Like a Bag of Feathers
(Text-type: Narrative [Moral Tale]}
It's really tough to start writing again. I think I have stopped too long.
So here is just a short story that I would like to share.
There was once two friends who thought the world of each other. They had grown up together, and were like peas in a pod. Of course, they shared almost everything together, and because of their trust in each other, they shared many, many secrets.
But one day, something came between them. For once, they fought. Both felt hurt by the harsh words that were exchanged, and each felt betrayed by the other. Pride also stood in the way , and they were unwilling to make the first move to apologise.
But while one kept his mouth shut, the other began to tell the secrets of his once 'best' friend. Pretty soon, the entire neighbourhood knew the deep dark secrets, and the man felt embarrased. Yet, he still kept his silence, and held his head up high.
His friend soon came to his senses, and felt bad about his actions. So he went over to apologise.
"I am really sorry. I want to make up for all my wrong-doings".
His friend looked at him long and hard. "I will...as long as you do something for me." He handed his friend a bag of feathers. " I want you to go to the town square, and release these. Come back when it is done."
Eager to make amends, he ran to the town, and did what he was told. It was a windy day, and all the feathers flew in every possible direction. Once done, he ran back to his friend.
"I have done as told. So am I forgiven?"
"No...Now I want you to go back, and collect all the feathers again." his friend instructed.
"What?! That is impossible." he yelled.
His friend looked at him long and hard. Finally he shook his head, and in a soft voice said," Well...that is just how hard I have to regain my reputation. You have spread the stories about me to people. Do you think you can retract your words?"
The man bowed his head low. He knew that he has lost his friend forever.
It's a simple story, but very deep. Very often, we are guilty of telling tales about others, or spreading gossips...or simply talking behind others' backs. And more often than not, we forget that like the feathers, once we make such comments, the damage is often irrevocable.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Thursday, August 14, 2008
I am Grateful
I am Grateful...thank you
(Reflection)
I think we all have our fair share of good and bad days.
We have been leading such good lives that sometimes, we forget about the small blessings that we have each day.
This is taken from something which I have read. I want to share this so that before we grumble, and think of our own unhappiness, let's pause and count our blessings.
Life is A Gift.
Today before you think of saying an unkind word - Think of someone who can't speak.
Before you complain about the taste of your food - Think of someone who has nothing to eat.
Before you complain about your husband or wife - Think of someone who's crying out for a companion, someone who is lonely without love.
Today before you complain about life - Think of someone who died so young.
Before you complain about your children - Think of someone who desires children but they're barren.
Before you argue about your dirty house, someone didn't clean or sweep - Think of the people who are living in the streets.
Before whining about the distance you drive, or bad transport system - Think of someone who walks the same distance with their feet.
Before you feel that the world is against you, think of those less fortunate.
And when you are tired and complain about your job - Think of the unemployed, the disabled and those who wished they had your job.
But before you think of pointing the finger or condemning another - Remember that not one of us are without sin and we all answer to one maker.
And when depressing thoughts seem to get you down - Put a smile on your face and thank --- you're alive and still around
Life is a gift- Live it, Enjoy it, Celebrate it, And fulfill it.
And to my kids in school,
If your teachers are sooo strict and naggy, it is because they want you to do well.
If your parents nag and restrict your freedom, it is because they care and want to protect you.
The exams are stressful now, but you'll overcome. Have faith and be strong. You can make it.
(Reflection)
I think we all have our fair share of good and bad days.
We have been leading such good lives that sometimes, we forget about the small blessings that we have each day.
This is taken from something which I have read. I want to share this so that before we grumble, and think of our own unhappiness, let's pause and count our blessings.
Life is A Gift.
Today before you think of saying an unkind word - Think of someone who can't speak.
Before you complain about the taste of your food - Think of someone who has nothing to eat.
Before you complain about your husband or wife - Think of someone who's crying out for a companion, someone who is lonely without love.
Today before you complain about life - Think of someone who died so young.
Before you complain about your children - Think of someone who desires children but they're barren.
Before you argue about your dirty house, someone didn't clean or sweep - Think of the people who are living in the streets.
Before whining about the distance you drive, or bad transport system - Think of someone who walks the same distance with their feet.
