JOURNEY
一 期一会
Travelling have opened my mind to a wonderful world and treasured moments. Having lived in a few countries with my family for a decade; I have come to appreciate people of different societies and cultures a little better. Their generosity, kindness, patience and perseverance inspires me to live life just as well. Always remembering to pay it forward.
Rail Corridor, Singapore
Being There
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From a distance, noticed this rooster standing unusually still instead of roaming around for food. On passing, I realised why. A primal commitment also deeply ingrained in human relationships. Being there.
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I have learned that friendship isn't about who you've known longest,
it's about who came and never left your side.
Yolanda Hadid
Punggol Tidal Gate
Sunset
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Hiking in the direction of Punggol Timor Island, was rewarded with this beautiful view on a clear evening. Silhouette of the tidal gate structure can be seen on the right. Punggol Timor and Barat Island is still undergoing development. On completion will be a fascinating place to visit.
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The moon and sun are eternal travelers.
Even the years wander on.
A lifetime adrift in a boat or in old age leading a tired horse into the years,
every day is a journey, and the journey itself is home.
Matsuo Basho
Narrow Road to the Interior
Singapore
Coastal and Rail Corridor Walk
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During an evening walk in February, the thought of exploring the coast of Singapore came to mind. Rail Corridor, a favourite pathway was also added to the adventure. With Apple Fitness map, I could retrace paths taken. Most of the hikes were in the morning except for Punggol and the final 25 KM stretch from Boon Lay to Marina Bay Sands. High UV levels from 10 am to 4 pm and temperature were main considerations for planning longer hikes into the night. Particular caution was taken at Neo Tiew Road, a single lane shared by cyclist, cars and trucks. Without pedestrian pathway and walking against traffic; had to pause about three dozen times for vehicles to safely pass.
Do appreciate the excellent public transport system that allows easy continuation of each hike from the last stop point. Am truly glad to have taken this adventure, leaving a pleasant taste of satisfaction at the end of the journey.
When on my country walks I go,
I never am alone:
Though whom 't were pleasure then to know,
Are gone, and you are gone;
From every side discourses flow.
There are rich counsels in the trees,
And converse in the air;
All magic thoughts in those and these
Are what is sweet and rare;
And everything, that living is.
But most I love the meaner sort,
For they have voices too;
Yet speak with tongues, that never hurt,
As ours are apt to do:
The weeds, the grass, the common wort.
Amico Suo
(His friend)
Herbert P. Horne
Changi Bay Point Park
Dinosaur on the Rock
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While hiking I noticed from a distance a familiar object along Changi Bay Point Park. On closer inspection at the shore, I realised that it is a small cute 'dinosaur' cemented to the rock. Further down at the rest point, plenty of butterflies were spotted fluttering around plants. Quite a sight to behold and a pleasant discovery. This place is not accessible by car though. Cycling is the most convenient means. If hiking, hats and bottled water is necessary. The noon sun can sometime be unforgiving. Round distance is about 6 km. Closest carpark is at Changi Ferry Road.
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Something To Remember Me By
Igne Auerbacher
He was a stranger; we had never met.
He wanted me to recall him, not to forget.
He handed me a box filled with treasure
And hoped it would give me much pleasure.
Odds and ends up to the brim,
For dreams of any child's whim.
"Something to remember me by!"
I was startled and full of surprise.
A rainbow of color before my eyes.
Things made of threads attached to eternity,
Knitted by loving hands without identity.
His eyes looked hopeless; in a daze,
He walked restless, as if in a maze.
He was a humble man - without fame.
Staying unknown - never stating his name.
"Something to remember me by!"
He rode away on the death train,
Filled with desperation and pain.
He rests with the ashes in sleep,
His memory I will forever keep.
The little girl, now fully grown,
Remembers him, though still unknown.
To this day his words sound loud and clear,
His presence assured from year to year.
"Something to remember me by!"
Igne, a German-born American chemist
is a holocaust survivor.
In 1944 at age 9,
while imprisoned in Terezin Czechoslovaka;
a nervous middle-aged man raced up to her and
handed her a cardboard box filled with trinkets.
"Something to remember me by." he said.
Anguk Station (Exit 6) Seoul
Insa-dong (Mary's Alley)
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Leaving Anguk Station at exit-6 and you will notice a long wall of painted tiles & poems by some 168 artists. It provides a running narrative of individual admiration and yearning for Insa-dong. Unlike Myeong-dong which is vibrant & crowded, Insa-dong is more about arts and traditions. Here the pace is slower and occasionally where stillness lay. Food & beverage scene in this area is an experience to behold. Ikseon-dong Hanok Village nearby is also worth exploring for food lovers.
We shall not cease from exploration
And the end of all our exploring
Will be to arrive where we started
And know the place for the first time.
Through the unknown, remembered gate
When the last of earth left to discover
Is that which was the beginning;
At the source of the longest river
The voice of the hidden waterfall
And the children in the apple-tree
Not known, because not looked for
But heard, half-heard, in the stillness
Between two waves of the sea.
T.S. Eliot
Busan, South Korea
Gamcheon Culture Village
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Gamcheon Village was built in the 1920s~1930s for workers to provide labor to the port nearby. During these periods, the village faced poor living condition and poverty. To rejuvenate the place, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in 2009 encouraged art students, professional artist and residence to repair, maintain and redecorate the village with arts.
