Fine, I'll post again...

Well, I know it's been a while since I posted something, so I can think of nothing better to do than ramble on about how my life's been since coming back from Taiwan.

Taiwan itself was an amazing experience.  I actually almost didn't go, since I managed to land a Wells Fargo internship I had been shooting for; unfortunately, they needed me to attend training (PAID training) during the month of July, which would mean I'd miss out on the mission trip.  So, in the end, I decided it was probably better to go with the option I had been preparing months for.  Even though the internship paid around $10 to $20 an hour.  Woe is me.

But here's the point: I would make that decision again in a heartbeat.  The trip was incredible, and really opened my eyes to why we as Christians are needed in Taiwan.  I saw the spiritual darkness there, and that helped me be more patient as a teacher.  Paying a visit to a Buddhist cemetery then hearing that your uncle is buried there does a lot to wake a guy up.  But the rough stuff aside, it was fun, challenging, and a terrific bonding experience.  Way too much stuff happened than I care to post here.  But as a final note: dang those kids are good at English!

Anyway, onward and upward.  I've been getting for my party this Saturday, buying food and borrowing party games (since I've never really put on a party like this before).  Stressful, but I look forward to seeing everyone at least one more time before I go off to Northwestern GO WILDCATS WHOOOOOO!!!

By the way, since I just thought of it: IT IS NOT CUTE WHEN YOU TYPE "!!!!1"  It just means you couldn't hit the stupid shift and "1" key at the same time!!1 <---Irony, don't misinterpret it.

So, other events.  There was swap meet shopping with Sheel: very fun, and we managed to get more than we bargained for.  There was seeing a few Tetzlaff people again, although we basically just sat, talked, and ate.  Food brings people together; I say we bomb the Middle East with chow mein and watch world peace bloom out of the shower of love.  Hate can't stand up to a good hearty serving of chicken, after all.

Oh yeah: I got my Macbook!  Which I am currently using.  Man, Apple is clever: their spellcheck program doesn't include any Apple products on its list of misspellings.  So, Powerbook and iMac are all kosher to this little fella.  But I love it, so keep up the good work Jobs.  You monopolistic bastard.  I'd hate you if you didn't keep turning out terrific products.

That should be about all.  I'll go back to my summer work: I've been filling out more paperwork since I got in to NU than I did when I was trying to get admitted.  Sheesh.  Free time is taken up by my unhealthy law obsession.  With that said, over and out.

---

PS: I found a Bible verse that I interpret as God's mandate for Public Defenders.  Behold: 1 Timothy 1:15, 16.  Grace of God--whatUP.  I found it while debating with my parents why I should leave the avenue of criminal law open to me in the future.  Word of God says I should help show grace unto sinners.  Deal.

Thank Jesus

Sass x7 has been eliminated. For all you skeptics out there, the existence of God should be hereby confirmed.

Seeing as how every other crew was pretty good, I really don't care who wins now.

Since I can't think of a new post...

So I was sitting around bored today when I realized that being bored during summer vacation was a problem I had attempted to tackle in an article I wrote for the Cerritos News. For lack of a better post, here's the article in its entirety. Enjoy--I actually thought this one was pretty good:

In Case You Run Out of Ideas…
By Eric Liang

Not knowing what to do during the summer seems almost illogical on the surface, the same way one might think it strange that someone doesn’t know what to eat at a familiar food court. But it’s not that big of a stretch: when it comes down to it, in both situations, the issue is not lack but rather excess. Year after year, as I attempt to make summer plans, the first thought in my mind is of where to start. A transcript of my typical thought process at such times would be similar to the following:

“The beach sounds good, haven’t been there in a while…then again I haven’t really gone to Six Flags before either…but both those places would be too hot and I wouldn’t enjoy it and that would defeat the purpose…maybe I should call some friends…never mind my phone’s across the room…alright back to sleep.”

Not exactly a recipe for success. Needless to say, I have a reputation for not doing much during my three months of bliss unless someone else plans it. I’m convinced that’s why guys have gal friends: they know how to plan things.

Enough of that. This being my last summer as a high school student, and quite possibly as a Californian, I’ve taken it upon myself to come up with a list of things to do during the summer. Blessed as we are with Californian suns, beaches, and youth culture, I have a feeling that if I were to stay in Chicago this time next year, I’d regret quite a bit. So here we go…

1. Go to the beach: Simple enough. I happen to love body boarding—or, for you more casual types, boogie boarding. Make sure you have friends, a lot of drinks, and food that doesn’t pick up sand easily (I know, it’s a narrow spectrum). But just lying in the sun would be awesome, too. Bring sunscreen, though—as a former student rep to the district’s legislative/policy committee, I’m supposed to remind you all of the dangers of UV ray exposure. So remember, rub it on. Generously.

