Bad Translation!

One of the things an author needs to get his/her ideas spread and accepted by people in different parts of the world is good translators. Eligible translators convey the writer’s ideas precisely and as comprehensive as it can be in order to have others understand the intentions of the writer. The most important task for a translator is to have the readers understand the text and ideas the way the writer intends it to be.

Problems arise when a translator is not eligible of translating a certain text, making the readers even more confused rather than grasp the essence of the writer’s ideas. This is true in the case of several books on contemporary philosophy in Indonesia.

Take the example of Jean Baudrillard’s Simulacra and Simulation, for instance. This book has been translated and published by LKiS in Jogjakarta several years ago, with the title Galaksi Simulakra. Not only that the topic discussed in this book is difficult to comprehend, but the translator and editor themselves did not make it any easier for the readers to understand it! Upon reading the translated book, a reader would put it down and browse in the internet to find the real (English or French) copy. The translation simply doesn’t seem to translate the idea!

We need eligible translators to help us readers – academic readers, in particular – gain broader knowledge by studying other people’s ideas and way of thinking. Translators, editors, and publishers should always be wary about launching a book that really influences people’s mind. We wouldn’t want bad translation get mixed up with misunderstanding and miscomprehension, now, would we?

Teachers: Shadows behind Greatness

DR. Reynold Kasali invited his former school teacher to his inauguration several weeks ago. The elderly woman shed tears when she witnessed her ex-student gave speech in front of hundreds of scholars and academicians. Never had she thought that the naughty little boy she used to teach decades ago would one day rise as one of great thinkers and public figures in this country.

What DR. Kasali did was worthy of praise. He remembered and appreciated the person who first taught him the very basic knowledge – without whom he wouldn’t be the man he is at present. But most of the time, teachers simply live out their days as shadows behind the greatness of others: students they used to teach and educate. The boys and girls grow up, fulfilling their destinies in the world, become great and successful – but the teachers are forgotten. Their existence in the students’ lives seems to evaporate along with time, as they continue their routines – returning to the same desks at the same schools, teaching the same old subjects.

How often do we remember our teachers, who usher us into the world of future success, while they remain in the same old cabin in the corner of the universe?

As we come to realize it, let’s remember that we are forever indebted to our teachers. Let’s show them our concern and appreciation for what they have done and are still doing. Keep in touch with the shadows – without them, we cannot ever stand on the stage of the world.

How to Study Philosophy without Getting A Bang on the Head

Studying philosophy is probably one thing most people won’t even imagine doing. But when you are students of a social, cultural or philosophy department, this is a compulsory subject to take. It is part of social science to understand world ideas and world thinkers. Every period of time is marked with a specific way of thinking set by a group of “great minds” to represent the whole society.

No matter how “sickening” the subject might be to social science students, they still have to go through it and learn – at the very least – the basic structures of mind and philosophy that shape our world the way it is.

Anyway… why is philosophy so terrifying to many college students?

Probably it’s because this subject don’t simply teach us things. It digs into our brains and sometimes breaks down the values and ideas we have believed for ages. Who would want to study the ideas of Nietzsche, the atheist, who declared that “God is dead” when we are devout believers in God? Who would want to explore Schelling’s antrophomorphism while we do not believe in – or even reject the idea of – an animistic universe? Who would want to understand Derrida’s deconstruction theory whereas we believe in one solid construction on which our entire life is founded?

College students hate taking philosophy because they are afraid to believe in things they are not supposed to believe. They are anxious about undergoing clashes of ideas in their heads. They worry about turning into psychos.

But I have had a great lecturer on philosophy in campus, who gave his students a tip on studying philosophy without the fear of getting a bang on the head that usher them into a mental ward. He said, “When you want to study someone else’s idea, first open in your mind a blank new sheet of paper.”

Alright… imagine your mind like a book. You’ve got your principles of life that contains the values you believe in and the faith you’re holding on to. You’ve got religion, integrity, social norms, values and codes of ethics written in one page of the book. Now, turn that page and open a new, blank one.

There is nothing in this page… not a single dot of ink. Studying other people’s ideas is like writing on that blank page, filling it up with the thoughts of world thinkers without needing to wipe out your own beliefs or write a jumbled message on your personal page. You see?

They are written on different pages!

And when it comes to studying another philosopher, all you need to do is – once again – open another blank page.

In the end, you’ll end up with a book that is rich with understanding and wisdom of all ages, written and kept in the depth of your mind – and still keep your beliefs and values unmarred by other people’s influences.

Of course, there are times when you do agree with some philosophers’ ideas and decided to adopt those ways of thinking into your own. In that case, you add new values into your personal page. And, when you do, you’ll suddenly realize how rich and flexible your mind has grown in the course of time.

Let’s be open to new ideas. Turn a new, blank sheet of paper today!

Keats, Nechayev, and Jesus Christ

The Nineteenth Century was the age of radical thinkers in Europe. In politics as well as in literature, we find young radicals storming into the world with revolutionary ideas. It was no wonder: France was just liberated from tyranny and the classical era in Britain was coming to an end – replaced by the romantic period which opposed nearly every single value of classicism.

They had Keats who claimed that the “chameleon” poet has no self. It is not itself. It keeps on filling in some other bodies and rejoices at being an Imogen as much as becoming an Iago. The poet is so absorbed in poetry itself, that he/she loses all aspects of self-ness. He/She is the poem, the character, the story, the world he/she creates. There is no artist and no audience. There is only Art. Art for art’s sake, the romantic poets would say of their time.

