aBsoLut DesMonde

2009-01-09T21:48:00.002+08:00

Enchanted Love

It has been a while I did not compose any song ever since I joined my current company. Too much concentration on work during working hours, gym, outdoor activities with friends, traveling and etc until I did not have time to spare on it. Normally I would need inspiration from any affectionate factors or under certain happening circumstances in order to give me the idea, where the fusion of one's character and emotional state are met.

And now, I got enchanted. Someone who gives me strength to carry on and try fearlessly. It such a miraculous event that I could never believe. All I want to say is, thank you for giving me this opportunity to have faith in you...and to love you more and more each day.

Ever since I saw you, it was

Unexpectedly cohered.

Gazing into your eyes,

Emotionally got caught up.

Never want to end this feeling, please

Enchant me with your love spell

Oh, dearly…I'm so

Overwhelmed every time I got this feeling

I pray it'd last forever, and ever

It's like a new beginning...

Letting go the past,

Observe for betterment in life, like a

Vivid star in the darken sky

Emanates brilliant gleams of light

You are the one

Of one of a million

Utmost I always want to be with…

2009-01-04T22:51:00.004+08:00

Happy New Year, DezPhrel, and fellow readers too!

After two years of hibernation, finally Dezphrel has revived his blog. He got his layout altered, and here he starts up with tad little sharing which he encountered during window shopping at local departmental store in this evening.

What you can see here is a notice that has been put up in the fitting room of one departmental store somewhere in town. Since Chinese New Year is just around the corner, my friend, Simon, decided to browse for new garments at Dua Puluh Sen Discount Store (somewhat 'super store' or whatever it is which was recommended by his friend) which really made me astounded. Frankly, the range of patterns and designs would rather be very limited. Hence, it is targeted to lower income buyers. We were still able to find fine garments somehow!

However, I found this 'amusing notice' when I was waiting for my friend who was trying the pants. Take a minute to read through the paragraph under "Attention", and tell me what's really gone wrong there...

Alright, guess you know what it is...Every sentence is directly translated from Chinese nor Bahasa Malaysia statement. Well, they presumed as long as local citizen would understand it is better than enough already.

Actually there are more to discover even in fancy restaurants, where you can easily detect errata from the menu; especially the use of vocabulary that could simply mislead to other meaning.

2007-02-01T16:33:00.001+08:00

LOVE :: SHEEP & RAT

2006-10-25T16:04:00.000+08:00

The Rhythms of Remembrance II

On your absence, these are the songs keep on resonate in my mind, remind me those sweet reminiscences, ups and downs we’d been gone through. I couldn’t stop playing them as I’m all alone, how I wish you’re here with me, hugging you tight and never let you go. But, it just too silly…attempt to control my emotion from thinking of you, it always be the hardest thing. I can’t hate you, it’s not your fault, and I don’t want to see you feel bad too. My love to you will never change, though we have our own way.

Take care…

Nick Lachey - I Can't Hate You Anymore

Provided by VideoCodes4U.com

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2006-10-25T15:47:00.000+08:00

The Rhythms of Remembrance

I couldn’t resist to give it a try in this relationship ever since I found you’re the right one who could give me the best of all in my life. Be with you, just like an angel who keeps me happy and safe all the time. I feel secure every time you’re beside me. Your gentle kiss on my lips, chased away the darkness in me. Surrounded with your warm arms in the cold lonely night, protecting my soul from harm and taming my aggravation just to ensure am secured. I still remember you whispered to my ear, saying “I love you” in one starry night. You brought me to the resort for a walk, I would never forget those sweet memoirs, reminisced the ever wonderful dream in my life. Immersing myself into your love puddle, washed away the grunge in me with your consecrated stream…

I never want to say goodbye, yet I never really want to try. Why don’t you just slip away and let me be alone. I was told to face the reality that we could never be together; to assure you’re happy all the time, the best I thing I must do is to let you go on with your destine with him. Although it’s hard to see someone I care so much being drifted away, since this is the only way to ensure he’s fine, why don’t I just do it.

I don’t know when we will be together, just to let you know that, the feeling is there, always burning.

2006-10-07T18:59:00.000+08:00

"That's My Goal"

You know where I've come from,
You know my story,
You know why I'm standing here...
Tonight,
Please don't go,
Don't be in a hurry,
I'm here to make it clear,
Make it right,

Well I know I've acted foolish,
But I promise you no more,
I've finally found that something
Worth reaching for,

I'm not here to say I'm sorry,
I'm not here to lie to you,
I'm here to say I'm ready,
That I've finally thought it through,
I'm not here to let you're love go,
I'm not giving up oh no,
I'm here to win your heart and soul,
That's my goal.

Please don't go,
You know that I need you,
And can't breath without you,
Live without you,
Be without you,
Well I know I've acted foolish,
But i promise you no more,

I'm not here to say I'm sorry,
I'm not here to lie to you,
I'm here to say I'm ready,
That I've finally thought it through,
I'm not here to let you're love go,
I'm not giving up oh no,
I'm here to win your heart and soul,
That's my goal.

Well i won't stop believing,
That we will be leaving together,
So when I say i love you,
I mean it forever and ever,
ever and ever....

I'm not here to say I'm sorry,
I'm not here to say I'm sorry,
I'm not here to lie to you,
I'm here to say I'm ready,
That I've finally thought it through,
I'm not here to let you're love go,
I'm not giving up oh no,
I'm here to win your heart and soul,
Yes I'm here to win your heart and soul,
Thats my goal....

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This song is specially dedicated to you, my Bear. I’ve been looking forward for this song, which could express my heart, feelings towards you. Since I don’t get the chance to sing it to you, I’d better put it up here and let you listen to the original singer (coz I couldn’t sing better than Shayne…*giggles*). Although we are not fated to be together forever, I really cherish every moment that we had in the past month. It was so wonderful, so lovely. Still remember how you cuddled me to sleep, brought me to beach, hand in hand, kissing in the tree house…just like our world with no others. That was the sweetest thing I never had with someone I love.

I’m sorry for what I’d done that hurt you before…I’m not good in words, I’m foolish, and don’t know how to keep you happy all the time but made you sad at times. You’re such a pleasant guy who’s deserved to be loved wholeheartedly.

“Finally, baby raksasa has to leave honey bear…however, their hearts are closed. The reason might be complicated. Seeing honey bear happy is vital prior to anything which baby raksasa couldn’t give to bear bear. Baby raksasa still love honey bear anyway…he even thanks him for loving him all this while…it’s precious and meaningful…”

2006-08-05T17:49:00.000+08:00

Blood Donation Campaign

Theme: Service with Love and Joy

Date: 26^th August 2006 (Saturday)

Venue: Swinburne University of Technology (Sarawak Campus)

Time: 0830 – 1130

Give Blood, Give Live

You are eligible to donate if,

You are in good health.
You are between 18-60 years of age
Your weight is above 47kg (ladies) 50kg (men).
You have more than 5 hours sleep.
You are free from any medical problems e.g. high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, operation <>
You have not taken any medication recently.
You have taken a light meal before donating blood.
You are not involved in any of the following activities:

Homosexual relationship.
Bisexual relationship.
Multiple sexual partners.
You have sexual contact with those mentioned above.
Drug abuse.

Your last whole blood donation is more than 3 months ago.
You have not consumed alcohol within the last 24 hours.
You have no dental extraction within the last 24 hours.
You have not taken any immunization within the last 3 weeks.
You do not have fever, cough, flu, sore throat, eye infection for the passed 1 week,
For lady donors:

You are not pregnant.
You are not taking contraceptive / hormone pills.
You are not breast feeding.
You have not delivered less than a year.
You are not menstruating.

You have not received any letter or phone call from the Blood Bank regarding the result of your last donation.

Light refreshment will be provided to donors.

Did you know…

v Every three seconds someone needs blood.

v Each whole blood donation can help as many as three people. One unit is divided into three parts: red blood cells, platelets, and plasma.

v Any person above 18 years of age and over 45 kgs. in weight can donate blood once in three months.

v A normal adult has five to six liters of blood in his/her body of which only 300ml is used during blood donation. This blood is replaced by your body within 24 to 48 hours!

v No special diet, rest or medicine is required after blood donation.

v Donating blood is a safe process. A sterile needle is used only once for each donor and then discarded.

v You cannot get AIDS or any other infectious disease by donating blood.

v Giving blood will not decrease your strength.

Jointly organized by:

Swinburne University of Technology (Sarawak Campus)

Swinburne Sarawak Student Council

Lions Club of Kuching North

Leo Club of Swinburne Sarawak

Malaysian Red Crescent Society (Kuching Chapter)

For further information, please contact us:

Swinburne Sarawak Student Council

Tel no. : 016 – 887 4353 (Saad)

: 016 – 898 7422 (Eko)

Email : sssc2006@gmail.com

Leo Club of Swinburne Sarawak

Tel no. : 016 – 809 3889 (Kenneth)

: 016 – 800 6669 (Terence)

Email : leoswinburnesarawak@yahoo.com.my

* You can visit our campus to get the registration form.