Before you feel that the world is against you, think of those less fortunate.
And when you are tired and complain about your job - Think of the unemployed, the disabled and those who wished they had your job.
But before you think of pointing the finger or condemning another - Remember that not one of us are without sin and we all answer to one maker.
And when depressing thoughts seem to get you down - Put a smile on your face and thank --- you're alive and still around
Life is a gift- Live it, Enjoy it, Celebrate it, And fulfill it.
And to my kids in school,
If your teachers are sooo strict and naggy, it is because they want you to do well.
If your parents nag and restrict your freedom, it is because they care and want to protect you.
The exams are stressful now, but you'll overcome. Have faith and be strong. You can make it.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Be An Eagle
Be An Eagle
(Text-type: Information Report + Exposition)
A Reflection
Have you wondered why the eagle is seen a symbol of power and might? Why does this bird draw so much respect and admiration?
In America, the eagle is a symbol of freedom, stength and independence.
In Egyptian mythology, Ra and Horus (the Sun Gods), had bodies of men, and heads of the winged bird.
More than 20 nations of the world use the image of the eagle on their coat of arms, so did the great empires of the past.
I think that the image of 'greatness' is often derived from the qualities that this breed of bird has.
a)The eagle is monogamus. They mate for life. And when its mate dies, it does not seek another. I suppose, this means that their loyalty and trust to one another are things that humans today should think about. They treasure their relationship with each other.
b) They are good parents. Despite being ferocious and aggressive predators, eagles make good parents. They build their nests together to prepare for their young, and the male eagle takes a lot of responsibility looking after his family. The female eagle goes out of way to train her young to fly. She places her eaglet on her back, and then flies high. Midway, she swoops, and let it fall. The eaglet learns on instinct how to flap its wings, but the mother is always there to 'catch' should it not manage to do so. And if the eaglet has no courage to soar on its own, the mother goes to the extent of even destroying the nest, or even makes it repeat the process of learning to fly until it gains independence. But it does not abandon its young!
The learning point here I suppose is that we must teach our next generation values like team-work and independence. As a mother, I guide, and protect, but to an extent that I do not mollycoddle, and leave my child unable to fend for himself.
c)They have sharp vision. In the animal kingdom, the eagles are the best hunters because they are able to 'see' at very great distances. They can even look at the sun directly without being affected. Once they find their goal, they hone in and zoom down.
Learning point: I ask myself...how clear is my vision? Do I see the goals I want in the future, and do I really keep my focus to achieve them? Or do I get 'blinded' easily by things that distract me.
d)Eagles are resilient: While other birds look for cover during storms, the eagle relishes the bad weather and uses it to his advantage. It catches on the updrafts so that it will be able to fly even above the storm.
Learning point: Storms are our challenges. Instead of running away from them, we meet them , overcome, and we will be able to do even better things.
e) Eagles are not scavengers. It finds thrill in the hunt, and does not eat dead meat, unlike vultures. It relies on its own effort, and reaps the rewards from its own effort. Need I say more? As a human being, I learn to leverage on my own merits. The rewards are definitely sweeter then.
Well, that's my ramblings for today.
I want to be an eagle.
I want to be able to soar (and dance, and dance, not only in my dreams)
(Text-type: Information Report + Exposition)
A Reflection
Have you wondered why the eagle is seen a symbol of power and might? Why does this bird draw so much respect and admiration?
In America, the eagle is a symbol of freedom, stength and independence.
In Egyptian mythology, Ra and Horus (the Sun Gods), had bodies of men, and heads of the winged bird.
More than 20 nations of the world use the image of the eagle on their coat of arms, so did the great empires of the past.
I think that the image of 'greatness' is often derived from the qualities that this breed of bird has.
a)The eagle is monogamus. They mate for life. And when its mate dies, it does not seek another. I suppose, this means that their loyalty and trust to one another are things that humans today should think about. They treasure their relationship with each other.
b) They are good parents. Despite being ferocious and aggressive predators, eagles make good parents. They build their nests together to prepare for their young, and the male eagle takes a lot of responsibility looking after his family. The female eagle goes out of way to train her young to fly. She places her eaglet on her back, and then flies high. Midway, she swoops, and let it fall. The eaglet learns on instinct how to flap its wings, but the mother is always there to 'catch' should it not manage to do so. And if the eaglet has no courage to soar on its own, the mother goes to the extent of even destroying the nest, or even makes it repeat the process of learning to fly until it gains independence. But it does not abandon its young!
