Movies

"If someone prays for patience, you think God gives them patience? Or does He give them the opportunity to be patient? If he prayed for courage, does God give him courage, or does He give him opportunities to be courageous? If someone prayed for the family to be closer, do you think God zaps them with warm fuzzy feelings, or does He give them opportunities to love each other?"
-Morgan Freeman as God in 'Evan Almighty'

Ok, as what you might have guessed. I just finished watching Evan Almighty today. But for this post, I'm not going to write much about the movie. Well, not because its a boring movie or anything but I've got a bigger point to talk about here. So you see, I've been watching quite alot movies and TV series lately and actually learned quite alot of new stuffs, from general knowledge to ... facts of life, seriously. First it was 'An Inconvenient Truth' where I'd learned so much about Global Warming and its consequences as stated in my last post. And today, I actually learned something about God from 'Evan Almighty'! I know its a comedy but hey, I really did learn something meaningful from the movie.

As you can see from the quote I picked out above, its really something simple, yet a beautiful phrase. Whenever we humans pray for something, do we really expect it to drop straight from heaven and land right infront of us? I don't know about you but I've got to confess that sometimes, I do. And if that wish doesn't come true, you know who I would be blaming, eh? Yes, nobody but God. I can't believe how naive I am those days. That phrase really gave me a wake up call, period. I realise now that when we pray for something, God creates opportunities for us to reach for that something. God makes us sweat for it so that we can appreciate the sweetness of the fruit of our hardwork. Instead of turning us into greedy lazy bums that just wait for miracles to happen. Besides, the process rather than the product is what that counts, right?

Another example, when people pray to be rich, why do people dream of striking the lottery only? Its like searching a needle in the open sea ( well, I cant say haystack 'cos Adam and Jamie from Mythbusters already proven that possible, darn it )! Don't they realise that there are other ways of earning big bucks such as, I don't know...work hard maybe? Oh well, maybe they were really hoping for a miracle. What's life without hope, eh? Or is it...?

Anyway, I just wanna say sorry to God for putting all those blames on Him all this time. And I promise that I would not let any opportunities slip away again.

Before I end this, I just want to say ... Steve Carell rocks! He's a really awesome actor and comedian! His dances are so addictive! I just can't get enough of this guy! Ciaoz~

p.s.Something out of topic but somehow related. David Copperfield is coming to Malaysia and he said that he would be turning some locals into lottery strikers because he heard that lottery is really popular here. Just something I read from the newspaper. So, if you're really hoping to strike it big time, go watch his performance and try your luck! Who knows?

Choppy,
-Enlightened-

An Inconvenient Truth

"You look at that river gently flowing by. You notice the leaves rustling with the wind. You hear the birds; you hear the tree frogs. In the distance you hear a cow. You feel the grass. The mud gives a little bit on the river bank. It’s quiet; it’s peaceful. And all of a sudden, it’s a gear shift inside you. And it’s like taking a deep breath and going, 'Oh yeah, I forgot about this'."
—Al Gore in the opening monologue of An Inconvenient Truth.

Just finished watching An Inconvenient Truth few minutes ago. And I have to say its very thought-provoking and inspiring. The main reason I didn't watch this earlier is because I thought it was going to be lengthy, boring and preachy and like many others out there, wasn't really conscious about environmental issues that are happening around us. But like hell, I was so wrong, so darn wrong. Unlike a boring 'seminar kerjaya' in school where the lecturer just stands right infront of the hall talking while you drift away to sleep, this documentary presented by Al Gore is filled with much evidence that comes in the form of graphs, pictures and even short cartoon animations. Al Gore himself is very passionate about the topic and the way he presents his slideshow is very, non-praechy. Lol. His arguments were logical, organised and sets you thinking. He really opened up my eyes and let me saw the reality of Global Warming.

Its very obvious now that the Earth is dying due to pollution. With the rising of temperature and crazy climate all around the world, how can you not notice ? Al Gore presented some bothering examples on consequences of Global Warming such as the melting ice caps in the poles that will cause a 20ft rise in sea level and many more. But its sad and depressing to see that even with such significant statistics shown by scientist all around the world, some political leaders are still in denial of the effects of Global Warming. According to them, its no big deal and its just a natural phenomenon. What the hell? Are they blind? Isn't Hurricane Katrina alarming enough to show everyone that actions must be taken now to reduce Global Warming? Its now or never people, now or never.

