1. If countries like the USA don't go then the Chinese will win more medals and, as everyone knows, its the winning, not the taking part that counts.
2. Thailand would miss out on medals in boxing and weightlifting.
3. If we boycott this Olympics we'll have to boycott London 2012 due to Britain's role in the invasion of Iraq.
4. If you boycott the Olympics then the logical conclusion is that you should stop trading with China and NOBODY is going to do that.
5. If China has to give up Tibet, the USA should get out of Hawaii and New Mexico.
6. No-one should be denied the chance to compete for a medal in archery after four years of strenuous physical training.
7. Poor, unfortunate sponsors like Coca-Cola and McDonald's would suffer from bad publicity.
8. The Chinese people aren't responsible for the regime and they're looking forward to being good hosts.
9. The opening ceremony is bound to be really exciting.
10. A boycott won't make any difference anyway.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Misconception
Here's something you might not know..
The nutritional value of shark fin is no different from that of chicken stock. Not only is it tasteless but has no special medicinal or health purposes.
Killing FOUR sharks would yield a mere one kg of fins.
You CAN make a difference. Say NO to fin soup.
Monday, March 24, 2008
Poy
Would you just look at that...sizzling hot isn't she?
You can say that again.
Female species in The Land of Smiles are renowned for their beauty.
Behold...
Treechada 'Poy' Malayaporn, Miss Tiffany Universe and Miss International Queen 2004.
You read correctly - Miss Tiffany Universe
Worrying times ahead indeed for Thailand's straight population.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
IDIOT
Thank f*ck Zainuddin Maidin lost.
One can only wonder how an imbecile such as himself could be made Information Minister. We were the laughing stock of the world after his disgraceful interview with Al Jazeera a while back. His tirade was less than comprehensible and I couldn't help but be sickly ashamed as a Malaysian.
Even a leading opposition branded him 'Minister of Misinformation'.
I am relieved he and other ministers who've been redundant in their cabinet posts are finally out of the political picture. Its about bloody time and I'm thankful to be part of this historical change.
There will be conflicts - It has already begun between the prime minister and our new Penang chief minister. For the first time, Malaysia's political scene looks set to be an interesting and perhaps turbulent ride for the next five years?
One can only wonder how an imbecile such as himself could be made Information Minister. We were the laughing stock of the world after his disgraceful interview with Al Jazeera a while back. His tirade was less than comprehensible and I couldn't help but be sickly ashamed as a Malaysian.
Even a leading opposition branded him 'Minister of Misinformation'.
I am relieved he and other ministers who've been redundant in their cabinet posts are finally out of the political picture. Its about bloody time and I'm thankful to be part of this historical change.
There will be conflicts - It has already begun between the prime minister and our new Penang chief minister. For the first time, Malaysia's political scene looks set to be an interesting and perhaps turbulent ride for the next five years?
Friday, February 29, 2008
Dirty
I have rarely commented on politics but upon hearing the transfer of Thailand's Police Commissioner Seripisut Temiyavej, I couldn't help but cry foul.
This of course has to do with the dirty world of politics.
He was promoted to the position of Commissioner during the previous interim government in 2007. His integrity, honesty and no-nonsense approach were primary reasons to the powerful appointment. Never one to be afraid of cracking down on the influential shady individuals namely Por Pratunam, reputed mob boss of a large gambling den in the Pratunam area.
He led the sting with the collusion of fellow senior officers. A team of commandos scaled the high walls and stormed the compound to arrest patrons, henchmen, and those involved in the illegal operation.
It was one of the most daring moves by a high ranking police officer which won over plaudits, and at the same time scrutinised upon by colleagues, deemed to be on the payroll of the godfather himself.
Having an excellent track record, he was handpicked by post coup Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont to replace incumbent Kowit Wattana, who was accused of neglecting his duties in the 2006 Bangkok New Year's Eve bombing.
With the return of the old power clique, it is little wonder of his removal from the force's apex. From his appointment till present, Seripisut has not put a foot wrong and the injustice of his transfer has the word 'dirty' written all over it.
The former Police Commissioner has vowed to take his case to court on charges of wrongful dismissal if there is a lack of transparency on his controversial transfer to an inactive post.
The power play of scum politics.
This of course has to do with the dirty world of politics.
