I keep telling to myself that life ain't difficult, I keep on telling to myself that there's always a light at the end of the tunnel. My pattern of life is kinda filled with surprises, despite of all the plans I make - well, it's a well damn plans we're talking about.
The beauty of life is that, not ALL of our plans go as we wish. Hah, now tell me about ma plans and how many of them came real.
I envied my friends who got a freelance prestigious job during our life in college (while I was actually enjoyed the most enjoyable part time job during those time for being a DJ at a radio station, No.1 radio station in town, cenah). I envied my friends who got the first jobs back there after graduation while I still had to go to the states studying (and actually I found my soulmate there plus got a scholarship!).
I terribly hated my job and very sad with the fact that I wasn't enjoying my work, but from there I connected with a dream company in which I work for until now.
How about these burdens that make me could not sleep at night, make me nervous when thinking about it, make my hair fall even more??.
No life without problems. Actually....problems arise to make people succeed. Beautiful people must thank ugly people, because without ugly people, we won't notice that there are beautiful people. Smart guy must be grateful with the existence of dumb ones, because how can people say that you are smart without creating a comparison to the 'less smart' ones?
I thank God Almighty for the plans that have not been going according to what I want, because it turns out to be something even greater! Well, just pray that for this one, the same or even better pattern will occurs...
I keep telling to myself that.... it will....
Monday, August 31, 2009
Friday, June 26, 2009
Failure to Launch
On the second thought, it's not a failure but a protective decision. I looked at 'those items' for a very last time before they're effaced. A confidence is in my hand, if not my heart. Thank God for the way out...
Revival of L
A burning passion out of 'nothing' leads to sudden paralysis. A burning passion on something 'illicit' according to law of love will indeed explode Having a burning passion for something illicit without wanting to be exploded... it create paralysis. The person will be paralyzed. I am now. A wonderful one.
Danger zone
There are times that we don't know what's actually happening in our life, in a very particular moments, until someone or something tells us somehow.
I thank my colleague who sent an email blast (in which I usually deleted it without reading it first). The subject: I learn. So the email contained list of 'I learn', but one that stroke me most is: "I learned that it's not about the feeling comes to us that we can't control, but it's about what we're going to do about it " It's so true and logical, but it's much easier to say than done. Swearrrrr!!!!
I talked to my close friend about it. And finally we agreed on what we call "process concurrence".
If it's part of the process, then just let it flow. Because the more you deny it, the stronger the feeling will grow. Keep my finger crossed! (and enjoy this process...)
I thank my colleague who sent an email blast (in which I usually deleted it without reading it first). The subject: I learn. So the email contained list of 'I learn', but one that stroke me most is: "I learned that it's not about the feeling comes to us that we can't control, but it's about what we're going to do about it " It's so true and logical, but it's much easier to say than done. Swearrrrr!!!!
I talked to my close friend about it. And finally we agreed on what we call "process concurrence".
If it's part of the process, then just let it flow. Because the more you deny it, the stronger the feeling will grow. Keep my finger crossed! (and enjoy this process...)
A Quiz Telling Who I Am
http://www.quizbox.com/personality/test82.aspx
An interesting quiz was taken by one of my bestfriend, Gibot. Usually this is something that I never take into account. Always skip, skip, skip. But after reading the result of hers, wow... how come a single quiz can deeply tells about a person.
Even myself, I most of the time reluctant to tell about my self (and a bit disparaging of that question).
So, let this quiz leads the way. As usual, believe the good ones. Don't trust the 'not so good' ones :):):):)
Your view on yourself:
You are intelligent, honest and sweet. You are friendly to everybody and don't like conflict. Because you're so cheerful and fun people are naturally attracted to you and like to talk to you.
The type of girlfriend/boyfriend you are looking for:
You are not looking merely for a girl/boyfriend - you are looking for your life partner. Perhaps you should be more open-minded about who you spend time with. The person you are looking for might hide their charm under their exterior.
Your readiness to commit to a relationship:
You are ready to commit as soon as you meet the right person. And you believe you will pretty much know as soon as you might that person.
The seriousness of your love: You are very serious about relationships and aren't interested in wasting time with people you don't really like. If you meet the right person, you will fall deeply and beautifully in love.
Your views on education:
Education is very important in life. You want to study hard and learn as much as you can.
The right job for you:
You're a practical person and will choose a secure job with a steady income. Knowing what you like to do is important. Find a regular job doing just that and you'll be set for life.
How do you view success: You are confident that you will be successful in your chosen career and nothing will stop you from trying.
Who is your true self:
You are mature, reasonable, honest and give good advice. People ask for your comments on all sorts of different issues. Sometimes you might find yourself in a dilemma when trapped with a problem, which your heart rather than your head needs to solve.
An interesting quiz was taken by one of my bestfriend, Gibot. Usually this is something that I never take into account. Always skip, skip, skip. But after reading the result of hers, wow... how come a single quiz can deeply tells about a person.
Even myself, I most of the time reluctant to tell about my self (and a bit disparaging of that question).
So, let this quiz leads the way. As usual, believe the good ones. Don't trust the 'not so good' ones :):):):)
Your view on yourself:
You are intelligent, honest and sweet. You are friendly to everybody and don't like conflict. Because you're so cheerful and fun people are naturally attracted to you and like to talk to you.
The type of girlfriend/boyfriend you are looking for:
You are not looking merely for a girl/boyfriend - you are looking for your life partner. Perhaps you should be more open-minded about who you spend time with. The person you are looking for might hide their charm under their exterior.
Your readiness to commit to a relationship:
You are ready to commit as soon as you meet the right person. And you believe you will pretty much know as soon as you might that person.
The seriousness of your love: You are very serious about relationships and aren't interested in wasting time with people you don't really like. If you meet the right person, you will fall deeply and beautifully in love.
Your views on education:
Education is very important in life. You want to study hard and learn as much as you can.
The right job for you:
You're a practical person and will choose a secure job with a steady income. Knowing what you like to do is important. Find a regular job doing just that and you'll be set for life.
How do you view success: You are confident that you will be successful in your chosen career and nothing will stop you from trying.
Who is your true self:
You are mature, reasonable, honest and give good advice. People ask for your comments on all sorts of different issues. Sometimes you might find yourself in a dilemma when trapped with a problem, which your heart rather than your head needs to solve.
Despite 'Nyontreng Day', it’s a one fine day...
Written on April 8, 2009 --- Today is the national holiday for election, to choose the 'people' who will voice out our aspirations. I was putting a special energy to walk at 11am towards the election site, just to ensure my voice is counted (and close the opportunity for any political evil who might use my absenteeism).
They gave three wide papers from which we had to choose the party as well as the exact person as our reps. Surely I chose those two parties with female for each section. Although it was cloudy and the site is definitely within walking distance of only 10 minutes, I came home sweat! While taking a short chill, one of my best long buddy came. We went to our best friend's house for a luncheon.
It was extremely wonderful to catch up with my lovely dearest four girls. We've been close friends since we were in junior high - been 21 years of friendship! (Ngie, how come you calculated it 18 years? - never mind, we always miscalculate when it comes to numbers, even for our own birth date, aight?).
I fully understand with the fact that after 21 years, Wulan still think that my bday is May 23!. Lia also mispelled Ari's last name, in which it supposed to be Norisa's husband last name. My God!
Along the conversation, the issue remains the same. There is always a problem with the flow of communication. No story is shared completely, simply because no one listens. Everyone talks, interupts, I think because when we get together, the energy becomes so enourmous, we just could not control it (especially miss Lia 'on fire'!).
Since each of us don't have luxurious time to have this gathering often, this is surely a moment we're always waiting for. After senior high, I went to Bandung for college, followed by flying to Houston, Texas. Wulan traveled to Shanghai, Germany, Netherland and Liverpool, before got back to Jakarta just recently. Lia has been in Bali and soon move to Switzerland.
Our celeb friend is also busy with on-air schedules and off air jobs. Good thing is, she frequently comes back with new juicy gossip like True Hollywood Story -Jakarta version.
I think I agree on what Emerson said: 'It is one of the blessing of old friends that you can afford of being stupid with them.' Ours is even very stupid, very silly and no regret! But hey, at the same time, we have private moments to talk about our deepest feeling we've been dealing with ourselves because we don't really know to whom we're able to tell (trust issue, I believe).
Well, okay... I leaked one huge secret the other day about Noicha, but it turned out to be something better kan... (little blemish on my face right now, haha)
In short, and most importantly, I thank God for having very unique and special friends like them. And I pray to God for their most happiness in life, together with their loved ones. Love you much girls... always!
They gave three wide papers from which we had to choose the party as well as the exact person as our reps. Surely I chose those two parties with female for each section. Although it was cloudy and the site is definitely within walking distance of only 10 minutes, I came home sweat! While taking a short chill, one of my best long buddy came. We went to our best friend's house for a luncheon.
It was extremely wonderful to catch up with my lovely dearest four girls. We've been close friends since we were in junior high - been 21 years of friendship! (Ngie, how come you calculated it 18 years? - never mind, we always miscalculate when it comes to numbers, even for our own birth date, aight?).
I fully understand with the fact that after 21 years, Wulan still think that my bday is May 23!. Lia also mispelled Ari's last name, in which it supposed to be Norisa's husband last name. My God!
Along the conversation, the issue remains the same. There is always a problem with the flow of communication. No story is shared completely, simply because no one listens. Everyone talks, interupts, I think because when we get together, the energy becomes so enourmous, we just could not control it (especially miss Lia 'on fire'!).
Since each of us don't have luxurious time to have this gathering often, this is surely a moment we're always waiting for. After senior high, I went to Bandung for college, followed by flying to Houston, Texas. Wulan traveled to Shanghai, Germany, Netherland and Liverpool, before got back to Jakarta just recently. Lia has been in Bali and soon move to Switzerland.
Our celeb friend is also busy with on-air schedules and off air jobs. Good thing is, she frequently comes back with new juicy gossip like True Hollywood Story -Jakarta version.
I think I agree on what Emerson said: 'It is one of the blessing of old friends that you can afford of being stupid with them.' Ours is even very stupid, very silly and no regret! But hey, at the same time, we have private moments to talk about our deepest feeling we've been dealing with ourselves because we don't really know to whom we're able to tell (trust issue, I believe).
Well, okay... I leaked one huge secret the other day about Noicha, but it turned out to be something better kan... (little blemish on my face right now, haha)
In short, and most importantly, I thank God for having very unique and special friends like them. And I pray to God for their most happiness in life, together with their loved ones. Love you much girls... always!
Friday, November 18, 2005
How can a company grow by giving back?
