Question

After reading an article,
I asked Younger Boy a question.

I : If a Pig could talk, would you eat it?

YB : Hm... Probably yes.

I : Why?

YB : It's obvious.
Because the food I like will taste different.
Will sausages, bacons taste the same...
If they come from cows?

I : True.

YB : What kind of question is that?

I : Well, kind of questions asked in a Club.

YB : What kind of Club is that?

I : Philosophy Club for  the 8-year-old.

YB :  What's it for?

I : Well, I suppose, stretching their Imagination...
And Thinking Skill?

YB : Can't the children be asked to write a story?
That stretches Imagination & Thinking Skill.

I : Good Point.
Or ask real life questions requiring Higher Thinking like,
'What would you do if your mum comes home crying?'

YB : Yes.

I : Have you ever thought that Pigs ACTUALLY talk?
It's only us the humans can't understand their talking?

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/education/9719556/Philosophy-for-eight-year-olds-If-a-pig-could-talk-should-you-eat-it.html

Fate
Why Higher Thinking when Basic Skills Lacking?
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com
E : fatesecrets@gmail.com

Logic

When one hears disco music, they want to dance.
When one sees delicious food, they want to eat.
Simple Logic, isn't it?

So, when one keeps playing computer games,
Involving lots of machine guns, lots of killing,
For long hours, days after days, years after years.

What do you think is to happen?
Especially if players are still at a young age.
Lack Concentration? Become Aggressive?

Abandoning real world? Hiding in a virtual world?
In some cases, (happening more & more often)
Resulting in many innocents being killed.

Exposed to an 'Extremely Violent' environment,
From a young age, for a long time,
One's Mindset WILL surely be changed over time.

Why we can't involve our young child more in sport,
Encourage them playing mind stimulating board games,
Help them developing love for reading/music/art etc.?

If we spend a bit more time with our child every day,
If we communicate better with our child at all times,
Our child WILL be much less likely to hide themselves...

In all these 'Extremely Violent' computer games,
Which have the real potential to turn a player into a killer,
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2250811/Sandy-Hook-shooting-reignites-debate-violent-video-games.html

Children have so much imagination & energy,
Which if not being channeled to positive avenues,
Could result in a disaster - Simple Logic, isn't it?

Fate
Good Environments Bring Out Good Nature of Humans
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com
E : fatesecrets@gmail.com

Treat

When I picked up Younger Boy from school,
He started a chat while us walking to my car.

YB : Do you know what day it's today?

I : Yes. Monday.

YB : That's right.
So, what's special about Monday?

I : You got Folk Band?

YB : I did. And....??

I : You'd Chess Club?

YB : I did. And...??

I : And.....??

YB : And Monday is the day before Tuesday.

I : Yes.... I know...
So, what's special about Tuesday?

YB : Remember I promised to give you.......
A Treat every Tuesday.

I : A Treat?
Oh, yes, yes...... a massage!

YB : Yes, that's right!
But only if you haven't been shouting at me.

I : Well, I don't shout...I only raise my voice.
It's nice if you massage my injured shoulder.

YB :Well, only if you don't raise your voice.


Fate
Treat others how you want to be Treated
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com
E : fatesecrets@gmail.com

Essential

A strong candidate in the 'Young Apprentice'.
A girl that's working as a trainee accountant.
She's an Essential skill that others don't have.

FQ.
Financial Quotient.
Ability to apply maths to solve everyday problems.

Right from the beginning of the process,
This girl has proven her High FQ,
By minimising the cost in every task.

She stated it very clear to her team members,
Win or Loss could be a difference of a few £ only.
And she's absolutely right.

Her insistence on reducing cost by buying cheap,
Had led her team to a win on 2 occasions.
But then came the disaster.

Her FQ helped little on the new task,
To set up a Kids Club.
Her team was very badly beaten by another team.

For a very simple reason,
She lacks another Essential Skill.
The All That Essential C......... Creativity.

This's one of the main areas that I'm working on.
Help boys developing 2 'Completely Contrast' Skills.
Practical Vs Imaginative = FQ + C?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b01p4srk/Young_Apprentice_Series_3_Kids_Club/

Fate
It's Essential to have More Essential Skills
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com
E : fatesecrets@gmail.com

Must

After reading an interesting article,
I had a chat with boys.

I : I read an article, '4 Must have skills'.
What do you think the 4 are?

YB : I know. I know.
The 1st is Self-discipline?

EB : Creativity?

I : To me, they're very good answers but....
Sorry, but not the ones as mentioned in the article.

(Both boys kept thinking.....)

I : Alright. Let me give you a clue.
The 1st one begins with a 'C'.

EB : C for Communication?
1st Must have skill is....Good Communication?

I : That's right. Well done! 'Clear Communication'.
The 2nd Must have is something unique about you.

EB : You mean USP?
Unique Selling Point?

I : Yeah...in a way.
The article calls it 'Personal Branding'.
Like how you express yourself in social network sites.

YB : Like Facebook?

I : Yes. Like Facebook, Twitter etc.
The 3rd one Must have is.... ..
(I stretched my body)

EB : Flexibility?

I : Bingo!
And the 4th?

EB : Team Work?

I : Well, kind of.
The article calls it,  'Productivity Improvement'.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887324735104578118902763095818.html?mod=WSJ_hp_us_mostpop_read


Fate
Self-Discipline is a Must have & ... the MOST important one
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com
E : fatesecrets@gmail.com

Plan

We all watched 'Young Apprentice' again.
The 2 teams had to buy 10 opera items.
Each was given 8 hours to complete the task.

As expected, both teams did not have a Plan.
Because noone had a clue about execution.
1 team just went out, hoping luck was on their side.

The other team spent 1/2 of time staying indoor,
Just talking and talking in an office.
And 1/2 of the team staying indoor for 6 hours!

