tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28623807349156424332024-03-28T18:14:14.713+07:00BordamUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger20125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862380734915642433.post-75116154450423385232024-03-19T16:12:00.012+07:002024-03-21T12:49:28.420+07:00PPSL 2023: Teurimong Geunaseh, Banda Aceh Before diving into my role as a civil servant lecturer for nearly five years, the idea of pursuing a doctoral degree, especially abroad, never crossed my mind. However, after three years of this program running, I found myself drawn to apply for the Advanced Study Preparation Program for Abroad (PPSL). It's a non-degree scholarship initiative by the Ministry of Religion, designed to help folks like me prepare for the IELTS test, a crucial step for studying abroad. While the program mainly focuses on IELTS prep, covering over 50% of the material, it also provides valuable guidance on crafting research proposals and securing scholarships at international universities.<br /><br />Our training program, along with fourteen other colleges, was held in Banda Aceh, where thirteen participants from various work units across Indonesia gathered. Most of us were lecturers. I'm incredibly thankful for the opportunities this experience brought me. Spending three months in Banda Aceh gave me invaluable experiences and lessons I never expected. I forged strong connections with supportive peers, learned from experienced tutors, and fell in love with the unique atmosphere of Banda Aceh, making it a one-of-a-kind experience.<br /><br />When I found out that my training would be in Banda Aceh, I didn't expect much. The region has a history of conflict spanning decades, and the devastating 2004 tsunami is still fresh in many minds. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the beauty of the area, and none of my worries came true. Aceh turned out to be incredibly safe and peaceful; even arranging a late-night taxi ride online didn't worry us women. The natural scenery in Aceh is stunning, providing new experiences around every corner. The only downside is the lack of entertainment venues like malls, but that didn't bother me much since I have plenty of entertainment options back home in Medan.<br /><br />The security, comfort, and beauty of Banda Aceh were even better with my new friends around. At first, getting used to each other was tough because we all had our own cultural backgrounds and habits. Our accents, local languages, and even how we spoke Indonesian were all different, which made things challenging. But after living together for three months and spending almost every moment together, we learned to put aside our differences and egos. We adapted and grew closer as a group over time.<br /><br />From Monday to Friday, we were fully immersed in intense studying from morning until evening, leaving us exhausted by the end of the day, with just enough energy to rest. However, when the weekend rolled around, my friend Lulu from Malang and I made sure to seize the opportunity to explore Banda Aceh to the fullest.<br /><div><div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Historical Sites</h3>The Baiturrahman Grand Mosque stands as a powerful symbol of Banda Aceh's resilience, especially in the face of the devastating tsunami. Despite the surrounding destruction caused by the tsunami, the mosque stood tall, providing shelter for those seeking refuge. But it's not the only reminder of the tsunami's impact. The Rahmatullah Mosque, situated closest to Lampuuk beach, the epicenter of the tsunami, also endured. Visitors to this mosque can see several pillars that collapsed during the tsunami, left intact as a poignant reminder of the lives lost and the community's strength.<div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYkBL6pAn-Pw2kjWlbcVm1MZSrfdrl-2-pzvSQyRCQToSbuikIUX26j11fYUs0Pgxpy4zK_9LcLiYCtxa4Jh-CLLXkepzAWXTmei1VpF6XnsR6Md9eYjZSE395WmmWcX5AR5oEB0p3Yrbtny2HfKfqTina1tIYVbSsWaaExadb3xvOv67D9ul9jEIgzTJv/s16000/1703680477905.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Baiturrahman Grand Mosque</span></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPH9Pih6VK6vkarjUWdGMOde1pan2QGwIVc_tquDcF2BO_YSb_aKNi0dzDUwFf2SzVoolUe9M5g8IHC2QOkb5SO7QzJVnGU4GUO-UDj9LTyWLNgwo45neWJyoARgkVO3g4pj6sX7f6PvsnAFmYGEsiWSD2tDlKwOYjtmkQfB0XFqRIyf72XYerH-kULlxa/s16000/1702136092074.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rahmatullah Mosque</td></tr></tbody></table></div>While we were in Banda Aceh, we got to check out a few historical buildings. One standout was the <b>Museum of Aceh</b>, packed with info about the region's past. One room caught our eye, focusing on the spice trade in Aceh and how the colonial powers tried to take control of it. What's cool is that the room is shaped like a ship, showing how important maritime trade was back then.</div><div><br /></div>Next on our agenda was the <b>Tsunami Museum</b>, which is all about remembering the tragic 2004 tsunami that hit Aceh. One part of the museum that really hit home was a short film showing what happened during the tsunami. We learned something really surprising from this film: there was a village super close to where the tsunami hit, but it had the fewest casualties. Turns out, they had a traditional song passed down through generations, warning them to get to higher ground if the sea looked weird. This quick thinking saved a lot of lives, unlike in other areas where people might not have recognized the signs of a tsunami until it was too late.<div><br /></div>We also checked out the <b>PLTD Apung</b> (Floating Diesel Power Plant) monument, which was another stark reminder of the tsunami's power. It's pretty mind-blowing to think about, but the tsunami was so strong that it carried this massive 63-meter-long, 2,600-ton ship all the way into residential areas.</div><div><div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><b>The Beaches </b></h3>Banda Aceh offers breathtaking coastal scenery. While my friends from Java Island might find it pretty normal, since they're used to even more stunning views, for me, coming from beaches with murky water, seeing clear sea water and coral underneath was absolutely amazing. I was even amazed by the many crab-filled holes in the sand. And, of course, we had to make sure to visit Pulau Weh, also known as Sabang.<div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b><i>Mongmong Beach</i></b></li></ul></div><div><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbl0H5iSyQ7v7uWLIymgwVmGrlUriu8i6qsBEAIMJ2hVWVhs8HfuPWZAu24ml1SY-yIe4QT5ex6hv08uJsfJYLFVFcaVghG4n_Ld63NCoEjMAgiV4woVuvcM6YDuzPgSbIkTAxXrKq2ckWlo2DizoZkUMGdVGouRIFKcbnNpyz7jTMcduL7OlHTx-EWkUN/s16000/1703681864289.jpg" /></div>During our stay in Banda Aceh, we often visited different beaches, and Lampuuk Beach was a must-see because it's where the 2004 Tsunami started. In our first week, my five female friends and I checked out Lampuuk. But it was actually Mongmong Beach that kicked off our group's beach explorations, as both males and females joined in for our first outing together. That day set the stage for lots more beach adventures.</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b><i>Sabang, Weh Island</i></b></li></ul><div><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSzAa-aounEChUY_1ChFPRHaWy1A8PU4HRvjFUzYsswHkV6Ptfi_gft2AYu_FtCXk1yZ3d0CnNguTXp9xM6o8atTcYbxBKzb-3y3Q4gDatJGAfo46BdtHjMDLmz53fNSFkUextoLRst4erRE48lKWH9fvpjV3LiKt3yoa_gK9PS1Yut2oiEEBmiq8fjIxM/s16000/IMG_20240105_143852_1.jpg" /><br />Our visit to Pulau Weh, also known as Sabang, was the highlight of our beach adventures. None of us had been there before, so the nine of us decided to get help from a travel agent. We spent three days and two nights exploring the island's beautiful beaches. One unforgettable experience was dolphin watching. We set out early in the morning to see dolphins in their natural habitat. After that amazing encounter, we went snorkeling. Speaking for myself, it was my first time snorkeling, and it was definitely a memorable first on our trip.</div><div><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ67mdV8I1HDN5JTKPHDVobyt4gGPoAv0olp4RNGUPXzpMXWOjy73_FAqVdZc0UxdEv7in1YgCUCkKQUG5XW9ny4Oj1lob1wAlmduf7pZBlPVofccBIU_-ORkxiR92MclzkPjPMThl2w1S7EXyg2rE-7DRE5GS9NE1ymRo0k9LueD9pp4rcs8d9CnAHUXa/s16000/IMG_20240105_153946.jpg" /></div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b><i>Alue Naga Beach</i></b></li></ul>Our last beach visit in Banda Aceh was Alue Naga Beach before we headed home. Lulu and I decided to check it out in the morning, so we booked a taxi ride online. Interestingly, it didn't seem like a popular tourist spot, and our driver was a bit unsure about dropping us off, expressing some safety concerns. But we trusted Google's directions and walked confidently towards the beach. While it wasn't the most extraordinary beach, it was peaceful along the long stretch of sand. Visiting in the morning meant we got to enjoy clean sand and clear water. As soon as I stepped onto the sand, the familiar smell of the sea washed over me, bringing a sense of happiness.</div><div><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaIZA0VowSAZrieWx0k-slb-YepengcttQeWwaV3oloxU9xeXe18AemDd1XP4Jyd_pyVcLy8qVJcjW9dScdKh2TB1ZcltpAleZP4xQASxzCUmjGqYsm6PKNstHHr-KaANQnKdnq6lDmp58gGBjvP1QyKCasvofX3y4OazlQD6mSU5u9FYlYTj6_JUoOZKK/s16000/IMG_20240221_073959.jpg" /><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Food and Beverage </h3><div><b>The Coffee</b></div>I'm no coffee expert, but I can attest that coffee plays an integral role in Acehnese culture. Everywhere you turn in Banda Aceh, there are coffee shops, ranging from cozy nooks to bustling establishments, frequented by coffee enthusiasts day and night. Among them, the most renowned—known as <i>sanger</i> coffee—holds a special place. Legend has it that "sanger" stands for "<i>sama-sama ngerti</i>," or "we understand each other," reflecting the empathy of coffee shop owners toward students on a budget. Hence, sanger coffee is served in petite glasses, making it both pocket-friendly and enjoyable for all.</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_oKbmPMBHrcS4qIuA_SPaUL6p2y402OGJHVUS9sYQ7cA0m6L4TQCs388wU8nIqrXMtWnbtOSj-EVloPWfJ_UnuYkujjtL3luQTScqsI2Jajvxqa9_nY_iznBnCa5xpTuEZVRAPx7xTPFQ9fsI6QReR2u4p1j3DHUTc2iMFAvNMCHFwCqnBoKdZcZ_xLyp/s16000/1704300134859.jpg" /></div><div>I really love strongly spiced food, so adjusting to the flavorful cuisine of Banda Aceh, which is known for its bold spices, was easy for me. I feel for my friends from different cities in Java Island who have to hunt for Javanese dishes to satisfy their taste buds. When it comes to food, exploring culinary delights is our weekend hobby, especially enjoying authentic Acehnese dishes like Mie Aceh, made by locals in their hometown. It's a whole new experience compared to what we're used to back home, even though it's cooked by Acehnese.</div></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9vLjk3QWhRm0XRCPpvF1k9oGAX23dLViTQ8cZY57yBacwYKXEc1zqX2LQ-1MJ9voeb9ILlquFwaSCvRDQQSKcg3UhMIMfmO5-3TKO0_GfUqK1IjMUYPsf9Ax47J62AyQjbB4Nk8lTM-XytcXKPrvrFgR2b3FV8xMi4DNL3Hvy-m6TjGnqzSC1QAnrY808/s16000/IMG_20231130_192238.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mie Aceh; Acehnese's scpecialty noodle</td></tr></tbody></table>Aceh has a treasure trove of culinary delights that stole our hearts. One standout is <i>Sate Matang</i>. "Matang" doesn't just mean cooked in Indonesian—it's the name of a village in Aceh. So, Matang satay originates from this village. Beef satay served with a hearty beef leg bone broth, savory peanut sauce, and a side of warm rice, it's a dish bursting with flavor. Despite indulging in it numerous times, its deliciousness never gets old.</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8FKYyy3RxEM8Ens6_HKSYDngYCfrCfhLhWg0xSkhLiGjmZGxAcuOMxd5wGKN9Sjm5y1ti3vvDkoFVF-cCxvMnabQWrC35LVnik11kFE9uvgC0pOs8SJ0HRbnbojQwoqfQVHm_udKec9DPWEGh5F3z5rC02U9-oPRu-YFQ7ejDUxjt1Us-3AddqjmSEUmA/s16000/1702350558779.jpg" /></div>Another must-try is <i>Ayam Tangkap</i>, literally translated as "caught chicken." It's a simple yet flavorful dish featuring <i>kampong </i>(free-range) chicken fried with authentic Acehnese spices, generously garnished with fragrant curry leaves. Its comforting taste is unmatched, offering a unique flavor profile unlike any other fried chicken. The name "Ayam tangkap or caught chicken" originates from the traditional practice across Indonesia of manually catching chickens before preparing them for consumption. When visiting a typical Acehnese restaurant, be sure to pair it with the tantalizing <i>beulangong </i>sauce, fried beef, and a selection of mouthwatering Acehnese chili sauces for a truly delightful dining experience.</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0baPAlsIaJhf7NExh6Jx5kaXIVOMJhYpDkE5sCtBM9X0RcZiwRhIGIUZcqixGu6lwn-G_lmZN4BevqLNdMVQYgKY72zmYFKQNtkmtLFpfBbv5HClG1UdXBLAoTK-PEKSYitCn_5pH_8b9rryCl3nhZ_Yr5ALimpIPtEAWzu5QWQC4ZKI0QwlDL_P0NRc2/s16000/1710899192057.jpg" /></div><div>This <i>pecal</i> rice dish was a real lifesaver for us during our stay in Banda Aceh. It had everything we needed in one bowl: rice, veggies, eggs, and tasty condiments like sauce and crackers. We must have ordered it a ton of times, and it kinda became a symbol of our strength and ability to cope while being away from home.</div></div><div><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaeUPYDRtbVxa26C01lApcuKo8LZGeW7SJ7bFxTBFSIO7ApV4S_M8IDUQzDVJQfHvToGqwzuAhP_PFn3AWtomof_j0luZtDoycGRXLici19DFKQAWzFG_HpC-b-T5Mzag6xKMl_c3W9aokQjGWwLgRzt5GB8EmEfIW8uQzt0TLkEsVmCGGAH60hSEuuZpn/s16000/IMG_20240201_120128.jpg" />When I visited Sabang, I got to taste octopus satay for the first time, and it was really good! I was pleasantly surprised by how tasty octopus can be. Even though it was a bit more expensive than other satay dishes, I ended up ordering it two nights in a row because I knew I wouldn't find it back home. And let me tell you, I didn't regret it one bit! Oh, I shouldn't forget that my first taste of octopus satay was a birthday treat from a friend of mine.<br /><div><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggtMmV_O5-mbL_5UtlzIS95bakcNypSGprWN4inQnW1uCKvKsfgEmrcm88HNv226JK3K9jwzB6NeEjdE2-jsXpD3D-qby3KXUGUsOt9DxQ3mKVQ_S_WNJY5Dv0q3-wmm1aq7TAat_-orjKJTDCWVMyk0wljNv5mHmv53nvKZWQUo9XzqCTxKp35orsjJwr/s16000/IMG_7301.jpg" />The pizza in Banda Aceh totally blew my mind when it comes to what makes a great pizza. I'm not exactly sure about the traditional pizza-making process, or what exact kind of pizza I had there that's different from what I get in Medan. But let me tell you, the thin, fire-grilled pizza I had was unlike any fusion pizza I've ever tasted. It was just so delicious!</div><div><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3wG_p4W8sz4fvil4ByT1YKUeObqpLdgsNBRyuLOUN5neKoqLv1_jPoUyKbK_nP7MmQ3h083scjARFwL3XUEgK_17w2RiA9Myi2Kq71I0bDZ0lxxApZEl0rmIwzux2BWcuQ4W6r-za1KuNRDW8R4FsTbcidzHquCkW21D9Ebt3QdbOIHW6EjJtLmAlGZYA/s16000/IMG_6102.jpg" /></div><div>During my stay in Banda Aceh, I came across an interesting tradition: as Maghrib prayer time nears, all trading activities stop. If we're eating out before Maghrib, we're advised to finish our meal at our own pace. But no new orders are taken, and new customers aren't allowed in until after Maghrib. It's a way for Aceh to enforce Islamic Sharia law within its territory, showing its autonomy.<br /><br />Taking part in this program made me realize how valuable it is to pursue further education abroad, something I hadn't thought about before. I've found a second family among the friends I live with in what we jokingly call our dorm. The program has given me priceless experiences, helpful feedback, and amazing support, and I'm really grateful for all of it.<br /><br /><b><i>Teurimong Geunaseh, Banda Aceh</i></b> ❤️<br /></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862380734915642433.post-24247296987938917862023-09-29T15:06:00.009+07:002024-02-20T06:51:52.035+07:00Shades of PerceptionThe different ways we see each other sometimes amaze me. It's like looking in a mirror and seeing a million different pictures, each one different but connected to the whole. These different points of view honor our differences while showing how strong and complicated our connections are.<br /><br />Doesn't the fact that our points of view are always changing what makes us human? It helps us remember that it's okay if other people have different ideas about things. It's this colorful mix that makes our relationships unique and shows how rich life is. <div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSlTRju8aG_XVvJ_K1EVxa_p_1bNaDj8A44Tn3n69JCHcj44FRNbqSW__GxyX_C2w6ZgcaRy82kn6s0mA6wu68DM0i6CAL7VyXbtuSEOjPgpBNwp6qPT5IjAXIWdEdHqi9l_OBSrk4zfpKrc6PXoS_gRXMgUv3X7IEjJmTWtk5iKPmKo0YYENU45Z9ISEK/s2245/Green%20Floral%20Watercolor%20Quotes%20Poster_20230928_115711_0000.png"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSlTRju8aG_XVvJ_K1EVxa_p_1bNaDj8A44Tn3n69JCHcj44FRNbqSW__GxyX_C2w6ZgcaRy82kn6s0mA6wu68DM0i6CAL7VyXbtuSEOjPgpBNwp6qPT5IjAXIWdEdHqi9l_OBSrk4zfpKrc6PXoS_gRXMgUv3X7IEjJmTWtk5iKPmKo0YYENU45Z9ISEK/s16000/Green%20Floral%20Watercolor%20Quotes%20Poster_20230928_115711_0000.png" /></a></div><b>Am I too quiet?</b><div><b><br /></b></div><div>There are numerous ways that people perceive me! Some people think I am quiet and uninterested. However, some people highly value my ability to listen attentively and think critically. People see my silence as a space to reflect deeply, like a blank canvas waiting for a deep conversation. See how one person can see something while another sees something completely different? This reminds me that everyone is unique, and how they perceive us depends on where they stand. A sculpture is like this: everyone has a different perspective!<br /><br />This variety of points of view is a true blessing. Having an open mind and a curious heart helps me interact with everyone. There is no single "truth" about who I am, so I value how each person perceives me through their own unique lens. Embracing this richness allows me to learn more about myself and the beautiful complexity of everyone I encounter along the way. It is also the key to making genuine connections and comprehending the rich complexity of human experience.<br /><br /><div><b>Are they too clingy?</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div>It's also interesting and enlightening to see that, while some people believe others are "too clingy," others value their ability to care and love with an open heart. This diversity of perspectives reveals how complexly human emotions and expectations interact with one another. Some people who have experienced someone's closeness and warmth interpret it as a sign that they care about them and wish to form strong bonds.<br /><br />The love and care those people show are heartwarming and reassuring, demonstrating that their relationship is genuine. Others, however, may dislike the proximity; they may believe it is too close or suffocating. Some people refer to this as "clinginess," but it may feel excessive or intrusive, pushing their personal boundaries and freedom.<br /><br />This contrast makes me reflect on how different people express love and care. What one person considers "clinginess," the other sees as a beautiful and genuine expression of love and commitment. </div><div><br /><div><b>Are you too weird?</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div>In the world of personalities, some may find you 'too weird,' while others admire your courage in being different. Those who have witnessed your quirks and eccentricities value your authenticity and interactions. Your "weirdness" is a badge of honor for them, demonstrating your authenticity and refusal to conform to society. Others may find your individuality unusual or disruptive to their normalcy.</div><div><br /><div><b>Is she too sensitive?</b></div><div><b><br /></b>For every person who calls her 'too sensitive,' another admires her ability to form strong emotional bonds. Some describe her emotional depth as 'sensitivity,' while others value her emotional intelligence and ability to empathize with her own and others' emotions. Some refer to it as 'oversensitivity,' while others see it as a remarkable trait that enhances relationships.<br /><br /><b>Are we too confident?</b><br /></div><div><b><br /></b></div>I notice a distinct contrast between self-confidence and how others perceive us. One person may think we are 'too confident,' while another finds our unwavering self-confidence inspiring. We all have different perspectives on confidence, which has an impact on our relationships. Some may call our self-assurance 'excessive,' but others are inspired by it. They appreciate our self-respect and positive example.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbW1D1Fn015rzldqKGBqmvYq26jaGZF_eJzmejpSv-cuOmW7vtruwuqvdywZmP2ydNBg8eZeZP4L-KMO4AZWBm2sl1RZSofG7LgbG8nFFeSR__R7IJb4EncBYLY5nyhvU2W-Psf-hDFrJ7RUc3DkThIkm7T-qqaI3wnQBUYYHLVZxJZy52SfDQZFTZ0Z3-/s16000/Green%20and%20Brown%20Inspirational%20Quotes%20Instagram%20Post.png" /></div><div><b>What do those conclude?</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div>What one person considers a negative trait frequently corresponds perfectly with another person's desires or needs. Human perceptions are intricate and multifaceted, resulting in a variety of interpretations. It's a stark reminder that our qualities and behaviors aren't simply classified as 'good' or 'bad.' Instead, they exist on a nuanced continuum that allows for multiple perspectives. This complexity enriches our interactions, emphasizing that the complexities of human relationships cannot be reduced to a simple black-and-white dichotomy.<br /><br />Finally, the beautifully intricate tapestry of human relationships and perceptions reflects the wide range of our experiences and perspectives. As we navigate this complex landscape, we realize that there is no universal 'right' or 'wrong.' Instead, there is a rainbow of perspectives, each providing a distinct lens through which we perceive one another. Embracing this diversity of opinions, interpretations, and emotions is a celebration of our shared humanity as well as a reminder of our individual complexity. It's an invitation to approach each other with empathy, curiosity, and an open heart, understanding that what one person sees as a flaw may be another's greatest strength. In this ever-changing mosaic of connections, we discover the beauty of our shared journey, where the shades of grey between black and white paint a canvas of understanding and compassion.