Conquer the world. Do what it takes to chase your dream. Not what people want you to be, or expects you to be.
-Sidek, N.

Do yourself a favour: Be what you want to be.

"Come with me", he said and erased it from his mind
Be with me now but of love we are frightened stiff
We'd rather leave and head for the skies
Than say all the right words too soon

And I never thought you would
But always knew you could

We take off from here and in that
Instant nothing remained of what was
Whereas the soul provides, freedom
Narrowed down for the taking

I never wanted you to lie
Never needed fragments of your day
A broken promise made
To always come around, never to stay

And as tired as clich's come
Did not expect nor frown upon
Lighter hearts have taken bait
Sweetened words now with bitter taste

A distance kept that never fails to close us in
And forget the days that still linger on
Inside the single part of two
We'd rather leave no trace and not look back
Than face the anxiety here and now

- Single Part of Two, Dark Tranquillity

Something I think was brilliantly put in words:

"A person who, like everybody else in the world, needed other people in order to be happy. But other people were so difficult.  They reacted in unpredictable ways, they surround themselves with defensive walls, they behaved just as (anybody else), pretending they didn't care about anything.  When someone more open to life appeared, they either rejected them outright or made them suffer, consigning them to being inferior, ingenuous"
Paulo Coelho, Veronika Decides to Die.

Get My Head in the Game

2 weeks. That's all the time I've got left before the tennis tournament. I haven't been actively playing and honestly, I've only REALLY played tennis almost 8-9 months ago. I did play a couple of times but twice isn't going to cover anything. So finally I was able to practice albeit badly with a good friend of mine and although I was frustrated I couldn't really get my shots right anymore, I've identified several things I really need to work on.

1. Low balls. This has always been my weakest. It's either this or my serve. Flat shots from opponents are a nightmare cause low, fast balls require lift to... LIFT and get them over the net. I have got to work on bending my legs, lowering my centre of gravity so that I'm able to at least get the ball back in play. We're not always aiming for winners, get that in your head, dude.

2. Serves. Been off the game for so long it's incredibly hard to get my serve in play. I don't have the confidence on both first and second serve. I'll fix that this weekend. Let's see how it goes.

3. Mental strength. Being in your first open tournament can be a scary thought and it doesn't get better if I worry about the two things above. I have to control my frustrations during the two days or I'll lose it. Remember I'm there to have fun, winning is secondary. God, I don't even know who will support me. Only my girlfriend is coming.

4. My right leg. Two hours yesterday nearly killed it. I'm extremely worried about the condition of my leg with the IM rod in it. It cramps too easily so warming that up is a big deal to me. Post-massage may be necessary but there are 3 matches to play on the first day. That is definitely something to worry about.

I Don't Even Want to Give This One a Title.

If there's one thing I know about myself it's the fact that I'm a confused man. For starters, I don't post another entry just days after posting one. Just bare with me for a second now, okay? I can whine all day long here and nobody can stop me. It won't be a long one, I promise.

So I haven't been to the office for over a week and I have a presentation to prepare for plus 2 more Masters assignment to submit by the end of next week. One of which deals with my proposed Masters research and the other has nothing to do with anything! Like why the hell would you do something that wouldn't aid your research in any ways just for the sake of passing a subject? It doesn't make sense to me. Unsurprisingly, it doesn't bother me and I'm simply whining like a bitch for no reason. Hmm, I never told you I went to Krabi for 4 days two weeks ago, did I? It was fun! The place that got bombed recently, yeah, we passed that area on the way back a day before it happened. COOL. Won't post pictures though because I didn't take any. No, I'm not stupid...

I TOOK A LOT OF VIDEOS.
The others had cameras so they were in charged of pictures.

Wait, I did say I was a confused man, right? So I was at the office today and was wondering what the hell is going on with me? I had a bad weekend. I freaked out last night because I'm participating in a tennis tournament on January 18th and I haven't practised at all in the past few weeks. @#&%ing crazy, don't you think? But that has nothing to do with what I'm confused about! Why am I writing this?

Okay back to the REAL reason why I'm confused. I love psychology. Love it so much. What in the world am I doing in an environmental institute then? I can't seem to focus on reading stuff that is related to my research area. I can only think of reading other stuff 'cause I love reading the 'other stuffs' more!

Shit just got real.

Was reading +Najwa Amira Matlan 's blog the whole morning and she has some pretty good advices in it especially to Muslims. Go and check it out!