Published on Sunday, September 04, 2005
http://www.thejakartapost.com/Archives/ArchivesDet2.asp?FileID=20050904.F04
Elvera N. Makki, Contributor, Jakarta
Ironically, this is still a question frequently asked not only by new emerging companies but also by big multinational ones, amid the era of what we call corporate social responsibility (CSR).
Nowadays people talk about it although some have no clue as to what it is and how to implement it properly, and how to make it in line with corporate business objectives.
In the United States, the CSR concept has been deeply rooted in the life of the people. According to the U.S-based Natural Marketing Institute, almost 90 percent of the American people believe in the importance of corporations paying attention to their impact on the environment and society rather than solely focusing on profit.
According to the survey made by the institute, 70 percent of consumers say they prefer to buy products produced by companies that pay serious attention to CSR activities, and nearly 50 percent stated that they would be more likely to buy stocks from such companies, rather than from those which do not really care much about the impact of their operations on the environment.
Larry Parnell, the principal of Canada-based Nomad Strategic Communications has said that most businesses, not just natural resources-based companies, need social license to operate and expand. The social license can be obtained only if the companies have a strong commitment to protecting the environment and the society from the impact of their business activities.
In Indonesia, the concept of CSR is considered new although it has actually been implemented here for a long time, such as through donating food from employees to an orphanage; fund-raising to donate consumer goods or clothes in the fasting month.
There are, however, weaknesses in those activities; first, the programs only gives momentarily support and there is almost no long-term benefit in it.
The type of help the company provides should be toward sustainability; that way, there will be strong engagement between the company and the community around it, thus, a company and its stakeholders.
One bad example of what corporations did was when they tried to take the advantage of the tsunami tragedy in order to boost their image.
Second, a good reputation cannot be achieved over night. It requires continuous commitment from the company's management and employees. Just giving food or clothing especially on a once-off basis will not enhance the company's image in the long term.
With that in mind, one of the key ingredients in formulating CSR programs is to firstly make it a business priority and make it a part of a comprehensive communication strategy. Public relations as the communicator should lead the way in doing and communicating the programs effectively.
Some corporations, both local and foreign, reluctantly communicate their social programs to the public and stakeholders, partially due to a belief that doing good expects no reward hence, no communication is needed. Of course such a perception is misleading.
This can be due to a lack of creativity in packaging the programs and the medium in sharing the information. CSR programs should be done seriously, innovatively and with full commitment over the long term so that they are strong enough to draw public attention.
Why is it so important to communicate CSR activities to others?
Dita Amarhoseya, Corporate Affairs Head of Citibank in Indonesia, has said that communication is a huge part of conducting CSR programs because the audience has the right to know what the company is doing for the community, especially if the company invites its customers to be involved in donating funds to, for example, communities affected by the tsunami.
She says that communicating CSR activities can create a snowball effect where people, including prospective employees or potential investors who read or hear about the programs may be encouraged to do the same and be part of the company.
The basic principle in CSR programs is to create long-term CSR activities in order to achieve the maximum impact for both the company and community.
She notes that it took approximately five years for Citibank to achieve recognition from the public and its stakeholders for its CSR activities under the umbrella of Citibank Peka (Peka is an acronym of peduli (care) and berkarya (to do good). The word peka itself means to be sensitive).
Initiated in February 1999, Citibank Peka (CP) focuses on education, communication development and natural disaster relief.
Another good example of a corporation that takes CSR seriously is PT Astra International (Astra). The setting up of Posko Banjir Astra (Astra Flood Post) in some key places during the massive floods in 2001 created an immediate and tremendous awareness among Jakartans.
Astra has developed comprehensive CSR programs ranging from community development, providing loans for SMEs, focusing on environmental, health and safety issues to giving scholarships and automotive entrepreneurship training.
One thing that needs to be improved is the provision of regular and current updates on its CSR programs to stakeholders, "That is what I see lacking in Astra and other major corporations," says a CSR consultant Eva Muchtar.
So how to measure the success of CSR programs?
Logically, the measurement will be how far the expectations agreed upon are executed and whether the programs were completed according to the plan or not.
Parnell has suggested corporations start developing comprehensive CSR programs by conducting a thorough audit of the needs facing their communities; making resource commitments consistent with their business skills and corporate strategy; to follow through and then communicate the results both within and outside the organization.
CSR will do absolutely no harm to a company's reputation (as long as it is done ethically), employee morale, product sales or market valuation to use CSR guidelines as a leading indicator of what investors, the government and the general public expect of corporation today.
In the long run, the corporations may well benefit as much as the people and communities their support.
Remember, actions do speak louder than words.
The writer is a full time member of Public Relations Society of America. She can be reached at blossomveras@yahoo.com
http://www.thejakartapost.com/Archives/ArchivesDet2.asp?FileID=20050904.F04
Elvera N. Makki, Contributor, Jakarta
Ironically, this is still a question frequently asked not only by new emerging companies but also by big multinational ones, amid the era of what we call corporate social responsibility (CSR).
Nowadays people talk about it although some have no clue as to what it is and how to implement it properly, and how to make it in line with corporate business objectives.
In the United States, the CSR concept has been deeply rooted in the life of the people. According to the U.S-based Natural Marketing Institute, almost 90 percent of the American people believe in the importance of corporations paying attention to their impact on the environment and society rather than solely focusing on profit.
According to the survey made by the institute, 70 percent of consumers say they prefer to buy products produced by companies that pay serious attention to CSR activities, and nearly 50 percent stated that they would be more likely to buy stocks from such companies, rather than from those which do not really care much about the impact of their operations on the environment.
Larry Parnell, the principal of Canada-based Nomad Strategic Communications has said that most businesses, not just natural resources-based companies, need social license to operate and expand. The social license can be obtained only if the companies have a strong commitment to protecting the environment and the society from the impact of their business activities.
In Indonesia, the concept of CSR is considered new although it has actually been implemented here for a long time, such as through donating food from employees to an orphanage; fund-raising to donate consumer goods or clothes in the fasting month.
There are, however, weaknesses in those activities; first, the programs only gives momentarily support and there is almost no long-term benefit in it.
The type of help the company provides should be toward sustainability; that way, there will be strong engagement between the company and the community around it, thus, a company and its stakeholders.
One bad example of what corporations did was when they tried to take the advantage of the tsunami tragedy in order to boost their image.
Second, a good reputation cannot be achieved over night. It requires continuous commitment from the company's management and employees. Just giving food or clothing especially on a once-off basis will not enhance the company's image in the long term.
With that in mind, one of the key ingredients in formulating CSR programs is to firstly make it a business priority and make it a part of a comprehensive communication strategy. Public relations as the communicator should lead the way in doing and communicating the programs effectively.
Some corporations, both local and foreign, reluctantly communicate their social programs to the public and stakeholders, partially due to a belief that doing good expects no reward hence, no communication is needed. Of course such a perception is misleading.
This can be due to a lack of creativity in packaging the programs and the medium in sharing the information. CSR programs should be done seriously, innovatively and with full commitment over the long term so that they are strong enough to draw public attention.
Why is it so important to communicate CSR activities to others?
Dita Amarhoseya, Corporate Affairs Head of Citibank in Indonesia, has said that communication is a huge part of conducting CSR programs because the audience has the right to know what the company is doing for the community, especially if the company invites its customers to be involved in donating funds to, for example, communities affected by the tsunami.
She says that communicating CSR activities can create a snowball effect where people, including prospective employees or potential investors who read or hear about the programs may be encouraged to do the same and be part of the company.
The basic principle in CSR programs is to create long-term CSR activities in order to achieve the maximum impact for both the company and community.
She notes that it took approximately five years for Citibank to achieve recognition from the public and its stakeholders for its CSR activities under the umbrella of Citibank Peka (Peka is an acronym of peduli (care) and berkarya (to do good). The word peka itself means to be sensitive).
Initiated in February 1999, Citibank Peka (CP) focuses on education, communication development and natural disaster relief.
Another good example of a corporation that takes CSR seriously is PT Astra International (Astra). The setting up of Posko Banjir Astra (Astra Flood Post) in some key places during the massive floods in 2001 created an immediate and tremendous awareness among Jakartans.
Astra has developed comprehensive CSR programs ranging from community development, providing loans for SMEs, focusing on environmental, health and safety issues to giving scholarships and automotive entrepreneurship training.
One thing that needs to be improved is the provision of regular and current updates on its CSR programs to stakeholders, "That is what I see lacking in Astra and other major corporations," says a CSR consultant Eva Muchtar.
So how to measure the success of CSR programs?
Logically, the measurement will be how far the expectations agreed upon are executed and whether the programs were completed according to the plan or not.
Parnell has suggested corporations start developing comprehensive CSR programs by conducting a thorough audit of the needs facing their communities; making resource commitments consistent with their business skills and corporate strategy; to follow through and then communicate the results both within and outside the organization.
CSR will do absolutely no harm to a company's reputation (as long as it is done ethically), employee morale, product sales or market valuation to use CSR guidelines as a leading indicator of what investors, the government and the general public expect of corporation today.
In the long run, the corporations may well benefit as much as the people and communities their support.
Remember, actions do speak louder than words.
The writer is a full time member of Public Relations Society of America. She can be reached at blossomveras@yahoo.com
Tuesday, November 15, 2005
See How Cute They are and Look Below on Who Their Mothers are ...
On the picture: Vala in pink (my little girl), Kakak Maura (Lia's) who held the crying Jema (Angie's), Jeremy sitting next to Jema (Angie's), Arza and Rana (Sita's)
Picture taken by Dodo. Location: Darwis Triadi Photography Studio, Raden Saleh *di Cikini yaaaa... bukan di daerah Blok M, coba deh!!!*
Memorable Reunion
Minggu lalu kita reunian di rumah gue bareng temen2x deket, belahan jiwa, soulmates dari jaman SMP. Walaupun udah pada emak2x, tapi kelakukan masih belum ada yang berubah: bawel, cerewet, ceria, heboh, ribut dan tentunya, tetap cantik dan segarrrrr. Hwahahaha....
It's like we have never had enough time to catch up. Apalagi udah pada punya buntut. Lagi seru cerita, anak gue nangisin anaknya Sita. Lagi curhat, anaknya Lia pingin ikutan juga. Aduh... yang diceritain 17th ke atas darling.
Lia juga masih aja gemblung, kirain pinjem hair dryer buat apaan, ternyata buat ngeringin HP-nya dia yang ... kemasukan air. Makanya kalo mandi jangan sambil nelpun bu!!!.
Sita juga masih jadi ibu teladan... tak lupa dirinya membagi-bagikan hadiah untuk ponakan2xnya, aduh tante Sita... makacih yaaaa.
Maharis a.k.a Ari masih aja ketawanya kayak kuda, berikut kalo latah selalu sopan di depan anak2x kita.
Lia tetap semangat kalo ngomong dan besaaarrrr suaranya plus gayanya gak banyak berubah dari jaman SMP, jaman dimana do'i demen banget jadi komandan upacara.