In politics, they had Nechayev – a disciple of Karl Marx and conspirator in the assassination of Czar Alexander II – who wrote, “The revolutionary man has no personal interests, no business affairs, no emotions, no attachments, no property and no name. Everything in him is wholly absorbed in the single thought and the single passion for revolution.”

Keats’ aim was much too ideal, and Nechayev’s motives were much too blinded by “revolutionary passion.” But… what do these two men had in common as representations of their era, aside from radicalism?

They had got passion, integrity and single-mindedness in defending what they believe as true. They sacrificed themselves, their lives and future for the sake of something much greater than themselves. They were the kind that moved the earth and set the world unto a new direction. They are called “revolutionists.”

Nonetheless, if every man is to be like Keats, society will lose its meaning. Humanity will be robbed of its vibrant colors – absorbed in one plain, lofty idea. And if passion for reformation is not stabilized and controlled – as in the case of Nechayev – many others will suffer. The bombings in Bali and Jakarta are simply examples of “passion – out of control.”

Keats was vain and Nechayev lost. But pure and upright passion should focus our aim into goodness and justice the way God desires – not what ourselves, or our leaders do. Men are finite. God is infinite.

“Anyone who does not carry his cross and follow Me, cannot be My disciple,” Jesus said.

Carrying the cross, denying our selves and focusing only on the will of the Master are the motivation and aim for those who desire the ultimate good of all man. How can we possibly stray and work in vain if our eyes are fixed on God, to do what is pleasant in His eyes?

This is true passion, integrity, and single-mindedness.

It is in God’s love.

It’s in the cross of Christ.

His sacrifice changed the world.

Is there any revolutionary leader greater than Him?

MP5/MP6 Digital Video Players from Alnect Computer

The growth of information and technology seems to move at top speed nowadays. Nearly a decade ago, people were thrilled at the rise of MP3 which enabled them to store up to hundreds of songs in a single piece of disc. It was a giant leap after years upon years having to cope with limitations of cassettes and compact discs. Then, a few years ago, we were pleased to find the upgraded version of MP3 which gave access to even greater storage: the MP4.

These days, digital technology ushers in the next generation of media players: the MP5/MP6 Digital Video Players. These gadgets allow us, users, not only to enjoy audio files, but view videos as well.

Below are two items and options from the latest trend in MP5/MP6.

Advance MP6 Video Player ME 1 (above) offers us 4 GB capacity. It’s got a wide 3.5” screen and 2.0 MP integrated camera to give us greater ease in viewing video files, taking pictures and recording. Plus, this gadget allows us to record television broadcasts via TV-In feature. This elegant and sporty MP6 Video Player comes in black semi-rubber (front) and stylish silvery metal (back) that weighs 1,000 grams with affordable price: only 875,000 IDR – best offer from Alnect Computer.

(Product code: 221844)

Alnect Webstore also provides another option in MP5/MP6 Digital Video Players with even more affordable price: Se-Yi MP5 Video Player PMP 2810 (below). With similar weight compared to Advance MP6 Video Player ME 1, this gadget provides 2 GB capacity and 3.0” screen. It is packed in glossy plastic material (front) and sleek light metal (back). The unique feature it offers is in the application: though displayed vertically, Se-Yi MP5 Video Player PMP 2810 is positioned horizontally when played. Price is set at 625,000 IDR.

(Product code: 222905)

Interesting offers, won’t you say? Visit Alnect Computer now for further details on products information and purchase!

Frank Herbert's DUNE: The Future of Our Earth?

One of the science fictions that really give me the shudder is Frank Herbert’s Dune. I shiver not because of what the book exposes, but the possibility that the fiction of this story might one day become real in our own world.

Paul Atreides was the heir of the Atreides dynasty, a highly honored clan in the universe. At 17, he and his parents moved to the planet Arrakis, the home of spice and the driest place in the galaxy. In this universe, spice is the means of transaction, a sort of “money” or “foreign exchange” as we may put it in our word. Whoever controls Arrakis controls the universe. But, the natives of Arrakis themselves are wretched people, scorched by the sun and lived in dunes – forever treasuring a drop of water like precious diamond.

There was an instance where Paul’s would-be mistress, Chani, asked him what his home planet was like. Paul explained of springs, streams, rivers and oceans – things she had never heard, never seen, and never imagined – and her heart melt with longing for such beautiful a place.

It is a wonderful and very complicated work, but the thing that stabs me most is the probability that one day, our beloved Earth will turn out exactly like Arrakis! Alvin Toffler, the futuristic scientist, once predicted that in the age to come, people won’t be fighting and struggling for solid gold or black gold (petroleum), but for “blue gold” – WATER! There will come a day when water becomes so rare, mankind will prize it like prizing pure gold!

The signs of this occurrence have begun taking place in our day. People start having difficulty getting clean water for their daily needs. Some springs have dried up. The oceans are polluted and contaminated. Environmentalists shout warnings against water contamination.

Has anyone taken heed?

If we continue taking these environmental problems for granted, it is not impossible that in the near future we shall be craving for clean water and won’t be able to find it! Will we rather let our next generations living in a planet like Arrakis, the center of the universe yet the most wretched planet in the galaxy – a place where its inhabitants would give away anything in exchange for water supply?

Save our planet! Love our forest! Be kind to nature!

Children's Hobby vs. Parents' Ambition

Maria used to dream of becoming a ballerina. There was a dance studio nearby her house. She loved to sit and peep from the window every afternoon after school, just to see those beautiful Dutch girls practiced accompanied by piano. How she wanted to wear the tutu and join them in the dance, performing in city halls and receiving applause from the audience!

But she couldn’t. Ballet was for the dominating class in her time. In those days, it would mean the wealthy descendants of the former invaders – the Dutch. She was a native, a low class member of the society. And she was poor.