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862380734915642433.post-49085793729614748342023-09-20T20:24:00.018+07:002024-03-27T15:22:04.374+07:00Biting into My Sist's Most-Craved Burgers <p></p><div><div>Even though my mom was sick, I really wanted to have a good time with my big sister. She had a lot to do every day, taking care of her family, being a good daughter, and working hard as a teacher. I knew she hardly ever got time for herself. So, I thought of doing something nice for her, to give her a break from all her responsibilities and just enjoy something fun. She loves burgers from this famous place in Medan, so I thought it would be great for us to go there together.</div></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF_ltdlKZNxPALgSKd81fNQgAqBhlIi-1E9iFrksC6p6SlsZ-XuqFLOpCTSMVg42A7qPzlT7yOQ-YDWrVpyTGZSzIB3x3XshABA1e_yHEwQOi6gf1wg_vnQURj12DVz72AOaBanH9PznR0OGq_PAAY-4ct_nl_nvuli7fqg7VDNm-i3b8Tpf7K2fIzjRGa/s4000/IMG_20230914_120045.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF_ltdlKZNxPALgSKd81fNQgAqBhlIi-1E9iFrksC6p6SlsZ-XuqFLOpCTSMVg42A7qPzlT7yOQ-YDWrVpyTGZSzIB3x3XshABA1e_yHEwQOi6gf1wg_vnQURj12DVz72AOaBanH9PznR0OGq_PAAY-4ct_nl_nvuli7fqg7VDNm-i3b8Tpf7K2fIzjRGa/s16000/IMG_20230914_120045.jpg" /></a><br />Medan was very different from the slower life I knew in Panyabungan. It was a busy city where everything happened quickly. There was always a sense of competition and things moved fast. But surprisingly, there were also quiet places where we could take a break and relax, away from the rush.</div><br />Our trip to the burger place wasn't just about eating tasty food; it was a chance for us to slow down and enjoy the moment. Despite the city's fast pace, we found a peaceful spot where we could connect. It reminded us how important it is to make time for our loved ones, to strengthen the bonds that make us happy.<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdaQwJa3uVEjuq-Hh0RS2pFHJRMRiR2mj6Q9dKxEbhPvZv4Po-5ME2lGd4rBAfcDJi91srKuCOY8sxAQd6UjGK9IuIx1Qra55yK7xjri4Iz4IzCkIXVsp4gMhjtLUHsMDcx2T0gIOCnvIEoVrZlgnlj_PvyMUANpLeVArT1AVvTusbFCNm3_al-5TKtxnj/s4000/IMG_20230914_120239.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdaQwJa3uVEjuq-Hh0RS2pFHJRMRiR2mj6Q9dKxEbhPvZv4Po-5ME2lGd4rBAfcDJi91srKuCOY8sxAQd6UjGK9IuIx1Qra55yK7xjri4Iz4IzCkIXVsp4gMhjtLUHsMDcx2T0gIOCnvIEoVrZlgnlj_PvyMUANpLeVArT1AVvTusbFCNm3_al-5TKtxnj/s16000/IMG_20230914_120239.jpg" /></a><br />As I sat there, I couldn't help but wonder why these burgers were so special. I found it fascinating that we were willing to travel all the way to Medan on motorcycles just for burgers, especially when we could probably find similar ones nearby. So, I had to ask my sister: why go through all this trouble when there are plenty of other tasty foods to try?<br /><br />My sister explained that she had bought these burgers before, but she really wanted her kids to taste them. In that moment, everything clicked. It wasn't just about the burgers themselves; it was about sharing the experience and seeing her children enjoy something she loved. It was a way of showing love.<br /><br />After understanding this, I felt really grateful for my sister's thoughtfulness and the meaning behind our journey. So, I happily agreed to go along with her plan, and during our lunchtime, we enjoyed those burgers together. It wasn't just about the flavor, but about the connection we shared and the memories we made.</div><div><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixKig9K9HyCMTMpMzE6uCa7jplbN9CEkpBaRZopuwzZE3-WlGeIfTHki0lfr-l6VcM15Zb4veEz9myNXuuJx2AEZbS263twD6FRNKkWOCihdB8Q0c8gvSSM9e76x13c8qoBJwNEd9-se5LFEN8hyf_Bj9XhDXwBYibvX6LWnZcQ0thaUSmzPAIrtSpOtp0/s16000/IMG_20230914_115931.jpg" /></div>We both ordered her favorite burgers, and let me tell you, after that initial taste, I completely understood why these burgers were worth the journey from our hometown. The beef burger came with fries and a soda, and let me tell you, it was amazing. From the moment I took the first bite, I knew this meal would be unforgettable. The burger was packed with flavor, and the beef patty? Cooked perfectly. Add in some crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and melted cheese, and you've got this wonderful blend of textures and tastes.<div><div><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNXWzUT1P04KixkmfBEorJxxLArKjsUDSPJN09qdzV_UcVdXrG0sbFcz01QlnJYASuhHrpUPmTeFVZxMMihe8_M-gkJkNaXAUlhyx3F-MuoLcLtZz89kGNyLBA3Ln2cYZbjJjitL9UctYrFF6h3Grj1mhsKqMRSgtM5uc-dgERM23OjkNHlqdBx6XehXVK/s16000/IMG_20230914_120329.jpg" /></div>What set this burger apart was the amazing focus on every little detail. The bun was soft but had a slight crunch, just perfect. The seasoning was just right, so there was no need for extra sauce. And those sesame seeds sprinkled evenly on the bun? Such a nice touch.<br /><br />The fries were golden and crispy, making them the perfect side. They were seasoned perfectly, adding even more flavor to the whole meal. Pair it with a cold, refreshing soda, and you've got everything you need. The beef burger with fries and soda was a definite winner.<div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq1JPVtGw_tpO3EwOEhBmToxlPeU6kbDS51UmaXPICT-q6_z7RnmflC-T1DNO89JFBIEPKlrrkW0V76osIOWo3fxC47W8jMVlV9Qbgjv8odN-eal2w51DYC9_cq0deiLy5sdMkdsGUhtAPYR-M6KCp6TBh9zfMzeNwm1qIbv4l64cHFGLuNFIwUFceruDF/s4000/IMG_20230914_140631.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq1JPVtGw_tpO3EwOEhBmToxlPeU6kbDS51UmaXPICT-q6_z7RnmflC-T1DNO89JFBIEPKlrrkW0V76osIOWo3fxC47W8jMVlV9Qbgjv8odN-eal2w51DYC9_cq0deiLy5sdMkdsGUhtAPYR-M6KCp6TBh9zfMzeNwm1qIbv4l64cHFGLuNFIwUFceruDF/s16000/IMG_20230914_140631.jpg" /></a><br />After enjoying our burgers, we decided to try some Japanese pancakes from another famous spot. We chose to share a plate of Tiramisu-flavored pancakes along with a drink.<br /><br />The pancakes came in a unique presentation, covered with a clear mica layer. We lifted it carefully to reveal the deliciousness hidden underneath. However, we found these pancakes to be too sweet for our taste, especially since we're not big fans of overly sugary treats. Even sharing, it was hard to finish the whole serving. Still, it was an interesting culinary experience for us.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiKXB6_clIblY2EzvqQuMk9wqMm0nnb9rzPiDP6liDFVzXF028kpSMrQddz16U7mOd_R9riQYDacs2BX28_CHc_ll8Jz1SsNzo3vlf_8fsAIUgOFEFCqy4UjJ7ahSUuwQ3daKYTidF2dqJzIWJJp2b71fiQ4yUBuDtl4OigZYFth-8WKwnLQtM3kToUmI4/s4000/IMG_20230914_140636.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiKXB6_clIblY2EzvqQuMk9wqMm0nnb9rzPiDP6liDFVzXF028kpSMrQddz16U7mOd_R9riQYDacs2BX28_CHc_ll8Jz1SsNzo3vlf_8fsAIUgOFEFCqy4UjJ7ahSUuwQ3daKYTidF2dqJzIWJJp2b71fiQ4yUBuDtl4OigZYFth-8WKwnLQtM3kToUmI4/s16000/IMG_20230914_140636.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB6WtngH6keEqzxhuayNQGQvW1u7NHsoCPmupDCNvD8AN69bnvlQsYRikBBJaGLJQlQLVM3x3n1VB78gN4zha0VzU3J5yiKdNCPOYcdC53b5Y82UZlJQPZolIxYyVai4ov8hu_4X1ECx6buIHuKhBb-L-lmN2trwzwjroi6Z4u7HGzmO9-ostVabqmP5ke/s4000/IMG_20230914_141010.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB6WtngH6keEqzxhuayNQGQvW1u7NHsoCPmupDCNvD8AN69bnvlQsYRikBBJaGLJQlQLVM3x3n1VB78gN4zha0VzU3J5yiKdNCPOYcdC53b5Y82UZlJQPZolIxYyVai4ov8hu_4X1ECx6buIHuKhBb-L-lmN2trwzwjroi6Z4u7HGzmO9-ostVabqmP5ke/s16000/IMG_20230914_141010.jpg" /></a><br />My sister's burger trip reminded me of the times before she got married, and I still lived at home. We used to love riding our motorcycle because taking the public minibus was exhausting. Thinking back to the day we savored those delicious burgers and pancakes together makes me smile. It's a reminder that the little things in life often create the best memories.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgynxJLV19xQJlq21mR31u-mmQ3BgkZmQA_Bm-rBNjhyCNjddP-92GvR3kHX1d6La6SKLbOEEW0qF9RtjAgfdPIP4VMLNONr_JQMxExc4x6rZvnVjCApK2qM4Iv7zi7OIk7_pahm3fmZjn4KwSbSFZOTviLEWa-SEE3Dw53WPWtd69TwSgAkYy-r828hBJ_/s4000/IMG_20230914_141123.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgynxJLV19xQJlq21mR31u-mmQ3BgkZmQA_Bm-rBNjhyCNjddP-92GvR3kHX1d6La6SKLbOEEW0qF9RtjAgfdPIP4VMLNONr_JQMxExc4x6rZvnVjCApK2qM4Iv7zi7OIk7_pahm3fmZjn4KwSbSFZOTviLEWa-SEE3Dw53WPWtd69TwSgAkYy-r828hBJ_/s16000/IMG_20230914_141123.jpg" /></a></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862380734915642433.post-6145274352490179832023-09-17T11:12:00.012+07:002024-03-27T22:02:01.013+07:00Discovering Bukittinggi's Treasures<div>We had a two-day assignment in Bukittinggi that was quite exciting. Surprisingly, we only needed one day to finish our task, which gave us an extra day to explore the city's attractions. Despite our early arrival at 2 a.m., we had booked a hotel ahead of time. This strategic move allowed us to check in early for a slightly higher fee that included two breakfasts. Our hotel was not only comfortable, but also clean and safe. Furthermore, the breakfast options were impressive, with delectable flavors.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl1AtV2sLLyze7679WFvwZan4e4_HKgilWnzvnxtYgYxYpDa6O2zQbeDROfAklOguQu_GtnnC-Ahid6pCYvuatl_cg-tk-1RGfoJFuhhHGW8oqg_g9refGxV2SF2SQa8FG7TPUQKGHf_ak0r0uan9YV1io1DjozMMCcSQLDDNKcsqsV9Zfy_EuIJR2SLfD/s4000/IMG_20230907_195414%20(1).jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl1AtV2sLLyze7679WFvwZan4e4_HKgilWnzvnxtYgYxYpDa6O2zQbeDROfAklOguQu_GtnnC-Ahid6pCYvuatl_cg-tk-1RGfoJFuhhHGW8oqg_g9refGxV2SF2SQa8FG7TPUQKGHf_ak0r0uan9YV1io1DjozMMCcSQLDDNKcsqsV9Zfy_EuIJR2SLfD/s16000/IMG_20230907_195414%20(1).jpg" /></a></div>On our first night, we explored Bukittinggi after finishing our assignment. Our first stop was at Jam Gadang, which was conveniently located just a short distance from our hotel. Jam Gadang, with its distinctive Minangkabau architecture, is a prominent landmark in Bukittinggi. While I had previously visited this location during the day, seeing it at night was an entirely different and captivating experience. The vibrant lights of surrounding buildings brought the area to life, and Jam Gadang itself changed colors on periodically, creating a mesmerizing sight.<br /><br />There were numerous souvenir stalls around Jam Gadang, and it was clear that many people were spending their leisure time there. However, as is often the case with tourist destinations, the food was more expensive and less flavorful than in other parts of town.<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-TG9_iSV6hlv_lwtvrt_GFUDJhLTkM10V1MmlRK0S5h0KknwRDx-lGXDLIpNigiCpL1l889EDugue_M_TPe3yw6FZXm64mhzWZjBqlHPYCIU7qaQ43-mEE_3FPVtMSo_W5IIXikVanI1PXHsYVAIDHdmuMdnYVY4o-fy6ufN5xn5D13LB9MwvFtaZsIXE/s4000/IMG_20230907_193610.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-TG9_iSV6hlv_lwtvrt_GFUDJhLTkM10V1MmlRK0S5h0KknwRDx-lGXDLIpNigiCpL1l889EDugue_M_TPe3yw6FZXm64mhzWZjBqlHPYCIU7qaQ43-mEE_3FPVtMSo_W5IIXikVanI1PXHsYVAIDHdmuMdnYVY4o-fy6ufN5xn5D13LB9MwvFtaZsIXE/s16000/IMG_20230907_193610.jpg" /></a><br />On the second day, we decided to take a stroll to Kinantan Zoo. At first, I wasn't enthusiastic, as I thought all zoos were more or less the same. However, I'm glad I didn't decline the invitation because Bukittinggi has a clever way of connecting its attractions. Thanks to its relatively compact city layout, visitors can purchase a single entrance ticket that covers multiple famous spots, making it a convenient and cost-effective way to explore the city.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAlK6US1gsHHZSu6nHBYxnOzVC1IH8gX7c5x28sRyE-E26zSEAtGdSbzOFNbxjfagVtn0mc-BRfuaKvMaBaHzSRZnP3nGZRCzRnL_m22FadHWWu5gQ4g8BuqMTOPhK_snu1XMm4583EmKuuiPLjpbAvve_4BXeTAJ5X0HTKr-iyRt9OhuQQbozcjHhU0fX/s1909/Screenshot_2023-09-13-23-13-48-179_com.miui.gallery.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAlK6US1gsHHZSu6nHBYxnOzVC1IH8gX7c5x28sRyE-E26zSEAtGdSbzOFNbxjfagVtn0mc-BRfuaKvMaBaHzSRZnP3nGZRCzRnL_m22FadHWWu5gQ4g8BuqMTOPhK_snu1XMm4583EmKuuiPLjpbAvve_4BXeTAJ5X0HTKr-iyRt9OhuQQbozcjHhU0fX/s16000/Screenshot_2023-09-13-23-13-48-179_com.miui.gallery.jpg" /></a><br />Kinantan Zoo was a delightful surprise, offering a diverse range of animals to observe and the chance to explore the Baanjuang Traditional House Museum, conveniently located within the zoo premises. This museum provides an immersive cultural experience, highlighting the distinctive Minangkabau architectural style and showcasing the rich heritage of the region.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaEtJ2MO8jMfhY22ylgrhNpw2tZUZj3S9i-EM-MFQYPzZSWtEJSWbGLap2i_YxuOeeUZgictnKXJC4FDkqmbpb2hnf0dbxzVEM9i-9FmGq2JKhC2Op_GRIoBuc0AhEbPRS26SQ_8XwksRWeBsRnO0nrRzhkpdMiT-IOjaLXC2lgBOiD5IIJDdSRiA0czII/s4000/IMG_20230908_094433.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaEtJ2MO8jMfhY22ylgrhNpw2tZUZj3S9i-EM-MFQYPzZSWtEJSWbGLap2i_YxuOeeUZgictnKXJC4FDkqmbpb2hnf0dbxzVEM9i-9FmGq2JKhC2Op_GRIoBuc0AhEbPRS26SQ_8XwksRWeBsRnO0nrRzhkpdMiT-IOjaLXC2lgBOiD5IIJDdSRiA0czII/s16000/IMG_20230908_094433.jpg" /></a><br />Crossing the Limpapeh Bridge from the zoo opened access to several significant locations, with Fort de Kock being the final stop on our morning journey. The bridge provided breathtaking panoramic views of the picturesque Sianok Canyon and the lush surrounding landscape. It was a multifaceted attraction that seamlessly combined natural beauty, wildlife conservation, and cultural enrichment into one experience.<br /><br />Taking the advice of a rujak vendor, we decided to take a leisurely stroll through the residential area, and to our surprise, we soon realized that our hotel was much closer than we had initially thought. It almost felt as if we had just visited a neighbor's house, adding a warm and familiar touch to our exploration of Bukittinggi.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlpwGVOTHDn6JZSNwqscCiXvTfVsAGFjwmQkRal7hf2Qzc0HeNT668YgA5KfcJvm7YXu2tGfICdu1g4g3gzfxlxjern8eTeiIKPO5pmKsG5e2P1dMadPA_4FzIv_dPVjnW6XHkENvrgPw6sjty9KnGKl7eKzxEyT18xZ65KH1oDdTZJfwH8gktRDisOgpr/s3000/IMG_20230908_075210.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlpwGVOTHDn6JZSNwqscCiXvTfVsAGFjwmQkRal7hf2Qzc0HeNT668YgA5KfcJvm7YXu2tGfICdu1g4g3gzfxlxjern8eTeiIKPO5pmKsG5e2P1dMadPA_4FzIv_dPVjnW6XHkENvrgPw6sjty9KnGKl7eKzxEyT18xZ65KH1oDdTZJfwH8gktRDisOgpr/s16000/IMG_20230908_075210.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZyY1Hxdvbtkl2IC1zZWq3iSysDcURhMmGkB3DZr3lcR7CMvlicwRQo0QBg0tOwCbkWwG1JQvU-qNNlv_uwxabxX2M-c370QCywB59XzFmrTdOvvsximNFPSi9TvUH1qpBwSYjQPx0aKFDRo8Dyqgi1SJTwY4xRMjNd_wAkL-74HL3F1cDptyNRmhCgocq/s4000/IMG_20230908_095506.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZyY1Hxdvbtkl2IC1zZWq3iSysDcURhMmGkB3DZr3lcR7CMvlicwRQo0QBg0tOwCbkWwG1JQvU-qNNlv_uwxabxX2M-c370QCywB59XzFmrTdOvvsximNFPSi9TvUH1qpBwSYjQPx0aKFDRo8Dyqgi1SJTwY4xRMjNd_wAkL-74HL3F1cDptyNRmhCgocq/s16000/IMG_20230908_095506.jpg" /></a><br />After checking out of the hotel at 1 p.m., we left our luggage in the lobby since our ride was scheduled to pick us up at 11 p.m. With plenty of time to spare, we decided to revisit Jam Gadang for some Batik shopping. Still having many hours left, we used an online taxi to take us to the Bung Hatta Birth House Museum.<br /><br />This museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the life and achievements of Bung Hatta. Inside, visitors can explore a wide range of exhibits, displays, and memorabilia that offer valuable insights into his early life, education, and political career. It provides an educational experience that helps us better understand the history and context of Indonesia's struggle for independence.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmjnP4rx05-e2PpcCPoDjoL9UYXCLAcRNYWR4gzz67WK9LHNQnNBCiVc5Lgw5bSzoQ-sP9VHg1EkrG2zQZsdSGP6iD7EGxriFRR5etXjJAmCAbHp1Am23R8zlKy0tZLHJJL1Befrz2O7RP3thJg7Opyz-k7ug-oyxooQ45Cmv42sYtcZLRqh8HttNIgP59/s3279/IMG_20230908_150132.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmjnP4rx05-e2PpcCPoDjoL9UYXCLAcRNYWR4gzz67WK9LHNQnNBCiVc5Lgw5bSzoQ-sP9VHg1EkrG2zQZsdSGP6iD7EGxriFRR5etXjJAmCAbHp1Am23R8zlKy0tZLHJJL1Befrz2O7RP3thJg7Opyz-k7ug-oyxooQ45Cmv42sYtcZLRqh8HttNIgP59/s16000/IMG_20230908_150132.jpg" /></a><br />The Bung Hatta Birth House we visited is truly unique. It's a meticulously crafted replica created by the Bukittinggi government with an unwavering commitment to historical accuracy. The primary aim behind this replica was to provide visitors with an immersive experience closely resembling the original house where Mohammad Hatta was born.<br /><br />After exploring the museum, we arranged for another online taxi to take us to Panorama Ngarai Sianok, which also features the Japanese Hole. Panorama Ngarai Sianok was a serene spot for unwinding, although the presence of numerous monkeys made us a bit apprehensive.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgTgP1_RdAf7vH-yxsfDz4olljpZTPOLTQ7TBXdX9YK4O9GpCyoCjEscVf7x1dGdogS-BHOSlVnSAiZoxUkfTW63mQnhjtHACZFdbs1pp6ng8r4ObxGy5tQDhrAEKQY1szfdsni1Wg6vv1JY5iwtC7-aEmHgTKhCIYH85EE34Hnb7lQuKOzJdT15h7onmi/s3000/IMG_20230908_174818.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgTgP1_RdAf7vH-yxsfDz4olljpZTPOLTQ7TBXdX9YK4O9GpCyoCjEscVf7x1dGdogS-BHOSlVnSAiZoxUkfTW63mQnhjtHACZFdbs1pp6ng8r4ObxGy5tQDhrAEKQY1szfdsni1Wg6vv1JY5iwtC7-aEmHgTKhCIYH85EE34Hnb7lQuKOzJdT15h7onmi/s16000/IMG_20230908_174818.jpg" /></a><br />We spent the evening in the city park, waiting for nightfall and enjoying the beautiful sunset as the sun gradually descended. As the sky darkened, we decided to have dinner at the highly recommended Nasi Kapau stall, although it didn't quite meet my taste expectations.<br /><br />After dinner, we returned to the hotel, offered our Maghrib prayers, and patiently waited for our ride to pick us up.<br /><br />Bukittinggi had left a lasting impression on me - its cool climate and picturesque landscape made it an unforgettable experience. I couldn't help but feel grateful to Bukittinggi for providing us with such a wonderful adventure!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862380734915642433.post-18039714522162434852023-09-13T14:45:00.014+07:002024-03-27T15:44:18.276+07:00One Year of ChangeI had a lovely lunch with my best friend on the first Friday in September. We checked out a new café in Panyabungan, and as soon as we walked in, it was clear they'd put a lot of effort into every little thing. This café had a comfy but modern vibe, with big windows letting in lots of natural light. It was perfect for taking great photos, even with just a smartphone. What really got our attention, though, were the classy wooden tables and cool tableware. It gave the place a fancy feel we didn't see coming. Thinking about how I used to see Panyabungan as a simple town, I couldn't help but notice how it's changed over the past four years.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy19xUDA8u9illgLVzRid4N14uML65l7op4MAMJHfF8kBZeiZIBe24Dg_N9h-a5oRgc0fjdHEg7YYaYlkMxE4atkubP_6AQlnBdswkBhS-gCSa-wS-RiPwdhxvjbGCAesLivPoc7wQan45pl3O71cOtIUuqryDp5Q4jfD-Y7Jho_t-akG_dZpck1wd2Wdr/s2951/IMG_20230901_160311(3)_copy_2213x2951.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy19xUDA8u9illgLVzRid4N14uML65l7op4MAMJHfF8kBZeiZIBe24Dg_N9h-a5oRgc0fjdHEg7YYaYlkMxE4atkubP_6AQlnBdswkBhS-gCSa-wS-RiPwdhxvjbGCAesLivPoc7wQan45pl3O71cOtIUuqryDp5Q4jfD-Y7Jho_t-akG_dZpck1wd2Wdr/s16000/IMG_20230901_160311(3)_copy_2213x2951.jpg" /></a><div>The menu gave me a lot to think about since they had two styles - Western and local dishes, with plenty of choices, including drinks and snacks. This diversity was a fresh experience for me because many cafes in Panyabungan typically focus solely on coffee. As we hung out, a local band was playing live music. We could have just listened to their tunes if we didn't feel like talking. After we figured out what we wanted to eat, we relaxed and had a nice chat while we waited for our food.</div><div><br />Our chat wasn't all that serious; it revolved around some minor work I wanted to avoid discussing at the office. My colleagues might not fully understand what was happening and could get the wrong idea. It was funny how it brought back memories from last year, with the same friend and in a similar situation but a different perspective.<br /><br />A year ago, I was annoyed about getting more work dumped on me, and I didn't know if I could handle it or even wanted to. I vented to my best friend, wondering why I got stuck with these new and demanding tasks. It's wild to think about how much a person can change in a year, right?<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEJEYL5vjt6pjH8TxzzNX9Zve1ZIffMQgjBf8Vb2IEKndvWy1SD3EnImCkremEc8K8qOGiwDm9gkm1xrFSv4jDqPYmdImyUQeq2EiwbIr5UycSq46Z523pJyVe6yeq9mYO-LaJ1WV8ZjEfxbpDd3fi8puWyKCSBdM0iwc74mFK5uisv7WA7ks2jTOgubZ7/s3600/IMG_20230905_170539(1)_copy_2700x3600.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEJEYL5vjt6pjH8TxzzNX9Zve1ZIffMQgjBf8Vb2IEKndvWy1SD3EnImCkremEc8K8qOGiwDm9gkm1xrFSv4jDqPYmdImyUQeq2EiwbIr5UycSq46Z523pJyVe6yeq9mYO-LaJ1WV8ZjEfxbpDd3fi8puWyKCSBdM0iwc74mFK5uisv7WA7ks2jTOgubZ7/s16000/IMG_20230905_170539(1)_copy_2700x3600.jpg" /></a><br /><b>Becoming More Thoughtful in Reactions</b><div><br /></div><div>A year ago, I used to be pretty impulsive when things took me out of my comfort zone. I had this habit of quickly expressing my disagreement with stuff, only to regret it later when I thought about why I'd reacted that way. This impulsiveness was a real struggle, often leading to situations where my initial reactions didn't match what I thought or meant. It could frustrate me and the people around me, causing unnecessary conflicts and misunderstandings.<br /><br />But with time, I learned the importance of taking a step back and pausing before reacting, especially when I faced new or tough situations. This approach helped me assess things better, consider different angles, and respond more thoughtfully. So, I've been able to handle those situations with more composure and effectiveness, and I don't regret my impulsive reactions as much. Changing how I deal with discomfort and disagreements has been a valuable lesson in my personal growth and communication with others.</div><div><br /><b>Confronting Fear and Embracing Growth</b></div><div>A year ago, I used to avoid new opportunities and challenges, even if they could have helped me learn and grow. Looking back, I was often too hesitant to leave my comfort zone. But now, I've come to understand that my personal growth and self-development depend on my willingness to take on these new challenges. I've learned that it can be scary, but it's entirely doable.<br /><br />In the past, my fear of the unknown might have held me back, causing me to miss out on chances to learn and grow. But today, I've found the courage to face these challenges head-on, and it's greatly impacted my personal and professional development.<br /><br />Sure, pushing past my comfort zone can be tough, but the rewards of knowledge, experience, and personal growth are worth it. Changing how I see things has been a key part of my journey toward self-improvement and reaching my full potential.</div><div><br /><b>Discovering Confidence in Speaking Before Broader Audiences</b></div><div><br />In the past, I used to go out of my way to avoid public speaking because I thought it was one of my biggest fears. But there came a time when I had no choice but to face it, and to my surprise, I found out I was better at it than I thought. The results from my speaking gigs were way better than expected, and that experience changed everything.