2006-07-28T22:28:00.000+08:00

The 15^th Day of 7^th Moon in Lunar Calendar - Ullambana

Ullambana (Sanskrit), is the festival of “all souls”, the prototyoe of All Soul’s Day in Christian lands. In actual mean, is interpreted as “to hang upside down”. This is to describe hungry spirits – their esophagus is as narrow as a needle, their belly is as big as a drum. They cannot eat nor drink and are always hungry. Even though there is food, it will turn into charcoal as soon as it is swallowed. The pain is similar to being hung upside down. "Bana" is a vessel filled with offerings of food and it has the meaning of salvage. In other words, Ullambana means to save from being hung upside down and to relieve of pain.

The Buddhist origins of the festival can be traced back to a story that originally came from India, but later took on culturally Chinese overtones. In the Ullambana Sutra, there is a well descriptive account of a well-to-do merchant who eventually gives up his trade to become a Buddhist monk. He became one of the Buddha's chief disciples. His name was Mahāmaudgalyāyana. (Ch. 目連, Mulian, Pāli Mahāmoggallāna)

After he attained the title of arhat, he thinks of his father and mother, and wonders what happens to them. He travelled over the known Buddhist universe, and found his father in heaven.

However, his mother was reborn in a lower realm, known as the Realm of Hungry Ghosts. His mother took on the form of a hungry ghost---it could not eat because its throat was very thin and no food could pass through, yet it was always hungry because it had a fat belly. His mother was greedy with the money he left her. He had instructed her to kindly host any Buddhist monks that ever came her way, but instead she withheld her kindness and her money. It was for this reason she was reborn in the realm of hungry ghosts.

Mahāmaudgalyāyana eventually saves her from this plight by battling various demons and entreating the help of the Buddha. The compromise that was made was one that owes to the relevance of the Ghost Festival and ancestor worship.

The Buddha established a day after the traditional summer retreat (the fifteenth day of the seventh month in the lunar calendar--usually mid-to-late August) as a day of prayer and offering in which monks can pray and make sacrifices on behalf of dead ancestors or hungry ghosts. The family members of the deceased essentially pay for this service, and thus their patronage is a form of charity. The deceased ancestors are pacified and hungry ghosts can eat (the sacrificial foods).

The story ends with this festival and the rescue of his mother from hell. She ended up being reborn as a dog, but as a pet in a well-off household.

Another than commemorating the departed ones, in this month, monks and nuns will confess for their sins. according to Buddhist regulations, each summer during the 90 days from the 15^th day of the 4^th moon to the 15^th day of the 7^th moon, monks and nuns will not go out to convert. They will assemble together. During the summer retreat, they will follow the rules strictly, purify their acts, and concentrate on the right path. The last day is to dismiss the summer retreat.

On the last day, the monks and nuns will confess their sins. First, they will evaluate whether they gave committed any physical, verbal or mental sins. secondly, they will invite other monks and nuns to comment on their opinion, what they hear and what they doubt. Monks and nuns will the confess their sins at the assembly, correct their mistakes and restore to purity. After dismissing the summer retreat, monks and nuns might attain four kinds of Hinaya, i.e. early fruit, second fruit, third fruit and fourth fruit.

But why did Buddha want his disciples to hold the summer retreat? Buddhist followers normally practice near the bottom of hills or forests or close to water. During the summer, flooding occurs frequently in India. For all followers' safety, Buddha implemented this regulation which requires monks to assemble together to spend the summer. Besides, Summers in India are humid. It is the season for snakes and insects to grow. The summer retreat will avoid monks from being hurt by these insects and at the same time prevent the monks from hurting these insects, as they will not be going out.

Indeed, it’s also Buddha’s joyous day, here human beings becoming good rather than evil, understanding rather than superstitious, and being true rather than false after self-confession.

From this, as you can see, the way we celebrate this special occasion is slightly different from the Taoism. I’m sure most of the people would mess up this day with Taoism Hungry Ghost Festival since they are falling in the same month. Ullambana festival chiefly reinforces the concept of filial piety. It signifies the importance of performing "good deeds" to accumulates spiritual merit. Most significant is to share the merit with the departed souls, to help them reborn in good realms and end their suffering.

As World-Honoured One told Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva “if in the future, humans or gods who ought to fall into the evil paths as karmic retribution are on the verge of falling into those paths, or are already at the very gates to those paths, or are able to recite the name of the Buddha or Bodhisattva, or a single sentence or verse of a Great Vehicle (Mahayana) Sutra, you should use your spiritual powers to rescue them with expedient means. Display to them a limitless body, smash the hells, and cause them to be born in the heavens and to experience supremely wonderful bliss.”

Chapter XIII :: The Entrustment of Humans and Gods

2006-07-28T20:09:00.000+08:00

Magnetic Jesus Dress Up!

What do you think of this stuff? Blasphemous? Actually it’s an invention to final justice of someone you think s/he should receive the punishment from what has had done wrong.

And why is it called Final Justice? Because now you can finally seek true justice and crucify the most hated villains of our time the way they shoulda been punished! The same way Jesus paid! And with magnetic Jesus Dress Up you can hang your dealt justice like a trophy in your school locker, confessional booth or on your jail cell door as a reminder that even the worst sins of man have been forgiven, thanks to Jesus.

2006-07-01T13:21:00.000+08:00

What do you know about MAGIC?

Spells, charms, rituals and invocations are the practical resources that enthuse my curiousity to explore the truth lies beneath. When I was naïve (decent kid), I was told magic is a very powerful practice that you would never believe the outcome and how commanding it is when a person knows how to perform the ritual adequately. Charmed, my favourite movie series which I never missed. From this series, actually it gives us some useful lesson of how magic is used for protection and saving others. Black magic is the malevolence side of magic that is performed to hurt someone or creates pandemonium in society. As a result, of course s/he will receive thousands fold of retribution from what s/he has done – Karmic reprisal.

The purpose I post this White Magic practice to share with you guys of its origins, and what can be done by magic for any occasions. On top of that, one must abide the rules for any reason to perform the rituals, as you’ll be working with the forces of nature for personal empowerment and successful spellweaving.

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INTRODUCTION

Essentially, magic is the art of making things happen by drawing on the powers of the natural world. But even if we are not yet able to influence events, most of us retain a sense of the magical, despite living in an urban, technological society and, for the most part, out of touch with the natural world and its powers.

“Magic” is often the world we instinctively use to describe a stunning sunset, a leafy forest glade, or a wintry landscape transformed by a carpet of snow. It may also be how we refer to an idyllic time, such as a love affair or dream holiday, or to one of life’s very special moments, such as the birth of a child or an outstanding achievement. All of these experiences, however diverse, have something in common: they touch us at our deepest core, enchanting, surprising and delighting us.

We may also use the term “”magic” to express our sense of wonder and awe at creation and our place in it: the feeling that for this moment at least, all is right with the world. Magic is what can happen when we step outside our everyday reality to connect with something precious and much bigger than our “little selves”

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The Otherworld

Regardless of time or place, is based on the understanding that behind the ordinary, everyday world, there exists another dimension, or “otherworld”, a spiritual domain that is said to co-exist with the mundane. A realm of deities, spirits and other discarnate beings, it is also a place of knowledge and sacred power, and whenever we experience a “magic” moment, we are tapping into this dimension, albeit accidentally. In this context we can say that the world “”magic” describes the inner nature of the beings that make up the universe – the spiritual part of all things that is cosmic and eternal.

The practice of magic involves making contact with this otherworld through special rituals and ceremonies, and because this world is invisible to the naked eye magic often referred to as “”the occult” (literally “concealed” or “hidden” in Latin). Magic then is primarily concerned with a spiritual experience of hidden worlds; this lies at its heart and informs magical practice.

Refining our values

In modern western society, with its emphasis on reason, logic and scientific enquiry, a living relationship with the otherworld has largely been lost. Although we are materially wealthy, many people feel dissatisfied with their lives; there is feeling that something is missing but we are not quite sure what. This condition has engendered a search for meaning and a spiritual that makes sense, and it is in this context that interest in magic is steadily growing.

Magic suggests that there is more to our world than can been seen with the naked eye, and that a rational and objective approach is not always the best way. In fact, to establish a relationship with the irrational , emotional and intuitive, or the forces of “unreason”. Connecting with the world of magic means rediscovering the languages of dreams and visions, imagination and fantasy, myth and story, image and symbol and to be prepared to enter the unknown.

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Magic and the sacred tradition

Since the earliest times, magic has been practiced in many different guises throughout the world, despite opposition from orthodox religion and mainstream society at various points along the way. Magic is an ancient art, and far from being something “bad” or “evil”, it has played an important part in the psycho-spiritual development of the human race. To many, this may sound preposterous, yet if we look at cultures other than our own we can see evidence of “magical” thinking and how this informs the way people live. For instance, Native American Indians regard the Earth as a living spirit whose voice can be heard in the roaring, sighing or whistling of the wind. Consequently, they believe in treating the land with respect and living in harmony with nature’s laws.