We greatly enjoy the fruits of this community efforts. Along the narrow alleyways, there were avant-garde cafes, caricature artists providing memorable portrait services, fried ice-cream, shops offering products made by craftsman and souvenirs. For selfie lovers, The Little Prince overlooking the village is worth a stop, but be prepared to queue for picture taking.
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Let us be grateful to people who make us happy,
they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.
Marcel Proust
Clementi West Fire Post, Singapore
Bed and Bench
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Passing by this housing block, I came across a cat comfortably nesting under the bench. The architect that designed this bench deserve praise and commendation for thoughtfulness and creative use of space.
This posting includes several music video versions of Japan AKB48 "Koisuru Fortune Cookie" from SNH48 China, JKT48 Indonesia, MNL48 Philippines, BNK48 Thailand, AKB48 Team TP Taiwan, and SGQ48 Vietnam. In hope that these youths and our younger self will remind us all to abandon hostilities, hatred and learn to embrace peace & kindness. Leaving the world a better place than the one we came to.
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The most wasted of all days is that on which one has not laughed.
Nicholas Sebastien
Museum of Modern Art, New York
Ma Gouvernante - My Nurse - Mein Kindermдdchen (1936/1967)
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MoMA is one of my favourite museum for her exhibits and vibes. This artwork has an interesting story. The artist was Meret Oppenheim (1913~1985); a German born Swiss surrealist artist and photographer. Her psychiatrist father and Carl Gustav Jung were acquaintance.
The title of the work is associated to the nursemaid employed by the Oppenheim home.
When the first version of the assemblage was delivered to Marie-Berthe Aurenche (Max Ernst wife & owner of the pair of shoes); it was said she removed the shoes and gave it to a poor woman and that was it. This 1967 remade was for Oppenheim's retrospective in Stockholm.
There were varied interpretation to this artwork. Bondage, subjugation, eroticism, sensuality, labor and more. This piece caught my attention perhaps, after hours of walking in the museum, was a little hungry and it reminds of something else.
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Robert Browning Hamilton
(Along The Road)
I walked a mile with Pleasure;
She chattered all the way,
But left me none the wiser
For all she had to say.
I walked a mile with Sorrow
And ne'er a word said she;
But oh, the things I learned from her
When Sorrow walked with me!
Gardens by the Bay, Singapore
Dragonfly Lake
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Was curious what the workers were doing, so I enquired with the garden staff. They were actually clearing floating algae and can be seen turning the pole to collect the protists. It's hardwork to keep the garden pristine. Did not notice any debris in the lake. Leave no trace.
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Nature never rushes,
yet everything is accomplished.
Lao Tzu
Shinko Bridge, Nikko, Tochigi Japan
Ithaca - Journey
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Shinkyo bridge or "sacred bridge" which crosses the Daiya-gawa river belongs to Futarasan Jinja Shrine. It is considered one of the few most beautiful bridges in Japan and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
This bridge was rebuilt in 1904 according to the original 1636 design; which was washed away by flood in 1902. Autumn is the best time to visit but expect crowd.
There is certain timelessness to this place. The sense that countless souls must have travelled across the bridge & paths unhurried. Each setting out for their 'Ithaca'. Hoping that it is long, adventurous and enriching. Yet at the end of the day, it is the journey that matters.
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But do not hurry the journey at all.
Better if it lasts for years,
so you are old by the time you reach the island,
wealthy with all you have gained on the way,
not expecting Ithaca to make you rich.
Ithaca gave you the marvellous journey.
Without her, you would not have set out.
She has nothing left to give you now.
And if you find her poor, Ithaca won't have fooled you.
Wise as you will have become, so full of experience,
you will have understood by then what these Ithacas mean.
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Ithaca (extract), 1911
Constantine Cavafy
Translated by
Edmund Keeley & Phillip Sherrard
Eden Hall, Singapore
King Charles III Coronation
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An opportunity to visit Eden Hall, official residence of the British High Commissioner to celebrate the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III at London's Westminster Abbey. This is the first time Eden Hall was made available to the public. There were youth orchestra, plenty of food and drinks - not free unfortunately. This beautiful building with a hint of Wedgwood design was built in 1904 by Ezekiel Saleh Manasseh. Architect of this building was R.A.J. Bidwel who also designed Raffles Hotel and Goodwood Park Hotel. Sold to the British Government in 1957 for £56,000; his stepson require that a plaque be placed at the bottom of the flagpole with the phrase "May the Union Jack fly here forever".
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From what we get, we can make a living; what we give, however, makes a life.
Arthur Ashe
Bukit Timah Saddle Club, Singapore
Letting Go
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Bukit Timah Saddle Club finally had to move to Singapore Turf Club at Kranji in Feb-2023 to support tunnelling work for MRT subway Cross Island Line. The club was established 72 years ago in 1951. There are not may places in Singapore where people, horses and nature co-exist together. A wonderful place to enjoy quiet time and dining at Riders Cafe is now lost to redevelopment.
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Celebrate endings - for they precede new beginnings.
Jonathan Hule
Somewhere in Boston
Amelia
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Amelia brought us much joy and fond memories this Christmas. Our daughter is now a mother.
Together with newly minted daddy, the family will begin their parenthood with patience & love.