Besides, it is us humans that destroyed the mother nature in the first place. Newton's Third Law states that,

"For every action, there is a reaction with equal size but in opposite direction"

Do people still believe that we can cut down the forest and cause no harm to mother nature? Or polluting the rivers and seas and cause no harm to ourselves? Ugh, if its yes, please slap yourselves 3 times.

Anyway, I hope the Malaysian government is very much aware of Global Warming and will put in much more effort to reduce carbon dioxide emmisions. If the enthusiasm that everyone showed when sending our first Angkasawan, Dr Sheikh to space was protrayed as much as in saving the environment, I believe this world will be a better place. In fact, I feel its more worthy to spend all those money and effort into reducing Global Warming.

Back to the point, I recommend everyone to watch this movie by all means so that you too can open up your eyes and see for yourself what mankind has done towards mother nature in just a short 5-10 years period time. And please help save the earth before its too late. Watch the credits too as it will show ways where you can help reduce Global Warming, simple ways such as recycling. Oh, and remember to spread this movie to your family and friends! As for me, for now I'll go encourage my parents to change all those lightbulbs into energy-saving ones. Then, I'll go join Kelab Pencinta Alam. I wonder if they still accept new members, hmm...

Do you know that polar bears are drowning because they couldn't find ice to land on?

p.s. please visit http://www.stopglobalwarming.org/countmein.asp to join the Stop Global Warming Virtual March to let your voice be heard in the movement to reduce carbon dioxide emmisions!

Choppy,

-Determined-

-Concerned-

Hairspray

Just finished watching hairspray. One word, A-M-A-Z-I-N-G. Hmm, how do I descride it? Its like a 60's version of High School Musical with an extra bonus, John Travolta! Oh yah, and of course not forgetting Queen Latifah! Compared to High School Musical, Hairspray has a slightly better storyline with a better line of cast. I mean, John Travolta. Helo?! He's not only good in grooving but also acting! However, sad to say that HSM has a prettier and voluptuous Vanessa Anne Hudgens as the main actress but hey, nobody's complaining about Nikki Blonsky 'cause girl, she can sing and dance as good as Baby V. No doubt on that. Acting skills wise, no comments, they're just the same to me, lol. Anyway, if you are fond of musicals such as HSM and a big fan of retro music and dances, this is the show for you! In fact, I feel its a show for everybody, big or small, old or young. This movie will set you dancing on your feet, people! So, don't miss it! Please, I am begging you. Lol.

Choppy,

-Excited-

-Groovy-

Checklist

Things to do during the holidays :

1. Watch finish lots and lots of TV shows in order (as usual, just being a couch potato. Lol)
- Goong [Korean] - Currently in episode 13, in 2 days. Hoho. I'm crazy about this show.
- One Litre Of Tears [Japanese] - Only 8 episodes, shouldn't take too much of my time. Heard that it makes everyone who watches it cry. I want to see if its true. I'll tell you if it does, no worries.
- Densha Otoko also known as Train Man - Missed it on 8tv the other time. Darn it!
- Grey's Anatomy [American] - I've forgotten I watched till which episode. I think it was the part where Danny died. You've got any idea which episode is that ?
- Fate/Stay Night [Anime] - Saw 1 episode on Animax. Interesting...

2. Watch these movies in order
- Hairspray - Looks nice! It has Zac Efron and John Travolta in it! And its musical!
- An Inconvenient Truth - Hey, I care about the environment too, FYI.
- I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry- Heard its very funny. And it has Kevin James and Adam Sandler! Wow!
- Evan Almighty - How can you resist Steve Carell? He is one hell of a joker!
- Ratatouiie - A rat learning to cook. What more can you ask for ?

3. Finish reading these books that I've bought for such a long time
- Memory Keeper's Daughter - Bestseller for god-knows-how-many weeks in MPH
- Eragon - A boy and a Dragon. That should be fun, right ?
- Densha Otoko also known as Train Man - Havn't bought it yet though. Going to get it when I've got the cash. Ya, I know, sounds stupid to read and then watch it again. But hey, everyone does that for Harry Potter. Besides, both the drama and manga are award-winning.

4. Work very, very, very hard to earn alot money for
- my driving license - Can't believe I'm getting it soon in about 3 months. Eek, so excited!
- Holiday trip - Gosh, I want to go to so many places for vacation!
- a RM119.90 Seed jacket - No comments, lol. Just want to say that the jacket is A-W-E-S-O-M-E. Period.
- contact lense - No special reason. Just want to have them.