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The Origins of Magic

Throughout the world, human beings have developed a multitude of beliefs and practices to explain and give meaning to the cosmos. Almost without exception, early cultures evolved with a world view wherein magic and spiritually were inextricably bound, and in some parts of the world this is still true today. In fact, the word “magic” comes from the Greek mageia, which derives from magoi, an ancient Persian caste of priests who studied astrology and divination. Even before written records were kept, however, cave paintings daring back some 30,000 years indicate that our earliest ancestors practiced what we would now call magic in the form of shamanism.

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Shamanism

Claimed as the oldest spiritual practice, shamanism is still embraced by many small-scale societies around the world – Siberian to the Amazonian region to Africa – albeit under increasingly difficult conditions. A shaman takes on the role of mediator between the everyday world and the spiritual dimension. By entering into a trance, he or she “journeys” to the otherworld in an attempt to resolve some difficulty or dilemma in the human domain. Shamanic cosmologies are frequently formed from three regions: a middle world corresponding to our everyday reality on earth; an upper world relating to the sky and celestial realms; and a lower or underworld, which reaches deep down into the earth. These three regions are connected by central axis, and are often represented by a tree.

Most of the world’s sacred traditions have been influenced in one way or another by shamanism. For instance, magic was very important in the Chinese royal-ancestral religion of the Shang and early Chou (16^th-18^th centuries BC), where the wu was a shaman or sorcerer who sacrificed to and invoked the spirits, and also cured physical and spiritual complaints or maladies by means of medicinal plants and spells.

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Ancient Egyptian beliefs

The dual development of magic and religious custom and belief become more sophisticated in ancient Egypt. Egyptian magic dates back to a time when the region’s pre-dynastic, prehistoric inhabitants believed that the earth, the underworld, the air and the sky were populated by countless supernatural beings, some of whom affirmed life and were friendly while others caused death and destruction. Complex rites and rituals beings – the vast pantheon of Egyptian gods and goddesses – and temples were constructed in their honour. Priests became the guardians of a secret knowledge revealed by the deities to help humanity, and their books of spells and other magical formulae were safeguarded in temple and palace libraries. In popular tales, they were credited with the power to bring wax animals to life, or roll back the waters of a lake. The priests’ role was eventually taken over by magicians (hekau), who carried metal or ivory wands as symbols of their authority and ability to summon and control powerful spirits.

Mainly concerned with healing and self-preservation, ancient Egyptian magic permeated every aspect of daily life. Rituals were conducted for all kinds of purposes – to protect the king, to safeguard a woman and her baby during childbirth, or even to help the dead in the afterlife. Egyptians of all classes wore protective amulets inscribed with magical symbols and the names of gods or pharaohs.

Destructive magic was also practiced in ancient Egypt. It was believed, for instance, that foreign enemies and Egyptian traitors could be weakened or destroyed by inscribing their names on clay pots and figurines, then smashing, burning or burying there. Enemies if the divine order could be similarly cursed. For example, to counter the influences of Apophis, the chaos serpent, his image would be drawn on papyrus or modeled in wax and then spat on, trampled, stabbed or burnt in temple ceremonies; any remaining pieces were dissolved in buckets of urine.

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Magic and ritual in India

In India magical thought was inseparable from the sacred tradition. According to legend, the ancient sacred texts known as the Vedas (meaning “what is known” in Sanskrit) were revealed more than 4,000 years ago to 52 great rishis, or seers, during meditation. The Vedas praise and appease forces of nature and “higher beings”, which are depicted as deities. A rich source of magical ideas, they reveal the unity of creation as a mysterious interconnectedness and co-dependence. Each bio-organism, element or species has a purpose within a larger scheme and is sacred, and reality is built up from various networks of affinities or connections, which can be evoked and controlled by human beings.

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Magical rites in the Indian Vedas

The ancient Indian Vedas are divided into smaller books, of which the Atharva-Veda contains a rich collection of spells and magical rites. These are arranged according to those concerned with positive welfare and the pacification of evil influences, and those directed against hostile powers of individuals. The priestly Brahmin caste, or class, performed the rituals, which were to do with restoring equilibrium rather than controlling nature. Their purpose was to keep the life processes of the universe moving and to maintain good relations with the powers of the unseen. They were held on special occasions, such as festivals, and for specific purposes, such as curing disease or exorcising spirits.

A ritual might include divination and the manipulation of spirits or deities. Sacred sounds, such as ceremonially uttered word or mantra, were often used in spells and rituals as a way of making contact with the hidden world. Many mantras were believed to hold so much power in a awakening the spirit world that they could only be performed under the guidance of guru. Extensive preparation – such as astrological readings, long recitations and a knowledge of how to regulate breathing – was also necessary before it was considered safe to use them.

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Magic Workers

Nearly all societies have some concept of witchcraft in which individuals are thought to possess a form of extraordinary power. A belief in witchcraft is part of a magical world view that sees inherent in the universe powers and forces that may be directed by certain people. These “magic-workers” have been called by many different names, most commonly witches, magicians, sorcerers, shamans or witch doctors. Having all manner of special abilities, they are thought to be able to change their shape, fly and sometimes trick and deceive. Often regarded as frightening, they have been the subject of folklore in numerous countries and used as scapegoats for unexplained or unexpected elements of everyday life.

Witches

The word “”witch” comes from the Old English wician, meaning “to cast a spell”, but the meaning of witch and witchcraft changes from society to society and there is no neat and precise definition with which everyone agrees. In general, however, witches are usually female, associated with darkness and night-time, and with the reversal of normal human lives. Roman literature is full of references to a creature called a strix (a word of Greek origin meaning “”to screech”), which flew about at night, uttering piercing screams and feeling on the flesh and blood of human beings. The Yoruba of Nigeria believe that witches are generally women who fly about at night and meet un secret places. In European folklore, a witch is frequently depicted an ugly old hag, or else a beautiful enchantress, who uses her powers to allure and seduce. Witches are also commonly believed to have special spirit animals or familiars that perform services for them; typical examples include black cats, newts and snakes. They also have knowledge of plants and herbs, and they concoct their spells using a giant pot, or cauldron.

Theories about how witches get their power vary. In some parts of the world it is thought that power derives from an association with carnivorous predators; gained through acquired knowledge or skills; or inherited, as in the African society of the Azande. At the time of the witch hunts in Europe (16^th – 17^th centuries), the Christian church convinced that a witch’s power was reward making a pact with the Devil.

Wise Women, Cunning Men

Alongside the idea of “bad” witch there co-exists the idea if magic-workers who use their powers for the good of the community. In the European tradition these are often referred to as “cunning folk”, also known as wizards, wise folk, wise women or white witches. Once found in every village, these magical practitioners were commonly consulted for identifying witches (of the bad kind), fortune-telling, finding lost or stolen goods and naming the thief, as well as for providing remedies for a wide range of illness. In fact, many illnesses and misfortunes were attributed to the workings of spirits, so that a sick or unlucky person or animal was considered to be “bewitched”. It was the job of the cunning worker to lift spells and to provide antidotes to, and protection against, witchcrats.

Shamans

Common in early traditions, and still practiced b some societies in Siberia, the Amazonian region and Africa, shamanism is a tradition whereby an individual works magic for the benefit of the social group from magical aggression and natural calamities. They also heal sick people, communicate with the spirits of the dead, find lost objects and predict the future. They can do this by entering a trance during which the soul leaves the body and changes, or shape-shifts into spirit forms, such as various animals. This altered state enables shamans to battle with spirits or forces, or to gain valuable information.

Magical medicine

The link between magic and medicine exists in many cultures and healers are often referred to as medicine men or women. A medicine may be used for more than healing the body, however. In many traditional African societies, for instance, magical “medicines” may be used to bring or prevent rain, to delay sunset, as an aid in hunting, for success in love affairs or to find stolen property, as well as for treating illness.

The medicine man, or diviner, may also use spiritual power in amulets or charms to protect individuals. The magic may also involve rites using medicines made from trees and plants, with the magician telling the medicines what he wants them to do. In most Bantu languages the term used to refer to a medicine man, magician, herbalist or shaman is nganga. The nganga goes into the forest to collect herbs, roots, bark, and plants for the medicine. Some nganga families have a tradition of healing that goes back many generations; the living members receive guidance from their ancestors, who speak to them in dreams, instructing them about which herbs to use and where to find them.

(Consultant Editor, Raje Airey)

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2006-06-28T21:10:00.000+08:00

Graduations can be bittersweet,
Reminding us of all that's come and gone:
All our battles, whether lost or won,
Days of bliss, and days we would delete.
Underneath our pride there is the sense,
Almost like a wound, of something past,
The beauty of a time that cannot last,
In which we shared the joys of innocence.
Open vistas lie before our eyes;
Now is the time for hopes and for goodbyes.