My Brain is a Murderer

"I did it not because I was angry. Nor was it a warning to tell you how angry I was. I could have stopped myself. But I didn't. So why did I do something that I know I would regret later? I'll tell you why: BECAUSE I WANTED TO"

The human psyche is an interesting thing to study. By reading a lot of books, rummaging through the plethora of information in the Internet, or even signing up for courses will give you enough knowledge you'll ever need to know on psychology. Unless you're dreaming of becoming a psychiatrist. I know I wanted to be one if not for the fact I have to memorize loads of jargon I don't intend to ever use. I prefer understanding how things work without jamming my brain. I didn't give up the dream, though. I read a lot. And I mean a lot. Up to the point of taking interest in how everyone around me behaves. I'm obsessed with the way they talk, think, eat, habits, etc. And as disgusting as this sounds, I even care about the menstrual cycle of the women I talk to.

As of late, I'm beginning to see the crazy side of myself. This obsession of mine is increasingly making my insomnia worse. I am the type that cannot fall asleep at night because my brain refuses to stop thinking. What have I tried: counting sheep, listening to extra soothing music to religious-therapy and yet, I still cannot fall asleep. And that's the least of my problems. The more I study about human psychology, the more sinister my cognition becomes. The quote above isn't from a movie nor did it come from literature. It's actually something I said after doing something so wrong, yet it felt so right. I enjoyed it. I cried afterwards because I regretted ever doing it but it soon became a cry of joy. I join in useless conversations with people not because I want to talk but I'm more interested in the way they talk and solve problems.

What really sets me off is this 'behaviour' of mine is making me more anti-social than before. It used to be me talking (real talk, not the professional-sake talk) to at least 5-6 people a day and now it's down to 1 or 2. The need to interact with people is becoming so pointless to me. Dialogues I have with the person I feel like talking to is taken place in my head. If you don't like how the real person wants to talk to you, why not make up your own, right? I talk to myself all the time. Even writing this blog makes my head dizzy because there are at least 10 different personalities in my head screaming suggestions. It is the same voices that tell me that I don't need to interact with others.

That is, of course, unless you're a lady. I have a soft heart for them. But not just any lady. The women I talk to are filtered through many specific demands my brain sets for me. Talking to them makes me feel like an attention whore but somehow I think my head says it's the right thing to do. Talking to them shuts all but one voice in my head: MINE. However their counterpart doesn't really have the same honour. I restrict my conversations with guys to those I deem as best friends. Good luck making me talk to guys or staying friends with one. My criteria for being a friend is so strict and I intend to make it stay that way.

Sometimes I sit to think what has made me become like this. I can advice others everyday and give lectures on my understanding of psychology (even in religious ways) but if I apply them to myself, I go haywire. It's scaring me. I'm honestly scared of myself now. The next time I approach you to talk, stop and think: Am I really talking to you because I want to? Because I need the company? Or are you just another guinea pig to me?

Currently there are 5 women and 3/4 guys I love talking to regularly. You know who you are.

I would like to personally congratulate Faten Najjah for getting straight As in her 2013 PMR. I never did doubt her anyway. Her blog's called Dreaming and I've always been a fan of her blog as she deals with everyday issues and always going back to religion to lift her spirit. Her post on a non-muslim studying Islam (here) is by far my favourite one so far. 

Freedom of Thoughts

DISCLAIMER: This post is NOT meant to hurt anybody's feelings or stray them away from their beliefs. I respect the people around me, even those who disagrees with what I'm about to write. I would like to apologize if this post affects you negatively. You're always allowed to provide feedback in the comments section below.

Dear readers, I plead that you keep an open mind about the subject matter. 

Sunan Ibnu Majah, Book of Sunnah. Image from http://sunnah.com/urn/1252290

I am a Muslim. It has always been that way. I have no real issue on being one nor do I have any problems with the teaching of the Quran. What seems to be the problem is the place where I come from.

I am a Malaysian. It has always been that way. My desire to migrate to another country is there but my desire to stay here is there too. I can give you 101 reasons why I should stay. Its food, its peace(-ish), its natural areas and many more.

Unfortunately one of them isn't THE PEOPLE.

In this country, if you're a Muslim you're most likely a Malay. My father is one but he migrated to Borneo where the races there aren't restricted to the boring three. I was raised in a Kadazan-ish way and my mother, who is a convert, taught me stuff found in the Christian bible. Mum's side of the family are mostly Christians so it's not surprising that I know stuff about both religions. Back then, I wasn't the religious type so I wasn't really biased towards a particular religion although I'm slowly starting to learn things the Muslim way. Again, I have no issue with that. Religion isn't really the hot topic among my best friends either. Borneo's brilliant in that section: No damn serious purist like you get in West.

I ♥ learning new things. Be it learning how hit a tweener (tennis), cook the best pasta in the world, studying creepy insects, you name it. As long as its within my interest range and there are solid facts, I would gladly accept it. Not everything though. Learning how to sing like Justin Bieber isn't really my thing, if you call that singing. Studying religion is similar. Just because I am a Muslim doesn't mean I should be restricting myself to just studying the Quran and Sunnah. Some of the people (well, most really) in West Malaysia are so into Islam that when I ask questions regarding why they do certain things, they aren't able to answer. Most of their replies would be the same boring one I here all the time: "Because the Quran says so" or "Ustaz/ Ustazah told us so".

