Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Asia Conference Lesson 1: The 3rd Space

Rev Kong Hee shares this on the opening night of Asia Conference.

Acts 17: 16 (NIV)
"While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, he was greatly distressed to see that the city was full of idols."

So here was Paul, in the City of Athens and was deeply burdened by the state it was in. Now think for a moment.

Paul was in a territory where idols are everywhere around him, a situation which is full of religious activities. A City where he had to learn the language and the arts around him in order to communicate with the people of Athens.

In order for him to perform his ministry he had to learn their language in order to communicate with them, learn their culture basically. So Paul was culturally educated in the system of Athens.
Notice, he had to learn their culture but yet it does not affect him. Because Paul practiced Holiness. Being in the presence of idols does not mean your Holiness is diminished.

Now what is Holiness? Two things.

Holiness is ATTITUDE
and
Holiness is OBEDIENCE

These two things are the shield for Paul to put on. In order to be the Salt of the Earth, to Preserve Decay to the society as well as Light of the World, to be that light in the Darkness.

So Paul started to preach in the synagogue stated in Acts 17:16-17. A group of philosophers began to wonder of Paul's speech and they brought him to a place known as the Aeropagus.
Acts 17:18-19

Now the Aeropagus is located on a hill known as the Aeres Hill or Mars Hill. Yup its that name Aeres ring any bell? Or Athens? If you said Greek Gods then you are right!

So hang on a moment, the Aeropagus was like the head of the City State, the parliment house. Its the place where the elders of that city gather together to have counsel. So Paul was brought into the higher ups of the city.

Now check this out. Rev Kong Hee went on to his sermon. First, he shared that the church is known as the First Space, this is where we all feel safe and secure in the presence of God. There is a 2nd Space known as, The Marketplace where this is our Training Ground, our place where we work to earn our living and to do our job vocation. There is a 3rd space, this is where the higher authority of Society is located, the leaders to people with great influence to the 2nd Space.

Now most Christians will move from First Space to 2nd Space and then? BACK to First Space. Now there is nothing wrong with that. Sometimes we will get discourage and hurt out there in the 2nd space after all we learnt certain principles in Church and the moment we arrive in the 2nd space the days working will sometimes get you discourage and thus you go back to the First place to find your comfort.

However, this is not where we can impact the society.

Instead our Goal, is from 1st Space, where we are filled with the holy spirit, move on to 2nd space and do well at it. After that you will arrive at the 3rd Space of influence, which is UPWARD MOBILITY. Its fine ministering to the needs of the people on 2nd space, but in third space, you can change the system of living, you can change peoples thoughts on it.

Now what does this have any relation to Paul's story? Well if you read on, Paul was in the upward mobility, in Aeropagus on Mars Hill. Here he spoke about God's goodness to them, he was ASKED to PREACH! Not Forced to Preach, but asked to share with them. This is the Upward Mobility. And from his preaching, he won over a man named Dionysius.

Now this mans name was named after the God of the Greeks for Entertainment and Music. Entertainment and music was paganized after this God named as Dionysus or Dionysia. Usually every performance have to be dedicated to the God of Entertainment.

So this man played the most important role of removing the pagan name Dionysus from all Entertainment and Music and thus the music today is because of the result of one man, who removed the paganistic view of music and it was turned around that music is sanctified and freedom was given to music and entertainement, meaning movies are not about Dionysus anymore but about the freedom it is today.

Praise be to God! So Upward mobility is the Goal and will be that christians in Asia will not just be "surviving" by always going to the First Space, but no, we are raising up a new generation that will take ASIA by storm, by moving to the Third Space!

Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Above All Else - CHC Band Cover

Its been a wonderful time at Asia Conference and this song has really impacted me the most. The lyrics are pretty meaningful and speaks to my life. Of course I love the melody and especially the whole musicality of the song. It was well portrayed. Here is my first attempt at this song.

Monday, November 24, 2008

Asia Conference - Touching Asia, Transforming the World!!!

It has been 1 week of intensive queuing, bible knowledge, workshops and impartation of the holy spirit. ASIA CONFERENCE is where I have been the Whole Week.

It was a time of reconciliation, a time of fresh fire and anointing, a time of REVELATION and Signs and Wonders.

With power-packed preachers like Dr. Phil Pringle, Rev. Dr. Ulf Ekman, Pastor Benny Hinn, Rev. Dr. A.R. Bernard and our very own Rev Kong Hee to give to us the revelation that is the theme of this very Conference, Touching Asia, Transforming the World.

Many delegates from all over Asia and even from America came to this conference to seek for a new fire, a new anointing upon their life, came to see City Harvest Church.

Many things happen and unfortunately, I am not a very good writer but I shall cover the first 2 days of the Asia Conference in parts. My friend, Enling, has written a pretty good write up for the last 3 days of the meeting please go to the links called friends and click on Enling, and go and check out her post. She wrote it well.

Meanwhile, I will be covering the music being played in the church for the last 5 days of Conference. I can tell City Harvest Church is now up a new level of maturity as well as a structured path of our Goal is being established. Indeed, like our new CHC band's album, its time we are the LIGHT OF THE CITY!

I've seen pastor ministering and encouraging those from overseas to start their church, to rise up to transform the world. I have received a very powerful meassage from A.R. Bernard once again. He always never fail to give a word and it has a lasting impression.

Read up his sermon with Enling's post. Sorry ah Enling, making use of you. LOL!

I will be posting the 1st day later... Now i'm kinda busy practicing the new songs. LOL!

