Confessions of a Sneakerhead

Happy Birthday, Shine.

2012-01-25T11:10:00.000+08:00

It's that time of the year again.

I hope you're doing great, and fulfilling your potential.

I also hope you're living your life to the fullest; ife is too short not to, no?

Anyways, I just would like to wish you a very happy birthday.

Tu!

Don't Bother Trying To Understand

2012-01-24T08:13:00.000+08:00

A lot of people don’t get it.

Even My Small Baby, who knows me in and out, sometimes doesn’t getit.

It used to be mostly by choice, but of late, it’s been because ofcircumstances; circumstances that I didn’t really had no choice.

But whatever the case may be, it’s not that I’m perennially anoccupational nomad. I admit I get bored easily and unlike many of the peeps outthere, when that time comes when I no longer feel excited about waking up inthe morning and eager to face the day, it’s better for me to move on and findsomething that will challenge my existence.

Life is too short to allow yourself be bogged down and allow mundanenessto dictate your daily lives, y’know? One must go out there and challenge one’sself, live the best they could be, and make a difference in the world, or atleast try.

I don’t know about y’all but that’s how I want to live my life,and certainly how I want to be remembered.

Thank You...

2012-01-21T15:22:00.000+08:00

Just like that, I’m out.

I went out the same way I went in – unexpected.

This is not a post about why I’m no longer with the company. I’vemoved on and don’t want to look back, no matter how much I enjoyed my briefstint there. Rather, this post is to thank some people; something I didn’t getto do.

It was only when I saw them again a few days back that I realizedI owe them a line or two to express how thankful I am for allowing me to leadthem, a task that I truly enjoyed and will always be grateful for.

Here goes…

To Krystlelites, my favorite ex-staff; thank you for proving meright about you.

You may not look it, maybe because you are your daddy’s littleprincess, but you are a very smart girl. I knew that the moment I saw you.

But more than your intelligence, you truly have a good heart, andthat’s what made you dear to me. And if there’s one thing I want you to know, Iwant you to know that whatever happens, so long as you keep yourself grounded,you will go places, and when that day comes, I will be watching from afar,smiling and proud.

Thank you, Krys.

To Shanghai Dream; you’re the one who understood me the most, andthe best.

Our upbringing is so similar that you always knew where I was comingfrom. I’ve never told you this, but among all of you, you were the most loyallieutenant I had.

It is a trait that is sadly no longer common in the working world,and your loyalty knows no bounds and for that alone, I know we will forever beconnected somehow (no homo, as you like to say lol)

You are born into the material riches many people covet, and to beable to stay grounded like how you are makes me take my hat off to you inadmiration. Like your loyalty, your ability to put aside your material wealth,in exchange for your thirst to learn, already makes you a success.

It wasn’t always conspicuous but you have taught me a lot, in yourown special ways, how to be a better person.

For inspiring me, I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

To Angry Man, my natural heir to the post of Head of Marketing;

Wedidn’t always look at things the same way, but for what it’s worth, you taughtme to forgive even amidst betrayal.

I learned a lot about myself - and my anger - in our daily conversations,on the way to and from work. And your love for your kids made me want to join theranks of being a family man. And for that alone, I’ll forever remember you.

You are now the catalyst to making great things happen for thecompany, and for the team. Lead with the determination of a bull in ensuringthat the AirAsia X Brand is given its due recognition. From afar, I will cheeryou and your team on.

Thank you.

To Olive Oyl, our baby in the team, and someone who could give Klaus Korper a run for his money.

There never was a day that youdidn’t make me smile. In being the most true to one’s self, you reminded me somuch of myself.

You call a spade a spade and for that, I know you will be whereyou want to be in your career. Your ability to be true to yourself also earnedmy admiration and respect. You don’t know how to play politics and that makesyou a gem, a rarity that would help you reach your destiny.

On a more personal note, should I be still alive, I truly wouldlove to be at your wedding. I want to know and see the man who was able to tamethe shuffling, but real Olive Oyl J

For making the office a better place, for making me smile daily,and for everything else, thank you, G.

To Commie Ash, the straight-as-anyone-could-ever-be energizer(not-so) bunny;

You may not always do or say the right things, but your heartmeans well. It takes someone who sees that to appreciate you, and I hope Imanaged to do just that.

I also hope that you will be recognized and rewarded accordingly,even when I’m gone. You deserve that. I may have been the strictest with youbut I’m happy that you know why I had to be.

For getting on my nerves a lot of times but also making me smilein the process, thank you.

To Yasuyo, the looney Japanese who never failed to make me laugh;

Thank you for the admiration for, and the trust in, me. You always made mefeel that being a leader is not a burden, but a responsibility; and one that Ithoroughly enjoyed putting on my shoulders.

I know what you are going through right now, but as krystlelitestold me, in one of her minutes of philosophical inspiration, when one doorcloses, others open. And trust that something better, something great, willopen for you soon. I believe that, and so should you.

And for you to say that I’ll always be your ‘boss’, for alwaysmaking me laugh, for bringing the responsibility of defending my team in me,and for a lot of the other things you have accorded me, arigato.

And last but not the least, to Nanny Nads, the one responsible forbringing me to AirAsia X;

I would never know how political the airline industryis first-hand had it not been for you. It is your confidence in my ability thatbrought me to the company, it is your trust in me that allowed me to meet andlead the aforementioned souls that touched and made a difference to myexistence, and it is your soothing words that allowed me to break free, and behappy in the process, from the chains of betrayal.

Words can never express how thankful I am to you for your belief inme. I know somehow I disappointed you but in the grand scheme of things, if youlook at what I did in those short 3 months, I know you are proud of what I haveaccomplished.

You were the only one I knew before I joined AirAsia X, andbecause of you, I left with knowing more, absolutely great people. For that,and for the confidence, trust and belief you have shown for me, from the verybottom of my heart, I thank you.

The AirAsia X Marketing Team: We Make Things Happen

To the peeps in the picture above, thank you :-)

Love,

IO

Three Months On...

2011-12-19T07:11:00.000+08:00

Where do I even begin?

Usually, people start from the beginning, but that is not applicable to mein this instance. So where do I then start?

I seriously don't know. Sometimes, I even wonder if I still care.

Come the 21st, I shall speak the truth. Will it be enough? Only time will tell.

I guess I do; otherwise I won't be taking the effort to clear my name. Butit's not even a battle for survival anymore, y'know? It's more a war againstthe detractors who, I suppose, aren't used to the movement that I haveinitiated, the drive that I lead, the programs that my team and I are rolling-out.

My mentor once told me that for me to succeed, I need to not care about mydetractors and what they say or do. Through the years, I lived by this advice, andthrough the years, organizations after organizations, I was successful.

But this one is different, or so I thought. I made the mistake of thinkingthat great work will allow me the space to move on and do more great work. ButI was wrong, or could be wrong. Does it even matter anymore?

I guess it does. It does matter to me, and by extension, and the wonderfulteam that I lead. But like in the past, I won’t be surprised if one of themwould be tempted to go against me. But you know, should it happen, I can turnmy back and smile.

The more they tell me things can't be done, the more I'll prove it to them that it could be.

A n y w a y s. . .

It’s been 3 months since I joined AirAsia X and nothing, I repeat, nothing couldtake the fact that I’m having a great ride. Or should I have written ‘Have had?’It doesn’t matter, really. I know what I have done. People know what I havedone. And whatever minor – or major, depending on the outcome – obstacles thatare thrown my way, I will continue to believe that truth will prevail.

I was advised to keep my life private, to not show my passion and emotions.How could I? My life has always been about passion. My life has always been anopen book. My parents taught me not to be afraid of the consequences when wespeak of the truth.

Unlike many, I don’t keep grudges; I say what’s on my mind and move on withmy life. Admittedly, though it has gotten me into troubles in the past, I stillmanaged to live my life the way I wanted and achieved all the success that I’vehad. I wouldn’t have any of this had I sacrificed the very principles thatmakes me who I am.

Happy 3 months, IO!

3 months on, I’m being tested. I hope to overcome this and continue to soarto greater heights. I believe, should the truth prevail, I will be acquitted ofthese scurrilous charges. Come to think of it, they’re actually insignificant,but someone has created a mountain out of this tiny molehill.

In God I put my life into. In truth I will fight. In my innocence I willwin.

Happy 3 months, IO.

The Life Of An AirAsia X All-Star

2011-11-07T15:35:00.000+08:00

It's been approximately a month and 3 weeks that I embarked on my latest journey, and so far, everything's been good.

Let me start with my team. I inherited a good team, a bunch of individuals who have their own quirks and eccentricities, but all of whom are united by one common thing - they are all committed to the cause, so to speak.

The AirAsia X Central Marketing Team, with THE Man himself.

Oh, there will always be that odd person out, the one who doesn't deserve to be there, and in both the Central (MY based) and the International Marketing teams, there is one such staff. But it's all good, nothing I can't handle. I've handled way more difficult staff in my career, and these two ain't nothing but another dirt on my shoulders that needs dusting off.

As mentioned above, so far it's been good. It's not always rosy, but manageable. But what I'm proud of the most is the fact that in less than 2 months, we've done things that the previous Marketing team failed to do. And that speaks volume of this new Marketing team we have at AirAsia X.

Right now, while everything seems aight, we will be going through some minor - or major, depending on how it works out - changes in the dynamics of the whole Commercial team. Hopefully, it's nothing major; the last thing we need right now are any form of disruptions.

A n y w a y s . . .

In less than two months, we managed to achieve a few firsts; we finally got the recognition from the AirAsia peeps as a sub-brand; got Dato Jimmy Choo to try our Premium Seats on board our AirAsia X flight from London to Kuala Lumpur to Mumbai to Kuala Lumpur to London; we realized the dreams of a few fans to travel to Korea with their favorite actor; sent a die-hard 16 year old Man United fan, who is suffering from a rare disease, to watch his beloved Red Devils play at Old Trafford; to name a few.

When you get someone like Jimmy Choo to take an AirAsia X flight, you know you're on the right track

The AirAsia X Marketing Team with Anas Sadiq. He was born with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) and, together with Mister Potato, we helped him realize his dream of watching Manchester United play at Old Trafford

Yes, we're on the right track.

And I'm proud to be a part of the team that is making a lot of differences; even prouder to be the leader of the team that is making all these differences.

Happy Birthday, Pa!

2011-09-10T00:01:00.000+08:00

To the the Custodian of High Standards by which I try to live my life by,

Happy Birthday!

Ibrahim Omar and Ibrahim Ivan Omar II

And IO Is 'Bringing His Talents' To...

2011-09-09T09:18:00.000+08:00

At the outset, let me clarify that the 'bringing the talent' statement is a parody of Lebron James' announcement when he moved from Cleveland to Miami, lest y'all think I'm so full of myself.

It should not, I repeat, it should not be taken seriously.

A n y w a y s . . .

In the span of my career, it is not uncommon for me to receive multiple offers at the same time. Nor is it common for me to have a tough time deciding which company - and Brand - I wanted to join.

But this time around, it was just that.

The biggest Brand in the world was the first that came my way, and for anyone involved in Branding, it was a dream come true. Then, it was one of the biggest international agencies in the world with an offer to lead the Planning of their biggest client worldwide.

Where I choose to go is not where the money is more, nor how glamorous the position is, but where my heart has always been, and will always be.

Now, the aforementioned two alone is more than enough to boost a faltering ego, but considering that I regard my next position as my last hurrah, and while I am beyond excited and privileged to have been offered, there was one other category that I wanted to be in, and for all intents and purposes, it is purely a very personal reason.

If you know me enough, besides my family and my religion, nothing is more personally meaningful to me than My Small Baby. And all throughout our relationship, our careers were always built on the premise of me being on the ground, and her, off it.

Before your minds wander to the unthinkable, no, I am not joining Malaysia Airlines :-)

But close.

More than that, the portfolio brings together my passion for Branding, Sports, Travel, and most important of all, just to reiterate once again, my unconditional love for My Small Baby. With this, I can finally be 'closer' to her, not just from a personal point of view, but also from an occupational perspective.

Come 091911 - no, the numbers are not a coincidence - IO is bringing 'his talents' to Head the Marketing Department of . . .

:-)

Merdeka; What Merdeka?

2011-08-31T03:57:00.000+08:00

Forty Eight years down the road, Borneo is still not getting the recognition that its due.

I have nothing against the celebration of Merdeka on the 31st of August, it is only right. After all, Malaya did get her independence on the said date. But to continuously say that it is Malaysia's Independence Day is not only factually right, it is also a condescending attitude that colonizers used to have.

Oh wait, are Sabah and Sarawak still colonized to this day?

When Tunku declared Merdeka, it wasn't for Malaysia; it was for Malaya

How long more will the government continue to cheat Malaysians and distort history?

The Federation of Malaysia came into being on September 16, 1963, after Malaya joined forces with then newly independent Sabah, Sarawak and Singapore. Before that date, there was no such thing as Malaysia! Just Google Malaysia's wiki page and you'll see what I mean.

Isn't it enough that the Malayans have bastardized the most natural resources rich state to being the poorest in the country?I can't speak for Sarawak but as a Sabahan, I have every right to voice my displeasure with the continuous distortion of history as well as eternal daylight rape of my state.

Admittedly, the current situation was abetted by our own Sabahan leaders, from Tun Mustapha to the current Chief Minister, Musa Aman. They not only sold their respective souls to the 'colonialists' from Malaya, they have also sold the souls of each and every Sabahan.

The man who sold the souls of all Sabahans - past, present and future.

Today, as Malaysians celebrate the 54th independence of Malaysia, do they actually mean Malaya? Because no matter what kind of distortion to the history the government makes, the fact of the matter is that, today, 54 years ago, there existed no such country as Malaysia.

And you want us Sabahans to join our Peninsular compatriots in celebrating something that we have no part of?

Maybe in the past. But not anymore.

We'll wait for September 16 instead, and on that day, we will remember how our trusted leaders sold our souls - past and present - to the colonizers from the Peninsula.

And is that worth celebrating about?

Eid Mubarak, Y'all!

2011-08-30T01:08:00.001+08:00

Wishing all my Muslim Brethren
Selamat Hari-Raya Eid-ulFitr!

Happy Birthday, Ma!

2011-08-08T01:24:00.001+08:00

Today, 63 years ago, God created the most amazing woman I know,
and the one whom I owe everything in my life to.

She birthed me.

She nurtured and brought me up.

She taught me things I will never learn from any institutions of higher learning.

She taught me, by being a living example, how to be a good Muslim.

The Queen of My Soul and The Queen of My Heart; the two women I love the most in this world

She sacrificed her life to allow us, her children, to be who we are.

She is the woman I love the most in this world.

She is my mom; the Queen of My Soul.

And today is her birthday.

Happy Birthday.

May the Benevolent Allah continue to bless you and may He grant you everything you wished, hope and wanted.

I love you.

Of Wings, Being Grounded, Wants And More

2011-08-05T11:10:00.001+08:00

If you are a regular to my blog, you would probably notice my heading, where it says "Wings are supposed to makes us fly; I need mine to stay grounded."

That is what I have always felt, and believed.

That, whilst generally wings are used to make something fly, I have always found wings to be the catalyst of me staying grounded. I know it's kinda the opposite, and perhaps not many people would get it, but that's just me being me.

