Today, I found myself.. (Day 127)

Today, I found myself touching up the logistical and equipment requirements for the inspiration of the week.

Colored windows to the world.

Today, I found myself.. a Revelation

"Today, I found myself.."

While on the way home, I thought about life and perspectives and seemingly out of nowhere, an idea hit me like a bus that got me thinking.

Very so often, I find myself questioning my day's validity; whether if each and every single one of my days were significant enough to be remembered say, a year from now. And I found my answer to be a sad "no, I can't".

To me, literature is a perspective, a form of memory of sorts. And in this experimental twist of fate, I finally devised an interesting concept of keeping track of my day's significance.

"Today, I found myself.." is a perspective. It can also be a way of life, and a reminisce of sorts.

Simply put, "Today, I found myself.." is an expression of faith and hope and a journey of self preservation in essence.

It is a journey of significance and a celebration of these significances as well. Life is full of color, so why not jot down every single detail of that fabulous shade?

From today on, metallic-stains will be (very) constantly updated. "Today, I found myself.." tells us of a continuum and a collection of days. Daily, a simple "Today, I found myself" post will be updated and posted on the site, in addition to the normal insights and updates of course.

This is still a very raw and experimental idea, I acknowledge that detail and thus, I'm looking for feedback on this bold revolution; feel free to comment or drop me a message as needed!

Aside from the updates here on metallic-stains, "Today, I found myself.." will also be live on my twitter account (as seen to your right) so feel free to follow if desired.

Alright, that's about it for that little concept. Be sure to check back often for other insights and editorials.

Check back soon and till then!

*The author and owner of metallic-stains reserves the right for the concept entitled "Today, I found myself.." and its respective creative credits. This is a new concept and thus plagiarism is strongly discouraged and and feedback and comments should be directed towards the appropriate personnel. Any resemblance existing concepts with similar objectives and functions is purely unintentional. Respect intellectual property, respect yourself.

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Now playing: Led Zeppelin - Whole Lotta Love
via FoxyTunes

The Education Medium

Complication leads to Beauty.

Teaching is never easy, with much variation from the saying "those who can't do, teach".

In my opinion, teaching and educating is one of, if not, the most demanding profession in the world. A big claim I know but few of you guys out there might agree.

Just reminisce and think back on the times when in school, especially high school, where your inner child would unleash himself or herself, much to the disdain and inconvenience to teachers and educators alike.

I'm guilty of that, and I'm sure many of you guys out there are too. Looking back, those memories are certainly amusing yet interesting to ponder over.

For me, my interpretation of teaching constitutes to commitment and that would mean passion; passion comes naturally with commitment. And being a part time educator myself, I've seen my fair share of hair pulling moments.

Take the session today (well, Thursday) for example. I guess my limits were tested and this is why I've always admired educators; they're able to extend their personal limits to boundaries which no ordinary human profession can.

To Learn and to Understand.

On a personal level, I've experience my fair share of awesome as well as not so awesome educators in my course of education for the pass, (pause to count the years) 12 years or so (including kindergarten, yea I know).

Thankfully, I've been more exposed to positive influences in the form of educators rather than those of the opposite spectrum. From those who literally became my "day care mother" to those who deeply inspired me, each and everyone of them etched in my mind.

There has always been this "power distance" between educators and students, an unknown "rule" between both parties (but more prominently amongst students). At lower levels of education, this is especially obvious, well for me at least.

During my days of primary education, I've always thought and looked at teachers with this aura like thing; teachers and students are not allowed to have friendships amongst the other, like how they treat their peers.

It a good thing though, I feel. For one, that certain level of respect is cultivated and it is definitely something that every human being will need to know and learn.

However as I progress through the levels of education, I noticed a change in this "power distance", especially my recent graduation to tertiary education.

At higher levels of education, we find that the distance between educator and student lessens. Lessens, but does not cease to exist, which can be a common but dangerous perception.

I feel that as that distance lessens, students and educators build closer bonds amongst each other and that is good, and healthy.

The declination comes when this distance is totally ignored.

As mentioned, it does NOT cease to exist and some people overlook that fact and the result? That level of respect is lost.

They say that respect is earned, and that everyone lives to be respected to a certain level. And when respect is lost, people feel violated, offended and insulted and that's where things go out of hand.

I guess that line has to be very distinctly drawn, the line that signifies and differentiates respect and building a relationship.

Underrated as it seems, I really feel that educators deserve all the credit that we can give them. After all, it is they who teach and educate, isn't it?

Well, that's that for a little update, on to the more realistic side of life.

I realize that this and the previous post were all themed around education and the such. I guess that might be a little mundane and dry but hey, we cannot deny the fact that its something each and every single one of us is exposed to can we?

On the lighter side, I foresee that next Tuesday, 10 of March, will be a really really good day, cause yet another awesome (in my opinion, haters feel free to dis) band is coming to town!

Lonely Road, their latest release.

Yes, The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus.

I've been a (loyal) listener of their works since a couple of years ago and these guys are certainly one of the first few alternative/post hardcore bands that I listened to, so certainly an influence there.

