Balance, Somewhat

All of us wear many hats in our lives, in our personal life and in our career. Some find the juggling challenging. Others seem to revel in the varied experiences. Whichever extreme we identify with, or even if we fall somewhere in the middle of both extremes, acceptance of our circumstance is a step towards leading a happy life.

 

I remember coming across this quote that was painted on some wooden planks in Bali ... The secret of being happy is accepting where you are in life and making the most out of every day. I would be the first to admit that being contented is not something I readily identify with. I always feel that life can be better, sweeter, you get the drift. So what I have tried to achieve is perhaps somewhat of a balance. Being happy with my lot in life at present, but always willing to embrace betterment when the opportunities present themselves.

 

It is with hope and faith that I tackle this new year and it is with open arms that I welcome all the good that the year has to offer.

 

 

Hats in Ubud, Bali, Indonesia.

Harvest Low-Hanging Fruits

I've spent the best part of 2015 so far, reflecting. Reflecting on how I can make life a little less stressful and a little more happy. The process has been slow and cautious, but absolutely necessary, a point driven home after having had to deal with extremely stress-inducing situations for the past three months or so. Some of my colleagues who work with me will attest to that as they too were embroiled in the fiasco of sorts. Well, we are now at the tail end of the unrewarding experience, and I can't wait for it to be over. It has also reinforced my decision to really only work on enjoyable projects and with like-minded people henceforth.

 

The second half of the year will be spent streamlining the work that I do, with the aim of making life easier and allowing me more time to appreciate the pockets of free time that I so rarely have. More importantly to strike a better work life balance.

 

As a good friend of mine often reminds me, time to ourselves is a much precious commodity.

 

 

Photo shot in Tegalalang in Bali, Indonesia.

Solitude At Sunset

Whenever in Bali, I always try to experience at least one sunset on Kuta Beach. Despite there always being a throng of people, I find it an opportune time to admire the changing colours of the sky, to do some reflection and to appreciate the chance of just being there. Being amongst the crowd also offers a sense of belonging, an intriguing thought considering it is a crowd of strangers, but with the shared experience of a beautiful sunset a uniting factor.

 

Although I have witnessed such a sunset on many an occasion with friends, the ones that stand out the most are those when I have been on my own, albeit with strangers all around. Some solitude is good for the soul, especially when enhanced by the beauty of Mother Nature. Often I find myself going through a range of emotions - gratefulness, joyfulness, sadness, melancholy, hopefulness. More importantly, I typically leave the beach with my faith intact, that there is much more good to be experienced in time to come.

 

Yes, the best is yet to come.

 

 

Sunset on Kuta Beach, early May 2015, Bali, Indonesia.

Birthday 2015

The last time I celebrated my birthday with Ken Bin, Cordelia, Ken Lin, Yean Mun and Elsie was during my 21st in Adelaide, when we were in university. If my memory serves me, I think my friends from boarding school, Mike and Ching were also present then. Fast forward to 2015, and in Bali no less, I had the good fortune of celebrating another birthday with the same friends from university plus Ken Lin's wife Sally and their kids Leticia and Lenora as well as Ken Bin and Cordelia's children Brandon and Bryan.

 

I am not one who typically celebrates with a party and cake, and for the past many years, I've kept it to quiet, intimate dinners with family and friends. In fact, I am prone to being in denial when it comes to aging, something that my close friends will attest to. Truth be told, I had the candles on the cake removed before this photo was taken haha! And although a different version of this photo exists, a version with the candles intact, it shall remain safe in my hard disk drive, away from prying eyes!  

 

The company of these 'old friends' during my birthday this year was indeed a blessing. We grew up together during some of our most formative years, and have had enduring friendships. For the most part, there is little of each other that we don't know, and little that we don't accept. Here's to longevity of friendships and many more years of celebrations.

 

 

At Villa Heliconia in Ubud, Bali, Indonesia.

Reunion Trip To Bali

In recent years, my close friends from boarding school and university have tried to vacation together once a year. A couple of years ago we were in Kota Kinabalu, last year we returned to Adelaide where we first met, and a few weeks back we were in Bali.

 

Having been friends for more than 25 years, we have become accustomed to our various habits as well as idiosyncrasies and traveling as a group is pretty much a well-coordinated affair. Of course we now have 2 teenagers and 2 kids in the group too, which requires some compromise, but good friends will often make the necessary adjustments.