Friday, November 14, 2008

My Story Plot

Thanks for the reminder. I almost forgot about my story plot.

Right I ended off in my post about our animation meeting, that I had a story plot regarding tech warriors.

Basically, since Sean and David gave illustrations of a Sci-fi story, I decided to pitch in mine, which I have thought of it since my story idea Peacemakers; Chaper 1 coming out soon btw.
This story, I like to call it SEVEN.

When you think of the number 7, in the numerology, it means a complete cycle... Take note of that.

It is the year 7777 A.D. and its the 77th World War. By this time, countries were totally anihilated, there is no such thing as countries anymore. Instead, they form colonies. Due to previous wars where, WMD (weapons of mass destruction) are used, it has desolated the Earth and the fight is not only for Energy but for Ideals of a ruling party.

The colonies form into two huge factions. One known as the Peacekeepers, the other, the Liberalist. Both of them, are names of peace and freedom, yet they are at war for land, more colonies, energy and manpower. They were all hungry for more, yet one colony stood away from the rest.

This colony is known as the Darklights, they are called so, because they are able to keep the balance within their own colony. So much, so their colony thrive and have been neutral in the war around them. They were hidden from the world, until scouts from Peacekeepers and Liberalist found them. At first they came with negotiations, wanting to sign treaties to establish their rule over them, granting them protection in exchange for their services and location.

Since the Darklights are isolated from the war, all they have been doing is advancing research, gaining new technologies. Their area has an abundance of energy due to their preservation technology. Both sides wanted their technology as well as the location. They are located at a strategic spot. They are located on high ground, a good fortress to be in.

But the Leader of the Darklights know their intent. He refused both parties and refuse to take part in the war. Both parties did not push further, until one day, they attacked them.

During this time of attack, the Darklights had no choice but to fight back. As they were a peaceful loving people, the war was something new to them, they were really not meant for a war. The leader had no choice. He had to bring out his secret weapon, a group of soldiers, known as SEVEN.

This platoon only consist of 7 indiviuals. All equiped with the finest weapons, the finest suit and armor-mechs known as the DIRETECH. The suits were designed for the various talents these individuals have to offer.

Lincoln has the gift of sight, equipped with a mini-binocular eye-piece and wide-range of long-range weaponry for him to use. If you got a tank to take out? He has an anti-tank rifle. All his rifles has a very long barrel, to provide steady accuracy for him.

Sara has the gift of knowledge. Being the medic as well as sometimes the strategist, she is not someone to be trifled with. Along with Memphis, they will plan a way out in the tightest situations. Her suit is equipped with a bubble shield. She can render all attacks impervious to her. Whats her weapon? Normal assualt rifle and her box of toxin bullets and grenades. Poison is her way.

Jonathan is a weapon's whizz. He is known also as the man with many weapons. His knowledge of the outside factions weapons are amazing as he analyzed samples and weapons. His suit is a normal anti-armour pierce suit and mostly he pilots the mech as his mech is full of weapons. But he rarely goes into the battlefield. He is part of the radioman and intelligence as he fork out ideas for Sara to analyze.

The above are known as the Light side of the SEVEN.

Craig's gift is monstrous strength, the suit projects his punch to ten folds and thus with a punch he can puncture a thick wall and it will crumble. Useful for breaking in. His armor is heavy but he has no problem in maneouvering. He's slow, but do not catch him in tight places, you are in for a pain in the neck as well as a blasted stomach. His rifle has built in shot gun shells. No ordinary shells either. He can whack a tank and make a dent in it. But he can't lift it up. He is also sometimes equipped with an anti-tank metadoll.

Gale has the gift of speed. She can run fast, and her suit enhances her speed capabilities. She is usually equipped with blades of all kinds for different situations. She also weilds a hand gun which she rarely uses.

Memphis has the most unique gift, the gift of psychic. His role was to be a mind-reader, a spider-sense to the whole team. His suit is light armoured and is atune for his psychic abilities to strengthen and he packs a punch with his telekinetic attacks coupled with a mind-blowing weapon made just for him. An assault rifle with certain different bullets.

The above are the Dark of SEVEN

Derrick is known for his finesse in martial arts, therefore, his suit is accostomed to environments for assasination. Its atune to mobility and camoflage. If you need someone to recon the area? Derrick is your man. He is armed with a variety of weapons. Daggers, assult rifle, hand gun and even a healing kit. He is NOT a master of all traits, just a survival. Because of his background and how he balances Dark and Light in his life, he is appointed LEADER of the SEVEN.

In this year 7777 is the turning point, the end of the war. The outcome? I have yet to decide what happen. Its a sci-fi action and this seven won't be just battling among themselves, they have to lead troops, to flank the opponents own elite team and brains. Mechs play a role and abilities can turn the tide of battle.

Its not just strategy, is how to turn the tide to your favour. As the SEVEN began to conquer, they became inspiration for a few colonies, that there is still hope for them.

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Hillsong United - Look to You Album

There's a reason why I still love this album more than the other albums so far.

All the songs here are my favourites of Hillsong. The vocals here for the guys here are mind-blowing, probably thats why I love this album, I get to hear the guys sing.

But the songs here portray a feel that its really amazing. The touch from heaven is so easy and infectious as you listen to the album from the start. From one song to the next, it flows so easily. I can't think of any band as a benchmark than Hillsong united. The drummer is fantastic, great guitar riffs, plucking and the atmosphere it creates, is really amazing. The youths singing behind along with the band also create a huge impact on me.

