The 2nd jam session

Today, I just went to Navin's house for jamming with the jamming band (Again). So far so good, we managed to cover some songs and we wanted to record our improvised demo but the software failed on us. And the carpet was off the floor for sunning. So, you could expect echoes flying around the room, due to the loud amps reflecting on the concrete walls. But the session was way better than last week, because that day was just to 'break the ice' to enable each and everyone of us to cooperate. But of course I should think twice about getting a Stratocaster guitar, because I can't seem to get that humbucker feel from Navin's Stratocaster, which had a humbucking pickup.

Maybe it's the stock pickup itself that doesn't have enough output? When I compare it with the Fender Deluxes, their humbuckers don't seem to give me that sort of problem, decent output and warm deep tone. Oh well, considering many other factors like wood type and such, I'm sure some of you guitar enthusiasts should get what I mean? Hahaha. Gotta check out those Seymour Duncan single-coil sized humbuckers, I've heard so much about.

After the jam session, I caught a taxi to head to The Curve to meet up with my sister. Once I arrived there, the fare was 'RM3.30'. The taxi driver said

Taxi Driver : "RM4 please".

Me: "It's RM3.30, why should I pay you RM4? You conning me?!".

Taxi Driver:"RM4! Don't you understand?! You people are not "berbudi baik" one! All selfish animals!"

I paid him RM3.30 instead, got out of the taxi, slammed the door and kicked the Taxi. He quickly fled after that. Normally, I don't condone violence in public, but I do it when necessary to stand my own ground at times. Yeah, just because he is some old coot, doesn't mean he should forget his manners and start jerking people around. Always fight for the right reasons, at the same time..try to avoid conflicts, not unless you don't have any other choice..

A wishlist to work out for

I know I don't celebrate Christmas and I don't expect Santa Claus to give me what I want for Christmas because (obviously) he doesn't exist. But, of course..everybody has their own list of wishes and goals that they want to achieve, no? I sure do and it's all about perceiving it, rather than hanging a sock on the wall of the fire chimney and wait for Santa to put gifts in it. :D

This is my wish list. Not a rant list...

1.
My reserved Handmade Stratocaster, for next year (No, not a Fender :( )

2.
My ambitious will to collect MIJ (Made In Japan) BOSS effect pedals


3. Ibanez TBX65R. A high powered solid state amp at 65wattage power. More than enough for my bedroom to blast the neighbourhood. Best thing is, it has a sweet 'Reverb'.


4. Dimarzio DP100 (Super Distortion) humbucking pickup. Wonder if this would be great on the Stratocaster even after I put a coil-tap setting on it. Great for drop-tunings too for a passive pickup!

The Mic that leaks..

Went to Navin's house for jamming, alongside with Brendan, Matt and Terrence today. It was awesome for a first jam session but, the only downside was the microphone. The drums and guitars wiped out my vocals and nobody could hear what I was singing (I couldn't even hear myself for that fact). The sound from my 10 watt amp that I used for the Mic wasn't loud enough, even at full volume. But we bared with that problem after 2 songs which were Blink 182's 'All the small things' and ColdPlay's 'Yellow'.

Then we gave up on me, singing due to the Mic leaking problem, and ended up improvising instrumental riffs till we had a piece, soon to be considered as a Song. Few things that we need now are the lyrics and the way I have to sing the song. I just love the vibe we came up with. Frankly, I might consider this group as a jamming band so far. But, I'll decide on that when we have our next jam session (with a proper song list). And yeah, jamming can be really tiring after 2 hours of playing. But the main approach that I'm trying to achieve is having an Industrial metal band. I just feel that the drumming style could be more intense and to just have that 'Variety Mojo'.

One

1. If someone says, “Is this okay?” … you say?
My Chemical Romance-I'm not okay

2. How would you describe yourself?
In Flames-Crawl through knives

3. What do you like in a girl?
Mr. Big- Be with you


4. How do you feel today?
Slipknot-555 666


5.What is your life’s purpose?
Joe Satriani-If I could fly



6. What is your motto?
Paul Gilbert-Scarified

7. What do your friends think of you?
Scorpions-Rock you like a hurricane

8. What do you think of your parents?
Dio-Holy Diver


9. What do you think about very often?
Trivium-The Anthem (We are the fire)


10. What is 2 + 2?
Sum 41-Still waiting

11. What do you think of your best friend?
Lamb Of God-Blood Of The Scribe


12. What do you think of the person you like?
Mr Big-Be With You


13. What is your life story?
Metallica-Nothing Else Matters

14. What do you want to be when you grow up?
Twisted Sisters-I wanna rock

15. What do you think of when you see the person you like?
Beatles-Yeah yeah yeah

16. What will you dance to at your wedding?
Metallica-Master Of Puppets
(What the? Mosh pit dance?!!!)

17. What will they play at your funeral?
Slipknot-Before I forget

18. What is your hobby/interest?
Pantera-Art Of Shredding
( I love shredding)

19. What is your biggest fear?
Slayer-Angel Of Death

20. What is your biggest secret?
Metallica-Harverster Of Sorrow

21. What do you think of your friends?
Sum 41-Fat lip

22. What will you post this as?
Metallica-One

The mass murder machines to kill tomorrow and yesterday..

One thing that I will be utterly grateful for in my entire life is that, I live pretty much a free life WITHOUT, religion. I'm meaning this in a good way. To the religious people out there, please don't get offended as I'm only writing this regarding my own personal experience in life, with all due respect. I believe each and everyone of us has the right to believe or disbelieve.

Well, to some (or most) of you people might be wondering about me; "How do you live your life without a religion?". Simple answer, I don't need to have a religion to learn moral values. My faith in god started to fade (Woah, that rhymes) when I was in need of help for my troubles along the way. I asked (so-called) god,"Why can't I be better to fit into society? Help me, I'm feeling anxiety everyday. Feels like hell here". But nope, he didn't answer my prayer. It's always the same problems with the same places, moments and people, everyday in the past.

