Pen @ Horizon

Starting Afresh

2011-02-19T21:38:00.002+08:00

Been a really long since my last post. Coming to think of it, it has been a busy weeks then and now am still busy. Just wanted to steal time to rest, recreate, rejuvenate and relax. It is now February and it without me realizing it, is the mid February. Wow, time really flies and time really steals away your life. No wonder people say time is life and time is money. What is lost can never be retrieved. Like it or not, we have to move on. Question is how do we go about it?

Someone once told me that some of the most difficult tasks in life are
.. not in what cause us to fall, but in how do we get up after that fall
.. not in how do get up after a fall, but in when do we get up
.. not in when do we get up, but in why do we need to get up

All in all, each failure is a seed of success which was planted yesterday that will sprout into a giant tree tomorrow. Anyone reckon ?

Another month has passed

2010-11-09T07:07:00.003+08:00

Another month has passes and I wonder what's there left ... Looking forward, another two week, the school gonna ends. Looking back, I wonder what I had learned for the past 10 months. What I had been doing for the past 10 months. Friends around me, each has their own lives, some already had families of their own. What about me?

Anyway, came back from SPW on Sunday. And now is the second day, yet things learned still fresh. To be frank, was annoyed over certain things that had happened, yet thankful over many reminders given. Deep down there is a longing, there is an expecting whisper. Am guessing, maybe it is not for me. So near yet so far. Lord, help me to focus on You and to focus to what I have now. Telling myself, maybe God wants me to stay another year. Maybe there is a surprise. Whatever it is, I tell myself, I need to pull through this. Question is : Who is still with me? What is there for me to continue to work on? How am I supposed to do so? And the list goes on....

Someone said I'm like a brother (or even a father) to many.... what a statement, but why am I don't seem to be inspired as much as last times. Another month has passed and no news. Maybe no news is good news. Whatever it is, Lord, I know you are still in control. Don't let me lose focus on You.

Gone with the wind

2010-10-19T22:25:00.000+08:00

Look at the date! It's already mid of October. Another few more weeks, we shall bid year 2010 farewell. Time really flies and I wonder how much had I achieved this year. What had I learned so far this year? Have I made any significant contributions to my life and my surrounding thus far?

Indeed there are so much that I've learned. Been a really hectic year, especially when you're part of an ambitious State. There are just too much happenings here and there. I would say I am glad to be part of them. No doubts crises still happen. No longer I view them as obstacles but rather as blessings in disguise.

All I hope now is not to let go of my dream and not to lose hope. Someone says to continue to have hope in Him for He is the Lord of hopes, dreams, impossibles ... only achievable by those who have faith in Him. With Him in my vessel, obstacles are GONE WITH THE WIND.

Two Choices, One Decision

2010-10-16T21:53:00.003+08:00

Now that PMR is over, I find many of my students are like yachts sailing without anchor, but being tossed in the vast oceans of confusion. Cant really blame them as they are still young to be able to see further. Surrounded by misconceptions, many are like the blinds, groping in the dark; some are like the blinds leading the blinds. Sometimes I wonder, is there any way that these youths be taught to think critically; that to choose is just follow your heart's desire and not obliging to friends.

I recalled after my SRP time, I too was lost, but only for awhile. I knew very well that I am good in Arts, to be specific, Literature... but I wouldn't want to be in that class. Two reasons.

(1) Most of my friends are in the Science Stream
(2) That Literature-to-be class is one of the worst class in the whole form

So, with my result, I chose Science class. And that decision carried me to Form 6, whereby I continued in Science Stream. Not bad.. I found that I could have the best of the two worlds. I am good in both Language and Science/Maths fields. So, I reckon that the best decision to make is to always allow your heart has its say. Your heart knows you very well. Your heart always leads you to the right path.

No doubt, Science students have the wider advantage in terms of courses that they can do and careers that they could venture into, Arts students do not lose out in many ways. Of course, if you could do both, that is the best. The world now is looking for those who can blend in Science and Arts well.

So, follow your heart's desire. Ask those more experienced than you. From there, sit down list down all advantages and disadvantages.... then weigh out the options. When you can see the picture clearly, make a decision and stick to it.

Discipline

2010-10-12T20:35:00.002+08:00

I read one quote today : He who lives without discipline dies without honour (Icelandic Proverb). Indeed it is true and a very wise saying. Discipline is part and parcel of life. Some will need to be more disciplined than the rest, obviously. It is only those sluggish ones who suffer in the long run. Months back, I read in a documentary book about a species sloth. They have short, flat heads; big eyes; a short snout; long legs; and tiny ears. On top of that, they also have stubby tails, usually 6–7 cm long. These mammals are capable of sleeping up to 18 hours a day!! That's absurd. Imagine us spending such long hours in sleeping. What's left are 6 hours. What can be done in that 6 hours?