The acoustics are my focus here. The strumming pattern is amazing, it accompanies the voice, the sound it produced is really trully, fantastic. All I know is that this album has been my strength to me during this period. I intend to learn the songs in this album and to keep playing it in my head during Army. I believe that the songs here can strengthen me. I have always believed that music can heal the soul, can bring light in the darkness. Can give a hope when there is no hope, provide an outlet of expression that no one could.

Animation is just a form of communication to the world. If the majority of youngsters are playing games watching animation, I hope to give them messages through this medium. Thats why I still insist on animation or music. I actually can't really decide. Like, I hope that animation and music really go together for me... Still looking for a way, there must be a way.

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

An Animated Meeting!

Yesterday the three of us had a meeting. An animation future meeting.

Yes, its Sean, David and me. Discussing about portfolio stuff and moving on to our ideas for a future portfolio. It was a meeting that probably made my decision to whether music or animation is my path. I mean, from the many comments I received, music will always be my hobby, but one things for sure, its an extreme hobby. I will still continue to write songs, and learn more about music before I enter the animation arena. That is my goal.

At least for now, I am serious about music. And its not going to be a long time before I can even pursue it again. Yet right now, I have another concern. I want to learn another language. And since Army is a Music-killer for some, I may consider going to take Japanese during army time. I still have to consult on someone higher than me, whether should I pursue this course first.

I am willing to say that, if I enroll in 3Dsense Media School, that will be the only time that I will graduate to become a man.

Well we met up, the three of us. Sean has been in the SAF Film Unit, so envious of him, he gets to live a fraction of his dream. He will be moving on to greater things if he were to study in an advance school for animation. David was on the edge too, he is ready to create a portfolio. Me? Decision making is my primary concern.

We discussed over at Subway and talked for quite a long time. With each of us proposing our idea for a story plot.

David's story was more hero type kind of story. The only funny thing about his story was, there was no substance. I daren't say it in front of him.

I mean, sure, 3 people with somehow extraordinary powers as they were turned into super soldiers. One is an elemental, the other is a gunner user and the last one is a Gauntlet user. So basically, these 3 are somehow friends. Because they live in a world with an Economic Crisis and the worst of it, money is really your only friend. So they fought for money.
They are suppose to rescue a VIP who was kidnapped. Outside the building was heavily guarded. Wham! they took them out. Afterwards, they enter the building only to find themselves dodging traps and the worse traps ever seen within a building. (i was like "huh?")
Afterwhich, they will meet the boss on the roof of the building. The boss a sword user is somehow able to overcome the three of them, as he can predict their moves and know their styles...

Me: Then?
David: That's it.
Me: Wha-
Sean: Wait, so you're trying to say that this kidnapper, is using a sword which can personally rid all three at once.
David: Yup, Oh I want to hear your ideas too.
Sean: Yea, well I have one.

Now you must understand here. Sean is a very TECHNICAL person. So his back story is pretty complicated. He got a title for his story too, called Singapore 2.5K. Why's the title like that? Its a story taking place in the world today at year 2500 A.D. On this year, marks near the end of a war which Singapore is no longer a physical land country but has been in hiding. What do I mean? It seems something happened and Singapore was actually nuked, yet it survived as by that time, the Integrated Resorts and the invention of N.E.Water eventually became one of the greatest investions of all time. The IR was just a project to cover another project, to make a whole area underwater fit for living. The N.E.Water project was a cover-up for water based technology.
So when Singapore was nuked, every single citizen lives in the underwater city. The SAF was no longer what it is. The ground troops do not call the shots, but the Navy became the primary force. Singapore is somehow able to use the water technology for their operations to attain world peace. By this time, since it was nuked, every country in the world thought that Singapore was really no more. Until the recent assasinations around the world start provoking the world and the different factions.

I love his idea. But it took me a long while to understand his technical speech, What I just placed here was the bottomline of the story.

Me idea? Well... Its about the SEVEN tech warriors. Talk about that later.

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Origins of Interest... Animation and Music

All of a sudden I feel like sharing, where did I get the idea to be in the animation industry or even have the interest for music? Well, Final Fantasy was not the first thing that made me want to enter animation or music but it was the game that brought it home to my conclusion.


I have started playing games since primary 3 where games at that time were pixelated, and joysticks were the inthing. Yes because the games were mostly about flying in an aeroplane. I pretty much suck at those games, but i love the thrill of it.


Then primary 3 was also the time where half-life: counter strike first came about. Love the action and how I am experiencing from a first-person view. Here marks my great interest in first-person shooter games which up till now, is my favourite genre. My first favourite came when I tried out RPG games like Final Fantasy 10 in Secondary 3. So before RPG was my favourite, First-person shooter and RTS, real-time strategy, games are my favourite. To name a few, I love Red Alert, Red Alert 2, Starcraft, Warcraft 3 and Frozen throne for RTS. For FPS, I go for Half-life series, Medal of Honour, Call of Duty, Prey, Counterstrike. Yes My love for games is many. Yet I have to control them, or they will control my life.

But the main thing I'm trying to say is. Animation I have loved since games. And at that time, anime was not part of my life until secondary 3. And that marks the RPG era for me too. I played Final Fantast 10 on my uncles PS2. It was this game that got me so hooked that I took the game very very seriously. Yes it nearly controlled my life too. But one thing was for sure, no matter what I like, it has got something to do with animation. I watch TV alot when I was younger. So basically, animation started from there not games.

