The delicate block of sugar swirled in the copper tea – each round becoming faster than the previous. As it moved, it left a part of its solid form behind, carefully deteriorating into the very core of the cup. As it settled to the bottom, the solid was no more but mere utterances of its past.

Yet it has changed the very taste of the tea. It has lived a good life. the feeble waif muttered to himself.

He placed the silver gilded cup on the wooden tray, together with the slice of stale bread he had collected from the larder. The waif only had to follow the faint scent of burnt dryston to reach his maester. Creeping along the walls were portraits of maesters past, back in the days of The Age of Heroes. Everytime he walked along these walls, the waif could swear he felt the glare of their golden eyes pierce through his skin.

There’s no one else. There isn’t he would remind himself.

The scent became stronger. Dryston was a synthetic herb – crafted from the imaginations of Drecor the Fifth in his term as Grand Maester. Longing to give his followers a barometer of death , the herb was manufactured with samples of saliva, urine, blood and hair from the target victim. Once Death visited the victim, the dryston would start to glow a bright yellow. Soon, as the reaper carved his victim and set out the date of expiry, the dryston would burn. It was said that when the victim finally died , the dryston would vanish- just leaving embers behind.

Grand Maester Bearon’s dryston was heavily engulfed in flames . The room was drowned in its fumes. Putting the tray down, the waif rushed to the window to open it. His coughs joined the cackle of Bearon as he laughed at his last few hours.

He’s gone crazy the waif thought. Today may actually be the day he dies

“Sit here, child. Bring me my tea” the Maester droned in his raspy voice.

The waif obeyed. He pulled over his stool and sat next to the Maester’s bed. His fingers firm, he grasped the cup of tea and held it to Bearon’s lips. He then reached for the bread, but Bearon started shaking his head in refusal.

He can’t even eat, this old man

A different stench struck his senses .

The wounds! the waif remembered.

Along the wrists were open wounds where the Maester had fought Death before his surrender. It was filled with puss and dried blood. The waif quickly washed the wounds – placing the thick medicinal paste on it and replacing the bandages. This was the tenth time this week already.

“Child, sit. It’s no matter any more. Today is my day. We need to talk”

The waif sat on the stool, his body quivering in fear.

He’s all I’ve had. Ever since my parents gave me up, he’s all I’ve known to care for and learn from. What will I do…

“Have you kept your vow of silence?” Bearon asked.

The waif nodded. Once, twice.

“Good, now speak. What have you learnt in the past five years”

Nothing the waif thought

“I’ve learnt that our existence is but a whisper in the wind. We are but tools of a greater tradesman – destined to work for the ultimate goal. ” the waif whispered, getting used to his own voice.

“True, what else?” the Maester prompted.

” I’ve learnt that the free folk don’t value care and concern as much as they care for hate and revenge. I’ve learnt that to put trust in reciprocation is a toss of grain to the crows , I’ve learnt that institutions and systems never reach their goals. I’ve learnt that when it’s all come and done, people find it easy to forget your works, your words, your love. “

The Maester frowned, his lips about to correct the waif.

” But I’ve also learnt that within all of us lies a pulse. A rhythm that joins our humanity. It is that rhythm which we live for – to bring hope to our land. I may die a whisper, but may my whisper be a force that brings life to man. As you have brought life to me.”

This time, the Maester smiled.

“Very well, son. You have learnt much. People may forget, they may not even observe what you’ve done for them, not even truly appreciate the extent of it. But remember your role as a member of the Faith. You work for the themes that join us all – and you’ll find the person that appreciates you soon enough. Let it not be your goal though – let it be a timely whisper in your life. ” Bearon forced himself to mutter.

” It is time, young man. Grab my hands” the Grand Maester urged.

The waif did so, tears dripping down his eyes .

“Say the words” the Maester groaned.

“I am the night that blankets war, the light that shines in death. I am the silent mouse in noise, the voice of reason in hopelessness. I am the whisper in the wind, the code of honour emboldened. I hereby take on the role of Grand Maester – from Bearon the Great to Shymel the Young. I promise to always hold the Faith as my guiding lamp – to live as a guardian to the truth.”

The joined hands warmed up, the force passing through. Shymel felt his eyes glow.

They’re golden now

He smiled. He was finally a Grand Maester. He looked towards Bearon, the body limp and lifeless.