And it sickened me ever since. That's when I knew, I had to think on my own feet to get things simplified in my life. I didn't care how I would end up after my life on Earth, but I do know that life matters in my own hands depending on how I want to shape it. Sometimes, the work in the future is not as important as the work that we have in the present. And I'm basically saying that, we shouldn't keep on wondering how life is, after death instead, we should be doing our jobs here in this world. Many religious societies can come up with theories on what the afterworld is all about, but what is the ideal afterworld in the end? As I said before in one of my posts:

The Christians find guidance in the Bible. They are told how life should be lived in this world in order to ensure the ideal afterworld. They live in the comfort zone that they have qualified for heaven by just being Christians! I think qualification for heaven (IF the heaven exists) should be more stringent and based on meritocracy rather than mere membership in a church. I think society will be better if each member of society believes he has to EARN his place in heaven. This is the main reason why I have resisted approaches by Christian friends to join their “club”-: 'Burning Orthodox All Is Left Is Pandora's Box'

The main Atheist belief is that, we are all material life forms. We come and go. There is no life after that. I'm indeed very well aware of that, but boldly speaking against that as an
Atheist/partial Agnostic such as myself, I'm asking myself this,"How sure are we, that we have no soul?". Thus, with the counter-argument acquired,"How sure are we that there is Heaven and Hell? Have you even seen it?". Each and everyone of us tries to prove on who is right or wrong on this topic for centuries, but there hasn't been a definite answer between the two, because the debate never ends. (Annoying isn't it?) But what's as clear and evident to me is that, the Earth itself can be Heaven and Hell. Yes, we DO have war, poverty and recession in this world now, isn't that hell enough for you? Yes, we DO have love, compassion and care in this world, isn't that heaven enough for you? I know that some of you might also ask me; "You're an Atheist but you're part Agnostic. Are you somehow confused and lost for that matter?" Well, I got the idea from my dad about it and he told me," We are Atheists in the sense that we don't follow the mainstream religion's belief system."

True enough, things were making sense to me, as I had a past idea about what the Zeitgeist film taught me,"I don't know what God is, but I know what he isn't. So unless you were to seek and perceive the truth, then the truth shall set you free". What dad said had a dotted line connected to it. So, how about it? Why can't we all be concerned for the bigger things in life, like; conserving the planet, help the needy, build a better society to stop racism. And people have to stop misusing ( I call this crap) holy wars such as Violent-Jihad acts to kill people with other religious beliefs just to gain their earning place to heaven. As I've said earlier before, that each and everyone of us has a right of belief and disbelief. And I think respecting both parties is the way to maintain peace on Earth.

Yes, I do know some self-flattering Christians who love being hypocrites or 2-headed snakes within society. So, just because he/she has a religion doesn't always mean that person always turns out to be all good. My conclusion to that is; "There is no use having a religion if you're a lousy human". I know somebody who dropped Christianity because things have been hard for him and faith just didn't cut out for him. I also do know some stupid - assuming -
blasphemous Atheists who discriminate other people's religion. Which is indeed very wrong. As Richard Dawkins quotes,"Atheists don't say that they'll make a suicide bombing attempt for the sake of disbelief. Atheists don't say that they'll kill you because of your beliefs".

So, the next time when somebody asks you this,"What religion are you in and what's your take on it?" . You say,"I think religion is something to be kept personal in our lives and not to be discussed too openly. I can tell you what I believe in, but we shouldn't compare the teachings that we have been taught in our own religion." And judging from the paragraph above, you wouldn't want to start a war would you? Acceptance in other people's culture maintains harmony. That is why I strongly believe in a song that John Lennon wrote a long time ago called 'Imagine'. Read the lyrics and you'll understand where I'm coming from.


Artist: John Lennon
Song: Imagine

Imagine there's no heaven
It's easy if you try
No hell below us
Above us only sky
Imagine all the people
Living for today...

Imagine there's no countries
It isn't hard to do
Nothing to kill or die for
And no religion too
Imagine all the people
Living life in peace...

You may say I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will be as one

Imagine no possessions
I wonder if you can
No need for greed or hunger
A brotherhood of man
Imagine all the people
Sharing all the world...

You may say I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will live as one

I think it's time that I shall be in for more research by reading two of Dr. Michael Newton's books called Journey Of Souls and Destiny Of Souls. For further research to answers that I want to know (That is, if I got the time. But I'll try). So, if you're an Atheist, Christian, Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim, Jewish and etc. Be a good one :D And again, I would like to sincerely apologize if I had offended anybody with a religion. I'm just explaining my point towards it as nicely as I can.

Here's Kill Tomorrow by Mushroomhead

I've gone Indie

Surprisingly, I've started to like Indie Rock. Back then, I couldn't appreciate the genre but now I do. How? That's when I started listening to Wes Borland's cover of 'Lucretia My Reflection'. Every Metal fan should know who Wes Borland is. He was the former guitarist for Limp Bizkit and now vocalist/guitarist for his founded band, Black Light Burns. He is now touring as Marilyn Manson's guitarist in support of the 'Eat me, drink me' tour which is close to an end, then he's heading back to the studio to begin churning out a new Black Light Burns record. Woo, next Friday, I'm going for a jam session with Brendan and a few other friends. I want to see whether this jamming band can be my potential band. *fingers crossed*


Black Light Burns-Lucretia My Reflection (cover song)

The Gathering

This week, I've gone for two gatherings. The first was a school reunion, the second was the YouthSays Movie Screening Gathering. For the school reunion, me and my old school buddies from secondary school (Batch 06/07), headed to Hulu Langat for a reunion dinner in a restaurant called ' Hulu Langat Look Out Point Restaurant'. 8 guys attended and no girls. Yes, no chicks. Except for Kevin's girlfriend. (Watch out for your girlfriend Kevy :P) The whole story can be read on MXV's blog.

Now, about the YouthSays Movie Screening Gathering. 2 days before the event, me and one of the YS members were working on the name list, time and place as to where we were going to meet for dinner before the movie at KLCC. I had to pick up a lot of calls regarding the tickets. And it was indeed the most craziest day in my life. First time, getting 100 over phone calls in a day. But it was great that I get to also have met up with Michelle, Reuben, EkLern and the rest of the gang from the previous YouthSays movie gathering. Got to meet a lot of new friends and I'm glad everything turned out alright. We gathered and had out dinner at the food court which was indeed a good choice for the meeting because we had enough space to fit a 100 over people.

Gadiy was indeed a great help for helping me pass out the tickets and taking names along the way while I did the same. The cinema was 85% packed which I'm glad because a majority of them managed to attend and watched the movie. Indeed, in just two days, we got to create such a big crowd for the gathering. And of course, while I was doing this, I wasn't in it for the money. Because, the main purpose of this gathering was to meet and connect with new people. I really hope that YouthSays comes up with another exciting gathering for days to come.

*Gadiy, I would like to have the pictures that you took the other day. May I have them please? :D Much appreciated*

Is the world promoting public image and effeminate traits over pure talent?

Once you're a global celebrity, you may end up being chased by the paparazzi, appearing in the tabloids often and of course, be a victim of nonsensical rumors My point is, as a star you not only are supposed to shine but the limelight is on you. The question I would like to ask is; how much of the “starshine” is talent and how much is media hype?. I'm mainly talking about over-rated music being played globally in the mainstream scene, and all of these are soon to be just one hit wonders. I'm talking about how crafted lyrics and feminine-like male vocalists can attract girls all over; How is that possible? The more these traits are in vogue, the more girlie boys will be created in society. I can't stand the fact that (maybe) 60% of youths in Malaysia only listen to Mainstream goods on the radio rather than to listen to under promoted music that linger on the internet on sites like Myspace Music. Which a lot of them, are good tunes I must say.

