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Showing posts from January, 2024

Sleepless In Singapore - Poem

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As I lay in bed, unable to sleep, My mind races with thoughts so deep. A disquiet lingers, unexplainable, Leaving me feeling lost and vulnerable. I toss and turn, seeking some respite, But the weight of my anguish is too great to fight. Why is it  causing me this unrest? I ask myself, but find no answer in my chest. Perhaps it's a dream that didn't come true, Or a hope that was shattered, leaving me blue. Maybe it's a fear that's taken root, Or a regret that's made me feel so moot. Whatever it is, it's keeping me awake, Causing my heart to trouble & quake. But I know that with each passing night, This anguish will soon fade & there shall appear a light. For in  this darkness as I groped Searching for a way to cope. But as i go on my knees in prayer I spoke I know Christ is my only hope. Through trials and tribulations, I've learned to find my foundations. Suffering has made me strong, Silence has to remain for peace to last long. I'm grateful for...

Calvary Pandan BP Church 44th Anniversary(2nd Jul 2023) - Poem

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Calvary Pandan BP Church 44th Anniversary At Calvary Pandan BP church, a blessed abode Where sermons inspire and souls are bestowed For 44 years, we've walked hand in hand Inspired by faith in this sacred land. With joy in our hearts, we come as one, To celebrate the journey where it first  begun. Through trials and triumphs, we've grown  strong United in worship, where we belong. On this special day, we reflect and remember The sermons that touched us like glowing embers. Words from above, like a gentle guiding light Sometime jolting us out of our sinful slumber like a wakeup smite. And on this day in the waters of infant baptism,       Membership transfer and reaffirmation. We rejoice to the power of God's love Renewed and reborn like a soaring dove Friends and worshippers a family so dear, Through laughter and tears we draw near. For after the service, we gather as one, Sharing laughter and grandmother stories under the sun. Today we celebrate with local...

Coco Lee (6th July 2023)-Poem

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Under the lights and fame she stood, Coco Lee, with a smile that look so good. Her eyes seems like stars, twinkled with delight, Like a beacon of joy casting worries out of sight. But alas, behind that radiant facade, A storm rages on inside ripping her apart. For deep within her heart's hidden shore, Lies the pain and misery she couldn't ignore. Those pretty eyes & windows to her soul, With secrets untold, her pain no one knows. Fame & riches could not mend her agony. For within her spirit it lingered silently. In the glamour of stardom, she danced and sang. Yet within her soul an eternal sorrow rang. For every smile she wore on her face, Concealed the silent torment  she embraced. Behind the glimmers of success and fame, Lies a struggle one can never truly claim. Farewell Coco, may you find your rest, In a realm beyond, where dreams manifest.

Adios After 6 yrs (14/7/23)-Poem

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In a cozy home, a family once resided, With hearts intertwined, & love was undivided. Sam my eldest son, steadfast and true, Sasha my daughter-in-law, kind and loving too. Now the time has come for u to spread your wings, To embark on a journey where new adventure sings. Little Sophia my  granddaughter, a beacon of delight, Together u step forward, embracing the new light. May the road u travel be paved with grace. As u seek your dreams in life's wide open space. May your path be filled with joy and endless cheer. And may love be your compass, steering u clear. Sam, a pillar of strength, with wisdom profound, May success and happiness in your endeavors be found. Sasha, a gentle soul, steadfast & sure May your dreams take flight, forever to endure. Little Sophia, a treasure of innocence and glee, May life's wonders unfold, setting your spirit free. May u find joy in every moment, big or small, And may love's embrace be the greatest gift of all. As u ventu...

When Will I Break Free (7/12/23)-Poem

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When Will I Break Free. There are days I long for solitude, a space to call my own, To retreat from the world's demands, to find myself alone. But shackled by responsibilities I cannot break free, Bound by commitments, promises, and obligations that define me. In the quiet of the night, I yearn for a moment of peace, To release the weight of burden, to let my worries cease. Yet duty calls from incessant cell phone's annoying melody, Entwined within the web of work life, when will my spirit be free? But I hv pledged my word, with honor I must stand, But in the depths of my weary soul, I crave a gentle hand. A respite from the ceaseless tides, a chance to breathe and soar, To cast off the chains that bind me tight, & seek a tranquil shore. Amidst the clamor of the world, I search for a fleeting chance, To liberate my weary heart, to part from circumstance. But as I bear these heavy loads, a glimmer lights the way, A hope that one day I'll break free, to find m...

