You've been very cruel

You've been very cruel to me this year. I prayed for a better time with you. I prayed for a bright future with you.  I thought that you will understand.  I thought that you'll changed. But what do I get??? Since early of the year, you have not been nice to me. I pour my deepest love to you. I sacrifice my time to you and this is what I got at the end. You're leaving me. I know.  I can sense your cruelness since March. By April,  even on my birthday, you didn't even wish me a single word and that's very cruel of you. I feel you the effect of your cruelness come middle of the year. You're very dry during this period.  Until sometimes, your wetness is a begging for. You even explode this year. Killing a lot if souls. And now, you're pouring so much wetness that can drown people. You blow a strong wind until non can hold on and die.

I gave up with you. With this last posting,  I want to bid you a farewell. I don't want to see you anymore at all. You can live your on life, that's if someone willing to pick you up. I have met a new one. So I don't need you anymore. Adiós and good bye 2014. You've been bad this whole year. I hope your replacement if much much better than you. So long........

It's that time of the Year

It's that time of the year again. Year end. A lot of corporations, associations, charity body, Parents Teachers Association started to plan to treat their staff, workers, volunteers to an annual dinner. Appreciation to their contribution during the year.  Whether they're making a profit or not, that's not the issue. As long as they treat their staff well, people will appreciate it.

I remember years ago or better to say more than a decade ago, every single staff is looking forward very much to the staff annual dinner. This is the only time, they can have a fun and enjoyable dinner together, away from the office works and thoughts. This is the time they can bring thier spouse to a bank event dinner. This is the time, they can have alcoholic drinks unlimited. Fun? Yes at that moment. Sorry to say, I've changed. I no longer adore the function. It's sounds ridiculous if I said, it's all because of the location, location and location and also foods. Off RM100, I'm pretty sure, a decent 5 star dinner is sufficient for that amount. When we said 5 star, automatically we will imagine of a 5 star hotel. Class food. Good environment. Nice atmosphere and of course, with HALAL certificate. That's is very important in appreciating the staff. Not just as if "melepas batuk ditangga" or in other word, as long as its done, fine.

Management willing to spend thousands to organise a dinner for customers. Thousands in executive entertainment. But why when it comes to staff entertainment,  with RM100, they don't want? Why must buy a "Tupperware" again and again???? My kitchen cabinet is already full with it. Don't even know where to keep a new one. Why spend my fund allocation for a lucky draw that I will never get? Why can't they think out of the box? Why must holding a dinner at a non-halal certificate restaurant?? Why should I highlight it? I'm only one person. Why at the first place they choose that place? There's so many why. Pity to the organiser too. They work hard to get things done but as usual, there will be grievances from people. This time it's me. I never say anything before. So people can take me for granted. I always say okay for all the suggested place, but deep in my heart,  I really wish someone will understand. But what more can I say, I'm only one person. I don't want people say that they choose that new place because of me. What if the food is lousy? What if the service is lousy? What if the environment is dead? People will point at me. Just because of me, they can't have nice decent meal. They can't have that. They can't have this. I will feel guilty. I'm not a sympathy collector.  

It's all in the matter of principle and my religious commitment.  I have to follow. I don't want God, who has been taking care of me all this while to get angry with me because disobeying His ruling. No. I try to avoid that. I'm very thankful to Him and try to please Him whenever I can. I know someone will feel angry with my unfair statement but who cares. That's my feeling towards this particular issue. Until when I should keep my mouth shut? If you can't accept it, then live with it. You've never been in my shoe. You don't know the temptation that I have to face in this kind of situation. I've been drunk before. I've been cheated before. Ever once, I was served with pork fried noodle and luckily I realised it earlier. Almost swallow it. I was angry. I was ridiculed but I still have my faith. I still have my patience.  But from now on, I will speak no more. I just let it go and live my life in this place just like before. Don't sympathize with me. All I want is the understanding of the real Halal food. Serve no pork doesn't mean it is halal. And stop asking permission from me in terms of organising an eating function. It's about time you yourself to learn what is Halal. Don't only learn what syariah council do in banking law. Learn what cause something is halal or not. Don't belittled this issue. If this happen in Malaya, you'll get slaughter lively by the staff there. And I am serious about in my preparation to meet my maker. And learn your Old Testament too. It speaks clearly on this issue.

Adios and love you all always. Really.

Well.... live goes on the music

I'm supposed to be on the road now, driving down to work but instead I choose to update my blog. As usual I have so many ideas on what to write but once this page loaded, all the ideas gone. Well, here goes nothing.

November. Every time comes this month, the first thing pop up my mind is "November Rain" the famous song by Guns N Roses. Why? It has got to do with song and memories. Every single song in your life can bring back a memory in your life. Me, myself got a few. The song that touched me a lot is for sure " Aku Pun Tahu" by a rock group Wings. It reflected very much on my first crush. Azizah is her name. She's the first girl that I ever express my feeling for her openly. But our ambition separated us. She's chasing her dream. I'm chasing her love. At the end, I  lost.

There are other songs that could bring out sweet memories in my life. Carrie is one of it. Everytime I heard this song, I would remember the day I was travelling back to home town in a bus, heartbroken. I still remember the tears that drop while sitting in the bus, just off the pineapple town, ascending the Sebangkoi slops. I was crying endlessly until I faĺl asleep.
"When light goes down
I see no reason
For you to cry
We've been through this before
In everytime
In every season
God knows I've tried
So please don't ask for more "

I don't know. Why every songs relates to our life. Somewhere or another. If you heard me singing a song, it could be my true feeling at that particular moment. It might be also I want to send a message to someone. Or it might be the way I express my dissapointment. Somewhere or another, songs can be very motivational.

We live in music of our life. The moment we open our eyes in the morning (some wake up in the noon because of not rushing to office), but the first thing we hear is, sound. Whether it the soundof baby crying, alarm, fan, aircond blade, or even you snoring partner. It's in us.

Recently, I like a song named "Malaikat". A very strong lyric and really giving some motivational for me to work harder or ti plan for the future. Seriously, I never plan my life. A lot of people quoted "if you fail to plan, you are planning to fail". Well, so far, I failed a lot but I live. What I believe in is God. God is the best planner ever. Let he plan your life. Let him guide you than you'll never ever need a plan. I met a lot of people who said "Thank God. It works". If you think you're the one that plan it, why thank God? Why not thank yourself? That's because you're not confident enough with your plan. You still rely on God to make it works. Isn't God is the best planner than you.

It just like when you plan to have a child. Do you plan? Do you wish that you or your partner got pregnant at the first sperm shot? Do you plan to have sex??? For me, I just do it as and when my desire is calling. And I know,every sperm shot, a baby will be born. Why I'm so confidence of it. Because I believe in God. He's the best planner. When He said "Kun Fayakun" or "Happen, so it will happen", nothing can stops Him. The Al-Mighty.

Hey!! Where's that story of the music and memories? 😄 right. Another song that caught my life is "Lamunan Terhenti". The lyric speaks for itself. And it really ever happen to me. And there's so many other song that I can't remember now but once it's in the air, memories will appear. That's our life. Full with music. Keep moving on with dance of your life. It will never fail you because failure is not an option. It's a choice. ...Adios for now. 😙

What happen to me? Unstoppable busy.

Searching for an ideas on what to update on this blog is a tough one. I just can't free my mind on what is going to happen next. There's so many things or plan in my mind and I am only holding 2 hands on my body. With work. With house repairing. My plan to do renovation. My plan for social activities. Plans that scheduled for me. Sometimes, I just can not hold it. I missed prayer too often nowadays. With darkness starts early, it feels like 24 hours a day is running short everyday. By 6.30pm, it's  already dark. In the next 1 hour 30 minutes later, shops started to rolled down their shutter. Market needless to say. Haven't got a chance to visit it nowadays.

