Beyond Numbers - Active Living

  Today, a new day dawned. It’s Saturday. I woke up as usual and moved through my normal routine—washing my face, clearing my bowels, brushing my teeth, and tidying up by emptying the rubbish bin. I opened the birdcage window from the kitchen, letting in the morning air, a small but comforting ritual. I spent some time counting my coins, gathering a little extra for daily spending. Then I sat down to read, letting my mind wander a bit, before revisiting a laksa recipe—still thinking about when I might actually cook it. Once that was done, I paused and wondered, what next? I logged into my laptop and sent a thoughtful quote about friendship to those close to me, expressing how grateful I am to have them in my life. It felt simple, but meaningful. Even so, there’s still a sense of uncertainty about what lies ahead. But I suppose that’s life—living day by day, hoping that good things will come. No regrets. Just taking one step at a time, and embracing whatever comes. That’...

  This morning began like many others—with the quiet realization of how quickly time passes. Another new day had arrived, bringing with it a fresh itinerary and a chance to begin again. I woke up with a conscious effort to stay positive, gently asking myself what I could do today to make it meaningful and productive.  As I gathered my thoughts, I remembered a small but pleasant task—to collect my kombucha drink made by Sally Chin. She had taken the time and care to prepare it, and somehow that simple act felt comforting. At the same time, I needed to pick up my Shopee order. Little errands like these often seem insignificant, yet they form the structure of my day.  Soon after, I got ready for my morning walk at Straits Quay. The air was fresh, and the surroundings offered a sense of calm. Walking has become more than just exercise for me—it is a space where my mind begins to wander freely. After the walk, I stopped by Sam Groceria for a bit of light grocery shopping, pick...

  As an avid reader, I’ve always been drawn to rags-to-riches stories and books that nourish the soul while shaping a positive mindset. Recently, I completed reading “The Quran & I” in 22 days, and almost serendipitously, by Anas Zubedy.  The experience felt timely and deeply personal. What resonated with me most was the author’s guiding philosophy of “adding value to people’s lives.” It’s a belief I personally hold close, and seeing it reflected so authentically in his journey created an immediate connection. Interestingly, when the book title was first shared in a chat group, some non-Muslim friends reacted with concern, assuming it might touch on sensitive issues.  However, reading the book revealed something far more universal. It is not about division or preaching, but about how faith—much like any other holy scripture, including the Bible—can shape one’s character, values, and purpose. The book chronicles the author’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a...

Week three of freedom feels quieter than I imagined. Not the loud, cinematic kind of freedom people talk about—but a softer version, one that slips into the edges of ordinary routines and stretches them out just a little wider. I wake up at 3:30am, not because I have to, but because my body still remembers. The habit of structure lingers even when the structure itself has dissolved. The world outside is still, wrapped in darkness, and for a moment, I lie there listening—to nothing in particular, just the absence of urgency. The bathroom light flickers on. Toothbrush, water, the familiar rhythm of small motions. Then the windows—always the windows. I open them one by one, letting the early air move through the house. There’s something grounding about that first breath of morning, as if the day is being invited in gently rather than rushed.  In the kitchen, my concoction waits: lemon, ginger, turmeric. Sharp, warm, a little unforgiving. I drink it slowly. It feels like a promise to m...

  Today marks the 21st day of my free and easy life — a life no longer measured by reports, deadlines, or expectations from others. My time now belongs fully to me, and I am learning what that truly means.  Yesterday unfolded gently. I moved through simple, grounding tasks — housekeeping, reading, and watching YouTube movies. There was no rush, no pressure, just a steady rhythm of being. In the kitchen, I found quiet satisfaction in not wasting what I had. I cooked egg belanda with leftover tamarind, and prepared a pepper salad using the red, green, and yellow peppers along with cherry tomatoes. Nothing extravagant, yet deeply fulfilling. It reminded me that abundance is not always about having more — sometimes it is about using well what is already here.  I felt accomplished not because I did something big, but because I followed through on what I intended. That, in itself, felt like a quiet victory. This morning began with intention. I boiled barley, a small act of care...