So, it is indeed a wise to say that one who lives without discipline will die without honour. No one will remember how long we can sleep, rather how much we have contributed one way or another to the society.

The Reminder

2010-09-26T22:10:00.003+08:00

"What is the most difficult thing to do as Christian? It is to bring the first person to Christ."

Echoing what Pastor has said this morning in his sermon. It is indeed true. To bring someone to Christ is the hardest thing to do. Still remember the first person I brought to Christ. Hardly know him as he was very much reserved then. The only time I would pass his room was when I needed to meet my friend in the hostel during my first semester in campus. But then, sometimes my friend was nowhere to be found. Soon, we became friends. When I found out that he has great interest in Bible, I grabbed that opportunity, offering Bible study to him. And lo and behold, soon he followed me to church. And on that morning, I felt Holy Spirit confirming that he has finally accepted Christ into his life.

Soon after that, I began reaching out to even more people by offering Bible study to anyone who would be interested. It was surprising though.... my knowledge about God wasn't deep then. But somehow I was able to share and teach using the Bible. Thanks to all those sherperding lessons and Bible Study sessions I had. Credit goes to all my respected leaders and peers. Truly value your partnership.

Reckon the STORMS

2010-09-20T08:33:00.007+08:00

Been awhile since my last post. Reclining into the comfort of my own desk, my thoughts seem to drift to wanting to pen a thought down. In a way it is a sign of releasing my frustration over the careless mistakes made as I was marking their papers. It was either they were careless or they were just being indifferent. In anyhow this experience is sufficient for the Pen to ink down another post on STORMS.

Someone once said "Life's just a journey; full of bends, full of mysteries, and full of challenges." Hence, life is made of a number of STORMS that we as mortals must and should learn to adjust and to adapt for our own survival.

Struggles - Each of us have our own struggles in life. Be it having to fend for our living in the rat race, or be it having deadlines to meet daily, we cant possibly run away from them. Regardless of age, our struggles are there to mould us into better individuals, having learned the lessons of humility, pride, sense of urgency, sense of belonging and even sense of security.

Trials/Temptations - Life's all about choices and decisions that we have to make. Yes, there is no right or wrong decision. Nonetheless, we know what is right and what is wrong in this world where wrong seems to be right sometimes. Imagine a student facing a major examination paper today. Last night was his favourite football match (live telecast) in the wee hours of morning. He cant resist not to watch his favourite team performing on the field. He made a decision to stay up to watch, at the expense of his paper.

Opportunities - At some points in our lives, God allows some people to come into our lives, granting us some chances to learn and to develop ourselves. There will be some openings for us in terms of advancement in career, securing a top position in office, attending a world class conference, and the list goes on. The question now is "Are we prepared to assume such privileges?"

Recreations - The world we live in today has become a Global Village. Times are hard yet not without some "desserts". When we are STRESSED, we need some DESSERTS to calm our heart and mind. Yes, we need time of refreshing for our tired and fatigue souls after having a day full of deadlines to meet. We need to go back to our homes to be recharged, refreshed and rejuvenated.

Money matters - Nothing is free in this Concrete Jungle. You want to survive, you neeed cash with you. Depending on our purchasing power, we nourish our body with wants and needs. To some people, having a i-phone is a WANT, but to some, it is another NEED.

Solitude - The world societies have taught us that we need friends to keep us company. But, don't we realize that sometimes we need to be alone, time to reflect and respond whether we have achieved our goals in life. We need to come to bargaining with our mind, have we changed for the better or for worse.

Refreshed and Rejuvenated by Water

2010-07-26T20:31:00.003+08:00

My previous blog talked on our lives being refined by fire. You might be wondering what is next in store? After the refining, a tough and challenging process, we need to be refreshed and rejuvenated by Water. Water, many times represents the WORD, which is the bread of our soul.

We need water to replenish our physical body. We need water to survive. Likewise our mind, after being refined by fire, it needs the nourishment from water to live on. At the same time, our heart needs to draw strength from somewhere. So, unless our mind has been refreshed, our heart will still be empty. I mentioned that our value system would be challenged daily. Hence comes the refining process. What about rejuvenation? Rejuvenation deals with our hunger for knowledge and thirst for character.

Knowledge in itself is useless unless we know how to apply it. If we know how to apply it, we are wise and we have good character. People of character not only will go far in life, achieving success after success, they will also make a significant impact on the quality of life. They will shine in times of difficulties. They will not shatter when there is a crisis. Even if they fall, they will rise again.

So, water test is a test of rejuvenation to our spirit, refreshing power to our mind and heart. Joshua 1:8 says "Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful."

Even in Ephesians 6, we are asked to put on the full armour of God, that will protect from head to toe. We need the helmet of salvation, the breastplate of righteousness, buckle of truth, sword of the Spirit, sandals of peace, and the shield of faith. But wait, what about our back? There is no protection on our back.