Anyways, I think there comes a point in our lives where we have no choice but to sacrifice something(s) that we really want with something that we want more.

I have arrived in such a situation.

Anyone who is involved in Branding who is worth his/her salt would tell you that it would be a dream to work with and/or for the biggest Brand in the world.

I, too, would love the opportunity, and I am blessed to have that. All I need to do is show up for work in January 2012.

In the span of my career, I have worked for, and with, two of the biggest FMCG organizations in the world - Colgate Palmolive and Procter & Gamble. And there is a huge possibility that I would get to work for the other giant in the triumvirate of FMCG Gods - Unilever. In between, I've also had the privilege of working with the biggest F&B organization in the world - Nestle.

I want to work with the biggest Brand in the world and I could.

I want to work with the last FMCG giant I am yet to work with, to complete the so-called 'big three' and there is a huge chance that I might get it as well.

But there is something that I want more; something I've always wanted to do for quite sometime now. It may not be as financially rewarding or as glamorous as the aforementioned two, but it is, by far, the most fulfilling in my book.

A lot of y'all would be shocked and surprise. What else is there for someone in Branding, who has been offered by the biggest Brand in the world, and is about to be offered to work on the other FMCG giant he hasn't touched?

Hmmm...

Let's see.

Some of the things I'm most passionate about, and the people who really know me could attest to this, are Branding, Brands, Sports - especially Basketball, Travelling, Culture, Languages, Partying and Strategies, to name just a few.

Now, if you were given a chance to do everything I just listed, won't you want it more?

I know I do.

Dreaming Of The Color Red

2011-07-23T18:28:00.001+08:00

Red is not my favorite color.

I can't be too sure but I think most of my Air Jordan's have some red in them, but only because the Chicago Bulls color is Red, White and Black. I can, however, confirm that most of my Jordan Apparels - T's, Sweats, etc - are in the color red.

Come January 2012, I am moving to work for the biggest brand in the world.

The Brand's color is red.

In the meantime, I am also talking to one of the world's biggest ad agencies, to lead the Planning Team for a global Brand, globally.

The agency is known for its striking red color.

But none of the above-mentioned are the reasons why I am dreaming of the color red.

It's something else.

It's something that had never crossed my mind, ever.

But in parallel to my day dreams of the color red, one thing stood out prominently in my thoughts; that, should this dream metamorphosed into realities, I am giving a whole new meaning to the term 'opposites attract.'

Next week, I'm taking the first step into trying to realize what I have been incessantly day dreaming the last few days.

Till then, I shall continue to dream of the color red.

Happy Anniversary, Small Baby!

2011-07-19T06:30:00.000+08:00

Today is a special, special day.

It's another candle to our relationship, another page in our book.

We've come a long, long way, haven't we? Happy Anniversary, my love.

Through the years, through thick and thin, you have stood gallantly beside me. No matter how stuck the chips were against me - and us - you were always there next to me, always smiling, always giving me the benefit of the doubt.

I know I am far from perfect, and that more often than not, I always bring disappointments. But your faith in me hasn't wavered.

Cliche as it may sound, no words can express how grateful I am for having you in my life. Not a single day pass by without me thanking the Benevolent Allah for lending you to me in the name of love. Besides my parents, you're the biggest blessing He has ever given me.

Today, we reach another milestone in our relationship. And I vow, from today onwards, I will dedicate my life to making you proud of me once again, more than you already are.

Rach, thank you for all these years. And here's to the rest of our lives!

"No one else comes close to you
No one makes me feel the way you do"

Happy Anniversary!

And iloveu so very much.

"Why I Will Walk On July 9"

2011-07-02T05:14:00.001+08:00

Not so long ago, I would have supported the objective of Bersih 2.0 purely on principle. The eight points are noble, idealistic, and perfectly reasonable. I work on Saturdays. It is the busiest day of my working week, and one that I enjoy tremendously. Only 10 days ago, I would have been a silent supporter of the eight points of the memorandum.

I still don’t understand what danger lies in those eight points. I would have gone to work, got on with my day, and perhaps expect to read in the news, and at some stage a press release along the lines of “we have taken the points into consideration…”, without really expecting much.

Personally, agreeing to the use of indelible ink alone would have been a more than acceptable first step for me. I fully expected the opposition to jump onto the Bersih bandwagon. What else would they do? I expected the government to accuse the opposition parties of doing so – because that is what political parties do, they politicise.

And I fully expected certain NGOs to come out with their usual rhetoric, ranting against all sorts of things with accusations that completely boggle the mind.

I am not political, although I am a voter – I vote because it is my civic duty; I vote because I can; I vote because there are millions of people in the world who would dearly love the opportunity to be able to turn up to a polling booth and make their voice heard; and, if nothing else, voting gives me the right to whinge about things I do not approve of.

Bersih Rally in 2007

I do not support either side of the political divide. I personally believe both sides waste a lot of time trying to gain political mileage through petty and immature politicking. But that’s what politicians do. So I ignore or laugh at the nonsense and simply try to get on with life in the most positive way I can. Having said that, I do acknowledge there are voices of reason and sincerity on both sides of the political divide.

I believe that real change comes from civil society. I believe that we behave better towards each other than some delinquents in the Dewan Rakyat. I believe in keeping my faith in basic human decency. I believe it is entirely possible to disagree with someone without resorting to name-calling and threats of violence. I believe that if I want to see certain changes, I must begin with myself.

Has the Bersih rally been politicised? Of course it has, by both sides. Does that invalidate the eight points? Absolutely not. Rallies or demonstrations are not the Malaysian way? Rubbish. Since history is to be a compulsory pass for SPM, I suggest certain people brush up on this subject and see what a fallacy this claim is. Besides, the last time I checked, we were still a democracy – or did something change while I wasn’t looking?

To think, had this rally been allowed, had it even been supported by members of BN – oh, there were so many different options you could have chosen in response, and it’s still not too late – the Bersih 2.0 rally could have been a peaceful non-event. People like myself would have gone on with our usual Saturday routines, lending our support in principle only.

Anwar Ibrahim addressing the crowd during the Bersih Rally in 2007

Am I afraid? Yes, I am. Do I think things could get ugly? Yes, I do. But I also have faith in my fellow Malaysians that they will try to keep things as peaceful as possible. I have faith that we Malaysians are not as divided as some would have us believe. If my faith is wrong, let it be proven wrong by fact, not by fear.

I would have happily gone to work on July 9 and quietly wished Bersih all the best if not for the completely disproportionate response by the government (arrests, raids, threats, etc.), not to mention the ridiculous accusations of “illegality” among other threats that are completely illegitimate and nonsensical.

It is not the Bersih organisers who have made it increasingly unpalatable for me, who force my conscience, who fill me with such depths of disbelief and disgust, who have pushed too far with fear-mongering that I can no longer sit and lend my support in principle only.

Is exercising a democratic right in a democratic country now illegal?

(Taken from Free Malaysia Today)

Happy Birthday, Hanny Bee!

2011-05-24T10:36:00.000+08:00

My niece turns 13 today.

Happy Birthday, Han.

When 19 Is Better Than 18

2011-05-24T10:29:00.000+08:00

I have often said that, no matter how you turn the world upside down, 18 will always come before 19.

Personally, 18 is a special number to me; it is My Small Baby's number and it also represents the letter R. And too, 1 + 8 = 9 :-)

But in this case, 19 is better than 18.

Why Does Everything Have To Be 'Politically Motivated?'

2011-05-03T21:26:00.000+08:00

I think it’s only in Malaysia where if you don’t agree to something, it has to be politically motivated.

Some are indeed as such; the continuous attempt to annihilate Anwar Ibrahim is one such example. But irrespective of the political divide, when something is said that the other party is not agreeable to and/or with, it’s a political conspiracy and politically motivated.

Career prospects and Social Injustice are the top 2 factors of Malaysians leaving

Take the recent World Bank report as an example. It was stated therein that Malaysia is facing a Brain Drain - the large-scale emigration of a large group of individuals with technical skills or knowledge. In simple English, the country is facing shortage of people with intelligence and skills, lah!

Seriously though, I have said it over and over again; Malaysians are leaving. And they are leaving because of the race-dividing and race-biased policies that the government had been implementing since Independence.

According to World Bank senior economist Philip Schellekens, “Migration is very much an ethnic phenomenon in Malaysia, mostly Chinese but also Indian.” Again, that's what I said in a previous post. But the report was debunked by the former PM, Tun Dr. Mahathir, the current PM as well as other leaders from the government.

Whether the government likes it or not, the reality is that they suck at racial fairness. But the general Malaysian populace are also guilty of racism. We are all racists, , whether we admit it or not.

The Father of all Racists called the WB Report 'useless'

I never liked and subscribed to Perkasa's bullshit 'Ketuanan Melayu' doctrine but even I have to agree with what their secretary-general said, “The Malays are leaving the country in droves because they cannot obtain places within the private sector, only the government sector... the private sector chooses employees based on skin colour, and they favour their own race compared to Malays."

I have to agree with the above statement though. As I said, in a previous post, racism is rampant in the Malaysian corporate world. I know for I have been a victim of such racism and prejudice myself and I know how unfair the whole practices are.

But rather than accepting the reality and truth of the World Bank report, I don't understand why the government is insisting that it is not true. We do really have stupid leaders, don't we?

Welcome to Malaysian politics and the Malaysian way of life, where racism is just one of the things we do!

Osama Is Dead. So?

2011-05-03T02:10:00.000+08:00

I woke up yesterday to the whole world rejoicing and saddened by the news that Osama Bin Laden was killed in an apparent gunfight with the US soldiers in Abbottabad, Pakistan.

Osama Bin Laden: The man who inspired - rightfully or otherwise - Muslims and created fear and hatred amongst the Americans.

I both admire and detest the man. He did fight for Islam and I have to give mad props to him for going against the combined American and NATO imperialists. But in the same token, I also have to criticize his methods and ways on how he chose to fight, which are non-Islamic, to say the least.

As a New Yorker at heart, I would never be able to forgive him for what he did on September, 2011.

But here's the deal. I have never hailed him as a hero because, while he was a devout and religious Muslim, he was nothing but a tool of the Americans since the Afghanistan war with the Soviets.

Many people in the know actually think the American government orchestrated the whole thing for various reasons, prominent amongst them is the right to invade Afghanistan and Iraq. The tragedy of 9/11 became the raison d'être to go to war with the aforementioned countries.

Moreover, the same people in the know have known for quite some time now that he has been dead. The fact that his body was not even shown adds credence to what these people have been saying, that he died some time ago. Do you really think the Americans wouldn't gloat if they have the chance? They would definitely show pictures of the dead Obama to the world if they could.

9/11 :-(

It is just the perfect timing to release the 'news' of his death, just as Barrack Obama is gunning for reelection. And come September, on the 10th anniversary of 9/11, wouldn't it be great to 'celebrate' the tragedy by knowing that the man responsible for instilling fear and hatred amongst Americans is finally dead?

Obama is dead. He's been dead for some time now. Does it still even matter?

Not to me.

This Pretty Much Sums Me Up :-)

2011-05-02T00:06:00.002+08:00

Someone sent me a link to an online astrology site and while I don't really believe in them - though I have fun reading them - this one is pretty accurate.

If You Were Born Today, May 1:

You are an independent, determined, and faithful person who is at once stable and restless! While you have a calm manner that soothes others simply by your mere presence, and you value security, you have a rather restless spirit and need to create some challenges for yourself in order to feel "alive". You remain youthful throughout life, with a mischievous quality that is unmistakable.

If you know me well, you'd agree that the above pretty much captures my very essence, no?

Happy Anniversary!

2011-05-01T12:01:00.021+08:00

Today, 42 years ago, the world and the Benevolent God
bore witness to the union of a royal princess and a political prince.

I am forever indebted to them for creating me. And it's great that I share this very day with them.

To the Queen of My Soul and to the Custodian of High Standards by which I try to live my life by,
Happy Anniversary!

Today, I was Born...

2011-05-01T00:01:00.004+08:00

Hello.

My name is Ivan.

Yes, just Ivan.

I'm just a normal guy still looking for his place in this world.

While I strive to be the best that I can be, I know I am far from perfect. I will never be perfect. And it's fine by me.

I know I haven't always fulfilled my potential in life - and in love - but I am trying really hard to change that.

I'm a work-in-progress, I know.

But whatever I am, whoever I am, I just want to be happy.

Is it too much to ask on my birthday?

What If...

2011-04-30T06:12:00.008+08:00

A couple of weeks back, My Small and I, busking in glow after a solid 90 minutes of Reflexology session, and over coffee, asked me: "what if it is proven that it is really Anwar in the video?"

I was initially tongue tied, I admit.

Even after being in-love with and knowing her all these years, she never fails to catch me off guard. And that night, I was hit with another left field kinda question.

Indeed, what if it's really him?

My Small Baby knows the personal and family connection and having always been my voice of reason, she asked me something that made me really think before I even considered answering.

I think it's normal for anyone to be defensive of their family and loved ones. More often than not, how many of us actually take time to think what to answer when it concerns people close to us? What makes it even more difficult is when you wholeheartedly (or is it blindly?) believe that the subject of discussion is incapable of doing what was posed.

But that night, despite my resolute belief, I did ponder on the possibility. It was a thought-provoking question and albeit we never engage in banters like the kind I had with My Li’l Girl, I could honestly say that only My Small Baby could pose questions that make me truly question my beliefs on personal grounds.

I couldn’t remember what my answer was; I think I mumbled something along the lines of, “if it’s really him, then it’s him. And while my respect would somehow diminish, I could not, in any way, abandon him.”

Anyways, have you been faced with the same kind of probing, belief-shattering, straight-to-the-point questions?

P.S.

I don't know about the future but I am certain that with this accusation, I was right in my belief for the man :-)

Bring on Schalke!

2011-04-26T23:52:00.000+08:00

On paper, we are clearly the favorites.

But we need to be cautious, considering how we have always end up losing to a German side in recent years. Of course, the 1999 Champions League was different and we went on to win against the Germans.

These 3 - Chicharito, Shrek and The KimChi Express - must be on top of their game

Since defeat by eventual winners Borussia Dortmund in the 1997 semi-finals, Man United have struggled to get the better of Bundesliga teams in two-legged ties in Europe's elite club competition.

They lost to FC Bayern München in the last eight in 2001 and the following year Bayer 04 Leverkusen halted their run in the semi-finals on away goals. Sir Alex's side succumbed to Bayern in last season's quarter-finals in similar fashion.

We can't afford a draw - or even an away goal - in the 1st leg, we need to go for the win; that's the only way we could secure our place in the final.

Yes, bring on Schalke and let's go kick some German ass!

46 Years Down The Road...

2011-04-26T22:06:00.001+08:00

The parliament is not only a place to debate and pass laws; it is also a place where some of the best speeches were ever delivered.

And below is still the most passionate, most real and most heartfelt speech ever heard in the Malaysian parliament.

""They (the Malay extremists) have triggered off something basic and fundamental. Malaysia — to whom does it belong? To Malaysians. But who are Malaysians? I hope I am, Mr Speaker, Sir. But sometimes, sitting in this chamber, I doubt whether I am allowed to be a Malaysian. This is the doubt that hangs over many minds, and the next contest, if this goes on, will be on very different lines."

Unfortunately, the man who uttered these very words is not even a Malaysian anymore. And his words proved to be prophetic, too.