Angie masih tetap rame kalo cerita, ibu KISS ini asik meng-update kita-kita dengan cerita seputar selebs yang gak penting, tapi tetap menarik untuk digosipin and digede2xin.
In short, I love them all. Sepertinya semakin susah mencari teman yang sincere seperti mereka, teman yang benar2x care and not having any intention to stab on our back. I feel so grateful that I have 'em all as my long close best friends. Wish you all the best! Lia, take care di Bali yaaaa...
It's like we have never had enough time to catch up. Apalagi udah pada punya buntut. Lagi seru cerita, anak gue nangisin anaknya Sita. Lagi curhat, anaknya Lia pingin ikutan juga. Aduh... yang diceritain 17th ke atas darling.
Lia juga masih aja gemblung, kirain pinjem hair dryer buat apaan, ternyata buat ngeringin HP-nya dia yang ... kemasukan air. Makanya kalo mandi jangan sambil nelpun bu!!!.
Sita juga masih jadi ibu teladan... tak lupa dirinya membagi-bagikan hadiah untuk ponakan2xnya, aduh tante Sita... makacih yaaaa.
Maharis a.k.a Ari masih aja ketawanya kayak kuda, berikut kalo latah selalu sopan di depan anak2x kita.
Lia tetap semangat kalo ngomong dan besaaarrrr suaranya plus gayanya gak banyak berubah dari jaman SMP, jaman dimana do'i demen banget jadi komandan upacara.
Angie masih tetap rame kalo cerita, ibu KISS ini asik meng-update kita-kita dengan cerita seputar selebs yang gak penting, tapi tetap menarik untuk digosipin and digede2xin.
In short, I love them all. Sepertinya semakin susah mencari teman yang sincere seperti mereka, teman yang benar2x care and not having any intention to stab on our back. I feel so grateful that I have 'em all as my long close best friends. Wish you all the best! Lia, take care di Bali yaaaa...
Angie, Sita, Maharis, Lia and Me! It's an endless friendship we have ... dari SMP udah bareng... the best groupies ever!
Thursday, November 10, 2005
Those Great Moment
Mommy and Vala played "Peek a Boo" at Kidsports Pondok Indah - a place where she goes to school. It was so quiet inside the playground I could "mandi bola" with her and captured her cheerfulness and joy.
"Pssstttt, somebody is coming Vala, mommy gotta go outside this arena. I'm not supposed to enter this box :D:D:D:D"
Wednesday, November 09, 2005
Minal Aidin Wal Faidzin
It's a festive day! It's a victory day! It's Lebaran day! It's Idhul Fitri!
We should celebrate the day after one month undergoing fast!
Fast: No food, no drink, no lust!
Fast: it's a period of time where our biggest enemy is our own desires we have to control and seize!
In three months (including on fasting month), I lost 8 kilos *of course with a good diet and a good exercise!*
In two days of Idhul Fitri, I gained 2 kilos *of course with no diet at all and with no exercise at all!*
Selamat Hari Raya Idhul Fitri 1 Syawal 1426 H
Mohon Maaf Lahir & Batin
From a lady who really enjoys her current weight,
Tante Vera ;P
We should celebrate the day after one month undergoing fast!
Fast: No food, no drink, no lust!
Fast: it's a period of time where our biggest enemy is our own desires we have to control and seize!
In three months (including on fasting month), I lost 8 kilos *of course with a good diet and a good exercise!*
In two days of Idhul Fitri, I gained 2 kilos *of course with no diet at all and with no exercise at all!*
Selamat Hari Raya Idhul Fitri 1 Syawal 1426 H
Mohon Maaf Lahir & Batin
From a lady who really enjoys her current weight,
Tante Vera ;P
Monday, October 31, 2005
Confusing Intakes
Who doesn't want to be healthy? Pingin banget dongz! I believe that healthy living will give us a long term investment. Buat apa tajir kalo jadi pengunjung tetap rumah sakit? ya gak? ya gak?
With that in mind, I manage myself and my family to have a healthy living: exercise regularly, no alcohol, no smoking *really???*, no fattening food, no eating kambing *yeah, you wish!*, no gorengan, etc.
But it seems that I will never get enough to be healthy especially after reading terrifying articles on women magazines that talk about breast cancer, osteoporosis, kista, kanker leher rahim, asam urat, etc, etc.
Every morning I have confusing breakfasts where at one side, I have several items in front of me ready to be consumed: Calsium tablet (untuk tulang), Vitamin C (tablet), another Vitamin C (Redoxon), Low fat milk and Sangobion (to increase low blood pressure). At the other side, I don't feel I want to take them all because it could spoiled my kidney; otherwise I drink glasses of water which it can bloat my tummy *weleh weleh, serba salah deh ahh...*
Belum lagi jeung... anjuran makan sayur and buah2xan. An expert said that we have to take 6-8 portion of veggie+fruits everyday which one portion of veggie equals to one banana. Meaning, do I have to eat like 6-8 bananas everyday? Kagak sanggup mpok! *tapi gimana ya... kekurangan serat bisa menyebabkan kanker usus 'cenah'*. Aduhhhh.... pusing!
Apa kabar dengan makanan favorit gue dong??? Mie ayam, arem-arem, ice cream, kue lebaran, opor, lontong sayur, es teler, french fries with mayo.... *the long list goes*
I was thinking that at the end of the day, my life wouldn't be any healthier if my mind is always worried of such things. Happiness is also one of the key ingredients to be healthy *sehat jasmani rohani kata jaman Orba dulu*. So mendingan gue enjoy aja kan ... keep everything in portion and don't be too extreme. Ya kan? ya kan?
A perfect advise came somewhere around mid last year in one of the well-known Spa in South Jakarta. It was from my natural holistic healer who encouraged me to have a balance of mind, body and spirit. I buy it, bro!
With that in mind, I manage myself and my family to have a healthy living: exercise regularly, no alcohol, no smoking *really???*, no fattening food, no eating kambing *yeah, you wish!*, no gorengan, etc.
But it seems that I will never get enough to be healthy especially after reading terrifying articles on women magazines that talk about breast cancer, osteoporosis, kista, kanker leher rahim, asam urat, etc, etc.
Every morning I have confusing breakfasts where at one side, I have several items in front of me ready to be consumed: Calsium tablet (untuk tulang), Vitamin C (tablet), another Vitamin C (Redoxon), Low fat milk and Sangobion (to increase low blood pressure). At the other side, I don't feel I want to take them all because it could spoiled my kidney; otherwise I drink glasses of water which it can bloat my tummy *weleh weleh, serba salah deh ahh...*
Belum lagi jeung... anjuran makan sayur and buah2xan. An expert said that we have to take 6-8 portion of veggie+fruits everyday which one portion of veggie equals to one banana. Meaning, do I have to eat like 6-8 bananas everyday? Kagak sanggup mpok! *tapi gimana ya... kekurangan serat bisa menyebabkan kanker usus 'cenah'*. Aduhhhh.... pusing!
Apa kabar dengan makanan favorit gue dong??? Mie ayam, arem-arem, ice cream, kue lebaran, opor, lontong sayur, es teler, french fries with mayo.... *the long list goes*
I was thinking that at the end of the day, my life wouldn't be any healthier if my mind is always worried of such things. Happiness is also one of the key ingredients to be healthy *sehat jasmani rohani kata jaman Orba dulu*. So mendingan gue enjoy aja kan ... keep everything in portion and don't be too extreme. Ya kan? ya kan?
A perfect advise came somewhere around mid last year in one of the well-known Spa in South Jakarta. It was from my natural holistic healer who encouraged me to have a balance of mind, body and spirit. I buy it, bro!
Sunday, October 30, 2005
Grandma Vera
I was so proud that I could undergo the fasting month almost entirely. And this month, my period was only lasted 5 days (usually 8-9 days). Yippeee! But last night I forgot to tell my hubby that I would started fasting again today; as a result, aye kagak dibangunin pas sahur!!!
Claiming myself as a superwoman, I thought it's not a problem at all to do fasting without sahur. I just forgot that I have low blood pressure and it's always "kumat" every month after period. Furthermore, I just rememberd that today, early in the morning, my daughter's babysitter also went for holiday for 2 weeks. Can you imagine, I was chasing my daughter to finish her food, take a shower and begging her to get out of her bathtub as she's been there for almost an hour? What made her out was that when she screamed looking at her wrinkled fingers "Mama.... look, what happened with my fingers????". Kelamaan di air gitu lhoooo!
3 PM. Gue gengsi mau buka puasa padahal udah migraine beratz. Btw, do you know what happen when my migraine strikes?
- Masuk angin
- Kedinginan
- Tense shoulder and neck
- Paralized (kagak bisa ngapa2xin, liat cahaya aja pusing, denger suara kecil aja udah nggeliyeng)
Do you know what I will do then?
- Pake balsem banyak2x
- Wear syal/pashmina to cover my neck
- Wear socks
- Wear jacket/sweater
- Pony tail
- Sleeping
- Cover my body with warm blanket
- Finding a person who want to massage my back *the hardest part!*
Udah kayak nenek2x kan? However.... inspired by the strength of powerpuff girl ('paan seeeh), akhirnya gue berhasil untuk TIDAK BATAL PUASA!!!!
Claiming myself as a superwoman, I thought it's not a problem at all to do fasting without sahur. I just forgot that I have low blood pressure and it's always "kumat" every month after period. Furthermore, I just rememberd that today, early in the morning, my daughter's babysitter also went for holiday for 2 weeks. Can you imagine, I was chasing my daughter to finish her food, take a shower and begging her to get out of her bathtub as she's been there for almost an hour? What made her out was that when she screamed looking at her wrinkled fingers "Mama.... look, what happened with my fingers????". Kelamaan di air gitu lhoooo!
3 PM. Gue gengsi mau buka puasa padahal udah migraine beratz. Btw, do you know what happen when my migraine strikes?
- Masuk angin
- Kedinginan
- Tense shoulder and neck
- Paralized (kagak bisa ngapa2xin, liat cahaya aja pusing, denger suara kecil aja udah nggeliyeng)
Do you know what I will do then?
- Pake balsem banyak2x
- Wear syal/pashmina to cover my neck
- Wear socks
- Wear jacket/sweater
- Pony tail
- Sleeping
- Cover my body with warm blanket
- Finding a person who want to massage my back *the hardest part!*
Udah kayak nenek2x kan? However.... inspired by the strength of powerpuff girl ('paan seeeh), akhirnya gue berhasil untuk TIDAK BATAL PUASA!!!!
Monday, August 29, 2005
Girls just wanna HAVE FUN!
