Thursday, January 01, 2004

Another New Year! Ho Hum or Hurray?

First, need to mention that yesterday was Awi's birthday. For the first time ever, I sent her flowers at the office. It's unbelievable how difficult it is to get a florist to deliver in this area. Nevertheless, the flowers reached her office, intact and she was pleasantly surprised. Even managed to envy some of her officemates. In the evening, we went to Awana for dinner, I had lamb chops and this large bowl of ais kacang. It;'s so huge, 10 people could've eaten it and it would be enough for all!! Went home around 10, caught the KLCC Countdown concert on TV, fell asleep before midnight and only woke up at 12.30 am. So, I missed all the fireworks, countdown bla bla bla. Do I sound like a sore loser? Hehehe, maybe but I just don't really care about the new year celebration. What counts is what will happen in this new year.

Oh yes, believe it or not, it's a working day here on New Year in Terengganu. I've gotten used to the idea similarly to working on Sundays. It's weird but what the hell, it's just the rules, the norm over here. So, either get used to it or leave town. I'm inclined to choose the latter option sooner than later. :)

Tuesday, December 30, 2003

Leave all the tension at the door

I once read a story about a man who had a lot of problems at work. However, when he goes back to his family every day, he said that he will leave all his troubles at the door. He metaphorically called it, hanging his problems at a trouble tree outside the door to his house. That story came back to mind yesterday because I was having a bad day at work. A system which falls under my responsibility will be launched come the new year. However, there are many issues pertaining this system and since it's going to affect everyone at work, I can expect a lot of calls as a result of people having problems with it. The problem is that I don't think I'll be able to deal with all the requests, all the problems that need solving and the zilion things that needs to be done. These things take time and some people just cannot and will not understand it. Sometimes, it is good to put yourself in other people's shoes and try to look things from their perspectives. Being a service provider gives a totally outlook on how to deal with people on various issues and matters. However, it's just that lately I see the IT service providers are being perceived as those causing for high costs in a company's expenditure. I just want to see a company operate just one hour without any computer, network, phone, email. Nothing. Just paper and pen. See how long they can last.

Anyway, I'm ranting off the topic. What I want to say is that, even though after a bad and hectic day at work, we shouldn't bring those problems back home to our family. Our problems do not belong with our family. Yesterday, I was racing at high speed from the office to home with the music blaring loud on the car speakers. But it was when I saw Haziq, smiling and laughing with my wife, only then I can also smile and feel relaxed. A child can have such a strong effect on us. The problems as though melted away for the moment. Whatever it is, problems will also be present in our lives. Only a dead person doesn't have problems, well perhaps a different set of problems, depending on your beliefs. :)

Off to watch ALIAS now.

PS: The family in KL is having a celebration dinner at PJ Hilton for Ucop's success. I recalled going there when I was younger. Maybe one day, it will be easier for us in Kerteh here to join in such occassions.

Monday, December 29, 2003

Congratulations, Ucop

Today PMR results was announced nationwide. My youngest brother, Ucop (younger by 12 years) sat for the exams earlier this year. I SMS him earlier in the day, to just be cool and be thankful for whatever God had decided for him. I'm sure he had worked hard, studied late into the night and did his best. Alhamdulillah, Ucop got excellent results, obtaining 8As. Ucop, if you're reading this, just want to tell you, enjoy the moment but this is only a small step towards the future. The path is so much winding and challenging. I know that you're matured enough to realise this and not to be too taken up by the moment. Nevertheless, you have earned this reward and I don't think any gift can replace the feeling of satisfaction you must be feeling now. So no need to give any presents lah. :) Keep up the good work and good luck entering Form Four, and hopefully, a new school as well!!