Sad, no?

But such is the level of most of our current parliamentarians that 46 years down the road, the above-mentioned speech is still the best ever.

Secret Of The Week

2011-04-23T08:38:00.005+08:00

Hmmm...

It's natural to be impatient when waiting for something big, especially when you know the thing you have been waiting for is life-changing, isn't it?

I agree it could also be scary but I think the fright would come more from something unexpected, no?

I reckon, if you know, or at least have an inkling as to, what is it that is coming, you're bound to be more impatient than scary.

What do y'all think?

Change Or Be Changed

2011-04-23T07:11:00.000+08:00

All my life, I have always believed in challenging the convention.

It's not because I enjoy doing it, nor am I challenging - defying, at times - because I do it for the sake of doing it. Yes, I challenge conventions, but do so only the ones that I believe to be impractical, irrelevant, and created by the aristocrats whose sole purpose is to ensure their social dominance - perceived or otherwise - over the rest remains intact.

But there are things that need to change. Like myself, for example. I know convention dictates that we shouldn't change ourselves; that by doing so, we would no longer be who we are, as a person.

On any given day, I do subscribe to that notion. But of late, I have begun to start asking myself if I still agree. I mean, there is nothing wrong with me being me, y'know?

But the time has come for me to move away from being me and create a new me. Through the years, and especially lately, I have changed. God knows I have. And these changes should continue because this is the only way I could get a grip and ensure the changes in me is not brought about external factors; this way, I still have control of the changes in me.

I have come to the realization that should I continue being me, and not changing at all, I am bound to be changed by circumstances and for the life of me, I am not gonna allow it to happen. If I am going to change, it is because I want to change and not because I am forced to change.

Granted, the changes in me is in anticipation of what could potentially happen if I didn't change. And before I lose everything that matters, I had to, and have, changed.

And I'm glad I did.

To The Queen Of My Heart, Happy Birthday!

2011-04-18T00:06:00.001+08:00

To My Beloved Small Baby, Happy Birthday!

Dear Sarawakians...

2011-04-15T09:30:00.004+08:00

Please exercise your rights to vote, come April 16.

I pray that y'all will do the right thing by your families, and for the future generations of all Sarawakians.

I also pray that God will give y'all the courage and conviction to say, enough is enough!

God Bless!

Are We Really That Stupid?

2011-04-14T19:23:00.000+08:00

I seriously don’t understand the brouhaha over RPK’s interview with TV3.

There are emails and FB messages flying around condemning him of being a sellout and what not. But before these people jump the gun, did they actually listen to what was said, and more importantly, understand them?

And there are some who are accusing him of allowing himself to be used by the government for the Sarawak State Elections. The interview was actually done 2 months ago and it is only now that they are showing it, in time for the elections. It is not his fault; it’s the government and the government-owned TV3 that is responsible for trying to hoodwink the general public.

Personally, I think RPK didn’t do anything wrong. In fact, I think it was him who used TV3. Like the Statutory Declaration 3 years ago, he still wants the authorities to investigate the claims made by a military intelligence officer. And since nothing has been done since then, he’s hoping that by going to TV3, he could stir this up again and maybe, the police would do something this time.

Wishful thinking, I say. That is the only think I could think of as RPK’s wrongdoing; he hoped for the impossible. Getting the authorities and the police to investigate the claims contained in his SD is like like me being the recipient of Alyssa Milano's affection, ‘nah mean?

It would have been good though had he preempted his readers and wrote about him being interviewed by TV3. But he didn’t and now, people are turning their backs on him.

Are we really that stupid and gullible? That just because he allowed himself to be interviewed, knowing that the mainstream media is gonna have a field day spinning it out of context, means he has sold out?

Are we really that dumb?

When A Picture Paints A Thousand Words

2011-04-12T07:11:00.003+08:00

Let's hope this will be translated to votes in the coming Sarawak State Elections.

BN-SUPP Rally

PR Rally

What Triggers Limerences?

2011-04-11T09:00:00.009+08:00

For the longest time, I have always been intrigued and amazed by limerence, and truly wondered about this particular subject matter.

Just Google it and you will find a lot of interesting articles about it. But as much as I love to read, the thought of surfing through pages after pages on the internet to fully understand what it is, is just overwhelming, not to mention a pain to my tired and dreary eyes.

The subject of Limerence has always intrigued me

The good side is, I just found the best article on the web, bar none, that will explain romantic infatuation to a new found level of precision. It gives it a rather cold, honest scientific view which I found extremely appealing - and even gives it a new term: 'Limerence.' In any case it's far better than any of those "Aunt Agony" articles you'll find littered across the net.

To be honest limerence almost sounds like a disease, but then again I don't suppose that's too far from the truth. Take a look at the symptoms: intrusive thinking, acute longing for reciprocation, fear of rejection.... You'd almost expect a doctor's signature somewhere down the list.

The most enlightening statement is that limerence - or infatuation - will only intensify under uncertainty and doubt; in other words, you will only go mad over a person if you are not sure if they really like you or not.

Limerence only blossoms to feverish peaks if there is a certain balance of hope and uncertainty. I wondered, reflected even, on this and it seems to be absolutely true. This gives all the rhyme and reason behind the "playing hard to get" philosophy or the proverbial "Carrot on a stick" terminology.

However I don't think it is strictly related to members of the opposite sex. There are other limerent objects, such as Limited edition Air Jordan's. These hard-to-get kicks seem to have many limerent properties.

Obviously nobody really expects to get "reciprocation" from a sneaker - but many of the stages, including "crystallization" - viewing the limerent object of desire in an illogically positive light - seem to occur. I guess, you have to be an Air Jordan collector to comprehend what I am saying. (Note: The article on Crystallization is also a great read and is a key component of the process called the limerent reaction)

I feel the article in Wikipedia has applications that stretch far beyond romantic love - in fact it is a full analysis of the pathology of human desire - how humans seems to become obsessed with certain things that they can and cannot obtain at the same time.

It's all about the balance between hope and uncertainty, I think.

Either that, or my eccentricity has gone beyond human comprehension.

Isn't He Just The Cutest?

2011-04-11T07:39:00.000+08:00

Look how cheeky this baby is!

Fucking adorable, isn't he?

Happy Birthday, Van!

2011-04-08T02:32:00.001+08:00

Happy Birthday, Dik!

May you have an accurate weather report, now that you have your own weatherman :-)

I wish you true love, great career and most important of all, I wish Mr Wonderful takes it easy on you! LOL

Happy Birthday.

We're Half-Way There!

2011-04-07T07:38:00.000+08:00

Man United 1 - 0 Chelsea!

Considering that the return leg is at Old Trafford, I dare say, we're already there!

'Shrek' scored the only goal at Stamford Bridge

And avoiding either Real Madrid or Barcelona in the semi-final, going against Schalke instead, it's gonna be an epic Champions League Final!

Glory, Glory Man United!

Surrounded By 'Jews' Who Are Not Jews

2011-04-06T07:11:00.010+08:00

In New York, when we refer to someone as a 'Jew', we are not talking about someone who professes the Judaism religion. It has no bigotry connotations at all; just ask any New Yorker and they'll explain what I mean.

We used it to describe a particular human trait or characteristic. It's not derogatory by any means, it's just a slang used mainly in New York.

I am not talking about these kinds of Jews

Anyways, something happened two weekends ago and I realized that, of late, I have been in the company of such characters. On the said day, one of those people who were with us was an actual Jew - as in he practices Judaism - but of all the peeps who were present, it was only him that didn't turn out to be a 'Jew', in the New York slang sense.

Ironic, isn't it?

If you don't get what I'm saying, it's aight. I am not trying to make a big deal out of it as I know my background is world's apart from theirs and it's clear to these people that I understand. But that is not the issue here.

You know what would be great though? If, even once in a while, people do not always depend on me, y'know?

As I said, I'm not making a mountain out of this mole hill but it makes me wonder if the people I have been hanging with lately could be considered as friends.

If so, I say, you don't bail out on your friends.

Just saying.

It's One Of Those Days

2011-04-06T06:38:00.003+08:00

There are days in our lives when we know that, what happens on that particular day, could potentially alter how we live our lives.

Today is such day for me.

It's not really a crossroad per se, but more of a pit stop and whatever happens today would determine my next course of action - do I continue or do I go.

In my lifetime, I've been privileged enough to have experienced being where I am right now, at exactly the same situation, and while I didn't always take the right or correct ways, having been in the same pit stop before allows for a clearer mind as to what I want and what's good for me.

Yet again, a decision - maintain status quo or move on - needs to be made.

Yes, once again, it's one of those days.

Not All Catfights Are Sexy

2011-03-29T07:11:00.004+08:00

It's always a dream for most men to watch two girls have a go against one another.

There's just something primal when this happens. I don't know, maybe men are just idiots, no?

Anyways, as much as I like to watch a catfight, when the participants are both known to me, and I personally know the reasons - or I am part of the reasons - then it's not as much fun as it seems and/or should be.

Having said that, while it is not fun to watch, I couldn't help but side one party. It's not because I am biased but purely because the other one deserved to be bitchslapped. Hell, she deserved way more than she got.

It's really simple: when you lie, and the repercussions of that lie affect people's lives, then you're fair game. That's how I look at it.

And you know what made it even more pathetic? It's the look she gave me before the melee started - it was the look of longing, forgiveness seeking and shock, all rolled into one.

To the parties that were involved in the catfight, I say 'thank you' to one, and 'you deserve it and you ain't seen nothing yet' to the other.

Oh well.

When The Attacks Keep Coming, The Ending Is In Sight

2011-03-29T06:03:00.000+08:00

I don't know who advises the Prime Minister on political strategies but whoever they are, they should be fired immediately.

In the last week or so, the whole country was abuzz with the purported Anwar Ibrahim Sex Tape. I am not gonna get into the details as most Malaysians already know what is in it and the people behind the leakage.

His group of political strategists should be fired asap! They are as unintelligent as the man they're advising

What I want to write about is the absurdity and the intellectual ineptness of those who planned the whole thing and the stupidity and idiocy of those who approved them.

Another sex-related attack? C'mon now. Really?

Just because it was, in a way, successful the first time out - Anwar was unjustly incarcerated - doesn't mean it would always be the case. The only reason why it was successful in the late 90's was because Tun Mahathir scared the shit out of everyone - the Umno members, PDRM and of course, the entire Judiciary.

So to think that throwing the same stones at Anwar Ibrahim would and could achieve the same results is just plain naive and shows real lack of intelligence.

It's been generally accepted by the Malaysian populace, and the world at large, that the current Prime Minister is nowhere as intelligent as Tun Mahathir and other previous Prime Ministers.

It's always a good sign when BN ups their attack ante against Anwar Ibrahim; it means they are shit scared of what's about to happen

And the recycling of personal attacks against Anwar Ibrahim just confirms this very notion. The smart thing for a not-so-smart leader is to surround himself with those who actually have the abilities to think but unfortunately - or fortunately, depending on where you stand - the current Prime Minister's lack of intelligence doesn't permit him to even think as such.

Personally, whether they admit or not, the ruling party is shit scared of Anwar Ibrahim and what he's capable of achieving. He isn't without flaws but compared to the people that run the government, he's a saint.

And with the Sarawak state elections less than 3 weeks away, the personal attacks would only get crazier. And the more ludicrous and personal the attacks get, the more it augurs well for Pakatan Rakyat and the people of Malaysia, for it could only mean one thing - there is a genuine threat to BN's survival.

Is it the end for the ruling coalition?

I hope so.

Another Great Example Of Malay Idiocy!

2011-03-13T12:32:00.002+08:00

The picture says it all.

Who in their right frame of sane mind could ever do something like this?

The answer is nobody!

Today's Berita Harian Editorial Cartoon: Some idiot Malays attempt at humor

Only a bunch of idiots could show creativity this way. Only an idiot could approve such pictorial! Only an idiot could even think there is some form of comedy in this.

Sigh...

This is what I have against some of the Malay populace in the country. Let's not get it twisted; the operative word here is 'some' and I am not, in any way or form, even if there is a good basis for it, generalizing.

I hope the government fires the people behind this insensitive cartoons. I'm not confident they will but one can hope.

When the Danish cartoonists posted the controversial depictions of the Holy Prophet, the Malays were screaming blood, and rightfully so.

And then they come up with something like this? *shakes head*

Idiots at their finest. And they wonder why the other races look down on them. ha!

Only in Malaysia, only in bodoh-land.

Following The Spirit Is Not Always The Right Route

2011-03-12T21:19:00.003+08:00

I went to a catholic school.

Yup, you read it right; a catholic school. It was run by Jesuits and for what it's worth, it was one of the best schools in New York. I was there till Grade 6, after which, I moved to Collegiate on West 78th.

Loyola: My first school ever!

I read the Bible at Loyola - not to be mistaken with St Ignatius Loyola - concurrently with the Holy Qur'an that I read at home. I was learning both my religion and Catholicism at the same time. I never had issues with any of them, y'know? At that age, I was both, in a way, coerced to learn them - mandatory at school and mandatory by my parents at home. What does a pre-pubescence kid know?

I ain't doing a comparative religion analysis with this entry. I just wanted to open it with providing a background so as to necessitate the connectivity of what I actually wanted to write about.

Anyways, we were always advised at school that whenever we have doubts and/or unsure of what to do, always follow the spirit. In most cases, I do and it had been the right thing to do.

Yes, I was a catholic school boy, complete with uniform and all :-)

But there are times when following the spirit is the wrong road to take. I learned it a couple of Wednesdays ago, and in a very painful manner, too.

After not touching a basketball - going to a basketball court is different, it's my place of solace - in almost 2 years, I went to ball with a few peeps. And boy did I find out how rusty I was!

I mean, I'm not that bad. I know I could still play and my outside shots, while not as accurate as it used to be, were still going in. Balling is something you'd never lose, just like riding a bike. If you know how to play, no matter how much time had lapsed since you last played, your skills are still there.

Now, I have always played 1. And it's fundamental that you need to be able to drive to the basket and shoot from outside. This is where my spirit failed me.

Collegiate: I'm proud to be from there

You know the saying, 'the spirit is willing but the flesh is weak'? That is what happened to me. Every time I slashed towards the basket, there never was a time when I doubted my ability to blow the person guarding me, while I could pass through the person guarding me, it is after blowing by that my spirit is not good enough to finish.

And you know what's worst? It's when subconsciously, you know you could hang a bit on air and while you're trying to figure out how to evade the person guarding you while airborne, gravity brings you down faster than you could say 'dayum!'

That's what happened to me! Here I thought I could still hang like before but the reality is, as soon as I go up, I'm already down again :-(

Sigh...

I thought I could still do things like this :-(

Besides that, my stamina was practically non-existent. I was panting halfway through the first game and after the whole thing, it took my body nearly a week to recuperate. Now, how said that, eh?

I'm going to play again this Wednesday - moved my WIP to Friday - and this time, before I listen to the spirit, per se; I'm going to ensure that the flesh is good enough to support the spirit.

Let's see if I'll manage to do just that.

Why Does Everyone Think I'm Expensive?

2011-03-11T08:01:00.004+08:00

Seriously.

Why does everyone think that I am expensive?

The truth is, I'm just a simple guy. Granted, I have an expensive taste but that doesn't mean I'm expensive, feel me?