It's  all started with the broken car engine. Running the house or life using one car is sucks. The day started from as early as 5am. By 5.20am, it's prayer time. And I only have a window of less than 1 hour to perform it. So, once the eyes opened, it is  less than 1 hour to take bath, perform prayer, prepare breakfast and rush to send her to work by 6am. No early morning sex anymore. At all. I love morning sex. It stimulated my day and I will have enough energy for another sex later of the day. Even a quick one will always do. And I really missed that. *sigh* wonder if any ladies out there who love  to have a quick morning sex, maybe we can share the fun? Imagination running wild again. ....

September. The month that I really started my duty as a Union crew. Meetings after meetings. Sometimes until late at night. Working without looking at the time. For what?  I guess I did it just to have a different experience.  Working with others from a different  organisation.  Their working style.  Their working attitude. And getting to know a lot of new people. Not to mention,  girls. But when I think about it,  I'm too old for flirting around. But with their friendliness,  one is so easily got seduced. No wonder why did some pocket full guys can have a few spares around.  The whole month of September was full with activities.  Training, courses, conference, took me away from home a lot of times. Time off from the office is great. Rush here and there is something I hate but it's my commitment that drive me. Working behind the scene and not expecting any reward is something I would do. The best is the end result when everything when on smoothly. But with all this busy scehedule, my mind still can't get rid of Angie. I guess it is not my mind but for sure it is my heart.  That's why she always pops out in my life.

But, this is life. Full of stages. I've tried to avoid these kind of activities for so many years already. Now, maybe it is time for changes. Brain is dead if doing the same thing all over again repeatead daily. It feels like a robot. Day in day out in the office. Can't even think of other things from 9 to 5. Ever since Angie and CSS left, the office is never the same again. I missed my motivational,my inspiration for coming down to work. Busy,busy, busy for nothing. Have to watch the same boring face daily  is such a killing me softly from inside. Avoiding hearing the voice and sights is what I tried to do the best everyday... gosshhh, I missed Angie's voice. Wish I could just pick the phone and call her just to hear her voice.

The negativeness sense once entering the office can be felt daily. I don't  know maybe it's because of the management of maybe because of the environment but for sure, I really need a change of office. Maybe that's why I agreed to become a committee in the Union, once approached by the President, just to feel a different office and working with different people. Guess what, I like the positiveness of the others, expecially the women committees. They are great and very easy going.  Contrast to girls colleague in the office.

Till I started to get dizzy again with my writing. .... Adiosss....

😙 love you AN.

I AM HERE TO STAY. LOVE ALWAYS.

FROM “SARAWAK” TO “KUCHING” WITH LOVE Semalam, 1hb Ogos 2014 maka genaplah usianya 26 tahun Kuching dinaiktaraf menjadi Bandaraya setelah pengisytiharannya dilakukan pada 1hb Ogos 1988. Dan sebagai mengangkat tarikh bersejarah ini, Borneo Oracle ingin memberi ruang informasi tentang satu sejarah mengenai Bandaraya Kuching yang juga merupakan ibu negeri bagi Sarawak Bumi Kenyalang. Bandaraya Kuching sekarang sudah banyak berubah jika dibandingkan suatu waktu dahulu. Jika dahulu mungkin ianya masih diliputi hutan belukar namun sekarang Bandaraya Kuching sudah berubah wajah dengan banyaknya bangunan pencakar langit serta jalinan jalanraya antara Bandar yang baik. Namun begitu walau semoden manapun Bandaraya Kuching ianya tetap lagi mengekalkan norma-norma bandaraya dalam taman dan banyak bangunan sejarahnya masih lagi digunakan malah merupakan salah satu tempat tarikan pelancong yang ramai di Sarawak. Untuk artikel kali ini Borneo Oracle akan menyingkap satu sejarah tentang bagaimana Bandaraya Kuching mendapat nama dan ianya bertajuk From Sarawak To Kuching With Love. Melalui catatan sejarah lama telah dinyatakan bahawa Sarawak dahulu adalah salah satu tanah kuripan Kesultanan Brunei Darussalam dan ianya telah diberikan kepada pembesar-pembesar Kesultanan pada waktu itu untuk dijaga. Sejarah juga membuktikan bahawa Kuching (Sekarang) dipanggil Sarawak suatu waktu dahulu dengan awal pembukaannya adalah Gabenor Kesultanan Brunei Darussalam ketika itu iaitu Gabenor Pengiran Indera Mahkota yang mana pada ketika itu sempadan Sarawak hanyalah daripada Sungai Sarawak sehingga ke kawasan Lidah Tanah sekarang. Kemudian apabila ketibaan James Brooke seorang pengembara British yang membantu Raja Muda Hashim bagi menyelesaikan pemberontakan di Sarawak dan seterusnya mendapatkan Sarawak sebagai habuan dan kemudian beliau menjadi Rajah Putih Pertama Sarawak iaitu pada tahun 1839 sempadan Sarawak sudah pun mengembang dari Sungai Sarawak sehinggalah ke bahagian persisiran barat Tanjung Datu. Kuching hanya mendapat nama sebagai Kuching pada tahun 1872 iaitu atas permintaan Rajah Kedua Negara Sarawak iaitu Charles Brooke yang memerintah pada tahun 1868 – 1917. Jadi mengapa nama Kuching yang diberikan dan tidak nama lain? Inilah yang akan diperjelaskan oleh Borneo Oracle kepada pembaca sekalian sebagai satu perkongsian sejarah untuk sumber pengetahuan bersama. Setakat ini ada 3 teori sejarah tentang bagaimana Kuching mendapat nama dan disini kita akan memperjelaskan teori-teori tersebut satu persatu. Mengikut Teori Satu: Jika kita melihat kepada dokumen-dokumen sejarah sewaktu era pemerintahan Rajah Pertama iaitu Rajah James Brooke tiada nama Kuching yang dicatitkan sehinggalah selepas tahun 1872. Ada yang mengatakan bahawa nama Kuching itu sebenarnya berasal daripada satu perkataan yang telah biasa digunakan oleh pembina Empayar Bangsa Eropah suatu masa dahulu iaitu perkataan bahasa Inggeris “COCHIN”. Makna perkataan Cochin itu adalah merujuk kepada pelabuhan. Kerana suatu waktu dahulu Bandar yang mempunyai pelabuhan akan cepat maju dan menjadi nadi kepada pentadbiran pemerintahan jadi penukaran nama kepada Cochin sebagai ibukota Negara Sarawak adalah perlu memandangkan kapasitinya serta kebolehannya serta mempunyai pelabuhan yang besar adalah perlu. Setelah beberapa ketika perkataan Cochin ini telah diresapi dengan dialek masyarakat tempatan yang akhirnya menukarkannya menjadi perkataan yang lebih senang untuk disebut iaitu Kuching. Mengikut Teori Kedua: Ianya adalah sewaktu zaman pemerintahan Negara Sarawak dibawah pemerintahan Keluarga Brooke yang memerintah selama lebih kurang 100 tahun, umum mengetahui bahawa Rajah Kedua iaitu Rajah Charles Brooke adalah antara rajah yang terbaik dalam ketiga-tiga Rajah Putih Negara Sarawak. Kita mengetahui bahawa Rajah Charles Brooke sering melakukan perjalanan jauh dengan belayar ke pedalaman Sarawak ketika itu. Seringkali apabila beliau singgah ke rumah-rumah panjang pedalaman beliau akan memperkenalkan dirinya datang dari Sarawak. Ini sebenarnya tidak membantu beliau untuk cuba berkomunikasi dengan masyarakat pendalaman ketika itu kerana sudah menjadi kebiasaan pada waktu itu setiap individu dikenali melalui tempat tinggalnya dan nama sungai akan menjadi sebutan contohnya dari Sungai Rajang dan sebagainya. Apabila beliau menyatakan Sarawak ianya amat mengelirukan dan akhirnya beliau memperkenalkan dirinya tinggal di Sungai Kuching. Di manakah Sungai Kuching sekarang? Sungai Kuching yang dimaksudkan merupakan satu aliran sungai kecil yang mengalir ke Sungai Sarawak. Ianya adalah aliran sungai kecil yang mengalir melalui beberapa mercu tanda Kuching sekarang iaitu liku-likunya melalui Gereja St. Thomas, Wayang Street, Star Cineplex, Tokong Tua Pek Kong dan akhirnya Muzium Sejarah Cina yang terletak di Tebingan Kuching sekarang. Namun begitu pada tahun 1928, Sungai Kuching sudah tidak wujud lagi kerana ianya telah ditimbus bagi memberi ruang kepada pembangunan Bandar Kuching suatu ketika dahulu. Akhirnya menerusi Teori Ketiga pula ianya berkaitan dengan sejenis haiwan dan juga tumbuh-tumbuhan yang hidup subur di Sungai Kuching. Dikatakan sewaktu dahulu, Sungai Kuching sebenarnya sering terdapat kelibat-kelibat kucing-kucing liar yang datang untuk bermain mahupun meminum air di kawasan sungai tersebut. Disinilah dikatakan banyak terdapat sebuah pohon yang dinamakan pohon Mata Kucing. Mungkin kerana teori ketiga inilah mengapa haiwan Kucing atau Pusak dalam dialek tempatan Sarawak menjadi ikon kepada Bandaraya Kuching sekarang. Inilah secebis sumber informasi daripada Borneo Oracle tentang sejarah asal-usul nama Kuching melalui artikel From Sarawak To Kuching With Love untuk perkongsian pembaca Borneo Oracle sekalian. Walau apa jua sejarah nama asal usul Bandaraya Kuching, ibu negeri Sarawak Bumi Kenyalang ini merupakan salah satu ibukota yang unik kerana Bandaraya Kuching satu-satunya ibukota di Asia Tenggara yang pentadbirannya diuruskan oleh 2 buah majlis berkuasa tempatan yang dinamakan Dewan Bandaraya Kuching Utara dan Majlis Bandaraya Kuching Selatan serta mempunyai 2 Datuk Bandar iatu Datuk Bandar Kuching Utara dan Datuk Bandar Kuching Selatan. Yang pasti Bandaraya Kuching pesat membangun sekarang dan rakyat Sarawak yang berbilang bangsa dan agama hidup rukun damai dengan toleransi yang terbaik yang masih lagi kekal dipertahankan berabad lamanya. Selamat Ulangtahun ke 26 tahun Bandaraya Kuching. Borneo Oracle Kuching, Sarawak