I reminded my boys of the need to have a Plan.
Things rarely happen just because one wants it.
And ideally, has a Plan B too.

Because something unexpected always happen,
And something expected not often all happen.
A good Plan + a good Execution guarantee a Great Success.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b01nyrzt/Young_Apprentice_Series_3_Theatre_Props/

Fate
Failing to Plan is Planning to Fail
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com
E : fatesecrets@gmail.com

Law

While having after school snack at home,
Elder boy started a chat.

EB : Dad, we'd an interesting lesson today.

I : Interesting?

EB : Yes.
We learnt about the law making procedures.
Homework is to come up with some new laws.

I : That's good.

EB : What new law do you have in mind?

I : Hm...let me think.
A new law to abolish University fee?
Students complain MPs had it free in old days.

EB : Well..... but things have changed.
Government doesn't have the money now.

I : Hm... what about a new law to ensure..
Children give 50% of their pay to their parents?

EB : No way!

I : Do you have anything in mind?

EB : What about raising the age for marriage?

I : What do you mean?

EB : Raising the current age of 18 to 20.

I : Why do you want to do that?

EB : To reduce the possibility of a divorce.
At 20, people are more mature when they marry.

I : I've the perfect answer to end all divorce.

EB : Really?

I : Yes.
Raise the age for marriage to.........90!

Fate
New Era requires New Thinking
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com
E : fatesecrets@gmail.com

Basic

One of boys' favourite programmes was on again.
They wanted me to join in watching the new series.
The BBC's  'Young Apprentice'.

12  'Under 18' candidates : 6 boys, 6 girls.
We all guessed it right - the first one being 'Fired'.
Boy with impressive academic result : 11 GCSE A*!

He's a classical example of what I call,
'Good on Paper, but can't do anything Proper.'
All he did during the task was Pretending, Avoiding.

Pretending to be Busy,
Pretending to be doing something Essential,
When in fact, he's Avoiding the Real work.

I've used his Failure to remind boys :
They need to develop & master the Essential Skills,
Within the next 7-10 years to stand a better chance.

Because the world economy will not recover,
For the next 10 years at least,
And the Record Youth Unemployment is to reach Higher.

Academic Excellence is only Basic.
They need the ability to learn new things quick,
To adopt to new environments quick.;

And of course,
The ability to deal with Difficult people,
The ability to persuade and lead others etc. etc.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/p00y8pgh/Young_Apprentice_Series_3_Rags_to_Riches/

Fate
Basic Skills Could Only Give You A Basic Life
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com
E : fatesecrets@gmail.com

Look

While taking my Younger Boy to school,
I started a chat.

I : What do you look forward to every day?

YB : Monday, it's Folk Band & Chess Club.

I : Right. Any other?

YB : A Piano Performance during Friday lunchtime.

I : Good.

YB : Multimedia Club on Wednesday.

I :  What about outside school?

YB : Oh, yes, Table Tennis night on Thursday.
Friday afternoon Piano lesson at home.
Badminton training on Saturday morning.
And...

I : And?

YB : And my 23-minute computer game time...
Every Saturday afternoon.

I : Well, what about Sunday swimming?

YB : That's good too!
I know what you look forward to every week.

I : Really? What's it then?

YB : A massage.

I : Yes, you used to give me a good massage.

YB : That's true.
I'm to give you something to look forward to every week.
And what do you think that will be?

I : Would it be... a massage?

YB : Correct!
I'm going to give you a massage every Tuesday.

I : That's great!

YB : Just wait.
Do you know what day it's today?
It's Tuesday!

Fate
Life is about having something to look forward to
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com
E : fatesecrets@gmail.com

11+ (ADDITION)

Forgot to attach the following link,
http://www.elevenplusexams.co.uk/forum/11plus/viewtopic.php?f=13&t=24341
(I was 'Average Dad')

Fate
Sharing Gives the Best Feeling
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com
E : fatesecrets@gmail.com

11+

I use the 11+ Test to stimulate Younger Boy.
Because first, it gives him a Achievable Goal.
Everyone does better when they've a Goal.

Second, it makes him to Plan Ahead.
How to better use his time,
What areas he needs to improve etc.

Third, it gives him a Sense of Responsibility.
His Responsibility to learn, to improve everyday,
And to adapt, to focus on the test day.

Forth, it gives him a Vision of Life.
In Life, everyone is being compared all the time.
In job interview, in promotion board....

Fifth.....
Well, 11+ is all positive for me.
And for Younger Boy.

Positive Attitude & Positive Actions,
Has brought Positive Result.
Younger Boy is to join Elder Boy at grammar school.

Fate
Children are Very Adaptable & Anything is Possible
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com
E : fatesecrets@gmail.com

Exchange

While having tea at home after school,
Elder Boy started a chat.

EB : Dad, the French Exchange is on again.

I : So, do you want to go?

EB : Yes.

I : I'm sure you've weighted up the pros & cons.
Just tell me 3 worst case scenarios that could happen.

EB : Hm.....
1st, problems at the airport?

I : Well, that's true, you never know.
How would you deal with it then?

EB : I'd stay calm & find a way out.

I : Alright. 2nd?

EB : Weather in France could be bad?

I : As bad as our British one?
OK, how would you deal with it?

EB : We could stay indoor & play some games.

I : And the 3rd one?

EB : The French family has a big bull dog?

I : Could be.
So, how would you deal with it?

EB : I'd stay close with my French friend.
Dog always behaves when owner is around.

Fate
Positive means Preparing for Negatives
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com
E : fatesecrets@gmail.com

U-turn

I always tell our boys,
How my life has changed,
The moment I knew I was to become a dad.

First in the late 1990s.
Then the early  2000s.
And over the years, my life has changed more.

