Anecdote

Water in Paradise

2012-01-24T20:07:00.003-05:00

Fiji is under major flood for the last few days. This video on YouTube shows the extensive damage caused by this flood. I hope they will recover soon. Thinking about you.

An Educator Indeed

2012-01-18T08:01:00.002-05:00

The news reported that the first graduating class of Orpha Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa walked across the stage two days ago. Amongst all 75 underpriviledged students who enrolled in the school 5 years ago, 72 wrote the exams and completed their programmes. They are heading into universities in their own country and the US.

Despite investing a fortunate and surrounded with scandals initially with the project, Orpha Winfrey's dream has indeed made these 72 girls' dreams all come true.Quoting from an interview with the Associated Press (AP), Orpha Winfrey said: "Every single girl is going to leave here with something greater to offer the world than her body."

Orpha Winfrey is not a teacher, but she is an educator indeed.

Stimulating?

2012-01-16T05:33:00.006-05:00

The lectures for the second unit (or my first unit) is over, and how do I rank it? I think the content is rich and the professor was great. However, the level of discussion and demographics of those in the class could have been better. In fact, at times I felt my master level courses were better than this doctoral level course.

I do not think many of those who were attending the lecture realized that not everyone is working in the local system here in Hong Kong. The amount of acronyms (or so-called acronyms) that was used had been more than necessary and for someone like myself, I had absolutely no clue what they were talking about. I guess they were not aware that this course should be more internationalized rather than localized. I definitely did not sign up for a course that focused on the Hong Kong system, because it really had nothing to do with me. As for the acronyms, I also wondered whether it was necessary to have an acronyms for everything, and I mean everything. I do not think it takes more energy to say "Liberal Studies" than LS or "Quality Framework" than "QF", just to raise a few.

I suppose in order to enrich the course and the programme, it was necessary for the university to accept students with different backgrounds. However, I really wondered how and what sort of basis has the university used in selecting the applicants. There were students in the class, who clearly struggles with spoken and written English. I could hardly understand what they were saying and what they were trying to write as well. They made me feel rather illiterate.

Enough said, time to go back to work on my assignment.

Unit 2 - Education Policy

2012-01-12T20:20:00.002-05:00

What is policy and why do we need policy? Perhaps these two questions will be answered after Sunday when I complete my second unit for my EdD programme. However, I have been doing lots of reading and collecting data in preparation for my assignment, I am starting to wonder whether I am approaching this unit correctly. There are several different possible policies which I could discuss and analysis, but I have chosen to analysis the math promotion policy at school. From the data that I have collected, there seems to be no obvious trends which I could make any claims.

What should I do?

A Cold Vacation

2012-01-02T02:12:00.009-05:00

I spent the last seven days travelling between two major cities in South Korea. The vacation began with two days at Busan on Boxing Day and the next five days at Seoul until the New Year’s Day. It has been a good six years since the last time I returned to Toronto for Christmas that I experienced rather cold weather. It took me a few days to be climatized once again.

It was the first time that I visited Busan – which is the southern-most seaport and the second largest city in South Korea and it was the second time that I visited Seoul. Having planned this trip from scratch, I think I knew exactly where to go and what to do, however, with my little understand of the Korean language, navigating through the cities was proven to be much trickier. Nonetheless for this time, the Koreans whom I approached and asked for help were more helpful and friendly than those of whom I came across several years ago.

December 26, 2011
- arrived at Busan in the wee-hours and checked in at the hotel
- visited the Jagalchi Market and hiked up to the YongDuSan Park

December 27, 2011
- walked along the HaEunDae Beach and visited the NuRiMau APEC House
- waited for the sun to set to take a photo at the GanGan Bridge

December 28, 2011
- took a morning express train from Busan to Seoul
- explored MyeongDong for the rest of the afternoon

December 29, 2011
- transferred to the DMZ and visited the 3rd Infiltration Tunnel
- explored the Itaewon District and NamDaeMum District

December 30, 2011
- hiked up the NamSan Park
- visited the GyeongBokGung Palace
- returned to my favourite district in Seoul – Insa Dong
- attended the Nanta show

December 31, 2011
- travelled to Suwon and explored the HwaSeong Fortress, a UNESCO Hertiage Site
- returned to Seoul for the countdown

January 1, 2012
- attended mass at the MyeongDong Cathedral
- went to DongDaeMum and was rather disappointed before returning to the NamSan Hanok Village
- it must be the coldest day for my entire vacation
- returned to Hong Kong

Summarizing 2011

2011-12-24T03:52:00.003-05:00

I think it is becoming my annual habit to summarize what I have done and what I have not done towards the end of December every year. As I am typing up this last blog post for 2011, I literally have nothing in mind, perhaps, it means 2011 has rather been a very simple and steady year. On a second thought, it could have been worse if I have to go through ups and downs in twelve months.

Travelling is still something which I have not grown tired with. In 2011 I think I went on 8 different trips for both work-related and for my own vacation. Three trips which I think have marked travelling in 2011 to be unique must be my volunteer-built trip to Bangladesh in April, my short visit to California, and returning to Fiji in November. The other five places (Malaysia x2, Thailand, Japan, South Korea) have been equally rewarding, but the other three have truly been remarking in their own ways. I look forward to more rewarding and unique experiences in 2012.

In addition to travelling, I think going back to school to learn more is another thing which I do really enjoy. I have begun my doctorate programme this fall and with a strong desire to complete the programme in four years time. Will it work? I will have more to say on my blog in 2014 or 2015.

Twelve months ago, I said my resolution for 2011 was to spend more time with friends and families - and after these many days, I think it has been a failure. Do I spend too much time travelling? Do I spend too much time studying? Do I spend too much working on school-related items? Do I sacrifice my work over my friends? Should I make another new year's resolution for 2012 to spend more time with my friends? What will I say in twelve months time? With just a few days left in 2011, let me recollect myself before I anticipate for the coming of 2012.

Off to South Korea

2011-12-24T03:50:00.001-05:00

Off to Busan and Seoul for 7 days starting tomorrow. See you again in 2012.

Merry Christmas

and

All the best in 2012.

Christmas begins with Jesus

2011-12-21T05:04:00.002-05:00

I had another blog-post recently commenting on the movement of political-correctness as it confronts with the celebration of Christmas. Well, so much has gone through since then around me and especially on different social network platforms. Perhaps, with the better awareness to recognize Christmas as more of a religious celebration than just a secular celebration (unfortunately, many people would only understand otherwise), I have been making a deliberate effort to make sure those around me know that I celebrate Christmas for this special reason. If I do not make it clear to myself and to those around me that Christmas begins with Jesus, then who would?

FLL Radio Clip

2011-12-11T19:06:00.003-05:00

I love the sound mixing effects done onto this week's FLL Radio clip. I still sound funny on the radio and especially listening to myself.

In this Christmas season, perhaps, it is just about the right moment to question how privileged we are, especially in front of those who are less fortunate.

Simply Elegant

2011-12-08T09:51:00.002-05:00

The stanza that is repeated for today's Responsorial Psalms:

從日出

到日落

願上主

受讚美

It's simple yet elegant...and it's stuck in my head.

XXXI

2011-12-07T05:44:00.002-05:00

From semi-perfect, I turn into a prime again this year.

Plans for tomorrow:

- teach three classes (two of which will be writing a test)...what have I done to myself
- attend a film showing in school
- attend mass after school

XXXI = 31

It feels just like any other ordinary day.

The Showroom

2011-12-04T20:18:00.002-05:00

Out of curiosity, I went to the showroom for The Wings, a new residential development project by Sun Hung Kai Property. The showroom is located in IFC, so I was expecting elaborate and grand showcase of this so-called luxurious residence in the Tseung Kwan O district. So after hopping on two elevators I was brought to the 19th floor inside IFC and the first thing that I saw was a grand entrance with bright and glittery decorations and a set of huge entrance door blocking my view into the showroom. Gold was definitely the colour scheme for this design project and it was for sure a bit too tacky when it's gold everywhere.

The entrance door finally opened, and obviously, it was electronically controlled and as it swung open, there was more gold inside. And so, I was escorted into the first showroom with several chairs facing a screen. Hm...a private theatre perhaps? There was a short clip introducing the project and its concepts. The clip was just not quite a 3D movie, but it was surely reaching to be one. The 3D renderings of these non-existing buildings and its surroundings were remotely beautiful. I wonder how much of these artistic impression is really not an artistic impression?

The next showroom featured a huge scale model and unlike the others, this model can rotate and different parts of the neighbourhood can eject out from the ground. I guess a 2D movie was not enough to convince me, so they need to use a 3D model to further capture my attention.

As I was barely able to capture myself and brought myself back to reality, the next section was four model suites. Perhaps, this is a culture in Hong Kong, the model suites were decorated and renovated in a way that no one could picture what the original suites should look like. Nice job! Walls were knocked off, glasses were installed everywhere, furniture and fixtures were custom made to just slightly smaller. So, what is real and what is again an impression was not clear.

The floorplans...hm...I wondered who approved these drawings. So apparently, for one room, it is literally a bedroom, because nothing else could be placed inside this tiny "closest" except for a twin bed. If you want a desk, then you need to sleep upright. How clever! One of the selling feature for these buildings was the exceptionally high ceiling. I wonder, how much of those extra space I could use when I am not even 6" tall. How sad!

The selling price is beyond what a typical person in Hong Kong could afford. The agent said two special duplex units were sold last week for $0.5billion each. Well...good for those buyers who have that buying potential, but I feel sorry for them to spend that much, when there are better choices for them.

The Wings - setting the new standard for a "show"room!

Politically Incorrect

2011-12-03T04:00:00.001-05:00

Has anyone ever question when something that is meant to be politically correct but has become politically incorrect? When everyone and every organization claim to be politically correct and strive for equality, how politically correct and equal are they after all? When those are self-proclaimed to be politically correct start to judge and criticize others, and when they make all the attempts to make sure others hear their voices, how politically correct are they?

When the words “Christmas” and “Easter” can no longer be used but instead they could only be referred to as the Winter Holidays and the Spring Holidays, is this political correctness movement still politically correct?

Take for instance, several colleagues commented immediately when Christmas carols were played through the PA system yesterday morning before class. One said he felt he was in a shopping mall and one said whoever played the carols was trying to Christianize the non-Christians. I was rather sad to hear those comments.

In this so-called politically correct society, who does not know why we are entitled for at least two public holidays on December 25th and December 26th. It is called CHRISTMAS. If we only celebrate the coming of a new year on January 1st, then I do not think we need to have a holiday on December 25th and December 26th. There are countries in the world which do not have December 25th and 26th as holidays, because those governments do not recognize these days as statutory holidays. However, in Hong Kong, we are given those days off to celebrate the birth of Christ. If those who criticize us, Christians, trying to Christianize the non-Christians, then please go and complain to the government and at the same time, do NOT take those two days off from work. At the same time, for those who immediately associate Christmas carols with shopping, and also point their fingers to us who celebrate Christmas, they, too, do not understand the true meaning of Christmas. We, the Christians, have not commercialized Christmas, it is the merchants. Without a doubt, merchants have already recognized the potential of Christmas when people are more generous to celebrate their times with friends and families. Hence, before Christmas has arrived in December, they have already begun with their holiday shopping campaigns. If someone can only associate Christmas carols with a shopping mall, then perhaps he/she should consider going to church more often than visiting another shop.

Take Easter as another example, it is too being commercialized by the merchants, because we do not celebrate the coming of a bunny with chocolate eggs. Instead, we celebrate the suffering, the dying and the resurrection of Christ for the salvation of mankind.

On the other hand, for some reasons, those who are politically correct do celebrate Hallowe’en. In their line of reasoning, are they not politically incorrect when they try to force others to celebrate a culture of death when, perhaps, the rest of the society are celebrate a culture of life? When those who are self-proclaimed politically correct try to portray themselves to be a minority in a society, demand their voices to be heard, and request everyone else to respect them more, how politically correct is that?