He was promoted to the position of Commissioner during the previous interim government in 2007. His integrity, honesty and no-nonsense approach were primary reasons to the powerful appointment. Never one to be afraid of cracking down on the influential shady individuals namely Por Pratunam, reputed mob boss of a large gambling den in the Pratunam area.
He led the sting with the collusion of fellow senior officers. A team of commandos scaled the high walls and stormed the compound to arrest patrons, henchmen, and those involved in the illegal operation.
It was one of the most daring moves by a high ranking police officer which won over plaudits, and at the same time scrutinised upon by colleagues, deemed to be on the payroll of the godfather himself.
Having an excellent track record, he was handpicked by post coup Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont to replace incumbent Kowit Wattana, who was accused of neglecting his duties in the 2006 Bangkok New Year's Eve bombing.
With the return of the old power clique, it is little wonder of his removal from the force's apex. From his appointment till present, Seripisut has not put a foot wrong and the injustice of his transfer has the word 'dirty' written all over it.
The former Police Commissioner has vowed to take his case to court on charges of wrongful dismissal if there is a lack of transparency on his controversial transfer to an inactive post.
The power play of scum politics.
The Beginning
So at the start of 2008, what's been happening? First and foremost, I've given up smokes and doing well maintaining my stance. Even though I'm surrounded by smokers I haven't flinched or starved crazed to have a puff. All I need to beware is the alternative to quitting, and that substitute is of course munching. The last casual and unfruitful attempt made me gain a significant amount of weight. To replace the habit of lighting up, I turned to mini Wrighley's chewing gum. I bought an entire box load, has to be at least a hundred and fifty odd chewies in there and in a disaster move I managed to polish off the entire quantity in about two and a half weeks.
So much for finding a proper substitute -_-
That was years ago and now with a lot more control of my actions, which we all would like to call maturity, I've been able to suppress the desire to put nicotine into my bloodstream. My substitution when I go out to pubs or clubs, is still gum. Two sticks at most. My disassociation with ciggies are working in my favor though. As of December, the government has banned lighting up in restaurants, pubs, bars, clubs and so on. You can puff outside the vicinity only. So all the better for yours truly.
The next change is at the office. After a two month hiatus(which I shall elaborate later), I came back to the company helming a new division - Branding & Communications. During my absence, there had been a busy period at work and the unexpected surge in business. One of our biggest worldwide distributors, Jim Stott, a shoot and capable man with twenty years experience was roped in to take on my role. So now the structural changes are his distribution has been shifted to another solid individual with impressive credentials in Canada. Jim has been working closely with the new distributors about marketing and strategic planning in Canada while taking on the role of VP for Business Development at our company.
My main concerns now are the retailing of our very own brand for the moment, targeting the local market before going into export. Will be dealing a lot with designers about the outlook and packaging of the product and attending a bevy of branding seminars and workshops. Looking very forward to learning new ideas to succeed in this important industry, or should I say, staying alive.
Now, about my two month sabbatical, I was back in Malaysia for a personal project. I'm finally happy to be made a partner in a Thai restaurant with both my parents. Having worked in their restaurant before, the passion of having a say in an F&B business has always been an interest of mine. Its been a relative success since its opening in January and we're struggling to provide more seating capacity for happy customers. In order to keep abreast of its development, I'll be visiting more often than before. It all works out since I can see family much more than I ever could, especially my little darling niece, Olivea.
Its almost the third month of the year, and things are looking quite positive. Another nine more months to go and I can tell you its going to be a challenging one, which I look forward to overcoming obstacles headed my way. One needs to do whatever they can, as time seems too short these days. I sincerely hope you all will have a productive and successful 2008, aided by a robust health to keep the fuel burning.
Over & out!
So much for finding a proper substitute -_-
That was years ago and now with a lot more control of my actions, which we all would like to call maturity, I've been able to suppress the desire to put nicotine into my bloodstream. My substitution when I go out to pubs or clubs, is still gum. Two sticks at most. My disassociation with ciggies are working in my favor though. As of December, the government has banned lighting up in restaurants, pubs, bars, clubs and so on. You can puff outside the vicinity only. So all the better for yours truly.
The next change is at the office. After a two month hiatus(which I shall elaborate later), I came back to the company helming a new division - Branding & Communications. During my absence, there had been a busy period at work and the unexpected surge in business. One of our biggest worldwide distributors, Jim Stott, a shoot and capable man with twenty years experience was roped in to take on my role. So now the structural changes are his distribution has been shifted to another solid individual with impressive credentials in Canada. Jim has been working closely with the new distributors about marketing and strategic planning in Canada while taking on the role of VP for Business Development at our company.