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My life in June - mid year

It has been a while I didn’t update myself. Well, I’ve been very, very busy lately. Whether be it in the office or at home. Weekdays or weekend seems like not enough for me to cover whatever I’ve left out. I’m trying my best to catch up with whatever time I have.

In the office, I don’t even have a spare time like before. Like before means just before my beautiful Angel left the office. Feels like very much handicapped without her in the office. It’s like losing some part of me. No inspiration and no motivation to look for. Everyday is just like just another ordinary day. No adventure. No feeling. No smiles. Nothing. Empty. No soul. All others gave a fake smile. A fake face. There's no heart in them. There's no chemistry with them. I can't sense existence among them. Not like the Angel of my heart before. She always notice me. Even when I'm upset but smiling, she can sense it. She knows if I'm happy, if I'm sad, if I'm down. It's just like having a telepathy conversation with someone out there. Enough of that bullshit.....hahahaha. 

Plus a lot of sickness attacks others too in this month. What to do? This is how working with majority ladies above 30’s. Monthly sickness. But the worst is, there’s also a male that is more sick than the ladies. Working with less staff giving too much pressure to my life. Sometimes, I’m waiting for my boss to act stupidly to me so that I can explode as maximum as I can. But my conscious is still within me. The worst May in my life.

Come June, I always get emotional in the month of June. Emotional doesn’t means it is a sad emotion. It can be a happy emotion too. A lot emotional things in my life happens in June. Why? I also have no idea. But I always suspect that it all happens because of a girl name Jun. Full name Junaidah. I think she’s the reason why always become emotional in June. Who is this Jun? huh…… what can I explain. I believe, she’s my first crush of my heart. Funny heh? What had happen? Nothing. We were too young to understand what is love crush. When I say too young, I mean, really, really young. I just can’t elaborate more on this as this thing happens 35 years ago.

Then one more thing happens in June. My first away from home experience. It was a June intake. This was the first time in my life I’m away from home, furthering my studies up in the northern district. I was on my own. My parents can’t afford to send me more than the airport. It was a very sad moment in my life but in the same time also I feel free. There are no longer parents to nag me around. College. This is place that I learn the fact of life. The place I learn how to survive in this world without money, without family, without morale support and the worst, without guidance. This college life is also the place that I met Azizah for the first time. A girl that changed the whole direction of my life. She’s not that beautiful but she’s GORGEOUS. I just can’t get my eyes off her everytime she’s around. With her fair skin. Beautiful sparkling eyes. Nice lips. Pointing nose. Tall. Perfect body. Bla…bla…bla….she’s not Barbie doll okay. I still remember the first time I saw her. She’s wearing white “baju kurung”, walking slowly towards an empty chair in front of me. Her smile caught my eyes. She said “Hi” to me, and I just smile. No sounds manage to escape from my throat, and guess what. This all happens in the month of June. I tried my best ability, which is sucks to woo her. But her heart is with someone else. I think she's the first girl I ever express my feeling to, and I got rejected on the spot. .... hey wait, isn't Mona was the first? And Aishah was the second. Goshh.... forgotten. But the favorite song "Aku Pun Tahu" from Wings ruled us. 

The lyric: -

"engkau punya cita-cita..... 

aku punya mimpi .....

Dapatkah kita mendirikan

Percantuman mahligai

Cita-cita dan mimpi"

The meaning of this song was so deep that everytime I look back hearing this song, I wished that I can turn back the time, before I met her. I just want to set my goal right. My future would be totally on a different path. I guarantee that. That's why, I said, she changed my whole life path. Totally. And when I met her again now (in Facebook of course), there's a small tiny tiny whisper in my heart said, "Thank God, we are not together". She's holding some high position in the government and me? I'm here. Wish to have a drink with her someday remains buried deep on my heart.

What else happen to me in June?

Got bad news last year that changed the course of my future. Oh ya. Upgrade my old antique IPhone to Samsung Galaxy S4 last year, and this year that fucking bloody heavy phone got hardware problem. Now, it is living with a wire attached 25 hours a day and never reach 100% chargeable percentage. I’m really pissed off. Limiting my connection to the world.

And one last thing but not the least but the most important event this year. 20 years ago, on this date, I got the job that last till today. HAPPY 20^th ANNIVERSARY to me. I know nobody will care but what the heck. I’m celebrating it anywhere. Wish I can bring my Angel for a lunch or the best, a dinner to celebrate this historic moment. But of course, she will turn me down politely. Which I understand why. Probably.

June. A month for Cancer horoscope. The Cancerian woman is sensitive - very sensitive - but not only to her needs, but to the needs of others, making her one of the most sympathetic and caring women of the Zodiac. If you criticize her she may very well take it personally and it may not be forgotten! She is a tidal force of perplexing emotion, and can be stubborn, compliant, furious, and docile, all in the same hour. Sex is a slow, sensual dance with the Cancer woman. She needs to have an emotional connection with her partner. She will trust you to lead and if you unlock the right moves, she can tango with the best of them. Her hidden flamboyance and responsiveness may be surprising, but remember that still waters run deep in your Cancer lover. She loves seduction and sensual fantasies. She enjoys being made love to and is eager to learn. Sex is always attuned with love for her, and bedroom encounters with this water sign are usually pure liquid pleasure. When oh when can I have SEX with her?