One of my favorite friendship, this one was from college! We met again today after a quite long period of time espacially Haj Diah :D from Bogor and Ci' Pima from Palembang. Love 'em all !!!!! Missed one lil' gal, padahal dia nih biasanya yang paling gaol ;) Sapa yaaaa??? :P:P:P:P (On the picture left-right: Diah (married with one boy), me (you know!), Gibot (yes, still single and avail, no kidding!), Pima (married with one boy), Dian the pregnant lady (sutra lah no further info needed) and Chichs the career woman! (complicated status :P) )
Wednesday, March 23, 2005
Cobra vs Winnie the Pooh
I still experience jetlag, even after 4 days arriving in Jakarta. My messed up sleeping hour includes sleep at 6pm and wake up at 11pm.
Usually during my owl time, I just read my book. But now, I was intrigued by a short news about a Cobra street-seller named Warung Zaini, located on Mangga Besar. It sells Cobra's product from fresh blood, Cobra soup to Abon Cobra ( I swear I'd rather starve than eat this).
The news showed pak Zaini cutting so-alive fresh black with yellow stripedCobra's head. Then he started to drip its blood to a glass. I have a big huge fear of snake, any snake, you name it. Even I'm so frightened with worm or eel. In addition, I'm so afraid of dripping blood. So it's a perfect combination of what I saw. Nothing compare to it, when we talk about scary scene.
I closed my face with my two palms. Only I heard the presenter telling us that the dripping blood or Cobra's products are so damn good for male erection. For example, you guys can only erect for 5 minutes, after drink it, you'll be able to erect for 10-15 minutes, or perhaps 20 minutes.
When I dared myself to look at the news again, all of sudden I opened my eyes and laughed. On a close-up scene, Pak Zaini dripped the blood to a Winnie the Pooh plastic glass. As a matter of fact, the Pooh huged Piglet. That glass is the same as my daughter's glass.
I saw the macho man wearing a leather black jacket drank the snake's blood. He looked strong and macho until I saw the glass he used to drink the so called bravery drink. Pooh!!!! And piglet!!!
I really want to go to Mangga Besar and donate couple of more appropriate glasses to Pak Zaini (and bring home his Pooh glasses for my daughter - not for her to drink from it, of course, at least for her to play with it).
Another obsession is, to teach Pak Zaini a little lesson about brand consistency.
Cobra = blood = man = strong = macho = leather jacket = black glass/white or red mug = OK!
Cobra= blood = man = strong = macho = ... = Pooh plastic glass = DISASTER!!!!!!!!!
Usually during my owl time, I just read my book. But now, I was intrigued by a short news about a Cobra street-seller named Warung Zaini, located on Mangga Besar. It sells Cobra's product from fresh blood, Cobra soup to Abon Cobra ( I swear I'd rather starve than eat this).
The news showed pak Zaini cutting so-alive fresh black with yellow stripedCobra's head. Then he started to drip its blood to a glass. I have a big huge fear of snake, any snake, you name it. Even I'm so frightened with worm or eel. In addition, I'm so afraid of dripping blood. So it's a perfect combination of what I saw. Nothing compare to it, when we talk about scary scene.
I closed my face with my two palms. Only I heard the presenter telling us that the dripping blood or Cobra's products are so damn good for male erection. For example, you guys can only erect for 5 minutes, after drink it, you'll be able to erect for 10-15 minutes, or perhaps 20 minutes.
When I dared myself to look at the news again, all of sudden I opened my eyes and laughed. On a close-up scene, Pak Zaini dripped the blood to a Winnie the Pooh plastic glass. As a matter of fact, the Pooh huged Piglet. That glass is the same as my daughter's glass.
I saw the macho man wearing a leather black jacket drank the snake's blood. He looked strong and macho until I saw the glass he used to drink the so called bravery drink. Pooh!!!! And piglet!!!
I really want to go to Mangga Besar and donate couple of more appropriate glasses to Pak Zaini (and bring home his Pooh glasses for my daughter - not for her to drink from it, of course, at least for her to play with it).
Another obsession is, to teach Pak Zaini a little lesson about brand consistency.
Cobra = blood = man = strong = macho = leather jacket = black glass/white or red mug = OK!
Cobra= blood = man = strong = macho = ... = Pooh plastic glass = DISASTER!!!!!!!!!
Monday, March 07, 2005
Yoga oh Yoga...
People talk about it
People are so crazy about it
People want to pay extra for it
Why don't I?
Perhaps I live in a fast mode
Fast fast fast
Hi speed
Upbeat
Kickboxing
Dancing
Aerobic
Swimming
The gap is too big for us
Either one can't compromise
I tried. Until this morning I gave myself a second chance to try
A second chance to like it
And wish to come back
And wish to make it routine
But instead, 30 minutes only and I left
A good progress, though
Last time I only stayed for less than 5 minutes
Boring...boring...boring...
The pace is too slow
The trainer said "Don't look at your friend, don't look at the mirror"
"You'll fall. Concentrate!"
He said that when I was already distracted and thinking:
Why is his beard so thick? Doesn't he feel itchy?
Yoga should be relaxing, right?
But why I heard bumpy sound here and there
A lady stood on the front right of me trying to lift her hips from the floor, using one feet as the foundation.
"Boom! Gedubrak!"
She fell and immediately repositioned herself before other noticed
I looked at her with my right hand shaking.
How come this small hand could lift 54 kilos body?
Uuurrrggghhhh....
Next position:
Stand up, take a breath
Release your breath with your hand down to the floor
Bend your knees
And hop! straight your leg
Lower your body
"Gubrak" (another lady fell) - please ignore
Roll your toes, move forward your body
Roll back your toes, move back your body
And hop!
(this time, all safe!)
Put your leg upfront, knees still bend
Slowly stand up and breath in
And... release your breath
They started it all over again
I could stand for five times in a row
Thought it will waste my time if we do it ten times or so
Don't wanna take a risk
Of get bored to death
So....
I left
Next week,
Go back to kickboxing class
A whisper went softly through my mind saying:
Honey ... Yoga is Not For You.
People are so crazy about it
People want to pay extra for it
Why don't I?
Perhaps I live in a fast mode
Fast fast fast
Hi speed
Upbeat
Kickboxing
Dancing
Aerobic
Swimming
The gap is too big for us
Either one can't compromise
I tried. Until this morning I gave myself a second chance to try
A second chance to like it
And wish to come back
And wish to make it routine
But instead, 30 minutes only and I left
A good progress, though
Last time I only stayed for less than 5 minutes
Boring...boring...boring...
The pace is too slow
The trainer said "Don't look at your friend, don't look at the mirror"
"You'll fall. Concentrate!"
He said that when I was already distracted and thinking:
Why is his beard so thick? Doesn't he feel itchy?
Yoga should be relaxing, right?
But why I heard bumpy sound here and there
A lady stood on the front right of me trying to lift her hips from the floor, using one feet as the foundation.
"Boom! Gedubrak!"
She fell and immediately repositioned herself before other noticed
I looked at her with my right hand shaking.
How come this small hand could lift 54 kilos body?
Uuurrrggghhhh....
Next position:
Stand up, take a breath
Release your breath with your hand down to the floor
Bend your knees
And hop! straight your leg
Lower your body
"Gubrak" (another lady fell) - please ignore
Roll your toes, move forward your body
Roll back your toes, move back your body
And hop!
(this time, all safe!)
Put your leg upfront, knees still bend
Slowly stand up and breath in
And... release your breath
They started it all over again
I could stand for five times in a row
Thought it will waste my time if we do it ten times or so
Don't wanna take a risk
Of get bored to death
So....
I left
Next week,
Go back to kickboxing class
A whisper went softly through my mind saying:
Honey ... Yoga is Not For You.
Wednesday, February 23, 2005
Wedding planners take the angst out of the big day
Published on The Jakarta Post, Sun, 8/8/2005
Features News, Sunday, August 08, 2004
Elvera N. Makki, Contributor, Jakarta
As actress-singer Paramitha Rusady gingerly stepped through the crowd of paparazzi and well-wishers at her wedding reception earlier this year, few spied the discreet presence of a tall man in a dark suit nearby.
But with a nod to one of his staff or himself moving unobtrusively to clear her way or point her in the right direction, Emil Eriyanto made sure the event went off without a hitch.
It's not just celebrities who are calling on wedding planners (Emil prefers the term "organizer") these days. For young Indonesians, especially in urban centers like Jakarta, are forced by circumstance and also by choice to let wedding planners take care of everything.
If the question, "Would you let a wedding planner handle your big day?" was asked about 15 years ago, it would have been met by raised eyebrows and a terse, "Are you kidding?"
For most Indonesians, especially Javanese, believe that a marriage between two people means the auspicious joining of two families, and relatives do not want to miss out on a thing.
Family members are proud to be chosen to be on the wedding committee and involved in every step of the complicated traditional wedding rituals, culminating in the taking of vows and the reception.
The belief in "family first" is still true, but the old habits are dying just a bit with new pressures.
"In today's busy environment, people do not want to get frazzled by all the complicated details," said Emil, who became a wedding organizer seven years ago.
"Involving the family will make it much more complex, knowing they are also busy with their own activities."
Outside help is also a practical matter. For when the big day dawns, most members of the family are kept busy ensuring that they look the part, from the right traditional hairdo (it can take up to three hours, with touch-ups and changes after other relatives get to see it), getting dressed ("Where's the kris?" "My sandals are too tight!"), to making sure the food is being made to order.
A former model in his hometown of Malang, East Java, Emil began as an emcee in Jakarta, but founded Multi Kreasi Enterprise seven years ago when he saw the potential in the wedding business.
He studied up on the traditional ceremonies of different regions, from Javanese Surakarta (still the most popular wedding ceremony for his company), to Javanese Yogyakarta, Sundanese, Minangkerbau and also foreign nuptials, such as Indian.
"Our clients call on us for different specific needs. Some ask us to take care of the whole wedding from the scratch, while others only want us for the reception. Even if our client just wants us to be a timekeeper, we are ready."
Emil said it was essential to keep the customer satisfied, whatever their demands.
"First, we pay very close attention to detail. Secondly, we always care about a client's changing needs. Finally, we create a warm, familial atmosphere in interacting with the client."
Emil said his success in organizing weddings had to more job assignments, such as birthday parties, product launches and corporate gatherings.
Although he is considered one of the more expensive organizers, Emil said he charged a standard fee with no commission on goods from suppliers.
Emil's optimism that business will continue to grow is shared by Rina Gunawan, a TV presenter who owns event organizer 19HN Production, which is enjoying more orders for wedding events.
Rina said it was essential to have patience, teamwork and discipline in planning weddings, which she acknowledged often led to problems in the stress of the situation.
"It easily generates family arguments," she said. "That is what our clients are trying to avoid, by hiring a third party planner and organizer."