Changed for better.
Because our boys have always made me to.....
Think Harder, Plan Further, Work Smarter.

And in particular, Understand More....
About Myself, Others, Nature.
And better still, Understand...

How the Unlimited Potentials of a child,
Could be unlocked by the Right Environment,
The Right Approach over the Right Time.

But above all,
They have made me understood the reason,
Why we, Humans, have come to this world. 

I am now very grateful for my U-turn.
From first planning not to have any child,
And then from planning not to have a second child.

Fate
Life has No U-turn
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Councillor

After I picked him up from school,
Younger Boy started a chat.

YB : Did you know what happened today?

I : Something interesting?

YB : Yes, we'd an election.

I : An election?

YB : Yes.
We'd to elect someone to be in school council.

I : That's good.

YB : Do you think I had put myself up?

I : Hm.....I think you'd.

YB : That's right.

I : So, what did you & other candidates have to do?

YB : Well, we'd to make a speech to our class.

I : That's good. So, what did you say?

YB : Well, I'd told them why they should pick me,
'This's my last year at school,
I've never done it before,
And I've all the qualities to be a good councillor.'

I : Sounds convincing. But......
What exactly did you mean by 'all the qualities'?

YB : You should know.

I : Why should I know?

YB : Because you're an adult.

I : Alright, alright, assuming I know but in fact, I don't,
Do you think your classmates would know.....
What you meant by 'all the qualities'?

YB : They should know.

I : Why should they know?

YB : Because they must know - they've to pick one.

I : Alright, alright.
So, why do you want to be a councillor?

YB : You should know.

I : Me? Again? Should I?

YB : Yes, you should know.
Because I love.........collecting badges!

Fate
Children have Different but Great Ideas
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

DAD

Over the years,
I've time & time again,
Shared with our boys about my views.

And in particular,
On how to achieve a Better/Happier Life.
On what I call, DAD.

D for Duty.
Everyone has Duties.
As a parent, a child, a community member....

Anyone trying to run away from their Duty,
Or pretending they don't have any Duty,
Is to end up living in misery.

A for Alone.
Everyone needs Alone moment.
A peaceful time that one can reflect, relax....

Anyone feels happy only when being in a crowd,
Or misunderstands Alone = Lonely,
Is to be sorry for themselves eventually.

D for Dreams.
Everyone should have Dreams.
When they're younger, maturer, older.......

Anyone not having Dreams lacks the energy,
The will to take on Unavoidable Failures in Life,
Is to forget what differs us from other animals :

We, humans, have Dreams.
So, what are your Dreams?
How you're to help your child/ren realising theirs?

Fate
Step by Step, Day  by Day,
Making Dreams come True in every way
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com
E : fatesecrets@gmail.com

Doctor

While tying our shoe laces before leaving for school,
Younger Boy & I had a chat in entrance hall.

I : Going to work, mate?

YB : Yeah, mate.

I : Where do you work?

YB : North London Hospital.

I : What do you do?

YB : I'm a doctor.

I : A porter?

YB : No. I'm a doctor.

I : A doctor?

YB : Yes. In Orthopedic.

I : Automatic?

YB : No, Orthopedic. 
About bones, OK?

I : Doctor, my neck hurts.
Can you help then?

YB : You don't need a doctor,
You only need a massage.

Fate
Good Laugh leading to Good Health
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com
E : fatesecrets@gmail.com

Facts

Recent visit to Hong Kong reminded me of 2 facts.
Hard to be a student in HK.
Even harder to be a student's parent in HK.

My sister-in-law's child was to start primary.
She'd  'day off' to queue outside several schools,
In 30+ degree, out on a street just to get a form.

Not even the very top schools.
Still the competition was so fierce.
Child's portfolio, Interview, Tests  & yes, deposit $£.

Met a parent whose child also starting primary.
The 1st question her relatives asking her was,
'Have you found a tutor for your child yet?'

Her child was only 6 - same as my sister-in-law's.
A private piano teacher telling me something new.
Many of her students revised their school work.....

Till 2300 hrs........in the past,
Now.... it's 0100 hrs.
Yes, till the early morning.

In my years as a student in HK, only a few had a tutor.
Now, only a few if any, NOT having a tutor.
And most popular tutors earning millions of $£ a year.

After years of Intense Pressure & Insufficient Sleep,
Do HK students know how to Think, be Creative etc.?
Are they just good at answering questions on papers?

I'd done some observations & 'tests' while in HK,
On some selected students of different ages, abilities etc.,
And confirmed some of the facts I always believe.

As parents, we've to look beyond headlines, figures etc.,
Have to establish facts ourselves.
Finding the best way forward for our child.

I'm to take the Strengths of  HK & UK's education system,
When developing my own system for my boys,
To ensure the Right Level of  'Pressure' & Pleasure.

Fate
Facts Speak for Itself - Finding them Ourselves
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Memory

After attending a presentation in HK,
I returned hotel & had a chat with Elder Boy.

I : I was wrong, my boy.

ED : You mean...?

I : I thought the talk was organised by a 'watchdog',
In the memory study profession, but it's just...
Another profit-focusing organisation.

ED : Really?

I : Yes. Have a guess.
How much do you think it charges for a course?

ED : Thousands of  dollars?
(HK$.  £1 =HK$12)

I : No.
ONLY about HK$38,000!

ED : Well, it may sound a lot.
But how many lessons are there?

I : 70 lessons.

ED : How long for each lesson?

I : 90 minutes.

ED : And how many students in a class?

I : About 1 : 6.

ED : Do you still think it's expansive?

I : Hm...how much is it again?


Fate
Money Can't buy Good Memory
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

VCR

During my recent 5-week trip to HK,
I had the chance to meet many people.
And I was pleasantly surprised by 2 fathers.

