Should there be any force moving to the right, there will be resistance to the left.
Should there be any change in place, there will be resistance for change.
Should there be any problems, there will be solutions for it.
Should there be any obstacle in front of you, there will be a way to overcome it AND elevate you to another lattitude for better and further view...
THE KEY IS PERSISTANCE AND GO ALL WAY OUT TO GET THE SOLUTIONS...
Friday, November 27, 2009
Monday, November 2, 2009
Challenges
The current ecomonic condition posts a lot of challenges to us. In every crisis, there is opportunity. What can make us different is the choice of response, preparedness, sustainability and strategies
Some people are so frustrated and choose to abandone their efforts and leave. Some people stay calm and look for ways for survival or even prosperity.
I am listening to the song "Where do broken hearts go" by Witney Huoston from Youtube. Her song gives me a sense of hope and inspiration because she said the broken hearts would find their way hope. Perhaps at this point in time, home is a place for inspiration and security. However, I always tell myself, "unless I am dead, I will rise again no matter how many time I fall down"
Some people are so frustrated and choose to abandone their efforts and leave. Some people stay calm and look for ways for survival or even prosperity.
I am listening to the song "Where do broken hearts go" by Witney Huoston from Youtube. Her song gives me a sense of hope and inspiration because she said the broken hearts would find their way hope. Perhaps at this point in time, home is a place for inspiration and security. However, I always tell myself, "unless I am dead, I will rise again no matter how many time I fall down"
Friday, October 30, 2009
Strategist
At top management or strategic level, we set the direction to "do the right thing" - the strategies. In the execution of the strategies, we must "do the thing right" - the methodology to execute the strategies in the battle fields.
We may refer to books in history and strategies for the way great leaders set strategies at different point in time and contexts. However, due to the differences in the context and age, we must adopt these strategies
in consideration to our own unique contexts and environment. I like a Chinese cliche that say "If one read and adopt what the authors of books said whole heartedly, better do not read any book". The key is to understand the historical path that lead to current situation and learn from the great leaders how they solve their problems and crisis. Understanding in the historical path can help us to analyse and predict the future better. The KEY is exercise, broad general knowledge, in depth knowledge in your field, system thinking, ability to analyse, strategise and execute under intense pressure. By solving problems regularly, one can become a dispute resolution expert and strategiest.
The Confucious says "a genuine man do business for profit without forgoing his principles, dignity and values". They take profits from the society and return them in due course for the benefits of the society
We may refer to books in history and strategies for the way great leaders set strategies at different point in time and contexts. However, due to the differences in the context and age, we must adopt these strategies
in consideration to our own unique contexts and environment. I like a Chinese cliche that say "If one read and adopt what the authors of books said whole heartedly, better do not read any book". The key is to understand the historical path that lead to current situation and learn from the great leaders how they solve their problems and crisis. Understanding in the historical path can help us to analyse and predict the future better. The KEY is exercise, broad general knowledge, in depth knowledge in your field, system thinking, ability to analyse, strategise and execute under intense pressure. By solving problems regularly, one can become a dispute resolution expert and strategiest.
The Confucious says "a genuine man do business for profit without forgoing his principles, dignity and values". They take profits from the society and return them in due course for the benefits of the society
Monday, October 19, 2009
Laws of Nature - Equilibrium
Ying and Yang are symbolic words for opposition, i.e. Positive and Negative, Male and Female, Strong and Weak, Dynamism and Stagnance, complimentary and contradictary forces in the nature, etc. It is believed that the cosmo is regulated and operated in the Laws of Equilibrium whereby the Ying and Yang forces correspond and react continuosly with each other in dynamism in search for a state of equilibrium.
On the other hand, the five elements, namely Metal, Wood, Water, Fire and Earth stands for physical creature, symbolic items or environments with their attributes or properties that resemble the elements respectively. The five elements are the core of nature whereby they work in either affinity or enmity with each other. They also represent "Movement", "Changible" and "Development" and each of them have their Ying and Yang sides, too.
In our life, the Yang and Yang, and the five elements prevail. Some people who exert pressure to change the current situation will encounter resistance in opposite direction eventually. A move from equilibrium is possible should it is conducted in a way that do not forgo principles of Law of Equilibrium. Balance is the Key. For instance, sustainable health can be achived when we exert enormous amount of efforts and time in achieving your goals without forgoing the need for rest and attainment in emotional fulfillment.
Historically, any development of civilisation and advancement involved development of knowledge, technology and humanity. However, on the words of civilisation, there are too many instances where we develop our technology for the comfort of ourselves faster than the way we can develop our humanity. Greed and ignorance of human caused incredible disturbance to the Mother Nature. We exhaust and take the Mother Nature for granted greedily and selfishly without seeing the big picture what damage can we do to the Mother Nature. Let us take the closest example for discussion now. We turn on the air conditional system to cold down our workplace and the outdoor compressors are working hardly to emit the heat to the environment. Imagine how many air conditional systems are out there emiting Green House Gases to warm up our Environment and Earth. The cumulative effect of such damages should not be taken lightly. Global warming is bringing us the Act of God which is devasting and deadly to our living and life.
The equilibrium of Nature has been disturbed and what have we done. Every year, the "Great 8" meets and hardly achieve any consensus in the assistance to the poorer and less fortunate countries. Furthermore, they hardly take any determined actions in reducing Green House effect in order protect their economic growth. Scarcity mentality is so prevalent. To the public, this is merely a party where the celebritis and "World Leaders" rest and socialise among themselves.
Now, we are playing a chess game with the gigantic "Mother Nature" who is angry and planning its revenge. Elements are working to regain the Balance. More natural disasters and diseases are on their way to counter our greed and ignorance to mess up the Laws of Equilibrium. So, what element can we adopt to counter such angry "Mother Nature"? We need leaders who can see the situation as a whole instead of in parts. We may live in different continents, regions or countries. However, we all live in "the Earth". System thinking is a powerful tool to assist us to link different components in our world so that we can see the big and thorough picture. Also, we need strategists to find the leverage in order to "turn around" such difficult chess game. He must be able to bring us all to a vision for sustainability so that our civilisation can persist. He should collaborate with other leaders, scientists and engineers to build up a sustainable environment in search for Green Technology instead of the technology in military for the seek of soveriegnty, both politically and economically.
I pray to God so that HE will send us such person to help us before the Judgement Day.
(Referance: http://www.chinesefortunecalendar.com/5EBasic.htm)
Saturday, October 3, 2009
3 Footed Altar
Three footed Altar can be found in temples where people put joss sticks. The Chinese word of the said item carries special meanings which amazed me sometimes ago.
The three foots represents "Power", "Wealth" and "Fame". The big "Bowl" with holds the Content represents "Value", "Personality" and "Dignity".
Imagine, if the foots grows higher, the altar will become more unstable. Should any of the foot grow indefinitely by itself, the "bowl" will start to jerk aside and shall collapse eventually.
The greed of "Power", "Wealth" and "Fame" worsen the situation. Indeed, we must understand that they are not sinful by itself.
Power is entrusted to a person so that he can make decisions professionally for the benefits of his organisation.
Wealth is the reward for carrying out the work professionally and in due course.
Fame is the recognition of the professional work.
Should any of these is taken for granted and goes toward polarity, one's Values, Personality and Dignity will collapse. Then, he will be in bigger hunger for "Power", "Wealth" and "Fame" and the cycle multiplied leading to irrational move toward "Insanity".
How much Power do we need to execute the appointed job professionally? How much money do we need to live confortably? How famous do we wish to be in order to feel the recognition by others? What will happen if the "Power", "Wealth" and "Fame" overwhelmes a person's mind?
The three foots represents "Power", "Wealth" and "Fame". The big "Bowl" with holds the Content represents "Value", "Personality" and "Dignity".
Imagine, if the foots grows higher, the altar will become more unstable. Should any of the foot grow indefinitely by itself, the "bowl" will start to jerk aside and shall collapse eventually.
The greed of "Power", "Wealth" and "Fame" worsen the situation. Indeed, we must understand that they are not sinful by itself.
Power is entrusted to a person so that he can make decisions professionally for the benefits of his organisation.
Wealth is the reward for carrying out the work professionally and in due course.
Fame is the recognition of the professional work.
Should any of these is taken for granted and goes toward polarity, one's Values, Personality and Dignity will collapse. Then, he will be in bigger hunger for "Power", "Wealth" and "Fame" and the cycle multiplied leading to irrational move toward "Insanity".
How much Power do we need to execute the appointed job professionally? How much money do we need to live confortably? How famous do we wish to be in order to feel the recognition by others? What will happen if the "Power", "Wealth" and "Fame" overwhelmes a person's mind?
Carbon Cycle and Titanium Dioxide
Carbon in Nature
The three most important substances that make life possible are water, oxygen and carbon dioxide. The primary structural and functional element in all living things is carbon. All carbon in protein, fat, carbohydrate and other organic molecules in living things is derived from atmospheric carbon dioxide. Without atmospheric carbon dioxide, life as we know it would not be possible.
The carbon cycle is the biogeochemical cycle by which carbon is exchanged between the biosphere, geosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere of our planet Earth. Carbon is stored in four major reservoirs:
• The atmosphere
• The biosphere (including freshwater systems and ground soil)
• The oceans (including dissolved inorganic carbon)
• The sediments (including fossil fuels)
Carbon is exchanged between these reservoirs via sequences of various chemical reactions and biological processes.
Carbon exists in the Earth’s atmosphere primarily as the gas carbon dioxide. Although it is a very tiny percent of the atmosphere (approximately 0.04%), it plays an essential part in supporting life. In particular, plants absorb carbon dioxide in the presence of sunlight to produce carbohydrate, and release oxygen into the air. This process is known as photosynthesis, and provides plants with the key organic compounds required to support life.
In nature, carbon can then be released naturally back into the cycle in many different ways with the most common being respiration, decay of animal and plant matter, and the release of dissolved carbon dioxide from the oceans by marine life.