But her dream lived on. Decades afterward, she put her daughter through ballet lessons to make her live her mother’s dream.

Was what Maria doing wrong? It’s difficult to answer.

Sometimes, we parents simply and without awareness “use” our children for our personal interests. The above example is not the only case. Some parents sort of “misuse” their children’s hobby and talent as means to gain fame and satisfy their own ambition.

Some children love playing music, some others love sports. It is worth noting that they are doing these activities because they love them. It is part of their natural process as children, to discover their abilities and talents – to find out their strength and build their character – to become who and what they are meant to become. Not what their parents want them to become!

When parents begin interfering and pouring their ambition – even by arguing that it’s “for the children’s future” – into the children’s interests, then the young are no longer doing it for the sake of childhood pleasure. Such motivation from parents urges children to grow competitive and mars their childhood with selfish ambition. There is no more love and pleasure in what they are doing. It is rather unfair for the young, not to live a life of their own.

I believe it is best to let children grow as naturally as they can be. Giving support in their hobbies and activities is very important, as long as we don’t demand them to fulfill our wishes to become “the best,” “the number one,” or “the winner” – just because we lost or didn’t win those titles somewhere along life’s long road.

As for Maria, well… Her daughter loved ballet though not as much as she did. The girl’s frail health didn’t allow her to continue the lessons. She deserted dancing and decided to become a writer instead.

It is her hand that has brought you this post.

Terrorists = Pawns on a Chessboard

For the whole week (and weeks after, as it is sure to happen), media all over Indonesia – and the globe – are filled with the news concerning the bombing of hotels J.W. Marriot and Ritz-Carlton in Jakarta. People keep on following updates on the condition of the victims and rumors spread as to predict who was behind the terror post-successful presidential-election. Jakarta stands in alert to prevent another brutal action, as do other cities throughout the archipelago: Denpasar, Balikpapan, Surabaya, and so forth. People no longer feel safe about going out in the streets. There is great threat of insecurity out there in the open.

Insecurity! That’s the key word!

People fuss about who the mastermind of terrorism is, while actually what they should be worrying about is for what reason terrorism takes place! Instead of trying to find the suspect, we should be anxious about the effect terrorism has on people. There is no use terrorizing people if there is no certain effect on them.

What are terrorists terrorizing others for?

It is to create an atmosphere of insecurity and anxiety in world society.

Insecurity is the means of creating a temporary chaos. Imagine how chaotic life is when people no longer feel safe wherever they are. They worry about being assaulted or killed every time they step into a car, a taxi, a bus – or anything. They don’t feel secure in the streets, in public places, in the square, and even in their own homes. The trauma of terror haunts them wherever they go.

In such situation, people will desire a secure and peaceful environment where they no longer have to fear the threat of terrorism, crime and assaults. This kind of longing, the desire for security is exactly what the Masterminds of terrorism wants people to dream of, for by this means they can usher in the New World Order.

What is this New World Order?

The New World Order – or Novus Ordo Seclorum – is a secret movement that aims at uniting the whole world under one government. They plan of creating a world of one nation, one authority, one means of transaction, one political view, one religion, one supreme power and one Master. The entire world we know of will fall into the hand of one man.

Every man, woman, and children living on Earth will receive a microchip implanted on the right wrist and upon it will be sealed a mark with certain number (Christians, open your Bible in Revelation 13:16-18). These microchips function as a GPS (Global Positioning System): they monitor wherever someone goes and whatever he/she is doing every single moment of the day, 366 days in a year. With everyone carefully monitored by the One Government and single authority, the threat of terrorism cannot possibly take place. Everybody will feel safe and sound, knowing that no one dares commit acts of crime or terror since all man on Earth is being watched.

That is the aftermath of terrorism: a totalitarian, peaceful new order of the world.

These days, we worry too much about terrorists roaming our neighborhood.

Terrorists?

Bah! They are only pawns on a chessboard!

Ladies, Love Your Hair!

When it comes to personal outlook, women’s desire for self-indulgence seems to be somewhat insatiable. We, ladies, want to appear as charming and beautiful as we can be in the eyes of the onlookers. We care for our skin, face and hair so much like treasuring a priceless jewel. We treat our hair like crowns on our heads. We change hairstyle and trim split ends. Some of us even spend no little time and money in beauty parlors to make our hair look like shampoo models.

Anyway, who doesn’t want to have hair like…Thalia, for example? She has had her hairstyle changed for almost every occasion – perm it, rebond it, curl it, color it – yet her hair still appears as healthy and shiny as ever. That’s the result of first-class hair-treatment, and it costs hundreds of dollars, too.

We might not have hundreds of bucks to spend on hair only, but still… there are ways to gain healthy, shiny hair like models without frequent visits to beauty parlors. How?

• Apply almond oil after washing and toweling your hair. Almond oil is a superb natural ingredient that has been used for ages to nourish hair, making it healthier and shinier. You can use baby oil that contains almond oil; it smells more fragrant and you can easily purchase it in the nearest shop. Just pour a little of it onto your palm, rub it, and apply on half-dry hair – then, leave to dry.
• Eat balanced diet and don’t forget to take vitamin E to nourish your hair from within. Hair, like any other part of our body, needs good nutrition in order to stay healthy. If you don’t keep a nutritious food-consumption pattern, it is unlikely you can gain gorgeous hair and skin.
• Stick to one hair product (shampoo plus conditioner) that suits your hair best and don’t shift from one product to the next every once in a while just because you’re tempted by television ads. Not every hair product is suitable for each person, thus you must be selective in choosing which product is best for your hair.