Let’s see. I’ve covered 29% of things happened to me in June. And one more thing, it’s Angie’s (mmuahhh...love you) birthday also in this month. And Joanna. And Safarina too. And Naomi, Diana, Mimi and also Amy. Happy birthday belated and in advance to all. SMILE.

Adios.

10 Silap Besar Yang Dilakukan Oleh Isteri Terhadap Suami

Rumahtangga adalah satu bentuk hubungan mesra diantara seorang lelaki dan wanita sebagai suami dan isteri dalam perjalanan menuju kebahagiaan dalam kehidupan dan untuk mendapatkan redha Allah.

Tetapi ramai yang tidak menyedari akan beberapa perkara yang merupakan satu kesilapan besar dilakukan oleh isteri terhadap suami mereka.

Antara kesilapan tersebut adalah seperti berikut:

1. Menuntut keluarga yang ideal dan sempurna

Sebelum menikah, seorang wanita membayangkan pernikahan yang begitu indah, kehidupan yang sangat romantis sebagaimana ia baca dalam novel maupun ia saksikan dalam sinetron-sinetron.

Ia memiliki gambaran yang sangat ideal dari sebuah pernikahan. Kelelahan yang sangat, penat, masalah kewangan, dan segudang masalah di dalam sebuah keluarga luput dari gambaran nya.

Ia hanya membayangkan yang indah-indah dan enak-enak dalam sebuah perkawinan.

Akhirnya, ketika ia harus menghadapi semua itu, ia tidak bersedia. Dia tidak boleh menerima keadaan, hal ini terjadi berlarut-larut, dia selalu saja menuntut suaminya agar keluarga yang mereka bina sesuai dengan gambaran ideal yang senantiasa ia impikan sejak muda.

Seorang wanita yang hendak menikah, alangkah baiknya jika ia melihat lembaga perkawinan dengan pemahaman yang utuh, tidak sepotong-potong, romantika keluarga beserta problematika yang ada di dalamnya.

2. Nusyus (tidak taat kepada suami)

Nusyus adalah sikap membangkang, tidak patuh dan tidak taat kepada suami. Wanita yang melakukan nusyus adalah wanita yang melawan suami, melanggar perintahnya, tidak taat kepadanya, dan tidak ridha pada kedudukan yang Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala telah tetapkan untuknya.

Nusyus memiliki beberapa bentuk, diantaranya adalah:

Menolak ajakan suami ketika mengajaknya ke tempat tidur, dengan terang-terangan maupun secara samar.
Mengkhianati suami, misalnya dengan menjalin hubungan gelap dengan pria lain.
Memasukkan seseorang yang tidak disenangi suami ke dalam rumah
Lalai dalam melayani suami
Mubazir dan menghambur-hamburkan uang pada yang bukan tempatnya
Menyakiti suami dengan tutur kata yang buruk, mencela, dan mengejeknya
Keluar rumah tanpa izin suami
Menyebarkan dan mencela rahasia-rahasia suami.

Seorang istri shalihah akan senantiasa menempatkan ketaatan kepada suami di atas segala-galanya. Tentu saja bukan ketaatan dalam kedurhakaan kepada Allah, karena tidak ada ketaatan dalam maksiat kepada Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala. Ia akan taat kapan pun, dalam situasi apapun, senang maupun susah, lapang maupun sempit, suka ataupun duka.

Ketaatan istri seperti ini sangat besar pengaruhnya dalam menumbuhkan cinta dan memelihara kesetiaan suami.

3. Tidak menyukai keluarga suami

Terkadang seorang istri menginginkan agar seluruh perhatian dan kasih sayang sang suami hanya tercurah pada dirinya. Tak boleh sedikit pun waktu dan perhatian diberikan kepada selainnya. Termasuk juga kepada orang tua suami.

Padahal, di satu sisi, suami harus berbakti dan memuliakan orang tuanya, terlebih ibunya.
Salah satu bentuknya adalah cemburu terhadap ibu mertuanya.

Ia menganggap ibu mertua sebagai pesaing utama dalam mendapatkan cinta, perhatian, dan kasih sayang suami. Terkadang, sebagian istri berani menghina dan melecehkan orang tua suami, bahkan ia tak jarang berusaha merayu suami untuk berbuat durhaka kepada orang tuanya.

Terkadang istri sengaja mencari-cari kesalahan dan kelemahan orang tua dan keluarga suami, atau membesar-besarkan suatu masalah, bahkan tak segan untuk memfitnah keluarga suami.

Ada juga seorang istri yang menuntut suaminya agar lebih menyukai keluarga istri, ia berusaha menjauhkan suami dari keluarganya dengan berbagai cara.

Ikatan pernikahan bukan hanya menyatukan dua insan dalam sebuah lembaga pernikahan, namun juga ‘pernikahan antar keluarga’. Kedua orang tua suami adalah orang tua istri, keluarga suami adalah keluarga istri, demikian sebaliknya. Menjalin hubungan baik dengan keluarga suami merupakan salah satu keharmonisan keluarga. Suami akan merasa tenang dan bahagia jika istrinya mampu memposisikan dirinya dalam kelurga suami. Hal ini akan menambah cinta dan kasih sayang suami.

4. Tidak menjaga penampilan

Terkadang, seorang istri berhias, berdandan, dan mengenakan pakaian yang indah hanya ketika ia keluar rumah, ketika hendak bepergian, menghadiri undangan, ke kantor, mengunjungi saudara maupun teman-temannya, pergi ke tempat perbelanjaan, atau ketika ada acara lainnya di luar rumah.

Keadaan ini sungguh berbalik ketika ia di depan suaminya. Ia tidak peduli dengan tubuhnya yang kotor, cukup hanya mengenakan pakaian seadanya: terkadang kotor, lusuh, dan berbau, rambutnya kusut masai, ia juga hanya mencukupkan dengan aroma dapur yang menyengat.

Jika keadaan ini terus menerus dipelihara oleh istri, jangan heran jika suami tidak betah di rumah, ia lebih suka menghabiskan waktunya di luar ketimbang di rumah. Semestinya, berhiasnya dia lebih ditujukan kepada suami Janganlah keindahan yang telah dianugerahkan oleh Allah diberikan kepada orang lain, padahal suami nya di rumah lebih berhak untuk itu.

5. Kurang berterima kasih

Tidak jarang, seorang suami tidak mampu memenuhi keinginan sang istri. Apa yang diberikan suami jauh dari apa yang ia harapkan. Ia tidak puas dengan apa yang diberikan suami, meskipun suaminya sudah berusaha secara maksimal untuk memenuhi kebutuhan keluarga dan keinginan-keinginan istrinya.

Istri kurang bahkan tidak memiliki rasa terima kasih kepada suaminya. Ia tidak bersyukur atas karunia Allah yang diberikan kepadanya lewat suaminya. Ia senantiasa merasa sempit dan kekurangan. Sifat qona’ah dan ridho terhadap apa yang diberikan Allah kepadanya sangat jauh dari dirinya.

Seorang istri yang shalihah tentunya mampu memahami keterbatasan kemampuan suami. Ia tidak akan membebani suami dengan sesuatu yang tidak mampu dilakukan suami. Ia akan berterima kasih dan mensyukuri apa yang telah diberikan suami. Ia bersyukur atas nikmat yang dikaruniakan Allah kepadanya, dengan bersyukur, insya Allah, nikmat Allah akan bertambah.

“Sesungguhnya jika kamu bersyukur, pasti Kami akan menambah (nikmat) kepadamu, dan jika kamu mengingkari (nikmat-Ku), maka sesungguhnya adzab-Ku sangat pedih.”