Ask me why I pray (salaat) and I'll answer you "Because it's my way of thanking God". There's no way I'll answer you "Because I'm told to".

There are many Madhhab (Mazhab) or the Muslim school of law, each with different interpretation on Islam. It is similar to that of the Christian's traditions (Catholicism, Anglicanism, etc). Malaysia happens to use the Shafi'i's jurisprudence (fiqh). I once met an Ustaz who told me that he regularly quarrels with his wife on the matter of which school to follow. He prefers the Hanbali teaching while his wife, Shafi'i's. Interestingly, there are no laws stating that Malaysians must use Shafi'i's school. Try arguing this with another Malay and see where you'll end up.

Now, as a curious person, it's normal for me to argue a lot. Honestly it's ridiculous to be in an environment where people provide such answers without ever questioning "why?". If I comment on another religion, what I will get is a this hateful disagreement that I have don't have the rights to question the Quran. In what way am I restricted this right? All monotheistic religions (Islam, Christianity and Judaism) have guides and teachings that are meant to make this world a better place. Even Buddhism have teachings that is meant to discipline yourselves. None of them are asking us to be bad people! None of them asks us to start another world war, be thieves or professing your love to Satan. Everything taught in their teachings things that makes you a better you. But it's just that, a guide. It is entirely up to you to choose your path. But to blindly follow is unacceptable to me. It's something I've found Malays doing and it annoys the hell out of me.

Bibles of the monotheistic religions contain historical-based lessons, predictions and the basic rules and regulations on what can and cannot be done. Malaysians, however, have their own understanding on Islam. They restrict themselves to the point of making Islam a jailhouse. Obviously this doesn't apply to everybody in the country but those deemed as 'typical Malays or kampungan (traditionalists)' have this kind of restricted mindsets. To be honest it makes Islam a bad religion. Other religions sounds way better! I'm not kidding. I remember a quote by a foreign visitor on  Muslims in this country:

 "When I was in Saudi Arab, I didn't see a lot of Muslims but Islam was very strong. Here I'm seeing a lot of Muslims but not a lot of Islam."

It's a sad case, really. Malaysia isn't the only Islamic country in the world but people here are acting like it is and that they're the right ones. It boils down to the culture of Malaysians, really. Islam in Malaysia is influenced by 'adat (custom)' and not the actual religion itself. A majority of them have made their customs a part of religion when the truth is you don't have to go through a lot of rubbish to be a Muslim. The Muslim marriage custom here is, to an extent, ridiculous when it comes to people who converted. Malay Muslims expect the converted to follow the Malay culture just because you have to be a Malay and practice its culture if you want to be called a Muslim. To me, if I want to be a Muslim, it doesn't matter how I do it. What matters is having faith in Him. Seek guidance from people knowledgeable in Islam. I especially love a webpost by Ederer, J. on name changing and the lifestyle after conversion. Do what you know is right but don't do what is against faith.

A religion is supposed to be simple and easy. It shouldn't be complicated and a burden to its followers. Islam so happens to be one of them but it's sad to say SOME Malaysians don't understand this concept. You DO NOT mix culture with religion and you definitely SHOULD NOT do things without questioning 'why?'. It's easy to confuse religion and culture. I understand you were brought up in such a way that you accepted everything that was taught. Spark a little bit of curiosity in what you do, it'll help you learn a lot better. I would like to point out that I'm not against the culture, the religion, nor am I against every single Malay. There are those who are very open minded and constructive about things and there are those who aren't. You have every rights to choose how you want to be.

Go ahead. Think freely.

Final notes: I would like to thank the following for contributing and reviewing this post. My girlfriend, F. Naseha for her insight and her full support. Without her, I wouldn't have been able to edit out some of the harsh comments I made. Z. Sandim for telling me people would literally kill me for doing this. It isn't my intention to stray people, I love my religion in a lot of ways but I would prefer doing it my way instead of the 'Malay way'. I have prepared my soul to be hated by a lot of people prior to writing this. My best bud, B. Too for supporting all the sh*t I write. If there's one person in the world that would always be there, it's him. A. Majanil for her review and support. This post wouldn't be a thing without her constructive comments. A big thank you to contributors who I shall not name here, ustaz-es and a few inspiring people I've met in my life. Finally, thank you for reading.

I'm halfway through memorizing Surat Al-Mulk. That's an achievement I never thought I could do 7 days ago.[EDIT] I'm almost at 30!

