There never seems to be something current enough to write about.
So much happens these days, and so quickly, it's almost like we all can't keep up with one another.
I know my blog is mostly text. No eye catching pictures of skimpily dressed women or snaps of lovely landscapes although I sure as hell see a lot of both almost every day of my life.
I guess to me, the written word is just somehow less misleading.
The photographs often capture the fun, adventurous side of my me, and has reflected my career for a large part of my life.
So I guess my blogs share a deeper side of me, words that express my thoughts and emotions.
I have been painting lately, creating mandalas with my girlfriends and getting lost in seas of color.
I watched an elephant paint on youtube today and it brought me to tears.
With every stroke it painted, I laughed in awe as tears ran down my cheeks.
I felt the elephant's emotions and determination.
It made me think about what other capabilities animals had and how little of it they convey to us.
Do we underestimate their potential? Limit their blossoming with our narrow minds?
My 11-yr old schnauzer speaks to me. When I bring out my suitcase before a trip, Gizmo sits in the corner of the room to sulk while I pack. And as if to say, "take me with you"... he climbs into my open suitcase to sleep the night before I am scheduled to leave.
Other times, while I am hanging the washing or doing the dishes, he will position himself in good view of me to give me an approving nod when I am done.
No doubt the most painful is when I leave the house everyday and he sits at the front door with those pleading look in his eyes. It breaks my heart every time.
So maybe I am a total softy. And a sucker for needy behavior but the truth of the matter is...
To you, your Pet is a companion. To them, you are everything.
So here I am getting mushy about my doggy.
Somehow in my world at the moment, my Gizmo is pretty damn high up there.
I always feel like I never give him enough and he keeps on wagging his gorgeous little tail at me all the times that matter.
I guess these are the things I like to write about. Current matters in my world. And although I know it compares nothing to all the other important world issues, it is still my word. And my documentation on my way through life.
I write for myself, my creativity, my hopes and dreams.
And what I wish for is to relate and heal and inspire.
Get the word out that we must not put limitations on ourselves and always make the effort to see the deeper side of things. The unspoken, the undiscovered.
We have so much more of our minds to use, to develop our instincts, to uncover our soul purpose. Magic is not unfathomable but relies highly on feel and trust.
To say us, Humans are incapable of learning from Nature and Animals is putting a mental block on our minds. Stifling our very own evolution.
We need to be more aware, of ALL living things around us and sense their messages.
Mother Nature speaks, we have only to listen.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Friday, October 16, 2009
i feel strange
I am in a strange space.
I do not feel disappointment in myself but I am questioning why I am in this predicament again.
I thought I had it figured out. I thought I took my precautions already.
Yes I know you cannot plan Life and you can never really predict how things turn out but I thought I was a good judge of character and I could see past the bullshit.
I just can't help but think....how many times do I need to stumble over assholes and get trampled on by dickheads to emerge victorious with a Hero?
Do men these days really enjoy being mediocre and dating shallow rag dolls?
If so, my future is bleak.
I just find it sad that in this day and age, women are still allowing their partners to call the shots while they do all the work. Sort out the laundry, nurture the relationship, handle the finances, organize the outings, stay in touch with the families.
If a MAN wants to enjoy the perks of a partnership, shouldn't he be able to provide well for himself as well as his significant other?
It's so predictable. When the sex is abundant, the tolerance is limitless.
And MEN still don't get it...
Woman like their Men to take charge, sort shit out and make it look EASY! That is SEXY!
A Man who has his stuff sorted out, in his own time, and done incognito.
Not flashed and discussed to every Tom, Dick & Harry, heeding advice from acquaintances and airing dirty laundry.
It truly baffles me. A man is so protective of his Ego but where is his Pride?
Isn't it just as important to earn respect and admiration? Doesn't it feel good to be relied upon and looked up to? Doesn't the sex feel more rewarding if it is offered instead of claimed?
Why do the same questions and problems keep arising if there is genuine effort made to change it? Are men truly incapable of selfless acts of concern?
Maybe I am just sick and grumpy and this flu bug has gotten the best of me or I could be pms'ing which is the most commonly used excuse for bitchy behavior although truthfully, I know I started this blog frustrated and have finished it more confused than before.
I don't often feel this challenged and I keep reminding myself to look for the lesson in it.
And I pray it comes clear soon.
I do not feel disappointment in myself but I am questioning why I am in this predicament again.
I thought I had it figured out. I thought I took my precautions already.
Yes I know you cannot plan Life and you can never really predict how things turn out but I thought I was a good judge of character and I could see past the bullshit.
I just can't help but think....how many times do I need to stumble over assholes and get trampled on by dickheads to emerge victorious with a Hero?
Do men these days really enjoy being mediocre and dating shallow rag dolls?
If so, my future is bleak.
I just find it sad that in this day and age, women are still allowing their partners to call the shots while they do all the work. Sort out the laundry, nurture the relationship, handle the finances, organize the outings, stay in touch with the families.
If a MAN wants to enjoy the perks of a partnership, shouldn't he be able to provide well for himself as well as his significant other?
It's so predictable. When the sex is abundant, the tolerance is limitless.
And MEN still don't get it...
Woman like their Men to take charge, sort shit out and make it look EASY! That is SEXY!
A Man who has his stuff sorted out, in his own time, and done incognito.
Not flashed and discussed to every Tom, Dick & Harry, heeding advice from acquaintances and airing dirty laundry.
It truly baffles me. A man is so protective of his Ego but where is his Pride?
Isn't it just as important to earn respect and admiration? Doesn't it feel good to be relied upon and looked up to? Doesn't the sex feel more rewarding if it is offered instead of claimed?
Why do the same questions and problems keep arising if there is genuine effort made to change it? Are men truly incapable of selfless acts of concern?
Maybe I am just sick and grumpy and this flu bug has gotten the best of me or I could be pms'ing which is the most commonly used excuse for bitchy behavior although truthfully, I know I started this blog frustrated and have finished it more confused than before.
I don't often feel this challenged and I keep reminding myself to look for the lesson in it.
And I pray it comes clear soon.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Ma Gals!
I realize that I have hardly shared much pictures on my blogspot but all that will change now considering I just scored a Canon 500D from my dearest friends for my birthday.
My good old Faithful Ixus 65 is taking a much needed break and in it's honor, I am sharing some great pics shot by it.
Pls take it away for the tribute to my Girlfriends....
The shot above is of Valerie and I at the Ivy in NYC drinking Pineapple martinis. I was pickled silly.
This picture was taken in LA at the Beverly Hills hotel Feb 2008 where Maggie, Sean and I gossiped and chatted over Bellinis all evening. Yum. Burp.
This hilarious shot was taken when Erika threw a Mad Hatter's Birthday party for her Hubby, Micheal and we all got to put on the Head Gear and picture ourselves at Burning Man. :)Well there you have it. I would add more pics but am kind of confused with the photo layout system at the mo. But watch this space for more eye candy.
Bloomday Blues?
Omygosh it's that time of year again. The week before my birthday.
And before I look through my blog to see what I wrote the past few years during this period,
I can already sense the nerves.
It's crazy. A part of me knows that time is man-made and yes a birthday celebrates the day One comes into this realm or dimension but ultimately, it is the intensity I feel, in the natural forces of the Universe that make it clear that year after year, cycle after cycle, this whole period is of a fragile one.
My soul feels vulnerable.
I start to question my existence and how much I have contributed to the scales.
I weigh my connections and review promises I made to myself, every birthday before.
I wonder if anyone would ever really accept and understand all these wacky cycles of mine.
The rituals I do for myself, remind me of my own achievements, my own code and my direction.
I do not indulge myself just for the fun of. In fact, quite the opposite.
Gatherings like Burning Man or WoMad music festivals celebrate that Mighty Energy of many beings all rejoicing, which is powerful.
But birthday gatherings, I have come to discover, are opportunities to surround yourself with a very encouraging and nurturing energy as the lessons are personal and the joys, very close to the Heart.
So my birthday wish this year is not just for me but for my Loved Ones and family.
I wish for Inspiration and Abundance, Passion and Joyous Energy, Faith and Blessings.
May we trust that the bad times are for purging and detoxification so when the rainbow appears, Golden Light will come pouring in.
So be It.
C
And before I look through my blog to see what I wrote the past few years during this period,
I can already sense the nerves.
It's crazy. A part of me knows that time is man-made and yes a birthday celebrates the day One comes into this realm or dimension but ultimately, it is the intensity I feel, in the natural forces of the Universe that make it clear that year after year, cycle after cycle, this whole period is of a fragile one.
My soul feels vulnerable.
I start to question my existence and how much I have contributed to the scales.
I weigh my connections and review promises I made to myself, every birthday before.
I wonder if anyone would ever really accept and understand all these wacky cycles of mine.
