Speaking of demographics, here are some old video clips from the Family Planning Association of Hong Kong:
http://www.famplan.org.hk/fpahk/en/template1.asp?style=template1.asp&content=info/tv-ad.asp
Here are also some posters:
http://www.famplan.org.hk/fpahk/en/template1.asp?style=template1.asp&content=info/poster.asp&year=1971
I think the “Two is Enough” TV ad campaign is the most powerful one. Since the 70s, Hong Kong government has been encouraging the public to have two children in each family. Even the logo of the Family Planning Association consists of four people.
Sunday, February 27, 2005
Saturday, February 26, 2005
Movie Quote – My Best Friend’s Wedding
Julianne Potter: Nine years, we've seen each other through everything. Losing jobs, losing parents, losing lovers... traveled all over, we've had the best times. The best times of my life, maybe. Just drinking and talking. Even over a phone.
Digger Downes: Kindred spirits.
Julianne Potter: No, he's nothing like me. He's like you. Only straight.
No offense taken.
Julianne Potter: He's the salt of the earth. Kind and loyal and generous. The one constant thing in my life, is he'll always be there.
Digger Downes: Kindred spirits.
Julianne Potter: No, he's nothing like me. He's like you. Only straight.
No offense taken.
Julianne Potter: He's the salt of the earth. Kind and loyal and generous. The one constant thing in my life, is he'll always be there.
Spring Lantern Festival
According to the Chinese lunar calendar, February 23, 2005 was Spring Lantern Festival (15th day of Chinese New Year). Typically, there is a full moon on the 15th day in the Chinese lunar month. Chinese celebrate this first full moon as Spring Lantern Festival (i.e. Yuanxiao Jie).
Similar to Mid-Autumn Festival, this event is associated with beautiful and colorful lanterns. In ancient times, Chinese girls were not allowed to go outside their home except during Spring Lantern Festival and Mid-Autumn Festival. It was one of the rare chances that girls could meet boys outside their homes. Therefore, Spring Lantern Festival nowadays is also known as Chinese Valentine’s Day.
On this day, there are lanterns on display in the common areas. The fun part is that these lanterns usually have riddles attached to them. Intellects show off how smart they are by solving riddles. In the past, Chinese put high importance in education. The more educated a person, the better chance it was for him to have achievements in life. It was a great way to meet a smart boy without going through the arranged match making process. It was the closest thing to western romance, and it offered more depth to a boy’s mind.
Similar to Mid-Autumn Festival, this event is associated with beautiful and colorful lanterns. In ancient times, Chinese girls were not allowed to go outside their home except during Spring Lantern Festival and Mid-Autumn Festival. It was one of the rare chances that girls could meet boys outside their homes. Therefore, Spring Lantern Festival nowadays is also known as Chinese Valentine’s Day.
On this day, there are lanterns on display in the common areas. The fun part is that these lanterns usually have riddles attached to them. Intellects show off how smart they are by solving riddles. In the past, Chinese put high importance in education. The more educated a person, the better chance it was for him to have achievements in life. It was a great way to meet a smart boy without going through the arranged match making process. It was the closest thing to western romance, and it offered more depth to a boy’s mind.
Thursday, February 24, 2005
Not-So-Random Act of Kindness
I have been thinking about this arrangement for a while. Due to the lack of time and the geographical limitation, I am unable to spend birthdays with my loved ones most of the time. Often, I feel bad. I feel guilty. In fact, I have felt bad for many years. In the spirit of being proactive, I have decided to do something about it. Here is an idea:
Whenever I cannot spend the birthday in person with whoever is precious to me, I do something good and meaningful in his/her name on that day as a symbolic gesture. Someone somewhere in this world can benefit from my help because of my special someone.
For example, I went to a Red Cross blood drive after work today in honor of someone’s birthday. In the morning, I thought I could not make my appointment due to an offsite meeting. I had a mission. I tried my best to arrive at the drive in time. At the end, I made it with my determination. I was one of the last donors. Afterwards, I felt fabulous. It was all worth the time even though my arm hurts and I run the risk of driving in the middle of a snow storm.
Whenever I cannot spend the birthday in person with whoever is precious to me, I do something good and meaningful in his/her name on that day as a symbolic gesture. Someone somewhere in this world can benefit from my help because of my special someone.
For example, I went to a Red Cross blood drive after work today in honor of someone’s birthday. In the morning, I thought I could not make my appointment due to an offsite meeting. I had a mission. I tried my best to arrive at the drive in time. At the end, I made it with my determination. I was one of the last donors. Afterwards, I felt fabulous. It was all worth the time even though my arm hurts and I run the risk of driving in the middle of a snow storm.