I am Alive - Meeting the Other Side

4 weeks ago I met her dad just before tennis. That was also the moment when my girlfriend's mum found out about me. I remember telling her that her mum would want to meet me soon, 3 months earlier than planned. 4 weeks later, it happened. Here's what happened...

2 June 2013

Went to Kg. Pandan to the mosque in front of her house to perform the Asar prayer and tennis afterwards. I wanted to approach the dad there 'cause it was the easiest way to meet him. I set up the meeting. Met him (more like SURPRISED HIM) and viola~ Done and done. I remember very well that I told her "it won't take long before mama wants to meet me. Trust me it'll be sooner than Raya."

4 Weeks Later - 30 June 2013

Had a three-day workshop with YAWA, DBKL and school teachers. Was very enlightening and I learned a ton of stuff. Unnecessary to post here. Moving on.

Lunch was uneventful but there were leftovers that were guaranteed to be dumped and wasted. Seha (my girlfriend) took the opportunity to invite her parents and siblings to finish the leftovers. I was shocked (and nervous) to hear that the mum was there with them. Oh, the butterflies.

Skipping uneventful stuffs...

So we greeted all of them (my colleague Anne was with me that time - THANK GOD) and I began chatting away. The way my girlfriend describe her mum is so unlike what she was that time. Perhaps this is how she reacts to outsiders, I guess? All I know was I wasn't the type who likes to beat around the bush so I talked and questioned everything I needed to know about her, the family and her phD thesis (I opened the conversation with this because it has been bugging me for 2 weeks). An hour earlier I couldn't control my nerves; constantly asking what should I talk about and how to control my nerves. Knowing me I'm the type of person who do not get stage frights, I was able to turn the table around. I was the one who couldn't stop talking, making jokes and teasing the whole lot as if we're friends. The only time my pie-hole was shut was when they were conversing in Kelantanese.

I am very comfortable speaking my mind out to people who deserve to listen. And her mum falls into that category. The mum is a major in psychology. Something I love. Yes, I work in a sustainable environment institute but my passion has always been psychology and human behaviour - SORRY LESTARI. I had no problem arguing back and forth with her especially on how she deals with her kids. I especially loved the part where we argued about her decision to send her sons to private schools. We talked about my family and to much surprised, she was mostly positive about me. When it comes to serious talk about human behaviour, I know I am very convincing. Prove me wrong, I dare you. After one hour, the mum offered to follow them to perform our pilgrimage next year which made my heart jumped (if it could, I would have probably barfed it out). I was beyond happy when she offered. Funny thing was a few weeks back I joked to Seha that their family would want me to join them for Umrah - and look what just happened. Haha.

After they left, Seha texted me saying that the topic in the car (and at home) was about me. Give me a reason to be unhappy about this 'cause I can't find one. 

I FEEL ALIVE.

Happiness is Subjective

This post is intended to hurt. A lot. And may contain an unnecessary amount of vulgarity.

On people around me...
I like to see myself as someone who thinks that there is good in everyone. Nobody deserves to be labelled negatively because everyone isn't always what you'd expect them to be. But sometimes the things that they do are just un-freaking-believable that calling them 'shit people' is way simpler than to help them be better. I love talking to people but I dislike making friends because I'm so damn choosy when it comes to the serious things in life. It's not that I cannot be friends with them,  I just refuse to connect with foreign wavelengths than the one I have. Sure I can joke a lot and laugh at theirs but how many of them are genuine?
All I know is I have a shit ton of close friends I love being with and some I feel comfortable opening up to. The others are just shit people to me.

On being selfish and greedy...
I can go on and on about this part but I won't.  There's only one message to say here. Those who know me well can tell you I'm one selfish son of a bitch who usually cares for himself. It doesn't apply to everything I do but it applies to things I think are important to me. I went to Lestari for two things... my girlfriend and my Masters degree. The knowledge I'll receive here is far superior to that of UiTM's. I never wanted to work in the first place but I lo and behold, I'm a Research Assistant. In all honesty, my priority is my Masters. I don't see myself wanting to help in other parts (or works) in the office. So if there are multiple assignments to do, I'll always prioritize those related to my Masters first. Me first, you second rule.

On relationships...
Being close to my girlfriend is the only thing that makes me happy. I don't like taking to a lot of people. I don't find comfort in that. The truth is I use to have a bunch of scandals and several serious girlfriends but none of them really worked. I'm dating someone I know I want to settle down with permanently now. The problem is I'm not sure if I'll ever be what I used to be. In relationships it's a well known fact that sacrifices have to be made. But what if that sacrifice only comes from me? I'm not that demanding in relationships I just don't have the fucking patience to be patient. I'm happy when I'm close to my girlfriend.  I'm happy when she is happy. I love trying to adapt to each other because the process bonds us stronger. So why this post? Why am I not happy? I mean I've been through a lot to convince my parents I want to marry her. And I've done a lot to get to know her family.  Adapting to her requires a huge sacrifice from my part which I am willing to do. I don't force her to go out or to do whatever I do. Why can't she see that? I never knew such person existed in this world. Nothing could ever change my mind to end this relationship. My feelings for her is real. Hers? I'm not sure. She didn't have to try hard at all in this relationship. So who's being so fucking inconsiderate here? I've agreed to adapt to her lifestyle and she doesn't have to adapt to mine any longer ('cause she stripped it all away).