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Carbon in Today’s World
Disruption of the natural carbon cycle occurs with human intervention and the results of exponential growth in the world’s population. Burning of fossil fuels releases stored carbon, increasing the overall percentage of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
Today, the debate continues on whether global warming is myth or fact. However, what is certain is that combustion of fossil fuels through industrial activities, vehicle exhaust fumes, smoking, use of petrochemical products in buildings, etc, produces by-products which affect the quality of the air which humans breathe. These by-products are tiny particles, whose chemical composition, particle shape and size are all factors that determine how they impact human health.
The primary by-product of burning fossil fuels is carbon dioxide. However, this exists naturally in the carbon cycle. Of more significance in impacting human health are the by-products of carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, sulphur oxides and hydrocarbons. Suspended particles from these compounds can combine in the atmosphere to form tropospheric ozone, the major constituent of smog.
Carbon monoxide is a deadly toxic gas, undetectable by smell that can harm or kill animals, plants and people. It is produced during incomplete combustion of fossil fuels. Inhalation is poisonous and causes headaches, dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath, light-headedness and, in extreme cases, death . People with heart disease will be susceptible to more stress on the heart. Motor vehicles are the primary source of carbon monoxide.
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Impact on Air Quality from the Combustion of Fossil Fuels
Both nitrogen dioxide and nitric oxide are also produced in combustion. Unlike carbon monoxide which cannot be detected, nitrogen oxides are yellowish-brown in colour and are the major contributor to haze in city air, injury to plants and destruction of forests near industrial areas. Oxides of nitrogen are emitted by internal combustion engines, power stations, furnaces, cars and fertilizers. Exposure to oxides of nitrogen may lead to death from pulmonary lesions (due to reduced partial oxygen pressure in the lungs); sudden death from spasms of the lungs and respiratory failure; pulmonary oedema; or inflammatory responses in the bronchiole system.
Sulfur oxides are another common by-product of combustion and released into the environment. Exposure to air contaminated with sulphur dioxide will cause irritation of the eyes, nose, throat and lungs, resulting in choking and coughing. Individuals with asthma are particularly sensitive to sulphur dioxide.
Both nitrogen oxides and sulphur oxides are primarily irritants to human health. The by-products of major concern are the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which have been identified as carcinogenic, mutagenic and teratogenic. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are chemical compounds that consist of fused aromatic rings, whose resulting structure determines whether they are non-toxic or highly toxic. Polycyclic hydrocarbons are not only caused by combustion of fossil fuels, but are also formed by incomplete combustion of wood, coal, diesel, fat, tobacco or incense.
How Our Homes and Offices Affect Health
Hydrocarbons, and other gaseous pollutants, have been the subject of debate for years. Various studies have examined the effects of various fuels on the environment.
What the majority of the general public is less aware of is the quality of the air in our homes and office. Indeed, people spend more than 90 percent of their time indoors. Every day, they consume 25,000 litre of air a day. Inhaling air of poor quality everyday causes Sick Building Syndrome can lead to stress, respiratory illnesses headache, conjunctivitis, asthma, cancerous diseases, etc has become increasingly popular and debatable issues nowadays.
The Environmental Protection Agency’s Total Exposure Assessment Methodology (TEAM) studies have found levels of about a dozen common organic pollutants to be two to five times higher inside homes and office than outside, causing sick building syndrome to the occupants therein .
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are chemicals emitted as gases from wide variety of sources. There are literally thousands of different VOCs produced, most of which are potentially harmful to health. Levels of VOC exposure in indoor air vary widely depending upon factors such as the building ventilation rate, outdoor concentrations and the time spent in the effected environment, be it home or office.
The walls of buildings emit VOCs from paints; the doors and floors emit VOCs from varnishes, wood preservatives and other solvents. Aerosol sprays, cleaners, disinfectants, repellents, air fresheners and pesticides all emit varying levels of VOCs. Newspapers, printers, photocopy machines, correction fluids, paper and permanent markers all produce VOCs within the office environment. Even less apparent sources such as dry-cleaned laundry, cosmetics and cooking can all cause adverse health effects from emission of VOCs.
Further key contributors to indoor VOC contamination are new carpets, new furniture, idling motor vehicles parked in attached garages, new paint jobs, chemicals stored in the home, recently applied adhesive as well as new plastic or electronic devices. From the materials which make up the building to the chemicals which are used to keep the home “hygienic”, these are all sources of VOCs .
How VOCs Affect Air Quality
Volatile Organic Compounds are gases that are emitted at room temperature. Under the term “organic”, these compounds all contain carbon. Upon entering the air, they react with oxides of nitrogen (in the presence of sunlight) to form ozone. This photochemical process is difficult to control as it is a very natural reaction which takes place close to ground level.
Ozone in the atmosphere is beneficial to human life as it filters potentially damaging ultraviolet light from reaching the Earth’s surface. However, ozone at ground level is a highly reactive gas which pollutes the air and damages human health, the respiratory systems of animals, and vegetation.
Breathing air with high concentrations of ozone can aggravate symptoms of sufferers with pulmonary diseases and increase rates of asthma attacks. Other acute effects of ozone exposure include eye irritation, nose irritation, throat irritation, headaches, nausea and dizziness. There is also evidence to show that prolonged exposure to ozone can cause permanent lung damage, cancer, kidney damage as well as interference with the functioning of the immune system.
Removing Hazardous Volatile Organic Compounds from the Air
There are many different methods for removing or minimising VOCs from the air. However many factors need to be considered in determining the effectiveness of each of these methods.
Source control can be employed to eliminate products from the home that contain high levels of VOCs. Some sources, like asbestos or chipboards, can be sealed or enclosed. However, not all pollutant resources can be identified and practically eliminated or reduced.
Increasing ventilation, especially in the presence of new products or appliances, can be achieved simply by opening windows or doors. Unfortunately, this often brings in air from outside which contains other contaminants from outdoor fuel combustion, etc. In addition, there are limits on measuring the effectiveness with which the airborne pollutants are removed from indoor air.
Air cleaners or purifiers come in many different forms and variations. Generally air purifiers work by removing pollutant particles from the air via filters, activated carbon, oxidation systems, ionisers or ozone generators. The fact remains that each process may remove different contaminants, limiting the full effectiveness of these systems. These filters can be blocked by ducts or particles which reduces its effectiveness as well. Regular maintenance is required for these devices. In particular, there are consumer concerns over the use of ozone generators, given that ozone on ground level is a highly reactive and damaging gas.
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A Revolutionary Breakthrough in Removing VOCs from Our Life
Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is a naturally occurring oxide of titanium, mostly found in the minerals rutile, anatase and brookite. It has been classified as Class 4A inert ingredient which is safe to human health . Pure titanium dioxide is produced from chemical processing to leave a pure, white pigment which is odourless and absorbent.
Titanium dioxide in rutile form has a variety of uses, but by far the most widely used application is as a pigment for providing whiteness and opacity to products such as paints, coatings, plastics, paper, inks, fibres, food, toothpastes and cosmetics.
Titanium dioxide is also a potent photo-catalyst, particularly in the anatase form. Under ultraviolet light, UV- A (fluorescent lamps provide sufficient UV-A for such purpose), it has been found that almost any organic compound can be broken down at its surface, in the presence of water vapour. As a result of the photo-catalytic properties of titanium dioxide, new technologies have been developed to capitalise on environmentally beneficial products, with particular interest on the effectiveness of VOC removal.
In the late 1970s, scientists had already begun to realise to potential of titanium dioxide. When exposed to ultra-violet light of a certain wavelength, in the presence of water vapour, two highly reactive chemical species are formed: hydroxyl radicals [OH] and a superoxide ion [O2-1]. Hydroxyl radicals are very strong oxidisers, capable of breaking down any organic matter into carbon dioxide and water (both of which are then harmless to the environment).
An innovative nano Titanium Dioxide coating has been developed recently for the reaction to produce a revolutionary product useful in air purification, water and wastewater remediation and as an advanced cleaning solution . With one application of its spray-based technology, organic molecules, no matter whether they are the result of grime, oils, VOCs or part of the cellular walls of bacterial microbes, are broken down into carbon dioxide and water. This ultra-fast reaction literally takes place in billionths of a second, in the presence of light, water vapour (present in the air) and titanium dioxide.
In addition, the superoxide anions which are produced in this reaction then bind with nitrogen oxides in the air to reduce the harmful components of smog and acid rain down to harmless nitrogen dioxide.
Superior generation of active oxygen anions is at the core of the smog-reducing power of Nano Titanium Dioxide solutions.
The effectiveness of nano-particle of anatase titanium dioxide has been confirmed in the extensive Photocatalytic Innovative Coverings Applications for De-pollution Assessment (PICADA-Project) .
Conclusion
The Environment Protection Agency of USA has invested heavily into researching the revolutionary product of Nano Anatase Titanium Dioxide is a “Green Technology” and harmless to humans. It has become the only solution for air quality, with the potential to replace air cleaners, purifiers, ioner and ozone generators . Nano Titanium Dioxide stands out from the range as an effective means to reduce Volatile Organic Compounds, ozone at ground level, carbon monoxide, and micro-organisms of all types in the air. The true benefits of Nano Titanium Oxide to human health has yet to be tested and realised in Malaysia.
Written jointly with Emily W
The three most important substances that make life possible are water, oxygen and carbon dioxide. The primary structural and functional element in all living things is carbon. All carbon in protein, fat, carbohydrate and other organic molecules in living things is derived from atmospheric carbon dioxide. Without atmospheric carbon dioxide, life as we know it would not be possible.
The carbon cycle is the biogeochemical cycle by which carbon is exchanged between the biosphere, geosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere of our planet Earth. Carbon is stored in four major reservoirs:
• The atmosphere
• The biosphere (including freshwater systems and ground soil)
• The oceans (including dissolved inorganic carbon)
• The sediments (including fossil fuels)
Carbon is exchanged between these reservoirs via sequences of various chemical reactions and biological processes.
