Temptations & Ambitions

The worst thing is to see that your horoscope talks rather true about you. At least when more than 50%. So here's for those who wants to know more about me. :P

LEO

Persons born "on the line" between two Zodiac Signs partake of qualities found in both Signs or, more strictly speaking, have a blend of traits that may compose an individual nature. Due to variations in astrological calendars, this may became apparent during the last few days of a departing Sign, but the "cusp" (as it is termed) pertains chiefly to the first week of the incoming Sign. While the new Sign is gaining its ascendancy, the influences of the old will persist but gradually loses its hold day-by-day until, by the seventh day, the new Sign is in complete control.

Individuals born on the cusp of Cancer (the fourth Sign of the Zodiac) and Leo (the fifth Sign of the Zodiac) are ruled by both the Sun and the Moon. These cuspians are witty, ambitious and sometimes, extremely unscrupulous. Indeed, this particular cusp combination frequently produces the most corrupt of politicians who attain eminence. These natives are experts at appealing to the various vulnerable points of their associates and the inherent daring ambition provides the power of securing for themselves the preferment and advancement to which they aspire, even though better individuals may, of necessity, be sacrificed to their progress. Nonetheless, Cancer/Leo subjects will nurture the family group and take pride in the warm hospitality they invariably provide.

The Cancer/Leo cusp combination, also known as the Cusp of Oscillation, corresponds symbolically to the period of human life at around the age of twenty-eight. Of all twelve cusps, these natives most clearly display the split influences of two adjacent Signs almost opposite in their orientations. Here, traditionally feminine orientations (associated with the Moon) and traditionally masculine orientations (associated with the Sun) are combined equally in one single personality. Thus, Cancer/Leo males are likely to possess strong feminine sensibilities and Cancer/Leo females display an accentuated masculine side. Integrated in such a manner, these contrasting characteristics can result in a highly-balanced and healthy personality. However, when there is a tendency to vie for ascendancy, this cusp combination often produces wide mood swings which can cause immense psychic stress. It may be hard for others to know exactly how to approach these cuspians and those who know them well will frequently ease slowly into conversations, sitting quietly until the mood becomes apparent. Generally, it is difficult (if not impossible) to push Cancer/Leo subjects from one psychological state into another due to the fact that they are resistant to emotional manipulation. The water element of Cancer results in these natives tending to respond through emotion, while the fire element of Leo provides a more physical aspect to the character, coupled with a tendency to respond to the world by way of action. Thus, these cuspians are normally quite intuitive and will leap headfirst into life, refusing to fret over whether their latest goal is realistic or practical. However, should the situation happen to require drama or courage, then these subjects most certainly possess both...in great abundance.

Cancer/Leo cuspians love being on the "cutting edge" of innovative projects and activities, possessing the vitality and ambition to be successful in creative endeavors. Indeed, "creativity" is one of the keywords attributed to these subjects and their caring nature ensures that the benefits of their imaginative powers will help others. Although they may not necessarily be suited to the position of leadership, they are efficient and their application to the task at hand is admirable. These natives also know how to delegate authority and work within a team environment. They usually prefer to be in the "thick of battle" rather than be found "sitting on the sidelines," and those who can work with these natives as true associates and partners are often able to share in such experiences, thus penetrating deeply into this cuspian's heart and mind. Cancer/Leo natives set high goals for themselves. They are great thinkers and possess magnificent memories. By nature, these are immensely sympathetic souls...particularly to those in distress and will contribute freely and lavishly toward relief. Loyalty to friends is yet another admirable trait associated with this cusp combination. Indeed, there is no trouble or disgrace sufficient to cause these natives to forsake those to whom they have given friendship. Females governed by this cusp combination are frequently among the best wives and mothers to be found in the entire Zodiac. They are good housekeepers and excellent cooks, with a pronounced desire for "pleasures of the table." Indeed, all these cuspians (regardless of gender) have a strong association with food.