Here comes the armour bearer. Amos 3:3 "Do two walk together unless they have agreed to do so?". Hence, we cannot go through the water test alone. We need someone, and this person has to be someone who is able to rebuke us and at the same time encourage us. He or she will always intercede for us so that our feet will be geared towards the right direction.

A Refiner's Fire

2010-07-26T08:26:00.010+08:00

Fire is said to be man's good friend but bad enemy. From the beginning of human civilization, fire, without doubt, is one of man's greatest discoveries. It is after all, the master of destruction from which comes renewal and refining of matters. Anything that comes into contact with it, will be burned into ashes of dust. Life, in a way, is seen as a series of fire tests.

Our lives are neither mundane nor routine. At times we are at the peak of our happiness, yet to reach joy. At some other times, we would be groping in the dark valleys, succumbing to our injuries, sorrows, despair, confusion, anxiety, and the list goes on. This is like a journey being tested by fire. It is in such times, we need to see a tiny beacon at the end of the tunnel. If we just continue towards that direction, we will soon discover, it is a great pillar of fire waiting to refine and to renew.

There's a Chinese saying : "Genuine gold will not be destroyed by fiery flame". Scriptures says in Romans 12:1-2, that we are to be renewed in our mind daily, not to conform any longer to the pattern of the world for we are living sacrifices. We need to examine our lives, to really dig out any impurities in us. Do we have a habit that needs to be rebuked and corrected? Any conflicts that need to be acknowledged and dealt with? Anything in our past that needs to be brought to light and renewed and then refined further so that the past has no grip on us anymore? Any unforgiven sins? Any reconciliation yet to be carried out? Are we involved in unhealthy relationship? What about our past glories? Have we been challenging the authorities set up, be it the law of the country, or at comfy home, or at busy workplace or at sheltered school?

We are very much motivated by our sight, aren't we? We wont believe something bad is going to happen until we face it ourselves. Not many of us are risk takers. But have we not realized it that many times we need to go through the Refiner's Fire Test, that is to take the step of faith? Just like Daniel and his 3 friends who went through the fiery furnace without being hurt. They were bold enough to step into it and they came out alive. I believe we don't need that kind of FIERY EXPERIENCE to wake us up.

The moment we gained the right to be children of God, our value system will be challenged. Our principles had been challenged so much that we have no other choice but to submit and obey. Our mind need to be renewed. Our spiritual man need to be rejuvenated, refreshed and refined. Yes, it is tough, almost an impossible task. Just like no individual can get close enough to a pillar of fire without protection, many of us wont dare to face the fiery tests of life without our armour.

Armour? What kind of armour? Our armour is simply the WORD of GOD. After all BIBLE is actually Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth. We need to constantly challenge our selfish life principles with the highest standard of principles found in the BIBLE. Yes, we wont make it to the top, but at least we make sure we would want to pass the test of FIRE - A REFINER's WORK.

The Pen with new Inks to resume writing ...

2010-07-26T08:19:00.004+08:00

As I reclined into the comfort of my couch, I couldn't help but to continue to ink down my thoughts on one of the chapters in our lives as rational beings. My previous blog talked about life's seen as many chapters of a book, JOURNEY. I have decided to continue to ink down more on TESTS, TRIALS and TEMPTATIONS, which will be reflected in the next few posts.

Life's but chapters of a book

2010-07-26T08:07:00.003+08:00

July this year has proven to be one of the toughest months as there were two big events held at school this year. One was Report Card cum Entrepreneur's Day and the other was Speech Day. Now that both these twins have taken a rest, many breathed sigh relieved. In fact, for some, it has been a memorable one as they celebrate God's goodness, achieving their best in their fields of discipline. To those who have done well, well done and keep up the good work!! To the rest who did not yet make it to the hall of fame, don't give up. Continue to work hard, strengthen your weaknesses and maximise your strengths. God's sees every effort we put in. Life's got more to offer. Life's seen as the many unending chapters of a book - JOURNEY.

Somewhere within that book, JOURNEY, lies few chapters that dictate TESTS, TRIALS and TEMPTATIONS; these are seen as both friends and adversaries - for a man's greatest foe is the man himself. What's left of us is to grab a paint brush and paint some colours into our individual books, grab a pen and ink down our memories and grab a pencil perhaps to sketch some comedies.

God's grace

2010-07-18T19:15:00.002+08:00

Still recovering from the aftermath on Wednesday... the scary incident of Initial D, near death experience still very much fresh in my mind. Never in my years of driving that I face such incident before. Fresh as it was, I could still share during my Bible class this morning. All I could say was it was by God's grace and mercy that I am still very much alive. God's grace was upon me.

Over the lunch table, talking and sharing with friends who cared for me so much. If it weren't for these people, I think I would be long gone elsewhere. Arrogance has really cropped into my life so much that I really don't deserve all these cares and concerns. But God's put these people into my life to be part of my life even without me asking. Now what is left of me, I have to rise above these falls. Painful, lonely, stressed, but I've got to pull through the thick and the thin.

