A Hundred Years To Live...

If I have ten years to live, I would treasure my childhood days before my eleventh birthday.

If I have twenty years left to live, I would spend my days exploring teenage life with its ups and downs.

If I have thirty years to live, I would love to own a car and drive my fiancé around the best places in town.

If I have forty years to live, I would settle down in my comfort zone, see my kids grow up and enjoy life with my wife despite heavy loads of work.

If I have fifty years to live, I would plan for my retirement and my kids’ future.

If I have sixty years to live, I would be standing by the aisle witnessing that my kids are now adults ready for marriage.

If I have seventy years to live, I would have probably spent my old age in the place I have always dreamed of with my wife.

If I have eighty years to live, I would see my grandkids approaching teen life.

If I have ninety years to live, I would have written my will realizing that my health is deteriorating.

If I have only a hundred years to live, just minutes before I draw my terminal breath, I would look back on my sweet childhood memories, on what I have achieved throughout my life, on the people I get along with, on the moments when I find my true love, on the ceremony and oath I took with my wife, on seeing my kids’ smiles, on how much my kids have grown, on the day when I have to let go of my kids whom have reached maturity and adulthood, on the places I have ever want to be with my wife, on realizing how time flies now that I see my teenage days in my grandkids, on knowing that death is fast approaching, on how much I have enjoyed my life fulfilling my dreams now that I am prepared to leave with no burden to carry, on how the people around me will cry upon my funeral despite my relieved smile.

If you only got a hundred years to live, what would you do?

Seven Days...

She patiently waited for his return. She needed to see him desperately, perhaps due to her lonely heart or maybe it was because her day is near. She would spend her time in her room overlooking the silent, blue waters of a nearby lake. And when the weather was much better and cooling, she would step out of her wooden log home to enjoy the green, open pasture. She would then pick lavenders and other scented flowers growing wildly in the area. After that, she would sit at the end of the jetty and soaked her feet under the cold lake water waiting for sunset to arrive before returning to her dwelling. Each day passed with regrets as her hopes for his return were shattered. Nevertheless, she would regain her determination the following morning to keep on living till she finally met the love of her life.

Her health deteriorated every passing day. First, her toes began to feel numb. It lasted for a week before she lost control of her ability to shuffle her feet. Next, her legs grew weak that she was no longer able to carry herself around the pasture. She was left alone in her room, bedridden. Her loyal servant would burst into tears when she saw her stripped of her favourite pastime. So, she would voluntarily pick some flowers and placed them next to her. It was the least she could do to show her that someone still cared for her well-being as end drew nearer than anticipated.

Her fiancé did come at last. By then, the doctor has predicted that she had only a maximum of seven days to live. He could not believe his ears. He explained that her nervous system worsened and eventually it would affect her ability to feel, taste, and talk, hear, see and think. He tapped his hands on his shoulder, regretting for the misfortune. The doctor left the room and he made his way up to her room. As he opened the door, he could smell a familiar fragrance. He approached her bed and held her warm hand. She said softly, “You are finally here.” He gave her a fond smile she missed so much that she could not take her eyes off him. He hugged her delicately, expressing his innermost feelings. He promised that her last week would not end in despair and pain instead he swore that he would make her last days the most precious moments of a lifetime.

The first day, he showed her an old photo album while spending the evening by the jetty. It was their childhood photos taken a few decades ago from they were in elementary school till they graduated from a university. They discussed the good old days often ended in laughter and blushes. There were times when they wished they could relive the past but they brushed those hopes aside, knowing that the present was more meaningful. They ended the evening with a candlelight dinner prepared by their servant. They spent the night together admiring the moon and stars after a hearty meal outdoors.

The second day, he placed her by the window. He spent hours making her portrait. When he finished, he would smile in satisfaction having completed his masterpiece. He named his art piece “Her”. By then, both of them were exhausted. They spent the late evening making final touches before putting it up in her room.

The third day, he invited a few children from a nearby village to have an outdoor lunch. He knew she must have felt so lonely all these while. Bringing some cheerful and energetic children might lift her spirits high. True enough, their presence made the picnic more fun filled and enjoyable. Laughters and giggles filled the day. And when they had to leave, they thanked them for their time and gave them a candy each as a token of gratitude.

The fourth day was gloomy. She finally was reaching her limits. Noticing her sufferings, he accompanied her. At times, she would tell him how she feared death and that she would be missing him for good. She would weep in agony to ease her burden. He could only gave her a comforting hug just enough to mend her broken heart.

The fifth day, the silence of sorrow arrived. Just as expected, she lost her ability to talk and taste. She could barely hear his words as he spoke. He turned to using a portable whiteboard and a marker to communicate with her. Seeing this, he thought that it was time.

The sixth day, he invited a priest to her home. He ordered his servant to dress her up in a white gown he had purchased. He then proposed to her with a sparkling diamond ring with the pious priest as witness to conduct the wedding. It was not glamorous but it left a special meaning to her. They were pronounced husband and wife that day.

The final, seventh day, he found her lying next to him. Eyes closed, a smile was carved on her beautiful face. He tried to awaken her but there was no response. He knew she had finally let go of her pain and drifted away. He kissed her on last time and grabbed her hands. The wedding ring fell out. He realized that she had let go of the wedding ring and held it between her palms. He cried, now that he had fulfilled his duty, there was nothing he could do.

He could just watch her coffin being buried under the soil. Her portrait was left to be kept as memories. He had slipped the wedding ring into her ring finger before she was placed in her coffin. And now, only memories remained and nothing else. Maybe the portrait was the only item that could keep him close to her. “With this portrait, I believe I would never forget the face that once brought me smiles that not only warms but comforts as well. There will always a room in my heart for you no matter what the time and place, till the day I meet you in the Garden of Eden.”

People may not remember what you did or what you say, but they will always remember how you make them feel…

Treasure...

They took off in search of treasure just like everyone else in the village. They both carried heavy ransacks on their shoulders. Their petite body seemed unable to withstand the weight making them look as if they were going to topple any moment. But they continued walking. He told her, “Let me know if you need to rest.” She simply smiled at him. The team of two had been good friends from young. And here they are pursuing treasure in the big unknown. For him, that treasure would certainly turn him into a noble, for her, it would change her wretched life into luxury. Both had promised to divide the grand prize equally, but of course, promises are bound to be broken.

Their destination was unknown for their only clue was ‘glittering crystals’. They searched deep caverns in the jungle, crossed endless desert and climbed every mountain but to no avail. All they had seen were either bland rocks and stones or clear crystals that were not glittering. It had been a week away from their comfort zone and hopelessness seemed had worn them out. But when they thought of the obstacles they had overcame, they saw no reason to go home empty handed for all their effort would be unfruitful.