At an optical shop, the owner told me,
'I arranged books on shelf in a way as you'd suggested.
'My boy picked up books & just read them by himself.'

At a hotel cafe, an executive told me,
'I asked my boy interesting questions as you'd hinted.
'He enjoyed them & now ask me interesting questions.'

I was very happy.
Not because of  the fathers' praise,
But because of their VCR.

First, their Vision.
They understand how important a father's involvement is,
In a child's development, especially when the child is a boy.

Then, because of their Commitment.
Not just talking or thinking about it but Commit themselves.
They're DOING it - making it happen, making a difference.

And, of course, because of them doing it Regularly.
Doing it 1 day, 2 days is not the same as doing it EVERY day.
Have to do it Day in, Day out - that's what it's all about.

Because these fathers are Communicating with their boy,
Constantly Challenging their child etc.,
They're helping their child to develop the essential Life Skills.

So, I'm happy.
Happy to see more Happy Fathers, Happy Children around.
Making this world a Happier Place to hang around.

Fate
VCR Fathers Prepare Children Better
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Think

When walking past a shop in HK,
My Younger Boy started a chat.

YB : Dad, do you know what a casino has?

I : What do you think?

YB : A Big TV.

I : Yes.

YB :Unhealthy drinks.

I : Right.

YB : Someone smoking.

I : Could be.

YB : Playing darts.

I : Playing darts?

YB : Yes, did you not see them playing earlier?

I : Earlier?
Oh, that's a pub not a casino.

Fate
Children Are Quick & Great Thinkers
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Purpose

While planning this HK trip a few months ago,
I had a chat with my Elder Boy.

I : Where do you think we should stay in HK,
Hotel or Serviced Apartment?

EB : Well, depends on Purpose of  the trip.

I : What do you mean...Purpose?

EB : Well, if it's for Leisure, it has to be Hotel;
But it's for Work, then Serviced Apartment.

I : Sounds reasonable.
But can you give more details?

EB : If it's for Leisure, a Hotel's grand lobby,
Big front desk, good buffet meals, room service etc.,
Will make the trip more relaxing.

I : Yeah. Sounds good.

EB : If it's for Work, like me & my brother has to...
Do some work during this summer school holiday,
While us on an overseas trip, I suppose .......
Serviced Apartment serve us better because we can...
Have a proper writing desk, proper lights etc.

I : That's True.

EB : So, are we having a Leisure or Work trip?

I : It can't be Leisure, can it, just Play, Play?
It can't be Work either, can it, just Work, Work?
So, it has to be a Leisure and Work trip.
Work, Play, Work, Play.....

EB : So, where are we staying then?

I : Hm....good question.
For you, Service Apartment.........may not be good.
So, we're to stay at a Hotel -  you're to Work better,
Thinking you're on a Leisure trip!

Fate
Life has a Purpose
E : fatesecrets@gmail.com
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Responsibility

In HK for a Business/Family trip.
As usual, boys know their Responsibilities.
For example, buy breakfast.

Although it's 30 degree in the morning,
Boys have to walk with me to buy breakfast.
And to carry breakfast back to hotel.

Another example,  water bottle.
When going out,
They've to bring & look after their water bottle.

More example?
As it could be 35 degree during the day,
Boys sometimes have to make a decision.

To walk first or walk later.
As I agree to pay for transport for one way only.
Just to remind them it's their Responsibility....

To act Sensibly,
To spend Wisely, 
Or one's to have a very Tough Life Journey.

Fate
Responsible. Reasonable. Remarkable
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

General

When I picked him up from school,
Younger Boy started a chat.

YB : Dad, do you know what we did today?

I : Something exciting?

YB : Yes, we'd a quiz .

I : That's good. About Olympics?

YB : No. About General Knowledge.

I : General Knowledge?
Hm..... how general were the questions ?

YB : One question was,
'What's the capital city of Spain?'

I : Did you know the answer?

YB : Yes, of course.
Do you know the answer?

I : Yes, of course. Barcelona.

YB : No. It's Madrid.

I : Oops.......

YB : Another one was,
'How many wives did Henry VIII have?'

I : Did you know the answer?

YB : Of course. Do you?

I : Hm.....well,.......

YB : He had six wives.

I : Wow! I wish I could afford that!
I thought Henry had 8 wives - he's the 8th!

YB : One more?
'What's the name of Harry Potter's pet?'

I : Did you know the answer?

YB : Yeah. Do you?

I : .............

YB : Its name is Hedwig.

I : How come you knew all the answers?

YB : Well, we're given one sheet,
With 35 questions on it. 
But...we could look up the answers in books.

I : So, that's not General Knowledge then.

YB : What do you mean?

I : That's General.....'Cheating' Hahaha!

Fate
Life is about making the Right Choices
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Environment

I've been asked time and time again,
By different friends in different countries,
'Have your boys been affected by the regular moving?'

I replied every time, all the times, 'Yes.'
'Of course, my boys have been affected but.....
'Only in the good ways.'

Boys like to compare cars.
In Australia, people tend to drive.....
And in UK, there a re more.......

Boys enjoys comparing weather .
In HK, the summer is .......
In UK, the rain has been.....

Boys love comparing prices.
In Australia, a holiday home asks....
In HK, a hotel room would cost...

New Environment brings New Stimulation.
Helping children to have a Better Visualisation,
Better Preparation & Better......Calculation.

Just like when we are in overseas.
Boys keep using the exchange rate to calculate.
How much the same thing would cost them in UK.

I once asked back after a friend asking me the above question.
I asked, 'Does the fact that your child living in the same house,
'With the same domestic helper, in the same school has......

'Helped your child to fully develop their hidden Potentials?
'Enabled your child to quickly settle in new Environments?
'Ensured your child to effectively deal with all Unknown?'


