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Introduction
As the coming of the new year dawned upon me, my brain set itself into modes of reflection. The multi-dimensional growth that 2009 imparted upon my being was, in all truth, something that I could have never fathomed on my own accord. For once, achievements surpassed unrealistic expectations, relationships gained new meanings and levels of understanding, patience and maturity of thought reached an all time high. For my friends who read this blog, I want to share something that I learnt in 2009- Despite the intensity at which the odds seem against you, it is very important to 'Keep Looking Forward'. When one door closes, a multitude of doors manifest themselves in various forms at other localities. Keep working, keep persevering. If you fail in gaining that which you desire, the mere journey to its attainment will astound you, render you to discover yourselves in ways that could have been anything but possible. With renewed determination, drive and confidence, I am ready to embrace the year 2010.
Christmasing/ Church
One of my best experiences of 2009 materialized as the year propagated to its end. After my performance in Plaza Singapura, I tagged along with Peng to his church. Who would've have fathomed that I'd immerse myself into the festivities of Christmas at a depth that in unknown ways rendered me anchored to a culmination of entities, both spiritual and social. Intellectually standing at where I am today, I am going to embark on an adventure that I think I've put on hold for long enough. To attain the fruit from the crown of a majestic tree, one has to ensure that its foundations are secure and justified, that its roots hold firm and strong- imparting a sense of assurance, a sense of confidence that leaves no room for regret, no room for contemplation. I guess enough has been said for now. I shall blog about this adventure as it unfolds before my very eyes. As a disclaimer, I am mindful that which I approach is not a science or an experimental formulation. Thought and reflection propagate alongside logic and spirituality aiding me in in exploring the frontiers which I intend to thread.
Phuket Trip
The trip to Phuket was memorable especially in the company of a 'friend less-brother more' person like Jelvin. I still recall the day on which we had to fly. Rising early at 4.15am, I got ready for the full marathon that I accomplished together with Chupei and Zhonghao. Many a times I said to myself, 'Loke what are you thinking? You really think you'll be able to accomplish the entire stretch within the standard you have set for yourself?' Then the other side of my brain went, 'Loke you are a soldier. Soldiers remain calm and focused in the face of adversity. The adversity is here. The adversity is now.' It's not hard to decipher that I was at a battle with myself. A battle in which I proudly emerged victorious. Now its all about pushing the bar that I have inevitably hinged for myself. After the run, I dragged myself home, changed and went for Cpt Joseph's wedding. Though sore in the weirdest places, the wedding was worth it. Especially with the warm welcome that Cpt Joseph gave me. I also got to meet Bong, who in all good-will of our 'Hamburger Relationship' drove me to the airport.
Vietnam Backpacking
Many have nothing but a mere inkling of the natural wonder that Vietnam represents. Diverse weather, diverse terrain, a multitude of cuisines and people of various descent and dialect. A tourist's paradise! When the journey was in the stages of formulation, I was apprehensive. Bringing two younger guys into a domain which neither of them had any idea of inevitably em-placed their trust upon my shoulders. I had to deliver as I had promised. From the feedback I gathered, they thoroughly enjoyed the trip that went smoothly. Mission accomplished! As a soldier, I have greater confidence in my situational awareness and navigational skills that have now been tested.
School
As always, I feel blessed to be in the company of my Physics friends. Though they never brag, I have never considered myself worthy to be in the company of such brilliant people. Sometimes, one's intelligence can well be deciphered from the content of one's speech and maturity of thought. I attained my long-awaited triad of 'A's this semester. Though the knowledge I gained far superseded my emphasis on results. For once, I studied for the thirst of knowledge that rendered the stress that comes when one paves their way toward success secondary. I look forward to a fresh new semester.
A Soldier in the Making
I've done abundant reflection upon my role as a soldier, a defender of the country. As life has moved on and my thoughts have matured, I have been able to shed new light upon frontiers that lay slave to functional fixed-ness in time that had elapsed. I am thankful that my years in University have enhanced my drive to serve my country at elevated levels upon graduation. The drive and passion still burn bright and I long for the day to be back.
AnGeLs BroUghT mE HeRe...
