Zen Sarcasms
1. Do not walk behind me, for I may not lead. Do not walk ahead of me, for I may not follow. Do not walk beside me either. Just pretty much leave me alone.
2. The journey of a thousand miles begins with a broken fan belt or a leaky tire.
3. It's always darkest before dawn, so if you're going to steal your neighbor's newspaper, that's the time to do it.
4. Don't be irreplaceable. If you can't be replaced, you can't be promoted.
5. Always remember that you're unique. Just like everyone else.
6. Never test the depth of the water with both feet.
7. If you think nobody cares if you're alive, try missing a couple of car payments.
8. Before you criticize someone, you should walk a mile in their shoes. That way, when you criticize them, you're a mile away and you have their shoes.
9. If at first you don't succeed...... skydiving is not for you.
10. Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Teach him how to fish, and he will sit in a boat and drink beer all day.
11. If you tell the truth, you don't have to remember anything.
12. Some days you're the bug, some days you're the windshield.
13. Everyone seems normal until you get to know them.
14. The quickest way to double your money is to fold it in half and put back in your pocket.
15. A closed mouth gathers no foot..
16. Duct tape is like 'The Force' It has a light side and a dark side, and it holds the universe together.
17. There are two theories to arguing with a woman - Neither one works.
18. Generally speaking, you aren't learning much when your lips are moving.
19. Experience is something you don't get until just after you need it.
20. Never, under any circumstances, take a sleeping pill and a laxative on the same night
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Columbia University, School of General Studies
Playing the waiting game is never easy, especially when you have no choice but to wait. That was the case with me before I came to London and up to the first week I was here. I was anxiously awaiting for news from Columbia University. Would I be accepted or not?
My advisers at BMCC, my previous college all believed that i would be, and I convinced myself that I would, but you never really know. I wanted to say, yes I will be accepted, but it was easy to doubt when there was no real way of knowing. Doubts would creep into my mind and play tricks on me and sometimes when I was alone, I would regress back into my old self when I doubted my abilities, my future, my dreams, everything really.
Redemption finally came in the from of an email from CU, telling me I was accepted as a student for the Fall 2008 Semester. I was ecstatic, overjoyed, thrilled that an answer had come, and a positive one at that. My friend Kalina was at hand and I immediately shared the news with her. Next I email a few people who was in this with me.
After the initial excitement subsided, I realized how fortunate I was to be a prospective student at the prestigious CU. I read later on that only 2% of students who apply actually get accepted, and here I was, one of the chosen. I am truly humbled and proud to be a part of such a select group. I am humbled to think of where I have come from, my family's background, my years 'in the wilderness' and the path that led me to where I am now.
I acknowledge that I did not get here alone. Thanks to my family, some of whom followed my progress in the last few years, all of whom believed that I had it in me to do it and helped in ways they could, and special friends who not only believed in me, but helped me tremendously to get to this point. Thanks to God and his faithfulness, even when we are not faithful, in directing our paths.
Thanks for being with me on this journey. Thanks for your presence, your prayers, your guidance, your time, and your love and friendship you have given over the years. That is what has helped me to live my dreams these past few years, and I know, will continue to inspire me in the years ahead.
My advisers at BMCC, my previous college all believed that i would be, and I convinced myself that I would, but you never really know. I wanted to say, yes I will be accepted, but it was easy to doubt when there was no real way of knowing. Doubts would creep into my mind and play tricks on me and sometimes when I was alone, I would regress back into my old self when I doubted my abilities, my future, my dreams, everything really.
Redemption finally came in the from of an email from CU, telling me I was accepted as a student for the Fall 2008 Semester. I was ecstatic, overjoyed, thrilled that an answer had come, and a positive one at that. My friend Kalina was at hand and I immediately shared the news with her. Next I email a few people who was in this with me.