The rituals I do for myself, remind me of my own achievements, my own code and my direction.
I do not indulge myself just for the fun of. In fact, quite the opposite.
Gatherings like Burning Man or WoMad music festivals celebrate that Mighty Energy of many beings all rejoicing, which is powerful.
But birthday gatherings, I have come to discover, are opportunities to surround yourself with a very encouraging and nurturing energy as the lessons are personal and the joys, very close to the Heart.
So my birthday wish this year is not just for me but for my Loved Ones and family.
I wish for Inspiration and Abundance, Passion and Joyous Energy, Faith and Blessings.
May we trust that the bad times are for purging and detoxification so when the rainbow appears, Golden Light will come pouring in.
So be It.
C
Monday, September 28, 2009
my F1 experience.
Omigosh, I just had an unbelievable Sunday.
For my 1st ever F1 experience, I was invited to be guest of RightClicka Music and the Ferrari team.
I arrived at the Paddock Club about 4pm and walked around the village and marveled at the cars, the equipment, the mechanics, the quaint strips of 'al fresco' style booth line ups where gorgeous people sit and sip coffee.
The club suites are spread out between 3 floors and each floor, housing at least 15 suites accommodating to guests of Porsche, Ferrari, BMW, whom include people from the media, the entertainment industry, the creatives, outgoing entrepreneurs, fancy socialites, public relations people etc etc.
We are security checked, tagged :) and escorted to our "Club Suite box" which seems like a real pain to walk to but has the sickest view of the pits and start point. We see the Grand Stand ticket holders across from us, as we are parked right amongst it, with the actual racing cars prepping for the night, right beneath our dancing feet and free flow of drinks.
I go for a walk down to the pits and take some pictures on the track. I giggle like a little girl and stare wide-eyed at this incredible sight. I notice two Backstreet Boys taking pictures with the Ferrari and I wait my turn to get one.
It's 15 mins to race and I need to get back up to the cozy red plushy couches of the mscape lounge where the dj has on some groovy tunes, champagne is free flowing and there's a sashimi chef serving up sushi and other delicacies.
As I walk into the lounge, I see Carl Cox on my right and John Digweed sitting next to him.
Everyone's in a good mood and standing by the glass window waiting for the OK GO!
I plug in my ear plugs and stand by.
RACE ON.
After about ten laps or more, I walked toward the jetty right by the Singapore Flyer, which allowed me to enjoy more corners and close ups of the cars. Wow, those engines are powerful. And once again I stress, it is LOUD.
"Molly", comes to pick us up from dock to take us back to the Carpe Diem and Oriental Dream tied up together. Now I am watching the race from a yacht anchored in the marina barrage.
Wow... what a blessing.
Last few laps, Hamilton in the lead. Wow.... won it by a mile. Congrats Hamilton.
Back on the BOAT, my friends are all here and we sit and chat and eat on the fly bridge and cheers to a fun-filled day.
We look up at the Moon, shining there so proudly and lovely and thank our lucky stars.
What a fabulous Grand Prix Formula One Singapore experience!
Woooooot Woooooot... or is it Bruuuummmm Brrrrrruuuummmmmm now?
For my 1st ever F1 experience, I was invited to be guest of RightClicka Music and the Ferrari team.
I arrived at the Paddock Club about 4pm and walked around the village and marveled at the cars, the equipment, the mechanics, the quaint strips of 'al fresco' style booth line ups where gorgeous people sit and sip coffee.
The club suites are spread out between 3 floors and each floor, housing at least 15 suites accommodating to guests of Porsche, Ferrari, BMW, whom include people from the media, the entertainment industry, the creatives, outgoing entrepreneurs, fancy socialites, public relations people etc etc.
We are security checked, tagged :) and escorted to our "Club Suite box" which seems like a real pain to walk to but has the sickest view of the pits and start point. We see the Grand Stand ticket holders across from us, as we are parked right amongst it, with the actual racing cars prepping for the night, right beneath our dancing feet and free flow of drinks.
I go for a walk down to the pits and take some pictures on the track. I giggle like a little girl and stare wide-eyed at this incredible sight. I notice two Backstreet Boys taking pictures with the Ferrari and I wait my turn to get one.
It's 15 mins to race and I need to get back up to the cozy red plushy couches of the mscape lounge where the dj has on some groovy tunes, champagne is free flowing and there's a sashimi chef serving up sushi and other delicacies.
As I walk into the lounge, I see Carl Cox on my right and John Digweed sitting next to him.
Everyone's in a good mood and standing by the glass window waiting for the OK GO!
I plug in my ear plugs and stand by.
RACE ON.
After about ten laps or more, I walked toward the jetty right by the Singapore Flyer, which allowed me to enjoy more corners and close ups of the cars. Wow, those engines are powerful. And once again I stress, it is LOUD.
"Molly", comes to pick us up from dock to take us back to the Carpe Diem and Oriental Dream tied up together. Now I am watching the race from a yacht anchored in the marina barrage.
Wow... what a blessing.
Last few laps, Hamilton in the lead. Wow.... won it by a mile. Congrats Hamilton.
Back on the BOAT, my friends are all here and we sit and chat and eat on the fly bridge and cheers to a fun-filled day.
We look up at the Moon, shining there so proudly and lovely and thank our lucky stars.
What a fabulous Grand Prix Formula One Singapore experience!
Woooooot Woooooot... or is it Bruuuummmm Brrrrrruuuummmmmm now?
Friday, September 11, 2009
Within and without
I always feel nervous after interviews with journalists.
I hope they write a gracious article and I hope they quote me accurately.
When I am free to express myself through my own words, I have clarity to answer my own questions at my own time.
Sometimes when you are trying to convey a message, it can often be misunderstood, or misquoted.
We often want to believe that the Press are the people's watchdog.
That they have our best interest at heart.
We hope and believe they want to tell us the truth, from an unbiased perspective so we may judge for ourselves.
But we all know, shamefully, that malice and gossip and viciousness is what gets the better of our attention.
We want to know the dirt. We find excitement in the hostile.
Many of us believe, and probably rightfully so, that none of us can live on love and fresh air.
But none of us have to live in poverty or shame or hunger either.
We do not need to suffer to succeed.
It is not a universal or divine law that we have to go through some kind of turmoil to reap the benefits and emerge triumphant.
The Universe is 'way' abundant.
We bring forth what we give out. And we can all give out goodness.
In every day things, in the way you look at the person next to you on the MRT, or the person you jog pass on your night runs, :) It could be smiling at every elderly person you see, or simply opening the door for someone.
Interacting with society and talking to one another with respect.
People are so interesting when they are happy. They send out all this joyous energy.
I think the only 'entrapment' the media in Singapore should be doing is the comedy central stuff. "Just for laughs" is a great reflection of how jovial Canadians are and pranks like that always brings out the true nature of those happy people. Even some of the Japanese skits they do now. Wow those people really give new meaning to the term..."It's all good" while it laughing off.
Look, I am not suggesting productions go "Jackass" scare Singaporeans all around the island.
What I am saying is...
Let's document and represent a Happy Singapore with original Singaporeans.
A garden city where the heartland is nurturing and cultured.
Support our roots and celebrate our 'Uniqueness' as our banner says but do it whole-heartedly. Believe that our country, though small in size on the map of the world, is proud of it's home bred, love it's local talent, embrace their deep rooted beliefs but share them with those who come.
We cannot get the world to notice us if we ourselves do not notice what is within.
I hope they write a gracious article and I hope they quote me accurately.
When I am free to express myself through my own words, I have clarity to answer my own questions at my own time.
Sometimes when you are trying to convey a message, it can often be misunderstood, or misquoted.
We often want to believe that the Press are the people's watchdog.
That they have our best interest at heart.
We hope and believe they want to tell us the truth, from an unbiased perspective so we may judge for ourselves.
But we all know, shamefully, that malice and gossip and viciousness is what gets the better of our attention.
We want to know the dirt. We find excitement in the hostile.
Many of us believe, and probably rightfully so, that none of us can live on love and fresh air.
But none of us have to live in poverty or shame or hunger either.
We do not need to suffer to succeed.
It is not a universal or divine law that we have to go through some kind of turmoil to reap the benefits and emerge triumphant.
The Universe is 'way' abundant.
We bring forth what we give out. And we can all give out goodness.
In every day things, in the way you look at the person next to you on the MRT, or the person you jog pass on your night runs, :) It could be smiling at every elderly person you see, or simply opening the door for someone.
Interacting with society and talking to one another with respect.
People are so interesting when they are happy. They send out all this joyous energy.
I think the only 'entrapment' the media in Singapore should be doing is the comedy central stuff. "Just for laughs" is a great reflection of how jovial Canadians are and pranks like that always brings out the true nature of those happy people. Even some of the Japanese skits they do now. Wow those people really give new meaning to the term..."It's all good" while it laughing off.