<br /><br />It made me realize that I could speak confidently in front of people and that it was better than I'd feared. With this newfound confidence, I started stepping out of my comfort zone more often. I became bolder when sharing my thoughts and opinions with larger groups. This change improved my public speaking skills and helped me communicate my ideas to a wider audience. It's proof that confronting our fears and pushing our limits can lead to personal growth and unexpected accomplishments. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF0UTV1R8kMSmFAK-oMYhMnx6UkgUqnAoTJOp_-h1VkK-cCesjIxhBdCBWMwCGzWkT3N0jy2YP0wMBl3TMTuEowOvI6zVXZ5Z6RRB5CBh98IFzwO3yO1n9N_gEAdlECLRnY7gXDCbETcF81pplgFeW0pQoINkAbd6iy8xJqc-bT56WYBZ6wejBNUk6j70q/s3600/IMG_20230901_160744(2)_copy_2700x3600.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF0UTV1R8kMSmFAK-oMYhMnx6UkgUqnAoTJOp_-h1VkK-cCesjIxhBdCBWMwCGzWkT3N0jy2YP0wMBl3TMTuEowOvI6zVXZ5Z6RRB5CBh98IFzwO3yO1n9N_gEAdlECLRnY7gXDCbETcF81pplgFeW0pQoINkAbd6iy8xJqc-bT56WYBZ6wejBNUk6j70q/s16000/IMG_20230901_160744(2)_copy_2700x3600.jpg" /></a></div><div><b>Embracing Vulnerability and Support: The Power of Sharing and Seeking Help</b><br /><br />I've seen positive changes in how I approach opening up to my closest friends. I used to believe that talking about my personal problems might not be the best idea, but I've realized that I can't handle all of life's challenges alone. It's become evident that having at least one reliable friend willing to listen, even during my toughest moments, is a true blessing. This shift in perspective has allowed me to rely on my support network when needed, creating stronger connections and getting valuable emotional support during difficult times.<br /><br />Recognizing the importance of sharing and seeking help from trusted friends has been a big part of my personal growth and overall well-being. It reinforces the idea that I'm not alone in my struggles and that reaching out to others can be a source of strength and comfort.</div><div><br /><b>From Self-Interest to Systemic Awareness</b></div><div><br />I used to go through a phase where I only focused on what directly affected me. But working in government, I learned that everything is connected. It's not about sticking your nose in everything; rather, it's about realizing that knowing what's happening around you is smart to prevent future issues.<br /><br />This realization pushed me to stay more informed and aware of the bigger picture in my professional environment. It's not just about looking out for myself; it's about being ready and taking the initiative to tackle potential problems and make informed decisions within a larger system. This change in how I see things has been really helpful in my government work, where things can get pretty complex.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBPZI--dSnP4Jx2xhx8yOUILePiqb51A_JJQe1CM1hNpohwR1GIuGxVUJuJI1uPacertd3l8AsCPRX7hvvmGR9eCOYT4f0AWVZA3cY4PDAvy_8_bcvbpQSiyZF7W1bTutnkc3LHDP_SN3L8H1xJW0BaqqiVGVywqNrQ9zjw8a-chIKpvoD1rSxAYHW8ucs/s3233/IMG_20230901_155843(1)_copy_2425x3233.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBPZI--dSnP4Jx2xhx8yOUILePiqb51A_JJQe1CM1hNpohwR1GIuGxVUJuJI1uPacertd3l8AsCPRX7hvvmGR9eCOYT4f0AWVZA3cY4PDAvy_8_bcvbpQSiyZF7W1bTutnkc3LHDP_SN3L8H1xJW0BaqqiVGVywqNrQ9zjw8a-chIKpvoD1rSxAYHW8ucs/s16000/IMG_20230901_155843(1)_copy_2425x3233.jpg" /></a><br /><b>From Social Reserve to Openness</b></div><div><br /></div><div>I used to not enjoy interacting with many people, but then I decided to work on myself. I trained myself to be friendlier, giving out smiles and being open to new conversations with folks I'd only exchanged quick hellos with. This effort to be more approachable and available to socializing has greatly impacted my life. It's helped me connect with people I might have otherwise kept at a distance. By stepping out of my comfort zone and building new relationships, I've learned the value of human connection and the potential for meaningful interactions with a wider circle of acquaintances.<br /><br />At first, my interactions with students were strictly business within the lecturer-student relationship. I focused solely on teaching and giving academic guidance. But as time went on, something interesting occurred. I started to see the worth of having small talk with my students, even if our conversations strayed from the course material. These informal chats allowed me to connect with my students more personally.<br /><br />These casual discussions created a friendlier and more comfortable atmosphere in the classroom. It wasn't just about teaching but building a community and fostering open communication. I began to enjoy these spontaneous exchanges, whether sharing stories, discussing current events, or just chatting about their interests and experiences. It added a human touch and a sense of camaraderie to the educational setting.<br /><br />Ultimately, this shift in my teaching approach enriched my relationship with my students and improved the overall learning experience. It showed me that the connection between lecturer and student goes beyond the course materials, proving that real interactions and open conversations can greatly enhance the educational journey.</div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKe7lCbkT16iUH_eqi81LPoWlEsGwylTf-Kq8w9h-yOXKifYrS4vJECZnziQ0h1OVY_aPsH5qxdoxMAp2N-Qtzyiqf3ZY0QEQGJ30A_dJB_zmiRk5Pbw13D7mW8645BZyi2MWUPCfxnItV5PCTDMusYp3LcfwPnFzOtQwJBxoPGji1Rn3ONcZc4tuMqUQC/s3600/IMG_20230905_164159(1)_copy_2700x3600.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKe7lCbkT16iUH_eqi81LPoWlEsGwylTf-Kq8w9h-yOXKifYrS4vJECZnziQ0h1OVY_aPsH5qxdoxMAp2N-Qtzyiqf3ZY0QEQGJ30A_dJB_zmiRk5Pbw13D7mW8645BZyi2MWUPCfxnItV5PCTDMusYp3LcfwPnFzOtQwJBxoPGji1Rn3ONcZc4tuMqUQC/s16000/IMG_20230905_164159(1)_copy_2700x3600.jpg" /></a><br /><b>Embracing Diverse Perspectives</b></div><div><br />Something intriguing has been happening in my workplace lately. I've noticed a shift in how I see things, especially when dealing with people with different viewpoints or conflicts. I used to have a fixed way of looking at things, but now, a new perspective has opened up in my mind. I'm becoming more open to diverse views, even when they differ.<br /><br />Here's the thing: I have control over my thoughts and feelings. I can nurture positivity, understanding, and patience. I can choose how I respond to situations and interact with others. This newfound control over my mindset is empowering. It makes me feel responsible for how I engage with people. I can't change others, but I can affect the dynamics by being mindful of how I react and respond.<br /><br />It's like realizing that, even amid the chaos, I can stay centered and navigate challenges gracefully. So, while I can't control external factors, I've learned to adapt and make the best of the situation. It's like coming full circle. I've realized that all these positive changes in my life are linked to my willingness to accept extra tasks that I used to complain about a year ago, even though they were part of my responsibilities.</div><div> <br /><b>Catalysts for Growth</b></div><br /> In a way, it's like thanking myself and giving myself a pat on the back. Embracing those challenges and pushing my boundaries led to growth, understanding, and self-improvement. It wasn't just about doing more work but venturing into uncharted territory, confronting my fears, and unlocking my potential. So, here's to appreciating myself and being grateful for having the courage to accept what came my way. It's evidence that sometimes, the things we initially hesitate about can kickstart our personal growth.</div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862380734915642433.post-59735968675746927522023-09-03T02:20:00.002+07:002023-09-05T22:00:18.237+07:00Being a Mediator (INFP)<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Iau1UVodqrAvvVHSHcbmZ7SFsQkXzJFiL9C8ZakFczzLRnQr52_Y9knEIgmhfU_3wuWit78gKzcW5wxIfier-74YudzeyUWq6TXetNAqOwe_K1fDBbSnij_Za9pO_D0e9xSo3S6VoeexNuno3SxzBSW0u_rW9eRuaFFjlxDozV7SwsqvZCKHgqKDbKzG/s4000/IMG_20221230_090324.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Iau1UVodqrAvvVHSHcbmZ7SFsQkXzJFiL9C8ZakFczzLRnQr52_Y9knEIgmhfU_3wuWit78gKzcW5wxIfier-74YudzeyUWq6TXetNAqOwe_K1fDBbSnij_Za9pO_D0e9xSo3S6VoeexNuno3SxzBSW0u_rW9eRuaFFjlxDozV7SwsqvZCKHgqKDbKzG/s16000/IMG_20221230_090324.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Intermezzo: I don't know what kind of orchid this is. But I remember, at every Teacher's Day commemoration ceremony, this type of orchid would be used as a flower bouquet to wish my teachers in elementary school a Happy Teacher's Day.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />We should be honest and fair before answering the questions for accurate results. I took the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) test thrice and only did so to ensure that my answers were always clear and consistent. In self-reflection, I answered different questions in different ways during each test sequence. But even though the percentages of my scores changed slightly, the results consistently showed that I was a Mediator (INFP) personality type.<br /><br /><div>I need help understanding the complexities and subtleties of the personality types described in the 16 Personalities. Before, all I knew about people was their moods, like anger, shyness, vengeance, and reticence. It becomes clear that the words people use to describe everyone's unique personality type have much more meaning than they initially seem to.<br /><br />One criticism of the MBTI is that it tends to focus too much on the good things about each personality type while ignoring or downplaying the bad stuff. This evaluation is a way to get people to adopt a point of view that emphasizes the inherent good in every part of life. Modern society lacks subtlety, which is a shame because it oversimplifies the complexities of human behavior by putting it into a small number of opposing categories, such as "good" versus "bad," "courteous" versus "rude," and "sincere" versus "deceptive."<br /><br />Is it essential to give someone an assessment to find out what kind of person they are? How someone answers this question depends on how they are wired. The results of this test are very reliable, making it a valuable point of reference. On the other hand, I struggle with these ideas as a caring educator who can explain the complexities of cognitive processes, behaviors, and the ability to control emotions. Over time, they've become set in ways that are hard to change.<br /><br /><i><b>Even though The Mediator seems calm and unassuming, they have a lot of depth and complexity that goes beyond what can be seen on the surface.</b></i> In reality, my mind keeps working even though I try to keep it from doing so. My subconscious mind does a fantastic thing during my daily activities: it builds complex realms nested inside each other without me being aware. During lively conversations with my friends and sometimes even with my family, I often find myself deep in making up stories in my head. Consider a hypothetical situation where the above event happens but with a sample more representative of society. People with this condition often have vivid imaginations or trouble staying on task, which I don't know much about.<br /><br /><i><b>People with the Mediator personality type feel strong emotions when they listen to music.</b></i> I get a lot of pleasure from the beautiful harmonies of music, which aren't limited to a single genre. As my inner self moves independently, I feel a sense of freedom. At the same time, I can enjoy the wide range of musical compositions that stimulate my hearing senses. I don't have a carefully chosen set of musical pleasures, and I don't care much about the prestigious title of the year's best musical composition. Still, a melodic design has poetic verses that deeply resonate with the deepest essence of my being. In that case, it is the most brilliant piece of music there is, based on how I understand music.<br /><br />Hearing Luther Vandross sing the famous song "Dance with My Father" is like being taken to another world. The part of the song about a father who leaves his family didn't make sense to me. Whether or not this outcome reflects my role as a Mediator, I always recognize and appreciate how my life experiences have shaped who I am today.<br /><br />Throughout my life, I've been lucky enough to learn many valuable lessons that have helped me see the deep wisdom always there. The experience has taught me how to accept and acknowledge tears since not everyone can naturally show happiness through laughter. The experience has given me the courage to face problems independently since only some are willing to help. This experience has taught me how important it is to keep a positive attitude, even when something terrible happens that affects your emotional well-being deeply. This experience has given me the strength to stop moving forward if my path isn't in line with what I want out of life.<br /><br />Oh, "Memories" by Maroon 5! There has been a time when I thought that feelings of happiness and mirth would last forever. But the undeniable truth is right in front of us where we are now. On this important day, when we think about how we got to this point, we have to face the bittersweet truth that, while we've been lucky to have some important people with us along the way, we've also had to say goodbye to a few along the way.<br /><br /><i><b>The Mediator has a robust emotional response to nature.</b></i> I want to show how grateful I am for what comes from recognizing that God's grace and love have been given to us by the unique gifts of the natural world. In the natural world, the sun longs for the embrace of rain, while rain waits patiently for its chance to nourish the earth. The river, which symbolizes how life is constantly changing, flows in harmony with the mountain, which stays in the same place and doesn't try to control the people below it. As night falls, the moon and stars shine brightly, reminding us of our importance in the vast universe. In these situations, birds make noises and act in ways that could be playful and strategic. This could be a way for them to get away from possible dangers. The neighbor's chickens disturb the peaceful atmosphere of the flowers I'm caring for, a good reminder of how fragile tranquillity is.<br /><br />In deep relationships, I often think about how each person's life is inherently different. To truly understand, you must accept the discomfort of other people's reactions. Some people work hard to be successful, while others just talk nicely. People's ideas of right and wrong are shaped by the philosophies guiding them on their own paths. However, in the vastness of existence, these ideas are just points of view.<br /><br />Some of them said hello back, but others seemed to be trying to avoid it on purpose. I can't change how they feel about me in any way. Some people are good, and some are good because they try to reach a specific goal. I felt better when I tried to act like I didn't understand.<br /><br />With all my heart, I pray for small traders to do well so their businesses can grow and thrive like delicate flowers in the morning sun. May the people who provide for their families find comfort in God as they go through the twists and turns of life, making it easier for God to lead them. Let those seeking healing be blessed with the perfect elixir, a blend of medicine and soul that brings healing and peacefulness. May the souls that are weighed down by the trials of life find a quick solution to their problems and let go of their heavy loads with grace and ease. I also reprimand those who openly show they don't like me, bring those to justice who make my goals harder on purpose, and pierce the hearts of those who publicly insult the good people I care about.</div><div><br />Some think Mediator has a solid need to connect with others and a calling to help because most people seek deeper connections than they see on the surface. A Mediator can feel alone because the rest of the world doesn't value their unique ability to deal with emotions, but I don't see what's so special about it.<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862380734915642433.post-12719497320650883282023-08-27T06:12:00.074+07:002024-03-27T15:25:54.353+07:00Ukeire (受け入れ): AcceptanceRecently, I discovered the Japanese term 'Ukeire,' which beautifully embodies the concept of 'acceptance.' It's more than just a word; it represents a profound philosophy that offers insight into how the Japanese handle situations beyond their control. To truly understand why Japan has embraced this philosophy, we need to explore the historical and geographical influences that have shaped their mindset.<br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhen0GhKptlmFywsvs3zoMuLrdqFvC72KTJAUan3gDO70lxgFOyL2hZ0Gt0mAOVQgrXJhJQDdcojlMyY0gB-YpmMTeFRd2hsk1hLSlThfKO1O2hrMBx6m6mlrfr671HNNrr4lTrtzC80dr_3i6wrueYPIY9bijpws07X1NOsQBblitgW3YYQKpv23ih-KwO/s3371/IMG_20230805_171735.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhen0GhKptlmFywsvs3zoMuLrdqFvC72KTJAUan3gDO70lxgFOyL2hZ0Gt0mAOVQgrXJhJQDdcojlMyY0gB-YpmMTeFRd2hsk1hLSlThfKO1O2hrMBx6m6mlrfr671HNNrr4lTrtzC80dr_3i6wrueYPIY9bijpws07X1NOsQBblitgW3YYQKpv23ih-KwO/s16000/IMG_20230805_171735.jpg" /></a> <br /><div>Japan, renowned for its rich culture and resilience, has a lengthy history of coping with natural disasters. Situated in the Pacific Ring of Fire, it faces threats like earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, typhoons, and tsunamis (a term originating from Japanese). These adversities have continually tested the resilience and adaptability of the Japanese people.<br /><br />Despite enduring harsh and often unpredictable weather conditions, Japan has demonstrated remarkable resilience. They've transformed challenges into opportunities for innovation and advancement. Through investments in disaster readiness, cutting-edge technology, and efficient infrastructure, Japan has safeguarded its populace and emerged as one of the world's most advanced nations.<br /><br />This blend of traditional values such as Ukeire and a pursuit of progress has propelled Japan forward during challenging times. They've mastered the art of acknowledging what they can't control while concentrating on what they can alter. This approach, deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, imparts valuable lessons to us all about confronting life's trials with fortitude, elegance, and a dedication to continual improvement.</div><div> <br /><div><b>Ukeire (受け入れ): Acceptance</b><br /><br />Acceptance in Ukeire isn't about always being super positive or thinking everything will turn out perfectly. Instead, it's about giving ourselves a break from our problems. Some things are just out of our control, and dealing with them doesn't mean we're bad or failing. It's just understanding that problems are a normal part of life.<br /><br />Ukeire teaches us not to be too hard on ourselves and to take a breather when things get tough. It reminds us that it's okay to step back and not feel like we have to fix everything right away. This can bring us some peace and self-kindness when we're facing challenges.<br /><br />But accepting problems doesn't mean we can just ignore them. Even when something isn't our fault, like an earthquake damaging our homes, we still have a responsibility to fix what's broken. It's like when a volcano erupts suddenly, forcing us to leave our homes and belongings behind. Even though we didn't cause the eruption, we're still responsible for rebuilding our lives.<br /><br />When a river floods our homes or a lightning strike cuts off our electricity, we have to deal with the aftermath, even though we didn't cause those events. Accepting the problem is the first step, followed by recognizing that we still have a responsibility to deal with it. It shows how adaptable we are as humans, able to respond to tough situations no matter where they come from.</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>Embracing Responsibility</b><div><b><br /></b><div>The Japanese perspective offers us a valuable lesson: even when trials aren't our fault, they're still our responsibility. But this isn't something to dread; it's a mindset we should welcome. It shows us that there's always a chance to take action, whether things are going well or not.<br /><br />Basically, it teaches us to see life's challenges as opportunities, even if we didn't choose to face them. This way of thinking helps us stay strong and proactive, reminding us that we can still find solutions and make choices no matter what's happening.<br /><br />It's a powerful reminder that we're not just passive observers of our lives; we're active participants. We have the power to grow and find meaning in every situation, no matter how tough it may seem.<br /><br />This Japanese perspective on optimism isn't about ignoring our negative feelings. Instead, it's about facing them head-on and choosing not to let them overwhelm us. It's about finding peace and clarity even when things get complicated.<br /><br />Optimism, in this sense, isn't about pretending everything is perfect. It's about facing reality with hope and resilience. It's about believing that even when things are tough, we can still find a way forward.<br /><br />This way of looking at life empowers us to tackle challenges with confidence, turning them into opportunities for growth. It reminds us that even when things seem dark, we have the strength to find solutions and inner peace.<br /><br />So, embracing this Japanese view of optimism means accepting that life is full of surprises. It means being ready to take responsibility for whatever comes our way, knowing that we have the power to overcome any obstacle.</div><br /></div><div><b>What Leads Me to Ukeire?</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div>As the day went on, I couldn't wait to get back home for lunch. Yesterday, I had been busy overseeing a part of the orientation event where academics and student life mixed. It had worn me out, so the idea of going home was a relief.<br /><br />But when I got home, my rush caused a problem. I forgot to turn off my motorcycle's engine. Three hours later, when I tried to start it again, nothing happened. It was frustrating and made me feel a bit foolish. I've been riding motorcycles for nine years, and this was the first time I'd made such a silly mistake.<br /><br />It wasn't a big deal, just forgetting to turn a key. But it annoyed me. Instead of blaming myself, though, I decided to think about why I'd forgotten in the first place. I needed to remember that everyone forgets things sometimes, and it doesn't mean I'm a bad person. It's just a lesson in being humble.