Copyright by Nicholas Gordon

2006-06-21T21:52:00.000+08:00

Keith Urban - You'll Think Of Me

I woke up early this morning around 4am
With the moon shining bright as headlights on the interstate
I pulled the covers over my head and tried to catch some sleep
But thoughts of us kept keeping me awake
Ever since you found yourself in someone else's arms
I've been tryin' my best to get along
But that's OK
There's nothing left to say, but

Take your records, take your freedom
Take your memories I don't need'em
Take your space and take your reasons
But you'll think of me
And take your cap and leave my sweater
'Cause we have nothing left to weather
In fact I'll feel a whole lot better
But you'll think of me, you'll think of me

I went out driving trying to clear my head
I tried to sweep out all the ruins that my emotions left
I guess I'm feeling just a little tired of this
And all the baggage that seems to still exist
It seems the only blessing I have left to my name
Is not knowing what we could have been
What we should have been
So

Take your records, take your freedom
Take your memories I don't need'em
Take your space and take your reasons
But you'll think of me
And take your cap and leave my sweater
'Cause we have nothing left to weather
In fact I'll feel a whole lot better
But you'll think of me

Someday I'm gonna run across your mind
Don't worry, I'll be fine
I'm gonna be alright
While you're sleeping with your pride
Wishing I could hold you tight
I'll be over you
And on with my life

So take your records, take your freedom
Take your memories I don't need'em
And take your cap and leave my sweater
'Cause we have nothing left to weather
In fact I'll feel a whole lot better
But you'll think of me

So take your records, take your freedom
Take your memories I don't need'em
Take your space and all your reasons
But you'll think of me
And take your cap and leave my sweater
'Cause we got nothing left to weather
In fact I'll feel a whole lot better
But you'll think of me, you'll think of me, yeah

And you're gonna think of me
Oh someday baby, someday

This is the song has been resonated in my mind before I sleep. Most of the time it's aired on Mix.FM, I bet you never know him if you don't tune in to that radion station (LOL). I like Keith's songs, although they are all country genre. The lyrics really capture my emotion whenever I'm all alone in the room. Especially his love songs. Gosh. I never thought that I would fall in love with country songs.

2006-06-14T11:07:00.000+08:00

You need Vitamin C to graduate…

This is the song specially dedicated to you guys. Hope you like it, not me (not because of I don’t want to graduate, Touch Wood! Just that the rhythm of the song doesn’t sound nice to me). However, the lyric carries meaningful words for fresh graduates and to friends as well where we shall cultivate among us.

No longer we’re going to graduate, before that, have you guys prepared for your final papers? Are you ready to sit for the exam?! I hope to hear positive response from all of you, so do with the continuing students. No matter how hard it is, we’ve to go through this. We’ve been invested so much for this university, it’s time to leave gracefully with flying colours. Time wait for no man, and don’t get behindhand.

Good luck my friends, the future is in your hands!

**********************************************************************

2006-06-10T15:14:00.000+08:00

Graduation, Anxiety, Vacation…

Finally, I’d presented the last report of my degree in Swinburne yesterday. It was the last subject, last tutorial of the overall marketing course. I couldn’t wait this moment had arrived in just one blink. Throughout this semester, my friends (group members) and I were strived to the very best to produce fine assignments, and present the report upon our ability just to aim high marks. It’s never easy whenever we’re asked to come out with ideas or strategies to overcome the criteria set for every assignment’s requirement.

Well, I’m going to miss the moment we had in Swinburne. Now, we still have about 2 weeks time to revise the subjects before we’re descended to the battle field. For the time being, I really need more rest to gain all my energy for the final exam. Darn tired. Nonetheless, it’s been quite several of weeks I didn’t get down to pool. Muscles are turning flabby, pimples are budding from my face which make me look worse than before…wish I could go for facial treatment if only I’m working now.

After graduation, next thing to worry is career. Sigh…unless anxiety. Man, I need more break! I want a vacation! But, I’m seriously broke!

2006-06-02T17:04:00.000+08:00

Gawai Dayak: Garu Guru Gerai Nyamai

Adeh, headache! Guess I didn’t sleep well last night, the weather was kinda heaty and worse still I don’t have air-con in my room. Parents told me that, I could get one if only I work and share the electric bill. Duh, by the time I work, I may not install air-con in my room, being wishing to work afar from Kuching (fingers crossed).

Yesterday was Hari Gawai, where most Dayak from Borneo Island would celebrate this festive season in the month of June. The word Gawai means a ritual or festival whereas Dayak is a collective name for the native races in Sarawak; Iban, Bidayuh, Kayan, Kenyah, Kelabit, Murut and a few more. Thus Gawai Dayak literally means the Dayak Festival (Make sense right?! LOL). It is celebrated in Sarawak on 1^st June every year is both a religious and social occasion. And that’s a brief definition for this special occasion.

Visiting Venue: John’s place at Kg. Semaba

Arrival Time: around 1045

Simon, Benjamin and I went to John house yesterday morning. The weather was clear and hot, traffic not congested (might be most of the natives went back to Kampung already), could see the kids were playing merrily outside of their houses (while we heading to John’s place), people were visiting their relatives and friends…we’d curry chicken, black soy sauce duck, steamed chicken, fried chicken, lychees, lemang, mixed vegetable for our brunch at John’s place. Actually, we’re John’s first guests, so we got to enjoy our time having meal. LOL. We watched a Korean movie, which he just bought it the day before. As John’s friends were arrived, we had to make a move. Oh ya, we visited John’s newly “renovated” bedroom, it’s nice and cozy. I like the navy blue curtain, makes me feel calm.

After visiting, we went to check out Terence house, since Simon and I didn’t know where his house is actually located at. Hahaha…we went there without letting him know. Anyway, he’s currently in KK. The next trip was Taman Stutong (we managed to walk for about 1km, too tired and the weather’s hot). We were desperately looking for café (any that has air-con), but most of the cafes didn’t operate. Ended up, we headed to 4 ½ mile Everrise, for window shopping. When it was almost the time, and there’re no other place to go, we decided to go home. Simon had to go home to pack his stuff before he went to Sibu last night.

At night, John brought us (including Vifa and Ben) to have drink at Point One (Travilion) as it was somewhat early, not happening. Eventually we went to SOHO (the only place we consider it’s a better place for us to hang out, less fashion disasters and troublemakers). Actually, we went there just to release stress, enjoyed the fun. We were dancing, except Ben. We’re attempting to get him drunk, so that we could watch him dance. Too bad, he’s still awake. We left at 0130, felt tired but contented.

It’s been a long time I didn’t dance after He went back to KL. Still I miss you…

2006-05-26T20:02:00.000+08:00

S.O.S – save the Innocent One who suffers with Leukemia

This evening I received this forwarded message from my friend, regarding to a beautiful little girl, age 3 suspected of leukemia urgently need your help to find blood donours for Blood Type AB+. Please help and copy-forward this message to everyone you know. You can contact her father Ramli, 013-802 6325.

Show your love and concern to Her, you’ll make the different.

2006-05-25T01:10:00.000+08:00

A Sentimental Midnight

I’m half way completing my major assignment, got distressed. And I don’t know what to write as I lost all my ideas once I listened to my current favourite love songs. Just feel like hugging someone who I’ve been missing every night before I sleep. I can’t help myself stop thinking of…sigh. Life still has to move on.

Again, to those who keep me company when I was down, thank you for making me standing up again. I’m glad to have you guys.

*Source of survey: From my junior (posted on Friendster’s Bulletin)

1. Do you know anyone's Friendster password?
- Nope

2. Do you think ur love life right now will last long?
- I’m single and tender. We’re all alone…

3. Are u an emo person?
- It depends on the situation.

4. If u had one last breath to say something to someone u love what would u say?
- Live to the fullest in you life. Don’t worry, I’ll be your guardian angel

5. Do you believe in love at first sight?
- Sometimes, again, it depends on that person’s character / attitude

6. Ever felt so jealous of your friend?
- Well, what more I can say since I’m solitary…

7. What was the last thing you did?
- Doing assignment, and forwarded songs to my friends

8. Who is right next to you?
- Wandering meritorious spirits who look after this house, by the name of the Buddha…

9. Who was the last person you ate with?
- With family at BDC’s Expert

10. How many times was your profile been viewed?
- No idea

11. How's the weather right now?
- Cooling, it’s midnight already.

12. Last person you called today?
- Cynthia

13. Last person who called you?
- Maximillian

14. Last song you sang?
- What’s left of me, by Nick Lachey

15. Last time you danced?
- Last night at Hilda’s place. When I was out of mind.

16. Lost a friendship over something stupid?
- For a short period, because of misunderstanding.

17. Smoke?
- Not now, going to take a puff when I really need it

18. Dumped someone before?
- Neh. I’m not an ideal guy to be with.

19. Been really depressed before?
- Yeah

20. Faked being sick to miss school?
- Neh

21. What time did you wake up today?
- 0835

22. Current taste?
- Tasteless

23. Do you like the person who sent you this?
- I never talk to her before. Just grasped her testimonial, refill and post it here on my blog

24. What are you wearing right now?
- vest and M&M’s boxer

25. Are you too shy to ask anyone out?
- Neh, just feel like staying at home, complete my assignments

*Yawn* feel sleepy now. Good night Desmond…

2006-05-22T22:46:00.000+08:00

~ Thank You (It’s Over Now) ~

Ever since I see you smile

My heart just feels alright

Seeking for a chance for redemption

But I couldn’t turn back time

It’s all over

It’s hard for me to take

The last word you’d said

Sooner or later

It will happen again

It’s reasonable

Thank you for the time we’d been through

Thank you for everything that makes me so different

Thank you for making me firm and resolute

Thank you for being a special companion

Kindness you, shine on me

You’re always my good chum

I need time to get this off

We shall leave it to fate

But will never forget the ecstasy

Can you tell me it’s over?