Just like that, wife & I are now 'promoted' to grannies.
So looking forward to the journey of grand parenting without the sleepless nights.
Amelia will be much love by us all.
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Write it on your heart
that every day is the best day of the year.
Ralph Waldo Emerson
Central Park, New York
Beauty in Yellow
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Am fascinated with this magnificent tree in Central Park. Once noticed, one would naturally gravitate towards it to explore its beauty. It brightens and bring much cheer to the park in winter.
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In the sweetness of friendship let there be laughter, and sharing of pleasures.
For in the dew of little things the heart finds its morning and is refreshed.
Khalil Gibran
9/11 Memorial, New York
A Single Rose
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Met this single rose in our visit to New York last winter. There is certain sadness yet hope for humanity. Left a lasting impression in my heart.
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A single rose can be my garden ... a single friend, my world.
Leo Buscaglia
9/11 Museum, New York
Scout
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During my visit to 9/11 Museum I learned that canine used as search dogs suffered much depression and injuries while working long hours among twisted metal and concrete finding survivals; often not.
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The invariable mark of wisdom is to see the miraculous in the common.
Ralph Waldo Emerson
Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle, Singapore
Last Dragon Kiln
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Built in 1940 by Mr Tan Kim Seh from Swatow China; lease for this last operational dragon kiln in Singapore will expire in December 2023. Pending discussion with authorities on future extension. The business is currently managed by fifth generation Ms Stella Tan. Had an enjoyable conversation with a member of the family and an artist during our last visit. Great place to look for Made in Singapore gifts for friends.
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Discovery consists of seeing what everybody has seen
and thinking what nobody has thought.
Albert von Szent-Gyorgyl
The Common, Boston
Make Way For Ducklings
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A sculpture by Nancy Schon since 1987. The Common is America oldest park. It is so called because it was a grazing ground for the town's cow. This was banned in mid-19th century due to overgrazing. Brought back fond memories of those years living in The Netherlands. Two years in a row we witnessed duckling born in our front yard following their 'mummy' towards the pond across our home. Cars would stop until the last chap crosses the road.
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Don't educate your children to be rich. Educate them to be happy.
So when they grow up, they'll know the value of things not the price
Unknown
Chase
Goodbye Old Friend
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Thank you for being a part of our family
Shanghai 2007 - Singapore 30 May 2022
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Walking with a friend in the dark is better than walking alone in the light.
Helen Keller
Towards Fort Siloso - Sentosa, Singapore
Love Hate Relationship
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Known at the King of Fruits in this part of the world, foreign visitors generally find its smell & taste challenging. Like food around the world, it is an acquired taste. This photo show how much we adore our favourite fruit ... that between a rock and hard place ... we always choose durian.
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I have found that if you love life, life will love you back.
Artur Rubenstein
... durian too :)
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Shakespeare And Company, Paris
Before Sunset
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First learned of this place in the Julie Delpy, Ethan Hawke Trilogy - Before Sunrise (1995), Before Sunset (2004) and Before Midnight (2013). Located at 37 Rue de la Bûcherie across Notre Dame Cathedral. The original Shakespeare and Company was founded by Sylvia Beach in 1919 and closed in 1941 in the midst of the second world war. American George Whitman opened this store in 1951 originally named Le Mistral. In 1964, he changed to the present name in tribute to Sylvia Beach and on the 400th anniversary of William Shakespeare's birth. On his passing in 2011, his daughter Sylvia Whitman took over the running of the bookstore.
A lovely place to walk back in time, without haste, exploring interesting stories and history as time stands still.
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I wish I could show you when you are lonely or in darkness the astonishing light of your own being.
Hafiz of Shiraz (1325 ~ 1390)
Gardens By The Bay, Singapore
Night Hike
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Night hiking is generally much cooler and less crowded. Crossing from Benjamin Sheares Bridge / Sheares Avenue towards Marina Bay Sands, I came across this beautiful view on a clear night.
This 101 hectares waterfront gardens consisting of Bay South, Bay East and Bay Central Gardens is a sight to behold. The Flower Dome and Cloud Forest glass greenhouses is an engineering marvel. A part of the whole eco-systems, the Supertree Grove at up to 50 metres high harnesses solar energy, collect rainwater for irrigation and fountain displays and also serve as air intake & exhaust as a part of the conservatories cooling systems.
In return for caring for our environment, we are gifted with a beautiful place to enjoy, rest and relax.
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When in the end, the day came on which I was going away,
I learned the strange learning that
things can happen which we ourselves cannot possibly imagine,
either beforehand, or at the time when they are taking place,
or afterwards when we look back on them.
Out of Africa, 1937
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Upper Seletar Reservoir, Singapore
Morning
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I learned a long time ago that the sky is like a canvas that renew itself every day. If we take time to look up once a while, we are occasionally rewarded with a beautiful 'painting'.
Arriving before day break, I was first welcomed to a misty reservoir then this view gradually emerged. Interestingly, it is not the rising sun that is behind this cloud which was west facing. Lightning could be seen once a while behind the cloud.
After extensive expansion, Seletar reservoir was reopened in 1969 by Her Royal Highness, Princess Alexandra of the United Kingdom. In 1992, Seletar Reservoir was renamed Upper Seletar Reservoir.
An iconic feature of this reservoir is the Rocket Tower built in 1969 to commemorate Apollo 11 landing on the moon.
