In class with DK, in perfect ministering

It was like all those other Thursdays I have lived ever since March 2004. I had class with DK. And today, during my grammar exercises, we talked about the Datukship. For starters (and non-Malaysians), "Datuk" is an honorary title bestowed upon someone who has greatly contributed to the country, just like "Sir" is to the British.

So anyway. DK and I talked. He seemed kinda fascinated by the idea of getting such a title...... Here's the translated version of what we said (the French version can be found on Jeunesse) :

DK : It must be fun receiving a Datukship, eh. Everyone respects you. And imagine if I were to receive the title. "Datuk Daniel." Heh, sounds nice, I'd say !
troisnyx* : You tyke. If I were you, I wouldn't even contemplate getting such a title.
DK : What, you don't even want to be recognised and stuff ?
troisnyx* : Even if it means remaining as I am without the extra honour, no.
DK : You're weird. Anyway, tell me. Why ?
troisnyx* : Haven't you read the papers somewhere around last year ? It was reported that for every 1000 people, there is a Datuk. So they aren't few and far between.
DK : So, now that the population here is 27 million, there'll be..... 27 000 Datuks ??
troisnyx* : Exactly. And you and I notice this and know this full well : some of them just don't deserve the title.
DK : Well, you could always prove yourself worthy of the title... can't you ?
troisnyx* : No. Here's another thought : for the most of us, we're a rather complacent lot. Be it Datuk, Datuk Sri, Tan Sri or even the highest of titles - Tun - if one receives a title, there we go - all the work is just left behind. Most of us would bask in the glory, respect, recognition and money which come with it. Surely there are exceptions to the general rule, but I can't be like them. I'm only a humble servant of the world. My mission of restoring justice to Malaysia, my mission of reuniting people all over the world with my music, these will only end when my life ends. And as long as I live, I'll never accept a title. This is my promise.

And with that, the vow was made.

I believe that a vow, no matter where it is made, is sacred. Whether it is made in church, or at home, or even in college, we are doing it in the presence of God, because He is omnipresent. Well of course, doing it in church heightens the sacredness of a vow. I made my vow not to receive titles like these at home. I must keep this covenant for as long as I live. If anyone tells me I'm weird because of this vow, I'm proud of it. Why should I conform to the traits of this world, when I know a better recompense is waiting for me up there ?

Well, that must've talked some sense into DK. He finally gave in. For once.