I am politically incorrect when it comes down to defending my faith. If I do not even practice my own faith, who will practice it for me? For as long as I can continue to say it and as I anticipate for the coming of Christ, Merry Christmas.

Laps

2011-11-25T09:06:00.002-05:00

Haven't done laps for weeks but the swim this morning was great, especially I had the pool all to myself. I think I need to build up my endurance again. That's perhaps my next target for the upcoming weeks.

Heart of Worship

2011-11-23T18:04:00.001-05:00

Another great song that I came across recently

Heart of Worship

When the music fades
And all is stripped away
And I simply come
Longing just to bring
Something that's of worth
That will bless your heart

I'll bring You more than a song
For a song in itself
Is not what You have required
You search much deeper within
Through the ways things appear
You're looking into my heart

I'm coming back to the heart of worship
And it's all about You
All about You, Jesus
I'm sorry Lord for the thing I've made it
When it's all about You
It's all about You Jesus

King of endless worth
No one could express
How much You deserve
Though I'm weak and poor
All I have is Yours
Every single breath

I'll bring You more than just a song
For a song in itself
Is not what You have required
You search much deeper within
Through the way things appear
You're looking into my heart

I'm coming back to the heart of worship
And it's all about You
All about You, Jesus
I'm sorry Lord for the thing I've made it
When it's all about You
It's all about You Jesus

Its all about you
Jesus

I will always stand for you

2011-11-22T01:55:00.004-05:00

Another song that I was listening to on the flight to and back from Fiji. It's more contemporary than the other one. It reminds me whenever I stand or not stand for my faith and for what I believe in. I wish I can say this more often

Jesus, I will always stand for You.

Jesus, I stand for You
No matter what You lead me through
They will chase me out, and close me down
but Jesus, I stand for You

I'll always stand (3x)
for You
I'll always stand (3x)
for You

Jesus, I've stood my ground
When unbelief was all around
I have felt the sting rejection brings
but Jesus, I still stand for You.

I'll always stand (3x)
for You
I'll always stand (3x)
for You

A time will come when everyone
will turn their eyes on the risen son
Until that day, this world will turn away
So I'll take your hand, I'll always stand for You

Guilty of disgrace, but You took my place
Jesus, I'll always stand for You.

I'll always stand (3x)
for You
I'll always stand (3x)
for You

For you
I'll always stand for You

Vinaka Vakalevu

2011-11-20T03:03:00.017-05:00

10 months of preparation

100+ email messages exchanged between different parties

47 students

4 teachers

8 days

... uncountable number of memorable experiences at Fiji for Experience Week 2011.

Vinaka Vakalevu

Again for this year's programme, I tried something new - a new destination for CDNIS and for Fiji. We were indeed the first student group from Hong Kong that has ever visited Fiji. With this, everything was new to me as the organizer and for Fiji as the host. From two years ago, when I visited Fiji during Easter, I already began to check out possible activities for students to be done while in Fiji. Then last year, I began to connect with Air Pacific - the national airline for Fiji - then the tourism board at Fiji, and finally Rosie Holidays - the largest land agency in Fiji. It was definitely a learning experience for me through the preparation, but I was equally as lucky to meet with very nice people along the way.

Everything came together last Saturday when all 51 of us gathered at the Hong Kong airport and boarded the plane. However, due to a technical problem with one of the engines, the flight was delayed for close to 2 hours. The first thing that came to mind was to arrange for a contingency plan if the flight needed to be cancelled.

We arrived at the Nadi International Airport on Sunday but was 2 hours behind schedule. But then, we were in Fiji - so let's go with Fiji time instead - no rush at all. After returning to the hotel briefly, we headed out to Natadola - one of the top ten beaches in the world. It definitely lives up to its title. I think everyone could not admire the beauty of that beach more than any other places they had ever been to.

One of the main purposes for this year's programme was a building project at the Koropita community. We were divided into 5 groups - one group made and painted the doors for the houses, one group dug and creating the retaining wall, and three groups built the frames for the kitchens and the bathrooms for three houses. In two days time, the wooden frames were all made and the retaining wall was close to completion. The students worked industriously for those days and even the site manager praised for their effort as they had definitely exceeded his expectations.

After two strenuous days at Koropita, the students all deserved a break, and we headed to Sigatoka where they had a chance to experience the historical and cultural side of Fiji. They also had the chance to taste the local drink - kava. Unfortunately, that was when the biggest drama - a student had a major negative reaction to the drink and was immediately hospitalized. The student was discharged after two hours though her condition fluctuated in the next few days.

The weather on Thursday was not too pleasant when we visited the village along the Navua River and especially on the way back from the Magic Waterfall. When we returned to the hotel, the hotel had prepared a very special dinner at a nice venue with music and games. Everyone had a great time, however, the student who did not feel well on Wednesday needed medical attention, so we immediately asked the doctor to come to the hotel. The doctor came back in the wee-hour in the morning. I basically stayed up the entire night with no more than 2 hours of sleep in total. What an experience!

Friday was definitely an highlight for the week, when we visited the South Sea Island. Despite its geographical proximity to Nadi, its natural beauty already suggests how much more can an island hopper could expect for the rest of the islands in Fiji. We invited members from the Marine Conservation Unit to come to the island to introduce coral planting and help with the snorkeling activities with the students.

----------

Although the in-flight entertainment on Air Pacific was very limited, but I love their channel 4 which was their audio channel for contemporary religious hymns. On the way to Fiji, it helped me to relax and the clear my mind from all the concerns and worries and on the way back to Hong Kong, I enjoyed the hymns even more, because I could relate to those lyrics with a thankful heart. One of the most beautiful hymns on the channel was Come to Jesus by Chris Rice.

Weak and wounded sinner,

Lost and left to die,

O, raise your head for Love is passing by,

Come to Jesus,
Come to Jesus,
Come to Jesus and live,

Now your burden's lifted,
And carried far away,
And precious blood has washed away the stain... so

Sing to Jesus ,
Sing to Jesus ,
Sing to Jesus and live,

And like a newborn baby,
Don't be afraid to crawl,
And remember when you walk sometimes we fall... so

Fall on Jesus,
Fall on Jesus,
Fall on Jesus and live,

Sometimes the way is lonely,
And steep and filled with pain,
So if your sky is dark and pours the rain... then

Cry to Jesus,
Cry to Jesus,
Cry to Jesus and live,

O, and when the love splills over,
And music fills the night,
And when you can't contain your joy inside... then

Dance for Jesus,
Dance for Jesus,
Dance for Jesus and live,

And with your final heartbeat,
Kiss the world goodbye,
Then go in peace, and laugh on Glory's side... and

Fly to Jesus,
Fly to Jesus,
Fly to Jesus and live,

Fly to Jesus,
Fly to Jesus,
Fly to Jesus and live.

The week has come to an end. Although, with the protocol from my school, I could not infuse a religious element to the programme, but I hope the students who came to Fiji would realize how fortunate they are and would live out their lives with a more generous heart - just like what all Christians should do.

Vinaka Vakalevu

Fiji Updates #1

2011-11-15T00:15:00.002-05:00

In two days time, with 47 students in 5 groups, we managed to build the frames for three houses, a lot of doors, and a retaining wall. These 47 students rock! They have no complains...they are simply GREAT! They are just awesome. Even the site-manager said the students have proven him wrong, because he was not expecting us to be so quick.

We are off to a traditional Fijian village tomorrow, then the next two days will be more fun, more sun, and more beach.

Photos to follow.

EdD First Unit

2011-11-11T16:09:00.002-05:00

The first unit for my EdD programme began last night and I attended my first class. The professor was quite good, but the class composition was rather interesting. I wonder if I will get as much of intellectual stimulation as my master programme during discussion. Having said that, despite enjoying what the professor was saying, my mind drifted to things that I need to do today and for next week with the students. I need to stay focus! And since, I cannot attend classes for the next two days, I have to defer this unit until next year.

Fiji, Here I Come Again...

2011-11-10T08:14:00.002-05:00

After almost a year of planning and preparation and despite some MAJOR hurdles to jump through for this year's experience week programme to Fiji, the day has finally come. I am getting rather excited, perhaps even more than the students.

Ever since my first visit to Fiji last Easter, I always looked back at the photos and wanted to relive those few days on nice sandy beaches under the sun and just inches away from the clear and refreshing ocean.

With more than 47 students on this programme, it will definitely be a new experience for me. One thing that I wish I could have done better in the last few weeks is to know each of these 47 students more - especially those I have never taught before. Although I know all of them by their names and even some of their information on paper, because I have been going through stacks and stacks of paper work, I really only know some of them by their passports and their forms.

Sun and beach, building and service, kava and meke....I am ready for these. It's time to get out of the classroom and have a great and crazy time with the students. (Let's hope I will not get thrown into the ocean by the students or maybe it's not a bad idea afterall.)

End of a Great Season

2011-11-08T08:28:00.003-05:00

This season 1 has been rather hectic especially when there were days with hundreds of emails to be answered from parents and swimmers - on top of my regular teaching schedule and the preparation of Experience Week. There were moments when I really questioned myself why am I creating this mess for myself when I could easily dug under the radar and just enjoy the 6:45am to 3:15pm schedule everyday.

But then, I do not want to walk away from these dedicated swimmers and despite how much complain I may have on a given day, just getting out from my room and trying to connect with these swimmers outside the classroom is something that I value a lot. Perhaps, that is why after my grumpiness when confronted with loads and loads of work, I still walk back to the pool and train with them twice a week.

Today was the last training session for the season and for the first time in several years, the swimmers had a chance to throw the coaches into the pool - and I was obviously one of the targets. I suppose at least that means I am not just a math teacher who talks with numbers and symbols to them.

It's going to be a quiet season 2 before training starts again after Chinese New Year for SEASAC.

It's Meant to be That Way

2011-11-08T08:15:00.004-05:00

I often wonder whether I have made a good decision when something else comes along as soon as everything seems to be have settled.

Back in February I applied for my admission to a doctoral programme. I got so excited and I waited anxiously for several months until the day that I left Hong Kong for my summer vacation in June before I finally heard back from the University of Bristol. And so, a few more months went by and my initial excitement started to diminish. Then several weeks ago, the first reading package came in with my class schedule and I was once again looking forward to the first day of class.

Though, last Friday at the University of Waterloo alumni dinner in Hong Kong, I was talking to an alumni officer and she told me that UW actually has begun to offer a Master of Mathematics for math teachers since last September. She directed me to the website to read further and the programme looks quite promising.

I have always thought that I will not get my post-graduate degree in Mathematics, hence, I got my Master of Education through the University of Western Australia several years ago instead. But now. after knowing that UW (obviously, I'm proud to be an UW alumnus) has this programme, I am once again second guessing whether I have made the right decision to go for my EdD instead of another master degree - especially when this one links my first two bachelor degrees together and it is so relevant to what I am doing for a living.

Perhaps, it's just about the timing of things and things are meant to be the way they are.

Cough...Cough...Cough

2011-11-02T04:50:00.003-04:00

I'm now into my second week of cough. When will it stop?!?!

Okinawa - Pure Relaxation

2011-10-23T04:24:00.007-04:00

The original plan for this midterm break was 7-days to North Korea, but the tour turned sour 3 weeks before departure, so I opted for Okinawa with another friend. Since both of us were too lazy to plan for another trip so we decided to join an all-inclusive packaged tour with the hopes that everything would be planned for us and all we needed to do was to show up.

To many people Okinawa is a synonym for natural beauty and I cannot agree more with that. It is definitely not as busy as Tokyo or Osaka, it is not as culturally rich as Kyoto, but it certainly has its own characteristics. After these five days, I am convinced that I will return for more of its simplicity and beauty.