After the initial excitement subsided, I realized how fortunate I was to be a prospective student at the prestigious CU. I read later on that only 2% of students who apply actually get accepted, and here I was, one of the chosen. I am truly humbled and proud to be a part of such a select group. I am humbled to think of where I have come from, my family's background, my years 'in the wilderness' and the path that led me to where I am now.
I acknowledge that I did not get here alone. Thanks to my family, some of whom followed my progress in the last few years, all of whom believed that I had it in me to do it and helped in ways they could, and special friends who not only believed in me, but helped me tremendously to get to this point. Thanks to God and his faithfulness, even when we are not faithful, in directing our paths.
Thanks for being with me on this journey. Thanks for your presence, your prayers, your guidance, your time, and your love and friendship you have given over the years. That is what has helped me to live my dreams these past few years, and I know, will continue to inspire me in the years ahead.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
London 2008
London has become one of my favorite places to visit and I always look forward to returning again and again. I arrived on the morning of June 2ND, and after a nice long session with some friendly and courteous officers, during which time they learned lots about me and my life, I was back to my Summer in London.
The weather was not what I had hoped for but it is what can be expected of London, even in the Summer. Overcast, cold and rainy, I ventured out of Gatwick and made my way to Canada Water to the house I would be staying at, the same house I lived in for most of two years between 2004-06. I was happy to be indoors and warm in 'my'room and I quickly settled in. Like a good host (and a great friend) that she is, Neisha had food and drink waiting or me, and I quickly made myself at home.
I should have taken a nap but I did everything but. I quickly set my status on Facebook to, "Adjodha is now in London." I emailed my London friends letting them know I was in the city, emailed my family and other concerned parties in regard to my safe arrival as well as my bonding time with officers I met on my arrival, and called the office to let them know I ready to work.
So began my Summer in London.
The weather was not what I had hoped for but it is what can be expected of London, even in the Summer. Overcast, cold and rainy, I ventured out of Gatwick and made my way to Canada Water to the house I would be staying at, the same house I lived in for most of two years between 2004-06. I was happy to be indoors and warm in 'my'room and I quickly settled in. Like a good host (and a great friend) that she is, Neisha had food and drink waiting or me, and I quickly made myself at home.
I should have taken a nap but I did everything but. I quickly set my status on Facebook to, "Adjodha is now in London." I emailed my London friends letting them know I was in the city, emailed my family and other concerned parties in regard to my safe arrival as well as my bonding time with officers I met on my arrival, and called the office to let them know I ready to work.
So began my Summer in London.
Saturday, July 5, 2008
A Treasure of a Friend: 18 Years Later
Pam and I met for the first time on November 12th, 1990 and we hit it off immediately. I remember the day clearly because my birthday was two days later. I can still picture the moment I walked up the stairs only to see Pam's smiling face at the desk.I am sure that exact happened to many others. You can't help but fall under that spell and be charmed in a moment.
Pam wears her heart on her sleeve and is the most caring and compassionate person you will ever meet. Some people tend to take advantage of that but it has not changed her one bit. This lady just keeps coming back stronger than ever.
Life has not always been good and over the years, we have shared stories about our life, we have seen each other fall, we have faced disappointments and pain. We know what it feels like to have no money, no food, no job, and sometimes, no future.But through it all, Pam has always found that inner strength, a strength that comes directly from her faith in Him who is always in control, and she has persevered.
18 years is a long time and looking back, I have so many memories of the bad days and the good days. The bad days are like a shadow we can appreciate now because we have learned our lessons well from them. But the good days are here and I am glad I can share these good days with Pam.
Everyone in the world should have at least one good friend. Someone to turn too when the chips are down. Someone to cry with when times are bad, someone to laugh with and enjoy the good times. Someone who will always believe in you, no matter what you are up against. Someone whom you feel close to, even when oceans and continents separate you physically.
I have that good friend, and more than that, a great friend who personifies the meaning of the word 'friend.' Thank you for being my friend.
Only your friends will MAKE you shovel a driveway full of snow for your dinner.