Look, I am not suggesting productions go "Jackass" scare Singaporeans all around the island.
What I am saying is...
Let's document and represent a Happy Singapore with original Singaporeans.
A garden city where the heartland is nurturing and cultured.
Support our roots and celebrate our 'Uniqueness' as our banner says but do it whole-heartedly. Believe that our country, though small in size on the map of the world, is proud of it's home bred, love it's local talent, embrace their deep rooted beliefs but share them with those who come.
We cannot get the world to notice us if we ourselves do not notice what is within.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
My NDP 2009
I cannot get to sleep. My head is running in circles after a restless week.
I was glad to catch up with old pals and drink ourselves to oblivion on Thursday, but that careless behavior led me on a stressful weekend experience.
Nonetheless, fairies blessed my Sunday.
Aidan and I gave Gizmo a bath out on the veranda, played with the neighbor's kids and celebrated Singapore's National Day by doing what we love doing... spending time with each other.
By the time we realized it was only an hour before the fireworks were set to go off,
we speedily got ourselves dolled up (in red & white, of course) and jumped into the car, expecting bad traffic and absolutely no way of getting parking, or getting to where we needed to on time.
Miraculously, the drive in was smooth and we passed the parade on the ECP about 8pm.
We decided to exit off Prince Edward and as we drove along Robinson Road, we could see herds of people fill the streets and pavements, all hovering, staring at the night sky, waiting to witness the 44th NDP fireworks.
Traffic was slow but moving. And after only 10 minutes, we were turning into the Fullerton Hotel car park, racing to find a space so we could make the 'performance' in time.
I kid you not... but as we emerged from the lifts, onto One Fullerton's waterfront ... the magic began.
Aidan stood behind me, wrapping me in his arms, and we both stared up at the sparkling, blazing sky watching the myriad of colors burst all over the black of night.
Witnessing our first fireworks show together, excluding the magical one only He and I shared the first time he kissed me.
When it was over, we joined our friends for dinner and drinks at Overeasy and feasted our nation's independence.
Some of my girlfriends who had been to the National Day Parade, arrived with goodies bags filled with fun props and memorabilia, gushed with stories about Ivan Heng's direction for the parade and how patriotic and heart-warming it all was.
We didn't have a late one as we were both tired and I was still not feeling a 100%.
Mondays have always been challenging for me.
And I know people may agree that nobody likes Mondays but personally, I think it's because I have sub consciously been a Sunday addict. It doesn't even make sense.
As far as I can remember, in my line of work, a normal work week is never defined by weekdays and weekends.
We work when there are jobs, whatever occasion or public holiday and for however long the project requires and on the flip side, there are times we don't work for weeks... if the season says so. Or no, to be more accurate.
So I'm not even sure where I developed this dependency for Lazy Sundays and a rebellion for Manic Mondays. As far as time is concerned, it's either a 'work day' or not.
I refuse to believe the answer lies in my childhood cathechism classes and the teachings of Sabbath day yet I cannot help but feel the reasoning reflects my need to feel 'normal'.
To develop some kind of routine for myself.
So I can find my own cycle.
And so I sit here, on a Tuesday morning, after a lousy Monday, unable to fall asleep.
Wondering if I can pull my plans together and thrive through my week ahead and be as productive as I can be, according to my schedule, come morning.
I was glad to catch up with old pals and drink ourselves to oblivion on Thursday, but that careless behavior led me on a stressful weekend experience.
Nonetheless, fairies blessed my Sunday.
Aidan and I gave Gizmo a bath out on the veranda, played with the neighbor's kids and celebrated Singapore's National Day by doing what we love doing... spending time with each other.
By the time we realized it was only an hour before the fireworks were set to go off,
we speedily got ourselves dolled up (in red & white, of course) and jumped into the car, expecting bad traffic and absolutely no way of getting parking, or getting to where we needed to on time.
Miraculously, the drive in was smooth and we passed the parade on the ECP about 8pm.
We decided to exit off Prince Edward and as we drove along Robinson Road, we could see herds of people fill the streets and pavements, all hovering, staring at the night sky, waiting to witness the 44th NDP fireworks.
Traffic was slow but moving. And after only 10 minutes, we were turning into the Fullerton Hotel car park, racing to find a space so we could make the 'performance' in time.
I kid you not... but as we emerged from the lifts, onto One Fullerton's waterfront ... the magic began.
Aidan stood behind me, wrapping me in his arms, and we both stared up at the sparkling, blazing sky watching the myriad of colors burst all over the black of night.
Witnessing our first fireworks show together, excluding the magical one only He and I shared the first time he kissed me.
When it was over, we joined our friends for dinner and drinks at Overeasy and feasted our nation's independence.
Some of my girlfriends who had been to the National Day Parade, arrived with goodies bags filled with fun props and memorabilia, gushed with stories about Ivan Heng's direction for the parade and how patriotic and heart-warming it all was.
We didn't have a late one as we were both tired and I was still not feeling a 100%.
Mondays have always been challenging for me.
And I know people may agree that nobody likes Mondays but personally, I think it's because I have sub consciously been a Sunday addict. It doesn't even make sense.
As far as I can remember, in my line of work, a normal work week is never defined by weekdays and weekends.
We work when there are jobs, whatever occasion or public holiday and for however long the project requires and on the flip side, there are times we don't work for weeks... if the season says so. Or no, to be more accurate.
So I'm not even sure where I developed this dependency for Lazy Sundays and a rebellion for Manic Mondays. As far as time is concerned, it's either a 'work day' or not.
I refuse to believe the answer lies in my childhood cathechism classes and the teachings of Sabbath day yet I cannot help but feel the reasoning reflects my need to feel 'normal'.
To develop some kind of routine for myself.
So I can find my own cycle.
And so I sit here, on a Tuesday morning, after a lousy Monday, unable to fall asleep.
Wondering if I can pull my plans together and thrive through my week ahead and be as productive as I can be, according to my schedule, come morning.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
When you open up...
Amongst yogis, the term "open up" is often used in a posture when you open your heart chakra, push your chest out and shine like the sun.
To open up in the spiritual world, you accept the messages sent to you and you are receptive to gifts of the Universe.
In love, you open up emotionally and surrender your trust to the Divine Laws of Attraction.
To open up means to go with the flow and let magic take place.
To leave all your worries to your Higher Being and let your purpose happen naturally.
To laugh and dance and feel peace with the World and Love toward all.
To cry when you need to release and purge when you need to detox.
To listen when you need to nourish and absorb and to meditate when you need solitude.
In all worlds and amongst all Beings, we must open up and trust.
Let love shine. Let things be and let go when you must.
Freedom is flying with the flow.
Dedicated to my Goddesses. Thank you for our Kwan Yin 'PlayShop' today.
To open up in the spiritual world, you accept the messages sent to you and you are receptive to gifts of the Universe.
In love, you open up emotionally and surrender your trust to the Divine Laws of Attraction.
To open up means to go with the flow and let magic take place.
To leave all your worries to your Higher Being and let your purpose happen naturally.
To laugh and dance and feel peace with the World and Love toward all.
To cry when you need to release and purge when you need to detox.
To listen when you need to nourish and absorb and to meditate when you need solitude.
In all worlds and amongst all Beings, we must open up and trust.
Let love shine. Let things be and let go when you must.
Freedom is flying with the flow.
Dedicated to my Goddesses. Thank you for our Kwan Yin 'PlayShop' today.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Your stones.
For a long time now, crystals and gemstones have been associated with healing and magic.
Wrapped in ancient stories and historical here-says, they are not only beautiful to the eyes but warming for the soul.
By now, everyone of us would own a couple but not think much of it.
Others, have a whole drawer... some to wear, others to carry and some more... just because.
Either ways, it's time to play with them. Hold them, wear them. Look at them. Charge them with energy.
Here is a very short summarized crystal list of the powers of the more popular stones.
The ones I suspect, we might ALL have right now, at home.
Amethyst (a purple quartz);
Known to help with sleep, or nightmares and soothes insomniacs, Amethyst is the stone of peace.
Wards off guilt and self-deception so it helps overcome addictions and amongst many other healing powers, amethyst also improves memory.
Diamonds;
Known to help with cleansing, releasing and purifying issues linked with sexuality.
Also promotes self confidence in relations to the opposite sex.
Contrary to popular belief, the diamond is not a stone of love, but can be worn for reconciliation.
Turquoise;
Known to be a protective stone. A ring may be worn to fend off evil eyes and promotes courage.
Also helps with the health, alleviates headaches and strengthens the eyes.
Worn as a necklace, it bestows abundance.