As they crossed a deep valley, he asked her, “We may never find that treasure, so why are you still following me?” She replied, “After you saved me in that cave, I somehow feel secure around you. And who is going to cook dinner if I am not around?” Both laughed their hearts out and continued walking. They braved storms and heat together, had breakfast, lunch and dinner together but their relationship remained still as good friends. When they reached another plateau, it was already nightfall. They prepared their beds without realizing that something were watching them, waiting to strike when the time was ripe. As the flame soon died out, they crept out of their hideouts and approached their meal. They came in packs and their saliva began to drool out as they got nearer. Their empty stomachs were growling for they had not had a feast for quite a while. And when this opportunity arrived, they made no hesitation to satisfy their unbearable hunger for food.

Just when one of them began to prowl on him, he jumped out of his bed and with him was his trusted companion, a dagger. The fight for survival between man and beast had just begun. Meanwhile, she was sleeping soundly, safe from the pack of wolves. The following morning, she crawled out of her bed only to find him sitting on a giant rock. As she got closer, she could smell something was fishy. She found him, mending his wounds. There were bite marks, cuts and blood streamed down his arms and legs. His eyes seemed to have lost its luster. She did not know what had happened until she noticed a pile of dead wolves behind him. Astonished, she helped him mend his wounds hoping that it could ease his pain.

She nurtured him back to fitness. She fed him daily and removed his bandages when they got worn out. She showed much tenderness and concern that they slowly moved his heart. Never had he seen her in this way. She found him very brave to have protected her from the wolves putting his life on the line. He could have run away and hide but he did not. His courageous action had stolen her heart. Nevertheless, they tried not to show it. Perhaps, they felt that being good friends for ages, all that remained were childhood memories and nothing more.
It had been more than a month now and he had fully recovered from his injuries. They had arrived in a small town. They asked the town folks about the ‘glittering crystals’, hoping they could get more clue. They shook their heads. Finally, the two approached the town chief. He told them, “Come, let me provide you with a place to spend the night. It can be very chilling out here.” The hospitality they received was overwhelming. He served them with a hearty meal together with his family members. They sat down on the dinner table and for once in more than a month, they had a proper meal. It was after the wonderful dinner that he invited them to the basement. He showed them an underground tunnel and led them to a dead end. Their only guide was a small candle that barely lighted their path. When they arrived, he told them, “I believe this what you have been looking for.” He raised his hand and on the walls of the dead end were the ‘glittering crystals’. It radiance was magnificent. Finally, their dreams had come true. He continued, “You may take them if you like. These are worthless treasure I found a year ago.” They were shocked. He explained to them that rumours had spread far and wide, exaggerating the news of those glittering crystals. In fact, many who believed that these rocks were priceless risked their wealth and lives. And they came home torn, tattered and empty handed. Disappointed, they headed back to his house.

The following morning, they thanked the town chief and left his fine cottage. They arrived at a bridge and stopped for a while. They looked at the clear water of the stream and sighed, knowing that all their efforts had summed up to nothing. He began, “Well, I may never become a noble but I guess; I still have you around.” She turned to him and uttered softly, “Yeah, I feel the same way. Having you around is enough treasure for me.” They smiled fondly at each other, knowing that after all they had been through; they had finally found the ‘glittering crystals’. They were their eyes that sparkled with burning passion. He put his arms around her and she quickly replied him with a comforting hug. Perhaps, some treasures were not meant to be found in this world but they could be found in one’s eyes, smile or heart. To them, having each other’s companion is the greatest treasure they had ever found.

The Scar...

He spent his days in the small, peaceful town by the sea after that incident. He lived alone in a comfortable house, just with enough warmth when winter arrived and had a decent job as an angler, something common among the town folks. His companions are his fishing rod, live baits and a box of lunch he prepared himself when he was out at the pier. He would usually return to town with a sufficient amount of catch and would be paid meagrely after all his effort however, he never complained. For an ex leader of the republican army, this life seems to be humiliating. But, from his eyes, one could tell how peaceful he was now compared to who he used to be then.

He was an orphan. Being the eldest in the orphanage, he often bullied the younger ones. There was one particular boy that he despised. Not because he opposed or challenged him, he just ignored his sarcasm and taunts. This made him irritated and he kept on telling him names and throwing harsh words. The boy could not care less and remained ignorant, treating him as if he was invisible. When he got rough and tempers flared, the matron would come in the nick of time to prevent such violence from occurring.

The two of them had not changed even when they were transferred to a military academy. He had grown up to be a respected leader of his unit while the boy had become a loner. His arrogance and predatory instincts made almost everyone in the academy fear him. While he had many followers, he only had two who he could call his posse, his assistants. They would stand by him whatever the cost, supporting him all the way. The three were named the leaders of the discipline committee who made every students obey their orders. But as usual, the loner would ignore them. He became a skilful combat specialist with exquisite abilities. Perhaps he was the only one who could match the head disciplinary committee in terms of fighting capabilities.

Somehow, the two could not remember anything about their past. Maybe it had happened far too long, but his heart would boil without any particular reason when he stumbled upon the loner. He would then start picking on him and often challenged him to a ‘training match’. Both were stubborn and refused to be branded quitters and indeed, they once had a match. Both swung their swords creating sparks and it was as if the titans had clashed. The loner had the upper hand, being cool despite the heated battle. While he was driven by hatred and frustration, making every swing of his sword seemed easy to be either dodged or parried. In the end, he resorted to cheating by using a blinding flash. He loner was down on his knees, he took the big opportunity to slash him and blood spurted out from the loner’s forehead down to his left cheek. Without much hesitation, he countered his blow with a swift uppercut slash that cut his opponent’s flesh from his right cheek up to his forehead. Both was not severely wounded, but those two slashes left a behind a scar. Both were reprimanded for their foolish actions but they never learnt the lesson.

Years flew by; he became the leader of the republican army while the loner became a mercenary for his academy. The loner’s popularity flourished when he took over the position of the academy’s co-ordinator despite his young age. When war broke out, both were fated to face each other again. This time, it was a battle for life or death. Both raised their swords and once again history repeated itself. Hatred contaminated his heart while he made every slash, every thrust, every strike and every blow. The loner eventually won the battle. Worn out and exhausted, he pleaded him to finish what he had to do. The loner lowered his sword and walked away. To him, his defeat was enough to settle the war. Humiliated, he regarded himself being an ultimate loser. He vanished after the war, so did his posse who had been beside him all these while.

He ended up in a small, peaceful town by the sea, away from the mainland. His two friends stayed in the same town as well. After his defeat, he became sane and repentful. He did not apologise to those who he had hurt, but he accepted all the mockery he received and turned more humane. During weekends, he and his friends would fish together, challenging one another to catch the most fish. At the end, of the day, they would have them for dinner. As he looked at his reflection on the mirror-like water surface, he noticed the scar. It reminded him of his past mistakes and how he wished he could turn back the time. The humiliation would soon be forgotten but the scar would remain carved on his face. It was not the mark that it left behind; it was the one who left the cut. It went the same for the loner; the scar would never be erased from their memories.

Piano...

He walked down the same staircase and would sit at the same corner of the tiny, little bar. He would order the same drink and waited for the star of the evening to show up. At eight o’clock sharp, she would turn up with beautiful gown and proceed to her nightly job. He would then look intently at her as she heads to the chair on the stage. The bartender would notice the same happenings again and again. Never had the two be late or absent at their usual places every night. Also, never had he seen them together to have a casual conversation. Perhaps, it was due to the different worlds they lived in. He was just a common soldier while she was from the middle class.