Getting ready for the cold day ahead, Pam makes sure I am well covered and buttoned up.
November 2007, on a weekend visit to Pam's new home in Ottawa, Canada. We had Tea at a fancy hotel downtown.
Pam wears her heart on her sleeve and is the most caring and compassionate person you will ever meet. Some people tend to take advantage of that but it has not changed her one bit. This lady just keeps coming back stronger than ever.
Life has not always been good and over the years, we have shared stories about our life, we have seen each other fall, we have faced disappointments and pain. We know what it feels like to have no money, no food, no job, and sometimes, no future.But through it all, Pam has always found that inner strength, a strength that comes directly from her faith in Him who is always in control, and she has persevered.
18 years is a long time and looking back, I have so many memories of the bad days and the good days. The bad days are like a shadow we can appreciate now because we have learned our lessons well from them. But the good days are here and I am glad I can share these good days with Pam.
Everyone in the world should have at least one good friend. Someone to turn too when the chips are down. Someone to cry with when times are bad, someone to laugh with and enjoy the good times. Someone who will always believe in you, no matter what you are up against. Someone whom you feel close to, even when oceans and continents separate you physically.
I have that good friend, and more than that, a great friend who personifies the meaning of the word 'friend.' Thank you for being my friend.
Only your friends will MAKE you shovel a driveway full of snow for your dinner.
Getting ready for the cold day ahead, Pam makes sure I am well covered and buttoned up.
November 2007, on a weekend visit to Pam's new home in Ottawa, Canada. We had Tea at a fancy hotel downtown.
Salzburg Global Seminar: Banquet
The final night of the week in Salzburg gave way to a very special banquet to honor all the students who attended. We were treated to a formal dinner in the Marble Hall, and we were required to dress up. It was a special time for us to be together because we knew it was the last night we were ever going to be in that place, in that moment and we wanted to make the most of it. It was as special as it was meant to be and we all had a wonderful dinner, and a very special final night.
Alicia and I on that final night. Alicia was not one of the late nighters but we did chat quite a bit and got along really well.
Sonya was in my group and we had so much fun together. Unfortunately, she was placed on bed rest for the last few days of the trip and did not attend the banquet. That being the case, we took the party to her room and had a brilliant time.
For every sun there is a moon, for ever day there is a night, for every Venus, there must be a Mars. Here is my beautiful Venus.
Rosie thought I was a great dancer and we got along great after that. She is one terrific lady and funny too.
Tash is a really cool guy and I am glad we got a chance to meet and chat. He is the true South Asian, but I was dressed as one.
The ever stylish, ever Vogue Betty. She was definitely the most fashionable of the lot. Hats off to you Betty.
Smack between two beautiful, charming, and intelligent women. Sandy our chaperone on the left, and Teri on my right.
The IT couple not only sat together that night, but we were also color coordinated, and it was not planned. I miss you Michele!
Everyone wanted to have their picture taken with Jochen and he was more than willing to oblige. He is truly a remarkable person, and a true gentleman. The world needs more like him.
Michele, Venus, Rachel and me on that special banquet night. There you have it, the main part of the in crowd.
Another trini brother, Bryan turned out to be how every trini should be. Cool, fun, easy going, and most importantly, no chip on his shoulder.
Alicia and I on that final night. Alicia was not one of the late nighters but we did chat quite a bit and got along really well.
Sonya was in my group and we had so much fun together. Unfortunately, she was placed on bed rest for the last few days of the trip and did not attend the banquet. That being the case, we took the party to her room and had a brilliant time.
For every sun there is a moon, for ever day there is a night, for every Venus, there must be a Mars. Here is my beautiful Venus.
Rosie thought I was a great dancer and we got along great after that. She is one terrific lady and funny too.
Tash is a really cool guy and I am glad we got a chance to meet and chat. He is the true South Asian, but I was dressed as one.
The ever stylish, ever Vogue Betty. She was definitely the most fashionable of the lot. Hats off to you Betty.
