Wednesday, March 22, 2006

Sunday Review


I’ve been busy lately and I really have no idea of what to post on my blog. This final semester is quite hectic, however, I enjoy being pressured by the assignments and presentations. Am I crazy?! Nope, you’re wrong. Being busy with workloads, it actually keeps me thinking, controls me from having desire of outing especially during this economy condition; the effect of fuel increment. This Friday I’m going to pair with Cynthia, who’s my lovely little classmate, where we will present on Holiday Inn’s services marketing. Till now, we haven’t actually came out with a proper flow. Reason being is, she’s not at home, out to dinner with her hubby. So, while waiting for her, I’ve decided to write something about my current life – update.


Last Sunday I went out with Vifa (my exclassmate) and Bobby. She was the one who invited me out since she was alone at home, and the weather was darn hot, yet there’s no air-cond installed. Tentatively, I just called up Bobby to join us. Three of us walked to the bus-stop near Carmelite church. We were waited for a quarter before the bus arrived. From the bus station we headed to Parkson, since Vifa was desired for mineral water. Ended up, we shopped for a while in Giant, to see what we could get to quench our thirst or something light to eat. Then, we went to Sarawak Plaza for Sushi cum dinner. Actually, the main reason I was invited / dragged to go out, because of Vifa. She was so craving for Sushi, especially Salmon fish. I ate a lot, and spent a lot too! I wonder if I were her, I’d rather save that money for other purpose. There so many things I wanted to buy, but broke.


After dinner, we went to Petanak Food Court for drink while waiting for Kelvin’s call, as they were planning to have dinner at Hong Kong Noodle House – located at Padungan, which I haven’t been there. After that had finished dinner, we headed to The Junk. As usual we would go there most of every Sunday night. We crapped, laughed, argued, smiled, gossiped etc. Approximately a quarter to 11pm, we left the café. We were very exhausted, especially Bobby, Vifa and I. We had been strolling on the street for the whole evening (from sunset till moon rose), and we were sweating like hell. Our bodies were heating, luckily we don’t have body odour. Hahaha.

Sunday, March 12, 2006

Viva SK-II!



Miss Pinky, SKII manager, is the most important person who has marked the success of SKII in changing the new image of our local users (including me). SK-II is not just for female users, but for male too. SKII expands its market to unisex users in order to achieve major consumers who love to pamper their skins by using the ‘miracle liquid’ or ‘Holy Water’ as what they describe it. This Pitera-rich products help boost moisture levels to improve texture and clarity for a more beautiful, glowing complexion. It contains the most concentrated amount of Pitera of all skincare products. It absorbs easily and leaves your skin looking radiant, with a supple, smooth feel; just the miracle if rebirth for skin and soul – Promotion on SK-II

Men nowadays are getting more aware of their appearance and complexion due to fashionable lifestyle from Japan, and Europe countries, which has altered the men to cross-sexual orientation.

Some people might be confused or mixed up with the cross-sexual men, however, they probably refer to those transvestite males or transsexual males. That’s totally wrong!

Taking our models for example, they are just ordinary males who like outings, interacting with people, joining activities and so forth. However, they concern about their facial complexion, as well as their skin condition. Some might afraid to get tanned under the scorching sun or sensitive / allergy to certain medication. Remember, guys are fragile and sensitive too. Although we might look tough from certain angle, still we’ve the weakest points which you’ve not been discovered.

However, we feel very thankful to our manager, Miss Pinky from SK-II LK Fashion Agency upon of what she has made us so different. Keep up the good work Girl!





*Photo -These are the top four SK-II models (from left to right, Toro, Jonas, Kelvin and Me) from Kuching. Our Manager, Miss Pinky, took this picture on last Sunday at Friendship Garden. Behind us is the statue of the Admiral, Cheng Ho *

Friday, March 03, 2006

HONOURING DAYS TO BUDDHAS AND BODHISATTVAS

(For year 2006 - 2550th year of Buddhism Calendar)

Chinese Lunar Calendar

Events

2006

2005 (2549)

7 Jan (Sat)

十二月初八

Sakyamuni Buddha’s Enlighten Day * 释迦佛成道日

2006 (2549)