Off to Okinawa

2011-10-14T19:28:00.002-04:00

The much-needed midterm break is here...and I'm off to Okinawa tomorrow. It's been more than 6 years since the last time I've been to Japan, but it's going to be different this time. Can't wait to be sitting behind the wheels and go through the towns around the island.

Be back on the 20th.

Exhausted, but...

2011-10-06T11:04:00.003-04:00

With 1/2 the number of participating schools and 1/2 the number of swimmers in today's Senior Meet, I thought things would not be as chaotic. I was proven wrong. Despite how much preparation work the coaches had put together on our side, coaches from the other schools still managed to increase the level of stress. I felt it was by far the most stressful meet that we hosted at CDNIS, and as I shared with my fellow coaches - if I was attached to a blood-pressure gauge, the reading on the scale will go off the roof, I could have died from a stroke. After the meet, I was shaking because I guess the stress level surpassed what I could physically and mentally handle.

If all schools and all the coaches could just work a little bit more diligently, things would improve drastically. That again, would only exist in etopia.

I am exhausted...too much swimming, it's time for a tylenol then rest.

Typhoon Day

2011-09-28T22:40:00.003-04:00

At 4:40am, the Hong Kong Observatory hoisted the T8 signal, and I was already checking my email and seeing if there's an announcement for school closure. By 5:30am, I think there were more teachers on FirstClass than during the normal school hours.

It a typhoon day - a day that is meant for me to catch up with work.

Challenge #1

2011-09-27T01:29:00.002-04:00

With 300+ swimmers from 14 schools coming today to compete for 44 events...I really wonder how can we go through all the heats and events in 2 hours.

Mid-Autumn Festival at Langkawi

2011-09-14T08:10:00.007-04:00

For the last 4 days I went to Langkawi, and the weather was not that great for the first two days. The rainstorm rolled in Saturday evening with extreme downpour and gusting winds. When the sun came out the following morning, tree branches were everywhere. The weather on Sunday did not improve either, in fact, it kept raining for the entire day and it only stopped in the evening. So I was stuck in the hotel basically for the entire Sunday.

Monday was much better, perhaps, the rainstorm cleared away all the clouds and it was super sunny. I went to the Oriental Village, took the cable car up to the top of the mountain to take a look at Langkawi, headed to Kuah to see the Eagle's Bay, and visited the Cenang beach. Without much public transit in Langkawi, a rental car or taxi cabs were the only two options.

After these four days, I think Penang is still the best city in Malaysia.

An Early Break

2011-09-09T16:04:00.002-04:00

Off to Langkawi for 4 days...will the moon be as full there?

7 Years

2011-09-08T09:44:00.006-04:00

I do not remember exactly what I was doing 7 years ago today, but I know I must be packing. 2004 Seotember 09 was the day that I decided to leave Canada and to come to Hong Kong to begin my teaching career. It began as a 5-year plan, but now I am starting my 8th year tomorrow here in Hong Kong.

Despite the number of years that I have already spent in Hong Kong (minus all my traveling times), I still miss Canada a lot and long for my summer vacation to visit friends and family back home. Having said this, these past 7 years have allowed me to become somewhat comfortable staying in Hong Kong (not including the weather).

Perhaps, one of the things that helped me to return to this busy city year after year must be CDNIS. I remember at the opening remark for every year, the Head of School will always say, this is literally home away from home for most, if not all, staff. Whenever I step inside the school building, it is like I have entered a time-machine of some sort and it takes me directly from Hong Kong to Canada. Yes, at the end of the day I know I am still in Hong Kong physically, but I think it is the environment that allows me to engage into an atmosphere that I am quite familiar. Just as some of my friends have always commented, I have never left Canada even when I am here in Hong Kong.

These 7 years have been very worthwhile and have been more than just exciting. Looking back, I travelled a lot, studied a lot, learned a lot, and grew a lot. If I have a second chance to redo these 7 years, I am not sure what I would have chosen to do during that summer of 2004.

As I am about to begin my 8th year here in Hong Kong tomorrow, I am ready for more changes and challenges. I look forward to travel to more exotic places, to begin doctoral degree, to meet new friends, and to plan for my future.

With Prayers

2011-08-29T21:15:00.002-04:00

Two days ago a message from my high-school alumni association came into my Facebook inbox. My favourite high-school math teacher, who retired less than two years ago, has recently been diagnosed with cancer. The message came so timely with Jack Layton's passing.

Instead of resistance and isolating himself, he wants to share his story as it simply be another test from God to his faith. (I admire his courage and positiveness in this battle.)

He is documenting his battle with cancer here: http://mikeofbrebeuf.blogspot.com/.

Please keep him in your prayers. He has been an inspirational model for many young people who walked into his classroom. He will continue to be an inspirational model for many more people.

With prayers.

Jack Layton`s Letter to Canadians

2011-08-23T08:47:00.004-04:00

The following is an excerpt from the letter by the late Jack Layton, the leader of the New Democratic Party to all Canadians dated August 20, 2011, Toronto, Ontario. The last paragraph of his letter is perhaps the most powerful and moving and it reminds us the true value and the basic dignity in life.

My friends, love is better than anger. Hope is better than fear. Optimism is better than despair. So let us be loving, hopeful and optimistic. And we'll change the world.

New School Year, New Challenges

2011-08-17T17:22:00.003-04:00

Students are finally returning to class today for another school year. Despite how much I look forward for another exciting and busy year, I really feel unprepared and anxious. I do not usually feel this way, but for this year, there are many changes and most of them come with lots of uncertainty. There are new initiatives which I foresee will take up a good chunk of my time, and I just hope they will not take away my presence in the classroom and the learning that the students should have.

There are many new teachers this year, and I think it has come to a point when I, as one of the returning staff, have become part of the smaller group. A lot of good friends and colleagues left last year, perhaps, that explains a tiny bit of sadness for the start of this school year.

Goal for this year: Seek a balance life inside and outside the school.

5 weeks of Relaxation

2011-08-07T09:25:00.002-04:00

It's been 5 weeks already for not doing anything particular in Toronto this year, but just to relax and enjoy the quiet and non-hectic life. Unfortunately, one of the things that I wish for this summer did not happen, despite how much preparation I have already done.

Many things have changed over the past year, one of which is the number of babies. There are so many new babies this year and I could hardly remember all of their names, but it's all good. I'm sure next year when I get to see them again, they will be running around and starting to talk in baby-language.

It looks like everyone that I met this year is enjoying his/her lives and trying to make the most of it. It is true that living in Toronto can sometimes be boring, but I think my friends are all doing different things to occupy their times and to enrich their lives - which is something that Hong Kong cannot have to offer other than solely on entertainment. Life is not just about fun and entertainment, especially when you are a part of the society, give something back is essential and truly rewarding.

As I head back to Hong Kong tomorrow to embark on my eighth year, I wish all of my great friends and buddies in Canada another wonderful 12 months ahead. Seeing you all again in 10 months time.

21st Anniversary

2011-08-01T09:31:00.003-04:00

It's been 21 years...and many things have changed, except for one thing - the friendliness of Canadians.

Glad to be here.

The Power of Silence

2011-07-31T18:53:00.000-04:00

I’m not saying anything because I have chosen not to. I just cannot understand why I have to say something when apparently it does not matter at all. It is true that I want to convey a message when I decide not to talk. I am in strong disagreement and if my words are not taken with respect, then why should I have to voice out more.

Patience + Obedience = Frustration + Agitation

2011-07-26T21:01:00.002-04:00

It has already been four years since the first time I mentioned about it. Many things have changed and things that were once new are now old. Every time I bring it up the first comment that I am told is to wait or it is being denied entirely. Am I not in control? Do I not have a right to do what I think is right? I cannot wonder more but to ask why? How much longer should I wait and how much more could I afford to lose?

I am criticized to be selfish if I go ahead with my plan, yet, why do I have to follow someone else’s agenda? Is that person not selfish when I am forced to follow that way?

Current mood: Frustration and Agitation

37.5 Record High

2011-07-21T21:08:00.004-04:00

The temperature in Toronto today has set another record for being the hottest day. The temperature reading on the dash board in my car registered 39C. The official new record according to Environment Canada is now 37.5C. With the humidity factored into the scale, it felt close to 50C this afternoon. The air-conditioning unit was set at full blast for a long while before the temperature in car dropped to 25C. What a day!

Très Beau

2011-07-19T10:54:00.002-04:00

très beau literally means very beautiful, and that's what I have to describe Montreal and Mont Tremblant. The vibrant colours, the relaxing music, the beautiful architecture and the friendly people are welcoming for everyone, even those like myself who speak very little French.

The Jacques Cartier place in Old Montreal is turned into a pedestrian area lined with shops and fine dining restaurants in the evening. The old facades on these old buildings are craftily lilted and contrast against the night skies.

I have never been to Mont Tremblant in the winter, but in the summer, it's filled with energetic tourists admiring the beautiful slopes. As I walked through the resort village, it certainly felt as if I was walking through a tiny European village.

It's Been 10 Years Already

2011-07-11T08:03:00.004-04:00

If I did not receive the email invitation to join the reunion yesterday, I would not have paid any attention to the fact that it has already been 10 years since the Toronto evangelization concert in back in 2001. The reunion yesterday gathered more than 30 people who helped out in the concert 10 years ago, and now are scattered to various places around the world and have new roles in their lives. One of the many things that were shared yesterday all pointed back to the seed that was planted 10 years ago has now beginning to blossom into different things.

What have I done in these last 10 years since the concert? How has my faith matured throughout the years? What do I want to happen in the next 10 years?

What will you do?

2011-07-07T10:18:00.002-04:00

When you are tight on time and when you are not sure about an incident, what will you do?

Yesterday in the late afternoon, as I entered a medical building, I saw two young kids playing around the front entrance and near the fire alarm. In my hurry, I faintly heard the sister asking her younger brother, whether he was going to pull the alarm. I turned a corner and went inside a lift, then the fire alarm went off.

When I was about to exit the building, my car was blocked by a fire truck. A fireman saw that I was getting my car, and he was ready to move the truck.

Here comes the dilimema...I had only less than an hour to go for my next appointment for the evening, but the place was at least 40 minutes away. I was not sure whether the two kids pulled the alarm or not. So, should I simply leave the place and be at my next appointment on time or should I stay behind and give my not-so-eye-witness account of what happened?

I stayed.

P.S. The fireman asked the kids and they admitted it. The older sister appeared to have no regrets for what she did. However, the worst was the kids' mother. She was sitting there the whole time, and I doubt she did anything.

California for 14 days

2011-07-04T22:23:00.023-04:00

In fourteen days, I managed to add 1800 miles to the rental car and flew another 500 miles, I visited three cities along the California coast, drove across to Las Vegas in Nevada, and also ventured to Tijuana, despite hearing horrible stories about this border city in Mexico.

Friday, June 17
First impression on Los Angeles must be the efficiency that I rarely find in any North American city. By the time I went through custom, my luggage was also already sitting on the carrousel. After another 5 minutes, the hotel shuttle came and I was literally back in my room no more than 45 minutes after my plane landed.

Saturday, June 18
After picking up the car – even though it was a Chevy, but it came with an awesome sunroof, perfect for the California sun – I went to see the Hollywood sign near Beverley Hill. There must be a weekend concert, so I was detoured to some random roads and ended up driving up a steep hill which eventually brought me to the entrance of a ranch. Perhaps, it was luck, this ranch has a side entrance which leads to a short hike up a hill for one of the best views towards the sign. Sometimes, just following the off-beating track could actually lead to pleasant surprises. I spent the rest of the afternoon visiting the different exhibitions and galleries inside the Getty Centre. The architecture itself is marvellous and it current has on display the manuscripts from the medieval times – one of my favourite art histories.