Tuesday, February 22, 2005
Child Affordability
I came across this news today:
Hong Kong isn’t crowded enough; official urges couples to have three kids
Associated Press - Monday February 21, 7:49 PM
Hong Kong might be one of the world’s most crowded cities, but the territory’s No. 2 ranking official said Monday that healthy couples should have more babies – at least three per family.
Donald Tsang, the chief secretary, said people needed to have more kids to halt a declining birth rate. In 2003, the figure was 6.9 live births per 1,000 people, the government says.
“We, young and healthy men, should have at least three kids,” Tsang told government-owned radio RTHK. “On average, we need families to have 2.1 kids to replace the population.”
With a population of about 6.8 million, Hong Kong is one of the world’s most densely populated cities. The land population density for the city is about 6,300 people per square kilometer (0.4 square mile) the government says.
I start to wonder how much it would cost to raise a child to support the older generations. I do not have any data regarding child expenditure in Hong Kong. Let’s use the 2003 data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (http://www.usda.gov/cnpp/FENR/FENRV16N1/fenrv16n1p31.pdf) and the U.S. tax structure to examine this issue.
Assume a middle class family with annual household pre-tax income between $40,700 and $68,400, the annual child expense (in 2003 dollars) and with the following additional assumptions:
1. Inflation: 3% per year
2. One Year Certificate Deposit Rate: 2.75%
3. S&P 500 Long Term Return: 10% per year
4. Social Security Tax Rate: 15.30%
5. Average Age of the Parents: 30
6. Target Retirement Age of the Parents: 65
7. Before Age 18 Annual Child Expense (in 2003 dollars): $10,560
8. After Age 17 Annual College Education Expense (in 2003 dollars): $25,643
9. Starting Salary for 2004 College Graduates (in 2004 dollars): $40,000
In 2003 dollars, the cost of raising a child till he/she graduates from college is about $295,000. The Social Security Tax (which is assumed to be 100% applied to the parents – highly unlikely) collected once the child graduates and works till the parents turn age 95 (when the child turns age 65) is about $290,000 in 2003 dollars. The net present value of raising a child is negative. However, if a couple invests the same amount of money intended on raising a child, by age 65, the couple would have $4,040,000.
If we strictly look at numbers, raising a child is not a sensible investment. In fact, for a lot of people, having a child is luxury. I admire how brave people are when they decide to expand their family. Perhaps raising kids brings people priceless joy and invaluable experience. I certainly cannot put a price tag on those. However, strictly on an economic point of view, I do not think having more kids can solve the aging population problem.
Hong Kong isn’t crowded enough; official urges couples to have three kids
Associated Press - Monday February 21, 7:49 PM
Hong Kong might be one of the world’s most crowded cities, but the territory’s No. 2 ranking official said Monday that healthy couples should have more babies – at least three per family.
Donald Tsang, the chief secretary, said people needed to have more kids to halt a declining birth rate. In 2003, the figure was 6.9 live births per 1,000 people, the government says.
“We, young and healthy men, should have at least three kids,” Tsang told government-owned radio RTHK. “On average, we need families to have 2.1 kids to replace the population.”
With a population of about 6.8 million, Hong Kong is one of the world’s most densely populated cities. The land population density for the city is about 6,300 people per square kilometer (0.4 square mile) the government says.
I start to wonder how much it would cost to raise a child to support the older generations. I do not have any data regarding child expenditure in Hong Kong. Let’s use the 2003 data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (http://www.usda.gov/cnpp/FENR/FENRV16N1/fenrv16n1p31.pdf) and the U.S. tax structure to examine this issue.
Assume a middle class family with annual household pre-tax income between $40,700 and $68,400, the annual child expense (in 2003 dollars) and with the following additional assumptions:
1. Inflation: 3% per year
2. One Year Certificate Deposit Rate: 2.75%
3. S&P 500 Long Term Return: 10% per year
4. Social Security Tax Rate: 15.30%
5. Average Age of the Parents: 30
6. Target Retirement Age of the Parents: 65
7. Before Age 18 Annual Child Expense (in 2003 dollars): $10,560
8. After Age 17 Annual College Education Expense (in 2003 dollars): $25,643
9. Starting Salary for 2004 College Graduates (in 2004 dollars): $40,000
In 2003 dollars, the cost of raising a child till he/she graduates from college is about $295,000. The Social Security Tax (which is assumed to be 100% applied to the parents – highly unlikely) collected once the child graduates and works till the parents turn age 95 (when the child turns age 65) is about $290,000 in 2003 dollars. The net present value of raising a child is negative. However, if a couple invests the same amount of money intended on raising a child, by age 65, the couple would have $4,040,000.
