Experiences Are The Best Teacher

My fingers were flipping through the pages of a book named, ‘A Blessing In Disguise’ (written by Andrea Joy Cohen) which I place it at my mini bookshelf, just beside my study table. It is an uncommon morning where I have the intention to do some reading on my long-time-no-read-book. Or in another word, abandoned resources.

 

What to do? I recently facebook more than readbook =.=!!

 

Ever since the end of my 4 years course, books are no longer my close friends. Instead, my digital camera (pink eggie) replaces the friendship. Well, it is not that I have changed. Reading is still my thing. It is because I am currently using another approach to connect and understand life when I have no commitment at the moment (no study, no job) – by experiencing real life by myself and at the same time capturing the best moment of every moment.

 

So happen, today is the day where I did some reading and there is a strong sense of connection when I came across with this quote:

 

 

When you use life’s experiences as your teacher and learn from them the true nature of the world and you part in it, those experiences become valuable guides to eternal fulfillment and happiness.

– Paramahansa Yogananda.

 

 

I strongly agree with Yogananda in which experiences are the best teacher – no doubt. I find that only through real life experiences can help us in believing what we read or what we hear from others’ sharing. You get to feel the immense emotion which lies in every event that is happening on us, be it happy, sad, angry, upset or simply stunned. When the emotion subsides, only we can see things more clearly. That’s when wisdom is created after having a clearer view on what had happened on us and how we perceive things.

 

 

It happens to me. Well, call me a human. We all do, aren’t we? There are ‘stars and roses’ as well as ‘scars and wounds’ lying underneath of us as we grow up when we faced life events. What have I gained?

 

• I’ve learned to appreciate both beautiful and ugly events.
• I have sharpen my skills of turning pain into strengths.
• I can do my baby dance in the middle of the storms (not yet break dance lah).
• I can shout, ‘Hell ya. This is ME, So what?’ when others are trying to intrude my life

 

If there are scars and wounds, it is our job to be truthful to ourselves, acknowledge the pain (or any emotions that submerge), and find healing alternatives. Denying and avoiding will only prolong the suffering. Thank to my 4 years Counseling course. It doesn’t turn me into an iron lady. Instead, it teaches me to be imperfect and accept own flaws and weaknesses – which is the catalyst of the healing process.

 

Well, it took me at least 5 months to understand and come up with this reflection. Back then, friends and family members were so worried about me. They had never seen a cheerful angel turned into someone closed to filthy mud. Telephone bills hiked up like mad for many months as I was unable to withstand the fact that I was being taken for granted, unappreciated and being played with feeling for many times, and talking to friends were my daily drugs besides diary writing.

 

 

Tears were the only therapy for me to go through each day with overloaded of stress during internship and academic writing. Can you imagine having to give counseling to others when you could barely handle yourself?

 

For many days and nights, I prayed and asked God for guidance with my roommate’s help. I even read bible with the hope of curing the emerging pain (btw, I’m a Buddhist). The pain and suffering is so intense that I barely handle myself. So, I search and try every alternative.

 

I begged Him to lead me to the road of happiness where I can find my cheerful smiles again. I was tired of driving in the round-about again, and again and I want to get out of there. Also, I pray that God will heal my broken heart, allowing me to give and take love again when I’m ready. I pray that I’ll be guided to my true love, someone who suit me best, deserves me and will treat me rightly and faithfully.

 

 

My prayers were being heard because each day, I am being shown with clearer evidence that I should leave the broken relationship untouched and move on. I’d damaged myself too long, lowering myself esteem and having no capacity for self love. Probably God knows my situation. Different angels are sent at different time and place, repairing my broken heart and wings, holding my hands and slowly helping me to fly again. It sounds magical but then, it is true. I feel it that way.

 

And. That’s where the process of turning from a filthy mud back into cheerful angel begins. It all started with the first few private counseling sessions which I attended. True enough, counseling sessions are enlightening and I continued my own self-discovering and self-healing after that.

 

There were nothing much can be done until I finished up my academic writing (thesis) in the beginning of May. Why? Because I can only hide in a room, read books and only books and typed on the computer. It is hard to not think about the issue when I was trapped in a quiet room with no company. Well, I am lucky that my parents are supportive enough to company me each and every day. They even helped me to filter out unwanted calls. Thank you mum and dad. I really love you both!