Exhausted Till Burnout (19/8/23) - Poem

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Tired is an understatement...its becoming a mental depletion. Drained and exhausted, my spirit grows weak, As the demands of work life continue to peak. Once ablaze with passion, now dimmed and worn, Drowned in an exhausting routine  leaving me torn. Thoughts, once vibrant, now wither and fade, The weight of responsibilities never abates. Creativity stifled, inspiration turned to dust, In the depths of daily burnout, my dreams lie in rust Though fatigue may linger, and weariness may grow, But humor and prayer will help me glow. When work overwhelms and stress weighs me down, I'll try to seek the lighter side, where joy can be found. Writing poems or seek a playful jest, Or simply go eat  and enjoy some light jazz. On my ear phone no less.

Gathering With Russian In Laws(24/7/23) -Poem

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Kinship Fellowship Dinner@Cheng Hoo Tian Teochew Restaurant (23/07/23) ************** In a gathering of hearts, a family so dear, We come together, to bond & cheer Eldest son Sam, with in-laws by his side, And 2nd son Raphael's family, a joyous ride. We gather round a table adorned with delight, At Cheng Hoo Tian restaurant  where we feast on this night. Authentic Teochew gourmet a cuisine we behold, Each dish has a grandmother story to be told. The aroma dances enchanting the air, As delicacies tempt us, beyond compare. From steamed pomfret & suckling pig a culinary decree  To braised goose and yam paste Orh Nee But it's not just the food, it's the fellowship we treasure, A bond that grows stronger, beyond measure. The clinking of tea cups, a toast to rejoice, A celebration of kinship in unified voice. The little ones, Sophia, Charlotte & Aiden with their laughter so pure, In their innocent hearts, love will endure. Little feet running about, their chuckles is ...

Black Tap Burgers And Fireworks (30/7/23) - Poem

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At Black Tap's Craft Burger, two old souls did sit, Nearing starvation, not caring a bit. Burgers, onion rings, fries, and churro shake, A feast for their bellies, pure joy they would make. No grand celebration, no anniversary to cheer, Just two old folks, seeking dinner so dear. But fate had a plan, a surprise in the air, As they ventured outside, oh, what a scare! The sound of explosions, bright lights filled the sky, Fireworks erupted, catching them by surprise. The NDP rehearsal, a spectacle so grand, Turned their after meal into something unplanned. Burgers all devoured as they gazed at the sight, Holding hands and  hearts dancing with delight. The churro shake shook in the belly, as they watched with glee, What a night at Marina Bay Sands turned out to be. Burgers for seniors and a toast to the old, Embracing life's unexpected & untold. Cos out of the blues, surprises await, Such amazing Burgers & fireworks that memories create. But as the spectacle began to fade,...

Enjoy Xia Hokkien Me (19/6/23)

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I prefer to describe this dish poetically. So bear with me I beg thee humbly. At Enjoy Xia restaurant's Hokkien Mee. A dish so tasty it's plain to see  😋 The sea prawns are so sweet its a real delight.🦐🦐 The wok hei flavor lingers day and night. The aroma fills the restaurant to the ceiling A fragrant scent that's simply enchanting, The noodles, pork,  prawns & cuttlefish so sweet, A feast for the senses that's hard to beat. But when the bill arrives I felt blue 😱 The price is more than I'm used to, Yet for a dish that's so divine, It's worth a splurge from time to time. Including 10% service charge, oh my!😫 Plus 8% GST, oh why?😭 It seems like such a hefty fee, But without it, the restaurant can't operate profitably. So just relish every single bite, And enjoy the taste with pure delight, For at Enjoy Xia Hokkien Mee, Is truly one of life's simple luxuries. $15.80 not including 10% and 8% Gst. Hope your wallet won't mati. 383 Jln Besar,...

