Monday, May 22, 2006

The Real Meaning of Life


I am reading this book called The Real Meaning of Life. It is a collection of responses to a web site that asked What is the meaning of Life? So many people responded that it is to live life fully. What does that mean, to Live life fully? And so many people also says the meaning of life is different to different people. Hmm....

Ok, let me say that last night I went to watch the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre and had a great evening. On the way home from the tube I gave change to 2 beggars and encountered a man asking for a place to sleep. I was unable to help him.

Well, I have done a Phd. amongst possible noble prize winners, danced in the same building as some of the world's best contemporary dancers and now interned in the studio of one of the best photographers in the world. I have always been trekking at the base of mountains. Speaking of mountains, I have also been to Tibet and seen the Everest range with my own eyes. I have fallen madly in love and out of it again, more than once. And I have started my own business and continue to run it.

I cannot tell what the future will bring. But I have to give thanks for all the experiences that I have had. The good experiences for being inspiring and the bad ones for teaching me more about life. I also give thanks for my supportive family and the friends that I have met along the way who have enriched my life. I hope that I gave back something to them too.

I bought a t-shirt a few years back when I was on course in Santa Fe, New Mexico. It said, 'Life is a journey, not a destination'. I am beginning to realise that it is not about becoming famous, the best or the richest. I am thankful that I have a life journey with challenges and trials. They make those special moments with friends and colleagues, where you are just able to share company and experiences, meaningful. They are meaningful because you earned it.

Paul and Leasha threw a going away party for me today at their house. The people that I met in my 3 months stay came and I even got presents like a Chicago cap. It was nice for everyone to have a party but it was better knowing that I slogged through these months and made a contribution to Paul's studio. I did not just take, I gave to. And I cannot take this for granted. It was a blessing that a photographer like Paul would take an intern from far off Singapore. I am also blessed that I am in a position to make this trip, instead of begging on the streets for a place to sleep.

So I have to thank the powers that be for this gift of life. And I have to thank the people who have shared parts of my journey with me.

14 comments:

Geoff said...

nice to know things are ending on a positive note. exams are kicking my ass at the moment, but they'll be ending soon. when are you going to be passing through london?

Anonymous said...

Hmm... The meaning of life. Getting spiritual are we?

Dude, chill~~
I feel that that's not a question that a person should ask too often - artist or not.

I used to do that, but not anymore.
I found out that The Meaning-of-Life finds you, not the other way around.

Anyway, you like hiking too? Cool!

BTW, when are you coming back?
Enjoy your stay!! I really enjoyed your blog, it reminds me of all the good times I had with them Yankees while I was in the States.
yee-haw!

Dan

Heng said...

I leave Chicago next Saturday. Will be in London from May 28 to June 5. Be back in Singapore on June 6.

Geoff said...

can i book you for june 4? we can meet up for coffee/dinner/whatever...but only if you're relatively unbusy in london, i'll be back in singapore end of june anyway.

seventh stranger said...

maybe i should intern for u.

got alot to learn.

i:s

Heng said...

Hey Geoff, 4th is good. I will contact you when I get back to London.

I:S, I am willing to take any serious offers of interning.

Anonymous said...

hi

chance upon your blog when I went to your web. Was just wondering if you're back from your trip.

always inspired by your pictures, that's why i 'found' you!

stay in touch

Anonymous said...

Hi Heng

You may not remember me but you certainly have left a deep impression on me. I am one of the people you met during your tour to Vietnam. You took a beautiful shot of me and my husband. I love the expressions that you captured at that moment.

Just want to let you know reading your blog has inspired me in many ways particularly this one. Thanks Heng. I wish you happiness and joy in whatever you do.....

CK Hwang said...

Hey Ngiap Heng, maybe still a little early, but just wanted to say welcome home!!!! Really looking forward to seeing your latest works and your style after this internship. Will give you a call when you get back. In the meantime, safe journey, and may you have good light always.

Anonymous said...

hi ngiap heng,

great to know you've picked up new skills and knowledge during your internship there. we welcome you back to singapore.

btw, i watched CNA yesterday eveing and saw a piece of news affecting near your studio front. there was a case of assault by a group against 2 individuals. one of them was badly injured and died of his injuries outside your neighbouring shophouse front. you may wish to check with betty.

jimmy go

Anonymous said...

Hi Heng,

How can I contact you? Cos, I may like to enquire of your services soon.

Dan

Heng said...

Hi Dan,

You can drop an email to enquiry@thepond.com.sg

Cheers,
Heng

Anonymous said...

Just browsing wedding photos and stumble into your web n now your blog :). I'll encourage you to read Purpose Driven Life upon knowing your search for meaning of life. Hope this book can give you insight. It's always good to know that somebody out there is appreciating life and want to live life to the fullest :).

Anonymous said...

btw excellent works and enjoy your works a lot