Crystal, Quartz;
The Great Mother Stone. Helps with healing and psychic abilities.
There are so many different colors of the stone and different healing properties for each color
but know that this stone is symbolic of the spirit and intellect of human beings.
Although easily acquired, this crystal has been underestimated for it benefits.
If the stone is properly cleansed and charged before wearing or using, it is a magical stone.
Blue helps with peace and tranquility. Green may stimulate creativity. Rose attracts love and opens the heart chakra. Smoky quartz is a mood elevator and Tourmalated quartz stimulates astral projections.
Jade;
Known to prevent disease and health troubles in both Chinese and Mayan traditions.
Also said to contain money-attracting energies when used positively and productively.
Jade is even a stone of wisdom and helps with reasoning.
So there we have it. A little bit about your stones... :)
Have a moment with them... share energy.
And start becoming more aware of how it affects you everyday.
Enjoy.
Wrapped in ancient stories and historical here-says, they are not only beautiful to the eyes but warming for the soul.
By now, everyone of us would own a couple but not think much of it.
Others, have a whole drawer... some to wear, others to carry and some more... just because.
Either ways, it's time to play with them. Hold them, wear them. Look at them. Charge them with energy.
Here is a very short summarized crystal list of the powers of the more popular stones.
The ones I suspect, we might ALL have right now, at home.
Amethyst (a purple quartz);
Known to help with sleep, or nightmares and soothes insomniacs, Amethyst is the stone of peace.
Wards off guilt and self-deception so it helps overcome addictions and amongst many other healing powers, amethyst also improves memory.
Diamonds;
Known to help with cleansing, releasing and purifying issues linked with sexuality.
Also promotes self confidence in relations to the opposite sex.
Contrary to popular belief, the diamond is not a stone of love, but can be worn for reconciliation.
Turquoise;
Known to be a protective stone. A ring may be worn to fend off evil eyes and promotes courage.
Also helps with the health, alleviates headaches and strengthens the eyes.
Worn as a necklace, it bestows abundance.
Crystal, Quartz;
The Great Mother Stone. Helps with healing and psychic abilities.
There are so many different colors of the stone and different healing properties for each color
but know that this stone is symbolic of the spirit and intellect of human beings.
Although easily acquired, this crystal has been underestimated for it benefits.
If the stone is properly cleansed and charged before wearing or using, it is a magical stone.
Blue helps with peace and tranquility. Green may stimulate creativity. Rose attracts love and opens the heart chakra. Smoky quartz is a mood elevator and Tourmalated quartz stimulates astral projections.
Jade;
Known to prevent disease and health troubles in both Chinese and Mayan traditions.
Also said to contain money-attracting energies when used positively and productively.
Jade is even a stone of wisdom and helps with reasoning.
So there we have it. A little bit about your stones... :)
Have a moment with them... share energy.
And start becoming more aware of how it affects you everyday.
Enjoy.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Public Transport....aarrggghhh mrt!
I took the MRT home today, in peak hour. And let me say, it is not a pleasant experience.
Firstly, I have decided to use public transport more regularly to cut costs and to do my bit ecologically. I have already made a pledge to myself to cut back on my holidays and work travels so I may reduce my carbon footprint, one step at a time. But being stuck in the MRT during peak hour sucks. Really.
There's always the inconsiderate traveler, the one that stops at the entrance of the train, or stands extremely close to you, or those who practically press themselves up against you as if you weren't even there no matter how many times you say "excuse me."
Then there are the passengers that ignore. They look like robots abducted them, pulled out their 'social consciousness' microchip left them there, on transit waiting for the next activation. You could be looking straight at them, ask them to move over a wee bit or if they wouldn't mind taking their lovely heel out of the flesh between your toes and they still wouldn't say a word and just turn away.
And the guilty looking person, plonked in "needy" chair, never looking up once to see if there really was an old lady or man on the train. Hoping nobody's going to poke him in the shoulder and get him/her to give up the seat.
Before I had got onboard, I was going through my yoga practice. Running through my head, what my body was feeling after one hour of power yoga and my mind was at peace. I felt stronger. I was standing straighter, breathing deeper and my muscles felt tired but empowered.
But somehow today, being around the MRT crowd left me feeling blocked and frustrated.
And I know sometimes, it's as easy as 'snapping out of it", training your mind to shut out.
Then I think, oh gosh, I don't want to be that sort of traveler, the one that is in robotland. Numb.
I want to be polite and considerate and hopefully encourage those around me to do so too.
I don't know why I am writing this... maybe it is a plea.
Let's be thoughtful and respectful of each other's space.
And become aware of your natural contribution in energy towards those around you.
We, as Singaporeans are so educated and well-read and modern, how come we still need campaigns for courtesy?
Are we that barbaric, still?
Not to see the bigger picture and how we effect the Universe. I do not believe so.
So I hope the next time I am on the MRT, which will be soon, I notice better social responsibility and we can ALL help each other live harmoniously and maintain a peaceful way in this already chaotic world.
Namaste.
Firstly, I have decided to use public transport more regularly to cut costs and to do my bit ecologically. I have already made a pledge to myself to cut back on my holidays and work travels so I may reduce my carbon footprint, one step at a time. But being stuck in the MRT during peak hour sucks. Really.
There's always the inconsiderate traveler, the one that stops at the entrance of the train, or stands extremely close to you, or those who practically press themselves up against you as if you weren't even there no matter how many times you say "excuse me."
Then there are the passengers that ignore. They look like robots abducted them, pulled out their 'social consciousness' microchip left them there, on transit waiting for the next activation. You could be looking straight at them, ask them to move over a wee bit or if they wouldn't mind taking their lovely heel out of the flesh between your toes and they still wouldn't say a word and just turn away.
And the guilty looking person, plonked in "needy" chair, never looking up once to see if there really was an old lady or man on the train. Hoping nobody's going to poke him in the shoulder and get him/her to give up the seat.
Before I had got onboard, I was going through my yoga practice. Running through my head, what my body was feeling after one hour of power yoga and my mind was at peace. I felt stronger. I was standing straighter, breathing deeper and my muscles felt tired but empowered.
But somehow today, being around the MRT crowd left me feeling blocked and frustrated.
And I know sometimes, it's as easy as 'snapping out of it", training your mind to shut out.
Then I think, oh gosh, I don't want to be that sort of traveler, the one that is in robotland. Numb.
I want to be polite and considerate and hopefully encourage those around me to do so too.
I don't know why I am writing this... maybe it is a plea.
Let's be thoughtful and respectful of each other's space.
And become aware of your natural contribution in energy towards those around you.
We, as Singaporeans are so educated and well-read and modern, how come we still need campaigns for courtesy?
Are we that barbaric, still?
Not to see the bigger picture and how we effect the Universe. I do not believe so.
So I hope the next time I am on the MRT, which will be soon, I notice better social responsibility and we can ALL help each other live harmoniously and maintain a peaceful way in this already chaotic world.
Namaste.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
The face of "Audi Fashion Festival" 2009 Charmaine Harn
"Of all the beauty's I have experienced in my career, few can hold a candle to Charmaine. Her grace, elegance, and timeless beauty are only second to her light. That, for me, is what puts her, and keeps her, right at the top". -Maggie Q
While her modeling career began ordinarily enough, having being discovered by a talent scout on the street at 14, it's how Charmaine's career has maintained momentum that is of greatest note. From her beginning with Singapore's Faces & Places agency to becoming the face of Singapore for well over a decade, Charmaine's climb to the top has yet to plateau.
Personally selected by Eileen and Bill Ford in the "Ford Supermodel of the World" competition in 1996 as Singapore's sole representative, Charmaine went on to Miami to represent Singapore in the international competition for the event which manifested into an offer to work in Paris under Ford's representation. After a few months in Paris and Miami, she then spent the next few years shuttling between Shanghai, Taiwan, Malaysia, Singapore, Jakarta and Hong Kong for fashion shoots, print ads, TV commercials, editorials and big brand fashion shows. In 2004, Charmaine based herself in Milan and got acquainted with the Italian scene. Well enough to be chosen to open the Costume Nationale show that very same year.
Today, established and recognized, she has appeared on the cover of several magazines from Elle to Sports Illustrated, in print ads for Sony, TV spots for Osim and in Asia and South East Asia shows for Chanel, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, among many others under the aegis of Ave Model Management (Singapore) and Starz People (Hong Kong). Charmaine was also the host of Channel News Asia's luxury lifestyle program, "Diary of Indulgence" program and was hailed by Harper's Bazaar Singapore as one of the most fashionable women in Asia.
With no signs of slowing down, Charmaine's impressive list of accolades and features continues to build as she represents a uniquely Singaporean beauty to the world.