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The heaven that rolls around cries aloud to you while it displays its eternal beauties,
and yet your eyes are fixed upon the earth alone.
Dante
Raffles Hotel, Singapore
A Joyful Wedding
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In December 2020, our youngest daughter tie the knot with the love of her life. A thoughtful gentleman.
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Preparing for their wedding in the midst of a pandemic was challenging to say the least.
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Am filled with pride watching the young couple collaborating together, manoeuvring obstacles amidst changing Covid rules to plan for their mehendi celebration, temple wedding and solemnisation & wedding dinner at Raffles Hotel.
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There was also a sense of joy watching both sisters helping their younger sis with the occasion. One returning from Boston with her husband for the celebration (which includes 14 days quarantine) and both providing all the support needed for a memorable wedding.
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One word to describe the wedding is FUN.
Good friends they have come to know from schools, varsity, work, salsa and hip-hop club brought much cheer to the occasions.
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A memorable, fun occasions that brought us much joy.
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I seem to have loved you in numberless forms, numberless times ...
In life after life, in age after age, forever.
Today, this love is heaped at your feet, it has found its end in you.
The love of all man's days both past and forever.
Universal joy, universal sorrow, universal life.
The memories of all loves merging with this one love of ours
And the songs of every poet past and forever.
Rabindranath Tagore
Unending Love (extract)
Aqua World @ Oarai Ibaraki, Japan
Leave No Trace
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Was fascinated with this sponge-back crab in the aquarium. It is no SpongeBob SquarePants for sure. A quick search revealed that it is not uncommon for crabs to use sponge like material as camouflage and against chemical or toxin attack by predators. Top right of the photo are similar but smaller crabs using a white sponge like substance as camouflage.
Am reminded of a 60s - 70s 'Leave No Trace' movement in the United States. Whether it is beaches, food courts, national parks and wherever we visit; it reflect well on oneself to leave no traces after use of or enjoyment of a place.
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Example is not the main thing in teaching
It is the only thing.
Albert Schweitzer
The Pavilion / Far East Square, Singapore
Happiness
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Explored Amoy Street, Telok Ayer and Everton Park over the weekend. Along the way I came across this Lim Leong Seng sculpture of children playing 'chapteh'. It is a game we often played as children in the 60s - 70s, pre-television and decades before smartphones. Between Amoy and Telok Ayer, many of Lim's masterpieces were on display with brief description of each art work.
Ended the 8 kilometres exploration at a quaint cafe called 'The Better Half'. It is run by a young couple Jonathan & HweeYing. This small, charming cafe sits four inside and another four outside. Located near Outram Park MRT station @ 1 Everton Park # 01-43.
Happiness is a good cup of coffee & pastry ... bon appetit.
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We know that the best predictor of human happiness is human relationships
and the amount of time that people spend with family and friends.
We know that it's significantly more important than money
and somewhat more important than health.
Daniel Gilbert
Yangmingshan Taipei, Taiwan
921 Earthquake
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Our family first moved to Taipei in June 1999. This old picture of our children and neighbour looking at something 'creepy' on the ground reminded me of the early weeks in September 1999 when I had to get rid of dozen of leeches in our garden daily.
On 21 September, a 7.3 earthquake struck central Taiwan and its tremors were felt throughout the island; including our home in the mountain. Power were cut off for days. While no one was hurt in our family; unfortunately more than two thousands four hundred lives were lost in this Jiji Earthquake, also known as the great earthquake of September 21.
As for the leeches, strangely it never returned after the earthquake. Which beg the question, what were the children looking at?
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I wish I'd the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me.
I wish I hadn't worked so hard.
I wish I'd had the courage to express my feelings.
I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends.
I wish that I had let myself be happier.
Bronnie Ware
(The Top Five Regrets of the Dying)
Bruges, Belgium
Passer-by
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Situated in the north-west of Belgium, Bruges is a quaint city with cobbled streets and medieval buildings. The city is famous for nougats and sumptuous seafood at the Market Square. Driving into the city is like entering into an old world. Population is only about 118,000 and most of the people we see in the weekends are tourist or passer-by.
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... in the end, all we have are the times that we miss,
and the times that we regret, but regardless,
we must always treasure the moments that we have now.
Drama: Listen to Love
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German Girl Shrine, Pulau Ubin, Singapore
Kindness
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While looking for hiking location on the island, I came across this place of interest and was curious about the shrine's history.
Here is National Parks Board description of the shrine history:
The story began in the 1910s, just before the First World War (1914-1918). There was a German family living on Pulau Ubin who owned a coffee plantation. According to historical research, the plot of land used to belong to two German families, Daniel Brandt's and Hermann Muhlingan's, but the identity of the German girl remains unknown.
When war broke out, the British military rounded up the German plantation owner and his family. His frightened daughter, who was about 18 years old, escaped into the woods. The rest of her family was sent to a detention barrack on mainland Singapore. A few days later, the girl's body was found covered with ants by the plantation workers. It was believed that she had lost her way and fell to her death from a cliff. Her corpse was discovered by Boyanese plantation labourers, who threw sand over her body and offered prayers, flowers and incense as a gesture of goodwill each time they passed her.
Eventually a group of Chinese workers on the island carted her remains to the crest of the quarry's hill and gave her a proper burial.