Hope this tip works! Good luck!

How to Make a Final Paper in Three Months

Thesis or final paper writing can be a devastating project for most university students. Many think that thesis writing always takes more time than needed. Some students spend nearly 1 - 1½ year (2-3 semesters) doing this exhausting final project before they are permitted to graduate.

Nevertheless, for some who knows the trick, thesis writing can be easily done in much shorter time: three months. Three months only! That’s half a semester. And you can spend the other half relaxing and preparing for graduation.

The key is to plan your thesis long before you sign up for thesis writing project with your advisor. And, here are the tips:

• Start thinking about writing your thesis as early as the fourth semester – if you are enrolled in a university in Indonesia. By this time, you’ve acquired all the general subjects and known the majors-and-minors of your field of study. Find out which of the subjects interest you most. Your thesis must be about one or two topics that draw most of your attention, because if you are not interested in your topic, there’s a big chance you’ll lose the willingness to write it down half-way doing it.
• When you have selected your subjects of interest, try browsing in the university library to find out if there are other students who had written about them. Study their ideas and the focus of their analysis.
• After knowing what others have written and have not written about the topic you’re interested in, you will be able to come up with a brand new idea or argument concerning the very topic to write in your final paper. It’s time to search for titles!
• You may come up with two or three ideas on the topic, thus allowing you to write in your agenda two or three titles for the final paper. In the course of time, your idea will crystallize, so as to determine which will suit most.
• When your idea has crystallized (this might happen during the fifth or sixth semester), it is best to start collecting data from the library and websites to support the topic you’re discussing. You will need detailed information on the topic, theories to support your argument, and inputs (such as critics and opinions) from other sources. Remember also to keep your data valid and up-to-date. It will not be appropriate to discuss (for instance) the literature of the 21^st century using theories from books written in 1920’s (except if the theories are still applicable for the very topic). Keep in mind that your professors and lecturers are critical people with sharp brains who always demand their students to keep in tune with the latest trend of ideas – because they are the kind that do.
• It is also important to discuss your topic with people more experienced than you, to ask their opinions and inputs. Seniors who already graduated can be a valuable source of information. They’ve been through the steps you’re undertaking, and should be able to advise you on things you ought and ought not do. Sometimes, they can also suggest which professor you should choose as your thesis advisor, in regards to the topic you’re discussing. Nevertheless, if you are not allowed to choose an advisor personally, your academic department will choose one that is most suitable and eligible for your thesis writing project.
• When eventually you do take your thesis writing project (this might take place on your seventh or eighth semester in college), it’s a good idea to have a proof-reader. This is especially necessary when you are to write a thesis in English while English is not your first language. You will need an experienced proof-reader to check your grammar and writing composition. Sometimes, having a professional proof-reader is not free of charge. A proof-reader is like a second (informal) thesis advisor: they correct your writing and grammar, plus give you their opinions and advices on the ideas you’re stating on your thesis. They help sharpen your argument so you’ll come up with a smooth and convincing exposition to submit to your true thesis advisor. This is really helpful to boost the project and speed your thesis writing.

I share you the above tips since I myself used to be a proof-reader. I know the above tips work. I hope it will work for you as well. Good luck!

In Memoriam: E.B. (July 19, 1968 - January 16, 1997)

My last memory with him was having cold supper in the dining room before each of us went to bed. We didn’t talk. I was busy thinking about the test I was to face in school the following day. He was not in a good mood, considering the mysterious illness he was having. We finished our meal. He went to his room. I went to mine.

I never saw him again as living man.

Many times, when I remember that last night with my late brother, I wish I could change the hands of time and make that last moment meaningful. I wish I could say something that would cheer him up, or do something that he would appreciate, or just say how much I actually cared for him.

But time never takes us back. It shoves us forever onward. Whatever grievances or regret we have in the past can only be recompensed by living the future, by learning from the pain, by being a better person.

It has been over twelve years since the morning God took him away. As time passes, I learn that it’s vain to remain in regret. Rather, I realize that what I should do is looking forward to a joyful reunion one day.

I live on, trying to do the best while the sun still shines on me, becoming the person I know he would be proud to call his sister. I know one fine day – one never-ending day – I’ll see him again… and that time, without slightest regret and aggravation.

Ann M. Martin's A DOG'S LIFE

Squirrel was a lonely street dog. She had been through tough times almost all her life. Torn from her mother and separated from her brother, she went wandering from city to city. Sometimes she spent an entire season in the woods, sometimes in the countryside, sometimes she got a companion, yet most of the times she wandered all alone. Twice she was “adopted” – and twice disappointed by man. In cold lonely nights she glanced at fireplaces through people’s window, desiring to be invited in – but no one opened the door. Until one snowy night came, that changed her days forever.

If you are a book-lover, pet-lover, and children-lover, I do recommend you read this book by Ann M. Martin, nominator for the Newberry Award. A Dog’s Life is a valuable book for both children and parents.

The reason why I treasure this book is that, personally (though the author might not put it that way), this story of a lonely street dog comes as a metaphor of human life. Most of human emotions, thoughts, and life-trials are depicted quite similarly to the life of the story’s main character: a wandering dog.

It is only human to experience sadness, forlornness, separation and struggles, just as it is natural for every person to long for warmth, acceptance, attention, appreciation, kindness and love. This story helps to sow the values of friendship, loyalty, humanity and kindheartedness in the hearts of our young ones.

In A Dog’s Life, we glimpse and reflect on the life of man. We learn from it, and become wiser and kinder.

I hope you enjoy and treasure this book as much as I do.