Thank you old man, and may God find favour on you

The dryston was gone, it’s ashes remaining. Yet Shymel knew for a fact that Bearon was not just the ashes. He was the whole before.

He had been sweetened – enriched, and now he was ready to move on.

brotherbear.

Rational Discourse is the key to our survival.

Singapore is in a incredibly violent flux right now. You can’t see it yet, but the stressmarks are appearing.

Ministerial pays need cuts

Ruling Party at all time low for election polls

Government’s pick narrowly wins Presidential Bid

Public discontent over transport becomes apparent

HDB faces heat from Singaporeans looking for homes

Stop and take a breather here. The rate we’re going – there’s going to have to be a major reconciliation of our goals and abilities.

We’ve always been able to boast a few things : we’re stable, we’re trustworthy, we’re efficient, we’re able to take any challenge by the balls and find a solution.

Nowadays, we seem willing to throw all those things down the drain in hopes of “voicing our opinions”.

So what is this post about ? Well it’s about the manner in which we “voice our opinions” – the manner in which we as Singaporeans ought to carry ourselves especially in our globalised world that relies so much on accesible information.

Now I’m all for voicing opinions – why do you think this blog exists? I hate to hear my opinion thrashed away, my ideas tossed in the wind or a response that basically rephrases the harsh underlyings of “I don’t care”.

But I make sure that when I do voice my opinions I do the following things

• I make sure I sound rational – there’s a reason for any bold claims. And I try to present realistic scenarios – not based on unverifiable evidence
• I try to be open-minded and wider in scope. “Yes your opinion exists as well, but I’m not so inclined to agree with it because …” would make me believe you much better than calling someone ”another PAP slut”
• Singlish is fine – it’s who we are. I use Singlish in my daily conversations like bread on butter. But don’t make me have to decipher every single word you’re writing. Simple ones like “kiasu” or “bochuo” I get… everything else is not contributing to discourse
• DISCOURSE IS NOT THIS. You voice just hurts. It really does. Use sentence structure. To emphasise. Use Examples, stats , anecdotes. You’re Singaporean for pete’s sake. You’ve had one of the best education systems to your advantage – learn to use the skills for application.  Application has to be self-driven , not forced by teachers.

There’s a lot more but you get the point.

The Internet is a great place for anonymity and while I respect your desire to use that as a defence, I have to urge that we don’t use it as a crutch. Want to talk about 1st world welfare, 1st world transport etc – talk like you mean it. In fact, I have to apologise- it sounds too biased. Anyone can talk with some wit and rationality as long as he puts in the effort not to be hateful.

I really enjoy the new evolution in political climate, there’s going to be more openness and opportunities for positive change. But let’s not deteriorate. Let’s not flame our ministers for saying inappropriate comments – rebutt them with class and substance. Let’s not blame all the problems on the government – accountability is key but when we need to solve problems we need an acute understanding of the systems and processes before we point fingers.

Blog like this. Let people read your views and comment. Let people disagree or agree and get ready to have your opinion judged. That’s what discourse entails – but if you’re open-minded enough , you will grow in thought . Let’s not fall into dogma – into the flawed slum of self-indulgence.

Singapore – we’re a great nation. I am proud Red and White. Despite our many problems, despite our disagreements, despite our sometimes redundant policies, let us remember why we argue , and why we want change. Let it not be for the self – for selfishness is what brings countries down. Let it be for society – for Singapore the people (not just Singapore the state). Let us remember the last, the lost and the least, but let’s also remember our hopes and aspirations.

Income inequality, social immobility, racial discrimnation – yes they all exist. But instead of blindly posting blanket policies as evidence, case studies from completely inapplicable countries and pure theoretical nonsense – let’s be keen in creating real solutions to these real and heartbreaking problems.

Remember we are Singaporeans. Remember the distance we’ve come, and remember the ideals and hopes we share no matter our background. Remember our humanity, before we remember the systems we’re in. 

And capture the future that we want to create for ourselves and generations after.

Reblog this, share this, do your own blogs, anything. But stop the madness that is the havoc happening on comment boards and sites all around the Web.

I’m ready to get my hands dirty and solve some real problems – are you?

brotherbear

Let me just say that I’m very sad I missed the campfire last night. With all the status updates and pictures, I’m not going to forget easily what I gave up in order not to miss my interview today morning( which is too early if you ask me) .