Cancer/Leo natives are both emotional and traditional, often very interested in their heredity and ancestors. They are frequently prominent in the theatrical arena since their inherent flamboyance and love of attention make them natural candidates for fame. There is a tendency here for these natives to perceive themselves as the "center of the universe" and, sometimes, they are absolutely correct. However, often fascinated by their own brilliance and eloquence, Cancer/Leo cuspians may become self-hypnotized to the point where they consider themselves to be masters or mistresses of right or wrong. From high-minded reformers, they can turn into unscrupulous spellbinders and their self-confidence could cause them to ridicule their own conservatism. Once the Leo mind drops its idealism and falls prey to indolence or deceit, then the lunar forces of Cancer will take control in the worse possible way and stir the restless mind with jealousy. However, this may all be avoided by fostering the natural exuberance afforded by Leo and turning it to progressive channels. True Leo individuals born born during the early period of this particular cusp combination frequently rise high in such professions as medicine(swt???) and law, as well as becoming fine educators. The reason for this is due to their human sympathies, which are strongly furthered by the lunar undercurrent supplied by the Cancer influence. Cancer/Leo cuspians often make excellent amateur chefs and some go on to make a career out of cooking. Since pleasure is paramount to this cusp combination, its natives are prone to sepnd money in order to feel good. Cancer/Leo cuspians enjoy physical exercise (which can aid to counter the stress inherent in the emotional nature of this blend) and there is a decided preference here to play team sports or participate in group exercise rather than any solo activity. In short, these natives are far too sociable to truly enjoy solitary running or any other form of individual activity.

Here, the powerful governing influence of the Sun (which governs Leo), assumes almost total control over uncertain Cancer (governed by the flickery and fickle Moon). Nonetheless, this lesser force is present and can evidence itself, much like the Moon will occasionally eclipse the Sun. Individuals born on this cusp combination should basically consider themselves to be the subjects of Leo and strive to shake off any lunar weaknesses that could prove to be their undoing. If such natives become retrospective, then they should consider the past and its traditions to be nothing more than a guide toward a much greater future. Should the Cancer/Leo cuspian become moody, then he or she needs to "snap out of it" and think in terms of ambition. When this combination becomes sympathetic to suffering, it is important that immediate steps be taken to improve the condition or the brilliant and intellectual qualities given to this cusp by Leo may easily become warped or even dissipated. Cancer/Leo cuspians tend to go through life with a strong shell around them...one that is not easily broken. However, such individuals are the first to express emotion in any given situation...the first to laugh and the first to shed tears. There is also a strong ability to see projects through to completion. Thus, they are good organizers and tend to be very popular or even inspiring individuals. These cuspians are prone to be more sensitive to the movement of the Moon through the Zodiac than are other cuspians and their mood frequently changes in tune with the Moon's passage. In essence, these are by nature normally gregarious, social, self-assured and fun-loving characters who live life with much enthusiasm. Usually domestic and peaceful souls, they possess strong emotional drives and refuse to sit still when loved ones are threatened. There is also a tendency in the character of this cusp combination to live in something of a fantasy world.

With regard to relationships, Cancer/Leo cuspians rank high in almost every area...the gambit from devotion to romance. In dealings with business partners and friends, these natives tend to fare better with individuals who are even in terms of disposition...ones who are able to promote a peaceful and constant environment in day-to-day activities. Steady jobs, well-founded relationships and a dependable mate are vital to these natives in order to even out their constrasting moods. Nonetheless, they will most likely remain happy (to some degree at least) so long as someone is paying attention to them.

The greatest strength of Cancer/Leo cuspians is to be found in their creativity and in their generosity toward others. Sometimes, these qualities will combine and result in an individual who provides thoughtful gifts or unique solutions to problems. In addition, blessed with an emotional orientation to life which makes them aware of the difficulties their loved ones must work through, this cusp is counted among the most understanding characters of the Zodiac.

The most important lesson to be learned by Cancer/Leo natives is that they need to work with people who are not only highly competent and can carry their own share of the load, but that such people are able to understand these cuspians on a personal level. It is also necessary for them to learn self-discipline and try not to concentrate overly much on the past...instead, living for the present. Additionally, these natives should note that it is essential for their blood and digestive organs to be well-toned. As with all cusp individuals, these cuspians tend to be attracted to others born on the cusp...particularly those who fall within the Libra/Scorpio and Capricorn/Aquarius combinations.

-- Possess the inward and sensitive traits inherent in Cancer --
-- Possess the outward and fiery traits inherent in Leo --
-- Tend to have rather volatile personalities --
-- Prone to movement...both physically and emotionally --
-- Life is prone to be focused on strength and grace --
-- Often lacking in self-discipline --
-- Apt to dwell on the past --
-- Need to learn to live for the moment --
-- Vibrant and energetic --

Notable Cancer/Leo Cuspians Include:
Sir Edmund Hilary; Ernest Hemingway; Alexander the Great; Amelia Earhart; and Walter Payton

Perhaps one had listen too often of the recent debate of the constitutional rights to use "Allah" in the Christian publication, Herald in its Malay edition. Whatever they said, I find the Herald publications must have gone nuts and out of their mind to use the terms of other religions. If this is true, The Herald- The Catholic Weekly is downright ridiculous to do such a thing. Have they no brains or are they trying to trick the Muslims to join Christianity?