As she sat down, she breathed deeply before placing her fingers on the teeth of the grand piano. Then, when she was ready she would begin playing, creating a romantic atmosphere. He would listen to her piano tunes with each note leaving footprints in his heart. And when she was done playing, everyone would disperse from the bar. He too, left the bar with heavy heart even though he wanted to listen more or maybe got to know her a little better. One fine night, his two friends accompanied him to give moral support and encouragement. He was prepared to at least approach her to say ‘hi’ while she was playing.

And they sat together where he usually sat, ordered the same drink and waited patiently till she arrived. When the clock stuck eight, she turned up with a splendid maroon red dress and began playing the piano. He plucked up courage to approach her to the stage. His two friends watched him with proud look on their faces. When he reached the stage, he stood by the piano thinking that he was now so close to her. He thought if this was just a dream to be standing right in front of her. Perhaps he was just nervous. Suddenly, his leg got cramped up. It hurt him so bad that he could barely walk. He nodded his head to her and staggered back to the sofa. On his mind, he could only despise himself for being such a loser, to have a cramp when he was about to talk to her for the first time. Upon, reaching the sofa, his friends comforted him, “Mission accomplished.” He could only bend his back with his head facing the marble tiled floor. He kept regretting what he did but his friends remained in silence. Then, one of them replied, “Uh, I think we should go now.” He was shocked when he said that, “Where are you going guys?” And they went away.

All of a sudden, a soft voice called out, “May I sit here?” He turned his head and with a puzzled look on his face and allowed her to sit next to him. She began, “You are always here watching me playing from afar.” He said that he could see her from that angle. She giggled softly and asked him again, “How is your leg?” He replied, telling her that he felt much better now. In his mind again, he thought, “Man, this must be a dream.” She realized that he was rather nervous and told him, “You do not need to be nervous around me…Perhaps, we could talk in my room, there are people here.” He was astonished in the beginning but agreed to her suggestion.

They went to her room and continued with their little conversation. They discussed about their dreams. He mentioned how much he love travelling and write about places he have been to. She pointed out that she wished to be able to play the piano and sing at the same time. After a long discussion of encouraging each other, the room became still. She said to him, “There’s something about your eyes. It is as if that sparkle reflects peace and who you truly are.” He smiled fondly at her. Love is in the air. They just stood facing each other without uttering a single word. Words could not describe what they felt. All these while, she had noticed how he would be there at the corner of the bar, watching her with eyes that were so peaceful. She knew it all along and waited for him to make the first move. He might be just a common soldier but he had eyes of a true gentleman. He left the room after some time, thanking her for the conversation and promised her that he would visit her again someday. After all, he had to leave for war the following morning.

Ever since, he had not returned. It was known that she had patiently waited for his return but the wait proved to be too long. She grew to depression when rumours about his death descended. She ended up married to a local general who comforted her in her desperate times. However, she died in a fatal car accident soon after giving birth to a lovely daughter. During the war, he was mortally injured and was stranded in another continent. He survived thanks to a fine lady who found him and nurtured him back to fitness. He had never heard the news of her death and thinking that he would never see her again, he decided to spend his days at the small village. He did fall for the fine lady as time went by; his love for her was requited.

Tragedy struck twice, he was away in search of his kidnapped adopted niece when his wife passed away while giving birth. Neither the mother nor her child survived. And when he heard of the remorseful news, he could only build a tomb for his wife. It was plain but somehow gave a blissful feeling. It was the only tomb placed in the open lush grassland. Annually, he would visit her resting place and placed her favourite flowers. He would then glance at the engravings of his wife’s tomb, recalling those happier times when he plucked up courage to propose to her at the same place where the tomb stood. How he regretted that he could not be by her side when she drew her terminal breath. He left no tear behind because he knew she would always live in his heart and memories. For him, that would be enough.

The Benchwarmer...

“But he is just a benchwarmer.” The coach of the team said. When this freshman arrived in the school for the first time everyone quickly recognized him. By the first day ended, even the janitor knew his name. Everybody talked about him behind his back, after all he was rather different from the rest and no club would take him in. He carried heavy books everyday, passed the same hallway and everyone would stop to make way for him. In class, he was always watching the empty field. The teacher often reminded him to pay more attention in class. He did listen but soon got distracted again.

He had a test that day, a difficult one that many were struggling to answer as many questions as they could. When the time was up, others sighed deeply thinking that they had flunked. The thought of even passing never came in mind. The following day, the teacher returned the test papers and true indeed everyone scored badly, no one passed except for this genius, the new student who scored 99%. Everyone was astonished. The boy apologized to the teacher that he would pay more attention in class so that he could give him a full marks in the next test. The teacher understood, knowing that an imperfect person would aim to give his 100% in whatever he did.

The following week, he attended the club which he had signed up for. It was football. The coach tried to change the boy’s mind but the determination he showed melted his heart. He sympathised the boy and gave him the school jersey. The boy was overjoyed to be given an opportunity but his teammates groaned in upset thinking that the new boy would be a huge burden. The next day was the first training of the year; the boy was punctual in full jersey. The coach approached him and asked him to wait near the water tank. He waited patiently there as he watched his other teammates had a friendly match. The coach sat next to him and said, “Kid, when your teammates come here, be sure you give them each a cup of water.” He simply nodded. He thought that he would be playing that day; he guessed that he might have to wait a little longer. Trainings after trainings, he would wait by the water tank, doing his duty without fail. He never missed a single session because he thought that he might be playing anytime. But that dream faded away.

Two painful years he waited by the water tank and he still had not missed any training, rain or shine. The coach never gave him a chance to play. Finally, the team captain empathized with the boy and asked his coach, “Coach, I have looked into the monthly attendance, only one had not missed any training this month.” “I know, he had never missed them in 2 consecutive years.” He replied. “I suggest we should let him be on the field to play with us, after all he is our teammate.” The captain commented. “But he is just a benchwarmer.” He said. “Will you just let him touch the ball at least?” The captain suggested. The coach had had enough and he gave his permission. The captain asked the boy to go to the field. Delightful by what he said, he rushed to the centre of the field. There, he was given a ball; the captain started socializing with him after 2 years of just thanking him for the water he handed when the team went for a break. The other team members looked at the boy in disgust thinking that he finally had poisoned the captain’s mind. Ever since the boy joined the team, they had lost the first round of the neighbourhood competition. And they blamed the boy for being a jinx.