I get it- your career and future is important. But I hate how it diminishes my current ability to enjoy the present significantly. I miss my friends, the ones that I can laugh with, scream with. You know me, I’m eclectic – I have a lot of different groups I like to hang out with, but my SJI bros have always been a core group. I tried to convince myself that I was making the right decision not going – but I can’t shake off the feeling I missed something magical yesterday.

I’m postponing the “Save our Singaporeans” article for my next post – I’m still editing it to make it more sensitive to readers. God only knows I’m not trying to attract flame but rather a sincere discussion. Look out for that .

I’m also having more vivid dreams. Just the day before I had a dream the world was ending- the signs in the bible were replaying and I was in the middle of them. I remember being so afraid, because I realised I hadn’t studied enough on what to do, how to be. I hadn’t paid heed to my calling.

Tonight I had a dream I went for a party, and all my teachers and friends were there. It was those kind of snazzy , “marijuana in the air” , “psychedelic rock” music parties. I remember being so enthralled by the numbing of it all that I woke up late for my Penn interview today. I rushed out of my room blaming everyone. My grandparents were here too (I still can’t figure this part out) but essentially I got so angry and frustrated in my dream I woke myself up… At 0430.

After faceboooking and tweeting for abit, I came here to empty my mind. These dreams are really realistic, way more than my previous dreams this year. And I can actually remember them.

It may be a reaction to my psyche – knowing that there’s still so much at stake. I wish I was blessed sometimes with wealth to spend on education, or super sporty abilities to at least tap into some endowment. But that wishful self has honestly died. I’m much more certain in my faith because of these difficulties. I know that God will provide, and though I may not be the best, I will be of value. Sometimes even the best are not valuable if they’re not in the right place at the right time. Or it may be the prophecies coming to fruition. Although that’s a lot more mystic and potentially life changing.

Whole. nother. Level.

The final topic I wanted to quickly blog about was that of reciprocation and emotions. We’re still emotional people – still saddened by death, toiled with hurt and frustration, and joyous when with friends or good times . As we grow older, we tend to loose our foothold in those emotions – they became irrelevant to objectives and processes. And when they’re lost control of, they tend to blow up at inopportune moments.

One thing I’ve been learning is to read emotions. Micro-expressions, soft signals etc. whenever I talk to someone – if he says something is great, but his face sends of a sudden sign of anguish, i try to pressure point it. I ask him why he seems to be saying something different with his body – and I’ve been right most of the time. Sometimes wrong, or maybe the other party just refuses to admit his sincere emotions. I’ve realised that people’s emotions vary throughout the day. You can never expect anyone to be consistent. You’re more probably grouchy in the morning, reflective by evening, and joyous at night. There’s a certain element of randomness in it – and it takes a concerted effort to try to be consistent in your emotions and hence your approach to people on a regular basis.

Which brings me to reciprocity. I don’t get how some people can be so oblivious. I seriously don’t. Now I’m very open to new ideas. Open to different kinds of people. Read my blog- you’ll know. But this level of not reading signals, of not being able to reciprocate to the simplest degree. Gah.
Go figure.

Living with emotions and emotive people will be things people need to take into consideration in school,work and beyond. It’s that skill of feeding off and bouncing back that will really help you connect with people and make you more sensitive to their needs and aspirations.

It’s a skill that you can use in The Game – the one that everyone plays.

It’s a skill that is difficult to master,

But I’d take up that challenge.

Till then,
Brotherbear

I want to really yell at Singaporeans. I really do. What used to be an uphill trend is now going downhill. I love our country, but this atmosphere, this chaotic hullabaloo is not good for our nation. I’ll do a proper blogpost about it- but I need a promise. I need a promise that good Singaporeans start speaking up – good Singaporeans start promoting rational political thought rather than radical spouts of anger. Reblog or make your own notes and posts – just don’t let the sensible Singaporean be drowned out . I’ll try to post up my thoughts by tomorrow – but remember political discourse should not be limited only during the election season. It should be a consistently engaging analysis of how our system functions and governs itself, it is our livelihood and our framework.

Don’t let us screw ourselves over.

—

The rock stood two giants high and a couple of feet wide. It’s granite feel reminded Sandra of the old times. She gazed at the distant edge of the rock where she could only observe the speck flickering in the darkness. Her eyes travelled against the grain of the rock , downwards till she was at eye level with the ancient writings.

