grow that will help them in all other areas of life. Whether you are looking to be introduced to the sport or take the sport to the next level, Coach Nick will help you reach your goals
About Coach Nick:
Nick Vomero holds a B.S. and M.S. degree from St. John's University, where he became a 3x All-American in Men's Epee. Nick is a veteran of the United Stated Men's Epee World Cup team and is a Division-1 NAC Senior National Champion. His other results include a top 8 finish at the World University Games, multiple top 64 finishes in Senior World Cups and Senior Grand Prix's and multiple top finishes at Divion-1 NAC's. Nick has many years of coaching experience at various different clubs around the NYC area."


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My Slutty and Hot Sister Nina – Part 2
When my hot sister told me that she did not want to go to the college, I took her to a lonely park where she seduced me and we had our outdoor sex.
When my hot sister told me that she did not want to go to the college, I took her to a lonely park where she seduced me and we had our outdoor sex.
The erotic experience with the sexy housewife who became addicted to my sexual skills and made me bang her for a long time to have multiple orgasms.
The real sex experience of me seducing my hot aunty with the late night texts and banged her one day which made her release her orgasm.
This is the story about the sexual encounter of my girlfriend's parents. She started to masturbate as she told me everything and had a sex chat.
My erotic expereince with a sexy housewife I met in Mumbai. She wanted my erotic massage and came three times during the course.
This sex story is about how I made use of the opportunity when my crush's boyfriend cheated on her and I broke her virginity while having a passionate sex.
This sex experience is about how I managed to have both of my sister in laws in the bed and convinced them to have a threesome sex with me.
The hot sex adventure I had with my gym buddy who is a married woman. After a short time relationship, she agreed to have a hardcore sex with me.
This story is about the hot and erotic hotel sex I had for the first time. Seeing me naked, the hotel maid invites her self in for a quickie.
Jab maine part time job dhundraha tha, tho iss hot aunty ke ghar pe naukri karne gaya. Ek din subah, aunty ne mujhe nanga dheki aur hum sex karna shuru kye.


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Viewing: Home > Finest Home-Made Black Pudding> Five-Slices-Of-Award-Winning-Nidderdale-Yorkshire-Black-Pudding
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- Outer: Windproof soft shell. Inner: Fur lining
- Velcro design for windproof cuff and hood, and drawcord at botton to adjust fit
- Suitable for camping, hiking, skiing, climbing, outing and biking (in Winter)
- Breathable lining, 3 waterproof zipping pockets and detachable warm hood brim
- Made of high-quality fabric, warm, windproof, ultraviolet-proof, stain-resistant, scratch resistant and durable
The super quality jacket made by WALK-LEADER is a must-have for outdoor adventure in variable weather conditions. They're crafted with high class technological sprinkle-proof material and can protect you from the cold weather. The best chice for outdoor sport wear. The best gift for your your family or friends


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James R. Aldrich, Lee A. Casebere and Helene Starcs—The Discovery of Native Rare Vascular Plants in Northern Indiana
Roxane A. Dupuis and Richard Jensen—A Preliminary Survey of Phenolic Compounds in Sympatric Populations of Quercus shumardii and Q. rubra in Northern Indiana
J.F. Hennen, R.M. Lopez-F and M.M. Hennen—Rust Species Diversity in Temperate and Tropical Regions in the Americas
Michael A. Homoya—Additions to the Flora of Indiana: II
Richard J. Jensen and Roxane A. Dupuis—Assessing Variation in Mixed Oak Communities: Evaluation of Multivariate Analyses of Morphological Data
R.C. Mehra, D. Fisher, S. Brekrus, S. Alwine, J. Palbykin and M.G. Butler— Linear Differentiation of Alluim cepa, Lens culinaris and Vicia faba Chromosomes
Paul E. Rothrock—Vascular Flora of Grant County, Indiana: Additions and Comments
Rebecca A. Strait and Marion T. Jackson—Pre-burning Floral Inventory of Little Bluestem Prairie, Vigo County, Indiana


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The Witch and the Hundred Knight: Knight B Avatar
NIS America Inc.
More for The Witch and the Hundred Knight
Explore more games and downloadable content for The Witch and the Hundred Knight!
The Swamp Witch Metallia summons you, the Hundred Knight, to do her bidding in this dark fantasy action RPG. Travel around the world and visit lush, gorgeous lands as you fight anything in your way, be they innocent or wicked. Learn the secrets of the witches and help to make your master the undisputed leader of the world by spreading her vile swamp far and wide!
Download this avatar to add to your PlayStation®Network Online ID.
To use this downloaded avatar:
1) Select the ''PSN'' icon on the PlayStation®3 XMB™ Menu and then choose ''Account Management''.
2) Select ''Account Information'' and then choose ''Avatar''.
3) Select ''Premium Avatar'' to access a list of downloaded avatars.
4) Finally, scroll to the avatar that you wish to use and select it.
This item is being licensed or sublicensed to you by Sony Computer Entertainment America and is subject to the Network Terms of Service and User Agreement, this item's use restrictions and other applicable terms located at www.us.playstation.com/support/useragreements. If you do not wish to accept all these terms, do not download this item. This item may be used with up to 2 activated PlayStation®3 systems associated with this Sony Entertainment Network account.
©2013 Nippon Ichi Software, Inc. ©2013-2014 NIS America, Inc. All rights reserved. The Witch and the Hundred Knight is a trademark of Nippon Ichi Software, Inc. Licensed to and published by NIS America, Inc.


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Junior Wakeboarding Session Various dates available, click the Book Now button to see more
Junior Wakeboarding Session
Our Junior sessions are just like our Discover sessions, but for children aged 8+ who can swim 50m. The cable speed is slowed down and there is more child based interaction with the instructors. Start off on your knees, then when you have managed two laps progress to a wakeboard or waterski.


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Wednesday, December 30, 2009
I am..
Sunday, December 27, 2009
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Friday, December 25, 2009
Christmases Past, Present & Future
Perhaps its because I never had any real traditions for Christmas. There were no "must do's" or places that I "had to go" each year. Once we used to have a really big Christmas thingy at my aunt's place (dad's side) when we were younger... the celebrations have toned down some now. I also used to have Christmas lunch with my granny (mum's side) at my aunt's place. Then my aunty and then later her husband passed away and then my granny passed away too. So now there really is no place to go for Christmas lunch. How I wish I could have lunch with my grandparents again. Just one more lunch with ginger beer and her home cooked food and then later a snooze in my granny's room.
I try to spend every Christmas eve night at Midnight mass with the day being spent shopping or just being with family and friends. I guess my mistake is that I never really made my own traditions. I just did what everyone else was doing. It doesn't help that I had several boyfriends and each Christmas there were new things to do with a new family to share the season with. At that time, it felt okay but now looking back... it just seems a tad sad.
Today's mass was pretty good. I loved the magic in the church as the choir sand and the smell of the incense filled the air around us. What I didn't' like was what we did after mass which wasn't really great. I would have rather spent it quietly at home with friends just talking or watching a movie or something. I am turning into a frightful bore. Didn't quite help that my mind was being preoccupied with inflicted annoying thoughts and that the crimson rivers were gurgling along with a mind of its own.
Now, that I am finally at home in the quiet coolness of my room, my mind drifts back to Christmases past. The Christmases that were with my two grannies mostly. I also remember how for a few Christmases I bought myself presents and wrapped them nicely and set up my small tree with its precious few ornaments and laid the presents underneath its sparse green boughs. I later opened the presents and a few others that were given to me alone near the Christmas tree and my Nativity scene which I had made our of an old tissue box in Sunday School. How very far away that Christmas seems - must try to locate that photo of the tree with the pile of presents and my Nativity scene.
Then there was my first Christmas spent in Australia with the Eatons and the other friends that I had made there. We cut our own Christmas tree and decorated it as well as the house with all sorts of Christmasy ornaments. My host mum also made me a personalised Christmas sock which she filled with my very own Boney M Christmas CD, a super sweet mango, chocolates and other treats. We had a hot Christmas as it was summer but we had a bonfire and made smores. We also had a BBQ and had fun just lying on the grass and staring up into the stars.