29 Jan (Sun)

正月初一

Maitreya Bodhisattva’s Birthday * 弥勒菩萨宝诞

3 Feb (Fri)

正月初六

Ding Guang Past Buddha’s Birthday * 定光古佛宝诞

7 Feb (Tue)

二月初八

Sakyamuni Buddha’s Left House Day * 释迦佛出家纪念日

14 Mar (Tue)

二月十五

Sakyamuni Buddha’s Parinirvana Day * 释迦佛涅磐纪念日

18 Mar (Sat)

二月十九

Avalokiteshvara’s Birthday * 观音菩萨宝诞

20 Mar (Mon)

二月廿一

Samantabhadra Bodhisattva’s Birthday * 普贤菩萨宝诞

13 Apr (Thu)

三月十六

Cun Di Bodhisattva’s Birthday * 准提菩萨宝诞

1 May (Mon)

四月初四

Manjushri Bodhisattva’s Birthday * 文殊菩萨宝诞

5 May (Fri)

四月初八

Sakyamuni Buddha’s Birthday * 释迦佛宝诞

12 May (Fri)

四月十五 (2550)

Wesak Day * 卫赛节

25 May (Thu)

四月廿八

King of Medicine Bodhisattva’s Birthday * 药王菩萨宝诞

8 Jun (Thu)

五月十三

Qie Lan Bodhisattva’s (Protector) Birthday * 伽蓝菩萨宝诞

14 Jul (Fri)

六月十九

Avalokiteshvara’s Enlighten Day * 观音菩萨成道纪念日

6 Aug (Sun)

七月十三

Mahasthamaprapta’s Bodhisattva’s (Great Strength) Birthday

*大势至菩萨宝诞

8 Aug (Tue)

七月十五

Ullambana Celebration * 盂兰盆胜会

17 Aug (Thu)

七月廿四

Long Shu (Naga Tree) Bodhisattva’s Birthday

* 龙树菩萨宝诞

23 Aug (Wed)

七月卅

Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva’s Birthday * 地藏菩萨宝诞

13 Oct (Fri)

八月廿二

Ran Deng (Lamp-lighting) Past Buddha’s Birthday

*燃灯古佛宝诞

9 Nov (Thu)

九月十九

Avalokiteshvara’s Left House Day * 观音菩萨出家纪念日

20 Nov (Mon)

九月卅

Bhaisajya Guru’s Birthday * 药师佛宝诞

25 Nov (Sat)

十月初五

Master Da Mo’s (Master of Zen Buddhism) Birthday

* 达摩祖师宝诞

METTA (Loving-kindness)

Metta is very strong mental force capable of serving the well-being of mankind. Unlike destructive forces, human beings face both on the natural and man-made level, metta is all about kindness, caring and responsibility.

The nature of metta is very much positive. It is an essential concept to begin with as far as Buddhism is concerned. War was never created in the name of Buddhism simply because it emphasizes on metta and the law of cause and effect. Metta is all embracing; from the tiniest creature to the higher levels of being including the celestial; radiating its warmth in all directions without any bias of race and religion. This transcendental energy is very much needed in a society where cruelty and selfishness have become a dominant force. Therefore the practice of metta is crucial, practical and urgent. It heals the wounds and inspires love.

As metta is universal, we can all forth this energy within ourselves. It is important to note that every Buddhist code of practice begins with a degree of calmness. The mind can only function as its best when it has settled down. As you wish yourself metta, you will reach a state of calmness and serenity. To make it easy for remembrance: calm, metta, clam followed by radiation. This state of calm and serenity at that precise moment is very important. Once calm, one is ready to spread metta. The radiation power depends very much on the quality of the mind. The next step is to channel this energy to others. It may be your loved or near ones, friends or enemies and other sentient beings.

Metta meditation is quite systematic in the sense of the objects one is concentrating on. It is from someone near to those afar. The practice of metta can turn into a ritualistic act provided one derives wisdom from it. As often most practitioners repeat the statements verbally without any contemplation. This involves only a state of tranquility, rather we should not get stuck into this state. We can make full use of this calmness to reflect and ponder over the underlying meaning. It is the grasping of its significant that we go beyond the norm; the written words. For example the statement – ‘May all beings be well and happy’ cannot come into being by simply chanting repetitively. It has to be the factor of understanding by going beyond its written form. Understanding gives us a feel that all beings do suffer. It is a fact rather than an abstraction. Then we begin to enquire about the cause and work out for it. That is metta, isn’t it?