God's grace willing, I'm willing to reach out to Him again. Let me just come back to Your gentle arms, LORD. Your grace is more than enough for me to sustain the long suffering.

Survived by God's grace

2010-07-15T22:47:00.005+08:00

When my car skidded and spun 2 full circles, at that point, the only thing flashed through my mind was "What is gonna happen next?" Never happened in my life before that I felt so scared and panic before. The whole car was like almost wanting to bang onto some railing or divider or something else. My hands were stunned on the wheel, my eyes were stunned towards the road, wondering where would I land after this? Would the car be overturned? Would the car banged into something? I couldn't see where was I heading. Now even as I think back, I'm still anxious.

But then, I recall I could still feel the peace inside, that God's hand was somehow still there. Miraculously enough, there was no traffic on both sides of the roads. I could only remember there was one pedestrian, running away from the scene. Finally, the car decided to stop spinning and stopped in the middle of the road, on a road divider. I was safe, but was stunned for awhile.

No cars were there. I praised God that He really protected me and my car. Indeed He is a great God that He has proven Himself faithful time and again, and that His grace is sufficient for me. Soon, there were cars coming, honking at me. I started the engine back and slowly drove away.

Now think back, God has a lesson for me to learn, and for that I'm thankful. Forgive me Lord. I have learned my lesson.

Blogger Buzz: Blogger integrates with Amazon Associates

2010-07-12T21:17:00.000+08:00

Blogger Buzz: Blogger integrates with Amazon Associates

Finally I am back

2010-07-12T20:54:00.002+08:00

Finally, after long silence. Been so bogged down by work loads after work loads. Finally got the chance to recline into my couch to serenade the night, expressing thoughts in writings. As I withdraw into the solitude, I begin to realize that I need to realign my focus on Him again. There are times that I have fallen away from God, been so busy with my own interests.

Woke up this morning singing praises to God in my heart. Wondered why and what would He want me to do for Him. Thought of last Friday devotion that reminded me to keep my SPIRITUAL man healthy and fit. Seriously, I need to lose some "weights" ... there are too much burdens on my shoulders which I hope to share with someone whom could understand.

Reading my pulses of thanksgiving, I've been so far from HIM. Yesterday, through the Pastor, He has reassured me that He is still there for me. Thank you so much Lord!! Forgive me for being so distant from you.

Recess Revolution has really moved me beyond words. Been so long since the school is filled with such positive remarks made. Hearts are lifted. Cares are lessened. Burdens are reduced. I can literally see so many standing on top of the world.

A Commitment

2010-05-16T19:50:00.002+08:00

As we grow and as time passes by, we cant possibly run away from making commitment and keeping it. It is said that it takes more than just a man to make a commitment and to keep it; as making a promise and keeping it. At times, it is painful to keep commitment as it requires dedication, accountability and discipline.

Many things around us today revolve around commitment. A spouse would demand commitment from his or her significant other to remember their wedding anniversary. A parent would demand the children to behave and show academic excellence. A boss would demand the subordinate to put job's priority above other personal merits. A dating couple would demand undivided attention and care from each other. And the list goes on.

So, what is commitment? Is it just a promise? Is it a pledge? To many it may just be another word, but to the Pen, it is a part and parcel of life.

Good memories are worth it ...

2010-04-23T20:19:00.007+08:00

Looking back at some recent photographs taken recently... These are some of the best memories

Just don't know why the feeling of wanting to dig into the laptop and search for worth looking pictures. Recalled that I don't really like to stand in front and smile at the camera... but then again, life can't move on without having good memories. Life's filled with the many colours and facets that once we begin to venture into it to really understand that

It takes pain to learn a lesson
It takes endurance to gain a skill
It takes courage to explore the uncommon ground
It takes time to understand a crisis
It takes patience to learn all the above

What can I say ...

2010-04-22T22:31:00.002+08:00

This week has been real hectic week. Though exams are all over, I still feel there is so much to be done. Is true that many times, we just put God at a corner of our lives. Is true that many times, we seem to spend less time with Him and hence forgotten how He may even speak to us. Life's not a bed of roses. Look at the world around us today. People come and people go. How many of these actually stick with us as close as ever? What can I say ... there are those I really miss.

What can I say ... what goes around comes around. When you used to be a student yourself, having to sit down there and listen to what your teacher has to say to, seems a mountainous task to do. Now that you have matured and come back to encourage your teachers and your fellow juniors. It is such a pleasant testimony.

What can I say ... life's all about choices and decisions. We have choices to make between what to do and where to go. We are not so much bogged down by how many choices we have, just how do we sometimes decide upon something that will be pleased to people around us. We are so worried whether our decision would please our significant others, our close buddies, our peers and the list goes on.