Their latest release may come off as a little "pop-ish" and "mainstream", but all in all, a change in direction for the band, which may or may not be a good thing.

It still strikes a good chord with me though, so its all good. Be sure to check out their music on myspace or youtube, if you're interested (and go get the tickets if you're really up for it).

Alright, I guess that's it for this little update check back for updates and the lot. More good stuff to follow, I promise.

Till then, Godspeed.

*the owner of metallic-stains is in no way affiliated with the band as mentioned in this post but does express support in their music and style of expression. All songs and references made belong to the band and all rights belong to their respective owners.

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Now playing: The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus - You Better Pray
via FoxyTunes

All I want for Christmas is my two cents worth

The quiet and empty streets where Solace and Tranquility is evident.

The long awaited term break is finally here and quite honestly, never a better time. As much as I enjoy the daily pressures of school work and assignments, the break will serve as an ideal period to rest the tired bones.

In retrospect, the term was filled with a rich variation of activities; assignments, school work, late nights and other commitments.

To sum it up in a nutshell, it was a real difference as compared to previous semesters. A myriad of assignments and expectations supplemented the time during the term, making it a real challenge as well as an ideal learning process within.

However, I would like to talk about one particular assignment which I thoroughly enjoyed, and one of my favorites to date in terms of the process and final product.

Disturbing, ain't it?

I'm pretty sure that, to many of you out there, lugging through town at the wee hours of the morning isn't exactly a norm for an assignment. But that was exactly what we did.

Basically, the assignment circled around nation building targeted at the youths of the nation and what we were expected to do was a simple photo montage of various pictures which depicted the group's interpretation of the theme.

Sounds juicy doesn't it?

Our group decided to do something a little different and thus had to go around in search of "empty" shots. The only way to do it? The wee hours of the morning.

So where are You?

Sure it was tiring but the end product was, to me personally, well worth the effort as we got the shots we wanted, which conveyed the effect and atmosphere that we intended to portray.

An abstract 4/6 of the Drool Bits Team.

Take a look at our final product for this assignment and feel free to give me your feedback and comments. The members of Drool Bits Productions look forward to these responses.



Moving away from that now.

Christmas is around the corner, but with a difference. The global financial crisis has indeed affected the bulk of consumers, both in physical spending power as well as psychological security.

Take a quick walk down down and you'll see that companies are doing their best to entice the wary consumers this festive season. From vivid decorations to "too-good-to-be-true" promotions, manufacturers and companies are going all out to get the sales they project for the period.

Marketers are truly put to the test.

I was in town recently and quite honestly, didn't understand the severity of the crisis until I began to observe what was actually happening.

The moment I stepped onto the cobbled sidewalks of the infamous shopping belt of Singapore, Christmas songs sung by a choir, filled the air with joy, hope and happiness; a typical Christmas scene, in short.

Little did I realize at that time that the source of the music wasn't from an actual Christmas choir but from multiple speakers planted onto the Christmas decorations which dotted the shopping belt.

I've also noticed the abundance of salvation army stands set up at regular intervals along the belt, with distinct bells to attract the public's graze and hopefully, with a few dollars to spare.

Few donated, partly due to the financial crisis but also partly due to the controversial charity fraud incident which happened a while back; trust amongst the people have yet to be earned.

Consumers are more wary about their spending ability due to the financial situation.

Certainly, the current crisis has put a drape on the festive atmosphere and rightly so. With higher demands of living, it isn't exactly easy to get by these days.

And on to more lighthearted content.

I've noticed quite a number of "Christmas Lists" springing up amongst the other blogs and pages which I visited and thought it would be interesting to do a personal list for myself.

So Here goes;

Christmas List 101

(non-material items)
1. Happiness
2. Emotional Stability
3. Health
4. An end to suffering everywhere
5. To build and bond with friends and family
6. A clearer mind in preparation for the new year ahead
7. People around me to be satisfied with their lives
8. Freedom

Cliche as it may seem, I feel very strongly about the above aspects as that is what really matters to us as human beings in essence.

However, here's the more material list, for good measure;

(material)
1. Nikon D60 (or something along those lines)
2. A decent Drum kit (but not really due to space constrains)
3. I can't really think of anything else
4. Oh yea here's one, Cowbells (for my Welcome to the Jungle drum cover)

Just for the record, number 1 on the material list is already in acquisition as I'm currently saving up/working and also, striking a compromise with my Dad (who is mildly interested in the product himself) for a decent entry grade DSLR.

I'm still open for comments as to which model I should get so feel free to supplement me with advice and feedback.

As for number 2 and 4, I'm sure Santa would have his work cut out lugging around a 5 piece drum kit on board his little reindeer cart thing, so I'll work towards a solution to purchase it myself, a long term thing though.

I have hopes for Christmas as with everyone else. A season for giving, as they call it but most importantly, a season to be jolly.

The family's Christmas tree still lies packed in the storage room since last year and quite honestly, I'm not too sure myself if it's gonna be out this time.

Be sure to check back for updates this festive season. Everyone might be on holiday, but here at metallic-stains, we work while on holiday.

So buckle up your coats, ready your wellingtons and dig up those ear muffs as Christmas is upon us.