The potential for family discord was among the main reasons "Sinta" decided to hire a wedding planner for her recent nuptials.
"I knew that I wouldn't have the time to do it justice, especially during this election year," said the 30-something reporter for a foreign publication.
"But I also wanted to avoid the usual family hassles through not having our families involved, and so that we could decide on our own taste."
Rina and her staff of 15 have been entrusted to take care of the weddings of several high-profile individuals, and she said there was bound to be snafus and bruised egos with a client.
"A personal approach is my approach in dealing with a client. It has been my best tool, especially if miscommunication or a little friction occurs between us."
Future prospects for business growth look assured, with the cultural preference for bigger is better when it comes to starting married life not about to change.
"Who doesn't want to get married? Particularly in our culture and beliefs, marriage is one of the most honored institutions and we want to make the big day as special as possible. That is a given, positive fact for us," said Yustine Apriyanto, the owner of Yustine Griya Busana.
She started her business eight years ago, first as a pemaes, a Javanese traditional make-up woman who takes care of everything, such as providing the different kinds of offerings, ensuring the running the ceremonies during the event and outfitting the complete wedding dress, ornaments and equipment needed.
Together with her husband, Teguh Apriyanto, she would also build the pelaminan, the stage where the couple and parents stands during the ceremony.
"Right now, we offer an almost complete package required for wedding parties as a one-stop service, excluding catering."
She takes care of the wedding couple's make-up herself, and provides decorations and clothing for Javanese, Sundanese, Betawi (native Jakartan), Batak and Minang customs, the sound system and the necessary documentation.
She also has an international wedding package.
"I've also done several ethnic Chinese wedding parties. Surprisingly, some of them ask us to combine the theme with the traditional customs of the area they live in."
Yustine said she always kept abreast of trends, implementing necessary changes without altering the essence of traditional rituals.
"Nowadays, many Javanese weddings take place in the garden. We accommodate that particular need. If our clients come to our place, they can see our own garden displayed with several types of decorations so they can decide for themselves."
With a staff of 45, Yustine said many clients felt more secure because she and her husband took a full hands-on approach.
"We do it, we organize it, we have full control of the work," she said.
Features News, Sunday, August 08, 2004
Elvera N. Makki, Contributor, Jakarta
As actress-singer Paramitha Rusady gingerly stepped through the crowd of paparazzi and well-wishers at her wedding reception earlier this year, few spied the discreet presence of a tall man in a dark suit nearby.
But with a nod to one of his staff or himself moving unobtrusively to clear her way or point her in the right direction, Emil Eriyanto made sure the event went off without a hitch.
It's not just celebrities who are calling on wedding planners (Emil prefers the term "organizer") these days. For young Indonesians, especially in urban centers like Jakarta, are forced by circumstance and also by choice to let wedding planners take care of everything.
If the question, "Would you let a wedding planner handle your big day?" was asked about 15 years ago, it would have been met by raised eyebrows and a terse, "Are you kidding?"
For most Indonesians, especially Javanese, believe that a marriage between two people means the auspicious joining of two families, and relatives do not want to miss out on a thing.
Family members are proud to be chosen to be on the wedding committee and involved in every step of the complicated traditional wedding rituals, culminating in the taking of vows and the reception.
The belief in "family first" is still true, but the old habits are dying just a bit with new pressures.
"In today's busy environment, people do not want to get frazzled by all the complicated details," said Emil, who became a wedding organizer seven years ago.
"Involving the family will make it much more complex, knowing they are also busy with their own activities."
Outside help is also a practical matter. For when the big day dawns, most members of the family are kept busy ensuring that they look the part, from the right traditional hairdo (it can take up to three hours, with touch-ups and changes after other relatives get to see it), getting dressed ("Where's the kris?" "My sandals are too tight!"), to making sure the food is being made to order.
A former model in his hometown of Malang, East Java, Emil began as an emcee in Jakarta, but founded Multi Kreasi Enterprise seven years ago when he saw the potential in the wedding business.
He studied up on the traditional ceremonies of different regions, from Javanese Surakarta (still the most popular wedding ceremony for his company), to Javanese Yogyakarta, Sundanese, Minangkerbau and also foreign nuptials, such as Indian.
"Our clients call on us for different specific needs. Some ask us to take care of the whole wedding from the scratch, while others only want us for the reception. Even if our client just wants us to be a timekeeper, we are ready."
Emil said it was essential to keep the customer satisfied, whatever their demands.
"First, we pay very close attention to detail. Secondly, we always care about a client's changing needs. Finally, we create a warm, familial atmosphere in interacting with the client."
Emil said his success in organizing weddings had to more job assignments, such as birthday parties, product launches and corporate gatherings.
Although he is considered one of the more expensive organizers, Emil said he charged a standard fee with no commission on goods from suppliers.
Emil's optimism that business will continue to grow is shared by Rina Gunawan, a TV presenter who owns event organizer 19HN Production, which is enjoying more orders for wedding events.
Rina said it was essential to have patience, teamwork and discipline in planning weddings, which she acknowledged often led to problems in the stress of the situation.
"It easily generates family arguments," she said. "That is what our clients are trying to avoid, by hiring a third party planner and organizer."
The potential for family discord was among the main reasons "Sinta" decided to hire a wedding planner for her recent nuptials.
"I knew that I wouldn't have the time to do it justice, especially during this election year," said the 30-something reporter for a foreign publication.
"But I also wanted to avoid the usual family hassles through not having our families involved, and so that we could decide on our own taste."
Rina and her staff of 15 have been entrusted to take care of the weddings of several high-profile individuals, and she said there was bound to be snafus and bruised egos with a client.
"A personal approach is my approach in dealing with a client. It has been my best tool, especially if miscommunication or a little friction occurs between us."
Future prospects for business growth look assured, with the cultural preference for bigger is better when it comes to starting married life not about to change.
"Who doesn't want to get married? Particularly in our culture and beliefs, marriage is one of the most honored institutions and we want to make the big day as special as possible. That is a given, positive fact for us," said Yustine Apriyanto, the owner of Yustine Griya Busana.
She started her business eight years ago, first as a pemaes, a Javanese traditional make-up woman who takes care of everything, such as providing the different kinds of offerings, ensuring the running the ceremonies during the event and outfitting the complete wedding dress, ornaments and equipment needed.
Together with her husband, Teguh Apriyanto, she would also build the pelaminan, the stage where the couple and parents stands during the ceremony.
"Right now, we offer an almost complete package required for wedding parties as a one-stop service, excluding catering."
She takes care of the wedding couple's make-up herself, and provides decorations and clothing for Javanese, Sundanese, Betawi (native Jakartan), Batak and Minang customs, the sound system and the necessary documentation.
She also has an international wedding package.
"I've also done several ethnic Chinese wedding parties. Surprisingly, some of them ask us to combine the theme with the traditional customs of the area they live in."
Yustine said she always kept abreast of trends, implementing necessary changes without altering the essence of traditional rituals.
"Nowadays, many Javanese weddings take place in the garden. We accommodate that particular need. If our clients come to our place, they can see our own garden displayed with several types of decorations so they can decide for themselves."
With a staff of 45, Yustine said many clients felt more secure because she and her husband took a full hands-on approach.
"We do it, we organize it, we have full control of the work," she said.
Hands on: CST a way to release what ails us
Prolog: It's a treatment done by my old friend from junior high school - I can't believe he's an expert in doing this knowing he's an economic graduate. I have a priviledge to interview him when I was in Jakarta last year. Perhaps this is what you've been looking for.
Published on The Jakarta Post, 8/8/2004
Feature News, Sunday, August 08, 2004
Elvera N. Makki, Contributor, Jakarta
CranioSacral Therapy (CST) may be an unfamiliar term here, but it has been around in Western countries since the 1970s.
Although the International Association of Healthcare Practitioners lists 7,000 CST practitioners worldwide, only seven people from Indonesia have received the necessary training at Upledger Institute in the U.S.
"Nevertheless, as far as I know, the other six apply the knowledge merely for personal purposes, like helping their children or assisting themselves in healing a particular sickness," said Reza Gunawan, who is the founder of True Nature Holistic Healing.
CST puts its therapeutic emphasis on a gentle, hands-on method of evaluating and improving the functioning of the craniosacral system -- a physiological body system comprised of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord.
"The touch is soft like this," said Reza, placing his right palm on my arm.
Feeling about as soft as the weight of a small coin, it may be easy to underestimate or doubt its power. But CST advocates say the touch allows the release of impairments on the craniosacral system, thereby enhancing the functioning of the central nervous system.
"This is good for those who suffer medical problems associated with pain and dysfunction, ranging from migraine headaches, emotional difficulties, stress and tension-related problems, learning disabilities, neurovascular or immune disorders, to neck and back pain," Reza said.
The theory is that once the restrictions are released, optimal balance is restored, so the mind and body would work harmoniously, life energy and vitality would be strengthened and all physiological systems work more efficiently. The patient will be calmer, more aware and alert.
"True, but the task is not that simple," Reza said.
He explained that every person has a natural healing mechanism and medical history, with an evaluation based on the individual characteristics.
Although people may have similar complaints, each patient would receive a customized combination of natural healing methods over several therapy sessions.
"Generally, it's three to six sessions per person, but a person may only need two sessions, while others might need extra time."
He said healing techniques that were effective in holistic combinations included health meditation, acupuncture, energy healing and therapeutic touch, self-help energy work, massage therapy and clinical hypnotherapy.
Some might prefer to skip the latter treatment, fearing that it might take them to a deep, dark place, or even cause them to be compromised.
But Reza, fully certified by the International Center for Hypnosis Education and Research, said many patients wished to take clinical hypnotherapy.
So, how does it actually work?
First of all, becoming hypnotized is a very natural reaction, Reza said. The hypnotic state automatically happens anytime a person becomes deeply relaxed or highly focused.
For instance, hypnosis can take place when a person spaces out while driving, reading a good book or watching a movie. A professional hypnotherapist can prompt and regulate the hypnotic state in individuals and help facilitate desired changes through the use of properly worded hypnosis suggestions.
"I felt deeply relaxed, like I was flying," said Rio Arifin, 27, of his experience with hynotherapy to treat a past life trauma.
He had learned about hypnotherapy when he saw a TV program in the United States telling of success stories.
While hypnotized, the client generally hears and remembers much of what is being spoken, is not completely insensible during the session and can freely choose to disregard any suggestions the hypnotherapist makes.
Reza said hypnosis made a person more inclined to do things he wanted to do, but virtually never made a person behave against his own belief systems.
Generally speaking, the client hears and remembers 50-100 percent of what was said during the session and was very aware of his own body and breathing, as well as the temperature and sounds in the room.
Most people, around 90 percent, are actually more aware when hypnotized. Approximately 10 percent of the people go so deeply into hypnosis that they have no memory of the session.