 

Spending a few days together on holiday always cements the friendships that we have nurtured over the years. It gives us the opportunity to talk and hangout without the distractions of work and our busy daily lives. It is also a testament to the strength of our relationships that individuals from Petaling Jaya, Penang and Hong Kong can commit to time off, converge in Kuala Lumpur and then head to Bali together. Here's to more holidays in the years to come.

 

 

After dinner at Bebek Bengil in Ubud, Bali, Indonesia.

Drop Spectacles

There is this Cantonese saying which literally translated goes something like this 'I dropped spectacles'. Basically, it means that one's perceived good judgement didn't turn out to be that good after all, in my case, particularly in relation to one's relationship with another, be it in business or on a personal basis.

 

The month of April was not particularly kind to me, though it should have been according to my horoscope. Two persons, one a business associate, the other a supposed friend, were a let down, of epic proportions I might add. I haven't had such bad judgement in quite a while. The optimist in me will take such situations as a lesson to be learnt. Having said that, being taken for a ride can also sting.

 

In any case, the month of May is a new month. And I shall look forward to better encounters. More fulfilling ones I might add.

 

 

Sunset on Kuta Beach in Bali, Indonesia. A new day beckons.

The Unexpected

Two wake-up calls in three days. On Tuesday, while relaxing by the pool on a public holiday, I received a message informing that a classmate of mine had passed on suddenly from a heart attack. Then yesterday came the devastating news that Malaysia Airlines MH17 enroute from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur was shot down in the Ukraine/Russia conflict zone, with all onboard perishing.

 

If there is a lesson to be learnt from both incidents, it is that the unexpected is very much a part of life. It makes us realise that life can be fragile, and that our journey is perhaps one that is linked to a life that we are destined to live. Indeed, we ought to love and appreciate those closest to us, we ought to live each day as it comes, making each day count, we ought to be open to new experiences, and be willing to take chances, we ought to have a positive outlook, be unafraid of getting hurt, we ought to take steps that we have always aspired to take but have yet to do so, we ought not to delay doing things that we can do today, instead of waiting for tomorrow. We ought to travel and see the world.

 

In times as such when we feel burdened by the sense of senseless loss, we are reminded to seize the day, carpe diem.

 

 

Photo shot in Bali, Indonesia.

Cosmic Forces

This weekend must be one of those where the cosmic forces teach me a lesson. An inspiring event, and advice gleaned from a seminar I attended, both seemingly conspired to serve up a great lesson in life. Who would have thought that these two instances, unrelated and positioned at differing ends of a spectrum, would be so impactful, leaving me with much to ponder and think over.

 

The ability to visualise and courage to ask for one's aspiration to be fulfilled is something that I have encouraged myself to do for some time. I was reminded today that for this to be more effective, one has to be more resolute, more focused, and to ask with a greater sense of purpose.

 

Such advice could not have come at a better time. An event which I experienced by association this weekend, has been an inspiration, serving up a large dose of the power of hope and faith. Coupled with the words of wisdom shared at the seminar today, they certainly act as a much needed catalyst to work towards a more fulfilling existence in the future.

 

 

Photo shot at Ku De Ta in Bali, Indonesia.

Charting One's Path

I've taken a fascination to quotes of late. One that caught my attention recently goes like this ...

 

If you really want things in life to happen, you have to make them happen yourself. You can't sit around and hope that somebody will help you, you have to make your own future and not think that your destiny is just going to happen.

I truly believe in charting one's own path in life. Sure, there are things that are largely beyond our control but for the most part, I do feel that the decisions that we make ultimately shape our destiny. I am very much a decisive person. In fact, many have said that I take a stand too quickly. I tend to weigh the various perspectives presented and I generally make a quick decision. I seldom second guess myself and I very seldom look back at what might have been. Patience has never been a strong suit of mine but I do try when the situation warrants it. Life throws us curveballs every now and then. I don't avoid them. I face them head on and make the best of it. Although the path ahead is not always clear, therein lies the adventure.

 

 

Prayers at Pura Ulun Danau Bratan in Bedugul, Ubud, Indonesia.

Christmas 2013

As always, Christmas is a time to appreciate the loved ones in our lives. Celebrating the festive occasion with extended family and friends is a way of renewing and strengthening the bonds that exist. However, this Christmas has also brought me new lessons in life, in particular the necessity of patience and sacrifice for the better good.