Let us smile for all that's worth.

Happy Christmas! (in advance)

Cya'll later.

*All the images, pictures and video as seen in this post here on metallic-stains is the result of an affiliation between Drool Bits Productions and the management team of metallic-stains.blogspot.com. Usage of material or content from this post without the knowledge of either Drool Bits Productions or the metallic-stains management team is at the user's risk and legal action may be taken depending on the consequence. The people at Drool Bits Productions and metallic-stains.blogspot.com wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday.

"Your Crazy Kitten Smile"
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Song of the Post


Now playing: Radiohead - True Love Waits
via FoxyTunes

The Missing Piece

Sometimes we just need to sit back and think about that missing piece.

I've noticed that my posts are getting more and more irregular and infrequent (about one post weekly). But rest assured, this can be solely accredited to the huge influx of work being thrown on us as the holidays draw near.

Christmas holidays to be exact.

More content will be available once time frees up and quite honestly, I can't wait for the Christmas holidays. But then again, who can? I'm sure all of us would welcome the soon-to-be-here break with huge open arms.

The pass few days were largely interesting to me as an individual, personally and professionally. Largely due to a particular assignment given which required photographs to be taken, whilst at the same time, following the specific theme.

For 3 consecutive days, I've been lugging through the distinct landmarks of Singapore, in hopes of finding the shots that are required for the assignment as well as for personal interest.

Interestingly, the more shots I took for the assignment, the more I found myself attuned to the novelty of photography. I've always been an admirer of great photographs but never really about the process of capturing the picture but this assignment has certainly changed my perception.

I've learnt that there are various elements to taking a good photograph and that it isn't as simple as to "aim and shoot". A good photographer will have to possess key attributes such as patience and a good eye of perception.

Certainly no walk in the park but its certainly an interest worth considering (though a costly one).

And now, on to today's topic.

Ever felt that a little something is missing at a particular period, a particular place or a particular designation during your life?

We live in a fast paced society and there's certainly no denying that. From the time we take our first step into education until the day we pack the office and leave for home after completing the last day of work, I'm safe to say that we live a pacy life.

However, let us now take a step back, ignore the pacy demands of life and ponder over the missing piece.

I'm sure that many a time, we've had the feeling of "a little something missing".

You have just finished your novel but as you read through the narrative, you find that there is "a little something missing"; The painting that you've been working on is finally completed, but as you sit back to admire your work, you find that it lacks "a little something".

A void of substance is often accredited to this "missing piece". We know the empty space is there, but somehow, we don't and we are unable to find something to fit that missing space, inch for inch, prim and proper.

I feel that this can be referenced to multiple aspects of life; Work, businesses, products, relationships, family and the such.

The list goes on and on.

It is interesting that we, as human beings, are such peculiar creatures on this level. As the "missing piece" is hard to find, many give up without even trying. While in some other cases, the missing piece literally walks into your life but goes unnoticed through the oblivious human perception.

People, things and opportunities walk right into our lives, but will we take it?

Life is a journey that contains imperfections, mistakes as well as obstacles. Some say that life is a puzzle. Yes, we can say that life is like huge puzzle, but I'd like to think of life as an "un-completable" puzzle, divided into numerous segments.

To find the "missing piece" in life, one has to look and observe and most importantly, treasure the things we already have while working towards the things we want to achieve.

Its like taking a good picture, where one has to find the "missing element" in a setting and portraying that element effectively in a picture. Sure, identifying whatever's missing is by far, an audacious task, but it is through these experiences which will make us stronger and improve.

Thus, identify the emptiness and seek to find an answer for it. Search for that special missing piece to make your segment of the puzzle complete.

I'll end here for now, a little food for thought through the topic, I hope. Assignment awaits.

As per normal, I'll be updating with new content soon so stay tuned and check back in abit.

One more week towards the much deserved holidays, let us all hang in there and make that final dash to the checkpoint.

Cya'll later.

*All pictures as seen in this post belongs to the management team of metallic-stains.blogspot.com. Plagiarism without consent will result in undesirable consequences.

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Song of the Post


Now playing: Taking Back Sunday - Make Damn Sure
via FoxyTunes

5 Hours and the Farmer's conclusion

5 hours; that is how much sleep I'm getting on average for the past couple of weeks (not including weekends).

Its time for your weekly update here on metallic-stains but before that, allow me to share a couple of images which I collected over the past weeks. My less than impressive "portfolio", if you must.

"Irony"

This picture is filled with a cross of culture; where modernization meets tradition. We have a Lamborghini to the left of the picture, while a couple of Trishaws (and their riders) to the right.

To me personally, I feel that this picture describes change from a very abstract point of view. A mix of cultural, technological and societal change is the main theme of the picture as viewers get to see the contrast between the modern day mode of transport to the modest equivalent of the past.

The picture exudes an aura of thought and contrast between the two ends of the spectrum which will thus create a sense of irony, giving reason to the title of the picture.

"The Fall"

Shot at the Marina Bay area, One Fullerton to be exact and to be totally honest, I was blown away (literally) at the massive storm clouds which massed around the area that time.

