Monday, June 13, 2011
Friday, June 10, 2011
An Activity.
Bon soir! I can hardly believe it is almost the middle of June; how quickly time passes by! An idea recently hit me about starting a summer reading list. I know the very thought of formulating works can be trite and indeed very very sixth grade, but, as an eighteen-year-old, what will I possibly do in Montreal this summer? Not read? (I know, I am really as dull as they come). So here is my idealistic reading list I have compiled quite optimistically this week; whether or not I get to all of these works remains a mystery I am ready to tackle.
We (1921) by Yevgeny Zamyatin
The Catcher in the Rye (1951) by J.D. Salinger
Let the Great World Spin (2009) by Colum McCann
Brave New World (1932) by Aldous Huxley
The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby (1839) by Charles Dickens
Silent Spring (1962) by Rachel Carson
Etiquette (1952) by Emily Post
There will probably be more works added on, but for now, I think this is a good start. I am right now about three quarters of the way done with Tuesdays with Morrie, but after that, I will dedicate my time completely and fully to crossing off and expanding this list. I'll probably do a review/meditation after reading each book. Will you join me on this adventure?
Now, I am going to exercise and then study french. Hooray!
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Another year older, how many years wiser?
Do you ever live your life in a daze? It seems as if this passage we call life meanders and sways to the beat of our own desires and affections, but do we always take hold and will it to move with maximum rigor and intention? The gift of living, of complex emotions and knowledge, should inspire a shift in focus, maintaining zest and interest in daily surroundings.
I think every ligament of ourselves will live in full awareness when we simply understand the importance of attention. Just a couple of nights ago, when I was reading, I realized the precise curvature of my hands. What did my hands do before I touched the buttery pages of this book? Imagine the infinite events that occur in one day with the palms of my hands! What two miraculous tools have been created for my disposal! That I can touch and feel and caress and express all possibilities of the world because of these ingenious existences.
And these lessons can be applicable to any element of ourselves, including the limitless universe that exists in our minds. Imagine the power we would have if we lived 100%, if we used 100%.
When the weather is warm, the earth beckons for me to go on an adventure. Presently, my favorite past-time is to go on hikes, but sometimes on weekdays I go on walks. The grass is exuberantly green and millions of minute voices are given off by tiny creatures of the forest. It is magical to think that a single square inch of earth or a single blade of grass can be the whole universe to someone. As an insect or an amoeba can spend its whole life believing it is the largest particle in the galaxy.
The spacecraft Cassini recently traveled to Saturn to study the planet and its moons. What I thought was most incredible was that the substance water was discovered under the layer in one of these moons and nitrogen in its atmosphere. Could this mean that after a period of time, organisms can subsist in such an environment? If so, could other particles in the galaxy and beyond have such capabilities? Could another genesis occur? This discovery unravels the theory of life beyond our little planet. Imagine if our galaxy were just a small blade of grass in a vast and ever expanding meadow or a small shard of glass in a grandiose mosaic meant to awe and display the beauty of life and living.
The scientific discussion leads to a philosophical one. It is unavoidable at times to center circumstances in the world around our lives. Yet it is paramount to not stay in this phase for an extended time. By not enveloping, we learn more than we can ever fathom about our circular ecosystem of sorts, the importance of interpersonal fusion, and the power of compassion. The notion of dedicating and surrounding ourselves in only gold and glitter is a rather placid concept, thoroughly engraved into our membranes. But I believe it is rather selfish to live only for oneself, or indulging in only the rosy aspects of life. It is in reality and sadness that we learn to thrive, that we are awakened from our dream and when we start to live and know. For it is not as important to be surrounded in constant luxury as it is to have a constant sense of peace within to steady ourselves and understand the glorious lessons hidden in new experiences.
Scientific discovery will never stop and neither should our explorations come to a close. I am not sure wisdom should be measured in time, but rather, increase with experiences. So, have I grown another year wiser? I don't know. All I can possibly describe is a greater sense of peace that radiates from my soul.
I think every ligament of ourselves will live in full awareness when we simply understand the importance of attention. Just a couple of nights ago, when I was reading, I realized the precise curvature of my hands. What did my hands do before I touched the buttery pages of this book? Imagine the infinite events that occur in one day with the palms of my hands! What two miraculous tools have been created for my disposal! That I can touch and feel and caress and express all possibilities of the world because of these ingenious existences.