The Bride and the Usherette

A bride sulked angrily at the groom after the wedding was over. It was quite a perfectly planned wedding and nothing amiss happened throughout their agenda. There was only one very subjective opinion that insulted the bride deeply. She accidentally heard one of the guests commented, “What charming girl the usherette is! She’s even more beautiful than the bride!”

Uh-oh! Well, we all know that women are very sensitive when it comes to personal beauty – especially on the most important day of her life. On her wedding, the bride claims to be the queen of the day, and naturally she wants to reign as queen – though for one day only. It is quite annoying to have someone within the circle of her sovereignty to outshine her on that special day.

It is only natural for people to have pride. It’s already imbedded in our inmost character; without pride, we will end up no better than welcome-mats placed on people’s doorways. But there are times when we should respect other’s pride, and wedding is one occasion where we learn to honor other people’s choices and dignity.

Alright… when you are wedding organizers, please make sure you don’t place as an usherette a girl that is naturally prettier than the bride (even if she is a family member). Or, if you are invited to a wedding, do keep your opinions to yourselves before you unexpectedly ruin a happy couple’s perfect day! I believe no one likes hearing unwanted comments upon the most important day of their lives – won’t you agree?

Brilliance vs. Genius

What difference is there between the term “brilliance” and “genius”?

Take a look at these two jazz legends: Jaco Pastorius (right) was brilliant, while Pat Metheny (left) is genius. How is that possible?

Edison once said, “Genius is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration.” That was quite true. Therein lay the difference.

Pat Metheny gains his greatness and becomes a living jazz legend through really hard work. He pours 6-12 hours a day into guitar exercises and music composing. His devotion to jazz music is so thorough that it becomes no wonder that he wins 18 Grammy Awards – so far.

Jaco Pastorius, on the other hand, was a pure brilliant. “I never practice,” he once replied upon an interview. Imagine that! He was the greatest bass player in the world – and he never practiced! Jaco was too busy performing on stages in so many places that he never had spare time to pick up his bass and exercise once in a while. His on-stage performances were practically his practice hours! He was a real shining star, a brilliant through and through. He got talent and greatness poured down from above almost without any effort to sharpen his ability. Up to this day, his name still echoes, so loud and clear, in the world of jazz music – and no one is yet able to replace him as “the greatest bass player in the world.”

Jaco died a tragic death back then in late 1980s. His brilliance wasted, though his legend lives on. His four children later on established a website to honor their father. Up to now, thousands of people – jazz lovers – visit his website and always remember him as the pure brilliant who was taken from Earth much too soon.

Pat Metheny continues his work. He remembers Jaco as the friend and young jazz star who once worked with him in his first album, American Garage. Pat is now well in his mid-fifties – and remains unmarried. Some people argue that he is married to his “Muse-ic”. Into it, he dedicates his entire life, strength and passion.

These legends are simply two among hundreds of brilliant and genius artists whose names are carved throughout history – each with their own tragedy and absurdity. Nevertheless, if tragedy is almost always adhered to the greatness of the brilliant and genius, won’t we prefer becoming normal people instead?

Children: the Real Future Investment

Twenty years ago, a classmate told me, “When I grow up, I wanna be a doctor, like my old man.”

I nodded. “Mm-hmmm… I see.”

In turn, he asked, “What do you wanna be?”

“Me?” I gave a thought. “Build a family, I guess.”

He laughed out loud. Of course, the idea of building a family – get married, have children and rear them up – is completely out of the reach of fourth-grade students.

But two decades after that very conversation, I know exactly that I get what I want – and that I want it right from the start, ever since I was a child.

Many people don’t actually realize which things should come first in their list of priorities, thus sometimes we run into those workaholics who keep racing their lives without even knowing their clear destination or aim. There’s nothing wrong with pursuing careers or establishing one’s lifetime achievements. But the underlying question is: What are you doing it for?

Sean Covey (son of author Stephen Covey) wrote in his book, The Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teens, that at the brink of death, no one would think if only they had spent more time at the office. Touché!

Achievements and fulfilling one’s destined role in life is important. Yes. But there are more valuable and irreplaceable things that should come first.

One of the greatest needs of mankind is regeneration. We hand down our wisdom, knowledge, understanding, culture and character to the next generation. Without regeneration, we would only be toiling in vain under the sun. Without successors to carry on our names and the work of our hands, all we do will end up meaningless and vaporize in the course of time. Thus, the future investment we should really make lies in our children. It is more important to show greater care and attention on what’s happening in our homes instead of what’s piling on our office desks.

To conclude, David Roper, one of the writers of the devotional Our Daily Bread, wrote that children “are our lasting legacy – an investment we’ll never regret!”

Facebook.com: A Threat to International Intelligence Agencies?

Facebook.com has now become one of the world’s top social networks. Millions of people all around the globe share latest personal updates and news, chat, discuss, and tag pictures of themselves and families to friends and relatives. Through this fast-growing social network, people can always get in touch with their loved ones and find out how they are doing.

The problem is: what if you are not supposed to find out what some other people are doing? Like the private lives of intelligent agents, for example.

Jawa Pos on Tuesday, July the 7^th, 2009 came up with the news of protest in Britain when the private pictures of the United Kingdom’s future Head of Intelligence Agency (M16), Sir John Sawers, appeared on facebook.com! Of course, it wasn’t Sir John who uploaded his photos on the network, but his wife, Shelley Sawers!

There were pictures of him dressing up as Santa Claus on Christmas. There were pictures of him playing Frisbee. There were photographs of him on family holidays and his mother’s 80^th birthday celebration. And there were photographs of him at the swimming pool, wearing nothing but Speedo swimming pants!