If we strictly look at numbers, raising a child is not a sensible investment. In fact, for a lot of people, having a child is luxury. I admire how brave people are when they decide to expand their family. Perhaps raising kids brings people priceless joy and invaluable experience. I certainly cannot put a price tag on those. However, strictly on an economic point of view, I do not think having more kids can solve the aging population problem.
Monday, February 21, 2005
People Watching
I love to sit at a café watching people come and go. Normally, I have no time to sit around. Therefore, I consider people watching a special event. Depending on which café I go to, there are different kinds of sampling. No matter which country you are in, you will find people using their notebook computers, people reading books or newspaper, or people chatting away.
The more exciting kind is the people with conversations. Some are doing group projects. They talk feverishly on what to do next. It is a good time to check out group dynamics. Some are discussing current affairs. Maybe politicians should listen to them. Of course, some are obviously having dialogue on a date. Look out, that guy is full of crap. Not that I have never done any of the above, but I still find it very interesting to be the bystander. It is a lot of fun to imagine where these people come from and what their backgrounds are.
Typically, a café is very noisy. In order to zoom into one conversation, it requires good concentration just like the ability to separate music from lyrics in a song. I usually try to be very subtle while observing. I have a book as a prop in my hand. I get the thrill of pretending to be a special agent. Perhaps, some of those people who are reading in a café are up to no good like me!
The more exciting kind is the people with conversations. Some are doing group projects. They talk feverishly on what to do next. It is a good time to check out group dynamics. Some are discussing current affairs. Maybe politicians should listen to them. Of course, some are obviously having dialogue on a date. Look out, that guy is full of crap. Not that I have never done any of the above, but I still find it very interesting to be the bystander. It is a lot of fun to imagine where these people come from and what their backgrounds are.
Typically, a café is very noisy. In order to zoom into one conversation, it requires good concentration just like the ability to separate music from lyrics in a song. I usually try to be very subtle while observing. I have a book as a prop in my hand. I get the thrill of pretending to be a special agent. Perhaps, some of those people who are reading in a café are up to no good like me!
Thursday, February 17, 2005
Positive Cognition
There are two songs I learned from kindergarten that I remember till this day. The teacher made us recite these two songs repeatedly so that they were ingrained in our tiny brains. One of them is our school song which consists of classic language. The other one is a hymn shown below.
Obviously, I did not know what it meant when I first learned this particular hymn. Throughout the years, it would pop into my head once a while. Sometimes, my feeling towards this is: “Well, this is given. Apparently, we have to be positive in life.” Other times, this song is really a reminder for me. It reminds me why I have to be good. I am not a very devoted religious person, but this hymn makes sense to me.
For those who went to the same school, you probably know what I am talking about. For those who did not grow up in the same environment, if you ever wonder why I behave the way I do, this song is part of the reasons. Whenever I have doubts and am cynical, this hymn shows up in my mind. I am not a saint, but I strive to do all that is mentioned in the hymn. Usually, brainwashing is bad. In this case, it is not bad at all. At least, you are dealing with a kind me.
青年向上歌
我要真誠，莫負人家信任深。
我要潔淨，因為有人關心。
我要剛強，人間痛苦才能當。
我要膽壯，奮鬥才能得勝。
我要膽壯，奮鬥才能得勝。
我要愛人，愛敵人也愛淪落人。
我要施贈，心誠、義重、財輕。
我要虛懷，不忘我身多弱點。
我要向上，學主榜樣做人。
我要向上，學主榜樣做人。
I Would Be True
Howard A. Walter, 1906
I would be true, for there are those who trust me;
I would be pure, for there are those who care;
I would be strong, for there is much to suffer;
I would be brave, for there is much to dare.
I would be friend of all—the foe, the friendless;
I would be giving, and forget the gift;
I would be humble, for I know my weakness;
I would look up, and laugh, and love, and lift.
I would be faithful through each passing moment;
I would be constantly in touch with God;
I would be strong to follow where He leads me;
I would have faith to keep the path Christ trod.
Obviously, I did not know what it meant when I first learned this particular hymn. Throughout the years, it would pop into my head once a while. Sometimes, my feeling towards this is: “Well, this is given. Apparently, we have to be positive in life.” Other times, this song is really a reminder for me. It reminds me why I have to be good. I am not a very devoted religious person, but this hymn makes sense to me.