Music also started when I was young. But I suppose bad experience with Keyboard during childhood was my downfall, and also not being able to own a piano in the past too. But music started from keyboard lessons. I remember then that after which, music was just all for me to listen to. I did not really listen to much music until secondary school. But one thing I remember, I will always go for Karaoke when I was a kid, singing old english oldies with my Dad was the best experience that I had.

Even now, I feel that Karaoke, I am not afraid off. So singing was my love before playing music. Then I got interested in guitar. Because City Harvest Church made me open my eyes that we should not despise our youth and that we can do things for the glory of God. And I can't help but observe the guitarist in my cell group most of the time. Its pretty captivating to see a guitarist doing his thing whether in cell group or just in church seeing the main guitarist playing. I have always seen some of my friends that when they play a song from their guitar, people will start to flock toward them. I love that form of attention... I can't help but say that. Its a thrill to have people watching you perform your thing. Even though at first you are embarassed, but as I began to perform, all embarassment just fade away. So music has been my love.

Why did I say Final Fantasy brought home my conclusion for animation and music? Well, I do not know if you have noticed, but Final Fantasy has one of the best soundtracks ever made in a game. I love Nobou Uemetsu and Tetsuya Nomura's works. Both are the people I want to be. To be a musician, as well as a character designer or concept designer. Why concept? I feel that I have loads of ideas of a game story as well as plots for different scenes. Certain fighting styles I can also think of. I believe I can do this better than science laborotory stuff.

Final Fantasy's latest movie also got me very interested in making my own film! I have one problem, I am indecisive, afraid of hardwork ( yes bad character about me) and I can't seem to get out of my comfort zone. I can say that one of the reasons is, my mom is not willing to let me go to experience failure outside myself. Also I just found out, she still does not support me in arts, she still thinks that I will give up art and pursue science. Dream on mom... The ultimate reason is because, I can't seem to stand up to people. I keep letting them step all over me. Even if I did stood up, I will be shoot down again. I really hate this side of me.

Nevertheless, this is probably my mistake if I enter the animation world. One thing, church and cell group, I won't be able to attend often. I will be busy and very calculative of time management. Also, the job scope can even allow me access to overseas work! Which my aim is to go into Japan. To not only be an animator there, but to change their environment. I hope someone does not see this post. Even if they did, they can laugh at it for all I care. You just watch...

Monday, November 10, 2008

Popcorm Smasher: Quantum of Solace

007, what does this number immediately tell you?

If your answer is 007 agent, James bond, then you are absolutely RIGHT!

This classic spy flick became a huge phenomenom up till its first creation till today. James bond was always seen as a classy, a womanizer, a guy with charisma, and lets not forget, a guy who thinks fast, acts fast, as well as hitting his opponents and escaping right under their noses. Not only that, he escapes as well as captures his opponents.

James Bond became a huge icon. Over the years, the generations of James Bond always shows James having different gadgets invited from a scientist. Alls good with that, and its interesting, however the action, or the fighting style was neglected. I love the gadgets and the way he used them, its creative no doubt. But whenever the actors for James Bond fought, the punches are always the same kind. Not much engagement or struggle. Even if there was a struggle, its just rolling on the floor with the enemy.

Well the Casino Royale generation, the current generation of James Bond, played by David Craig, is very different from the other James Bond. It shows a more wilder James, he still kept the charisma, but James in this case, is much more... Fierce?

He runs after opponents engages them and immediately there was a struggle, either for weapons (which is common) or for the kill by hands. Now this Quantum of Solace is the continuation from Casino Royale. He was still an agent, but an agent with trouble in his heart, his mind. He lose his first love, after all his days of womanizing, only to find that the lady he loved, betrayed him. She was married and she was threaten to be a double agent, against Bond. Thus, he felt betrayed but at the very last, she died trying to save him. He tried to rescue her but couldn't.

Quantum of Solace is where, Bond is lose. With vengence on his mind, he intends to find the organisation their agency have never heard off. The whole movie is really, ACTION! This is really one heck of an Action flick. Its realistic, there are engagements with a struggle. The first fight scene was James against a double agent in their agency. He nearly lose that round. The suspense created was incredible. In every James Bond movie, there will always be a scene where he went to bed with some lady. And yes you will see all the classic side of James bond, the only thing you won't get to see much, as Casino Royale was the same, is the gadgets.

There are no fancy gadgets in this movie. What you will see, is the charisma, the cleverness as well as the audacity, James Bond offers. Hand to Hand fights are really intense and fast paced. You will see the verious special effects which are really cool and its believeable. The whole movie, lives up to the genre... ACTION MOVIE!

to me: 4/5 Stars
Public: 4/5 stars
critiques: ? I have no idea... unless you hate action movie, then its 2/5 stars if not 3/5 stars. I bet they will complain about the fast pace fights.

Friday, November 07, 2008

I have the ability to Tell Time, Anytime!

I just bought a watch at my own salary... But still, What a watch!

Casio Mudman Watch. It is shock resistant, water resistant till 200m depth and MUD resistant. Yes, this watch is made so that it is completely sealed off from all abnormal materials from entering its mechanism.

Also, it has 4 alarms to be set, a stopwatch with sophisticated recording of time laps. A snooze that rings every 5 mins, alarms can be set to date time and what hour and when. Its powerful trust me.

For the Countdown Timer there are quite good features too. Like the progressive beeps to inform you every interval of a minute and even near the last 10 secs it will inform you with beeps. So you can just keep running without having to worry how much time left as the beeps can help you. It will also inform you if you're running slower than normal or too fast, in other words, pacing.