It is good to start the day and before retiring to bed with metta. Apart from this, there is a need to bring out this energy as often as possible in our daily life activities. Like water that gives us life, metta gives support to spirituality. If we are very skillful in spreading the force of metta, we can see the change of attitude within ourselves and the relationships with others. The practice of metta brings immense benefit and should not be neglected.

By understanding this point, we bring forth right effort. Nostradamus, the French seer once commented that war can only be averted through loving-kindness. Let us remind the world of metta therapeutic effect through the words of the Buddha – Hatred can never be overcome by hatred; it is by loving-kindness that hatred is transformed.



by Ven. Sampano
As the Upasaka says the Hail Mary…

Well, as you know many of my friends and relatives found that I’m a dedicated Buddhist in the sense that I’m able to give a Dharma lecture, know most of the protocols, rituals, such as chanting and gestures etc. However, most of them they don’t know my actual clandestine that have been obscured all this while.

Okay, let me proceed with my story…

When I was small, during every first or the second day of November, mum would bring me to the Catholic cemetery (St. Joseph Cathedral) which was located about 10 minutes away from my house (not the current house that I’m staying, but 13 years back). So did with my aunties, gathered there in the evening, with fresh chrysanthemums in their hands and few boxes of white candles.

As everyone had arrived at the tomb with a green and blue colours tiled cross, together they scrubbed and polished the tomb. I was asking, who were we ‘visiting’ this time? Mum and aunts just smiled and told me that She’s my late grandma, mother of my mum and aunts. (She was converted to Catholic faith after a miraculous event during her coma state in hospital, suffered with brain cancer. She was roused from a deep slumber by Christ. Although the nurse attempted to wake her up, she just could never wake up. Only Christ could save her. She didn’t know who’s that beardy Guy was, not until the nurse showed to her the image of Sacred Heart…So, this is how she was converted to Christian, except my her husband, my grandpa.)

As the candles were all lit, they began with cross sign, and joined their palms firmly, thus saying their prayer silently. I didn’t know what was that mean, so I was just followed as what they did, it’s fun though.

After my prayer before the tomb, I heard the bell chimed coming from the other side of the cathedral. Followers and choir were singing the hymns harmoniously during the Evening Mass. I rushed to the crowd, my curiousity towards the congregation just made me felt so graceful, felt like wanted to join them. From the event, my aunt explained that was how a Catholic’s Mass likes, where there would be a priest conducting the services, assisted by the altar bothers, having choir leading the crowd to sing the wonderful hymns and so forth…

Slowly I started to get closer with the Lady of Immaculate Heart, where my mum used to keep those images (cards). I felt comfortable for the first time I said my prayer to Her. Usually, when I encountered any bad omens, I would just take out Her image and beseeched for blessing. Even until know, I still feel that, she’s just like my spiritual mother, or Avalokiteshvara (Guan Yin) Bodhisattva in Buddhism belief.

However, I’m more suitable to Buddhism, as I found the affinity between me and Buddhism has ripened ever since I know the basic concept of overall teaching. Nevertheless, I’m able to attach the Dharma by applying it practically in my life, which is very constructive. However, I discovered the profound insight has actually aided in my daily life.

Actually, both Catholic faith and Buddhism have the same concept, basically be compassionate to all beings, respect the mother nature and never commit in negative deeds that nurture the sins to grow.

Thursday, March 02, 2006

MEDITATION ~ Body, Speech & Mind


* Here & Now *


You cannot be at ease when you are constantly busy. Every additional drop of occupation within the framework of the mind prevents you from peace. Just imagine years and years of piling up the mind with activities, how can it just go off into peace in an instance.


However, it is good to take note of the breath every now and then to revitalize oneself. Presence of the breath is the here and now. One will feel more concentrated on one’s work.


Relaxation comes in many forms. Seeping fruit juice, listening to soothing music and relaxing into an easy-chair is just one example.





* Theory Not Reality *

“A theory is a theory, not a reality.

All that a theory can do is remind me of certain thoughts

That were part of my reality then.

A statement or a ‘fact’ is an emphasis – one way of looking at something.

At worst it’s a kind of myopia.

A name is also just one way of seeing.

I can’t make a statement about a reality without omitting many other possible to say everything,

Still I would not have the reality;

I would only have the words.

In fact, what I see changes even as I describe it”

~Hugh Prather, author of Notes to Myself~

Wednesday, March 01, 2006

Fitness failure - Gee, I’m working on it, don’t you see?! But it still the same, see my hips?