Yes, "Allah" refer to God, "Jesus" refer to God (more appropriately the Son of God), Buddha must be a God too (more of a teaching than a religion though). Even the Chinese "Tou San" (God of Gambling) also refers to God. Then which is God? Shall we say all of them are the same and just use them interchangeably? Shall we confuse their believers?

As most agnostics and certain sects may agreed that it MAY be the same, I beg to differ. Whether if the God is the same or different in perspective or whatsoever the possibility, these religious terms, "Allah", "Jesus" and so on reflects more of the religions' identities. Each and every one of us have a father, but do I use your father's name as my father's? There is no such insistence if one understands the true nature of language, to an extent that the editor must need reeducation to allow him to reconform to the norms of the society.

God has its term in Malay language, and "Tuhan" it shall be. Even Jesus has its Malay name, namely "Yesu" or perhaps "Isa" in Islam if that is what they are so concerned of. Then, why use the term "Allah"? So that the Indonesians can understand? Then don't do a Malay edition, make an Indonesian edition! Malay language and Indonesian language are somewhat different as well!

It's being stupid, as if saying we must use the term "Elvis" to explain God to Rock n' Roll fanatics! If this is allowed to happen, we might even see Muslim publications using Jesus in their English edition. With this commotion going on, I think sooner or later, it is going to be one big family after all. What crap!

On the bright side, this may ease the "Christians vs Muslims" tension around the globe after all. Since we're mankind, why not live and pray under one big roof. For me, I'll prefer my weekly edition in Chinese. At least the God could be referred as "Tou San" (God of Gambling).

*The author does not mean to take a stab at the respective religions mentioned, but to point out the issues of certain believers having issues with other religions. Plus, the author just believe that religion is good, but the believers may not necessarily be so.

I was really amused when a post of rodents from Kean had draw lots of attention from rats lover. Such a fact that they had to argue on how to kill a rat by all means. To me, the end justify its means. Would it really matter how is a rat killed if you are going to kill it anyway. So, here's a brief rundown of the top 5 recommended methods preferred to kill rats.


Rat Poison: As effective as it seems, it has basically diminished effect on urban rodents for they are smarter than any dimwit against animal cruelty. Their survival instincts are much stronger than any human, and given ample time, they might even mass produced Ratatouille potentials before you can even blink your eyes. Forget Ridpest or any of their sweet talk on their efficacy. You'd rather treat yourself with a hot plate of Nasi Lemak with an extra fried chicken.

Drowning: As opposed to ancient rat species, there's quite a number of rat swimmers surfacing in the underworld, perhaps somewhat spawned from Splinter, the master of Ninja Turtles. They had mastered the art of swimming enough to beat a casual swimmer in an Olympic pool, not to mention the fact that they would be infesting the whole pool of water with thir friendly germs if it wasn't for the chlorine water. So how would you expect to drown a rat without being infected?

Besides the point, a drowning experience is like no other, for our brain would try by all means to avoid such suffocation. The lungs would be filled with excruciating sharp pain and the breath taken away in a minute or two, but the brain is yet still very alive for another 20 minutes or so, which meant that while you are tugging the rat into the dumps, it may still be alive, conscious of your doings, perhaps given ample time, may curse you to etenal damnation.

Snap Traps: Seen in most cartoon such as Tom and Jerry, this is a preferred method in the olden days in the time when peasants roam the lands. This is mainly suitable for outdoors where sterilizing can be done easily without blood splattering across your favourite piece of Fratelli Berto couch or maggots invasion before you could notice it the day after of even some dramatic cases when the foul stench fill the air. Unless you put it in front of the rat hole, I doubt that all rats would fall for it, since Charles Darwin theory of natural selection would still holds, and those survivors would be smart enough to hold their ground. Besides, there is no guarantee that the rats would be killed as some may manage to escape with a missing limb or two, prolonging their suffering as long as it takes to breed a new army to announce a hostile takeover of your house.

Cats for..Rats..: Contrary to popular beliefs, cats does not eat mice or even rats. Although treated as mortal nemesis, the cats hunt rodents for pleasure, a hunting game valued by cats in the wild. Try putting your favourite pampered Persian cat to a rat, and there is quite a possibility that you would see the rat chasing after your pet cat. Believe you me, not all cats are capable of rat-hunting after staying in the comfort of human love. Even if they do catch one, remember to dispose the rat quickly, for your cat may be bringing the dead rat up and down your house, and it is undesirably for many to have bits of rat flesh or blood stains over the house. And for those keeping the cat outside the house, it defeats the purpose for the cat is out and the rat wrecks naught.