In cursive, and almost faded, the poem was Sandra’s handle on reality. The world around her had changed , too much to some, extremely too much to her. Yet the rock stood certain. In a world where museums were gone, Sarah understood the power of the rock – it was more than a fact of intellectual sustenance. It was a memory, a tribute to the past, the forming of her present. It was a portal to the past , a frightening warning. And yet an opportunity for hope. Sarah continued reading, and as she read her mind began to shut down.

The drugs had set in.

Remember me, lonely soul
’twas the night before Christmas
Fortitude and solitude
Married under the mistletoe

Frightened yet obedient
Living in snowy delusions
My heart is a broken compass
The holidays never began

I’ve pretty much finished the game. The Game that I started playing 4 years ago once I aspired to study in the US. The Game that everyone else would probably laugh at because college was so affordable or networking was simple to them. The Game where I had to learn as I went along, act and smile when I didn’t feel like it, and yet importantly show my true personality when it mattered most.

I’ve won- or rather God has won- it was all him if you ask me. You watch Survivor and you understand what a game move is. It’s a strategic move – having both short run and long run consequences. You learn how to work with people , how to understand their needs. Those you respect, you be honest and sincere with, you partner with them and bring them along for the ride. Those you don’t but need- you see their point of view and you try to accommodate them as much as possible in return for a bargain. You see – it’s called interpersonal skills to some, but to me it’s simply communication on the basic level.

Anyway, if you want to know more about that whole experience I’ll share in private if I feel like it. Like Depp puts it – if you don’t loathe yourself at one point in your life you’re not worth talking to – cos you haven’t confronted yourself and your inner demons. I have, or at least still am, and am glad to say the early part of the Game where I made some dirty moves are finally behind me. I’m more proud of the later part of the Game, since late J1 onwards. Those were clean, strategic and honest moves that really made the difference in my life.

Moving on, having won the Game , I’ve had much more time to read and contemplate my goals- since I pretty much need new ones now. Thinking about relationships (which I probably can never experience till after NS since most girls I know are flying off this year and who’s gonna date a boy just gone to NS) , and my hobbies I realise I’m severely undateable. I don’t think it’s low self esteem – I think it’s brutal honesty. Here’s 3 reasons why.

1) I love writing and reading. Nobody likes someone who loves books. His imagination is too vivid, and he spends more time describing how beautiful the night sky is rather than snogging with you till the sun comes up. Sure I’ll hold your hand, and describe how the moment is perfect, but who likes that right? I would probably share books with you, toss ideas at you, wake you up in the middle of the night with a fantastic plan to topple the Illuminati – and that can get too intense for people. I set standards high, I live dreams – I make them happen sometimes- but you’d probably settle for normal instead.

2) I’m a sucker for the outdoors. The moist morning air excites me. If we were together, I’d probably bring you along canoeing down some rivers and climbing up mountains when we’re free. It’d be an amazing time for me to show you I support you and for us to spend some quality time without any distractions. Just you, me and the nature that God has blessed us with. But then again, it’s too much of a hassle for some. The city is enough for most though – right?

3) I’m a hapless romantic. I may not seem like it- but you know I’m passionate about all I do. I’d probably prepare the greatest adventure just to show you I care – tickle you senseless with jokes just to see you smile- collect all your favourite songs and throw a flash mob on them just to get you your fairy tale. That’s too overwhelming for a lot – its not me, it’s just you. I never asked for anything in return, just happiness and a hug. But instead you’d rather settle for someone who SMSes every weekend and bores you to death with movies . I get it- passion doesn’t work . Reason No. 3

Okay, yes you get what I’m trying to say.

But it’s true – you’d think it makes sense But it doesn’t.

This is not a plea to be dated – mind you. It’s a parody. A stark depiction of how I view my experience.

Relationships are complicated stories. I still have couples who , without their partners knowledge, ask me for advice- sometimes even both separately. I still observe relationships bound for destruction, and also adorable acts of love and sacrifice. It’s an important part of our life – who we love – who we decide to invest our efforts in.

Am I the perfect man? Far from it. But I try to be myself as much as possible.