There were also two Christmases that I acted in church. It was a Christmas cantata it was called and it was held before Midnight mass. I did my first performance when I was 12 and was part of the choir. My second performance was when I was 15 and sporting an awful short mushroomy hair cut. I was one of the 3 Wise Men that went to find the baby Jesus. I had heaps of lines and was super enthusiastic as I skipped around the altar whilst I followed the Star that led me to the manger. I cringe every time I think of the video and my happy skipping, but I miss that... I miss acting in a cantata with a Christmas theme.
I also enjoyed going to Singapore to watch the lights along Orchard. I went 3 times my last time being with B just last week. The hustle and bustle was draining. There were people everywhere but the lights was lovely. All that was missing was snow!
Anyways, it's late. If I pissed off anyone tonight, I sincerely apologise. There is a lot on my mind and I have not been the friendliest of people today but really this Christmas just isn't going my way. I wish that someone would have led me by the hand and planned me a Christmas instead. Well like they always say, when you have lemons, make lemonade or a lemon meringue. I am sure Christmas morning will look brighter and will see my day being filled with activity and even if it isn't, a good lie in or a TV session is pretty okay too I suppose. One should just be glad that they are alive and that they have all these blessings poured upon them.
So here's to all the Christmases that have passed - they were indeed wonderful ones which I will cherish in the days and years to come - the current Christmas I am having - may the day be bright and happy with many things going on which I will enjoy - and to the Christmases to come which will be filled with all the best memories and experiences. May all of us find the joy and magic of Christmas not only during this Christmas season but also throughout the year.
Happy Christmas to all and don't forget the reason for the season *hugsss*
May God bless us abundantly during this Christmas season and may all our hopes, dreams, prayers and wishes come true this year.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Christmas Eve
I can't seem to sleep although I was so tired at B's place.
Perhaps it was the coffee I had with Cats @ Starbucks just now...
Anyways, I love Christmas Eve.
There is always such magic in the air.
Such anticipation.
I pray that this Christmas is an awesome one that I can share with my family and my friends. Am already meeting up with Chris later today as I haven't seen her in a couple of months. I plan to see Shells after Christmas and some other friends before the New Year sets in. I can't wait.
There is of course there is this part of me that misses you still so very much. A part of me that would give anything to have you here with me but such is life. I hope that you are happy wherever you are in this great wide world that you know that I think of you often and I wish you were here with with me all the time. You are missed deeply.
To all my friends, a happy happy and blessed Christmas. May the peace of Christ reign in your hearts today and for all the tomorrows to come.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Sorting and Cleaning
During this process, I found many things which I thought I had lost and I also had a panic attack when I realised that I had too much stuff. It's difficult to part with stuff because you just might need them. Most of these things anyways are for my arts and crafts or for my collections.
Anyways, the packing and the sorting is still underway. There are heaps more stuff to go through. Got stuck at my bedside cabinet or my "memory closet". I took a breather (and then some) going through its contents and throwing away some of the stuff I no longer wanted. I realised that no matter how much time has passed, you can't quite bury the past (sigh!). I also realised that I am so blessed to be loved by some people. There are many people out there who have never felt loved, and I am so truly blessed to have been loved.
I will worry about sorting and cleaning tomorrow or the day after that or the day after that but to be honest, its the Christmas season and I so do not feel like sorting or cleaning. I just want to indulge in the festivities and day dream and just enjoy the holiday :)
Perhaps I will do just that!
Holiday Stories
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Day out with my Pa
It was before a church camp, I recall. I could have been 15. We were at Stage Coach a western food restaurant near church, the same row as the Satelite chicken rice shop. I chicken chop and chocolate ice and maybe even watermelon.
It wad one of those days when my pa had to take half day leave to bring me to church.
Today, I had lunch with my pa at Italiannis in One Utama. We had grape shakes and alot of food. After lunch, I went shopping with my dad to find him a pair of working shoes. He finally found a pair he liked... It was his Christmas present from me.
I loved the time we spent together and thank God for memories such as this.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Would it be...
Too much to ask
For more time?
For a raise?
For you to be more patient?
For you to stop polluting your lungs?
For the blardy ants, cockroaches and daddy long legs to just die?
For you could just go away?
For instant fat dissolvers?
For my memory to block out images of you?
For a new me?
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Never smile at a crocodile
"Inspired" by BeeStink
Never smile at a crocodile
No, you can't get friendly with a crocodile
Don't be taken in by his welcome grin
He's imagining how well you'd fit within his skin
Never smile at a crocodile
Never dip your hat and stop to talk awhile
Never run, walk away, say good-night, not good-day
Clear the aisle but never smile at Mister Crocodile
You may very well be well bred
Lots of etiquette in your head
But there's always some special case, time or place
To forget etiquette
For instance:
Never smile at a crocodile
No, you can't get friendly with a crocodile
Don't be taken in by his welcome grin
He's imagining how well you'd fit within his skin
Never smile at a crocodile
Never dip your hat and stop to talk awhile
Never run, walk away, say good-night, not good-day
Clear the aisle but never smile at Mister Crocodile
Monday, December 14, 2009
I am just like everyone else.
I hope you know that and remember that.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Love Etc.
Now older and slighty wiser, I know that love isn't all about good times and happy endings.
Love is about acceptance of the other persons shortcomings and loving them despite of it.
Love is about trust and forgiveness and learning from past mistakes and moving along together instead of moving apart.
Love is about growing together emotional and spiritually.
Love is about putting the other persons needs before your needs and giving them the best you can possibly give.
Love is embracing and sharing each others differences instead of fighting over it.
Love is taking care of the other person and looking out for them.
Love is about walking together on the same journey eventhough you may take different paths to get to the destination.
Love is discovering the magic in the simple.
As each day passes, I learn something new about love and I hope that I will continue to learn and to experience this wonderful, crazy, little, big thing called love.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Monday, December 07, 2009
Sorrow looks back,
Worry looks around,
But faith looks up!
Live simply,
love generously,
care deeply,
speak kindly
and trust in our Creator who loves us.
Walking Back
I strolled through friendster and hotmail
and browsed through old memories.
And it made me cringe. It made me wonder...
Evaluate... Tear up a little...
Hurt some... And of course remember.
I remember the girl I was.
I remember the friend I was.
The one who smiled more and worried less.
The one that had so many friends.
The carefree adventurer.
So just for that few moments,
I walked back and tried to remember...
and later once I was done, I tried my best to leave the past where it belonged.
But sometimes against my will, the past comes back to haunt me and yet there are other times when these memories come flooding back to me to act as a soothing balm over old wounds that never healed right.
I think these walks to the past are needed every now and then to remind me of a great many things; the fragility of life, the intricacies of relationships, the hopefulness of youth, the joys in the simple things, the small victories and joys overlooked and forgotten and the happiness and blessings one has recieved over the years.
I am thankful for these occasional walks back that I take every now and then... and its great to know and realise that I am looking ahead and walking forwards towards the hopeful unknown, with a select few happy memories as my companion on this journey.
Friday, December 04, 2009
Spreading Magic
So many things I want to write about.
So many projects I want to begin.
So many things I want to clear, clean and arrange.
So many ideas floating around in my mind.
So many books to read.
So many DVDs to watch.
So many places to see.
So many arrangements to make.
So many moments to capture.
I feel excited.
I haven't felt this way in awhile.
I think it's the Christmas Spirit spreading its magic *grin grin*
Thursday, December 03, 2009
He is near
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Happy are they who possess this gift!
Blessings may fail and fortunes vary, but the thankful heart remains.
Happy Thanksgiving All.
May we be reminded and give thanks
for all the immense blessings that we have been given.
Thought of the day:
The secret to enjoying life is to be thankful for what each day brings.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Stranger in the mirror
Friday, November 20, 2009
An unchangeable promise
An unchangeable promise
If the Lord be with us, we have no cause of fear.
His eye is upon us, His arm over us,
His ear open to our prayers – His grace sufficient,
His promise unchangeable.
- John Newton -
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Those days of being home alone and feeling safe are gone.
I am panoid everytime I hear a creak, a sound... anything sets me off on paranoia mode. I clutch my bat everywhere I go.