For those who went to the same school, you probably know what I am talking about. For those who did not grow up in the same environment, if you ever wonder why I behave the way I do, this song is part of the reasons. Whenever I have doubts and am cynical, this hymn shows up in my mind. I am not a saint, but I strive to do all that is mentioned in the hymn. Usually, brainwashing is bad. In this case, it is not bad at all. At least, you are dealing with a kind me.
青年向上歌
我要真誠，莫負人家信任深。
我要潔淨，因為有人關心。
我要剛強，人間痛苦才能當。
我要膽壯，奮鬥才能得勝。
我要膽壯，奮鬥才能得勝。
我要愛人，愛敵人也愛淪落人。
我要施贈，心誠、義重、財輕。
我要虛懷，不忘我身多弱點。
我要向上，學主榜樣做人。
我要向上，學主榜樣做人。
I Would Be True
Howard A. Walter, 1906
I would be true, for there are those who trust me;
I would be pure, for there are those who care;
I would be strong, for there is much to suffer;
I would be brave, for there is much to dare.
I would be friend of all—the foe, the friendless;
I would be giving, and forget the gift;
I would be humble, for I know my weakness;
I would look up, and laugh, and love, and lift.
I would be faithful through each passing moment;
I would be constantly in touch with God;
I would be strong to follow where He leads me;
I would have faith to keep the path Christ trod.
Tuesday, February 15, 2005
Movie Quote - Bridget Jones's Diary
Daniel Cleaver: Well, the truth is... the truth is, we're the same, Bridge, you and me. You know? We're two people of a certain age... looking for the moment to commit and finding it really hard. And I just think that in the end... it's got to be something extraordinary... something which makes us go that extra mile.
Time Horizon and Risks
In investment theory, time horizon is one of the factors to be considered. This concept is quite a common sense. If you need the money in the near future, you would want to put it in low risk and liquid instruments such as money market funds instead of risky stocks. However, if you have a much longer time horizon, you may be able to ride out the ups and downs. Thus, lots of young people invest heavily in stocks in their twenties for their retirement. They are the ones who can bare the risks. Individual Social Security accounts are partly based on this premise. Let’s keep Social Security for another day for now.
Although the hedging and diversification theories do not really work on relationships (in an ethical view point), I see the application of time horizon and risks in relationships. The younger a person, the more risks he/she can take. A young person is usually not experienced in relationships. He/she does not have many reasonable benchmarks to compare against. Time is on their side. There are many chances to do over. They can afford the risks.
As time goes by, these people learn. Experiences morph into likes and dislikes. People have a better ballpark on what they are worth. Why settle for less when you have seen the better ones? Besides, these people realize that life is short. They need to use time wisely. Assuming someone plans to have offspring, the biological clock ticks loudly. The time horizon is shortened. Is this person worth my precious time? How likely will the relationship be alive?
Aside from the biological aspect, technologies make people work harder on their career than ever. Adults typically do not have much leisure time. Of course you would like to look for good company for a time well spent. In economics terms, human ought to utilize the limited resources to satisfy their unlimited desires. Therefore, they become selective. Knowingly or not, they throw in the probability theories and the psychological profiling to minimize risks. In their mind, there might be a flowchart of different scenarios and alternatives. People seek control, so they are more calculating, more strategic.
Now, don’t you wish life is not as complicated? I certainly do not. Most of us are on guard for protection. In fact, things can be simplified. I miss the days when I braved myself into a relationship. I miss the days when I did unreasonable crazy stuff such as being on a marathon phone call overnight with unlimited topics. Those were the innocent, courageous, romantic days. It is very difficult to revert back to that stage. Experiences cannot be erased. In fact, I do not want them wiped. They define who I am today. Perhaps, the day when I find myself doing something irrational is the day that I am madly in love again.
Although the hedging and diversification theories do not really work on relationships (in an ethical view point), I see the application of time horizon and risks in relationships. The younger a person, the more risks he/she can take. A young person is usually not experienced in relationships. He/she does not have many reasonable benchmarks to compare against. Time is on their side. There are many chances to do over. They can afford the risks.
As time goes by, these people learn. Experiences morph into likes and dislikes. People have a better ballpark on what they are worth. Why settle for less when you have seen the better ones? Besides, these people realize that life is short. They need to use time wisely. Assuming someone plans to have offspring, the biological clock ticks loudly. The time horizon is shortened. Is this person worth my precious time? How likely will the relationship be alive?
