the test

The passports have come back, and finally we can make plans. Or rather finalize plans. It's too late now for the July target, so we had to resort to plan B: September.

I should have taken this step years ago, but I was too chicken to do it. I was aware that this is inevitable, that I would really have to go through with this at one time in order for my plans to work out. I can't quite explain why I kept postponing it, except to honestly say that I was scared of taking the test. This is not like me at all, I have faced tests head on for as long as I can remember, prepared or not prepared. For some reason, I felt that the timing wasn't right, and I kept holding back.

So now, I'm ready to finally take the exam. Or maybe I just ran out of reasons for not doing so. Psyched and finally able to study (not as much as I wanted to, but then again I have never been able to prepare for any exam as much as I wanted to), I was set to take the bridging course in July and the exam on September.

Lo and behold, something (someone?) told me this wasn't to be. I'd like to think of it as divine intervention. My visa application got delayed and it was only yesterday that I finally got my visa. Now it's too late to get into the July program, so everything's moved to September.

So, it's hitting the books for me. More work. More time to prepare. Unless something else happens between now and September, it's definite that I'll be facing one of the biggest tests in my life at the last quarter of this year.

a pet's ten commandments

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.

3. Place your trust in me. It's crucial for my well-being.

4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment, but I only have you.

5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when you're speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will not forget it.

7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you, and yet, I choose not to bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I have been in the sun too long, or my heart might be getting old or weak.

9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You, too, will grow old.

10. On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so.

Reposted from Rico's notes.