What can I say ... people say is not how much we have in life that matters, it is who we have in life and how we live our lives that matter. It is true we will have friends, and perhaps meetings some "enemies" along the way. But how much are they part of our lives? Are we part of their lives? Only God knows ...

No Greater Love

2010-04-07T22:29:00.002+08:00

There is no greater love than this that He lay down His life as a ransom for many. No greater love. What a theme... what a message.. This year has been a great year. I have seen lives changed, people's lives been touched and inspired, reconciliation between friends, reconciliation between students and teachers, conflicts resolved .. these are just some to name. As I mature, I begin to see things from various lens of perspectives, from different angles, justifying as much as possible and to seek clarification whenever possible. There are times I wonder why I am I doing what I am doing now.

Though many times I want to call it a day, time and again, I just cant quit and then leave. That is so irresponsible. They are just students, youths, growing teenagers looking up to someone to coach them, to love them more, to teach them and most of all, to be their friends. When the thought of leaving come bugging me, my heart will just cry out .. for them. To God be the glory.

I just cant help but to thank God that He has put me here. Doing something that I like and enjoy. Tiring and challenging and many times demanding my every single second in planning. But after all a day's work, I thank God that I still able to withdraw into His rest. Amen!!

Leadership is about ...

2010-03-30T13:04:00.003+08:00

Wanted to write on this earlier but was bogged down by numerous tasks to settle, be it in work or study. Reflecting upon the Camp conducted last month, I cant help but to thank God that despite the many setbacks, last minute works and confusion as well as mis-communication, it was a great camp. Witnessing how many students had risen above the challenges and some even overcame their personal barriers, it somehow sank into me that God is the one behind all these.

One told me leadership is about giving and taking. Another said that leadership is about sharing your life with someone. Still another described leadership is where we come as one to reach out and minister to the less privileged ones. I always believe that the highest degree of leadership is servant leadership. Being the least would make one being the greatest in the Kingdom.

The next challenge is to coach them to live a life that will contribute to the society where wrong seems right. So, Leadership is all about .....

New Resolution?

2010-02-27T18:28:00.002+08:00

New Year New Resolutions... how many of us really sit down and make resolutions? Or the better question is who even bother to keep the resolutions? Hardly any of those that I know of either make or keep resolutions. To some, it is just a gimmick of life, making our own self feel better that at least we "plan" in our lives. To some, it is just another routine in life. No wonder the statistics say only 5% of the world succeed in their lives. These 5% of the champions in their lines, be it business, career or ... well .. God knows what.

Frankly, resolutions are just there to let us focus and then to stay focused. Focus what we want to be, where to go, what to do, how to do and when to get it. Then, stay focused so that we don't be misled elsewhere. Someone once told me in order to succeed in life, we need to create a "niche" (making a name for ourselves). We can be champions in whatever vocations we choose to be involved in. Just Focus and Stay Focused.

What's next ??

2010-02-21T17:58:00.002+08:00

Just this morning we had a very inspiring message from a Minister. He constantly reminds us that we need to get to know Jesus deeper and more intimately. Knowing Him is a great privilege and a great pleasure as He knows our deepest needs and desires. Looking at the world today, at times we tend to forget that we are living under grace. So, what has life got to offer us at times such as these? We read in the papers that weather is changing, people are dying, and organizations are restructuring. Technology is advancing so rapidly that some of us are left behind even before we realize it. At the click on the mouse, we see ourselves standing either on top of the world or at the bottom of ocean floor. What's next to behold but the knowledge of knowing someone who holds our future?

Times are getting tougher, harder and more challenging and more demanding. Yet, how many of us really realize that we are not getting anywhere if we ever give up now. It is during these times that we need people to work together. Teamwork is all it counts for us to continue to advance. Networking, as many would call it, is what we need in order to survive the battle of the fittest. What's next to get us going and not giving up? As someone once said, "I considered all these nothing compared to knowing Him who is beyond everything".

Something Different

2010-02-21T16:23:00.002+08:00

It's now almost the end of February 2010. Mind you, time really flies! The year has been really good one way or another to me generally. Started my post degree last year was a good beginning. Towards the end, she has entered my life. That is the bonus at the end of the year. Celebrating CNY this year has thus been a bit different compared to previous years as I now have more places to visit. It is tiring to travel almost everyday, meeting new faces ... but then again, this is something different.

Looking at my job scope, I can hardly breathe amidst the loads and piles of work. If ever I want to call it a day, I think it will be now. But then again, I recall "Winners never quit, quitters never win". I am thankful that I have found much joy in pursuing in what I believe in - investing my life into others. No doubt, at times it is frustrating to see how they treat you after so much blood, time, effort and tears you've poured out. Many don't seem to appreciate what you've done. To them, this is just part and parcel of life. But to me, I see them as friends who need direction to charter so that they can go further.