Aside from the biological aspect, technologies make people work harder on their career than ever. Adults typically do not have much leisure time. Of course you would like to look for good company for a time well spent. In economics terms, human ought to utilize the limited resources to satisfy their unlimited desires. Therefore, they become selective. Knowingly or not, they throw in the probability theories and the psychological profiling to minimize risks. In their mind, there might be a flowchart of different scenarios and alternatives. People seek control, so they are more calculating, more strategic.
Now, don’t you wish life is not as complicated? I certainly do not. Most of us are on guard for protection. In fact, things can be simplified. I miss the days when I braved myself into a relationship. I miss the days when I did unreasonable crazy stuff such as being on a marathon phone call overnight with unlimited topics. Those were the innocent, courageous, romantic days. It is very difficult to revert back to that stage. Experiences cannot be erased. In fact, I do not want them wiped. They define who I am today. Perhaps, the day when I find myself doing something irrational is the day that I am madly in love again.
Monday, February 14, 2005
My Valentine’s Day
I went to work today not expecting to do anything for Valentine’s Day. At work, there was a poll asking employees if they were doing anything special today. I voted “no”. It turned out that the split of “yes” and “no” was 63% and 37%.
During the day, I received several Valentine’s Day wishes. I ended up having a dinner plan. Unexpectedly, I received a rose and chocolates! Dinner was delicious. Doesn’t it sound like a nice date? Kudos to my friend!
Anyway, I came back home and received more Valentine’s Day emails. Some I was happy to receive. Some I do not know how to reply. Perhaps, I need some time to digest and do the appropriate thing. In any case, I felt loved.
During the day, I received several Valentine’s Day wishes. I ended up having a dinner plan. Unexpectedly, I received a rose and chocolates! Dinner was delicious. Doesn’t it sound like a nice date? Kudos to my friend!
Anyway, I came back home and received more Valentine’s Day emails. Some I was happy to receive. Some I do not know how to reply. Perhaps, I need some time to digest and do the appropriate thing. In any case, I felt loved.
Thursday, February 10, 2005
I Choked Over Lunch Time
Normally, I would not work on my blog during lunch time at work. Today, I have to do it. Coworkers reminded me that Valentine's Day is next Monday. Here are some news that caused the choking when I had my turkey noodle soup. The soup was coming out of my nose. It was good that I did not buy cream of tomato.
Date from Hell: Rescue!
1 hour, 44 minutes ago
CANBERRA (Reuters) - It's every single person's nightmare: You're on a date, it's a disaster but there's no way out.
With Valentine's Day looming, a mobile phone company in Australia has come to the rescue with a service offering an escape from the date from hell.
All you have to do is discreetly dial three numbers and then hang up without saying a word.
"Virgin Mobile will call them back a minute later with a perfect excuse to get them out of there. We'll even talk them through what to say," the company, a joint venture of the Virgin Group and Optus, said in a statement.
A survey of 402 people by Virgin Mobile found that 53 percent arrange in advance to have a friend call them mid-date to check they are all right or if they need an excuse to get out.
The results showed women were twice as likely as men to use the tactic.
Aaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!
2 hours, 19 minutes ago
LONDON (Reuters) - A British woman was sentenced to two and a half years in jail Thursday for ripping off her ex-lover's testicle with her bare hands during a drunken brawl after he refused her sex.
Amanda Monti, 24, flew into a rage in May last year after Geoffrey Jones, 37, who had ended their long-term relationship, rejected her advances.
She grabbed him by the genitals, tearing off his left testicle, then hid it in her mouth before a friend of Jones handed it back to him saying "that's yours."
Monti, of Birkenhead, near Liverpool, pleaded guilty to unlawful wounding at an earlier hearing.
Date from Hell: Rescue!
1 hour, 44 minutes ago
CANBERRA (Reuters) - It's every single person's nightmare: You're on a date, it's a disaster but there's no way out.
With Valentine's Day looming, a mobile phone company in Australia has come to the rescue with a service offering an escape from the date from hell.
All you have to do is discreetly dial three numbers and then hang up without saying a word.
"Virgin Mobile will call them back a minute later with a perfect excuse to get them out of there. We'll even talk them through what to say," the company, a joint venture of the Virgin Group and Optus, said in a statement.
A survey of 402 people by Virgin Mobile found that 53 percent arrange in advance to have a friend call them mid-date to check they are all right or if they need an excuse to get out.
The results showed women were twice as likely as men to use the tactic.
Aaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!
2 hours, 19 minutes ago
LONDON (Reuters) - A British woman was sentenced to two and a half years in jail Thursday for ripping off her ex-lover's testicle with her bare hands during a drunken brawl after he refused her sex.