2. Movies(!): I have only one thing to say about this point, and that is “The Dark Knight”. I can think of no better way to end a summer movie season that began with Iron Man and that included such anticipated releases as The Incredible Hulk, The X-Files: I Want to Believe, Kung-Fu Panda, and the one film I’m highly skeptical-yet-hopeful of, You Don’t Mess With the Zohan. Oh yeah, I’m supposed to mention Wall-E, the one movie I’m skeptical of and still don’t care about.

3. Eat a lot: Ironic, since I planned to be thin and fit before heading off to college. Northwestern is supposedly the fifth fittest college in America, so I figure I better work out over the summer. But eating is so much more fun, especially if you combine it with #2 and #4.

4. Be with friends: It would be sad to say that you get enough of them during the school year. Use the summer to do things with your friends you didn’t have the time for while tests and homework were piling up. I went to Cabazon with a particularly close-knit project group of mine in May. I like to think it’s a teaser for what’s to come. Plus, I’m quite adamant about this point, since I’ll be in Illinois in September and won’t be seeing my best friends for at least three months.

5. Get fit: I changed my mind—I now consider it possible to work out and have fun at the same time. I recommend running with music. iPod’s are lovely, aren’t they?

6. Throw a party for no particular reason: I hope the title says it all. But remember the second part of this suggestion. Don’t have a reason for it, just do it. Then again, I’m sure this would seem a lot more appealing if I actually did it. Remember, guys don’t do planning. It’s not in our genes, the same way sowing and flower arranging isn’t.

7. Start a summer romance: For no other reason than the fact that I’m a sucker for rom-coms. That’s short for “romantic comedies”, if you’re among the uninitiated. And who knows: it might not end with the summer.

So there you have it, my humble list of summer to-do’s. Remember, you only have about three months before all this becomes naturally and academically impossible. So choose wisely and have the time of your life.

Summer Reading List

In order of when I plan to read them...

1. Freakonomics - I started this one about three months ago, and never finished it. Actually, I think the only book I've finished reading in the past 5 years is No Country for Old Men, and that one rocked massive amounts of cock, so now y'all know how dedicated I am to the art of literature. Just kidding, I just get tired of reading the same story or topic over and over.

2. The Case for Christ - Might as well. I've already gotten through a few chapters.

3. The Histories - I always wanted to finish this one (that's what she said). But after the first chapter and a half, I had to abandon it due to schoolwork. And apps.

4. Catch-22 - This is proof that school reading lists are detrimental to my intellectual growth. Out of all the books I read this past year in English, only two ever held my attention: this one, and Farewell, My Lovely. I never truly read Catch-22 because due dates meant I had to basically skim it for quotes. But now that it's the summer, I figure it'd be fun to read for real.

5. God's Undertaker - This is the book that my youth pastors, Sam and Johnny, gave to all the high school graduates from our church. It's about science and the possibly antagonistic relationship it has with religion. Looks like a decent read.

6. Mao - One helluva long biography. Usually, I hate this genre of books, but by virtue of being Chinese it's my duty to know at least a little bit of my culture's national history.

I probably won't even finish one of these.

Valedictorian speech, just in case y'all wanted to read it...

Unlike many of us here today, the orange halls of Whitney became my home in the 9th grade—two years later than normal. That transition gave me a much different perspective, along with lasting impressions. I was welcomed, surprised by the friendliness of the students and the accepting atmosphere as omnipresent as the house ghosts of Hogwarts. Before, the kind of academic fervor we all have would have been considered strange, like Hermione’s bookworm tendencies. It would have been out of place, like Harry as he clambered aboard the Hogwarts Express. And like Harry stumbling through the wall to Platform 9¾, like a mudblood arriving in the wizarding world late, I adjusted to a different way of life, one that involved personalities and events dissimilar to my previous experiences. At Whitney, I was challenged by teachers and found a subject I truly enjoyed learning. But most importantly, it’s the friends I’ve made here that will stay with me through college and beyond. Like trying out wands to mystically find the right one, I found that special group of classmates that shared my interests, people I met luckily on bus rides and band trips, those with whom I shared the occasional hug or playful punch. And so I stand here now with friendships and memories that will bridge the miles of separation inevitably to come.

