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Being Vulcan

Spock, son of Sarek.
Born: 2230.Died: 2263 (in alternate universe) aged 162
Vulcans, I assume, would be well into rebuilding their civilisation and restoring their culture on their new planet after Nero destroyed their home planet in 2258. Vulcans first came to Earth in April of 2063 when they detected the first-ever warp drive test flight piloted by Dr Zefram Cochrane. Our allegiance with them has contributed to the advancement of human technologies, which, in turn, have enabled interplanetary relations and the exploration of space —the final frontier.

Legend has it that Vulcans were very emotional creatures, but their religion (although they do not refer to it as one), founded upon the teachings of the great philosopher Surak, forbids them to show emotion and to embrace logic.

Humans will do well to adopt the teaching of Surak. Humans may not be as emotionally volatile as prehistoric Vulcans, but we would be better off if we could better control our emotions.

When I said "we", I mean me.

There was a time, not too long ago, when I was completely debt-free. A period of bliss, a period of increasing amounts of savings in my Tabung Haji and ASB. But being human, we are consistently pressured to procure things we do not need. I blame this on society (other humans) and also, the media, for spreading this lies about how cool it is to own things, like watches that is worn by handsome and rugged men of mystery and/or adventure, and cars driven by people who look really good in suits and houses in neighborhood of tranquility and friendliness, or go for vacations in pristine places, where the sea is crystal clear with soft sandy almost deserted beaches.

Lies... all of it. Just like those juicy burger pictures that make you feel hungry, with Coke and fries on the side costing upwards of RM10, when a RM3 sandwich and a RM1.50 cup of mineral water would have been enough to fill you up.

I was seduced. Now, half of my monthly salary goes towards the mortgage, and another 10% towards the hire-purchase. Woe is me. Had I thought things out logically, I would not have bought another house, nor the minivan.

But, then again... what fun is there in living without challenge?

Live long and prosper.


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