5. Ok, that's enough fun. Time for some education (Boring..)
- Finish up all the exercises for Maths- Pretty ambitious, huh ? Lol.
- Read up on Chemistry to see which freakin part I do not understand - Probably the whole thing. Deng.
- Read up on my Japanese Lesson - If I don't catch up soon enough, I'll be lost in class. Furthermore, I don't even recognize a single Katagana anymore. Darn, I'm so dead.

Well, that basically sums up everything I'll be doing for the next few months. I'll keep you guys on track, don't worry! Wish me luck!

Choppy,
-Determined-
-Excited-

To Nurin

Dear Nurin Jazlin Jazimin
(The little girl most of us never knew but cried for)

What horrible, heartless beast
What brutal, merciless monster
Ravaged your innocence
And stole your life so savagely
Tears of sorrow
Expressions of grief
And words of sympathy
Can never make up for the pains you suffered

Oh... how you must have suffered
But sweet darling
Cry no more, fear no more
Your sufferings are no more
And you are safe now, forever safe
In a place far far better
Than this wicked world

Dear God
We return Nurin to you
Not as unblemished as the little girl you sent us
But just as innocent, just as chaste
Take her hands
Lead her straight to heaven
And if there is a special spot there
For someone special
Grant it to this little girl
She deserves the best in Your Heaven.

Subhi Mohamed, Penang

Adapted from The Star,

Star Two,

Wednesday, 10 October 2007.

Few weeks ago, the nation was stunned by the brutal murder of a little girl. Hopefully, the malevolent paedophile would be arrested as soon as possible as to prevent other children from this lurking beast. It really makes me wonder wether if there is still hope in this corrupted world? Or is Doomsday gradually approaching? Only time will tell. Nevertheless, may justice prevail for this innocent girl, Nurin. I pray that all is well for you in the other world.

Choppy,
-despair-

Holidays

Ok, so my end-term exam is finally over. That's practically why I havn't been posting for a very long time. Sorry about that. Anyway, we are given a 1 week + break, 11 days to be exact due to the coming Hari Raya. So, I guess I should be cheering and feeling all relieved. Right. But am I ?

Lets do some flashbacks, shall we? So, during the past holidays, from after SPM which is December last year till June this year, what have I done? Lets see, besides work, and work, and more work at Jaya Jusco for the first 2 months and later Kumon till now...what else did I do? Hmm, I also went for St John Youth Camp on June and joined the State Level First Aid and Foot Drill Competition on March ( not boasting or anything, haha ) ....what else.... gosh, I can't remember. Did I even spend any time with my friends? Oh yah, I remember that Genting trip with my classmates, which turned out disastrous and I believe those who went knows why. Sigh. The later trip to Genting again with my Competition team was so much better but wasn't very great either due to non-disclose-able reasons. Yes, I guess you find it stupid to actually visit Genting twice a year. I think so too but nevertheless, I went.

So, that's basically what I did during my holidays. I don't know about you guys, but I think my holiday sucks. Yes, my holiday sucks. I don't know why but mainly I think its because I didn't spend much 'enjoyable' time with my friends. Let me ask any of my ex-La Sallian classmates who happens to read this, how many class gatherings were held after SPM? Ok, there was one at Teck Han's house, which only involve Chinese and later another BBQ party at Fan Di's where only about 10 people attended? I don't recall 5ST1 having only Chinese students or worst, only 10 students in the class? Even with my amnesia, I think there was about 30+ with a mix of Chinese, Malay and Indian, right? Conclusion, 'successful' class gathering held till this day, Zero.

Well, its not like I'm blaming anybody here because I, myself is to blame either. In fact, I'm really thankful to those who tried really hard to gather each and every one of us. I guess its really tough because if I did not recall wrongly, there was some stiff class politics and even some slight racial discrimination happening throughout the year. Oops, I should have kept my lips sealed. Bah, who cares?

And whenever I flip through my friends' profiles in friendster, just looking through their pictures, there is usually a sense of jealousy in me or rather a sense of disappointment in myself. I'm always looking at pictures of other people having fun with their friends at various places and various events. And when I look at my own profile, boring. Well, I don't know if its because I seldom take pictures when hanging out with friends causing me to fail to reminisce any good times whenever hanging out with my friends, if there is even any, but I just get this fuzzy feeling in me. Why is everyone having so much fun and I'm here sitting at this empty house all alone turning into a potato couch? It really makes me feel like a lonely kid not able to lead a happy and joyful teenager's lifestyle. It's as though I'm wasting my teenage years while the time is ticking with no mercy.

