I am in the midst of reading this amazing non-fic by Malcolm Gladwell.
Guess I am not the earliest to start this book but i feel like i should input my thoughts regarding his insightful ideas.
So the title of this book is "The Tipping Point".
Perhaps many are familiar with the title. Well, it happens to be one of the top picks on book depository and amazon so it might as well be on the various reading lists of most people.
Basically, the main idea revolves around how a certain phenomenon is caused by epidemics. In every epidemic, there is bound to be a 'tipping point'. Something that tips the scale to cause a significant surge in that particular event. Gladwell believes that these epidemics do not merely occur by chance but are propelled by 2 types of occurrence, namely how contagious and how sticky it is.
Contagion and stickiness should never be lumped together. The common assumption is that they are both describing similar situations. However, the term 'contagion' refers to how fast the ideas spread or how a certain phenomenon could reach a larger target audience whereas 'stickiness' depicts how often that particular behavior manifests itself in particular groups. They might be correlated in some way, for instance, something that spreads quickly like wildfire might continue to stick in individuals but the 'stickiness' factor depends on the initial experience catered to fit the specific individual. It depends whether or not the instances are satisfactory enough to allow groups to adhere to them.
Also, it is worth mentioning that the sociological perspective is fairly evident in instances of this book. In a case study noted in his book, Gladwell claims that "smoking, overwhelmngly, [is] associated with the same thing to nearly everyone: sophistication". I find his opinon glaringly true since many peers who got addicted to smoking started off 'idolising' role models. These 'role models' shape their vision of the behavior of smoking to be cool and complex. Smoking itself is not cool but people who smoked are the ones who are 'cool'. In some way, the act of smoking spreads because of the inherent characteristics that these smokers already possessed. It is not because of the act that caused them to inherit a certain demeanor, but rather, it is already an intrinsic trait among this community. Furthermore, he mentions that "smoking seemed to evoke a particular kind of childhood memory--vivid, precise [and] emotionally charged". This reveals that a person's history and biography is interspersed where the emotional gratification of the act is at play here. The motion of engaging in smoking appears to fill up a void that is reminiscent of the carefree moments in the past.
Coming back to the 3 distinct personality types that Gladwell discusses in the text, they are the Maven, the Salesman and the Connector respectively. A Maven is one who "accumulates knowledge". In every marketplace, there is bound to be people who are well-versed with information and it is because of these pieces of information that certain behaviors are encouraged. For instance, using Gladwell's example in the book, when a retailer puts a PROMOTION sign on an item, it automatically boosts sales. This is apparently due to the information the maven retailers produce that perpetuate the consumer-oriented behavior in the shoppers: that is to buy more of that product even though the price is in fact the same. A saleman is exactly what the role portrays. He typically announces a certain phenomenon to reach out to more people. Another variant of the Saleman personality that has more influence is the Persuader--one who tries to persuade people to adapt to a certain choice that is approved by him and might not be the message intended by the larger body. Lastly, the Connector refers to people with huge networks. Basically, the connector is the modern-day socialite who associates with many people (be it of people of influence or common-folk) and through those massive networks, spread certain ideas or behaviour that inspire others to follow suit.
To sum up, any phenomenon would turn into an epidemic when there are these 3 types of people and the rate it spreads or sticks is also dependent on the contagious/stickiness factor of the particular event. The book is definitely an interesting read for non-fic starters due to the relatable case studies and thought-provoking ideas that are neither too abstract or too technical to understand.
Going back to my initial question, which type are you then?
Tuesday, February 13, 2018
Monday, December 18, 2017
Indonesia
The rush of nostalgia is back.
I'm glad to be back in Singapore again. This would not be the usual reaction of a family on holiday overseas, i bet.
The words of the Lees resonated in me once i entered familiar territory.
It is only when one experiences the life outside of Singapore would one realise how fortunate he is.
Amidst the glory of its beautiful scenery and picturesque view of Mother Nature, Indonesia has nothing to offer. Drenched with the immense backdrop of corruption and politics, it's drudgery is revolting and downright disgusting. Trust is not to be taken for granted in the city of sins.
During our week-long vacation, we had trouble visiting various tourists destinations as we were halted by the security troops to conduct a "security check". We were told that we had to pay extra charges to visit scenic places of nature like the volcanoes and the panoramic highlands of Bandung (Jawa). If we had Indonesian passports, we only had to produce 20000 IDR but the figure multiplied tenfold (200000 IDR) per person once we flashed our gaudy Singaporean passports at the greedy money-grubbers.
