Time waits for no man.
Time is of the essence.
Time will tell.
How fast time flies. Almost 4 months have passed of this year. It seemed like just yesterday the new year began. History extends itself and coming events beckons.
Yesterday whilst sorting my taxes, a few photos dropped out from one of my folders, of myself maybe 4 years ago, when I celebrated New Year's at KLCC. I looked in the mirror and found a stranger staring back, a stranger to the photo I found. What have I done to myself? I knew immediately that age is one instance where it waits for no one.
There is a friend I have known for almost half my life. The % of how long increases by year, so it is a good statistic of time. And I have a close colleague who is so different, from another country and whom I have known for less than two years. 2 years and almost 20 years. And yet, each to his own, I thank you both for being my friend.
Perhaps for the love of taking off the stress or challenging myself, I have taken to running races occasionally but more regularly over the last 8 months. Time seems to have not passed, as I felt as if I have ran for 5 years! I look forward to each race with passion, even when I know not many close friends who run. And here, I learn I enjoy new things everyday.
Time brings about new things, new friends, new discovery, and passing by we age, gracefully, and cherish more, those around us.
Time is priceless, treasure it.
Thursday, April 27, 2006
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Fly
Fly
Oh to be in the ocean above
The blue skies of a birds love
To be able to fly high in the sky
To take flight and bid worries goodbye
Oh to soar above free
How I wish I could be
Unbounded unbridled untouched
Unconcerned unhurried unrushed
Oh behold the sky which holds no limits
I can fly as far as my wings permits
And one day should my wings tire
I know I have seen the world I desire
Saturday, April 15, 2006
Marathon of the Sands
Approximately one and a half years ago, I diverted from a company business trip to go to Morocco to visit a friend who was working as a contractor there. We went for a overnight camp trip at the Sahara, after travelling down south of Morocco. The organiser of the overnight trip told us about the Marathon of the Sands, which is the biggest annual event to them, besides Hilary Clinton visit to Morocco and Sahara many years ago. The trip to Sahara was one of my lifetime moments, under the vast desert, empty sky filled with stars, the cold night under a berber tent, and learning how to use the toilet where there was none.
Recently on CNN, I saw that the Marathon of the Sands was in progress, in fact, the 2006 session is scheduled to end today. It brings back memories of Sahara, and more so, this continues to fascinate me- running across the desert, under such harsh conditions and in an ultra marathon format.
The article below is from one of the organiser's websites, it is very fascinating, and very under published event. The epitome of ultra-marathons.
____
The Toughest Footrace on Earth
Welcome to the world of lunatics and masochists - don't take offence, I have great admiration for all those who even think about doing this event.
Why this IS the toughest footrace on Earth
It covers 243km/151 miles (made up of legs of 25, 34, 38, 82, 42, 22 km) run over 6 days (7 for some) - equivalent to 5 1/2 regular marathons. That's a speed of between 3 and 14 km an hour for competitors aged between 16 and 78). In addition to that, competitors have to carry everything they will need for the duration (apart from a tent) on their backs in a rucksack (food, clothes, medical kit, sleeping bag etc). Water is rationed and handed out at each checkpoint.
You will have to prepare all your own food throughout the race and I warn you that there is not a chain of Tesco stores or corner grocery shops dotted around the Sahara. You will experience mid-day temperatures of up to 120°F, of running or walking on uneven rocky, stony ground as well as 15 - 20% of the distance being in sand dunes.
The heat, distance and rubbing will trash your feet and may cause severe trauma if incorrect shoes and equipment are used. Mental stamina probably constitutes at least 50% of whether you will complete the distance or not. Physical fitness is important but don't underestimate the mental stress that you will need to endure. Even if you have run dozens of 26 mile marathons, this does not mean that you will automatically find the MdS easy.
On the 4th day, you will set off across the barren wilderness to complete a 45 - 50 mile stage. Few people complete this before dark that evening and some will not come in till after dark the next night. This is followed by the 42km Marathon stage!! Its tough, so don't say that nobody warned you in the strongest terms.
Cost of Registration
Not only will you be tormenting your mind and body for a week but you will have to find over £2,000 for the pleasure (it almost sounds like one of those SM parlours). At least you will know that you are in the company of about 700 others who share your penchant for self destruction.
You should be thinking of raising about that sum in addition to the costs of food, equipment and training. The majority of competitors raise the money through sponsorship and if you need to do this, it is essential that you start without delay. You can do it, but it requires a lot of work and determination to succeed. Potential sponsors will admire you determination in entering the 'toughest footrace on Earth', especially if you are doing it for a good cause.