My main concerns now are the retailing of our very own brand for the moment, targeting the local market before going into export. Will be dealing a lot with designers about the outlook and packaging of the product and attending a bevy of branding seminars and workshops. Looking very forward to learning new ideas to succeed in this important industry, or should I say, staying alive.
Now, about my two month sabbatical, I was back in Malaysia for a personal project. I'm finally happy to be made a partner in a Thai restaurant with both my parents. Having worked in their restaurant before, the passion of having a say in an F&B business has always been an interest of mine. Its been a relative success since its opening in January and we're struggling to provide more seating capacity for happy customers. In order to keep abreast of its development, I'll be visiting more often than before. It all works out since I can see family much more than I ever could, especially my little darling niece, Olivea.
Its almost the third month of the year, and things are looking quite positive. Another nine more months to go and I can tell you its going to be a challenging one, which I look forward to overcoming obstacles headed my way. One needs to do whatever they can, as time seems too short these days. I sincerely hope you all will have a productive and successful 2008, aided by a robust health to keep the fuel burning.
Over & out!
Monday, February 18, 2008
Friday, February 08, 2008
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Mourning
It hasn't been the best of starts to 2008.
On the sixth day of the new year, the girlfriend of a mate was involved in a hit and run and succumbed to her injuries at the hospital. Its been absolutely horrid for him and been keeping to himself ever since. The poor fella was right beside her when it happened but came away without a scratch.
I'm still so gutted thinking back. I had arrived at the scene just after the incident and saw a pool of blood on the road. They were already on the way to the hospital by then. At the casualty ward, I spoke to an on duty nurse about her condition and was told to be critical. Basically she had flat lined on the way to the ER and had to be resuscitated upon arrival. It didn't sound good right from the start and were told by the doctor to pray, very hard for her.
Within a few hours that morning, she passed away without regaining consciousness.
I had just only met her that fateful night while our friends met up. He introduced me to her and I thought what a beautiful girl with an attractive personality. She was young, happy and in love. So was my mate. Alas, life is sometimes cruel and unfair. God has written the course of our fate the minute we were created. Tragically for him, she was called too early.
At her eulogy, her relative spoke and touchingly included, "...during the last moments of her life, she was able to spend it with someone she loved...."
To my mate, there are no words I could possibly say to make you feel any better since I am not going through that colossal lost you are enduring. I sincerely hope you will find the strength and solace, with the help of time, be able to experience happiness again.
When I saw her that night with you, I have never seen a more radiant human being. Keep her legacy alive and cherish the priceless, happy memories.. she would have wanted that.
On the sixth day of the new year, the girlfriend of a mate was involved in a hit and run and succumbed to her injuries at the hospital. Its been absolutely horrid for him and been keeping to himself ever since. The poor fella was right beside her when it happened but came away without a scratch.
I'm still so gutted thinking back. I had arrived at the scene just after the incident and saw a pool of blood on the road. They were already on the way to the hospital by then. At the casualty ward, I spoke to an on duty nurse about her condition and was told to be critical. Basically she had flat lined on the way to the ER and had to be resuscitated upon arrival. It didn't sound good right from the start and were told by the doctor to pray, very hard for her.
Within a few hours that morning, she passed away without regaining consciousness.
I had just only met her that fateful night while our friends met up. He introduced me to her and I thought what a beautiful girl with an attractive personality. She was young, happy and in love. So was my mate. Alas, life is sometimes cruel and unfair. God has written the course of our fate the minute we were created. Tragically for him, she was called too early.
At her eulogy, her relative spoke and touchingly included, "...during the last moments of her life, she was able to spend it with someone she loved...."
To my mate, there are no words I could possibly say to make you feel any better since I am not going through that colossal lost you are enduring. I sincerely hope you will find the strength and solace, with the help of time, be able to experience happiness again.
When I saw her that night with you, I have never seen a more radiant human being. Keep her legacy alive and cherish the priceless, happy memories.. she would have wanted that.
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Random
Been a while since I last updated, been busy with work and travel mostly. Am seriously thinking of changing my profession since having an influx of friends or guests popping to Bangkok for a visit for the last three months or so. I think I'll do quite well as a tour guide...