<br /><br />I knew I had to fix the situation. Since my motorcycle wouldn't start, I had to call a mechanic to come and help me out.<br /><br />Little mistakes like this can teach us important lessons. They prepare us for bigger challenges that might come along unexpectedly. Life can be unpredictable, but it's important to stay positive and keep going. Trusting in something bigger than ourselves, being thankful for what we have, and being patient are all important parts of dealing with life's ups and downs.<br /><br />Finding peace and happiness within ourselves is a journey. It means understanding that we can't always control what happens outside, but we can control how we react to it.</div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862380734915642433.post-24782897832912798082023-08-20T10:40:00.009+07:002024-03-27T20:05:54.470+07:00A Pinch of Story Becoming a Civil Servant at the Ministry of Religion<blockquote style="text-align: justify;">When written in Chinese, the word "crisis" consists of two characters, one representing danger and the other representing opportunity. - John F. Kennedy</blockquote><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBHHA7J0WwcviWqtPdsBYhtoIXkvhXWadEDNvRJNu4YAF_SXhSOj3ZxBF6HwyhM4GjOn48LpgDJx1J_ngk0TBIljU0a1XDDGD3eTKp2y7dzwJ4UCEIw8uDjz-YFE4pcJNSAhepODJtplDXjNsvtok1eCcMRZD7vDTrFGMo8e5qHYUrIoj7Q8-zEupRRZ8/s16000/IMG_20230810_182549.jpg" /><br />Since junior high, I've had a deep understanding of the civil service candidate selection process, thanks to my mother, a dedicated civil servant, who instilled in me a profound respect for her profession. Growing up, I was surrounded by admiration for civil servants in my community, which fueled my desire to work in public service.<br /><br />In 2013, armed with a bachelor's degree in English Literature and supported by my parents, I eagerly attempted the state exam for civil service candidates at several ministries. Unfortunately, I didn't succeed on my first try, which led to two years of job hunting before I could resume my postgraduate studies. Despite balancing academic pursuits with part-time jobs, I remained determined to try again.<br /><br />After completing my master's degree and securing a full-time lecturer position at a private university, my financial situation improved, but my enthusiasm for the competitive civil service selection process dwindled.<br /><br />Surprisingly, as my interest in the Civil Servants Candidates selection decreased, my chances of success unexpectedly improved. This time, when I applied for the Ministry of Education and Culture, I did it with the mindset that I had nothing to lose. Passing would have been great, but even if I didn't, I still had my job. It may sound a bit confident, but that's how I saw it. Sadly, the outcome was the same: I didn't make it. This time, I felt a mix of disappointment and deep shame because, deep down, I still really wanted that opportunity.<br /><br />A year after my previous attempt with the Ministry of Education and Culture, the government opened another similar opportunity. Before signing up, I made a conscious decision to change my perspective. This time, I aimed to actively participate and be chosen, which needed a carefully planned strategy. Instead of randomly choosing highly competitive positions in big cities and relying only on luck, I picked roles with less appeal but higher chances of success, even if they were far away.<br /><br />This change in mindset was crucial because before, I had only focused on passing the exam without preparing properly. This time, even though there were still millions of other applicants, this particular exam felt different. Faced with such a large number of competitors, I battled with negative thoughts, questioning my abilities: "Can I really do this?" This time, I realized the importance of learning and improving, no matter how difficult it seemed. Despite feeling exhausted from working tirelessly day and night, I pushed myself to go through practice questions.<br /><br />It wasn't an ideal situation, but I convinced myself that I would accept failure gracefully if it happened. I wouldn't openly mock it, even though I might wonder why others succeeded while I didn't. And the result? Once again, I fell short, not meeting the Basic Proficiency Test criterion. My feelings were similar to my past disappointments; the possibility of passing the Civil Servants Candidates selection had changed from being distant to seeming impossible.<br /><br />However, an unexpected turn of events occurred. After failing the Basic Proficiency Test and not hearing anything more about the selection process that year, it was revealed that the top three candidates were eligible for the Aptitude Test. I was ecstatic yet also incredulous. It was a rare chance for those who had seemingly failed to get a second shot. Despite the limited time, I diligently prepared for the Aptitude Test.<br /><br />In the fiscal year 2018, I applied for the position of English Morphology lecturer at the Ministry of Religion, specifically at STAIN Mandailing Natal. This unit could only accommodate one general applicant and two best graduate applicants, with five in the general category and none in Cum Laude. I had to gear up because each participant's unit conducted the Aptitude Test. And where was mine? It was in Mandailing Natal, a place I had only heard of but never visited. From various sources, I learned that the journey to Madina would take around 12 hours.<br /><br />I want to express my sincere gratitude, but if I had to say it directly, I'd feel a mix of pride and embarrassment. So, I'll take this chance to convey my heartfelt thanks to my only brother, who generously drove me to the test site despite not having a backup driver. I also appreciate his patience during the exam, despite some complaints when I struggled to stay awake as our car was caught in a rainstorm in the middle of the night.<br /><br />Shortly after the government officially announced the Aptitude Test, the exam committee for the campus I applied to created a WhatsApp group. I was pleasantly surprised to find that I was already a member of the chat group. Knowing that the committee had tried to invite hundreds of us was reassuring.<br /><br />The group acted as the main communication channel between the committee and potential examinees, sharing details about the timing, location, and procedures of the examination process. It also promptly addressed queries about nearby accommodation options and the best ways to reach the exam venue, which was particularly useful for those traveling from outside Mandailing Natal.<br /><br />I received crucial information about the exam: it would last three days, including psychological tests, interviews, and practical tasks, all completed sequentially from the first to the last day. Along with following the dress code of a white shirt, black skirt, and headscarf, I had to remember to bring my original Identity and Examination Card and any other necessary items specific to the formation I applied for. This included the Semester Learning Plan, Teaching Materials for the subject I applied for, and a comprehensive portfolio with supporting documents such as Teaching Decrees, training certificates, and printed published scientific papers, if applicable.<br /><br />The Ministry of Religion's Aptitude Test system was consistent across all formations, with variations only in the Work Practice Test depending on the specific position formation.<br /><div><div><br /><b>PSYCHOLOGICAL TEST ON DAY ONE</b><br /><br />The Psychological Test in this phase appeared more manageable than in the Basic Ability Selection. Still, it posed a subtle challenge if we focused solely on it. The evaluation tool used was the EPPS (Edward Personal Preference Schedule), designed to delve into our personalities. The first section of this personality test didn't involve conventional questions; instead, it presented us with statements, and for each statement number, we had to choose between Yes or No as our response.<br /><br />As I understood, our choices in this section reflected our individuality, motivations, goals, and needs. Importantly, there were no right or wrong answers, but the personality traits inferred from our choices would be used to gauge our suitability for the position we were applying for.<br /><br />The second section comprised typical psychological test questions covering numerical, logical, verbal, spatial, and pictorial aspects. Fortunately, the problems here appeared less daunting than those encountered in the Basic Proficiency Test. We were tasked with answering approximately 150 questions within a generous time frame of 3 hours. While this duration might seem ample, it was important to proceed with care, given that the examination involved manual completion of a Computer Answer Sheet and several repeated statements.</div><div><br /><b>INTERVIEWS ON DAY TWO</b><br /><br />This marked my inaugural interview experience, and without anyone nearby to seek advice or input from, I resorted to the simplest solution that came to mind: turning to Google. I sought insights on what questions might come my way. Some responses suggested that the interviewer might inquire about our familiarity with the company we were applying to. Company? I pondered this, assuming I'd be asked about the campus where I sought employment. While waiting for my turn, I overheard snippets of conversation among fellow participants. Some suspected they might be quizzed on the code of ethics for civil servants and lecturers, so I also decided to look it up online.<br /><br />As it turned out, all our speculations were off the mark. The questions posed during the interview were different from your typical interview fare. The interviewer simply read out questions that appeared to come as part of a package, complete with prescribed answers. Before diving into the Q&A session, I was asked to introduce myself.<br /><br />A few questions from the interview have stayed with me. For instance, I was asked about the course of action I would take as a State Civil Apparatus if a community of a different faith requested a permit to construct their place of worship. Another query centered on how I would exercise my voting rights if a presidential candidate of another religion was running for office. Then, there was the hypothetical situation where my boss scheduled me to leave town while my ailing parents urgently needed my presence.<br /><br />My friends and I, who had unconsciously formed small groups due to our repeated proximity, concluded that the interview gauged our love for our country through our commitment to it while respecting our religious beliefs. The discussion showed a civil servant's responsibilities while safeguarding the associated rights.<br /><br />In essence, the takeaway was that regardless of the sensitivity of the questions, our responses should hark back to the foundational principles of our state, namely Pancasila and the 1945 Constitution. For example, when faced with granting permission to construct a place of worship, we were expected to prioritize the fulfillment of our office's mandate following the prevailing law, irrespective of our personal beliefs about religious practices.</div><div><br /><b>MICROTEACHING ON DAY THREE</b><br /><br />After my introduction, I had approximately 15 minutes to present the course material I would be teaching if I were to pass the interview. In addition to assessing our teaching capabilities, the examiner also inquired about our proficiency in foreign languages and our expertise in the latest technologies we had mastered.</div><br />Drawing from my personal experience, I'd like to offer some advice to anyone facing a similar situation:<br /><ul style="text-align: left;"><li style="text-align: justify;">Begin by seeking guidance from Allah, the Most Merciful God, and pray for the best possible results.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">When applying for a teaching or lecturing position, choose the material you are most proficient in within the subject area. It doesn't have to be lengthy; focus on presenting something you truly understand.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">If you are applying for a job in a new location, consider arriving at the destination at least one day before the exam. This allows you to calculate the distance to your exam venue and ensure you are well-prepared.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Don't settle for mediocre white shirts; ensure your attire reflects professionalism.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Complete all required documents well before the exam day to avoid unnecessary stress caused by time constraints.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Remember to consider psychological tests that may appear straightforward. Remember, this is your final stage and opportunity to make an impression.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Avoid passing judgment on fellow applicants whom you may see as competitors. Refrain from belittling or intimidating others; instead, focus on your preparation.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Embrace the process and enjoy the journey, knowing that hard work consistently pays off, whereas dreams can remain elusive.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Finally, be prepared to handle various outcomes, as sometimes, despite our prayers, God's response may take a different path.</li></ul>My first encounter with the Aptitude Test gave me a fresh perspective, revealing that the Civil Servant position was attainable for anyone. I no longer regarded it as an insurmountable challenge. So, did the outcomes align with the efforts I had invested and the prayers I had offered? The answer is both no and yes.<br /><br />The year 2018 concluded with the disappointing announcement that I and many other participants had yet to succeed. It was a profound disappointment. I couldn't help but question whether all my endeavors had been in vain. What was the point of undertaking lengthy journeys, spending a considerable sum on exam-related accommodation, only to face failure? Instead of admitting my defeat, I chose to bury that experience deep within me, pretending it never happened. However, such an answer often resurfaces when we least expect it, as if it had always been remembered.<br /><br />During my engagement in the selection process, a friend informed me in mid-March 2019 that we had successfully passed the Phase II category. I sought confirmation from other friends to ensure the accuracy of this news and whether it had been officially communicated by the Ministry of Religion. The response was unanimous: we had indeed succeeded.<br /><br />How did it feel? I was elated, yet I consciously tried not to excessively express my joy. After experiencing failure twice and achieving success, I decided to temper my emotions. Even when hospital staff, while verifying my certificate of physical and mental health, inquired if I was one of the successful candidates, it didn't perturb me. Instead, I found it amusing, as the reality of my success still felt surreal and difficult to fully grasp.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862380734915642433.post-42659693383131774952023-01-07T09:12:00.149+07:002023-09-29T19:23:47.336+07:00Our Two-YearAlmost a month before the end of 2022, I asked Fani, who has been my best friend since college, when she would return to Medan. Like most people, I'd love to meet her if she took a break in December. At first, Fani couldn't tell me when her flight from Manado would be, which made me wonder if God would let us meet this year since this kind of chance wouldn't come up very often. When my request for annual leave was accepted, the Ministry of Religion surprised me by putting out exam schedules for all civil servants who work for it. So, I asked to change my leave date, which was approved.<br /><br />When I told Fani I would leave for Perbaungan the night after my exam, she asked when I would arrive since she had already arrived in Pancur Batu two days before. We decided to hang out on the second day after I got there. We met at an animal museum a year before she moved to Manado. This year, we visited <b>Tjong A Fie Mansion</b>, a historical building in Medan.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0qjrKRy-NJBJ4YgJFWqAjRJ944gJutWBclBpAxcN73SvJ3jWvTfwZ0lN1yGAkHf5dcN92VoAMwBXHaK8r-Z9HZSQw3g-5FzMo4mRBSSeeH2OayWluKvZ-ARdxJq8wAn-nhc0pJ1XvYbtqNzGmT47ExPK0EC4ySMCkSWKrVnUx9czZae-D8U9TvVdqMA/s4000/1675564364104.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0qjrKRy-NJBJ4YgJFWqAjRJ944gJutWBclBpAxcN73SvJ3jWvTfwZ0lN1yGAkHf5dcN92VoAMwBXHaK8r-Z9HZSQw3g-5FzMo4mRBSSeeH2OayWluKvZ-ARdxJq8wAn-nhc0pJ1XvYbtqNzGmT47ExPK0EC4ySMCkSWKrVnUx9czZae-D8U9TvVdqMA/s16000/1675564364104.jpg" /></a><br />Only one small Malaysian family was there when we arrived at Tjong A Fie Mansion. We like to get together occasionally but avoid meeting in busy public places like shopping malls, so this mansion is perfect for us. Our only goal is to have a conversation that covers all the bases that WhatsApp can't. My work keeps me busy, but it could be more exciting than Fani's. In addition, Manado is two hours ahead of western Indonesia due to the time zone difference. So there you have it.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWyODkKexrfEIYCUtTcYlteWJcYc-KgFNb90hKOL-kllKyKutNMYUmFQeY7QdTyfjj3zxMk-h8QsPz6PLhTLlgBLNYgEHfjQpaGFkb5sjPyG3UY010kVdBJ-pxMjCEy7GMEALF09K0P0q9S0fFO6f-oaPh19PrcGbWDov8O1OY5ajYARvaZCCzYppquw/s4000/1675564364092.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWyODkKexrfEIYCUtTcYlteWJcYc-KgFNb90hKOL-kllKyKutNMYUmFQeY7QdTyfjj3zxMk-h8QsPz6PLhTLlgBLNYgEHfjQpaGFkb5sjPyG3UY010kVdBJ-pxMjCEy7GMEALF09K0P0q9S0fFO6f-oaPh19PrcGbWDov8O1OY5ajYARvaZCCzYppquw/s16000/1675564364092.jpg" /></a><br /><div>When we stepped inside the mansion, we thought, "<i>Oh, this is how it is on the inside.</i>" While we and I, in particular, have taken note of the structure's continued existence over the years, only now have I taken the time to truly value it as a genuine relic of Medan's long and illustrious history. Even though the red lantern by the entrance caught my eye on occasion, I never once requested that the minibus pull over so that I could get out and explore. I have yet to look into the interior's conditions solely based on the exterior because I want to save time.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCDL404oNKTC4dTcjh_T_mksD322-IAZwwGr4rVx0slBYky2p5xbDARRRukseR9PMHw5qecBnL2stFRK5Locy5yKGDyV8h_9iqsBSkweiALSDk96fpGCUQUZBU-Fc_l3lY5ZJOnmv4tNQxiDmIn8RGBN2jSfdU-wsubl-dDr4Ckc7j01ojUPxAPiHBNw/s3796/1675564364138.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCDL404oNKTC4dTcjh_T_mksD322-IAZwwGr4rVx0slBYky2p5xbDARRRukseR9PMHw5qecBnL2stFRK5Locy5yKGDyV8h_9iqsBSkweiALSDk96fpGCUQUZBU-Fc_l3lY5ZJOnmv4tNQxiDmIn8RGBN2jSfdU-wsubl-dDr4Ckc7j01ojUPxAPiHBNw/s16000/1675564364138.jpg" /></a><br /><div>From my experience here yesterday, I can attest to the warm hospitality of this mansion. While we could have hired a tour guide to show us around, we decided to discover the mansion independently. Tjong A Fie's decor makes me think of a scene from Romance in the Rain, a Chinese drama I remember watching with my mum when I was a kid. After going all the way around the mansion, except for the parts we were not allowed to see, we finally left the mansion. Afterward, we went across the street to <b>Tip Top</b> for a scoop of vintage ice cream.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgejgRT1Csd9L0Qg72hEvrnI0Re4KKUt3am83dJdp8qW0yCT1Ki0L9Jdf84JQc8XkA0Jwonw0OVjgByGony8drS3OGlyiR2v-hob_f1rm3oCrdmMqdamQ0RVbPGehsgQJvtdfUkpWseFHO1BAuA-EWAeVNdeHXCIZBhhTa2oM3a3pTiUCtWPky4gw2kvA/s4096/1675563504297.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgejgRT1Csd9L0Qg72hEvrnI0Re4KKUt3am83dJdp8qW0yCT1Ki0L9Jdf84JQc8XkA0Jwonw0OVjgByGony8drS3OGlyiR2v-hob_f1rm3oCrdmMqdamQ0RVbPGehsgQJvtdfUkpWseFHO1BAuA-EWAeVNdeHXCIZBhhTa2oM3a3pTiUCtWPky4gw2kvA/s16000/1675563504297.jpg" /></a><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjadIDslCeGu_5QAs6eF5AQoc7SKGPAeGFaF56oRRbukkepTU0PQCwKvX1o2FzkY-9C4mefff_ojE06H4AbhuuIVmOfx74FqqEpoW_JVbZKvYovCCXRXYB6ycYHUmdinjppFCDPtyYqTKbdp6uKXXCZl8HGweYeVZrZkCaPMrxWYqBgtzXnGhyJi3cRNA/s4096/1675563504305.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjadIDslCeGu_5QAs6eF5AQoc7SKGPAeGFaF56oRRbukkepTU0PQCwKvX1o2FzkY-9C4mefff_ojE06H4AbhuuIVmOfx74FqqEpoW_JVbZKvYovCCXRXYB6ycYHUmdinjppFCDPtyYqTKbdp6uKXXCZl8HGweYeVZrZkCaPMrxWYqBgtzXnGhyJi3cRNA/s16000/1675563504305.jpg" /></a><br /><div>Even though our ice cream and cake orders were meant to be on the diminutive side, we accidentally overordered. Without pictures, we quickly realized everything on the menu, save for the ice cream, was filling. That made us feel even worse about almost not having Korean food for lunch, which was what we really wanted to eat.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj4eMjNBqRtpz3PZqCu-F36bEwcBPwNeo18uztu0D134m7H0xQy-CtgIfwzMw0L8zLEJ2BQiwg1jNAL4QHKzY3kBnDA_JJZY9epWr-jSOjhx4ssyKeSFVu4p78Q1duKAkE_y8XGTvefu_z4vbGCy28GwQODL6g6OvZAO9NwmSMXkle2pWwhGNyrBNo_g/s4096/1675563504314.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj4eMjNBqRtpz3PZqCu-F36bEwcBPwNeo18uztu0D134m7H0xQy-CtgIfwzMw0L8zLEJ2BQiwg1jNAL4QHKzY3kBnDA_JJZY9epWr-jSOjhx4ssyKeSFVu4p78Q1duKAkE_y8XGTvefu_z4vbGCy28GwQODL6g6OvZAO9NwmSMXkle2pWwhGNyrBNo_g/s16000/1675563504314.jpg" /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI_DG0q3XbQv_jzH9VPmzeDltDWSSi9fDS8OWUfZAvdcXj4-I7bEJntOWKYWoLj6_9HSkOSu5VMhRZUSbx5xqpyDGA0gMUlpQd2NTrZrUTFa3LOfv2MRMO2ZaSc_oWd1pJo6q3W0y-0tDaJ2c9dJFnURe8jZDVetI8lrubK99hJM22bmzMRroJgX0KZw/s4000/1675564364115.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI_DG0q3XbQv_jzH9VPmzeDltDWSSi9fDS8OWUfZAvdcXj4-I7bEJntOWKYWoLj6_9HSkOSu5VMhRZUSbx5xqpyDGA0gMUlpQd2NTrZrUTFa3LOfv2MRMO2ZaSc_oWd1pJo6q3W0y-0tDaJ2c9dJFnURe8jZDVetI8lrubK99hJM22bmzMRroJgX0KZw/s16000/1675564364115.jpg" /></a><br /><div>We still left Tip Top and headed to <b>Daebak</b>, one of Medan's halal Korean restaurants. Our drinks of choice are strawberry for me and mango for Pani. One of the meals was a light meal, and the other was a main course, but I needed help remembering the specifics of what we ordered. I can pronounce two names for popular street foods: teokbokki (rice cake) and <i>odeng</i> (fish cake). I don't know how Koreans pronounce it, but there's fried sweet potato and vermicelli wrapped in seaweed. The four ingredients are combined with red, sweet, and spicy sauces.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy9MyRbbMofIXZg_h0neTPHE4TLa4lLVsPiWgzPxujRyKi-UmMQU7Pq1mwMEPmEcUd5rs80QmN5P2amt7Bt4qwL0oGJZ4VvzQ53EDVwDs6MQtktEG9eoSBDzwc2EVWyjVdKbvuClDQoHgeI89lPZrl3GHjp5tWWSOQlOLY09LOMaq0aKtpfA58ulbK-A/s4000/1675564364084.