Boiling: There is in fact, two types of misinterpreted boiling terms, where one boils the rat in your cooking pot just like how the witch would boil Hansel and Greetel, and the other by pouring steamy hot boiling water on the rat, just like any mee-in-a-cup would do. While the latter is a proper manner to dispose the rat by killing the germs, it could inflict burning pain to the rat. It may be cruel, but might be necessary for the greater good. It might be just a rat being a rat, but all we are reminded is that we are being human too, so there is no guilt involved to be going that path. Others may object, but it is of their own opinions and shall not be imposed on others, just like any religion.

But if for whatever reasons (perhaps inflation due to the government's policy) you choose to boil it in your cooking pot, you might as well microwave it, or even grilled it with some seasonings, which may be absurd for they are no free food due to hygienic and food safety reasons.


Conclusion: Now, as I've said, there is no best method involved in killing rodents, for whatever you've done, it's still murder. Just as in humans, drowning a person does not make you less guilty than boiling them or killing them with poison. It is still murder.

Even if you released the rats few blocks away, look at it this way. You are inflicting harm to the people in that area and may spread the disease there. Indirect it may seem, but you've just cause some deaths the moment you release them away to multiply in a jolly good fashion. Whatever it is, life is a neverending cycle with actions and consequences, foreseen and unforeseen. Whatever we do, life goes on, so dispose your rat quickly, so that they could proceed to afterlife or a better reincarnation if you believe in them.

Being 22 means I am no longer 21. Of course, what would have change in the past 1 year? With every minute, we age gracefully into the reality of adulthood one would long for. Or on the contrary, we age dumbfully and became redundant. So, here's a self reflection of what would have been of me a year ago back when I was 21.

21: I was no one.
22: I am still no one.

21: I was stupid
22: I am no smarter

21: I was handsome
22: I am still handsome, and people would still vomit at this self-proclaimed statement.

21: I was lazy
22: I am still lazy.

21: I drive a green Proton Iswara
22: I still drive that car

21: I am 178.5cm
22: I am still 178.5cm

Nevertheless, some things did change. And all it was because I had aged.
21: I was single
22: I am slightly less than triple.

21: I was the Flirt King
22: I am the.... no longer that. MAybe should self declare Love King..keke..

21:I wasn't stressed yet.
22: I am stressed by clinicals.

21: I have not seen any vaginas.
22: I've seen many, because I was in the labor ward.

21: I don't do fingering.
22: I finger into other people's backhole. It's called digital per rectal examination. I wonder if there's any manual per rectal examination.

Alas here, I'm still as clueless as I could be. Life is still heading nowhere for me. I'm not sure if I'll be a practising doctor or not. One thing for sure, I'll make sure I'll graduate and make full use of the training in med school. I may not necessarily be in the practising line, but the 5 years would definitely be worthwhile. Only the weak would find it a waste of time. For me, it is just the beginning of everything.

Why I LOVE my hostel's internet connection

Being in one of the local public universities in Malaysia, the internet connection is provided for us. And being as 'local' as they are, they need to filter certain materials amidst their inability to comprehend technology. Thus, they proceed to filter everything by keywords in the URL, search engine or perhaps even in content. Sorry for certain bloggers, because I was barred from my internet connection to read your blogs.

Of many webs being blocked, the main one was YouTube. Of course, it just means that we can no longer enjoy free videos, even when our doctors uploaded or recommended some medical videos to us. We just feel that it is just being stupid. Well, not really. There's always proxy server or port forwarding. There's many ways to bypass it, but it just feels stupid having to see this kind of things here.

So I explored further, and found that the admin had blocked anything to do with the word Playboy. Whether it is in the search engine or url, they block it for no apparent reason.
No, I don't read Playboy. Serious, I don't. You got to trust me! It's a paid website, so why would I go there? Oops.. Haha.. The problem is, they only block playboy. Try typing in sex, gay, nude or whatever sexually explicit words in, it went on smoothly. Why wouldn't they just put in a something like parental filter if they really need to filter something?!!