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It is a tragic story. A young girl whose name we know not. Despite the tragedy, the kind villagers on Pulau Ubin gave her a proper burial out of respect. The German Girl Shrine was upgraded at least twice to this present location at the remote West end of the island. Walk from the jetty is a little more than 4 kilometres each way.
Note: The shrine is currently closed due to Ministry of Health COVID-19 guidelines.
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It is better to light a single candle than to curse the darkness.
William Lonsdale Watkinson,
The Supreme Conquest (likely origin)
Tempozan Market Place, Osaka Japan
This is Water
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While exploring Tempozan Market Place near Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, we came across this interesting metal art piece.
The love for sashimi elevated to a different level.
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There are these two young fish swimming along,
and they happen to meet an older fish swimming the other way,
who nods at them and says, "Morning, boys, how's the water?"
And the two young fish swim on for a bit,
and then eventually one of them looks over at the other and goes,
"What the hell is water?"
David Foster Wallace - This is Water
MacRitchie Reservoir, Singapore
Contentment
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An image captured while hiking deep inside MacRitchie Reservoir just before Singapore implementation of 'circuit breaker' or lockdown.
Walking is a simple pleasure. An activity one appreciate with age. In a tranquil environment, it allows the mind to find peace and contentment.
In contentment, one learn to turn away from temptation and greed. Focusing our time and energy on relationships and friendships dear to us.
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He who is not contented with what he has,
Would not be contented with what he would like to have.
Socrates
Yunnan Ethnic Village
Old World, High Tech
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While tourist were attracted to the ethnics and culture of the old world; the young in the 'old world' were attracted to high tech in the new world. There are 26 ethnic groups in Yunnan Province. Yunnan Ethnic village is about 10 kilometres from downtown Kunming. While mega cities are great for shopping; villages are wonderful places for people watching, the muse and contrast.
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You can only be truly accomplished at something you love.
Don't make money the goal. Instead pursue the things you love doing,
And do them so well that people can't take their eyes off you.
All the other tangible rewards will come as a result.
Maya Angelou
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Remember
Christina Rossetti
(1830-1894)
Remember me when I am gone away,
Gone far away into the silent land;
When you can no more hold me by the hand,
Nor I half turn to go yet turning stay.
Remember me when no more day by day
You tell me of our future that you plann'd:
Only remember me; you understand
It will be late to counsel then or pray.
Yet if you should forget me for a while
And afterwards remember, do not grieve:
For if the darkness and corruption leave
A vestige of the thoughts that once I had,
Better by far you should forget and smile
Then that you should remember and be sad.
Jiuxiang Karst Cave, Kunming, Yunnan
Rainbow Reflection
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Jiuxiang is a scenic area consisting of hundreds of karst caves stretching about 40 kilometres. It is an enchanting site filled with rivers, waterfalls and rock bridges. The stillness of water against a colourful backdrop was a sight to behold. Besides beautiful landscape, visitors can also observe the customs and culture of the Yi and Hui minorities in this area.
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What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters,
Compared to what lies within us.
And when we bring what is within us out into the world,
Miracles happen.
Ralph Waldo Emerson
Lake Kawaguchiko, Japan
Solitude
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In solitude, one begin to realise the enormous joy of freedom. Doing what we enjoy, going to places longed for and be with people we loves.
Before deciding to visit Lake Kawaguchiko, we were told that Mount Fuji will not be visible due to low cloud. We decided to take our chance. Hop on a bus and towards Wakakusa No Yado Maruei we quickly alighted when we caught a glimpse of a clear Mount Fuji and a man fishing in solitude ... just for a short while before low cloud returns.
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You can take no credit for beauty at sixteen.
But if you are beautiful at sixty,
It will be your soul's own doing.
Marie Stopes (1880~1958)
East Coast Park, Singapore
Social Distancing
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The recent Bloomberg opinion piece, "For introverts, quarantine can be a liberation" by Andreas Kluth is a interesting read.
However, whether we are introverts, extroverts or ambiverts; the call to stay home and exercise social distancing is perhaps a good opportunity for us to reflect on life's priorities. What is important to us in the pursuit of happiness.
This picture reminds us that as we contemplates; life goes on. Folks are working hard to ensure goods are moved to where demand is needed; as professionals and medical staffs work round the clock to tame the epidemic.
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You begin your journey not knowing where it will take you.
You have plans, you have dreams, but every now and again
You have to take uncharted road, face impassable mountains,
Cross treacherous rivers, be blocked by landslides and earthquakes.
That's the way my life has been ...
Lee Kuan Yew @ 80
Cheong Fatt Tze (The Blue Mansion)
George Town, Penang Malaysia
Life Goes On
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This heritage mansion was built by Cheong Fatt Tze in the 19th century. It has 38 rooms and 5 courtyards. A lovely place to spend a couple of nights if you are visiting Penang. It was the home of his favoured seventh wife and also acted as Cheong's commercial enterprises as well as housing the Chinese Vice-Consulate.
The building fell into disrepair after Cheong's passing in 1916. Restoration work by conservationists eventually brought the building back to life in 1995 and outfitted as a boutique hotel since.
Imagined these trishaws were at one time the livelihood of its owners. Life must have been hard ferrying passengers to destinations under the tropical heat. Eventually, trishaws gave way to mechanised transportation and life goes on.