I can’t believe I still blog about such things – but what the heart feels I write. I bleed words; words that trickle down a page and realise truths and fantasies. My mind is a book, locked at arenas and open to all at colosseums.

I’m bound for a different kind of life – I’ve given it all to God.

Still, the heart is a messy place.

Night.
Brotherbear

I think one unique observation I can make is that I’ve been able to compress my posts into two posts. Previously I used to go up to 4- I had too many people who were part of my life to mention. But it’s a good trend. I’ve been trying to deepen the friendships I value and let the rest be memories that I’ll want to keep as memories.

In the past that’s how it used to be – you met someone , you shared a great time, and you moved on. A few would stay as best friends but that was it. Now with social media, you can keep in contact with ALL your old friends. But as you continue hanging out – the memory changes, it distorts to a new form. You run the risk of forgetting those precious moments when you were young and had fun.

Anyway, onto the actual affirmations. OC has been such a blessing in my life and I have come to accept it as a second home …

Church

Cassandra – helloooo! Haha, are you reading this in Cambodia? Ok, I’ve written pretty much in the Secret Surprise Post and the letter – but I just wanted to reiterate you’ve been an awesome person to talk to and chill with. I’ve never had a big sister, but if I had to choose one it’d be you

Ivfen IVFEN! You know every SMS from you starts with HAHA… HAHA. Your laughter and joy always manages to perk up the place – perfect person for warmth. I love the times we talk about walks with Christ, and our ministries . And our runs hahaha. Thanks for being such an awesome moral compass and voice of reassurance in my times of uncertainty. I hope 2012 brings Us many more opportunities to hang out together.

Shaun Sim Shaun the man. Not the sheep. Dude, miss you man. Though if you keep uploading pictures of food, it’s a bit difficult for me to miss you as much as the food you’re having. Keep being hungry man – that’s what inspires me about you too. I learn so much just from the way you carry yourself and rationalise your decisions( with God first of course). Sometimes I’m stupefied by how you’re willing to sacrifice everything else as long as its for God. But you were one of the main people, together with Samantha, who helped me get through that stage of uncertainty. Thanks for all that I’m a much happier boy now because of that.

Anton hello princess! Haha ever since you joined OPEC, Hanging out with you has been a blast. You’re so willing to go the distance and to carry the weight, it inspires me bro. You’re very retarded too…in a funny way. What can I say man- I’m just looking forward to more times with you and the gang.

Luke boss man. Thanks for being such an awesome and understanding AV dude man. God only knows how extreme OPEC can get with its ideas but you always seem to amplify it with your proz AV skillzzz. And not to mention, you’re a real fun dude to hang around with… Except when you have a camera in your hand. Then my eyes are on you buddy. Haha, I hope 2012 gives me more opportunities to see u get hacked by numerous people ah bro. See ya around

Chung Hong aka Chuni I think you,me and Shyen should form a group called “The Gang” – then whenever we want to hangout we just call it The Gang Outing. Makes it much easier to Talk about… Youve been a real great buddy throughout the A Level experience man. Even with Society and all, I’ve come to value your insight even though some of them are crazy as hell man haha. Keep thinking about things , keep questioning and searching. I’ll be doing the same, hopefully with you at times too

Jia Qi Your munchies were real nice Jia Qi, Zomg! Haha I don’t think I’ll ever forget the friend who I can always trust to do her best , and still make time for her friends. Let me just say you inspire me first of all. You’re industrious, and that will take you far.but more than that, your care and love will take you further. It’ll get tiring, way more than before, but keep trusting God, keep coming to him for rest thanks for your help in Society too, however long it lasted :p I remember my friends who support me .

James JAMES!!!!!! Haha I missed you when you were in Aussie man , You were one of the fort few friends in OC I made, and still one of the strongest I have. You’re a big man with a big heart- I love that about you. Still looking forward to many more crazy days with you man.

Keith Ho we still gotta get into the jungle man. Fight “The Man” haha. It’s been fantastic getting closer to you bro – learnt so much and got excited about so much more. I love how you’re always thirsty and interested. Oh oh how could I forget – ORD lo!!! Haha enjoy your freedom man. And thanks for helping out in OPEC – really enjoy the times together.