At the time the pictures were uploaded, Sir John was still positioned as the United Kingdom’s Ambassador for the United Nations Organization (UNO). His wife had no idea he was going to be promoted to be the head of M16.

Even so, this is one of the weak spots of intelligence system: wives are not allowed to know what their husbands are doing. What the men do is highly classified as national top secret. Poor Mrs. Sawers might not know that in his position as ambassador, Sir John had made frequent and various contacts with people outside the United Kingdom and monitored the behavior of other international leaders. He must have kept close contacts with the British Intelligence Agency as he moved about in the UNO. That alone is already considered as act of espionage. That is probably the reason why the UK government appoints him as the next head of M16.

But the government was later troubled when they found out Sir John’s photos had appeared all over facebook.com! And what troubles them more is because Mrs. Sawers also stated clearly and precisely the dates and locations of the pictures taken. What if there were photographs of other intelligent agents in those pictures she had shared on the network?

It is important to keep the agents’ track record invisible from public and the enemies of the UK. The faces of agents – and especially head of the intelligence agency – should never slip into public knowledge, for the sake of the agents themselves, the agency, and the country. Their whereabouts and personal information are supposed to be extremely classified.

But with the growing popularity of facebook.com, the term “classified” seems to be somewhat threatened. It seems that nothing and no one can shroud themselves from the web of this social network.

The leading newspapers all over the globe (The New York Times, for instance) have given sharp comments and critics on this matter, so sharp that the UK government immediately disabled Shelley Sawers’ facebook account. Now, the account is inaccessible to everyone as to prevent agents of CIA, KGB and other intelligence agencies to view the pictures of the future head of M16 half-naked.

What a laughingstock!

SBY Governance... To Be Continued!

The general election had only taken place about 72 hours ago, and the result is already clear: no second-round election! With over 61% of the people voting for Soesilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY) and Boediono, it is very likely that SBY governance will continue in Indonesia. Congratulations, Mr. President and the new Mr. Vice President! Hopefully the next cabinet under this new pair of leaders will be able to speed our country to a better future.

The governance continues…

Fresh Homemade-Sardines, Anyone?

Canned sardines are delicious. Hmmm…yummy! We can take it with rice or toasted bread for breakfast or lunch. Mom used to keep some cans of sardines in our old refrigerator in case one of her children asked for sandwiches.

But over time, canned sardines nowadays don’t taste the same as it used to be nearly two decades ago. Perhaps the manufacturers have put more MSG and preservatives into the cans to have them last longer in market – who knows? And the price has tripled, too, in the course of years.

But, here’s an alternative. You can make your own sardine at home, and it will taste exactly the same as the canned ones – only much fresher, healthier and more plentiful.

What you need to do is:

• Fry some fish – tuna or salmon will do perfect.
• Blend together in a mixer or blender: some tomatoes, garlic, onions, a little bit of ginger, chilies, and salt (the proportion depends on your personal taste: whether you like your dish salty or spicy – or not).
• Place the fried fish on a pyrex or china dish, and pour the sauce on top.
• Steam for 30-45 minutes.
• And… voilà! You just come up with your own fresh homemade-sardines!

Happy luncheon!

Clean Water: An Endangered Element?

My pastor went on an evangelical mission to the core of Borneo (Kalimantan) earlier this month. After returning home, he shared with us his rather adventure-like experience in the recent ministry: going up and down the mountain, following a fade path through the woods with no light except that coming from fireflies, and drinking straight from the bubbling brook. “The water!” he exclaimed. “It was as fresh as sterilized water packed in bottles we buy in stores!”

Well… that’s the taste fresh water from the mountain springs naturally is. It is similar here, if you’d want to climb on top of Welirang or Arjuna Mountain and drink right from the spring. The water is so cool, fresh and unpolluted; you can gulp it down without worrying about boiling it first.

In the towns and cities, however, we need to cook the water first and filter it before it is sterile enough to drink. There’s so much difference between the quality of water at the spring and in the rivers.

We need to keep in mind that water is one of the ultimate elements man needs in order to stay living. The trouble is: with the pattern of today’s civilization and the rate of pollution that keeps growing from time to time, some elements of nature begin to get threatened.

Water is on top of the list!

People keep on cutting down trees and eliminating woods to build more space for housings. Without woods, there will be no root of trees to hold water, and without trees, there will be no springs. Without springs, we do not have water supplies! Not to mention the water pollution we find in streams and rivers down the mountains! We are running out of this utmost important and vital element of nature that is sure to endanger our own existence – without realizing it!

What are we to do? Let’s oppose deforestation. Urge the government to establish the law regarding deforestation and repot to the authority when we find acts of illegal logging! By treasuring our forest, we treasure also our lives – and the existence of the next generations.

Talking About Anti-Pornography and Porno-Action Bill

In November 2008, the government of Indonesia legalized a bill against pornography and porno-action in the country. It has been an issue long debated and had roused so fierce an argument amongst the people. Many agree on the establishment of this new regulation, in order to prevent obscenity to spread in the society and to barricade our children from the negative impacts of pornography. Some, however, object – not on the issue of fighting against pornography, but on the double side of the new regulation itself. “We reject pornography, but we disagree with porn bill!” they protest. How is it possible?

Let us get to the point and take a good look at the newly established regulation: it is put into action to cross out all that falls into the terms “pornography” and “porno-action.” As for pornography, I believe none would agree that there’s anything morally fine about it. It is a degrading and destructive act of obscenity – and anyone in his/her right mind would normally agree on the effort to abolish it from the society. But the other term, “porno-action,” is something rather obscure in practice. To what extent is something classified as “porno-action”?