And these lessons can be applicable to any element of ourselves, including the limitless universe that exists in our minds. Imagine the power we would have if we lived 100%, if we used 100%.
When the weather is warm, the earth beckons for me to go on an adventure. Presently, my favorite past-time is to go on hikes, but sometimes on weekdays I go on walks. The grass is exuberantly green and millions of minute voices are given off by tiny creatures of the forest. It is magical to think that a single square inch of earth or a single blade of grass can be the whole universe to someone. As an insect or an amoeba can spend its whole life believing it is the largest particle in the galaxy.
The spacecraft Cassini recently traveled to Saturn to study the planet and its moons. What I thought was most incredible was that the substance water was discovered under the layer in one of these moons and nitrogen in its atmosphere. Could this mean that after a period of time, organisms can subsist in such an environment? If so, could other particles in the galaxy and beyond have such capabilities? Could another genesis occur? This discovery unravels the theory of life beyond our little planet. Imagine if our galaxy were just a small blade of grass in a vast and ever expanding meadow or a small shard of glass in a grandiose mosaic meant to awe and display the beauty of life and living.
The scientific discussion leads to a philosophical one. It is unavoidable at times to center circumstances in the world around our lives. Yet it is paramount to not stay in this phase for an extended time. By not enveloping, we learn more than we can ever fathom about our circular ecosystem of sorts, the importance of interpersonal fusion, and the power of compassion. The notion of dedicating and surrounding ourselves in only gold and glitter is a rather placid concept, thoroughly engraved into our membranes. But I believe it is rather selfish to live only for oneself, or indulging in only the rosy aspects of life. It is in reality and sadness that we learn to thrive, that we are awakened from our dream and when we start to live and know. For it is not as important to be surrounded in constant luxury as it is to have a constant sense of peace within to steady ourselves and understand the glorious lessons hidden in new experiences.
Scientific discovery will never stop and neither should our explorations come to a close. I am not sure wisdom should be measured in time, but rather, increase with experiences. So, have I grown another year wiser? I don't know. All I can possibly describe is a greater sense of peace that radiates from my soul.
French Cuisine...in America?
My Birthday dinner (with the exception of a cake which will be introduced tonight) last night was celebrated at un petit restaurant s'appelle L'Auberge Chez Francois...a notable very french name.
I wouldn't say I came in with very high expectations of the place, but I did expect delightful atmosphere, simple home cooking and superior service, which were generally all met. The atmosphere was somewhat reminiscent of a grandmother's house...the window sill was decorated with iron-cast pots and pans and other knick-knacks which would probably be found in the neighborhood yardsale.
All the waiters had flaming, lipstick red vests and stereotypical French appearances...my waiter was no exception. It is completely possible that his gratuity included an extra 20% for his petit, curly mustache alone. The service was pas mal; I felt as if every time I took a sip from my water glass, the man would rush behind my back and pour from his little water jug. And he used a bread scooper-! I am such a sucker for the bread scooper. But what did I expect? The gratuity was enough to pay for a two-person dinner in DC.
The food...was another story. I had high hopes for the escargots, the gleaming shell, pesto sauce, the whole works as I have had in Paris. The presentation here seemed to fit the bill, however, the aftertaste reminded me of swamp water and grease; we have written that off the menu.
The Roquefort was decent and the grapes were immensely sweet, but every meal came with that annoying little green garnish that is never meant to be eaten, which is peculiar because french home cooking would never fathom such an unnecessary touch. I'd consider this very cliche.
The Beef Wellington is definitely unfrench. Cooked rare to medium-rare and quite average, if not more. Beyond just bread scoopers, I adore vegetables, and the haricot verts and tomatoes were superb!
However, I couldn't help but reminiscence on the cuisine in Paris. It was exponentially better than any here and probably 90% cheaper. It is very peculiar how food changes overseas. Don't you think Americans should have more refined palates?
What Maya Angelou Said
Phenomenal Woman
Pretty women wonder where my secret lies.
I'm not cute or built to suit a fashion model's size
But when I start to tell them,
They think I'm telling lies.
I say,
It's in the reach of my arms
The span of my hips,
The stride of my step,
The curl of my lips.
I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.
I walk into a room
Just as cool as you please,
And to a man,
The fellows stand or
Fall down on their knees.
Then they swarm around me,
A hive of honey bees.
I say,
It's the fire in my eyes,
And the flash of my teeth,
The swing in my waist,
And the joy in my feet.
I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.