Has modern society reached a point where girls tend to prefer and adore pretty boys with clean faces and who provide self-pitiful mushy lyrics? What is going on? Hope no fan gets offended as I'm labeling these few bands as poseurs. What do these bands have in common? Their vocalists sound likely the same and they sing like a bunch of Yes, I said it...Wimps! Period.


Metro Station:
Tracy Cyrus sounds like a cheerleader when he sings the chorus of 'Shake it'
Seriously, a disgrace to manhood. Wonder why the girls fancy that kind of singing from a guy. *Disgusted* Also known as Miley Cyrus's half-brother. So, I guess you know where all the cheezy entertainment act came from. And yes, guys shouldn't sound like them, otherwise your mom will kill you and start worrying if you're turning gay or not.. :D


Jonas Brothers:
Can't say much about these guys, except that they're a bunch of disposable stock Disney rockers who sound as if they squeeze their noses while singing. Right, they are like a boy band with instruments. Now I see the point. These guys are an 'Image' to me. Surrounded by screaming fan girls saying,"Oh my goodness! Nick, Kevin and Joe Jonas are so cute! Aaaahhh!". Is Disney the real root cause for horrible 'too-decent' music just because of their successful over-rated musical flicks like 'Camp Rock' and High School Musical' for the attraction of kiddies alike? Just like Miley Cyrus, who makes a lot of money but she can't really pull off a good pitch on stage (The evil of pitch correction Softwares). It's like a dogma to care on how they look rather than how they sound. Then, where would true talent shine? And yes, the Jonas Brothers DO sing like wimps as well, sad to say. Idolizing these guys might be considered suicide. Trust me, not every celebrity is an angel. They're also human, that could appear to be; Arrogant, malicious and scandalous too. So, don't ever think of them as being all flawless-perfect-goodie-two-shoes. So kids, never idolize Disney Artiste, but learn to outgrow them at a certain age. Because, once they're 25 or 30 years old or so, they would be playing bigger roles in life when they reach adulthood. And again dudes, don't sound like wimp.

Watch these 2 videos and you'll see what I mean.



Metro Station-Shake it


Jonahs Brothers-Burning up

I wish to add one more bands in to flame at, but I guess I don't want to bore you guys, in case this post has gone too long to describe more. Hope you learn something from what I'm trying to explain to you, my dear readers (dudes)...don't sing like a wimp or be a wimp. Till next time. Here's Linkin Park's 'QWERTY'/Behind Your Lies. Enjoy =)



Linkin Park-QWERTY/Behind Your Lies

Another Tag

Just another tag...

QA#1

What’s your ambition?
Be a Sound Engineer, Musician (Rockstar someday), professional guitarist (Pain staking work, really)

2. Who is more important to you? Girlfriends or friends?
Depends, on how they treat me. Then I could balance the scales between girlfriends and friends.

3. How often do you think of committing suicide?
Very often during my tough times in school

4. Do you think you have enough confidence?
Depends on which field

5. How many babies do you want?
5, enough said.

6. Do you believe in seeing a rainbow after the rain?
It's been scientifically proven, so yeah...

7. What is your goal for this year?
Getting my custom made Stratocaster electric guitar and proving myself in anything I need to do this year.

8. Do you believe in eternity love?
Well, my love life hasn't really started. So yeah, I'm not too sure about that for now..

9. What’s your favorite television series?
Heroes.


10. What are you really afraid of?
Rats.

11.What are your bad habits?
Digging my nose, who doesn't?


12. Is there anything you wanna tell to the people who hates you?
Well, there's no use wasting all your energy; hating, backstabbing, despising and bitching about me if I don't even have a problem with you..so yeah, get a life.

13. Do you cherish every single friendship of yours?
Only those who cherish me

14. What does flying mean to you?
Fun

15. What do you crave for the most currently?
New guitar and a tube amp

16. Most unexpected gift you received so far and when?
My first guitar from Mum when I was 9

17. Describe the person who tagged you in 5 words:
I stole this tag. LOL

18. What have you done to yourself make yourself happy?
Eating Ramli burgers

19. What will you become in another 10 years to come?
That, I'm not sure. It would depend on what I would do in the future.

20. What have you achieved in life lately to make it better?
Going to college soon? XD

QA #2.

Rule 1 People who have been tagged must write their answers on their blogs and replace any questions that they dislike with a new question formulated by themselves.

Rule 2 Tag 5 people to do this quiz and those who are tagged cannot refuse. These people must state who they were tagged by and cannot tag the person whom they were tag by continuing this game by sending it to other people.

1. Do you have secrets?
Yes, who doesn't

2. Would you fall in love with a girl younger than you?
I just recently did

3. Do you enjoy going to college?
I'm starting college soon..can't wait to see what it's like

4. What would you do with a billion dollars?
Investment, fund for my future children's college fee, build a recording studio, buy my dream sports car (Nissan Skyline)

5. Will you fall in love with your friend?
I don't even remember falling for any of my friends..

6. Which is more blessed, loving someone or being loved by someone?
Love them and they'll love you back. That's just how it works..

7. List 5 current favourite songs
1. Slipknot-Psychosocial
2. Lamb Of God-Blood Of The Scribe
3. Bullet For My Valentine-Tears Don't Fall
4. Metallica-Harvester Of Sorrow
5 Nine Inch Nail-Hand That Feeds

8. If the person you secretly like is already attached, what would you do?
Move on with life

9. List 5 favourite TV shows
1. Heroes
2. The Simpsons
3 Desperate Housewives (yes, I know..shut up LOL)
4. MTV: The Rock Show
5. MTV2: Headbangers Ball (Watch it online)

10. Do you have any regrets?
Nope

11. Would you be the person that you are if you were to be reborn?
I would be the same, but I wish I had more musical talents at the same time..

12. What do you want the most at the moment?
That custom made stratocaster electric guitar I saw at a music store

13. What kind of person do you think the person that tagged you is?
I stole this tag (I've said it once)

14. Would you rather be single and rich or married but poor?
single and rich..

15. What is your favourite color?
Bloody Red

16. Would you give all in for a relationship?
No! Not even my guitars! HAHAHA!

17. If you fall in love with two people simultaneously, which one would you choose?
Depends which one of them is a better girlfriend. That is just sick, I'll only stick one at a time

18. What are the top 5 bands that you listen to or love?
1. Slipknot (Great band)
2. Nine Inch Nails (Trent Reznor, the genius)
3 Linkin Park (BRING BACK THE NU-METAL!)
4. Lamb Of God (Randy Blythe is one vocalist you don't wanna mess with. ROCK IT!)
5. Metallica (The god fathers of Heavy Metal, besides Black Sabbath)

19. Name 3 things you would like to do but would never be able to.
1. Play the violin (not motivated to learn. I gotta play something with frets to let me know what note I'm playing)
2. Learn how to skateboard, but too risky..won't want to break my neck
3. Own a Rottweiler?