The boy’s relationship with the captain grew stronger each passing week, they were like brothers. The captain was protective of him as he would not let anyone in the team humiliate him for being a benchwarmer. Summer Open arrived, the last event the team had hoped to win for the season. The coach was absent that day and the captain took charge of the team’s strategies and the starting line-up. The boy was sidelined and the match started. By half time, the opposing team had scored 3 goals while they were still unable to find the net. Feeling dispirited, the team lost their hope to win the competition. Just then when they were looking for inspiration, the boy made his presence known by cheering the team up. He said that they can still win the match but none listened to him including the captain. Then, he said, “I don’t have much time, so do you,” and handed a note to the captain. The captain was shocked that the benchwarmer managed to draw up a complex strategy. He browsed the notes for a while, made few substitutions and returned to the field once he explained the new tactics to his teammate. The boy returned to his post waiting for the magical moment to arrive.

A minute the match restarted, the captain dribbled the ball past opposing defenders and struck the ball hard enough to reach the net and the team had pulled one back. It was a sheer magic. The players’ morale were boosted significantly that near the end of the game the 2 teams were level. And it was in the last minute that a swift counter attack allowed the team to turn the tide of the game as the boy’s team was ahead, just seconds away from the final whistle. The shrill of the whistle marked the end of the game and the winning team jumped around in excitement. The captain was hailed as a hero by his teammates. He then humbly denied that he was the hero and mentioned that the boy deserved that title. He told his teammates that he had followed his instructions and it had turned the flow of the game. His teammates felt guilty that they had ignored him all this while and yet he provided the winning formula for them. They decided to thank him personally but he was nowhere in sight.

The following day, the team decided to celebrate their win with the boy but he was absent from training for the first time. It was just unusual that he would be absent for training. The coach arrived and they asked him about the boy’s whereabouts. He took a deep breath and uttered, “He called me yesterday to inform me that he was not feeling good. He also told me that the team had won the match. I was delighted.” The captain asked him, “So where is he, where is our hero?” The coach replied, “Today, I was informed that our young hero had passed away silently in the hospital. I learnt that he was diagnosed with a terminal disease.” Everyone was stunned as the unsung hero had drawn his final breath.

Now, there is always an empty chair next to the window where the boy used to sit. Ever since, there was no one sitting by the water tank. Everybody in school wondered where the imperfect boy had gone to. Then, when the yearbook was issued, he appeared again but this time he was in black and white photograph. It says, “In memories of the wheelchair bound boy. Entered Dawnfield High School and was a member of the football club for 2 years. Helped to win the school’s first trophy in 5 years and was hailed a hero by the football team. Won the top student award in the first year with an A+ in all subjects and received a sum of $50,000 for winning the top prize in the young writer of America competition in the same year in which he had donated all of them to an organization that caters for the children who suffered from long life illnesses. When asked why he donated all his money to this organization, he said, “I don’t have much time left but these children still have a future ahead of them.” Diagnosed with a terminal spinal disease and leukemia since birth, he persevered throughout his life to be perfectly normal just like any human being and helped those who are less fortunate than he was. Upon his death, he asked for his healthy organs to be donated. Later, he was awarded the only Nobel Prize given to youth for humanity. May he rest in peace; for a kind hearted soul, there will always be a place in heaven.”

The coach said to himself, “He is not just a benchwarmer after all,” as he closed the yearbook.

A Night To Remember...

Tonight was his last opportunity to know what dwelled in her heart. Smartly dressed in a glossy tuxedo, he appeared at the entrance of the grand ball. He put on his mask to cover his face, hiding his identity just like the invited guests. It was a masquerade, a party to celebrate tomorrow’s big event, the wedding ceremony. The sparkling floor was filled with couples dancing accompanied by the rhythm of the music. He looked around to spot the woman he was looking for. He thought that the bride-soon-to-be was not going to show up soon. He took a glass of wine and separated himself from the crowd to the balcony, overlooking the lake. The night seemed so right, starry and the moon shone brightly. He took a sip and sighed. He knew he was a fool not telling the woman who turned his life upside down; his true feelings and now, she was going to be somebody’s wife.

Meanwhile, the woman was in her room, browsing an old photo album. She could recall the faces in the album and on the last page she found her photo with the man of her dreams. She remembered how tender the relationship they used to share. But she did not have the courage to tell him how much he meant to her. She could barely smile as she was going to marry someone she did not love. She walked out of the room into the balcony and sighed as she enjoyed the simmering water of the nearby lake. She did not see a reason why her parents wanted her to marry so soon especially to a man who was a complete stranger.

The time had come, the music stopped and everyone stopped dancing. They moved away from the dance floor and lifted their heads high to the second floor corridor. There, stood the lucky bachelor. They looked at him with awe, he was prince charming. The man entered the dance floor and stood amongst the crowd at the front. He took a sip again and waited. The woman put on her mask and headed out of the room, leaving the last page of the album open. As she neared the staircase, she noticed that hundred pairs of eyes were on her. The prince helped her as they stepped down to the dance floor. He thought that she looked splendid in the white gown she was wearing. The prince then walked her to the centre of the floor. He began addressing the guests telling them what a joyous occasion that night and he was glad that everyone was present to witness.

He uttered confidently, “My fellow guests, I am pleased that we are all gathered here to witness the moment of truth. I would like all of you to take off your mask for the time being as there is a surprise.” Everyone followed his command except the man. The crowd soon moved away from the masked man, allowing him to stand out of the crowd. The woman saw this and she tried to figure who he was. The prince then said, “You can take off your mask now. You need not hide your heart and yourself anymore.” The man was rather stunned. Finally, he unveiled himself in front of the woman. There was a deafening silence in the room. The prince addressed the crowd again, “Ladies and gentlemen, here stand the couple we have been expecting for.” Both of them were dumbfounded.


The man walked slowly towards her and he said, “I don’t want to lose you ever again so I am going to tell you what I wanted to all these while. I need you because I love you…” The woman replied, “I love you too with all my heart.” The lights dimmed and the music started playing soft music. Only the centre floor was lighted, the man and the woman held each other’s hands and they began to dance. It was rather romantic as every guest lighted their candles to light the room, creating a passionate atmosphere. No words could describe the couples’ feeling as they were dancing slowly with elegance. She whispered, “I don’t want tonight to end.” The man softly replied, “Me too. Tonight we celebrate our everlasting love.” The lovebirds kept dancing through the night not wanting time to separate them from each other again.

Some Things Can Be Expressed Without Being Spoken...

He was finally ready after all these while. He reached deep into his pocket to make sure that he had not forgotten to bring it along. He took out his hands with a faint smile. Though his mind was filled with uncertainty, he remained calm and preserved. He then looked over to the vast ocean, fascinated by its wonders. The azure sky had turned red but the boy still stood on the wooden jetty with his elbows resting on the railings. Many had noticed the boy’s strange behaviour after all he had been there for three days enduring the sun’s blaze and the pouring rain without food or water, not even moving away from the spot he was standing on. Judging from his dried and crumpled clothes, many would have ignored him. But when approached by a concerned stranger on the fourth day, why he had been standing there for so long, he weakly replied that he was waiting for someone. Surprised, the stranger walked away. The stranger then looked back wondering if he had spoken the truth. True enough, the boy still set his eyes on the calm waters.