-Stevie G
While her modeling career began ordinarily enough, having being discovered by a talent scout on the street at 14, it's how Charmaine's career has maintained momentum that is of greatest note. From her beginning with Singapore's Faces & Places agency to becoming the face of Singapore for well over a decade, Charmaine's climb to the top has yet to plateau.
Personally selected by Eileen and Bill Ford in the "Ford Supermodel of the World" competition in 1996 as Singapore's sole representative, Charmaine went on to Miami to represent Singapore in the international competition for the event which manifested into an offer to work in Paris under Ford's representation. After a few months in Paris and Miami, she then spent the next few years shuttling between Shanghai, Taiwan, Malaysia, Singapore, Jakarta and Hong Kong for fashion shoots, print ads, TV commercials, editorials and big brand fashion shows. In 2004, Charmaine based herself in Milan and got acquainted with the Italian scene. Well enough to be chosen to open the Costume Nationale show that very same year.
Today, established and recognized, she has appeared on the cover of several magazines from Elle to Sports Illustrated, in print ads for Sony, TV spots for Osim and in Asia and South East Asia shows for Chanel, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, among many others under the aegis of Ave Model Management (Singapore) and Starz People (Hong Kong). Charmaine was also the host of Channel News Asia's luxury lifestyle program, "Diary of Indulgence" program and was hailed by Harper's Bazaar Singapore as one of the most fashionable women in Asia.
With no signs of slowing down, Charmaine's impressive list of accolades and features continues to build as she represents a uniquely Singaporean beauty to the world.
-Stevie G
Saturday, April 25, 2009
मेदिताते.
And yet we have to deal with it again.
The ignorance, the lack of drive, the unawareness of the need for personal growth.
We encounter situations like these time and time again.
Some days, we are careful enough not to put ourselves in that energy and some days, you are just soaked in it.
Ideally, we remember our purpose, maintain our positivity and share some of that fruitful knowledge that we have been blessed with.
But it is hard not to question if we have the strength to deal with it unnecessarily, too often.
Creative souls need solitude. Every once in awhile, space and silence is critical to ease their noisy minds. And this time is sacred yet vital to staying productive and centered.
I'm not sure if it's just because I am a Libra but I've always believed that every challenging deed deserves a reward. Whether big or small. We are all entitled to live a little, as they say.
One of my theories in life is you make a life, not a living.
And a lifestyle you live, you will make enough money to keep. If you think poor, stinge a lot and calculate every penny, then you will earn just enough to upkeep that lifestyle.
If you share and radiate generously and live your life like it's golden..
it shall be.
Stick to what you know... and dedicate yourself to it.
Learn focus... we could ALL always do with more focus.
Find ways to improve your know-how. Research.
If you're tired of looking... Read.
Take the time to SEE and absorb. And accept.
Meditate,
Namaste.
The ignorance, the lack of drive, the unawareness of the need for personal growth.
We encounter situations like these time and time again.
Some days, we are careful enough not to put ourselves in that energy and some days, you are just soaked in it.
Ideally, we remember our purpose, maintain our positivity and share some of that fruitful knowledge that we have been blessed with.
But it is hard not to question if we have the strength to deal with it unnecessarily, too often.
Creative souls need solitude. Every once in awhile, space and silence is critical to ease their noisy minds. And this time is sacred yet vital to staying productive and centered.
I'm not sure if it's just because I am a Libra but I've always believed that every challenging deed deserves a reward. Whether big or small. We are all entitled to live a little, as they say.
One of my theories in life is you make a life, not a living.
And a lifestyle you live, you will make enough money to keep. If you think poor, stinge a lot and calculate every penny, then you will earn just enough to upkeep that lifestyle.
If you share and radiate generously and live your life like it's golden..
it shall be.
Stick to what you know... and dedicate yourself to it.
Learn focus... we could ALL always do with more focus.
Find ways to improve your know-how. Research.
If you're tired of looking... Read.
Take the time to SEE and absorb. And accept.
Meditate,
Namaste.
Friday, April 24, 2009
इ रेस्ट माय केस.
By TARA PARKER-POPE
Published: April 20, 2009
In the quest for better health, many people turn to doctors, self-help books or
herbal supplements. But they overlook a powerful weapon that could help them
fight illness and depression, speed recovery, slow aging and prolong life:
their friends.
Researchers are only now starting to pay attention to the importance of
friendship and social networks in overall health. A 10-year Australian study
found that older people with a large circle of friends were 22 percent less
likely to die during the study period than those with fewer friends. A large
2007 study showed an increase of nearly 60 percent in the risk for obesity
among people whose friends gained weight. And last year, Harvard researchers
reported that strong social ties could promote brain health as we age.
“In general, the role of friendship in our lives isn’t terribly well
appreciated,” said Rebecca G. Adams, a professor of sociology at the University
of North Carolina, Greensboro. “There is just scads of stuff on families and
marriage, but very little on friendship. It baffles me. Friendship has a bigger
impact on our psychological well-being than family relationships.”
In a new book, “The Girls From Ames: A Story of Women and a 40-Year Friendship”
(Gotham), Jeffrey Zaslow tells the story of 11 childhood friends who scattered
from Iowa to eight different states. Despite the distance, their friendships
endured through college and marriage, divorce and other crises, including the
death of one of the women in her 20s.
Using scrapbooks, photo albums and the women’s own memories, Mr. Zaslow
chronicles how their close friendships have shaped their lives and continue to
sustain them. The role of friendship in their health and well-being is evident
in almost every chapter.
Two of the friends have recently learned they have breast cancer. Kelly
Zwagerman, now a high school teacher who lives in Northfield, Minn., said that
when she got her diagnosis in September 2007, her doctor told her to surround
herself with loved ones. Instead, she reached out to her childhood friends,
even though they lived far away.
“The first people I told were the women from Ames,” she said in an interview. “I
e-mailed them. I immediately had e-mails and phone calls and messages of
support. It was instant that the love poured in from all of them.”
When she complained that her treatment led to painful sores in her throat, an
Ames girl sent a smoothie maker and recipes. Another, who had lost a daughter
to leukemia, sent Ms. Zwagerman a hand-knitted hat, knowing her head would be
cold without hair; still another sent pajamas made of special fabric to help
cope with night sweats.
Ms. Zwagerman said she was often more comfortable discussing her illness with
her girlfriends than with her doctor. “We go so far back that these women will
talk about anything,” she said.
Ms. Zwagerman says her friends from Ames have been an essential factor in her
treatment and recovery, and research bears her out. In 2006, a study of nearly
3,000 nurses with breast cancer found that women without close friends were
four times as likely to die from the disease as women with 10 or more friends.
And notably, proximity and the amount of contact with a friend wasn’t
associated with survival. Just having friends was protective.
Bella DePaulo, a visiting psychology professor at the University of California,
Santa Barbara, whose work focuses on single people and friendships, notes that
in many studies, friendship has an even greater effect on health than a spouse
or family member. In the study of nurses with breast cancer, having a spouse
wasn’t associated with survival.
While many friendship studies focus on the intense relationships of women, some
research shows that men can benefit, too. In a six-year study of 736 middle-age
Swedish men, attachment to a single person didn’t appear to affect the risk of
heart attack and fatal coronary heart disease, but having friendships did. Only
smoking was as important a risk factor as lack of social support.
Exactly why friendship has such a big effect isn’t entirely clear. While friends
can run errands and pick up medicine for a sick person, the benefits go well
beyond physical assistance; indeed, proximity does not seem to be a factor.
It may be that people with strong social ties also have better access to health
services and care. Beyond that, however, friendship clearly has a profound
psychological effect. People with strong friendships are less likely than
others to get colds, perhaps because they have lower stress levels.
Last year, researchers studied 34 students at the University of Virginia, taking
them to the base of a steep hill and fitting them with a weighted backpack.
They were then asked to estimate the steepness of the hill. Some participants
stood next to friends during the exercise, while others were alone.
The students who stood with friends gave lower estimates of the steepness of the
hill. And the longer the friends had known each other, the less steep the hill
appeared.
“People with stronger friendship networks feel like there is someone they can
turn to,” said Karen A. Roberto, director of the center for gerontology at
Virginia Tech. “Friendship is an undervalued resource. The consistent message
of these studies is that friends make your life better.”
Published: April 20, 2009
In the quest for better health, many people turn to doctors, self-help books or
herbal supplements. But they overlook a powerful weapon that could help them
fight illness and depression, speed recovery, slow aging and prolong life:
their friends.
Researchers are only now starting to pay attention to the importance of
friendship and social networks in overall health. A 10-year Australian study
found that older people with a large circle of friends were 22 percent less
likely to die during the study period than those with fewer friends. A large
2007 study showed an increase of nearly 60 percent in the risk for obesity
among people whose friends gained weight. And last year, Harvard researchers
reported that strong social ties could promote brain health as we age.