What absurdity.
Furthermore, the traffic condition there is simply atrocious. Words themselves can't describe the preposterous sight of the multitudinous motorbikes flooding the roads. It is as if the traffic lights are just for display with no functional use. The blatant lack of order and governance makes my skin crawl. Unlike our civilised nation with lines and markings drawn on the tar-coated glistening roads, there is none there. Bikes simply scuttle around like blind cockroaches waiting for their doom to befall them. The drivers there are extremely skillful. They seem to have mutual telepathy on which lane to take and whether to swerve in the direction in order not to collide into the surrounding vehicles. Horns blare constantly. It is not a symbol of vehemence or annoyance like our country but horns are multi-purpose there. It is to insist on one's right of way, to warn, as a friendly gesture, to subjugate.
Traffic jams are ubiquitous and nothing to be shocked at. The average waiting time on the road is estimated to be about 2 to 3 hours in the event of a serious jam. Aunty B's husband claims that the resident in Indo spends his life toiling on the roads. There was once he had to trundle through the traffic for a whole night and finally reaching back home in the wee hours of the morning.
We were treated like royalty once we touched down at Soekarno-Hatto International Airport in Jakarta. My mum's childhood friend married an Indonesian Chinese and i must admit they are extremely prominent figures in the business realm over there. It shows in how they live, with numerous servants in their lavish mansion, coupled with armed guards patrolling the gates. I guess it is necessary given the poor security in that putrid place. Being devout Buddhists, the family owns a pagoda-styled private estate with marbled floors embellished with a myriad of idols and statues portraying Buddhists deities of all sorts. Proliferating artists impressions of majestic tigers lined the walls of the palace, evoking a sense of mystery and enigma.
Instead of being swatted at, flies are not taken to heed. These irritating creatures are dominating residents of the larders and food places there. Perhaps those disease-infested pests are the culprits of my food poisoning experience.
One consolating thing to report is that the standard of living there is quite low. Thus, goods and services are extremely worth it. Being typical Singaporeans, one can never resist the urge to shop for stuff. Bags, clothes, shoes, watches, glasses, coats, accessories you name it... Another thing to admire in the country is that people there are straightfoward and forthcoming. They usually do not have an agenda and the vendors are not scrupulous and thieving like the Ladies' Street in HK or bargain markets in China. They are open to negotiation and would usually not exploit you as a tourist. It is still acceptable to haggle a little but half the quoted price is a little overboard.
Overall, my trip there is just an appetiser. The entree is to be anticipated. The next vaycay would be to Japan and this time there would be much more exciting things to report. Stay tuned!
I'm glad to be back in Singapore again. This would not be the usual reaction of a family on holiday overseas, i bet.
The words of the Lees resonated in me once i entered familiar territory.
It is only when one experiences the life outside of Singapore would one realise how fortunate he is.
Amidst the glory of its beautiful scenery and picturesque view of Mother Nature, Indonesia has nothing to offer. Drenched with the immense backdrop of corruption and politics, it's drudgery is revolting and downright disgusting. Trust is not to be taken for granted in the city of sins.
During our week-long vacation, we had trouble visiting various tourists destinations as we were halted by the security troops to conduct a "security check". We were told that we had to pay extra charges to visit scenic places of nature like the volcanoes and the panoramic highlands of Bandung (Jawa). If we had Indonesian passports, we only had to produce 20000 IDR but the figure multiplied tenfold (200000 IDR) per person once we flashed our gaudy Singaporean passports at the greedy money-grubbers.
What absurdity.
Furthermore, the traffic condition there is simply atrocious. Words themselves can't describe the preposterous sight of the multitudinous motorbikes flooding the roads. It is as if the traffic lights are just for display with no functional use. The blatant lack of order and governance makes my skin crawl. Unlike our civilised nation with lines and markings drawn on the tar-coated glistening roads, there is none there. Bikes simply scuttle around like blind cockroaches waiting for their doom to befall them. The drivers there are extremely skillful. They seem to have mutual telepathy on which lane to take and whether to swerve in the direction in order not to collide into the surrounding vehicles. Horns blare constantly. It is not a symbol of vehemence or annoyance like our country but horns are multi-purpose there. It is to insist on one's right of way, to warn, as a friendly gesture, to subjugate.