The determined boy kept standing even though his legs were tired. He did not mind the pain; only one thing remained in his head, to keep waiting until she arrived. Time soon corrode his strength to hang on, the boy spent his fifth day sitting down this time with his back facing the blue sea. Hunger, thirst and fatigue had drained all his stamina, but he persevered. He then noticed drops of water falling from the dark, grey sky on the jetty’s wooden planks. He thought that he had reached his limits and he might topple anytime sooner. He was worried that he would not be able to see her that day after all he was at the brink of his defeat. He tried to save some energy by shutting his eyes and listened to the rain. The heavy downpour once again drenched him but he did not bother much.

He then heard the rain was getting softer somehow and felt that no more water fell over his head. He breathed in and slowly opened his eyes. He gave away a fond smile soon after. He had an umbrella over him, shielding him from the piercing raindrops. He weakly got up back on his feet as he searched down into his pocket. Unknown to him, it had slipped out of his pocket as the tried to stand up. He was searched frantically to find it but to no avail. She then turned him around and looked at him in the eye. She placed her smooth hands on his wet cheek and tears flowed. He was finally face to face with her after these long years. He replied by looking deep into her eyes as if he was looking straight into her heart. After a minute of comforting silence, he hugged her in relief and overflowing joy. Now, he was certain. Even with words left unspoken, they understood each other. She let go of her umbrella and the rain drenched both of them. The hug provided warmth that defeated the chill of the shower. Love had revived his broken spirits and love too had made her realize which was more important to her. He kept her in his arms, not wanting to let go and she hoped for the same too as the rain accompanied them.

New Season...

As a new chapter draws near, I begin to realize that this year it is the time to shine. Because this year, it is the last season I am going to spend my life in the school that I have opted for. I do have regrets for not trying to establish a badminton club in my school but I guess; things happen for a reason. True enough, I have enjoyed my life in this school even when the odds are against me. I have met new people who I can call friends and experience the ups and downs of a student in a typical government school.

The First Year: Participating in the National Parade came unexpectedly when I enrolled. Nevertheless, I braved the heat and the exhausting practices to put up an excellent display on August, 9. After the overture of the Parade, we partied like we have never partied like before. We felt a sense of accomplishment and we thought of letting go of our hard work by enjoying ourselves.

The Second Year: One of the highlights was my performance in the final examinations which came to be a surprise. Good grades overall scoring 90+ in History and Geography. I think the credit should go to the teachers for pushing us beyond our limits. This year too I became a PSL which I have never thought of becoming one. Therefore, when given this opportunity I gladly took it without hesitation. Not only that, I have been chosen to become a Senior PSL too without prior knowledge. My only clue was when Eric said, “We have senior meeting today.”

The Third Year: Many happened this year. The Pahang trip was exhilarating. It was the first time I visited Malaysia and deep in the middle of nowhere. Surrounding us was just thick forests, small villages and oil palm plantations. It was during this trip I became closer to nature and it was a good opportunity to test my resilience to live 3 days without much electricity and far away from the comfort of home. This year too I won the inter house badminton competition, perhaps my only achievement throughout my life here. Well, a medal for safe keeping was worth the effort.

As a new chapter is about to unfold with its pen all ready to write history, I guess I am prepared to face the unpredictable future. It may have come soon than expected but as long as blood still run in my veins and my heart still beats, I shall take on the thorny path with perseverance. Even if I am at the brink of defeat and have reached my limitations, I will not give up. Perhaps I may stumble and fall, but I will get up back to my feet as long as there is hope. Even the tiniest flame of a candle can overcome darkness and guide its master to find his way out eventually.

Rendezvous With A Long Lost Friend...

My trip back to the place I was born was truly memorable. Six long years I have been away, many things have changed, Jakarta has become more modernized. Although, there are still poor city dwellers living by the murky canals, with zinc rooftops right above their heads, their only shelter from the scorching sun and the rain. Their shabby homes are enough to protect their family from the ever hungry mosquitoes at night. During daytime, the family members will go to work, even mothers and toddlers. The head of the family would earn the most money by working on the roads selling newspapers or helping cars to cross a jammed junction. The mothers and toddlers would stroll down the rocky, damaged road waiting for the red light. Once it is on, they would make their way, begging for a small donation from the rich road users. They can only survive from the sympathy of these people. Even with 100 rupiah (about 5 cents Singapore currency), they will gladly accept it and so they go again to the next car. They will stop begging once the green light is on. They will step aside, waiting for the next red light. Both mother and toddler are exposed to the dusty winds and the poisonous exhaust gases from the vehicles but that did not bother them. Then there are roadside sellers who barely earn a profit from the goods they sell. During a good week they would gain about 10,000 to 30,000 rupiah (about S$ 2-6). Even though modernized, Jakarta is also a poverty stricken city; many from outside Jakarta gambled all their money just to come there in order to look for jobs. Jakarta is already densely populated yet people still want to come there hoping to find better life. With these negative images of Jakarta, most people would probably be thinking that happiness cannot be found. Well, that is a wrong perception. Poor they may be, but they have strong determination to survive and even help you when you need directions or find places to repair your vehicles in the most remote areas. The less fortunate people there are not easily stressed; you can see it brimming in the children’s eyes telling that we are happy with what we have. Even with torn and tattered clothes, without proper foot protection and without proper meals or even modern technology, they are still able to smile, feeling good about themselves. Unlike big stars in Hollywood, with expensive cars, grand and comfortable homes, they still cannot find happiness in their lives.

Six long years, I have lost the people whom I once called friends. I recalled when tears rolled down my cheeks when I was on the plane bound for Singapore. I recalled those faces I recognized, those fine moments we have had, those joys and laughter, those time when we were together as friends. I was thinking that I will miss those precious things bitterly. But I managed to meet one of my good friends who I lost. Perhaps she might be reading this. My rendezvous with her make me revisit the good old days once again. The good old days that I am holding on to, the past that is sweet to remember. This is just the beginning of reliving my past, my childhood days I sorely missed. How time flies that we now are young adults, pursuing our dreams, taking separate paths but I am glad I got to know these friends, to meet them when I was younger, knowing who they all were. All I can do is smile fondly as I slowly remember our time together which was not bound to the chain of sorrow or regrets. I wanted to meet them all at the reunion on 15th January 2005 but it looks like fate will not allow me to. Even so, I wish I could meet them someday…only if fate will allow me to. These memories will be missed but not forgotten.

The Promise

This is the final part, the last piece of puzzle that concludes the story, “The Promise”.

The hero and the heroine went to the orphanage where the hero was brought up. There, they found a place with wide grassland filled with flowers. The heroine dreamt that she could not find the hero even having travelled across mountains and towns. So, the hero promised her that he would be there. He would be there so that she would be able to find him.