Some people say, even though they followed the fitness guidelines in order to obtain a better body shape, it shows non-effective result. Ended up, they just go on with their usual consumption habit thus making themselves plumper. Nonetheless, some will pay for an expensive equipment only to watch it gather dust because motivation has slipped is all too familiar. [Affirmative] Well, for example my parents; for the first time when they watched the TV commercial advertised on work-out equipment, they seemed so attracted by the results of those users (those who’d been experienced), plus the demonstration of the vigorous models of how effective it was working with their gorgeous abs, thighs, hips, chest etc. Couple of days later, I was shocked that they brought a big box containing that machine as shown on TV after office hours. When I asked them about the price, they were just reluctantly handed to me the receipts. Gosh, it cost them a thousand for that piece of machine! Gee, I never thought that they would spend such big amount on it as they’re very thrifty whenever they spend. Anyhow, that wasn’t my money. Haha…


These are the 10 Tips for staying on track:

  1. Be realistic with Fitness

As I mentioned before, the desire to lose weight, look better and get fit can grip men frenzy of activity. Paying or ‘investing’ a big amount to a particular machine without using it frequently, it’s like buying an antique, thus collecting dust. To avoid expensive failures don’t set high targets and make plans. Who knows, you might be not motivated once you’ve some other things to do, or getting lazy to do after work etc. It’s better being thrifty, somehow.

  1. Buy a Pedometer

You don’t need to broadcast the fact that your fitness program has begun but you might consider buying a pedometer as a simple investment. Depending on the type you opt for this can provide you with feedback as to how much you are moving and even give a rudimentary idea of how many calories you are using up. This is to create awareness upon your daily diet at the same time.

  1. Involve others in your fitness plan

You may not be in a position to involve others but motivation is helped if you’re part of a group or team. In a family setting, for example, you might want to consider buying everyone pedometer.

  1. Get twitchy!

How do you sit? If you’re someone who sits down and goes completely still for hours on end you’re in self-defeating mode. People who sit and do hobbies burn up more energy (even modest amounts) than someone who does nothing. Even consciously moving your legs around or bouncing about to music is better than doing absolutely nothing.

  1. Take an action audit

Many people have unrealistic beliefs about how much they really move around. Take a record of your activity levels over a week (be honest or what’s the point) and you might surprise yourself.

  1. Increase activity levels

You could sit around for all your lunch break or you could move around. Feelings of fatigue are often the reasons why men don’t move around yet inactivity is the worst culprit for making you feel like doing even less. It may take a little effort to begin with but all you need to do is start.

  1. Link activity to something you like

Inactive people often find formal exercise boring and without much purpose. Break into this by linking movement with a positive outcome. I like getting home after a day at work so I might sometimes walk; I don’t do it all the time but its one of my options. I like a newspaper so instead of having it delivered I go out and get it. Although not many of us will put on our effort to do so, at least we must try our very own best just to move around, walking, sweeping floor etc.; within the house compound or indoor.

  1. Take a break – activity break

It can be a great way of trying out new ideas and can help kick-start fitness or just revitalize you.

  1. Put that burger down!

Don’t use increased activity as an excuse to top up on sweet stuff or fast-foods. You won’t fade away as a result of increased movement but you may find that your system responds to increased exercise. Feeling that your appetite is increasing is a positive outcome and you should respond by eating what your body (not your head) is looking for. Drink water or fruit juice rather than more coffee or fizzy drinks, take more fruit and vegetables on board, experiment with good foods you may have previously overlooked or never even thought about. It’s not hard or complex and it will support all you other efforts.

Actually I have this friend, who always says she’ll slim down after a certain period, as she’s inspired by a gorgeous guy, fancy dress or actress. Till now, it’s been almost 9 years, my friends and I still witness ‘the girl’ with the ‘well-maintained’ shape. Well, everybody craves for food, especially those yummy delicacies. Hahaha…Well, we still have to control sometimes.

  1. Wrap fitness into your routines

Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Where possible walk to pass on a message rather than sending an email. Reconsider labour-saving devices and go for manual instead of automated. This may sound common to all of you, but it actually work if you really appreciate for what you’re committing to a healthy lifestyle.

Well, that’s it. That’s what I’ve read from the internet and from overall suggestion of those philosophers. Try those tips, either one of it, you’ll discover the ‘drop’.