Some people shallowly define this term as the way women dress themselves in public. Take note: women! Not men!

“If women would dress themselves properly as to prevent themselves from indecent and unwanted assaults, then there would be no reason for acts of rape and sexual harassment against them,” they’d argue.

As we all can predict, this kind of statement or idea has roused the objection of many scholars, artists, writers and – especially – feminists! Soe Tjen Marching (Indonesian composer and feminist, now professor at University of London), for example, had published a book entitled The Discrepancy between the Public and the Private Selves of Indonesian Women and criticized some irrelevant regulations established by the government which corner women.

She believes (as do other thinkers and scholars) that acts of rape and sexual harassment spring up from the mind of men, and not from the way women dress themselves! It all begins in people’s head. A woman may dress up like Inneke Koesherawati, covering her entire body from head to toe, and a man can burn with desire upon seeing her, thinking what she hides beneath those layers of clothes! Or, a woman might wear bikini to the beach like Mariana Bridi and men would consent to that without raising an eyebrow or wolf-whistling although 90% of her flesh is exposed!

It is thus unfair to blame the cause on women and not hear both sides of the tale. The porn bill therefore may do more harm to women than to protect them. It gives the legal ground to criminals and harassers to justify themselves by arguing that it is because of the women’s dressing manner that they commit indecent assaults!

It is most advised for women to dress decently in public. But it doesn’t mean that all women should wear jilbab (head-cover) and cover their body entirely. Just be decent with your clothes, Ladies! Men will respect us, women, when we know how to respect ourselves.

On the other hand, let’s hope the next government elected through tomorrow’s presidential election would reconsider that newly established bill. I do agree with Mrs. Marching that it is truly a waste to restrict women in their dressing manner while there is no effort to behave the opposite sex’s way of thinking. Morality begins in the mind, not in the outfit.

What do you say, Men?

Trafficking in Minahasa: A Scar on the Face of Christianity in Indonesia!

Human trafficking has recently become one of the major concerns of the government of Indonesia, especially that which is taking place in the region of Minahasa in the province of North Sulawesi. Many teenage girls are sent across the sea to Papua to work as hostesses (or, to be straightforward, prostitutes!) in night clubs. The girls of Minahasa are well-known throughout the archipelago to possess charming physical features: fair skin, nice hips, beautiful face, and straight hair. Thus, they become the main attraction for men in town looking for amusement and a dose of instant love-making.

Well, human trafficking happens everywhere around the globe, not only in Indonesia, and not just in Minahasa. The most troubling issue I want to discuss here concerns more about what the people of Minahasa are. They are Christians!

Christianity is the second largest religion in Indonesia – and compared to the Moslems, the Christians are considered a group of minority. As Christians, we are obliged to follow the Lord’s command to become “the salt of the earth” and “the light of the world.”

Now, Minahasa is a region where over 90% of the inhabitants are Christians. It has been so for generation upon generation. Christianity is so rooted in the life of the people that the main city of this province, Manado, is sometimes called “The Jerusalem of Indonesia.” But the trafficking taking place at present in this Christian-populated region has become a stench and a scar on the face of Christianity in Indonesia!

How did this happen? What causes it?

Many troubled Christian ministers say that this degrading social trend springs up from the change within the Minahasan frame of mind. Decades ago, the Minahasan are people who highly respect education and intelligence. A man is extremely honored when he is a man of wisdom who possesses a high degree of education. But in the recent years, the spirit of materialism started to invade throughout the region, causing people to believe that power lies in one’s wallet and not in the brain. A fool may be well accepted in the society provided that he’s got wealth. This spirit of materialism has ruined the way of thinking of the Minahasan over the years. It is no wonder that these days Christianity tends to become simply a status on one’s ID card and not the way of living like it used to be. One can go to church on a Sunday morning to “perform the religious duty” then in the evening step into a night club to indulge in pleasure.

I’ve heard the story of a servant of God who boldly came up to a member of his congregation to reproach him, “Brother, why are you going there to do this indecent thing?”

The addressed member replied, “Why, pastor! What else a man can do? The girls are gorgeous!”

Pathetic! The reply given to that heart-broken minister show that people these days no longer possess the right mind to judge and decide the right over the wrong.

And it’s not just in Minahasa or Papua. The degradation of people’s morality and wisdom has begun to take place everywhere – disregarding the religion, age, tribe and social classes. Soon, religion – Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, and Buddhism – will sure to become a dusty plate on one’s desk or a meaningless word stamped upon an ID card. With the morality vanish, what will happen to this nation in the age to come?

Let’s hope that the soon-coming new government will be able to cut immorality to the root, restore the people to the sound frame of mind, and abolish trafficking for good in our beloved country!

Holy Matrimony at GPdI Betania - Sunday, July 5, 2009

Wedding comes in many packages. There are as many customs regarding wedding as there are languages on earth. Some couples get married in churches, some in temples. Others hold their wedding by the beach, or in the garden. But these two friends of ours were wedded in front of a coffin!

Here’s a piece of their story. Willy and Nita had been having a serious relationship for some time – and he was sure to marry her. But, prior to the wedding plan, her father passed away. Thus, according to the Javanese custom, they were married off before her father’s coffin.

It took them over half a year before the two of them can come before the congregation to be blessed in a holy matrimony. This morning, we have the honor to witness their wonderful union in front of the assembly of believers.

Congratulations, Willy and Nita!

“For this reason, a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh” (Ephesians 5:31).