The learning point here I suppose is that we must teach our next generation values like team-work and independence. As a mother, I guide, and protect, but to an extent that I do not mollycoddle, and leave my child unable to fend for himself.
c)They have sharp vision. In the animal kingdom, the eagles are the best hunters because they are able to 'see' at very great distances. They can even look at the sun directly without being affected. Once they find their goal, they hone in and zoom down.
Learning point: I ask myself...how clear is my vision? Do I see the goals I want in the future, and do I really keep my focus to achieve them? Or do I get 'blinded' easily by things that distract me.
d)Eagles are resilient: While other birds look for cover during storms, the eagle relishes the bad weather and uses it to his advantage. It catches on the updrafts so that it will be able to fly even above the storm.
Learning point: Storms are our challenges. Instead of running away from them, we meet them , overcome, and we will be able to do even better things.
e) Eagles are not scavengers. It finds thrill in the hunt, and does not eat dead meat, unlike vultures. It relies on its own effort, and reaps the rewards from its own effort. Need I say more? As a human being, I learn to leverage on my own merits. The rewards are definitely sweeter then.
Well, that's my ramblings for today.
I want to be an eagle.
I want to be able to soar (and dance, and dance, not only in my dreams)
Monday, August 11, 2008
Happy Birthday Zafran
Happy Birthday Zafran
Today I hit a new milestone in my life. For today, I celebrate the birthday of a very special individual:- my first-born, Ammar Zafran.
All my children and kids are special to me, each in their own unique way. For Zafran, his birth marks my transition to a new role in my life 16 years ago, as a mother.
Every mother wants the best for her child. Every mother prays for the well-being, safety, and success of one who is of her flesh and blood. I am no different. Each day, I say a pray to ask Allah for all those things, and even more. I ask God to make me a good mother, who is able to teach my children the right values, and to be anchored in principles, so that they would grow up to be upright and a person of integrity. I pray for guidance so that I can be a good example , and walk the talk. I pray that each child is strong physically and emotionally...and that even though I cannot protect them from everything, their faith in God and themselves remain unshakeable.
Today, I say a special prayer for you, my dear Zafran.
In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious and Benevolent,
Today marks the 16th year of Zafran's life. As a teenager, he is already facing many challenges. Please give him the strength of character, and a clear heart and mind to do the things which will put him in good stead.
Grant him wisdom and courage. Grant him Nur in his endeavours.
At the moment, he is facing his challenge of the O levels. I know he has been studying hard, and working hard. Reward him for his efforts, and may his perserverance pay off with what he aims for.
Grant him good health, and a long blessed and prosperous life. Make him safe from illnesses, for now and the future.
Bless him with a true and pure heart, and help him grow into a humane, loving and compassionate individual who will be able to give back to his family, community and country.
He is a good son, and I love him very much.
So Allah, hear and fulfil my prayers.
Amin...Amin...Amin.
Today I hit a new milestone in my life. For today, I celebrate the birthday of a very special individual:- my first-born, Ammar Zafran.
All my children and kids are special to me, each in their own unique way. For Zafran, his birth marks my transition to a new role in my life 16 years ago, as a mother.
Every mother wants the best for her child. Every mother prays for the well-being, safety, and success of one who is of her flesh and blood. I am no different. Each day, I say a pray to ask Allah for all those things, and even more. I ask God to make me a good mother, who is able to teach my children the right values, and to be anchored in principles, so that they would grow up to be upright and a person of integrity. I pray for guidance so that I can be a good example , and walk the talk. I pray that each child is strong physically and emotionally...and that even though I cannot protect them from everything, their faith in God and themselves remain unshakeable.
Today, I say a special prayer for you, my dear Zafran.
In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious and Benevolent,
Today marks the 16th year of Zafran's life. As a teenager, he is already facing many challenges. Please give him the strength of character, and a clear heart and mind to do the things which will put him in good stead.
Grant him wisdom and courage. Grant him Nur in his endeavours.