Its been raining cats and dogs recently, widespread thundershowers throughout the week with isolated heavy falls. I'd prefer it when I'm already back at the apartment...and dry. Then again, I love the rain especially during the night. I always imagine it will 'clean' the city of all the dust and dirt; lower the temperature; offer some breeze; reminisce the good times.. It does wonders filtering out the noise pollution from the traffic, sound of the rain hitting tar, concrete, rooftops and so on completely dwarfing the audio episodes on the road.
Since mumsy left, my Sundays have become very quiet. No more lunches or get togethers, but she's happy back home with everyone, especially little cutie, Olivea. She called to tell tale how Oli ran towards her and hugged her by the legs upon seeing mumsy stepping through the door.
Ahhh that's bliss right there for you.
I miss everyone back home, and this is the longest time I've not gone back in the past ten years. That's why I can't wait to jump on the opportunity for a long break in December. There's no deny seeing friends and family again recharges the soul and makes you appreciate every available minute in their lives.
*Reminisces*.....
"Oiiiiiii!! Back to work!!!"
*POOOOOOF*
Its been raining cats and dogs recently, widespread thundershowers throughout the week with isolated heavy falls. I'd prefer it when I'm already back at the apartment...and dry. Then again, I love the rain especially during the night. I always imagine it will 'clean' the city of all the dust and dirt; lower the temperature; offer some breeze; reminisce the good times.. It does wonders filtering out the noise pollution from the traffic, sound of the rain hitting tar, concrete, rooftops and so on completely dwarfing the audio episodes on the road.
Since mumsy left, my Sundays have become very quiet. No more lunches or get togethers, but she's happy back home with everyone, especially little cutie, Olivea. She called to tell tale how Oli ran towards her and hugged her by the legs upon seeing mumsy stepping through the door.
Ahhh that's bliss right there for you.
I miss everyone back home, and this is the longest time I've not gone back in the past ten years. That's why I can't wait to jump on the opportunity for a long break in December. There's no deny seeing friends and family again recharges the soul and makes you appreciate every available minute in their lives.
*Reminisces*.....
"Oiiiiiii!! Back to work!!!"
*POOOOOOF*
Friday, September 28, 2007
"Do you know..."
A couple of weeks ago, I accompanied Jon to Conrad for some drinks with his acquaintance, who was already there waiting. On the way, Jon briefed me a little about her, whom I'll call F, who happens to be a relative of a powerful godfather/politician.
Jon did tell me a few days before, he was at a club when she called for him to escort her from the entrance down to the venue. As Jon appeared from the exit barrier, F saw him and proceeded to enter the same way. Out of nowhere came a bouncer who said this is an exit only walk way and F needed to show some identification and proceed on through the entrance gate.
She then turned into some kind of monster and started shouting at the bouncer saying she wanted to go through the exit into the club. The Bouncer became a little annoyed and retorted..
"I guess you won't be going in then".
Now there was fire in her eyes and she whipped out her ID and gave the common Thai 'threat'...
"Do you know who I am?" While handing bouncer, who happened to be doing his job, her ID.
He took one long look and was probably jolted. Upon returning her 'I rule the world' pass, he apologized and let both Jon and F through. At this point, I thought, alright at least the drama was done but she went on..
"What the f*%& is your name? Do you want me to have you removed or transferred?"
The rest of the story was a bit of a blur but I met F, and although I thought she was quite stunning, her attitude left much to be desired.
I've always held a high regard to those coming from influential families who maintained a humbled posterior, to me that exudes class. It showed although being someone, there isn't any need to be putting it out there.
Unfortunately this is a common sight in Bangkok. Everytime an arguement erupts, some tosser would always bark "Do you know who I am?" Yes it does have its advantages, especially with the law, when the police appears they will always look at IDs and check last names.
My business partner holds quite a well known surname, his uncle is a famous ex-senator and a crusader against AIDS, and everyone, whether stopped by traffic police, a supplier we visit, client meetings, would always ask how are they both related when exchanging name cards.
Some people like the attention while others shun it, you probably know my preference but what is yours?
Jon did tell me a few days before, he was at a club when she called for him to escort her from the entrance down to the venue. As Jon appeared from the exit barrier, F saw him and proceeded to enter the same way. Out of nowhere came a bouncer who said this is an exit only walk way and F needed to show some identification and proceed on through the entrance gate.
She then turned into some kind of monster and started shouting at the bouncer saying she wanted to go through the exit into the club. The Bouncer became a little annoyed and retorted..