Charity - I would urge you to select a suitable charity who will benefit from your participation in the MdS as this will enhance your request for sponsorship. Your efforts will benefit a good cause and it will help motivate you while during the race. Futhermore, some charities will subsidise your entry fee - e.g. Facing Africa 50% subsidy offer.
One last word - almost anyone can do this event - you don't need to be superman or an Olympic athlete. The fact that you have asked for more details suggests that you are probably reasonably fit right now and run a few miles a week. If you do want to register but have limited financial resources, NOW is the time to start fund raising - the physical training does not really need to start till around mid-October when you should start training with about 30 miles a week, building up to 50 miles and gradually training with a pack on your back.
It needs a great amount of self-discipline, determination and a will to reach the finishing line. There will be many times during the race when you will feel like shit and you will think of throwing in the towel, but with self-motivation, the help of other competitors, those depending on you at home and the charity will all help you get to the end.
Don't think that just because it is a lot of money that you cannot raise it. Harass and bully your friends into helping you raise the money. Not only will they have a friend to be proud of and perhaps even envy a little (even if they think you are absolutely nuts), but a sick child, an AIDS sufferer, a cancer or MS patient, a suffering animal, an endangered species will get some benefit from your supreme efforts through the charity that you are competing for. We all have someone we know and love who has suffered some terrible illness and wondered what we can do to help - well, this is your chance to make up for lost time.
Go out and raise money and train for the craziest thing you are ever likely to undertake. As the French say, 'Bon Courage mon ami'. I will do all I can to help you with advice and guidance.
Chris Lawrence - Promoter of the Marathon Des Sables
Recently on CNN, I saw that the Marathon of the Sands was in progress, in fact, the 2006 session is scheduled to end today. It brings back memories of Sahara, and more so, this continues to fascinate me- running across the desert, under such harsh conditions and in an ultra marathon format.
The article below is from one of the organiser's websites, it is very fascinating, and very under published event. The epitome of ultra-marathons.
____
The Toughest Footrace on Earth
Welcome to the world of lunatics and masochists - don't take offence, I have great admiration for all those who even think about doing this event.
Why this IS the toughest footrace on Earth
It covers 243km/151 miles (made up of legs of 25, 34, 38, 82, 42, 22 km) run over 6 days (7 for some) - equivalent to 5 1/2 regular marathons. That's a speed of between 3 and 14 km an hour for competitors aged between 16 and 78). In addition to that, competitors have to carry everything they will need for the duration (apart from a tent) on their backs in a rucksack (food, clothes, medical kit, sleeping bag etc). Water is rationed and handed out at each checkpoint.
You will have to prepare all your own food throughout the race and I warn you that there is not a chain of Tesco stores or corner grocery shops dotted around the Sahara. You will experience mid-day temperatures of up to 120°F, of running or walking on uneven rocky, stony ground as well as 15 - 20% of the distance being in sand dunes.
The heat, distance and rubbing will trash your feet and may cause severe trauma if incorrect shoes and equipment are used. Mental stamina probably constitutes at least 50% of whether you will complete the distance or not. Physical fitness is important but don't underestimate the mental stress that you will need to endure. Even if you have run dozens of 26 mile marathons, this does not mean that you will automatically find the MdS easy.
On the 4th day, you will set off across the barren wilderness to complete a 45 - 50 mile stage. Few people complete this before dark that evening and some will not come in till after dark the next night. This is followed by the 42km Marathon stage!! Its tough, so don't say that nobody warned you in the strongest terms.
Cost of Registration
Not only will you be tormenting your mind and body for a week but you will have to find over £2,000 for the pleasure (it almost sounds like one of those SM parlours). At least you will know that you are in the company of about 700 others who share your penchant for self destruction.
You should be thinking of raising about that sum in addition to the costs of food, equipment and training. The majority of competitors raise the money through sponsorship and if you need to do this, it is essential that you start without delay. You can do it, but it requires a lot of work and determination to succeed. Potential sponsors will admire you determination in entering the 'toughest footrace on Earth', especially if you are doing it for a good cause.
Charity - I would urge you to select a suitable charity who will benefit from your participation in the MdS as this will enhance your request for sponsorship. Your efforts will benefit a good cause and it will help motivate you while during the race. Futhermore, some charities will subsidise your entry fee - e.g. Facing Africa 50% subsidy offer.