We make our own lives and I have a vision of how I want mine to be

Yes, I was brought up in a certain manner but I have also lived through phases of a simple life. Does being brought up the way I was automatically mean that I am forever expectant of living the rest of my life in luxury?

The answer is no.

Believe it or not, despite growing up the way I did, all I want and long for is a simple life; a normal life where I can provide for my family the way a man is expected and supposed to, and while extra things are welcome, they are not really mandatory.

Even as a kid, I often fantasized that when I'm finally married and settled, all I ever wanted was a roof over our heads, foods on the table, savings for my kids to go to college, and 3 cars - 1 for me, 1 for my wife and a SUV for the kids.

That simple, really.

It is through simplicity that we truly live

I seriously can't fathom why people - or potential employers, for that matter - always think that I'm expensive without even hearing what I have to say. And it's really frustrating to be subjected to that kind of perception when the truth is far from what they seem to be.

Here's a piece of advice to those who don't know, which basically means most people: the fundamental difference between old money and new money is that the former, more often than not, long for a life of simplicity, dictated by love and affection from the people they love most. It's called culture.

No matter how much more the new money have over the old money, one thing they could never have is culture. You just can't buy it. You just can't. You need to be born into it and it takes generations after generations to cultivate.

Trust me, I know.

So, if anyone of you think I'm expensive to even hang with - or employ, for that matter - think again. What else do I want in life?

My happiness is derived from seeing My Small Baby happy

And if truth be told, all I really want right now is to make My Small Baby happy, the way she deserves to be. And unless and until I am able to that consistently, every single day, no amount of money could ever give me the kind of happiness that I get with just a smile from her.

A smile, yes, just a smile; that's all I'll ever need in my life.

Do you still think I'm expensive?

Do Birds Of The Same Feather Always Flock Together?

2011-03-10T07:11:00.001+08:00

Ah, the classic office romance.

Boy meets girl. Boy pursues girl. Girl swoons over boy. They spend so much time together that a relationship ends up becoming inevitable. Intra-office relationships can be a dream come true or an impending nightmare.

The same could be said of romances within the same industry; in different organizations, but in the same line.

I have nothing against such relationships. In fact, I think they could work out all the way and end in eventual bliss. I have friends who are in such relationships - The Talking Dog and his girlfriend used to work together, in different arms of the same department. There is also The Hampsap King and his forgiving, martyr of a girlfriend; he's in Creative, she's in Servicing, and they're in different agencies.

Bottom-line, I believe it could work out. And in lots of cases, it does.

However, personally, I don't think I would want that, y'know? While it is great to be able to talk about the same things, live in the same world, and bitch about the same people, I wouldn't want to find myself in a situation where most conversations are based on things and people we both know.

Sure, little and impromptu trysts add to the excitement of the relationship, but I personally think they are not enough to combat the strains and problems that usually come with relationships.

It is exciting to get some booty time while at work

I mean, what if you had a fight and need your space? It's good with those who work in different organizations but how about those who don't? I wouldn't want to be in an awkward situation where after a fight, and both needing their own spaces, I am forced to come face-to-face with her. And it doesn't help that I don't have a poker face; how I am feeling is what you're exactly going to get from my face.

Maybe it's just me but I like to learn a lot of things and talk about them. My Small Baby loves, and at the same time and sometimes loathes, her job. To be able to listen to her about it is something that I like doing, I enjoy it and I learn a lot about her industry in the process.

And whenever I travel, the things I learn about in-flight emergency, catering, services and what not, gives me a totally different perspective on the things that I notice and makes flying a better experience. It also makes me smile when I see little mistakes here and there, even though most of the passengers do not.

And there is that unhealthy competitiveness that I have. And to be in a relationship with someone in the same office and/or in the same industry doesn't really bode well with this pesky attitude of mine.

Say, I am dating someone who is in Creative or Servicing. As a Planner, I need to make them see and realize the importance of my work, and girlfriend or not, by God, I'm gonna make them do just that!

And it scares the shit out of me to even think that my girlfriend couldn't comprehend what I'm saying. Oh, it's dreadful to even consider that I'm dating a girl who's not as intellectual as I am! And if she stubbornly doesn't get what I'm trying to convey, she's not gonna hear the end of it come after work hours.

Not all office romances are like that of McDreamy and Meredith. Besides, they're fiction, y'know?

Yes, intra-office and/or within the same industry romances is something that a lot of people have and I see lots of them achieve happiness. It eliminates the excuse of not having enough time to see someone you love because of work and it sure does make for exciting work days.

Maybe, I'm the odd man out, y'know? But then again, I am always mostly different.

Whatever the relationship structure may be, I still believe that both parties need to put in the effort to make it work. I just think it's easier to do that when you're not on each other's faces all the time.

But that's just me.

Failure At Normalcy

2011-03-09T20:47:00.006+08:00

I don’t know why but I have always failed at anything remotely associated with normalcy.

People ask us to be normal, live normal lives and do normal things.

But what is normal?

Honestly, I don’t know. What could be normal for some peeps are not normal to others. How do we then define what is normal?

I don’t think I can be normal, y’know? Granted, I view things differently but in my world, that is nothing but normal. Am I supposed to look at things the same ways people expect me to? Am I supposed to conform to how other people view normalcy? Am I supposed to be like most people to be accepted as normal?

I don’t know. I seriously don’t know.

What I know is that I need to change the way I live my life. I have to or I face losing everything that matters to me.

If I need to change who I am to protect the people I love, I’d gladly do it. For it is because of them that I am who and what I am in the first place. If I need to get rid of the very traits that made me Ivan Omar to keep the people I love, I’d do it in a heartbeat.

Is that normal?

Secret Of The Week

2011-03-08T09:48:00.002+08:00

Do y'all know why I take the secrets from PostSecret, blog about them and try to put them into my own personal perspectives?

The picture below says it all.

It's human to take a different route from the same roads that other people take. It is human to feel something out of someone's misery and that doesn't mean we're evil; it just allows us to run away from our own problems.

And as the picture above says, knowing others out there who are in the same boat as we are - some in worst situations - give us the insight to look at the world and people in a different light.

We're just being human.

M o v i n g o n . . .

The second secret I chose is one that I'm sure a lot of people have gone through.

Do you remember the last time you saw someone, what it did and how it affected you?

Death is a good example of this. When you see someone you know or someone you love for the very last time, don't you remember your thoughts and feelings at that very moment?

Similarly, when you break-up with someone you love, don't you remember everything about it?

I'll give you an example. I'm not going to choose death as it's too morbid for me right now, having just lost me Nana on New Year's Eve and a good friend last month. Instead, I'm gonna tell y'all about the last time I saw someone who was very special to me.

I think it lasted for around 40 minutes and all she did was cry, cry, cry, cry, cry, cry, cry, cry and cry. Seriously, for that period of time I was with her, all she did was cry. And as much as I tried to console her, it was futile, really. I guess she was too betrayed, too heartbroken to make sense of it all, y'know?

I don't know if I'll see her again, in this life. But it'd would be great to be able to say hello to her again without the tears, because I don't want to remember her that way.

Yes, We Got Thrashed!

2011-03-07T09:19:00.000+08:00

Never one to easily concede defeat, I gotta admit, not only did we lose, we got thrashed.

Ask any Manchester United fans and they'd you that losing is hard to accept but to lose to Liverpool, and in such manner, is beyond painful.

Liverpool thrashed Man United 3-1 at the Kop :-(

But hey, they were the better team. They were inspired and wanted to win more than we did. It is painful to accept indeed but you've gotta give credit to the Reds of Merseyside, they completely outplayed us.

What else can I say?

We just have to be gracious in defeat, no?

Does Free Will Include The Right To Die?

2011-03-07T02:49:00.001+08:00

I just watched the HBO TV Movie, "You Don't Know Jack", starring the great Al Pacino. It is the story of Euthanasia activist, Dr. Jack Kevorkian, and his involvement in the suicides of ill patients, some terminally, others not.

But this entry is not a review of the movie. From a purely movie perspective, it fulfilled its objectives - it made people understand the reasons and circumstances why the man did what he did.

Let's set aside religion for this entry as most religions in the world do not allow suicides of any kind. Life and death is God-given and it should stay that way. No human in this world, irrespective of whether it's justified or not, have the right to take someone's life and that includes those who want to die.

But even without the basis of religion, could you permit yourself, or someone you love, to die out of free will? Would you consent to taking the lives of those you love even if it means stopping their sufferings?

On a daily basis, people commit suicide. They choose to end their lives for different reasons. They do not think about the feelings, thoughts and miseries of those they leave behind. And most of them choose to go in the most painful of fashions - jumping off a building, blowing their brains out, hanging themselves, etc.

Is it then so outrageous to think that aiding someone to commit suicide painlessly as being so evil? I mean, look at the suicides nowadays? Aren't most of them painful, bloody and without thinking of their loved ones?

Personally, suicides - religion or otherwise - is plain cowardice, not to mention complete disregard to the feelings and thoughts of one's loved ones. The only exception are those that have medical conditions - depression, insanity and the likes - for they don't know what they're doing.

I know some of you won't agree but that's fine by me. We all look at the same things differently. And that's what makes us humans.

Welcome Home, Melo!

2011-02-23T23:16:00.004+08:00

One of New York's basketball son has come home.

Yes, that kid from Brooklyn who led Syracuse to the NCAA Title as a freshman in '02-'03 and drafted by the Denver Nuggets as the 3rd overall in the 2003 Draft, is home.

Melo is gonna wear #7 for the NY Knicks :-)

Yes, that kid who was the franchise player of the Nuggets for years, and who is the main baller under the Jordan Brand, is home.

Finally, he's home.

The New York Knicks has always been my favorite team. They're underachievers, no doubt about that. But the Knicks are still my team.

Growing up in the Big Apple, they perennially went to the playoffs but never progressed far. With the Pistons and the Bulls, they were always kicked out of the playoffs; the only time they progressed was in 1994, the first time His Airness retired, but eventually lost to the Hakeem Olajuwon-led Houston Rockets.

Melo to the right of His Airness, together with the rest of the Jordan Brand endorsers

I don't think they'll go far this year, either.

But getting Carmelo Anthony is a step towards the right direction. We already have Amare Stoudamire and with Melo, things are looking good. And if we get CP3 next year, we're well on our way to challenging the East powerhouses.

Welcome home, Melo.

Secret Of The Week

2011-02-22T09:28:00.003+08:00

This week's Secret of the Week is something that is close to my heart.

If y'all remember, one of my Christmas wish list was to forgive and be forgiven.

I have done the former, hard as it was for me to do. And I have also come to the realization that the latter is not forthcoming.

But you know what I also realized? I found out that, in allowing myself to forgive, I don't need to be forgiven. I don't have to be forgiven to move on because I have allowed myself to forgive.

Feel me?

When you take the courage to forgive someone who has betrayed and hurt you, there is a feeling inside you that tells you you have been forgiven. I suppose I don't expect anyone of you to understand, especially those who are still holding grudges against someone.

But you know what? Take the first step in forgiving the people who have hurt you and you'd find this feeling of comfort that in allowing yourself to forgive, you have allowed yourself to be forgiven.

Try it.

Believe you me, it feels refreshing and rejuvenating.

Lucky #6

2011-02-22T09:00:00.018+08:00

Today's random thought is brought to you by the number 6 :-)

I know someone who has had 5 lovers in her short life. It could be more now but it was 5 when I knew her.

In my time, she would have been perceived by society as someone with very loose morals, a trollop as it was known back then. But I guess in today's world, 5 is too low of a number to perceived as one, no?

I actually saw the picture above a couple of weeks on PostSecret but since I was in no mood to blog then, I just saved it for future use.

Anyways, this entry is not to make fun of anyone. It is just that when I saw the picture, my thoughts automatically went to her.

And like the visual, I hope #6 is the lucky number for her. I really do.

For what it's worth, she truly deserves to be happy. She is, and could be, a lot of things but where it matters most, she's got a good heart.

Tomorrow Is Not Just Another Day

2011-02-21T15:34:00.003+08:00

No, it isn't just another day.

To some, like someone I know, tomorrow signals either the end or the beginning.

He had everything a man could hope to have in his lifetime.

He had love; he was loved, he loved and continues to still love.

He lived in luxury, as much as this materialistic world we live in would and could allow.

He was surrounded by people who were charmed and smitten by him. He was constantly and continuously praised by the people around him; some more than the others, some deserved, others are not.

He was a man who had everything. Until he fucked it up. Big time.

One ponders how a man with his intelligence and stature could blow everything up with a single stroke of stupidity?

Pride? Stubbornness? Stupidity? Fate?

Truly mind boggling. Here's a man who had everything and poised to achieve way more and yet, time and again, he always fucked things up for himself and the people who are all emotionally invested in him.

But it has to end sooner or later, one way or another.

He has reached that point. He's on his final crossroad and another wrong detour would signal the end of everything he has ever treasured in his life, and that includes the people he loves.

As he deliberates on that detour to his redemption, he's faced with the decision of doing the right things right, something he's always known but always somehow finds creative and numerous ways to fuck it all up. Always.

At the end of it all, it's just a story of a man who is trying to keep things together while falling apart.

I know the feeling. I really do.

After all, I am that man.

What Are You Doing With Your Life?

2011-02-20T21:33:00.003+08:00

Yes, you.

What are you doing with your life?

Are you living it or are you merely living in it?

Are you living or merely existing?

Recently, I lost a very good friend; someone who always had my back. He just turned 40 and was just beginning to live his life. And in an instance, he was gone. A heart attack followed by a stroke that left his brain dead.

On a Saturday night, I went with My Small Baby to see him; he was still in critical condition but was breathing on his own. We went for dinner and not an hour into it, we are saying our final goodbyes.

Tragic to say the least but it's a true story.

I've been meaning to post about his death but somehow, the words always failed me. I didn't know what to write; writing another 'RIP' type of posts just doesn't cut it, y'know? He was more than a friend and one of my biggest supporters and boosters, even if I'm on the opposite side of the truth.

But I wanted to write about him. And instead of writing about his death, I want to ask y'all instead about your respective lives.

So yeah, what are you doing with your life?

Life is so very fragile. And we are all vulnerable. We will all, at some point in our lives, fall. We will all fall.

And it's best that we must carry this in our hearts - that what we have is special. That it could be taken from us, and when it's taken from us, we will be tested; we will be tested to our very soul, to our very core.

It is these times, and these pains that'd allow us to look inside ourselves and ask what are we doing with our lives?

RIP, Jafs.

إِنَّا لِلّهِ وَإِنَّـا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعونَ

Have A Great Bunny Year!

2011-02-02T20:03:00.000+08:00

Gong Xi Fa Cai Y'all!

Happy Birthday, Shine...

2011-01-25T00:01:00.016+08:00

Happy Birthday, Shine.

I wish you success, happiness and love.

Always have. Always Will.

Have a great life and God Bless!

I'm A Survivor!

2011-01-22T15:14:00.001+08:00

Yes I am!

And it's official too!

Thank You God.

The Rise And Fall Of Gary Ng

2011-01-22T08:05:00.000+08:00

Crime doesn't pay.

Indeed.

Gary Ng, the infamous 'sex-blogger' was sentenced to 50 months imprisonment and fined SGD 20,000 after admitting to four charges of forgery and one count each of housebreaking and theft, criminal breach of trust and unlawfully having another person's identity card.