Shyen Shyennnn! I think I’m probably the most buggy person on your phone especially when it’s before BS :p sorry . haha. I think in terms of growth in friendship, you take top spots in OC. I really enjoy talking to you, and the lepaks together. Yes I’ve taken that out of your dictionary. The Gang needs to maintain- esp when we split off into NS and you fly off :p but I seriously look forward to much more opportunities to hang out and chat there’s so much more to talk and gossip about too haha. here’s to 2012 and many more crazy adventures, on the streets, in the car, anywhere actually – as long as its with you

KimPong If I’m the brotherbear, you’re probably the papabear of the church. You’re an awesome leader, let me just affirm that. Strict but loving. Thanks for always being able to give just the right advice when it’s needed and for pushing me on. I look forward to this whole nother level with you Pong! Can’t wait to see what other crazy ideas you have up your sleeve.

Pastor Kay Thanks Pastor for having open doors when I was conflicted, and for again, giving me the right advice when needed. Thanks for also being supportive , and always asking and checking up – it helps me keep on track I look forward to this enhanced walk with Christ, thanks for giving me the push .

To OPEC - Justin,Matthew Tan, Natalie, Tingyi, Keith, Mirandah, Marissa, Ernest, Jon Chan, Andrea and those I mentioned above – you guys continually impress me. You’re such an awesome bunch of people to work with , and I can see God working in those who let themselves work with Him. I keep praying that your excitement for God grows – I’m so blessed to be leading this ministry … I learn so much from you. Here’s to 2012.

To my Wed BS Group – Celine, Benji, Guin, Pei Ling, Muzay, Steph, Andrew, Jer, Portia and the rest I mentioned above – woah I look forward to our Wednesdays like crazy cos of the awesome discussions and the times we have. You’re such a fun, loveable group of people, individually and as a group. I love our discussions , and while 2012 sees many of us drifting apart, let’s try to hold onto the BS…. And to more good times together.

To Shi Mei- who just joined the gang and is already so awesome an person – I think you should have been here from the getgo, thanks for being so nice and concerned but more than that- a fun and honest person to chat with. Looking forward to 2012 with you

To the rest of OC, and the awesome people, in it - Justin Tan, Emae, Chrystal, Melissa, Matt Chim, Micah Chim, Samantha, Lisha, Tianyi, Sulin, Daryl, Darren, Asher, Yiling, Dani, Andrew, Joey, Ivfy, Rachel, Kakit, Thaddeus, Daniel, David, Annabelle, JJ, Vin, Eugene, Adeline, Sean, Alexa, Ashley, Dan, Amabelle, Aron,Cheryl, Elliot,Ethan,Kelley,Laura(my alliance buddy!), Yeong Chuan, Mark, Nico, Sylvia, Yihui, Tim Hung and everyone in OC who I have had the joy of sharing some experience with – thanks for being such an awesome person – for being yourself. I’ve come to enjoy my time in OC,and am excited for more, because of people like you. I look forward to an amazing 2012 with you guys – keep getting hungrier for God!

—

To those in Greenmark- Ms Melissa Lim, Mr Han, Ms Cheryl, Mrs Lim, Mr Tan, Jia Hng, Yen Ling, Tsou, Yaolin and Gabz – thanks for being part of one of the biggest projects I’ve ever done. We really pulled off a giant and I have a great team and supportive group of teachers and supervisors to thank for all of it

To the EDB Amoeba Challenge people – Oswald and Michelle especially ( I’ve mentioned the RJ peeps in my previous post :p ) thanks for being such synergetic team mates and great people . I really enjoyed those long days. Oswald , I hope you press on and get the scholarship bro . Being a colleague with you would be amazing.

To the EUYF team – Joyce, Junyi, Shi Hang, Crystal, Ashton, Lin and Sarayoo- more outings, more fun, more crazy topics of discussion! Hahah. It’s been so fun so far, and though most of us are flying off again this year – lets still try to do more stuff together

To the Open Lectures gang and my seniors - Linan, Crystalbel, Kenneth, Gary, Lumpy, I couldn’t ask for a better bunch of people to ask questions about NS and scholarships and university to – and to do such an mind blowing project with. Thanks for inviting me in – and for letting me be a part of this!

To all my friends on Twitter, Facebook and Path who I’ve had so much fun talking about pop culture , current affairs and plain idiotic topics about – lets keep it going haha. People like you make social media addictive.