Smack between two beautiful, charming, and intelligent women. Sandy our chaperone on the left, and Teri on my right.
The IT couple not only sat together that night, but we were also color coordinated, and it was not planned. I miss you Michele!
Everyone wanted to have their picture taken with Jochen and he was more than willing to oblige. He is truly a remarkable person, and a true gentleman. The world needs more like him.
Michele, Venus, Rachel and me on that special banquet night. There you have it, the main part of the in crowd.
Another trini brother, Bryan turned out to be how every trini should be. Cool, fun, easy going, and most importantly, no chip on his shoulder.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Salzburg Global Seminar: Fun In The Beirstuba
We sat through some heavy sessions, we worked hard, and every evening we played hard as well. We had to...when next were we ever going to be back In Salzburg, hanging out in the basement of a Castle so we milked it for all its worth. Most nights (or mornings) we left around 2am, but as the week progressed, we stayed until 4am on some days. No regrets, no love lost, we were friends having a blast and what a blast we had. Those are moments we will never forget.
Strike a pose! Juliana and Michele were having a good time and it showed.
If nothing else, these ladies knew how to have a good time...can you tell? Anna May and Hilda joined Juliana and Michele for a great picture.
Only one thing was missing from the previous picture...me. Just look at those hands on me and you will know exactly what I am talking about.
Good time and good friends...shaking up the dance floor.
Juliana and Michele gave our resident DJ Bryan, some room on the dance floor to strut his stuff...and strut he did!
Here we go..the life of the party, Juliana, Michele and me.
Working it together, the winning combination.
Juliana has got the moves. If I say so, then it is so. She's got it, your baby shes got it!
Michele showing us how it is done...shake it baby.
I love this picture of Justin playing the piano. reminds me of Dracula from Van Helsing.
Strike a pose! Juliana and Michele were having a good time and it showed.
If nothing else, these ladies knew how to have a good time...can you tell? Anna May and Hilda joined Juliana and Michele for a great picture.
Only one thing was missing from the previous picture...me. Just look at those hands on me and you will know exactly what I am talking about.
Good time and good friends...shaking up the dance floor.
Juliana and Michele gave our resident DJ Bryan, some room on the dance floor to strut his stuff...and strut he did!
Here we go..the life of the party, Juliana, Michele and me.
Working it together, the winning combination.
Juliana has got the moves. If I say so, then it is so. She's got it, your baby shes got it!
Michele showing us how it is done...shake it baby.
I love this picture of Justin playing the piano. reminds me of Dracula from Van Helsing.
Salzburg Global Seminar: Fun In The Beirstuba
One of the things we looked forward to the most was our evenings downstairs the Schloss, in the Bierstuba. In fact, we were encouraged to spend time there and relax and get to know each other and exchange ideas. We did that and managed to have a ton of fun in the process.
Teri, Alicia and I share a drink as we sit and chat and watch some ping pong.
Jeffrey giving his best shot against me in ping pong.
Denis, Michele, Anna May, Jeffrey, Gaby and I take a break between some very competitive Fussbol.
The IT Couple having some downtime during the evening in the Bierstuba.
What happened to my opponent? Where have they gone?
Gaby having fun with ping pong while the rest of us wait our turn.
Justin was one of only three persons who really knew how to play and gave me some good competition.
Teri was another one who gave me a great game but she could not keep up with my pace. We have to do this again Teri.
Teri, Alicia and I share a drink as we sit and chat and watch some ping pong.
Jeffrey giving his best shot against me in ping pong.
Denis, Michele, Anna May, Jeffrey, Gaby and I take a break between some very competitive Fussbol.
The IT Couple having some downtime during the evening in the Bierstuba.
What happened to my opponent? Where have they gone?
Gaby having fun with ping pong while the rest of us wait our turn.
Justin was one of only three persons who really knew how to play and gave me some good competition.
Teri was another one who gave me a great game but she could not keep up with my pace. We have to do this again Teri.
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