20. 5 people I have tagged.
1. Alvin
2. Sudhan
3. MXV
4. Shaz
5. Saiful

OWNING!

Anyone ever played DoTa before? Don't play it! It's addictive! Yeah, it can be. But it's all good and fun when you start to get to be familiar with the game. Getting to kill other players and gain experience to become stronger. Purchasing weapons, items and armors to boost your hero's stats and sit back and enjoy your battle with creeps and opposing heroes. The graphics can be superb with the latest graphic cards to enhance the enjoyment to this game. Gameplay wise, you gotta think fast; when to pull back, kill your enemies and also manage money to buy much more powerful weapons and armors.

Go, get off your blogging mojo for a while and try out DoTa. Enjoy!
MEGA-KILL! OWNING! HAHAHAHAHA!!!!!

Mind-boggling humans dreaming of cotton candy land

I'm partially sick, the weather is killing me and I'm trying to find why some of my friends are trying so hard convincing me to have/be in a religion, mainly 'Christianity'. I don't know if it's been happening through out the years or it's just these modern times in the youth culture. Tell, me..do I have a need to believe in God to get me up in heaven? Why is that? Because I must BELIEVE that he created me? So...if I don't then I'm defying him? Should I even call him father for bringing me to planet Earth? Those were the things my friend accused me of not believing. HELLO! First of all, I'll give my life to my parents because they created me. Ever studied Evolution? Christians say that God created Man in his image i.e. my face, legs, arms, nose, eyes and everything else is as He is supposed to have too. Man flatters himself! Ever heard of genes? I got my mother's eyes, ears, face and I got my dad's nose, tongue and chin. We evolved! And I told this so-called friend, "Look here, I don't believe in god as my maker. What I disbelieve is my own right, what you believe is your own right, okay?". He then said," God made religion, not man made religion". Haha, yeah..my ass..

And yet, my friend went on and on by telling me that I'm an ignorant sh*t for disbelieving in god's existence or whatsoever. Yeap, he really said those words. I don't see the point of discussing about religion most of the time and why not talk about some other topic like sports, music, food and etc. We should all practice self-responsibility rather than to place hopes on the divine; it makes for weak human beings. And yes, we as humans...for example, it's our duty to conserve this planet than to pray for divine help as we abuse our natural resources. Nobody is coming to you when all you do is keep praying for something good. Act and make it happen! Religion is too complicated and confusing for me. Even people of the same religion cannot even agree on their own religion. You know why? It is because people created religion just like they created their own God. I'm a simple person. I do not need to prove to the world and I do not need to save lost souls like the Christians flatter themselves as they can. I don't care if you say that there is heaven and hell, I asked my friend this, "Have you seen heaven or hell? How sure are you? And he just said it to me, "It EXISTS! I know it must! There has to be!". My answer is, “It does not EXIST! I know it does not! There cannot be!” . So what does all this argument matter anyway? Call me blind faithless to my friends blind faith in God!


Marilyn Manson-Anti-Christ Superstar

GAS VS OCD

Something which I came up with, the definitions of GAS (Gear/Guitar Acquisition Syndrome) and OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder). Readers can decide and judge on which symptom is more chronic.

GAS (Gear/Guitar Acquisition Syndrome)


A certain obsession or strong desire for a guitar/gear that appeals to you. This syndrome can absolutely be fatal, if you are an impulsive spender that is (Especially Gears and Guitars). Luckily for me, I only buy guitar related stuff like effect pedals and accessories for my own investment to do a selling job. So yeah, it pays to do so. Basically, the clear examples of GAS could cause these problems;

-Having desires to get a new guitar after another (Vintage guitars, Fenders, Ibanez . Just to name a few)

-You would become a heavy avid guitar collector (Yngwie Malmsteen has 40 over guitars in his own home studio and Michael Schenker has 600 guitars)

-You would start craving for new tech gadgets each year (Iphone, PSP, PS3, laptop, Television and etc)

-GAS can be cured if you're lacking cash. That way, it would make you realize that you should spend more wisely (word to the impulsive spenders). Because we have to focus on what we need, like; Food, clothes, shelter and etc. It's a reality check. GAS can be contemporary between dreams and reality between your desires and needs. But if you have quite a number of good guitars, then there wouldn't be a reason for you to collect too many, if some of them don't have any meaning to you. GAS then, slows your spending down.

-For example, let's say if I have all of my favourite guitar models, I wouldn't want to have more but I would say that I have enough. So yes, GAS is not the most chronic symptom on Earth.


Kudos to Wikipedia, I was digging for more literate details about OCD on Wikipedia. But the GAS concept was definitely my own idea. So yeah, I'm giving credits to Wikipedia for OCD. The wonders of the INTERNET! :D Rest assured that I'm not trying to plagiarize, but hey..how original can we be if we wrote about EVERYTHING, right? Need to gain more knowledge also. Happy reading on this one. *Applause for Wikipedia*

OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder)



It's a chronic anxiety disorder characterized by obsessive, distressing, repetitive thoughts and related compulsions.

Obsessions

1. Recurrent and persistent thoughts, impulses, or images that are experienced as intrusive and that cause marked anxiety or distress.
2. The thoughts, impulses, or images are not simply excessive worries about real-life problems.
3. The person attempts to ignore or suppress such thoughts, impulses, or images, or to neutralize them with some other thought or action.
4. The person recognizes that the obsessional thoughts, impulses, or images are a product of his or her own mind, and are not based in reality.

Compulsions

1. Repetitive behaviors or mental acts that the person feels driven to perform in response to an obsession, or according to rules that must be applied rigidly.
2. The behaviors or mental acts are aimed at preventing or reducing distress or preventing some dreaded event or situation; however, these behaviors or mental acts are not actually connected to the issue, or they are excessive.

So, which do you think is worse? You be the judge (I think OCD is the worst, judging from the fact that it CAN affect your life regarding; places, people and situations.)

Are....you craving for some more?