 

My stressed, ill look.. >.<

 

My journey of self discovery begins by first taking care and loving myself before going off for traveling. I pampered myself with more sleeps, good foods, more food and food! Besides, I groomed myself. Emm.. does my new hairstyle looks obvious? Lol..

  

#1. At Jane’s brother’s mini lounge. Trying to act cool with my new hairstyle. Don’t ask me why she placed the glass and drink on table. Probably it looks cooler >.<

 

I started to meet people again – old and new friends. I get my friend to dance, eat and do crazy stuff with me. I am close with my family again and able to be more open about myself and the issue. I begin my spiritual connection again with the nature and God. Also, I find back my passion in blogging and photography again. That’s how you are able to read my writing now. Be thankful! =D

 

#2. Shake and danced at Deebz’s house for the very first time. What song? It’s ‘Dance On The Floor’ by Jennifer Lopez, yo babe! =D

 

#3. My cousin, dad, mum and I for Wesak Day prayer at Penang.

#4. Family gathering

  #5. First dinner with a new friend. It is a new dish which is super nice – salmon avocado pizza. I wonder do they still have this?

#6. Attended communication and self help seminar. It’s called ‘Care, Act, Well’ – Turning Point. I made new friends. This is a place where I admit my pain and suffering by putting aside my ‘counselor cap’. It works well! =D

#7. Saratha and I. First time during eye-brow trading which introduced by Letchu. Well, not something I like but no harm for new experience.

  #8 River at Kuantan

#9. My new friends =))

#10. A very cool bridge at Sungai Lembing, Kuantan.

#11. Back to hometown meeting family, friends and food!

  #12. First time walking malls in KL by myself. It was a moment where I appreciate the most – just me, myself and I. At the same time get to understand photography from Jien Hau & friend.

#13. Meeting my long lost birdies. It is a memorable day where I get to connect with these angelic souls again. They are my main supporters throughout my down moment.

#14. First time, driving all the way by my self to South, including Malacca and Johor. Seriously, I’m proud of myself for trying. Spent a memorable moment with my oldest buddy, with Calvin being the tour guide. Thx ya =)

#15. 1st time presenting my academic research finding at an International Conference.

16. Did ‘grief & loss’ therapy during in a seminar conducted by Dr. Haniza Rais. It is good to connect with my inner-talk again. This time, it is about my late grandma. Miss her… <3

#17. Finally, mamak and I able to spend some quality time together – updating each others and doing fun stuff, like always.. ^^

#18. A melt-down day where no words are able to describe how I actually feel. He makes me believe that I am special, rare and priceless – and happiness is standing outside my door, waiting me to welcome it in. However, I still have doubt.

#19. Spending my quality time playing with my nephews who have been waiting me for so long. It is good to get in touch with nature and knowledge about music, parenting and education.

#20. A day where I’ve opened up myself and welcoming love again. Thank you dear for making me believe in happiness again =)

 

Well, I don’t know how far I’ve been through. But for sure, I have passed another test in life. I somehow feel like I’ve just completed a 1 year course. Or 100km of marathon (so far, I have only ran for 5km. not that much pun). Very tough leh.. >.<

 

One of the important lessons which I’ve gained is that, I have discovered more about myself. I have a clearer idea on who I am and what I want in life. I love and appreciate myself more. Before this, I tend to prioritize others’ happiness before myself – which is actually wrong because neglecting myself will leave me a hollow spirit. No one will give a damn on us. As a result, I was being taken for granted and mistreated.

 

Besides, I realize I am one lucky soul who is blessed with a bunch of beautiful angels. They are always right by my side through thick and thin, including my family and closed friends. I feel touched each time I received help or even a small wishes, prayer, hug or a simple hello as each of them mean so much to me. I guess, this is a valuable treasure that money can’t buy.

 

 

Last but not least, when I am so happy being myself, I found someone in the end of my self-discovery (in fact, self-discovery will never end). I would say, it is a blessing in disguise – unexplainable by words but felt by heart. He makes me realize the meaning of happiness again. His name is Calv and I shall introduce him in next coming post :)

 

Thus, experiences are the best teacher – if only if you know how to turn them into wisdom and appreciate what you’ve gained. Then, apply!

 

Note: Thank God for all the guidance and wonderful plans. I’m blessed. May I continue to be blessed and loved by you <3

 

P/s: This post is specially written for those who are facing challenging situation. I pray and hope that this post can at least give you a feeling of ‘You are not alone’. Have faith for life. Happiness will come knocking your door when you’re ready =)

 

P/s/s: This is also a closure for myself by appreciating whatever I have in the past, take the lessons and continue my eggie’s journey.