It’s over now

Weeping this stream of tears

Gaze the broken dreams

Telling myself that I’m solitary

Gotta believe it’s true

It’s reality

Thank you for the time we’d been through

Thank you for everything that makes me so different

Thank you for making me firm and resolute

Thank you for being a special companion

Kindness you, shine on me

You’re always my good chum

No lies beneath,

It’s fair for us

It’s good to be true…

Thank you for the time we’d been through

Thank you for everything that makes me so different

Thank you for making me firm and resolute

Thank you for being a special companion

Kindness you, shine on me

You’re always my good chum

Thank you my beloved friend

I still miss you…

2006-05-22T22:03:00.000+08:00

The “Vibrator” that doesn’t vibrate…

Let me share with you what we are busying with in this semester, which is one of our very major assignment for this subject called (HBM330) Marketing Innovation Management. We required inventing an innovative product for each group, by producing a report of innovation plan, as well as delivering the presentation on the executive summary of the invention. The deadline for the assignment is on next Monday! Holy mamma. Guess what we’re inventing for this particular innovation? Yeah, it’s a pen, the WonderPen. I bet you guys (for those who haven’t been ‘supplicated’ to fill up the questionnaires or being our classmates) have no idea of what this pen is all about. Indeed it looks like a pen, but why would we need the Detachable Plug? To Recharge? (smirk). OK OK, this is not just an ordinary invention of a pen, it’s a hi-tec hand-held device which will give you more confident to your facial complexion especially.

Let me explain or describe with you how actually this thing works… It is light and small, allowing users to bring and use it anywhere and anytime they want. To use it, users would just have place the laser above the acne or acne scar tissue and waves the pen back and forth, vaporizing only the unwanted tissue and creating a new surface for skin cell growth. The yellow light from the pen will destroy the bacteria that cause acne when it interacts with a substance inside the bacteria called porphorine to create oxygen, which destroys the bacteria. It also promotes the growth of collagen to prevent scarring.

And this is the illustration of the Pen. Check it out.

Believe it or not, this is just an innovative invention for our subject requirement anyway. Of course, we won’t launch this new-to-the-world product in the market, as I mentioned earlier it’s for the goodness sake to pass this appalling subject. Guess what some of my friends (the respondents who filled up the questionnaires) when they looked at the WonderPen printed on each questionnaire, “Whoa, that’s shocking! New vibrator for the women, interesting. How does it work?”. Good grief. That’s why I’d rather explain to them while they’re looking at the WonderPen. It’d be great if we could think of duo functional pen for both sexual fulfillment and skincare (grin).

Besides, I still have another two more assignments to complete, JavaScript and Communication Strategy Plan, which are due after Gawai. Being in the final year, life’s getting more hectic and tiring. Frankly, this is the only semester where I always yawn in the classes. It’s bad I know, but I couldn’t control with it. Felt like dozing off in the class, and enjoy pampering my somnolent brain. Alas, I’m forced to attend the lectures. We’ve no choice (moan).

2006-05-16T23:45:00.000+08:00

Dona has a baby?! Mimo the innocent one…

Arrived at university’s library, computers were fully utilized by students. Some were busy with their major assignments, some were replying messages/mails, checking Friendster, doing research, chatting, playing online games etc. I was waited for someone to sign out so that I could use the computer and do some research for my final assignment. Well, it seemed like they were not going to move the butts off the places, I’d decided to chat with my friend who works in student administration department, Miss Vanessa, just to pass my time.

After that, I went to the library again, tried my luck to check whether there was any computer available…still they were all occupied. Sighed. I just walked to the study area, and met my two girl friends were there doing revision – Myzura and Hui Sia. The students surrounded them were busy completing their assignments, exercises, revising lecture notes etc. [As usual, when comes towards the end of the semester, pupils would get busy with revision, discussing on potential questions which will be asked in the final paper and so forth.] Actually they planned to go to Dona’s place after her class. While waiting for Dona, I chatted with Myzura and Hui Sia. Few minutes later, Zura arrived. She went to university just to do research for our major assignment, unfortunately there was no computer available. Too bad. So we just briefly had a talk on the assignment.

After Dona had class, we went to Unaco buy some vegetables and ingredients, as we were planning to cook and have dinner at her house before we went to evening class. We cooked cabbages with radish and mushroom for soup, Ulam and fried Sambal paste as for the girls since I do not eat those kinds of food. It was quite fun to cook together with friends. We could share our knowledge, experience while we wanted to prepare dishes. We might learn some new tips or methods somehow.

Guess what? Dona’s a baby! A sapphire eyes, white fur baby cat with tad greyish tail, Mimo (I don’t know whether this spelling is correct or not) the kitten. The kitten was brought home from her boyfriend’s workplace. She loves the kitten so much. Till now I haven’t asked what’s her kitten’s gender. LOL. Mimo is kept in a box, with milk, water and Whiskas provided by Done, the ‘mommy’ of Mimo. LOL. I wonder will Dona treat Mimo nicely when it grows up one day.

Basically, this is the journal of today.

2006-05-15T23:40:00.000+08:00

Not another survey question from Friendster…

It’s been almost 2 weeks I didn’t post anything new in my blog. Just browsed Friendster and tried to look up for something to post. And here it’s. Posted by a friend of mine, who’s my ex-classmate. I really have no idea of what to post, for the moment being my mind is not fully functioning. I guess it needs more rest. I felt so sleepy for the entire daytime (during classes), and got hungry easily. Can’t imagine I will become obese if I only eat and sleep. Then you have to call me Fat Ass!

Actually, am waiting for my friend to call me up for drink. He just came back from Singapore on 13 May. I don’t know when he’s free to meet up as he has to meet his long-time friends, spare time with family etc. However, he’s going off this coming Thursday. I think better make up one day to hang out with him for drink.

(1) Who did you last go out with?
* Whole bunch of Buddhist association’s aunties and a master from Penang.

(2) What do you want to receive on your birthday?
* Duh, it’s in last April. Anyway, being hoping to receive more money. But where does it come from since I’m not working?!

(3) Reach your hand out to the right.What do you touch?
* The CPU casing

(4) What time did you sleep last night?
* Around 0000

(5) What's the wallpaper on your computer?
* A greenly scenery taken from a village

(6) What can you hear besides the computer?
* The sound of the wind made by the stand-fan, and song playing now – Howie Day, She says

(7) Do you agree to the saying "to forgive is to forget"?
* Somehow we’ve to accept the reality and try to fix it so that it won’t happen again…

(8) When and where was the last time tears started to roll down your cheek?
* Wesak Day eve

(9) What/who makes you happy?
* People who make resolute and firm…

(10) What makes you sad?
* Not at the moment.

(11) What are your favorite books?
* I don’t have particular most preferred books

(12) What would you like to have right at this moment which seems totally impossible?
* Money, career, airfare to KL to meet someone who I miss, badly.

(13) Who will you turn to if you have a huge problem that not all your friends know about?
* Farney, of course I know who you’re jerk…LOL

(14) What's your favorite song at the moment?
* Can’t think of any. Trying not to get sentimental at this moment especially having workloads..

(15) What was the last song that kept ringing on your mind last night before you sleep?
* Nothing

(16) What was the best event that happened last year?
* When there was a laughter

(17) Where did you go today?
* Classes and clinic

(18) Last ride?
* Back from dinner at MJC

(19) Who were you with?
* My parents.

(20) Have you gone to the beach just with your buddies?
* Yeah, with Kevin and Pei Foon in last February

(21) Do you love sunsets?
* Yea

(22) When is your bday?
* 25^th April (Don’t forget, readers)

(23) What are your wishes for your birthday?
* None. It’ll never come true.

(24) Who do you wanna be with on the day of your birthday?
* The one I’ve been missing…and some close friends

(25) Have you ever felt that you've been taken for granted?
* Hahaha..this is me.