"I guess you won't be going in then".
Now there was fire in her eyes and she whipped out her ID and gave the common Thai 'threat'...
"Do you know who I am?" While handing bouncer, who happened to be doing his job, her ID.
He took one long look and was probably jolted. Upon returning her 'I rule the world' pass, he apologized and let both Jon and F through. At this point, I thought, alright at least the drama was done but she went on..
"What the f*%& is your name? Do you want me to have you removed or transferred?"
The rest of the story was a bit of a blur but I met F, and although I thought she was quite stunning, her attitude left much to be desired.
I've always held a high regard to those coming from influential families who maintained a humbled posterior, to me that exudes class. It showed although being someone, there isn't any need to be putting it out there.
Unfortunately this is a common sight in Bangkok. Everytime an arguement erupts, some tosser would always bark "Do you know who I am?" Yes it does have its advantages, especially with the law, when the police appears they will always look at IDs and check last names.
My business partner holds quite a well known surname, his uncle is a famous ex-senator and a crusader against AIDS, and everyone, whether stopped by traffic police, a supplier we visit, client meetings, would always ask how are they both related when exchanging name cards.
Some people like the attention while others shun it, you probably know my preference but what is yours?
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
lingua franca
My flatmate has an array of friends here in Bangkok, foreign friends that is.
Lola was born in France and is of French Vietnamese heritage. Her late father was a retired professor who made a killing in the market while she assisted and studied the trade. A bubbly character and a bit of a party goer, her easy going character made her friends from all over.
I would come back from work to find a little get together happening, and as part host it was my duty to join them. The usual tipple would be vodka of assorted flavors, whiskey, wine, martini and beer. The real highlight of this get together is the language being conversed, since there are Thais, French, Japanese, French-Spanish, English, German speaking Frenchies, and others which I probably have forgotten.
Its like a crossfire of nationalities engaging in a barrage of discussions in different languages! Its quite amazing how diverse a little get together can be, and it felt like a mini United Nations assembly. If one would speak in their own language then they'd translate it after so no one would be left out, and of course in English!
I've heard a lot of negativity of the French, but one thing I have to admit is their ability to get along with their fellow countrymen of different race or religion, that and the passion they speak with while holding a conversation. You really don't know what the hell is going on or what they're talking about but all you know is their intensity the way they articulate.
I find these get togethers especially entertaining, and could just sit back with a glass of whatever poison and take into account the diverse multi lingual exchanges and learning new things everyday.
Right at the comfort of my own living room...
Lola was born in France and is of French Vietnamese heritage. Her late father was a retired professor who made a killing in the market while she assisted and studied the trade. A bubbly character and a bit of a party goer, her easy going character made her friends from all over.
I would come back from work to find a little get together happening, and as part host it was my duty to join them. The usual tipple would be vodka of assorted flavors, whiskey, wine, martini and beer. The real highlight of this get together is the language being conversed, since there are Thais, French, Japanese, French-Spanish, English, German speaking Frenchies, and others which I probably have forgotten.
Its like a crossfire of nationalities engaging in a barrage of discussions in different languages! Its quite amazing how diverse a little get together can be, and it felt like a mini United Nations assembly. If one would speak in their own language then they'd translate it after so no one would be left out, and of course in English!
I've heard a lot of negativity of the French, but one thing I have to admit is their ability to get along with their fellow countrymen of different race or religion, that and the passion they speak with while holding a conversation. You really don't know what the hell is going on or what they're talking about but all you know is their intensity the way they articulate.
I find these get togethers especially entertaining, and could just sit back with a glass of whatever poison and take into account the diverse multi lingual exchanges and learning new things everyday.
Right at the comfort of my own living room...
Monday, September 24, 2007
Wednesday, September 05, 2007
Torment
This morning at five, I was introduced to hell.
Soundly asleep, my phone went off and next thing I knew I was scrambling to the washroom for dear life. It was the beginning of torture beyond words.
Eyes barely opening I was on the phone while doing the deed and kept the sound at a minimum. Conversation went on for nearly half an hour while I attempted expertly to use the 'silencer' move.
All was fine and dandy, conversation was over and I was done on my throne. Cleaned up and made my way back to bed. Slowly I was drifting to unconsciousness when suddenly there was another bout of gut wrenching pain and zoomed back to the lavatory.
