The state of unemployment

I just read a piece on CNN talking about the current state of unemployment in the US. Apparently, this analyst is comparing the odds of getting a job in this current environment with college admission rate. Catchy as it may be but I don't really think such comparison should be made. After all, we are talking about the general population here, ordinary people like you and me, and it is unwise to put an elitist spin on it, when the everyday man and woman's concern is to find a decent job that feeds his/her family.

http://www.cnn.com/2009/OPINION/11/06/stimulus.jobs/index.html

Goodbye Kennedy!

I can't believe that 2 years have gone by just like that ... woosh! And with a tap from that magic wane, I am bestowed the knowledge and seal of approval to serve in the field of public management.

I was lucky that commencement day was bright and sunny, making it good for photo taking and capturing of memorable moments. My parents came to the east coast again and thoroughly enjoyed their trip. We completed our visits of the New England region with a tour to New Hampshire, Maine, Rhode Island and Massachusetts (of course). And when they headed back home, I just missed them so much. The last time, I felt like that was when I just finished college. I can't believe that I had the same feeling even though I am in my 30s now! I guess I am just that sentimental bloke.

Anyway, as summer rolls in, I am taking time to move out from Mount Auburn street and say goodbye to Harvard Square. As I prepare myself to venture to wherever I am going next, I have nothing but good reflections of my time here. And although I am much poorer now, having sold all my belongings and assets to pay for these 2 years, I am glad that I took this decision back in 2007. I have fulfilled a dream.

Congratulations to Mr and Mrs Umboh

I just came back from my best friend's wedding. It was such a great experience to be there, even though just for a short 24 hours. To begin with, I am very, very happy for him and his wife. I remember the last time I spoke to him on an issue as serious as marriage, we were still in our early twenties. I was just out of college and had barely started on my first job. Back then, it seemed to be forever that his wedding day would arrive. And I even promised him audaciously that I will sing on his wedding day.

Well, his big day came on Feb 14th. I attended but did not sing. (Actually, to be honest, I did prepare an Indonesian classic for him but won't sing unless he really asks me to. Well, maybe, I will do so in his 50th anniversary hehehe) Anyway, to make up for that, I was given the honor to make a speech together with another buddy (gsoo) during his reception. And I think that is more appropriate then forcing the many guests to listen to my unappealing voice.

Come to think of it, friends of my age are all starting to enter the so-called next phase in life. When I reminisce on this, pictures of all the past weddings I attended in last 4 years came back to my mind. And I foresee many more to come =)

It was a joyous occasion for sure and it made me missed San Francisco. Over the years, the bay area has meant so much to me, almost like my second home, because so many wonderful experiences have occurred over there. To the extent, I felt a little miserable after I touched down in Boston the next morning, returning to the wintry weather. As we all know, parting is sweet sorrow ... but your next adventure cannot begin unless you close the previous chapter. And I will love to do that in perfection.

Back to my daily routine now ...