The infamous Gary Ng

Gary Ng, whose real name is Chen Guilin, gained notoriety when he started uploading videos of his sex escapades with different women onto the net. My boy at GutterUncensored has all his videos uploaded onto his site if you are all curious, as I’m not gonna post any here in my blog.

So yeah, the dude is gonna spend over 4 years in jail and it’s not even gonna because of the videos but mainly because he turned to committing crime in desperation. Worst, it was his girlfriend who reported him to the police that led to his entrapment! Serves him right, I guess.

Personally, what he does in his bedroom is his business. But when I read that there are videos that was shot without consent, then I think he deserves whatever he got. It’s one thing to film one’s sexcapades but it had to be voluntarily and with the knowledge of the other party. Anything else is a crime to me.

Yeo Poh Tiang, the lawyer of Gary Ng's girlriend, is the one who entrapped him by luring him

I seriously applaud Singapore’s strict laws; had it been committed in Malaysia, this dude would have made a clean getaway. It is nice to know that the adage ‘crime does not pay’ still holds true in some countries.

In the end, Gary Ng’s e-fame was nothing but temporary. It is often the case when the intentions are always evil. I hope he gets raped in jail, I’m sure those who have been there could teach him a thing or two about how to treat women.

Indeed, crime doesn’t pay.

Secret Of The Week

2011-01-21T17:07:00.001+08:00

If last week's secret was different, this one is special.

And unlike all previous secrets, I'm not going to write anything to explain my personal thoughts about this one.

I'm sure most of you - at least the ones that are really close to me - know what this means to me. I know what I did and what I didn't.

But I'm sure you have, at one point or another, experienced a time in your lives where you are forced to admit to something that never happened. My question is this: are you willing to admit to something that never took place in order to keep something and/or someone you love?

I'll leave it up to y'all to have your own personal interpretations.

An Air Jordan That I Want This January...

2011-01-11T09:19:00.013+08:00

The Prince of Darkness complained to me over Twitter that for a retired Sneakerehad, I still talk about sneakers a lot.

Before he starts barking again, I might as well blog about an Air Jordan that I want, more like must have, in the month of January.

The Air Jordan III White Cement's are dropping worldwide on the 22nd of January and while most J-heads prefer the Air Jordan III Black Cement's over this, this particular colorway is also another classic.

Wanna know why?

Here's why...

Look at the score in the background: Wilkins - 145, Jordan - 97. His Airness needed 49 to win but he scored a perfect 50 on his last dunk!

The year was 1988. It was the NBA All-Star Dunk Competition. His Airness versus 'The Human Highlight Film.' And they didn't disappoint. They took turns showcasing some of the event's finest and fanciest dunks ever seen. The two combined to record four out of six perfect scores of 50 in the final round.

If you know your basketball, you'd know that MJ needed a 49 on his last dunk to claim his 2nd consecutive slam dunk title. And the way in which he not only bettered 49 but scored yet another perfect 50 is one for eternity!

Who could ever forget the vision of 'The G.O.A.T.' going to the opposite end of Chicago Stadium, kept on bouncing the ball, took off running, lifted off from the free throw line, double clutched in midair and slammed it down for the perfect score and the slam dunk title?

Classic!

And it goes without saying which pair he had on when he went through one of the most fascinating sights ever to be seen in a basketball court.

Now you know why I have to have this :-)

Yes, You Now Can!

2011-01-11T07:27:00.003+08:00

For the longest time, I didn't allow anyone to post comments on my blog.

I'd rather read and reply to the emails I get than allow any tom, dick and harry to comment. It's not that I'm scared or anything, I just find it tedious to edit the spams from the ones that are not.

This was the first comment I got since I re-allowed post commenting :-)

Anyways, it's a new year and a new beginning. And in light of this, I've decided to reallow readers of my blog to comment on any of the postings contained herein. I'm sure majority of those who read my blog do not know that they are now allowed to comment.

And this is why I am posting this entry.

Oh, I also got my first comment since I re-allowed comment posting :-)

Secret Of The Week

2011-01-10T11:16:00.012+08:00

The first secret for 2011!

And this one is different. Besides blogging about it on 1.10, I could also blog about this under my 'Confession' Label. Yes, that's how different and special this secret is.

As soon as I saw it, I knew I had to write about it. I initially selected four secrets but instead of doing what I usually do, I just chose to write on this one.

I wonder if S489 or more popularly known by its Brand name Vyvanse is as effective as, if not better than, Ritalin

Yes, I’m also kinda lazy and swamped with other priorities. But I think this secret is more than enough as it spoke to me on a very deep level and brought me back to a time when people didn't know why I was behaving the way I did.

I did not choose the secret above because of what is written on it; I chose it for the visuals on it.

Unless and until you’re familiar with S489 tablets, then it’s gonna be hard for you to understand at first what the hell is it that I am blogging about.

You see, when I was a kid, I used to take a similar medicine called Ritalin. I was on it for quite sometime - even learned how to snort by crushing them haha - and after years of medication, the doctors said I was cured. Who am I to argue with a panel of doctors who specialized on the condition that I had, eh? They said I was cured so I guess I was.

I went on this for years till I was 13 and by then, I was already an expert in snorting! LOL

But you know what, when I saw that secret, I actually asked myself if I am truly cured, y’know?

I’m asking this because until today, I am still somewhat exhibiting some of the symptoms - short attention span, lack of focus, bipolar personality, narcoleptic tendencies, procrastination, disorganized work habits, frequent shifts in conversation - that were the very reasons why I had to take Ritalin in the first place.

One of the things that I'm definitely gonna do this year is get checked again. And if indeed I still have it, then it clearly explains why I behave the way I behave.

Oh well.

Pearl Of The 9th Sea...

2011-01-10T10:44:00.004+08:00

Again, I am lazy to write about this particular pair.

But that doesn't mean the IX's has no special significance in my life, it does. Besides it being the 9th edition of the Air Jordan series, I wore the White-Black-Dark Powder Blue colorway when I received my Bachelor's Degree.

01.09.11 - Air Jordan IX Low Retro + White/Blue Pearl

If you want to know which one I'm talking about, go to the 'Videos' section of my blog and click on the interview I had with Materealize Productions.

Or you can always Google it! :-P

On The 8th Day, The World Was Thirsty...

2011-01-08T22:35:00.003+08:00

And so I decided to quench their thirst by rocking the Air Jordan VIII Aqua!

LOL

A n y w a y s...

His Airness wore the Air Jordan VIII Aqua's in the 1993 NBA All-Star Game. It was also the only colorway from the original Air Jordan VIII that didn't feature the Chicago Bulls' Red, White and Black strips.

And then, his dad was murdered. So, he retired...

Oh, it's day 9 tomorrow! Woot! Woot!

Stick To The 7th Cardinal Rule!

2011-01-08T00:32:00.000+08:00

Again, I have no time to do a commentary.

I'm lazy and sleepy.

01.07.11 - Air Jordan VII Retro Cardinal's

Again, if you want to know, Google it.

I actually wanted to wear the Hare's from the AJ VII + AJ XVI Countdown Pack but they're stocked way up, couldn't find the ladder and I was pressed for time.

And I chose the Cardinal's because I've always liked the colorway and they're the easiest to grab; they were within reach.

New Year, New Look :-)

2011-01-07T18:55:00.000+08:00

It's the new year and I thought to myself, why not fiddle a bit with the layout of my Twitter profile to give it a different look.

And that's just what I did.

I made it in-tuned and consistent with how my blog looks like.

I think the black layout makes it classier, no?

I don't know if y'all like it but as always, even if you don't, I seriously don't give a fuck.

Unless of course you're My Small Baby...

Suede Your Five, Define Your Six

2011-01-06T22:16:00.002+08:00

Sorry, no time to do a commentary.

If you don't know the pairs I'm wearing, too bad. Or, there's always Google.

Anyways, here you go...

01.05.11 - Air Jordan V 'Raging Bull' Pack - Red

01.06.11 - Air Jordan VI Defining Moments Package

It's Air Jordan VII tomorrow! Do I hear a "Hare's?" :-)

Happy Birthday, Coach!

2011-01-06T21:29:00.002+08:00

Happy Birthday Sze Kee!

Oh, I Need You In My Life!

2011-01-06T10:17:00.004+08:00

I rarely want something so bad unless they're Air Jordan's.

But this Kisk Tyo T is something that I want so fucking bad! I need this in my life!

I don't know if I could still get them considering that they're a limited edition. I contacted my connects at Kiks Tyo but they don't have them anymore, despite what is shown on their site.

KIKS TYO x PALOMA ESMERIA x Ms. CLAVEL "AIR FORCE 1 PHILIPPINES" VERSION

I went to Sole What? in Mid-Valley but they don't have it. I wonder if I could order it through them. If not, guess I have no choice but to go to eBay.

The thing with Limited Edition stuff is that, the more limited they are, the more they are readily available, courtesy of the vultures who always take advantage.

But hey, beggars can't choose, no?

But do you know what's the most ironic of all this? A friend of mine from Manila actually asked me if I wanted one. I was the one who hooked him up with the Limited Edition Air Force 1 Philippines in '06 and since this particular shirt is about that pair, he wanted to return the favor.

Me rocking the AF 1 Philippines; with Brian and Eelin. Oh, it was on the 25th of January? Hmmm...

I said no because it was a joint project with Ms Clavel - a sneaker magazine based out of Manila - and there's a son of a bitch that I swore to myself that I'll spit on his face who works there.

I know it's juvenile but if you know the asshole, you'd understand why. But you know what, I don't care anymore; it's not as if he owns the magazine anyways; he's just an employee, so I don't give a fuck if he works there, I just want to have this T.

Anyone?

The Homeless Man With A Golden Voice

2011-01-06T09:19:00.002+08:00

Even those who are really down could still rise up.

Watch this video and you'll come to realize that, despite all the troubles in this world, the Benevolent God still wants to remind all of us that it is still a beautiful place to live in.

The man above, Ted Williams, has been employed by the Cleveland Cavaliers!

It truly is a wonderful world.

4Squared On 01.04.11

2011-01-06T08:38:00.005+08:00

I don't know why but a lot of the Air Jordan heads I know love the IV's.

Seriously, I don't get it. It’s not the best to ball in and personally, from a design perspective, it’s nowhere near its predecessor, the Air Jordan III.

If you don't know 'The Shot', then you don't know basketball. Or Michael Jordan for that matter.

I don’t know but I think it has a lot to do with 'The Shot'; who could ever, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever forget that oh so sublime moment when His Airness towered over Craig Ehlo to clinch the game and the series at the 1989 Playoffs?

A n y w a y s…

It's the 4th and it’s Air Jordan IV day.

My OG's are again a no-no!

There are lots of colorways to choose from, really.

I wanted to go with the classic Black Cement’s or the all-white White/Met Silver. Torn between the two, I tweeted and asked for suggestion/request as to which Air Jordan IV I should wear. There were a few suggestions and the dude who hooked me up with the Air Jordan XI Cool Grey replied, "am feelin something with laser etchings perhaps? :P"

Hmmm...

It's a good suggestion and considering it's been ages since I've worn any of my AJ IV Laser's, I decided to wear one; I couldn't exactly remember which colorways I have with me at the moment and when I checked, I only had the Red Lasers - sample from 2005 and one I'm definitely not wearing - and the Black/Varsity Red.

I was actually looking for the White/Varsity Red pair but I couldn't find it; I know I always have a pair of the white and Black ones together :-( Anyways, since the Red Lasers are definitely out, I had no choice but to rock the Black ones.

The AJ IV Black Lasers. I prefer the white ones but I couldn't find my pair :-(

But here’s the thing; I only wore it for a bit. It was kinda squishy and I was afraid the soles are gonna die on me, and since I was gonna do a lot of walking, I decided to change.

But which pair?

That's when it hit me!

Why not wear the very pair that I wore on the first day of 2009?

That way, I could easily go back to basics and go back to a time when I was happy. Oh, and most important of all, it'd also allow me to forget 2010 like it never happened.

Ha!

And voila! That is when 01.04.11 became ‘Lightning’ day!

The AJ IV Lightning

P.S.

Oh, have y'all noticed how beautiful my photos are? Can you say new toy? :-)

01.03.011 Equals Air Jordan III

2011-01-04T23:57:00.003+08:00

The Air Jordan III is my 2nd all-time favorite J's.

Sometime back, I explained why the III's are such a huge part of my life and what are the personal experiences that are attached with them. I am not going to repeat it here but you can always refer to the link if you want to know.

None of my AJ III OG's are wearable

Unlike the Air Jordan II, the III's are one of the best represented colorways. There are too many to choose from and in deciding which pair to rock on the 3rd day, my OG's and 1994 Retro's are automatically out of the equation; they wouldn't hold up.

I initially wanted to wear a pair from the 2007 colorways as they had more vibrant colorways but I said to myself that the overriding reasons why I am doing all this WDYWT is to go "back to basics."

And with that in mind, I concluded that I should rock a pair that carried more personal meaning to me.

The 2007 Retro's have vibrant colors such as the AJ III DTRT and Silver/Sport Red

I then looked at my 2001 and 2003 collection and decided that it was either the True Blue or Black Cement. But I found myself in another dilemma; should I wear the ones from 2001? Will it hold up? Not wanting to take the risk of the old retro's falling apart if I wore them, I opted to use the latest retro's.

I have always said that I'm partial to white-based J's and based on this criteria alone, logic dictates that I should choose the the True Blue, right?

But you now what, in keeping with the back to basics theme, and more importantly, because it was the pair that I had on in one of the most momentous times of my life, the Black Cement's won.

In the end, I chose the Black Cement's; they have a special significance in my life

So yeah, on the 3rd, I rocked the Air Jordan III Black Cement's.

Dear God...

2011-01-03T23:10:00.003+08:00

Dear God,

I know You have blessed me all my life.

Please do not take this as a sign of ingratitude on my part but instead, please take this open letter as a sign of my continuous devotion to You.

You gave me a perfect 2010 and I thank You. But as I usually tend to do, I forgot that it was through Your generosity and blessings that I had such a great start and You reminded me, in no uncertain ways, about it by putting me through unbearable miseries for the rest of the year, capped by taking back into Your folds my grandmother, right at the end of what has become the worst year of my life.

In retrospect, because I strayed instead of completely devoting myself to You, I so deserve what You put me through 2010; experiences that are so painful and yet life-altering at the same time. And I vowed to myself, and to the people I love, that I would never, ever allow myself to be in a position to go through such things again. Ever.

Thank You for showing me that it is the inside that counts.

Thank You for showing me who are the people I can depend on; the people whom I can trust and who love me for who I truly am.

Again, thank You for giving me the most wonderful parents one could have. Thank You for giving me siblings, who despite continuous disagreements on almost anything and everything, have proven to and will always, be there for me when I need them.

Thank You for not only showering me with abundant love but also for allowing me to be capable of loving and being loved.

Thank you for My Small Baby; she’s truly the best there ever is.

Not to sound too demanding and bratty, but, and if it's possible, I want to know what is in store for me in the coming year. I am ending the worst year I ever had in my life but despite all the miseries I went through, I am leading myself to believe, and hope, that 2011 is going be totally different.

Yes, I believe and I hope. For whether 2011 is going to be better than the previous year is entirely dependent on Your wishes for me. Nevertheless, I will start the year 2010 the right way. I promise.