(26) Things you regret?
* Never look back, just move on

(27) Is there anything else you want to do besides answering this survey?
* Sleep

(28) What's the most important sentences that lingers in your mind right now?
* Be cool

(29) Cookies n cream or double dutch?
* Cookies and cream

(30) Chocolate cake or brazo de mercedez?
* Both will do

(31) Do you know how to drive?
* Yes.

(32) Do you like spongebob?
* Yea

(33) Do you know how to play the guitar?
* haha…

(34) Who's the last person you texted?
* Anthony

(35) KFC or Kenny Rogers?
* KFC

(36) Beach or camping?
* Both?!

(37) Do you find yourself sexy and beautiful?
* Ask my friends will ya?

(38) Hotdogs or cheesedogs?
* Neither

(39) Do you like Shawarma?
* Never try

(40) Is there someone you're missing right now?
* Yea…a lot

(41) Do you love someone right now?
* Still I’m loving someone…

(42) Where did you go last Friday?
* Buddhist association and procession

(43) What did you do there?
* helping out, chanting, cleansing the Buddha and joined the procession at night

(44) Who were you with?
* The V.I.P., masters, representatives from different associations, devoutees and friends.

2006-05-10T13:59:00.000+08:00

Top 10 Super Job Interview Tips
It's a tough job market out there today. And getting the job you want requires more than just a killer resume. In other words, you can't just sell yourself on paper. You also have to be able to do it in person--in a face-to-face job interview.

Here are a few interview tips to help you make a great impression on the person who interviews you.

1. Market your skills and related experience in the field that you are applying for. Be sure to do it in a way that is positive, but not cocky or aggressive.

2 . Research the company before your interview. It's a great way to know where you would fit into the organization. It also lets the employer know that you really want to be a part of the company.

3 . Prepare answers to common interview questions ahead of time, and practice saying them, so you aren't stumped during the interview.

4 . Dress for success, in the manner you would dress for the position you're seeking.

5 . Bring a list of your own questions with you in a folder with the company's name on it, so that you don't forget them. You should keep your extra resumes in there too.

6 . Be a good listener and focus. Some job seekers talk too much during interviews.

7 . Be prepared to describe your weaknesses as strengths.For example, saying that you are overenthusiastic about performing at your best.

8 . Make eye contact with your interviewer.

9 . Don't volunteer your personal opinions to your interviewer about any subjects unless you are asked.read more at http://online-articles.org/careers-employment/site-map.php

10 . Try to establish a good rapport with your interviewer.Be casual but professional, and most importantly BEYOURSELF! Take the time to implement these interview tips before your next job hunt. It'll give you a leg upon your competition!

2006-05-10T13:54:00.000+08:00

*卫赛前三天吉祥祈祷夜*

如同往常一样，每星期二晚砂劳越佛教会都有共修。由于昨晚较得空，并到佛教会带领信徒诵经共修。多三天就是卫赛节了，所以昨晚我带他们颂吉祥经 --- 祝祷卫赛节到来，感恩佛陀的教诲；忏悔所累积一切罪障；仰仗佛光加倍，回向一切众。

共修前，信徒们个个都在忙排整椅子，备好这卫赛节庆典。当天，所有佛教团体代表、出家众及贵宾们都会在那集合，共同欢庆2550周年卫赛节。以此同时，有燃灯仪式、沐佛等活动（我还不清楚其余的活动，嘻）。

虽然昨晚的信徒不多，指有几位，但个个都带着虔诚的心，恭颂吉祥经、礼佛忏悔。尔且场面都很庄严，法音宣扬偏十方…

念完回向文后，我们在佛前长跪，读念星云大师着的忏悔祈愿文：

慈悲偉大的佛陀！

弟子至誠懇切地匍匐在您的座前，向您發露懺悔－－從無始以來，

我身業所犯的殺盜淫妄，無數無量；

我口業所犯的惡語兩舌，無窮無盡；

我意業所犯的貪瞋愚癡，無邊無際。

現在只有仰仗佛陀您威神加被，賜給我懺悔的力量；

現在只有依靠佛陀您遍灑淨水，洗淨我深重的罪業。

回想我從小至今，常常不明事理，不辨善惡；常常昧於因果，顛倒是非；常常執著邪見，自以為是。為了保有自己的利益，

我多次見到苦難的眾生，卻沒有伸出援手；

我多次遇到老弱的民眾，卻沒有哀憐救濟。

由於嫉妒別人的擁有，我妄加對方的過失，我寬恕自己的行為。

甚至｜｜我對於父母的孝順奉養不夠，我對於朋友的來往信義不夠，我對於師長的尊重敬愛不夠，我對於子弟的庇護包容不夠。

慈悲偉大的佛陀！

這一切的作為，都可以看得出我的罪業無邊！今天，我跪在您的座前，以無比虔誠的心意，向您坦白發露，求哀懺悔。

祈求在佛陀您慈光的照耀下，我能一改往昔的罪行，我要以喜捨對治貪欲，我要以慈悲對治瞋恨，我要以誠信對治懷疑，我要以謙虛對治傲慢。我願努力做到：老吾老以及人之老，幼吾幼以及人之幼；我願發心做到：先天下之憂而憂，後天下之樂而樂。

從今天開始，我誓願實踐佛陀您的行儀，我要給人信心，我要給人歡喜，我要給人希望，我要給人方便；從今天起，我誓願奉行您的教誨，我要以五戒十善自利利他，我要以三學增上福慧雙修，我要以四恩總報回饋大眾，我要以四攝六度饒益有情。

慈悲偉大的佛陀！
請求您接受我至誠的懺悔與發願，
請求您接受我至誠的懺悔與發願。

念毕并礼佛三拜，祈求三宝哀摄受、福慧增长。

2006-05-06T17:23:00.000+08:00

Weekend routine - House Chores

It’s weekend again. As usual, every morning I’ve to mop the floor, helping parents to tidy up the house. Sigh, I’m so sick of doing house chores, but I’ve no choice unless I’m rich enough to hire a maid to clean the house. I’m so envied of my friends who never do house chores. One simple reason I can tell you why I don’t like it, LAZY! Last time, whenever I told my friends that I’d to do house work first before going out with them, they would say : “What a mummy boy. No need to do house work, just hang out with us. You may sneak out from house…” Sorry, I’m not that kind of kid in Sim’s family. No matter how unwilling I’m, to drag that broom just to clean the living room, still I stay for free in this house. Somehow I received compliments from aunties and uncles, saying that I’m a good child. Hahaha. That’s what I earn apart from being responsible doing house chores at home.

Sigh, since this afternoon until now I’ve been stuck in my study room doing my assignment. All of a sudden I didn’t know why I lost the motivation to carry on. And that’s why I write this. Gee…It’s been a week I didn’t go to swim as I was busy with having group discussion with my friends. As you can see, my muscles become flabby, my tummy is getting bigger and bigger. You know I’ve a big appetite, the good thing is, I lose weight very easily. Unfortunately food I consumed turns out become a waste. How am I going to make use of it to form into muscle?

Anyway, I’m hungry now. Feel like eating pasta.

2006-05-05T00:17:00.000+08:00

浴佛節的意義

《南无本師釋迦牟尼佛》

農曆四月初八日，是漢傳本師釋迦牟尼佛的佛誕日。在日子裡，諸天

聖眾，無量眾生都非常的歡喜。因為一位人天眼目的降生，影響著無

量無邊眾生的未來。正因為佛陀的出世，開演出涅槃妙法，使六道輪迴

的眾生，得到離苦解脫的大法。

佛教界在此日，都有慶祝的儀式及修法的儀軌。為了就是慶祝佛陀

的誕生。也緬懷大覺世尊的慈悲與智慧，在此先獻上讚佛偈：

“天上天下無如佛、十方世界亦無比

世間所有我盡見、一切無有如佛者”

在中國漢地，佛誕日最重要的一個活動就是『浴佛』的儀式。浴佛，其

實在各國佛教中皆有此法，但是在中國佛教中，將其浴佛儀式與佛誕日

合併舉行，就有其重要的意義。

根據唐朝義淨三藏法師所譯的『佛說浴佛功德經』中所載，

清淨慧菩薩在靈鴆山上向佛陀請示：諸佛如來以何因緣。得清淨身相好

具足。復作是念。諸眾生類得值如來親近供養。所獲福報無量無邊。未

知如來般涅槃後。所有眾生作何供養修何功德。令彼善根速能究竟無上

菩提。

佛陀於是開示，一切眾生應修習菩薩六度波羅密、四無量心等等善法。

佛陀又慈悲地開示，佛有三種身，法身報身化身。欲供養佛三身者，應

先供養舍利。舍利有二種，身骨舍利及法身舍利。身骨舍利即是如來示

現的肉身舍利。法身舍利即是如來成佛開示的涅槃妙法。

經中開示，佛涅槃後，欲供養如來，得到莊嚴圓滿的身相及智慧，

應當設一佛陀出生像，用香湯來為佛陀像灌沐佛身。

香湯的材料即是：牛頭栴檀。白檀紫檀沈水。熏陸鬱金香。龍腦香。

零陵藿香

浴佛的時候，須將香湯，淋在佛身的雙肩上，不可淋在頭上。而且浴佛

的時候，須先合掌唸誦浴佛偈：

"我今灌沐諸如來淨智功德莊嚴海
五濁眾生離塵垢同證如來淨法身"