Summarising Singapore in 2023 (28/12/23) - poem

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Singapore in 2023, a wild year did unfurl, With tales and tidings that'll make you whirl, From Covid's grip, we were finally  free. Masks off, but now we pay more GST! Dorscon down to green, no more yellow fright, But 7 to 8%, that's quite a financial bite, Clear your cockeries, this is a new fuss, $300 fine, if u kena bust! Tharman's Presidential win, what a staggering feat, 70% support can't be beat, This time, Tan Kin Lian kept his deposit Thought black horse Ng Kok Song might even snap the seat. But at the other corner it's a different scene. Minister in corruption probe, now he can't be seen. The House Speaker's tale in a spicy dish. Fellow MP's romance, oh what a swish, Opposition's woes, they're not immune They too sing the same lusty tune. Seems like 2023 is political love in full bloom. Under the lightning & hammered romantic moon. Money laundering nabbed a billion-dollar haul. Who's to say they don't need more. The bigge...

Inflation 1.0 (2023) - Poem

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2023, the year of strain, Inflation's grip brought endless pain, From kopi-o to cai png's fares, Prices soared, catching many unawares. Public transport, a daily need, Prices rose swiftly with great speed, Electricity, water, tariffs spiked, The burden heavy belts remained tight. COE, a symbol of mobility, Reaches dizzying heights beyond affordability. As wallets strained and budgets cracked, The future loomed, the people lacked. As costs climbed higher to the sky, The people fumed and wondered why As prices surged, beyond belief, Multiple burdens causing endless grief. So as we brace for the year ahead, With 9% GST on our head The worst is yet to come so they say, So brace for the 2024 impact to pay & pay

A Little Indulgence (1/11/23)- Poem

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  A Little Indulgence (1/11/23) 365 days a year, I toil and strive, Working hard to keep dreams alive. Till my pants are worn, my spirits low, But now's the little free time to let it go. In this moment, I declare a pause, A break from the chaos and the cause. No more worries, no more stress, It's time for self, nothing less. I shall pamper myself like a boss, Indulge in luxuries, without a loss. A fancy breakfast, a feast to savor, Regardless of the price or flavour. As I indulge, I'll reorganize, Clear my mind of any compromise. No room for remorse, no need to dwell, I'll embrace this moment and bid it farewell. For I shall be alone and get lazy To replenish my soul and set it free. To find the strength to carry on, With renewed vigor, my purpose drawn. So, here's to the pause, the self-care divine, A chance to rejuvenate and realign. No guilt, just a moment's of reprieve To reignite the fire I so believe.

On The Train With Charlotte (8 Aug 2023)-Poem

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On The Train With Charlotte (8 Aug 2023) On a choo choo train thru the mountainside. Me and granddaughter Charlotte happily ride. Side by side on a joyous stride. Chugging thru beautiful scenery vast & wide. If only this is a real train ride It would be such an instagramable delight But it's just an AI generated picturesque countryside.

A & D Gathering (26/06/23) The 3 Peacocks@Labrador - Poem

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 A & D Gathering ( 26/06/23) The 3 Peacocks@ Labrador After years of absence, we finally meet, At The 3 Peacocks, with BBQ treats, Ex-colleagues with tales to tell, Laughter ringing like a bell. Reminiscing about the days of old, Sharing funny office stories untold, Talk of days gone by. And how times seems to fly And now we're here together again, Sharing stories and laugh like insane. Now these uncles & aunties are having fun. Mind are now wiser but legs cannot run. Of times when we were young and free, And life was full of opportunity. Need to work hard to earn money, Now talk more on health & medical fees. As the night wears on and we start to depart, We know this gathering will forever hold a place in our hearts, A precious reconnection with old friends, With memories that will never end. So here's to A&D friends for the good old times, The spirit will forever chime. May we always find a stupid reason just to gather, And make memories that forever matter.