Even if I knew that tomorrow the world would go to pieces,
I would still plant my apple tree.
Martin Luther
Marina Bay, Singapore
Memories
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This picture was taken on 8 August 1991. On the top left is the Benjamin Sheares Bridge and on the right is the present day Gardens by the Bay. The city state have come a long way; braving the elements and much uncertainties. Adapting and changing with the times.
Recent novel coronavirus epidemic have caused much fear to some individuals. Strengthening immune system with good hygiene, healthy eating and sufficient rest will go a long way in keeping oneself and loved-ones safe. Consideration for healthcare professionals and looking out for those within our reach will enrich our lives. In time, this will come to pass like many calamities.
No fear, no blaming, no discrimination.
Perspective: "Worldwide, ... annual epidemics are estimated to result in about 3 to 5 million cases of severe illness, and about 290,000 to 650,000 respiratory deaths."
Source: World Health Organisation
The value of life lies not in the length of days, but in the use we make of them;
a man may live long, yet live very little.
Whether you find satisfaction in life depends not on your tale of years, but on your will.
Michel De Montaigne
Moomin Bakery & Cafe, Tokyo
Never Alone
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A cafe located next to Tokyo Dome. Pleasant place to take a break after a tiring day. If a customer visiting the cafe is alone, the staff would ask if they like to have Moomin sit with them. Moomin is a Scandinavian comic strip character by illustrator Tove Jansson. It was originally published in Swedish by Schildts in Finland. Quite a long way to eventually find global fame in Tokyo.
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Twenty-nineteen was an eventful year and am reminded of a conversation
John Cage had with Ally McBeal in the comedy-drama Ally McBeal
"If you think back and replay your year,
if it doesn't bring you tears of joy or sadness,
consider the year wasted."
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Den Haag, The Netherlands
Winter
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Where we used to live in Den Haag, The Netherlands, there was a pond in front of our house. Come winter, the pond would freezes and residence and neighbour would come to skate. Beyond the pond is a small sheep farm and then the woods; a blissful place for walks and cycling. Huis ten Bosch sits within the woods. It was Queen Beatrice residence until 2014 and now the official residence of King Willem-Alexander and his family. Shops closes early in the city centre; which is good for a balanced family life.
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Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap
but by the seeds that you plant.
Robert Louis Stevenson
Edfu, Egypt
Peacock
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Compared to the much larger shops selling hats, dresses, scarves and shoes; this boy made up for his lack of scale by fanning out his merchandise like a peacock to attract customers and tourist. His creativity caught my attention while strolling along this busy street.
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To be satisfied with a little, is the greatest wisdom;
and he that increaseth his riches, increaseth his care;
but a contented mind is a hidden treasure, and trouble findeth it not.
Pharaoh Akhnaton
Edfu, Egypt
One Horse Power
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Sphinx and pyramids usually comes to mind when we think of Egypt. A place where the past seems more prominent than the present. Located in this city is the famous Temple of Horus. Edfu is a fascinating, busy city with numerous house carriages and shops. In summer, temperature reaches a high of 40 degree Celsius or 104 degree Fahrenheit. Photo was taken while riding a 1-horsepower carriage; not a good idea to stand in the middle of the road.
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The grand essentials to happiness in this life
are something to do, something to love
and something to hope for.
Joseph Addison
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Koma Station towards Kinchakuda, Saitama Japan
Trust
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The journey from Tokyo to Koma took us about 90 minutes. It was a rather hot and mildly humid walk to Kinchakuda which is famous for millions of red spider lilies in mid to late September. Along the way, we came across this unmanned, self-service vegetable store. Pick what is needed, place money on the table and one is good to go.
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You're looking for three things in a person:
intelligence, energy and integrity ... and if they don't have the last one,
don't even bother with the first two.
Warren Buffett
Shiraito Waterfall and Kita-Karuizawa Japan
'Lost'
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A great pleasure of traveling is to find oneself lost in the beauty of nature. Shiraito Waterfall is such a place. 65 minutes shinkansen ride from Tokyo plus another 30 minutes bus trip. Got there early to enjoy the tranquility, before visitors arrives.
Next destination was an hour bus ride to Yubatake at Kusatsu Gunma which is 1200 meters above sea level. It is one of Japan most famous onsen. Unfortunately, I missed the bus by 2 minutes. An hour later, caught a bus which took me only half way up the mountain and was momentarily 'lost' in Kita-Karuizawa, a quiet town with the next bus an hour away. While writing my journal at the bus stop (only person throughout the one hour wait), I noticed a lady driver with a large white dog alighting from her car, taking pictures of the area in haste. Curious, I later discovered that this was a former railway station until 1962 where tourists visit for summer holiday.
Eventually caught the next bus to Yubatake and the place did not disappoint. On my return journey, there were only three persons in the bus. The driver, a friendly local and myself; as we attempted to converse in English-Japanese and sign language (think Merlion). We eventually bid each other goodbye as she alighted at her hometown, Kita-Karuizawa. Wherever we are, there is a friend to be found and a story to be told.
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Possessions dwindle. I mourn their loss.
But I mourn the loss of time much more, for anyone can save his purse,
but none can win back lost time.