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy9MyRbbMofIXZg_h0neTPHE4TLa4lLVsPiWgzPxujRyKi-UmMQU7Pq1mwMEPmEcUd5rs80QmN5P2amt7Bt4qwL0oGJZ4VvzQ53EDVwDs6MQtktEG9eoSBDzwc2EVWyjVdKbvuClDQoHgeI89lPZrl3GHjp5tWWSOQlOLY09LOMaq0aKtpfA58ulbK-A/s16000/1675564364084.jpg" /></a><br /><div>The main course was soup with soft tofu, prawns, eggs, mussels, squid, zucchini, and enoki mushrooms. Red sprang back into action, stirring the soup with an iron spoon and chopsticks in a clay bowl. The meal comes with a selection of side dishes, one of which is <i>kimchi</i>. This soup is either extremely sour or spicy, or it's a combination of the two, and I've never had anything like it before. The dishes we ordered today resembled those we've seen in Korean films and dramas, but I can't vouch whether they tasted the same.</div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnq7FAaHphI1j0Geyo6mqVBIFxeiws1aQC6Cn09dcbaTUpJQ8DYjJmIzNgGUbr-R9wzDmOzbj0YGq2j9jbalbDpah1LYHNRj-HhCXND4nFYFH3-ZkhNhF39H7EPFcQR3gEfmUzmXrVFieKmGC6Kt_rWF_0oZydhgBdQUmKeRVoe44Et_A5f1iefTcSZQ/s4000/1675564364126.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnq7FAaHphI1j0Geyo6mqVBIFxeiws1aQC6Cn09dcbaTUpJQ8DYjJmIzNgGUbr-R9wzDmOzbj0YGq2j9jbalbDpah1LYHNRj-HhCXND4nFYFH3-ZkhNhF39H7EPFcQR3gEfmUzmXrVFieKmGC6Kt_rWF_0oZydhgBdQUmKeRVoe44Et_A5f1iefTcSZQ/s16000/1675564364126.jpg" /></a><br />Our conversations cover a wide range of topics. Things have changed drastically from when we used to discuss films and books in our college days. We frequently talk about each other's professional endeavors. <i>"I've just got a promotion,"</i> I told her. After learning this, Fani said, <i>"It's not certain that my ranking will rise to that level in the next 8 or 10 years."</i> I retorted, <i>"I don't know when I'll be able to get as much monthly performance allowance as you are now, even though you've only been on duty for two years."</i> </div><div><br /></div><div><i>"We were celebrating our second year,"</i> Fani said. When she said "two years," she meant that we had been that long since we had started working at our dream jobs, though I started one year earlier.<br /><br />I don't remember how we became friends, but I remember meeting her for the first time at freshman orientation in 2008. And ever since then, she's been one of my best friends. She is one of the few people outside my family whose name I pray to God sincerely, asking for the best for them. A week after we met, Fani sent a message saying she was at the airport waiting for her flight back to Manado. She said that, in our next meeting, we would hopefully have the dream status we both desire.<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862380734915642433.post-61127484808626127202022-07-21T07:00:00.065+07:002024-03-27T22:01:24.858+07:00Turning Point<div></div>If I spot a rainbow after a storm, what happiness might I find after my father's passing? His death was tough for me to accept, and it took me some time to come to term with it. To protect myself from the raw pain of his absence, I built this fortress around my heart. I found myself avoiding anything that reminded me of him, even his stories. The tales he used to share - full of wisdom and humor - became ghosts I didn't want to acknowledge.<br /><br />One night, my subconscious decided to play out an unusual scene: there was my father sitting in our house's courtyard during a visit. It was strange seeing him there and not inside where he belonged. Excited yet confused, I rushed to tell my mother and sister about his return. But instead of coming inside as expected in this dream-like reunion, he simply advised me to "be cautious!" His voice echoed in my ears just as vividly as when he was still with us - so real and familiar that it sent shivers down my spine. At that moment, even within the confines of sleep-induced illusions, I found myself asking: "Why does my father's voice still sound so alive?"<br /><br />It seemed even in dreams, reality has its way of seeping through because there again was the realization - acceptance, really - that he is no longer here with us physically.<br /><br />I've come to accept that I must trust in God's plan. I've had these lingering questions for a while, given my feelings of vulnerability and self-doubt as a human being: Why did my father have to leave us when I was unable to take care of myself, assuming that God's plan is the best? Why did God bring him back when my brother struggled with his identity? And why did my once energetic mother become frail after my father's passing? Is caring for my ailing father seen as a burden? These questions continue to occupy my thoughts.<br /><br />I'm curious about the lessons we can take from my father's passing. Is it necessary to go through such a significant loss, losing someone we love dearly, to gain a deeper understanding of life?<br /><br />Well, as they say, "Only time will tell." Time plays a crucial role in the healing process. It either makes painful memories fade or helps us learn how to live with them. As time passes, we grow mentally and physically stronger and better equipped to handle challenging situations. However, forgetting doesn't fit my case because just thinking about my father still brings tears to my eyes. So, I continue to miss him deeply. It's only when I realized this that time has slowly helped me adapt to life without my father, almost like he's still with us somehow.<div><br /><b><i>Then I think of a few things...</i></b><br /><br />My father was receiving treatment in the same hospital ward as a patient with throat cancer at Adam Malik. I was puzzled by the device implanted in the patient's neck. If I remember correctly, the device occasionally released thick fluid from the patient's throat. They did this sometimes right as we were about to break our fast after a long day of fasting. Picture this: you're about to have your first meal of the day at dusk after not eating or drinking from dawn till evening. Sometimes, we could even see the liquid spurting out of the device.<br /><br />There were instances when we had to spend the night on the hospital's open terraces. The HDU nurse informed us that my father required adult diapers. One night, as I descended the stairs and went across the street to the convenience store right in front of the hospital, I was only partially awake. I felt puzzled because it usually took me only a short time to cross the street from the hospital. Only when I stopped and found myself in front of the mortuary did I realize I had taken the wrong path? This unexpected sight jolted me awake, and my drowsiness disappeared instantly.<br /><br />I concluded that the sound of my father's roommate's sticky liquid didn't impact us or our food. The idea of something terrifying lurking behind the door is entirely imaginary. In our lives, what actually happens contributes to just 10% of the total, while the remaining 90% is determined by how we respond to those events.<br /><br />One week after my father's funeral, I received an unexpected termination letter from one of the institutions where I had been teaching. Initially, my reaction was relatively neutral. I didn't feel angry or disappointed, and I didn't ponder their motives. I consciously decided not to invest my time, effort, or mental energy in a company that didn't seem to value my presence, even though I had given it my all during my tenure there. It made me wonder if I was emotionally detached or inexperienced. After all, is there anything more painful than losing a parent? I couldn't think of anything. So, why should I shed tears over losing a job without guarantees when I had already stopped crying over my father's death?<br /><br />Despite facing numerous obstacles and challenges, I've become more resilient. I'm the daughter who prayed fervently for her father's recovery, and I'm also the daughter of a woman who did everything she could to support her husband's mental and physical well-being. Allah expressed His love for my father by taking him to be with Him. Despite all my best efforts and countless prayers, I had to come to terms with my father's passing. It's not because God intentionally subjected us to tests and difficulties we couldn't overcome. Instead, it happened because our father's time on Earth with us had ended. If there's a task I can't accomplish, it's not due to a lack of effort or prayer; it's because that particular task wasn't meant for me to complete.<br /><br />Our sibling bond has been growing stronger. We've realized our shared situation, so we now support and protect each other. The evidence has only reinforced our belief that our mother is the most precious treasure in the world. Were we inconsistent in our relationship from the beginning? I'm still uncertain. This clarity emerged for me after my father's passing. We've evolved into the most patient children as our mother's body and spirit gradually decline. We experienced a brief respite in an unfamiliar hospital setting while accompanying her. Moreover, as our awareness has grown, we've found less time to waste on meaningless drama.<br /><br />There will inevitably be moments when I deeply miss my father. I often wish he could have been here with me, even if I couldn't return in time, as I walked across the stage in my master's degree ceremony regalia. When I received the news that I had been selected as a candidate for a civil service position, I longed for my father's presence. My sister must have yearned for our father to witness her journey as the mother of two wonderful children. My brother, who had taken on the role of our father, could only wish for his presence as he embarked on his own family life, one of the most significant events in his life. Apart from these joyful moments, no one else can provide us with the same affectionate protection. Despite our human expectations, God has His own plans. How we interpret those plans is entirely up to us.<div><div><blockquote style="text-align: justify;">The turning point in the process of growing up is when you discover the core of strength within you that survives all hurt. - <b>Max Lerner</b></blockquote><div style="text-align: justify;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjG8e-ZIUs2NM5VFRLZAVfsV1ud29YZ4shRnlYT3Uy2fK0pvhNtSFif6OcRrQaM7d_lvbj_QZqMUREg7WlR5kAyK70DVwboZntzHLxkrenu9nWC6ge1KboPOUXm3aWUS6XhUZ-RTP4SOA/s1600/IMG_20200325_175854+%25281%2529.jpg" /></div><i><div><i>You can shed tears that he is gone</i></div>or smile because he has lived.<br />You can close your eyes and pray that he'll come back,<br />Or you can open your eyes and see all he's left.<br /><br />Your heart can be empty because you can't see him,<br />or you can be full of the love you shared.<br />You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday,<br />or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday.<br /><br />You can remember him only that he is gone,<br />or you can cherish his memory and let it live on.<br />You can cry, close your mind,<br />be empty, and turn your back.<br />Or you can do what he wants:<br />Smile, open your eyes, love, and go on.</i></div><div><b><i><br />He is Gone - David Harkins</i></b><div><div><b></b></div></div></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862380734915642433.post-79878653415906665912022-07-07T06:00:00.144+07:002024-03-24T07:59:18.606+07:00Seven Years Ago Today<div><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrZMW1X-NuTAWTOmaCC7ZlUB9x6aTsvI2rOJxpk0xMHuW2RPKnRe9QruV8Z7KuWxIMRJip7jfL6TLWA9s9aCaLvoTJ9uw205Kt7Q7ZHvnBVt6_wtpPz15o7xaYimzLLd_GakdJafWdqtEw/s16000/1656245257318.jpg" /></div><div><blockquote>Hope is a Ferris wheel - It takes low and high; And when you reach the top, it's like you can touch the sky! And when it takes you down hope becomes a thing that, when you`re getting off, you take with you to bring. - <i><b>Robin Herrera</b></i></blockquote></div><br />Seven years had passed, yet I couldn't shake the memory from my mind. Whenever I tried to revisit it or recalled an unexpected flash of that moment, it was as vivid as if it had happened just yesterday. Sometimes, it brought uncontrollable tears; other times, I grasped the illusion that it was all a dream. There were moments of irritation between these emotions, especially when people wouldn't cease with their condolences. They stated that my father was no longer with us, but what irked me even more was when someone remained expressionless, as if nothing had occurred.<br /><br />As time flowed, life gradually returned to its own rhythm. Nande resumed her teaching routine, I struggled to complete my master's degree, my older sister embarked on her new family journey, and my older brother was burdened not only with his job but also with the responsibility of becoming the head of our family, stepping in to fill our father's role for Nande and me. The well-meaning elders comforted us in our grief by reminding us that only my brother had lost his father, while my sister and I had not.<br /><br />Receiving sad news from friends was not a new concept for me; it had started in elementary school when I formed bonds outside of my family circle. Yet, in my wildest dreams, I never imagined that I would be the one to deliver such heartbreaking news to those very friends. As a person of faith, I should have known that death is an unavoidable part of life's intricate tapestry.<br /><br />We had been sick on several occasions, each requiring visits to the hospital to consult with doctors. However, I never imagined that not every ailment would result in recovery and a long life. Who could have predicted God's enigmatic plan, in which He chose my father to face an entirely unknown and formidable disease? It was a lingering question in my mind, a puzzle with no clear solution, a testament to life's unpredictability and the mysterious nature of fate.<div><i><b><br /></b></i></div><div><i><b>Under Herna's Medical Care</b></i><div><b><i><br /></i></b>Nande, accompanied by my brother, had taken our father to various doctors in search of a cure. One doctor had recommended a professor who claimed to be a senior dermatologist in Medan. The skin creams prescribed by this professor seemed to work, albeit slowly improving my father's health. However, we eventually decided to discontinue our consultations with him and explore other treatment options.<br /><br />Before receiving treatment from this professor, my father's condition had been extremely unstable. His skin would briefly improve for a few days, only to deteriorate rapidly afterward, with cracks and a clear reddish liquid oozing out. I vividly recall one night, while giving him a gentle back massage, feeling that liquid soaking through his shirt. It felt as if my heart was being squeezed like wet clothes.<br /><br />Witnessing my father's helplessness at its peak, Nande sought treatment at Herna, one of Medan's private hospitals that did not accept patients with health insurance. We assumed this policy was an unspoken guarantee that the best care would be provided by the most competent doctors in their field. Upon arrival at Herna, the first step was the placement of a CVC (Central Venous Catheter), which functions like an IV but is actually a catheter inserted into a major blood vessel leading to the central vein, which carries blood to the heart. We prayed to Allah, the Creator of the Universe, to replace our pain and fear with hope and healing.<br /><br />The initial three days of hospitalization showed no improvement, and new issues emerged, such as shortness of breath. My father's hypoalbuminemia (low levels of albumin in the blood) required administering at least four bottles of albumin via IV. Adding to our anxiety and sadness were his words of despair. We vowed never to let him face this ordeal alone, even though we tried to convince him that everything would eventually be fine.<br /><br />The only source of warmth during this difficult time was a skin cream prescribed by one of the doctors. It worked so well that my father's skin stopped peeling. Although his strength had not yet returned, and he couldn't even sit up in bed, my father felt as if he had found a glimmer of hope while receiving treatment at Herna. However, Nande was burdened by the rising hospital costs. Moreover, we couldn't predict how long my father would need treatment. Nande tried to persuade him to transfer to a hospital that treated BPJS patients. Initially, my father refused, but eventually, he agreed. The battle for my father's health continued at Medan's Adam Malik General Hospital.</div><div><br /><b><i>Under Adam Malik's Care</i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b>Our journey within the walls of Adam Malik Hospital began with a procedure aimed at alleviating the excess fluid in my father's frail body – catheter insertion. Alhamdulillah, this intervention marked the beginning of an improvement in his shortness of breath. Hope flickered like a distant star on the horizon.<br /><br />However, the road ahead was paved with challenges, which proved to be turbulent. Regrettably, within less than a week of our stay at Adam Malik, my father's condition drastically worsened. His deteriorating health necessitated a transfer to the High Dependency Unit (HDU), a facility dedicated to patients requiring more observation, treatment, and care than standard rooms could provide.<br /><br />Close to the HDU was an open room where patients' families could wait and rest, but visitation times were strictly regulated, allowing only 30 minutes in the morning and afternoon. It became a cause for concern whenever we were summoned outside these designated hours. Nande and I sought solace on the terrace, close to the HDU, during the long, chilly nights. Our hearts were warmed by the anticipation of my father's recovery while my mother yearned for her soulmate by her side. Our beloved father, although battling his own pain, never uttered a refusal throughout this ordeal. He always reminded us to be patient, even when our wishes couldn't be immediately fulfilled.<br /><br />The HDU experience was an emotional roller coaster. There were days when we rejoiced because my father managed to change his body position or utter a few words. But just as quickly, our spirits would plummet. Nande was in tears one day, calling my father's name as he lay unconscious. We learned from the compassionate HDU staff that my father was grappling with severe complications – infections in his heart and lungs, severe stomach issues, and fluid retention that gave the illusion of weight gain.<br /><br />After enduring a week of intensive treatment in the HDU, my father was transferred back to a regular room. Yet, his condition was still far from stable. He could only consume porridge through a tube, and his once robust physique was dwindling before our eyes. Most of the day, my father slept, his body weakened by the relentless battle against illness. His nights were filled with restlessness, although he could now sit up and utter a few words.<br /><br />The beginning of the third week at Adam Malik brought hope as the central venous catheter (CVC) and catheter were removed, addressing concerns about potential infections from prolonged use. My father's strength gradually improved with a new infusion into his leg, allowing him to make slight movements, although confined to his bed. Then, one night, my father uttered something difficult for our minds to grasp.<br /><br />In a moment of delirium, he forewarned us of an impending flood and even predicted the president's arrival. The hospital psychiatrist administered a sedative and explained the situation – my father's body and mind were utterly exhausted. He needed a profound, uninterrupted sleep for at least three days to return to normalcy. Following the sedation, my dear father, who had not experienced a restful night's sleep in months, finally slept for a full fifteen hours.<br /><br />However, in the wake of this slumber, my father spoke incoherently the following day, and his temper flared sporadically. He was adamant about going home, blissfully unaware that he had been hospitalized for nearly a month. In response to his persistent longing, my brother took the initiative to borrow a wheelchair, hoping to give my father a taste of fresh air outdoors. During this outing, my father's confusion began to clear, and he slowly started to understand the gravity of our hospitalization.<br /><br />"Come on, let's go home," he urged, a yearning in his voice that pierced our hearts. Our longing for my father's return home in good health far exceeded his desire, and it was a promise we clung to, with hope and faith as our guiding lights through this arduous journey.<div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i>Permitted Going Home</i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div>After enduring a challenging month of treatment, a glimmer of hope finally pierced through the darkness. The doctor, who had been tirelessly attending to my father's needs, delivered the long-awaited news – it was time for us to return home. However, this homecoming came with a crucial condition: my father's recovery would still necessitate routine outpatient care.<br /><br />The prospect of returning home filled our hearts with an overwhelming sense of relief. For my father, it meant more than just the comfort of his own bed and the familiar surroundings of our house; it was a return to the simple pleasures of life that he had sorely missed during his hospital stay. One thing he eagerly anticipated was savoring Nande's home-cooked meals once more, a prospect that brought a smile to his face and a twinkle to his eyes.<br /><br />Yet, my father's weakened state presented a unique challenge. His mobility was limited, and even something as basic as going to the bathroom was daunting. In these moments, my brother stepped in, turning what could have been a somber task into a heartwarming experience. He carried my father with the utmost care, their interaction resembling a playful game rather than a mundane chore – a poignant reminder of the strength of their bond. In my father's tired and frail body, there was an unmistakable sense of relief and contentment.<br /><br />The hospital experience left a lasting impression on my father, particularly the comforting presence of air conditioning in his room. Therefore, upon his return, he made a special request to Nande – to install air conditioning in our home. This seemingly small luxury symbolized comfort and healing for him, a reminder of his journey and the importance of making every day as comfortable and pleasant as possible. It was a small change in our home, but it held immense significance as a testament to my father's resilience and the enduring strength of our family's unity.