Home of The Champions

Monday, December 31, 2007

The last post for Year 2007. I thank all for supporting this blog throughout the years. Continue to watch this space for more news and gossips.

Happy New Year 2008!

angelzone | 10:27 am | me, myself and i

Wednesday, December 26, 2007

Boxing Day

Other than non-stop football action on Boxing Day right up till New Year's day, what does Boxing Day really mean? Coutesy of http://teachertipstraining.suite101.com/article.cfm/origin_of_boxing_day :

Origin Of Boxing Day
History and Meaning of Boxing Day
© Debbie DeSpirt
Dec 5, 2006

Boxing Day is a day the higher classes gave gifts to the lower classes. Before or on December 25th people of similar class would exchange gifts to celebrate the Christmas season. Gifts were not exchanged with the lower class until the next day called Boxing Day. It is also known as St. Stephen’s Day.

Why is the holiday named Boxing Day?

The holiday is named Boxing Day because the tradition of giving gifts of cash, food, clothing and other goods to the less fortunate were placed into boxes for easier transportation. The goods were distributed based on the family needs and their services to the giver.

Who celebrates Boxing Day?

Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Britain, and other Commonwealth Countries celebrate Boxing Day on December 26th.

Purpose of Teaching the Origin and History of Boxing Day

Boxing Day officially began in England in the middle of the 19 century under the rule of Queen Victoria. However, many adults and children do not know the true meaning of Boxing Day and its reasons for celebrating. It was a day to thank the community for all their effort throughout the years. The maids, drivers and other service workers were thanked with gifts of food, money, clothing, and other goods. It is important to teach students how they can contribute to society and to understand not all families are able to provide for their families all of the time.

As well, the discussion on the origin and history of Boxing Day can open dialogue about less fortunate individuals in the community and how the students can make a difference. Students may do a viable proposal on how their class or a group of students can provide a service or gift to other families or students in the community who are less fortunate.

Lastly, Americans do not celebrate Boxing Day but the slaves were given their goods on December 26th for the Masters to show their appreciation. Most slaves were given a few days off to celebrate the holiday season with their families. This is a great discussion on how the season of Christmas brought all class levels together and for a quick moment. Students could write a report on how they would feel celebrating Christmas with their Masters and why Masters even bothered to share the holiday season with their slaves.

Allow the dialogue on Boxing Day open other discussions on students feeling singled out or less fortunate than other students in the school or community.

angelzone | 4:46 pm | me, myself and i

Tuesday, December 25, 2007

Significance of Christmas tree varies for everyone - CNA

SINGAPORE: One poignant symbol of Christmas has always been the Christmas tree.

The cone-shaped evergreen is seen at shopping malls, in every church and in many homes, but not many know how the tradition of setting up the Christmas tree began.

Reverend Father Valerian Cheong, Priest, Church of the Risen Christ, said: "It started in German families. The German immigrants brought it into the United States. Today, you see, it's a very commercialised Christmas. But the true essence is to remind us that Jesus is the evergreen, the giver of our life.

"It's the centre of celebrations. It's where they put presents and candles, and that's why you have the shining bulbs to remind them of Christ being the light. It's to remind us that it was the star of Bethlehem that guided the people and the wise men to look for the Child Jesus on that Christmas night."

But for many non-Christians, putting up a Christmas tree at home takes on a different significance. To them, it is an opportunity for the family to spend time together.

Besides tree ornaments, presents placed under the trees usually steal the limelight.

And many agree that there are limits to creative decorations on the Christmas tree.

"(Putting) ang pow packets on a Christmas tree is a bit strange. But I suppose it's what we call 'an inculturation into our society' because red colour brings a lot of happiness, joy and luck," said Rev Father Cheong.

At the end of the day, the Christmas tree is really just a symbol of love, life, hope and unity.

-CNA/so

angelzone | 1:15 am | me, myself and i

Thursday, December 20, 2007

Merry Christmas?

Xmas is coming. Our results will be released soon as well. I kind of know my results already, due to some cock up with the system.

I should have studied harder. So damn disappointed with myself for being distracted. Time management is the key. Hope that I can manage my time well this sem.

angelzone | 11:04 pm | me, myself and i

Kids' Camp

The kids are really fun loving and cute. However, they can also be naughty and fight with each other. One of them purposely stepped onto his friend's feet and said sorry. It can quite fun seeing how the bullying happens.

Also, they kept running around and amusing themselves with small little things. I wonder where they got all their energy from.

I don't know why I wasn't like last time. Where is all my childhood? Sometimes, it is really sad to think back.

The lack of childhood can also explain why I am like that now.

angelzone | 1:21 am | me, myself and i

Sunday, December 16, 2007

CNA - Civil service pay hike is to retain and attract younger talents: SM Goh

It is always to same old argument: To attract talent. Are they really talents? Are taxpayers' money well spent?

Please.

angelzone | 2:38 am | me, myself and i

Wednesday, December 12, 2007

Best Blog 2007

Without you guys, I wouldn't have won retained my title for so many years. Thanks guys for all the support since 2004.

I've changed my blog's theme song - composed specially by Peter Lawlor for this blog.

angelzone | 5:33 pm | me, myself and i