A short course in human relations

The least important word: I
The most important word: We
The two most important words: Thank you
The three most important words: All is forgiven
The four most important words: What is your opinion?
The five most important words: You did a good job.
The six most important words: I want to understand you better.

I think my biggest difficulty is the inability or more like the lack of desire to understand certain people better. As harsh as it sounds, I know this happens when I do not respect that person as i do not share their beliefs. I hear what they say without listening to them - their words would not even process in my brain cause something just screams in me, 'utter rubbish'. This situation is amplified if those people think the world of themselves. Perhaps, their false confidence are masked by inner insecurities.

So the question I ask myself today is 'what does it mean to understand a person?' I'm still trying to figure that out. Perhaps I dont have to share their beliefs. I just need to know that the person just like everyone else is trying to be a somebody. That person wants to know that he/she is loved, he/she is important and can make a difference in this world.

To love unconditionally is tough. Pay it forward, He says...

...............


To that formidable place...

Today I woke up with my heart palpitating. The familiar fear rose within me - one which i thought i left behind when I came to Australia. The cold room with a pin-dropping silent atmosphere. A lack of warmth in the room would be an understatement. The frowns on their faces. The intensity in their watchful eyes. Pens ready in hand to mark your destiny. Backs straight. Forceful smiles.

Yes. Piano examinations. Remember those days everyone? Almost everybody who is Asian has probably taken some sort of piano examinations at some point of their lives. Urgh....*shudders*

Perhaps I'm the exception. Maybe piano examinations were not as bad an experience for many of you. But it was for me. I must admit that I'm just not musically inclined. Honestly. Im not trying to be humble here. For a start, I cant remember any lyrics to any nursery rhyme, what more a proper song. Im sure there are people that can vouch to that. I cant sing or play the piano according to rhythm. Yes, its that bad. (Deep down inside, Im glad karoake on Friday night was cancelled :P) Im beginning to wonder whether its because of my irregular heartbeat? Any excuse would be a good enough reason for me.