My dear little Sophia (July 2023)- Poem

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  My dear little Sophia (July 2023) The time has come for u to disembark But a bittersweet sorrow fills my heart. For my little Sophia so precious & dear. Knowing that u will no longer be near. The days we spent & played together Will soon be just a memory forever. 3 years has so swiftly danced away And now we will be parting ways On my favourite couch I sat. My hands caressing your little back. While u playfully wiggle on my lap. A bond that will never collapse. Your laughter fill the living room we breathe. This is where our bond was conceived. Such are the tender moments I'll always cherish. Its always on my mind & will never perish. As your tiny frame nestle on my chest. It's a bond of comfort, a haven of rest. These moments will forever endure Strong, resilient, steadfast & pure. In the sunlit park we played & explored. U ran with such energy, I nearly floored. U are only 3 and full of vitality. U forgot your Ah Kong me is 63. Your laughter & sing...

Thank God Its 2024🌤️- Poem

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  Thank God Its 2024🌤️ This is the first glorious morning of 2024, thank God I survived 2023 As the first sun rays beam thru with glee. Yet another year has slipped by so swiftly. How did life passed on by so suddenly. As I take another sip of sugared kopi. Looking back, some  fondly, some regrettably Some happiness and some miseries. My head is filled with much negativity. But my heart wants to move on positively. Considering  the inflations spreading rapidly. From a cup of kopi to cooked  food & grocery. Everything is increasing exponentially. This has caused hardship to some financially For the poor average Joes living simply. This inflation is painful even when u go pee. Blaming on Covid & the wars undoubtedly Or is it the merchants' "golden opportunity." Surely the rich and elites are unaffected definitely. They don't  blink when buying prestigious property. Or bidding for high COE. Collecting Bentley, Maserati or Ferrari. Is like collecting stamps...

The Young Seniors (Aug 2023) - Poem

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The Young Seniors   National Day 2023 rally new phrase suits me like a song. I know this is where I belong Its call "Young Seniors", a truly resilient gang. This generation everything also can. Neither fully young nor completely old, Balancing responsibilities we're so bold. PM Lee spoke, with a rallying cry, Embrace the sandwich class, he did imply. The Young Seniors though caught in a bind, Neither here nor there but we're a unique find. We do earn a bit but not a fortune to flaunt. Yet still must care for those we're fond. With aging parents needing support and care, And kids growing seeking guidance there. We could juggle all, with a hopeful heart, In this sandwiched life we do our part. Neither rich nor poor we strive to thrive, Balancing tightropes yet so alive. The "Majulah Package" brought some cheer, A glimmer of hope, to soothe our fear. Assistance and benefits to ease the weight, Not very much but for the Young Seniors it's never too late....

Presidential Election 2023 (Aug 2023)-Poem

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  *Presidential Election 2023 A Personal Christian Perspective, in poem. ******** Here comes Singapore's 5th presidential race. With candidates vying for the highest place. All their credentials, connections, strengths and weakness. 3 potential leaders each with their uniqueness. One with white hair, wisdom etched in time. Knowledge and experience, a wealth so prime. Herein the nagging question... is change in his sight? Will he bring changes, or uphold the status quo tight? Then there's one with thinning black hair ready for a fight, Old but bold with promises shining bright. Wonder if he is too earnest & too driven? Will he be able to handle the pressure once he has risen? Lastly, the candidate with no hair to show. Well connected politically we all know, He has strong history but is there a chance for a fresh start. Can he distance himself & presides with an independent heart? But the common men hold the power, To vote or not vote, or spoil the ballot hour, Voting pr...

My Dream Travel Plan- Poem

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  My Dream Travel Plan From London's embrace, to Paris & Turkey's allure, A journey awaits, so vivid and pure. Through the Silk Road's path, where history lies, Georgia, Armenia, Venice and Athen under vast azure skies. Iran's ancient tales, in whispers they call, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan Kyrgyzstan treasures standing proud and tall. Mongolia's expanse, a land of great might, To China's Xinjiang, where cultures unite. Beijing beckons, with stories untold, A dream so vivid, a vision to behold. But here I am, with tasks to fulfill, Yearning for journeys, over mountains and hill. By train, flight or sea, I'll journey with glee, Through cities and landscapes, so wondrous to see. This dream of mine, so vivid and bright, Hope it's not a pipe dream, but a tunnel of light. Is this just a fantasy, a wish in my heart? Or will this become real, a dream to impart? As I work and I wait, uncertain of when, I hold onto hope, that one day I'll transc...