 

Instant gratification is what I am used to. Decisive by nature, I seek resolutions and take swift action when the need arises. I always focus on the outcome, and a quick one at that. Of late, I have come to the realisation that some things cannot be rushed and whilst contrary to my nature, I am taking a back seat. I will do what I think is necessary, but shall let the future unfold. As a good friend told me, que sera sera.

 

So this Christmas, I am thankful for the kind thoughts of my family and friends, appreciative of the words of wisdom that have been shared, grateful for the company of my closest friends. May the spirit of Christmas - peace, love and joy - be yours throughout the year ahead and much, much more.

 

 

Christmas decorations in Bali, Indonesia.

A Good Thing

A friend of mine, the better half of a good friend, com-mented during dinner this evening, 'it's a good thing'. He was referring to my seemingly improving - albeit slowly improving - patience and tolerance.

 

These have never been my better traits. Those in my inner circle will attest to this. They are also the same people who accept me as I am but who nevertheless also try to educate me in the finer points of being patient, to go with the flow, to acknowledge the cons but to always embrace the pros. I am slowly getting there. It takes effort. Hopefully the results will be worth it.

 

So this evening's nudging by my friend, someone who is more objective than  most, is another step in the right direction. An enlightening chat over dinner it was.

 

 

Saying a prayer at Lake Bratan in Bedugul, Bali, Indonesia. Photo courtesy of Thoo Yeong Ken.

Getting Along

I've always main-tained that I get along better with some and not so with others. The 'I can't please everyone' mentality is one that I carry with me. Case in point, my cousins. I get along with most, but with varying degrees of comfort.

 

Realistically, those who happen to be around my age, whom I spent most time with during childhood, and with whom I have remained close are the ones I consider my inner circle within the extended family so to speak. Like any relationship, it takes effort to nurture.

 

Going on family trips is an opportunity to develop such relationships. In close proximity, having to jointly deal with some stressful situations every now and then, the chance for more in-depth conversations, all these lead to the possibility of expanding the inner circle. Now, whether such expansion eventuates will very much depend on the effort made in the future.

 

 

With some of my cousins at Tegalalang in Bali, Indonesia. Photo courtesy of Thoo Yeong Ken.

Family Travel

I was recently in Bali for the wedding of my cousin Lye Synn who married Allyssa. As always, my extended family turned up in full force for the celebrations.

 

Group travel is not always easy. Differing age groups, varied interests, there are bound to be instances where stress levels rise. Despite that, my family certainly knows how to have fun. A bit of compromise here and there and everybody has a good time at the end of the day.

 

Here's a photo of part of the family who headed to Bali, having afternoon tea before joining the rest of the family for the pre-wedding dinner. A wonderful afternoon that was.

 

 

Photo shot at Bali Café in Seminyak, Bali, Indonesia.

Well Done

Well done Eileen and Richard! Four years and counting. Without fail every year, my dear friend Eileen writes a blog post to mark her wedding anniversary. It is a humourous yet insightful take on their marriage and how their relationship has evolved over the years.

 

For those of us who had the privilege to be at their wedding in Bali, it is an affirmation that love can indeed be a wonderful journey for two. We have traveled with them through first-hand accounts of their experience, through Facebook posts, photos and chats, through writings on Eileen's blog. Suffice to say, we are happy for them and for the positive-vibes they generate.

 

Most importantly, they offer a message of hope, that no matter what the circumstance, the effort put in to nurture a relationship can bring with it a multitude of rewards. Here's Eileen's take on their four years of marriage... http://midnitemessages.blogspot.com/2013/08/4th-year-anniversary-roaring-tiger.html . Congratulations again my friends!

 

 

Eileen and Richard in Bali, Indonesia, shot by yours truly.

Eye Opening Experience

Eileen and Richard were back in town a couple of days ago en route from Yangon to the Maldives and we had a chance for a quick catch up over supper. Whilst we keep in touch regularly over Facebook, catching up in person is definitely much more personal.

 

I always enjoy listening to the both of them as they regale me with tales of life in Myanmar and the interesting circumstances they find themselves in from time to time, both in career and personal lives. I'd like to think that I am adventurous enough to visit emerging countries on holiday, although I have yet to head to Myanmar, a sore point with these two friends of mine, I find it hard to imagine having to live and adapt to the challenging environment over a long term basis. For this I have to take my hat off to the both of them. First Cambodia and now Myanmar, I wonder where next.