This picture gives the viewers a sense of destructiveness and chaos which Mother Nature is capable of. A feeling of impending doom also radiates from this picture as grim and intimidating looking clouds frame the distinct skyline of the tall establishments there.

It also gives me a very desolated feel, as if hinting at the world's end. Sadness is also evident as with destruction comes the due emotive responses.

"Contrast"

Shot taken at around the same time as the previous picture, at the exact same location.

I find this one particularly interesting as it shows a whole world of difference; as if light meets dark. One hand, we see massively grim looking storm clouds gathering while on the other, light and peace pervades the atmosphere. Another apt title would have been along the lines of "Peace before the Storm".

This one struck me as a picture filled with the theme of conflict. Very often in life, we face conflicts, differences and stark changes. In a way, this picture hits at the battle between "light" and "dark", thus invoking the feel of conflict. Life is, in a way, similar to this picture for we are constantly on the move and thus are subjected to change inadvertently.


Alright, hope you guys enjoyed that little "photo-presentation" as much as I did while taking the pictures.

As mentioned at the beginning of the post, its been a rather hectic week (as with usual protocol) in school but thankfully, the weekends are here.

This is an interesting fact though. Many a time, we find ourselves on a Monday morning, stuck on a train packed with working class individuals all around, as they somehow manages to lug themselves out of bed and to work and you think to yourself "wished the weekends came sooner".

In that sense, the weekends are converted into temporarily motivating factors, which can be also termed, Motivators.

Day by day, our mind is boosted by the fact that the weekends are getting nearer and nearer and when you wake up on a Friday morning, you know you've made it through the week.

I guess its human nature to have such unorthodox sources of motivation, which is really interesting and thought provoking at that.

So yea, a little food for thought for the soul never hurts.

Moving on to some light hearted material.

One of the more interesting shirt labels I've seen.

Was in the shower a couple of minutes back and my shirt label caught my attention. There was a little description on it and here's what it said:

"The nice guys get washed away
Like the snow and the rain
There’s been a load of compromising
On the road to my horizon
I’m gonna be where
The lights are shining on me"

Yup, I know. You're probably having the same exact reaction as I did after reading this off the shirt label. Certainly one of the more interesting ones I've come across so far.

Really interesting stuff.

Alright, and now for a short conclusion for the "Discretion or Inspiration?" narrative which was posted awhile back.

Thank you all, for the feedback and comments on the narrative, looking forward to more responses. Feel free to "follow" or subscribe to metallic-stains via the options to the left side of the page.

Here goes;

"

A year had passed after the chain of events in the previous chapter and we start on a familiar corner in the marketplace set in the countryside.

The smell of spring was evident in the air as the light scent of fragrance flourished everywhere. The crowds had also returned but curiously, the marketplace had also seemingly grew in size and population; a rare occurrence as the people seldom stayed in the countryside for long.

A distinct tinkle of bells differentiated itself from the buzz of activity of the masses, who were busy with trade or purchases.

There at the corner, the Shepard stood, with the same amount of grace and demeanor as she always had, staff in hand.

Her gaze shifted from person to person as she surveyed and observed the crowd in the marketplace; this spring had brought new visitors as well as residents.

The Shepard made her move as she glided through the shifting mass of people and made her way through the crowds easily, the bells on her staff tinkling with every step she took.

She soon reached the outskirts of the marketplace and with a final glance back, she turned and walked into the vast plains of the countryside. Her footsteps light and quick, as if rushing to meet with someone.

Soon, the familiar sound of her herd greeted her as she crossed a ruined field, once a plantation and there in the middle of the vast field, a large house made out of bricks stood sturdily as golden rays of sun painted it in a shade of bright yellow.

*

Beads of sweat descended upon the wooden floors of the workshop. The Farmer leaned against a table as he slowly knocked the rough edges of the wood work that he's been working on for the past hour.

The tinkle of bells which he became so accustomed to in recent times made him stop and look up. He dropped his tools and stepped into the golden sunlight which bathed the the countryside.

*

Night soon fell upon the countryside. The Farmer settled for supper while the Shepard sat, quietly staring at him as he took the roasted chicken out of the oven, with due fragrance coming along with it.

A small smile framed the Shepard's face as the Farmer sat down. Her eyes met his and there was always this special connection between them; a connection indescribable by words alone.

It has thus been like this since the tragic incident a year back. Though the scars of those events will forever be etched in the Farmer's mind, he is thankful for this new rite of life but more importantly, the Shepard, for it was her who rescued him from the jaws of oblivion and it was her who stood by him all this while as he got his life back on track.

Now a year later, things have changed considerably in the countryside; people no longer left during the winter due to the availability of wool from the Shepard's herd and trade was booming and growing.

But for the Farmer, material indulgences are insignificant, for the greatest gift of all sat right in front of him at the dinner table, staring right into his eyes.

Lets Eat, the Farmer said, as a smile sneaked out through the corner of his mouth.

"

Hope you guys enjoyed the conclusive installment for the narrative. Unfortunately due to the excessive length constrains (as well as my energy level), I'm not able to fully develop and elaborate as much as I wanted to.

