The power of numbers

Numbers speak volume. In politics, economics, statistics… as well as physics, mathematics, geography…

On a macro level, we need numbers to substantiate our stand, to prove our/its existence, to use as evidence…it is concrete, visible to everyone (and cold). And we feel safe with numbers.

Can we use numbers to deal with emotions? In my line of work, I seldom use numbers (despite coming from a pure Science stream and majoring in Mathematics). Most of the time, I use words…words to express emotions, visuals to convey the mood or framework of findings. At times, I wonder how I manage to switch my viewpoint from a see-what-and-know-what to a know-how-and-see-why perspective.

And perhaps I have been in the know-how-and-see-why mindset for too long that I am beginning to feel lost? Confused?

XY: How much do you like it?
nomad: Eh?
XY: In percentage…do you like it up to 80%? Or 70%?
nomad: Hmmm… (silently thinking if I can equate my emotions to percentage)
XY: Well, if you like 80% of it, dislike 20% of it...maybe you should consider magnifying the 80%, overpowering the 20% you dislike.
nomad: …right… (nodding to show that I understood what she meant, at the same time, digesting that piece of advice)…

Numbers help to simplify things (but of cos, instances of over-simplification happen too). In my case, it helps to put things into perspective.

Yes, the fog in my head is clearing a little…not totally cleared but at least I am feeling calmer with the figures in my head now.

South Vietnam (Part II)

Finally, the pictures have been uploaded! (pls click here)

As you will notice, I have also changed my multiply template but...argh, I still haven't figured out how to customise it.

Anyways, hope you have a pleasant time viewing the pix :)

Simple profoundness

Find this highly resonating at the moment…

(Hanging on to myself - Framed A4 papercut)

(close-up)

About Peter Callesen’s work

“…I find the A4 sheet of paper interesting to work with, because it probably still is the most common and consumed media and format for carrying information today, and in that sense it is something very loaded. This means that we rarely notice the actual materiality of the A4 paper. By removing all the information and starting from scratch using the blank white 80gsm A4 paper as a base for my creations, I feel that I have found a material which, on one hand, we all are able to relate to, and which on the other hand is non-loaded and neutral and therefore easier to fill with different meanings. The thin white paper also gives the paper sculptures a fragility which underlines the tragic and romantic theme of the works.”

∆ Meets the Big O

I was sitting in Mr. J’s office a few weeks ago for a debrief session and something caught my eye. It was ‘The Missing Piece Meets the Big O’ book stacked against other MR reading materials on his shelf. I can’t help but asked him about it (of cos, after discussing the biz matters).

Looks like I am not the only one who have a fondness for that book =) It’s actually categorized as a children’s book. Has very simple illustration (in black and white; un-coloured), yet carries a succinct message. Both J and I are quite intrigued and impressed with how the author brings out the essence of life by condensing all-that-is-happening-in-our-lives using simple sketches.

Well, apparently not many people see it in that light. Mr. J did a random survey amongst his friends and it seems that most reacted with “Hmm, so…what? Am I supposed to see something? Isn’t that what life is all about?”

Only some (I suspect likely to be the Qualis) feel something for this book.

Whether or not we share the same sentiments, here’s an online version which you may like to drop by. And I hope you have a happy-rolling good time!

AARHHH!!!

The back-to-reality blues…

South Vietnam (Part I)

Am back from my Viet trip and am already missing the following…

Ooo…yummy
French bread, banh mi thit (Vietnamese sandwich), pho…I had them for almost everyday. No kidding. So that explains the extra pounds I put on from this trip. Haa…

Between north and south Viet food, I think I prefer the south. More varieties to satisfy me, the food lover. Probably also because the south Vietnam cuisine is more Chinese-influenced. North Viet food tends to be salty while South Viet food tends toward the sweeter end.

Traffic madness
The ever-challenging traffic, with its rule-bending motorists as well as pedestrians and constant horning…it’s crazier than in Hanoi despite its wider roads and slightly more developed infrastructure. Then again, I would say it’s organized chaos. There’s this unwritten rule of pedestrian and motorists having equal rights on the road. Cool – I like!

Mind-reading
Am impressed with most service staff (not referring to those vendors who try to fleece tourists)…they are really attentive and observant. Before I ask for anything, they know I need help and are by my side in an instant.

Not surprisingly, South Viet people tend to be more street-smart than North Viet people.

Bonding with the locals
Very much enjoyed my stay at the hostel or mini-motel (Redsun Hotel). Made friends with the owner and her staff…they also gave me a chance to experience the chaotic traffic. Of cos, me being the pillion rider sans helmet…not my first time but still, it’s fun :)

It’s sauna everyday
Without fail, I always come back to my hostel perspiring and feeling sticky. But not complaining cos it made me realise how much I appreciate showering at the end of the day.

It’s fleecing time!!
Forget about the fruits – although Viet grow dragon fruits, longan, jack fruit, mangosteen, durian…as long as you are a tourist, you can’t run away from being ripped off by the vendors.

Met 2 Singaporean gals and they told us they paid 10-odd sing dollars for 6 seeds of durian + some jackfruit. Poponta and I checked with the local – they only have to pay S$1.50 for a whole durian. I know it’s common for tourists to be ripped off by locals, but for that vast difference??! If one die die must get the fruits, befriend the locals and speak their language.

On the whole, HCMH reminds me of Singapore in its 60/70’s era...the streets, roadside stalls, the market. Many things I enjoyed and appreciated when I was there… shall upload the pictures soon and share them with you.

我懂

欢迎光临真实生活
请往前走...
不论你我喜欢与否
都得经过... ...

这个世界什么都有
真假交错...
哭过笑过爱过痛过
都会经过... ...

想自由就要放开手
想证明就要敢追求
想飞翔就要往前走... ...

其实很多事情我都懂
只是我选择不说
刻意的低调不代表
我允许谁来招惹我... ...

Excerpt from song <<我懂>> by 黄义达