<div><br /><b><i>Returning to Adam Malik</i></b></div><div><br />As the days passed, my father's condition continued to deteriorate alarmingly. His strength waned to the point where he could no longer summon the energy to form words, rendering him unable to respond to the heartfelt greetings and suggestions that surrounded him. Even as Nande, the caring and attentive figure, suggested forgoing the installation of the air conditioner to engage my father, there was no discernible response from him. He was slipping further into the grip of his ailment, his once vibrant presence fading away.<br /><br />Then came that fateful Tuesday, July 7, 2015, a day etched into our memories with painful clarity. We had to hire an ambulance from a small hospital near our house to transport my father to Adam Malik Hospital. The urgency of the situation weighed heavily on us, and time seemed to slip through our fingers like grains of sand. A heartbreaking scene unfolded as Nande gently tried to change my father's clothes before the journey. My father cried softly in his frailty and vulnerability and rested his head on Nande's shoulder as if this moment marked a poignant farewell.<br /><br />Upon our arrival at Adam Malik Hospital, there was a whirlwind of activity. My father was swiftly admitted to the emergency room, where the medical team conducted a thorough examination. The air in the room was tense as we all gathered, bracing ourselves for the grim truth about my father's condition. With a compassionate but somber tone, the doctor revealed the harrowing details. Bacteria had invaded my father's bloodstream, and his bacterial count had skyrocketed to over 33,000, far beyond the normal range of 7,000 to 11,000. These relentless bacteria were mercilessly consuming antibiotics, rendering treatment all the more challenging. The doctor didn't mince words; he made it clear that my father's condition was critical and that only a miracle could offer any glimmer of hope.<br /><br />To compound the gravity of the situation, the doctor conveyed that my father's internal organs were beginning to fail, and his albumin levels had plummeted. Despite the stark reality before us, we clung to the thin thread of hope and turned to our faith, praying fervently to Allah for our beloved father's healing and a reprieve from this relentless ordeal. My father lay there, eyes closed, as if in a deep slumber. In that fragile moment, I leaned in close and whispered softly, "It's okay, Dad," hoping that my words would reach his soul, reassuring him that he was not alone in this battle and that our love and support would be his unwavering companions on this arduous journey.</div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i>Heading to Imelda</i></b></div><br />We were in a dire situation when my father's health suddenly worsened, and the doctor's orders necessitated his admission to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). It was a race against time, but our quest to secure a spot at renowned hospitals like Adam Malik and several other healthcare facilities that accepted our health insurance yielded no positive results. These institutions were operating at maximum capacity, leaving us in despair.<br /><br />Desperation hung in the air as we considered returning to Herna, searching for a suitable ICU bed. When it seemed like hope was slipping through our fingers, a ray of light broke through the gloom. We received the unexpected news that Imelda Hospital had a single ICU bed available. It was our only glimmer of hope, and we clung to it desperately.<br /><br />Nande, understanding the gravity of the situation, consented to the transfer without hesitation. Our journey to Imelda Hospital felt like a race against time itself. The streets were a blur as we rushed through traffic, our hearts heavy with worry about my father's deteriorating condition.<br /><br />Upon arrival, there was a whirlwind of activity in the emergency room as the medical team worked tirelessly to stabilize my father. Time seemed to stand still as we anxiously awaited news of his condition. The minutes felt like hours until, finally, the doctor emerged with a solemn expression.<br /><br />With a heavy heart, the doctor delivered the devastating news that my father had passed away. It was a gut-wrenching moment, one that shattered our hopes and left us in a state of profound grief. Despite our desperate efforts to secure the best possible care for him, fate had dealt us a cruel hand, and we were left to grapple with the profound loss of a beloved family member.<div><br /><div><div><b><i>Inna Lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un<br />Indeed, we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him, we will return.</i></b></div></div></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862380734915642433.post-42097306561409989392022-05-19T21:04:00.146+07:002024-03-27T21:58:06.382+07:00A Family StaycationOur family had been longing for this moment, eagerly awaiting a reunion after enduring the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic. For two long years, strict travel restrictions kept us apart from our loved ones, forcing us to endure separation.<br /><br />But as the pandemic's hold began to loosen and the situation improved, the government lifted the travel ban just in time for us to celebrate the Eid al-Fitr holiday together. For someone like me, who had been distanced from family due to geographical constraints, this easing of regulations brought immense relief and joy.<br /><br />Determined to break away from our usual routine, we set off on a trip, even though we had two young children and an elderly mother with us, which ruled out extensive travel plans. Luckily, my considerate sister-in-law had booked a hotel in Parapat two days earlier, ensuring we had a comfortable place to stay. We were concerned that the need for registration upon arrival might complicate finding accommodation, but her foresight spared us any unnecessary hassle.<br /><br />Moreover, it was evident that authorities had anticipated a surge in travelers during the Eid al-Fitr holiday, implementing measures to ensure smooth and safe journeys. Some road sections were turned into one-way routes, and alternate paths were suggested to manage traffic congestion. Despite hitting the road during peak commuting hours, with holidaymakers returning, students heading to school or work, and regular commuters, our trip went surprisingly smoothly, without any major disruptions.<div><div><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/2400342117442792685/8239679977768979900?hl=id#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlZJDtJffZLaqpaIzmVVELAg9D-7rput6-ZIYMqcVQlrULGYWp-mp1cQPrvQQTeMRXI3iDV3TZHdeOADlaHJxoujhPOrmGeAxmKs7Uw5PSsg0uSi2kUaFtDcknW1doq7kk4O3yY59uy4ikT_Y8I-lm_xoG7hz_YfQue_izitzSq_wuBF0f_FSZmkxj/s16000/1655437174891_copy_4500x6000_101004.jpg" /></a><div><div>As soon as we arrived at the hotel, we were pleasantly surprised to discover that we had a brief thirty-minute window to enjoy the amenities before officially checking into our room. Despite its smaller size, the hotel proved to be an excellent choice for a quick getaway. Unlike other places we've stayed with extravagant flora, this hotel boasted a charming courtyard adorned with familiar and comforting flowers.</div><div><br /></div><div>One thing that has always made me uneasy about hotels is overly elaborate designs. However, this establishment was a refreshing departure from that trend. It eschewed the grandeur of towering lobby ceilings and the flashy brightness of chandeliers. Instead, it embraced a more relaxed ambiance, focusing on natural light, which made it feel more like a cozy hideaway than a formal hotel.</div><div><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/2400342117442792685/8239679977768979900?hl=id#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuOpi6qYpCHTeGOIfx7rKR_DIWUrzgv8S9mvj_LUwndccz4BxZ76FvmStloI-EvluX7tw4uApJKGZoQj4fxmbf6Z0_XTo5GQLJhiVI2bRdi069m3O0t8WM2-QLXcjV6DgsM_D-XGhBFL2VWfy8Xh2OdqM9-BPswNAel4SpuWJzQZHzqSZE2ZJqqrvK/s16000/1655563887653_100436.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/2400342117442792685/8239679977768979900?hl=id#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1ZDD6trYdaj-Y_yMCk271oZ4MfhIds0C9y7R8C6rp2SdU_7GI8Y_PY-DX35DLtgjBZht-y9dNmVbhC1DtDPG_cWAW3WSBsoer_IrCSuUCoNQS6sMEMgZ8XuIOLs13O6DlEBtaV1NVKYan75EnW423qDzaHNUMAJULiAnK0s-HiArR61XbjDVUdHKC/s16000/1655563887645_100239.jpg" /></a><br />As we got comfortable in our room, we noticed that only a few rooms were left, and ours seemed to be the only one in use. The night was quiet, and the hotel felt strangely empty. But the next morning, everything changed. As we headed to breakfast, we were surprised to see a lot of people around. It made me wonder: What were these folks doing since last night? How did the hotel go from nearly empty to full of guests overnight? It was a curious change that happened right before our eyes, making me realize I hadn't noticed the bustling community until then.</div></div><div><div><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/2400342117442792685/8239679977768979900?hl=id#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie6TePKbOYRa2-dlIJ56iopjwY3O227DCUsQnlXu6RIdPThn34fftr3p6pw99ZtBKM8KGiJ7rb_13pXzrqzROuF-dKTGZ8hWx-1dSg7hPiigAY4m73keBHZhc7YZgStmBA4I_q9T1-4D0PZQno2J71_aWnNWBKvz5CYGseoHaGkPuPyiBmUJJ8lCBR/s16000/1655563887611_095451.jpg" /></a></div><div><div>During our hotel stay, our routine was refreshingly simple – it mostly involved eating, taking breaks, chatting, and then doing it all over again. It was a relaxed and enjoyable way to spend our time.</div><br />One morning, my brother, his wife, and I decided to explore the neighborhood around the hotel bright and early. We planned to come back a different way, excited to see more of the area's charm. However, things didn't go as planned. Even though we had a tasty meal at a cute little roadside eatery, the distance back to our hotel seemed really long.<br /><br />Luckily, luck was on our side that day. We managed to catch a public minibus, which saved us from a long walk back. We were the driver's first passengers of the day, and he was really friendly to us tourists. Without hesitation, he offered to drop us off right at our hotel's front gate.<div><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/2400342117442792685/8239679977768979900?hl=id#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFSqqZ-HXVlgJJQyjADok6K4J4ZGrw76WFe90kj8yUhNMwGByC9sbZ9yN10medOO7aWOiRcCb_Zp1zEF1rLVc76HBOVfn0iq5Z-o7EdiqpvG1kUWJ_26NBTuYJ35yQwLedvQ4vdFPsE5TkGWZTNp-gHTxw59AT4Cds-lAO9bvd_mo1MaAc-ukAfU9t/s16000/1655437174908_copy_4500x6000_101042.jpg" /></a></div></div>Many say that making memories with loved ones is more valuable than chasing after things. Our recent short trip perfectly proves this idea.<br /><br />During our brief getaway, we had lots of quality time together as a family. With each passing hour, our talks got deeper, bringing us closer. Even our chats about everyday stuff were full of laughter, making us smile for hours afterward.<br /><br />As we move forward, we're already thinking about our next adventure. This trip reminded us how important it is to make lasting memories with the people we care about. We can't wait for more chances to create new experiences together.</div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862380734915642433.post-62216940750271130122022-04-19T10:47:00.230+07:002024-03-26T10:05:40.039+07:00Ramadan Kareem<div>My mom is an incredibly strong woman. She displayed her greatest strength when she had to nurture her physical, emotional, and mental well-being while caring for our late father. When our dad passed away exactly one week before Eid al-Fitr in 2015, we assumed this significant responsibility.<br /><br />The annual requirement to submit a hospital attendance record has become a lighthearted aspect of our family's life. Despite the shifting dates of Ramadan, it always coincides with the holy month. Why do I prefer the term "funny" over "irony"? Because humor helps us cope with circumstances beyond our control.<br /><br />When contemplating how to handle the reality of your mother's hospital visits, the question arises: Is it better to approach it with tears or a smile? The answer is evident: we prefer to face the challenge with a warm smile, embracing it with resilience and humor.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/2400342117442792685/2564615950388387334#" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizKu35N0v7D_cREhYzs0AOtI8wzbJcu05gQAfmegxo5G-xvuDBzVpPjIMQFluwgHWGp-Vv-4NI9EY4qhsa0n-q6JTLt_oBJ2TJVdbNLZA25MuVKqwKAbk8k1a64-IMSBFu8nHdLKmll8LXAYFPJEvL3lC3P_mRvHyIH2EhPtrRKzPnIu9L9nXQxPKJ/s16000/1655562880202_094505.jpg" /></a></td></tr></tbody></table>Over more than two decades, my mother has battled diabetes, requiring constant treatment to manage her persistently high blood sugar levels. Unexpectedly, she developed painful boils on her feet, with several cropping up around her waist. These abscesses were excruciating, prompting us to seek the expertise of an internal medicine specialist.<br /><br />During this challenging period, some onlookers couldn't help but cast curious and sometimes annoyed glances toward her. Even as we moved my mother from the operating room to her ward, a few nurses curiously followed along. It's almost comical in hindsight; had they known it was merely boils, they could have spared themselves the trouble. In such times, we often find solace in amusement rather than despair.<br /><br />What adds to the puzzle is how some individuals can manage their abscesses with simple ointments, while our mother had to endure a week-long hospital stay and undergo surgery.<br /><br />Our confusion deepened when, during that Ramadan, our mother was conspicuously absent from the hospital – a departure from our yearly tradition of spending the holy month with her. However, as the Eid holiday came and went, it became clear that fate decided we would remain in the hospital even after Ramadan. In retrospect, I couldn't help but lament how I could have, at the very least, enjoyed a warm sahoor meal at home.<br /><br />Since our father's passing in 2019, each year has posed increasingly complex challenges, yet it has also brought its share of rewards. So, what made this year particularly challenging? The answer lies in that, despite our visits to numerous hospitals, no one could explain our mother's condition satisfactorily.<br /><br />In contrast to situations where humor offered solace, we found ourselves unable to employ it this time. The gravity of my mother's condition simply demanded a more somber response. Her cries of agony echoed relentlessly throughout the day and night, and despite the administration of various medications and injections, the doctor's efforts proved disappointingly ineffective.<br /><br />Thankfully, after several hospital transfers, we finally had the opportunity to consult with a specialist who clarified our mother's condition. The doctor recommended a procedure to drain the pus that had accumulated in her upper left arm. Strangely, her arm showed no external signs of distress, and initial examinations revealed no concerning symptoms. However, it soon became apparent that the pus was the root cause of her excruciating pain. To compound our worries, the doctor expressed concerns about the possibility of cancer as a severe complication.<br /><br />Fortunately, contrary to expectations, my mother's left arm regained some functionality, and the dire prognosis didn't come to pass. On a more positive note, let's briefly shift focus to some memorable events from 2019. One noteworthy achievement was my successful completion of an examination, which granted me eligibility as a candidate for a civil service position.<br /><br />Fasting in the present year follows a familiar pattern, much like previous ones. As per tradition, my mother was admitted to the hospital during the initial two days of Ramadan. Nevertheless, this year brought a glimmer of positivity as we continued using the term "amusing." My mother grappled with a high fever, enduring nightly chills for over a week. The doctors could not pinpoint a definitive diagnosis despite exhaustive blood tests and internal organ examinations. Following nearly a week of treatment, the attending physician ultimately found no cause for concern and allowed her to be discharged from the hospital.</div><div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/2400342117442792685/2564615950388387334#" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: #0e101a;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGQweq3YucHcPZJc4EKWl1S_XuchWGa5SLEK9ewTeHuQbvhj94lMQC9OBG1t-ulc9fHeTXyYtSF4YEdeUbnIno-A3-2D6ucQZRWep_qL0wSIu_EzN-BBSBQZ648Kgtfe0Xa4epcKnPp9E6eis_gfvP8plnebmRp4zm4qzlxxmUZKexCEP7_p57jjEh/s16000/1655562880188_094002.jpg" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0e101a; text-align: start;">My very first Phở</span></td></tr></tbody></table>We were super excited about breaking our fast outside the comfort of our home, especially during the second week of Ramadan. One of our primary objectives was to lift our mother's spirits after she had to endure those pesky IV needles once again.<br /><br />So, we settled on Lekker as our destination, which was a fantastic choice. There, I finally had the opportunity to dive into a steaming bowl of Phở, a Vietnamese noodle soup that I had often seen featured in those mesmerizing ASMR Mukbang videos.<br /><br />Honestly, I had my doubts initially. It might be similar to the noodle soup you can grab from those roadside stalls or food carts in our neighborhood. But, boy, was I in for a surprise! This Phở was on a whole different level. I can't stress enough how delicious it was, except for those pesky basil leaves, which, to be honest, just weren't my cup of tea. It's hard to describe because I've never had anything like it.</div><div><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/2400342117442792685/2564615950388387334#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRIpLJnAl2BVsND8sX-L8ZZSynIDSlWjWvsbYN4TvDvqgapz4EW-9Y6fPO0IFa85ZEAHsKjflNEHZKfY-nl8RJaQHalfY53vB8nSsGnp3erG20Ywn9bh7lmYGRjxwr7LzNTPoeN7ot5TJlhyP7jp4UueL-ZqOAAxKm4WNVPk0vZb9sPiZPTWrvAV0V/s16000/1655562880215_094854.jpg" /></a><br />Whenever we asked Nande what she wanted to order, her typical response was the classic "I don't know" – the ultimate tradition, right? Eventually, she'd start tasting a little bit of each dish we ordered, like a food adventurer, before settling on which one she'd go all in on for the meal. In this case, she went with the fried rice my brother and his wife ordered.</div><div><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/2400342117442792685/2564615950388387334#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj36PUvyPgWVXem0C00o0N7AaFuWViyPKfkWpVgF7oqrO7mtSMu-W6aquzlZht3tIERtjwX1tp3AsJUmDKMg9ZqztWfh-4sNp0Of16yimhFe55coXTNnEJ8U_aC4EXy4Ny2TGk12UxtOxB6FK5TunCio1fDzg9G54EfoIBgbKQvB9Zsjn3GN0tfUUF1/s16000/1655562880183_093823.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/2400342117442792685/2564615950388387334#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh086GAHkv9xgXhl96r_DWQK1jVKDwld9BXNEjJtRjRiE1uRIFqBZApOlJEWHzM8H65SHIlRjjnYrvnSIKjS7DdZj7_WAUa8J4pHkcpbphliDSAzOrkP75k9gtvx8MqNHIWLMsiCue-RObzCRWqF0zQWK-pHw5SIvAwJMDf4sjf-2CjuMF7VP1KtNSf/s16000/1655562880177_093454.jpg" /></a><br />There's a special kind of magic when we indulge in a delicious meal, precisely when our bodies need nourishment. It's like a form of therapy, where each bite satiates our physical hunger and feeds our soul. And what makes this experience even more meaningful is when we're sharing it with those we hold closest to our hearts.<br /><br />Breaking bread together transcends the mere consumption of food; it becomes a shared moment of connection, a chance to unwind, and an opportunity to bond. The laughter, conversations, and camaraderie accompanying these meals create lasting memories.<br /><br />Good food can uplift our spirits, bring comfort in times of need, and provide a sense of joy. It's a reminder that the simple act of savoring a well-prepared dish can be a therapeutic journey for our bodies and our relationships and well-being. So, let's cherish those moments when we come together to enjoy good food with the people who matter most.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/2400342117442792685/2564615950388387334#" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit73njHs0jj9xWKSyIx0uaGQq_UUP-Fw-23xQOlGbM3edaZqLtdfXtro-JlfxRDtuZeVTPFA01036Q6tV1MQwH4NZax9wiMGVJ6xZNZ-2jvp6WguCDFH8tV1cS91OXfrjOJ8LcWPtC9wsKhuClTusXdsUkNHKWC4QldC34j01gPc9SO5d0IgJOtobT/s16000/1655562880208_094653.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;">Orange juice for the babies: Syifa and Bona</span></td></tr></tbody></table><b>Update 14 July 2022:</b></div>This place has officially become our go-to restaurant. It's got that perfect combo of tranquility since it's not right next to a busy road, and the menu? Well, it's like a culinary treasure trove. No matter what we pick, it's a guaranteed taste sensation.<br /><br />What's even better? Our food arrived faster than you can say "hungry," and the service was top-notch from start to finish. Seriously, it's a total win-win!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin1adx1DVSLvy1aP5lwQPzBoJwVXldbRrhI3grALf1No2y6t41ITGNfw2aHPLAKVZ2ocbax67fdSpA4D1GVopZ9-cZQnCZ8UKhuNV0NStZlFy8_VrEdj6kE_6A7MWAUhn7sUh7lp2d5n6NhzqYQwkfDdFok3SlAyix9DWleoBLOjVmotl3pjRDbctGew/s16000/IMG_20220713_192002_14fc80.jpg" /><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2yfoRDUFWc30e-X9YsABa9fiiDKus4Snr20jp8hc6yw3DgMLZ2Qb0qgaQnq-G5P8K1YoxFjQ1u2BUd4AbKoN8ZPnEUwxOTEa31VD_sBimjP7ZmqFdCky4HLMG2znazi54EQtk7LOhc820jRJCv4N0Uhw_wZaSs01flHyjebunJ79nqJT6qOuPdnHffQ/s16000/IMG_20220713_193343_96f6e1.jpg" /></div><div><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1nf0dvGRqypLDrz_lKh22HKswyoLLkOWVlx0hfXdZRX36CYnZ35vUucCiL0UNsqUSgGGNVYXh92_1rQT1nXGusCyT9iWpkNH1IaAqEWUp_Scal1Sg8PtToXSmTrHg0NlZOU6tRmnQFc9uV1IPL66QgWNX6nwzxbeqHO-uwUWoVeY40xBtInwDymP5FQ/s16000/IMG_20220713_193158_2954c0.jpg" /><a href="#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2HP2Mnf5O5YhpxA70J_B1woEaKV9a-H098R3H2Mdp4El1OsollLnFBwzQTlK1IUrClPwtZjK948w0wtEO1hyJpAzQQuHrOr1ZmyTEWIFUdI126x1u9PNLQbK0DA1th_6HjXs_9AyDVGs70-pdiPTt7HtwyYcHY2-kIh83l1h6orxo8xGeSq9-CrqmXA/s16000/IMG_20220713_195152_738190.jpg" /></a></div><div>We found ourselves in a delightful quandary, unable to pinpoint what made this place special. It's funny because, in our minds, every item on the menu seemed like a clear winner.