But nevertheless, I hope the narrative has brought a breath of fresh air and a little something to think about.

Okay, time for me to recharge my energy level and snooze the night away (whatever's left of the night anyway).

Remember to check back for updates and articles. Till then.

Cya'll later.

*All pictures as seen in this post strictly belongs to the owner of metallic-stains.blogspot.com and its management team. All rights reserved.

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Song of the Post

Now playing: The Beatles - A Day in the Life
via FoxyTunes

Welcome to the Polytechnic

Just in the the mood for a little editorial/promotional post for this update on metallic-stains. Read on to find out more...

"

Work, Work.

Introductory Address:

Congratulations on your graduation from secondary education. It must have been a grueling past couple of months for all of you out there who has been seamlessly hard at work, in preparation for the much dreaded O' level examinations.

Well, you've finally done it and here you are, standing at a crossroad between distinctly different paths, paths that will change and script your life from this new chapter of tertiary education and beyond. Certainly, much thought and deliberation must be put before you make your choice.

There are different paths to take en route to the first step towards tertiary education, though in our highly demanding society as such, results are the basis (more often than not) of qualification.

However, allow me, in less than 2 minutes of your precious time, try and convince (or so to speak) you, as an individual, why the option of a Polytechnic is both enticing and promising as a education prospect (with deep reference to the institution I'm currently studying at).

The Wide Spectrum of Expertise:

A polytechnic can be defined as an institution devoted to technical and industrial education and though this may seem unappealing in the past, it is fast adopting itself into the educational journey of Singapore's landscape.

Today, more and more people are willing to commit to polytechnics due to the flexibility, environment as well as the wide spectrum of skills taught through a myriad of courses available.

Love the Media? Why not choose a mass communication course, where you'll learn more about how the media functions, works and operates. You'll also be equipped with valuable skills and proficiencies needed for the industry.

From Business to Designing, Information Technology to Health Sciences. Polytechnics are certainly stepping it up a notch by improving both the quality and quantity of courses in which newly grads get to choose from.

It is thus safe to say that from whatever viewpoint you take, Polytechnics will certainly fulfill your interest and future industrial needs.

Future Potential:

Many universities around the world and locally have seen an increased intake from polytechnics. So upon reception of your diploma (depending on your results), you'll have the option of either stepping early into the industry or pursuing further and higher levels of education.

And since you're already "ready-made" for the industry, industries of the appropriate fields will be acceptable.

A Day in the Life:

Moving away from official dynamics, I'm pretty sure the rest of the relevant information can be found in your average "poly-promotion" flier so I'll talk about something which most (if not all) fliers miss out; the true lifestyle of students in Polytechnics.

Many perceive the typical poly life as
- Relaxed
- Fun
- Innovative
- Interesting
- University-like (in terms of freedom and orientation)

But no positive is possible without negatives like
- Slack (which means there's no need for work to be done)
- Full of negative influences
- A lack of future prospects

I feel that the positives speak for themselves as indeed, the poly lifestyle can be fun and enriching at the same time for the individual.

However, the negatives are attributed to the common misconceptions of modern society (in local context) and personally I feel that the poly life is NOT entirely composed to such negatives.

A typical poly day will start (depending on your timetable) at varying times of the day. Be it at 8am or 6pm, it is rather fluid in polytechnics.

There are 3 different types of classification for the mode of educational delivery, mainly;
- Lectures
- Tutorials
- Lab Sessions (Subjective)

For me personally, a typical day may be composed of something like this;
- Head to first lesson of the day, Lecture
- Break for Lunch with fellow classmates
- Head for after-lunch Tutorial/Lab Session
- End School
- Attend meetings and discussions for various Projects
- Head home
- Start on tutorials and projects given
- Rinse and repeat

How are we graded in Polytechnics? Well simply put, Polytechnics are very much project based and that often means working with different groups of people, on different projects, which can be a very good experience.

Of course there are your typical exams for certain modules, depending on its nature.

Awesome Classmates will make your day a lot better.

Ahh, how can I possibly overlook one of the most important aspects of poly life? New friends. For sure, one will be exposed to different people from all walks of life and thus in a way, widen horizons.

Friendships will be fostered and these relationships will be a significant part in poly life (or in life in general) and certainly will stay with you, etched in memory for a long time to come.

I personally feel that self discipline is vital while in a Polytechnic simply accredited to the fact that you will undoubtedly, have a lot of spare time on your hands. In a way, the poly life will be an interesting change for those who crave for the learning environment with a difference.

So you know where you are?

You're in the Poly

But no,

You're not gonna die.

"

I hope you guys enjoyed my little promotional review (in a way) that I put together as seen above. Apologies for the length and for readers who are not targeted in the context, apologies at that too.

Well the past couple of days were as usual, taxing both mentally and physically, as I've always mentioned. A roller-coaster of emotions for me personally with reasons which I choose not to disclose.

Winter approaches as the colds gradually stash light and warmth away for a couple of months. Well actually, it isn't that bad. I personally enjoy the "winter" we're getting here in the tropics of the world, with frequent rains to cool everything down.