Last night was a blast, headed down to The Curve at 9:00pm to catch Dragon Red's gig at Laundry Bar. And suddenly, I bumped into Adam Lobo (Dragon Red-Vocalist) with his girlfriend *Forgotten her name, sorry >.<* while I was having my dinner there. To keep the story short, the gig lasted till 12am or so. Featuring bands like Dragon Red, The Times and many more. I was more keen on watching Dragon Red's gig probably because of my favour for metal. And this has got to be my 2nd time watching a local heavy metal gig. Dragon Red played a few of their singles from the Holocaust album such as 'Whicked Queen','Child's Play'(My personal
favourite), 'Holocaust' and a few of their new singles. They did a good cover of Killswitch Engage's 'My Curse'. My friend Eklern Tan, was there to support his brother, who plays the bass for Dragon Red, what a coincidence, because I just met Eklern at the Youth Says gathering last week. Wish I could have captured some pictures of the gig, but my camera is still in the storage. Boohoo. Well, always a next time I guess. Story ain't so short after all eh? Well, I would really recommend you guys to go for at least 1 Dragon Red gig, you might end up going to more of their shows. They are that good!

Linkin Park's new album to be 'Conceptual'

Taken from 'Spin Magazine Online'.

Linkin Park: New Album Is "Conceptual"

By Larry Fitzmaurice

Genre-fusing rockers Linkin Park are notorious for taking their time recording albums -- the group labored three years on their sophomore record, Meteora, and four years on 2007's Minutes to Midnight. But now the six-piece is already working on Midnight's yet-to-be-titled follow-up, which co-frontman Chester Bennington describes as "a concept record."

Speaking to Billboard.com, Bennington remained mum on what that "concept" might entail ("I'm not sure I'm allowed to say what the big plan is," he said), but hinted that the record would signal a new direction for Linkin Park. "[We] never envisioned ourselves doing a concept record, but we see an opportunity to do something really cool so we jumped on it, and we'll see how it comes out. I think it's a challenge and we'll see if we can rise to the occasion."

In addition, Bennington has been finishing up work on his debut solo album, which he plans to release in spring or summer of 2009. "[It's] a lot more straightforward rock, with a little bit of an electronic element to it, lots of keys and synths and stuff like that," Bennington said. "And there are a few elements where I think you'll be able to see what my influence on (Linkin Park) is."

My name is Ramli....Ramli Burger *James Bond music theme playing*

Whoever has not have the knowledge about a famous burger in the heart of Malaysia, must know Ramly Burgers. Created by a guy named Ramly Moknin, who's been popular in Malaysia and Singapore for his renowned Ramli hamburger branding, throughout the years. In my opinion, they absolutely beat McDonald's hamburgers. The winning recipe has attracted many Malaysians with this scrumptious hamburger, with the likes of; Maggie seasoning, white pepper,Lea & Perrin's worchestershire sauce, soy sauce, tomatoes, cabbage, tomato ketchup, onions and egg (for the burger special).

You may not believe me, but I would always have a double-double burger special (4 patties in 1 burger) when I have the chance to satisfy my taste buds on burgers. Try it, and you'll end up saying,"Yum!"

Pedal for sale!

Hey guys, just wanna fill in a bit about this pedal that I'm selling. It's an Aria Pro VP-10 Volume Pedal (Made in Japan). It's also a discounted model. And of course, the idea you'll get would probably be *Oh my goodness! It's rare!*. Yes, that is true. Aria is a Japanese company. You can't get it anywhere else because they don't produce it anymore, so here's your chance! You don't have to look at those Made in Taiwan or Made in Indonesia copies, this is the original! For just RM260 (negotiable), this baby is already yours :) The early bird catches the worm...



Aria VP-10 Volume Pedal (MIJ)

A mistake that retarded college students can make..

I was just reading through my friend's blog and he posted this video about TAR college students attempting a stupid stunt which could've lost their lives. People, don't ever try to attempt this stunt.



College students doing the most stupid thing in their lives. Don't be any of these monkeys..

To assume or not to assume?

Hey guys, I'm pretty sure that most of you fellow gig goers still remember about the incident which took place at Paul's Place, 2 years ago on New Year's eve (2005). Yes, about 3/4 of the youths being arrested during an unwarranted police raid at Paul's Place. A conference was being held in Paul's Place the following day with 300+ people including musicians, politicians, activists and journalists, along with a panel of 8 made up of Azmyl Yunor (musician, lecturer) , Amir Hamzah (lawyer), Rafil Elyas (musician, engineer), Julian Mokhtar (musician), Paul Milott (musician, owner of Paul's Place), Jaclyn SM Kee (activist) and two other musicians whose names I can't quite recall.

One of the panels said that the raid was tantamount to a gross violation of basic human rights, that the police's cited reason of "suspicion of black metal activities" was not acceptable for their dramatic arrests. Okay, let me ask you big heavy metal fans out there. Does black metal activity include; drinking beer, listening to loud punk rock music, wearing gory t-shirts and shiny Bling-bling? Someone must've reported this gig to the cops and made a whole issue about it. Fussy sour grapes.

Do the police even know the culture of Black Metal? We were taught well by our parents and our moral teachers in school, not to simply put fault on somebody and to be more optimistic and rational in any situation. While, the police thought the crowd in Paul's Place were worshiping the devil, they had no idea what they were talking about. Basically, if you want to worship Satan
(Even though I don't believe in Satan), it's very easy;

-Drink the blood of a goat's head
-Start drawing satanic images or the Star of Satan
-Have a despicable hatred against the Christians
-Bury yourself alive in a grave
-Burning a church down
-And many many more

Do these steps and you're in the club. But what was stated in the news about this incident really cracked me up, because they seriously had a wrong idea of what Black Metal was about. Worshiping the devil with Punk Rock music? The devil will run away and cry all the way home! HAHAHA!! I can bet you a 100%, that if the Norwegians read about the whole 'Black Metal' issue in Malaysia, they'll laugh their seats off. Because the Norwegians were the originators of 'Black Metal'. And yes, this news has been spread to Australia as well, even they found it silly.

My dear brothers and sisters of Malaysia, please PLEASE be more positive than to be a bunch of these 'mangkuk hayuns' (The police). This would be my 2cents for this article. But yeah, I believe I know more (and a lot of other people do too) and I'm still learning about the cultures of Heavy Metal. Keen on learning? Read this book. Expand your knowledge. It'll do you guys a big favour than to just 'ASSUME' at first hand.


Heavy Metal:Sound Of The Beast (Ian Christe)

Here's Slipknot's 'Surfacing'

Slipknot-Surfacing

Head Like A Hole

Just came back from Low Yat Plaza. Dad bought a laptop for my sister as a birthday present in advance (Her birthday is just 13 days away). It was a Compaq laptop *grins*. For me, I'm still thinking of what to get for her birthday. I had dinner at Mr. Teppanyaki which was located at the low ground floor of Low Yat. As I was waiting for my food to be cooked 'done', a girl came to me with a string of key chains under her belt, I knew it had something to do with charity.