6. Mengingkari kebaikan suami

“Wanita merupakan mayoritas penduduk neraka.”

Demikian disampaikan Rasulullah Shallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam setelah shalat gerhana ketika terjadi gerhana matahari.

Ajaib !! wanita sangat dimuliakan di mata Islam, bahkan seorang ibu memperoleh hak untuk dihormati tiga kali lebih besar ketimbang ayah. Sosok yang dimuliakan, namun malah menjadi penghuni mayoritas neraka. Bagaimana ini terjadi?

“Karena kekufuran mereka,” jawab Rasulullah Shallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam ketika para sabahat bertanya mengapa hal itu bisa terjadi. Apakah mereka mengingkari Allah?

Bukan, mereka tidak mengingkari Allah, tapi mereka mengingkari suami dan kebaikan-kebaikan yang telah diperbuat suaminya. Andaikata seorang suami berbuat kebaikan sepanjang masa, kemudian seorang istri melihat sesuatu yang tidak disenanginya dari seorang suami, maka si istri akan mengatakan bahwa ia tidak melihat kebaikan sedikitpun dari suaminya. Demikian penjelasan Rasulullah Shallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam dalam hadits yang diriwayatkan Bukhari (5197).

Mengingkari suami dan kebaikan-kebaikan yang telah dilakukan suami!!

Inilah penyebab banyaknya kaum wanita berada di dalam neraka. Mari kita lihat diri setiap kita, kita saling introspeksi , apa dan bagaimana yang telah kita lakukan kepada suami-suami kita?

Jika kita terbebas dari yang demikian, alhamdulillah. Itulah yang kita harapkan. Berita gembira untukmu wahai saudariku.

Namun jika tidak, kita (sering) mengingkari suami, mengingkari kebaikan-kebaikannya,  maka berhati-hatilah dengan apa yang telah disinyalir oleh Rasulullah Shallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam. Bertobat,  satu-satunya pilihan utuk terhindar dari pedihnya siksa neraka. Selama matahari belum terbit dari barat, atau nafas telah ada di kerongkongan,  masih ada waktu untuk bertobat. Tapi mengapa mesti nanti? Mengapa mesti menunggu sakaratul maut?

Janganlah engkau katakan besok dan besok wahai saudariku; kejarlah ajalmu,  bukankah engkau tidak tahu kapan engkau akan menemui Robb mu?

“Tidaklah seorang isteri yang menyakiti suaminya di dunia, melainkan isterinya (di akhirat kelak): bidadari yang menjadi pasangan suaminya (berkata): “Jangan engkau menyakitinya, kelak kamu dimurkai Allah, seorang suami begimu hanyalah seorang tamu yang bisa segera berpisah dengan kamu menuju kami.” (HR. At Tirmidzi, hasan)

Wahai saudariku, mari kita lihat, apa yang telah kita lakukan selama ini , jangan pernah bosan dan henti untuk introspeksi diri,  jangan sampai apa yang kita lakukan tanpa kita sadari membawa kita kepada neraka, yang kedahsyatannya tentu sudah Engkau ketahui.

Jika suatu saat, muncul sesuatu yang tidak kita sukai dari suami; janganlah kita mengingkari dan melupakan semua kebaikan yang telah suami kita lakukan.

“Maka lihatlah kedudukanmu di sisinya. Sesungguhnya suamimu adalah surga dan nerakamu.” (HR.Ahmad)

7. Mengungkit-ungkit kebaikan

Setiap orang tentunya memiliki kebaikan, tak terkecuali seorang istri. Yang jadi masalah adalah jika seorang istri menyebut kebaikan-kebaikannya di depan suami dalam rangka mengungkit-ungkit kebaikannya semata.
“Hai orang-orang yang beriman, janganlah kamu menghilangkan (pahala) sedekahmu dengan menyebut-nyebutnya dan menyakiti (perasaan si penerima).” [Al Baqarah: 264]

Abu Dzar radhiyallahu ‘Anhu meriwayatkan, bahwasanya Nabi Shallallahu ‘Alaihi wa Sallam bersabda, “Ada tiga kelompok manusia dimana Allah tidak akan berbicara dan tak akan memandang mereka pada hari kiamat. Dia tidak mensucikan mereka dan untuk mereka adzab yang pedih.”

Abu Dzar radhiyallahu ‘anhu berkata, “Rasulullah shallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam mengatakannya sebanyak tiga kali.” Lalu Abu Dzar bertanya, “Siapakah mereka yang rugi itu, wahai Rasulullah?” Beliau menjawab, “Orang yang menjulurkan kain sarungnya ke bawah mata kaki (isbal), orang yang suka mengungkit-ungkit kebaikannya dan orang yang suka bersumpah palsu ketika menjual. ” [HR. Muslim]

8. Sibuk di luar rumah

Seorang istri terkadang memiliki banyak kesibukan di luar rumah. Kesibukan ini tidak ada salahnya, asalkan mendapat izin suami dan tidak sampai mengabaikan tugas dan tanggung jawabnya.

Jangan sampai aktivitas tersebut melalaikan tanggung jawab nya sebagai seorang istri. Jangan sampai amanah yang sudah dipikulnya terabaikan.

Ketika suami pulang dari mencari nafkah, ia mendapati rumah belum beres, cucian masih menumpuk, hidangan belum siap, anak-anak belum mandi, dan lain sebagainya. Jika hni terjadi terus menerus, bisa jadi suami tidak betah di rumah, ia lebih suka menghabiskan waktunya di luar atau di kantor.

9. Cemburu buta

Cemburu merupakan tabiat wanita, ia merupakan suatu ekspresi cinta. Dalam batas-batas tertentu, dapat dikatakan wajar bila seorang istri merasa cemburu dan memendam rasa curiga kepada suami yang jarang berada di rumah. Namun jika rasa cemburu ini berlebihan, melampaui batas, tidak mendasar, dan hanya berasal dari praduga; maka rasa cemburu ini dapat berubah menjadi cemburu yang tercela.

Cemburu yang disyariatkan adalah cemburunya istri terhadap suami karena kemaksiatan yang dilakukannya, misalnya: berzina, mengurangi hak-hak nya, menzhaliminya, atau lebih mendahulukan istri lain ketimbang dirinya. Jika terdapat tanda-tanda yang membenarkan hal ini, maka ini adalah cemburu yang terpuji. Jika hanya dugaan belaka tanpa fakta dan bukti, maka ini adalah cemburu yang tercela.

Jika kecurigaan istri berlebihan, tidak berdasar pada fakta dan bukti, cemburu buta, hal ini tentunya akan mengundang kekesalan dan kejengkelan suami. Ia tidak akan pernah merasa nyaman ketika ada di rumah. Bahkan, tidak menutup kemungkinan, kejengkelannya akan dilampiaskan dengan cara melakukan apa yang disangkakan istri kepada dirinya.

10. Kurang menjaga perasaan suami

Kepekaan suami maupun istri terhadap perasaan pasangannya sangat diperlukan untuk menghindari terjadinya konflik, kesalahpahaman, dan ketersinggungan.

Seorang istri hendaknya senantiasa berhati-hati dalam setiap ucapan dan perbuatannya agar tidak menyakiti perasaan suami, ia mampu menjaga lisannya dari kebiasaan mencaci, berkata keras, dan mengkritik dengan cara memojokkan. Istri selalu berusaha untuk menampakkan wajah yang ramah, menyenangkan, tidak bermuka masam, dan menyejukkan ketika dipandang suaminya.

Demikian beberapa kesalahan-kesalahan istri yang terkadang dilakukan kepada suami yang seyogyanya kita hindari agar suami semakin sayang pada setiap istri. Semoga keluarga kita menjadi keluarga yang sakinah, mawadah, warohmah.

Aamiiin.