No matter if my dad explains it over and over again that it can't and wouldn't happen again, I still worry about it, I still think about it. I wonder if what I hear is actually real and not something in my imagination.
I want this feeling to go away and never return.
God, please help me to overcome this worries of mine.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Friday, November 06, 2009
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Monday, November 02, 2009
My place
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Why I hate the newspapers!
I am sure reading the papers for my own knowledge or more like "to be in the know" is vital especially in the field of communications that I am in. It's oh so important to know about that merger, that acquisition, that new launch, that new regulation passed, the new budget, the state of the economy the person who… and blablabla.
Yet each morning when the pile of newspapers land on my desk I feel sick to my stomach and I dread flipping its dirty gritty pages. Why this sick feeling you wonder? Why is she being such a drama queen? It's after all just a paper which provides you information about the world and the country you live in and everything else in between right?
Wrong. The newspaper I believe is full of crap! Yes crap! The kind that you can find at the bottom of the dustbin. The kind that you can find growing in your drain. The kind of things you can find collecting underneath your shoes. Now if you take some time and flip through the grimy papers, you will note that every other page has columns or full pages or shudder, even creative buys like blurbs, stickers or callouts offering you to purchase something or other. Ads ads ads! The very things that drives the newspapers to its mammoth growth. *Note: I admire the creativity of certain ads but really, who needs so many ads in their face each day?
Now besides this sickening ads that yell at you to purchase a product that will make you look slim and beautiful with a whole head of hair in 10 sessions so that you become the object of everyone's desire, or the dream driving machine with some super duper technology that will instantly alleviate your status amongst your peers and make you the envy of your neighbors and nosy competitive relatives or the latest mobile phone plan for your favourite people which could save you heaps of cash monthly, you would expect to at least get some brilliant piece of journalism right? The kind of article so well written you would sit up and take notice. The kind of article with a call to action so strong you automatically feel that you should do something that can change the world or make a difference. The kind of article that informs you and makes you more knowledgeable, that increases your intellect. The kind of article that makes you take a step back to think. Well, sorry to disappoint folks. You will be hard pressed to find an article of such caliber or perhaps it is me again with my high lofty expectations.
Before I continue my tirade about the deplorable state of the newspaper sans the advisements which are merely marketing tools sadly driven by our own needs and insecurities which are also needed to bring down the costs of the printing of the grubby papers, there are a handful of decent articles in the papers albeit more often then not, syndicated articles or weekly columns which do pique my interest and who entertains me to a certain extent. Perhaps I am being too harsh and judgmental about this, viewing things through my own narrow viewpoint, but really when was the last time you read an article which has changed your life or propelled you to greater heights? More often then not, you will find articles that are just what I would like to call "so what?" articles. The kind that you just read so that you are "in the know" or which you can make a half baked comment about but which generally adds no value to your life.
Moving along to the deplorable bit of print called the newspaper. With each page that I turn, starting with the cover story with its big bold headlines that scream something new and "wow", to the next few bits of news about the country, government, latest collaborations, politics, business, world, sports and features about the latest it girls/guys, hit movies, singing sensations, over exaggerated fashion from Europe and the states which no one can even wear let alone afford and blablabla, I feel like ripping the pages to wrap the vegetables my mother bought from the market or to line the cages of some pet or to just toss it in the bin. It's just so full of crap!
Have you read the kinds of things our people in power say? It will make you laugh and then cry because you realize that these are the people who hold your very welfare in their hands. Who holds the fate of the country in their hands. The half truths, the stupidity, the twisted words, the promises made and then forgotten, the pretty photo op pictures, the beautifully crafted words inserted with the proper key messages by PR people are all there for the world to see in glorious neat columns of black print. So many campaigns are launched with pomp and glamour whilst fueling and lining the pockets of others. I can hear the applause as the speeches are made as these people stand up and deliver speeches crafted by minds and hands of people you will never know. The promises made and the words said will be forgotten, swept away and discarded – the only evidence is the rows of print that will be thrown away and hopefully recycled.
Very few brave people have voiced out and even challenged the things that have been said while most seethe in silence afraid of repercussions. Try writing a letter to the Editor about something which is controversial and you can be sure that the letter will never be printed or if printed, edited to something that is unrecognizable. Oh of course it is edited, they need your article to fit into the "X" amount of space (usually 2 pages) allocated for the 'readers say' however, in the process they just might take out the important bits which are usually the crux of the issue. No surprise there really.
Then there is the news about the crime and the evil in this world – the sections that depresses me the most. I read about the horror of gang rapes while people pass by and watch without doing anything to help the victim. I read about fathers, brothers, uncles, grandfathers, neighbors and strangers who rape young children who should be innocently watching Spongebob on TV, who rape unassuming young women or even old women who go about their own lives, who are just there are the wrong place at the wrong time - Keep it in your freaking pants or sarongs man! I read about many women who are raped by people in the villages. I also read about males who are raped. The cases are never reported because, shudder men's egos are at stake here and whowever heard of this preposterous thing… but it happens.
I read about wars. The numerous people that are displaced, who have no food and who have died. The numbers of the dead or missing printed in huge bold numbers. I read about the starving people in Africa. I read about H1N1, AIDS and cancer. I read about famine. I read about natural disasters. I read about the extinction of certain species of animals and plant life. I read about global warming. I read about racism or perhaps the fact "that there is no such thing as racism". I read about murders. I read about injustice. I read about terrorism. I read about kidnappings and ransoms. I read about bribery. I read about school shootings. I read them all.
Why do I torture myself with such news when my life is already filled with its own share of drama and misery? Who needs this kind of news really? Sure it makes you reflect and thank your lucky stars that you aren't them but then really, reading the papers in the morning is so freakingly depressing. How is anyone going to have a good start to the morning with this load of crap in your hands?
Here's another thing. All the news that you read may not be newsworthy and your wonder… hmmm… "Why is this bit of news included in the line-up of riveting articles today?" Easy! It is paid for or has been paid for with advertising. In my line, I beg for coverage for my organization but it's hard when your organization seldom has the budgets to buy all that ad space necessary to get the best coverage in the papers. So what if your organization rocks or has achieved something really great, you will just get a small column measuring half a slice of bread for all your troubles. Lo and behold if you should a series of full page full coloured ads… you have prominent coverage with coloured pictures thrown in for extra effectiveness all because your news is "newsworthy".
Maybe I am jaded, or again overacting. Maybe its just who you know that gets you prominent coverage… oh no… perhaps that's not it. Maybe just maybe I suck at my job and the news that I generate are just utter nonsense. However, I honestly doubt that is the case simply because of several calls and blatant emails that I have received informing me that the said newspaper would not come to my event or cover my event simply because it has been 6 months since we placed an ad with them. Another newspaper, one of the country's pioneer paper's even told me that they had boycotted another organization in my industry several months earlier because they did not advertise and did I want the same fate as them. Besides that, don't forget that so and so is friends with the big boss at the newspaper… a phone call can easily ensure your news will never see the light of day! Talk about newsworthiness. Don't give me that feces!
So what's there to like about the papers? Perhaps the occasional weekend pullouts with feature stories and of course the funnies, the classifieds and the cinema listings page. Other than that, I hate the papers. In the ideal world of which I idealistic hope for and dream about, there will be real feats of journalism that will win awards. There will be justice, there will be hope, there will be truth laced in all articles. There will be no fear in the written word. There will be no hidden agendas. The articles will be featured based on newsworthiness not on dollars spent. It will be about the wants of the everyday people. Reviews will be frank and honest and brutal if necessary regardless if you get a free meal or if they are advertising with that publication or if you know the person who owns the company that you tasked with reviewing. The ads will be minimal and not splashed on every other page.
Yes I am ever hopeful. Yes, I am a dreamer.
I wait for that day with baited breath.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Fav photos - C&JW
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Monday, October 19, 2009
I just wonder
Strange tea time craving
Just a "Click" away
I long to shut down my office laptop, delete pathetic condescending emails, slam down the office phone and pull out the plug on annoying people offering and goading me to sponsor their one million and one exhibitions, conferences, funds, causes and etc. and go home to the comfort of my own laptop at home that itches to be set alive to run free with ideas kept on pieces of paper and in books long forgotten. To switch on and fire up my iPod that lies dormant in my bag locked in my side drawer only to be taken out and admired when I leave the hovel.