Traffic jams are ubiquitous and nothing to be shocked at. The average waiting time on the road is estimated to be about 2 to 3 hours in the event of a serious jam. Aunty B's husband claims that the resident in Indo spends his life toiling on the roads. There was once he had to trundle through the traffic for a whole night and finally reaching back home in the wee hours of the morning.
We were treated like royalty once we touched down at Soekarno-Hatto International Airport in Jakarta. My mum's childhood friend married an Indonesian Chinese and i must admit they are extremely prominent figures in the business realm over there. It shows in how they live, with numerous servants in their lavish mansion, coupled with armed guards patrolling the gates. I guess it is necessary given the poor security in that putrid place. Being devout Buddhists, the family owns a pagoda-styled private estate with marbled floors embellished with a myriad of idols and statues portraying Buddhists deities of all sorts. Proliferating artists impressions of majestic tigers lined the walls of the palace, evoking a sense of mystery and enigma.
Instead of being swatted at, flies are not taken to heed. These irritating creatures are dominating residents of the larders and food places there. Perhaps those disease-infested pests are the culprits of my food poisoning experience.
One consolating thing to report is that the standard of living there is quite low. Thus, goods and services are extremely worth it. Being typical Singaporeans, one can never resist the urge to shop for stuff. Bags, clothes, shoes, watches, glasses, coats, accessories you name it... Another thing to admire in the country is that people there are straightfoward and forthcoming. They usually do not have an agenda and the vendors are not scrupulous and thieving like the Ladies' Street in HK or bargain markets in China. They are open to negotiation and would usually not exploit you as a tourist. It is still acceptable to haggle a little but half the quoted price is a little overboard.
Overall, my trip there is just an appetiser. The entree is to be anticipated. The next vaycay would be to Japan and this time there would be much more exciting things to report. Stay tuned!
Sunday, August 13, 2017
Arbitrary
There are 2 meanings of the word, "arbitrary".
The first meaning states that this word defines something to be random and based on personal whim or choice, not something that is frequently occurring. There is no specific reason or system for this particular course of action. Just like how the rain does not conform to the schedule or timing as predicted by the weather forecast, it is completely by chance thus it is an "arbitrary rain".
Perhaps the choice you need to make is erratic or very sudden, thereby not complying with carefully-thought out procedures, thus making it an "arbitrary decision".
Next, the word could also mean an unrestrained and autocratic rule of power or authority. For instance, we could say that the totalitarian rule of North Korean president Kim is arbitrary when sending citizens to be executed merely by defaming his name and reputation.
The first meaning states that this word defines something to be random and based on personal whim or choice, not something that is frequently occurring. There is no specific reason or system for this particular course of action. Just like how the rain does not conform to the schedule or timing as predicted by the weather forecast, it is completely by chance thus it is an "arbitrary rain".
Perhaps the choice you need to make is erratic or very sudden, thereby not complying with carefully-thought out procedures, thus making it an "arbitrary decision".
Next, the word could also mean an unrestrained and autocratic rule of power or authority. For instance, we could say that the totalitarian rule of North Korean president Kim is arbitrary when sending citizens to be executed merely by defaming his name and reputation.
Sunday, May 21, 2017
Severe deficit of funds
Just gonna clock in a quick update.
First things first, i feel like i'm trapped in an endless vacuum of monetary drain.
When reality hits you hard in the head, its that realisation where your sense of purpose in life is just a massive question mark, leaving you clueless and in a desperate loss.
The misdirection and helplessness isn't just an apparent myth.
It's at that crucial point in your life where you feel that all financial support (other than from your folks) is severely inadequate.
One, there's no monthly allowance from the SAF that feeds you and satisfy your exorbitant transport urges like private car-hire firms. This then leads you to deplete your savings from the past 1 year 10 months of national service that are also extremely meagre, simply put --- pathetic. On the other hand, i really do not want to be a parasitic pest to simply leech off my folks without contributing at least to the household chores.
To solve the above problem, there needs to be an avenue for cash to start streaming in to fund my months of existence before uni starts and also to provide for my freakishly expensive degree that has relatively poor prospects (other than in the public sector and being an obedient minion of the govt.)
Money woes are the worst kind of stress factor. It is bad enough that you stay on and make a mess at home, but to continually and gradually request for cash from your parents will be kind of a tragic scenario. Especially when people of your age are already starting families and moving out to venture on their own, albeit a little too young in the SEA context...
So many thoughts now im having quite a difficult time organising them.
To be or not to be, that is the question.
