Matt 6: 25 - 27

My aunt pulls strings like no one else does. Really. For this UK trip, I've enjoyed wonderful 5 star accomodation and it doesn't look to be ending anytime soon. In fact, when we decided impromptu to head to Reading for a while, she made some connections and not long after, we were cc-ed a copy of the letter sent to the manager at the Reading hotel. Not only were we given a room at let's just say very good rates, there was also an added paragraph at the bottom detailing my aunt's background and to accord her and the family with VIP status.

Why am I telling all these?

It's because I also know that in 2 weeks time, rather than staying in a 5 star hotel costing £200+ a night, I'll be staying in a 3 euro a night room with who knows what kinda conditions to expect. I suppose a non leaking roof would be considered a luxury.

I spoke to Cally briefly whilst I was on transit in Dubai and one of the things he asked me was what I was expecting to gain out of this pilgrimage, or something to that effect. I was writing my previous blog entry at that time so naturally, I gave him my Que Sera Sera answer. However, perhaps there's slightly more to it which requires a some articulation.

Those close to me would know the situation I'm in now career wise. 2:2 but with a good offer from a law firm as a paralegal. It is likely that I'll take up the offer upon my return to Singapore, but many things of course plays on my mind.

1. Still very much haunted my results. I know I should let it go and move on but time and time again, I think back on how I've been let down by a university bent only on sucking the money out of you. How for 3 years, I kept telling my tutor that I don't know where I'm going wrong and he just didn't bother to listen. A classic example of his attitude is how after my exams, I asked him what happened if things don't go well, if there's any way to repeat or something. In his reply email, he merely stated that it was too premature to talk about these things when results are not out yet. But when the results did come out and I asked him again, all he said was "no, there's no way to appeal or repeat" Like what the hell is that man? Couldn't you have said that from the start rather than go on and on about the whole "it's too premature" topic

2. Is this job offer the best for me? Do I really want to go into this area? And even if I do, is this an area I'll be able to excel in? Over breakfast yesterday, I asked my aunt what's the difference between a hedge fund and a unit trust and as she launched into a detailed explanation, I just let the words wash over me, not being able to pick up much from it.

3. And of course, there's the option of going to HK next year as well. Should I or should I not? And if I do, I'm required to take some additional modules before applying next year, where will I find the time to do these modules if I take up this job offer with the firm?

I think the answer to these questions is obvious.

Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Matt 6:25-27

It's easier said than done though and I can only hope for the best.

Que Sera Sera

It is a typical reaction in Singapore to be too engulfed with everything else as to neglect my blog or easyjournal. It is also the reason why on saturday afternoon as I took the bus home from queensway, I had a sudden panic attack regarding how ill equipped I am for my hike.

I've bought some stuff so far, boots, backpack and even a new pair of oakleys which I must say is quite a splurge. I also borrowed one of those drinking pack things from Les and got light sticks and army ration from Gil. Apart from that, I've got nothing else.

So when my panic attack struck, I hopped off the bus, and walked towards army market just to browse through and see if there's anything I left out. Compass? Flashlight? Hat? Knife? But as a perusing through the wide range of stuff at army market, I managed to convince myself I was being a little over dramatic. C'mon man, it's a hike that people have been doing for centuries and if they can survive with a stick and a clam shell, I don't see why I can't. Just to validate my army market venture, I bought a carabina anyway, no idea what I'll use it for, but might come in handy in case I need to repel down a 1000m high cliff or something!

So this is it! In Dubai now on transit. Will be attending my graduation and touring UK a bit before embarking on my pilgrimage. Spiritually, I wish I was a little more prepared as well. Wished I had attended some weekday masses, said a few rosaries, read a little more about St James. But I think wahtever will be, will be. Que Sera Sera.