Woots – so much to be thankful for. I’m sorry if your name isn’t mentioned, but that doesn’t mean I don’t value you – it’s just that my memory really sucks. I’ll update when I can remember – so look out for that.

2012 – NS, Results, College.

Thank God for all he’s done, all he’s taught me, all he’s going to do in my life. In God I have a purpose, in God will I trust.

Goodnight,

brotherbear.

2011 was filled with much to be thankful for- but more importantly it was filled with people to love. I know it’s already 2012 by the time this is published but the experiences I’ve had still warrant these affirmations.

Class

Benson – wassup co-ct rep, I still find it funny that we’re the only all guy duo in the school when it comes to ct reps. You’re a real crazy dude when it comes to pop culture and talking about people in and around our environment. But those conversations have been fun. I always relish the moments when we have to organise something because despite the problems , we’re always able to come out with some kind of unique solution. We were both outsiders to the RJ culture, but I think we’ve found our own places in the school. I certainly look forward to more outings with you and the rest, seems like 6M may still have some thump in it. What pessimists we used to be eh haha.

Ding Hao – presumptuous. Haha sorry I still remember our big “argument” on who was more pretentious and presumptuous (you btw) . I’m glad for you man, what with Constance and all. We share so many character and background traits and yet we have our own unique perspectives – that’s what make our conversations so punchy. I love bitching about Scouts, Politics and almost anything under the sun with you – especially about people like Gary haha. Thanks for all the help and support you gave me , with STB and the numerous other things we’ve done. The nights we hang out and the drinks we’ve shared have certainly been memorable. Here’s to many more crazy nights waiting for taxis and frantic adventures in Sentosa. PS class tshirt

Gabriel is this even necessary? You know how grateful I am for the 6 years we’ve shared. From Sec 1 where we used to make quips at other classmates to now where we still make quips at other people , we still are able to have honest sincere discussions. It’s one of the main reasons why you’re my first choice for any project I do. Our up in the sky thought games are just as fun as the groundwork that we do. We’ve really grown up eh . I’m glad it was with you.

Shi Feng – chilame. I think I used the same starting line last year as well. But it just goes to show haha. Stoic, detail-orientated and cheeky – that’s you man. I’m glad we didn’t stop working after PW but continued our adventures in i3 and in the internship now. Our lunches and class discussions, the fb posts and retarded comments, the times we’ve gone out – they’re all memories I’ll really hold onto. We’re really a destructive pair together if you ask me haha, but that’s what makes me enjoy your company despite the jokes you pull on me. Here’s to more projects, outings and events with the gang.

Wendi Niu eh H3 buddy! Hahaha, gosh when I think of the times we’ve shared I can’t stop laughing. We’ve had a spectrum of topics we’ve argued over – from love to religion, the future to the past . You’re a precious friend, you put others before yourself. It’s bloody hard to do that in our culture, especially in RJ, but i see strongly that you value your friends. Thanks for valuing me, I just want to let you know I value you a lot too.

Edmond eh Toedmond – ure a retarded fella. Not in the literal sense but still you’re a fun guy to hang out with. I know I can trust you, it’s weird but when it’s all bare and withered I know you’ll do what you say you’ll do. Thanks for being a studybuddy when we were studying, and a good friend every other time. Don’t bojio me ok.

an Cheng I think in our war for the chair- I will have to admit defeat. (I know your response would indicate that you didn’t even think there was a war but still…) ive enjoyed your friendship man, really. You’re blunt honest, yet still able to show you care. I value that, your antics and all. Thanks for being a fun guy to talk to, steal water from, and laze around with.

kunal kekre! Haha you’re a real pal man. Really. When things go bad, when things go high no matter what – you’re one bud I can always share with. I’m glad we were classmates man, I’m glad we got to spend time together surviving our class. I don’t know about you but I’ve end up appreciating our class – the quirky characters in it and their idiosyncrasies. You’ve got big things coming to you man- gotta keep the spirit burning. Here’s to more times together.

Dennis Dennis, you crazy bugger you. Gotta say, despite all your quips, I still keep coming back to you . You’re fun to be around, fun to chat with, fun to design ideas with. I look forward to the last week of our internship together, and whatever comes after

Brenda Ong Bong!!!! You’re damn funny you know. I love that you’re serious about what you do – studies or otherwise. I still remember you efforts in Society- gotta say I never expected it from you (since I’ve never worked with you before) but what Gabriel says about you is true. You do what you do to the best of your ability. Thanks for being a good friend, though sometimes you steal Gabz away from me but I’m going to have to get used to it haha. Take care of him – he’s a bit stone sometimes but his heart is there. More gang outings!!!