This went on non-stop from five till about half past ten, where I became so pale and drained, I passed out, luckily on my bed.
I had an hour's shut eye and could slowly feel a fever catching on. Feeling an urge coming on I hauled myself up and started expelling continuously into the bin.
By this time I was so drained and weak I could barely stay up and immediately fell back into bed. Feeling a little better after waking up around midday and was accompanied to the hospital with a friend.
It was little surprise with all the obvious signs that the doctor suspected food poisoning. Nee ways, I've been prescribed lots of antibiotics, vitamins and tylenol to speed up recovery.
So now I'm off to get plenty of rest and recuperate from Lucifer's den and I shall elaborate more on yesterday's post!
Aaaah...LOVE!
Soundly asleep, my phone went off and next thing I knew I was scrambling to the washroom for dear life. It was the beginning of torture beyond words.
Eyes barely opening I was on the phone while doing the deed and kept the sound at a minimum. Conversation went on for nearly half an hour while I attempted expertly to use the 'silencer' move.
All was fine and dandy, conversation was over and I was done on my throne. Cleaned up and made my way back to bed. Slowly I was drifting to unconsciousness when suddenly there was another bout of gut wrenching pain and zoomed back to the lavatory.
This went on non-stop from five till about half past ten, where I became so pale and drained, I passed out, luckily on my bed.
I had an hour's shut eye and could slowly feel a fever catching on. Feeling an urge coming on I hauled myself up and started expelling continuously into the bin.
By this time I was so drained and weak I could barely stay up and immediately fell back into bed. Feeling a little better after waking up around midday and was accompanied to the hospital with a friend.
It was little surprise with all the obvious signs that the doctor suspected food poisoning. Nee ways, I've been prescribed lots of antibiotics, vitamins and tylenol to speed up recovery.
So now I'm off to get plenty of rest and recuperate from Lucifer's den and I shall elaborate more on yesterday's post!
Aaaah...LOVE!
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Audacity
So its more or less confirmed the general elections will take place on the 23rd of December.
However, the European Union(EU) has decided to interfere by asking Thailand's own Election Commision(EC) to sign a memorandum of understanding(MoU) to allow their delegation to monitor the elections. Thailand then rebuffs them by rejecting the MoU, saying it shall conduct matters by their own laws and not wanting outsiders to exercise powers over local officials.
I particularly like what National Legislative Assembly(NLA) president Meechai Ruchupan had to say.
"If the EU holds an election, can we ask them to sign a memorandum of understanding and allow us to examine their election? Who is the EU? Is it the UN? Of course it is not. If it wants to observe the election, it should do like others do."
I think its an awful move from the EU, a slap in the face you could say. Its an internal matter and should be handled by no one else but thais.
Makes me wonder how on earth did they come up with this absurd idea of tying down the only country never to be colonized and also known as the 'Land of the free' with this memorandum.
However, the European Union(EU) has decided to interfere by asking Thailand's own Election Commision(EC) to sign a memorandum of understanding(MoU) to allow their delegation to monitor the elections. Thailand then rebuffs them by rejecting the MoU, saying it shall conduct matters by their own laws and not wanting outsiders to exercise powers over local officials.
I particularly like what National Legislative Assembly(NLA) president Meechai Ruchupan had to say.
"If the EU holds an election, can we ask them to sign a memorandum of understanding and allow us to examine their election? Who is the EU? Is it the UN? Of course it is not. If it wants to observe the election, it should do like others do."
I think its an awful move from the EU, a slap in the face you could say. Its an internal matter and should be handled by no one else but thais.
Makes me wonder how on earth did they come up with this absurd idea of tying down the only country never to be colonized and also known as the 'Land of the free' with this memorandum.
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Sad
A while ago I joined my mate D, his gf and a friend, A for dinner. Arriving late, I apologized and offered to pick up the tab but was rebuffed by the three of them.
It was a good meal with flowed conversations and lots of laughter. A was certainly a looker. Young and beautiful, she was part of the successful sales team of a pubic listed company of imported luxury cars and I got to know her bf owns the largest pork slaughterhouse in central Thailand, which doesn't take a genius to conclude he's from a well to do background.
Fast forward to the present and I asked D how A was and he informed me her bf has terminal leukemia. There was nothing the doctors could do and he was seeking traditional treatment all the way in China. He added A was completely devastated, and I, shocked.