To those who have encouraged me, yes .. you may not know it, but you do encourage me a lot. Just a pat on the shoulder, a warm friendly hug when you least expect it, a word of "thank you" and a smile ... all these actually brightens my day. If you would ask me is there any reason for me to continue to coach, to teach, to lead, to serve, to oversee ... I'd say "Yes. It's for them and for the Lord that I will commit myself in doing as long as my service is needed"

Without expecting rewards? Well ... that is another issue all together. Looking at life differently sometimes will enable you to see rainbows in storms. That is being different, that is being significant. Isn't that something different?

One Too Much or One Too Little

2010-02-21T16:11:00.002+08:00

Everywhere we go nowadays, we'd always see the phrase "One .... " It's the talk of the town, that we are One in the Family. Being united is what people have been talking and emphasizing a lot these days. To some, it means more than just being accepted into the society. To some, they just can't be bothered. So, in the end, what would we expect to get out of it?

The Pen always believes that the better phrase is always Unity in Diversity. Being One (as a family, a nation, a community, a society) does not mean just united physically. We wont reach true unity unless we are truly united in our mind first. When we are united in our mind, we speak the same language, cast the same vision and hence achieve the same progress. So, the question remains is ... are we One Too Much or One Too Little ? Think about it.

The Blessings of Being the First

2010-02-01T10:46:00.004+08:00

Being the first has its many privileges, as some might say. But definitely it comes with many duties, chores and responsibilities. Sometimes, we can't help but to say being the first makes us more stressful than the rest. In another sense, each of us are first in our lives! Think of it this way, we came into this world, with a purpose. And for that very reason, we are the first to make an impact to the world. I recalled in my high school days, I never wanted to hold any top positions in the school. I would always chose to be the number two in any committee line-ups. And you know what, there were many occasions that my authority as Number Two over-ruled the Number One.

Soon, I began to understand that each of us are born to bring an impact in the community that we live in. Some would obviously even carry their charisma wherever they go. One thing that is for sure, being the first would always have its better and more blessings than any other things.

Life's Like That

2010-01-15T21:14:00.002+08:00

Some people view life as a journey; some an adventure. In anyhow, life is but a present to be treasured and celebrated as it is a PRECIOUS. It is a journey that is full of various terrains to cover, forked roads and bushes waiting for one to explore. As we begin our journey, we must realize that we are the painter of our lives.

We can paint our lives with any colours we want: red for the amount of excitement we have, yellow for the number of friends that we made, blue for the memories we leave behind, black for all those secrets, green for the recreations that we indulge in, and the list goes on ...

At times, I wonder how many of us would dare to make a difference in our lives? How many of us would dare to venture into something that not many would do? The essence of life is "To enjoy one's youths, but be on guard that we would be judged by our conscience ultimately" As the saying goes, "Life's like that" ... carpe diem

Time of Reflection

2009-12-23T09:58:00.002+08:00

The year has almost come to an end, closing its blinds and opening its new horizons. As one looked back, much have happened, intentionally or unintentionally, good or bad. There were happy times, sad times; time where we all came together to build one another up, to comfort instead of condemning, to forget and forgive ...

As Nehemiah took 52 days to complete rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, The Pen resolved to move on despite the challenges ahead, thanking God for the friends that have stood by him all these while. These are the times true friendship blossoms, true friends become brothers and sisters at arms. One of the many up moments, was at the D-Camp that everyone was so united as one family, trashing things out, rebuilding the wall of trust and comforting those in need.

Few more days and we are going to celebrate the birth of the Anointed One, Emanuel. It's also time to rekindle our relationship ties, to re-establish our friendship bonds, and to re-connect with one another. Reflect, recreate and relax to a wonderful blessed joyous occasion. Feliz Navidad !! Carpe Diem !! Merry Christmas !!

It's that time again

2009-12-22T20:35:00.002+08:00

It's that time of the year again. The spirit of Christmas is here again. But do we realize the true meaning of the festive season? What is Christmas all about in the first place? Is it all about holiday? Or is it all about presents? Or is it about Santa? How about gathering?

As I revisit and recollect the memory, little did I realize that Christmas is all about Jesus, the best gift that we could have received. We are the reason that Christmas is Christmas. The essence of Christmas is not just coming to know Him, not just having fellowship to celebrate His birthday, not just telling the world how much He meant to us, but it is all about Him. It's all about His presence in our heart, mind and soul. It's all about acknowledging that He loved us so much that He came sacrificed His life on the cross for us.

It's such joyous occasion to reconcile with one another. It's such joy to have friends and fellowship. People who come into our lives to bless us in one way or another. Thank you all my dear friends! Thank you Lord! Merry Christmas !!

Being United means

2009-11-08T20:36:00.002+08:00

While preparing for the sharing for the EOTC today, my mind can't stop thinking on unity. I realized that God is emphasizing the right foundation of unity that I would need to address the audience. Whatever that I prepared, I managed to share and speak from experience as well. God really moved all of us to really think on it deeper from different angles. Some coaches also talked on it. The State Commissioner also talked on it. Even our state theme is on unity. Reflecting back, I actually written an article on the Tower of Babel some time ago. Now, that same message being used to encourage BB Companies to come as one.