However, as there is this strange streak in me today, I find my mischievous hands curl up against the mouse and once more click onto the browser that takes me to wondrous places and I take several peeks delightedly like a naughty child at the world of inspiration that is just a "Click" away.
I was once again besieged by ridiculousness as I sat down for my daily 9 meeting. Sometimes I think they speak in riddles that I am not supposed or allowed to decipher yet, because I am obviously of lowly rank, with a lower IQ then the ones who graduated abroad with marbles in their mouths – perhaps one day I will be fortunate enough to understand their speak.
A call from my mum tells me that Aunty A whom I have known forever has passed away in her house and no one knew that she had passed on as she lived alone. She had no relatives. No family. My mum is there with other ladies from the church, sorting out the details and things. It's a shock to us all. Aunty A was a strong women, who had a powerful body smell, a white car which she drove even though she is more than 3 times my age, a neat house and garden near my home, and a head of curly white hair. I hate that everything is in the past tense. I told Cat about it and she is as shocked as I am. It's sad. Death. The ending of ones life. So sudden. The could haves and should haves which are thought of too late. The last chapter of ones life. The end.
Things then… like ridiculous riddles, feeling small and invisible at meetings and in life in general, getting told that what you do is never enough, getting annoyed with the broadband for being slow, squeaky clean floors, buttons that will just not button properly, marbles in mouths, heavy boxes that need to be lifted, hunger for a mouthful or flourless orange cake and a steaming cup of tea, all seem trivial in the face of death. For in this horrendous gaping empty void of death, there are no more of these things… just nothingness, a void and in the end of that long tunnel, a Heaven where these things that are stressed and worried about now are of no worth or value.
I should be doing more today - my accounts, my filing, my press releases and media interviews… but these things are far from meaningful. They are useless to me at this point in time. I went to the toilet again today - it has recently become my thinking ground, my escape from the stresses of the office of late - just sat there on the porcelain throne for awhile thinking about these emotions that once again course through my veins… and for awhile although confused, sad, angry, torn and all that jazz, I think that its not so bad after all. I am thankful that I can feel these things and that I am alive for one more day.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
A Peach
Yet the fruit to best describe where my life is right now would not be a peach. I honestly don't know what fruit it would be... but perhaps it would be an apple. A boring old apple, bruised, rotted slightly, lying on the shelf, hoping to be picked to be made into something more. Perhaps a jam, a preserve or even heavens forbid, an apple pie.
I am weeping again. The tracks of my tears that fall are like the raindrops falling from the Heavens. There was just too much to bear that it had to pour forth, streaking down my face leaving a trial that eventually dries and fades away with time. Gosh, how much rain there has been this year. A very trying year I have to say and it is not even over. Note: Its not to say that this year has been the utter pits, it has been pretty good too...
I don't want to evaluate my year now, not when there is a good 2 months plus left of it. So much can happen in that time I am sure. What I have been doing in bits and pieces is reevaluating my life. Where I am and where I stand with myself. I tend to do this when change is knocking on my door and when I think, should I open the door for change or should I wait just a little bit longer?
My quest for finding me has been waylaid. My dreams and hopes put on a shelf for a later time. There were more important things that needed my attention it seemed, but perhaps that is where my downfall lies, in putting these things aside instead of in the fore front.
Friends of mine tell me relentlessly how stupid I am for allowing people to lay their hands on me or to abuse me with words when people should instead hold my hands and build me up with their words, not tear me down. After all, what is said often enough becomes true sometimes. So, after thinking about it, my fears, my insecurities at not being good enough, or thin enough or beautiful enough stems from these words. These words that hurt met, that kill me, that make sick inside... and the sad part is that they are the ones doing this to me in the end. I am such a glutton for disappointment.
So here I am. On a Friday night, a night which I look forward to the most out of the whole week, sitting on my parquet floor in my room, my clothes discarded in a pile, my bags and books beside me, my bed behind me, Deepavali fireworks ringing in the background, tissues scattered beside me with tears rolling down my checks, wondering what this post is truly about and nursing a wounded heart and a torn soul.
But no worries. Tomorrow is another day I tell myself. My family needs me to move on for them. To provide for them. To give them hope. To make them laugh. To be the 3rd generation banker. To go on and along with the rest of the world. At least I know I am needed by them if no one else... that keeps me going.
The Pastor at Christian Fellowship said today that suffering can make one bitter or better, softer or harder. A very timely reminder of the choices that we can make.
Well, welcome weekend. There is always hope of it being an awesome weekend.
* Angel,
At times like this, I miss you the most.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Just like a caterpillar embraces
change to become a butterfly...
and more beautiful creature
who will soar higher and further on its wings,
2 years @ the Hovel
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
IT gadgets
I welcome my new laptop, my new external hard drive,
my new laptop accessories,
my new mobile phone and my new iPod touch.
Am trying to get the hangout of the new iPod but I feel
too sluggish and tired to do anything.
I have not even opened it from the box
and am just downloading iTunes now.
This is me rambling on and on
as I panic about the state of my savings account
and feel sick thanks to the idiot fever.
Friday, October 09, 2009
Good morning Vietnam!
The event that took over me
for more than 3 months.
A chapter has closed.
Thank you God for Your help,
Your wisdom, Your guidance,
Your goodness, Your speedy assistance
when I was worried and in need of You.
I praise you and am overwhelmed
by Your goodness.
I don't know how I
can ever repay You for Your
goodness and help.
To all the other friends and family of mine,
Thank you all of the prayers,
the encouragement,
the FB posts,
the SMS's.
I truly felt much better
knowing that there were people caring for me
and supporting me.
Tomorrow is a new day.
Good morning Vietnam!
Friday, October 02, 2009
Being patient with me
There are no shortcuts to hope and joy.
Growing fruit takes time.
(I must remind myself about this on an on going basis)
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
MSN Video Chat
You are playing me a song...
its mileycyrus...
I no likey that song.
A thousand things are running
round and round in my head...
but I have no inspiration to write it down
or let it pour forth from my mind.
you are now singing
Elvis songs for me now.
My heart melts.
I met a man today
He made me count my blessings all over again
and I am thankful for that.
May God watch over him
and provide for him his daily bread.
Monday, September 28, 2009
by desiring what you have not;
but remember that what you now have
was once among the things you only hoped for.
- Epicurus -
Monday, September 21, 2009
The Harder Path
very much like how it is now,
when I wish
that I didn't have
to feel,
to care,
to dream,
to wish,
to want,
to accept,
to hope,
to achieve,
to seek,
to need.
It would be nice,
I imagine to not have to bother
about the consequences,
about the people,
their actions,
their words,
their broken truths,
their broken dreams,
their sharp words,
their empty promises,
their disapproval,
their rejection,
their judgments,
their feelings,
their thoughts,
their lies,
the shadows,
the sounds,
the nightmares.
It would be
less painful,
to be able to
let go...
instead of
holding on,
biting my tongue,
crossing my fingers,
being patient,
suffering in silence,
writing my own happy endings.
But this is me...
choosing the harder path,
the more difficult route.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Rest in Peace
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Monday, September 14, 2009
A full post
So instead,
I write out this string of meaningless words
and fill this post with my emotions
and unshed tears.
Fuzzy Inside
Monday, September 07, 2009
New links
I keep trying to remind myself that its just work. Its just something that you are paid to do... and yet I feel strangely responsible for all of the things that I have been tasked to do. Could this be a side of maturity or stupidity?
Anyways, if anyone has noticed (I don't know if anyone still reads my blog or even visits it, though I appreciate your comment Pegs, at least I know one person still drops by every so often), but the links on my page of changed. I have decreased the amount of blogs which were formerly my friends and have increased the blogs that inspire me, the ones that I savor and browse with happiness and joy. These new links are inspiring.
Sometimes when I am not eating with B, my colleagues and am not rushing for deadlines, I sneak glances at these sites. Much like a secret admirer, wanting to be in the world of his/her lover and not being able to. But for me, this is enough. To browse, to ohhh and to ahhhh and to get inspired and to hope for some time to do these arts and crafts things... these things which I miss.