“In general, the role of friendship in our lives isn’t terribly well
appreciated,” said Rebecca G. Adams, a professor of sociology at the University
of North Carolina, Greensboro. “There is just scads of stuff on families and
marriage, but very little on friendship. It baffles me. Friendship has a bigger
impact on our psychological well-being than family relationships.”
In a new book, “The Girls From Ames: A Story of Women and a 40-Year Friendship”
(Gotham), Jeffrey Zaslow tells the story of 11 childhood friends who scattered
from Iowa to eight different states. Despite the distance, their friendships
endured through college and marriage, divorce and other crises, including the
death of one of the women in her 20s.
Using scrapbooks, photo albums and the women’s own memories, Mr. Zaslow
chronicles how their close friendships have shaped their lives and continue to
sustain them. The role of friendship in their health and well-being is evident
in almost every chapter.
Two of the friends have recently learned they have breast cancer. Kelly
Zwagerman, now a high school teacher who lives in Northfield, Minn., said that
when she got her diagnosis in September 2007, her doctor told her to surround
herself with loved ones. Instead, she reached out to her childhood friends,
even though they lived far away.
“The first people I told were the women from Ames,” she said in an interview. “I
e-mailed them. I immediately had e-mails and phone calls and messages of
support. It was instant that the love poured in from all of them.”
When she complained that her treatment led to painful sores in her throat, an
Ames girl sent a smoothie maker and recipes. Another, who had lost a daughter
to leukemia, sent Ms. Zwagerman a hand-knitted hat, knowing her head would be
cold without hair; still another sent pajamas made of special fabric to help
cope with night sweats.
Ms. Zwagerman said she was often more comfortable discussing her illness with
her girlfriends than with her doctor. “We go so far back that these women will
talk about anything,” she said.
Ms. Zwagerman says her friends from Ames have been an essential factor in her
treatment and recovery, and research bears her out. In 2006, a study of nearly
3,000 nurses with breast cancer found that women without close friends were
four times as likely to die from the disease as women with 10 or more friends.
And notably, proximity and the amount of contact with a friend wasn’t
associated with survival. Just having friends was protective.
Bella DePaulo, a visiting psychology professor at the University of California,
Santa Barbara, whose work focuses on single people and friendships, notes that
in many studies, friendship has an even greater effect on health than a spouse
or family member. In the study of nurses with breast cancer, having a spouse
wasn’t associated with survival.
While many friendship studies focus on the intense relationships of women, some
research shows that men can benefit, too. In a six-year study of 736 middle-age
Swedish men, attachment to a single person didn’t appear to affect the risk of
heart attack and fatal coronary heart disease, but having friendships did. Only
smoking was as important a risk factor as lack of social support.
Exactly why friendship has such a big effect isn’t entirely clear. While friends
can run errands and pick up medicine for a sick person, the benefits go well
beyond physical assistance; indeed, proximity does not seem to be a factor.
It may be that people with strong social ties also have better access to health
services and care. Beyond that, however, friendship clearly has a profound
psychological effect. People with strong friendships are less likely than
others to get colds, perhaps because they have lower stress levels.
Last year, researchers studied 34 students at the University of Virginia, taking
them to the base of a steep hill and fitting them with a weighted backpack.
They were then asked to estimate the steepness of the hill. Some participants
stood next to friends during the exercise, while others were alone.
The students who stood with friends gave lower estimates of the steepness of the
hill. And the longer the friends had known each other, the less steep the hill
appeared.
“People with stronger friendship networks feel like there is someone they can
turn to,” said Karen A. Roberto, director of the center for gerontology at
Virginia Tech. “Friendship is an undervalued resource. The consistent message
of these studies is that friends make your life better.”
Monday, March 2, 2009
:)
I am in a current state of bliss.
I feel loved, I feel happy, money doesn't matter to me and I am not afraid.
I am present. I am aware that I reap what I sow so I am planting positivity and joy.
I know I could always develop more patience but I am proud of myself lately and my peaceful state of mind.
I know the things and people who are important to me and I feel understood by them.
I feel no need to prove myself unnecessarily and I am not in defense mode.
I am appreciated and I appreciate myself.
I feel purposeful.
I feel loved, I feel happy, money doesn't matter to me and I am not afraid.
I am present. I am aware that I reap what I sow so I am planting positivity and joy.
I know I could always develop more patience but I am proud of myself lately and my peaceful state of mind.
I know the things and people who are important to me and I feel understood by them.
I feel no need to prove myself unnecessarily and I am not in defense mode.
I am appreciated and I appreciate myself.
I feel purposeful.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Bali as Home
Now I can understand how living in Bali in 2007 turned my life around.
In every aspect. Love. Career. Life lessons. Sorrow. Independence.
I still do not know now, if I made the right decision to live there so soon in my life.
Bali is Balance. And power. and Karma. Living there has it's price.
To have a lifestyle so filled with freedom, tests the soul respectively.
Bali is the core of ying and yang.
There is such a magic that marries the mystical and rawness of the island.
And Bali never fails to lure you into it's wondrous spell of bliss and abandonment.
It is a secret love affair.
It is one I care not to discuss casually and I find myself often making excuses to justify my coyness on the subject.
It is my time out and an awakening all wrapped up in padi fields, impulsive bike rides with the wind in my hair, visiting sacred lands, making magical friendships and feeling exhilaration like you've never felt before.
As I deepened myself in that cocoon.
Living the life like I dreamed, the rest of the world faded from my memory.
Nothing else mattered and all I knew was Bali.
Day after day, sunset walks ,mountain trails and the long drives through the countryside as well as, a few drunken nights I would crawled into bed trashed.
Those lovely beach walks calmed my mind everyday and I developed an inner peace which I still use in much needed situations today.
Bali makes one take the time to understand people. You do things that make you or whoever you are in Bali with, happy. You share everything. You steal nothing.
The thing is, I look at my pictures from back then... and I can see the change in my gaze, and the warming of my skin tone. It's the Bali blessing I guess.
I think it was because Bali helped me develop spiritually, I spent my 30th bday there and I still believe up to this day.. that something shifted in me that day.
It was an extremely intense and confronting time for me and Bali seemed to cushion my fall and was the rock I so needed at that point in time.
I know that I will always be bonded to Bali by some magical silver cord because when I think of Bali today,
my heart still flutters. I am still curious. I still want a little bit more.
Like a love affair, like a drug.
I crave it. And when it stings, it scars me.
But every time I leave it, it burns a wee bit more.
So Bali... I love our love affair.
Til we meet again....
In every aspect. Love. Career. Life lessons. Sorrow. Independence.
I still do not know now, if I made the right decision to live there so soon in my life.
Bali is Balance. And power. and Karma. Living there has it's price.
To have a lifestyle so filled with freedom, tests the soul respectively.
Bali is the core of ying and yang.
There is such a magic that marries the mystical and rawness of the island.
And Bali never fails to lure you into it's wondrous spell of bliss and abandonment.
It is a secret love affair.
It is one I care not to discuss casually and I find myself often making excuses to justify my coyness on the subject.
It is my time out and an awakening all wrapped up in padi fields, impulsive bike rides with the wind in my hair, visiting sacred lands, making magical friendships and feeling exhilaration like you've never felt before.
As I deepened myself in that cocoon.
Living the life like I dreamed, the rest of the world faded from my memory.
Nothing else mattered and all I knew was Bali.
Day after day, sunset walks ,mountain trails and the long drives through the countryside as well as, a few drunken nights I would crawled into bed trashed.
Those lovely beach walks calmed my mind everyday and I developed an inner peace which I still use in much needed situations today.
Bali makes one take the time to understand people. You do things that make you or whoever you are in Bali with, happy. You share everything. You steal nothing.
The thing is, I look at my pictures from back then... and I can see the change in my gaze, and the warming of my skin tone. It's the Bali blessing I guess.
I think it was because Bali helped me develop spiritually, I spent my 30th bday there and I still believe up to this day.. that something shifted in me that day.
It was an extremely intense and confronting time for me and Bali seemed to cushion my fall and was the rock I so needed at that point in time.
I know that I will always be bonded to Bali by some magical silver cord because when I think of Bali today,
my heart still flutters. I am still curious. I still want a little bit more.
Like a love affair, like a drug.
I crave it. And when it stings, it scars me.
But every time I leave it, it burns a wee bit more.
So Bali... I love our love affair.
Til we meet again....
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Love Thyself.
Steer clear of negativity and nourish the mind with only good wholesome thoughts and intentions.
Practice kind speech and habituate patience since compassion is the key to inner peace.
When we feel tired or unappreciated, rely on solitude and quiet time to reflect and rejuvenate.
When we feel challenged, act only with love.