Mix and Match

One of the things I adore from French culture is the fashion. French ladies are known for their creativity in mix-and-matching the content of their wardrobe and coming out with great-looking outfit in three-pieces – plus footwear and accessories. They look so good!

It’s part of their national character. Do you also notice that in social life the French also love to mix-and-match? One can say “I’m French” even when their DNA is a mixture of German, Flemish, Arab and Cambodian. There is no such thing as “pure-blooded French.” France is a real melting pot where people all over the globe come and live together – forever socializing and intermarrying between them. It is a country where the citizens don’t make a fuss on racial discrimination and respect each person as a human being with similar rights, needs and responsibilities. This is one of the reasons that underlies their cultural growth and makes France the leading trendsetter of world’s culture and global art.

Indonesia is also expected to be a melting pot where so many tribes all over the archipelago thrive and grow in their social and cultural life… but it’s not so – or, at least, not yet. For over 60 years after our independence, we quarrel about bloodlines and purity and prohibit intertribal marriage. We build walls and not bridges. Is it any wonder that the issue of separatism has been haunting our nation for decades?

I believe there is so much to learn from the French, not only the haute-couture and football league. We really should model them for their openness in accepting others as fellow humans with the need to be respected and cherished. Won’t this country be a better place to live if all of us are more open-minded and respectful to others? Then, and only then, will we be able to be rid of separatism.

Somewhere Between Keats and Kipling

I love poetry. I love it especially when it’s symbolic. I love it most when it’s archetypal. Analyzing poetry can be as fun as opening a wrapped present and find another wrapping inside – then you can go on and on unwrapping it until you find the real gift inside. And what satisfaction you feel when you hold that tiny, precious gift between your fingers!

I took Romantic Poetry as my major in college, and focused on the works of Keats. I love his dreamlike ideas, his archetypes and fine touch. I graduated after writing a thesis on his Endymion: A Poetic Romance.

Yet, somehow, whenever life trials get the best of me, seldom do I reflect on the great works of those Romantic poets I love so dearly. It is a simple poem by Rudyard Kipling that I mostly read over and over. And with each reading I find new strength and hope, whatever trouble may befall. It goes like this:

If you can keep your head when all about you

Are losing theirs and blaming it on you;

If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you,

But make allowance for their doubting too;

If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,

Or being lied about, don’t deal in lies,

Or, being hated, don’t give way to hating,

And yet don’t look too good, nor talk too wise;

If you can dream – and not make dreams your master;

If you can think – and not make thoughts your aim;

If you can meet with triumph and disaster

And treat those two impostors just the same;

If you can bear to hear the truth you’ve spoken

Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,

Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,

And stoop and build ‘em up with worn-out tools;

If you can make one heap of all your winnings

And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss,

And lose, and start again at your beginnings

And never breathe a word about your loss,

If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew

To serve your turn long after they are gone,

And so hold on when there is nothing in you

Except the will which says to them: “Hold on”;

If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue;

Or walk with kings – nor lose the common touch;

If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you;

If all men count with you, but none too much;

If you can fill the unforgiving minute

With sixty-seconds’ worth of distance run –

Yours is the Earth and everything that’s in it,

And – which is more – you’ll be a Man, my son!

Simple, isn’t it? It’s very much like a father’s admonition to his son. Sometimes, when things get so out of hand and we feel like losing our grip, it is not the great ideas and deep, wise words that can steady our feet.

All we need is some comforting words from one who really cares…

Discovering Grace

Surabaya, East Java – October 2008

That morning, the crowd on the outskirt of the city was stirred and shocked by the discovery of a dead body nearby the traditional marketplace.

It was a newborn male infant, barely twelve hours old. The poor baby was wrapped tight in a plastic bag and left to die in a bush near the marketplace.

The police was called. Whispers spread as to predict who could have done such a thing.

Some suggested it might have been a prostitute from the D-complex. Some said the baby might have been the undesirable result of some immoral act. Others just winced at the possibilities and hurried back to their businesses, leaving the tragedy of that horrid morning behind.

Medan, North Sumatra – November 2002

A married couple was preparing to move to Surabaya.

Up to then, they had been married for years and the wife still showed no signs of conception. Even after taking so many suggested medicines and waiting for so many years, she remained childless.

Eventually, they planned to settle down elsewhere, to a metropolitan where procedures for in-vitro were far more accessible.

They did move – and went through the procedures. The wife became pregnant. The couple was very happy.

But it didn’t last long.

The baby was miscarried before reaching twelve weeks.

Minahasa, North Sulawesi – December 1979

The night was cold and rainy. The darkness nearly reached midnight.

A group of people, carrying lanterns and wearing raincoats, were out in a peculiar search up on a hill. The leader of the team was a 43-year old pastor who had a wife and nine children waiting back home.

Several hours ago, the pastor had heard the confession of a young woman whom he knew had conceived due to an act of indecency.

Learning that her parents would not accept her baby in the family out of shame, the troubled girl took her newborn daughter in one hand and a shovel in the other. She went to the hill, dug a hole, and buried her baby. Then, weeping, she ran to the pastor’s house and confessed the murder she had done – believing the infant to be dead by then.

But the pastor, who was shocked by the confession, wasted no time.

He immediately put on his raincoat, took a shovel and a lantern, and called all the members of the congregation who lived nearby – all the men he could find.

Together, they ran on top of the hill in search of the baby.

Suddenly, one of the men shouted as he found the mound under which the girl had buried her infant. There was a mumbling sound from underneath.

The pastor hurriedly dug – and found the baby alive!

They wrapped her in a clean towel, took her home and bathed her.

The pastor adopted the baby and entrusted her in the care of a couple whom had long been waiting for a child.

And she was named GRACE.