Semoga bermanfaat

Journey to the past.....continue

It is time to go home now. Let's drive back through another historical venues and journey.

It began with exiting one of the busiest street and one of the oldest street in the city. Avoiding that, I always drive the opposite direction, not really opposite but just avoiding the congested Padungan Road and via Central road. Why is it called Central Road? I have no idea.  On the right, located a Fire & Rescue Department. The building itself was built next to an old Padungan wet market which is now no where can be seen. Demolished once it was moved to Pasir Puteh area. But the clock tower which marks the location is still standing strong. Next what we can see is a lot of flats, built to accomodate government servants, mostly local council staff but now it is a public residence. Not much historical monument we can see along Central Road but once you reach the foothill of Reservoir Park (now known as Taman Budaya), this is where my childhood memories visualized again.

The high rise of Civic Centre building which was built on a golf course, Amphitheater, also once a golf course. Reservoir lake, the one and only lake used to store water during James Brooke era. But now, it is just a recreational place. I'm still do my exercise here now and then when I have the time. Morning especially and on weekends. While walking for miles, I always imagine that AN is walking with me. We talk and talk and talk for hours, leaving the world behind us. Holding hands. Look into each others eyes with her beautiful smile and doosshhhhh......I wake up. Hahahaah.....imagination going wild 😆. Luckily that my imagination don't brings us to remote location in the park and make love ..... hey!! Why not? It's just imagination anyhow 😛. Jangan marah ye sayang.

Moving on is the corner of Sarawak museum Garden. Another childhood playground. There was an incident here last time when I was young, in my primary school time if I'm not mistaken, being bullied by a group of teenagers.  I was with my friends during that time but luckily, we don't have any cash with us and they leave us alone after they punch my friend in the stomach.  We just left with relieved. Down the road, it's the traffic light in front of RTM again and my historical journey ends here.

Adios. Mmmuuaahhhh. ...AN (.....again)

Journey to the past, daily

Never thought of writing another blog this month but driving pass my beautiful city makes me so eager to write. Got to squeeze some moment to write. Expressing my heart out. LOVE YOU "A N" . Anyway,  this time I want to write a short but my beautiful wonderful journey to my work place, daily. Hahahaha. You read it right.  Wonderful and historical journey daily throughout my route. Come. Let me take you there.

The journey started from my house.  It's a very old housing estate. Age about more than 30 years.  I can still remember when I was a kid,  I always dream to have a house in this area. I pass by this area every day on the way to school, car pooling my auntie's car with my cousins. It was and still such a beautiful housing area, built with bricks. 35 years ago,  most of the houses were built with wood. I still can't believe it that I finally own a house in this area. My first historical place. Driving down to town, I will pass by one of the oldest bridge in the city. The Satok Bridge. There used to be a suspension bridge in this area on the right and also a ferry terminal on the left. I ever had a chance to experience riding the ferry and also walked on the suspension bridge. That was a sweet memories. Now, the suspension bridge has collapse and the ferry services was terminated.

It is a wonderful sight daily watching the Sarawak river from the top of the bridge. I never miss to have a glance at the river everyday. High tide. Low tide. It is beautiful. Afer the bridge located one of city's oldest village,  Kampung Kulas. It is sad to see the village is in the midst of dissapering. A lot of houses already demolished in the name of development. There was a semi D house that always attracted me before since I was in kindy, and it is no longer around. Same goes to a tennis courts. It's gone. The Malay settlement in this area is losing its place. Sad but true.

Going up the flyover,  on the right, I always notice this under construction building. The Rumah Dayak.  My childhood playground. There use to be a badminton court there. I always play there with my fellow friends. I lost count on how many years already that building is under construction. Until today,  it is still not fully completed. From far you can see Civic Centre (I'll come to that on the way home later in my next blog). On the left,  is Mahkamah Syariah building.  I call it as an upside down pyramid. Behind it, is Wisma Hopoh. A place that full with sweet and bitter memory for me. Shame to say the bitter but the sweet memory is nice.  Used to buy KFC chicken at Rm1.20 a piece there. It's not easy to get that much money when I was a teenager. With a 20 cents pocket money a day, just imagine how long I have to save fir a piece of fried chicken? Saving10 cents a day also seems impossible. Driving straight along this road, on the left is RTM. Not so much story on RTM but the side walk next to RTM is full with unforgettable memory. If I'm not mistaken,  when I was at the age of 5 or 6, I got lost here. It happened due to following friends wondering around from the police quarters to pangkalan batu (a sampan jetty), now waterfront,  I was left behind by my friends and I have to find my way back to home.  I still remember the stonewall next to Dewan TAR (museum) and also at Padang Central fountain (now Padang Merdeka and the fountain is gone) that guide me back to the traffic light. I remembered the route because my parents used to bring us to Padang Central whenever there is a celebration there. This is where as far as I can remember. The rest is just very blur. Maybe I was picked up by people or maybe I walked home safely but I remembered that I was beaten by my mother very badly that night.

Museum Sarawak is the greatest place on earth. Maybe a lot of Kuchingnites don't realize it but for me it is. My grandfather used to work here. He ever brought me to his work place, riding on his bicycle from the nearby village and I'm always very proud with his masterpiece in the museum display. I never told this to my wife nor my children. It is a very touching moment for me. I like to visit the museum every now and then. My wife on the other hand don't like it very much. The place give her the creep. My children started to like the place.

Turning to Padang Merdeka,  or famously known as Padang Central, is another historical place in Kuching.  The place used to have a fountain and heroes Memorial. Now it's only an empty field with occasionally some government event held on it. Turning left, you'll see a lot of historical buildings. Central Police station. Pejabat Residen. Yayasan Sarawak. Poliklinik Kerajaan. And shops that aged. From here it is all down the memory lane. Electra House, the first biggest shopping complex in Kuching.  Open Air market.  You can get the best crunch mixed ice (ABC) drinks in the city. Rojak Sotong. Noodles (non halal). The market itself was the first fire brigade station in Kuching. The place also was the city's bus terminal.  Every single resident must have once in their lifetime step their foot here. This is the place where most of old activities happen.  Traders. Customers. Wet goods. Dry goods. Spices. Wooing girls. All happened here. Ships will dock here for trading. Here is also the place where ships were built. Brooke Dockyard situated only a few meters from open air market. Here also the place where used to be Sarawak first and only train started. Behind all the building here,  situated a cinema, Cathay. I believe every single young resident ever enter this cinema. I remember,  the ticket used to be only 50 cents, front row....hahaha. No 3D.

Moving forward following the traffic flow,  there's a row of shophouses, old fashion. This is the famous Gambier Street, where all type of spices and food can easily be found.  Spices traders mostly is an Indian Muslim.  Hidden behind this shophouses located the oldest mosque in Kuching.  We call it as Masjid Tambi. Real name is Masjid Bandar Kuching. One have to look carefully to find this place. On this street used to locate a wet market. But now it was demolished to give way to Kuching waterfront extension. Here also lies one of the first shopping complex. It was named Pasaraya Pertama. Also demolished. Just across the river,  one can see clearly Astana where Head of State stays. Used to be James Brooke Palace. Waterfront extension beautifies the city centre of attraction for tourist. We can see tourist scrolling the downtown daily as early as 7 in the morning.  This is the place I do my weekend morning walk. I love seeing the river flows relentlessly. It is such a calm feeling. Always dream that one day,  I'll have a chance to walk this beautiful place with you someday. Just a walk. No talking. No conversation. Just hold each other hand and walk. ... ok. Enough the bullshit....dreamer.