They headed to the future where the final battle took place. When it all ended, they made their way back to the present. But the hero is missing. Only the hero and the heroine were still trapped in the future. The hero found himself in a dark room, emptiness surrounded him. He called out loud, “Rinoa, where are you? Can you hear me?” There was no reply. He knew that he cannot return alone. Then his surroundings transformed into a dry plain, no trees just cracked grounds. The hero walked aimlessly. After a long journey, his legs soon became weak, he was exhausted. He dropped to the ground bottom first. He reached out his right hand when he noticed a white feather. It landed right into his palm. He recalled the ballroom dance, the heroine’s smiles, the rescue at sorceress memorial and vertigo soon occurred. Everything started to spin, the heroine’s face that he remembered soon began to distort. Little by little, his memories began to wane. And when it has struck its limit, the hero blacked out with his tears left behind soon dried up.

The heroine then came into the picture, walking towards the fallen hero. She knelt beside him asking him to wake up. However, the hero did not react nor reply. Her fear that he was gone grew stronger; she lifted his head, shook him several times and kept asking him to open his eyes. Again, he did not respond. She finally cried as tears flowed down her cheeks. Just then, the surroundings began to transform again. This time, it had become into the place the hero promised he would be. The heroine smiled faintly when she looked at the fallen hero with her tears still rapidly flowing. They had returned to the present with the help from the power of love.

The heroine was back at the place where she met the hero for the first time. This time, she was star gazing and when she noticed the fallen star like she saw back then, she turned, lifted her index finger and smiled. The hero replied her smile. If the last time they were interrupted by fireworks, this time, it did not happen. They wrapped up the moonlit night with romance and sweet love. It was their first kiss.

It all started with a smile, a dance, followed by a hug and ended with a kiss. And in the end, the heroine did not return the hero’s ring because it has become part of her. This is just the beginning of a new chapter for the hero and the heroine…

The Rescue of Heroine

The fourth part is rather short but it displays the one of the most heart-warming event, “The Rescue of Heroine”. Back on earth, as predicted, escorts have arrived to take away the heroine. The hero tried to stop her but the heroine decided to surrender peacefully. The hero could only watch her being taken away. He returned to the ship, sat down with his hand crossed and bent his head facing the floor. His friends arrived and scolded him for letting the heroine go just like that. With a few words of encouragement, the hero realized what he should do. He was not going to give away someone important to him in exchange of the world’s safety. It was selfish of him but sometimes love is blind.

They arrived at the sorceress memorial where the heroine was held captive. They stormed into the restricted faculty and the hero managed to enter the room where the heroine was kept while his friends helped to delay the guards’ advance. The hero quickly took out his sword and slashed the glass enclosure where the heroine was trapped in. The heroine was thrown out of her ‘cage’ and the hero caught her in his arms. This time there was no stopping them from hugging. Deep inside her heart, the heroine was glad that the hero came to her rescue. The hero hugged her tightly, not wanting to let go. The hero may not have told his feelings for the heroine but his let his actions show how much she meant to him. Once again, the hero rescued the heroine but this time it was not for duty or obligation, it was for love. He wanted to tell her how much each minute without her presence caused him much misery. How her smiles comforted him, how her voice filled his days with hope.

Stranded in Space

This is the third part after the sunset walk, “Stranded in Space”. The heroine was left stranded in space after a huge explosion at the lunar base where the hero met his long lost sister. Somehow, the hero managed to escape with his sister and his other friends. The hero decided to save the heroine even if it means risking his life. He left his escape pod in search of the heroine. Meanwhile, the heroine’s life support was running out. Perhaps, the impact caused by the explosion had triggered her consciousness. She felt lost, drifting endlessly in space. She began to feel hopeless and thought that she was going to die, drifting away without saying goodbye to her friends. And so, she passed out again, this time the oxygen supply had run out.

The hero found the heroine just in time and caught her in his arms. The heroine’s back- up life support was restored. She opened her eyes to see the two rings attached by her necklace drifting in front of her eyes. One of them belongs to her, the other is the hero’s which she has borrowed from. She then realized that the hero had come to her rescue. The two drifted together aimlessly until they found a stranded spaceship.

When they were inside she asked, “Can you give me a hug…a tight one?” He asked why and she replied, “I need to know if I’m alive.” They spent sometime talking to each other, and the hero said, “We still need to figure out how to go back.” They headed for the pilot’s seat when they received a signal from earth. The air station on earth managed to locate the ship’s location and piloted the ship to return safely. All the two can do now is wait.

The heroine felt happy that they were going to see everyone again but she knew everything would change upon her return. So she approached the hero and sat on the hero’s lap. She said that she wanted to remain this way, “To me, you give me the most comfort.” “I just want to stay this way for a while longer.” She mentioned. She hugged the hero, putting her head on this shoulder. Soon, after much persuasion the heroine returned to her seat next to the hero. Just then, a voice was heard. “Is sorceress Rinoa there?” The hero was stunned. He looked at the trembling heroine. He switched off the radio and knelt beside the heroine. It was the hero’s duty to terminate sorceress but he said, “I would never do that. If you really are a sorceress…I would be your knight to protect you.” The heroine broke down into tears and cried on his shoulder. All the hero can do is to spend the moment with the saddened heroine. The heroine knew that she would be put into deep sleep when she returned and she would never see the hero again.

This was the hero’s decision to protect the sorceress, disobeying his duty to save someone important to him. He knew that many would hate a sorceress but he would be there to stand by her.

The Ballroom Dance

Having said the second part, I guess completing the pieces of the puzzle will be the appropriate thing to do. So, this will be the missing piece part 1, "The ballroom dance".

The hero was leaning against one of the pillars in the ballroom with a glass of wine in his hand, not too bothered with what is going in the ballroom. As always maintaining his cool, he took several sips to drown his boredom. Just then, he noticed a falling star in the dark skies. The heroine came into the picture, wearing a splendid dress. She smiled fondly towards the hero but the hero gave away a confused look. She approached him and asked him, "You are the most good-looking guys here. Care to have a dance with me?" The hero simply replied that he could not dance. She figured that he would not dance with someone he does not like so she tried to use her 'magic' to make the hero to like her. "You are going to like me...Did it work?" She enticed. The hero could not reply and suddenly, she grabbed his hand and pulled him towards the centre of the ballroom.

The hero, feeling awkward, allowed her to take control of the situation. The music started to play and the waltz for the moon soon began. The hero meant what he said, he could not dance. The pair kept banging themselves with neighbouring dancing couples. There was once the hero accidentally lost his balance and threw himself at the heroine. Feeling embarrassed, he began to walk away but the heroine pulled his hand again. She persisted and the hero soon able to blend in with the crowd. Their dance became more fluent. It ended with the hero and heroine looking deep into each other's eyes. But the fireworks suddenly interrupted the romance. The heroine spotted the man she was looking for at the party and she walked away in hurry leaving the hero in the centre of the dance-floor. The hero could just watch her disappear from his view. And so, this is the seeds of love that has just begun to sprout even though the hero has forgotten to ask the heroine's name.

I was listening to the song, "How Deep Is Your Love" and somehow I felt like writing all of these down. Well, I guess the song blend in perfectly with the story.

Fisherman Horizon...