Perhaps, they really do want to promote sex education. They just want to do it discreetly. They do understand that the key to adulthood is sex education. Just that Playboy does not fit into the bill, perhaps there's too much "play" going on, even from the word itself. (So much of me and my lame joke)

But that's besides the point. Even Rapidshare had been blocked by them. No more downloading from the famous website for manga lovers. Lucky me for being able to do it at home. Or perhaps there are few smart ones who host the downloads at other servers such as senspace, mediafire, 4shared, megaupload, or whatsoever. I don't care which server, as long as I could lay my hands on my weekly dose of manga. And torrents too. No movies, no games, no music.


So much for my rant, though it's actually free, and it's via LAN network. Free stuff may not be good, but we can't complain of free stuff? That's pure rubbish. I fight for the cause of freedom in internet. Why subject ourselves to such conventional thoughts which abide us from being a liberal and developed nation?

So, free the filters and give me my Bunny!!

*Disclaimer: The author does not read Playboy, or ever had his hands on any Playboy magazine. However, the author does not seem to mind if there are any readers who would like to donate their used or new Playboy magazines to him. Any issue will do. And Penthouse, or whatever you can get for him. Well, his birthday is coming soon anyway. :P

Chastity Belt: Rape prevention or BDSM?

I recall that sometime last year, a PAS cleric man(Abu Hassan Din Al Hafiz) had suggested the use of chastity belt to prevent rape cases. He claims that it protects women from sexual assault. But is there truth in it? Of course, it confers the most basic and simplest solution of an uncivilised mind, and imagine the reaction caused by the statement around the world! Bloggers had been calling him names from baboon, orang utan, nutjob cleric, just to give a few examples.


So, in short, the usage of chastity belts is not an effective solution for preventing rape cases, although it could be an effective tool for BDSM. Proper education and enforcement of laws shall be implemented to prevent rape cases instead. Security measures should be taken by the community, and the females as well. Males should be gentlemen and accompany their female friends as to protect them, not becoming the criminal themselves. Otherwise, I would advise the PAS cleric to enforce a mandatory castration on all males to prevent rape cases. Now, wouldn't that be as effective as females wearing chastity belts?

Earth Hour: A need or a deed?

For those who are unaware of the Earth Hour, let me enlighten you. On the 29th of March (today), there is an event of Earth Hour with the motto, " See the difference that we can make". First started off in Australia in 2007, it has now attracted media and governments from countries around the world to participate. The Earth Hour campaign claims to reduce carbon emission generated from electricity production as well as conserving energy.



Though it may be regarded as a good deed, criticisms centred on the Hour's being mere tokenism. This is due to the fact that its effectiveness in reducing carbon emissions, whether the significant reduction in electricity consumption reported occurred at all, and questionable coverage of the event by the media conglomerate that sponsored it.

According to figures from EnerhyAustralia, a local utility, mains electricity consumption was 10.2% lower during the Hour than would be expected given the time, weather conditions and past four years' consumption patterns. Although the Herald equated this with "taking 48,613 cars off the road for one hour", Bolt noted that it also represents taking a mere six cars off the road for a year—a negligible practical impact.^[10]

The 10.2% figure was itself challenged in a detailed analysis by David Solomon, a student at the University of Chicago, Solomon used eight years of electricity usage data to conclude that the Earth Hour-inspired drop was only 6.33%, and that after other potential factors were taken into account, only 2.10%, "statistically indistinguishable from zero." In some areas in the Northern Hemisphere, it will be twilight at 8 pm, removing some of the advantages of the event.

Thus, there is no concrete evidence of saving electricity in that manner. Enjoy your electricity as much as you want. The best way to reduce carbon emission is to:

1. Breathe less (human produce carbon dioxide)
2. Smoke less
3. Drive less
4. Do not practise open burning

So, I'm going to use my electricity full blast during Earth Hour. When is the best time to enjot it all when there's no one else to compete with you since they are busy "SAVING" electricity?

X'P

Boys are Better in Grocery Shopping

Some may not agree to this. Me too. But what I saw on TV proved otherwise. Just a while ago, there was this segment on 8TV(5.45-6pm) which requires the parents to ask their children (around the age of 3-6) to bring back 3 grocery items. The contesting kids would be pushing a small trolley as they shop, and the parents were given a chance to help their kids to bring back the right grocery item.

The grocery items were Pandan cream bread, a red tilapia fish and a broccoli.

The first contestant was a chubby girl. She got a watermelon among a few wrong items. Nevertheless, the mom corrected her and at least she brought back a broccoli. 100 marks for her.