Further up, right at the end of Gambier Street,  you'll find a monument,  marks the administration of the town hundred of years ago. We call it as Old Court House. This is where the town Court House used to locate before moved to a new place across the river. This building is the heritage of the city. There was a rumors years ago saying that the government wants to demolished the building but because of objection by the people,  the plan was canceled and the building was given a face lift. Now it station the Tourism Board and some restaurants. Opposite the court house, there's a small fort we call it a the Square Tower. A place where prisoners were held before execution during Brookes era. Straight ahead,  Main Bazaar. Why main?  This is the earliest trading point and one of the busiest place 100 of years ago.  The stretch of this Waterfront roads (from Lorong Dock to Leboh Java to Gambier Street and Main Bazaar) was and still a Centre of attraction to Kuching people. Main Bazaar, row of shophouses, now full with souvenir shops. The five foot way is also busy with petty traders activities.  Selling "kek lapis" and gambier is the most famous.  Kek Lapis (Layered cake) is easily found here with lots of choices. Gambir Sarawak is very famous among tourist, male especially.  Most of the usage of this Gambir Sarawak is to stay longer and harder during sex.  It can prolong the climax.  Try it and I'm sure your partner filled with satisfaction. Careful on tips how to use it. Right at the end of Main Bazaar Street,  there's an old temple, the famous Tua Pek Kong. The origin of why all Chinese Temple is called as Topekong by locals.

From here we entering another tourist attraction centre. The great statue of Cats. It welcomes you to the place we call as Golden Triangle.  Why?  I have no idea. All the 5 stars hotel located in this area and just behind or not far from the place, there's a very famous and historical road, the Padungan Road or famously known as Padungan area. It is actually a commercial area with rows of double stories shophouses. Majority the traders here are Chinese. They have been dominating this area since James Brooke era. Buildings here can be recorded as old as hundred years. What can we found here? Basically everything. I mean everything. You name it, they got it but of course,  rare item is not easy to look for. Just before the roudabout, there stands a big white cat statue. The cat that always change its costume following the religious festival all year round. Just across the road, there's a Fire Station.  This is where the wet market in Padungan used to be but wad demolished for unknown reason.  The monument, clock tower is still there, less it's plaque.

And there you go. I've reach my office. The tall building just next to the roundabout. Going home will be another different route and another different historical adventure of my beloved city.

Adios.

YEAR OF WOODEN HORSE

Expert Sherwin Ng shares with Tan Choe Choe his forecast for the year of the Wooden Horse

What’s in store for 2014?

In the year of the Wood Horse, the most dominant element is Fire. Fire element industries, therefore, will generally do well. These industries include oil and gas, airlines, restaurants, IT, electronics, metaphysics, and spiritual studies. With Fire being extremely prosperous, it does indicate a general impatience, volatility, and unrest in the minds of people.

In the year’s birth chart, the element of Water is missing, indicating a lack of ideas and deeper thoughts. Put these two situations together, we will see a tendency for more fighting and quarrels across the world. Fire-related natural disasters are also to be expected, such as volcano eruptions, earthquakes, and also forest fires.

The second most prominent element of the year is Wood. Therefore, Wood industries, such as education, printing, fashion, herbs and botany, are expected to continue flourishing.

The Earth element, in the presence of extreme Fire, starts to harden. This indicates obstructions and lethargy in Earth industries, such as property and real estate.

The Metal element, which is weak in the year’s birth chart, also indicates challenges in sectors such as finance, the auto industry, and machinery. Changes in the legal system and financial trends are to be expected when strong Fire melts Metal. However, with the Water element missing, a lot of big decisions will be made based on emotions and fear, rather than wisdom and intelligent reasoning. The year will also see Water-related industries, such as tourism, travel, and fishery, slowing down.

Feng Shui for the Year

The danger zone for the year is in the Northwest sector. You can check this no-touch zone by using a compass and measuring it from the centre of your home or office.
This sector should not be renovated or “activated” with even as simple an act as nailing from February 4 onwards until the end of the Wooden Horse year. In short, it should be largely left alone, with little or no activities held in this sector because activating this sector will trigger negative Qi that will bring about possible accidents and injuries.
The Wealth Star of the year is in the South. Using this sector as your bedroom or office room can bring about financial opportunities, as well as gradual career advancement.
The most positive sector for the year is actually the Southwest sector, where the One White Noble Star and the Sun Star are present. Those who already have a Southwest sector door can expect financial increase, as well as meet extremely helpful people this year. You can choose to activate this sector of the building with a water feature that is gentle-moving, but of substantial size. The constant movement of water activates the positive Qi of the Stars here.
Meanwhile, the Star of Power and Authority resides in the West sector. Activating this sector will bring about recognition and opportunities for career advancement.

Welcoming the God of Wealth

Just a little after midnight on the first day of Chinese New Year (Jan 31, 2014), at precisely 12.15am, is an extremely auspicious time, based on the configuration of stars affecting Earth at that moment.

There are three notable stars you can tune into to get the maximum positive effects to kick-start your new year. They are the Wealth Star, which is also known as the proverbial God of Wealth, the Happiness Star, and the Nobility Star.
For those who wish to skip the ceremonies and cultural aspect, all you really need is to light a nice candle and have a bowl of water in front of you. Sit facing the direction you require, relax your breathing, and make a wish or prayer for what you want.

The Wealth Star resides in the Northwest, so you need to face this direction that night to manifest and wish for wealth-related pursuits, business opportunities, and financial growth. For relationships and personal happiness, the Happiness Star is in the South, so for those looking for that special someone, make a wish in this direction. Lastly, the Nobility Star, for those seeking help and guidance, lies in the East.

Good Dates to Start Work

Feb 4 (5th Day of CNY) Best hour — 9am (not suitable for those born in the year of the Rat)
Feb 10 (11th Day of CNY) Best hour — 9am (not suitable for those born in the year of the Horse)
Feb 8 (9th Day of CNY) Best hour — 9am (not suitable for those born in the year of the Dragon)

Top 3 Positive Animal Signs of 2014

1. Goat [1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003]
The Goat constellation contains the Sun Star this year, indicative of fame, financial opportunities and reputation increase. The Sun Star also helps dissolve any problems, and generally attracts the right people and enhances decision making. For those born in the month of the Goat (July 7 - Aug 6), expect new career opportunities or a career promotion. The Sun Star favours the bold, therefore be more active in taking risks this year. For those born in the hour of the Goat (1pm - 3pm), you are affected by the Sky Emptiness Star, which denotes loneliness, and attachment to past lonely experiences. As such, it is wise to not spend too much time alone and seek out your friends — go to parties! This is also not the best star for new intimate relationships.

2. Rabbit [1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011]
The Rabbit constellation contains the Sky Happiness Star, Fortune Noble Star, Heavenly Noble Star and the Prosperity Star. For those born in the year of the Rabbit, it is a year for building relationships, networking, and exchanging favours. With the effects of the many positive stars, people will find you more attractive, approachable, and easy to work with. Therefore, expect more opportunities, as well as offers for joint ventures, partnerships and collaborations. This is especially true for those born in the month of the Rabbit (March 6 - April 4). In terms of personal relationships, Rabbits will enjoy deeper and more meaningful ones. For those born in the hour of the Rabbit (5am - 7am), capitalise on your creative ideas and marketing plans. The only slight drawback comes from two negative Stars — the Salty Pool and the Twisted Tongue — which indicates some back-stabbing and envy from insignificant others.

3. Ox [1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009]
The Ox Palace contains the Emperor Star, and the Dragon Noble Star. This is an extremely powerful combination that, once again, dissolves all problems and difficult situations. This also means that it is the perfect year for those born in the year of the Ox to sort out old issues or repair relationships. For those born in the month of the Ox (Jan 6 - Feb 3), they can also expect positive career growth, new opportunities, and a helping hand from those around them. Remember: ask and you shall receive. Even in terms of relationships, you are expected to be proactive. Take the first step and make things happen. Towards the middle of the year, some minor obstacles and delays are to be expected, but these are challenges that should not be too difficult for the Ox to surmount. For those born in the hour of the Ox (1am - 3pm), you may feel compelled towards perfectionism and correcting others, especially those around you, who may find this slightly annoying.