Lastly, it has the feature of WORLD TIME. It means, any where in the world, all I need to do is adjust to the right country and WAH LAH, the time in that country. If next time I travel overseas, I won't have to just change my adjustment on the watch, I just need to switch in or out of the time mode for the certain country.

All this, for $137 smakeroos! Its quite a good buy to me. LOL!

Wednesday, November 05, 2008

Self Esteem Issues...

I feel pretty lousy about myself right now.

I mean, I am frustrated over the problems in the company. But I know I can't just sit on the side lines anymore. Its time I be responsible and take action. Yet, I still feel down and I feel stupid about myself.

This feeling is worse than when my mom is on her bad side. Its a feeling that makes you feel that you are to blame, you are the cause of the problem and I am the thorn in the side of this department. I know I have to take action, I want to be positive about it...

But if I were to always have an optimistic attitude, I would be lying to myself as well... I really wish I can get out of this place. But the stupid contract is keeping me in! I have no choice! If I leave now I pay a whole month salary... That pretty much SUCKS! I really hope to make the right decision on when to quit. If I can quit half a month later, at least I can go for Asia Conference and pay off the half a month salary... I really want to do that.

I wanted to go for Asia Conference electives. The Art of Worship Leading, is the one elective I wanted to go for. I can't believe I'm saying this, but to me, music has became bigger than anything I had in my life.

Tuesday, November 04, 2008

Youtube aka the World Stage!

Alright, I decided to promote youtube!

Basically, it was thanks to youtube, that I decided to pursue music. Because this is a place where, the latest movies, music videos and many interesting videos are put up. Wanna get up to date? Go and search for the latest news, gossips and happenings in youtube. Of course, it has a decency law which also appeals to me.

But my dream to perform didn't come from youtube. It came from when I was a kid. I have always loved to perform. To me the stage is my playground, even though I am sometime nervous about it, yet as I conquer my fear, I began to love the exhilaration of standing on a stage.

I used to perform dramas and sing in choir on stage before. Up till now, I still can remember most of my performances when I was a kid. And almost nearly in my life intervals like primary, scondary, poly, all of them I have been through a stage experience, meaning centre of attention.

I love the attention, I love the atmosphere of a standing ovation, but mostly, I love the freedom to perform and express. If I were to get into animation, the only time I get to have attention is after the filming is done. How did youtube get into all this?

Well, I wanted to learn guitar and youtube was my first source to learning. Also, its thanks to that, I began to see people doing covers and I trying to copy them. Yet I noticed there is actually a pool of talent in youtube.

The one thing that broke the ice was the Marie Digby incident. Where she crossed from a cover video girl to a superstar! The first youtube singer to become brand as a singer of pop culture! Singer and songwriter genre's began to spark all around youtube, becoming a new in-thing on youtube. Thousands of people start to pick up their instruments to play their songs which they hope could be heard. One thing led to another.

Bands start to perform on youtube (boyce avenue) and great acts from guitar fingerstyling and more singer songwriters are emerging. David Choi is one of my favourites. Although he has a unique style of not smiling when appearing on video.

All these people and Marie Digby, which became the inspiration of all who want to crossover to stardom, became my inspiration that the world is a stage. But its in the Cyber-world. We want to cross from Cyber world to Real World. Marie shows that example.

So I decided to do covers of christian songs, to help people like me, who wanna learn guitar but we kinda suck at it? Well, I only know how to show the chords I play. I still continue to learn online from people. My goal is to be able to strum to some of the most difficult songs, improve my vocals and to be able, to do piano covers. That is a long way to go.

So youtube is my pal, my 2nd Best friend and the only thing that keeps my dream for music going. I even had great comments, whether they were from my present friends, but I am more encouraged by the overseas youtubers. They are the ones who really made my day. Love you guys and gals out there, thanks to their comments, I continue to strive to play better, sing better, and search for a better camera. LOL!

Army Journey Chapter 1: Before BMT (Part 2)

Working before entering army, common practice among fellow men of Singaporeans. Of course I have friends who quit their job so that they can relax for 1 month before entering NS, which is a living hell for some of them.

To tell you the truth, I'm kinda excited that I can finally enter NS. One of the reasons being, I can finally move on in life, and secondly, I can quit my contracted Job! Then afterwards, I began to feel a little intimidated. The trainings are going to be tough, no doubt about it, but the training phase is not what bugs me, its the mental attack by the sergeants.

Sure enough, as I remembered listening to some of my friends experience in army and how they got punished by them, doing silly stuff like jumping jumping jacks with "ya ya papaya!" if you said a "ya" instead of "yes sir" to your sergeant.

All in all, my friends commented it was a fun experience.

Since knowing that I am entering army, I began to feel the urge to exercise as well as to become physically better in terms of "looks" as well as Fitness, which is my primary goal.

The problem is motivation. Having urges does not mean I will exercise. I will tend to procrastinate until I do not have the drive to go.

Just yesterday after work, I went to the gym with my friends. Before that we did a 2.4km run, own pace. We tried abit of sprinting intervals on the track. After running, I had stiches and I had to stop. After that we went to the gym, where weight training and muscle build-up is the place for this. I did most of the machines for upper body. Pull up is still not working for me. *Sigh*

Checked the weight machine too, 63kg. Man am I heavy...

Monday, November 03, 2008

3D Common Sense: Music Versus Animation - Battle of the Arts!