The second contestant, also a girl, was the one who would give more headache. She could not even seem to pay attention to her mom giving orders to her. Even after her mom gave her further instructions using the second chance, she brought back a whooping 12 items wich were all too heavy for the trolley. Watermelon, Grow milk powder, cucumber, bacon, white bread, some plain fish which weren't red at all, tomato and many other more. 12 items, but none came close to being correct except for the white bread and plain fish. She seems unable to comprehend anything as she gave different reasons and ideas to her mom. No marks there. The first sign of inability to comprehend and talking different stuff gave me the impression that she had some defects in the angular gyrus area in her brain. Lolz..

The third contestant was a boy. He came along with his father who gave him instructions to get the 3 grocery items. Credits should be given to his father for simple instructions: Green bread, red fish and green flowerish vegetable. So off the boy went. After sometime, he came back to his father with an empty trolley and thus wasting his second chance. The father repeated the same instructions and the boy went off with another blank look. My first thought was "gone case".

But then, as he kept repeating I don't know, he reached the bread section and found himself saying "I duno", with his hand grabbing a green colored bread which was the Pandan Cream bread. He walked past the fish section and ask the helper to take a red fish for him. Lucky him there was only red tilapia which was red. And he got the last one as he accidentally passed that section and grabbed a broccoli, with the same words " I duno la". He got everything but he still looked confused and turn round and round before he grabbed an extra item, fish balls. I wonder whether if he did it on purpose because those would be free if he get the right items anyway.
300 marks went to him, and he won. I still wonder how a blur kid won.

So, from the show, I can only conclude that guys could be a better in shopping because they are damn blurrrrr...... And maybe because they talk less and receive orders more readily. But then, that would exclude myself. My teacher could never fail to shut this chatterbox, X'P

So, what say you about this?

Ever since the introduction of the digital world in our analog world, no one knew that this was going to be the next big thing. Something that would change our lives for real, and for good. The pioneers of the digital world had envisioned something even more ambitious than me running an election for the next election for the post of the President of the United States of America: The replacement of paperbacks and hardcovers by e-books, or in short, the digitalization of the book industry.

Now, now, I find it rather amusing because such replacement would never happen, not in my lifetime yet, I guess. There are always pros and cons for both consumers and the industry, fairly simple. So, now, I am going to start with the pros and cons for the book industry first. Note that I had only quote a few points because I find that I can rant non-stop on this issue.
On the aspect of the consumer, the pros would involve some cons of the industry. That is the reality, as one would benefit out of the expense of the other. E-books would become so affordable when piracy is practised. This would be good, promoting techno-savviness among the younger generation. I myself find an e-book handy because I can print out selected pages for my PBL resources and a quick browse would be even much easier. Well, for those tech-savvy, you can put the PDF files in your mobile devices such as PDAs and read while on the move. A pdf version is always lighter than a 6-pounds book. Even for certain professionals like doctors, it would be handy to refer to the files in a PDA rather than carrying a big book in front of your patient! Plus, it looks cool too!

Rankings?

World Uni rankings means nothing to me. Yeap. That was what I said in one of my post centuries ago. Brought in by the propaganda, I don't need people to tell me which is good. I do my own homework. Nevertheless, I'm sure there is a commotion of the latest world ranking. I'm taken by surprise too, because UKM has risen so fast up the ranks. What? Did they pay the QS to elevate it? Nah, don't think UKM is that capable. Or overseas propaganda? Nah, UM is worthless to bring down. It's just the pride of most local Malaysian grads (not me though). Or somehow they just struck the jackpot? Weird. The truth is out there, and until I 'out' there then, I won't be able to find it out. Been browsing the Times online (free 14-days with my multiple accounts, for evey time I wanted to see it) and saw the rankings for Science, Biomedicine and Technology, the 3 latest list. As usual, none of the local public Uni is in the technology list. But, UKM is 62nd on the Science Uni list, with UM on the 95th. Surprise!! Nah, just kidding. UKM was in the top 100 last year, a minor improvement means nothing. But I guess UM will be celebrating again for the '95th' position again. Haha.. Back to the last list? Biomedicine. It was the list where UM excel in top 100 last year and they boast of their medic course, by the way. I guess they must have handicap other uni, cause they are not in it this year. And my my... I was looking at Nottingham Uni at 51st (a surprise for an engineering uni to get into top 100 for biomedicine but not in Technology, maybe there's another column for engineering, I guess.), then I saw Malaysia!! UKM in 56th!! At the moment, I was looking for UM. There, I saw another Malaysia!! At 95th placing. But, I realised it's not UM, it's USM. Lolz.. USM is on the rise too? Have to say so. I know UPM and USM will rise too, but UKM will lead the rise because it's the oldest after UM (by a merely 10 years, of course, by excluding the years UM WAS in Singapore, which is the current NUS). In the end, the rankings does not really reflect anything real. The standards of all public Uni will be more or less the same one day, and it won't rise too high, because of our rules and regulations. Yet, there is one thing that matters, UM's pride has been hurt. Sayonara, I don't want to listen to any people boast about UM. All public Uni grads are even.