Final Fantasy plays a major role in creating the peace of mind that I need at times just by listening to some of the songs for instance “Eyes on Me” and “Melodies of Life”. I feel at ease just by listening to the music while closing my eyes with the lights in my room switched off. Only darkness surrounds me and the songs accompany me through it all. This is one of the ways that I can put my mind at rest without getting bored by listening to the music playing over and over again. Oh yes, there is another song that works just as effective, Kenny G’s saxophone version of Titanic.

Final Fantasy 8 is virtually created but the events occurred in the game are simply sensational. There are love at first sight, ballroom dance, dark secrets, unrequited love, friendship, life of an orphan, rivalry, pursuing dreams, protecting someone important, adventure and promise. These are just some of the highlights and wonders of Final Fantasy mixed together to form a storyline. These events do happen in our daily lives but when you combine them together it really becomes a masterpiece. What’s important is the message that the events are trying to portray. This way, we can appreciate the game and its makers.

My favourite events are the ballroom dance, sunset walk along Fisherman Horizon, stranded in space, the rescue of heroine and the promise the hero and heroine made. I wish I can write all about them in detail but maybe the readers will get tired of it. So I’ll just explain the sunset walk that gives me the inspiration to name this online diary. Well, the hero tried to look for ways to cure the heroine’s unconscious state. He could only find the cure on another foreign frontier, so he took off with the sleeping heroine on his back leaving his friends behind during one evening. He has to cross the long, damaged railway that connects Fisherman Horizon with the frontier. He took a rest along the way and talk about himself to the unconscious heroine. He mentioned why he prefers to be alone and branded cold guy and it is the only time he talked this way. He knew she couldn’t reply or hear anything he said but I guess this is the only time he is so sincere towards the heroine. It was the turning point of the events that happened later. He continued his walk to unknown lands with the sunset accompanying the both of them till he met his other friends who had actually arrived there much earlier knowing that he would leave them behind.

Yeah, so I guess that is all. It is up to you to comprehend this event and link it with my purpose to name this online diary Fisherman Horizon.

Psl End of Year Camp...

The Psl end of year camp was truly a blast. I am very happy with the sec ones, very energetic and friendly too. I found them overflowing with curiosity and they were willing to participate in all the games. Although some need more initiative and discipline, overall I thought we have chosen the right people to continue our Psl traditions. Some came with enthusiasm; others just make the camp more exciting. I am glad to know these people and be part of them.

The sec two seniors too had just made their first step to organize the first day of the 3-day camp. Though the first half of the day was rather messy and disorganized, they made improvements in the second half. Talking about the sec two seniors made me want to write about them. After all, next year, they will be the ones playing major roles in Psl.

We have Adam, Izzati, Florence, Erni, Tien Beng, Eugene and Syakirah.

Adam is a cool fellow with great enthusiasm, willing to work hard for Psl and have an endless sense of humour. He is able to lead a group of people to achieve greater heights. He is a possible candidate for chairmanship having great influence and good relationship with other Psl. He needs to be more firm in order to make people listen to his instructions. He has displayed an outstanding performance being station-in-charge and I believe he is going to propel Psl forward in the coming year.

Izzati was spotted by our previous chairman, Juren. He mentioned that she is the ‘one’ and has the potential to perform. She knows when to draw the line between having fun and being serious. She is able to lead a group and get them up and running with enthusiasm. It is no wonder she has one of the most number of votes when the Psl got the chance to pick who will be the seniors. She just needs to interact more with other Psl who may not be her good friends. This way, she might be able to get support from them when she needs them most especially for chairmanship.

Florence aka the girl Marcus likes a lot. It is not that we deliberately put her in the senior committee to be closer to him but she has one of the most numbers of votes. Florence can be quiet at times but she listens well. A good leader needs to be a good listener too, right? In the beginning, I felt that she struggles when it comes to lead a group, after all her partner was absent so she has to handle them all by herself. But, I guess she has benefited much experience from it. She has the potential to live up to expectations if she just put in a little more effort.

Erni aka the girl Firdaus is steadying with currently. She has the same reason why we put her in the senior committee like Florence. So far, I have noticed she has put in extra effort to make this camp a success. I may be wrong as it is only from my point of view. Very calm and caring outside and she can relate well with people around her. She is the planning type and likely she has to endure the pain when things go wrong. Whatever may come, I think she will be fine after the storm. To me, I think she has made a lot of improvements from the time I got to know her. I think that she has a high level of commitment. Having these qualities, she may end up being the next assistant chairman.

Tien Beng is considered the senior in doubt. At first, he seems to possess the makings of a good senior but somehow that vision starts to dissipate. He is very polite to the older seniors but lacks bravery to speak his mind. He is usually calm and preserved but still manages to facilitate the games. I do not know much about his planning ability but there must be other reasons why he got into the senior committee that I have not looked into. So far, I’m quite satisfied with his performance and behaviour which separates him from the rest.

Eugene possesses energy, being loud and clear when giving instructions. I noticed that he can be creative and motivate people who are not participating in the games. He could have become the next chairman if he was not going on the integrated programme. He will be missed but not forgotten.

Syakirah is one of the aces in the sec two seniors. During our visit to some primary school, I have noticed the way she explains and conducts the games. She is very patient with children and gives them extra attention. She treats the children as if they are her own siblings. That was missing in other Psl who bring themselves down as friends and in the end got bullied instead. She needs support from the others in order to bring her further up the ladder of chairmanship which I think she lacks.

With Eugene leaving us, I think it is time we have to look for some other candidate to replace him. I am thinking of getting those who have improved much and deserve a place in the senior committee. Those with responsibility and ability to adapt quickly in the senior committee. My prediction will be either Jovita, Syamsidar or Safirah. Maybe we should add a guy instead so that there will be a balance. Decisions will be made next year but we still need to discuss it with the sec twos’ seniors.

Please note that all these information are solely from my point of view and are not meant to offend but to build the character of the seniors, patching up the holes of complacency and other weaknesses so that you can pass this on to the next batch of seniors.

Platinum Shadow...

It's been more than a month... Everything still looks the same. Except for one or two things...

I remembered vividly how I started out just like every typical competitors wishing to gain something from this competition. I signed up the participation form and finally got in. By the time the schedule was announced, I was prepared. I thought to myself," I do have the ability... I'm not gone lose till the finals." Maybe that kept me going even on the brink of losing during the finals... I was overwhelmed when the shuttle darted past me many times. I was not fast enough. Despite scoring 13 points, my opponent managed to win the first set. The second set, I took several precautions after watching his play earlier. I did play better, keeping over- servicing my opponent. I squeezed my way to win the set with 18 to 15. At the third set, I was even playing more intensely, making as little mistake as possible and tiring my opponent. I realized that I just had to be more relaxed when swinging my arms while smashing. True enough I kept scoring and made a huge leap from zero to 10. I ended the game with a smash and by then I knew it was all over. I had overcomed my greatest opponent, myself and the fear of losing. The final score 15 to 6. Loud cheer filled the room. It was my first taste of a real victory. Everyone congratulated me, before I knew it I felt rather satisfied with the victory. Fatigued and thirsty, I helped myself by splashing water on my face. Finally, I have achieved my goal. This victory meant so much to me... It is like my pride was at stake. Many rooted for me, my classmates, friends and those who believed in me, my family. Many hopes I had destroyed for those who supported my opponent. Even so I have created another hope that someday someone will defeat me and I will be awaiting for the challenge to come... I have proved my worth to the school, the people who rooted for me all the way and myself. Pride was all that left on my mind...