I've never met him before or why I'm actually blogging about this, but its a real cruel fate seeing what a cheery person A is and having to be dealt with this deplorable situation. Guess all the money in the world can't buy you everything.
I wish A and her bf spend their best times and have great memories etched during the final bend before he's taken into God's hands.
It was a good meal with flowed conversations and lots of laughter. A was certainly a looker. Young and beautiful, she was part of the successful sales team of a pubic listed company of imported luxury cars and I got to know her bf owns the largest pork slaughterhouse in central Thailand, which doesn't take a genius to conclude he's from a well to do background.
Fast forward to the present and I asked D how A was and he informed me her bf has terminal leukemia. There was nothing the doctors could do and he was seeking traditional treatment all the way in China. He added A was completely devastated, and I, shocked.
I've never met him before or why I'm actually blogging about this, but its a real cruel fate seeing what a cheery person A is and having to be dealt with this deplorable situation. Guess all the money in the world can't buy you everything.
I wish A and her bf spend their best times and have great memories etched during the final bend before he's taken into God's hands.
Saturday, July 21, 2007
Serenaded
I attended the Royal Thai Navy Symphony Orchestra in conjunction with the Red Cross Concert charity event held at the Thailand Cultural Center last night, accompanied by a beautiful date.
Mum, elegantly dressed and I had excellent seats - second row - courtesy of her childhood friend, the First Lady.
Upon being dropped off at the entrance, we were greeted by naval officers who politely ushered us to register our attendance and post our donations to the Red Cross.
I've always had a soft spot for the Thai Navy and have deep roots within.
My maternal grandfather was the Vice Admiral of the Royal Thai Navy and have heard nothing but praises left, right and center from figures or veterans in the navy or armed forces.
It certainly is admirable, making me simultaneously proud and honored be to his grandson. He was a well respected gentleman, husband, father, grandfather, civil servant and comrade.
A hero with dignified integrity, he was given a royally sponsored funeral, the highest honour provided by His Majesty the King, when he passed on with many of the military's elite in attendance, even the current Prime Minister who was then a general in the armed forces paid his respects.
I remembered each visit our family paid when he was still around. Grandpa would be in high spirits and delighted whenever we stopped by Bangkok. Yes, those were much cherished times without question and the fondest of memories I have of that gentleman.
I turned to mum, whispering how I missed him and she nodded and smiled with approval.
Back to the conert...
We were left mesmerized by the breathtaking performances of The Royal Thai Navy Orchestra conducted by the impressive Captain Narong Sangboot, the excellent saxophonist Captain Pasakorn Suwanaphan, and the three amazing guest vocalists, Bird Thongchai Mcintyre - Thailand's own King of Pop, who was brilliant with a capital B - , Pat Suthasinee Buddhinan and last but not least Teeranai Na Nongkai.
As the concert came to an end, the crowd were left extremely gushed and provided non-stop applauses for the outstanding performance. We all stood up and bowed as Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, the guest of honor, made her exit with the Premier and other VIP guests in tow.
Despite the downpour, it was absolutely a pleasant evening being serenaded by the commended Royal Thai Navy Orchestra and in the company of a beautiful woman.
Saturday, June 30, 2007
Nostalgic
Thay say time is of the essence and awaits no man. Which means we have to make every minute count and not let it go to waste.Many times, I wish I could turn back time and go back to right the wrongs. Undo the hurt I caused mum with sharp-tongued comments. Not to lock all of dad's keys in his car and learned a painful lesson. Hurt my childhood friend and making him despise me forever by stealing his girlfriend.
Yes I wish I could do all those mentioned, but I wish so much to be able to go back in time to my childhood days. I look back at those days and realize they were the carefree times where nothing mattered. The main priority was to be a lad and have all the fun one could without a care or worry in the world.
I still conjure up memories of the yesteryears where I spent so much time at home, with the dogs, out bicycling with neighbourhood friends, getting into mischief ALL day without having to worry about school, grades, life, love, hurt and everything else.
However, during those years I was so desperate to grow up quickly. I wanted to be an adult and conduct adult business. There were times I wished and prayed for a speedy leap from adolescent to adulthood. Funny how as adults we want to go back to our childhood and vice versa.
I can only tell younger teens to enjoy their present moment of not having to shoulder responsibilities they are inevitable to face in future, to the fullest. For when they look back at their childhood, a rather unfortunate thing would be not experiencing the thrills and excitement one could muster for those blink-of-an-eye years.
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