The strain of late nights and taxing personal demands have kicked in, in a way, for me. But I guess this is where improvement steps in as a compulsory aspect.

Well, I guess that's pretty much all for this update. My iPhone cable is nowhere to be found and my iPhone is dangerously low on the juices, and partly why I'm saving up content for the next post (as photographs are in the phone, shoot). But trust me it'll be good.

I've also received feedback about metallic-stains which I appreciate very very much. A big thank you to those who supplemented me with thoughts and ways to improve (some of which are currently in consideration with the development team).

Due to the said demand, be sure to check back for the next post as I'll be concluding the previous mini-narrative (Inspiration or Desecration?) to end it off with a "after-content" line of feel.

Before I go, let me post a question in relation to today's main substantive, which I would dearly value feedback upon;

What is your ideal type of tertiary education system?

Feel free to comment via the comments option you see right above the tags for this post. I'll be waiting.

Cya'll later.

"Welcome to the Jungle, We've got fun and games..."

*The owner of this blog is in no way, obliged to write this promotional article and is doing it on his own accord. Readers are advised to treat this post as a reference with "a pinch of salt". The "Song of the Post" belongs to its rightful writer and creator.

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Song of the Post;

Now playing: Guns N' Roses - Welcome to the Jungle
via FoxyTunes

The Human Behaviour (II); The Change

My pervious instalment of The Human Behaviour covered the aspect of the reaction and feelings of people in particular social settings. Issues covered included the general outline of human behaviour, their distinct roles in a group social setting, humans being emotive creatures, the issue of fears in a social setting and many more.

This observational series is one that requires time and much observation in order to be acute in its reports.

I’m however, tackling the approach via a means of my personal perspective and thus, certain claims and observations might be subjective to the individual.

The ambiguity of a topic as such is evident.

As mentioned in the previous instalment (refer to article, The Human Behaviour (I); The Social Setting), the human mind is subjective and complex in its own nature. The mind of a person, being the core constitution of a person’s behaviour, decides the person’s behaviour and the way he or she acts, which might shed some light on the ambiguity of the behaviour of humans; we rarely behave similarly.

“the action or reaction under specified circumstances” (as cited from dictionary.com) fully defines the term, behaviour and naturally, as proof to my pervious claim about behaviour being subjective, “action” and “reaction” are rarely carbon copies from one human being to another.

Human behaviour therefore, is a very vast and diverse topic.

Moving on to my substantive for this instalment.

The society around us changes and shapes the very tomorrow for the lives of those living in it. For example, the government might ban education tomorrow and that will surely affect the people in the particular country (with expected mixed reactions, of course).

It is no denying the fact that changes are evident in our everyday lives, and whether if its a good or bad thing, depends purely on the mindset of a person, which often follows in a series of differentiated human behaviour.

But the question remains; how will change ultimately affect the human behaviour? Are we so superficial as to the fact that changes can alter our mindset, in doing so, our behaviour?

There is truth to that statement.

In a sense, changes fosters a different mindset due to the core dependency that humans respond to stimuli. I feel that change itself is a stimuli and thus, we, as living organisms, would and should respond to the changes around us, in terms of either refining, adapting or even totally revamping our mindset.

Though it may seem unrealistic or even nonsensical, humans undergo a series of “revamps” which also can be termed changes, in their mindset and human behaviour. Its amazing that the behaviour of humans can change drastically throughout one’s life, as I’ve found out during my observational period.

Observing changes often takes up a bunk of time and effort, mainly because changes are sometimes uncalled for and highly situational. Knowing this, I knew it was really hard for me to actually observe changes and how those changes affect human behaviour.

Thus I came up with a little something called Contrasting. It may seem complex but in fact, it is much easier to contrast rather than sit and wait for a change to actually happen; some of which can take years to cultivate a significant change in a human’s behaviour.

The concept of Contrasting is a fairly simple one. Basically, when I observed something significant in the field of human behaviour, I would compare the behaviour with the former self. This was, a comparison is created and one would be able to analyse the differences in human behaviour before and after these changes without actually witnessing them.

However, not that Contrasting may work only for certain observational types and the results are more rather, fluid and subjective and observations can only be treated as a generalization.

A good example where I used Contrasting, in a general viewpoint, is in the change of age and its effect on the human behaviour.

The change of age is an aspect that affects the one’s behaviour, in drastic fashion at that, I feel. This can be due to a number of both scientific and psychological aspects that leads to this change.

On a scientific basis, Senescence, which is the big word used to describe the process of aging, often spurs different types of “social, psychological and physical changes” (as cited from Wikipedia.com).

These psychological changes that people undergo during aging hints at the change in behaviour too, in drastic differences and fashion. The change in behaviour for the aspect of age often varies from one end of the spectrum to the other.

You would normally envision old people to be quiet, soft spoken and always keeping to themselves, which is only half correct. Age does make a person keep their problems to themselves as they gain a higher sense of maturity and wisdom; they do not want the people around them to worry. And in this sense, their behaviour will obviously change as they will become less idealistic and more down to earth, accepting things for what they are and as mentioned, keeping their thoughts to themselves in order for the society to not worry for them.