Well, its late. Almost 11pm (yes I am getting aunty-ish already) and I should get some sleep. My dreams last night were queer, scary and creepy. I wish you all a wonderful and blessed week ahead with all the happiness, hope and joy you can hope for every other day.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Anxiety attack
The long weekend is almost at a close and I honestly wonder how time has passed so quickly. My good intentions of going to church camp did not happen. My hopes to clean my room, organise my mess and finally get rid of things that I no longer want or need and of hanging out more with my folks has not happened and I am riddled with guilt.
Towards evening, I somehow had an anxiety attack brought on by the realisation that there is work tomorrow and that in about a months time, all that I have worked for will reach its pinacle. I am at once afraid and excited. I think about the work that I have done and that is waiting to be done and it sickens me. I feel physically sick and I get all upset on my head and my heart feels tight, kinda hard to breathe. This is not the first time that I have had it but its the first that I have had that lasts longer than 15 minutes... *sniffles*
But then the feeling dissipated not too long ago *Thank You God* and I feel much better now after checking my office mail (yes, the irony that checking my office email can make me feel better!) and realising that there was nothing much that happened over the weekend and on Monday. Nevertheless, there will be some long days ahead and I hope and pray fervently that everything goes accordingly and smoothly.
For now, the posts that I really want to write about, feelings, freedom, inspiration, thoughts and etc. will just have to wait till I have some free moments. Till then, hope everyone is doing well and that the new month of September brings lots of lovely susprises and goes along as smooth as silk (just like the new yellow and white silk pajama bottoms from La Senza that I am wearing - its so so so comfy).
Oh yes, Happy Merdeka! (I did not feel an ounce of the merdeka spirit and was sorely disappointed when there were no fireworks and the Curve area it was kinda like a ritual of sorts really... damn scuffs... damn economic slowdown!)
*virtual hugs and wishes of sweet dreams and happy endings to all my dear friends*
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
A simple prayer
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
An eagle
Sunday, July 26, 2009
And I find peace again
Anyways, I finally have the time to write some of my thoughts down about this incident.
Fear drips from my pores
Lingers in me and around me
But I hide it carefully under layers of skin.
Every sound rocks my core
Pushes me to the edge of anxiety.
I replay scene after scene in my mind
Trying to figure out if things could have been different
If I could do things better.
I wonder why it happened?
Why here? Why now? Why us?
I torture myself with what-ifs,
The kind that make your skin crawl
That make salty tears roll down
One after the other in quick succession.
That leaves a metallic taste in my mouth.
That makes me want to regurgitate everything inside of me.
It torments me.
Every creak and groan of my house sets me alert
And I am tired but I cannot rest
Cannot find peace.
Sleep eludes me.
I wake up from my light slumber
Every time the wind blows,
Or the house creaks.
I imagine them lurking in the dark of night
And I am filled with unwanted fight.
I search for a way to ease my troubled soul
To write, to speak to churn out these thoughts.
But I find no one around me,
I find no inspiration.
I only find the metallic acrid taste.
Of fear.
Of worry.
Of torment.
Then I remember the one place
I can could truly feel safe,
And that was in Your tender arms,
Your tender embrace.
The only peace I find
Are in Your words
That comfort my troubled soul.
And I turn to You
And I find the calm and solace
That I have been searching for.
I find You.
You soothe me,
You saved me from drowning,
And I find peace again.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Then What?
To be all in with your chips
Hoping the next card will win it for you.
To blow your next months paycheck
Before it even gets out on a much needed wardrobe.
To take a trip on a sailing ship
Or to fly to some wonderland on credit.
To love recklessly, to love fully,
Entirely, just for right now.
But when tomorrow comes
And your hand is the weakest at the table
And you have no more chips to play with,
When the bank comes a knockin'
And he's found someone newer,
A better looking version in a dress...
Then what?
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Beautiful words
Like delicious fruit.
Ripe with hope and promise.
Should I believe these words are for me
Or is something so good meant for another?
Or are these ornamental words in disguise
the kind of the words that will render me
Broken, barren and lost?
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
My drafts
half baked
half knit
half crafted
half thought about
half inspired
drafts for my blog
sitting in my folder.
I long to take the drafts out to
examine them
finish them
embellish them with my thoughts
sprinkle them with magic
weave my feelings into them.
But the moment passes.
Time moves on
and I find myself still standing silently
gazing off into the middle distance
rooted in the same spot
while the world moves on around me.
I am waiting patiently for a sign
a monumental moment
hands outstretched to rescue me
and my eyes turn to You
and I am comforted
for I know that You love me
irregardless of everything.
And my heart is stilled.
And I exhale.
I breathe.
I open a new document and
my thoughts come tumbling out
and I begin another draft.
For the beggarman on the street.
For the lost.
For the confused.
For the ones at the crossroads.
For the dreamers who are grasping on to their dreams for dear life.
For the unemployed.
For the retrenched.
For the wrongly accused.
For the grieving.
For the sick.
For the ones we miss.
For the ones that have departed.
For the handicapped unable to get down on all the steps at the monorail.
For the old lady that has to go through the trash each day searching for trash,which to her are treasures.
For the grasscutter on the highway looking at the long expense of grass he has yet to cut under the hot blazing sun.
For the orphaned and the widowed.
For those unloved.
For those unwanted.
For those who are barren.
For those who make their home where ever they lay their head.
For the oppressed.
For the war victims.
For the lost flora and fauna.
For the women who have no equality.
For those with the world on their shoulders.
For those that cry alone at night.
For the victims.
For the heartbroken.
For the cleaners who clean up our messes.
For those whose voices are not heard.
For those who search but never find.
For those that look but do not see.
For those whose hearts are made of stone.
For the ones whose magic is lost.
For the ones who have struggled for everything in their lives.
For those who never had a break in their lives.
For the homeless.
For the forgotten.
For the torn.
For the nurses that look after the sick.
For the sacrifices unnoticed.
My tears falleth for you.
My hopes and prayers are with you.
The heart
Wednesday, July 01, 2009
keep me safe
Thursday, June 11, 2009
I am voted the...
A prayer
Lord, We thank you for the love that unites us,
for the peace accorded us this day,
for the hope with which we expect the morrow;
for the health, the work, the food and the bright skies
that make our lives delightful;
for our friends in all parts of the earth. Amen.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Help me to remember
Wednesday, June 03, 2009
when they cannot be discerned from the top of a mountain.
- Charles H. Spurgeon -
It Is Real
I feel abandoned.
I feel a lost.
I feel kicked out of my nest.
I feel like I landed on my bum.
I feel as if this is a prank some numbskull thought up.
But it is not so.
It is real.
I can't deny the fact that the news affected me more than I could ever imagine. In some ways the news doesn't come as a surprise but then again, I am a wishful thinker and am a little bit too idealistic at the best of times so when the words were uttered, well I was in denial for awhile and then I began to panic and then the strange pain began to settle in. The pain is still there.
What kind of pain you ask? Well its akin to that of being dumped. Of having your heart broken and you have no clue why it had to happened to very suddenly.
I dragged my feet and sulked the better part of the evening and although more than 6 hours has passed, I still feel the strange pain.
Through this pain and shock and panic... there lies actually several seeds of hope, excitement and adventure. After all, things will invariably change now. It truly will be a new beginning of sorts. The pained part of me just wants to sit in a corner and lick my wounds and weep like a sad poor child, but then there is this other part of me that is already in motioned, set to tackle the new things to come... that wants to know the whys, the hows, the whens and a whole host of questions. This side of me is also planning and thinking if its time to make "the move".
There is much to think about. The pros, the cons, the maybes, what-ifs, could be, wants and don't wants and bla bla bla to tackle but in a strangely sad and euphoric way, I think this new journey is just what I need.
Tuesday, June 02, 2009
It's already June.
Time has passed so swiftly and I believe it will continue to move at such a quick pace in the days, weeks and months to come. Soon it would be the New Year and I would once again be taking stock of the year. The achievements, the happy endings, the new beginnings and of course the downside of things that however unpleasant and unnecessary it may seem, has shaped my year and my life to be as it is. But it's not the New Year yet, its only half way through… but perhaps our conversation triggered something in me to write.