Latin Proverb
Guilin Park Shanghai, China
Checkmate
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Guilin Park is an old charming garden about 30 minutes drive from city center. Entry to the park cost 3 yuan and is free for senior citizen above 60 years old. Visiting early in the morning is highly recommended. Beside a cooler summer weather, one could enjoy caged birds singing, Chinese tea, listening to Erhu & trumpets playing, tai-chi, elder couple learning ballroom dancing and Chinese chess. 'Ronaldino' in this picture is one move from checkmate.
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Champions keep playing until they get it right.
Billlie Jean King
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Xintiandi Shanghai, China
Fleeting Moment
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While having a cup of coffee, waiting to meet an old friend; the busy waitress on the right briefly stood still near the cafe entrance. For a fleeting moment an image of old Shanghai came to mind. Some quick fiddling with the camera, then a satisfying image captured.
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True friendship multiples the good in life and divides its evils.
Strive to have friends, for life without friends is like life on a desert island ...
to find one real friend in a lifetime is good fortune;
to keep him (or her) is a blessing.
Baltasar Gracian
Chobe National Park, Botswana
Anguish
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We were told that life in the wild is about survival of the fittest. Yet to witness such an event, it still pains the heart.
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The park ranger explained to us that impala and baboon generally cooperate with each other in the jungle. Whenever a predator is near, they would 'warn' each other of imminent danger.
However, it was not so on this day. By the time we arrives, this baboon had already killed the calf. While the ewes stood by throughout this time watching over her calf from a distance. The immediate thought was the ewe's anguish.
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Yet we judge not, simply because we are a part of nature's circle of life.
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Nature hides her secret because of her essential loftiness,
but not by means of ruse.
Albert Einstein
Singapore
Family
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I first noticed a nest being built on our bougainvillea plant.
Before long, came this Scarlet-back Flowerpecker and its female companion, busy feeding their two ever hungry hatchlings.
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Life in the wild is tough. Two hatchlings in a nest hanging precariously on a branch. Wind, rain and shine. The ever present danger of larger birds searching for preys.
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Yet nature dictates both hatchlings must believe that their dad and mum will constantly return to feed them with berries. That they are well protected.
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In the evening, mum would return to stay with her young. Not too sure about the male bird. Suppose it is chilling-out with its buddies until sunrise.
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Quietly they came. Quietly they flew away.
Interestingly, not long later; a olive-backed sunbird came to clear the nest for its own home.
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Humans are behind the curve when it comes to recycling.
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I don't know anything with certainty,
but seeing the stars makes me dream.
Vincent Van Gogh
Photo by Gareth from Pixioo
Hammond Castle, Gloucester, MA, USA
A Beautiful Wedding
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After eight years of courtship, our daughter married the love of her life. A wonderful man.
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Their wedding was held in Hammond Castle north of Boston with a tinge of Harry Porter theme. Vows was exchanged at the manicured lawn with North Atlantic Ocean as the backdrop and attended by a hundred guests from around the world.
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Located on the Atlantic coast, the castle was constructed between 1926 and 1929. It was the home and laboratory of John Hays Hammond, Jr.; an inventor who pioneered the study of remote control and held over 400 patents.
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The simplicity of the ceremony, wonderful friends and beautiful location made this a joyful & memorable wedding.
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A month later, we celebrated the occasion with relatives and friends at CHIJMES Singapore. Traditional tea ceremony, wedding door games and good food adds merriment to the day.
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CHIJMES was founded in 1852 as a Catholic convent. The acronym stands for Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus Middle Education School.
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An immensely joyful occasion, forever treasured in our hearts.
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A tree is known by its fruits;
A man by his deeds.
A good deed is never lost;
He who sows courtesy reaps friendship, and
He who plants kindness gathers love.
Saint Basil
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Hakone Open-Air Museum
La Pleureuse by Francois-Xavier & Claude Lalanne
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Train journey from Yokohama to Hakone-Yumoto is slightly more than an hour. From here, the old Tozan Railway took us to many interesting places. On arrival at Chokokunomori Station after a 30 minutes ride, we decided to hop out to explore this museum. Opened in 1969, this is the first open-air museum in Japan. The 70,000 square meters site is surrounded by beautiful view of mountains. Art pieces displayed includes Picasso among other works. Though am not knowledgeable about arts; I still find the visit refreshing and inspiring. Sculpture like La Pleureuse (The Weeper) leaves a lasting impression in one's mind.
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People are not disturbed by things, but by the view they take of them.
Epictetus
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East Coast Park, Singapore
Sunrise - Sunset
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Traveling do not have to be far away. There are many beautiful and interesting places in Singapore. For these, we thank the city planners and many hardworking folks both local & foreign.This photo of an imminent sunrise was taken at 6:36 a.m. with an iPhone, on my way back from Changi airport.
On this day in 12th April 1633, began the inquisition of physicist and astronomer Galileo Galilei for holding the belief that the Earth revolves around the sun. He denied that he “held” belief in the Copernican view. Rather his writing was about issue and evidence as a means of “discussion” rather than belief. On 22nd June 1633, Galileo was judged and declared guilty of heresy. He agreed not to teach heresy anymore and spent the rest of his life under house arrest.
More than 300 years later, the prevailing authority admitted that Galileo was right and his name cleared for heresy.
Source: History.com - This Day in History, April 12.
It is interesting that SUNRISE and SUNSET is still so-called today.
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Real knowledge is to know the extent of one's ignorance.