However, this is only one side of the spectrum that I’ve mentioned.

The other half of the spectrum is vocalised (pun intended) by those who develop their sense of right to speak up or being more sociable.

Though the majority lies with the former group, there are exceptions.

My daily bus rides to school granted me this insight for I observed a particularly contentions elderly man; he was voicing his opinions loudly on the bus. Though I enjoyed his rapid comments about various social issues, I pondered on the change that age has taken on him.

He was so sociable that he even spoke to another elderly man who boarded the bus about highly personal topics such as their children.

There was no clear indication that both of them knew each other but the sociable elderly started conversing in fluent dialect, as if they were long time friends. He even helped the other elderly man down the bus as he had difficulty walking.

Indeed that was an act of kindness. But I began to reason, in my head, about the behaviour of the sociable old man. Clearly the change of age has taken him (he was 65) and now has a sociable, and open mindset; lets face it, how many times have you seen younger adults being so open to people they don’t know?

Take note here that I’m not trying to criticise this type of behaviour but more rather, point it out, as people nowadays are somewhat ignorant of such subtle aspects of life.

I feel that another subtle detail that people fail to take observation and notice, in our society is all around us; our environment.

A new sign board, a different coat of paint, a new building built; these are all but a small part of our environment. I’m not trying to be over critical here but one of the main influences of the changes in behaviour is the environment around us.

When one is thrown into a new environment, one often feels lost, disorientated and insecure. Without a doubt, the human behaviour of the particular person will change accordingly. This is why people tend to be more introverted and inward when first introduced to a new environment.

The feeling of disorientation and insecurity makes a person less adventurous as they are afraid to move out of their safety zones and will also result in people putting on “false fronts” either to deceive or simply due to their fears (refer to article, The Human Behaviour (I); The Social Setting).

This however, is more often, a temporary issue as the insecurity of a new environment will fade as soon as that person gets familiar with the surroundings. Again, this is an issue of speed and subjectivity as certain people can adapt almost on the spot while other takes weeks or even months; its that diverse.

People thus undergo a duration of altered behaviour when they’re introduced to a new environment that they’re not used or comfortable with.

Most change aspects are on a long term basis but the change in environment is one of the few aspects that yields temporary change in behaviour.
As mentioned earlier in the article (and the previous instalment), the human mind and human behaviour is closely intertwined together, which means that this serves that another platform for the basis of the change of behaviour; the change in one’s mindset.

Though it may not be easy to change and, with reference to the earlier mention, revamp your mind, it can and has been done, though many people don’t notice this due to its understated observation and notice.

Very so often or another, we’ll come across that one inspirational book that will change your perspective about something. Mind, it need not be a book but can be anything, anything that inspires you to think, reflect and change your behaviour.
The change of mindset is one that not many people are willing to make nor will they notice that they have done so.

A simple quote like “every blessing ignored becomes a curse” (from The Alchemist, Paulo Coelho, 1988) for instance, can change a person’s mindset and behaviour for they are then inspired.

This little motivation (refer to article, Screaming Fans; The Motivational Force and Ambition) leads to a change in behaviour as the person is influenced and motivated to lead a different life, for example and this constitutes to a change.

The change of influence is also based on the mind as the mind perceives, get influenced and acts based on the combination. I find the basis of influence extremely strong and evident amongst teenagers.

Perhaps at a young age, people are more easily influenced due to premature thoughts and unfiltered mindsets. Bad influences can thus pervade these vulnerable minds, corrupting them and tainting them with negative imagery.

I’m sure there are cases of teenagers attempting to emulate their so called “role models” by copying their actions or even mimicking them word for word, stride by stride. Let us question these influences; are they positive or negative?
It is again, subjective. Like a coin having two different sides, it is not exception here.

I feel that altering one’s behaviour based on influences is rather “self-zombifying”. The main reason being that I feel each and every single individual should be distinct and prominent; no two people are the same entirely.

Instead of subjecting to influence and mimicking due to that influence, why not change and create your own influence?

Changes are very diverse in the field of human behaviour, as with the entire aspect of it on the whole. There are many factors that contribute to the change in human behaviour of which I’ve only touched on a few.

The human behaviour is a complex issue which isn’t easy to unravel.

For my coming edition, I’ll be concluding about my observations regarding human behaviour and giving my final analysis of the psychological side of expression.

*The above references made to various authors are in no way used for the reason of blog promotion.

Poem; And I'll Look Death in the Eye and Sigh.

Okay, this is just some random poem that pop-ed into my head just a couple of minutes ago. Not that I'm feeling emotional (fine, just a little) or anything, just an inspiration that came to me.

So here goes...

And I'll Look Death in the Eye and Sigh.

Life isn't as peaceful
as you've thought it out to be.
the up and down contours,
sets a precedent in our minds.

When we're down and out
take a step back and listen
to the sounds of the heart
which holds no reason.

Yes, the heart falters
but should we?
will we soldier on,
in search of the light?

Affairs of the heart
an incomparable truth
for us as mere mortals
this is only a bruise.

Complications arise
but that is the nature
for this cruel game of life,
is full of obstacles as such.