Carbon exists in the Earth’s atmosphere primarily as the gas carbon dioxide. Although it is a very tiny percent of the atmosphere (approximately 0.04%), it plays an essential part in supporting life. In particular, plants absorb carbon dioxide in the presence of sunlight to produce carbohydrate, and release oxygen into the air. This process is known as photosynthesis, and provides plants with the key organic compounds required to support life.
In nature, carbon can then be released naturally back into the cycle in many different ways with the most common being respiration, decay of animal and plant matter, and the release of dissolved carbon dioxide from the oceans by marine life.
Carbon in Today’s World
Disruption of the natural carbon cycle occurs with human intervention and the results of exponential growth in the world’s population. Burning of fossil fuels releases stored carbon, increasing the overall percentage of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
Today, the debate continues on whether global warming is myth or fact. However, what is certain is that combustion of fossil fuels through industrial activities, vehicle exhaust fumes, smoking, use of petrochemical products in buildings, etc, produces by-products which affect the quality of the air which humans breathe. These by-products are tiny particles, whose chemical composition, particle shape and size are all factors that determine how they impact human health.
The primary by-product of burning fossil fuels is carbon dioxide. However, this exists naturally in the carbon cycle. Of more significance in impacting human health are the by-products of carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, sulphur oxides and hydrocarbons. Suspended particles from these compounds can combine in the atmosphere to form tropospheric ozone, the major constituent of smog.
Carbon monoxide is a deadly toxic gas, undetectable by smell that can harm or kill animals, plants and people. It is produced during incomplete combustion of fossil fuels. Inhalation is poisonous and causes headaches, dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath, light-headedness and, in extreme cases, death . People with heart disease will be susceptible to more stress on the heart. Motor vehicles are the primary source of carbon monoxide.
Impact on Air Quality from the Combustion of Fossil Fuels
Both nitrogen dioxide and nitric oxide are also produced in combustion. Unlike carbon monoxide which cannot be detected, nitrogen oxides are yellowish-brown in colour and are the major contributor to haze in city air, injury to plants and destruction of forests near industrial areas. Oxides of nitrogen are emitted by internal combustion engines, power stations, furnaces, cars and fertilizers. Exposure to oxides of nitrogen may lead to death from pulmonary lesions (due to reduced partial oxygen pressure in the lungs); sudden death from spasms of the lungs and respiratory failure; pulmonary oedema; or inflammatory responses in the bronchiole system.
Sulfur oxides are another common by-product of combustion and released into the environment. Exposure to air contaminated with sulphur dioxide will cause irritation of the eyes, nose, throat and lungs, resulting in choking and coughing. Individuals with asthma are particularly sensitive to sulphur dioxide.
Both nitrogen oxides and sulphur oxides are primarily irritants to human health. The by-products of major concern are the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which have been identified as carcinogenic, mutagenic and teratogenic. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are chemical compounds that consist of fused aromatic rings, whose resulting structure determines whether they are non-toxic or highly toxic. Polycyclic hydrocarbons are not only caused by combustion of fossil fuels, but are also formed by incomplete combustion of wood, coal, diesel, fat, tobacco or incense.
How Our Homes and Offices Affect Health
Hydrocarbons, and other gaseous pollutants, have been the subject of debate for years. Various studies have examined the effects of various fuels on the environment.
What the majority of the general public is less aware of is the quality of the air in our homes and office. Indeed, people spend more than 90 percent of their time indoors. Every day, they consume 25,000 litre of air a day. Inhaling air of poor quality everyday causes Sick Building Syndrome can lead to stress, respiratory illnesses headache, conjunctivitis, asthma, cancerous diseases, etc has become increasingly popular and debatable issues nowadays.
The Environmental Protection Agency’s Total Exposure Assessment Methodology (TEAM) studies have found levels of about a dozen common organic pollutants to be two to five times higher inside homes and office than outside, causing sick building syndrome to the occupants therein .
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are chemicals emitted as gases from wide variety of sources. There are literally thousands of different VOCs produced, most of which are potentially harmful to health. Levels of VOC exposure in indoor air vary widely depending upon factors such as the building ventilation rate, outdoor concentrations and the time spent in the effected environment, be it home or office.
The walls of buildings emit VOCs from paints; the doors and floors emit VOCs from varnishes, wood preservatives and other solvents. Aerosol sprays, cleaners, disinfectants, repellents, air fresheners and pesticides all emit varying levels of VOCs. Newspapers, printers, photocopy machines, correction fluids, paper and permanent markers all produce VOCs within the office environment. Even less apparent sources such as dry-cleaned laundry, cosmetics and cooking can all cause adverse health effects from emission of VOCs.
Further key contributors to indoor VOC contamination are new carpets, new furniture, idling motor vehicles parked in attached garages, new paint jobs, chemicals stored in the home, recently applied adhesive as well as new plastic or electronic devices. From the materials which make up the building to the chemicals which are used to keep the home “hygienic”, these are all sources of VOCs .
How VOCs Affect Air Quality
Volatile Organic Compounds are gases that are emitted at room temperature. Under the term “organic”, these compounds all contain carbon. Upon entering the air, they react with oxides of nitrogen (in the presence of sunlight) to form ozone. This photochemical process is difficult to control as it is a very natural reaction which takes place close to ground level.
Ozone in the atmosphere is beneficial to human life as it filters potentially damaging ultraviolet light from reaching the Earth’s surface. However, ozone at ground level is a highly reactive gas which pollutes the air and damages human health, the respiratory systems of animals, and vegetation.
Breathing air with high concentrations of ozone can aggravate symptoms of sufferers with pulmonary diseases and increase rates of asthma attacks. Other acute effects of ozone exposure include eye irritation, nose irritation, throat irritation, headaches, nausea and dizziness. There is also evidence to show that prolonged exposure to ozone can cause permanent lung damage, cancer, kidney damage as well as interference with the functioning of the immune system.
Removing Hazardous Volatile Organic Compounds from the Air
There are many different methods for removing or minimising VOCs from the air. However many factors need to be considered in determining the effectiveness of each of these methods.
Source control can be employed to eliminate products from the home that contain high levels of VOCs. Some sources, like asbestos or chipboards, can be sealed or enclosed. However, not all pollutant resources can be identified and practically eliminated or reduced.
Increasing ventilation, especially in the presence of new products or appliances, can be achieved simply by opening windows or doors. Unfortunately, this often brings in air from outside which contains other contaminants from outdoor fuel combustion, etc. In addition, there are limits on measuring the effectiveness with which the airborne pollutants are removed from indoor air.
Air cleaners or purifiers come in many different forms and variations. Generally air purifiers work by removing pollutant particles from the air via filters, activated carbon, oxidation systems, ionisers or ozone generators. The fact remains that each process may remove different contaminants, limiting the full effectiveness of these systems. These filters can be blocked by ducts or particles which reduces its effectiveness as well. Regular maintenance is required for these devices. In particular, there are consumer concerns over the use of ozone generators, given that ozone on ground level is a highly reactive and damaging gas.
A Revolutionary Breakthrough in Removing VOCs from Our Life
Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is a naturally occurring oxide of titanium, mostly found in the minerals rutile, anatase and brookite. It has been classified as Class 4A inert ingredient which is safe to human health . Pure titanium dioxide is produced from chemical processing to leave a pure, white pigment which is odourless and absorbent.
Titanium dioxide in rutile form has a variety of uses, but by far the most widely used application is as a pigment for providing whiteness and opacity to products such as paints, coatings, plastics, paper, inks, fibres, food, toothpastes and cosmetics.
Titanium dioxide is also a potent photo-catalyst, particularly in the anatase form. Under ultraviolet light, UV- A (fluorescent lamps provide sufficient UV-A for such purpose), it has been found that almost any organic compound can be broken down at its surface, in the presence of water vapour. As a result of the photo-catalytic properties of titanium dioxide, new technologies have been developed to capitalise on environmentally beneficial products, with particular interest on the effectiveness of VOC removal.
In the late 1970s, scientists had already begun to realise to potential of titanium dioxide. When exposed to ultra-violet light of a certain wavelength, in the presence of water vapour, two highly reactive chemical species are formed: hydroxyl radicals [OH] and a superoxide ion [O2-1]. Hydroxyl radicals are very strong oxidisers, capable of breaking down any organic matter into carbon dioxide and water (both of which are then harmless to the environment).
An innovative nano Titanium Dioxide coating has been developed recently for the reaction to produce a revolutionary product useful in air purification, water and wastewater remediation and as an advanced cleaning solution . With one application of its spray-based technology, organic molecules, no matter whether they are the result of grime, oils, VOCs or part of the cellular walls of bacterial microbes, are broken down into carbon dioxide and water. This ultra-fast reaction literally takes place in billionths of a second, in the presence of light, water vapour (present in the air) and titanium dioxide.
In addition, the superoxide anions which are produced in this reaction then bind with nitrogen oxides in the air to reduce the harmful components of smog and acid rain down to harmless nitrogen dioxide.
Superior generation of active oxygen anions is at the core of the smog-reducing power of Nano Titanium Dioxide solutions.
The effectiveness of nano-particle of anatase titanium dioxide has been confirmed in the extensive Photocatalytic Innovative Coverings Applications for De-pollution Assessment (PICADA-Project) .
Conclusion
The Environment Protection Agency of USA has invested heavily into researching the revolutionary product of Nano Anatase Titanium Dioxide is a “Green Technology” and harmless to humans. It has become the only solution for air quality, with the potential to replace air cleaners, purifiers, ioner and ozone generators . Nano Titanium Dioxide stands out from the range as an effective means to reduce Volatile Organic Compounds, ozone at ground level, carbon monoxide, and micro-organisms of all types in the air. The true benefits of Nano Titanium Oxide to human health has yet to be tested and realised in Malaysia.