Reza said that the most common uses of hypnosis in treatments ranged from stress reduction, bulimia, smoking cessation, sexual healing, childbirth, weight loss, traumas and phobias to creative art enhancement and fostering a positive mental attitude.
Reza, naturally, is a firm believer in its benefits.
"It is one of the most pleasant and natural therapies available. It puts you in charge of your own mind and your outcome."
Rio admitted that he was skeptical before trying the treatment.
"Frankly speaking, I did not believe in such natural healing, you know, the body-mind-spirit kind of thing. My father is a doctor, who always used conventional medicine like antibiotics to cure us, and never allowed us to find any other alternative ways," said Rio.
"He doesn't know I went to the hypnotherapist."
The rivalry between holistic natural healing and conventional goes on, with both struggling for trust.
In some professional journals, the medical establishment characterizes holistic practices as scientifically dubious, sounding alarm about the safety of treatments.
On the other hand, holistic physicians question whether drugs and invasive procedures can ever be the ultimate road to health.
Both even dispute which form of medicine can truly call itself traditional or conventional. Western medicine is merely centuries old, while ancient medicines, like Chinese and Ayurvedic, have been in use for thousands of years.
"Personally, as a holistic natural healing consultant and therapist, I'm not dead set against conventional medical treatment," Reza said.
"The two are good if we can utilize them respectfully," said Reza, who limits himself to a maximum of 60 90-minute treatments per month.
"Be educated consumers. Learn as much information as possible about the two sides: doctors, therapists, medicine, natural healing modalities, hospital services and other issues concerning your health.
"And a second opinion is always important."
In his clinic, he advises clients to consult their primary care physician or doctor prior to participating in any natural healing programs.
"Especially when you are pregnant or have a serious medical condition," he said. "It's also an option if the client wants us to work hand in hand with his doctor".
True Nature Holistic Healing Tel. 0811804150
www.truenaturehealing.net
Published on The Jakarta Post, 8/8/2004
Feature News, Sunday, August 08, 2004
Elvera N. Makki, Contributor, Jakarta
CranioSacral Therapy (CST) may be an unfamiliar term here, but it has been around in Western countries since the 1970s.
Although the International Association of Healthcare Practitioners lists 7,000 CST practitioners worldwide, only seven people from Indonesia have received the necessary training at Upledger Institute in the U.S.
"Nevertheless, as far as I know, the other six apply the knowledge merely for personal purposes, like helping their children or assisting themselves in healing a particular sickness," said Reza Gunawan, who is the founder of True Nature Holistic Healing.
CST puts its therapeutic emphasis on a gentle, hands-on method of evaluating and improving the functioning of the craniosacral system -- a physiological body system comprised of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord.
"The touch is soft like this," said Reza, placing his right palm on my arm.
Feeling about as soft as the weight of a small coin, it may be easy to underestimate or doubt its power. But CST advocates say the touch allows the release of impairments on the craniosacral system, thereby enhancing the functioning of the central nervous system.
"This is good for those who suffer medical problems associated with pain and dysfunction, ranging from migraine headaches, emotional difficulties, stress and tension-related problems, learning disabilities, neurovascular or immune disorders, to neck and back pain," Reza said.
The theory is that once the restrictions are released, optimal balance is restored, so the mind and body would work harmoniously, life energy and vitality would be strengthened and all physiological systems work more efficiently. The patient will be calmer, more aware and alert.
"True, but the task is not that simple," Reza said.
He explained that every person has a natural healing mechanism and medical history, with an evaluation based on the individual characteristics.
Although people may have similar complaints, each patient would receive a customized combination of natural healing methods over several therapy sessions.
"Generally, it's three to six sessions per person, but a person may only need two sessions, while others might need extra time."
He said healing techniques that were effective in holistic combinations included health meditation, acupuncture, energy healing and therapeutic touch, self-help energy work, massage therapy and clinical hypnotherapy.
Some might prefer to skip the latter treatment, fearing that it might take them to a deep, dark place, or even cause them to be compromised.
But Reza, fully certified by the International Center for Hypnosis Education and Research, said many patients wished to take clinical hypnotherapy.
So, how does it actually work?
First of all, becoming hypnotized is a very natural reaction, Reza said. The hypnotic state automatically happens anytime a person becomes deeply relaxed or highly focused.
For instance, hypnosis can take place when a person spaces out while driving, reading a good book or watching a movie. A professional hypnotherapist can prompt and regulate the hypnotic state in individuals and help facilitate desired changes through the use of properly worded hypnosis suggestions.
"I felt deeply relaxed, like I was flying," said Rio Arifin, 27, of his experience with hynotherapy to treat a past life trauma.
He had learned about hypnotherapy when he saw a TV program in the United States telling of success stories.
While hypnotized, the client generally hears and remembers much of what is being spoken, is not completely insensible during the session and can freely choose to disregard any suggestions the hypnotherapist makes.
Reza said hypnosis made a person more inclined to do things he wanted to do, but virtually never made a person behave against his own belief systems.
Generally speaking, the client hears and remembers 50-100 percent of what was said during the session and was very aware of his own body and breathing, as well as the temperature and sounds in the room.
Most people, around 90 percent, are actually more aware when hypnotized. Approximately 10 percent of the people go so deeply into hypnosis that they have no memory of the session.
Reza said that the most common uses of hypnosis in treatments ranged from stress reduction, bulimia, smoking cessation, sexual healing, childbirth, weight loss, traumas and phobias to creative art enhancement and fostering a positive mental attitude.
Reza, naturally, is a firm believer in its benefits.
"It is one of the most pleasant and natural therapies available. It puts you in charge of your own mind and your outcome."
Rio admitted that he was skeptical before trying the treatment.
"Frankly speaking, I did not believe in such natural healing, you know, the body-mind-spirit kind of thing. My father is a doctor, who always used conventional medicine like antibiotics to cure us, and never allowed us to find any other alternative ways," said Rio.
"He doesn't know I went to the hypnotherapist."
The rivalry between holistic natural healing and conventional goes on, with both struggling for trust.
In some professional journals, the medical establishment characterizes holistic practices as scientifically dubious, sounding alarm about the safety of treatments.
On the other hand, holistic physicians question whether drugs and invasive procedures can ever be the ultimate road to health.
Both even dispute which form of medicine can truly call itself traditional or conventional. Western medicine is merely centuries old, while ancient medicines, like Chinese and Ayurvedic, have been in use for thousands of years.
"Personally, as a holistic natural healing consultant and therapist, I'm not dead set against conventional medical treatment," Reza said.
"The two are good if we can utilize them respectfully," said Reza, who limits himself to a maximum of 60 90-minute treatments per month.
"Be educated consumers. Learn as much information as possible about the two sides: doctors, therapists, medicine, natural healing modalities, hospital services and other issues concerning your health.
"And a second opinion is always important."
In his clinic, he advises clients to consult their primary care physician or doctor prior to participating in any natural healing programs.
"Especially when you are pregnant or have a serious medical condition," he said. "It's also an option if the client wants us to work hand in hand with his doctor".
True Nature Holistic Healing Tel. 0811804150
www.truenaturehealing.net
Touch and go: Tuina handles an ailing body
Published on The Jakarta Post, 9/26/2004
Feature News, Sunday, September 26, 2004
Elvera N. Makki, Contributor, Jakarta
At a glance, tuina might look similar to ordinary massage but it should never be taken as merely a fun rubdown. The Chinese consider it serious business for health, and it's now available in Jakarta.
You may be bemused by the term "hand-manipulation" the same way I was when I first heard of tuina, an ancient Chinese healing method developed about 2,000 years ago.
But, whatever you do, don't call it massage.
Generally, tuina -- from tui meaning pressing and grabbing and na for grasping -- can be defined as a series of pressing, tapping and kneading movements to remove blockages along the meridian system of the body. This stimulates the Qi (chi) energy flow and blood to promote healing of disorders related to the bone and nerve system, like osteo-arthritis, specific musculoskeletal disorders, insomnia, migraine, cervical vertebrae and orthopedics.
Tuina technique, which can be painful for some people, varies from light stroking to deep-tissue work. It often looks similar to ordinary massage but it should never be considered a fun, relaxing massage.
"That is why they (the practitioners) tend not to call it massage, especially in Indonesia where massage is mostly associated with the pamper yourself kind of thing," said Fenny, a Chinese-Indonesian woman whose father often travels to Beijing for tuina treatment.
He is one of many ethnic Chinese here who still travel to China for traditional Chinese medicine, including tuina, even though there are many shin-se (traditional Chinese health practitioners) in Jakarta.
"We sometimes question the quality of shin-se here although they claim, for example, to be certified acupuncture practitioners," Fenny said. "We also don't know the quality of the medicine, whether it comes directly from China or is artificially made in Jakarta."
In China, there are formal schools of traditional Chinese medicine where graduates are given the title OMD -- Oriental Medical Doctor, formally on par with MD.
Yet perhaps Fenny and her father can think again about going abroad, as Beijing Tong Ren Tang Indo (BTRTI), a franchise of China's Beijing Tong Ren Tang, established in 1669, opened here in June.
The Beijing Chinese medicine hall is well known for its unique traditional recipes to produce the best medicine using high quality materials and advanced technology, as well as exporting raw and processed materials.
When visiting the clinic, one is immediately struck by the strong Chinese atmosphere, including the aroma of herbs. The left side houses a spacious traditional pharmacy where there are approximately 500 types of natural medicines -- all imported from Beijing -- stored in hundreds of wooden-made drawers.
The pharmacists mix and dispense raw materials in a traditional way, based on prescriptions written in Mandarin from a medical practitioner.
"We do not sell the natural herbs without a prescription from a doctor or outside shin-se. We are very particular on that, it is not just an ordinary clinic but similar to Western clinics." said general manager Liem Sian Tie.
It's only been open a couple of months, but already a steady stream of patients has come for treatment, he added.
"At first I came here because I couldn't move my hand as I had fallen at home two years ago. I went to Singapore and other places with no result, but after three tuina treatments at this place, my hand is back to normal," said 64-year-old Wien, a frequent patient, adding that the treatment was painful but worked effectively.
Liem said the company hired Chinese medicine doctors, with more than 30 years of experience in the field, with Dr. Song Sheng Yuan as the tuina specialist.
Dr. Song has 35 years of experience in clinical treatment, combining Tiongkok and Western medication. He worked at prominent hospitals in Beijing before coming to Jakarta.
"Excellent!" said Wien of Dr. Song's treatment.
But since Dr. Song cannot speak English or Indonesian, France Chandra, a young Indonesian Chinese medicine graduate who is the clinic's operations manager, or Liem himself acts as translator.
Are there any side effects to the treatment?