This struggle constantly plagues me, whether to be an educator or a writer. Needless to say, i still feel the invisible force pulling me towards teaching while I do feel strongly obliged to satisfy my writing whims. Not that i'm a proficient writer, neither do i have a flair for languages and explicitly sycophantic and intriguing topic sentences to attract readers. However i truly feel at ease reading and writing, cultivated from that tender age of elementary school i guess?
Still trying to figure out that aim in life, and all those philosophical and mandatory checkpoints in life. The conservative mindset of Asians and various expectations that we are somewhat forced to meet in our current society. This feels increasingly worrying and late night thoughts are swallowed by these subjects at hand I really am alone and apprehensive to my future and what with the prudent technology-driven industry (given that the degree i'm about to embark on is totally redundant and irrelavant), I guess it's really all up to fate and divine forces to add that gaiety of colours and embellish my life.
Evading is not a solution, hopefully literary knowledge and the embracing of language and communication could be espoused and more valued in the next decade?
Halcyon days are long over.
First things first, i feel like i'm trapped in an endless vacuum of monetary drain.
When reality hits you hard in the head, its that realisation where your sense of purpose in life is just a massive question mark, leaving you clueless and in a desperate loss.
The misdirection and helplessness isn't just an apparent myth.
It's at that crucial point in your life where you feel that all financial support (other than from your folks) is severely inadequate.
One, there's no monthly allowance from the SAF that feeds you and satisfy your exorbitant transport urges like private car-hire firms. This then leads you to deplete your savings from the past 1 year 10 months of national service that are also extremely meagre, simply put --- pathetic. On the other hand, i really do not want to be a parasitic pest to simply leech off my folks without contributing at least to the household chores.
To solve the above problem, there needs to be an avenue for cash to start streaming in to fund my months of existence before uni starts and also to provide for my freakishly expensive degree that has relatively poor prospects (other than in the public sector and being an obedient minion of the govt.)
Money woes are the worst kind of stress factor. It is bad enough that you stay on and make a mess at home, but to continually and gradually request for cash from your parents will be kind of a tragic scenario. Especially when people of your age are already starting families and moving out to venture on their own, albeit a little too young in the SEA context...
So many thoughts now im having quite a difficult time organising them.
To be or not to be, that is the question.
This struggle constantly plagues me, whether to be an educator or a writer. Needless to say, i still feel the invisible force pulling me towards teaching while I do feel strongly obliged to satisfy my writing whims. Not that i'm a proficient writer, neither do i have a flair for languages and explicitly sycophantic and intriguing topic sentences to attract readers. However i truly feel at ease reading and writing, cultivated from that tender age of elementary school i guess?
Still trying to figure out that aim in life, and all those philosophical and mandatory checkpoints in life. The conservative mindset of Asians and various expectations that we are somewhat forced to meet in our current society. This feels increasingly worrying and late night thoughts are swallowed by these subjects at hand I really am alone and apprehensive to my future and what with the prudent technology-driven industry (given that the degree i'm about to embark on is totally redundant and irrelavant), I guess it's really all up to fate and divine forces to add that gaiety of colours and embellish my life.
Evading is not a solution, hopefully literary knowledge and the embracing of language and communication could be espoused and more valued in the next decade?
Halcyon days are long over.
Friday, April 14, 2017
Enough Said (Movie Review)
So, i've just watched this movie, Enough Said, by Nicole Holofcener.
It's a comedy, some sort of a rom-com film and i thought that the plot was rather unique. Would recommend it to anyone who would want to spend some leisure time watching a light-hearted show that is a bit of a tear-jerker but not too overwhelming on the emotions. Completely watchable and absolutely not one of those sophisticated and complex mind-boggling box-office films by Dicarprio.
The whole plot dwells a lot on the fragility of human relationships.
Let me touch briefly on the flow of the movie. Basically, it revolves around the life of main character, Eva, a divorced single parent, who happens to also be a masseuse. She then meets another single parent, Albert, at a party and eventually built a romantic relationship with him. She admits that his looks were not exactly appealing to her at first, but goes on to describe how she finds him adorable and fun-loving after their first date. At that same party, Eva meets Marianne, a prospective client for her masseur services and their frequent appointments blossomed into a sturdy friendship as these sessions also functioned as a platform for Marianne to rant wildly about her ex-husband, whom she had divorced. The quirks and weird habits were common table-talk topics when chatting frivolously with Eva. Here comes the ironic bit: Marianne's ex-husband that she continually complained about was actually Albert (Eva's dating partner). It finally struck Eva when Marianne lamented about how she felt disgusted by the way he dabs and swipes on the guacamole while flicking the onions in the dip to one side and just scooping huge chunks of guacamole on the tacos, all the while criticising his unruly mannerisms, mirroring the ways of how her partner would function when there is a guacamole dip in the room. It turns out that she is at a complete dilemma when one party is a prospective love-partner while the other is also a strong contender: a valued customer and congenial friend that she would think twice losing.