Written jointly with Emily W
Friday, October 2, 2009
Mother Nature vs Tiny Men
The greed of human causes vast deforestation, green house effect and harm to the Mother Nature. Eventhough we are aware of what we did cause the harm to Mother Nature and it is on Its way for revenge, we are still unaware of what we should do next. This could be due to our existing system in the economy, historical burden and the way we are used to live. Well, the Mother Nature is angry now. It is roaming and revenging with more ailment, natural disaster and stronger events to come. How many life has the Mother Nature claim in the past decade? Uncountable? I really have no idea.
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I experienced the power of Mother Nature again during my last visit to the Morib Beach. The wave that hit me was gentle. However, I cannot image how tiny I could be if the wave roamed and swallow me with anger. I will have to say "Bye bye" to you in seconds. Then, I looked at the vessels which passed by emitted smoke in the Melacca Strait and asked myself, yes, we may contribute a little smoke via our cars, kitchens and air conds everyday, but do you know that if everyone do so, what will our next generation pay for our enjoyment and confort that we are enjoying now? Who else will suffer from our enjoyment? Do you want to leave a world with frequent natural disaster to your children and grand children? Perhaps we should return to the system thinking (Peter Senge in the Fifth Discipline) to draw out a diagram which can show the whole picture, the causation of our action, the result brought about by our conduct, other contributing factors and how this cycle continues and multiplies. Do you know that while you are sitting reading this email, what type of Volatile Organic Compounds (from carpet, paint, furniture, solvent, computers, printers and photostating machines, abestos from the acoustic mineral fibre ceiling board, plaster ceiling, etc etc) you are inhaling now? How much green house gases have you contributed? What processed food have you taken? What vitamin suppliment which the pharmaceutical companies make distorted and baseless claim have you taken? This is all caused by the greed and ignorance of human. It leads to poor environmental, mental and physical health to us. We may speak marvel but conduct otherwise. However, I am sure that we cannot live without good health.
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Perhaps we need to sit down and think, is our existing values, practices and perceptions of what is green and healthy living are correct? Do we have to have a paradigm shift which could be painful and time consuming? Are you willing to undergo the pain for the future and your next generation?
I experienced the power of Mother Nature again during my last visit to the Morib Beach. The wave that hit me was gentle. However, I cannot image how tiny I could be if the wave roamed and swallow me with anger. I will have to say "Bye bye" to you in seconds. Then, I looked at the vessels which passed by emitted smoke in the Melacca Strait and asked myself, yes, we may contribute a little smoke via our cars, kitchens and air conds everyday, but do you know that if everyone do so, what will our next generation pay for our enjoyment and confort that we are enjoying now? Who else will suffer from our enjoyment? Do you want to leave a world with frequent natural disaster to your children and grand children? Perhaps we should return to the system thinking (Peter Senge in the Fifth Discipline) to draw out a diagram which can show the whole picture, the causation of our action, the result brought about by our conduct, other contributing factors and how this cycle continues and multiplies. Do you know that while you are sitting reading this email, what type of Volatile Organic Compounds (from carpet, paint, furniture, solvent, computers, printers and photostating machines, abestos from the acoustic mineral fibre ceiling board, plaster ceiling, etc etc) you are inhaling now? How much green house gases have you contributed? What processed food have you taken? What vitamin suppliment which the pharmaceutical companies make distorted and baseless claim have you taken? This is all caused by the greed and ignorance of human. It leads to poor environmental, mental and physical health to us. We may speak marvel but conduct otherwise. However, I am sure that we cannot live without good health.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Horseshoe Crab
Saturday, September 19, 2009
The Matrix
If you put up a "Y" axis and a "X" axis, then you will have four separate quarters like this " t ".
Then, if the "Y: axis represents "Competence" and "X" axis represents "Personality", then you will have features as follows:
1) the upper right quarters for persons high in "Competence" and "Personality".
2) the lower right quarters for persons low in "Competence" but high in "Personality"
3) the upper left quarters for persons high in "Competence" and low in "Personality"
4) the lower left quarters for persons low in "Competence" and "Personality"
So, if you have friend/ employee in the 1st quarters, treassure them.
Those in 2nd quarters, groom them.
Those in 3rd quarters, avoid them.
Those in 4th quarters, forget them.
Then, if the "Y: axis represents "Competence" and "X" axis represents "Personality", then you will have features as follows:
1) the upper right quarters for persons high in "Competence" and "Personality".
2) the lower right quarters for persons low in "Competence" but high in "Personality"
3) the upper left quarters for persons high in "Competence" and low in "Personality"
4) the lower left quarters for persons low in "Competence" and "Personality"
So, if you have friend/ employee in the 1st quarters, treassure them.
Those in 2nd quarters, groom them.
Those in 3rd quarters, avoid them.
Those in 4th quarters, forget them.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Importance of Love
Love from Harry Porter's mother is what protects him when he is in danger
Love from the parents is what guides us when we fall in the current of life
Love from the colleagues is what drives us when we are confronted by challenges in work
Love from the children is what lighten up our lifes when we are in boredom and dilemma at home
Love from the second half is what delights us when we live in every second of our life
Ideas from Cheryl and Ada
Love from the parents is what guides us when we fall in the current of life
Love from the colleagues is what drives us when we are confronted by challenges in work
Love from the children is what lighten up our lifes when we are in boredom and dilemma at home
Love from the second half is what delights us when we live in every second of our life
Ideas from Cheryl and Ada
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Hearts vs World
A Chinese cliche says
Those who earns the hearts (or support) of his people will obtain his world (or soveriegnty)
Those who earns the hearts (or support) of his people will obtain his world (or soveriegnty)
Friday, September 11, 2009
Battle for Lifes
In 1992, United Nations decided to step in the Civil War in Somalia which claimed thousands lives. The warlord, General Mohamed Farrah Aidid was a highly intelligent analyst, strategist and militant mastermind with most powerful army in hands amongst his rivals at that point in time. Victims of war starved and died in tremendous number. Dead bodies were in abundance all over the country.
The ruthless warlord Mohamed Farrah Aidid of the Black Sea embraced his belief that starvation and killing was the mean of unity and sustainable peace. This was true in many historical events all over the world. Seizing the humantarian supply to the refugees was a mean to earn the supply to his army with neccessities and arm. He also earned his support throughout the city of Mogadishu and majority of the other areas in Black Sea of Somalia.
On the other hand, United Nations embraced the belief of democracy is the mean of unity and sustainable peace. This was true in many historical events, too. Nevertheless, UN soilders were trained professionally and only the elites, the best of the best will be involved in special tasks.
In the attempt of the UN to capture the most powerful warlord of Black Sea on 3rd of October 1993, 160 elite soilders were sent the city of Mogadishu where the warlord inhabited. Convoy of helicopters, vehicles and fighting tools went along by the UN troop in such mission.
However, the assault had been noticed and the defendent's force had fully prepared and equiped for the arrival of the UN soilders. Battle field started with the fall of the first black hawk helicopter. To the defendents, such assault was intepreted as an invasion to their land and the saviour, the warlord of the Black Sea. To the assault, the move was for saving the civilians who were victimised, straved and killed as a result of the civil war. Eagleness for survival and anger for the loss of the love one prevailed in both sides. Even the Somalian children and women took up the arm and fought against the invaders. However, what made a difference in the battle has been analysed as follows:
1) UN troops were professionally trained and equiped with the best tool in the battle.
2) UN troops were lead by a group of military analysts and strategies who coordinated the respective forces systematically and strategically with careful and sharp consideration of the big pictures and the smallest details.
3) Adoption of superior analytical and supervisory tool and technology to closely monitor and analyse the rivals and their military actions.
4) The UN force who entered the danger zone comprised of mainly the American Delta Force, the Best of the Best in America. The hardship and challenges in their tough training has led to development of strong ties and brotherhood amongst the soilders. Unlike the rivalry forces with loose structure and unity, the brotherhood amongst the UN Delta Force led to undefeatable teamwork given the disasterous circumstance.
5) The inner strength amongst the elites in the UN force led them to self actualisation in the strange land of Mogadishu whom they did not have any advantage geographically, meteologically and in human relationship.
6) Unlike the rivals, all these disadvantages offer a disasterous ground for breakthrough and a sense of achievement in self actualisation which is indescribable and could be proud for live. Imagine, the soilders can fight with their fingers broken or bodies injured by bullets. The adrenaline level rose their physical and mental capabilities to the fullest. To them, they would rather choose to died gloriously instead of to live with dismay and regret.
Although this was the most severe fight of the US troop after the Vietnam War (1959 - 1975), the death of the American soilders has been minimised to 19 soilders in the retreat in comparison of the rivals with death reaching more than 1,000 gunmens.
Lotus grows in the muddy water. Its values originated from its ability to thrive and flourish in uninhabitable grounds to most plants. Indeed, the Lotus breaks though the muddy ground with their leafs and flowers uncontaminated by the nasty mud.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Kam Loong 1
About 200 years ago In Korea, there was a humble merchant who grew up from a poor family. His father spents years in studying Chinese language and history with an ambition to become a translator for the ancient Korean Government to their gigantic neighbour, China in the Ching Dynasty.
So, since childhood time, he learned all these from his father and earn sound proficiency in the language and history of China. However, he had a brilliant mind in business..
To be continued...
So, since childhood time, he learned all these from his father and earn sound proficiency in the language and history of China. However, he had a brilliant mind in business..
To be continued...
Politics
By Ambrose Bierse
It is indeed a process whereby group of people make decisions. Due to differences in principles, interests, opinions, impressions and perceptions, we fight among ourselves with different way of expressions, methods and strategies. Some of these way of fighting can be perceived negatively if one is in a losing position. However, truth and victory will prevail in long run if one can stay calm, analyse, strategise and execute the plans in due course. Small troop can overcome large number of rivals if they can use their geographically, meteological and psycological advantages correctly. This has been proven correct in many battles and rivalry in the history.
In life, we can never avoid political rivalry. If you put a few rats in a cage with limited food. They will fight in the similar manner, too.
Thus, political rivalry prevails everywhere. So, please learn to deal with it instead of avoiding it.
Anger
Anger, if used in the correct manner and quotum, can convey message of dislike and disagreement effectively.