It would be cheesy to say that my time here has been magical—it’s certainly been long, and it’s certainly been hard. But since we’re talking about Harry Potter, I’ll go ahead and say it: it’s been magical. And it’s also been a fun, fulfilling, and fantastically memorable journey.

*Yes, the "that's what she said" moment was completely intentional. As were the cameos: Justin T., Kevin, Loris, JP, and Kat, you should try to find yours'. I'm glad I didn't talk to fast, and many of you said it was a good speech, so, seriously, thanks for listening, and for the encouragement.

By the way, to feel truly accomplished, I'll add a few more tributes...

Brian: Six years, including Tetzlaff. Your happiness has been an inspiration to me, and your unwavering dedication as a friend has been heartwarming. Thanks for being awesome! You live close, so expect to see me once in a while!

Tiff: Fellow Cerritos News writer, it's been a hugely fun journey working and hanging with you. All the abuse only conceals my love. I'll see you around, since I feel a certain affinity to USC people for some reason. Plus, you're awesome to talk to--I'll be missing our conversations the most!

Annie: I COULD just say boing, and you'd know what I mean. Plus, those simple punches carry so much meaning each time. Along with our secret handshake. You've been so much fun to be around, and I'll truly miss your optimism and personality next year. Stay bouncy, okay?

Man Date + Church Grad "Party"

So I was supposed to talk about this last night, after it actually happened, but like Justin I was too tired to update. Basically, the title says it all: an afternoon-long man date. 'Course, it would be just plain gay without some explanation, or some zany stories, so thankfully here comes the filler.

We start off going to the movies to watch The Incredible Hulk, which wasn't bad at all. Robert Downey, Jr.'s cameo made my day, of course, and Norton finally made the franchise decent. Considering Ang Lee's brooding turd of an attempt, that's saying a lot. The best part, though, came at the end (that's what she said) when we stayed behind to watch the credits, basically looking for sexually suggestive names and such. For instance: Tom Cock. And...I forget, but their were manly ones, too, like Joseph Steele. Good game. Plus, the lamest sex scene ever is in that movie, mostly because a) there's no sex, and b) the excitement level is low--good for Banner, bad for us. Shame, since I've been wanting to see Liv Tyler receive since LotR.

Well, afterwards, we stumbled out, drunk on the whole "that's what she said" game. Many happened, by the way, during our conversations. So, having went to the bathroom, we decided to use the little exact-weight machines. 50 cents later, we found out that I was "large framed", Justin T. is beyond "small frame", and the fotunes are freakishly accurate. Justin T.'s: don't forget your friends. Mine: don't overwork. Having been freaked a bit, we decided that the time had come to be fashionably late to Kristen's grad party. After chilling at TC for a while, I changed into something vaguely semi-formal and we departed.

But a card! We needed one! Using that as an excuse to further our fashionably late quest, we went to Target and found one that necessitated the insertion of money (sounds like a whore). So, naturally, we each wrote an equal sized note, both contributed $1 (with our names on the respective dollars, just to tell her how much we cared), and sealed it with half a lick from each of us. A heartfelt card. We rock.

Finally, we made it to the party...and promptly felt hungry. Cue mad dash out the back, since Kristen had already seen us. On our way back from Flame Broiler, we suddenly began contemplating making the night a true Harold and Kumar episode. It would've been awesome, but alas, we figured the day had already seemed a bit like one, with our sneaky card-buying and food run. Back to the party, which included interesting conversations (since when did Gealina become so fun?!). Essentially, a collection of sexual innuendo's and outright statements. Justin and I left early, naturally, and so ended our man date. Fun times, and a good way to begin the summer.

So, church grad party. Not a big deal, except for the fact that I missed Joel's grad party, which I heard was big and fun. The party wasn't terrible, though, since all the fun people were there, including Frank, a college friend of mine who had been in Egypt until recently (my graduation!). Fun conversations, at least. But the rest was a typical Friday youth night, which meant a very low-energy affair, which made me pissed that I was missing a good friend's party. Boo. But it's a bit late for that.

Well, I know I said I would post more tributes, but that'll have to wait for another of my sentimental moments. Or, since I'll be seeing many of my former classmates before I leave, I'll just be saying a lot of it in person. Sounds like a better plan.

Here we are

So I've graduated, and it's starting to hit me. The end of a 4 year journey, with fond memories clearly outweighing the bad. I can't think of something greatly profound to say. I feel so happy right now, sad at times, and a little bothered that a very secure, comfortable, safe part of my life has ended. I'll be going off to Northwestern next year, thousands of miles away and in unfamiliar territory. So, besides being a wildcat for another four years, I'm heading off to uncharted waters.