Special Moment With The Birdies

Seriously, I am still excited with yesterday event.

 

Although I got headache at the moment while blogging this, I still wish to blog my wonderful moment (while it is still fresh in mind) which took place at Milwaukee Steak House, Seri Kembangan with these 3 lovely ladies last night. It is a celebration for Shu Huan, for her 24th belated birthday celebration.

 

 

By the way, we called ourselves birdies in 6 during back then. How come we come up with this name? Well, you can head over here for more idea. Sadly, another 2 have returned to their countries – Singapore and Brunei. Or else, we will be complete :(

 

I visited my internship place again at Hospital Kajang during in the morning and had a great time with my supervisor, a new intern student (my junior!) and my patient. It is good to be back again, updating about each others, refreshing my counseling skills and share some of my internship experiences with my junior. Also, to say ‘Hi’ to all the staff in the Psychiatry clinic. Oh.. even the guards in the hospital as well. Surprisingly, they still remember me! Ok lah.. i was not away for too long, like 2 months? =D

 

 

Time flies without me realizing it. I met my last patient for termination session before leaving the place. At first, I thought he will miss the appointment as his mother informed that he is not feeling well. However, she changed her mind and made another call to the clinic, informing that she will bring him to the session because he insisted. I was touched by the commitment.

 

What I feel touched even most is when my 12 year old patient purposely brought his digital camera with more than 10 extra batteries to the room. His intention was to snap picture with me… *ahwww*

 

Luckily I am a person who always bring camera around. Close friends of mine know that… =P

 

Somehow or rather, my counseling session was like an art class (but I don’t teach). This is called Art Therapy where you draw and share whatever thoughts that cross your mind at the moment. Children love this activity and you can see the creative side of them.

 

After some thoughts, I think it is better to cover up my patient’s identity.

 

As the clock hit 5.30pm, I left the place and immediately fetched my gorgeous friends at the station. Plans on how to create a memorable birthday celebration for our dearest Shu Huan were discussed along the journey before picking her up at work place. Thanks to SH’s bf for cooperating with us. Ngek ngek….

 

Probably you might not think of this where I asked both my friends to squeeze and hide at the passenger seats, so that Shu Huan will not be able to see them – and thought it is only me who have dinner with her. The whole process was seriously hilarious and I was like a crazy girl who talked and laughed alone while driving. I hallucinate. Lol.

 

A random photo I took when both of them were squatting down at back seats. muahaha.. XD

 

As soon as we reached and got her, I asked, “Shu Huan, I need your help to take some stuff from the back seats. Can you help me?”. She obediently followed (though she was confused) my request and right after she opened the door…

 

*Ta-da!!*

 

She yelled and screamed all the way. Lolx… I did record this in video and will edit it. Probably I can come up with a special clip soon… *evil laugh*

 

Bravo girls. We did it!

 

We ‘intruded’ her rented house which look like castle. The 3 of us started mumbling about Rapunzel, Snow White, Beauty & the Beast, Tumberlina, Mermaid… Mermaid? Lol.. it must be from bathtub. Haha…

 

It took us at least an hour to walk out from the house successfully. Laughter and noises companied us along the way before reaching the steak house which we agreed on. Ok lah, I lied. Actually, our laughter and noises grew greater as soon as we get a place to sank ourselves. Well, 2 ENFP, 1 ENFJ and 1 INFJ are passionate enough in making a new place like home. Or because… We are birdies? =P

 

The taste and presentation of food at Milwaukee Steak House are not bad. Moderate mark I will give. But high rating for the service. One of the staff, name Pearl is especially friendly. I am grateful for everything she has served us ^^

 

 

I think we occupied the place for nearly 2 hours++. If it was not Thursday, I think we might want to spend a longer hours. Seriously, it is not easy to get the 4 of us (not to mention 6) to meet each other ever since the final semester is over. Everyone is looking for job now and will settle down soon.

 

 

No more play but work. Can I have both?

 

Throughout this whole celebration, it is not the ‘birthday reason’ that I care most. The priority is on the quality time we spent, connecting and enjoying each other presences and souls when we are being together. Call me a sentimental person, I don’t mind because I am a person who truly see the beauty in friendship and relationship – especially when I have found true and genuine good friends who I can connect well.