唸誦完畢，即可浴佛。

修習此浴佛法，可得十五種功德：

一、常有慚愧，二、發淨信心，三、其心質直，四、親近善友，

五、入無漏慧，六、常見諸佛，七、恒持正法，八、能如說行，

九、隨意當生淨佛國土，十、生人中大姓尊貴人所敬奉生歡喜心，

十一、生在人中自然念佛，十二、諸魔軍眾不能損惱，

十三、能於末世護持正法，十四、十方諸佛之所加護，

十五、速得成就五分法身。

而且常浴佛者，眷屬安樂，無病延年，相貌莊嚴等等善報。浴佛完的香

湯，不可隨意瀉倒，此香湯稱為吉祥水，可以用來飲用乃至擦拭身體。

“浴佛功德殊胜行；无边胜福皆回向；

普愿沉溺诸众生；速往无量光佛刹；

十方三世一切佛；一切菩萨摩诃萨；

摩诃般若波罗蜜”

『浴佛』真正的意義，在於時時觀照身心，以如來淨智法水，澡浴

我們污穢的身心，令我們的身心能得到清淨、自在、安樂。進而修持如

來正法，速證菩提。

◎ 一般道場浴佛時，為求方便，大多僅用甘草水或是一般清水來浴佛，

當然功德亦是無量。

"天上天下唯吾独尊"

2006-05-03T23:10:00.000+08:00

2550^th Wesak Day Celebration

尊重人权，互相谅解

Respect human rights, promote mutual understanding

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* Namo Tassa Bhagavato Arahato Sammasambuddhassa.

* Homage to Him, the Exalted, the Worthy, the Fully Enlightened One

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Date of Wesak Day:

12^th May 2006, Friday

农历丙戌年肆月拾伍日，星期五

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2006-05-03T22:37:00.000+08:00

*CELEBRATION OF WESAK*

by Ven. Dr K Sri Dhammananda

The best known date on the Buddhist calendar, familiar even to non-Buddhists, is the thrice sacred day of “Wesak”. Wesak is the name of a month in the ancient Indian calendar and it usually falls in May though sometimes it may commence in the later part of April or extend to the early part of June. Wesak is derived form the original Pali word “Wesakha” or Sanskrit “Waishakha”. In some countries it is also known simply as Buddha Day.

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W.F.B. Resolutions

The decision to agree to celebrate Wesak as the Buddha’s birthday was taken at the first Conference of the World Fellowship of Buddhists (W.F.B.) held in Sri Lanka in 1950. The Resolution that was adopted at the World Conference reads as follows:-

“That this Conference of the World Fellowship of Buddhists, while recording its appreciation of the gracious act of His Majesty, the Maharaja of Nepal in making the full-moon day of Vesak a Public Holiday in Nepal, earnestly requests the Heads of Governments of all countries in which large or small number of Buddhists are to be found, to take steps to make the full-moon day in the month of May a Public Holiday in honour of the Buddha, who is universally acclaimed as one of the greatest benefactors of Humanity.”

At subsequent conferences of the World Fellowship of Buddhists, many resolutions pertaining to the celebration of Wesak or Buddha Day were also adopted. The W.F.B. conference held in Rangoon, Burma, in 1954, passed the following resolution:-

“That this conference requests the Government of India to declare Buddha Purniama Day (the full-moon day of the month of May) a public holiday for the whole of India.

” The fourth world conference of the W.F.B. held in Nepal in 1956 also adopted a similar resolution.

“That the Government of Pakistan be requested to declare the thrice sacred Wesak Purnima, the full-moon day of May, a Public Holiday every year in future.”

At the sixth World Conference held in Phnom Pehn, Cambodia, in 1961, the Conference resolved “That the first full-moon day of May be recognized as “Buddha Day” and celebrated accordingly.”

In 1976, at the eleventh conference of the W.F.B. held in Thailand, Bangkok, the decision to fix a universal day to observe Wesak was again reiterated by the adoption of the following resolution:- “The meeting felt that it was necessary to see that the resolution to observe Wesak on one same day should be implemented, hence the Committee would like to recommend to the plenary session once again to reiterate the implementation of the resolutions passed by previous general conferences.”

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WESAK – National Holiday in Malaysia

Apart from the numerous resolutions adopted by the world conferences of the W.F.B.,the Buddhist fraternity in Malaysia, in 1961, in drafting a petition to the Malaysian Government to declare Wesak Day as a National Holiday for Malaysia, submitted lengthy arguments, which inter-alia, reads as follows:-

“In carrying out the said resolution, your humble petitioners crave your indulgence in giving this humble petition your very sympathetic consideration for the Wesak full-moon day to be declared a Public Holiday every year in the Federation of Malaya. In the past there was no unanimity among the Buddhists in Malaya with regard to the day to be set apart for commemorating the Birthday of Lord Buddha; some observing the 8^thday of the Fourth(Chinese) Moon and others the full-moon day (i.e. 15^thDay) of the Fourth Moon. This lack of unanimity has militated against a joint appeal for this holiday hitherto. In the terms of the said resolution, all Buddhists throughout the Federation have now agreed to commemorate Lord Buddha’s Birthday on the Wesak full-moon day (i.e. the full-moon day in the month of May) and it has also been agreed that ceremonies at all Buddhist temples will be performed on that day. “Wesak Day is the holiest of all Buddhist holy days and embraces a three-fold commemoration – the day Lord Buddha was born, the day He received Full Enlightenment and the day on which He attained Pari-Nibbana, i.e. the day on which He passed from this life. This threefold commemoration day is universally observed by Buddhists with great veneration. The laity especially sets aside this day in performing acts of merit such as giving alms to the poor, making offerings to the temples, reciting sutras, meditating, listening to preaching and observing the precepts,”

However, whilst a country-wide campaign was being launched to obtain signatures from all leading Buddhists in support of the petition, our Government magnanimously agreed to declare Wesak Day as a National Holiday with effect from 1962.

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Birth of a Noble Prince

Wesak Day holds special significance for the millions of Buddhists who comprise a fifth of the world’s total population. In thousands of temples across the world from Tokyo in the East to San Francisco in the West, Buddhists will pay homage to an Indian Prince who forsook the pleasures of a royal household to bring peace and happiness to mankind. The Buddha, or the Supremely Enlightened One was born in 623 B.C. on a Wesak full-moon day. The young Prince was named Siddhartha or “the one who has brought about all good.” His parents, King Suddhodana and Queen Mahamaya, ruled a small kingdom in Northern India.

It is said that when he was born an ancient sage called Asita came to visit him. The sage took the child in his arms and first smiled, then wept. Questioned about his extra-ordinary behaviour the sage explained that he smiled because the Child would one day become the Greatest Teacher the world have ever known and he wept because he would not live long enough to see the boy grow up.

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A Prince of Superior Intelligence

Siddharta Gautama was provided with all the worldly comforts that could be provided in a royal palace. His parents shielded him from the harsh realities of the outside world. He excelled in sports and showed his superior intelligence but he was not satisfied with such fleeting pleasures.

He was usually a meditative person. One day he noticed a frog about to be swallowed by a snake. Just then an eagle swooped and flew away with the snake and the frog in its mouth. This set him thinking: that human life was the same whereby the stronger was

constantly destroying the weaker in never ending succession. This made him realize the happiness could only be found when this battle for survival could be ended.

One day, when he was outside the palace gates, he sighted an old man bent with age, a sick man and a corpse. The young Prince was horrified when he learnt that the human body which was so well cared for in youth could be subjected to the ravages of age, disease and death. He started to contemplate deeply and was determined to seek a panacea for such sufferings.

The Prince also saw an ascetic, dressed in simple clothes but glowing with the inner peace of one who had given up his worldly passions. He was deeply impressed by the sense of happiness and calm the ascetic radiated.

Upon his return to the palace, young Siddartha, then aged 29, decided that he would give up all the temporal power that he was heir to and seek answers to the questions that troubled him. What was the cause of human suffering? What was the path to happiness?

He went to many teachers but wise as they were, their wisdom was limited. They could not help him to gain the Enlightenment that he was searching. So he decided to seek the path on his own. The struggle for realisation of the Truth took him six long years. One of the first lessons he learnt was to seek the Middle Path that is not to go to extreme. He felt that we should not indulge too much in worldly pleasures or subject ourselves to extreme austerities. In order to calm the mind to gain purification we must be moderate in all aspects.