At the moment, he is facing his challenge of the O levels. I know he has been studying hard, and working hard. Reward him for his efforts, and may his perserverance pay off with what he aims for.
Grant him good health, and a long blessed and prosperous life. Make him safe from illnesses, for now and the future.
Bless him with a true and pure heart, and help him grow into a humane, loving and compassionate individual who will be able to give back to his family, community and country.
He is a good son, and I love him very much.
So Allah, hear and fulfil my prayers.
Amin...Amin...Amin.
Random Musings
Random Musings
(Text-type: ?)
Someone asked me why I have not been writing much lately. Actually, I do write, but some of the entries have been saved as drafts, and not posted. Some are really too personal to be published and left on line. But I promise this person that I will be a little more regular.
Maybe a little bit of catch up.
God works in mysterious ways, and a few days after I wrote about Subihan (my greatest moment of fear), we crossed paths again.
I was at Vivocity window shopping (as if), when I felt I was being stalked. Someone had followed me from shop to shop! And you know how paranoid I am right?...having to keep looking over my shoulder. I was getting very nervous, and not quite sure what to do.
So I anchored myself outside Page One, and decided to pretend to look at the book display, hoping that I would be able to get a glimpse of whoever was following me from the reflection in the glass window. But there were too many people walking by, and of course, I hated it when I sense people behind me. It makes me only too vulnerable.
"Excuse me. Are you Ms Adibah?"
I nearly jumped out of my skin. The speaker was just behind me. Instinctively, I swung my bag, and hit his hand. I turned around, and saw a tall, young man looking uncertainly at me.
"Ms Adibah?....from Changkat?" he tried again, hesitantly.The voice was gruff, but familar. Mind you, since I am getting more short-sighted, it takes a while to get my eyes focused on the face, to decipher who he was. But when he called me "Miss", I knew he must be one of my earlier 'babies'.
Then suddenly, the waves of memories washed over me. The face...the child has grown into a man.
"Subihan?" I whispered. It was strange. Why were we talking in such hushed tones.
He broke into a wide grin...took my hand, and shook it. It was a rather awkward moment..for it was then that the other 'unpleasant memories' came back too...his illness, his words to me...my own reactions.
"It's good to see you. How are you?" I asked, secretly scanning for signs of his ailment.
It was as if he could read my mind.
"I am fine...so much better...no relapse. I am working now. My parents have split up. I am happier with my mother."
We exchanged news about school and how we have moved on. The small talk was cordial, and he looked genuinely good. There were a lot of unspoken questions, but it was best that the past was not raked up again.
When it was time for me to go, I apologised for not being able to chat with him longer. This time around, he took my hand, and 'salam' , a gesture which I took, as a sign of respect.
"Thank you, Cher...for everything. I never said sorry..I never said thank you" His eyes misted.
I choked for a moment. He remembered....and I remember too...after all this years...this was my special child...someone who affected my life as an educator. He turned out well...that's a real relief...and I am gratified by his words. I feel I have done something right, despite a time when things seemed so wrong. I felt at peace.
I thank God for that chance meeting. Sometimes, as a teacher, I wonder if I am doing the right thing. It is not easy having to look after another person's child, and having to 'raise' and educate that child not only with knowledge, but with skills and values.
At a time, when my doubts are heavy, and when my confidence is low, meeting Subihan again reminds me of what I really want to do...what I find worthwhile doing. The challenges will always be there, and the times when I find myself wanting to bang my head against the wall in frustration, are all 'erased' by the presence of this young man who will always have a special spot in my heart.
The story of the starfish is true.
I will not be able to throw all the starfish back into the ocean.
But when I do, it does make a difference.
Thank you, Subihan...thank you for helping me find my way.
(Text-type: ?)
Someone asked me why I have not been writing much lately. Actually, I do write, but some of the entries have been saved as drafts, and not posted. Some are really too personal to be published and left on line. But I promise this person that I will be a little more regular.
Maybe a little bit of catch up.
God works in mysterious ways, and a few days after I wrote about Subihan (my greatest moment of fear), we crossed paths again.
I was at Vivocity window shopping (as if), when I felt I was being stalked. Someone had followed me from shop to shop! And you know how paranoid I am right?...having to keep looking over my shoulder. I was getting very nervous, and not quite sure what to do.