Oh well, I guess I'm just not feeling the 'love' from my friends or whatsoever. Yes, I know I have some very good friends out there but, I don't know, maybe its just a personal issue. When I see a group of friends having some jolly good time, I will feel this sudden loneliness in me although I'm not sure why. Do everybody feel this way or is it just me? I don't know. I guess I'm just not really satisfied with my life now. High expectations you say? I don't know. Maybe. Sigh. Sad, huh?

Anyway, I hope that this coming holiday will be very well spent. I don't want to spend any more time turning into a potato couch. I hope a successful 5ST1 gathering will be held very soon. Can't wait for my current class vacation too. I wonder where will 6B2 be heading? Haha. Oh well, doesn't really matter as long as it does not involve Genting and we can have fun.

So sorry you had to read this boring, emo, and crappy ramblings of mine.
Happy holidays to you and hopefully to me too!

Choppy,
-emo-
-hopeful-

Influence

The clock is ticking. Time is slipping away. It is due next week. No, I'm not talking about the end-term holidays. No, not yet. But more importantly, it's our education final countdown ( well, at least for this year. Lol. ). Don't tell me you don't know wad I'm talking about? It's the end-term exam of course! Anyway, as the end-term exam approaches just around the corner, I rolled the ball. My friends around wait in anticipation as they watch closely whether I shall succeed or fail miserably this time. Dong. The ball rolled into the drain again for god-knows-how-many consecutive times. I suck in bowling.

Ok, enough crapping, lol. Back to the main point for this post. As mentioned above, my school's end-term exam is starting next week ( Actually it started last week for the Pengajian Am paper but it was only 1 day so I don't think its counted as 'started' ). And we are having 1 whole week of holiday due to the PMR examination. Ya, I know, you might think we, lower 6 are very lucky. But think no further because although its the holidays, some of us had to come to school for extra classes. Zzzz. Well, for 6B2 and 6B4, we have to come to school on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 8am to 11am to attend Maths extra classes conducted by Uncle Lim Cheng Lay. On Tuesday, some of us ( Club Presidents, Deputy and Secretary ) have to come to school too at 8.30am to do some kind of a survey for the PPD. And we have to wear our school uniforms for each day as usual like schooling days. Sad! So you see, my equation was right all along since 2 months ago,

Holiday = No Holiday

Haha, lame equation, I know. Nevertheless, its still very true for me. Anyway, as you can see, I don't really have much time to study for my end-term exam! So, I guess you are saying I must make use of all the time I have left right? Yap, I think so too.

So after a grueling extra class today, a few of my friends decided to go BOWLING at Klang Parade. I was like what the heck? Its less than 1 week till exam and they want to go bowling?! Well, so I decided to follow them there to eat McDonalds ( bah da bah bah i'm lovin it~ ) then I can walk home to study since I have no transport to go back home anyway. For your info, the people who went were Nicholas, Boon Kai, Chee Yee, Chung Chin, Chee Yong, Shin Yee ( the only girl, lol ), Sheng Jie, Soon Poi and Haresh.

When we were there, I was suddenly pulled into playing bowling. I have no idea how. So I guess fine then, 1 round wouldn't take too long and its been a long time since i last bowled. And then disaster struck. Soon Poi told me he booked 4 rounds because there was a promotion, 4 for RM 10. My jaw dropped and I stared at him ( Ok, this is exaggerated haha ). I mean 4 rounds?! My stomach is empty and my brain is empty and you want me to play 4 rounds?!

Back in those days in La Salle, 1 week before exam is like a holy week. After school, go back study. Nothing else. But I didn't know Kwang Hua people play bowling before exam? Lol. So, you see, I'm slowly being influenced by Kwang Hua people. I'm not saying its a bad influence or anything because I guess there are pros and cons of it. At least , I did have fun, lots of them. Haha. And I got to see Sau Seong, Mr chairman of High School Bowling Club who came later struts his stuff. The pose when he rolls the ball, so elegant and flexible. Lol. Makes us normal players feel noob. Haha.

Anyway, I think its time I REALLY start focusing on my studies before its too late because Chee Yee said reading Chemistry is like hell. And 1 more thing I had the worst nightmare today this afternoon when I was taking a nap, a 4 hour nap lol. I dreamt I didn't study anything for Chemistry and took the exam. It was so scary. My heart was pounding like crazy! Before you ask, sorry guys, I did not see or rather remember the questions. So, no soalan bocor. Haha. Darn it, why don't I have premonition skills. Sigh.

Well, I think I better start studying right now. Don't waste anymore time and this goes to all you lazy bums out there! Start reading before you regret! Lastly, I just want to say I love my friends. I wonder if they love me. Hmmm.....

Choppy,
-Wonder-
-Determined-
-Glad-