Now, being UNITED also means being

Understanding
Needs and roles of
Individuals
To
Excel
Definitely

True Love

2009-10-11T21:40:00.001+08:00

True love? What is love in the first place? Isn't it just a feeling or expression? Some people say true love is blind... you only see the person's strengths, not the weaknesses. Some people say true love is sacrificial. To some extent, it is true... that is what parents do - loving their children with everything that they have.

Love is more than just a feeling alone.. that is a fact that all married couple, especially those with children will tell you. It is an expression of commitment. It is when two families, from different backgrounds and personalities get together. Two worlds apart coming together, forming new family, bonding to even a closer intimacy.

Love is being sacrificial to another person whom you call significant other. Sharing and devoting yourself totally to him or her in totality, providing for each other, supporting each other, trashing out differences, making every effort, in sickness or in health, in poverty or riches, a meaning life that is in response to God's love. We love because He first loved us. So, when we devote ourselves to our significant others, we are responding to God's commitment to us through the church.

The Bible

2009-10-06T06:59:00.002+08:00

What is a Bible? Many would just answer, "It is just a book read by the Christians. Some non-Christians also read it out of curiosity. Some would just want to discover the truth behind Christianity or just to find out who is the God behind the Bible"

Bible is the best seller of the world. It has been translated to about 3200 languages worldwide!! Now isn't that amazing?!

Well... Bible is simply Basic Information Before Leaving Earth. We all know that we are just temporary citizens on earth and that we have an eternal home in heaven. So, we are to read the Basic Information Before Leaving Earth to our eternal home. Just like we would find out more about a place where we are going to visit : the culture, the weather, the people, the laws, we need to find out more about heaven and paradise, about God, about our Creator before we go up to meet him face to face.

A disciple? A worker? A Christian?

2009-10-06T06:49:00.003+08:00

Last Sunday was one of the best sermons that I've heard. The speaker spoke on some basic distinctions that make us Christians. I recalled once there was a pastor raised a thought-provoking question to his congregation. He asked,"Who among you here are disciples of Christ?". No one raised his/her hands. He smiled as if he had expected this.

"Who then are the workers of Christ?" A few hands went up, and these are the full time workers and some leaders of the church.

"Let me ask another question. Who are Christians?" This time round, all church members raised their hands. He was relieved and said, "When I asked who are the disciples and the workers of Christ, none of you dared to raised your hand. Don't you all realize that all these three questions mean the same?"

Indeed, when we say we are the children of God, we are also saying we are the disciples of Christ. We are His workers. So a Christian is also a disciple.

FOCUS

2009-09-21T10:09:00.005+08:00

In our lives, in order that we have continuous learning, we need to have FOCUS. These are the elements that will help to push us to move out of our comfort zone. Time and tide waits for no man, they say ... and I say even the sun will grow dark and gray at the times we least thought of.

Friends - one of the most important priorities that we all have as human beings. Maslow listed this as our security needs. Let's face the fact : as normal human beings, we need to feel belong to certain social groups or circle of friends. We need to build our self esteem among our acquaintances even. Out of the numerous strangers and acquaintances we have made, there will be those who will stick closer than a brother in times of adversary.

Opportunities - the most rarest yet the most anticipated element is perhaps opportunity. The most used keyword to describe the competitiveness of the 21st century is NETWORKING. With the proper networking setup, we will be somebody in our society. Networking here refers to people that come into our lives to help us to succeed.. to some these are the angels who will help earn their 1st millions!! One golden principle : never underestimate the people around us for blessings always come in the form that we least expect of.

Credibility - as we witness the advancement of human technology, we also witness how people misuse or even abuse the power and authority given to them. These are the people who belong to White Collar circle. As such, we need to build our credibility among our circle of contacts, more so if we are in the professional field. It is difficult to stand up for what is right, but it is a fact that we need to make our voice heard in the places where wrong seems right.

Unity - the power of unity lies in the collective effort of everyone involved, yet not many of us realise this. Weaker animals know that if they stand together, they could even fight off a roaring lion!! It takes time to build trust or even to earn the trust and respect of one another. However, once we have it, it becomes part of us. United we stand, divided we fall. Being united is one way to manipulate crises into opportunities.

Stability - a house can only be strong if the foundations are solid and stable. This is similar to our lives. Our foundations of beliefs, value system, principles of life and worldview must be strong and stable. We cannot afford to let our mind be bombarded with trashes, unrelated info, unidentified or unfiltered resources. The world is progressing in technology but are we really safe ? What an irony.. we are advanced in the physical infra-structure but not advanced in our moral. So, unless we have an ANCHOR in our lives, our lives will be tossed by the waves of the world.