Fate
Nothing New : New Approach Solves Old Problems
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.co.uk

Competition

After picking up Younger Boy from school,
While us walking to our car, I started a chat.

I : If there's a competition for children,
And there're 4 Categories of questions,
What do you think they may be?

YB : Definitely, has Maths.

I : Yes. You're definitely right.

YB : Also, General Knowledge.

I : How do you get this one right?
Amusing.

YB : Just came to my head.

I : What else?

YB : English?

I : Yes...... kind of.
Could you be more specify?

YB : English Literature?

I : No, but good try.

YB : Reading?

I : No, but a better guess.

YB : Oh...oh...I know.

I : Which is?

YB : S, P, E, Spelling!

I : That's right. And the 4th?

YB : Writing?

I : No.

YB : You tell me then.

I : It's...hm... hm...what's it again?
Oh, yes, yes.....it's a Memory Test.

Fate
Good Memories Last Forever
E : fatesecrets@gmail.com
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.co.uk

Adaptability

I always remind our boys,
The world is changing very fast,
It's in their best interests (and their duty).....

Not to be left behind and become a loser,
To raise their Adaptability to ensure they could,
Adapt to new environments quickly/smoothly.

The fact that they've, since from birth,
Been living in a total of 3 countries, 8 towns,
Attending 15 schools may have helped them.

Although we drove to nearby beach,
Intending to catch some fish/crabs,
But only to arrive there to find it's high tide.

Just when I thought boys would be disappointed,
They're happy again because they........adapted.
Playing a new game - making sand balls.

Although we drove to a Chinese restaurant,
Intending to have a new year dinner,
But only to arrive there to find it's closed.

Just when I thought boys would be disappointed,
They're happy again because, yes, they...adapted.
Suggesting we could try the Pizza Hut nearby.

For one to have High Adaptability,
They've to be a......... FOOL :
Flexible, Open-minded, Outstanding Learner.


Fate
Great Start leading to Great Success
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.co.uk

Professor

When Younger Boy getting into my car,
I started a chat.

I : Where to, Sir?

YB : Exeter Hospital, please.

I : Are you a doctor?

YB : Yes.
I'm a Professor in Cardiology & Orthopaedics.

I : Cardi....o......gy?

YB : Yes, in Heart and Bones.

I : Oh, I see.
I thought one specialises in one area only.

YB : Well, I did the Heart first then Bones.

I : OK.
Do you know what I'm, Professor?

YB : You're a Professor too?

I : No. I'm a Confessor.

YB : Confessor?

I : Yes, I always Confess when making mistakes,
So that I can learn from my mistakes.

Fate
Everyone is Good at Something
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.co.uk

Fall

After falling down from stairs at home,
And seeing my boys were shocked,
I got up from floor & chatted with boys.

I : Don't worry, boys, I'm OK.

EB : Do you need cold running water?

I : Why?

EB : Just in case you've bruises.

I : No. I'm fine.

EB : Do you need to do the check?

I : Check?

EB : Yes, to check from head to toes,
If any bone is broken.

I : Oh... yes.

EB : Is everything fine?

I : Oh, yes. Everything is fine.
No broken bones. No bruises.

EB : Why do you think you fell?

I : Not concentrated.
I was singing when walking down stairs.

EB : How to ensure it won't happen again?

I : No singing next time taking stairs.
Concentrated. Hold the stair rail.

Wait a minute,.
That's exactly what I'd said to Elder Boy,
Last time when he fell.

Fate
Children are Quick Learners
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.co.uk

Assistant

After getting into my car for school,
My Younger Boy started a chat.

YB : AAA Primary School, please.

I : Yes, Sir.
Are you a Headteacher?

YB : No. I'm an Assistant.

I : Oh....Assistant Headteacher.

YB : No. I'm an Assistant Teacher.

I : Oh.....OK.
So, what do you do?

YB : Help sorting things out.
Helping children to learn.....

I : So, very busy for a Teacher Assistant.

YB : No.... It's Assistant Teacher.
I told you. You're fired!

Fate
Nothing Better Than Laughing
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.co.uk

World

I often remind my boys that the School World,
Is the perfect training ground for them,
To develop/polish their Essential Life Skills.

So they should use every opportunity at school,
To put what they've in mind & learnt into practise,
Planning Skill, Time Management Skill, Social Skill etc..

E.g.  dealing with 'Naughty' schoolmates could help them,
To effectively deal with prospective 'Nasty' clients,
'Shouty' boss/colleagues when they step into the Real World.

I also remind my boys that in the Real World,
They'll not have 13-week holiday a year like the School World.
And they've to understand it'll be 'Work First before Play'.

Fate
A Better World coming for those Ready for Real World
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.co.uk

Partner

Boys love watching the 'Apprentice',
So I started a chat with them during breakfast.

I : If each of you is to start a business tomorrow,
Which schoolmates you'd like to be your partners?

YB : Well, it has to be a Fair Business.
So, I'm to have the equal number of boy and girl.

I : O.K.

YB : I'm to pick 2.
A boy , X and 1 girl, Y.

I : Why?

YB : Because X is quite tall.
So he can put/take  stock up/down.

I : Well, good point. And Y?

YB : She is clever.

I : What about you?

EB : I'll pick 3.

I : Why?

EB : Because A is good at computer,
B is good at Art.  I need them to design.
C is good at Writing - for marketing then.

I : What about you?
What will you be doing?

EB : Well, as usual..........a bit of everything!

Fate
A day Older, a day Smarter
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.co.uk

British

While having our breakfast at home,
I'd a 're-discussion' with Younger Boy.

I : Just remind me again please on....
What you think is British.

YB : That's simple.
A person is British if he can do two things.

I : Oh, really?   What're they?

YB : 1st, they've to know how to sing the..
British National Anthem.

I : Alright. And?

YB : 2nd, they've to know how to draw the
British National Flag.

