Meaning Of Life

Caught an Italian movie, La Strada last weekend.

Storyline goes like this:

Gelsomina is sold by her mother into the employment of Zampano(Anthony Quinn), a brutal strongman in a traveling circus. When Zampano encounters an old rival in highwire artist "The Fool" (Richard Basehart), his fury is provoked to its breaking point.

Directed by Federico Fellini in 1954, the movie moved me deeply. Primarily being that the cast delivered a stupendous performance! The portrayal of a carefree girl by Gelsomina sold to a traveling entertainer and consequently enduring physical and emotional pain along the way in my opinion is the biggest draw. Her natural delivery of the slow-witted girl is impeccable, akin to Charlie Chaplin:)

In this movie, the director establishes a style and certain key themes such as: the beach as a symbol of purity and release; haunting, soft female singing as a symbol of memory; and, above all, a chaotic, circus-oriented environment that entertains the audience.

The biggest take away is everyone has a purpose/role to play in this world. Gelsomina, for example, is always there for Zampano. "Even the pebble has a purpose", according to the fool.

So what is yours?

Get On Your Feet

Did my second 1/2 marathon in early Dec. Actually, I did not expect myself to complete the race this time, due to a lack of practice. Or simply, my indolent nature.

A couple of us, including my brother, sister and two friends took part in this popular run in Singapore. From a mere 6,000 participants when it first started, it has grown to a humongous turnout of 40,000 runners this year.

I took a cautious approach to my run this time. Especially after a disastrous run in my first 1/2 marathon 3 months back. Pacing myself, I did a consistent slow jog/run (I believe it was 7+ minutes/km), as I overlooked to wear my Polar WearLink™ Coded Transmitter strap.

Upon reaching my first 5km, I told myself that I would soon reach my 10km, with just 5km to go. Half an hour later, I crossed my 10km mark! Then it became more challenging when I felt the need to relieve myself, on top of the physical and mental struggle to conquer the next 5km...

Trying to motivate myself, I told myself that it would be an easy feat, as soon as I reached 15km mark. Afterall, my regular training run ranges from 6km to 8km.

It was easier said than done! Another 30 minutes have passed, my feet seemed to have lose its momentum. Not feeling discouraged, I looked upon other runners with their inspiring lines on their backs to spur me further. Of course, the scenic views along the journey coupled with music, cheering girls and bands also helped considerably.

When all failed to work towards the end of the race, I then tried to look out for my siblings and friends for a healthy neck to neck competition.

Finally, I have to settled for a 500 metres walk, near to the ending point as my legs couldn't take it anymore... Feeling "rejuvenated", I pulled myself together and sprinted to the rest of the 200 metres.

The determined face in my picture said it all. Having surmount both physical and mental adversaries, I have clocked a better timing than my previous run!

In 2 hours and 40 minutes to be precise:)