When the time comes
and problems arise
feelings crushed
hurt and betrayed.

What do we do?
scars of battle,
gashes of blood,
and wounds of the heart.

What do we do?
left out in the open
vulnerable and cold
till of age too old.

What do we do?
the mental agony,
torment and torture
is it all in our minds?

This pain is real
both inside and out
for the scars won't heal
nor will they fade.

All that drama,
the cruel truth
is this needed?
why have people become as thus?

The life that I've been
full of forceful regrets
nevertheless I've lived
throughout all those defects.

This is life as such
for one like myself
few will understand
few will comprehend.

This is life as such
for one like myself
no one knows
no one feels.

Living under a rock
for insecurities exist
those who may mock
it doesn't matter at least

And thus when the time comes
when the crows cry
the lakes empty
and when heavens dry

I'll know that the time
has indeed come
for me to take my leave
from this place of harm.

Until then,
when I see its face
whatever it is
with its horrible grimace

At that point in time
my tears will dry
when everything will stop...


I'll look Death in the eye


and Sigh.

The Human Mind; A Powerful Tool or just a Voice Inside Us?

I think about issues and matters all the time. Be it on the bus, standing in the middle of a huge crowd or even when I'm eating. However, I realise my mind sets into an automatic "wander mode" in two particular durations; when I bath and when I'm on the bed about to sleep.

Queer isn't it? I mean those two durations aren't exactly the most interactive and social periods of my life but it is during then when my mind is the most active as I think about personal issues (commonly) as well as a myriad of other topics. Thus it is no wonder or astonishment that I often fabricate my ideas (weird ones) and thoughts about certain aspects of my life.

The human mind works in ways unknown.

For years or even since the dawn of time, people have been trying to put a definite solution or answer as to how the mind works largely to no avail. All due to the simple fact that the human mind holds no boundaries.

I'll not endeavour the task of defining how the mind works but more rather, share my two cents on the complexity of the human mind and insights into using your mind to your advantage rather then the contrary.

From a scientific viewpoint, the epicenter of the human mind is commonly perceived at the brain of a particular individual. It is the brain that controls the entire nervous system in the human body and to put it simply, it is the "command center"; it controls the major functions of the body.

However, I personally feel that the human is not only restricted to the brain. To me, there is no central location where the human mind is located. The entire body functions and constitutes to the mind itself. The five senses especially plays a vital role in influencing the decisions and the way the mind works.

Why is this so?

The senses are in a way, how the body perceives and comes in contact with the outside world. They are the "windows" and the medium used for external interaction. Be it Touch, Smell, Taste, Sight or Hear, these are how we as humans, communicate with our surroundings and respond to stimulus.

These senses (as mentioned earlier) influence the way our mind works and its thus proven on many grounds in the field of psychology, which is the intensive study of the human mind and behaviour.

Ever heard of the "Forbidden Toy Study" carried out by Elliot Aronson and Merrill Carlsmith who were social psychologists about Cognitive Dissonance? Or W.S.Small's experiment with rats in a maze? These are fine examples of how the senses affect the psychological aspect of human beings.

Another aspect we have to consider in relation to the human mind is the human Emotion. As elaborated in one of my previous blog articles (Emotions; A Flaw In The Human Design?), emotions can affect the behaviour and the mind of a particular individual adversely.

Naturally, the human mind is influenced by emotions too as we as living organisms have feeling. Certain decisions might be affected and influenced depending on the emotion and I'm sure this is evident in our daily lives.

So is the human mind just a powerful tool that can be manipulated if used properly or is it just a part of the "entire human package"?

As mentioned, the human mind and emotion works hand in hand. Personally to me, the human emotion defines the soul of a person and in contrast, the human mind is the engine and processor that runs the soul and gives it life. We're exposed and accustomed to images of mindless zombies in horror films; an image of what we as humans, will be like without the soul, engine and processor.

So can we use the human mind to its fullest potential? Is it possible for one to manipulate another person purely based on the use of the mind?

I'm sure many of you would have watched or at least heard of this character from the comic book series (and recently a series of movies) X-men, called Professor X who is renown for his "amazing mind controlling abilities".

No, I'm not referring to abilities of that sought but more rather, manipulating via actions. We may not realise it but in fact, many of us are already applying these techniques to a certain extent. On a more subtle level, something called PR (people relation) skills are actually part of this so called manipulation. Other aspects are also involved, but I shan't elaborate (due to various reasons).

If one is able to master and learn the techniques of mind control and persuasion, it is no doubt that the individual will be one up in society. The power of super persuasion is incredible and in a sense, fearful.

To conclude, the mind is subjective and to some, it may be just a voice inside but I choose to think otherwise. To me, its both a tool and a part of existence. The mind might differentiate right from wrong, truth or lie, but is it, as always, up to the individual to decide how he or she wants to use it.

Personally, I use my mind for various reasons, a source of infinite inspiration, a place where no one but myself can go to, a reasoning department and of course, a place where I find my perspective of the world.

I'm sure everyone has different purposes in life and their minds are thus structured differently.

So let us work to perfect the strength of our minds and attain a one up in our lives.