One last word - almost anyone can do this event - you don't need to be superman or an Olympic athlete. The fact that you have asked for more details suggests that you are probably reasonably fit right now and run a few miles a week. If you do want to register but have limited financial resources, NOW is the time to start fund raising - the physical training does not really need to start till around mid-October when you should start training with about 30 miles a week, building up to 50 miles and gradually training with a pack on your back.
It needs a great amount of self-discipline, determination and a will to reach the finishing line. There will be many times during the race when you will feel like shit and you will think of throwing in the towel, but with self-motivation, the help of other competitors, those depending on you at home and the charity will all help you get to the end.
Don't think that just because it is a lot of money that you cannot raise it. Harass and bully your friends into helping you raise the money. Not only will they have a friend to be proud of and perhaps even envy a little (even if they think you are absolutely nuts), but a sick child, an AIDS sufferer, a cancer or MS patient, a suffering animal, an endangered species will get some benefit from your supreme efforts through the charity that you are competing for. We all have someone we know and love who has suffered some terrible illness and wondered what we can do to help - well, this is your chance to make up for lost time.
Go out and raise money and train for the craziest thing you are ever likely to undertake. As the French say, 'Bon Courage mon ami'. I will do all I can to help you with advice and guidance.
Chris Lawrence - Promoter of the Marathon Des Sables
Thursday, April 13, 2006
You're Beautiful
I am back!
I have been having really heavy weeks recently, and coupled with the ethernet port on my home router malfunctioned over the whole of last week meant that I was literally 'connectionless' at home for almost a week, hence no blogging. As for the definition of heavy, lets just say emotions were adrift last week at work and slight breather before the next storm next week. Maybe today, a little light fare.... //mc
________________________
Some of you who have called me on my mobile must have heard one of my three caller ringtones - those the caller hears while waiting for me to answer. I have one ringtone in English, one in Chinese and one in Malay! It is supposed to be random but somehow some people hear one all the time, some people hear random all the time. The Chinese one is the theme song from the award winning chinese show, Perhaps Love, sung by Jackie Cheung, whilst the English one is one which I fell in love with before it got hot, You're Beautiful by James Blunt.
James Blunt has a hauntingly beautiful voice, and the term "You're Beautiful" is itself such a wonderful statement to hear from someone else. The ending of the song is sad, if you really hear what he says in the song (lyrics below). Nevertheless, we are human to see the beginning, enjoy the voice, and look at everything in a beautiful manner, including the ending of the song.
For my beautiful friends, acquaintances and readers, you are all beautiful, and thanks for your encouragements, and next time you call, I will let it go to voice message so that you can hear me say, You're Beautiful.
"You're Beautiful" by James Blunt
My life is brilliant.
My life is brilliant.
My love is pure.
I saw an angel.
Of that I'm sure.
She smiled at me on the subway.
She was with another man.
But I won't lose no sleep on that,
'Cause I've got a plan.
You're beautiful, it's true.
I saw your face in a crowded place,
And I don't know what to do,
'Cause I'll never be with you.
Yeah, she caught my eye,
As we walked on by.
She could see from my face that I was,
Flying high,
And I don't think that I'll see her again,
But we shared a moment that will last till the end.
You're beautiful.
You're beautiful.
You're beautiful, it's true.
I saw your face in a crowded place,
And I don't know what to do,
'Cause I'll never be with you.
You're beautiful.
You're beautiful.
You're beautiful, it's true.
There must be an angel with a smile on her face,
When she thought up that I should be with you.
But it's time to face the truth,
I will never be with you.
I have been having really heavy weeks recently, and coupled with the ethernet port on my home router malfunctioned over the whole of last week meant that I was literally 'connectionless' at home for almost a week, hence no blogging. As for the definition of heavy, lets just say emotions were adrift last week at work and slight breather before the next storm next week. Maybe today, a little light fare.... //mc
________________________
Some of you who have called me on my mobile must have heard one of my three caller ringtones - those the caller hears while waiting for me to answer. I have one ringtone in English, one in Chinese and one in Malay! It is supposed to be random but somehow some people hear one all the time, some people hear random all the time. The Chinese one is the theme song from the award winning chinese show, Perhaps Love, sung by Jackie Cheung, whilst the English one is one which I fell in love with before it got hot, You're Beautiful by James Blunt.
James Blunt has a hauntingly beautiful voice, and the term "You're Beautiful" is itself such a wonderful statement to hear from someone else. The ending of the song is sad, if you really hear what he says in the song (lyrics below). Nevertheless, we are human to see the beginning, enjoy the voice, and look at everything in a beautiful manner, including the ending of the song.