Da Vinci: Fiction or Fact?

writing, which blends certain fiction into facts that he had got his hands into. Yes, he sure had twisted some facts, but that is always the work of fiction. Many novelist had done such things, just that they did not do it under Christianity. So what is the big fuss over it? Well, the biggest victory lie in Dan Brown's hand, because everyone who read his book will be fascinated. He raise doubts, as you can, among christians. He open a whole new possibility(and fantasy) to the historical past. and this, I can say, is similar to the Renaissance period.

distorted, as always. Let's have a look at the current world affairs. Japan tried to rewrite history so that their past comrades are glorified, and not condemned. Americans write history in a manner to influence the world. For example, Americans historians labelled Cuba as a communist country in the 80s. In fact, Cuba was just anti-democracy, and not a communist country. think carefully, an anti-democracy is not necessarily communisme-prone. US treat people this way, "If you're not my allies, you're my enemy." There's many cases as such in the world, with history dominated and manipulated by the victor. Let's have a closer look at religion. Sindharta Gautama was never a God. He preached his teachings, while strictly adhering to Hinduism. There were many sciptures written about him during his time, and yet, in time, it is twisted. Buddhism was formed as a religion, when in fact, it was supposed to be a teaching. What about Christianity? Even during the Renaissaince, there was a split, by the Protestants from the Catholic. Up till now, there are many factions of Christianity, each with their own interpretion, which can differ vastly, between the passive, up to the most radical. So the fact is, we can now see human as the source of errors. But for those who are religious, do not condemn other religion. when you do the same, there will be another like you condemning your religion. Plus, the Bible was assembled a few centuries after the death of Jesus (and his rise 3 days later). Even now, the Catholic has reprints which differ slightly everytime. Throughout the course of time, I believe, the Bible has gone thru a period of evolution. So before you curse me on this, I just want you to keep an open mind and think. I find most Christians had a mind block regarding their religion, and end up withholding science, causing them not to apprehend the knowledge, because they slowly devolve into the Dark Age before Renaissance, that is, "Never question, but to believe." Miracles of G*d can be found in discovery of science, because it shows there is a Greater power that manipulate all these forces in the world (and universe).

pin-pointing at the human error. He did not question Jesus' existence as much as you think he did. What he was trying to raise was the awareness that human do make errors. As I always say, no religion is deceitful, but the believers can be. He raised doubts that no church could ever find cold hard facts to deflect his arguments, because what he questioned, was way before the scriptures were written. So, I could only laugh at the effort of Christian groups trying to defend with the quotes from the Bible, when what Dan Brown questioned was the bible itself. The defendant, of course, can't be its own witness, I presume? I could not help by admiring Dan Brown's ability to create such an opening for his fiction. He blend the reasoning and proof of such distortion in today's world into the questioning of historical facts. His real thematic question was: If today's people could not be trusted, so why people of the past can?