As You know, I can’t see the future and what's in store for me. While the confidence and belief that it is going to be different, that it’s gonna be a complete contrast from 2010, that’s it’s gonna be great, the decision is really up to You. I just hope, and pray hard, that You’ll see the changes in me; real changes to grant me at least a chance to prove myself.

There are so many things I want to do and accomplish; to prove to the people I love that, once and for all, their unbridled and continuous beliefs in me are justified. We all deserve second chances in life, no? And like everyone who has wronged, I also would like the opportunity to atone for my sins and hope to be given a second chance prove to myself and to the people who have always believed in me that I am what I am and I will be who I am supposed to be.

Looking back, I know I have faltered a million times in a million different ways. But I truly believe that it is time for me to live my life according to how I am supposed to live it. And I need You to continuously guide me through. I know there will be obstacles after obstacles but this time around, I have prepared myself mentally and emotionally to stay on the right path and not be swayed by earthly motives. After all, there ain’t nothing in this life that I haven’t seen, possessed nor experienced.

So yes, it is time. And hopefully, Your presence will lead me through. It is given that I have to do my part and this is why I am writing to You. I promise that I will be who I am destined to be and I know, somewhere in my stars, greatness is written.

But even if greatness is not within my destiny, I will settle for a life where I am with the people I love the most and more importantly, a place where there the realities is that I make them happy.

And come 2011, the journey to the fulfillment of my full potential commences. All I am asking of You is to give me the initial push and the continuous guidance to fulfill this life-long destiny.

Thank you once again for everything You have done for me.

With Your blessings, here’s to a great 2011 and beyond!

Your humbled servant,
IIO

On The First Day Of The New Year, This Is What I Wore...

2011-01-03T00:21:00.002+08:00

I think it'd be awesome if you sing the title - as opposed to reading it - the same way you would sing 12 Days of Christmas :-)

Deal?

As previously mentioned, I am going back to basics, back to a time when I was still a Sneakerhead. I also wrote that I will be wearing a different Air Jordan everyday till the 23rd, a pair from the AJ XIII series on the 24th and the AJ XI Cool Grey on the 25th. And that I will be documenting them in a WDYWT format.

So, here goes...

01.01.11 - Air Jordan Hi Blue Sapphire

Of all my AJ I's, I chose this particular pair because it's in my favorite color, it reminds me of The Smurfs - something which My Small Baby is currently crazy about - and I wanted to wear something that I could really walk with, something that none of my OG's and old retro's could do.

01.02.11 - Air Jordan II Low Retro White/Metallic Silver Varsity Maize

Let's not kid ourselves, AJ II is one of the weakest Air Jordan series ever.

Obviously, I can't wear any of my OG AJ II's as well as the 1994 Retro's, not that I wanted to in the first place. I actually wanted to wear the 2004 'Melo but I don't have a pair with me right now.

In the end, after checking my collection, it was either the one above or the Air Jordan II Doernbecher and if you know me enough, you'd know that I am biased towards white based sneakers. Besides, have you seen the color combination of the Doernbecher's?

Oh, I realized that I don't blog everyday and the readers of my blog are scattered all over the world and have different timezones. So, what I'm gonna do then is wear an Air Jordan everyday, take a picture and put them up when I blog next.

So, it could vary from 2 pairs for 2 dates - like this entry - to 3 or more. But I will try to make 3 as the maximum.

Let's have a great 2011 y'all!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Happy New Year Y'all!

2011-01-01T12:00:00.003+08:00

Happy New Year Everyone!

Oh, I love the picture above.

Notice where the numbers 1 and 0 are? They are down and out for the count! 1 and 0 stands for I and O, and like 10, IO was also out for the count in 2010.

Now that 11 is standing tall, I shall then start using Ibrahim Ivan as opposed to Ivan Omar! LOL

Yeah, I'm eccentric that way.

Here's to a great 2011!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

RIP Nana :-( انا لله وانا اليه راجعون

2010-12-31T23:10:00.024+08:00

On the last day of 2010, I woke up to the disturbing news that my grandma's condition has worsened.

She had been seriously ill but when I saw my parents, they informed me that she's doing better; she'd even checked out of the hospital to recuperate at home.

That disturbing news turned to tragic when, less than an hour later, we received news that she had passed.

انا لله وانا اليه راجعون

I have said it enough; 2010 was truly the worst year of my life. And to lose my Nana on the very last day of this miserable year just puts the icing on the cake of miseries.

But I find comfort in the fact that she's in a better place now, I know she is. And as much as my twisted eccentricity would allow, I am also, in a way, glad that she went back to heaven on the last day of the worst year of my life.

It will be a sad start to 2011 for my family and I but again, as much as my eccentricity would allow, this tragedy reinforces my belief and wishes for a great 2011.

In the most ironic of fashions, I started 2010 great but I don't have to tell y'all how the rest of the year went by.

Now that I am starting 2011 in the saddest and most tragic way possible, I am truly hoping, and continuously praying to the Benevolent Allah, that 2011 is a total reverse of 2010.

RIP, Nana...

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Tanah Tumpahnya Darahku

2010-12-29T22:44:00.001+08:00

At a time when racial tensions in the country are at an all-time high, it is soccer and our own Harimaus, not our rotten politicians and even more rotten government, that united us all.

Congrats and thank you for making us proud!

I hope the current team won't be disbanded, just to allow the seniors back into the team. This current group should be kept and given the maximum support to ensure that Malaysia becomes competitive in the sport once again.

Congratulations and thank you for allowing us to escape the realities of life.

Here's to the start of another golden era in Malaysian Soccer!

Here's How I'll Start My 2011

2010-12-29T21:19:00.000+08:00

Sometimes, to start afresh, we need to go back to basics.

With high hopes for a great 2011, I am going back to basics.

I'm going back to a time when I was happy. And for good measures, I am going to relate it to the title of my blog.

Yes, I am going back in time to when I was still a bona fide Sneakerhead!

Here's what I'm going to do to start 2011:

For the first 23 days of the new year, I'm going to rock a different Air Jordan for each corresponding date. On the 1st, I am going to be rocking an Air Jordan I; on the 2nd, an Air Jordan II; and so on.

I'm going to do this until the 23rd of January. On the 24th, I am going to dig deep into my collection and rock a pair from my all-time favorite series - the Air Jordan XIII. I haven't decided yet which of the AJ XIII's but right now, the Altitudes are the favorite.

And on the 25th, I am going to rock the undisputed must-cop Air Jordan of 2010 - The Air Jordan XI Cool Grey.

I will also document each WDYWT (What Did You Wear Today to the non-sneakerheads) in my blog.

Sounds good?

Yes, to start afresh, and despite being a retired J-Head, I'm gonna go back in time.

Here's to a great 2011!

The Growing Absurdity Of Malaysia’s Growing Political Consciousness

2010-12-27T09:00:00.004+08:00

Like many Malaysians, I also want the BN rule to end.

But unlike some Malaysians, I am not jumping onto the ‘growing-political-consciousness’ bandwagon.

MyOverseasVote: Are They For Real?

A few days ago, I read an article in Free Malaysia Today that made me both proud and shook my head in disbelief at the same time. In the said article, an organization called MyOverseasVote or MOV, "a group of Malaysians demanding voting rights for all citizens living abroad are planning to bring the Election Commission (EC) and the government to court."

Hmmm…

I seriously don’t know what to think. I mean, it’s great that these people would want overseas Malaysians to be able to exercise their fundamental right to vote but on the other hand, I couldn’t help but wonder if they truly represent the wishes of the Malaysians overseas and more importantly, if they know the ludicrousness and impracticality of their mission.

It’s one thing to speak for people who definitely want to be part of the electoral process back home but to generalize everyone in their suit against the Elections Commission and the government? I seriously doubt whether this organization has even conducted a simple research and/or referendum to ascertain the wishes of overseas Malaysians.

The Malaysian government doesn’t reveal the actual figures of how many of its citizens are studying and/or working overseas. It is said that there are approximately 1 million Malaysians - students and workers - overseas, and around 40% of them are Singapore-based.

MOV's coordinator Andrew Yong

And of these figures, how many of them have given up their Malaysian citizenship? It is common knowledge that a high number of Malaysians – prevalent amongst the Chinese - who initially went somewhere to study, have either taken up, have initiated and/or desire to be, citizenships in those particular countries.

How many of these people have MOV spoken to for them to purportedly represent? And let’s say they have spoken to them - which I really doubt is the case – but let’s just say, ya? How many of them would want to be part of the electoral process of a country they have chosen to, and/or are planning to, willingly abandon?

Really, how many?

I have families who are overseas; in fact, my immediately family members are all overseas. My Small Baby has families overseas. And I’m darn sure you have families overseas too, no?

How many of them want to be part of the Malaysian elections? Seriously.

This is what I’m trying to stress here. I like the fact that some Malaysians are taking the initiative to want to include those who are overseas but it should be in a manner that is based on pure common sense. It should be based on the free will of those they purportedly represent and if they haven’t conducted a simple research/referendum, what makes them think that they could represent these people? Even ten thousands of the 1 million do not give them the mandate and the right to represent the Malaysians overseas.

MOV's Andrew Yong together with (R-L) Shazni Munir Mohd Ithnin (Chairman of Soladariti Mahasiswa Malaysia); Malik Imtiaz Sarwar (Current President of president of the National Human Rights Society and a MCLM Candidate); Journalist Aloysius Pinto; and Sreekant Pilla (Another MCLM Candidate)

And to sue the EC and the government? What a joke!

One then begs to wonder what their true motives are. If it's really advocating for the rights of the Malaysians overseas to vote, don't you think a due research and referendum is the least they could have done?

Or is it to make a name for themselves so that they have enough 'press clippings' to warrant attention and be potentially picked by the Opposition to contest in the forthcoming elections? If so, then all they have to do is just say it loud lah, y’now? Malaysians are not that stupid not to be able to pierce through their ulterior motives.

Yes, there is a growing political consciousness sweeping Malaysians at home and abroad. But in as far as this MOV is concerned; it’s more absurdity that is growing in them. And they’re just conveniently tying it in with the political consciousness that is growing amongst Malaysians.

Ha!

Merry Christmas Y'all!

2010-12-25T12:01:00.010+08:00

Merry Christmas Everyone!

Just Because...

2010-12-25T11:25:00.001+08:00

I don't have to tell y'all how miserable my 2010 was.

But just because there was no Shine in my 2010 doesn't mean it should go on forever, no?

Come 2011, my life is gonna shine again like it used to. Hence, I'm gonna let the shining start today, right now, in my blog.

And I'll keep this template till just after the new year.

I hope y'all like it. If you don't, too bad!

Ha!

Those That Live Forever...

2010-12-24T11:43:00.003+08:00

Gone are the days when the man dominated the courts. Gone are the days when, as you watch every time the Bulls play, you prepare yourself to be mesmerized by the majestic, breathtaking sights of #23. Gone are the days when you are halfhearted in supporting your favorite team when the Chicago Bulls meet them.

Yes, His Airness is gone but his legacy, especially off the NBA courts, continues to live.

His Airness wearing the AJ XI Cool Grey against My Beloved Knicks

In 2001, I was in NYC for the launch of the AJ XI Cool Grey and I can tell you, it was pure madness. Then, I was on top of my sneakerpimpin' days and having the right connections, it was a breeze getting multiple pairs.

Forward it 10 years and here we are again - the same shoe and still the same madness. It ceases to amaze me till today how people could brave the crazy weather conditions to queue up for a pair of shoes, even if they are Air Jordan's. Those who are not into the game call it madness and there's no two ways about it, really; it is indeed madness.

And as I watched the news and surfed online to catch up on the madness, I couldn't help but feel nostalgic. Not too long ago, I, too, would have done the same thing; I would have braved whatever weather conditions just to score them J's. And I have had done as such, on numerous occasions at that.

2010 Air Jordan XI Cool Grey Madness at Niketown NYC

As I'd previously mentioned, like what the Air Jordan XI Space Jam was to 2009, the Air Jordan XI Cool Grey is the must-cop J for 2010. I say, anyone who is serious with their J collection should get this pair, irrespective of whether you are retired or are just getting into the game. Bottom-line, you must have this, even if it's the only Air Jordan you're planning to buy this year.

I like to believe I've done my own share of being a part of the whole thing and since I have retired from actively sneakerpimpin', I don't think I have the energy and the will to go through what these guys have to go through to cop a pair.

Fortunately for me though, there are always people I could count on to deliver. And I'm truly blessed that I don't have to go through the madness again just to cop them, y'know?

Would you brave freezing weather conditions to cop a pair?

With 2010's must-cop J, I would like to sincerely thank the boy who refuses to ball with me for hooking a retired sneakerhead up with the Air Jordan XI Cool Grey.

For allowing me to spend the time with my family instead of sneakerpimpin', from the bottom of my heart, I thank you bro.

And yes, I am retired but once in a while, I am still mad about 'em Air Jordan's.

Will He Ever Find Red John?

2010-12-22T10:46:00.008+08:00

Just asking.

I think it's high time he does, don't you think so?

Because it seems to me that the whole show revolves around his quest to find the serial killer.

But I personally think that it shouldn't be the case. It's a good show as it is and it could stand on its own and/or some other premise, no?

What do you think?

P.S.

Isn't HDTV awesome?

Please Help If You Can...

2010-12-22T10:10:00.002+08:00

I'm sure most - if not all - of us have used Wikipedia in our lives. Like Google, Wikipedia has become a part of our lives and one that has made searching for information on the net very, very easy.

Unlike Google though, Wikipedia has remained advertising-free. I've got nothing against advertising - heck! I'm in that industry - but isn't it great to surf for something without the necessary hassles of advertising ads and pop-ups?

The Open Letter from Jimmy Wales, founder of Wikipedia

I don't know about y'all but being ad-free, I enjoy Wikipedia; it gives me a clean space that in turn allows me to grasp whatever it is that I’m reading easier and faster.

Anyways, have you noticed that whenever you look for something in Wikipedia, there is an open letter from Jimmy Wales? In a nutshell, he’s asking for donations to help keep the site ad-free. He ain’t asking much, mind you.

So, if you can, please do so, ya?

Thanks

Remembering The Day I Lost Half Of Me...

2010-12-19T10:09:00.003+08:00

Today, 38 years ago, at exactly 10:09 am, my twin and I went into convulsion and were pronounced clinically dead.

3 hours and 6 minutes later, one of us was revived; the other one went back home and into the arms of the Almighty.

Please join me in a silent prayer as I thank my departed half for continuously watching over me.

Thank you dude...

Can A Whore Really Change?

2010-12-19T09:19:00.001+08:00

While out on date night with My Small Baby, she received a call from her best friend.

Usually, they would just blab away. This time, however, My Small Baby’s reactions were different; it was more like she was trying to calm her down and make her realize something significant. I don’t really know what was being said on the other line but My Small Baby kept on, in a reassuring manner, telling her, "People change lah."

I usually pay no heed when My Small Baby and her best friend are on the phone

To be perfectly honest, I usually don’t pay any heed to their phone conversations as more often than not, it doesn’t really concern me. But as I said, this time around, there was something different. So, I kaypoh and asked her what the whole thing was all about. When she told me, I was really surprised at first and appalled after that, at the latest turn of events.

Dayum!