Sunday, June 19
I went to the Chinese Catholic church near Chinatown and it is just a tiny little shelter behind another Italian church. The Chinatown immediately adjacent to it is even more pathetic. There is nothing special about that strip of land except for some random signs marking where the buildings are. I then headed down towards Pueblo De Los Angeles, which is just across from the Union Station. This tourist area has many Mexican restaurants and shops. I could not be happier when I found the nativity scene sculpture that I have been looking for many months. Though, I still wonder why skulls and skeletons are still the dominating decoration pieces amongst the many different shops and stalls. Despite it being sunset at the Santa Monica beach in Los Angeles, it was packed with tourists and local people simply enjoying the breeze coming the Pacific Ocean and gorgeous weather. It was the end of the route 66.

Monday, June 20
From the western-most part of California, I drove across for four hours to Las Vegas, Nevada. The temperature rose at least 20 degrees Fahrenheit within these four hours and by the time I got out from the car, it felt more like an oven than anything else in Las Vegas. The view on Hwy 15 looking towards the city centre from the south was absolutely eye-catching. With different architectural styles from literally different parts of the world, and these buildings were erected from a desert land with nothing else acting as background, it is perhaps another man-made wonder of the world. The town centre just south of the strip is not popularly promoted, but it definitely worth the visit.

Tuesday, June 21
In other to beat the desert heat, I headed out early in the morning to explore the strip on foot and by 10am, when the sun came out, it was quite unbearable to stay outside for a long period of time without taking periodic rests in shady areas. In the afternoon, I took a short trip to the Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon on a 10-seater propeller plane – the view from several thousand feet above was magnificent – especially when I saw the depth of those valleys and gouges.

Wednesday, June 22
Another less visited natural treasure near Las Vegas must be the Red Rock Canyon, which is just 30 minutes to the west of the strip. The 2 hour scenic drive within this canyon brought me to various points to admire the natural wonders. I spent the evening seeing the different elaborate shows outside the hotels on the street – ranging from a huge musical fountain to an aggressive eruption.

Thursday, June 23
I left Vegas early in the morning and headed back to Los Angeles hoping to beat the afternoon rush hour. In the late afternoon, I went to the Greystone Mansion just off the Beverley Hill and also to Venice Beach. This beach was rather disappointing with very little shops and action.

Friday, June 24
I drove along Hwy 1, hugging the Pacific coast from Los Angeles to San Diego and stopping at the Laguna Beach town. The San Diego old town is very traditional and it definitely has more to offer than the actual city centre. After lunch I hopped on the San Diego trolley and headed to the border. Standing at the turnstile, I hesitated for a while before I walked across to Tijuana, Mexico. It was only a 5-minute walk on foot-bridge linking (or separate) San Ysidro fro, Tijuana. I think the States prohibits any habitation near the border so it was nothing but just grasses on the US side. However, Mexico apparently has no such regulations, so houses are built right up to the border. The first impression when I crossed the international border was shocking. I literally felt as if it was day and night between the two sides. Tijuana is a rough city and I did not stayed for too long before I headed back.

Saturday, June 25
After my noon-hour flight from Los Angeles to San Francisco, the first thing that I noticed was how cold San Francisco was for late June. It was gloomy and windy as I walked from the subway station, through Union Square, before finding my hotel. The city was preparing for the Pride Parade on the following day, so it was packed with people – interesting people from different walks of life.

Sunday, June 26
I gave myself extra time in the morning knowing that the service for public transit will be interrupted because of the parade, but I still missed the last streetcar, so I took an expensive cab ride to Pier 33 to catch my ferry ride out to Alcatraz. It was a beautiful day, and when I was waiting in line, I bumped into a CDNIS alumnus. Alcatraz used to be a state penitentiary before it was converted to a National Park – and now being occupied by seagulls! The bus tour around San Francisco in the afternoon brought me to various landmarks within the city – and of my favourites – the Painted Ladies near Alamo Square.

Monday, June 27
I was picked up from the hotel before the sun rose that morning and headed to Yosemite. Unfortunately, this national natural treasure – Yosemite – is rarely visited by any organized tour. It is by far the highlight for my two weeks and I personally think this is even more beautiful than the Grand Canyon. I could see myself spending another day or two in there.

Tuesday, June 28
The only day that it rained and it rained all day. I went to Burlingame and explored this little town just south of San Francisco and did not do anything else because the weather deteriorated.

Wednesday, June 29
I went to Palo Alto, by the recommendation of my friend. It was another small town just like Burlingame, but it is also the city where Stanford is located. The main road, University Road, has many upscale shops and obviously over-priced cafes. Stanford University has a very subtle entrance but the palm trees along both sides of the road with lushly green fields definitely paint a very relaxing atmosphere. In the evening, I went to the Google headquarter in Mountain View – dined in their cafeteria. That city block is more like a micro-city.

Thursday, June 30
Time to head home – Toronto is still where I call home.

Los Angeles - Day 2

2011-06-19T23:26:00.004-04:00

Perhaps, when one travels more, one will realize how fortunate he/she is. This morning, I went to the Chinese Catholic parish in Los Angeles. For the fact that LA is a rather large metroplitan, I was expecting a large church for this parish, however, when I pulled in, I saw a small one-level parish hall. It was a unique experience to celebrate mass in Cantonese even when I'm a travaller in Los Angeles. The church is just adjacent to China town, so after mass, I went for a quick walk. It was already 11am, and there was no one on the street and the shops were barely open. This Chinatown is nothing like the one in Toronto or the one in New York.

Next stop was El Pueblo de Los Angeles, which is the small community for Mexican and Peruian. I think I spent way too much time here by checking out each store and vendor. Having said this, I managed to get a porcelain nativity scene made in Peru - one that I have always wanted to get. This made my day! The Cathedral of Our Lady of Angels, which is about 15 minutes walking distance away, is HUGE and modern - the sheer massiveness is beyond what I expected.

The 3rd Promenade in Santa Monica and it adjacent beach were just beautiful on a late Sunday in June.

Plans for tomorrow: Drive to Las Vegas.

Los Angeles - Day 1

2011-06-19T10:43:00.005-04:00

After what seems to be more like 24 hours sitting on the plane and waiting in different teminals, I arrived at Los Angeles very late on Friday night. The first thing that amazed me was the efficiency at the airport - it took me less than 30 minutes to go through all the gates, to collect my luggage, and to get on the shuttle that brought me to the hotel.

Yesterday morning, after collecting the car (it comes with a sunroof, yes!), I drove from the west end to Hollywood. Driving through those narrow paths and lanes just off from the Hollywood Blvd, and with many twists and turns, I discovered a short path that took me up to a ranch. I parked the car and hiked up a little bit to see the most unobsructed view of the Hollywood sign. It was by the far and perhaps the best view, and the place was not mentioned in any publications that I read previous.

The next stop was the Griffith Observatory. Although it was only getting to noon, the parking lot was already full. So I did not make a stop and but continue to drive along Sunset Blvd until I discovered it had a detour and traffic was stalled.

The drive coming back from Universal Studio was an interesting one, because on Hwy 101 near the Hollywood Bowl, on the opposite side of the freeway, part of the ground was on fire. The firemen were on scene battling with the blaze, but the white-smoke was thick.

In the late afternoon, I went to the Getty Centre. It was free admission yesterday which obviously attracted more than usual number of visitors - so I had to wait for more than 30 minutes for a parking spot. The centre was built on a hill and it overlooked the entire city of Los Angeles from the north-western side. The building itself is already an art-piece. The centre has collections from different times - and one of the current exhibit is the display of medival art and biblical manuscripts - my favourite!!!

Plans for tomorrow: church, LA downtown, Venice Broadwalk, 3rd Promenade near Santa Monica.

Thank You and Bon Voyage

2011-06-17T02:47:00.004-04:00

Yesterday was the last day of class for students and today was the last day for teachers. Sadly and personally, this year seems to be more emotionally to see the grads and good friends leaving CDNIS.

I certainly know that the students cannot stay in the same school forever, neither would my fellow colleagues be teaching in the same school forever. , just the fact that I know when August 15th comes and I will not see those familiar faces, the school will just not be the same.

On a more positive note, I know the grads will continue to pursue for their dreams, and the departing staff will have more exciting ventures in their lives. I hope sooner or later our lives will cross paths again.

Thanks for another AWESOME year...and I'm looking forward to my 5th year at CDNIS.

Congratulations - Class of 2011

2011-06-14T10:12:00.003-04:00

It was a nice ceremony tonight...especially seeing all 106 graduates walking across the stage. These fine young men and women were once young teenagers four years ago, and now they are ready to conquer the world. Seeing them mature over the years and how they shape themselves into unique individuals are things which keep me going day after day working in a school - and especially at CDNIS.

They may not have remembered what I said in class or what I taught, but I am just as happy to be a small of part of their lives.

The End of My 4th Year

2011-06-09T19:11:00.004-04:00

Less than a week to go before the end of my fourth year at CDNIS and my seventh year in this profession. I just cannot be happier and more satisfied if I have never begun teaching seven years ago. The relationship that a teacher can develop with his/her class and seeing how each individual students has grown over a period of time are things which I cannot imagine anyone working in an office would ever experience.

This year's graduates were in grade 9 when I came to CDNIS, and for the last four years I think I might have taught almost all of them or have got to know them through different activities, trips, and sports tournaments. When I flip through the yearbook four years ago and see how much they have grown and be ready for their post-secondary dreams, I wonder how much of an impact have I had on them, if any at all.

Perhaps there is one word to summarize this academic year - INSPIRING. Inspiring because I have learned from my fellow teachers what is teaching to them. Inspiring because I have learned from my students what is learning to them. Inspiring because I have understood what is happiness from those whom I came across in different parts of the world who have very little in life.

The more I learn, the more I realize that I do not know.
The longer I teach, the more I realize that I need to improve.
The more I travel, the more I realize how fortunate I am.

As I am cleaning up my room and getting ready for next year, I hope to spend the next two months to refocus....and at the same time, admiring the beauty of the California and enjoying the nice summer in Toronto.

Clueless by the Results

2011-06-08T05:14:00.002-04:00

Exams are officially over, and I am done with all the markings. The results for this year's exams are much lowered than the previous years. I am particularly disappointed with my Year 1 SL Math students. I have had high expectations for them, but the results suggested otherwise.

I am clueless.

Etiquette

2011-06-04T07:18:00.002-04:00

What is wrong with some of the people in Hong Kong? They are simply too rude and lack etiquette in any social settings.

It is a very sad situation. I will comment to these behaviours as much as I couldwhenever it is happening in front of me or near me. But then, with just my voice alone, I wonder how many would actually change and whether things will improve.

Three Weeks to Go...

2011-05-28T19:19:00.002-04:00

Three weeks to go before the summer vacation begins....tickets confirmed...hotels booked...car rented. The route for this year HKG > LAX > LAS > SDO > SFO > YYZ > HKG. I am expecting magnificent scenes at the Grand Canyon and Yosemite...and looking forward to seat at home, do nothing, and enjoy the nice weather in Toronto.

Restrictive or Ambiguous

2011-05-19T06:56:00.002-04:00

Contrary to popular beliefs, I think there is a thin line dividing what is restrictive against what is ambiguous. I thought I understood the marking scheme that was release a few days ago, but apparently I might not have understood it properly. There are questions which appear to allow the examiner to exercise some judgement in granting the marks, however, it turns out not to be the case. There are questions which give specific marking guidelines and appear to be rather restrictive and definitive, however, the examiners could actually exercise some judgement call for those marks.

Now that I am more confused after I have started, I do not know whether and how much I could actually grade. I think with these uncertainty, my productivity level will be lowered.

Destined to Fail

2011-05-11T05:31:00.002-04:00

If you do not pay attention in class, instead you decide to joke around, there is one thing that I can guarantee - you are destined to fail. I have given you enough reminders and warnings, but if you take my words for granted, I only have one comment to make - good luck. I will not show pity for you, because I am not here to fail you, but you have failed yourself.