Two art forms. One is under Performing Arts, the other in Fine Arts. Basically, both are something I am very interested in. Nothing interest me more than music and moving images on the screen. Yet somehow, I am unsure of which to choose.

Its not like I can attend a school that has both arts? I can't pursue music and animation. Its too complicated! One of them is going to be a hobby for the rest of my life...

Why did I talk about this again, was because on the recent Saturday, I went to an open house at an animation school, 3Dsense Media School. Its the same school which I took my professional course in Film Production Animation using 3D studio Max software. It was not easy those 7 weeks as I had to juggle my own studies as well as church.

When I went to the open house to check out the diploma programme, it was interesting! Inspiring! But there is one drawback, the duration of study. Let's not mention the money, as we all know its going to be pretty expensive. But their study hours is from early morning around 8.30am till 6.30pm, and sometimes they have night classes ranging from 7.30pm till 11.00pm! Wow... I forgotten to ask if weekends are affected too, but I had no time to ask questions as it was late.

They went on to talk about how intensive it is, and basically their main focus is on the Industry and their needs as well as to potentially aid this people to unleash their potential in just, ONE YEAR. FIERCE! I am not an artist, but I have a passion, then what? Well, 3Dsense Media School is a place where PASSION, is the factor of all hardwork and thus you are FOCUS on one goal and in the end, DRIVEN to obtain it, which is to be offically known as a CG Artist.

Then agian, its only for 3D training. But they spoke on something common and that is the Drawings. The Drawings, are the FACTOR to all animation. No drawing? Might as well bang your head on the wall learning all the software. When there's no Creativity, there is no PRODUCTIVITY.

I feel like I'm promoting 3Dsense, which is for the VERY passionate. Yet, I have a drawback, I want to be able to have my freedom. Which is going to be contradicting... I need to find my way soon... Thats what I have been telling myself all the time.

Friday, October 31, 2008

Popcorn Smasher Hits - High School Musical 3: Senior Year

Yes! Its back! Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens starring in the most popular Television Movie on Disney Channel, now brings it to the Big Screen!

High School Musical has became a phenomenom! It portrays young people living out their dreams, doing the stuff which they love and not to stick to the normal ways.
"A brainiac can break it down on the dance floor." Zac Efron, as Troy Bolton, said in the movie.

Its a movie that portrays, stepping out of your limits, and this is a setting which really encourages young people to really go for their dreams.

High School Musical the First Movie, talks about finding out your interest, talent and love holds no barriers for the two, Troy and Gabriella.

High School Musical 2, speaks on committment, relationship mistakes, work and how you have to "Work it out".

High School Musical 3, speaks mostly on the area of Decision making as well as fighting for your right to choose. All the while the choice is yours, and you shape your own destiny.

At least this movie on HSM3 gave me a very good impression. New songs of course, were brought into the musical. Its pretty good because the directors made it such that we were watching a theatre performance at some areas. It was pretty amazing the concept. Its like watching the whole musical on theatre in the movie theatre, that was the illusion they had created.

The Dance moves were bigger, better, and there was a surprising part which was really cute. LOL! I shall not say it. You could say that the last HSM, was actually better then HSM2 in a number of ways. The storyline was normal.

Here I have to ask, why do you watch a musical for? The storyline? Well, partially yes.

The music and moves? DEFINATELY!

So if you walk into the theatre thinking that you are expecting a heavy storyline and some powerpack total drama? Then, I say, you are in the wrong movie. Because, HSM, is about music, about dreams, about dancing away and striking a chord in our hearts once again, on love, friendship and freedom of expression.

Welcome to High School Musical 3: Senior Year!

Ratings: 4/5stars (for fans)
2/5stars(for people who already set their hears on hating HSM)
3/5stars (for the normal public)

Thursday, October 30, 2008

Life is Shaky, What must you do?

This phrase is one of the most catchy phrase I have ever heard.

Ever since I attended Super Teen, I know many punch lines and some are very good actually.
However, this punchline on my title, is one of the most asked questions in our own world.

Life is Shaky, what must you do? I remember answering, "Balance my Life." And the instructor would kick the log I was balancing on. Yes, we had to balance on a narrow log and walked across it with our eye on a little index finger at the other end.

When he kicked, immediately I fell, no matter how much I focus on the finger. I had to take my eyes off it the moment he kicked and looked for support. I would grab onto the hands of my friends who will be at my side. The instructor yelled at me to let go.

I remember the moment he said that I began to focus on the little finger again. Little by little, I regain my balance. Then he will began to kick the log again. Again my initial instincts was to hold my friends fist for support. And at my third try, when he kicked the log, I was successful to keep myself balanced and still. I was able to focus my eye on the target (index finger) and still stay balanced.

My instructor began to explain that the 'swinging' log depicts our life. There will be times when we have problems and obstacles in our way, making life shaky. When life is shaky, you tend to depend on others to get you through. And because your life is shaky, you will lose sight of your goal, your focus in life.

So you have to not depend on others support when life is shaky, you have to learn to balance out your life. Perhaps, I did not depend on friends. But I know during that time, I should not depend on Man, neither should I depend on myself to get out of shakiness. But we already have someone to help us balance, and that is the one True God. Who will carry you in times of trouble. When life is shaky, what must you do?

Balance my life with the Power of God, thats my answer.

What tHe BLeeP Do wE (k)now? Part 12

Here is an interesting movie documentary which I came across. Its VERY interesting.