(if there is any). Use your lifetime and search, and you won't be able to find Sophie. Just give up. That is the fiction character brought up to raise doubts over Christianity through the storyline. Besides, no one can remember his/her bloodline till that far back. And you believe there's still Priory of Sion? Unlikely, because people will always be people. they will get fed up one day, sooner or later. Even if there's such organisation, it wull definitely lost its very 1st objective, just like any society. Oh, anyway, I'm just curious of a thing. If Jesus is G*d, why is it wrong to be married? So u mean an idolise person is guilty of marriage? I find it the same as movie stars of the past, which they had to deny getting married, because they are afraid of losing their fans. lolz.. Maybe the same thing applies here. Jesus will look human if he got married. By the way, isn't Jesus the son of G*d, and G*d? Why there's always group that says he's the G*d? And some Christian groups worship Mary (Jesus' mom) as if she's the G*d, or so that Mary can bribe Jesus in a way? Since there's so many fantasies, let me add my version: Jesus is the son of G*d, who is mortal throughout his life with some spiritual power (or maybe it was science technology unapprehended by the poeple at that time). He got married, to Mary Magdelene, and may have kids, as many as you think he has.(a dozen or two maybe, or maybe the 12 apostles were his sons!! Lolz) At his death, he rose again, this time, as the son of G*d, and ain't no mortal. While there's people who worship Mary Magdelene, just as Dan Brown might claim, they had to do it in secret. When they were found out, they 'claimed' that they were only worshipping Mary, Jesus' biological mother. (Such a coincidence of name, both also Mary!!) And the story continues with your imagination.
doesn't necessarily support the argument. Leonardo was known as a prankster, as Dan Brown had claimed in his Da Vinci Code book. So who knows, if this was just another prank? He did it so that people will realise it, and perhaps it's quite late that people knew there was such meaning in his painting. But in the end, Dan Brown had concluded in his book, that religion is something that unites people. That is something undeniable. In fact, religion has proven itself as a dangerous tool of weapon. Nations proclaim war under the name of Christianity or Islam or any other religion, although the benefits were solely of selfish act. War broke between nations of different religion, because they had nothing in common. Human is a very weird creature. they prefer to discriminate whenever possible, ranging from gender, race, bloodlines, religions, wealthiness, and many other. In fact, humans could be worse than beasts. Humans are the only species that kill its own kind, not for the sake of survival. Animals do not kill each other when they compete for mating, nor food. take the snakes for example. Two snakes battle with hisses and glares while keeping their venom. They do not intend to kill each other, just a sign of courage and worthiness to mate. Look at humans nowadays. They could kill each other just for a girlfriend issue, or even die for a girl. Do you see such acts in animals? No, I don't think so.

Da Vinci Code uproar. It did not actually manage to condemn the church as it was proclaimed. Churches and Christian groups generate revenue by giving seminars and talks to clear up some of the myth in the Da Vinci Code. i'm pretty sure bible sales will be given a boost due to renewed interest in the bible. So, there will be more bible readers, and who knows, more poeple will convert into Christians? Even tourism profitted from it. The Louvre museum, church, inverted pyramid, all of it had been flocked by visitors from around the world(for those who can afford to travel). So, all I can say, is that this book has brought more good than bad, if we look far ahead.

You know, University rankings means nothing to me. It's just a comparison of standards which is subjective to the reviewer. But anyhow, I hate those who use it to brag about their Uni. Oh, my Uni got top 10, etc. It's been going like this for few years, and the person saying it did not realise that nobody cares, except he/she indulging with its fantasy. So what? Get over with life. Life is nothing of qualifications, you don't need A's to be the top. I get A's for self-satisfaction, not like the common layman who expects to get loads of cash from what he/she excels in his studies. As I had always say, school is just a place to study. So what if your Un or school are the famous ones? So what if the President graduate from which Uni? The question is, are you the one who succeed? No. What is the point of delusion of people's success? Strive hard for your own. Look up on others for their traits, not by following exactly their footsteps. Oh, Mahathir go UM, so I must go UM. Mahathir eat nasi lemak from that stall, so I must eat from that stall too? Mahathir use that toilet, I must use it too. Bill gates was a dropout, so I must be a dropout too? Taht Uni produce Nobel prize winner, so I must go to that Uni too? Well, for your info, before these famous people had ever been or do the things I ever said, those places/things were not famous. There are always Nobel Prize winner popping up from unknown Unis, or self-research, even those who had produced one did not do so anymore in at least a century? It all depends on yourself. Know what are the traits that made them succeed. Determination, perseverance, discipline, and many other more. Then again, no point being able to point all that out if you can't practise it either. That's why I had told an NS friend before, I'd prefer studying in an unknown school and excel, to help glorify it, and be acknowledged. No point going to a famous school and be sidelined, no matter how good you are. But the trick? Do your own research about the place you're going. No school is good forever, at most few years. The cycle always changes, as not many realise it, bragging with the stats from 2002 when now we are in the year 2006. Get a decent school, and the rest is up to you. You yourself determines what you are. I've seen many poeple determined to score in their exams, but yet, lazing around and skipping classes. When the exam comes, they panic. During results day, they hope they will still score and pray to G*d harder than when their family members died. Yet, they cursed and dejected when they got their results. Is that what the world suppose to function? Pray hard and let G*d do the rest? G*d only helps those who helps themselves, be reminded, my friend. I've seen many so called staunched Christians and Buddhist who really leaves everything to G*d. they say pray hard for A's, but not for the strength and determination to go through it. The easy way out, perhaps. Shame on you guys, when I as a free thinker could think better than you guys. Anyway, I shall reserve much of my comments, or else I might be rebuked by those 'above'. I'm not a successful person, I'm just a bean sprout, not yet a tree. There are still a long way ahead, and may I have the courage, strength, perseverance, endurance to go through all of it.