We did it!

2011-05-10T08:11:00.001-04:00

We came in third amongst 42 teams for the Mixed Team Gold Cup Championship race at the Stanley Dragonboat Warm-Up Race today. Let's go...Flying Canucks.

The Flying Canucks

2011-05-08T06:55:00.004-04:00

Two days to go before the first warm-up race for this year - we are the Flying Canucks from the Canadian International School of Hong Kong. Come and cheer for us on Tuesday, May 10 at the Stanley Main Beach. Our first race starts at 9:24am.

Building Homes, Changing Lives

2011-04-25T20:42:00.001-04:00

During the Opening Ceremony, the theme “Building Homes, Changing Lives” was repeated many times. As I was more physically tiring as the week went by, I was thinking about this theme.

I complained about that the weather was extremely hot and sunny, but…
I was able to enjoy my nice evening under fan with air conditioning, while the families in the village were still sleeping in their tin-siding homes.

I complained that I was very tired after moving the bricks and chipping bricks, but…
I was able to lye on a comfortable bed in the evening to relax, while the families in the village were perhaps sleeping on the floor.

I complained about the long commute distance between the hotel and the site, but…
I was sitting inside a cosy minivan with friends, while the local Bangladeshi were sitting inside those worn-out buses or even on top of trains.

I complained about that the streets were filthy, but…
I was greeted by friendly Bangladeshi, while the local people have to live through these potholes, garbage bumps, and crowed wet markets.

I complained, because I was comparing what I have with what was in front of me, but…
I definitely am very blessed and privileged, while the local Bangladeshi may not even have the slightest opportunity to improve their quality of lives.

Who’s life has been changed? The lives of the two families of whom we helped to build their houses have changed, but more importantly, my life has changed.

Unusual Faces

2011-04-23T07:35:00.004-04:00

The most noticable thing on this trip for the last couple of days must be the awkward, yet friendly, look from the local people. Despite being in Dhaka, the national capital of Bangladesh, the local people perhaps do not have a lot of interaction with foreigners whether they are Chinese or Caucasians. They give strong and focused stares to us while we are stuck in traffic or while we take a walk on the street.

Today, there were three Bangladesh teenagers in their earlier twenties, taking 20+ photos of me with them just inside the museum. Perhaps, they have not met another Chinese before in their lives. They were super friendly and tried very hard to communicate with me in English.

I do not remember when was the last time I had a long conversation with a random person in a foreign country. It's all good - the world needs more friendly people like Briahus that I met today.

The Heaviest Cross

2011-04-22T12:44:00.003-04:00

Today marked the last day of building. We went back to the first site and helped the family to move more brick and sand, and to build the first wall. By lunch, we managed to get a quarter of a wall erected - which is quite impressive since none of us are skilled in laying bricks. It was definitely an emotional departure as we said our last farewell to that very nice and welcoming family.

In the evening, I went back to the church for the Veneration of the Cross. There was a line from the homily that struck me the most - The heaviest cross that I have to bear is myself.

This marks the end of the building activity in Bangldesh. Tomorrow is basically a tour within the city of Dhaka before the overnight flight back to Hong Kong.

The night came and this is the fifth day.

Building a Community

2011-04-21T10:15:00.004-04:00

With our utmost enthusiasm we departed very early from the hotel and headed to the village to continue with our work. We worked all day until the clouds came in before we headed back to the city. The rain storm rolled in as we pulled into Dhaka, the sky grew dark and the strong wind was gusting against the trees. I wondered whether I could head to church in the evening, despite it being only 15 minutes away.

After 30 minutes of heavy rain and strong wind, the sun broke open and the rays penetrated through the thick clouds. Thank you Lord for giving me a chance to once again be part of Your miracle and be able to celebrate the Eucharist. It was even more special when I was approached by Fr. Tom as I was walking into the hall and asked to have my feet washed Archbishop Costa.

The homily for tonight is truly unique and striking. Archbishop Costa mentioned that tonight was Holy Thursday, when Jesus set an example for His disciplines to be a servant for all. He reminded us that we need to celebrate the communion - not only the Eucharist as the body of Christ, but also in union with one another and to serve, regardless of rank, age, gender, or race.

On this very special night, as I am reflecting on the homily and the goals for this volunteering trip to Bangladesh, I cannot praise God's name more for what He has given me and allowed me to be His tools to serve my brothers and sisters.

Lord, remind me of who I am and what I am.

The night came, and this is the fourth day.

3rd Day of Building

2011-04-20T08:55:00.004-04:00

We left a bit later this morning and the first stop after 1.5 hours on the road was a village school. The school is hidden from the main road, but it certainly is the main focus amongst the villagers. The school has about 5 rooms, each with a tiny window, lots of wooden chairs and tables - but most importantly filled with a bunch of eager students striving to learn and to understand the world.

It is often forgotten how fortunate we are - especially for those of us who have completed university and beyond. As well, the abundance of supplies and stationaries that we can get our hands on, have definitely benefitted us from getting a decent education. However, these students have very little to no supplies. The photos that I took is truly a striking image to remind each one of us that despite how worn-out the pencil-case, the ruler, the binder, or the uncomfortable chairs and tables inside a dark classroom, education is not merely just the equipment that brings excitment, but it is what goes on in the minds and in the hearts.

In the afternoon, we went to a different work site, moved more bricks and sands.

The night came, and this is the third day.

Second Day on Site

2011-04-19T11:25:00.004-04:00

5 minutes made a whole lot difference, because we left later than yesterday morning, and the ride was much longer. We were stuck in the traffic and did not reach our site after 1 hour and 45 minutes. As our van arrived we saw more bricks were bumped just off the road - so that's the first task for the day.

We moved all the bricks, more sand and more soil, laid several layers of bricks, pounded the ground - and by the end of the work day, the foundation was somewhat in place.

The night came and sun rose. This is day 2.

First Day of Manual Labour

2011-04-18T08:27:00.003-04:00

Perhaps it so true that you do not appreciate what you have until you try to do it or to make it yourself. The task of building a house from the foundation seems to be rather simple everytime I watch the show of TLC or any other television shows. I guess there is still a certain amount of unrealism of TV when compared to what it is behind the scenes.

Today was the first day on the building site at Kaliganj, about 1.5 hours drive outside of Dhaka. As soon as we arrived, we saw two piles of basic building materials bumped on the side of the road ready to be carried across the river. From 9:30am to 12:00pm, we moved at least 2/3 of the 3000+ bricks across the river and stacked them nicely, while another group dug the ground for the foundation. After lunch, we moved the rest of the bricks, and began with, literally, a mountain of sand. By 4:00pm, the bricks were moved, two layers of bricks were laid for the foundation.

We are happy and please with our progress and that's the end of the day 1.

Off to Bangladesh

2011-04-15T07:26:00.002-04:00

I'm off to Bangladesh for the next 10 days for a volunteer trip, and will be back on Easter Sunday. It is my second year in a row to celebrate Easter in a foreign country. I just hope I could understand the services in their local dialect, but it's going to be awesome to be (once again) in united with the universal Church.

Lord, Jesus Christ, hear our prayer.

Short Trip to Kuala Lumpur

2011-04-12T08:16:00.010-04:00

Spent the last weekend at Kuala Lumpur. Perhaps the timing was just right, because the warm and humid weather was exactly what I needed after another few weeks of unseasonably cold and rainy weather in Hong Kong.

The bright sunny and clean air made the trip even more pleasant. There were no surprises this time, instead, it was simply a nice, relaxing trip.

Now, it's time to get ready for Bangladesh in three days time.

Dinner in the Dark

2011-04-01T23:33:00.005-04:00

Does your caesar salad taste the same without seeing it Does your sphagetti taste the same without seeing it? Does your cheesecake taste the same without seeing it?

About 40 students experienced, perhaps their first time, total darkness while enjoying their simple dinner last night. They rely on nothing except for their sense of touch, smell, and hearing. An event which simulates what it feels like for a blind individual has to go through every day. How can they do it?

Math Anxiety...April Fool

2011-04-01T10:49:00.002-04:00

Math Anxiety is an issue that I would like to address in class after the Parent-Teacher Conference yesterday...

...sorry guys, it's April Fool and you've just got pranked.

Just love my grade 10 class!

Holy Spirit Seminary

2011-03-28T21:21:00.005-04:00

Last night was my first time visiting the Holy Spirit Seminary just 10 minutes away from school. Despite the relatively close proximity to where I have been working for the last four years, seeing the buildings and the ground from my school, and hearing about it from my friends, I have never ventured down to the seminary before yesterday.

It was for an interview with the Vicar General of the Hong Kong Diocese, Fr. Lam, for the Fountain of Love and Life that I managed to get my acts together to visit the seminary. The path on the side street away from the main road already separates it from the hustle and bustle of the city, despite being surrounded by residential buildings, shipyards, bus terminus, and the famous floating restaurant. After a short hike up the slope, in pitch darkness I saw my school from a different angle before I walked through a courtyard seeing a backlit cross in the far corner.

I really like the wonderful sense of peacefulness to calm my soul after a busy day at school. The cool spring breeze came through the door while Fr. Lam shared his story. The long interview felt more like a casual chat with more revelation to witness the presence of Christ and the meticulous plan that God has prepared for each one of us.

Inspite of the growing pain and agony within this urbanized metropolitan, it is indeed an oasis for one to search deeper into one’s soul.

International Pillow Fight Day

2011-03-27T05:37:00.003-04:00

One of the status updates from a friend on my Facebook page caught my attention and apparently, April 2, 2011 is the International Pillow Fight Day. I do not know who began this three years ago, but it appears to be an annual event and a number of large cities around the world will hosting one of these fights next Saturday. The first thing that came to my mind must be the CDNIS SEASAC swimmers who had a pillow fight at the hotel. I would not be surprised if they have already signed up for this event.

Adobe Education Leadership Forum 2011

2011-03-24T08:06:00.002-04:00

It was definitely two days of intensive forum with lots of prominent keynote speakers showcasing innovative ideas and forecasting the trend in education as we move into the second decade of the 21st century. I walked away with many great ideas and resources which I think I could implement in my teaching practice.

The biggest fear is not the learning curve when implementing these tools but the time that I really have to explore these ideas. I think I am trying to find better ways to teach because I just cannot stay with what I currently have. If I only teach with what I have right now, my students will be learning in the past but not into the future. How do I actually prepare them for something that does not exist right now, but will definitey come in the near future?

There are great tools to enable great ideas. There are great minds who are trying to help the teachers to learn and to enable them to teach the student how to learn. As I quote from Mr. Kenneth Chen, the Under Secretary of the Education Bureau of Hong Kong who spoke yesterday at the conference, "we need to teach the students how to learn...how to become life-long learners" and from Prof. Stephen Heppell, "we must be ambigious enough to try new ideas, because as we astonish our students, they will astonish us back."

Two Days with Adobe

2011-03-22T06:42:00.001-04:00

Off to an Adobe conference tomorrow for two days. I wonder who will be supplying my classes, and I hope the students will find the supply teacher to be better this time.

Ignorance or Selfishness

2011-03-20T04:34:00.001-04:00

Obviously these two qualities are never good to have separately, and it is even worse to possess both at once. However, sometimes these two qualities follow one another just like they are meant to co-exist without a reason and without a cause.

Since the devastating earthquake and the disruptive tsunami which struck Japan more than a week ago, aside from tuning into the daily reports as the news unfolds, there are equally as many reports on how some people elsewhere, especially in Hong Kong, who are either ignorant or selfish, or both.

The calmness, the mannerism, and the respect for social responsibilities that the Japanese are displaying on televisions and on newspapers are definitely the qualities that most cultures lack. The care for the minors and the elders, the willingness, the appreciation, and the thankfulness that these people affected by the disasters are natural and genuine. I admire their courage and the endurance to withstand hardships despite unfavourable conditions and uncertainty.