<br /><br />You see, we have this knack for being fashion critics. Judging whether someone has nailed their outfit, missed the mark, or if their color choices and clothing combinations are on point comes naturally to us. But have we ever stopped considering what wearing those clothes is really like? Can the person genuinely unwind in that ensemble? Is their skin getting some breathing room, or can they comfortably squat in that skirt? Maybe they're yearning to slip into cozy pajamas once they're back home. We will fully grasp how it feels to walk in those shoes ourselves. It's like the food here; we can make snap judgments based on appearances – is it appetizing or not? We can even discuss portion sizes, whether they should be more significant, smaller, or just right. But can any of that predict how that very first bite will taste? Sometimes, you just have to experience it to truly understand.<br /><br />If you ever ask me how something tastes after I've taken a bite – especially if it's a dish that many people are familiar with – my response is usually pretty straightforward. I might say something like, "Oh, this is delicious," "This has a nice kick of spice," "This is a tad too salty," "It's not overly sweet," or even "It's not bad at all." I'm not trying to decipher some secret code or provide a detailed analysis. I simply hope that by sharing these simple impressions, others can better understand what the flavor is like when they eventually try it themselves. Ultimately, it's about savoring and appreciating the unique taste of the food.<br /><br />But let's get back to the main point here. The money we invest in this place doesn't just satisfy our physical cravings; it also gives our spirits a significant lift. I apologize if my thoughts flow best when I'm in high spirits. So, for now, I'll bid you farewell with a smile!</div><div><b></b></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862380734915642433.post-92006753848982129642022-03-26T19:22:00.026+07:002024-03-27T21:57:41.906+07:00When in PadangAbout ten days before the end of February, I got a chance to visit Padang, a city situated near the equator. During our journey, one of our stops for lunch was Soetan Island, often mispronounced as Setan. The trip from our hotel to the dock, where we could rent a boat from locals, lasted approximately two hours. Although there wasn't much to do while on the boat, the scenery was truly breathtaking.<br /><br />The sky boasted a clear, blue hue with a subtle green tint, creating a mesmerizing sight. We might have been fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of fish swimming alongside our boat. As we sailed, passengers on other boats warmly greeted us and waved, as if we were old friends, despite not knowing anyone on those boats. It was a rather amusing experience. However, despite the enchanting surroundings, I couldn't shake the feeling of unease caused by the dark color of the water, hinting at its significant depth.<div><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/2400342117442792685/4649093840268576728?hl=id#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlGgG83zfAMREdJyedj_XU6BzRqpgaRjKf2vpo_SHd6O-_5LDDmqDlxkXIqCLOGzg_8cjdqW1lWsdD2GkPJDWXp2PJH_fah7Pkv9v9he1nCK5G6tLIPA1Y96qnj1gIYu-R72wpgrZXBXHNgv3WGJw9QCTvp1QFOhbL0du4Q0aNZojmFVVjGpGqyjTJ/s16000/1655561659723_091434.jpg" /></a><div><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/2400342117442792685/2564615950388387334?hl=id#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFWKUeQ34WS00bFpdb4_S6MELOOHQEb2GE2E8qbM0AoMkE-9WBqONXaMyc4qIWCxtDekL5GZdJ39A9a2DqRjOSnwbLmY2XK2cZ3C4yEfEWL_oTgpYVExGeogs-xkcrcw-3tW8SZfmjLShLwnhcvtj12MomJxi0GcqWOrp9jmptRm3eWpoBWL6OqnGn/s16000/1655561659744_091912.jpg" /></a><br />After a lengthy journey, we finally reached Soetan Island! There were a few huts available for rent, and if we still needed to bring our own food and drinks, we could purchase them from local vendors. We arrived just as the sun was setting, leaving us with the option of admiring the stunning scenery ahead to cool off.</div><div><br /></div><div>While the water was crystal clear, we thought swimming on the beach would be more enjoyable if we came early or late in the evening when the weather was more pleasant. Additionally, the sky was exceptionally bright that day. Despite the presence of banana boats and jet skis on the beach, no one seemed inclined to use them because of the intense heat. Before this, I had only seen murky or brown seas, so this was my first experience with a pristine blue ocean.</div><div><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/2400342117442792685/2564615950388387334?hl=id#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6phVzrdbRNHO-HfjRaeZMS7Y3UtgfF9iS4R-MAt8h8s1Tsu5RHybY-7WEZF4kprtFfJ9Rr31dNJl2cmcUZrzqEPeL6_05qhceQtDBpbrkduBpV-9Xt5m5yAiDXFpgUL_nNI0__LB1DLMUs6X3TuFoBXXiV3pk5ptC-1PT2Tj6RqVamLTbAT7NksUE/s16000/1655561659758_092104.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/2400342117442792685/2564615950388387334?hl=id#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6xlnyTYVyRs4-clO32u2K4HbkLoul8efs9_MhBWnFXAqlZR49GueExuPZABuuApUAdrnuqXO-Qme-g4S5hLPPjZ02bXZU_7tOLoLRQ1IEjDVDgg2lA22ltdZUl7EmGxv2-75j2eG2v9us4Qu-Yla-21xSKx1r-LgTA3st5h1stRJvhHm0vMezhYto/s16000/1655561659773_092453.jpg" /></a><br />After lunch, we visited the mangrove forest before returning to the port. Admittedly, the mangroves may not have been the most visually striking, but they are vital in the surrounding ecosystem. These mangroves serve as natural buffers, absorbing seawater and preventing coastal erosion.</div><div><br /></div><div>Moreover, they help absorb carbon dioxide while producing oxygen, contributing to a healthier environment. Additionally, they protect marine life in search of food, including smaller fish, which ultimately benefits the entire marine ecosystem. You can trust this information because I double-checked it by reading a scientific article. (Lol!)</div><div><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/2400342117442792685/4649093840268576728?hl=id#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4-wK6dy9SAm1ZIaEd6CaYjCO1Kv4mHUGzEJGT8B1oXwC_-FwIF65BopTT3RXYVburfVK3v_t5qYx4DDRlUpKp8KWeTq5yb7HjnwSzXnM1mOVnXyjhAL-ZCw-xfTijvtNOUrnEIqxtKqrH5VucBflwt9KxpmfizlmC7HzDiPyrWDwalAUJ-gU7kseG/s16000/1655561659731_091701.jpg" /></a></div><div><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/edit/2400342117442792685/2564615950388387334?hl=id#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidhJEeMf1JY13fT_xOKzldxfDcj6uUa2hh98befklGZdyjNTf0MezjMGBNSKq6DI5DYtyMCcFSjkJk1nVS2o8tATXnugAbZLBb6sXpvfv3ZceykZhfcqgy9V3HF-ec69HAiS4k5IHE-nvS-P-RmU_BzChneNV2BOMCgvOKM8Md8JIspzq5iMf27nTk/s16000/1655562880196_094138.jpg" /></a></div><div>Ahh... We felt so relieved when we finally got back to the mainland. It meant we were going back to our normal life after our island adventure. The island was full of exciting experiences, beautiful landscapes, and carefree moments that made us forget our usual routines and duties. Stepping on solid ground reminded us of our responsibilities, but we weren't sad about returning. It was like reuniting with our normal life, challenges, and tasks. It was a mix of emotions because we were leaving the enchanting island behind. Still, we were also looking forward to returning the memories and experiences we had gathered during our island trip into our daily lives.</div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862380734915642433.post-31018027482942179762020-07-31T13:43:00.050+07:002024-03-27T21:50:37.646+07:00Dayok Nabinatur for a BirthdayIn our family, we don't usually celebrate birthdays with candles and the "Happy Birthday" song. My parents only threw birthday parties for my eldest sister twice, inviting her classmates to our house. Besides those times, we've never had other birthday celebrations.<br /><br />I remember our mother getting a birthday cake decorated with a Barbie doll wearing a dress made of icing. My sister's friends came over to celebrate her birthday and they had a good time until the party ended, exchanging gifts before leaving.<br /><br />But personally, I don't like being the center of attention, where everyone's focus is on me. Even though teaching involves a similar situation, birthdays feel different to me. Honestly, unexpected birthday wishes often make me feel awkward.<br /><br />Removing my birthdate from my Facebook profile three years ago turned out to be a wise decision. I remember when birthday wishes used to flood my messages and dominate my wall. However, I can't deny the joy it brings me when my closest friends remember my birthday without Facebook's reminder.<br /><br />As for birthday parties, I prefer not to have one, and there are a few reasons for that. Firstly, aside from my sister, our family has never had a tradition of hosting birthday parties at home, something our parents instilled in us from a young age. When my friends invited me to their parties, my mom and I would often craft thoughtful gifts instead.<br /><br />Secondly, I discovered that I prefer smaller, more intimate gatherings as I grew closer to certain individuals and formed what I consider my inner circle of friends. It boils down to the fact that I become more conscious of time passing as I age. With each passing year, my opportunities to grow and achieve my goals diminish, which motivates me to make the most of every moment.<br /><br />However, when there is a family member's birthday, we always make sure to acknowledge it. Our mom goes the extra mile by preparing a special birthday meal for each family member. In our family, this heartfelt dinner celebration is a cherished tradition that we uphold for every joyous occasion, including birthdays.<div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://draft.blogger.com/u/1/blog/post/edit/2956312555832469951/3168605582662664915#" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJtq5qJ1QMTaBrRCdX9Wu3XPIEtbMPfK2mW2ar_KVHnw_0JQJEE4WdvHxwaJu9UWraf_QcI5baBb9WgkZif7rar8DtIs3CAnHOosKh0TOsMDf3kTYE2ksnOYDDFIMLzyxN6exYSVH4-tI/s16000/2017-02-05+03.50.51+1.jpg" /></a></td></tr></tbody></table><blockquote style="text-align: justify;">You have to taste a culture to understand it – <b>Deborah Cater</b>. Because... People without the knowledge of their past history, origin, and culture are like trees without roots. – <b>Marcus Gorvey</b></blockquote>In Simalungun culinary traditions, "Dayok Nabinatur" shares similarities with practices in other tribes. Simply put, "Dayok" refers to chicken, while "Nabinatur" suggests regularity – essentially meaning "regularly prepared chicken meat." <br /><br />In Simalungun culture, this traditional cooking style is typically reserved for significant events and meaningful traditions. These include weddings, funerals, welcoming new family members, and gatherings that bring together different generations. It's a way of celebrating and strengthening family bonds through food.<br /><br />However, if you're part of a Muslim family like ours, you won't find "Dayok Nabinatur" on the menu during a funeral. This is because we adhere to our religious customs, and this dish doesn't align with Muslim funeral traditions. So, as delicious as it may be, you won't see it served on such an occasion.<br /><br />Now, "Dayok Nabinatur" holds special significance. During any event, one or more deserving family members are chosen to take part in a meaningful tradition. The person offering and receiving the dish holds the plate it's served on while prayers are offered. These prayers seek blessings from God, including good health, harmony, and a love for life.<br /><br />You might think this practice is reserved only for grand occasions, but it's quite versatile. We don't limit it to significant events like weddings or funerals. Instead, we incorporate it into casual, intimate gatherings, like celebrating a family member's birthday at home. It showcases how deeply we value the philosophy behind this meal and the unique way it's served.</div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://draft.blogger.com/u/1/blog/post/edit/2956312555832469951/3168605582662664915#" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTACwg9PIO-HA6nNE-s3g0UysHMjDBtBEd9Qs9uQxVM2AQ1fXSWW5jdFS9kAef0is-ft05fXE2nOHM-DHK5aTbkf2ihEFoK4XRlm65ZE9STx8BnqLpI4eb39cGgPBgdXP9t28BMALs_Ms/s16000/2017-02-05+03.50.50+1.jpg" /></span></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;"><i>Sikkam</i></span><br style="text-align: start;" /></td></tr></tbody></table>I'm intrigued by how this traditional dish sets itself apart by using "sikkam" instead of blood, especially since it is typically prohibited in Islamic dietary guidelines. This aspect has piqued my curiosity, and I'm eager to learn more about the intricacies of this culinary tradition.<br /><br />To delve deeper into this fascinating practice, the Simalungun community refers to "sikkam" as the bark of the bay leaf tree. What adds complexity to this process is how they skillfully combine the sikkam juice with rich coconut milk, creating a unique flavor. The highlight is when this harmonious mixture is gracefully poured over flavorful and expertly grilled chicken meat.<br /><br />The combination of cultural significance, culinary skill, and adherence to religious dietary restrictions in this traditional dish has caught my attention and increased my admiration for the diverse world of food culture.</div><div><div><a href="https://draft.blogger.com/u/1/blog/post/edit/2956312555832469951/3168605582662664915#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxJanqHbg18ApadeY1sAo8pGcuVJdmcklup6qBtdl3820IQnZ7tmXydwm6ycuSK3tPvb_kxYZjmqwghz59DqifUPKNP_3d1xEYkWQAhuQf6yaEgtKB0Hv3xPO3kinSJoFkk2hsGljuDFg/s16000/2017-02-05+03.50.44+1.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="https://draft.blogger.com/u/1/blog/post/edit/2956312555832469951/3168605582662664915#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHDTq2fLX3ydOJQs-ZX5Kr8ujxI5uDQ6yP3Q8EI9AYudiUwJtjh72kb0L1otBkS3OiaHjwtQegrgHpQziNgiWGaMbYba2_79eXb1E_wCcBw2VRuDqHf73RoNlNVUc21Ff4TFAsH04QKkI/s16000/2017-02-05+03.50.52+1.jpg" /></a><br />However, it's crucial to emphasize that the preservation of Dayok Nabinatur will be approached with utmost respect for the core principles of my religious beliefs. As a proud member of the Batak Simalungun ethnic group, I hold the cultural heritage of Dayok Nabinatur in high esteem.<br /><br />Simultaneously, I see it as more than just a culinary tradition – it is a testament to our ancestors' wisdom and adaptability in facing challenges. Participating in and serving Dayok Nabinatur has deeply instilled in me an appreciation for its role in nurturing familial bonds. It serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining close connections with extended family members and the profound respect we owe to our elders, who provide invaluable guidance and wisdom.</div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862380734915642433.post-13319581181967060482020-06-13T15:09:00.035+07:002023-09-22T07:50:25.169+07:00Puncak Sorik MarapiWe were blessed with a surprisingly flexible schedule when we embarked on our journey as a lecturer. This flexibility was a direct result of the unique circumstances at our institution. You see, my students were just embarking on their first year of college at that time. This meant that our department had a relatively small number of students who had chosen our majors, and we had an abundance of dedicated lecturers to cater to their educational needs.<br /><br />This setup was a silver lining for me. It allowed me to carry out my teaching responsibilities effectively and opened up opportunities for personal exploration. The luxury of a more forgiving timetable permitted me to dive headfirst into discovering our new location. And let me tell you, it was a captivating journey.<br /><br />Exploring this new environment was an eye-opener. The richness of the culture, the diversity of the local community, and the myriad of intriguing places to visit and experience made each day an adventure. From hidden gems in the city to charming spots off the beaten path, I savored the essence of Mandailing Natal in a way that wouldn't have been possible without that flexible schedule. It was an enriching chapter of my academic career and personal growth.<br /><br />Our decision to seek advice from our friends before embarking on this trip was driven by the captivating trip photos they had shared. Those snapshots of their adventures in the same destination ignited our curiosity and fueled our excitement.<br /><br />Consulting our friends seemed like the logical first step, and it was a wise move. Armed with their insights, we consulted the map, which suggested that a motorbike ride from town to Sorik Marapi should take approximately an hour. However, little did we know that this journey would be a physical one and a lesson in discovering the unexpected.<br /><br />As we ventured further away from the city, something marvelous unfolded. The scenery stretched out in front of us, surpassing all my expectations. The beauty of the landscape was a pleasant surprise, making our journey even more memorable.<br /><br />My first moments in Panyabungan were quite eye-opening. The juxtaposition of lush rice fields against the backdrop of the bustling cityscape left me utterly amazed. Despite the evident activity, there was an undeniable sense of leisure, a pace slower and more relaxed than I had grown accustomed to in major cities. It was a refreshing change of pace.<br /><br />As I looked around, I couldn't help but notice the imposing line of hills that encircled this district, creating a natural boundary. It was a sight to behold, giving the place a unique character.<br /><br />However, the scenery transformed as we neared our ultimate destination. In the distance, a solitary hill or mountain came into view, and eventually, we could discern a section of the mountain itself. What caught our attention next was the unmistakable presence of a geothermal power plant, its imposing structures standing out against the landscape. It was an unexpected encounter, to say the least.<br /><br />This experience led me to a realization: Mandailing Natal, the area we were exploring, was far less traditional than I had initially anticipated. It blended the natural beauty of the hills and the modern touch of a power plant, a fusion of past and present.<br /><br />Finally, our journey reached its climax as we were greeted by a welcoming sight—a gate adorned with the words, "Welcome to Puncak Sorik Marapi." It marked the beginning of our adventure and left me eager to discover what lay beyond.<div><br /><div><div><b style="background-color: white;">Sibanggor Julu Traditional Village</b></div><br />This ancient village has done a remarkable job of safeguarding its cultural heritage, and they've achieved this by constructing homes using palm fiber—a time-tested material with a legacy spanning centuries. This choice isn't just a nod to tradition; it's also a practical one. You see, roofs crafted from palm fiber are remarkably resilient when withstanding the corrosive effects of sulfur dust rain, far more so than conventional zinc or iron plates.<br /><br />Sibanggor Julu enjoys a climatic advantage over its neighboring regions, mainly thanks to its strategic location at the base of an active volcano. This unique positioning brings about significantly cooler temperatures, a notable contrast to the surrounding areas. And here's where it all ties together beautifully: using palm fiber for roofing isn't just an aesthetic choice; it's rooted in practical wisdom passed down through generations.<br /><br />It's like an inheritance from our ancestors, a testament to their wisdom and deep connection with nature. They understood the symbiotic relationship between humans and their environment. By embracing the palm fiber roof, they ensured their descendants would stay snug and warm during the rainy season and pleasantly cool during the dry spells. It's a testament to the enduring wisdom of our forefathers, who left us a tangible legacy and a profound understanding of how to live in harmony with the natural world.<div><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip9BpA1UDBo87tAIg-31MTB0B6N2y-kIOEiI8mWsVCMYaDG2ZIzZ8kWuZA7fMgA203sW4uKzEh4VUTQZGhe1yZ4xmhD9cfsuQf_TUJunN5_Y1EXMcSD336NfR1ohBYhn8Ik7ILpFZYWkwUzueEAum2XB1Q1Ej8zR6CeHuIGCAnr50Fpg9ISoTHecnYqQ/s16000/IMG_20200722_112634_075420.jpg" /><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/3/blog/post/edit/2862380734915642433/1331958118196706048#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKW6wKBoKeQHVdRJDE66cRY7FaT76oUlWu9byzXPHU1Oqa4DpefBLQOUF92IBvEWE4SRKYS9P0iLMr43-cxOZCUR2tiRWxn8eyg0eg5rd2Sk1DhyaAcYUgeRiy6B2kyogSOKisssOzfPs/s16000/IMG_20200722_112418+%25282%2529.jpg" /></a><br />Once we found ourselves inside the traditional village, it was a clear sign that we were about to reach our final destination. At that point, we decided to leave our motorcycles at a nearby housing spot, and a kind young girl from the neighborhood generously offered to be our tour guide.<br /><br />From there on, we continued our journey on foot. Fortunately, we weren't the first travelers to tread this path, so we already had a well-trodden trail to follow. However, it became apparent that we needed to work on our fitness because even a short walk felt like quite a challenge.<br /><br />Speaking of new experiences, let me tell you about one of them. Picture this: a narrow footbridge, only one foot wide, suspended over a river of transparent, greenish sulfur water. It was quite a sight. The temptation to dip our feet into that crystal-clear water was strong, but we knew better. The priority was to keep our balance lest we take an unintended swim. Even if we did slip, it wouldn't have been a significant issue since the river was only about three to four meters wide, and the footbridge hovered about a meter and a half above the water. However, our idea of a good time differed from wandering in wet clothes.<br /><br />After that little adventure, we had to head down a path to our right. Just before entering this path, bushes flanked us on one side, and there was a ravine on the other.</div><div><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0C83ia2olUGo6i03wKY2WQ48m7LQGjVxoZBkA2AgZOy_ID5S8kaz1J8SGPwX53RjS0xBiOvWDVm8Xs--IxuAkquLIJcNiYlq9OuPqgNW5LeMqsw0bjvqlHb_rnR216GaOwK_DrhIB6aLQO5L1Y2gCt6SctO87rv3I1FoG_knp3Ovhv3TwBfm1ddiN4g/s16000/IMG_20200722_121732_075902.jpg" /><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/3/blog/post/edit/2862380734915642433/1331958118196706048#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinnydY7ElqoR45xuPfxKxw3PS8RxT8X9rhU8veVIXc83SkETW9Ajy8YoG8PBStiwFZ5V5K0EbxEd-VIQ-SFMeIgKx_OFFLNIFNdNAPcldvSgPTtkxG_df_CKPePqC1oHYw1BzHWxKDws8/s16000/1621939906162.jpg" /></a><br />During our journey, we encountered a stretch of stones, some as massive as the front doors at one point. But all good things must end, and so did our short journey when we finally reached our destination – the hot spring in Sibanggor.<br /><br />The water here was so intense in its sulfuric concentration that we could practically measure it. The temperature was sufficiently high, meaning we didn't have to spend too long soaking our feet to feel the effects. After enjoying the warm waters, we eventually decided to turn back and head out since there wasn't much else to do but take in the surroundings.