The climax ensues when all three of them meet at Marianne's house and to the shock and disgust of Albert, he finally discovered the numerous repulsive behavior that Eva had displayed when having sex and spending time with him. The moment was a tragic one when fate dwelt such a blow on the protagonist, ending the two important relationships in her life, resulting in her losing the friendship and the relationship.
Sometimes, it is inevitable that such coincidences happen in reality and no doubt would it be a real struggle to handle the matter prudently. I really liked how the film reflects the actuality of our emotions and such awkward scenarios outside the theatrical threshold. Also, Eva tries hard to please everyone in the film but in fact, it backfired and dealt a painful punch back at herself. The distance between her daughter and herself strained further when she gave in to the needs of her daughter's friend, neglecting the feelings of her only child. By trying too hard to make everyone satisfied, she ended up miserable and alone. At the end, Eva decides to toughen up and make amends, by resolving the tension between Albert and herself. She then tries to be more resolute and decisive to cut herself some slack and voice out her thoughts more coherently, improving the volatility of her life and work eventually.
Truly a pleasant experience on a Good Friday, it won't be a disappointment to view the film.
Could promise a resounding 8/10!
It's a comedy, some sort of a rom-com film and i thought that the plot was rather unique. Would recommend it to anyone who would want to spend some leisure time watching a light-hearted show that is a bit of a tear-jerker but not too overwhelming on the emotions. Completely watchable and absolutely not one of those sophisticated and complex mind-boggling box-office films by Dicarprio.
The whole plot dwells a lot on the fragility of human relationships.
Let me touch briefly on the flow of the movie. Basically, it revolves around the life of main character, Eva, a divorced single parent, who happens to also be a masseuse. She then meets another single parent, Albert, at a party and eventually built a romantic relationship with him. She admits that his looks were not exactly appealing to her at first, but goes on to describe how she finds him adorable and fun-loving after their first date. At that same party, Eva meets Marianne, a prospective client for her masseur services and their frequent appointments blossomed into a sturdy friendship as these sessions also functioned as a platform for Marianne to rant wildly about her ex-husband, whom she had divorced. The quirks and weird habits were common table-talk topics when chatting frivolously with Eva. Here comes the ironic bit: Marianne's ex-husband that she continually complained about was actually Albert (Eva's dating partner). It finally struck Eva when Marianne lamented about how she felt disgusted by the way he dabs and swipes on the guacamole while flicking the onions in the dip to one side and just scooping huge chunks of guacamole on the tacos, all the while criticising his unruly mannerisms, mirroring the ways of how her partner would function when there is a guacamole dip in the room. It turns out that she is at a complete dilemma when one party is a prospective love-partner while the other is also a strong contender: a valued customer and congenial friend that she would think twice losing.
The climax ensues when all three of them meet at Marianne's house and to the shock and disgust of Albert, he finally discovered the numerous repulsive behavior that Eva had displayed when having sex and spending time with him. The moment was a tragic one when fate dwelt such a blow on the protagonist, ending the two important relationships in her life, resulting in her losing the friendship and the relationship.
Sometimes, it is inevitable that such coincidences happen in reality and no doubt would it be a real struggle to handle the matter prudently. I really liked how the film reflects the actuality of our emotions and such awkward scenarios outside the theatrical threshold. Also, Eva tries hard to please everyone in the film but in fact, it backfired and dealt a painful punch back at herself. The distance between her daughter and herself strained further when she gave in to the needs of her daughter's friend, neglecting the feelings of her only child. By trying too hard to make everyone satisfied, she ended up miserable and alone. At the end, Eva decides to toughen up and make amends, by resolving the tension between Albert and herself. She then tries to be more resolute and decisive to cut herself some slack and voice out her thoughts more coherently, improving the volatility of her life and work eventually.
Truly a pleasant experience on a Good Friday, it won't be a disappointment to view the film.
Could promise a resounding 8/10!