63 Year On Planet Earth (05/09/23)-Poem

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  63rd Year On Planet Earth (05/09/23) Thank you everyone for your well wishes on my 63rd birthday. A long list I hope I could thank u individually in every way. 6 decades & 3 with bumpy journeys traveled. Many memories, but many still unraveled. Feel like an old PCN park's wooden bench, Under the harsh sun & rain even dog urine stench. Each wrinkle and line etched upon my face, Its a tale of resilience, strength and grace. Aging is real, & getting old is true. Ask my creaking joints & they agree too. Need some WD-40 for those noisy knees, And an old flower glass to read with ease. My wife Jean has journeyed with me in this life. Thru joys and sorrows, bliss and strife. Her love and support is an unwavering guide. Filling the days with warmth by my side Within my heart, a love unspoken yet so sure. For sons, Sam, Ralph, Josh & DILs, Sasha & Serena is simply pure. The family ties I hv woven with love remain strong Overcoming the ups and downs as we move along...

Jean's 63rd Birthday (2 Oct 2023)-Poem

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Jean's 63rd Birthday 02/10/23 In celebration of your 63rd year, I herein pen a poem to u my dear. A tribute to a wife so sublime, Whose virtues and grace always shine. A remarkable wife, it's true. Kind, caring, with loving nags thru & thru. With every act of love and care, U showed the depth of how you share. Your heart is a treasure pure and true, Overflowing with love in all that you do. A pillar of strength diligent and wise, Guiding us forward with loving eyes. Energy radiates from your very core, A vibrant spirit that forever soars. In your presence, we find inspiration, To embrace life with boundless dedication. Discipline defines your exercise routine, A testament to your willpower absolutely pristine. Thru sweat and effort, you conquered strife, Inspiring us to live a godly & healthier life. Cleanliness is a virtue you hold dear, Creating a haven that's forever clear. With every touch and wipe u went You kept the home spick & span. A mother's love ...

In Memory Of Stella Lok (Mar 2011)' Poem

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In Memory Of Stella Lok March 2011, we met, but little did we know, It was the last time our bonds would glow. Was asked to organise another get together, but time slipped away, Health and work led my plans to decay. Thinking there's time, I left it behind, Now regret fills the void, a heavy bind. Stella (3rd from left) our dear friend, now forever still, Lost to cancer's cruel and relentless will. Only 47, a brief, valiant fight, Leaves us in sorrow, longing for light. That last foto, now a bittersweet memento, Sadness overwhelms, 11 yrs has passed swiftly yet so slow. Stella Passed on in 20/12/2012.
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  Israel Hamas War (9/10/23) In the holy land where history's echoes ring. A sudden war disrupts everything. The humdrum rhythm of life's sweet song. Silenced by rockets & warring throng. Innocents stand in the tempest's way, Women, children, in the fray. Caught in crossfire, lives are lost, A terrible heartbreaking cost. Hostages are taken as future pawns, In this cruel twilight from dusk till dawn. As if the world's pain wasn't deep, Another war awakes from sleep. Before the echoes of Ukraine's plight, Could fade into the silent night. Israel and Hamas ignite their rage. Writing yet another sorrowful page. Sigh! When will the hearts of men learn love? And look for answers from above? When will the drums of war be stilled? And the dream of peace be finally fulfilled? It seems only the divine has the power, To halt this deadly, desolate shower. For men, in their blindness, keep the score, Forgetting the cost of relentless war. Yet, in the midst of all thi...

A Patch In The Sand (25/12/21) - Poem

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  A Patch In The Sand (25/12/21) - Poem I am a wild patch in the sand Being trampled on in my own dirt land Joggers stomp on me & ran Cyclists roll over me & went Sometime the sun & the rain are my friends At times they are also merciless to me to no end. All are ignorant of my untold pain in my own land But my existence is not without God's consent. I am placed there by God's own hand. Nothing thru Him is ill-planned. Pretty flowers, sturdy trees are His divine intent. And a mere wild patch like me in the sand. Is also not made without His consent.