I haven't written much these days. I ramble and I muse but don't put down my thoughts on paper, in my journal or on word documents to go through and reflect during days when I am more sane… more focused. Earlier while you spoke, and wiped what looked like errant tears from you eyes, I felt not for the first time the similarities between us. Sure there are the differences between us but the more we speak to each other, the deeper we allow ourselves to go, I realise we are not that different at the core and heart of things.
My teachers used to say that life began after you left form 5. I think they were wrong or perhaps delusional. Life begins when you begin to think your thoughts, be exposed to people and to the world. From a young age depending on your characteristics and traits, you will be placed in categories. Parents and the people around you begin to expect things from you and when you fail to deliver, they either glance elsewhere or just pay attention to something or someone that is worthier of their attention.
I think that my life began the day I went to Std 1. Kindergarten didn't really count because well… I just can't remember much of it except my pink ballet wannabe shoes, my water bottle with the green cup attached bought from Fajar and my first school bag, a brown kinda like a tree bark coloured square fake Smurfs bag. I remember animal biscuits, painting on the porch with powdered paint, the scary teacher Ms Rama Rama and my colouring book of 'occupations' with the 'good' and stars written by the sides of my carefully coloured creations in red ink which I still have today. I occasionally wonder what PR / Corporate Communications person would look like in drawings and illustrations...
To reminiscence about my younger days in primary school and secondary school and even college would take too long… perhaps another post… but I guess what I wanted to write about is life… mine, yours, ours. Sometimes things don't really go the way you plan or hope it to be. Everyone can draft out a five year plan or even a ten year one. They can have goals and objectives and etc. but life doesn't always go the way you want it to and I think that all of us know this.
You prepare for life in whatever way you can, you study hard, you do all those extracurricular activities, you work towards getting a car, a house, a family with 2.5 children (whatever that means) and you live the life that people envy… but the sad fact is, there are always things that happen beyond our control that changes the course of our lives and like a hapless marionette, we bend and we fall and for those fighters we stand up again to continue soldiering on for one more day. We bend, we break but we patch ourselves up again and again and again. We are a human patchwork quilt, a hodgepodge, mish mashed unique person. There is only one you and one me.
My life has been a colourful one as most of you know. There have been gloriously shiny moments in my life, the moments I keep in my heart and in boxes, which I take out to view when I feel that I am floundering and need an anchor. Then there are the darker moments in life that I wish I could forget or erase but I know I can't. The disappointments, the wrong decisions, the failed relationships, the 'could haves' and 'ifs'… sadly or perhaps ironically, it is these very things that propelled me to be better. These incidents changed the course of my life; it drove me to be the person I am. It may be too late for something's, the damage has been done and the hands of time do not budge but such is life… but this is just me.
I don't know if the world sees a better improved me, but when I stand in front the mirror, 90% of the time I am pleased with what I see and unlike the me of old that needed approval form the world around me, I am satisfied though there are somethings I am working on at the moment.
There are times when I wish that the things I wanted could have been provided to me on golden platters. That life would have been smooth sailing without a glitch but I have known for a few years now that the very things that might seem accursed and burdensome, is in fact a blessing. You don't need to wait for the New Year to start a 'new life'. You don't need a grand fanfare or a new tattoo or a hairdo to kick start the 'new you'. Sure it helps but you don't really need it. Each moment is a beginning. We can start now instead of waiting for another day.
I know I am rambling, but I just wanted to say is that all everyone needs it a little bit of faith in God and in ourselves... not to the point of being egoistical but enough to know who you are and where you stand. The disadvantages, the haphazard scars in our lives, the memories that darken the otherwise sunny landscape of our lives are the things that differentiate us from everyone else. Though painful, they lend and bring to the table a kaleidoscope of wonder and surprises that we never thought possible… but it is only us that limit ourselves and how sad it is to note that more often than not, we are the ones that stifle our own greatness.
You are growing up... we all are in fact. However, you have been changing for awhile now… it is not a sudden change but a gradual one. You still retain that childlikeness in you which I believe you will carry with you for awhile. I personally don't think you should lose all of this childlikeness, I think the world today lacks this.
Anyways, I wish you strength and wisdom in the days to come when you make sure and sound footsteps in this journey we call life. It may not be all sugary and sweet, but you can be sure that you will come out of it a better, wiser person. Take heart and believe in yourself.
I pray that our lives, be filled with love, peace, joy and hope. We are where we are supposed and destined to be. As always, I believe that everything happens for a reason and only when our day is through would we know the rhymes and the reasons for it being so… so till then, may life be all you want it to be and more.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
After winter comes the summer.
After night comes the dawn.
And after every storm, there comes clear, open skies.
- Samuel Rutherford -
Rutherford was such an instrumental word for us in Form 4 & 5.
Rutherford how we miss thee and those simpler times...
Friday, May 22, 2009
I'm Right; You Must Be Wrong
I'm Right; You Must Be Wrong
Luke 6:37-42 (New International Version)
37"Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. 38Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."
39He also told them this parable: "Can a blind man lead a blind man? Will they not both fall into a pit? 40A student is not above his teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like his teacher.
41"Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? 42How can you say to your brother, 'Brother, let me take the speck out of your eye,' when you yourself fail to see the plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.
My friend Ria admires the great blue heron's amazing 6-foot spread of wings and marvels at his majestic appearance. She welcomes the sight of him gliding in for a landing on a small island in the middle of the pond near her home.
Now, I can appreciate that the heron is a marvelous and unique creature. But I don't ever want to spot him in my backyard! That's because I know he won't be there just to admire the garden. No, this not-so-fine-feathered version of persona non grata (someone not welcome) will be checking out our pond for a take-out fish dinner!
So, am I right? Or is Ria? Why can't we agree? Different personalities, history, or knowledge can color people's views. It doesn't mean that one person is right and the other wrong, yet sometimes we can be unkind, rigid, and judgmental if there is not agreement. I'm not talking about sin—but just a difference in opinion or perspective. We need to take care in judging others' thinking, motives, and actions because we too desire that kind of benefit of the doubt (Luke 6:37).
Can we learn from someone who sees things with a different perspective? Do we need to practice a little patience and love? I'm so grateful that God is abundantly patient and loving with me. — Cindy Hess Kasper
You've been so patient with us, Lord,
Though we are slow to hear;
Give us the grace to show such love
To those we hold so dear. —K. De Haan
A little love can make a big difference.
I pray for more perspective.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
But I know that it hurts.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
I just realised that...
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
I hope
Hope is wanting something so eagerly that – in spite of all the evidence that you're not going to get it – you go right on wanting it.
- Norman Vincent Peale-
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Free Falling
Saturday, April 18, 2009
19 steps
Nineteen steps backwards today...
One small step forward perhaps tomorrow...
And then there was you...
You who could stop me with the bat of an eyelash, a wink, a grin, a toothy smile.
I lived in your light, in your arms,
I never thought I belonged there but you convinced me and I believed I was made for this. Made for your arms, your kiss, your embrace.
But here I stand, sorrowful,.
Without a friend or ally it is hard to make ones way into the world.
So sad that it makes my heart curdle like milk left out for too long.
Like cement unattended too in wheelbarrows by the side of the pavement.
How many times do I need to go through the wrong to get a right?
To get the right formula and equation to a life that is content and happy.
I miss you.
The end looks bleak and empty.
Far out of a grasp.
Once I wanted to be the greatest.
But I will settle for what I am now.
I dont quite have a choice.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
One step at a time
So often we hope our lives will change through a giant leap of faith, a profound decision, or a significant act of service. In reality, the only way we change is one step at a time, and every step counts — David C. McCasland
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
B. D. Gulledge
B. D. Gulledge:
I used to sit on the banks with a raft and watch the water roll lazily by.
One day I pushed my raft into the shallows of the water and found the water moved swifter than I thought.
My raft was actually a boat.
Then, after some time, I rowed my little boat into deeper water.
There were great storms, mighty winds, tremendous waves, and sometimes I felt so alone.
But I have noticed my little rowboat is now a mighty ship manned by my friends and loved ones; and beautiful calm seas, warm sunny days, and nights filled with comfortable dreams always double after a storm.