I seriously do not have the time to read through my post again so forgive any spelling and grammatical errors and sorry for the language. I need to blurt out what I'm feeling 'cause I don't see whom I can talk to ATM.

Attempt #1

He felt an emotional ping in his chest. A feeling he knew was wrong but nearly impossible to ignore. Love. He vowed not to get involved in it again or at least not before his life achievements are achieved. But he couldn't help himself. It was just days after his confession to her. A mutual feeling that both kept buried deep within their hearts thinking the other will never know it. 

Was it a mistake?, he asked himself. For three years he has always wanted to tell her. Wanted her to know that she has stolen his heart. But to let her know was a suicide. Not until we're ready, he thought back then. What they had in common was a mystery even to himself. She was a genius like him and that's the only thing they shared. Plus, he knew there was nothing in him that she would be interested in at all.

He was heavily intoxicated when it happened. A text message sent through alcohol and a delusion he would be rejected beyond imaginable cause. It wasn't until he hit the 'send' button he regretted what he had done. How stupid he felt that time. A few minutes passed when the familiar musical chime buzzed through his phone's speaker. He read her reply and was shocked.

"I like you too".

Impossible.

GRIP IT! Babolat Babol XL Overgrip Review.

Whether it's choosing a new racquet, testing new strings or experimenting with lead tape, everybody has a different approach to it. Most will look at what their favourite pro use. Die-hard tennis fans will do whatever it takes to have the exact equipment pros have. But does it really work? Can you achieve that desired pro effect you want?
Take me for an example. I use to think Wilson's Pro Overgrip is the best OG there is because Federer and other top pros use. The thing is I have very sweaty palms so the thing loses its grip in 2 hours but I kept on buying them because Federer uses it. See the problem?
Then I started using other grips of similar type. I experimented with different brands and stuck to the Babolat Pro Tour grip (I don't remember the exact name) for some time. I even bought a 10-pack Tourna Grip because I heard its the best tacky grip on the market. I was wrong. None of them worked for me. Until I found this: Babol XL.
It has to be the most underrated OG ever. It's so cheap but it's extremely good. I bought this about 2 months ago and I still haven't regripped any of my racquets. So let's begin the review.

The XL is probably the cheapest Babolat OG I've seen in the Malaysian market. But I had my doubts when buying it bulk so I bought the 3 pack. Upon installing it I was sceptical about the way it feels. Turns out I was wrong as always. This thing has plenty of grip despite having that cheap plastic feel to it. Sweaty palms? No issues at all. During those intense moments I was still able to hold my racquet the way I wanted to hold it. With those 'pro' OG my racquets end up slipping all the time. Speaking of tremendous amount of grip brings me to its downside, there's so much grip it gave my palm and fingers blisters. You wouldn't want to shake hands with me after a match. Another bad point is the perforations on the OG surface. It's not a bad thing for some,  though but I dislike sweat getting into the base grip. Other than that I think I've found the perfect overgrip for me and won't be changing for a very, very long time.

**Yes I know the introduction is longer than the actual review. That's so me.**

MMT. Lang Buana Camp Site, Kuala Kangsar, Perak

Day 2

Boring. I'm of course referring to the traditional ice breaking we have during the first night. I don't blame the committee and it's not their fault. The participants are the ones to blame. Everything's the same 'ol boring stuff they say and those who tried their best to be funny failed miserably. Thanks to us seniors to spice things up.
Okay, moving on. Day 2 began with a heavy breakfast (so much for the 'camping' feel) and me being me, I ate a can of baked beans =)
The next agenda would be a jungle trekking session across the river. We seniors were tasked to 'torture' them juniors. We did pretty well although it was slightly cruel. What bugged us was the lack of respect from the freshmen. Their leader (which by then obviously didn't deserve being one) not only stressed us but his team as well. An immature leader is immature. Period.
Camp site's extremely hot today and the fact that hot water is pouring out from unheated pipes didn't really help.
Theatre night's tonight followed by grilled dinner and Night Walk which I'm definitely looking forward to. That's it for now. The heat is causing me to suffer from migrain. Till next time, peeps.

MMT. Lang Buana Camp Site, Kuala Kangsar, Perak.