I am all for forgiveness. I believe that people should forgive and be forgiven. I’m not saying you should forget the past deeds but if God could forgive, who are we humans not to do the same?

Anyways, the subject concerned is someone who is friends with My Small Baby's best friend; someone who I think deserves to be left alone after what she had gone, and still going, through. After all, based on what I know, what I've heard, and on her own personal accounts, she’s truly repented for all her actions.

But this latest information threw out everything I believed in!

She committed adultery and there is no excuse for that. But...

Initially, when I first heard and read about her predicament, my sympathy went out to her. I don’t condone cheating, worst if it’s adultery. But hey, people make mistakes and she committed one, a very huge mistake. When her ex-husband dragged her lover - and effectively herself as well - to court and public shame, I was sympathetic to her plight.

I thought that it was childish, silly and nothing but a vengeful fuss that her ex-husband used an archaic law to punish her and her lover. I mean, I get that the dude was wronged, betrayed and heartbroken but to continue the smearing of their names in public could only bring about negative perceptions for all parties concerned, especially the daughter who should have been protected at any cost.

However, upon learning about the bombshell that the ex-husband testified in court, whatever sympathy I had for her was thrown out of the window. To know that the daughter he loved like his own is not even his made me want to puke in disgust.

Dayum! What kind of a woman would hide or try to pass someone’s child as someone else’s?

Only people who have no morals at all could lie about a child's paternity

And when you learn more of how this supposedly God-fearing woman - who convinced most people that she has truly repented and turned to God to guide her after all her misdeeds - took her ex-husband for a ride since day one, what do you expect to feel or think?

I don’t know about y’all but personally, after reading that her liaison with the accused started even before her wedding, about the ongoing trysts at exotic holiday locations and worst, gloating with the lover on how the daughter looked more like him than the supposed father, and all during her marriage at at that, my thoughts and sympathy are with the poor sucker ex-hubby.

Truthfully, now I understand why he did what he did.

Could anyone begrudge the poor fella for his anger and subsequent hell-bent desire to avenge and hit back?

I wouldn't be surprise if the little girl grows up to be disturbed!

How about the potential effects on the poor little girl who is obviously oblivious to all these airing of dirty laundry in public? How would you expect child to grow up and know that her doting mother is a two-timing whore?

I’ll leave y’all to decide.

P.S.

As a fellow Sabahan, I had a biased fondness for her but you know what, that too has been thrown out. If nothing else, I only have disgusts. She's a shame to all us Sabahans.

Rick Ross! Rick Ross! Rick Ross!

2010-12-18T11:10:00.000+08:00

Today's random thought is Rick Ross!

LOL

I guess y'all don't and won't understand but suffice to say, this is the thought that came to my mind when I woke today.

This is how Rick Ross looks like, in case You still have no idea :-)

In part, it's because I woke up to 'Free Mason' by Rick Ross feat Jay Z playing relentlessly on my head; don't ask me how it ended there either, I also don't know. In fact, while I know the track, I haven't listened to it in a long, long time. I don’t really like it; it’s not the kind of hip-hop that I listen to.

I guess it’s the work of my subliminal mind. And it also is main reason why ‘Rick Ross’ is today’s random thought.

I know y'all are confused. It's aight, I would be too, if I were in your place.

True Love And Love Of Your Life: Is There A Difference?

2010-12-18T09:00:00.004+08:00

I don't know about y'all but I have always believed that the two could be different people.

I'm not saying it should be different. I’m saying that it could be different.

Is there a difference between True Love and Love of Your Life?

Ideally, your true love should also be the love of your life. But the reality is that we don't live in an ideal world. How many people do you know who actually end up with their true love and/or the love of their lives?

I can tell you, not many.

So, in essence, the true love and the love of your life could be two people, no?

I once posed this question to The Talking Dog. We had a good 20 minutes debate on the issue and he thinks that it is more likely that the love of your life and your true love are two different people. Had he been sober, he would’ve probably given a calculated and cautious answer but fortunately, he was inebriated when I asked him.

Is the Love of Your Life 'The One'?

Like most people in this world, I also would want them to be the same person. But even in my most idealist state, somewhere at the farthest back of my mind, I also believed that there is a possibility that they won’t be.

Trying to find a difference between the two is extremely hard and definitely impossible when you’re in-love. I guess the best - and perhaps the only rationale - way to really understand the difference is if you’ve gone through them, y’know?

But even if you’ve never gone through it, I still think it’s possible to differentiate between them. I think that the love of your life could be, and is mostly, the one that got away. It’s also probably the one who hurt you the most and yet, you still couldn’t stop loving that person. Unlike your previous exes whom you’ve also loved, you would perhaps love that person for the rest of your life.

I think you will always be in-love with your True Love and the Love of Your Life

Your true love, on the other hand, is God’s gift to you in the name of love. He or she is the best person for you; the one you would want to spend the rest of your life with; the one who loves you unconditionally; the one who loves you despite your imperfections; the one that makes you think and believe that the world is such a beautiful place to be in.

Personally, I have always said and still maintain that I would forever love the ones I used to be in-love with and that they would always occupy a very special place in my heart. But loving someone and being in-love with someone are two totally different things.

And if this would make sense to you as it does to me, your true love is the one you’re in-love with, the love of your life is the one whom you’re still in-love with but lesser than your true love and the others whom you’ve loved before are those you loved.

Or is your True Love 'The One'?

To apply to the aforementioned on a personal context, my true love is the one I’m still and will always be in-love with; the love of my life is the one I will always be in-love and those I used to be in-love with would fall under the category of those who I still love.

Makes sense?

Yes? No?

Confused?

Oh well.

Do You Like My New Facebook Profile?

2010-12-16T07:46:00.001+08:00

:-)

I love it!

What do y'all think?

Are You Sure You're Lonely? Or Are You Just Alone?

2010-12-16T07:11:00.002+08:00

Not too long ago, while having coffee with an ex-colleague, we discussed the topic of being alone and loneliness.

And like most people, just because she was alone, she automatically thought that she’s lonely.

Are you alone or lonely?

But that is not, I painstakingly explained to her, necessarily the case.

Who says that being alone means you’re lonely?

Haven’t I always said that it is when one is surrounded by a lot of people that loneliness is felt the most? And I truly believe in it too.

Granted that these two terms are very close in meaning and yet, the differences are so also conspicuously clear.

Being alone simply reflects a relational reality. If you are alone, that means that you are in relative isolation with respect to other people but it does NOT suggest any emotional content about being alone.

Loneliness is felt when there's an emotional or mental vacuum; not when there is no crowd around you

On the other hand, lonesome and/or lonely primarily reflect one's emotional state of feeling disconnected from others, especially with families and loved one. It does NOT suggest a physical relational reality.

See the difference?

And just as I told my friend, all you have to do when you're alone is meet up with people. But if you're lonely, then there is no straight and downright cure.

So, the next time you think you’re lonely, make sure there is an emotional vacuum within your feelings and not come to such a conclusion just because you are alone. Knowing the difference would help, believe me.

It Was Worth Waking Up For :-)

2010-12-14T09:00:00.000+08:00

We're back on top!

And we have a game in hand too!

Yay!

Hail The KimChi Express!

Thanks to a first half goal from the ever reliable KimChi Express, Man United is now 2 points clear of Arsenal at the top of the Premier League standings. We could have made it 2-0 but #10 blasted his penalty shot way over the goal.

And considering that the Red Devils always peak after the winter break, things are looking good for us. Should we continue to play like this, we should win our 19th title, and finally bumping off Liverpool as the most decorated club in the history of the League.

And as much as I love the #18 - it's My Small Baby's birth date and 1 + 8 = 9 - I'd prefer very much if we get our 19th title :-)

Glory, Glory Man United!

All I Want For Christmas Is...

2010-12-13T08:01:00.006+08:00

Ho! Ho! Ho!

Wait, I think the title should be 'All I Want For Christmas Are..." because I want more than one thing.

I know it's selfish. But then again, so?

All I want for Christmas are...

After the horrible, horrible shit that I had to go through this year, and having been mostly nice, I think I'm entitled to ask for more than one thing, right?

A n y w a y s . . .

Honestly, I'm pretty contented. I have almost everything that matters except one and I should, hopefully, be able to get it soon.

Limiting myself to the things are doable and affordable, here are the 9 - as if y’all don’t know that already - things that I want for Christmas this year, arranged in the order from easily achievable to almost impossible.

Also, while the following are what I want for Christmas this year, I am not that much of a brat to demand that I get them during the Christmas holidays. At the most, though, I am hoping that I’d get all of them by the end of the first quarter of 2011.

So, without further ado, here are what I want for Christmas:

1. Jay Z Hits Collection Vol 1 CD

Jay Z's Hits Collection Vol 1 is a must!

No true Jay Z fan could afford not to have this album in their collection.

It’s been out for 6 months now, so I reckon it should be readily available. I am not a fan of ‘greatest hits’ types of albums but this is a must.

2. Hanes Plain T’s, Boxers and Socks – All White

I'm a Hanes man through and through...

LOL

Ok, I think I would get this the moment I see my parents during the holidays.
If you know me well enough, you’d know that I always wear plain white t’s, white boxers and white socks on a daily basis. The only time I don’t wear white socks is when I’m not wearing sneakers which is very rare.

I actually still have lots of them, all yet to be worn. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that you can never have too much of plain white t’s, boxers and socks. On average, I need 7 each per week and considering that the their life span is approximately 2 months, I say, on top of my current stock, I need around 30 pieces each to last me the whole of next year.

3. Ecko Watch

Ecko watches are awesome!

Again, if you know me well enough, you’d know that I like Ecko watches.

I have a few of them and they are my daily wear. I can’t remember the model names of the above but they are the ones that I want. It could be tricky though as not many retailers carry the brand, plus it’s not the latest releases.

Hmmm…

4. Air Jordan XI Cool Grey

The must-cop Air Jordan of 2010

The must-cop Air Jordan for 2010!

‘nuff said!

5. RL Modern Field Country Polo

Me and my RL's :-)

I want the entire collection, minus Italy. I’ve got nothing against the country but the color doesn't suit me.

This series comes in a dozen countries/colors, so I want 11 of them. I don’t know if it’s possible but it’s worth a try, no? I mean, if I could go all out sneakerpimpin’ for Air Jordan’s, why not this?

6. Canon EOS 60D

Until today, I haven’t replaced the one I lost. I just never put my mind to it, y’know? I had so much memories attached to that camera and as much as I wanted to have one, getting them was the farthest thing from my mind.

But as it’s a new year, with hopes of new and better beginnings, I want to get a new camera to make new memories. And I want the Canon EOS 60D. Hopefully, with hard work, I should be able to get one by the first quarter of 2011.

Unless of course if someone wants to give me one :-)

7. Work In HCMC

I have very special and very, very personal reasons why I want go to Ho Chi Minh...

Should I continue to find the lack of appealing opportunities at my level in Malaysia, HCM is my preferred choice to go to.

My chances are very much dependent on The Prince of Darkness. He is gonna be transferred there in January 2011 and if he truly values me as a friend, he’d find something for me. He knows we would cease to be friends if he doesn’t get me an offer by the end of the first quarter.

Ha!

8. Cure for My Chronic Neck Ache

The chronic neck pain that I have is set to continue and it's fucking irritating the shit out of me!

I’ve seen every specialist known to mankind. I’ve gone through numerous x-rays and MRI’s, in every part of my body that is connected to my neck. I have tried all sorts of remedies. I have tried all sorts of medicines.

And after all that, no one can tell me what is wrong with me and the neck pains still exist. Albeit they’re mostly bearable, there are times when, no matter what I do, the pain is excruciating that even sleeping it off is not an option anymore.

So yeah, I hope I’d get the right diagnosis and cure for this once and for all.

9. Forgiveness

“When you hold resentment toward another, you are bound to that person or condition by an emotional link that is stronger than steel. Forgiveness is the only way to dissolve that link and get free.” - Catherine Ponder

Yes, forgiveness.

This coming Christmas holidays, I choose to forgive those who have wronged me. I will forgive those who have betrayed me. This is the least I could do to fully make sure that in the coming year and after that, I’m starting without the negative baggage that had plagued me the whole of 2010.

While I choose to forgive those who have aggrieved me, I am not going to force those whom I’ve purportedly or allegedly wronged to do the same. Forgiveness, either to ask for or give, is a choice one makes.

I’m sure I must have stepped on a lot of toes but there’s only one person that I’m hoping who’d forgive me. Whether that person actually and finally does or don’t, I know I have done everything I could to ask for forgiveness.

As the German political theorist Hannah Arendt once said:

"Without being forgiven, released from the consequences of what we
have done, our capacity to act would, as it were, be confined to a single
deed from which we could never recover; we would remain the victims of its consequences forever..."

There you have it folks, my Christmas wish list for this year.

If anyone of you is surprised by the list, don’t be. Contrary to popular beliefs, I am not a brat. Moreover, as I mentioned, I am mostly contended with what I have. And if you think I’m gonna ask for big ticket items, then I suggest you should really ask yourselves if you truly know the real IO.

Merry Christmas!

Ho! Ho! Ho!

And here’s to a great 2011!

Are You Capable Of Abandoning Your Parents?

2010-12-12T07:11:00.002+08:00

Based on what he’d recently read, a colleague of mine asked me why is it that more and more Malaysians are leaving, or wanting to leave, the country.

Now, how do you answer a question like that?

How many Malaysian do you know who have either migrated or want to migrate?

I can’t say I don’t know because I do know a lot of people who have either left and/or who are contemplating of emigrating. I guess it has become everyday news that we hear Malaysians emigrating or wanting to emigrate to other countries. Whatever the reasons may be, the fact that a lot of Malaysians, especially the Non-Malays, want to leave or have left is statistically becoming higher by the day.

To be perfectly honest, personally, I have also entertained the same thoughts. But unlike many Malaysians who have to start practically from scratch - studying in that particular country doesn’t count - I have another home to go to; a country where I could prosper not based on my citizenship status but solely on my capabilities to compete intellectually and professionally.

But you know what, the only time I would ever think of totally emigrating is when My Small Baby is agreeable to the whole thing. And I know, right now, that is not possible. Moreover, as much as I want to work in other countries like the way I am doing now, I don’t think I want to completely emigrate, y’know?

Yes, Malaysia is a multiracial country but there is no equality amongst its citizens

Anyways, before I digress; indeed, why do many Malaysians want to leave the country? Off hand, I can tell you that it’s because, with the kind of government we have, equality and fairness amongst all races would never be achieved and implemented. One race would always be preferred over the others and that is an unfortunate and sad fact.

And that is why, majority of those who have either left, those who want to leave and those who are seriously contemplating of leaving are the non-Malay citizens of Malaysia. Can you blame them? Of course not. It’s been over 50 years and yet, they are still getting the raw end of the deal from the government.

Most of them are young and rightfully so, because there won’t be too many prospects for those who are old. But there’s one thing that bugs me though: how could these people abandon their parents and or siblings? I mean, if the entire family is emigrating, then all is good but in most cases, it is not. It is also not the case where the parents could visit them as often as they want. Those who have emigrated always leave their parents behind and this is what irks me.

How many of them are coming back?

How many of these emigrants eventually bring their parents to wherever it is they settled? Really, how many? I know it’s none of my business but what happened to filial piety? I don’t know but if I were to be in the same situation, I still couldn’t see myself emigrating without my parents.