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Buddha’s Enlightenment

Finally, on the 35^thanniversary of his birth, again on the full-moon day of Wesak, and seated under a Bodhi tree ^*in Buddha Gaya the ascetic Siddartha became the Buddha, the Fully Enlightened One. For the next forty-five years the Buddha traveled around Northern India preaching His message of Loving-Kindness for all beings and realization of the nature of existence.

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Realisation of the Truths

He realised that man’s ignorance is the root of all misery. Man’s clinging to an illusion of the ego creates desire to satisfy the concept of self. The basis of His teaching are the Four Noble Truths; The first is the Truth of suffering. Life is filled with the miseries of old age, sickness, death and unhappiness. People chase after pleasure but only end up with more suffering, pain and unsatisfactoriness. The second is the Truth on the cause of suffering. Our greed, our ego and our eternal desires are the cause of suffering. The third is the Truth on the END of suffering. When desire is eliminated, suffering will cease. And the fourth Truth is the PATH which leads to the end of suffering.

He then explained the Path which is the Noble Eightfold Path as:-

1. Right Understanding 5. Right Livelihood

2. Right Thought 6. Right Effort

3. Right Speech 7. Right Mindfulness

4. Right Action 8. Right Concentration

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The Buddha’s Passing Away

As with all other great religious teachers the Buddha found opposition to His teaching. But many saw the truth of His teachings and followed Him, learning how to lead a proper religious life to free themselves from the misery of existence. Finally, after forty-five years, lying under two beautiful sala trees, before a large assembly of monks, the Buddha passed away at Kusinara. This passing away is also known as Mahaparinibbana or the attainment of ultimate peace and bliss. This great event also occurred on the full-moon day of Wesak. The Buddhist Era begins from the Mahaparinibbana – Passing away of the Buddha.

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A Thrice Sacred Day

Hence on Wesak Day, Buddhists all over the world commemorate three great events: The Birth, Enlightenment and the Passing Away of Gautama Buddha. As Buddhism spread from

India

to all parts of the world, the teachings were readily assimilated with the cultures of the people who accepted the teachings. As a result, Buddhist art and culture took on a rich variety of forms with profound gentleness and kindness as the Buddha expressly forbade the use of force. The practice of Buddhism was adapted in many ways to suit the nature of the various cultures that accepted it.

As a result of this, Wesak is celebrated in many different ways all over the world. But in essence many practices have become universal. It is most important to remember that this sacred day is purely and simply a religious festival and not a festive occasion for feasting, drinking and dancing. On this day all Buddhists are expected to reaffirm their faith in the Buddha Dhamma and to lead a noble religious life. It is a day for meditation and for radiating Loving-Kindness.

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How to Celebrate Wesak

On Wesak day, devout Buddhists are expected to assemble in various temples before dawn for the ceremonial hoisting of the Buddhist Flag and the singing of hymns in praise of the holy triple gem: The Buddha, The Dhamma (His teachings), and The Sangha (His disciples).

Devotees may bring simple offerings of flowers, candles and joss-sticks to lay at the feet of their great teacher. These symbolic offerings are to remind us that just as the beautiful flowers would wither away after a short while and the candles and joss-sticks would soon burn out, life is subject to decay and destruction in similar manner as the flowers, candles and joss-sticks. Devotees are enjoined to make a special effort to refrain from killing of any kind. They are encouraged to partake of vegetarian food for the day. In some countries notably SRI LANKA, two days are set aside for the celebration of Wesak and all liquor shops and slaughter houses are closed by government decree during the two days. Birds and animals are also released by the thousands in a symbolic act to liberation, of giving freedom to those who are in captivity. However, it is not recommended that birds be released in the heart of crowded cities, because by doing so we may cause harm to the poor bewildered birds which are unable to fly far after a long period of captivity. Unscrupulous bird dealers would recapture such birds for resale to well meaning devotees. If birds are to be released it sis recommended that this be done in rural areas where the birds can achieve real freedom. Some devout Buddhists will wear simple white dress and spend the whole day in temples with renewed determination to observe the observance of the Eight Precepts.

Devout Buddhists understand how to lead a noble life according to the Teaching by making a daily affirmation to observe the five Precepts. However, on special days, notably new moon and full moon days, they observe additional disciplines to train themselves to practice morality, simplicity and humility.

The Eight Precepts are:-

1. Not to kill

2. Not to steal

3. To observe celibacy

4. Not to indulge in wrong speech

5. Not to take intoxicating drinks and drugs

6. To abstain from taking food at unreasonable time

7. To refrain from sensual pleasures such as dancing, singing and self-adornment

8. To refrain from using high and luxurious seats in order to practice humility.

Devotees are expected to listen to talks given by monks. On this day monks will recite verses uttered by the Buddha twenty-five centuries ago, to invoke peace and happiness for the Government and the people. Buddhists are reminded to live in harmony with people of other faiths and to respect the beliefs of other people as the Buddha had taught.

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Bringing Happiness to Others

Celebrating Wesak also means making special efforts to bring happiness to the

unfortunate like the aged, the handicapped and the sick. To this end, Buddhists will distribute gifts in cash and kind to various charitable homes throughout the country. Wesak is also a time for great joy and happiness. But this joy is expressed not by pandering to one’s appetites but by concentrating on useful activities such as decorating and illuminating temples, painting and creating exquisite scenes from the life of the Buddha for public dissemination. Devout Buddhists also vie with one another to provide refreshments and vegetarian food to devotees who visit the temple to pay homage to the Blessed One.

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Float Procession

In recent years many Buddhist groups have taken to organising processions with decorated floats carrying the image of the Buddha to celebrate Wesak. Although there is really no such tradition in strictly Buddhist countries, there is no harm in it at all, if such a procession helps to increase one’s devotion and helps one to lead a more religious life. Unfortunately some Buddhist groups have become over-zealous in their construction of floats and tend to lose sight of the real meaning of Wesak. They waste enormous sums of hard-earned money simply on ostentatious floats and decorations when this money could be much better utilised for spreading the Dhamma and for charitable acts to relieve the sufferings of others. It would be best if the floats procession is confined to a single reasonably and tastefully decorated float. Temples are also decorated modestly in good taste so as to encourage people to visit the temple to attend the religious services and not merely to view the decorations. Wesak would be much more meaningful if people are encouraged to understand more about Buddhism, to practise charity, to meditate in order to train the mind, to abstain form cruelty and to uphold spiritual upliftment. People must practise Loving-Kindness and Understanding.

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Proper Way To Pay Homage to the Buddha

The Buddha Himself has given invaluable advice on how to pay homage to Him. Just before He passed away, He saw His faithful attendant Ananda, weeping. The Buddha advised him not to weep, but to understand the universal law that all compounded things (including even His own body) must disintegrate. He advised everyone not to cry over the disintegration of the physical body but to regard His teachings (The Dhamma) as their Teacher from then on, because only the Dhamma TRUTH is eternal and not subject to the law of change. He also stressed that the way to pay homage to Him was not merely by offering flowers, incense, and lights, but by truly and sincerely striving to follow His teachings.

This is how we should celebrate Wesak: use this opportunity to reiterate our determination to lead noble lives, to develop our mind, to practise loving-kindness and to bring peace and harmony to mankind.

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MAY WESAK THE THRICE SACRED DAY BRING PEACE AND HAPPINESS TO EACH AND EVERYONE

2006-05-03T18:51:00.000+08:00

My hips don’t lie

"Come on baby, shake your booty. Yeah, that's the way I like it. Gimme more, passion..
You're burning baby..."

I love this song very much, the dancers, the way they dance. And of course, the hot stunning artiste, Shakira.

This song is dedicated to anyone who loves Spanish & dancing.
Enjoy!

2006-05-01T23:55:00.000+08:00

Apprehension

We’re getting far apart, I know

Still I don’t admit it

I’ve to accept this, I understand

Still I’m in denial

It’s hard to sustain, I know

I could never be the one who can be your side all the time

If I were to give a chance

Let me spare more time with you,

And for the rest of my life

I hate it whenever they say, “Wish you…”

Cos it sounds devastating

I don’t give a damn of what they portend

Though I always give lame reasons

Just to keep me holding on

Love is never be easy when it comes to commitment

Distance, livelihood, family…

We’ve no choice as these come to our lives

Maybe isn’t the right time

Tears, moans…express it all

No matter how, upset or apprehensive

Life has to go on

All I can do now, just

Succumb to destiny which decides my future

I’ll wait…

And you’re still the one I could never forget

Being hoping to call you my love, again

aBsoLut DesMonde

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* Namo Tassa Bhagavato Arahato Sammasambuddhassa.

* Homage to Him, the Exalted, the Worthy, the Fully Enlightened One

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Date of Wesak Day:

12th May 2006, Friday

农历丙戌年肆月拾伍日， 星期五

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12^th May 2006, Friday

农历丙戌年肆月拾伍日，星期五