And as she approached me and showed sign languages to me, I just out of heart, gave a donation of RM5 and she gave me a key chain (Widow key chain okay. Don't play play XD). And to be honest, I don't really do charity because at first, I know that charity mostly begins at home (most of the time). So yeah, this had enough merits for me to actually donate to a needy society. Don't get me wrong here. Because, there is absolutely no use of being good to others if you can't be good to your own family.

It made me feel great giving that donation. I don't know how. But it makes me more satisfied and glad than having a new a guitar each time. I guess it's the good will and conscience that opens our minds way wider than we can possibly imagine. And of course, everybody should know that even though charity is a good thing, just be sure that it's not some hoax to some money stealing parade. Be sure to check which charity organization they belong to. That girl may be part of the syndicate of the hoax, but at the end of the day, it's the intention of giving that counts. Hey, me being an Atheist doesn't mean I don't do good.

Boy oh boy, I can't wait for my MacBook Pro to come next year. I need to use Apple hardwares and softwares in college.


Apple Macbook Pro


Here's Nine Inch Nails' 'Head Like A Hole'



Nine Inch Nails-Head Like A Hole

I'm bored

I'm bored, I love money, I just love to make more (It's never enough, it's true), I want a 1 month job from now till December. Where can I find one? People, give me ideas.

The joy of manga

I'm an avid collector of manga comics. What is manga?;

Manga, literally translated, means "whimsical pictures". The word first came into common usage in the late 18th century with the publication of such works as Santō Kyōden's picturebook "Shiji no yukikai" (1798), and in the early 19th century with such works as Aikawa Minwa's "Manga hyakujo" (1814) and the celebrated Hokusai manga containing assorted drawings from the sketchbook of the famous ukiyo-e artist Hokusai.^[25] The first user of the word "manga" as its modern usage is Rakuten Kitazawa.

So, basically manga's are like the 'Marvel Comics' of Japan. Only with an Anime twist.

I find the comics themselves very interesting. Especially with the intriguing drawings and illustrations done by the Japanese, throughout the years. I've bought my first manga when I was 13. And yes, we all know that manga comics are expensive in Malaysia. Say...RM34.90? Yes, that's the kind of price that you will get in Kinokuniya (KLCC). But yesterday, those manga comics were retailed at RM13.90 at Popular Bookstore in Sunway Pyramid. No, I'm not lying. It was not under promotion. See the massive price difference between Kinokuniya and Popular? Not that surprised, even music stores are like that.

So far, I've only gotten these. And I wish to collect more. Don't be shy, be proud to be a manga reader. :D












Have you started your manga comic collection yet??

Amazing

Went to ICOM with my sister yesterday to inquire more about my course 'Audio Production', and it was great, the office people are known to be very nice chaps I must say. Inside ICOM felt like 'Land Of Music'. Guys with leather and jeans (The typical heavy metal attire) and some of the girls looked 'fine' if you know what I mean. Did I just rhymed? Hehehe. The college itself was great, they have over 30 rehearsal rooms, a Synthesizer room, a Mixer room, a Recording room and much much more. My future assignments would mostly take place in the Recording room. Great, now I have isolation in my own work. Just kidding. :D But looking at the course and college itself from a certain point of view, it seems like I'll enjoy college life.

My interest would definitely take action in this college. The college would have performance day, every Friday at 4pm. On that day, they would have ICOM students (in a band) to take center stage and perform on that day. It does suit the theme and the education system, as it IS a music college. What would college life be in for me? Only way to find out is to attend my first semester in January next year.

There's not much I could say on this because it's been only my first visit into the college so far, but hopefully that I'll be able to explain more in detail when I start studying there I guess. But I can say one thing though; The college has been around since 1996, so I guess it's pretty much established through out the years. I'll see it for myself, it's too early to judge.

Here's Lamb Of God's '11th Hour'. Wonderful riffs that Mark Morton & Willy Adler came up with for this song and gruesome vocals that Randy Blythe pulled off.



Lamb Of God-11th Hour

I know it's coming..

(10th of October 2008)

I remember having my hair cut on the 30th of May (with long hair back then). From really long hair back to short and spiky hair. Started the hair growing course once again, from the 1st of June till the 27th of September of this year. Yes dear readers, it took me 4-pain staking months to grow back my semi-long hair. And I had it cut and reshaped again on the 28th of September.


Hair growth of around 3 months (26th of August, 2008)


Hair growth of almost 4 months (28th of September, 2008)


(30th of September, 2008) *Missing out a lot of my fringe and long hair at the back that I used to have*



Growth of 12/13 days after haircut (10th of October, 2008) *Things began to speed up*

Watch the picture closely. Notice how long the parting of the fringe and the hair at the back of my head was?

Soon after till now, the back of my hair has grown almost up to 3 inches long. The secret? Regular head massage, consumption of Soya Bean drinks and meat. And of course, regular shampoo wash. Hopefully my hair would grow as long as it was, like 'September 28th 2008' by the 25th of December 2008 (Christmas Day). Soon, when the day comes, I want to rebond my hair and start headbanging like the pros. XD

Coward..

The new guitar strings did not fit well into my guitar. The tension was too high for the saddle to handle. It's for sale, it's still under 9.9/10 mint condition. The gauge of the strings were a bit too thick for my guitar to handle. Bought it for RM24. Looking at around Rm10 (For my careless mistake). I'm definitely angry about what happened the other day.

The guy who sold the strings to me, told me that the strings were meant for low action saddles like mine. And I asked him twice to affirm whether if it really were meant for my guitar, and he said,"Yes". The custom light gauge strings it seems. But I failed to string the guitar with the new strings as it had too much pressure that it can possibly ruin my bridge saddle and the saddle bone itself. As far as I know, musical accessories are never refundable.

Neither can it be exchanged once opened. But since that I still have the receipt with me, I might be able to argue out my case with it. I first went home and tried it out today. I started getting a bad reaction from the tuners as I kept tuning (Like a massive pressure as if it were about to break apart). It refused to turn anymore, because the strings were a bit too thick. Either, I want to head back to the shop and start complaining or sell it to one of my good friends who are interested.

That's it, this would be the last time that I'm ever going to trust sales assistants in music shops about accessories. It's best to do my own research to be sure on what to get next time. Even the idiot people at Bentley Music told me that Carnauba wax was meant for polishing up the frets. How wrong they were, as it was meant for polishing up the body. I've made myself clear. Time to learn and do things the DIY way. Yeah, if anybody ever told you that music was an expensive hobby. Think about maintaining your instruments! IT'S EVEN MORE TROUBLESOME!

Here's Black Light Burn's song 'Coward'

The Uber Suck..