 

I guess I better make it to Yangon soon for a visit before they head off somewhere else. I am sure it will be an eye opening experience, one that will be seen through the eyes of my good friends who will be more than happy to show me round.

 

 

The three of us on a beach in Bali, Indonesia.

At The Right Place At The Right Time

My good friends Eileen and Richard are relocating to Yangon from Phnom Penh. After a couple of years in the Cambodian capital, a new challenge beckons for the both of them, an opportunity that was too good to pass on. So to the land of Aung San Suu Kyi they head.

It must be an exciting time to make this move. Recent political developments signal a gradual return to the international stage for Myanmar and being in the midst of it all will be an experience of a lifetime. A case of being at the right place at the right time.

So all the best Eileen and Richard. I now have an excuse to visit Myanmar sooner rather than later. Yangon, Bagan, Mandalay, places that I'd like to see. The Road To Mandalay, an experience I want to save up for.

Eileen, Richard and I at Echo Beach in Canggu, Bali, Indonesia.

New Year's Day

2012 has arrived! Here's to new beginnings, new aspirations, new achieve-ments, new expe-riences.

This year, I shall maintain a positive outlook in all aspects of life. Keep fit and stay healthy. Work on my level of patience. Spend more time with family and friends. Travel the world. Love. Embrace new experiences that life offers.

A new year always gives me a shot in the arm in terms of optimism. I shall keep the faith, believe in fate, yet plot my own destiny. Have a fantastic and fabulous year everyone. Happy New Year!

Photo shot at Echo Beach in Canggu, Bali, Indonesia.

Health

I try my best to pay attention to my health. As my family has a history of non-commu-nicable illness such as cancer, diabetes and high blood pressure, I make it a point to lead as healthy a lifestyle as I can. I swim at least thrice a week, gym a bit too.

I have my vices though. I love eating out, be it at nice restaurants, mamak stalls or fast food chains. And I don't restrict myself to what I eat. I recognise that in many instances, what tastes the best may not necessarily be the most healthy. Now that my cholesterol level is borderline, I am attempting to cut back on some of my indulgences, especially the oily, fried stuff. I also used to love Coke which I have refrained from for a number of years. I still love my teh tarik, original, nothing doing with kurang manis!

I do twice-yearly check-ups. A complete, major one in April and a less rigorous one six months, more or less, thereafter. I haven't been feeling hundred per cent of late. Not one to shy away from medical consultations, I've been paying visits to my family GP to see what's been brewing. Hopefully, it's nothing too serious and I am religiously taking the medication I've been prescribed. Despite being in slight discomfort, I still made my way to Melaka over the weekend for Shirlyn's and Albert's wedding ceremony and reception. Although I wish I could have indulged more food-wise, I nevertheless had a fab time.

Photo shot at Double Six Beach in Bali, Indonesia.

Do As The Locals Do

When in Rome, do as the Romans do, so they say. When in Bali, do as the Balinese do. With this in mind, we headed to Pasar Senggol night market in Gianyar one evening to sample Babi Guling and Bakso.

Gianyar, not too far from Ubud, reputedly has some of the best Babi Guling in Bali and whilst I am not particularly a fan of pork, some of my travel friends are. I settled for Bakso at a nondescript stall and this I have to say - it is important to have a diverse travel experience. Being willing to try streetfood is often rewarded with a memorable experience.

A simple but tasty meal, good company and an authentic atmosphere, what's not to enjoy?

L to R : Our guide Putu, Richard, Eileen, yours truly, Uncle Lui and Auntie Lillian. Photo kindly shot by Shirley at Pasar Senggol in Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia.

A Bit Of Work In Bali

I tend to include a little bit of work whenever I holiday in Bali. We have a number of partners in Bali with whom we jointly promote destination weddings and it is always good to catch up with them and share new ideas.

This time, we made the rounds to Kayumanis Nusa Dusa, Kupu Kupu Barong Villas & Tree Spa as well as Furama Xclusive Villas & Spa in Ubud. These properties are featured in the latest edition of Journeys For Two - Destination Weddings For The Stylish And Chic and we had the opportunity to tour their venues and chat over tea with our collaborative partners.

I don't really mind mixing business with pleasure when such pleasant opportunities arise.

Photo shot at Kayumanis Nusa Dua in Bali, Indonesia.