Day 1
Let's do a short diary on what has happened today. Woke up early to pack 'cuz I'm not the type who packs the night before a trip. Things didn't go so well with the participants from my batch of students and the organizers. We got lost midway and it annoyed us, the lecturers and our freshmen juniors.
The place isn't what I expect it would be but I love being outdoors so it didn't bother me that much. But boy am I starving. What was initially planned as a three-day stock became two. I've went through an entire loaf of bread even before midnight. I should definitely learn to be conservative during jungle trips. Dinner's almost ready so that's my cue to leave. Stay tuned for updates.

**NOTE: my internet line is incredibly slow if non-existent. It's a jungle anyway so you can't expect much.

2 + 2 = SMART READING

Another day, another blog.
A few days ago a friend of mine came up with a brilliant question: How do you act smart in front of people smarter than you? The question was addressed to a lawyer during a one-day seminar last week. The answer she gave was expected. You have to read a lot. I asked the same question to my Professor and he answered the same thing but he added: You have to know the person and engage him by showing an interest in his 'field'.
Good that's settled.

So here's the thing. Today's blog will be about how to read articles smartly. I came across a great book touching on this very topic itself. It's called Why Do Positive Thinkers Win by Ken Bossone.
An interesting part of the book mentioned that 'smart' people DO NOT read newspapers and magazines. Before you start flaming me, understand that the author meant NOT reading an entire article in those printed media (is there such a term?). What they do is they'll read the first few paragraphs, skip the body and head straight for the conclusion. Intriguing, no?
I immediately sought out for a newspaper and read the front page article. instantly, I knew why.
Most articles posted online or in print begin with the main point. The first two paragraphs always contain the issue and who did it and when.
The body will either mention past events or something that doesn't give much of an impact to the article itself. Somehow it makes me wonder why the body existed in the first place. It's an unnecessary filler that will either create another problem or contradictions. What smart people like you and I should do is ignore the body and continue on to the last few paragraphs. There is an 80% chance you can guess what the body will talk about.
The topic resumes at the closer. What action has been taken? What will happen next? They're all in the conclusion. Don't believe me? Go grab a newspaper right now. Even an online article would suffice.

This can be applied to a majority of articles out there. Unless it's a scholarly article or something related to national security, I can guarantee that that'll be the case.

Thanks for reading and if you have any ideas you would like to share, feel free to comment below.

Randomousity Part 2

Ah, October is here! I'm back after a long hiatus from both blog- and vlogging. This would be my last semester here in UiTM Shah Alam and what and important semester this is. Part of me wanted to focus on my thesis paper tonight. Another says I should relax and continue playing my favourite MMORPG. The other 1/3 says I should finish all the books I bought last week. Well, screw them. I feel like writing tonight. I know, I'm THAT bored.

To be honest, I have a confession to make. During my 2 months break I had my internship/industrial training or practical training, however you want to call it. I had a blast but that's not the point. Someone I grown to like in THAT company has said I'm not how other 21 year olds are. And I accept that. I don't mind people telling me that I'm way over my head or overconfident. I KNOW I AM. Thing is, she has inadvertently challenged me to be someone else in 6 months time (when I see her next, PROBABLY). Whoever knows me will know that I'm not the type that give in to what others say about me. I like who I am eventhough it's way off the norm. But somehow what she said kept me thinking: should I continue being like this?

It's insane how people around you can influence your behaviour obliviously. One minute I'm the usual me pretending I'm the King of the World and the next I feel like an massive idiot in front of them. Last weekend I attended a module called 'Finishing School' whereby final semester students are required to attend a one-day course on what to expect once we're done with our degree (job hunting, interview etiquettes, etc). It's strange how someone with a high degree of self-esteem like me can be so nervous about something so simple such as introducing myself to others. I had this amazingly hot coordinator and we were tasked to conduct a mock-interview. While everyone was thinking on their strengths and weaknesses I was busy trying to figure out how to attract her. Everyone did the typical greetings and stuff but I opened in a different way. Compliments. Without going into too much details let's just say I got what I wanted. I wasn't aiming on hitting on her. I just needed her attention so that she remembers me. The topic she wanted didn't matter anymore. Where am I going with this? I'm way off topic, if there's even one to begin with.

Back to the task on being 'mature'. I have thrown away a lot of my past attitudes and I'm gradually developing a new me. It's not an easy task to abolish that 'happy-go-lucky' me. It was me who took up the challenge so I can't blame anyone if I fail myself. I like it that way. 6 months from now I expect a different me. The one thing that's holding me back is creativity. I lack that skill. I'm also an extremely schematic person and I love following the rules and stuff. Big task ahead of me.

Also, I've been working on a novel. Yeap, my own novel. The framework part is done so I definitely know what I'll be writing about except for the genre. Frankly, I'm thinking of doing a non-fiction story because it's real that way. I'm a big fan of fantasy books but the way my story is constructed isn't suitable for that genre. Besides, my vocabulary and language isn't that good enough to create flowery bombastic sentences. Nevertheless, I'll do my best and hopefully I'm done with it next year.