Now, I could never go back and sit on the bank.
In fact, I search for deeper water.
Such is life when lived.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
The right path
I am wondering if the shoes fit for the journey...
When will I know?
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Saint Teresa's Prayer
Saturday, March 07, 2009
But you don't
To unload my hearts contents,
To rid my mind from the worries,
my eyes from the tears and my soul from the sighs.
So, I called.
We spoke.
You ended the call so quickly
with a hurried goodbye.
The dial tone with its harsh sound
Then silence in my ear.
And then I thought that if you knew me better
You would have already known without the words being uttered,
You would have guessed it,
You would have asked about it,
Wheedled it out of me...
And then you would have comforted me and soothed my troubled heart.
But you didn't know.
And against my better judgment
And the echoes in my mind,
I wept.
I wish you had known.
But you don't.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
News C&K heels
DW to B, JT and Shells on her new C&K Heels:
"Yes I damn hearts my new C&K Heels.
When I saws it in Charles and Keith it was like love at first sight.
And when I put it on, I didn't want to take them off.
If I gots no money to buy the heels also nevermind 'cos I would steal, beg or borrow the money.
I loves them that much. Sure it hurts my feet a little and sure I have to be extra careful when I walk 'cos I am so clumsy and the heels are so high and thin…But neverminds all that.
They are so worths it.
I recently began my love/obsession/passion for footwear.
Previously I lived in aunty shoes from Bata-Comfit, my beach thongs and my Crocs…
But now, I is loves my footwears.
I keep on sneaking glances at my heels and my heart like goes… awww…
I so want to do me in these heels!
Loves loves thems."
For Mars & I
Expect your prayers to be answered in wondrous ways.
The dry seasons in life do not last.
The spring rains will come again.
- Saran Ban Breathnach -
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
My 26th Year
My 26th Year has been an enjoyable ride.
It has been an ~ Adventurous road trip;
A cruise; A roller coaster; A balloon ride;
A walk in the park; An up-hill hike; A downward tumble.
I enjoyed My 26th Year.
I find myself being blessed more abundantly as each year passes (thank you God!)
and for some uncanny reason, I think that My 27th Year
will be the year I truly make the transition from a girl into a woman.
To finally embrace 'growing up'… Truly accepting this rite of passage for what it is;
The uncertainties of it all, the pains, the sacrifices, the exuberance of life,
the open road, the chances, the wonderful and the immense possibilities.
My 27th Year will be better, more wonderful, more blessed and
filled with pleasant dreams answered and 'it-made-me-smile' kinda memories.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Our 1st Valentines
May we share a love
May our hearts beat together,
May we always be by each others side
This I wish, no more, no less,
Thursday, January 29, 2009
A word
An email
A call
An SMS
A message
A laugh
A joke
A pep talk
A glance
A tear
A smirk
A wink
A look
A sentence
A smile
A frown
An action
A song
A sound
A voice
A scene
A smell
Can make me:
Files and Folders...
Friday, January 23, 2009
That lingering feeling
I fear
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
What the heart knows
Cannot be described
Cannot be explained
Cannot be expressed
It's just a feeling
It's just a knowing
It wonders if it is all just a game.
Friday, January 16, 2009
Go Foward
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
~ Kiss Me ~
Thursday, January 08, 2009
Scraping the surface
I feel like I am barely scraping the surface of what I can do.
At times like this, I feel like I am a kite that is blown about by the wind
Letting the tides and the people around me dictate what I do.
Things have got to change.


text:
Zoo Lights
November 30 @ 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
|Recurring Event (See all)
An event every day that begins at 6:00 pm, repeating until December 24, 2020
Friends of the Topeka Zoo is excited to debut a brand-new holiday event, Zoo Lights. Beginning November 27th, visitors will stroll around the zoo and enjoy twinkling lights, dazzling displays, festive activities, and of course… Santa Claus! Zoo Lights will be a magical destination creating lasting memories and a new favorite tradition.
Come back again for more details!


text:
Covering the Front and Back Pages of the Newspaper
April 23, 2009
WAR/POLITICS: Nancy Pelosi Was Briefed On Waterboarding But Didn't Inhale
One of the occupational hazards of partisan politics is attacking the other side for something people on your own side knew about or participated in. Of course, that's politics; but it becomes a serious problem when you raise the rhetorical temperature to the point of calling your political opponents war criminals ... and it turns out your own people knew about the "war crimes" and didn't see anything wrong with them at the time, or at least didn't act as if they did. It's a pretty clear sign that they don't believe it now, either - but try telling that to the people who have bought the "war criminal" bill of goods and now find out that you did what they consider the equivalent of sitting in camp construction meetings with Himmler and not making a peep.
So we find that House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, despite her angry denials, has to face up to having been briefed back in 2002 on the CIA's 'enhanced' coercive interrogation techniques:
In September 2002, four members of Congress met in secret for a first look at a unique CIA program designed to wring vital information from reticent terrorism suspects in U.S. custody. For more than an hour, the bipartisan group, which included current House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), was given a virtual tour of the CIA's overseas detention sites and the harsh techniques interrogators had devised to try to make their prisoners talk.
Pelosi's laughable defense is now to admit that she was briefed on the Bush Administration having obtained Office of Legal Counsel memos on waterboarding but she thought they got those memos but didn't actually intend to use them:
Pelosi denied these claims. "We were not -- I repeat -- were not told that waterboarding or any of these other enhanced interrogation methods were used. What they did tell us is that they had . . . the Office of Legal Counsel opinions [and] that they could be used, but not that they would," she said.
Yes, I guess George W. Bush was ordering up OLC memos as an intellectual exercise, so he could kick back and read some dense legal reasoning to unwind at the end of a long day of not using the anti-terrorism tools at his disposal on captured Al Qaeda leaders. That's credible, right?
Pelosi's other tactic is to claim that she was sworn to secrecy so she couldn't do anything anyway:
[T]hey were then forbidden from talking about what they had learned so they could not work to outlaw the practice.
Uh, didn't she just say they were briefing her on what they were not doing?
Now, when Congressional leaders are sworn to secrecy for national security purposes, they better have a very good reason for breaking that pledge. But when they learn about something that the Executive Branch is doing, claims is legal but ought to be made explicitly illegal, can the Speaker of the House be powerless to introduce legislation stopping it? Is our Congress that powerless if it thinks that tyranny or torture is actually afoot? As it happens, the Framers of the Constitution, being far wiser and more courageous than Nancy Pelosi, already thought of this problem and thoughtfully even gave her explicit instructions that in such a situation she could speak out without fear of prosecution. It's right there in Article I of the Constitution (Joe Biden, if you're reading this - that's the one that deals with Congress):
Section 6. The Senators and Representatives shall receive a compensation for their services, to be ascertained by law, and paid out of the treasury of the United States. They shall in all cases, except treason, felony and breach of the peace, be privileged from arrest during their attendance at the session of their respective Houses, and in going to and returning from the same; and for any speech or debate in either House, they shall not be questioned in any other place.
Under the Speech and Debate Clause, if Speaker Pelosi was told that the Executive Branch was committing war crimes, she has an absolute constitutional privilege to speak about that on the floor of the House, as well as to introduce legislation to stop it.
Unless, of course, it wasn't really a war crime at all. Unless, of course, it would have been too politically risky in 2002 to come out against a hard line on interrogation of terrorists.
There is deep foolishness of many kinds in the desire to criminalize the Bush Administration's efforts to protect the nation. The more Speaker Pelosi and her party insist that waterboarding is a war crime, the more they have to distort the evidence to fit their narrative, the harder it is to justify their own acquiescence, their actions that spoke louder than words when they learned what was being done to keep the nation safe. And the harder it will be for those who watched them nod their heads one day and turn Inquisitor the next to do their jobs with the same zeal. Back when the real Nazis stalked the land, there were indeed people who sat down and tried to do business with them, and they almost brought the West to ruin; but even in the direst and darkest hour, when he had been called upon to replace those people after years of enduring their mockery, Winston Churchill gave a warning that today's Democrats would have been wiser to heed:
I am not reciting these facts for the purpose of recrimination. That I judge to be utterly futile and even harmful. We cannot afford it. I recite them in order to explain why it was we did not have, as we could have had, between twelve and fourteen British divisions fighting in the line in this great battle instead of only three. Now I put all this aside. I put it on the shelf, from which the historians, when they have time, will select their documents to tell their stories. We have to think of the future and not of the past. This also applies in a small way to our own affairs at home. There are many who would hold an inquest in the House of Commons on the conduct of the Governments--and of Parliaments, for they are in it, too--during the years which led up to this catastrophe. They seek to indict those who were responsible for the guidance of our affairs. This also would be a foolish and pernicious process. There are too many in it. Let each man search his conscience and search his speeches. I frequently search mine.