PSLs...

PSLs... Well, I'm one of them. Peer Support Leaders is my other world besides school. Being one of them has brought me smiles and happy memories for they are a special bunch of people I'm working with. PSLs are fun loving, friendly and sociable people who create an atmosphere of excitement. I'm glad to say that I'm proud of my fellow PSL. Because of them, I learnt about my other self that can bring joy to others and being someone they can rely on. So, I will just give them a token of appreciation by saying their unique personalities...

The Chairman, Shuyu, she's our leader, our motivator and our key to success. She make sure that everyone has a role to play, never forgetting someone. She's responsible and cheerful who we can look up to and where we get our motivation and inspiration from. Without her, we couldn't have achieved praises from the schools we visited and that visited us. This one girl make a great difference if she is not around. Knowing her will make you feel welcomed and at ease. She will always be there to back us up and get things up and running. I'm more than honoured to work with her to achieve glory that PSLs deserve.

Vice-chairman, Caroline. She's the best at coming up with ideas and assisting our leader. She puts the team before herself and I'm proud of her. There was once she made other PSLs sing A Christmas Carol at Orchard MRT as one of the dares.  I supported the idea and it turned out really superb. Her presence make us united in the sense that we can work together as a group. She is one of our greatest treasures that we will not let go of. With her around, I can see that the group really respected her as much as she respected us. That makes her extraordinary in my eyes.

2nd Vice-chairman, Firdaus. He's the type of guy to keep things real cool and calm. His face is carved with confidence and firm determination. He always get things done whatever the difficulties he might face. He is one of those guys who present himself as a real friend who you can depend on. Once he opens his mouth, we know that it is going to be great speeches. He is just wonderful as one might say, a leader with great responsibility.

Eric. He is more than life, very fun loving and very crazy at times too. Nevertheless, he is very good at motivating people, cheering them up with his jokes and funny lines. A funny guy with a different attitude when he gets serious. He is very passionate about guitar and his addiction for girls might just never end. But that is special, we never see his long face whatever he may face. This guy is the kind who really live his live to the fullest. I learnt many things from him and he is the kind who adds scipe in this world.

Cheryl. Another useful addition for our convoy. She is like the secretary for the group. She usually makes some sarcastic remarks but then again she talks with a lot of sense that I might just believe her. She is really passionate and committed to PSL from what I noticed. She never failed to miss a meeting. Well, she is really well-spoken and spontaneous making me admire something about her. Her confidence to speak her mind makes me realize that I should be like her in order to lead a group more effectively.

Michelle. If you think she is just another girl, you are wrong. She is like a good speaker and motivator. She is willing to help and participate in the school events. She is really a great person that you can ever imagined. Her high work rate, level of commitment and brilliant ideas makes her one of the best PSL personality. Not only that, she can relate to kids easily. There was once she helped a girl to reconcile with her friend. In fact, she never gives up after going through hard times getting them to say sorry to each other. This particular girl plays a critical role, ensuring that the events PSLs are having run smoothly.

Marcus. He makes silly jokes and talks a lot. There is always something on his mind that keeps him going non stop, just talking and blah blah. Even so, he knows when to cut the crap and get back to business. Working with him is like working with a good partner. We helped each other even without asking for it. Well, great minds think alike. This guy proves to be someone who speaks his mind. No wonder, he and Cheryl always argue about things but in the end, they will always be good friends when it comes to working seriously.

Wen Bin. This guy is very outgoing, humourous and daring just like Eric. He can take on anyone despite their race, religion or gender. A real cool guy with high level of energy, never stops singing, enjoying life more than anything. When it comes to work, he will be ready to contribute his crazy yet useful ideas. With his level of energy, everyone treat him like they know him for ages. He never looks gloomy no matter what the weather he is enduring. His number one motto, FUN, FUN and MORE FUN... Especially to girls.

Ansley. I have to say that she is the most adorable and cutest among all the girls in our group. Her easy going personality makes us like her. Having her in our team is our greatest joy. Because without her, there will be no sunshine smiling brightly upon us. Her patience with kids is immeasurable. In fact, she mey even end up behaving like them. Nevertheless, she adds depth to our convoy. Making friends with her is making one step forward to realizing her easy going lifestyle and her cute personality.

Well, the last one is of course me. These are my fellow PSLs in the EXCO committee. I think without them around my life will be dull without colour. They are the rainbow in my sky, the family that works together, the people whom I shared the best of my years with. The memories of being one of this committee will never be forgotten, in the corner of my heart, Peer Support Leaders of Temasek Secondary will always live...  

My Thoughts On Music...

Music... a rather popular subject among my peers in schools. They can talk about music from singers to pop idols. In my case, I detest studying music. Strangely I like listening to music. Most people come under this category where all they can do is listen to the pieces that they like.

A smooth music from sentimental to instrumental is my favourite. Their kind of music drifts mind away far into thin air. I can just imagine that I'm flying freely as I close my eyes while listening to these kind of music. I called them masterpieces. I'm so hooked to them that I don't mind listening to them over and over. It is when you let music flow slowly right into your deepest thoughts that you can find comfort. To me, besides the person that I love most, music gives me comfort; simple yet priceless.

Music does last as long as one is able to produce an original masterpiece. However, generation has set its eyes on other types of music. Rap, hip-hop and rock seem to poison the mind of young ones. I can't see a reason to why such displeasing music become a trend among teens nowadays. Soothing music can brighten up your gloomy days, accompany you when the worlds is against you and calm you inner self. Music should not evolve dramatically from soft ones to hard and loud ones. It is just not right...

People All Around Me...

As we all know, no one is 100% a loner nor not having people who you call friends. That goes the same for me. I'm quite a loner by nature, prefers things going my way and being introverted. It is when you are all alone, you feel a strange comfort inside... A feeling of not being disturbed, just you and mother nature. Perhaps watching sunsets from afar...

But sometimes, the loner feels loneliness rather overwhelming for him to handle. That is when someone should appear adding colours to the loner's world. Once found can never be lost because loner wants to preserve whatever he thinks he needs.

People all around me are adding colours to my life. Their smiles, joys and sorrows prove to be invaluable in one's life although most of the time we care less looking deeper on what we actually gain by knowing these people. To me, people who I call friends are special in their own ways. Some encourage, some share the similar opinions while others just sticks to you. It is when we are close with our friends, we discover a part of us in them... And their part on us. In the end, both parties will walk along the same path, achieving a common goal and sometimes to an extent of choosing life and death together.

People around us make us realize that world is created with different colours of human characters and personalities. We may not like certain people but still their personalities make them stand out from the rest. With this, I'd like to acknowledge people who make a difference in my life. I want to thank you for making a loner, a better man who can be accepted and respected by all...