Amanda Monti, 24, flew into a rage in May last year after Geoffrey Jones, 37, who had ended their long-term relationship, rejected her advances.
She grabbed him by the genitals, tearing off his left testicle, then hid it in her mouth before a friend of Jones handed it back to him saying "that's yours."
Monti, of Birkenhead, near Liverpool, pleaded guilty to unlawful wounding at an earlier hearing.
Wednesday, February 09, 2005
Old Horoscope Predictions
Today is Chinese New Year, the Year of the Rooster. Chinese pay a lot of attention to Chinese horoscope fortune telling for the upcoming year. Even though I went to a Baptist school, my classmates and I talked about horoscopes. However, Chinese horoscopes were not as popular as Western horoscopes. A friend once brought up an excellent point. All my classmates were in the same age group. Chinese zodiacs go by years, yet it is impossible that all of us have the same forecast. Western zodiacs go by months. Therefore, Western horoscopes were more popular back then.
For these reasons in addition to hiding my age, I will discuss Western signs. I am not a big fan of following the forecasts. However, I’d rather look back to see if the predictions were accurate. At least, it seems to be more scientific. I hope I will not be punished for this. I have been looking for old predictions, but it is hard to find. Is it possible that the astrologers do not want their readers to verify their accuracies? I finally found 2003 and 2004 Scorpio forecasts from the Marie Claire magazine website.
For these reasons in addition to hiding my age, I will discuss Western signs. I am not a big fan of following the forecasts. However, I’d rather look back to see if the predictions were accurate. At least, it seems to be more scientific. I hope I will not be punished for this. I have been looking for old predictions, but it is hard to find. Is it possible that the astrologers do not want their readers to verify their accuracies? I finally found 2003 and 2004 Scorpio forecasts from the Marie Claire magazine website.
2003 Verification
WHAT 2003 HOLDS FOR YOU
• You're an intense person who operates with a partially hidden agenda. Recently, you've moved through change and closure, and you've accepted hard truths about what you can't control -- especially relationships. You've become more self-aware because you know now that you were the cause of some of your latest problems. This is actually a good thing, because you've also realized that you can fix your own glitches. The result? You're now carving out a different lifestyle that gives you autonomy and financial rewards. By late winter, you'll get away from know-it-all characters who know very little and seize control of a department, business or creative endeavor. This is a year of ownership -- you'll make a financial commitment to a place that gives you a haven in which to live or vacation.
• YOUR LOVE LIFE: Because you are a sensitive person, dealing with the end of a love affair is like suffering a kind of death. Scorpio is the sign of transformation, and your destiny is to live through deaths and renewals. These are events through which you'll emerge wiser and more capable of giving yourself. The promise of 2003 is built on the hardship you've recently experienced. Your plot will take a happy new twist when you find yourself involved with a leading man who'll keep you safe and give you space. You'll feel powerful and magnetic, and your confidence will infuse other parts of your life. As spring becomes summer, you'll find material success together, possibly from a shared investment or business. The best thing is that you'll finally give your trust.
Well, the first paragraph is somewhat accurate. I am always looking to improve my lifestyle. Home purchase once crossed my mind, but I did not buy anything. Leading man, what leading man?
• You're an intense person who operates with a partially hidden agenda. Recently, you've moved through change and closure, and you've accepted hard truths about what you can't control -- especially relationships. You've become more self-aware because you know now that you were the cause of some of your latest problems. This is actually a good thing, because you've also realized that you can fix your own glitches. The result? You're now carving out a different lifestyle that gives you autonomy and financial rewards. By late winter, you'll get away from know-it-all characters who know very little and seize control of a department, business or creative endeavor. This is a year of ownership -- you'll make a financial commitment to a place that gives you a haven in which to live or vacation.
• YOUR LOVE LIFE: Because you are a sensitive person, dealing with the end of a love affair is like suffering a kind of death. Scorpio is the sign of transformation, and your destiny is to live through deaths and renewals. These are events through which you'll emerge wiser and more capable of giving yourself. The promise of 2003 is built on the hardship you've recently experienced. Your plot will take a happy new twist when you find yourself involved with a leading man who'll keep you safe and give you space. You'll feel powerful and magnetic, and your confidence will infuse other parts of your life. As spring becomes summer, you'll find material success together, possibly from a shared investment or business. The best thing is that you'll finally give your trust.
Well, the first paragraph is somewhat accurate. I am always looking to improve my lifestyle. Home purchase once crossed my mind, but I did not buy anything. Leading man, what leading man?