<br /><br />Being atop a mountain, it was no surprise that the weather could change unexpectedly, and rain came pouring down. Luckily, there were shelters available to provide cover for the sudden downpour.</div><div><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9CBgW7SynD6wglbjM8VGsVm88C1TUNpAONemCtDAU4MddRTnPSVWmQEYOhSg0eEcbD43DXYLlDcc0BsUjbHrZR6zu66rKpfzxR5UXbEZWZABjrx36zbcd1fVK1SrQ9jI_em_F6B7AW-gpXkeh4CdVXIo_uT0McXNhcan7dQykdIsS8tP4WO8uDbwLmA/s16000/IMG_20200722_123326_072055.jpg" /></div>Going downhill was an absolute breeze, and after what felt like an eternity of isolation, it was incredibly refreshing to finally cross paths with other people. I've got to admit, though, I'm not one to dwell on reliving past experiences in different places. It's no wonder some folks get hooked on hiking and exploring new territories – there's something addictively thrilling about it. This journey, in particular, imparted some invaluable lessons.<br /><br />One of the most significant takeaways was the realization that coexisting with nature involves forming a bond with it and making friends, so to speak. It was a reminder that to truly harmonize with our environment, we must establish a connection with it. I found myself pushing beyond the boundaries I had initially set for myself, a testament to my growth during this unique journey.<br /><br />In such an unfamiliar setting, my senses and mind were wide open to pondering the purpose of my existence in this vast world. It left me perplexed, wondering why fate had brought me into contact with the people I had finally encountered along the way.<div><a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/3/#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXk16Vouz5Vxv8cUKYTMjG04RpxsjuWi8Kusi5Ihp_c0WIZY0GaFsIwyR_OcIAhwSr4jdMFzgdApj7m5to8RkIeixBzFh6rBnQdygTYQohIQjUkhdNTZ9U9y1NcyQgwnshC0hMOICZC1c/s16000/1621939879669+%25281%2529.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/3/#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEDfbdfvfK1il5kv8fNLZZwDNH1TornHXW6g0DcZ6a50CSHuHVKWy90UCz3Kjq3hkTPhRRYfvJVogeDIoRAhmDZON9cRsPLgZ8S2MJZDtWmmqEr-8uqqL_u4WmKO94VyhtJL3n8-UxYoE/s16000/1616466388198+%25282%2529.jpg" /></a></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862380734915642433.post-65402168647399808222020-03-28T08:09:00.024+07:002024-03-27T21:56:55.482+07:00Karonese Chicken CiperaBack then, I didn't grasp the concept of what they refer to as "food variations." My understanding of soups could have been enhanced. It all revolved around this soup my family used to enjoy. It was a simple affair – a clear, liquid broth with a delicious, easily digestible flavor. To me, that epitomized soup. It didn't matter what type it was; as long as the broth was clear, I labeled it as soup.<br /><br />So, imagine my confusion when I watched a Western movie, and the characters were devouring what resembled a thick, almost saucy corn mixture, yet they still called it soup. I scratched my head, thinking, "What's happening here?"<br /><br />I needed to unravel this soup mystery. And finally, it dawned on me. People incorporate corn into soups; some even refer to these thick concoctions as soups. Thanks to a quick visit to Wikipedia, I discovered that soups can be categorized into two main types: light and thick. It's as straightforward as that.<br /><br />So, my mom had prepared some chicken cipera the day before, and for some strange reason, my mind just couldn't stop returning to that movie scene with people slurping down corn soup. It was like a thought loop that I couldn't break free from.<br /><br />Now, here's the revelation – in the Karonese language, they call corn flour "cipera." And guess what we did? We took that cipera and transformed it into chicken cipera, which, I have to admit, started to resemble the very corn soup I had been pondering. It was a bit of an "aha" moment, connecting the dots between them.<div><a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/3/blog/post/edit/2956312555832469951/4425887469569742006?hl=en#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl75mF7WiSQ0ASiEaL-aubI6lVG4t-cpgPCxc9Uu8RaBctq7XEkX9OWKNruT1bjfeNpxm-y7ZwvayJRAHRpNYUEfizwbJf1doyVBMNwdJCCCdwA-13uOikrzHswMXDgYTqQVCZ8RlO5GQ/s16000/1621913100828.jpg" /></a><br />Now, let me explain the chicken cipera to you. It's like a burst of flavors in your mouth – sweet, sour, and spicy, all combined into one delightful dish. And where did I acquire this culinary knowledge? It traces back to my childhood, observing my mom work her magic in the kitchen.</div><div><br />So, here's the deal with the flavors: it gets its spicy kick from the herbs and cayenne pepper, a tangy twist from the Kecombrang fruit, and a hint of sweetness from the corn flour and grated sweet corn. If you omit the corn and corn flour, it's just a regular chicken curry, not the cipera we're talking about here. Oh, and a pro tip – use Kampong chicken for that authentic flavor.<br /><br />A little secret weapon to enhance the experience is adding some ear mushrooms. They'll work wonders by counteracting that chewy, salty sensation in your mouth. It's all about balancing those flavors, and that's how you elevate your chicken cipera to the next level!</div><div><a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/3/blog/post/edit/2956312555832469951/4425887469569742006?hl=en#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB1YyHX-katHhuSZ3onk1vM_AKXpZSRD3qp6Owpzgq_5bdErt25_txGfv0fb31e3fWP8w0Y0o60EYXrZVvKFwMNVSgIuBRnkBSIpVY3ra2tAZ2RzpXafMiW-fT6dPaeNwhU6uS1BvWCK8/s16000/1621913100844.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/3/blog/post/edit/2956312555832469951/4425887469569742006?hl=en#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTJJtCU2V-nCxbNuXB4rNlyFL7urBhilJOlU-tHlKQLe3EaNd2D6OgjhaXIU750BrVwFr32O3MA9PYn9HQcHSXbGkgBRtsqlb8I8tew1-D1shA9FJciRzgPJTUSDHMHDQKUHWom-U5QNA/s16000/1621913100834.jpg" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862380734915642433.post-34204235344309083792020-02-20T09:05:00.044+07:002024-02-20T06:24:11.033+07:00Same Burger, Different Stories<b>The Promise</b><br /><div><div><div><br />In 2008, my last year of high school, it was hard to keep up with what was going on in the big city. Taking public transportation to get from our suburb to Medan, the provincial capital, was a tiring two-hour trip. Back then, people in rural areas like ours had even less access to the internet and social media than they do now, when more people have it.<br /><br />My sister was already in college in Medan, and she often told us about the fun things she was doing. She talked about fun things teens could do in a big city, like trying new foods. One day, she pulled out her phone and showed me a picture of a tasty burger. "I had something like this yesterday!" It made me hungry, and I was looking forward to her promise to take me to a meal like the one she had praised.<br /><br />After waiting patiently for the right time, we finally went to Rumah Blepots Medan to get some burgers. My sister, who is always sensible, said we should share a burger because she thought getting one for each of us would be too much. There was a strange taste after eating the burger, but it was still tasty. Because my sister kept her word and it was my first time eating a burger, which gave my taste buds a strange sensation.<br /><br />Friends and I chose to rent a house in Medan when it was time for me to go to college. What I thought it would be turned out to be different. I stopped going to fancy coffee shops and restaurants because they didn't seem as appealing.<br /><br />How valuable we think something is can be greatly affected by how easy or hard it is to get. It was more fun because there were so many new places to hang out, try new foods, and explore, especially since I didn't have much money at the time. These events don't seem important anymore that I'm getting closer to having more money.<br /><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiokRhZ_Y82q1-2rrKXHhXr4WqPctysCbj6pjiGz7XJasEGB7G3uZ8njwD8IoFMtnstWbld_Trf2hIXeSPCB8XQBYdu5Nuc74ZpdV-AnPcKlgajW1bs4Lc9pmfXfKfLMUyNmcDdyhVTGpw/s16000/IMG_20190129_133907.jpg" /><br /><b style="background-color: white;">For the Sake of My Dad</b></div><br />Our father's health got worse soon after my sister got married in early 2015. He passed away in July of that same year, despite all of our best efforts. For almost two months, we took turns going to the hospital with Nande, our mother, in the hopes that our dad would get better. I wasn't very involved in my mom's life because I was teaching at two different schools and had just started my second semester of my post graduate. So, I couldn't go to the hospital to see my parents very often.<br /><br />I was sad all day and night, and I hoped so badly that my dad would get better. During this time, I didn't want to eat much, but I had to force myself to in order to stay healthy and do my job as the only person responsible for the house. I naturally avoided things that would make me happy or laugh because it didn't seem fair to enjoy a tasty meal while my dad had to be fed porridge through a tube and my mom could only eat cold rice.<br /><br />On one Wednesday, some of my best female friends from LTBI took me to dinner. It was very different from the past, when being in big groups made it hard for me to smile and often made me cry. I knew, though, that life had to go on and that I had to get over my grief. It seemed like I had no choice.<br /><br />What place did we finally find some good food? Rumah Blepots, you guessed it! When I came here for the first time, my sister and I both ordered the same dish, so I did too. Even though the tastes were the same, something about the whole thing felt off.<br /><br />After that first bite, I couldn't help but think that there was always a good time to laugh with my best friends over a healthy, tasty meal. I thought that my dad must be looking down and being glad to see his daughter so happy and healthy.</div><div><div><a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/3/blog/post/edit/2956312555832469951/8351259945463194939?hl=en#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKd885nu8kRPMBY3dzjOAgAdwQ4YJL7wmPi4ySi-WWs7u6pO5223Z_Z9hujKamwV7O2NwfAMHwj_8z1QvP0XicYXiP18YPVgHELKFrnmQbE4ijSJQIuzXwuo4cHl5xiormHL2SSiLnFOo/s16000/IMG_20190129_133526.jpg" /></a><br /><b style="background-color: white;">Celebrating Our Pending Success</b></div><br />Fani and I both applied for jobs as civil servants in late 2018. We got the same test scores, which meant we could move on to the Aptitude Test. I chose to work for the Ministry of Religion, while Fani looked for work at the Supreme Audit Agency.<br /><br />Fani made me a nice offer at this point: she said she would take me to lunch at any restaurant I chose, no matter what the test results were. I made my choice right away: Rumah Blepots. I didn't know why I kept going back to this burger joint that was known for making homemade meals, but I chose to accept her offer.<br /><br />As expected, the outcome of the selection process could have been better. But instead of dwelling on the setback, we thought about how thankful we were for the chances we had. It helped us remember that every try, success or failure, brought us closer to our goals.<br /><br />Because of this, we chose a simple but meaningful way to celebrate. To reward ourselves for all the hard work and determination we had shown in our pursuits, we settled for a simple hamburger lunch. Not only was it about the food, but it also represented our unwavering determination to reach our goal.</div><div><div><a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/3/blog/post/edit/2956312555832469951/8351259945463194939?hl=en#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAMj5m9HFO9_5p7TZKxLWL9eTgnB8sDJUNhnTc4HFLce3jWRZXXKFgGosnu9VJ1VUx8hzGEMgNbIzcErvz2EMCt7Vyey9LYKLhIbugPG0499JpNvQlmJOekRjG1Pd7fxKOVpT6_1cOcBs/s16000/IMG_20190129_134212.jpg" /></a><br /><blockquote style="text-align: justify;">Food isn't just a dish that ends up in your stomach, it's an adventure that deserves to be enjoyed and appreciated. – <b>Winda Krisnadefa</b></blockquote><b></b></div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862380734915642433.post-30958203578345036322020-02-16T20:09:00.035+07:002023-09-28T21:41:53.168+07:00Favorite Comfort FoodsEver since I moved to Mandailing Natal to start living and working independently, my mom and I have picked up this lovely new habit. We make the first call every night after our Maghrib prayer and dinner. It's become a tradition!<br /><br />We chat about all sorts of stuff each night, although it's funny how often we discuss the same things. We catch up on our day, discuss our favorite foods, and share what we're up to during our calls. It's become a particular part of our routine.<br /><br />Our talks would be way more thrilling once I figure out when I can finally return home to see my family. But here's the thing: I'll keep that return date a secret if I need to grab a bus ticket. Why, you ask? Well, it's all about dodging any letdowns in case things don't go exactly as I hope. Being apart from my family has taught me to value every chance I get to be with them. <br /><br />So, whenever I felt like it was high time for me to head back home, I'd give my mom a shout and request my all-time favorite dish. The kicker? It was everyone's favorite, not just mine. And, without fail, my mom was totally game for it.<br /><br />The way she said, "That's so easy!" in response to all my special requests, I'm pretty sure Nande had a big, happy grin.<div><span><span><b style="background-color: white;"><br /></b></span></span></div><div><span><span><b style="background-color: white;">Mie Rebus Medan</b></span></span><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/3/blog/post/edit/2956312555832469951/4258379219594972896?hl=en#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0rAbFGCkKmzKxI-hVsdoEOOVRnt2IcGVF1dcDgN-FN5lO1JgzO9kG7Gxkha58DMjxWPME0sz9vDEu1hmhQx-_8GwKKcgLZXiIeiXpb_CYZVfHGwQl8LJx7i45QJCQmaIHdwE2qzHT7Oo/s16000/IMG_20210310_113700+%25282%2529.jpg" /></a><br />When our dad was still actively involved with <i>perwiridan</i> in our neighborhood, we treated the members to some mouthwatering Mie Rebus Medan after we wrapped up Surah Yasin. There's this unspoken consensus that anything whipped up by Mom would be a culinary delight. And trust me, it always is—absolutely scrumptious!<br /><br />We even thought about Mom setting up her Mie Rebus Medan specialty stall once she retired. Who would want to avoid savoring her delicious creations regularly?<br /><br />It's all about that perfect blend of mashed shrimp and dried sweet prawns that give the broth savory richness and thickness. My mom, is a stickler for quality, so only the finest brown sugar finds its way into her recipe.<br /><br />It's crucial to strike that well-balanced chord regarding spices and seasonings. And here's a little secret – she adds a dash of Mamak's Love spice to take the deliciousness up a notch.<blockquote style="text-align: justify;">Comfort food is the food that makes us feel good - satisfied, calm, cared for, and carefree. It's food that fills us up emotionally and physically. Finding comfort in food is a basic human experience. - <b>Ellie Krieger</b></blockquote><a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/3/blog/post/edit/2956312555832469951/4258379219594972896?hl=en#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtVYzkNlYakW1F_65e61N02Hi66hF34LNS2v1SDqzCptIoXhbVj2m73fcJZ4i96_dd-N5s6wMngb2dvxpE9qZ5Pag-TKVcIzlIC9PvV7Z5oo0Hvvf9kVOWxr7p9s19kTa0ks3_4xnrB1U/s16000/IMG_20210310_114134+%25282%2529.jpg" /></a><br /><div>Besides being incredibly comforting, this one thing about a bowl of these noodles always gets me thinking. How can we spend hours prepping a meal but then gobble it down in just a few minutes? 🍜 It's like a culinary paradox!<br /><div><br /></div><div><b style="background-color: white;">Soto Medan</b><br /><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimAr3jitc-vn4GzoVHygPwU2kV236kHhKISffiQGeTEQIo13S1iUwgmElQZn_jHM6qTSAqrspWW8UvXHPHsF1B9mgLfN3HWAt9JkaLsNx_jnVXXomA8Rm6SZbUp_3YUZRewKHG4s7JxBU/s16000/IMG_20190104_141202+%25281%2529.jpg" /><br />Oh, you know, besides the delightful Mie Rebus Medan, we've got another ace up our sleeves – Soto Medan. But let me tell you, my mom's Soto is something else, especially for me. It's got this unique touch to it. And here's the kicker: those banana-leaf-wrapped rice cakes, also known as <i>lontong</i>, take eight hours to simmer away on our old-school wood-fired stove. Yep, it's a labor of love and patience that pays off. <br /><br />So, picture this: a rich, golden broth made from creamy coconut milk and a medley of ground spices generously poured over chunks of rice cakes. That's what we're dealing with when it comes to this dish, and it's served up with a whole lineup of delicious extras.<br /><br />You've got your crunchy bean sprouts, the irresistible shredded fried chicken, some soft potato wedges, and even the often controversial beef tripe. Now, I get it – tripe might not be everyone's cup of tea, but trust me, it's the secret ingredient that ties everything together in my Soto. And the grand finale? Don't forget to sprinkle some fresh celery leaves, a handful of crispy fried shallots, and a chili sauce drizzle on top. It's an explosion of flavors and downright delicious, believe me!<div><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHIIoiTUYuIhMywzRHTwSTUaWH82abPHreMCXE0h9mqqk5YMulct4duW2MWSMwIcwwNgLDchvOaGKJC3BRgBNHUlEq4fgXfMSSdzu-w5EcABejaQyuzGgv8PumcvYreh194rK4G7ttK6Q/s16000/IMG_20190104_141717+%25281%2529.jpg" /></div>When our beloved grandmother was still with us, Soto was our secret weapon to convince her to stay with us for extended periods, sometimes weeks. This dish was so irresistible that it could even make our typically finicky grandma seem quite agreeable, holding her rightful throne at the very top of our family hierarchy on my mom's side.<br /><br />She had been dealing with heart problems for quite a while, and with its comforting flavors, Soto was like a warm embrace that brought comfort and joy to her. It was more than just a meal; it was a cherished connection. Every single time she paid us a visit, we were absolutely thrilled. No matter how irritating she could sometimes be, there was no denying that Tigan always spoke the truth.<br /><br />Yet, what truly mattered most was the immense, unconditional love she showered upon us, and we felt it deep down to our core. God blessed us with these two remarkable women, and we're beyond grateful. <br /><br />It's a mystery why Mom's cooking has this magical way of satisfying everyone under our roof. There are many places where we can grab similar dishes with various options. But here's the kicker: Nande's culinary creations have set the bar pretty high, and I've unconsciously started measuring everything I eat elsewhere against her excellent meals.<br /><br />And you know what? It's justified because every spoonful of her broth isn't just about flavors; it's a package of love, warmth, sincerity, and compassion. She infuses every dish with a little piece of her heart. </div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2862380734915642433.post-60216078624817968622019-09-21T21:00:00.025+07:002024-02-20T06:15:55.387+07:00Marambe LakeEnni and I just moved into this house together, and we're excited to get to know the area that will become our second home. We decided to start by searching for "Mandailing Natal tourist area" on Google. The first place we chose was Sirambas village in West Panyabungan because it was the closest on the map. We left our home in Lintas Timur with Google Maps and our trusty motorcycle. Let me tell you, it took a while to get to Marambe Lake, which was our final stop.<br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/3/blog/post/edit/2956312555832469951/4927296938425669223?hl=en#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2z4mB7YR3h73M3rOMxFvW0fNTMQB0bbQfn_ZrEWpSZtdeb5_fxbQMpmevPHXY_d7EqRD6L46FjbjIqy-jePQe8U047XHgGlvCaP2Vhhyphenhyphen8kSiuaNWQ_t061LA5MbVlZrYbc6P60kg8TKM/s16000/1621913592138.jpg" /></a><br />When we tried to follow the app's instructions, it told us to make a left turn, but all we could see was a rubber plantation. So we were confused. We were fooled by the woman's voice on the app.<br /><br />Then we chose to be nice and asked one of the rubber farmers if the road ahead would lead us to Marambe Lake. Thank goodness the farmer told us we were going in the right direction. On top of that, we found that we could park our motorcycle in the yard of a stall right next to the main door. From the gate, there was an easy way to get to a huge man-made lake.<br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/u/3/blog/post/edit/2956312555832469951/4927296938425669223?hl=en#"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHPND_rS-yd63WvPVjLPZuXrXE8Rhl5rs_WR8V9l_oGGgimESIBtJ_Pw0nu-TrYaDTAMRk1GJCTIyaH1Jca5LnPDCXkhXC4XtAaGjlSX53ju4ctl2oxFj7EXOHQ8WR52a61n42J8Ca9fc/s16000/1621913557283.jpg" /></a><br /><div>Based on what we learned, this lake would be a great place for a family vacation. A group of big, strong men were fishing patiently with bait on their hooks, waiting for a fish to bite. There were also families having a great time swimming and riding water bikes together. The cool air around Marambe Lake came from the thick trees, and the water was so clear it was like looking through glass. There were also lots of cozy gazebos around the lake where we could relax and eat the food we brought from home or get a snack from one of the many stands that were set up around the lake.<br /><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhILzzyukR7jmAOhX3lHtCgDHA5ImY8ro6hHWgS8VaEs1VdjvgGHHxmDu3G2NYkGWM7dPMzoOzFB9bA-_soTGaSFMwEUv7EXtU9DOrREhmEvBO155SUs8WwC6PhndZErkwE-XMKPvNiKq8/s16000/1621913611761.jpg" />After getting to the lake just 30 minutes before it closed, we were able to enjoy some peace and quiet while being amazed by the beautiful scenery reflected in the water. It felt like the universe was giving us a friendly nod.<br /><br />While we were sitting there, we wished we had had a deep conversation by the lake. That way, we might have realized that starting this new adventure and embracing the idea of living on our own wasn't as scary as we had thought.<br /><br />Each day made me appreciate the hand of God even more for leading me to this beautiful place. As I looked around at all the beauty and goodness that God had bestowed upon Mandailing Natal, I truly believed that this was the second-best place in the world to grow as a person and make my life better, after my home.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0