"Treatment sessions lasting from 30 minutes to an hour have no (negative) side effect. Patients often return for additional treatments, usually for chronic conditions," Dr. Song explained
Just like most "energy-based" treatments, the patient usually feels either relaxed and tired, or surprisingly energized by the treatment and release of pain.
Before undertaking the treatment, it is wise to understand that tuina is not used for disorders involving compound fractures, open sores, external wounds or with infectious conditions like hepatitis.
Moreover, tuina should not be performed on the abdominal portion of a woman during her period or pregnancy, and it is not used to treat malignant tumors or tuberculosis.
Since the doctor concentrates on specific acupressure points, energy trigger points, muscles and joints surrounding the affected area, the patient should not eat at least an hour before the treatment.
Beijing Tong Ren Tang Indo Jl. Hos Cokroaminoto No. 73-75, Menteng Central Jakarta 10350 Tel. 021-3919088
Feature News, Sunday, September 26, 2004
Elvera N. Makki, Contributor, Jakarta
At a glance, tuina might look similar to ordinary massage but it should never be taken as merely a fun rubdown. The Chinese consider it serious business for health, and it's now available in Jakarta.
You may be bemused by the term "hand-manipulation" the same way I was when I first heard of tuina, an ancient Chinese healing method developed about 2,000 years ago.
But, whatever you do, don't call it massage.
Generally, tuina -- from tui meaning pressing and grabbing and na for grasping -- can be defined as a series of pressing, tapping and kneading movements to remove blockages along the meridian system of the body. This stimulates the Qi (chi) energy flow and blood to promote healing of disorders related to the bone and nerve system, like osteo-arthritis, specific musculoskeletal disorders, insomnia, migraine, cervical vertebrae and orthopedics.
Tuina technique, which can be painful for some people, varies from light stroking to deep-tissue work. It often looks similar to ordinary massage but it should never be considered a fun, relaxing massage.
"That is why they (the practitioners) tend not to call it massage, especially in Indonesia where massage is mostly associated with the pamper yourself kind of thing," said Fenny, a Chinese-Indonesian woman whose father often travels to Beijing for tuina treatment.
He is one of many ethnic Chinese here who still travel to China for traditional Chinese medicine, including tuina, even though there are many shin-se (traditional Chinese health practitioners) in Jakarta.
"We sometimes question the quality of shin-se here although they claim, for example, to be certified acupuncture practitioners," Fenny said. "We also don't know the quality of the medicine, whether it comes directly from China or is artificially made in Jakarta."
In China, there are formal schools of traditional Chinese medicine where graduates are given the title OMD -- Oriental Medical Doctor, formally on par with MD.
Yet perhaps Fenny and her father can think again about going abroad, as Beijing Tong Ren Tang Indo (BTRTI), a franchise of China's Beijing Tong Ren Tang, established in 1669, opened here in June.
The Beijing Chinese medicine hall is well known for its unique traditional recipes to produce the best medicine using high quality materials and advanced technology, as well as exporting raw and processed materials.
When visiting the clinic, one is immediately struck by the strong Chinese atmosphere, including the aroma of herbs. The left side houses a spacious traditional pharmacy where there are approximately 500 types of natural medicines -- all imported from Beijing -- stored in hundreds of wooden-made drawers.
The pharmacists mix and dispense raw materials in a traditional way, based on prescriptions written in Mandarin from a medical practitioner.
"We do not sell the natural herbs without a prescription from a doctor or outside shin-se. We are very particular on that, it is not just an ordinary clinic but similar to Western clinics." said general manager Liem Sian Tie.
It's only been open a couple of months, but already a steady stream of patients has come for treatment, he added.
"At first I came here because I couldn't move my hand as I had fallen at home two years ago. I went to Singapore and other places with no result, but after three tuina treatments at this place, my hand is back to normal," said 64-year-old Wien, a frequent patient, adding that the treatment was painful but worked effectively.
Liem said the company hired Chinese medicine doctors, with more than 30 years of experience in the field, with Dr. Song Sheng Yuan as the tuina specialist.
Dr. Song has 35 years of experience in clinical treatment, combining Tiongkok and Western medication. He worked at prominent hospitals in Beijing before coming to Jakarta.
"Excellent!" said Wien of Dr. Song's treatment.
But since Dr. Song cannot speak English or Indonesian, France Chandra, a young Indonesian Chinese medicine graduate who is the clinic's operations manager, or Liem himself acts as translator.
Are there any side effects to the treatment?
"Treatment sessions lasting from 30 minutes to an hour have no (negative) side effect. Patients often return for additional treatments, usually for chronic conditions," Dr. Song explained
Just like most "energy-based" treatments, the patient usually feels either relaxed and tired, or surprisingly energized by the treatment and release of pain.
Before undertaking the treatment, it is wise to understand that tuina is not used for disorders involving compound fractures, open sores, external wounds or with infectious conditions like hepatitis.
Moreover, tuina should not be performed on the abdominal portion of a woman during her period or pregnancy, and it is not used to treat malignant tumors or tuberculosis.
Since the doctor concentrates on specific acupressure points, energy trigger points, muscles and joints surrounding the affected area, the patient should not eat at least an hour before the treatment.
Beijing Tong Ren Tang Indo Jl. Hos Cokroaminoto No. 73-75, Menteng Central Jakarta 10350 Tel. 021-3919088
Chicago's home for American art closing its doors
(Published on the Jakarta Post)
Features News, Sunday, June 20, 2004
Elvera N. Makki, Contributor, Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is a paradise for both local and international glamorpusses. Along North Michigan Avenue, there are 14 blocks from Oak Street to Chicago River, with about 400 brands on both sides of the avenue showcasing their collections.
Yet in the midst of the avenue known as "The Magnificent Mile", there is a place that seems to get the brush-off from ardent shoppers.
"Hi, welcome to Terra Museum of American Art."
A woman in her mid-40s greeted me with a wise smile, as if she understood my bewilderment. How could they let people get pleasure from hundreds of pieces of artwork for free?
"Admission is always free. The museum started on the second floor to the fifth". She smiled again and pointed to a huge 5 x 5m wooden-made elevator.
While the first floor was small and only functioned as a gift shop, the second was more like a warehouse, mostly because of the minimalist concept design.
Here was an exhibition exploring modernism in American art, themed A Transatlantic Avant-Garde: American Artists in Paris, 1918-1939.
During that period between the world wars, American artists traveled to Paris for an artistic adventure rather than for academic training. Entering into a transatlantic dialog with the Parisian avant-garde, artists sought to express their own ideas of modernity.
In the approximately 150 paintings, sculpture and works on paper, the focus was on three successive aspects of the Parisian avant-garde: Cubism, Geometric Abstraction and Surrealism. I checked out a painting by Charles Demuth in 1921 titled Street of the Monkey who Fishes, which indicated his knowledge of avant garde and surrealist trends.
Patric Henry Bruce drew my attention as well with his unique technique of drawing -- oil on canvas with a pencil under-drawing, making his painting titled Still Life inventive.
It is obvious the museum tries to emphasize the idea of purism, a distinctly modern art in stride with the technological advances of the day.
Going up to the third floor, there was Carl Van Vechten's Portrait of Man Ray, with several other pictures of the artist with Spanish surrealist exponent Salvador Dali.
What made the portraits unique were the technique of picture-making that used gelatin silver print.
On the fourth floor, a giant painting of transatlantic cultural exchange from Samuel F.B Morse (1791-1872), Gallery of Louvre, evinces the vibrancy of the Paris museum more than 170 years ago.
On the fifth floor there was the exhibition A Narrative of American Art, led by Thomas Hart Benton with his series of paintings titled The American Historical Epic.
What struck me most about Benton's works was the exploration of economic exploitation through the brutalizing effects of slavery in America.
Yet there was something that hit me even more when the woman museum employee innocently announced to me in the elevator, "We're closing down this museum in October, forever".
The history of the museum is tied to Daniel J. Terra, who was born in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, in 1911 and raised in Philadelphia. A son of Italian immigrants, he started a business in 1940, Lawter International, Inc., which grew to 22 branches in 12 countries.
Terra and his first wife, Adeline Richard Terra (1910-1982), acquired two studies by John Singer Sargent (1856-1925) for The Oyster Gatherers of Cancale (1878) at a 1971 auction -- the genesis of a 25-year mission to form a notable collection of American art.
Terra then sold all of his European art collection and acquired only American art. Why?
"As a first-generation American, Terra saw American art as an expression of patriotism and a means to promote the country's cultural heritage," explained the museum employee.
In 1977, Terra's American art collection was displayed publicly for the first time. Terra saw a terrific opportunity to share his collection in Chicago, which had become his hometown, when he realized that the city lacked a museum devoted to American art. Less than a year later, The Terra Foundation for the Arts was founded.
Terra felt a strong attachment to France, especially after he was honored in 1985 by the French government with the Commander of the Order of Arts and Letters. He opened The Muse‚ d'Art American Giverny in Paris in the summer of 1992, four years before his death.
So why is this museum closing?
"The foundation is refocusing its activities as the best solution to leveraging the long-term value of the endowments," the employee said. "It's been decided by the Board of Trustees to close it down, in order to expand foundation activities."
"Meanwhile, they will review the use of the museum's building here on North Michigan Avenue," she continued. "Nothing to worry about since the foundation's core mission is still the same: to promote a greater understanding and appreciation of American art".
She added that with resources of approximately US$200 million, the foundation was expected to continue as one of the leading foundations in the world dedicated to American art.
The Terra Museum will continue to present its scheduled exhibitions until Oct. 31.
After the museum closes, the foundation will place a revolving selection of up to 50 paintings, as well as 350 works on paper, on a renewable 15-year loan to the Art Institute of Chicago.
The Terra collection of more than 700 artwork will remain under the ownership and management of the foundation. The Muse‚ d'Art American Giverny will keep on exhibiting works from the collection.
"So how about you?" I asked her gently.
"I guess I have to find another job. Likewise, I need a secure place, too."
Features News, Sunday, June 20, 2004
Elvera N. Makki, Contributor, Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is a paradise for both local and international glamorpusses. Along North Michigan Avenue, there are 14 blocks from Oak Street to Chicago River, with about 400 brands on both sides of the avenue showcasing their collections.
Yet in the midst of the avenue known as "The Magnificent Mile", there is a place that seems to get the brush-off from ardent shoppers.
"Hi, welcome to Terra Museum of American Art."
A woman in her mid-40s greeted me with a wise smile, as if she understood my bewilderment. How could they let people get pleasure from hundreds of pieces of artwork for free?
"Admission is always free. The museum started on the second floor to the fifth". She smiled again and pointed to a huge 5 x 5m wooden-made elevator.
While the first floor was small and only functioned as a gift shop, the second was more like a warehouse, mostly because of the minimalist concept design.