It can shack the beliefs of the target audience which offer opportunity to instill new beliefs.
It can shack the beliefs of the target audience which offer opportunity to instill new beliefs.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Team
A team as an energetic group of people who are committed to achieving common objectives, who work well together and enjoy doing so, and who produce high quaity result.
(Francis and Young, 1979)
A team is a set of interpersonal relationship structured to achieve established goals
(Johnson and Johnson, 1991)
A team as a group of individuals working together in which the success of any individual is dependent on the success of the entire group.
(Lanza, 1985)
A team as a group in which individuals share a common aim and in whihc the jobs and skills of each member fit in with those of the others.
(Adair, 1986)
(Francis and Young, 1979)
A team is a set of interpersonal relationship structured to achieve established goals
(Johnson and Johnson, 1991)
A team as a group of individuals working together in which the success of any individual is dependent on the success of the entire group.
(Lanza, 1985)
A team as a group in which individuals share a common aim and in whihc the jobs and skills of each member fit in with those of the others.
(Adair, 1986)
Reflection and Renewal
Self Reflection and Renewal Actions are critical steps for betterment and improvement.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
A Rest Day
It is such a windy morning. The wind kissed my face and woke me up in this morning. Delighted, I woke up energetically. Yes, today is Sunday. A holiday and a special day designated to the family and the love one.
As discussed and decided in unanimity last night, we shall spend our family time in Ulu Langat today. The children were excited and awaited me before I woke up. They had dressed in the most vibrant sport suits and equipped with the necessities in jungle hiking and mountain climbing. Indeed, we intended to conquer the majestic Gunung Naung in Batu 20, Pangsun, Ulu Langat.
So we start the journey in our vigorous four wheel drive after a simple breakfast. The lush greenery along the ascending hilly road leading to Ulu Langat welcome us with very cooling and refreshing experience. Then, we passed the Look Out Point where you can see the scenic whole Kuala Lumpur view at the summit. Further, we descended and cold fog blurred our vision. I have no choice but to reduce my speed and turn on the front light of the vehicle.
Fog thinned as we descended. A few terrace houses and apartments came to our vision initially. At a short distance, we can see a primary school and some cottages with small farming compound. We saw a few cyclists waited at the "T" junction
Upon arrival to the
To be continued…
As discussed and decided in unanimity last night, we shall spend our family time in Ulu Langat today. The children were excited and awaited me before I woke up. They had dressed in the most vibrant sport suits and equipped with the necessities in jungle hiking and mountain climbing. Indeed, we intended to conquer the majestic Gunung Naung in Batu 20, Pangsun, Ulu Langat.
So we start the journey in our vigorous four wheel drive after a simple breakfast. The lush greenery along the ascending hilly road leading to Ulu Langat welcome us with very cooling and refreshing experience. Then, we passed the Look Out Point where you can see the scenic whole Kuala Lumpur view at the summit. Further, we descended and cold fog blurred our vision. I have no choice but to reduce my speed and turn on the front light of the vehicle.
Fog thinned as we descended. A few terrace houses and apartments came to our vision initially. At a short distance, we can see a primary school and some cottages with small farming compound. We saw a few cyclists waited at the "T" junction
Upon arrival to the
To be continued…
Love is on the way
This is the most beautiful growth and realization of Love.
Source: Sin Chew Daily. Sunday Special 6th of Sept, 2009. Page 1
Missing
Missing someone is a sweet thing to do everyday. In the process of looking forward to the next encounter, one will earn the drive for betterment, self discipline and strength in handling challenges in life.
Indeed, his emotional and physical strength is enhanced.
Indeed, his emotional and physical strength is enhanced.
Wisdom
Philosophers have their psychological and physiological needs just like us. However, they have the compasses in hands when they are lost, or the candles in the dark to lead them out of the darkness. They suffer from the hardships in life as well. However, what makes them different from other is the wisdom in mind and ability to see beauty in the tough environment despite the pain and suffering.
Our mindset, our past...
Ok, let us try this. Please take down the speed when you read from A to Z.
So, next, please do the same as above but read from Z to A.
You will probably be surprised to realize that you may have such difficulty in doing the later. So, what does it mean?
We are trained to think according to our educational background, upbringing, experiences and assumptions. This leads us to think in one single direction. However, did you ever think from different angle?
So, let us try this again. Please take the speed of reading in this sequence, “A, C, E, G … to Z” and see how long do you need to take to do this?
Source: Michael RG
So, next, please do the same as above but read from Z to A.
You will probably be surprised to realize that you may have such difficulty in doing the later. So, what does it mean?
We are trained to think according to our educational background, upbringing, experiences and assumptions. This leads us to think in one single direction. However, did you ever think from different angle?
So, let us try this again. Please take the speed of reading in this sequence, “A, C, E, G … to Z” and see how long do you need to take to do this?
Source: Michael RG
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Insanity
Researchers in both medical field and psychology have been looking for the best definition for "Insanity" and its causation. After years of survey, research and field study, the closest definition of "Insanity" is the attachment of our feeling to the subject matter.
Sometimes, we subject our feelings to an incident, a person, a physical or intangible good. This could probably due to some past experiences, up bringing, inherited attributes, state of mind or perception of the future outcome. The heavier the attachment of one's feeling to the subject matter, the heavier the impact it has to the person.
Well, if you can put down your paradigm and stand on the shoes of third party, you may have a different view or perspective to the subject matter. A reliable friend or your second half could be a source of new light that can lead you to see the subject matter from different point of view that lead you out from the darkness. However, arrogance or deafness to different opinions regardless of its motive causes us to go to the wrong path foolishly. If you can regard yourself as knowing nothing and start learning, you may learn things that you never know, you never know.
Nothing is indispensible except O2, H2O and good health. A person like me will not lose weight eventhough I stop eating for 3 days. However, if you treat the subject matter as so indispensible, your state of your mind will depend on the changes in the subject matter. So, is the subject matter so indispensible? How true is it?
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
History
What is History? In its broadest sense, history is the story of people- the study of our past. Some historieans look at important events, such as wars, revolutions and governments, while others are interested in ordinary people's lives. Henry Ford, teh American car manufacturer, once said "History in bunk", but most people would disagree. Our lives today are shaped by decisions and actions made decades, centuries or even thousands of year ago. By understanding the past, we may be able to gain a more balanced view of the present and foresee future development.
Before historians can interpret the past, they must first establish the facts about the events they are studying. Historians look for evidence by researching many doucments and records, called historical sources.
Archaeology is the study of the physical remains of the past- everything from a priceless statue to a rubbish tip. It can tell us about societies that existed before records were made.
Source: Ganeri A., Martell M., William B., The Encyclopedia of World History, UK, 2006, Pg 8, 10 and 12
Monday, August 31, 2009
Colin Powell's Rules
1. It ain't as bad as you think. It will look better in the morning.
2. Get mad, then get it over.
3. Avoid having your ego so close to your position that when your position falls, your ego goes with it.
4. It can be done.
5. Be careful what you choose. You may get it.
6. Don't let adverse facts stand in the way of a good decision.
7. You cann't make someone else's choices. You shouldn't let someone else make yours.
8. Check small things.
9. Share credit.
10. Remain calm. Be kind.
11. Have a vision. Be demanding.
12. Don't take counsel of your fears or naysayers.
13. Perpetual optimism is a force multiplier
Source: A Soidier's Way, An Autobiography of General Colin Powell with Joseph E. Persico, Hutchinson, London, 1995.
General Colin Powell - An advisor to four US Presidents
A Philosopher vs A Boat Man
A tale often told as well…
One day, a prominent philosopher went on a boat at a jetty. Then, the boatman started the voyage.
After a while, the philosopher asked the boatman "Do you know music?"
The boatman replied, "No, I don't."
Later, the philosopher said, "Well, you have wasted 1/3 of your life. So, do you know philosophy?"
The boatman answered, "No, I don't."
The philosopher said again, "Well, you have wasted another 1/3 of your life."
Silence was in the air. The boat gradually moved to deep sea.
Suddenly… a voice is heard, "szeeee… ." The boat is sinking!!!
The boatman asked the philosopher, "Do you know how to swim?"
The philosopher answered, "I afraid I don't."
The boatman said, "Then you have wasted all your time just knowing music and philosophy. You will die now."
I am not good with the eternity, philosophy and life after life. What I know better is science and presence. Perhaps philosophy originates from our daily life as well. However, I trust that I must do whatever in front of me good and God will decide the result. At least, I will try my best and I will appreciate the process, be it a success or failure.
Life, if so smooth and flat, without obstacle and hindrance, we can see the end, death not so far away. So, when we see obstacle as stones on our path, we can choose to take them as something that hinder us to proceed or it can choose to take them as stepping stones for us to climb up and see the horizon far ahead. Without suffering, the fruit will not be well appreciated and sweet.
Lotus grow from the mud but uncontaminated. Mud symbolizes our environment and if you feel the mud is so dirty and refuse to put in the Lotus' seed in it, well, we do not have any chance to see it grow (or otherwise) at all…
God, if He wishes to grant us any mission, He will first torture of bodies, then train up our spirit…
One day, a prominent philosopher went on a boat at a jetty. Then, the boatman started the voyage.
After a while, the philosopher asked the boatman "Do you know music?"
The boatman replied, "No, I don't."
Later, the philosopher said, "Well, you have wasted 1/3 of your life. So, do you know philosophy?"
The boatman answered, "No, I don't."
The philosopher said again, "Well, you have wasted another 1/3 of your life."
Silence was in the air. The boat gradually moved to deep sea.
Suddenly… a voice is heard, "szeeee… ." The boat is sinking!!!
The boatman asked the philosopher, "Do you know how to swim?"
The philosopher answered, "I afraid I don't."
The boatman said, "Then you have wasted all your time just knowing music and philosophy. You will die now."
I am not good with the eternity, philosophy and life after life. What I know better is science and presence. Perhaps philosophy originates from our daily life as well. However, I trust that I must do whatever in front of me good and God will decide the result. At least, I will try my best and I will appreciate the process, be it a success or failure.