I enjoyed myself during Halloween yesterday, even though my friends turned down on the invites by the last minute which sucked a little. But it was alright. I went for the Sunway Lagoon Scream' Halloween gig party. I got there early and managed to hang out with Adam Lobo (Dragon Red) and a few of the members from Y2k. Though I didn't get to chit-chat with Saiful (Y2k) much it was ok; he was busy with other company after Y2k's set.

Decided to move around, make new friends and enjoy the party. It was kind of funny, watching these guys on TV almost everyday and there I was; joking and laughing with them while having cold beers and cocktails (the cocktail wasn't good though).

Bands such as Y2k and Beat The System gave a great performance during that night. Adam Lobo did the vocals for Y2k. It's kind of sad that 80% of the crowd were more into Techno music than Rock Music. I am a Metalhead but I guess it shows that the partying Malaysian youths are attracted mainly to dancing and DJ spins. The more senior crowd who hang out at the pubs are into band music most of the time. Well, now I know what it's like in a gig party and for the experience, at least I can say, I'VE BEEN TO ONE!

The party ended at 1am, as the rude Sunway Lagoon security guards started closing down proceedings. The organizer went through enough trouble applying for MPSJ and Subang Police permits, and PPM & MACP approval to organize SCREAM! and the party was supposed to end at 3am. I had felt that Sunway Lagoon is never a good place to organize such a big event. This early ending proved me right. Another thing I'm not happy about the gig is that the bands were playing on the elevated big balcony while the crowd was on the ground; having to looking up at the bands play was no fun.

Not only we couldn't see the bands properly, we couldn't see most of the band members who were playing because the partitions at the balcony were blocking them. What is this?! I came all the way to Sunway to watch their gig, despite the party itself and they gave us horse manure. I didn't get to take pictures with the people in their costumes because my digital camera was in the storage, and of course that my phone camera wasn't good enough. But it was all fun, having people to take my pictures because I dressed up as the guy from 'Scream'. All in all, it was a good experience. Don't ever attend Sunway Lagoon parties, they suck big time! The worst thing is, One Buck Short was supposed to play during that night and they didn't. One of the band members didn't make it. And they didn't have the courtesy to apologize for the inconvenience of not performing. Instead, they were partying on. Yes, I do support local music, but this is not the way One Buck Short should do things, They lack professionalism and morally they owe it to supporters like me to be more responsible.

I've got nothing to say...

Today, I phoned somebody (Who used to be special to me) while she was in college, right after she finished her class. It was rather cold and 'silent' the response. I asked her how she is doing and all that. And there follows the usual answer 'I'm fine, busy as usual. You?". And I told her the same thing. I told her that she sounded busy and she said she had to go soon. I actually wanted to ask her out to a gig party tomorrow on Halloween. But since the conversation between us was rather odd. I put my foot down first and just told her,"We'll talk later?". Then she said,"Okay". She never even bother to ask me how am I doing so far with life or how long we haven't spoken. Not savvy of her right? Yeah, I'll go with that.

I think I already know enough that she is avoiding me, besides the term, 'Busy'. If she can't carry out a certain standard to be polite during a conversation, then it is already a successful 'acid-test'. She just doesn't know how to create a good image for herself. But what the heck anyway, if she and I can't be friends, then it's out of my hands and move on to new friends. Sounds familiar? It came from this post right here. I mean, it's her choice to mix with whoever she wants to. But being obnoxious? That would totally be out of the question. That's why I had nothing to say. Just be grateful that I don't simply put out people's names for the sake of emphasizing bad situations. That's how well I could take care of a girl's dignity, no matter how wrongful they can be, even if they don't realize it. Don't see me putting any of their names.

Well, 'One man's rubbish is the next man's treasure'. At least I still have my life and I'm meant to learn from my mistakes. Nah, I don't think it was my mistake but hers. But I would always know that these issues won't corrode with the things I like to do in my precious daily life. We all have to MOVE ON. If you are reading this, I would like to let you know that, I really did like you. But it seems that you've thrown our friendship away without knowing (Or maybe you do). You know who you are. No turning back for me, I have to move on. I'm not really putting you down with your regrets, but it's a mistake that you could learn from.

It's kind of funny that my posts these days show a deeper side of me, whereas my posts has most of the time, been portrayed only upon the surface. Well readers, now you know. Expect the unexpected.

Now, I've posted a song by Slipknot called 'Dead Memories' for you guys before. Now, here is the official video of the song. Enjoy. This is dedicated to 'you'. It isn't much of a love song. Listen and you'll know.



Slipknot-Dead Memories

Ready to come out and play?~ Muahahaha!!

I just rented a costume for Halloween this Friday. I'm not going to TGIF's party but I'll be going for the Sunway Lagoon Halloween gig party, featuring One Buck Short, Y2k (my buddy, Saiful!) and many others. People there with spooky costumes are ready to come out and play. Muahahahaha!!!

Speaking of gigs, there's a January gig organized by Leo (The guys who organized last year's gig on December 21st at TTDI hall). That was the first time I met Alvin and Edwin personally, it was great fun. I'm eager to go for this gig as rhythm guitarist and vocalist. Any takers? I'm looking for a bassist, lead guitarist, drummer and a keyboardist. Playing Industrial Metal or something unique. Those who are into Metallica, Nine Inch Nails, Slipknot, Marilyn Manson and etc. Auditions are in early December. If you're keen, then let's have practice sessions early before the gig. The gig is around January..

Here are a few of my funny poses while fooling around with the costume.

Into the light...

Well, things have been going great for me. I'm finally going to start college next year, after a year's break to settle down. I'm still in the mids of shifting into the new house, but that will be done with in no time. Hope that we're having an open house once we move in. See who are the lucky friends of mine who get to be invited *Jeng-Jeng-Jeng*. I'm going to start my January term in Sound Engineering at ICOM (International College Of Music). Well, it took me sometime to think over about my courses, it was either Culinary Arts at Taylor's College or Sound Engineering at ICOM.

But Since I have a strong interest in music over cooking, I guess Sound Engineering was the pick. I can't wait for the term to start. Though there are some subjects I should watch out for in the syllabus itself, like; Moral Studies, Malaysian Studies and Maths *My worst subject*. But I guess studying Mathematics over again COULD refresh my mind and hopefully understand the subject better (If they teach the topics that I'm used to doing). Then I'll have to study Music Theory which frankly, I cannot read music notes well, but I'm willing to learn.

But I shouldn't cry over it at all, it'll be useless. Almost everyone I know who's gone to college had or is having to dread over those subjects. So, I would make the best out of it, for the sake of wanting to become a Sound Engineer. But I find the other subjects pretty interesting. And hopefully after ICOM, I would want to further my studies somewhere abroad or locally like OCEAN or SAE (The overseas campus) after a year's work in the media/music industry once I complete my 18 month course in ICOM.