I think it's time to be sentimental. Wow, that fireworks display really did it for me. It was epic, from the music (when we could hear it) to the actual lights going off above us. To sound completely and undeservedly grandiose, it was as though our souls were set free from Whitney and we were flying away to bigger and better places. Sorry for sounding like that, but it's true! I'll miss you all, almighty Wolves of 2008--every single one of you has somehow affected me these last four years, whether you think you did or not. Seriously. You guys are awesome people--I can only hope that there are more like you out there.

Oh, and by the way, I feel AWESOME because I spoke clearly during my Valedictory speech! I surprised myself, and I hope some of you caught the (very) subtle references I threw in. And the not so subtle innuendo that "accidentally" worked it's way in.

Well, I'm going to be listing off some emotional stuff now, concerning you fellows. Basically a list of names. A final send-off to the senior class of '08. Although I realize this will be read by about, oh, I'd say 3 people, this is also for me to reminisce and remember. And no, not everyone's going to be on here at first; realize this is almost like an ongoing project at this point.

I've already talked about some folks (see below), so here we go:

Earle: How can I forget the band experience with you by my side the whole way? Keep playing, man, we'll see each other again someday. "THAT'S WHAT SHE SAID" for the win!

Vishal: One of my favorite Indians. Seriously, you're awesomely capable at a whole lotta things. Thanks for bearing with me and Journalism Club these last two years, and thanks so much for always being around to talk and listen.

Allen S: The man who's so much better than he realizes. Dude, you're legendary with the computer, with film editing and all the things I wish I could figure out! Thanks for just being an awesome friend.

Allen: The other Allen in my life. Who's also disturbingly bright. Who says the best things at the right time. I'll miss your random comments next year!

Vincent: Out of all the people I got to know this last year, you're one of those I'm supremely glad to have met. You're eloquent, sharp, and very fun to be around. I'll see you in high places in a few years.

Sheel: Wow, what to say about Sheel? You've been a reality-check for me these last four years, but in a good way. Your efficiency is to be envied, your vast knowledge is almost mystifying, and I am honored to have known you as a friend. You're going to end up far greater than you would probably like.

Jesus: Another person always fun to be around, no matter the situation. From band to English, I have so many fond memories of conversations with you. Your wit will be sorely missed.

JP: Big JP, the guy who has helped me become a man...at least partially. Your advice on LIFE has been invaluable--you've taught me things I desperately need to know to survive, and you have helped me realize countless times the things I've been missing out on. I'll you and your manly hugs so much next year. The Head of the Entourage hereby bids you a farewell.

Joel: The man I love to love. With every hug I fall more and more in love with you. Just kidding, I suppose the homo-ness has to end someday. Tonight's a good choice for a new beginning. But seriously, man, the you-JP duo is a fond memory that will never leave me. I'll miss being around you next year.

Amanda: For some reason you've managed to put up with my sarcasm and terrible social skills. And, naturally, it had to be THIS year that we really got to know each other. From late-night AIM sessions to random hang-outs to everything along the way, it's been awesome getting to know you. It doesn't end here.

More to come!

I told myself this would never happen...

...but it did. I have a blog. Thanks to Justin T. for the title, by the way. So I'm not sure how regularly I'll be updating this thing. Hopefully more than just a few times a month, but we'll see. But tonight's a good night to start, since tomorrow is GRADUATION. The day I thought would never come. And yet, here it is, right before me. I can only manage a "wow". I have so many emotions going through me right now, from happiness to sadness to relief to a bit of fear. It seems strange to think that in four years, we've grown this much, into adults ready to go forth. Four years passed by awfully quick, though. So, naturally, I feel a little...well, uncertain...about leaving the place I've had the honor and privilige of calling "home". Whitney High School, our pride--and, at times, the reason I wanted to trash everything around me. What a journey. From that first 9th grade class to 12th grade Econ, I've passed through so many hurdles and challenges, landing, finally, here.

And there's so many people to thank. Kev, for sharing my interests and talking no matter how random I was. Justin, for the tough love and making my days just a little bit happier. JP and Joel, for basically forcing some social knowledge into me. Kat, for being a punching bag and always being cheerful. Loris, for the hugs and the infinite understanding. Mukti, for the reality checks and conversations. Of course, my brother, Andrew, for sticking with me through everything. Yes, I forgot many of you. Just not right now, okay? This will be more complete after tomorrow. But seriously, everyone, thanks. I love y'all, class of OH EIGHT!!! And the little ones in other grades.

Like I said, more to come tomorrow, after the ceremony.