the four right chords can make me cry

In the space of 3 months, I've made a presentation to the high commissioner of India and seen the President of the United States of America. Reflecting on it, I've had a lot of opportunities and exposure throughout my university life, a great deal of it thanks to USP. Thailand, to work with a youth theatre group regarding HIV/AIDS issues; India, to work with a world-class NGO on environmental issues and development. And the friends I've made, people who understand me, who challenge and engage me, some of whom I've come to love deeply. And the profs I admire and respect, Dr Don, Dr Lo, Prof Teo, who know you by name. And as if that wasn't enough, employment too! A dream job that lets me do what i'm good at, and gives me so many insights on issues i haven't studied before. And in a few days (eep!), a chance to take flight in a foreign country, testing out my underdeveloped wings. It hasn't all been perfect, but, NUS, you've won me over.

I'm not so sure about the decorations for today though. Story by Clem coming up methinks, stay tuned. Other than that, no comment, though I'd gladly share my thoughts with you in person. Though i'm always, always suspicious that no one is really interested in me as a human being, much less my mind. Wallflower-wallpaper mood i was in today.

At the talk by Prof Alatas this morning, he drew an insightful parallel between data and prostitutes. Was a thought-provoking session, in sharp contrast to the binary worldview that followed. Which one do you think I took notes for? Should have done it for both though, on hindsight. So many priceless quotes.

I think the juxtaposition was profound.

I'm admittedly a bit of a recluse. Would anyone take the time and surmount the awkwardness that it involves to get beyond the sugar-coated front? I'm really not that plasticky and smiley when you get to know me. I feel helpless sometimes, because I can't seem to be real, open, easily read, and you can't possibly expect to make friends properly unless you are. But thank God for the friends who somehow do see beyond the surface. You are the antigen-specific T-helper cell to the MHC class II on my B-cells.

and you have a weirdo for a friend.

posted by beckyboo @ 12:28 AM