I can't wait to see what college life is all about. And since I'll be attending a Music College, maybe I could improve my musicianship by meeting other aspiring musicians and find potential band mates. That's what ICOM is mainly about right? But whichever college I'm in, there's always going to be assignments and all of the following tasks that college students face everyday. Thus, I will not be those who like to complain over their 2000-3000 word essay assignment or their 3-4 piles of assignment work to do. That's college life, not honeymoon life. HAHAHAHA!!

Here's Apocalyptica's cover of 'Nothing Else Matters' (Metallica). Amazing Cello band.

I want....

I might be going for the Halloween party at TGIF on the 31st of October. Problem is, I don't have friends to come along with me, because they've got other parties to attend on Halloween. The 2nd problem would be costumes. I want to dress up as Marilyn Manson. But I don't have the time to go to 'La-La town' to buy the Gothic clothing. Yet, I want to dress up as James Root (Slipknot). Even if I don't go to the party, there's always next year to look forward to right? Alvinkei? Sudhan Nair? Anybody? Who wanna follow me T_T *not emo-ing* HAHAHA!!

1st costume in mind

James Root's mask


Slipknot jumpsuit uniform

=
Jim Roots... *If I still kept my hair long and perm it a little bit. It'll be just perfect*

2nd costume in mind



Make up, lipstick and blue contact lenses *optional with a big pupil*
+
Gothic clothing

=

Marilyn Manson

Harvester Of Sorrow

It was 10:45pm last Wednesday, having supper with my family (Including Prince) at a Chinese Restaurant around Taman Desa. Then, I saw a Chinese guy (Around his 20's) running after a car and shouting. He came up to us after he failed to chase after the car. He asked me,"May I borrow your phone? I've been robbed." Damn, he was depressed. He called one of his buddies about what happened and reported to the police. It all started like this, the boy was driving around Taman Desa and another car stalled in front of him. Meaning, blocked him in that sense. The person in the car got out of the car and said that he was a police officer and he said that the boy was a wanted criminal for things he did not do. The fugitive (The fake policeman) gave the boy money to even buy the fugitive a drink across the street. When the boy came back with the drink, the fugitive (so to speak) showed him a pair of handcuffs and told him,"Get in the CAR!" *With a gun in his other hand*. The guy refused instead the driver forced him to hand over his hand phone and wallet. and the guy did. After that, the car drove off and the boy chased after the car and shouted,"HEY! COME BACK!". And that's how it happened.

Was the fugitive an ex-policeman? As the guesses keep going on. I'd say that our Gouvernment is not assuring proper grounding of safety in our country. Sometimes you wonder why some people here want to be criminals. Has it got to do with;

-insufficient salary during their day jobs?


-Cost of living too high?


-Influences under the bad social group perhaps?


Come on! Even the security guards in the shopping complexes and the police themselves are not doing a good job on making the public safe. This angers me and yet makes me even more aware that this is happening too often these days in Malaysia. I think I want to arm my pocket with a weapon to keep me safe in public.

These things can happen whenever,wherever and whatever situation. Don't pray to 'God' (If there ever is one in the first place) to help you get through the day safely without losing your life. Just expect the unexpected. You can only be prepared to be aware of things and you can only help yourself to try and avoid these kind of situations. Treasure your life. Anyways, life on Earth is already 'Hell'.

Here's Harvester Of Sorrow by Metallica


Harvester Of Sorrow-Metallica

Burning Orthodox, all is left is Pandora's Box

Today, I've finally come to realize that I should stop tinkering my thinking and start pondering on what I should be doing, moving on with life itself. No one is going to be there to control how I feel but most importantly, how I'm going to be in control. All my anger and hatred shall be used to make me stronger day by day. I will not take it out on loved ones by simply lashing out but to others who persistently irritate me, it is a different matter; they deserve a taste of their own medicine. The more it stresses, the more it regresses. I'm not going to let it anchor me down and I should stop thinking about other people's success but my own.

I'm talking about how your mind could get messed up when you lose control. It's not healthy, it will never be a happy place in your head and lastly, it is mercilessly difficult if you want to try and turn back your thoughts to the right mindset.

What IS the right mindset in the first place? All of us are different yet we live in society. I suppose the question is; what is the right mindset for a person in order for him to maintain his individuality when he has to move with the herds in society.

And sometimes I just do not understand society. For example, I personally think that there is no such thing as a Jewish problem, Christian problem or whatever problem in Race or Religion. Do you know what kind of problem we have now? We have A Human problem! Individuals just do not know how to think sometimes. *Sigh*

The Christians find guidance in the Bible. They are told how life should be lived in this world in order to ensure the ideal afterworld. They live in the comfort zone that they have qualified for heaven by just being Christians! I think qualification for heaven (IF the heaven exists) should be more stringent and based on meritocracy rather than mere membership in a church. I think society will be better if each member of society believes he has to EARN his place in heaven. This is the main reason why I have resisted approaches by Christian friends to join their “club”.

They in turn treat me like I got AIDS or something and ostracize me. How ironic is that?! If these are the values they are taught then I would rather remain on my side of the fence. Burn orthodox, I shall seek for what is stored in Pandora’s Box! Can you blame me if Richard Dawkins describes God as being, “…a misogynistic, homophobic, racist, infanticidal, genocidal, filicidal, pestilential, megalomaniacal, sado-masochistic, capriciously malevolent bully"?

With such friends I do not need enemies. They do not respect my right to have my own opinion! I do not think my parents taught me wrong values. When it comes to respect it has to be earned and as far as those so-called friends are concerned, I cannot respect them.

Their kind of narrow-mindedness and prejudice is the root cause of many problems we face in society. My personal experience has shown me too many times how religious prejudice can cause problems.

I was working in Genting Highlands as a Butler about 9 months back. We were settled into the very old dorms that some claim it was haunted. My colleague A, is an Indian Christian and when he first checked into his dorm there were 3 Indian guys staying inside. That freaked A out. Why? He told our Supervisor, "Ms. Shirley, I want to change my room! I'm scared; there are 3 Indian guys in my room and it is filled with pictures of Hindu gods and all." Ms. Shirley just kept quiet. A even told our other Supervisor, Mr Silan the same thing without caring that Mr. Silan is himself a Hindu. A’s kind of “membabi buta” attitude of discrimination caused discord and labeled. You can expect that A got back some of his crap.

As I said earlier, there is so such thing as a 'Christian problem', 'Jewish Problem', 'Hindu Problem' or some other bullshit problem. It all boils down to one simple word, 'Discrimination'. This is where everything fails. There is not enough respect for each other’s right of beliefs and/or disbelief! Welcome to My World…