2004 Verification
WHAT 2004 HOLDS FOR YOU
Every aspect of your life seems to be in flux, but don't be discouraged. Of course, each bump in the road has sent you spinning, and the fact that you're not in control of certain factors drives you crazy. Other people -- most of whom are undependable -- are calling the shots, so you feel as if you have one hand tied behind your back. But you'll soon get out of a situation that's been an uncomfortable fit -- and realize that what others call your peculiarities are actually your passport to success. Now, you can start a project that builds on your willpower and perfectionism and takes them far beyond your current environment. As you use your fabulous people instincts and utilize the talents of others, you'll feel like a stage director pulling together different components of a theatrical production. Through it all, you'll discover how smart you are.
YOUR LOVE LIFE
It's been said that Scorpios are obsessive about love, but everyone should be as intensely committed as you are. In relationships, you require total honesty, passion, profound sexual intimacy -- you need a soul mate. By definition, however, soul mates are cosmically destined, and therefore arrive infrequently. Failed relationships have scarred your heart. When you love, you invest so much that you're terrified of rejection. But as you begin 2004, you're finally ready to stop feeling powerless. Your timing is brilliant, because this is a lucky year for love. The cosmos points to someone entering your life (if he is not already there) with whom you share a destiny. Because you'll reveal your deepest feelings to him, you two will forge a truly intimate bond. Together, you'll build a safe and secure emotional home.
I have no clue what the first paragraph is about. 2004 was a lucky year for love? Someone entered my life last year? Well, to whom is the prediction referring?
Every aspect of your life seems to be in flux, but don't be discouraged. Of course, each bump in the road has sent you spinning, and the fact that you're not in control of certain factors drives you crazy. Other people -- most of whom are undependable -- are calling the shots, so you feel as if you have one hand tied behind your back. But you'll soon get out of a situation that's been an uncomfortable fit -- and realize that what others call your peculiarities are actually your passport to success. Now, you can start a project that builds on your willpower and perfectionism and takes them far beyond your current environment. As you use your fabulous people instincts and utilize the talents of others, you'll feel like a stage director pulling together different components of a theatrical production. Through it all, you'll discover how smart you are.
YOUR LOVE LIFE
It's been said that Scorpios are obsessive about love, but everyone should be as intensely committed as you are. In relationships, you require total honesty, passion, profound sexual intimacy -- you need a soul mate. By definition, however, soul mates are cosmically destined, and therefore arrive infrequently. Failed relationships have scarred your heart. When you love, you invest so much that you're terrified of rejection. But as you begin 2004, you're finally ready to stop feeling powerless. Your timing is brilliant, because this is a lucky year for love. The cosmos points to someone entering your life (if he is not already there) with whom you share a destiny. Because you'll reveal your deepest feelings to him, you two will forge a truly intimate bond. Together, you'll build a safe and secure emotional home.
I have no clue what the first paragraph is about. 2004 was a lucky year for love? Someone entered my life last year? Well, to whom is the prediction referring?
Monday, February 07, 2005
Fate
I know some people would be very against this concept because we are attributing coincidences and things that are unexplainable to fate and destiny. However, I am all for this concept. How else can we explain two people randomly meet at some point in our lives?
It is fate and destiny that brings people together. However, in order for people to belong to each other, something else is also very important. I do not know what this is called. I just know that it represents a lot of hard work, time, honesty, sparks, and many more. When things do not work out even after putting in all these efforts, we say, “It is not meant to be.”
A friend once said, “All those relationships in the past are preparing us for the next one. As long as we learn something from an expired relationship, we gain from it.” Similar to another friend said, “A mistake remains a mistake if nothing is learned from it. However, a mistake becomes an experience when a lesson is learned.” In other words, as long as you do your best on a relationship and rely on your conscience, there should be no regrets.
I know it is easier said than done, but hey, no one says it is easy.
It is fate and destiny that brings people together. However, in order for people to belong to each other, something else is also very important. I do not know what this is called. I just know that it represents a lot of hard work, time, honesty, sparks, and many more. When things do not work out even after putting in all these efforts, we say, “It is not meant to be.”
A friend once said, “All those relationships in the past are preparing us for the next one. As long as we learn something from an expired relationship, we gain from it.” Similar to another friend said, “A mistake remains a mistake if nothing is learned from it. However, a mistake becomes an experience when a lesson is learned.” In other words, as long as you do your best on a relationship and rely on your conscience, there should be no regrets.
I know it is easier said than done, but hey, no one says it is easy.