Once upon a time, the Bush Administration did not seek to drag members of the prior Administration into the dock for their role in leading us to the pass of September 11. Once upon a time, the threat - or at least the political climate - was clear enough that Speaker Pelosi saw the wisdom in not broadcasting what was being done to our dangerous foes. Today, drunk on their own rhetoric, complacent that the threat has passed, confident that political power will never again pass from their hands, the Democrats ignore Churchill's advice at their peril. But the genie has escaped the bottle, and the questions won't stop. If the writing of the OLC memos was a war crime, then Nancy Pelosi can't escape her role in aiding and abetting that crime by saying she knew about the memos but didn't inhale them.
Posted by Baseball Crank at 6:16 PM | Politics 2009 | War 2007-14 | Comments (16) | TrackBack (0)
Pelosi is the perfect American. It was too politically risky to come out against torture in 2002, so she kept her mouth shut while the criminals tortured.
BTW, didn't we learn anything from criminalization of Saddam Hussein's efforts to protect his nation? What we he supposed to do, make tea and crumpets for those who tried to overthrow him?Posted by: Berto at April 23, 2009 7:29 PM
Also, Pelosi's defense is she trusted the Bush Administration?
Crank, only you could look at the cast of characters here and focus on Nancy Pelosi as the errant one. did she f**k up and lie about it? Sure. But if that is the standard, then from Bush down, there are plenty of other targets to be shot at.Posted by: Magrooder at April 23, 2009 9:11 PM
I forgot to comment on the funniest thing you've ever written. 9/11 was Clinton's fault! Hilarious, just hilarious.Posted by: Magrooder at April 23, 2009 9:13 PM
You can fool all the people some of the time & some of the people all of the time & 2 outta 3 ain't bad.
I had a boss who used to say in times of crises which were brewing: "Why wasn't I [he] informed before this issue had risen to this crisis point?" When he was shown that he had been CCed on all the memos dealing with the crisis up to then, he'd reply "Ah, but why weren't these memos 'flagged'? Do you know how many memos wind up on my desk?"
On the other hand, when he was informed about potential crises which we felt were under control but which he might need a "head's up on", he would say, "How come you guys have to bring every piece of s**t to me? Can't you solve some things yourselves?"
When there seemed to be no way to solve a then current crisis to our advantage, he would deny having been informed even if he had sat in on strategy meetings about the crisis, on the theory that he had not been given the truth, the whole truth, & nothing but the truth up to then.
Wait, come to think of it, I had many bosses like that.
Magrooder - Bush's people aren't running around calling this a war crime. Their position has been consistent from Day One. Very much unlike Pelosi.
I have been consistent on Clinton and 9/11: I think his policies were clearly disastrous with the benefit of hindsight, but I don't think it would be fair to blame him without consideration of the broader political culture of the time, in which the bipartisan majority was culpable of nonfeasance. But there's no question that Bush could, if he had been as petty and vindictive as Obama, have sought to hang a lot more blame on Clinton.Posted by: Crank at April 23, 2009 11:36 PM
"Under the Speech and Debate Clause, if Speaker Pelosi was told that the Executive Branch was committing war crimes, she has an absolute constitutional privilege to speak about that on the floor of the House, as well as to introduce legislation to stop it."
Given a possible loose definition of Treason, isn't it possible there would be a problem with saying this on the house floor? Protected in giving the information yes, but I don't believe protected from a grand jury investigation into treason. Or, as what happened to Gravel, the activities off of the House floor of the classified information.
"the Bush Administration did not seek to drag members of the prior Administration into the dock for their role in leading us to the pass of September 11"
Here's your comment from not too long ago.
Look, Pelosi didn't have the political courage to do the right thing when she first learned of the torture. This does not excuse it, but the Rovian, take no prisoners, my country right or wrong atmosphere enforced with Taliban-like efficiciency by the GOP and right-wing radio unquestionably created an atmosphere in which the level of courage required was greater than Pelosi had.
But, she is not the only one now admitting the undeniable -- Bush and Cheney authorized torture in violation of US and international law. The fact the she is a flawed messenger does nothing to alter the truth of the message.Posted by: Magrooder at April 24, 2009 12:14 PM
Dave - OK, try me: what statutes, what conduct charged as violation of those statutes? I simply don't see anything that would be the stuff of an ordinary criminal prosecution. What we are dealing with instead is disputes about what the law is, and efforts to criminalize those who took a legal position not shared by the people currently in power.Posted by: Crank at April 24, 2009 12:55 PM
Also, I admit as well that I do not know the answer to this in terms of history and precedent, but my reading of the plain language of the Speech and Debate Clause is that the treason or breach of the peace language doesn't modify or limit it, those only limit the preceding clause.Posted by: Crank at April 24, 2009 12:58 PM
According to my references, the atmosphere in which Pelosi has insufficient courage is 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, and 1% trace gases by volume.Posted by: Paul Zrimsek at April 24, 2009 1:03 PM
Given that the people who leaked the NSA wire-tapping program and the financial tracking program are still living their lives as free men, I doubt that the Speaker of the House, or any member of Congress, had much to fear about being brought up on treason charges if they objected to the CIA's interrogation methods and sought to criminalize their methods.Posted by: SFC B at April 24, 2009 5:43 PM
To answer your questions to Dave, try:
18 U.S.C. Sections 2340-2340B (essentially, making it a crime to torture or conspire to commit torture; with torture defined in the statute).
The UN Convention on Torture signed by your secular god, Ronald Reagan. See also, http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/30388011/
"OK, try me: what statutes, what conduct charged as violation of those statutes?"
It's the difference between "Please tell what is legal" or "Tell us thing which we are doing and want to do is legal". Have you read Zelikow's take on this?
The Senate Armed Services Report is good as well.
Part of this is based on the CIA Inspector General's review, I think from 2004. If he discovers that what was allowed went beyond the legal proscriptions(which is possible), that is trouble. Especially if it works the way up the chain. We're now getting to be:
I believe the Administration wants something between (1) and (2), but it's not being given much allowance for that from anywhere in the idealogical spectrum. It's either (1) or (3), with bonuses from either side of 'we can do what we want because we're scared' and 'never do anything because we're evil'.
"is that the treason or breach of the peace language doesn't modify or limit it"
"the atmosphere in which Pelosi has insufficient courage is"


text:
|Glastonbury Tor
The herons in the heronry are busy with their little egret neighbours nesting in the tree tops, many resident birds are singing and the wintering flocks are breaking up. Pairing and carving out territories is certainly on the cards for many.
There's not much greenery yet outside of the garden, but the pussy willow is just starting to break buds with soft downy catkins, and the hazel pollen has already floated off.
On the journey to the core of the Levels in a muddy farm field a small flock (9) of expectant probing little egrets pursued the uninterested cattle picking off worms and insects in their wake.
I decided to visit Canada Farm Lake, not having been there for months - I'd faffed extensively and so took ages to walk from the car to the hide, but this meant that I was in the right place to see a crane flying overhead - I heard it trumpeting first (not sure to whom) - then it glided past:
The track to the hide yielding a huge flock of small, twittering birds, including gold finches and siskins. From the hide I watched a pair of kingfishers going back and forth and a GC grebe catching and taking on a sizable fish. A peregrine and marsh harrier both scooted over the reeds to the far right.
Grebe: 1 - fish: 0
On Ham Wall RSPB Reserve the gusting wind dropped the temperature, but the bittern still showed nicely and the ground nesting herons were in full nest building mode.
|Little Grebe
Spring really is upon us.