Men themselves have wondered
What they see in me.
They try so much
But they can't touch
My inner mystery.
When I try to show them
They say they still can't see.
I say,
It's in the arch of my back,
The sun of my smile,
The ride of my breasts,
The grace of my style.
I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.
Now you understand
Just why my head's not bowed.
I don't shout or jump about
Or have to talk real loud.
When you see me passing
It ought to make you proud.
I say,
It's in the click of my heels,
The bend of my hair,
the palm of my hand,
The need of my care,
'Cause I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.
[To a new chapter of my life.]
Pretty women wonder where my secret lies.
I'm not cute or built to suit a fashion model's size
But when I start to tell them,
They think I'm telling lies.
I say,
It's in the reach of my arms
The span of my hips,
The stride of my step,
The curl of my lips.
I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.
I walk into a room
Just as cool as you please,
And to a man,
The fellows stand or
Fall down on their knees.
Then they swarm around me,
A hive of honey bees.
I say,
It's the fire in my eyes,
And the flash of my teeth,
The swing in my waist,
And the joy in my feet.
I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.
Men themselves have wondered
What they see in me.
They try so much
But they can't touch
My inner mystery.
When I try to show them
They say they still can't see.
I say,
It's in the arch of my back,
The sun of my smile,
The ride of my breasts,
The grace of my style.
I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.
Now you understand
Just why my head's not bowed.
I don't shout or jump about
Or have to talk real loud.
When you see me passing
It ought to make you proud.
I say,
It's in the click of my heels,
The bend of my hair,
the palm of my hand,
The need of my care,
'Cause I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.
[To a new chapter of my life.]
Saturday, June 4, 2011
C'est mon anniversaire!
Well, not actually, not today. I'd think it is a good excuse to dedicate an entire weekend for my birthday because of the inconvenience of celebrating on only a Sunday. I'd like to refer to my transformation as highly dramatic, a sweet reference to the classic Sixteen Candles. Indeed, being eighteen (or almost) is a completely liberating experience. I can feel the woman emerging from within. How completely splendid to be able to have education and personal beliefs and freedom and choices and abilities! It all seems so overwhelming.
This past year has altered my perspective significantly. I've experienced an indescribable feeling of loss and rejection yet strengthened my own self-confidence and admiration. How amazing it is to be alive! To live is God's greatest gift and to live gloriously and unfazed is ours.
In the morning, I had my daily cup of Greek yogurt and granola bar, then drove around in the absolute daze of marvelous Sinatra and ordered tiramisu and a beautiful bounty of round, shiny, marbled balloons which is kissing the ceiling presently.
To live in the world of cool raspberry tea, rosy perfume and floral dresses is simply marvelous.
This past year has altered my perspective significantly. I've experienced an indescribable feeling of loss and rejection yet strengthened my own self-confidence and admiration. How amazing it is to be alive! To live is God's greatest gift and to live gloriously and unfazed is ours.
In the morning, I had my daily cup of Greek yogurt and granola bar, then drove around in the absolute daze of marvelous Sinatra and ordered tiramisu and a beautiful bounty of round, shiny, marbled balloons which is kissing the ceiling presently.
To live in the world of cool raspberry tea, rosy perfume and floral dresses is simply marvelous.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
The Pettiness of Conversation.
How absurd it is to have adults criticize you on your life choices. What college are you going to? What are you majoring in? How dare you not be a doctor/lawyer/engineer/triple threat?
What's worst is being criticized by people you have never met until today. Seriously people, if I wanted such professions I might as well crawl into a cave and evade civilization for 837459234 years. It's just not me.
Sometimes, I wonder who it is who creates the "Asian" stereotype. It is highly plausible that the major contributors are the older generations of the same ethnicities. How depressing it must be to be constrained under such expectations.
What's worst is being criticized by people you have never met until today. Seriously people, if I wanted such professions I might as well crawl into a cave and evade civilization for 837459234 years. It's just not me.
Sometimes, I wonder who it is who creates the "Asian" stereotype. It is highly plausible that the major contributors are the older generations of the same ethnicities. How depressing it must be to be constrained under such expectations.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
What Walt Whitman said.
I am large, I contain multitudes.
How strange it is to discover a side of yourself unknown until recently! It's absolutely fascinating to live such long lives, and still retrieve hidden secrets and desires.