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

FRUSTRATION Part 2

Oh my socks!

I am so frustrated! I am never going to find a job through agency anymore. Ok to be more specific, I do not want a contracted job ever again. It is seriously killing me!

I feel so trapped, so snuffed out in this company. I already submitted my army letter. That does not stop the contract for terminating me from this workplace. I really wish I could bang my head on the wall, why did I SIGN THE CONTRACT!!!

Now I'm stuck in this hole. And I feel as if I am suffocating. I know Aileen mean well to encourage me to stay on and even telling me that I should just swallow it down and stay on, but... My body won't allow me to swallow it.

The problem with me at work is the same. I don't have the authority, or if I'm not even sure about my authority, I will not Exercise it. Its something which I do not like to use either. Authority. Its abit hard as I have my own self-esteem issues. And to me, a Job that deteorates your self-esteem issues, is really not a job at all. Its like going to prison, working for the sake of money as well as to become someone which you are never good at in the first place. It is also not the best place to perform well in that job scope too.

I have been not doing work in this company. I really really, want to leave here. I do not want to burden this company any longer, I do not want to post invoices anymore, thats it, my final time of financial invoicing and all that crap.

I have never liked handling invoices. I prefer to just do my art... I know I can't think of it this way... Even today I met up with the Recruit Express gang for lunch and the new person that came in was a china guy. He says that even if we have dreams, we still need to survive.

The word survival... I really do not like that word. Its a word that will bound one to do something which he is not meant to do. He has no choice, no freedom, bounded in a cage and have no access to pleasures and comfort.

I really do not like the word. Yet its thanks to the Survival instinct in our flesh that we also cause pain in others...

Frustration over this matter is normal. Yet to brood over this, is harmful. I feel that I have entered, not the working world, but the real MARKETPLACE...

Army Journey - Chapter 1: Before BMT...

I just got back from my trip in Kuantan, Malaysia. I had sunburn, thus the constant need to scratch, with pain, at the affected skin area.

It was a trip to fill our tummies. We went for a typical Singapore family kind of trip. Just relax and explore mostly on the food. Well, that is one of Singaporean's greatest traits, the food is a must in our travel factor.

So I returned, carrying all our bags and I went to the mailbox. As I popped open the little door of the mailbox, I saw the very familiar, orange checkered MINDEF letter. I knew right there and then, its the letter.

For so long I have waited for this letter. Particularly because I have BEEN waiting for it. I lost my chance to enter early the moment I failed one of my modules, even though I have already went for the Medical Check-up for status of Pes A. Some people consider it being "unlucky" to get Pes A. Because usually they will post people with this status to Diving Unit or Commandos. I believe there is one more division, Guards... But I'm not really very sure about Army stuff... yet.

All my best friends are now serving army, and now all of them had their postings as they have finished Basic Military Training. Its a time of lonliness ever since. And now, in front of me, is the genuine letter that states my official enrolment to BMTC School 2!!!

I was excited and after that I felt a little sad. This marks the end of my life as a 'Boy' and its the start to become a 'Man'. I just felt a little sad. For Singapore, all males age 18-20 have to undergo National Service. In the end, this is also the mark for males to sort of "graduate" from becoming a boy to a man. Its a "ritual" to adulthood you could say.

Immediately after seeing the letter I was reminded of the times when my best friends shared with me their experience during their book out. Its surprisingly, interesting the way they tell their stories. And if my friends can make it, why can't I? Well, for one, all of them do not have trouble with arm hand power.

I started to think that I need to train up from this very moment. I guess I really have to take exercise a serious thing and has to be regularly from now on. Please God, make me discipline ever more now that I have received my letter. Its what I prayed for too. But God, make me stronger in my arms. Make me stronger in stamina. I do not want to be a "slacker" neither do I want to do "more" than I am expected unless required. God make me a stronger person, physically as well as mentally. Amen.

Thursday, October 23, 2008

!!! F R U S T R A T I O N !!!

This is probably going to be the most unpleasant post I have put up for a long time.

I really, really, hate this job.
I mean, acutally, I thought the job would be an experience, new things to be taught to me. I was so optimistic about it. On my first day I was all set. I thought that by being taught for at least one week I would know everything. But Nooooooo....

One week passed. My fellow colleague left me due to "improper behaviour". So I am left alone on this seat of Temporary Sales Coordinator... Just thinking of that position makes me feel as if the bile from my innards are in my mouth.

The person suppose to be in-charge of me has not really been TEACHING me ANYTHING! Sure she makes request and all that, but I still do not understand her lingo.
Once she ask me to check certain date and time and stuff on a database. Note the word, database.

Its a general word, a word that everybody can understand that a database is where all data is being placed in a single location and that its a reference for everybody to see in case some "problem" shows up. But guess what, there is something called, MANY databases.

She asked me to check the database.

I asked which.

She looked irritated as if I should already know which database?

Hello??? I WAS NOT TRAINED FOR THIS JOB! EVEN IF I AM TAUGHT I AM NOT TAUGHT EVERYTHING??? HAS THAT EVER OCCURED IN HER LITTLE BRAIN???

Furthermore, I was not taught by the person in-charge of me, but the fellow colleague that left! And he did not know much of his job scope either, yet he managed to pull through three weeks! I am seriously wondering why he had bad conduct. Maybe so that he could leave this "ulu" (deserted) place and find a BETTER job that does not require you to seat at the seat just to stare at Microsoft Outlook all day and update a "database" which is known as the Customer database.