Top 3 Most Challenged Animal Signs for 2014

1. Tiger [1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010]
The Tiger constellation contains zero positive Stars, and a host of negative Stars, such as the White Tiger, Earth Killings, and Greater Killings. Therefore, this is a year of caution, with a focus on health and personal well-being. Stay put, maintain a low profile, maintain the status quo. This is not the right time for big projects, changing jobs, or starting a new business. This includes not only those born in the Tiger year, but also those born in the Tiger month (Feb 4 - March 5), and Tiger hour (3am - 5am). Go for a thorough medical check-up, with a focus on the spine, the heart, or the head. Obviously, it’s also not a fantastic year for relationships, so remember to stay out of any dramatic situations, and exercise your right to remain silent.

2. Rat [1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008]
The Rat constellation is also occupied by a host of negative Stars, such as the Sky Cry, Great Consumer, Calamity Killings, and the Fence. Also being in direct opposition to the year of the Horse, you will find that the people around you and your working environment seem to be against you. Stay calm and don’t react with anger. This also affects those born in the month of the Rat (Dec 7 - Jan 5), or the Rat hour (11pm - 1am). This is a good year to meditate, learn yoga, and basically reflect and restructure your personal life and goals. Those born in the Rat hour may also fall into escapism tendencies and indulge in relationships, food, or other substances. Always remember, stay practical and stay realistic. The Great Consumer Star indicates unexpected expenditures, so it would be wise to budget your expenses carefully.

3. Monkey [1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004]
For those born in the year of Monkey, you have one positive Star, which is the Sky Horse Star. This is helpful for travelling to seek new opportunities, or for those in sales, which require a lot of moving around. In fact, those born in the month of the Monkey (Aug 7 - Sep 7), should explore opportunities from afar, or change locations. The negative Stars present are the Solitary Loneliness, Funeral Door, and Earth Funeral. These three indicate a less ideal health condition and also a slight sense of depression. For those born in the hour of the Monkey (3pm - 5pm), avoid attending any funerals or hospital visits this year, due to your weaker immune system. Relationship-wise, it is considered unstable due to the Sky Horse Star.

The Remaining Animals (In no particular order)

Horse [1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002]
In the year of the Horse, the Horse itself doesn’t do too badly, despite having the Self-Punishment Formation (beware of self-sabotaging behaviour, or developing new bad habits such as smoking, gambling or drinking). With the presence of the Golden Lock Star, supported by the General Star, overall financial gain and career improvement can be expected. This especially applies to those being employed to others or those climbing the corporate ladder. The effects are doubled for those born in the month of the Horse (June 6 - July 6). Those born in the hour of the Horse (11am - 1pm), are affected by the Triple Punishment Star, the Hidden Corpse, and the Sword Edge, which indicates miscommunication and arguments with significant others and family. Be careful of saying things you don’t mean. Healthwise, it is also not the best time to try out extreme sports, such as bungee jumping or rock climbing.

Rooster [1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005]
Those born in the year of the Rooster can expect a fantastic financial year, making this a good year for investments as well, due to the Moon Star, which is one of the major Wealth Stars in astrology. There will also be help or useful advice from females. The effects are doubled for those born in the month of the Rooster (Sept 8 - Oct 7). The Red Matchmaker Star also makes it a wonderful relationship year, especially for those seeking new relationships. Generally, the people you meet are positive minded and sincere. Have fun and mingle! Healthwise, the Goat Blade Star indicates injury and problems with the knees or feet. Be extra careful while jogging or even walking, especially in the month of March and September. This is especially true for those born in the hour of the Rooster (5pm - 7pm).

Dog [1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006]
The Dog constellation contains the positive Stars of Earth Relief, Elegant Seal, and National Treasure. Overall career and finances will see positive improvements, especially for those in the creative industries. With the presence of the Five Ghost Star and the Officer Talisman Star, be mindful of legal problems or fines. This is also true for those born in the month of the Dog (Oct 8 - Nov 6), or the hour of the dog (7pm - 9pm). Relationship-wise, things may not go as smoothly. However, it is a good year for self-improvement and cultivation.

Pig [1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007]
For those born in the year of Pig, the Monthly Noble Star ensures that you get the help that you need throughout the year. Generally, things will be smooth and not too stressful. The Lesser Consumer Star indicates sudden expenditures, so what you can do at the start of the year is to make a list of the things that you need to buy — and go get them. For those born in the hour of the Pig (9pm - 11pm), you will be more affected by the Death Talisman Star, which indicates a less than ideal health condition and lower energy levels. Remember to eat right and exercise. Relationship-wise, for the Pig, is a rather stable year.

Dragon [1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012]
Those born in the year of the Dragon can expect to meet the right people and to be at the right place at the right time. They are affected by the Sky Relief Star and the Relief God Star. Both are extremely useful for problem-solving and getting help from others. Relationship-wise, the Loneliness Star and the Leopard Tail Star indicate a volatile temperament, which will affect communication and cause misunderstandings. For this year, if you have nothing nice to say, it is better not to say anything. Healthwise, we have the Blood Knife, Sky Dog and the Sinking Star, which indicates lethargy and a sluggish digestive system. But do also take note that with the presence of the two powerful positive Stars, any health problems can be fixed once and for all this year! This is especially true for those born in the hour of the Dragon (7am - 9am).

Snake [1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013]
Those born in the year of the Snake are governed by the Literary Star, which is excellent for those in the academic or writing industries. The Death God Star brings a tendency to overwork, jeopardising your health. Remember to take a break when you need it, despite your creative juices constantly flowing. The Illness Talisman Star in your constellation generally suppresses the immune system, especially for those born in the hour of the Snake (9am - 11am). Relationship-wise, there are no big changes, but with the presence of the Literary Star, expect to meet more interesting and diverse personalities.

Read more: 2014: The Year of the Wooden Horse - General - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/nation/general/2014-the-year-of-the-wooden-horse-1.471432#ixzz2rpmRnfRJ

Culture & Religion - Don't get confuse.

SEREMBAN: It has been almost 30 years since she converted to Islam, but this has not stopped Sharina Yap Abdullah from celebrating Chinese New Year.
The 55-year-old makes it a point to celebrate the New Year with her extended family annually. Sharina converted to Islam in 1985 and married businessman Shahrul Alias, 66, in the same year.
"Although I am not able to partake in feasts like I used to do in my childhood days, I still participate in the big family gatherings at my late father's house.
"When we were younger, Chinese New Year was all about collecting ang pow, lion dances and reunion dinners, but as we grew older, we looked forward to meeting our family members," she told the New Sunday Times at her house in Panchor Jaya here yesterday.
Sharina said unlike some converts who had problems with their families, she was lucky as her family was open to her decision.
"Even though my parents have died, my relationship with my siblings is strong. We are a close-knit family and I have never felt isolated, despite practising a different faith.
"My siblings use another set of utensils to cook for me and my family during Chinese New Year celebrations and other occasions."
Sharina said her extended family members would offer her only canned or packet drinks when she visited them on the eve of Chinese New Year.
The mother of three said she always reminded her two sons, aged 28 and 25, and daughter, 23, to retain the culture of visiting Chinese relatives, especially on New Year's Eve.
"I encourage them to attend gatherings, even if my husband and I cannot make it, to familiarise themselves with the culture.
"It is sad to see that nowadays, people prefer to hold reunions at swanky restaurants instead of hosting at home."

Read more: Being Muslim no barrier to celebrating - General - New Straits Times http://www.nst.com.my/nation/general/being-muslim-no-barrier-to-celebrating-1.470605#ixzz2rpkXFAXT

P/s: Something that you should not mix, religion & culture. As long as the culture is no against religion's teaching, go ahead to keep it.