Last Saturday, I went to Georgetown for the first time in about a month or so. The streets were still as crowded as ever and stylish shoppers swarmed the blocks, even though there was a rapture brewing. However, it was the season for change. There were new store layouts, new restaurants (such as Serendipity 3- coming soon!), and a new mussel dish at my favorite haunt (though I do not believe mussels with pomme frites should ever substitute for a deep cauldron of the stuff).
These minor changes left me wondering about the major changes that will occur to me in just a few months. I'll off to Montreal to further my french for three weeks in the summertime without my family, I'll finally enjoy a summer without the stresses of extracurricular, test preparations, work, etc, and, most notably, I'll be heading to college in the fall.
Will all these changes in turn change me and my limited scope of the world? It would be a tragedy if I returned from the journey as a carbon-copy of myself presently. The frightening aspect of change is its convoluted state. I'll never be sure which way the tide sways, how the change in my environs affect my reactions to certain situations, how my passion towards certain subjects will be collectively morphed and transitioned onto virgin territory.
Am I afraid of change? The question perfumes and lingers in my air. Part of me wants to say no, to dictate my emotions and remind my mind that change occurs in each millisecond we exist in our universe. Change can occur from the smallest particles in our atmosphere: a single rose, a manner of speech, a prick on the finger.
Yet is it plausible to surmise that change has no magnitude? That BIG changes have the same genetic makeup as minute shifts? Part of me disagrees. Major transitions test our limits and our character. To be off away from home will be, to put it dramatically, a crumbling of my preexisting world. No swings in the front yard, no leisurely Saturday mornings with my favorite cereal, no echo of dad's baritone over the newspaper or mom's syrupy voice beckoning me to dinner.
How will I simply survive?
Scientifically, a majority of species have undergo evolution. Homo sapiens would not exist had it not been for their ability to adapt. And in modern society, this sort of Darwinism still exists. I hope there is another element in me that diffuses any dramatic side-effects to such changes.
How strange it is to discover a side of yourself unknown until recently! It's absolutely fascinating to live such long lives, and still retrieve hidden secrets and desires.
Last Saturday, I went to Georgetown for the first time in about a month or so. The streets were still as crowded as ever and stylish shoppers swarmed the blocks, even though there was a rapture brewing. However, it was the season for change. There were new store layouts, new restaurants (such as Serendipity 3- coming soon!), and a new mussel dish at my favorite haunt (though I do not believe mussels with pomme frites should ever substitute for a deep cauldron of the stuff).
These minor changes left me wondering about the major changes that will occur to me in just a few months. I'll off to Montreal to further my french for three weeks in the summertime without my family, I'll finally enjoy a summer without the stresses of extracurricular, test preparations, work, etc, and, most notably, I'll be heading to college in the fall.
Will all these changes in turn change me and my limited scope of the world? It would be a tragedy if I returned from the journey as a carbon-copy of myself presently. The frightening aspect of change is its convoluted state. I'll never be sure which way the tide sways, how the change in my environs affect my reactions to certain situations, how my passion towards certain subjects will be collectively morphed and transitioned onto virgin territory.
Am I afraid of change? The question perfumes and lingers in my air. Part of me wants to say no, to dictate my emotions and remind my mind that change occurs in each millisecond we exist in our universe. Change can occur from the smallest particles in our atmosphere: a single rose, a manner of speech, a prick on the finger.
Yet is it plausible to surmise that change has no magnitude? That BIG changes have the same genetic makeup as minute shifts? Part of me disagrees. Major transitions test our limits and our character. To be off away from home will be, to put it dramatically, a crumbling of my preexisting world. No swings in the front yard, no leisurely Saturday mornings with my favorite cereal, no echo of dad's baritone over the newspaper or mom's syrupy voice beckoning me to dinner.
How will I simply survive?
Scientifically, a majority of species have undergo evolution. Homo sapiens would not exist had it not been for their ability to adapt. And in modern society, this sort of Darwinism still exists. I hope there is another element in me that diffuses any dramatic side-effects to such changes.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Sunday, May 15, 2011
A slow news day.
Today, I tried my best to avoid studying for Calculus. The idea of mastery quizzes and final exams repulses me. I'd feel much better watching movies and eating and writing and painting my nails awesome colors. I'm beginning to dislike my calculator and the manner in which my Hello Kitty stickers fade on its shell. I dislike the clasp on my backpack and the way lipstick bleeds and my hair.
That is all that will ever be for a Sunday.
That is all that will ever be for a Sunday.
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