When we are lonely, seek refuge in friends or family and turn to inward contemplation to deliberate the root of your detachment.
I know this all sounds a lot easier preached than performed but affirmations rarely fail and reminding yourself of all you have, reassures the mind and spirit of positive realizations.
Surrounding yourself with people who bring out the best in you is critical.
Be it your best friend, partner, family members or colleagues, do not feel guilty for overlooking acquaintances and 'energy sappers' simply because 'charity' friendships often leave you regretful and resentful.
Every person holds different energy fields and there is nothing wrong with only wanting to be around those on the same wavelength as you are. But do not misunderstand me...and start cutting off old friends or start being mean to anyone who knows less than you do.... as everyone evolves and learns in their own time and your positivity is what will inspire them.
When a loved one is disheartened, offer support and sanctuary and try to lift their spirits.
Remember a sad heart feels fear and all you need to give to help is nonjudgmental consideration and a fresh perception. So listen up and hug. And promise to be around when needed and make the effort. Being the light in someone else's darkness tenders enlightenment.
Alert yourself every morning with affirmations and meditation and train your mind to maintain child-like enthusiasm in all you do. Be kind to animals for their souls are pure and a great judge of character. React respectfully, with clarity and piety as life is a mirror and we get what we give.
Love yourself enough to see the beauty in everyday blessings.
To inspire is to nurture the heart which blossoms the soul.
Have a shining week.
Namaste
The beauty of this piece is I wrote it almost exactly a year ago. 3rd March 2008 to be exact.
But reading it again now and sharing it has lifted me. Hope you like it. x C
Practice kind speech and habituate patience since compassion is the key to inner peace.
When we feel tired or unappreciated, rely on solitude and quiet time to reflect and rejuvenate.
When we feel challenged, act only with love.
When we are lonely, seek refuge in friends or family and turn to inward contemplation to deliberate the root of your detachment.
I know this all sounds a lot easier preached than performed but affirmations rarely fail and reminding yourself of all you have, reassures the mind and spirit of positive realizations.
Surrounding yourself with people who bring out the best in you is critical.
Be it your best friend, partner, family members or colleagues, do not feel guilty for overlooking acquaintances and 'energy sappers' simply because 'charity' friendships often leave you regretful and resentful.
Every person holds different energy fields and there is nothing wrong with only wanting to be around those on the same wavelength as you are. But do not misunderstand me...and start cutting off old friends or start being mean to anyone who knows less than you do.... as everyone evolves and learns in their own time and your positivity is what will inspire them.
When a loved one is disheartened, offer support and sanctuary and try to lift their spirits.
Remember a sad heart feels fear and all you need to give to help is nonjudgmental consideration and a fresh perception. So listen up and hug. And promise to be around when needed and make the effort. Being the light in someone else's darkness tenders enlightenment.
Alert yourself every morning with affirmations and meditation and train your mind to maintain child-like enthusiasm in all you do. Be kind to animals for their souls are pure and a great judge of character. React respectfully, with clarity and piety as life is a mirror and we get what we give.
Love yourself enough to see the beauty in everyday blessings.
To inspire is to nurture the heart which blossoms the soul.
Have a shining week.
Namaste
The beauty of this piece is I wrote it almost exactly a year ago. 3rd March 2008 to be exact.
But reading it again now and sharing it has lifted me. Hope you like it. x C
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Love vs. Distance
In this day and age, with such available accessibility...
Love has yet another obstacle to tackle.
These days, you hear of 'German mixed Koreans' in relationships with 'Pakistani mixed South Americans'. Multi-racial relationships are common.
Love seems to transcend race, oceans, continents, even dimensions.
Long distant relationships are common and partners now are use to being separated for months at a time, often due to individual career paths.
I use to think it impossible to survive and cope in a long distance relationship, believing it was inconceivable to 'be with someone' and yet feel lonely most of the time.
I like to share thoughts, events of the day and cuddles in front of the TV most nights.
But lately, I see the benefits of personal time and lesser distractions, especially if the relationship inspires each other to pursue their goals.
I remember a friend asking me once, "Charm, most of the things you do in a day, do you find the need to tell someone about it? I mean do u think if only u knew, it would mean less?"
Strange question I know, but it did get me thinking...
Some couples get that way, they share every little single detail of the day, relying on the reaction of their partner to justify or rate their doings.
Almost as if they didn't know why or how or when for themselves.
Distance eliminates all those daily nitty gritty...
Be it on the phone or through emails...Lovers talk about caressing each other, looking into one another's eyes, kissing, hugging, planning when to see each other again.
I heard a saying once...
"Being in love is giving someone your heart and trusting they won't break it."
Distance gives that trust a whole new dimension.
It's almost like sharing a beautiful secret, across borders, over mountains.
Believing that even though each of you are experiencing something extremely different, be it culture or time zones, you are both still working together on a connection you two believe links your hearts.
And eventually, when both your paths cross again, there is much more appreciation of the presence of being.
Being able to feel each other's skin, touch each other again, make breath-taking love.
And the wonderful shift in knowing that trust and love was well worth it simply because wherever we were,when you weren't together and whoever we were with....
both parties just wanted to be with each other instead and patiently willed it so.
That shared vision leads down the sweet path of manifestation
and what we focus on, we will eventually become....
So maintain focus... and follow your Heart.
Love manifests in strange ways.
Love has yet another obstacle to tackle.
These days, you hear of 'German mixed Koreans' in relationships with 'Pakistani mixed South Americans'. Multi-racial relationships are common.
Love seems to transcend race, oceans, continents, even dimensions.
Long distant relationships are common and partners now are use to being separated for months at a time, often due to individual career paths.
I use to think it impossible to survive and cope in a long distance relationship, believing it was inconceivable to 'be with someone' and yet feel lonely most of the time.
I like to share thoughts, events of the day and cuddles in front of the TV most nights.
But lately, I see the benefits of personal time and lesser distractions, especially if the relationship inspires each other to pursue their goals.
I remember a friend asking me once, "Charm, most of the things you do in a day, do you find the need to tell someone about it? I mean do u think if only u knew, it would mean less?"
Strange question I know, but it did get me thinking...
Some couples get that way, they share every little single detail of the day, relying on the reaction of their partner to justify or rate their doings.
Almost as if they didn't know why or how or when for themselves.
Distance eliminates all those daily nitty gritty...
Be it on the phone or through emails...Lovers talk about caressing each other, looking into one another's eyes, kissing, hugging, planning when to see each other again.
I heard a saying once...
"Being in love is giving someone your heart and trusting they won't break it."
Distance gives that trust a whole new dimension.
It's almost like sharing a beautiful secret, across borders, over mountains.
Believing that even though each of you are experiencing something extremely different, be it culture or time zones, you are both still working together on a connection you two believe links your hearts.
And eventually, when both your paths cross again, there is much more appreciation of the presence of being.
Being able to feel each other's skin, touch each other again, make breath-taking love.
And the wonderful shift in knowing that trust and love was well worth it simply because wherever we were,when you weren't together and whoever we were with....
both parties just wanted to be with each other instead and patiently willed it so.
That shared vision leads down the sweet path of manifestation
and what we focus on, we will eventually become....
So maintain focus... and follow your Heart.
Love manifests in strange ways.
HE
He sat across the room from me...watching me. With part fascination and part curiosity.
The room was filled with smoke, bodies gyrating to the loud pumping music and and sexual sorcery.
Every once in awhile our eyes would meet and he would lock his gaze into mine as if trying to read my mind.
I stand there, swaying to the rhythm, rather intoxicated by the atmosphere and the four martinis I had. My friends are dancing all around me, some seated at a table not far away, chugging down bottles of vodka and some at the bar giggling amongst themselves.
Everyone around us is completely unaware of this little game that has started between strangers.
I break away from the dancefloor, walk over to the bar to finish my drink and set myself up for another one.
I lose myself in conversation with my friends at the bar and return to the table to find that he is no longer where I saw him last.
I jump straight on the dance floor and boogie down to the DJ's awesome grooves.
The energy is orgasmic. The vibes are euphoric.
I am offered a glass of champagne and I take it. Not for one moment questioning if I really should be having yet another drink especially since mixing drinks usually equal to trouble.
I ponder on it barely a second before I take a huge swig and set my sights back on the room.
I start to twiddle my shoulders and close my eyes, taking in the sounds of the party.
I feel someone step up behind me and I get a whiff of a delicious cologne.
For a second I think " Mmmmm a man who smells ....yummy."
I refuse to turn around. It's probably one of my fabulously metrosexual guy friends.
I hear a low sexy voice whisper in my ear, "Excuse me, ... Charmaine?"
I look over my shoulder and realize it's (guess who) adressing me.
I turn around and look at his strong face and say "Do I know you?"