Life, if so smooth and flat, without obstacle and hindrance, we can see the end, death not so far away. So, when we see obstacle as stones on our path, we can choose to take them as something that hinder us to proceed or it can choose to take them as stepping stones for us to climb up and see the horizon far ahead. Without suffering, the fruit will not be well appreciated and sweet.
Lotus grow from the mud but uncontaminated. Mud symbolizes our environment and if you feel the mud is so dirty and refuse to put in the Lotus' seed in it, well, we do not have any chance to see it grow (or otherwise) at all…
God, if He wishes to grant us any mission, He will first torture of bodies, then train up our spirit…
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Lao Tze vs Confucious
One day, Confucius paid a visit to Loa Sze for exchanging opinions and extending his knowledge. They did so for three days and three nights with much joy just like what I am enjoying doing with you now.
Before Confucius left, he sought the last advice fro Lao Sze as a conclusion for the lengthy discussion. Lao Sze said, "Whatever you leant originated from the philosophies and knowledge of the ancient scholars whose bodies had long rotten and bones decayed. Please do not rely too heavily on these in pursue for your knowledge. Another one, perhaps you should put down your prestige and be more pragmatic. It will be more beneficial to you."
Chinese History must be examined by the Emperors before it can be recorded officially. So, to what extent it can be genuine? Knowledge and philosophies from the past should be taken as reference, not something that we ought to embrace without considering the difference to the time space. I used to have an attitude that my close friends know very well. I like to scruitinise theories by examining the issues in hand from different angles and take it the way I feel it ought to be scientifically, reasonably and logically with consideration to the time space at that point in time.
- Hide quoted text -
Take a cup of coffee for instance and put it still for sometimes. Which portion is the thickest with the best aroma? The most bottom portion, of course. I am sure you know what I am doing is quite irrelevant to what I was trained in. If not by going to the floor level to see what my men do, review their practices and mindset, identify the hidden costs, acquire knowledge from the suppliers, pursue self study and Kaizen, my business hardly progresses. Most of the good ingredients are at the bottom, not at the top. Without the good ingredient for those who in charge, the staffs at the bottom can bring you to Holland, man…. So does knowledge and philosophies.
By overcoming hardship, one does not necessarily go self centered with pride grow indefinitely. Whatever we do should adhere to the Laws of Nature, where equilibrium is achieved. Neither too extensively at any extreme end. Perhaps to understand the relationships of Causes and Effects are always beneficial us. Every seed that we plant will bear fruit subject to the type of seed and the way we nurture it. This is what I truly believe. Moving away from the equilibrium bring adverse impacts which could be beyond our imagination. Insanity is one of them. It will come about when we are too attached to our feelings and beliefs.
Before Confucius left, he sought the last advice fro Lao Sze as a conclusion for the lengthy discussion. Lao Sze said, "Whatever you leant originated from the philosophies and knowledge of the ancient scholars whose bodies had long rotten and bones decayed. Please do not rely too heavily on these in pursue for your knowledge. Another one, perhaps you should put down your prestige and be more pragmatic. It will be more beneficial to you."
Chinese History must be examined by the Emperors before it can be recorded officially. So, to what extent it can be genuine? Knowledge and philosophies from the past should be taken as reference, not something that we ought to embrace without considering the difference to the time space. I used to have an attitude that my close friends know very well. I like to scruitinise theories by examining the issues in hand from different angles and take it the way I feel it ought to be scientifically, reasonably and logically with consideration to the time space at that point in time.
- Hide quoted text -
Take a cup of coffee for instance and put it still for sometimes. Which portion is the thickest with the best aroma? The most bottom portion, of course. I am sure you know what I am doing is quite irrelevant to what I was trained in. If not by going to the floor level to see what my men do, review their practices and mindset, identify the hidden costs, acquire knowledge from the suppliers, pursue self study and Kaizen, my business hardly progresses. Most of the good ingredients are at the bottom, not at the top. Without the good ingredient for those who in charge, the staffs at the bottom can bring you to Holland, man…. So does knowledge and philosophies.
By overcoming hardship, one does not necessarily go self centered with pride grow indefinitely. Whatever we do should adhere to the Laws of Nature, where equilibrium is achieved. Neither too extensively at any extreme end. Perhaps to understand the relationships of Causes and Effects are always beneficial us. Every seed that we plant will bear fruit subject to the type of seed and the way we nurture it. This is what I truly believe. Moving away from the equilibrium bring adverse impacts which could be beyond our imagination. Insanity is one of them. It will come about when we are too attached to our feelings and beliefs.
Reply from a friend about my article "Lao Tze vs Confucious"
"Another one, perhaps you should put down your prestige and be more pragmatic. It will be more beneficial to you." Trully an only an enlighten being could say such things and really mean and understand it, do we?
It is good that you do not accept everything on face value but consider this; you evaluate through your limited wisdom and vision of the world and beyond. You say the bottom bears treasures, but as all treasures and harvest originate from the good earth it is only through proper use; understood through high thinking could a good harvest be obtained. A farmer lets his lands lie fallow to reap a harvest latter on. A philosophy of long term gain. You practice Kaizen also a management philosophy. You like hands on business another philosophy appropriate to a business of your nature and present operational capacity. Think in terms of Shell Global over 180 countries and nearly 10,000 legal entities engaged in many a diverse field employing over 500,000 in various capacities; what business management philosophy then?
As for overcoming hardship resulting in pride perhaps you should reread the comparism of Gengis Khan, Hitler and Ghandi; try to reflect a little further. We have discussed in brief high thinking and low living but you still questioned such philosophies. Consider this, if everything you encounter is measured against your own life experiences what do you see? Before Columbus science said the world was flat. In the 19th century people called you crazy if you thought of manned flight. Science is ever trying to catch up with philosophy and especially religion.
Faith healing is taken as hocust pocust, yet many that modern medicine has pronounced incurable are walking healthy in defiance. Where is science now? Realise that while science and logic has a definate place in life; science is limited by its present state of advancement and new grounds are being gained daily debunking past scientific boundaries; boundaries you place on yourself when science is your only guide. Imagine travelling beyond the speed of light, science fiction today but tomorror? Logic is a systematic method to arrive at some conclusion for a given situation given past experiences. What if you had derived a incorrect conclusion from your past experiences and how wide are your past experiences? Is your logic sequence impartial and not clouded by emotion or other factors?
Philosophies that are trully worth taking as pillars in our life provide support in times of uncertainty. Example: Offer up all good conducts and avoid all evils. If a business deal with obvious detriment to society reaches you offering you immense riches what then; think back to the 1997 Asian Financial Crises. What would you have done if you were in a position to prosper on the misery of millions?
Philosopies are indeed never to be taken in its literal form blindly without regard to the circumstances of each. Sages of all ages bestow wisdom according to the potentials of the people to whom they address. As we have discussed about the Buddhist patriates who had written verses on the nature of the mind; right and wrong is really dependent on where you stand and at what level is your spiritual development. As a mongol I might sing praises of the Khan who could deliver me from a nomadic life to one of comfort, but as one of the conquered nations I would spit on the Khan's name.
"Without the good ingredient for those who in charge, the staffs at the bottom can bring you to Holland, man…. So does knowledge and philosophies." Do you see the contradiction? The men in charge's good ingredients, what is that but another management teory another word for philosophy; work ethic perhaps another reflection of philosophy; to inspire and direct those below as the Lotus flower inspires those mired in defilement to rise above it. A man is modern because? He has science? or He has culture and moral character? Philosophies if understood for its principles and applied in appropriate cases would yield a utopian society.
Sadly, almost all people abuse the principles of philosopies of the sages; twisting the literal words to justify their abhorent acts. As the word "Jihad" is often abused. Jihad as I understand it, is a personal struggle for spiritual improvement with nothing to do with killing anybody. Even you my friend; took an excerpt from the discussion between two sages, just latching on the last sentence's few words without doing what you profess; of discovering the context that it was said. Realise that as two sages discuss philosopies mundane people often drown in their depht if they wander in without adequate preparation.
Care should be taken not to discard and discount concepts we are not yet able to fully comprehend. Reflect on ourself more, do not shine your wisdom light on others but turn it back within; do you understand yourself, your actions and motivations behind those actions? Are you truly a master of yourself or a slave to an illusory image you hold to be yourself? A glimpse of high thinking. Sages of old leave the mundane world behind and cultivate in isolation for proper self reflection brings out wonderous enlightenment that those not on this path will not yet be able to comprehend. If you tell a poor farmer that the fertiliser he is using is killing the environment what would he say? If we tell the consumer to pay a little more for vegetables grown without chemicals what does he say? Each would respond according to their situation in life guided by those values and philosophies that they live by; those pillars of life that grant us a means of reference to make sense of our surroundings.
Mundane philosopies are really only there as means of reference to make sense of what we perceive amidst us. A father might tells his son upon seeing a begger:
1) "Study hard and get a good job or you'll end up like that begger" or
2) "Take pity on those less well off then yourself and practice generousity" or
3) "Careful you don't waste money on these syndicates trying to cheat our sympathy" or many other options and the child in question develops a sense of reference when he next perceives a begger.
Can this reference change? Yes, when this child encounters what he accepts as fundamental contradictions to those ingrained values. Example: He sees a friend made bankrupt through uncruplulous business partners and rendered to begging to continue living; values 1 & 3 may be overturned completely. These are mundane philosophies meant only as terms of references in our life to be used as the appropriate situation arises.
Then there are higher philosophies, transedental philosophies that go beyond life and even death or at a lower level just deals with death. These would not be discussed here as it is not the appropriate forum; conditions may arise in the future for its discussion but not in the near future.
Suffice to say, philosophies in its many forms and many names forms the pillar to the life of each person. Each of us adopt a certain stance in life deemed beneficail to ourselves. In a cultured and tolerent society, it would take but a little maturity to accept diversity in philosophies.