On the contrary, just two days ago, there were countless number of peasants in China and in Hong Kong flocked to different supermarkets and the wet markets to stock up on table salt with the beliefs that after consuming the iodine added within mix which will prevent any harmfulness caused by the radiation if there is a meltdown of the nuclear power plants. Most stores emptied their shelves within a few hours, and yet, more buyers decided to buy soya sauce, garlic-salt, MSG, and whatever spices and ingredients that is salty in taste. Are these people out of their minds?

The concentration of iodine in the table salt is so insignificant that one literally has to consume many kilograms of pure table salt before the prevention is noticeable, but before that happens; I think they will suffer from kidney failures and other acute sicknesses. On the other hand, those who stock on soya sauce and other salty-ingredients are even worse. Unless they are planning to preserve themselves, what good will these items do to you if you stock up more than a year-worth of supply? These people are definitely very ignorant in understanding prevention for radiation and sickness. Unfortunately, amongst those who had no better things to do than to line up and to stock up on these items are young teenagers and university students, both in Hong Kong and in China. What have we created after sending these young men and women to have an education for many years? Can they not exercise their common sense? Or has their selfishness overridden their logic thinking?

I understand that since SARS, followed by the avian flu and other deadly epidemic attacks in Hong Kong, many people are living under high-alert for any changes in the condition which may affect their health. However, I still believe that before one rushes out to stock up on whatever items that rumour says they are good for prevention, one must still understand that we can rely on some scientific facts and our own common sense. It has sadly come to the point in Hong Kong that most people no longer believe in the government or any other official bodies, but themselves. When one separate incident has occurred, the first thing these people will do is not to exercise their own judgement but they blindly follow the crowd in hopes that they will not be the last one. Is this ignorance or selfishness?

What happen to our moral education? What happen to our own social responsibilities? In the face of a possible life-threatening incident (but yet to be proven), does our selfishness come before the common good within the community?

It is a very sad situation to witness the power of nature as it destroys the lives of many people, but it is very more devastating to see the demoralization of people, even when disaster has not struck yet. Does the person “I” always come before the common “we”? Is it too late to bring “we” back and trade it with selfishness and ignorance? As the society advances and as the economy continues to grow, is there no place for social responsibilities?

The power of nature can be disruptive, but it reminds everyone of us for our own minute influence on this world. The power of selfishness and ignorance is equally, if not more, disruptive, because unless we make a genuine effort to revert the current situation, the person “I” will be sufficient to destroy the common “we”.

Happy Pi Day

2011-03-13T20:46:00.003-04:00

3.141592653589793238462643383279502884197169399375105820974944592307816406286208998628034825342117067982148086513282306647093844609550582231725359408128481117450284102701938521105559644622948954930381964428810975665933446128475648233786783165271201909145648566923460348610454326648213393607260249141273724587006606315588174881520920962829254091715364367892590360011330530548820466521384146951941511609...

Lent - Repent from Sin

2011-03-10T09:02:00.002-05:00

A powerful video that serves as a good reminder for what God has given us through Jesus 2000 years ago. It is Lent - repent from sin.

A Much Needed Rest

2011-03-08T06:33:00.003-05:00

Despite the piles of work sitting in front of me, I need to take a break, rest and recuperate. When the body is not feeling well, the mind cannot control my action. I am still not sure what is causing the pain in my intestine and my stomach. It's time to rest and hopefully things will get better.

Bangkok Mystery

2011-03-07T02:40:00.005-05:00

It's very unusual to visit a city twice yet without actually visiting the city at all. The past few days was my second visit to Bangkok, with the first time back in 2005, and yet I have not explored the city. Am I really missing something? Or Bangkok has too many conflicting stories to tell which I just simply do not even bother thinking more about it? Roaming down roads lined with street vendors who are selling very explicit items and bumping into older men wrapping their hands around young Thai ladies are definitely not something that I look forward to when I choose to visit a city.

Aside from the above, SEASAC was great this year (as it was the same last year). The events, the venue, and more importantly the swimmers, especially those from my school were awesome. I had a great time and got to know a few more students outside the classroom. The most tiring, yet the most memorable incident, must be busting the students who were trying to sneak out from their room after curfew. It's all good, no harm.

It's a good closure to end the sports for the year.

Bangkok for the Weekend

2011-03-02T06:51:00.002-05:00

Passport - packed.
Shirts and shorts - packed.
Books and papers - packed.
Computer and camera - packed.
Files and documents - saved.

Off to Bangkok for the weekend with 23 students with lots of sunshine, reading, and work. Be back on Sunday night (or Monday midnight).

Be Thankful

2011-03-02T06:02:00.005-05:00

I sometimes wonder what Hong Kong really wants. Last week, the entire city out cried against the new budget. Random people on the street and through radio broadcast equally disliked the different schemes and subsidies that the government proposed for the next fiscal year. Perhaps, it was indeed not a very acceptable budget for the general population, for most of the people might not have immediate benefits from it.

The government came back today with a revised budget, which technically is an immediate and direct response to what the public wanted last week for $6000 reimbursement into their savings accounts. When I browsed through the feeds on Facebook and listened to the same radio show, many people were still very unsatisfied.

I am starting to wonder, when will they ever appreciate what the government has done? They keep pointing their fingers at the government and criticizes its policies, yet when the government tries to adjust in accordance to what the public wants, they criticize the same thing but from another perspective.

Do these people want to spend all the surplus until there is nothing left? Are they prepared for a tax-hikes if the government eventually run out of money? I think if the government spends everything and later on asks for an increase of tax, the same people will criticize the government again.

No one is perfect...no government is perfect.

For those who criticize everything that the government does, do you have a better solution? Criticizing without contributing to the improvement of things is equally as disruptive. Be a constructive agent of change by offering and contributing.

Count your blessings and be thankful!

Understanding Poverty

2011-03-01T18:56:00.001-05:00

RTHK began airing the second season of Richmate 窮富翁大作戰 few weeks ago, and so far other than the first guest, Michael Tien, who worked as a cleaner and a garbage collector and lived in “cage home”, the other guests appearing on the show did not make a big impression on me. However, from last night’s episode, the conversion of that young girl who went with her mother and lived with a low-income family for a few days was by far the most touching. She experienced loneliness and helplessness, yet she felt welcomed from the new friends that she made. Despite the lack of materialistic possessions from her new friends, she was greeted with friendliness and warmth. Towards the end of the show, she read an article that she wrote and she pledged to donate more of what she has, because she wanted to end poverty.

Perhaps who can understand what is poverty more than those who actually lived and experience it.

From Fear to Love

2011-02-27T04:22:00.003-05:00

It is almost seven years since ECCCLC 2004 and for that year, we established the theme "憂災悠joy - From Fear to Love". I remember the six of us spent days discussing about this theme before finalizing it.

Seven years have come and gone, and unfortunately, I slowly have forgotten what the speaker said during the camp. At the days continue to go by, I have more fear and worries - from work, from school, from home, and from life.

Today's Gospel struck me like a ton of bricks:

Matthew 6: 24 - 34
"No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon. Therefore, I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you shall eat or what you shall drink, nor about your body, what you shall put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add one cubit to his span of life? And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin; yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O men of little faith? Therefore do not be anxious, saying, `What shall we eat?' or `What shall we drink?' or `What shall we wear?' For the Gentiles seek all these things; and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things shall be yours as well. Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Let the day's own trouble be sufficient for the day.

The Double-Bell Curve

2011-02-24T05:42:00.002-05:00

After grading another set of tests for my IB SL Year 1 students this year, the double-bell curve is becoming even more obvious. I wonder what has gone wrong, especially when there are equally as many students who did extremely pooly as those who did well. What happened to the ones in the middle? Was the assessment too difficult? Was I expecting too much from the students? In the bigger picture, can everyone get a decent IB level at the end?

As much as I try to bring more energy to the class and to raise their levels of interest it the subject, it seems I am doing the exact opposite by discouraging them further with these assessment results.

I need some inspirations to improve on this. Who can offer me help?!?!

127 Hours

2011-02-19T05:10:00.002-05:00

A true story of an adventurous mountain-climber had his hand caught between the rocks within an isolated canyon near Canyonlands National Park of Utah captured my attention when I first saw the trailer. Despite the extreme simplistic plot and the expected ending of this movie, I think there is more to learn than considering it merely to be a documentary drama.

As time moved on when Aron recalled different moments in his life before he rediscover the courage to extricate himself by amputating his arm. He traced through his childhood and teenage years, he commented that each second he lived since his birth, he was moving closer and closer to that particular rock and the rock was there waiting for him to be caught between itself and the canyon. Although, that sounded rather silly to believe such occurrence was not accidental, it indeed reminded me to rethink some of the things that I had encountered before which were unexplainable if they were merely by chance and not by choice.

Are things happening by choice or by chance?

Incompetent High-Achiever

2011-02-15T07:38:00.001-05:00

It is certainly an oxymoron when someone is labelled as an incompetent high-achiever, but that is definitely the first thing that comes to mind when I read one of yesterday’s newspapers. In bold letters, the front page of that newspaper titled an unemployed graduates with a master degree is living on social welfare. As the article continued on, the reporter interviewed that young man who was conferred with a master degree in statistics two years ago, however, after numerous interviews and countless number of rejections, this young man had no other choice but to live on social welfare. He claimed to be self-motivated and completely passionate in whatever he does and he mentioned many times that he has a master degree. He blamed the government for the lack of support despite his educational achievement and he criticized the society for the uneven distribution of wealth and opportunities for young people, like himself, who have no access in getting a decent job to build a career.

The Catholic teachings say that I should be more compassionate to these very unfortunate people for they have not been entitled to share the common goods in society. However, after watching the mock interview that the reporter had organized between this young man and a recruiter, I just could not justify why I need to be compassionate to this young man. He displayed none of the traits that he claimed to have, but only repeatedly reminded the recruiter that he has a master degree. He made no eye-contact with the recruiter, neither was he confident in responding to the questions. From that video, he looked very incompetent in relating to someone else through verbal communication. I wonder how he managed to graduate from his programme initially.

Perhaps, this is one of the many similar stories that are typical in Hong Kong. I see on a daily basis that people have very high qualifications, but cannot communicate and/or reason logically. The society is striving for excellence on paper, but it lacks substance.

I have come across people who once told me that they have the same qualification as so-and-so, but how come they are not entitled to have the same thing, etc. Perhaps, without having me to come up with a more-diplomatic respond, the fact that these people ask initially is already a self-contained question. This news paper article serves as a good reminder to myself that having high qualifications is only an admission ticket for different opportunities that are present, but whether I get to meet these opportunities, I still need to work hard to achieve them.

The society needs more competent average-individuals, instead of more incompetent high-achievers.

Finding that Somebody

2011-02-07T05:11:00.002-05:00

In four separate occasions in the last three days, friends quoted the article <港男愛秘書教師港女情傾公僕明報委託港大調查擇偶傾向> that was reported by the MingPao Newspaper on February 5, 2011. I read about that piece of news on the internet in the morning, but I did not pay much attention, until it was reported back to me repeatedly through my friends afterwards. And to those who pointed me to that article....thank you for your care.

I wonder if I would have a better chance this year to find that special somebody. Let God lead the way.

新春大吉心想事成

2011-02-02T20:57:00.002-05:00

祝賀兔年
新春大吉
心想事成
平安幸福
龍馬精神
身體健康
笑口常開
萬事勝意
出入平安
恭喜發財
主寵滿溢

Give Me a Break

2011-01-29T05:30:00.002-05:00

...the past two weeks could not be busier. I think I am either working slower and not as productive or there were just too many small things here and there for me to complete. The fortunate fact is that now is finally the week of holiday for Chinese New Year, which I could catch up with things.