Here was an exhibition exploring modernism in American art, themed A Transatlantic Avant-Garde: American Artists in Paris, 1918-1939.
During that period between the world wars, American artists traveled to Paris for an artistic adventure rather than for academic training. Entering into a transatlantic dialog with the Parisian avant-garde, artists sought to express their own ideas of modernity.
In the approximately 150 paintings, sculpture and works on paper, the focus was on three successive aspects of the Parisian avant-garde: Cubism, Geometric Abstraction and Surrealism. I checked out a painting by Charles Demuth in 1921 titled Street of the Monkey who Fishes, which indicated his knowledge of avant garde and surrealist trends.
Patric Henry Bruce drew my attention as well with his unique technique of drawing -- oil on canvas with a pencil under-drawing, making his painting titled Still Life inventive.
It is obvious the museum tries to emphasize the idea of purism, a distinctly modern art in stride with the technological advances of the day.
Going up to the third floor, there was Carl Van Vechten's Portrait of Man Ray, with several other pictures of the artist with Spanish surrealist exponent Salvador Dali.
What made the portraits unique were the technique of picture-making that used gelatin silver print.
On the fourth floor, a giant painting of transatlantic cultural exchange from Samuel F.B Morse (1791-1872), Gallery of Louvre, evinces the vibrancy of the Paris museum more than 170 years ago.
On the fifth floor there was the exhibition A Narrative of American Art, led by Thomas Hart Benton with his series of paintings titled The American Historical Epic.
What struck me most about Benton's works was the exploration of economic exploitation through the brutalizing effects of slavery in America.
Yet there was something that hit me even more when the woman museum employee innocently announced to me in the elevator, "We're closing down this museum in October, forever".
The history of the museum is tied to Daniel J. Terra, who was born in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, in 1911 and raised in Philadelphia. A son of Italian immigrants, he started a business in 1940, Lawter International, Inc., which grew to 22 branches in 12 countries.
Terra and his first wife, Adeline Richard Terra (1910-1982), acquired two studies by John Singer Sargent (1856-1925) for The Oyster Gatherers of Cancale (1878) at a 1971 auction -- the genesis of a 25-year mission to form a notable collection of American art.
Terra then sold all of his European art collection and acquired only American art. Why?
"As a first-generation American, Terra saw American art as an expression of patriotism and a means to promote the country's cultural heritage," explained the museum employee.
In 1977, Terra's American art collection was displayed publicly for the first time. Terra saw a terrific opportunity to share his collection in Chicago, which had become his hometown, when he realized that the city lacked a museum devoted to American art. Less than a year later, The Terra Foundation for the Arts was founded.
Terra felt a strong attachment to France, especially after he was honored in 1985 by the French government with the Commander of the Order of Arts and Letters. He opened The Muse‚ d'Art American Giverny in Paris in the summer of 1992, four years before his death.
So why is this museum closing?
"The foundation is refocusing its activities as the best solution to leveraging the long-term value of the endowments," the employee said. "It's been decided by the Board of Trustees to close it down, in order to expand foundation activities."
"Meanwhile, they will review the use of the museum's building here on North Michigan Avenue," she continued. "Nothing to worry about since the foundation's core mission is still the same: to promote a greater understanding and appreciation of American art".
She added that with resources of approximately US$200 million, the foundation was expected to continue as one of the leading foundations in the world dedicated to American art.
The Terra Museum will continue to present its scheduled exhibitions until Oct. 31.
After the museum closes, the foundation will place a revolving selection of up to 50 paintings, as well as 350 works on paper, on a renewable 15-year loan to the Art Institute of Chicago.
The Terra collection of more than 700 artwork will remain under the ownership and management of the foundation. The Muse‚ d'Art American Giverny will keep on exhibiting works from the collection.
"So how about you?" I asked her gently.
"I guess I have to find another job. Likewise, I need a secure place, too."
Indonesians in U.S. work together in relief effort
(Published on The Jakarta Post, Fri, 2/18/2005)
Features News- February 18, 2005
Elvera N. Makki, Contributor/Houston, Texas
Moments after watching news of the tsunami in Banda Aceh and North Sumatra, Andrew Huang, 53, who has lived in Houston for 13 years, felt it was a call for him to do something immediately.
Acting as the head of the Indonesian Catholic Family in Houston, Andrew contacted without delay a handful of Indonesian organizations in town to meet and discuss ways to help the tsunami victims. His initiative was quickly acted upon.
"With only four meetings each week, we finally came up with something simple, yet effective to raise funds", said Andrew.
It was called the Tsunami Relief Charity Day, a half-day bazaar and auction held in the backyard of the Indonesian Consulate General.
The event was participated in by approximately 10 Indonesian non-profit organizations.
At the event, each organization opened booths and sold Indonesian food to visitors. The Houston chapter of the Society of Indonesian Petroleum Engineers added interest to the event by holding an auction of Indonesian art donated by society members.
All of the money from the food sales and auction was sent to the Indonesian Red Cross and Kompas Humanitarian Fund.
Equipment and facilities such as the stage, sound system, security and cleaning services were provided by the consulate. Publicity was mostly by word of mouth.
"We simply drafted a flyer in pdf format, emailed it to our Indonesian friends and let them forward it to their colleagues at work and their neighbors. We also posted it to several grocery stores," added Andrew.
During the event, a nonprofit dance company committed to community involvement and education through the arts presented several performances.
One was the story of a small family in Indonesia torn apart by the tsunami. The dance expressed the hope that, ultimately, despite the loss and tragedy, hope and unity would see the survivors through.
About 200 people, including Americans, Europeans and those of other nationalities, showed up for the event.
"We collected US$12,853, of which $8,000 came from food sales and the auction. The rest was cash and checks placed in donation boxes at the bazaar entrance," said Andrew.
For Andrew, what mattered most was not the total amount of money raised or how many people attended, but the success of the event.
"Seeing the passion and participation of the Indonesian community in working together to make the event a success, while far from home -- that was priceless."
"I hoped that, ideally, I could fly to Banda Aceh to help directly, and I bet this is what everyone here would have wished. Unfortunately, I have commitments that prevent me from doing that," said Andrew.
In the immediate aftermath of tsunami, Indonesians, not only from Houston but also from as far afield as New Orleans, Louisiana, went to the consulate and donated boxes of clothing.
For days, Indonesian women from the community worked in shifts at the consulate to sort through the clothes and other supplies.
According to the head of the business division of the Indonesian Consulate in Houston, Enda Iskandar Yusuf, 495 boxes of clothing and other supplies were shipped to the disaster relief handling depot in Medan, and should arrive there early in March.
The consulate has also received to date more than $50,000 in cash donations from many in the community.
Iwan Tantu, an expatriate Indonesian, spent two weeks raising funds at mosques in the city, making presentations on the disaster.
The funds collected were transferred to Imaam (a U.S. nonprofit, religious, charitable organization, largely serving Muslims from Indonesia in the Washington DC, Virginia and Maryland areas) and Pos Keadilan Peduli Umat (a Muslim group concerned with issues of welfare and justice).
On the pictures: 1. One of the visitor looked at the mural of Tsunami tragedy in Aceh.
2. Bismo, 9, begged his mother to voluntarily participate in the charity event. By selling cold beverage and giving all the money for the victims, he felt that he also took part in helping.
3&4. A busy day on selling home-made Indonesian cuisine during the bazaar.
Features News- February 18, 2005
Elvera N. Makki, Contributor/Houston, Texas
Moments after watching news of the tsunami in Banda Aceh and North Sumatra, Andrew Huang, 53, who has lived in Houston for 13 years, felt it was a call for him to do something immediately.
Acting as the head of the Indonesian Catholic Family in Houston, Andrew contacted without delay a handful of Indonesian organizations in town to meet and discuss ways to help the tsunami victims. His initiative was quickly acted upon.
"With only four meetings each week, we finally came up with something simple, yet effective to raise funds", said Andrew.
It was called the Tsunami Relief Charity Day, a half-day bazaar and auction held in the backyard of the Indonesian Consulate General.
The event was participated in by approximately 10 Indonesian non-profit organizations.
At the event, each organization opened booths and sold Indonesian food to visitors. The Houston chapter of the Society of Indonesian Petroleum Engineers added interest to the event by holding an auction of Indonesian art donated by society members.
All of the money from the food sales and auction was sent to the Indonesian Red Cross and Kompas Humanitarian Fund.
Equipment and facilities such as the stage, sound system, security and cleaning services were provided by the consulate. Publicity was mostly by word of mouth.
"We simply drafted a flyer in pdf format, emailed it to our Indonesian friends and let them forward it to their colleagues at work and their neighbors. We also posted it to several grocery stores," added Andrew.
During the event, a nonprofit dance company committed to community involvement and education through the arts presented several performances.
One was the story of a small family in Indonesia torn apart by the tsunami. The dance expressed the hope that, ultimately, despite the loss and tragedy, hope and unity would see the survivors through.
About 200 people, including Americans, Europeans and those of other nationalities, showed up for the event.
"We collected US$12,853, of which $8,000 came from food sales and the auction. The rest was cash and checks placed in donation boxes at the bazaar entrance," said Andrew.
For Andrew, what mattered most was not the total amount of money raised or how many people attended, but the success of the event.
"Seeing the passion and participation of the Indonesian community in working together to make the event a success, while far from home -- that was priceless."
"I hoped that, ideally, I could fly to Banda Aceh to help directly, and I bet this is what everyone here would have wished. Unfortunately, I have commitments that prevent me from doing that," said Andrew.
In the immediate aftermath of tsunami, Indonesians, not only from Houston but also from as far afield as New Orleans, Louisiana, went to the consulate and donated boxes of clothing.
For days, Indonesian women from the community worked in shifts at the consulate to sort through the clothes and other supplies.
According to the head of the business division of the Indonesian Consulate in Houston, Enda Iskandar Yusuf, 495 boxes of clothing and other supplies were shipped to the disaster relief handling depot in Medan, and should arrive there early in March.
The consulate has also received to date more than $50,000 in cash donations from many in the community.
Iwan Tantu, an expatriate Indonesian, spent two weeks raising funds at mosques in the city, making presentations on the disaster.
The funds collected were transferred to Imaam (a U.S. nonprofit, religious, charitable organization, largely serving Muslims from Indonesia in the Washington DC, Virginia and Maryland areas) and Pos Keadilan Peduli Umat (a Muslim group concerned with issues of welfare and justice).
On the pictures: 1. One of the visitor looked at the mural of Tsunami tragedy in Aceh.
2. Bismo, 9, begged his mother to voluntarily participate in the charity event. By selling cold beverage and giving all the money for the victims, he felt that he also took part in helping.
3&4. A busy day on selling home-made Indonesian cuisine during the bazaar.
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