A Tribute To LKY (2015) - (poem)

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 A Tribute To Lee Kuan Yew - 23 March 2015 History will speak volume of how u turn Singapore around. How u fought for us like a battleground. From merger to independence u wept and broke down. A small new nation many would look us down. But you believed in an impossible feat you could surmount. You toiled and sweat and turned us around. From simple folks living on kampong ground. To owning homes in a metropolis and modern towns. Our lives improves by leaps and bounds. We became an envy to our neighbours all around. We live under your system safe and sound. Your hard policies we sometime sigh and frown. But you knew it is good for all,  & u stood your ground. Your deep convictions were sure and sound Your insights were deep and profound. Your promises we can always count. Over 50 yrs of wise rule you didn't let us down You put us on the world map nobody knew how. But now that you are not around I shudder to think the years ahead from now. But We trust that those you mentore...

Dilemma (10/12/23)- Poem

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Decision between Gold that look like Turd or  Turd that looks like Gold? In the midst of my mind, a choice to make. This dilemma  keeps me wide awake. Two paths to decide, both calling out to me. I'm lost in between, not sure which way to be. One road seems bright &  sweet, The other looks dark but feels complete. I weigh my options but my heart starts to ache. I wish for a sign, a clear path to take. To the left or right, I must choose a way. But fear of regret makes me want to stay. I long for clarity, for a guiding light, To lead me through this endless, daunting night. Oh Lord, in this moment I seek & pray, Seeking Your guidance to light my way. This dilemma surrounds me, casting doubt and fear. I turn to Thy wisdom to direct &  steer. Oh dilemma, u are testing my weary soul. Like a tangled web, I struggle for control. I'll search and ponder, until the answer's clear, And step forward boldly, conquering my deepest fear.

The First Step (26/11/21) - Poem

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  The First Step (26/11/21) - Poem If you loath to take the first step to your desired somewhere. U will never get to anywhere. But if u do, just get prepare. The journey will be fraught with much despair Toils and pains will be waiting for u there And it shall be hard to bear. But with determination & a prayer. Taking a leap of faith will get u there. And the end reward will be a joyful affair A delightful heart nothing can compare.

Silhoutte

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Silhouette (30/11/21) - Poem Watching the sun set at the end of a dreary day Watching the rays fall to hues of red, orange, blue, white and a fading grey. What is hidden by light, silhouette reveals. Let's caress the beauty of darkness in a dream that's seemingly real. Silhouette never lie It doesn't speak, it only implies.

The Shadow (24/11/21) - Poem

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  The Shadow (24/11/21) - Poem A little man but casting a long shadow. That's all that much he could show Life is short, and time is swift; Roses withers and shadows shift. Always face God's rays of hopes & sunshine And the shadows of despair will fall behind.

A Lone Blade Of Grass. (23/12/24) - Poem

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A Lone Blade Of Grass. (23/12/24) - Poem I don't want to be a lone blade of grass. For I need to be in a turf to last But the merciless sun ray torches yet so harsh And the ruthless rain washes me off in a rush. In a blink I may seems to disappear fast. I may become another blade of the past. But wait, My roots has remained long. And I shall grow again and remain strong. This is not my final swan song.

Overworked Under Pleasure (14 Nov 2023)- Poem

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 Overworked Under Pleasure (14 Nov 2023) So tired by workload yet my passion thrives, Though backache persist but my spirit strives. No time for self or family's embrace, Giving in to my work too much space. With weary eyes and aching frame, I am all but to take all the blame. No self-recreation, no family's cheer, But in my purpose, I hold dear. The body is weak but the spirit strong, In dedication is where I belong. For tho exhaustion may take its toll, Passion's fire burns deep within my soul. My wife says retirement is not in my head. She says I'll work till the day I drop dead. Maybe retirement will give me dementia. Been too occupied to understand what is uninterrupted pleasure.

Wonton Mee (27 June 2023)- Poem

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Wonton Mee (27 June 2023) At Tampines St 11 circle hawker centre. Travelling from Jurong to here seems forever But there's a noodle dish that's simply divine, A bowl of Sarawak kolo mee is worth the find The noodles are springy, the sauce is right, The char siew & wanton are pure delights, With a sprinkle of shallots and a dash of oil, This dish is one that'll make your taste bud boil. It's a taste of Sarawak in every bite, A dish that's sure to delight, So if you're ever in Tampines St 11, Don't miss this little gourmet heaven.