A Miracle

2011-01-16T06:32:00.003-05:00

1 goal...3 hours of face-to-face meeting...13 days of preparation...100+ attendants = a miracle and abundant blessings from God.

January 3, 2011 - I thought it was merely a casual dinner gathering with three other enthusiasts for Fountain of Love and Life (http://www.fll.cc/). However, the dinner turned into a 3-hour planning meeting. At first, everything appeared to be rather ad-hoc and the original idea was to have a causal sharing session to witness the power of mass media in evangelization to the ends of the earth. As the discussion continued, more ideas were generated and things started to take shape. The meeting adjured with tasks to be completed but everyone walked away with the common goal.

Thirteen days passed by quickly, with phone calls, emails, and short-messages to friends and families, inviting them to come personally to the gathering, and as well to invite their friends to come and to share. The number of emails increased quickly as we marched closer to the date, I began to read more and watched more clips, the message became clearer - the mere power of humans is extremely limited without the help of God. More volunteers and important guests, for some reasons, could come because they happened to have that afternoon free within their extremely busy schedule. God's wonders are, and will always be, beyond the imagination of the human mind.

January 16, 2011 - The date finally came. As the clock striked 2:15pm, there were already more than 100 people in the audience. We were thrilled as we had more visitors coming through the doors even after we began the programme. Standing in front of these many unfamiliar faces, introducing an overseas organization to the local Hong Kong people might seem to be a fairy-tale, though these audiences were very focused and had keen interests in strengthening the common faith in Christ through mass media and technology.

God brought us together and He sent us away to evangelize and spread His Good News.
God is wonderful. He is, indeed, wonderful.

My Thoughts...in Times

2011-01-09T07:42:00.004-05:00

I doubt many people often record and playback his/her voice - and neither do I. However, sometimes when I listen to my own voice, I find I have a certain way to say things and perhaps, that is how my friends listen to me regularly. It is even more interesting when I hear myself and my thoughts after several months. The way that I was thinking perhaps is different than the way that I think now, regardless whether it has improved or deteriorated.

Here are some of the radio clips that I was part of an interview with Fountain of Love and Life in Toronto over the last two summers.

A tribute to Mr. Alan Dick > http://fll.cc/index.php/radio/online/386-01082011
School Trips 2010 > http://fll.cc/index.php/radio/online/349-09252010
Love Travel > http://fll.cc/index.php/radio/online/207-08152009
Social Justice > http://fll.cc/index.php/radio/online/204-07252009
Catholic Church in Mainland China > http://fll.cc/index.php/radio/online/203-07182009

Fountain of Love and Life is hosting a sharing session in Hong Kong next Sunday with viewing of two clips:

an interview with Fr. Savio Hon Tai-Fai (韓大輝神父), who has recently been appointed by the Pope as the Secretary of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples
a touching sotry about suffering, sacrifice and love

The sharing session takes place at Po Chiu Catholic Secondary School (普照中學) on Sunday, January 16th, 2011 from 2:15pm to 4:30pm.

Let's come and celebrate in the love of God.

Epiphany of Our Lord

2011-01-02T08:03:00.005-05:00

"Mary's Boy Child"...one of my favorites and it was one of the two Communion hymns for today.

2010 – Double and a Half

2010-12-30T02:17:00.009-05:00

Time to recap this year – 2010 – a year to conclude the first decade of the 21st century. The number may not have significant meaning to everyone, but the fact that it is also known as twenty-ten seems like it is both double and a half of each other which means more to me than just the number 2010.

20 - Doubled

I think I spent more time and effort this year to grow professionally as an educator. In March, I spent one week in Singapore attending a workshop offered by Apple Computers. The workshop was fruitful as I walked away starting to think about my personal branding as an educator and how could/should I improve my pedagogical style with the help of technology as tools. In June, IB accepted my application to become their Assistant Examiner for Mathematics. In July, I went to Princeton for an IB MYP workshop. The learning curve was definitely steeper than what I originally had anticipated. Perhaps, I was too used to the conventional way of grading a piece of assessment with percentages. The new approach with levels and criteria seem too ambiguous – but then that is the new trend. In September, I began my first ABQ in the Junior Division. The course was great, as I learned quite a bit in the ways things are being taught to grades 4 to 6 student, but the instructor for that online course was far from being helpful. In December, I finally heard back from OECTA after 4 months that they finally granted AQ Part 2 for Religious Studies with the courses that I took in Waterloo.

I also travelled great distances this year – which helped me to widen my global perspective though increasing my carbon footprint at the same time. In February, I went to Cebu for a second visit after Chinese New Year for a few days to enjoy the sun and the beach and a short pilgrimage to the various churches there. The overnight flight and layover in Manila was tiring and I doubt I would do that over again. In early March, I went to Jakarta with two other teachers and a handful of students for a swimming competition, while in the second half of the month, I went to Singapore. I still remembered the first night when I walked into the grand suite at the Mandarin Oriental. I thought I went into the wrong room, because there were two sofas and a large dining table in the room. In April, I went to Fiji and enjoyed a week long under a perfect blue sky. Vinaka (Fijian for thanks) for a great week back into simplicity. In June, on my way back to Toronto, I went to Vancouver for a week and had a short trip to the Yellowstone National Park. Again, same as Fiji, I was more than amazed to admire the beauty in nature. In July, on my return trip from Princeton, I stayed in New York for one night. It was my third time to New York, but the first time that I stayed in Times Square and the first time that I attended a Broadway show. In September, I got my PADI diving certification. In October, I went to India to visit the third ancient civilization in the world and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. In November, I returned to Brunei for the third time (second time with students) for a week. In December, just before Christmas, I went to Hanoi.

10 – Halved

This year I had taken a step back in relationship – perhaps a step larger than what I wanted. The relationship ended after eight months. There were happy times and there were sad moments. Do I still regret from it? I learned a lot from it. I have to say, “Thanks for giving me a chance and showing me what I need to improve on.” I think in 2011, I will wait and see how this year will be.

Although not related to the above, but it may indirectly be related. I think I was much less active this year to gather with friends. I spent more time by myself and on things that I was doing which unfortunately distanced myself from my friends. I think in 2011, I need to improve on this.

Just like anything else, if it has not improved then it must have deteriorated – and that is how I felt for my faith. I was more than inactive in finding ways to grow spiritually this year. Aside from attending weekly Sunday mass, I did not participate in any faith formation programmes. Things improved slightly in the latter half of this year, when I began to attend a monthly bible-sharing session with a group of friends, but I wished I had been more active. I think in 2011, I need to reenergize my faith.

---------

Double and a-half – two very conflicting concepts yet they complement each other. This is a fact of life, I cannot have both, so I must learn to evaluate them individually and prioritize what I value more. In 2011, my goal is to learn to have a balanced life – a balance between work and play, friends and myself, work and faith.

See you in 2011.

Hanoi and Halong Bay

2010-12-24T06:16:00.005-05:00

For the last five days, I went to Hanoi and HaLong Bay for a short excursion to some of the UNESCO heritage sites. It was a short break, but it was definitely long enough for what I had experienced there.

Halong Bay was gorgoeous in its natural beauty. Despite the poor whether in the morning, the sky cleared up when the boat departed from the shore and headed to the islands. The two grottos were interesting, yet, they were just very similar to other ones that I had visited elsewhere.

Unfortunately, Hanoi did not appeal to me as what I was told or heard from friends. It was too busy, too much chaos, and way too disorganized and crowded. I felt very out-of-place on the streets, especially as I was driven by a tricycle-driver through the side streets opposite to the Hoan Kiem Lake.

Why Teach?

2010-12-15T08:00:00.004-05:00

A very good friend, Rosa, tagged me on one of her Facebook notes, which was an excerpt from an online article titled 至少還有你. Perhaps, that reminds me why I have chosen to enter into this profession rather than another one. In fact, a few days ago, I was talking to a colleague of mine, and she commented that we have chosen to teach not because of money or fame, but for the love of people. I could not agree more with what she said.

This love has to be mutual - otherwise, it is not going to work. As I enter into my seventh year of teaching, the article once agin reminds me what I need to do and who I have to be when I am in the classroom, and more importantly outside the classroom.

Here are the two photos from my grade 10 students who gave me a surprise birthday cake last Wednesday.

30 - A Semiperfect Number

2010-12-07T20:13:00.002-05:00

Today marks the 30th birthday for myself...and at least five other people that I know personally. I think December 8th must be a very special day.

Last weekend, when I had dinner with my friends, they mentioned about a Chinese proverbs "三十而立". After some speculations, we resorted to the Internet and discovered its true meaning. It basically reminds those who have reached thirty years of age should be independent and be responsible.

This morning, when I was getting my coffee from the staff cafe, several colleagues and friends were saying that perhaps when someone reaches thirty, that's the end of his/her childhood.

I wonder if 30 is not merely a milestone in life but definitely a new chapter in life - the end of childhood and the beginning of adulthood. It has been a wonderful 30 years - and I know it's going to be another great 30 years (or more) ahead of me.

Thanks to my parents, my brother, my families, my friends, my colleagues, and my students.

Plans for the day - teach three classes, grade two sets of quizzes, tutor after school, and attend mass after work. Hm...the beginning of my adulthood.

CHEERS!

Brunei x3

2010-11-22T08:14:00.011-05:00

Three years in a row that I have visited Brunei. The first time was back in 2007 during my October break. I still remember Brunei was not a popular tourist destination back in that time. Then in 2009, I brought a group of students for a week-long of service and experience - and in 2010, I brought a second group of students to the same country.

There is no doubt that Brunei is a small country, but it is very unique na lot of ways and it has a lot to offer to those who may not be awared. The friendliness amongst the Bruneian people draws me to return to this country over and over again - and I want my students to experience the same thing.

This year more than 35 students went to Brunei, along with four teachers. Perhaps, it was the first year when I led a trip with mostly younger students, I was rather worried in the beginning because this EW was their first experience as well.

Although this year was the second time I'm leading the same trip, the amount of paperwork did not decreased, but rather, with one change after another change, I found myself not yet ready on departure date on Sunday, November 14, 2010. Though, after 2.5 hours in the sky, the plane landed in a familiar airport where I knew where to go and what to do. Things finally became real and easier to manage. I was greeted by a familiar face, Maui, a friend more than a tour guide.

Similar to last year, as soon as we stepped out from the airport, the courtyard was not filled with people, but there were several reporters from the local television station and several newspaper agencies waiting for us. We made into the news throughout the week since then.

The following morning, we began with the city tour. Despite the third time visiting some of the most attractive mosques and buildings in the region, I still could not stop my finger from pressing the shutter button on my camera. After the brief tour, we departed and arrived at Kampong Bebuloh. As soon as I stepped out from the bus, more familiar faces came to me. These were the same villagers that I met last year - they welcomed me as I was part of the community. I felt like returning home after being away for a long time.

Tuesday morning began with a morning exercise with the entire village coming out to participate just after sunrise. The students had their first taste of rice planting in the paddyfield under the sun for several hours. I hope the hardwork that these students had gone through would change the way they see things in life. The cultural performance in the evening was highlighted by the visit of the district officer.

After leaving the village on Wednesday, we went directly to the Ulu Ulu Resort. We were able to arrive earlier this year, hence, we had more time to use the facilities. After several close-calls when students were dragged and drifted by the current, we concluded the night with another entertaining team-building activities and games.

The morning hike was not as easy as last year, and most of us missed the amazing and the most wonderful sunrise above the trees. However, as I stood at the top and waited for the students to come by, I saw the changes when the morning fog went away before a quick shower rolled in. We returned to the city in the afternoon and made it to the Jerudong Garden Park in the evening. The students sat in a circle and shared their experience with one another, and that was certainly a very pleasant surprise and addition to the itinerary.