Sunday, February 06, 2005
Lost and Found
A few days ago, I was looking for something in my apartment. For the longest time, I could not figure out where it was. “Is my place that messy that I could not find anything?” Or, maybe I was in a hurry to go somewhere that I did not pay extra attention. Whatever the case it was, the next day, I discovered it unexpectedly after I gave up looking for it.
This reminds me of one Twilight Zone episode (first aired in the 80s). The main character woke up in the morning and found himself in his home with a bunch of workers installing things and rebuilding his home. The main character later realized he was in the wrong dimension. In this dimension, the workers are building every single minute of our time bit by bit, block by block.
Perhaps, the workers forgot to include things that we cannot find. At least this is the excuse I use when I cannot find things.
This reminds me of one Twilight Zone episode (first aired in the 80s). The main character woke up in the morning and found himself in his home with a bunch of workers installing things and rebuilding his home. The main character later realized he was in the wrong dimension. In this dimension, the workers are building every single minute of our time bit by bit, block by block.
Perhaps, the workers forgot to include things that we cannot find. At least this is the excuse I use when I cannot find things.
Thursday, February 03, 2005
Dreams and Constraints
This friend from my previous job is leaving the company. He and I used to share a corner office. We used to talk about a lot of things behind closed door such as politics, religions, social welfare and policies, particularly the contrasts between developed and developing countries, etc. Of course, we talked about toys as well.
I called him up to wish him good luck on his future endeavors. He told me, “Remember, let your dreams be independent of your constraints.” What a profound statement! It set off a flashback to my first debate during my debate team era. The topic was: “Interest is far more important than ability when pursuing education and career.” I was for interest, and I strongly believed in it.
After all these years, I still believe in it. Obviously, there are some tough times. This belief has been challenged at many occasions. As adults, our hectic lives sometimes cloud out the ideal. When you step back, things are not that complicated after all. One might say that I am stubborn and naïve. I would say dreams are what keep me alive and kicking. My friend once again inspires me. I am sure I will see him do great things to his country someday. His words remind me of hopes and dreams. Hopefully, I will do great things, too.
I called him up to wish him good luck on his future endeavors. He told me, “Remember, let your dreams be independent of your constraints.” What a profound statement! It set off a flashback to my first debate during my debate team era. The topic was: “Interest is far more important than ability when pursuing education and career.” I was for interest, and I strongly believed in it.
After all these years, I still believe in it. Obviously, there are some tough times. This belief has been challenged at many occasions. As adults, our hectic lives sometimes cloud out the ideal. When you step back, things are not that complicated after all. One might say that I am stubborn and naïve. I would say dreams are what keep me alive and kicking. My friend once again inspires me. I am sure I will see him do great things to his country someday. His words remind me of hopes and dreams. Hopefully, I will do great things, too.
Wednesday, February 02, 2005
Skeleton
Forgive me for being creepy. When you look at a person, have you ever wondered what his/her skeletons look like underneath that flesh? I have, but I am not a scientist. Does the person have a set of good teeth? Do the bones look like the typical classroom skeleton model? What is that brain thinking inside that skull?
I have only been to a few funerals in my life. At my coworker’s funeral last summer, I stared at her body in the casket. It was a sad moment, and I was astonished by death. There is this fine line dividing life and death, before and after. When a person loses his/her soul, flesh and organs, all that is left is the skeleton. No one would describe a skeleton as pretty or ugly, skinny or fat. No one would label a skeleton intelligent or dumb. It is only a basic set of bones.
If you add back the soul, the flesh and the organs to this set of bones, you get a human being. During the life span of this creature, he has an impact on his surrounding including people around him, or even the world. He is capable of starting a chain reaction. How a person utilizes his limited time is another big topic, a very philosophical issue. Some people leave legacy behind; some people lead a simple life. This is a very personal preference. At the end, we all end up to be skeletons.
I have only been to a few funerals in my life. At my coworker’s funeral last summer, I stared at her body in the casket. It was a sad moment, and I was astonished by death. There is this fine line dividing life and death, before and after. When a person loses his/her soul, flesh and organs, all that is left is the skeleton. No one would describe a skeleton as pretty or ugly, skinny or fat. No one would label a skeleton intelligent or dumb. It is only a basic set of bones.
If you add back the soul, the flesh and the organs to this set of bones, you get a human being. During the life span of this creature, he has an impact on his surrounding including people around him, or even the world. He is capable of starting a chain reaction. How a person utilizes his limited time is another big topic, a very philosophical issue. Some people leave legacy behind; some people lead a simple life. This is a very personal preference. At the end, we all end up to be skeletons.
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