For my beautiful friends, acquaintances and readers, you are all beautiful, and thanks for your encouragements, and next time you call, I will let it go to voice message so that you can hear me say, You're Beautiful.
"You're Beautiful" by James Blunt
My life is brilliant.
My life is brilliant.
My love is pure.
I saw an angel.
Of that I'm sure.
She smiled at me on the subway.
She was with another man.
But I won't lose no sleep on that,
'Cause I've got a plan.
You're beautiful, it's true.
I saw your face in a crowded place,
And I don't know what to do,
'Cause I'll never be with you.
Yeah, she caught my eye,
As we walked on by.
She could see from my face that I was,
Flying high,
And I don't think that I'll see her again,
But we shared a moment that will last till the end.
You're beautiful.
You're beautiful.
You're beautiful, it's true.
I saw your face in a crowded place,
And I don't know what to do,
'Cause I'll never be with you.
You're beautiful.
You're beautiful.
You're beautiful, it's true.
There must be an angel with a smile on her face,
When she thought up that I should be with you.
But it's time to face the truth,
I will never be with you.
Thursday, April 06, 2006
Teachable Point of View (TPOV)
As part of leadership development training module I am doing, I have been asked to outline my teachable point of view (TPOV). A TPOV is something you believe in and a core principle which impacts the way you deal with people and situations. I would like to share here, as practice for the coming training session where I have to share this within a video-taped session (!).
My TPOV is "intent from the heart". When I am committed to a piece of work or executing a responsibility or dealing with people, I am committed to intent from the heart. Intent must be clear, because in everything we do, there is always consequences. If I am not clear on my intent, the mind will always never be one with the heart.
I am by no means a leader, but my teaching if any, to myself, is to be clear with good intent in the heart, then it no longer matters what others think or do because I am guided with my own internal light.
My TPOV is "intent from the heart". When I am committed to a piece of work or executing a responsibility or dealing with people, I am committed to intent from the heart. Intent must be clear, because in everything we do, there is always consequences. If I am not clear on my intent, the mind will always never be one with the heart.
I am by no means a leader, but my teaching if any, to myself, is to be clear with good intent in the heart, then it no longer matters what others think or do because I am guided with my own internal light.
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
Ugly Duckling
I love my profile photo. It signifies two things which is core principle to me - one is that I always feel like an ugly duckling. Second is that when a good photograph captures the ugly duckling and makes it beautiful, it feels complete. Very profound, huh?
123456
Is it possible, that I am up at 1:23 4/5/6 ... WOW what a piece of numerology. Waiting to ensure this posts exactly.
Blogging to Keep Awake
I am blogging to keep awake tonite. Can't do this sort of overnighter anymore, I am no longer young. But nite shifts gives me a lot of peace. It is quiet, there are no meetings and rushing around, and I am basically tired that I want to avoid real thinking! It is trial migration 2, two of four affairs.
Sunday, April 02, 2006
Processor Overdrive
Of late, my processor has been in overdrive.
Today I just drove from home to project site in 100km/h speed and back to collect a document I left behind. Loud music was blasting in my car and I was at peace, but on after thought, I am worried I am really not myself, as such behavior is dangerous but I found it good to be not thinking and totally focussed on driving.
Need a break. Desperately.
Today I just drove from home to project site in 100km/h speed and back to collect a document I left behind. Loud music was blasting in my car and I was at peace, but on after thought, I am worried I am really not myself, as such behavior is dangerous but I found it good to be not thinking and totally focussed on driving.
Need a break. Desperately.
Saturday, April 01, 2006
Running at 60
My uncle is 60 years old this year. The last time I saw him must have been a few years ago when I went for my cousin's wedding. He lives in Seremban, my father's hometown.
Today, mum told me excitedly I have a new running kaki. It was my uncle. Apparently they found out that he does a lot of hash runs and also occasional road runs, and HAS A PERSONAL BEST OF 1:48 for a half marathon and tons of medals.
I am now looking forward to the Seremban Half Marathon, apparently sometime in July so that I can run together with him (or in this case behind him!).
60 years old. A lot of respect. Running is SO ADDICTIVE.
Today, mum told me excitedly I have a new running kaki. It was my uncle. Apparently they found out that he does a lot of hash runs and also occasional road runs, and HAS A PERSONAL BEST OF 1:48 for a half marathon and tons of medals.
I am now looking forward to the Seremban Half Marathon, apparently sometime in July so that I can run together with him (or in this case behind him!).
60 years old. A lot of respect. Running is SO ADDICTIVE.
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