 

      

 

Life is not just about what material things you have (or probably not at all). It is also about how deep connection you can make between yourself and others. Besides, it is about what you have gained in this life. I might sound ‘innocent’ here but this is what I believe in – friendship, connection, love.

 

June had been to Taiwan and Thailand and she bought us presents! At first, I thought it was Christmas and Santa June finds Kelly a good girl. So she has presents! =D

Yay!

 

Bei Shan and Shu Huan have reminded me about a photo which the 3 of us had taken long time ago, during our first year in campus. We went to a prom night for our 3rd college event. We look like this 3 years+ before.

 

Click here to the past

Current.

 

Wow.. We did change and it is our hairstyle which are very obvious. Guess we have grown up? Lol… Btw, I think I shall keep my hair long after this.

 

So yes, I love my birdies friends. Thank you for always being supportive, caring and loving. By the way, I am happy that I have presents too though my birthday is still 2 months away *hint*

 

 

Wish you a Merry Christmas. Gosh, I mean Happy Belated Birthday Mommy Bird~

=D

Little India at Brickfields

I am thinking, “It’s time to get back to the blogosphere and start rocking again”.

 

Yes, totally! You might not believe when I write this. I have more than thousands of photos in just one week time and hundreds of stories to share. Ok lah.. maybe not hundreds but A FEW!

 

The problem is, I don’t know where to start? Cham.

 

After spending times browsing all over my photo albums, I have finally decided. Let’s start from my Little India experience at Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur which took place last week with both of my good friends – Letchu and Jane.

 

Before going any further with my story, you should know one thing, that is I am no longer a student. I have successfully completed my degree and I am on a ‘personal project’ now. So, I am free once in awhile meeting and hanging out with friends doing random stuff.

 

It all start up with these 2 lovely ladies when one morning, the 3 of us decided to have breakfast in an Indian Restaurant at Brickfields. I have this sudden crave for tosai days before the meet up and I seriously have no idea on that random appetite. Maybe I have curry gene from my ancestors? Emmmm…. *thinking hard*

 

I was the driver, fetching these 2 lovely ladies wandering around the small but crowded area. Of course, Letchu is the main ‘tourist guide’. She was my GPS and best-tosai-searcher. Lol…

 

 

    

So, we went to the recommended restaurant and planted ourselves for almost 2 hours with teh tarik kurang kurang, sangat kurang manis (but still manis) and tosai. Seriously, they make good tosai kertas and tosai biasa, but sadly not rava tosai. I realized not many place can make thin and crunchy rava tosai. Sigh… Of course, good tosai (or even roti canai) should come with good curry and their curries are really nice.

 

 

After the fulfilling breakfast, the three of us really done crazy stuff at crazily hot hour. Obviously, it was both of us, Jane and I who were so excited with the place because we rarely went there.

 

And… what we did?

 

 

 

You are right!

Photography moment with lotsa poses! Plus, haven’t you realized it? I have my new hairstyle which require more attention than ever because after this, I may not keep this style anymore. Unless you say it suits me better than long hair and I look gorgeous in this, then I might consider keeping this unisex hairstyle longer. Lol..

 

 

While both us indulging ourselves in our own world, busy snapping photos like nobody business, there was a person who actually suffered from the pain of waiting and hanging. I mean, being hang with stuff. Lol…

 

 

Letchu was so embarrass with our hyperactive behaviors because there were actually lot of eyes throwing at us. I was like ‘I-am-too-awesome-and-I-don’t-care-how-others-see me’. As a result, she almost have to hide her face into my large yellow back. Sorry dear… =P

 

To make her feel better, I dragged her along and join the ‘crazy Chinese group’ for more photos. Of course, she likes it because we are all ENFPs. Hahaha…. =D

     

 

If you noticed my bare feet, it was because of my jumping attempt. I was doing this jumping on air pose but then failed to capture a good one. So, ya. No photos of my jumping but my bare feet (that’s why Letchu was so embarass to stand there watching me. lol..)

 

Frankly, it has been a long time since the day I enjoyed as much as this. Thank God that I have completed my final semester with Internship report and Academic Writing. I feel younger, lighter and happier now without any burden that dragged me so closed to ground.

 

 

I can again, open my doors for new opportunities that bring me closer to happiness and self actualization. I can again connecting my life again with my family, friends and new contacts.

 

So, that explain why I have thousands of photos within a week. Emmm… well, that’s just normal for curryegg.. =P

P/s: Brickfields is a good place to hangout for good Indian food, cheap accessories and photography.