So I anchored myself outside Page One, and decided to pretend to look at the book display, hoping that I would be able to get a glimpse of whoever was following me from the reflection in the glass window. But there were too many people walking by, and of course, I hated it when I sense people behind me. It makes me only too vulnerable.
"Excuse me. Are you Ms Adibah?"
I nearly jumped out of my skin. The speaker was just behind me. Instinctively, I swung my bag, and hit his hand. I turned around, and saw a tall, young man looking uncertainly at me.
"Ms Adibah?....from Changkat?" he tried again, hesitantly.The voice was gruff, but familar. Mind you, since I am getting more short-sighted, it takes a while to get my eyes focused on the face, to decipher who he was. But when he called me "Miss", I knew he must be one of my earlier 'babies'.
Then suddenly, the waves of memories washed over me. The face...the child has grown into a man.
"Subihan?" I whispered. It was strange. Why were we talking in such hushed tones.
He broke into a wide grin...took my hand, and shook it. It was a rather awkward moment..for it was then that the other 'unpleasant memories' came back too...his illness, his words to me...my own reactions.
"It's good to see you. How are you?" I asked, secretly scanning for signs of his ailment.
It was as if he could read my mind.
"I am fine...so much better...no relapse. I am working now. My parents have split up. I am happier with my mother."
We exchanged news about school and how we have moved on. The small talk was cordial, and he looked genuinely good. There were a lot of unspoken questions, but it was best that the past was not raked up again.
When it was time for me to go, I apologised for not being able to chat with him longer. This time around, he took my hand, and 'salam' , a gesture which I took, as a sign of respect.
"Thank you, Cher...for everything. I never said sorry..I never said thank you" His eyes misted.
I choked for a moment. He remembered....and I remember too...after all this years...this was my special child...someone who affected my life as an educator. He turned out well...that's a real relief...and I am gratified by his words. I feel I have done something right, despite a time when things seemed so wrong. I felt at peace.
I thank God for that chance meeting. Sometimes, as a teacher, I wonder if I am doing the right thing. It is not easy having to look after another person's child, and having to 'raise' and educate that child not only with knowledge, but with skills and values.
At a time, when my doubts are heavy, and when my confidence is low, meeting Subihan again reminds me of what I really want to do...what I find worthwhile doing. The challenges will always be there, and the times when I find myself wanting to bang my head against the wall in frustration, are all 'erased' by the presence of this young man who will always have a special spot in my heart.
The story of the starfish is true.
I will not be able to throw all the starfish back into the ocean.
But when I do, it does make a difference.
Thank you, Subihan...thank you for helping me find my way.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Claustrophobia
Conquering Claustrophobia
(Text-type: Exposition)
I am claustrophobic, and it is a chronic situation that I face.
Of late, it feels as if my hackles are up, and I find myself terrified at the thought of people invading my personal sense of space. Mind you, the radius has to be very wide. I need the berth to be more than an arm's length before I am comfortable.
Li Ann has been great in trying to help me deal with this peculiar paranoia. If not the situation would really be very distressing and pressurising. I need to literally and mentally 'space out'.
I have learnt to do 2 things: switch off the trigger points...my auditory and my visual senses. When I hear too much noise, I get high strung, and that is why I need to keep people away. Physically, I need to shut my eyes, and will myself to stay calm.
Sigh... no wonder people can go mad with their quirks.
But I will overcome...
Just don't stand too close to me ok?
(Text-type: Exposition)
I am claustrophobic, and it is a chronic situation that I face.
Of late, it feels as if my hackles are up, and I find myself terrified at the thought of people invading my personal sense of space. Mind you, the radius has to be very wide. I need the berth to be more than an arm's length before I am comfortable.
Li Ann has been great in trying to help me deal with this peculiar paranoia. If not the situation would really be very distressing and pressurising. I need to literally and mentally 'space out'.
I have learnt to do 2 things: switch off the trigger points...my auditory and my visual senses. When I hear too much noise, I get high strung, and that is why I need to keep people away. Physically, I need to shut my eyes, and will myself to stay calm.
Sigh... no wonder people can go mad with their quirks.
But I will overcome...
Just don't stand too close to me ok?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