He hands me a vodka martini and smiles.
And puts his other hand out as if asking for my hand and I look at him in puzzlement.
He hand reaches out for my champagne glass, and he pulls it softly from my grasp.
I open my mouth to thank him but he steps back and says
"You look like you are having a ball...please don't let me interrupt."
"Thank you for my drink." I manage.
He smiles and walks away.
I stand on the dance floor, perfectly chilled vodka martini just the way I like in, in hand and jaw sweeping the floor.
I tell myself.."That was a refreshing approach" and I smile at him now standing at the bar.
I start dancing again and sip away at my Dirty martini
and he stands there watching me with part curiosity and part appreciation.
Chivalry, class, mystery and charm...yum.
The room was filled with smoke, bodies gyrating to the loud pumping music and and sexual sorcery.
Every once in awhile our eyes would meet and he would lock his gaze into mine as if trying to read my mind.
I stand there, swaying to the rhythm, rather intoxicated by the atmosphere and the four martinis I had. My friends are dancing all around me, some seated at a table not far away, chugging down bottles of vodka and some at the bar giggling amongst themselves.
Everyone around us is completely unaware of this little game that has started between strangers.
I break away from the dancefloor, walk over to the bar to finish my drink and set myself up for another one.
I lose myself in conversation with my friends at the bar and return to the table to find that he is no longer where I saw him last.
I jump straight on the dance floor and boogie down to the DJ's awesome grooves.
The energy is orgasmic. The vibes are euphoric.
I am offered a glass of champagne and I take it. Not for one moment questioning if I really should be having yet another drink especially since mixing drinks usually equal to trouble.
I ponder on it barely a second before I take a huge swig and set my sights back on the room.
I start to twiddle my shoulders and close my eyes, taking in the sounds of the party.
I feel someone step up behind me and I get a whiff of a delicious cologne.
For a second I think " Mmmmm a man who smells ....yummy."
I refuse to turn around. It's probably one of my fabulously metrosexual guy friends.
I hear a low sexy voice whisper in my ear, "Excuse me, ... Charmaine?"
I look over my shoulder and realize it's (guess who) adressing me.
I turn around and look at his strong face and say "Do I know you?"
He hands me a vodka martini and smiles.
And puts his other hand out as if asking for my hand and I look at him in puzzlement.
He hand reaches out for my champagne glass, and he pulls it softly from my grasp.
I open my mouth to thank him but he steps back and says
"You look like you are having a ball...please don't let me interrupt."
"Thank you for my drink." I manage.
He smiles and walks away.
I stand on the dance floor, perfectly chilled vodka martini just the way I like in, in hand and jaw sweeping the floor.
I tell myself.."That was a refreshing approach" and I smile at him now standing at the bar.
I start dancing again and sip away at my Dirty martini
and he stands there watching me with part curiosity and part appreciation.
Chivalry, class, mystery and charm...yum.
Everyone knows I want to be a Goddess.
Or at least I hope everyone knows.
It may seem like a fairy tale dream or an insane ambition but I don't care.
I want to inspire little girls and guide gorgeous women.
I want to have special powers like making wishes come true and rewarding kind acts with beautiful gifts.
I want to be able to fly. I want to see the world through nothing but loving eyes.
I want to save the forest and I want to teach the children.
I want to bring a smile to everyone's face.
I'd like to spend days amongst the trees, in quiet contemplation and pray for all of humankind.
I'd like to feed the hungry, starting with the ones I love.
I want to share hope and bring joy when times are gloomy and
I want to shine when times are dark.
I want to chase sunsets and live by the ocean.
For water calms me and speaks to me.
My pretty home will sit on a cliff overlooking Mother Nature's wonder and every evening I will salute her in awe.
I want to take my dogs for long walks on the beach and I want to lay for hours in a huge hammock.
I want to read stories to children and play fun games with them.
I want my friends to be happy. And I want to be part of their happy lives.
I'd like to sing and dance and celebrate every chance I get....
I want to write a book. Fill it with memoirs and stories of my travels, my experiences, my life.
To share the gift of knowledge and to spread the word of Wonder.
To live a positive life and spread enthusiasm and optimism.
I want to find true love.
The sort that makes my heart flutter and my knees weak.
And I want to love without condition. Give my ALL to One
and gradually be able to share that love with ALL.
Everybody knows I want to be a Goddess... or at least I think everyone knows.
It may seem like a fairy tale dream or an insane ambition but I don't care.
I want to inspire little girls and guide gorgeous women.
I want to have special powers like making wishes come true and rewarding kind acts with beautiful gifts.
I want to be able to fly. I want to see the world through nothing but loving eyes.
I want to save the forest and I want to teach the children.
I want to bring a smile to everyone's face.
I'd like to spend days amongst the trees, in quiet contemplation and pray for all of humankind.
I'd like to feed the hungry, starting with the ones I love.
I want to share hope and bring joy when times are gloomy and
I want to shine when times are dark.
I want to chase sunsets and live by the ocean.
For water calms me and speaks to me.
My pretty home will sit on a cliff overlooking Mother Nature's wonder and every evening I will salute her in awe.
I want to take my dogs for long walks on the beach and I want to lay for hours in a huge hammock.
I want to read stories to children and play fun games with them.
I want my friends to be happy. And I want to be part of their happy lives.
I'd like to sing and dance and celebrate every chance I get....
I want to write a book. Fill it with memoirs and stories of my travels, my experiences, my life.
To share the gift of knowledge and to spread the word of Wonder.
To live a positive life and spread enthusiasm and optimism.
I want to find true love.
The sort that makes my heart flutter and my knees weak.
And I want to love without condition. Give my ALL to One
and gradually be able to share that love with ALL.
Everybody knows I want to be a Goddess... or at least I think everyone knows.
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Being Present!
"Form is emptiness, emptiness is form."
From a Buddhist point of view, we spend most of our life in ignorance of our true nature and this creates suffering. Basically, this means we think that there is me in here, and the world exists out there, and they are separate.
What the Heart Sutra is actually telling us is that the world and I exist as a co-arising experience in each and every moment. Another way of seeing this is to realize that both the perceived world outside and the one perceiving both arise from the same source; therefore they are interdependent and can't be separate.
As one scientist put it, "We are what the Universe has created in order to understand itself."
It is useful to remind ourselves why Buddhism is called the Middle Way: rather than being caught up in either of the extremes of emptiness or form, we can see that both exist independently. If we look at this in relation to our mind, we can see that awareness is ever present, clear and luminous. You can't grasp awareness, you can't bottle it up, and at the same time awareness can said to exist.
So, for example, we might sit with the question "Who am I? Who is the one that is aware?" When we allow ourselves the space and time to really look at the nature of awareness itself, we can start to be with all that actually exists in our present moment.
We can stay with the ever-present witnessing awareness, the nature of mind, which is like a mirror, reflecting all forms but never in itself being tainted by the endless stream of forms that arise. Meditation allows us to be with the manifestation of life in every moment. And the true meditation is when we can integrate this presence into all areas of our life. Whether we are playing with the children or waiting at the bus stop, the essence of the Heart Sutra reminds us that everything is always changing, including ourselves. As the great Zen master Dogen reminds us;
:To know yourself is to forget your self, to forget your self is to be awakened by all things. "
- Huw Wyn.
From a Buddhist point of view, we spend most of our life in ignorance of our true nature and this creates suffering. Basically, this means we think that there is me in here, and the world exists out there, and they are separate.
What the Heart Sutra is actually telling us is that the world and I exist as a co-arising experience in each and every moment. Another way of seeing this is to realize that both the perceived world outside and the one perceiving both arise from the same source; therefore they are interdependent and can't be separate.
As one scientist put it, "We are what the Universe has created in order to understand itself."
It is useful to remind ourselves why Buddhism is called the Middle Way: rather than being caught up in either of the extremes of emptiness or form, we can see that both exist independently. If we look at this in relation to our mind, we can see that awareness is ever present, clear and luminous. You can't grasp awareness, you can't bottle it up, and at the same time awareness can said to exist.
So, for example, we might sit with the question "Who am I? Who is the one that is aware?" When we allow ourselves the space and time to really look at the nature of awareness itself, we can start to be with all that actually exists in our present moment.
We can stay with the ever-present witnessing awareness, the nature of mind, which is like a mirror, reflecting all forms but never in itself being tainted by the endless stream of forms that arise. Meditation allows us to be with the manifestation of life in every moment. And the true meditation is when we can integrate this presence into all areas of our life. Whether we are playing with the children or waiting at the bus stop, the essence of the Heart Sutra reminds us that everything is always changing, including ourselves. As the great Zen master Dogen reminds us;
:To know yourself is to forget your self, to forget your self is to be awakened by all things. "
- Huw Wyn.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)