I : OK. I get it. So, if I know....
How to sing the Brazilian National Anthem,
And how to draw the Brazilian National Flag,
Then, I'm a Brazilian?

YB : No, you're not.

I : Why not?

YB : Because you couldn't speak any Brazilian.

I : Just assuming I could, OK?

YB : No, you couldn't.

I : Just, just assuming.

YB : No, you couldn't.

Fate
Only Fool trying to Fool a Child
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.co.uk

Unemployment

After reading an article about youth unemployment,
I asked boys a few questions to stimulate them.

I : Do you know how many youngsters are now...
unemployed in Spain or Greece?

Boys : 20%? 30%?

I : No. More than that.

Boys : 35%? 40%?

I : Good guess. But it's about 50%.
Why do you think so many unemployed?

Boys : Not studying the right subjects at school?
Not having the right attitude?  Not....

I : Wait a minute.
Is Education just about finding a good job?

Boys : No.
But it's a very important part.

I : Do you know where some of the under 25 moved to?

Boys : China? England?.......

I : No. They've.........

(http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/financialcrisis/9181776/Youth-unemployment-passes-50pc-in-Spain-and-Greece.html)

Fate
Good Education Gives One a Good Direction
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.co.uk

Pretender

After Younger Boy getting into my car,
I started a chat by pretending to be a cab driver.

I : Where to, Sir?

YB : Cambridge University Hospital in 20 minutes.

I : Sorry Sir, I'm driving a car not a plane!
Can't be in Cambridge in 20 minutes.

YB : As soon as possible then.

I : I'll try. But I'm not driving Doctor Who's..
'Time Machine', the....mm.... 'Police Box'?

YB :  The TARDIS.

I : Mm.....Are you a doctor?

YB : Yes.

I : Dr. Who?

YB : No. I'm studying to be a doctor.
6-year study.

I : What's that...TAR.....

YB : TARDIS?

I : Yes, what exactly is it?

YB : It stands for :
Time And Relative Density In Space.

Fate
Children Are Great Pretender 
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.co.uk

Cheer

After him finishing his after-school snack,
And while us playing table-tennis,
Elder Boy started a chat.

EB : Do you know what happened today at school?

I : Something interesting?

EB : Yes.
A teacher warned those not yet handed in all their...
Homework could face consequences.

I : Have you handed in all yours?

EB : Yes. I've. But not everyone did.
A few seemed to be upset.

I : So, what happened then?

EB : I decided to cheer them up.

I : What did you do?

EB : Well, I cheered them up by saying,
'Look at the positive sides :
It's a Long Bank Holiday,
So, no homework to hand in on Monday;
And, if you don't pick this subject for your GCSE,
No more homework for this subject after July!'

Fate

Everyone can be a Happy One
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.co.uk

Tournament

Most Tuesdays, after dinner,
I play a little game with my 2 boys.
Help them to develop the Right Mindset, stay focused.

I once asked boys each to write down 3 reasons,
Why I asked them playing a badminton tournament,
That I knew they'd NO chance in winning.

They put down :
To enhance skill, to exercise, to improve attitude?
To experience, to make friends, to have a go?

Very Sensible Answers.
Very Good Observations.
But not exactly what I'd in mind.

I eventually told my boys of my 3 reasons.
1st, to see for themselves how good other younger kids were.
Anyone can be good at anything when putting in Time & Efforts.

2nd, to see how they dealt with Failures AND in public.
Even though my boys were beaten very badly,
They kept their head high, trying their best - never gave up.

3rd, to stimulate them to think at what age they could start...
Helping their child to develop their potentials, good habits.
Because one day they'll be a father too.

Fate
Tournament is about Knowing Oneself through Others
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.co.uk

Word

After taking his seat in our car,
Younger Boy started asking me.

YB : Dad, can you give me a number?

I : Of course, I can. Any number?

YB : Well, a single digit number.

I : O.K. 4.

YB : Now, give me a letter.

I : R?

YB : Now, we're going to play a game.
Take turn to say a 4-letter word beginning with a R.

I : O.K. Should I start?

YB : No, wait. I start.  Rain.

I :  Ruin.

YB : Rule.

I : Role.

YB : R....

I : R.....

(We arrived car park & started walking)

YB : Read.

I : Raid.

YB : Wait. Dad. We've to walk slowly, very slowly.

I : Why?

YB : Because the game stops when we reach school gate.
And I still haven't found the next word!

Fate
Good Spelling comes from Good Playing
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.co.uk

Tools

My wife & I have been using various Tools,
Trying to help our boys getting the Ultimate Goal,
Enjoying True, Longlasting Happiness in Life.

So, we encourage them to take up various activities.
Piano, Badminton, Swimming, Table Tennis, Chess etc.
Helping them to develop the Essential Life Skills.

Concentration, Devotion, Precision, Determination....
And of course, Asking Questions,
'How did he do it?'  'Why the shuttle went that way?' 'What..'

I Think therefore I Exist. Indeed.
But as the world is getting More Competitive,
So, one has to, 'I Question, I Improve & therefore I Advance'.

And one's to be both Mentally & Physically fit.
Not meaning one has to win trophies like a Champion.
But to have a Champion's Attitude.

Always having a Vision on why they're doing.
Always Enjoying on what they're doing.
Always Improving on how they're doing.

Then, very soon,
Always in a Happier & Healthy Life.
Life is, in most cases, Very Fair.

Fate
What Happens Next depends on What You Do Now
www.fatersecrets.blogspot.co.uk

Dream

While us walking to his school,
Younger Boy started a chat.

YB : Did I tell you I'd a dream last night?

I : No, you didn't.

YB : Alright. I'd a dream that you'd won a lottery.

I : Really?

YB : Do you want to guess how much you'd won?