So i explain to her:
which database should I use?
she gave me the face.
I replied: "you know there are many kinds of database." qouted some examples. Then all of a sudden she just ask me to check the files for dates and the files are filed according to invoice numbers.

Smooth move nut head.

Yea I know in the end the dates are in running order no complain...

The point is... THE PERSON-IN-CHARGE DID NOT TEACH ME PROPERLY!? SHE EXPECTS ME TO KNOW EVERYTHING IN ONE WEEK FROM LEARNING THROUGH ANOTHER TEMP STAFF?

I am I came to this job, expecting to be taught and I want to be efficient and not pull down a company. I have always been like that. I'm loyal, even if I am staying for awhile. So long as I am taught PROPERLY what to do. I could be more efficient I can even aid my person-in-charge, I could even help other people in the department if I knew more!

I can't help but overheard some of my other temp friends I made this week. They were saying my person-in-charge actually feared to teach me everything. Because I am just a temp staff, not staying with them for a long time.

My dear friends, is 3 MONTHS long? I am going to ROT in this company for 3 months of starring at Microsoft Outlook. If I stare long enough everyday, I am not surprised that whenever you talk to me I'll go "You've got mail. From someone someone, cc to someone someone, subject: for my head to poop on, etc etc."

When someone ask me to check something with my person-in-charge, she looks as if she will pop. I understand she has many things to do. She rarely visits the office due to her job scope and perhaps to teach me but even so, teaching is more important! Just teach me the ropes, let me get it right and PRESTO! I am your official helper which does not add on to your problems but help you solve problems and only to enquire you for certain actions. No stress, no unhappiness... *Sigh*

Forgive my very ranting nature now. I just need to write it out... And looking back, its been a long time since I showed sarcasm of this level... Its been awhile. I decided to post this colourful looking Sarcasm masterpiece. Till I flare up again...

Monday, October 20, 2008

Water: One of God's Greatest Creations!

Once again, our God is a Creative, Powerful and Great God. He is a God that knows exceedingly above whatever we can ask of think (imagine). Its been a long while since I decided to "preach". This message was shared with us in church yesterday.

Pastor Kong got straight into the word of God.

"Keep your Heart with all Diligence, For out of it sping the issues of life."
Prov 4: 23

The Heart speaking in this verse is not of the physical heart, but one concerning your soul.

Pastor went on the portray that the Heart works on 4 Levels of our being.

1. Thinking - With thoughts you are thus able to discern and to deduce situations and solve problems. Thoughts are a powerful tool to influence the way we live. So with postive thoughts, you will thrive. Negative thoughts, you stay depressed, unmoving, thinking that the whole world is your enemy. Thoughts are a powerful substance.

2. Visions and Dreams - Everybody has a dream. Whether its your dream to be a multi-millionaire or to be a boy scout, no matter how big or small the dream, we all dream. That is what gives us the hope and inspiration as well as something to look forward too. But a dream is just a dream until you exercise the next point...

3. Faith - Do you believe in that dream? To just say you believe, you have already won half the battle of attaining your dream. The bible says, so long as you have Faith of a MUSTARD SEED, which is a really really puny seed in the world, you can say to this mountain to move from here to there and to be cast into the sea, it shall be done, According to your Faith.

However, believing is not enough, just to keep your thoughts in and to believe is not enough. To go into the next level of the heart you have to...

4. SPEAK - Confess that dream, coupled with belief and Hard work! Remember Christianity works on ACTIVE FAITH not PASSIVE.

Here Pastor Kong brings us an example for all 4 Heart Levels. What is true in the spiritual is also true in the Natural.
Dr. Masaru Emoto is a well known professor for coming up with books on Water and the effects of its water crystals after being exposed to different types of Music and Words.

Take not that the water he used in his experiments are Distilled Water, meaning there is no relative substance or foreign impurities present in the water.

His Study shows that after water crystals are exposed to different words spoken to it, or music played to it. The began to take different shapes of crytals. The words "I LOVE YOU" Brings forth beautiful formations of water crystals. Whereas the words, "I Hate you! I want to kill you." the water crystals did not even form.

For music with love songs being played, again the crystals form beautifully. Whereas songs about breakup, there is still formation of crystals, but it looks as if the formation is half broken, depicting a broken heart.

His took his studies to another level. He went on to Thoughts. So he expose a few people to keep thinking positive thoughts in the room with the crystal. After the experiment, the results of the crystals were again very beautiful. Vice versa. Negative thoughts did not make crystals.

Then Emoto went to Fujiwara Dam to get a sample of water. He form crystals from it, only to find that it is not a perfect crystal, in fact it was rather hideous looking. It appears that in this dam, someone had actually committed suicide in it before. So Emoto got someone to PRAY over the waters of the dam.
Then he took the sample of the water. What he found were crystals, brilliantly shaped and shining with intricate designs.

This proves the Bible's teachings too.

In the bible, it says the power of your tongue should be tamed. That a negative word can bring forth destruction. Comparing this that we need to keep praying and seeking God also helps in building you up. After all, our bodies are made 90% of water (just an estimation). It makes you think doesn't it, that thoughts are powerful enough to change life's. Just from a single thought, it can tip the balance or shape your future and your life.

This is also saying your 4 heart levels can easily influence not just yourself, but to others around you. After all, the heart requires THINKING, Visions, dreams, Faith and we need to speak it out. Imagine the possibilities, imagine if you speak a kind word, the water in the bodies of others start forming beautiful crystals. Imagine!