Wednesday, April 5, 2017
Cafe Salivation
This afternoon, I went out for lunch with my cousin who had just been blissfully wedded to her prince charming. She's a vegetarian and I feel adventurous and rather excited everytime we try out something exquisite because people commonly mistake vegan or vegetarian food to be bland, tasteless or simply a dour, boring experience. However, today was another surprise for not only my taste-buds but also my perception of this genre of gourmet.
It so happened that I was browsing through the Internet and a little skeptical about this quaint little cafe she was talking about the other day we had lunch together, so I went to search for the reviews of the food and ambience there. Much to my surprise, it was actually featured in many top 10 articles of the best vegetarian places locally. Also, I stumbled upon this app called THE ENTERTAINER, which conveniently provided valuable and affordable deals for this particular cafe.
So, now we go on to the food.
The meal was really special as it felt like I was actually savouring meaty succulent delights. The lasagna that we ordered was fragrant and not too greasy. The cheese was a perfect texture as the baked pasta was neither too tough but also not too overcooked. The filling in the lasagna felt like an explosion of flavours as the sudden exuberance was not too cloying or overwhelming, this amazing sensation actually simulated the wafting moisture of actual meat but without the guilt of slaughtering an actual fowl or poultry.
Next, the side dish was vegetable croquette. The initial bite was crunchy and crisp as the batter didn't feel thick or too tough to bite on. Normally, a popiah at the nearby coffeehouse or the standard potato croquette might be a little heavy because of the intensity of the flavoured ingredients. This dish had neither of that feel but the vegetables in the croquettes were refreshing and very versatile, like a myraid of flavours bursting altogether.
Truly an eye-opening experience and would definitely visit this place again in the future.
.
It so happened that I was browsing through the Internet and a little skeptical about this quaint little cafe she was talking about the other day we had lunch together, so I went to search for the reviews of the food and ambience there. Much to my surprise, it was actually featured in many top 10 articles of the best vegetarian places locally. Also, I stumbled upon this app called THE ENTERTAINER, which conveniently provided valuable and affordable deals for this particular cafe.
So, now we go on to the food.
The meal was really special as it felt like I was actually savouring meaty succulent delights. The lasagna that we ordered was fragrant and not too greasy. The cheese was a perfect texture as the baked pasta was neither too tough but also not too overcooked. The filling in the lasagna felt like an explosion of flavours as the sudden exuberance was not too cloying or overwhelming, this amazing sensation actually simulated the wafting moisture of actual meat but without the guilt of slaughtering an actual fowl or poultry.
Next, the side dish was vegetable croquette. The initial bite was crunchy and crisp as the batter didn't feel thick or too tough to bite on. Normally, a popiah at the nearby coffeehouse or the standard potato croquette might be a little heavy because of the intensity of the flavoured ingredients. This dish had neither of that feel but the vegetables in the croquettes were refreshing and very versatile, like a myraid of flavours bursting altogether.
Truly an eye-opening experience and would definitely visit this place again in the future.
.
Sunday, January 29, 2017
Lunar New Year
初二。
It's yet another year of the essential chinese tradition of visiting the elders and meeting overzealous relatives. With every year passing by, it somehow feels like we're all stuck in limbo, an endless loop that regurgitates every ounce of boredom. Its repetitive cycle is endless, nauseating or even with excruciating misery. At its zenith, it feels like a drab, a dreary chore.
Perhaps it does not only apply to myself, but also these people. The annual event of sucking up to these sycophants, unusually inquisitive all of a sudden. Why the sudden interest in my routine, my life, my hobbies? As if i would be obliged to incite your appetite for further questioning. Curiosity kills the cat. Ever heard of it?
Is this out of concern or merely just an attempt to spark that very pathetic bit of conversation?
Don't mind my ranting, sorry for the pessimism.
Well, on the bright side, at least there is the incentive of angbao collection...
It's yet another year of the essential chinese tradition of visiting the elders and meeting overzealous relatives. With every year passing by, it somehow feels like we're all stuck in limbo, an endless loop that regurgitates every ounce of boredom. Its repetitive cycle is endless, nauseating or even with excruciating misery. At its zenith, it feels like a drab, a dreary chore.
Perhaps it does not only apply to myself, but also these people. The annual event of sucking up to these sycophants, unusually inquisitive all of a sudden. Why the sudden interest in my routine, my life, my hobbies? As if i would be obliged to incite your appetite for further questioning. Curiosity kills the cat. Ever heard of it?
Is this out of concern or merely just an attempt to spark that very pathetic bit of conversation?
Don't mind my ranting, sorry for the pessimism.
Well, on the bright side, at least there is the incentive of angbao collection...
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