I : £25 Million?

YB: No. More than that.

I : £35 Million?

YB : No. More than that.

I : OK. £50 Million?

YB : No. Less than that.

I : Alright. £45 Million?

YB : No. Do you want me to tell you?

I : Oh, please.

YB : It's £47 Million.

I : Oh, yes, of course, £47 Million.

YB : How are you to use that £47 Million?

I : Hm.....it's an odd number.

YB : OK. Let's make it £50 Million.

I : Then, I'll ... .
Wait.... how would you spend the money then?

YB : I'll divide it into.......

Fate 
Children Give us the Best Dreams
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.co.uk

Real

One of the MAIN duties of parents,
Is to help their children to prepare...
For the Challenges in the REAL world.

And I've been using the news as a tool.
To give our boys a snapshot of the Real world,
Help them to stay Focused, enjoy Real Happiness.

So, I briefed them a report about Friends.
Thanks to FB, children now have abt 200 Friends.
Abt 4 times More than their parents.

I then asked boys,
'Is there a difference between an online & a Real friend?'
'Does one have More friends = have More Happiness?'

Then, a report about 50% Youth Unemployment in Spain.
I then asked boys,
'Why there're so many youngsters unemployed there?'

It's about helping boys to develop ESSENTIAL Life Skills.
Not to force them to, Not to talk them into,
But let them understand it's their DUTY to develop such Skills.

Fate
Develop Real Skills or Face Real Disaster
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.co.uk

More

While me driving home from school,
Younger Boy started a conversation.

YB : Dad, I'm going to ask you a question.

I : O.K. Go on then.

YB : Well, you should know the question.

I : Really? Come on, ask me then.

YB : Well, you know......the usual question.

I : The Usual?

YB : Yeah. The one about.......
Which one do you like more, me or XXX?
(XXX is our Elder Boy)

I : Well, you know.... the usual answer.

YB : The Usual?

I : Yes.
The one is More Behaved, the one I like more.

YB : So, what if we're both equally Behaved?
Which one do you like more?

I : Hm....the one that's More Independent.

YB : OK. What if we're both equally Independent?

I : Hm....the one that's More Helpful to others.

YB : Alright. What if we're both equally Helpful?

I : That's Impossible.
Even Identical Twins are not equal in everything.

YB : Well, just want to know.

I : Alright. Let me ask you this question.
Which one do you like More, me or your mum?

YB : Hm..........

Fate
Life's hard to compare - to few is lemon, to few is pear
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Girl

New Year Day.
Family Day.
Driving around in Exeter Centre,
Trying to find an ideal place for a family dinner.

The Chinese Restaurant was not open.
Boys suggested the nearby Pizza Hut.
It's surprisingly...........quiet.
And we'd a surprise encounter.

My wife & I were impressed by a young waitress.
She's Professional : Tidy Uniform, Tidy Hair & Tidy up table Quietly.
She's Alert, always looking to see if she could help.
She showed Respect, looking at your eyes when speaking.

We guessed she's a student.
Most likely attending a top uni.
And we're right.
She's attending Oxford for medical training.

She told us she's from a local comprehensive college.
It's hard as most students did not seem to work hard.
2 of her friends also applying Oxford.
But she's the only got accepted.

I asked her what had been motivating her.
She replied without thinking,
'To make my mum Proud.
She's done so much for me.'

I later told my boys.
'This girl is amusing. Self-Motivated. Totally Focus.
She's NOT even from a grammar school.
She's proven that ' As long as there's a Will, there's a way'

'She wants to make her mum Proud.
But for me,
It's NOT about getting into Oxford, Cambridge, IC...
'It's NOT about making me or your mum Proud.

'It's about making YOURSELF Proud.
Proving to Yourself that you can be whatever you want to be,
Provided that you put in the time & effort, never give up.
All your hard work will pay off One Day...just like that girl.'

Fate
See Further, Achieve Better, Life Happier
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Example

When finally sat down in lounge after dinner,
Checking if there's a 2100 hrs TV movie,
I was approached by Younger Boy.

YB : Dad, you've to come up with me.

I : Now?

YB : Yes, now.

I : What's it about?

YB : That's why you've to come up.
I'll show you.

(So, I reluctantly put down my remote control,
Went up to bathroom with him)

YB : Dad, look, you shouldn't have left your .....
Toothbrush like this.

I : Alright, sorry, I forgot.
(Then I put it back to the correct place)

YB : You see, you've told us to do things properly.

I : Yes, I've.

YB : So, you've to do it properly yourself.

I : Yes, BOSS, thanks for your reminder.

Fate
Our Children Look Upon Us as Example
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Now

About a year ago,
As part of his Religious Study homework,
Elder Boy asked me a question,
'Is there anything that you once thought was Wrong,
But you now think is Right?'

I thought for a moment and then replied,
'Yes, when I's much younger,
I'd so many failures, frustrations, disappointments etc.
Making me so upset, depressed & self-doubted.
I thought back then, why Life's so Unfair?'

'But now,'  I continued, 'I think Life's really Fair.'
'I now understand all these Big Negative events,
Only there to test my Faith, Vision & Determination.
Push me to Think Harder, Learn Harder & be Kinder.
And of course, to help me to become a Better father.'

Fate
What happens Next depends on what you do Now
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Brain

While driving Younger Boy to school,
I asked him a question.

I : If you can have any one's brain,
Whose do you want?

YB : Do you mean I could be a Zombie?

I : What's a 'Zombie'?

YB : A dead person that eats brains.

I : Oh....Alright. Yes.
Just say you're a ZZZ....

YB : Zombie. Z,o,m,b,i,e,

I : Thanks. Yes.

YB : I'd eat the brain of the famous......
Cambridge scientist on a wheelchair.

I : Stephen Hawking?

YB : Yes, that's it.