It is now 11.49pm so it's time for me to go. I have a meeting with my thesis supervisor in the morning and a good night rest is what I desperately need right now.

Till then. Cherio =)

NIC

P/s Current readings (Amazon Associate links): I Can Read You Like a Book, A Storm of Swords (A Song of Ice and Fire, Book 3),The Game: Penetrating the Secret Society of Pickup Artists,The Mortal Instruments

Babolat Pro Hurricane/ N.Vy Hybrid Tennis String Review

Babolat Pro Hurricane/ N.Vy Hybrid String. Image retrieved from http://www.tennis-warehouse.com 6/7/2012 

I was in search for a new tennis string to replace my 2-year old setup. I've been using the Babolat Pro Hurricane (not Tour) for more than 2 years (plus) now and it was time for a change. I didn't agree with that decision at first. The PH has been an absolute wonder but I needed to experiment with other strings just for the fun of it. Before the PH, I used a couple of other strings like Ashaway Crossfire (Kevlar/poly hybrid), Wilson Stamina, Wilson Sensation and the Babolat Pro Hurricane Tour. I toyed around with them but somehow they never suited my playing style. So I picked up the PH and immediately it was love at first sight.
So I stuck with it for 2 years, varying in tensions and gauges until the last one broke. And so my search began...

With budget in mind I wanted a string provides me excess spin without the need to spend a lot of money. Sure there are strings like Technifibre Black Code, Babolat RPM Blast (next review, perhaps?), Gamma's polygon strings and so forth but they're all expensive. NOTE: Malaysian tennis scene isn't that big so the stuffs here are generally very expensive - a full Natural Gut bed costs RM250 average (that's like US$80).

Surveying a lot of tennis shops (retail and discount) landed me with this string: the Babolat Pro Hurricane/ N.Vy Hybrid. It was on sale and it wasn't far from my previous set up so I decided to give it a shot (cost around RM30 I believe). After 2 months of playtesting this, I was ready to write a review.

The Review
I didn't expect much from a budget string, to be honest. I never heard of this string nor did I check any reviews online before buying it (helps eliminate biasses). The setup is simple: buy 2 packs for both my racquets (Wilson K6.1 95 and Babolat AeroPro Drive Cortex) and string them with equal tensions. I'm no expert in string setups so cut me some slacks, okay? =)
I strung the mains with the PH at 50lbs and crosses with the N. Vy (which is Nylon by the way) at similar tensions.

Initially the power provided was excellent. I liked the way it feels though the I immediately noticed the lack of spin potential off the string bed. I kept a positive mind: I knew it wasn't a full fledge spin-friendly string so I kept going. It didn't take long before I notice that this wasn't the string for me. Here's why:

1) Power
Fresh off the stringing machine, this string has tremendous amount of power. Based on online reviews, it wasn't hard to see why juniors and people with strict budget chose this particular string. After 2 hours or so you'll definitely notice a difference in tension and a drop in power. Ball bite isn't really there either. If you're that type who loves being aggressive and enjoys playing with flat shots, this isn't the string for you.

2) Spin Potential
The PH and nylon's textures really helped in this department. For the first 30 minutes the string provides enough spin to (almost) always keep the ball in. It isn't as explosive as other spin-friendly strings but it's adequate for people who blend both flat and top spin shots together.

3) Durability
When it comes to budget strings, durability can play a huge role in deciding what to get for your tennis racquet. Whilst this string is average in power and spin, its long-lastingness isn't that great. My gripe about this string is that top spin shots can be abrasive to the nylon's texture and after a week or so I noticed some of the threads have snapped. I immediately changed my play style to flat shots (which I'm terrible at. I love top spin). I'm not a string breaker so it lasted almost 2 months before the entire thing snapped (and broke my K 95 in the process). My advice: Buy bulk and string often if you're planning to get this.

4) Feel
Another big issue about tennis strings is the way it feels off the racquet. Simply put it I didn't like how this one feels. It was rough and sounds horribly without a dampener (even worse on the APDC). If you're a fan of that 'stiff' feeling then this might be for you.

All in all, this string is for people who don't feel like spending that much on strings or tennis beginners feeling unsure what to buy. It's definitely not long lasting and the tension drops after 2 hours of play. The nylon's quality is atrocious and snaps after being abused to much. Over 5, I rate this at 3.5.

A closer look at the hybrid. Pro Hurricane in blue and N. Vy in white  

DEATH! Don't mind the dampener. Cheapest solution out there and it never comes off.  