Confucius
Kishi Station, Wakayama Japan
A Man, A Stray Cat and Nekonomics
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The plan was to stay a day in Wakayama, enjoy seafood and then begin our train adventure to Kanazawa, Takayama, Nagoya & Toba. On arrival, while figuring where to go, I recalled reading about a stationmaster cat in The Wall Street Journal.
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From JR Wakayama Station, the ride was about 30 minutes to Kishi Station, also the last station in this old train line. In 2004, the station was near closure due to financial problems. Toshiko Koyama, the informal station manager at that time, adopted a stray calico cat named Tama. Koyama was selected as the official station manager in Apr-2006 and in Jan-2007, railway officials named Tama as the stationmaster. Her primary duty was to greet passengers. She has an office and like regular staff, worked Monday to Friday.
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During her tenure, Tama publicity contributed about 1.1 billion yen to the local economy and is a phenomenon known as Nekonomics.
She was promoted to super stationmaster, knighted and awarded title of Wakayama de Knight, promoted to Operating Officer, then Managing Executive Officer (after President and Managing Director). In 2013, she was elevated to Honorary President of Wakayama Electric Rail for life.
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Tama died in June 2015 at age 16. A memorial was built within the station, next to the train track. Nitama (second Tama) another calico stray cat now replaces Tama as the new stationmaster.
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While it was curiosity that led us to this interesting place and story; on our return journey in a wood panelled strawberry train, I learned about a community's gratitude and Koyama san ingenuity in bringing life back into this little town.
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Life is not holding a good hand.
Life if playing a poor hand well.
Danish Proverb
Old Market Zhongdian, Yunnan
Mother & Child
The place is now renamed Shangri-la to attract tourism.
By the time we arrive, a few shops were in the midst of closing for the day. That in itself has its charm; as some take a moment to rest while others converse about the day.
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While looking around the market, I notice from some distance a mother & child sharing a quiet moment and a piece of bread.
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“For age is opportunity no less
Than youth itself, though in another dress,
And as the evening twilight fades away
The sky is filled with stars, invisible by day.”
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
Somewhere in Tibet
Bless the Children
We were supposed to view a scenic mountainous attraction, but due to icy road condition, were 'stuck' in the plain for an hour. The trip was eventually cancelled as it was too dangerous to visit. Yet among the many interesting places seen, this was a memorable moment.
Foreigner are only allowed to visit Tibet via tour groups and permit is not available for independent travellers.
So the chance to interact with the children on this plain was a rare opportunity. The kids were lively and unpretentious, ideal for taking candid photographs. They were generally well behaved and agreeable to have pictures taken.
Portrait of two Tibetan girls. I remember the younger one was shy, staying close to her 'older sister' at all times.
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Lost time is never found again.
Benjamin Franklin
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Jokhang Temple, Tibet
Prostration
Prostration is a gesture to show reverence to the triple gems of Buddhism: Buddha, Dharma - his teaching and Sangha - the spiritual community. The pilgrim seen here was finally reaching his destination at Jokhang Temple. The oldest part of the temple was built in AD 652, more than 1,300 years ago. There are three forms of prostration: standing, short distance (hours to months) and long distance of up to two years. The pilgrim in this picture was wearing a leather piece in front with thick cloths to protect his elbows. This indicate that he originated from quite a distance. While prostrating the pilgrim would recite mantras. For every third pace, the pilgrim would follow specific movement before lying face down flat on the floor. Dedication and perseverance at a totally different level.
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The gem cannot be polished without friction, nor man perfected without trials.
Chinese Proverb
Note: Lhasa is about 3,500 metres above sea level. Highest site visited was 5,000 metres. Visitors usually need 1-2 days to acclimatise. Symptoms like persistent headache, shortness of breadth due to reduced oxygen at high altitude is common. Those with heart diseases should not visit Tibet.
Tiger Leaping Gorge, Yunnan
Walking Up
Walking up from Tiger Leaping Gorge; I caught sight of this little girl reading while her mother was selling trinkets.
One observation and lasting impression I had living in Shanghai was the people deep desire to learn. It was not uncommon to have colleagues requesting for coaching on specific skills from their managers. No wonder their society progressed so fast in the last few decades.
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The value of a college education is not the learning of many facts but the training of the mind to think.
Albert Einstein
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Tiger Leaping Gorge, Yunnan
Walking Down
Although I have lived in Shanghai for a number of years, there was a deep desire to get a glimpse of China past. I found that place in Yunnan.
While coastal cities were modernising quickly; Yunnan was still transitioning towards a modern city.
The opportunity to get a glimpse of the old world was immensely satisfying.
While walking down to view the touristy Tiger Leaping Gorge; I noticed this boy keeping himself warm with fire; while his mother was selling trinkets close by.
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Your present circumstances
don't determine where you can go;
they merely determine where you start.
Nido Qubien
Itsukushima Floating Tori Gate
Tranquility
The day was coming to a close. While looking at the Hiroshima map, we found this place of interest.
A short train and ferry ride later, we arrived on this tranquil island where deers freely roam. The weather was cool, the stroll along the beach was refreshing. Found a nice resting spot to enjoy this view for some time.
A memorable visit and the journey back to Tokyo completed a wonderful day.
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The mere sense of living is joy enough.
Emily Dickinson