The visit to the community centre for the special needs people on Friday was equally as rewarding. After the visit, I think all of the studetns now appreciate their lives even more - because they are definitely more priviledged. And the week concluded with a relaxing visit to the Empire Hotel in the afternoon.

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A reflection that I shared with the students:

Thanks to each one of you who made this year's Experience Week trip to Brunei very special and memorable. Your participation and involvement throughout the week, your support and care for one another, and the respect that you have given to our hosts and to your teachers are very much appreciated. You definitely have shown us that you are becoming (or have become) true global citizens.

It is not always easy for us to fully understand someone's else culture within a week, neither will it be easy for us to expect others to know who we are and where we come from. However, you have been very open-minded in accepting cultural differences between Brunei and Hong Kong (and your home country) and your awareness of these differences, perhaps, have made this past week very unique to all 35 of you on the trip.

To some of you, this may be your last EW, while for some of you, this may be your first EW. Yet, I believe the experience that you have gained will help you to put things in better perspective and will allow you to appreciate the necessarities in life, whether that being food, the accommodation, or relationship.

When you recall the homestay programme that you particiapted, the early morning hike to the canopy that you took, the trek to the waterfall that you conquered, or the service you offered at the community centre, please do not forgot that you are one of the most privilegded young people around the world to have the opportunity to be part of these fruitful activites. Be thankful to what you have and be generous to those who do not have what you have - perhaps, this is more important than anything that you could have ever learned from Experience Week in school.

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15 November
http://bruneitimes.com.bn/news-national/2010/11/15/hong-kong-students-educational-visit-brunei
16 November
http://www.rtbnews.rtb.gov.bn/?c=newsDetail&news_id=15050
16 November
http://www.rtbnews.rtb.gov.bn/?c=newsDetail&news_id=15049
17 November
http://bruneitimes.com.bn/news-national/2010/11/17/hong-kong-students-enjoy-slice-bruneian-village-life
19 November
http://www.borneobulletin.com.bn/fri/nov19h52.htm
20 November
http://www.borneobulletin.com.bn/weekend/news/nov20h31.htm

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Back to Basics

2010-11-18T17:23:00.002-05:00

Tiring and energizing are two words that can describe the last four days in Brunei. Early wake ups, planting in the paddyfield, long nights with cultural performances, pedalling hard to fight the current in the kayak, hiking up the canopy, and trekking to the water fall, etc - these are the activities that most people living in the city will not have a chance to do.

We were blessed with beautiful weather this week. As the bus drove by the fields, and as the boat through the forests, the scenes were spectacular.

Two more days in Brunei before heading back to Hong Kong.

Brunei - 3rd Visit

2010-11-13T00:14:00.003-05:00

Brunei must have something very special that is attracting me to revisit it for the third time. I will be bringing another group of 36 students for a week long of experience. Let's hope I will not break my camera and my phone this year. Be back on Sunday.

Foster Family

2010-11-04T07:04:00.003-04:00

Saw this RTHK episode yesterday after dinner on TVB (http://rthk.hk/special/socialdrama/epi05.htm), and it was very touching. The story was based on a real story. It basically traced through the days of a young boy living in a foster family, and how he changed and matured because of love and care.

The storyline was very simple, but I think it touched and moved everyone who watched it.

Moralilty and Surrogacy

2010-10-31T06:05:00.000-04:00

Last week one of the Hong Kong millionaires was on the front page of almost every newspaper in the city. The news reporters were busy reporting the birth of these triplets. The millionaire spent enough money, went to the States, found a mother to give birth to these three babies. The father of these babies is not married and he wants these baby boys. As the other millionaires and celebrities in the city flocked to congratulate this new father, I , on the other hand, felt the opposite.

These babies were not born from love or procreation as gifts from God, but rather they were products for an exchange of money and service. Morality virtually vanished in the eyes of this millionaire as he only wanted the babies regardless for whatever it takes for such a plan to succeed.

The father and grandfather came forward earlier in the week to accept the greetings and congratulations from everyone in the city for their new born babies. However, as soon as the community begin to criticize for what they have done, the rage over the surrogacy, the backlash forced them to withdraw quickly. They are now asking the general public to give them more privacy and room for the babies to grow. If they have known the outcry of the general public in the first place, would they have gone through the trouble in the last ten months?

Several messages were sent within this controversial news. First, with money and fame, everything that is wrong and immoral can arguably be just and acceptable. Second, the gift of life is no longer the bonding agent of love, but a business transaction. As a Catholic myself, I find this piece of news disgusting. These babies are already, unfortunately, living a life of immorality at conception. Their father and grandfather should be ashamed for what they have done. They have abused the power of their fortune and the gift of life, they have twisted the core moral values in the community, and have educated the current generation with the most obscure lesson.

There are activists in the community who are condemning the act of this millionaire. Justice and morality shall continue to prevail in this city where money seems to be driving force for everything. Hope is still here – let us be the agent of hope – especially when a small sector in the general public does not embody the same value. Let us pray for those three babies, who will have a difficult life to go through. May peace and health be with them throughout their lives, and they will one day understand the wrong-doing of their father.

Does the Internet make us more stupid?

2010-10-31T05:57:00.000-04:00

This was the topic for the debate at the Hong Kong Convention Centre last Thursday organized by Intelligence-Squared. The organizer invited Jimmy Wales (co-founders of Wikipedia) and Kaiser Kuo (director of Baidu) who were against the notion while Jeremy O’Grady (chief and editor of the Week magazine) and Thomas Crampton (director of Ogilvy Public Relations) were for the notion. These debaters were obviously knowledgeable in their respective field and stood firmly in their argument on this debate. The debate lasted for about 1.5 hours, and the objective was not to come to a compromising statement at the end, but to convince either side for their views.

I personally switched from “for” to “against” after the debate. Many arguments and facts were presented, one of the many that caught my attention was that technology, and the Internet in particular, allowed many less fortunate people and children to have the opportunity to learn more about the world, which they would have no access otherwise. The growth of knowledge due to the Internet, in the underdeveloped communities has definitely contributed to the advancement of the human race in general. The Internet has allowed the human race to assimilate information faster and regenerate knowledge faster. There is no doubt that the Internet has introduced more distraction to one’s daily life, but the benefits that it brings have definitely out-run its harms.

I still remember the first time that I had Internet. It was in the late 1990s, the first time that my home computer was connected to the Internet, it took minutes before the modem made the dial and connected to the server. A page of text was loaded on the screen. Back to the early days, downloading a picture (800x600) took about two minutes, and downloading a MP3 file took more than 15 minutes. If a file or a page has more than 10mb worth of data, it was virtually impossible to get across the Internet.

The development of the Internet has been drastic and exponential. Now everyone is connected around the world – through email and other social network. There is, of course, the argument that virtual connection is very superficial and cannot be seen to be the same as personal connection. However, the Internet has provided a platform for such friendship to remain somewhat active, when in the old days it was not possible.

At least for myself, I have a medium to write freely and to express myself more often with the help of the vast amount of information of the Internet. I doubt I will pick up a pen, make anecdotal notes, and publish them on print regularly.

Does the Internet make us more stupid? I cannot answer that question for the general public. But it certain has not made me more stupid. I do not see myself more intelligent without the Internet, hence, with this tool, I gain more knowledge which I think I am slight more intelligent with the Internet. Of course, one would argue that one is not more intelligent if the knowledge has not been internalized. I am not seeking to master everything that I would have ever come across, but at least, the Internet has exposed me to different opportunities, which I would never have the chance to know them otherwise.

Does the Internet make me more stupid? I doubt it.

Poverty Divide

2010-10-26T20:52:00.012-04:00

The trip to India will definitely be a trip that I will remember for two things – the places and the people. There is no doubt that India has a lot to offer for tourists around the world, yet, the poverty divide amongst the people living there is so obvious and apparent that no one can be more sympathetic.

I arrived in Delhi on an evening flight and the following morning I headed south to Agra. Perhaps, Agra is one of the most visited cities in India, because there is where the famous Taj Mahal is located. As I was blogging last week after my visit to Taj Mahal, that white structure on a huge lushly garden against an open sky certainly gives a strong sense of peacefulness and romance. As the countless number of foreign and local visitors flock to this ancient wonder of the world and to admire its beauty, just immediately outside the gate I had my first encounter with beggars – young and old, healthy and physically disabled.

On a side note, as I was walking on the courtyard behind the Taj Mahal, it overlooked at the Yamuna River. Immediately across from the river, there was a large group of local Indians gathering and walking towards the shore and on their shoulders was a corpse wrapped up and ready to be submerged into the river. As part of their traditions, letting their late beloved-one to submerge into this river as it flows into the River Ganges is considered a blessing and a way to cleanse their bodies from sins.

The visit to the Agra Fort later in the afternoon was similar to the visit to the Taj Mahal, where I literally had to battle my way through the front entrance and passed by street vendors and beggars. As I wandered and navigated through this fort, I came across one of the wind towers that stood away from the rest of the structure and it overlooked towards the Taj Mahal. It was believed to be the place where the king was arrested and stayed until he died.

The following morning, I left the hotel early to go across from Agra to Jaipur, as the bus drove across the deserted roads, there were many local peasants lying on the ground and many more just walking out from their homes. Their homes looked more like makeshift tents and temporary homes to many people’s standards, but those were their permanent place of residence. There was absolutely no electricity or running water, instead, these homes were built beside garbage dumps and open sewage. Children played through the garbage in search of their treasures.

Jaipur was definitely a pink city because of its pink houses and shops that lined the streets and also for the joyfulness of its people. I got on a rickshaw and went through the market. As the rickshaw zipped through the streets in 45-minutes, it was definitely a thrill-ride, because we were competing against anything else that can move – whether they were buses, cars, vans, trucks, carts, cows, horses, etc. The main streets were very busy, but the side streets looked totally different. People were relaxing and sat on the balconies on the main streets, while some other people were sleeping under boxes on the side streets. Beggars were walking alongside with rich ladies as they went shopping for the latest goods. Shop owners decorated their shops with colourful handicrafts while workers pushed along their carts to deliver the goods. The smell of deep-fried snacks and the freshness of the fruits stopped many people as they came across those street vendors, while some other older men were left starving.

The Amber Palace just outside of Jaipur used to be the summer and winter residence for the King and it certainly was one of the most well kept buildings amongst the three cities that I travelled to in India.

My trip to India ended with a rather sad note – because I witnessed personally how inequality and poverty in India are affecting everyone. Beside a typical curry and spice shop in Delhi, there was a small slump-area. Since it was the very last day of my trip, myself and my other trip-mates decided to gather our cookies and candies and would like to give them to the children. There was a young boy, very cute, and he came running to us and started to pose in front of our cameras. Just when we were handing the bag to him, an older boy (out of nowhere) ran across, grabbed the bag and ran away. That little boy was left in despair and was almost in tears. However, we had nothing left on the bus so we had no other choices but to leave him behind empty-handed.

Most travel magazines and television travel shows have always encouraged people to visit India for their culture and their history. For sure, the Indian culture and history have helped to shape the world we all live in today. However, visiting India is not the same if it has not changed the way one looks on his/her life and appreciates everything that one has. It gives a new perspective in life and it gives a sense of survival. This trip to India is definitely an eye-opener, and perhaps, it further confirms the fact that I prefer visiting rural regions rather than another large metropolitan city.

Navigating the Amber Palace

2010-10-22T08:15:00.005-04:00

The sound, the smell, and the colour continued today for my second day in Jaipur. This morning I visited the Amber Palace and it definitely has a more superior atmosphere than the other palace, the Hawa Mahal, situated beside the market.

The entire Amber Palace is literally built like a maze, every new turn brings another set of stairs and every new door opens to more rooms. I spent two hours navigating just a small section of the palace.

Back to Delhi tomorrow - which means another 5 hours on the road, provided that I do not get stuck in the traffic.

And now, just when I am updating my blog, there are two doves on the balcony chipping on a piece of paper.