A progressive society would welcome any new concepts and ideas and readily discuss and debate it without any prejudice. What we do not understand or find we are presently unable to accept or adopt becomes part of our knowledge and when the time is right to manifest in our lives.
The greatest science cannot eradicate crime, morals can. The best logic can be put to criminal use but good values might prevent such abuse. Great philosopies challenge us to be more than what we are today, are we up to the call?
Man is unique among earthly beings as he has an intelligence bestowed with self awareness but is cursed by an ancestry steep in instinctive responses towards self preservation. Progression from a savage to one of cultured refinement is not in science or fancy cloths but by high thinking... philosopies.
Written by B.C. KHOO
It is good that you do not accept everything on face value but consider this; you evaluate through your limited wisdom and vision of the world and beyond. You say the bottom bears treasures, but as all treasures and harvest originate from the good earth it is only through proper use; understood through high thinking could a good harvest be obtained. A farmer lets his lands lie fallow to reap a harvest latter on. A philosophy of long term gain. You practice Kaizen also a management philosophy. You like hands on business another philosophy appropriate to a business of your nature and present operational capacity. Think in terms of Shell Global over 180 countries and nearly 10,000 legal entities engaged in many a diverse field employing over 500,000 in various capacities; what business management philosophy then?
As for overcoming hardship resulting in pride perhaps you should reread the comparism of Gengis Khan, Hitler and Ghandi; try to reflect a little further. We have discussed in brief high thinking and low living but you still questioned such philosophies. Consider this, if everything you encounter is measured against your own life experiences what do you see? Before Columbus science said the world was flat. In the 19th century people called you crazy if you thought of manned flight. Science is ever trying to catch up with philosophy and especially religion.
Faith healing is taken as hocust pocust, yet many that modern medicine has pronounced incurable are walking healthy in defiance. Where is science now? Realise that while science and logic has a definate place in life; science is limited by its present state of advancement and new grounds are being gained daily debunking past scientific boundaries; boundaries you place on yourself when science is your only guide. Imagine travelling beyond the speed of light, science fiction today but tomorror? Logic is a systematic method to arrive at some conclusion for a given situation given past experiences. What if you had derived a incorrect conclusion from your past experiences and how wide are your past experiences? Is your logic sequence impartial and not clouded by emotion or other factors?
Philosophies that are trully worth taking as pillars in our life provide support in times of uncertainty. Example: Offer up all good conducts and avoid all evils. If a business deal with obvious detriment to society reaches you offering you immense riches what then; think back to the 1997 Asian Financial Crises. What would you have done if you were in a position to prosper on the misery of millions?
Philosopies are indeed never to be taken in its literal form blindly without regard to the circumstances of each. Sages of all ages bestow wisdom according to the potentials of the people to whom they address. As we have discussed about the Buddhist patriates who had written verses on the nature of the mind; right and wrong is really dependent on where you stand and at what level is your spiritual development. As a mongol I might sing praises of the Khan who could deliver me from a nomadic life to one of comfort, but as one of the conquered nations I would spit on the Khan's name.
"Without the good ingredient for those who in charge, the staffs at the bottom can bring you to Holland, man…. So does knowledge and philosophies." Do you see the contradiction? The men in charge's good ingredients, what is that but another management teory another word for philosophy; work ethic perhaps another reflection of philosophy; to inspire and direct those below as the Lotus flower inspires those mired in defilement to rise above it. A man is modern because? He has science? or He has culture and moral character? Philosophies if understood for its principles and applied in appropriate cases would yield a utopian society.
Sadly, almost all people abuse the principles of philosopies of the sages; twisting the literal words to justify their abhorent acts. As the word "Jihad" is often abused. Jihad as I understand it, is a personal struggle for spiritual improvement with nothing to do with killing anybody. Even you my friend; took an excerpt from the discussion between two sages, just latching on the last sentence's few words without doing what you profess; of discovering the context that it was said. Realise that as two sages discuss philosopies mundane people often drown in their depht if they wander in without adequate preparation.
Care should be taken not to discard and discount concepts we are not yet able to fully comprehend. Reflect on ourself more, do not shine your wisdom light on others but turn it back within; do you understand yourself, your actions and motivations behind those actions? Are you truly a master of yourself or a slave to an illusory image you hold to be yourself? A glimpse of high thinking. Sages of old leave the mundane world behind and cultivate in isolation for proper self reflection brings out wonderous enlightenment that those not on this path will not yet be able to comprehend. If you tell a poor farmer that the fertiliser he is using is killing the environment what would he say? If we tell the consumer to pay a little more for vegetables grown without chemicals what does he say? Each would respond according to their situation in life guided by those values and philosophies that they live by; those pillars of life that grant us a means of reference to make sense of our surroundings.
Mundane philosopies are really only there as means of reference to make sense of what we perceive amidst us. A father might tells his son upon seeing a begger:
1) "Study hard and get a good job or you'll end up like that begger" or
2) "Take pity on those less well off then yourself and practice generousity" or
3) "Careful you don't waste money on these syndicates trying to cheat our sympathy" or many other options and the child in question develops a sense of reference when he next perceives a begger.
Can this reference change? Yes, when this child encounters what he accepts as fundamental contradictions to those ingrained values. Example: He sees a friend made bankrupt through uncruplulous business partners and rendered to begging to continue living; values 1 & 3 may be overturned completely. These are mundane philosophies meant only as terms of references in our life to be used as the appropriate situation arises.
Then there are higher philosophies, transedental philosophies that go beyond life and even death or at a lower level just deals with death. These would not be discussed here as it is not the appropriate forum; conditions may arise in the future for its discussion but not in the near future.
Suffice to say, philosophies in its many forms and many names forms the pillar to the life of each person. Each of us adopt a certain stance in life deemed beneficail to ourselves. In a cultured and tolerent society, it would take but a little maturity to accept diversity in philosophies.
A progressive society would welcome any new concepts and ideas and readily discuss and debate it without any prejudice. What we do not understand or find we are presently unable to accept or adopt becomes part of our knowledge and when the time is right to manifest in our lives.
The greatest science cannot eradicate crime, morals can. The best logic can be put to criminal use but good values might prevent such abuse. Great philosopies challenge us to be more than what we are today, are we up to the call?
Man is unique among earthly beings as he has an intelligence bestowed with self awareness but is cursed by an ancestry steep in instinctive responses towards self preservation. Progression from a savage to one of cultured refinement is not in science or fancy cloths but by high thinking... philosopies.
Written by B.C. KHOO
Friday, August 28, 2009
The Power of Words and Faith
Make and keep a promise - even if it means you're going to get up in he morning a little earlier and exercise. Be sure you don't violate that commitment and be sure you don't overpromise and underdeliver.
When we make and keep commitments, such as setting and achieving goals, we make emotional deposits. We increase our confidence in our own trustworthiness, in our ability to make and keep commitments to ourselves and to others.
Build slowly until your sense of honor becomes greater than your moods. Little by little, your faith in yourself will increase. A high balance in this emotional account is a great source of strenght and security..
Source: Covey S, First Things First Every Day- Because Where You're Headed Is More Important than How Fast You're Going, Daily Reflections, Simon & Schuster NY, 1997, pg 27 & 275
When we make and keep commitments, such as setting and achieving goals, we make emotional deposits. We increase our confidence in our own trustworthiness, in our ability to make and keep commitments to ourselves and to others.
Build slowly until your sense of honor becomes greater than your moods. Little by little, your faith in yourself will increase. A high balance in this emotional account is a great source of strenght and security..
Source: Covey S, First Things First Every Day- Because Where You're Headed Is More Important than How Fast You're Going, Daily Reflections, Simon & Schuster NY, 1997, pg 27 & 275
Change, a step ahead
What prevent us from making a change? Some of our beliefs, both personal and cultural, can hold us back.
Many people don't believe they can make a change merely because previous attempts have failed. Or they might think change has to be a long, painful process; if not, they argue (where objection handling starts), then why haven't they chaged already? Furthermore, if you resolve a problem you've been dealing with for year in a matter of minutes, you have to face your friends and family: they might ask, "If it was that easy, why did we waste time worrying about you?" With all these negative "incentive", we've learned to take a long time so people can "appreciate" our change.
Shake off this cultural hypnosis and realise that new actions will produce new result now.
Source: Robbins A, Giant Steps- Small Changes to make a big difference, 365 Daily Lesson in Self- Mastery, Simin & Schuster, 1994, pg 151
Many people don't believe they can make a change merely because previous attempts have failed. Or they might think change has to be a long, painful process; if not, they argue (where objection handling starts), then why haven't they chaged already? Furthermore, if you resolve a problem you've been dealing with for year in a matter of minutes, you have to face your friends and family: they might ask, "If it was that easy, why did we waste time worrying about you?" With all these negative "incentive", we've learned to take a long time so people can "appreciate" our change.
Shake off this cultural hypnosis and realise that new actions will produce new result now.
Source: Robbins A, Giant Steps- Small Changes to make a big difference, 365 Daily Lesson in Self- Mastery, Simin & Schuster, 1994, pg 151
Charisma + Charm
My colleague praised me for my irresistable "Charisma" just now. Well, I think the desciption was not good enough to describe me. Perhaps she should include the word irresistable "Charm" as well..
Emm, you see, not everyone has the irresistable double Cs - "Charisma + Charm" together like ME normally. Such attributes are both precious and unique. In my unique case, the irresistable "Charisma + Charm" extends from inside to outside, physically, verbally and mentally, flowing out from the Charming ME naturally and continously...
Thus, I would like to suggest the most brilliant idea in this century...
OK, we shall set up a "Kuan Fan Club".
Yes, "Kuan Fan Club", undoubtedly.
You will be entitled to a number of benefits if you join the Club NOW. I shall outline them as follows:
1) You will have the exclusive right to enjoy my irresistable "Charisma + Charm" in your business area + areas within the radius of 20km. Please note that such exclusivity will be extended to you for life.
2) You will be given timely counselling, advise, emotional and monetary support, within 24 hour should you call me directly at 12345678 (Toll Free).