Fortunately, I am not in the kind of situations that most émigrés have to go through. I mean, I do understand why they feel the need to leave the country, I really do. I also understand that part of the reasons why they have to leave is to ensure that their parents would be able to live comfortably with the money that they would be earning somewhere else.

But still…

Majority of the occupants of Old Folk Homes in Malaysia are Chinese

I don’t know man. While I do understand the reasons, I still don’t agree that they should leave their parents behind. I don’t have to outline the sacrifices our parents had to go through to give us better lives and I certainly don’t have to explain that sending money - no matter what the amount is – is a close substitute to being with our parents, especially as they grow older. Look, I ain’t dissing those who have emigrated and left their parents; I just wonder how they could do that, that’s all.

One of the things that made the late Yasmin Ahmad great was her ability to tell a story that most people wouldn’t dare to concede. In 2006, her Chinese New Year Petronas TVC perfectly encapsulated what I am trying to say. And believe you me, it’s no coincidence that this is a CNY ad, and not a Raya or Deepavali one.

Here, let me refresh your memory. Watch the video below and you’d exactly understand what I’m saying.

Watch this ad and you'd know what I'm talking about

My Small Baby is also Chinese but I’m glad that like me, she could never entertain the thought of leaving her parents behind to make a better life for herself, even if that so-called better life is extended to her parents. Nothing could substitute being physically there to take care of our parents as they see and live through their golden years.

It's the least we can do for the people who brought us into this world.

‘Nah mean?

This Is Currently On Repeat...

2010-12-10T09:19:00.003+08:00

I just love this song.

It's one of those songs that's easy on the ears. And if you could relate to it, like the way I can, then it becomes a truly great song.

The lyrics speak to me on a very personal level. And lately, it's been one of the songs I listen to a lot, especially when I'm about to hit the sack.

Oh, it's also one of the NCIS theme songs and since apparently, I'm like Leroy Jethro Gibbs, it's only fitting, right? :-)

Have a listen y'all and make sure you pay attention to the lyrics of the song.

Enjoy!

Am I Losing It? Or Have I Lost It?

2010-12-09T22:10:00.000+08:00

I used to be so good. In fact, I used to be so fucking good!

I used to command the attention of everyone as soon as I walk into a boardroom. And during my presentations as well as brainstorm meetings and the likes, I always pause to take a glance at those who are present, and I'd only continue if I know they're captivated, which they always are.

Always.

I used to be awesome but not anymore :-(

But of late, I seemed to have lost the confidence that I used to possess. Sure I still command the attention of the room but I know I used to be better. Gone are the days when I'm so focused with what I’m doing. Nowadays, even in the middle of a presentation or a debate, or any other work-related mastiff for that matter, my mind tends to wander someplace else; places that have nothing to do with the subject matter in hand.

Yes, I used to be so fucking good.

I used to go into meetings cockily confident that I was gonna go away from them victorious and I always did. Always. But I seemed to have lost that edge, that attitude to conquer and be brutal with my dealings, y’know? I really think I am on the verge of losing it completely, if I haven’t yet.

The good thing is that the commies seem to think highly of me. But I know I could be better. I used to be better. I know I shouldn’t bother but I feel that I’m cheating them by not giving my best. Granted, that even when I’m not at my best, I’m still good. But I don’t want to be just good. I want to be fucking good, like how I have always been.

Imagined Confidence. That's what I have. I don't have real confidence anymore...

And it’s not even for anyone else’s benefit but mine that I want to be fucking good. I know I lost a huge part of my life this year and with it, was my confidence. I did suffer a solid dent on my confidence and no matter how hard I tried – and still try - to separate my personal and professional lives, the unbearable pain caused by the unexpected knock in the former influences the latter greatly.

What saddens me more is the fact that while I have come to terms with what happened in my personal life, I am struggling to overcome the loss of confidence in my professional life. Worst, there are times when I really get scared of the nagging thought that perhaps, I would never be able to recapture the confidence that I used to have.

Sigh …

A lot of the people around me do not understand the complexities of what I went through. They have always believed that I would be able to overcome with ease everything that happened but little do they know the effects it brought about to me – mentally and emotionally. To these people, being IO is such a great thing, that I could easily shrug my shoulder and continue my walk.

My exact thoughts. The betrayal is so hard to forget, y'know?

In a way they are right. On any given day, and on any given circumstances, I would have done just that. But what they fail to comprehend is how far reaching the betrayal was and what it did to me and my psyche. The thing is, I poured everything into it, y’know? I even allowed myself to entertain the notion that it was what I wanted for the rest of my life, it was that deep. And to be betrayed the way I was, and by the person that I promised my future to at that, left a permanent stain in my psyche.

And that’s where I am right now. I may have moved on from the personal effects of what happened, but I am having a tough time applying the same to my professional life. I have lost the ability to trust people and with that loss of trust, the confidence that I have always possessed.

I’m a very positive person by nature. And when someone as positive as I am still have doubts after all this while, surely there must be something wrong.

One day, like how I overcame the personal effects of the betrayal, my professional life would be able to do the same.

Would I able to overcome this? I know I will. It’s just a matter of time. But do I have the luxury of time? I seriously don’t know. All I can do right now is continue to be positive. And hope.

Yes, hope. That’s all I could really do.

It's About Time!

2010-12-09T21:19:00.000+08:00

Finally, after 4 seasons, a team from the Philippines won the Amazing Race Asia.

The Richards, winners of The Amazing Race Asia 4

In the past, there have been teams from the Philippines that were good but something always prevented them from winning. Anyone remember Marc Nelson and Rovilson Fernandez in Season 2? They lead all the way, came in 1st place in 8 legs, but ended up 3rd because they didn't know the flags of the countries they have visited.

In this season's edition, 'The Richards' - Richard Herrera & Richard Hardin - finally gave the Philippines something to be proud about. Not only did they win but they won it by playing fair.

The Richards with Lani Pillinger

The exquisite, and sometimes irritating, Lani Pillinger

Do we see a future for these two in Philippine showbiz? You never know but the likelihood is that they would do something related.

Congrats Team Philippines!

Forgetting To Forget

2010-12-08T22:41:00.001+08:00

I haven't done one of this in a while.

This is today's random thought - Forgetting to forget.

Is there even such a thing? What happened to mind over matter?

But why does this happen? Do You know?

Anyone?

The mind sometimes suck. Aren't they suppose to control the rest including the heart?

Or have they made a pact that when it comes to matters of the heart, the mind wouldn't interfere?

Ha!

I Envy The Prince Of Darkness. For Real.

2010-12-08T07:11:00.006+08:00

The Prince of Darkness just tweeted that he’s gonna be transferred to Ho Chi Minh City from Seoul, where he is currently based, after the 7th of January 2011.

And I’m jealous. For real.

I'm an 'expert' in dealing with commies! LOL

I have always wanted to work there. A few years ago, I did get an offer to go there but at that point in time, I wasn’t ready and to be honest, the remuneration that they offered was not up to the one I was getting then.

My love affair with HCM started when I worked in Dell. As the head of ASEAN Consumer, I was tasked with launching the consumer business in the region and Vietnam was one of the countries that were under my territory.

Of course, I’ve been to Vietnam before that. But it was during my Dell days when I realized that it was a good place to be - professionally. A tenure in Vietnam would look good in anyone's CV, believe me.

My Small Baby and I in Ho Chi Minh City; I was there to launch the Dell Consumer Business

Me? I just want to go and work there. I have my reasons why.

So, when the Prince of Darkness starts working there and he doesn’t hook me up with a job by the first quarter of 2011, I will cease to be friends with him!

Ha!

I'm serious. For real!

LOL

Selamat Amun Jadeed!

2010-12-07T14:57:00.000+08:00

Happy New Year to all my Muslim brethren worlwide!

Today is Awal Muharram, the first day of the Islamic calendar year, our own New Year. On this day, Muslim worldwide remembers the migration of Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.) from Makkah to Madinah on the year 622 A.D.

Happy Nee Year! Here's to a new beginning with great ending.

The Maal Hijrah is a special day to the Muslim as it signifies a new beginning, a change from bad to good and more importantly, a chance to re-evaluate one's life and direction.

Amun Jadeed Y’all!

God Bless.

Geeks Rule The World!

2010-12-06T23:10:00.002+08:00

Like it or not, we live in a world where the geeks rule.

In this age of information, the people who govern our lives are the very people whom we shunned, or even bullied, during high school. We live in a world where the internet is like oxygen to allow and/or propel our lives. And without the nerds behind everything internet-related, where would we, and the world we live currently live in, be?

Like it or not, it's a Geek's World! Live with it.

Over the weekend, I went to see 'The Social Network' with My Small Baby. I'm sure majority of you have seen it too, right? I wouldn't be surprised if we all have differing opinions as to who were bad and who were not. But that is not what I want to blog; I want to blog about the unwilling catalyst in the creation of what has since become the world's largest social network.

Strictly basing on the movie, I couldn’t help but wonder if Erica Albright started the whole Facebook evolution. Had she not dumped Mark Zuckenberg, he wouldn’t have created FaceMash; had there been no FaceMash, Zuckerberg wouldn’t have come to the attention of the Winklevoss twins and Divya Narendra; hadn’t he been noticed, he wouldn’t have known of HarvardConnection and the plans by the twins and Narendra to create a social network for Harvard students, to be extended to other schools and the winning differences between their idea and that of existing social networks such as Myspace et al; and hadn’t he known of what the premise of HarvardConnection was, would he have created Facebook?

The Social Network is a must-watch movie

See where I am coming from and getting at?

Who would have thought that the biggest social network site came about because a kid was dumped? I don’t know about y’all but while I was sucked into the movie, I kept an open mind on what was depicted; after all, it’s a movie meant to entertain and not a sanctioned one at that.

On pure facts basis, there was no Erica Albright per se; the one Zuckerberg blogged about was one Jessica Alona and it’s not really clear as to what actually happened between her and Zuckerberg for the latter to blog the now infamous “Jessica Alona is a bitch…” entry.

The Live Journal blog entry that could have started it all

Depending on what one adduces from the film, I personally believe though that - sensationalized or otherwise - there was some semblance of truth to how Jessica Alona played a part in the whole thing. And I give her mad props for not making a big deal out of it, like coming out when Facebook became big and all. You’ve gotta give her credit, she’s one classy woman for not wanting to make a buck out of what happened.

But hey, it’s a Hollywood production, what do you expect? Blurring the lines between facts and fiction, the movie was a good watch. The again, it’s a David Fincher film and an Aaron Sorkin screenplay, and when you have two powerful Hollywood peeps helming a project, one could only expect it to be sensational. And sensational it is.

Rooney Mara and Jesse Eisengberg were perfect for the roles. Oh, did you know that the former's family owns the NY Giants?

But after all said and done, if this movie is meant to be a modern-day morality tale, it fails. How it ended, Zuckerberg seemed to have lost everything - Parker's erratic leadership, the Winklevoss twins' respect, and Saverin's friendship.

You know why I think it failed if it was meant as such? Simply because Facebook is now worth approximately USD 40 Billion; do you think the kid who owns approximately 25% percent of the company lost anything?

The current God of all Geeks with his longtime girlfriend, Priscilla Chen

In the end, it’s the geek Jewish boy who is having the last laugh.

Burned Notice Or Burn Noticed?

2010-12-05T09:19:00.008+08:00

Apparently, I got burned!

A couple of days ago, I was talking to someone who wanted to hire me as his replacement, as he was being posted to another country. Suffice to say, the negotiations broke down for reasons even he didn't understand. And I don’t know why but after finding out the truth from his boss, he felt that he owed it to himself, and me, to explain why.

The effect of the Burn Notice is minimal, to say the least. Be careful with playing with fire...

Seemingly, I was told that a certain CEO of the local office of an international agency had issued out a burn notice for me. But here’s the thing; unlike the notice that US intelligence agencies usually mete out to each other, the burn notice for me was not because I’m unreliable but instead, it was said that hiring me would only jeopardize the positions of the very people who’d hire me as I, apparently, excel at showing the powers that be that I’m more suitable than the person who is hiring me.

Hmmm…

If this is true, then shame on the man who issued out the notice as well as those who accept that notice. Not only are they insecure motherfuckers, they have just reinforced my contention and beliefs that racism is rampant in the corporate world.

Honestly though, while it did bother me to a certain degree, for the most part, I am not the least perturbed. It also made choices easier for me. The agencies that accede to such a ludicrous notice are certainly ones that I wouldn’t want to work in. Plus, they’re forgetting that unlike most of them, who are stuck in one industry, I could go into a number of industries.

More importantly, they’re forgetting that the success and viability of agencies are dependent on their clientele and the world being small, who knows, we could meet again; only this time, I will be on the opposite side as a client.

Your action is nothing but a 15-second toast...

It doesn’t pay to be evil, no matter how much it seems to work. I could play the game and start with their clients but I’m not the vengeful type. Admittedly, there was only once that I was but even then, I flip-flopped from destroying to protecting that person.

I’ve been given a second lease at life and no way am I going to use it to undermine others, even if they deserve to be trampled upon. Life is too beautiful to be wasted on revenge, don’t you think so? I’m not gonna go after the son of a bitch but when the opportunity arises, only then will I decide.

I might have been burned and while the jury is still out as to what extent, I am still standing, aren't I?

Ha!

Goodbye 2010...

2010-12-04T11:54:00.000+08:00

There are 27 days left in the year 2010 and to be perfectly honest, I really can't wait for it to end.

Simply put, 2010 would go down as the worst year of my life.

Goodbye 2010. I'll miss some of you but for the most part, good riddance!

Sure I've had bad years in the past but none of them were remotely close to what I went through this year. Never had I known and/or experienced so much pain and betrayal in my life, and for a long time, I went through a really bad patch.

Ironically, I had an awesome start to 2010. I truly felt and believed that 2010 was gonna be an extension of a good 2009 and the start of a lifetime of happiness, unbridled passion and unconventional love. I started the year filled with hopes and positivity, and coming off from a life-changing 2009, there was no reason to think otherwise.

But as they say, “The bigger they come the harder they fall.” And fall I did. I spiraled down from an unprecedented high so fast that before one could say ‘Tu!’ I found myself down and practically out for the count.

Who would have thought that such happiness in life could lead to so much misery? I guess I was blinded by what I felt that I failed to see the tell-tale signs of the impending burst and when it hit, I was caught off guard. Had I not been oblivious, I wouldn't have allowed myself to be that happy, y'know?

But all is not lost. I am not going to allow myself to be down forever. I am way too good a person to do that. I take comfort in what Horace said: “The harder you fall, the higher you bounce.” I might have fallen down hard but I just need to take it my stride and learn from it.

Here's to 2011: A New year, a new beginning, renewed hopes and an awesome new life...

And come 2011, I will bounce back, and I will bounce higher than how hard I fell.

You can bring me to my knees but I will never allow anyone to bury me that way.

This Is So 2008!

2010-12-02T21:19:00.000+08:00

This was spotted by My Small Baby in front of Primark in London on her recent trip there.

But you know what?

This is so 2008!

When I was still in Dell, together with Bates141, we created one such thing in front of Pavilion! And besides being the first and so far the only one in Malaysia, ours also looked way better - it changed colors, it had snow flakes, and it had Raindeers - compared to the one in Primark.

Ha!

Good old days, good old days.