I : Why his?

YB : Because he's very clever.
He discovered Black Hole.

Fate
Children Need Inspiration, Enjoy Fascination
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Business

After receiving a business proposal,
I had a chat with my Elder Boy during dinner.

I : If an old mate gives you a business proposal,
What would you do?

EB : Old mate? What do you mean?

I : Well, say, an old schoolmate.

EB : Schoolmate?
Do you mean primary or secondary school?

I : Alright, alright, could I just make it simpler.
Just say if you've a friend.
Asking if you're interested to invest in his firm.
What questions do you think you need to ask him?

EB : Well, of course, the Profit his firm making.

I : Yes, sensible.
For how long?

EB : At least for the last 3 years.

I : Any other questions?

EB : Yes. If his firm has any debt.

I : Why?

EB : Well, I don't want to see my money...
Only is used to repay its debt.

I : Any more questions?

EB : Yes.
I want to know exactly how my money will be spent.

I : Because....

EB : Because I don't want to see him using my money...
Only to pay his own wage!

I : Wah....that's impressive!
Did I..... teach you all that?

EB : Well, not really.
Actually, I learnt it from the TV, Dragons' Den.

Fate
Good at Maths > Good at Finance > Good Chance in Business Success?
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

List

When me picking him up from primary school,
Younger Boy rushed to me.

YB : Dad, I really have to tell you this.

I :Now?

YB :Yes. It's Urgent.

I : Alright. I'm listening.

YB : You know we've reading time in class.

I : Yes, you've told me before.

YB : Today, I saw 2 classmates each reading a book.
And I know they'll be on Grammar School's List.

I : Why?

YB :  Because those books are very long.
One read a book with over 200 pages.
The other about 400 pages.

I : Long does not mean Good.
It could be a simple book with many pictures.

YB : No. They're long story books, full of writing.
I know it because I read one of them.
And the other was made to a movie.

I : You now know there're many good students around.
So, make sure you work hard or.........,
You may not on Grammar School List!

Fate
Everyone has a Wish List
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Game

Sometime ago,
While having his after school snack at home,
Elder Boy started talking.

EB : We played a very good game at school today.

I : Really?

EB : Yes, it's in our Geography lesson.

I : What's the game?

EB : Well, the class was divided into a few teams.
Each team was given a country name e.g. America.
Some teams were given scissors, papers, glues etc.
But each time was NOT given one particular tool.

I : And then?

EB :  Then the teacher started making 'Orders'.

I : 'Orders'?

EB : Yes, for example, if he ordered 4 circles,
We'd to cut some paper to make 4 circles.
Then sold them to him.

I : I see. You teacher would then give you money?

EB : Only faked money.

I : That should be fun.

EB : Yes. Because some teams running out of paper,
Some not having enough scissors etc. to make 'things'.
So teams negotiating how much to sell/buy tools.
Not paying too much or losing some profit.
Some trying to sell at high prices to make extra profit.

I : So, how to win this game?

EB : The team had most money at the end of lesson.

I : How's your team doing then?

EB : We're doing quite good actually.
Not the team making the most money.
Nor the team making the least.

I : So, what have you learnt from this game?

EB : I was too focused on one particular issue.
And forgetting to see a bigger picture.

I : What do you mean?

EB : Although I succeeded in NOT selling a tool,
But I missed out in making extra profit by selling it.
Because towards the end, there's NO demand for it!

I : I'm glad that you've learnt something that important.

EB : Another thing I've learnt is,
Timing is very important.
Our team might have won if I'd sold a tool sooner,
When the demands was very high.

Fate
Children Lean Best when they're Relax
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

See

Chinese New Year Eve.
While on our way to weekly family swim,
I asked recently turned 9 Younger Boy a question.

I : How do you see yourself, my boy?

YB : What do you mean?

I : Do you see yourself a Chinese, a British or...?

YB : Hm.....Spanish!

I : Seriously. What do you think?

YB : May be a New Zealander?

I : Why?

YB : Because I was born there?

I : But you're now in UK.

YB : That's true.

I : So.....?

YB : So, I've to think Mathematically.

I : What do you mean?

YB : To calculate which place I've spent more time in.

I : Does it help if one knows where the parents come from?

YB : Not necessary.
What if one is a Chinese and the other is a Jew?

Fate
Children See Things Differently
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Balance

While having dinner at home,
Elder Boy started sharing his school time.

EB : Dad, do you know what happened today?

I : Something interesting?

EB : Yes. A friend said to me,
'You're luck to be a Chinese.'

I : Well, why did he say that?

EB : Because he stated,
'You must have a lot of delicious food at home'

I : That's quite true.
Did you say anything back?

EB : Yes, I told him that,
'You know it's not easy to be a Chinese....'

I : And what did he say?

EB : He agreed,
'Oh, I know, yes, Chinese parents are Strict'

I : And your response?

EB : Well, I told him I'd to learn piano,
Do extra work at home etc., to comfort him.
Reminding him that he might have a better life!

I : You're good. Very Tactful.
Glad to see you making others feeling good.

EB : Well, you always say,
It's very important to have a Balanced View.
So, I just helped him to have that.

Fate
Think for others because we need one another
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com

Reasons

When me picking him up from school,
Younger Boy started talking.

YB : We'd our X' mas lunch today.

I : Well, was it good then?

YB : Kind of..
There should be a Refund Policy at school.

I : Do you think so?

YB : Oh, yes.

I : Why?

YB : 1st, the X'mas pudding was just too sweet!

I : Oh, no!

YB : 2nd, it's just too small!

I : Dear....

YB : 3rd.....

What was it again?
Never mind, I just enjoyed listening to him.
And I forgot the 3rd! Getting OLD!

Fate
No Reasons to be Unhappy
www.fatesecrets.blogspot.com