To the rest of my class – Amanda, Zhiting (haha our crazy twitter convos you two),Vivien Jiayi,Wenjing, Delia, Thenaesh, Kwang Yi, Weili, Kah Jin, Iqbal, Zachary, Jervin. thanks for being yourselves – for adding to the diversity and craziness of our class. In retrospect I don’t think I would change our experience for any other.

To my teachers, Mr Lee, Mrs Lin, Mr Tham, Mr Tan, Ms Heng,Mr Khoo – thanks for being such awesome caring teachers. 2011 and the A Levels would have been helluva difficult without the support, patience and passion you showed (especially in chemistry I must say :p) . I owe a significant part of my future to you.

To Chee Hui, Hamza, Osama, Nishanti, Sarah, Steffi, Teri, Jingsheng, Ashraff, Aravin, Brij, Melvyn, Jamal, Tsao Tsing, Yingyao, Wee Ern, Chander, Guanlin, Junyang, Tat Hsiang, Yaolin, Yamani, Jerald, Wai Choong, Ryan Tan, Mengshi, Celeste, Davin, Daryl Yang, Zongmin, WeiQing, Yiru, Joey , Kailun, Renci, Jovina, Chen He, Jey Sng, Azira, Afiqa, Joshua,Ryan Teoh Xu Xuan, Su Ching, Lin, Sarayoo( EUYF buddies!!) , Yi Ming, Lennard, Kong Tat ( the three musketeers), Kah Kang, Japna, Razeen, Michael, Kirk, Ren Hao, Shi Harn, Syakir, Jeremy Tay,Ye Zhou,Leena, Du Yan,Rishi,Russell Natalie Goh, Neetika,Eddy,Cheryl,Jeya,Sean, Zhen Ling, Jia Xing, Asnawi, Tak Wei, Gracia, Roger, Adil, – thanks for adding to my Raffles experience at one point or another. I’ve learnt so much from all of you, and have become more of who I am now because of the conversations or experiences we’ve had. Good luck to all of you in what you do – and hopefully we’ll still remember each other down the road

CCA

To Alvona, Anjana, Andrew, Yanzhe, Li Khee, Susan, John – Thanks for being such a great EXCO that was serious about ideas yet fun enough to hang around with.. I learnt so much from all of you . I really did. We did a lot with the club, kinda proud of the “legacy” we left behind.

To Imran the exiled Venture – I’m not writing you a post since you explicitly proclaim you don’t read my blog. But you’re a close friend I’ll never want to lose bro.

To Guiliang, Guolin, Matthias, Caleb – thanks for supporting the unit even when it seemed hard, even when it seemed like it was about to collapse. Thanks for putting Up with me, and sorta picking up the vision for the unit. Thanks for being friends first, and EXCO members second. Thanks for being such awesome friends at that. 6 years of blood, sweat and tears. What a journey. Let’s not let anyone take that from us.

To my juniors, Santhosh, OCY, ZJ, Blow, Yinghao, Brian Lee and everyone else – Ventures is not an easy CCA . It’s hardly structured, and hardly predictable. But it will groom you well for dealing with difficult people and difficult situations. My only hope is that you open yourself up to as many experiences as you can to not waste what Scouting can offer. Remember not to judge the CCA by the leaders in it too, ESP at HQ level. Do your best , have fun, and keep the friendships string.

To my seniors, especially Matthew Koo, Shannon, Jon – thanks for having my back and giving me advice during my PSA journey, I didn’t get it, but I valued the experience. I’ve learnt so much, I’ve learnt to love and to live. Good luck for your future endeavours.

To my leaders, thanks for being mentors when it mattered and for being difficult when it didn’t. The situations made me think ( though I wouldn’t want to relive them again) , and made me reconsider what I was doing. I’ve grown as a leader from the Unit, in the most unexpected way.

To Richard, Leon, Frederik, Chuanyu, Yinhong, Shi Yang, Jun Meng, Alvin, Mr Azmi and the many other friends I’ve made on my Scouting Journey – what a life we live eh, glad to have shared some part of it with you.