3) You will be supplied with periodicals and newsletters about the latest development of the "Kuan Fan Club", on-line articles, the future activities and the schedule in admiring my double Cs- the irresistable "Charisma and Charm".
4) The rest of benefits are not important because the 1st one is the most beneficial to our exclusive members, YOU, life long, endlessly...
We are expecting overwhelming response from the public at large. So, please ACT NOW while stock lasts.
Kindly fill in the form as follows:
(Please note that you will be given MYR50.00 upon successful registration of normal membership with Us. For registration of committee, you are entitled for MYR200.00 per person. Remember, membership is free for life to enjoy my irresistable double Cs - irresistable "Charisma + Charm")
Name:
Gender:
Age:
Occupation:
Address:
NRIC:
Colour of NRIC:
Nationality:
Weight (in kilogram):
Height (in milimeter):
Income range: > MYR1,000.00 MYR1,000.00 to MYR2,500.00 > MYR2500.00
Occupation:
Marital Status:
Number of Children, if any:
Type of Membership: NORMAL / COMMITTEE
...
...
...
(Please scroll down)
...
...
...
(Next page)
...
...
...
(Scroll down some more..)
...
...
...
SORRY, FREIDNS. THIS IS MERELY A JOKE TO CHEER YOU UP FOR A HAPPIER WEEKEND
Emm, you see, not everyone has the irresistable double Cs - "Charisma + Charm" together like ME normally. Such attributes are both precious and unique. In my unique case, the irresistable "Charisma + Charm" extends from inside to outside, physically, verbally and mentally, flowing out from the Charming ME naturally and continously...
Thus, I would like to suggest the most brilliant idea in this century...
OK, we shall set up a "Kuan Fan Club".
Yes, "Kuan Fan Club", undoubtedly.
You will be entitled to a number of benefits if you join the Club NOW. I shall outline them as follows:
1) You will have the exclusive right to enjoy my irresistable "Charisma + Charm" in your business area + areas within the radius of 20km. Please note that such exclusivity will be extended to you for life.
2) You will be given timely counselling, advise, emotional and monetary support, within 24 hour should you call me directly at 12345678 (Toll Free).
3) You will be supplied with periodicals and newsletters about the latest development of the "Kuan Fan Club", on-line articles, the future activities and the schedule in admiring my double Cs- the irresistable "Charisma and Charm".
4) The rest of benefits are not important because the 1st one is the most beneficial to our exclusive members, YOU, life long, endlessly...
We are expecting overwhelming response from the public at large. So, please ACT NOW while stock lasts.
Kindly fill in the form as follows:
(Please note that you will be given MYR50.00 upon successful registration of normal membership with Us. For registration of committee, you are entitled for MYR200.00 per person. Remember, membership is free for life to enjoy my irresistable double Cs - irresistable "Charisma + Charm")
Name:
Gender:
Age:
Occupation:
Address:
NRIC:
Colour of NRIC:
Nationality:
Weight (in kilogram):
Height (in milimeter):
Income range: > MYR1,000.00 MYR1,000.00 to MYR2,500.00 > MYR2500.00
Occupation:
Marital Status:
Number of Children, if any:
Type of Membership: NORMAL / COMMITTEE
...
...
...
(Please scroll down)
...
...
...
(Next page)
...
...
...
(Scroll down some more..)
...
...
...
SORRY, FREIDNS. THIS IS MERELY A JOKE TO CHEER YOU UP FOR A HAPPIER WEEKEND
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Competitive Advantage
COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE IS CREATED, NOT INHERITED
Porter M, "Competitive Advantage of Nations"
The Global Competitive Report 2008- 2009 by Porter M (Harvard University) and World Economic Forum
http://www.weforum.org/documents/GCR0809/index.html
A comprehensive study about why some countries without natural resources can thrive, prosper and become international lenders. In contrast, Porter also studied why some countries with plentiful natural resources have vast majority of population living under critical poverty, intensifying social unrest, limited economical growth and become international borrowers.
Porter M, "Competitive Advantage of Nations"
The Global Competitive Report 2008- 2009 by Porter M (Harvard University) and World Economic Forum
http://www.weforum.org/documents/GCR0809/index.html
A comprehensive study about why some countries without natural resources can thrive, prosper and become international lenders. In contrast, Porter also studied why some countries with plentiful natural resources have vast majority of population living under critical poverty, intensifying social unrest, limited economical growth and become international borrowers.
Priorities
The KEY is not to prioitise what's on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities. And this can best be done in the context of the week.
Ideally, there is harmony, unity, and integrity between your vision and mission, your roles and goals, your priorities and plans, and your desires and discipline. In your weekly planner, there should be a place for your personal mission statement so that you can constantly refer to it. There also needs to be a place for your roles and for both short- and long-term goals.
Source: Covey S., Daily Reflections for Highly Effective People, Living the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People Every Day. Page 224-225.
Ideally, there is harmony, unity, and integrity between your vision and mission, your roles and goals, your priorities and plans, and your desires and discipline. In your weekly planner, there should be a place for your personal mission statement so that you can constantly refer to it. There also needs to be a place for your roles and for both short- and long-term goals.
Source: Covey S., Daily Reflections for Highly Effective People, Living the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People Every Day. Page 224-225.
The Golden Rule
The Golden Rule says to "Do unto others as you would have others do unto you." While on the surface that could mean to do for them what you would like to have done for you, I think the more essential meaning is to understand them deeply as individuals, the way you would want to be understood, and then to treat them in terms of that understanding.
Source: Covey S., Daily Reflections for Highly Effective People, Living the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People Every Day. Page 221.
A walk from Ampang LRT to Kg Tasik Permai
Due to unforeseeable circumstances, I had to embark on an LRT trip to travel from KL to Ampang today. When I reached the Ampang LRT station, I crossed the road and waited for a bus. At a sudden, a strange idea crossed my mind. Perhaps I should take a walk home instead of waiting for a bus. With the cloudy weather, this was perhaps not a bad idea.
So, I started walking. Emmm..., there was a fruit stall before I reached the Shell petrol pump. Oh.., I see, the durian is off season now. Then, I reached the shoplots of the first phase of Ampang Waterfront. Wah..., there were shops selling chandelier lights, adorable toys, pharmaceutical products, etc. Then, I came across people sitting in some restaurants enjoying the aroma of the black coffee. They enjoyed the companionship of their friends in such cloudy and windy atmosphere. Before I reached the junction leading to Taman Bukit Indah, I saw a shelter with a canvas. A police sat inside it. Curiosity led my attention to the display in the said shelter and my leg hit a big stone accidentally. Ouhh..., I almost fell down. The police came out and gave me a hand. Then, I took a rest in the shelter and had a short chat with the police. After a short rest, I continiued my walk and the rain started pouring. Now, I am sitting in a shelter in the second phase of Ampang Waterfront, seeing the river behind the shoplots and keying in this message for YOU, my dear friend. Indeed, without the car, I saw things that I can never see even though I used to passing by this road..
Such slow and gradual walk is fruitful and effective if the result is the main concern. Going slow does not mean losing out. You may be delighted by the treasures that you may not pay attention all this while. Indeed, these treasures could be more precious and enriching. However, if I can go even slower, be more observant and conservative to the environment, I think I would have avoided the stone which may cause injury. Moreover, I do not need to exercise tonight in order to burn my lipid... (scientific name of "fat"). He he he...
The rain is about to stop shortly. I shall continue my slow, gradual and fruitful walk toward Carrefour Ampang, Taman Dagang and then my village again. In fact, I am worrying about walking up the steep slope before I could reach my house now. Nevertheless, I am pretty sure that I will have a good sleep and sweet dream tonight.
If I drive, I will miss out all these enriching experiences and precious treasures. Indeed, such walk allowed me to pay more attention to my surrounding, to discover the treasures which I may have taken for granted and be more observant to the stones which may cause us injury and slow down the journey overall (otherwise, I would have hit more stones).
Good luck, my dear friend..
So, I started walking. Emmm..., there was a fruit stall before I reached the Shell petrol pump. Oh.., I see, the durian is off season now. Then, I reached the shoplots of the first phase of Ampang Waterfront. Wah..., there were shops selling chandelier lights, adorable toys, pharmaceutical products, etc. Then, I came across people sitting in some restaurants enjoying the aroma of the black coffee. They enjoyed the companionship of their friends in such cloudy and windy atmosphere. Before I reached the junction leading to Taman Bukit Indah, I saw a shelter with a canvas. A police sat inside it. Curiosity led my attention to the display in the said shelter and my leg hit a big stone accidentally. Ouhh..., I almost fell down. The police came out and gave me a hand. Then, I took a rest in the shelter and had a short chat with the police. After a short rest, I continiued my walk and the rain started pouring. Now, I am sitting in a shelter in the second phase of Ampang Waterfront, seeing the river behind the shoplots and keying in this message for YOU, my dear friend. Indeed, without the car, I saw things that I can never see even though I used to passing by this road..
Such slow and gradual walk is fruitful and effective if the result is the main concern. Going slow does not mean losing out. You may be delighted by the treasures that you may not pay attention all this while. Indeed, these treasures could be more precious and enriching. However, if I can go even slower, be more observant and conservative to the environment, I think I would have avoided the stone which may cause injury. Moreover, I do not need to exercise tonight in order to burn my lipid... (scientific name of "fat"). He he he...
The rain is about to stop shortly. I shall continue my slow, gradual and fruitful walk toward Carrefour Ampang, Taman Dagang and then my village again. In fact, I am worrying about walking up the steep slope before I could reach my house now. Nevertheless, I am pretty sure that I will have a good sleep and sweet dream tonight.
If I drive, I will miss out all these enriching experiences and precious treasures. Indeed, such walk allowed me to pay more attention to my surrounding, to discover the treasures which I may have taken for granted and be more observant to the stones which may cause us injury and slow down the journey overall (otherwise, I would have hit more stones).
Good luck, my dear friend..
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