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Randomousity Part 1

Do I really have to start with how long have I been absent from the blogging world? Meh, I don't care. Ever since I started Vlogging (youtube.com/meisternicshow) I rarely think about writing anymore.

Thing is I have a lot thing to spit out. Good things, bad things, rants and raves, oh you know, the usual stuff from me. I’m in the middle of a 3 weeks long exam and so far I’m doing alright. I know my limitations. I won’t have any trouble with questions involving maths but when it comes to reading and memorizing stuff – oh, the pain! – I suck big time! I’ll just have to deal with that; and my neater-than-a-woman’s handwriting. That’s another thing that holds me back. I take a longer time to write than most guys and girls in the exam hall. Changing my handwriting for the better good? No way. I love my penmanship. It’s better than yours.

Tennis is a big part of my life; everyone around me agrees. I’m addicted to it. I think about it all the time; in the showers, during study sessions, eating, lectures, you name it. Tennis is always in my mind. Anyway, I just got back from an average session today. Yesterday was worse. I couldn’t hit anything. I broke my main racquet (which has serviced me for 2 years) and now I’m back to my previous racquet which is (how do I put it?) TERRIBLE. Adapting to change can sometimes be bad. Now I know why tennis professionals hardly change their gears. I can’t wait to get a new racquet once the new semester starts. No point buying it now because I’m almost done.

Having my practical (WORK OMG) after this. I’ve never done part time jobs in my life so this would be an (read: INTERESTING) experience for me. Nervous? Definitely. But I’m no quitter.

Today I read an article on Zerotohundred about Aston Martin releasing the new V12 Vantage Roadster. It’s amazing how AML (Aston Martin – Lagonda) is releasing new models in a short period of time. They’re turning into a mainstream production company now and it kind of bugs me. I love Aston. I love their heritage, the beauty of their cars and I definitely love how they sound. It would be a dream to own one. Honestly, I’m working my way to owning an Aston (preferably the DB9 but any model would do). DB9’s the cheapest: about RM400k+ for a second hand. Sounds achievable? That’s before considering the road tax: RM18, 000 annually. My hopes should be shattered, don’t you agree? I’m a positive thinker. I know I can own one. I didn’t say I have to get one at a specific age, right? So what if I get to buy one at 50? The goal is to attain an Aston Martin supercar.

If you’re thinking I’m jumping topics too fast and it’s annoying I suggest you read the title of this blog. There’s a reason why I call is Randomousity.

Over lunch, the people I went out with were constantly talking about marriage. I for one dislike the topic and they know it but I’ve no rights to complain. I prefer getting married at the age of 30 (I’m 22 this year) but not them. They wanted it ASAP. I don’t give in to this whole start a family idea. I want to marry (yes, I totally do) but only after I think my single life becomes ultimately boring. You may say I’m afraid of responsibility. I say I enjoy being free from obligations. Spouses will hold you back, believe me. I hate kids, by the way :P

I think about my future but not in a typical fashion: I dream BIG. I’m not sure what would make my life complete but I know this: I want my own tennis court, I want my wife and kid(s) to love tennis and I want an Aston Martin. There are other things in between but let’s keep that for another time, shall we? By not achieving these it doesn’t mean my life would suck. I learn how to appreciate.

That brings me to the final topic: Appreciating. I have had to deal with this word since God knows when. People around me need some drilling in their heads so that they would start appreciating others. I don’t say much to them because it’s in their nature to be like that. Are other people around the world different? I hardly think so and that is why I’m able to adapt. If I don’t like them I just say it. I curse a lot and I’m not ashamed of people looking at me in another way.

Oh! Hold…

(Went to eat my chocolate lava cake)

Okay I’m back. Thing is people in Selangor (that’s where I’m at) and Kuala Lumpur (the place I always hang out at) are not the appreciative kind. Saying thank you and giving them a smile seems to be a big deal for them to do. How hard is it to look in someone’s face, smile and say thank you? How hard? I was once in Giant (hypermarket) and this Indian cashier looks like she was about to give up life (no, seriously I’m not kidding). The woman before me was giving her a lot of pressure and after all the trouble the cashier got into, not a single sign of thank you was given to her. My principle is to say thank you first without waiting for the other to do it. When I praise someone for being pretty I do expect a “Thank you” or “I’m flattered” but I what I usually get is “I know” and “Tell me something I don’t know”. Sigh.

That will be all for now. I need to continue studying the most boring subject ever. Before I end this I would like to say that I’m not specifically pin-pointing anyone in this blog. I’m speaking in general terms so don’t take heart. I love you all and I mean it. Except to the ones I dislike; that’s like less than 5 people.

Until then, hobey-ho! Let’s go!
MeisterNic

Professor Layton and the Last Spectre Part 8

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Professor Layton and the Last Spectre Part 7

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Professor Layton and the Last Spectre Part 6

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