To recap, we need Friends, Opportunities, Credibility, Unity and Stability.

Beggar's Chicken

2009-09-20T23:39:00.003+08:00

When my colleague asked my to join her to eat the special dish, I thought there is such dish in Malaysia? And the answer is yes!! The only problem is distance.. it is about 1.5 hours drive from Kuala Lumpur. And the roads leading there can be misleading sometimes. But, fortunately we found our way there.. in fact, we were the earliest to reach there.

Dinner serving time was 6pm, but we arrived there 5.35pm. Generally, it was a well thought dinner fellowship. For the first time, she joined me and my other colleagues. Spending three hours there was really worth it and we were actually the last crowd to leave.

For those who want to try the special dish, follow this link http://beggar-chicken.spaces.live.com/

ANTS ... Lifelong Learning

2009-09-13T20:58:00.006+08:00

Was just browsing through some photos, especially from the recent ANTS. Really miss my squad members and some of the Officers. It seemed like the experience is still very much fresh in the mind. The camp was no doubt one of the best that I ever organised before. Not so much on the activities but more on the coaching and learning experience that we each had. Initially all that we could think of was to have it intra-state, but it turned out to be inter-state event. Fortunate enough that we had enough coaches and observers for a small group of learners.

Now that they are back to their individual companies to serve and contribute, we as Coaches could only hope that they will be of better help to the Companies and will continue to grow and mature as they learn to be more effective leaders. After all ANTS not just an acroynm for
Advanced NCO Training School, it also means Active NCOs To Strive for the better running of BB Coy!!

Finally I have found you

2009-09-12T23:00:00.002+08:00

Well.. life's sure has all its surprises and full of His blessings. I would say this is the best gift ever that God has given. Not that all other gifts are not the best.. but this is definitely one of the best. After waited for years, even some hiccups here and there, but I'm finally glad that she is the one. Though still at the foundation, working at it one by one, bit by bit, I believe God has it all planned in His best time. All we need to do is to wait and see. What is next is to continue to give thanks and pray. Really looking forward for that great day ahead ..

Are we just shadows ?

2009-08-24T00:10:00.007+08:00

How many times have you heard the saying that "You're just like your ..... "? People tend to compare us with our parents, siblings, friends, relatives etc. Guess that is the way the society value our competitiveness. Many times, we would feel pressured so much that we actually under performed and later crying over split milk. So how do we overcome this? God knows how...
The only way is to live out of the shadow .. Soar High And Dive Over Waves ..

Since we cannot escape from it, we just Soar High. When we are Soaring High, we are heading towards our goals, our focus and our aims, not set by others. We are just elevating ourselves from the pressure. Be an eagle that sill soar across the dark clouds of expectations and unreasonable demands.

When there are times Soaring High does not solve the problem, then we just Dive Over Waves. It is futile to go against the Waves of comment, feedback and criticisms; we just Dive Over Waves.

Be a dolphin that will Dive Over Waves across the oceans of humility. Life's a humble beginning in anyhow we want to see it and experience it.

Thus, Soar High And Dive Over Waves .. reckon? ^+^

Rain or Shine

2009-08-22T21:37:00.004+08:00

Sometimes we do hear whether it is rain or shine, what must be done, must be done. At times, I would just add in the complementary phrase "Be it crooked or straight, by hook or by crook" .. How many times that we tend to procrastinate not to finish our given task on time regardless of how important or unimportant it is. All it needs is just we do our part to finish the task and move on.

Today was the day where my youths went out to support a charity bazaar. Our stall was doing free health check, specifically blood pressure, sugar level, BMI and cholesterol level. It turned out that all of us were enjoying ourselves apart from just doing community service. It rained though but we were not affected as our stall was in the sheltered area.

On the other hand, there were some people who just procrastinate. Things that were supposed to be done, not only left undone, it went unnoticed. I asked my students to clear their desks before leaving for a 1-week break, a few just went off without doing their given task. What was said in the classroom went on deaf ear. Deaf ear meant trouble, asking for books to be sent to recycling centre. Worse still, I found one "white elephant" in the mess left behind.

The Heart vs The Mind

2009-08-19T21:44:00.003+08:00

Today's devotion from the Our Daily Bread talks on the heart. Jesus talked about it is not what goes in man's mouth that make him unclean, but it is what comes out of the man's mouth. A well said phrase : every time our mouth speaks, our mind parades.

Coming to think of it, sometimes we tend to get carried away by what we want to do, what to say, and the list goes on. Thus, the words went flare and emotions went berseck. Why all these are happening, one would asked. How should it be dealt with? To face them or to run away or to soar higher? At times, the thought of giving up comes along, but then every time that thought comes along, the heart sends out the signal "What about those who really sincerely wouldn't want anyone to leave?"

Sometimes I wonder

2009-07-27T22:02:00.002+08:00

Sometimes I wonder why the society tends to look at achievement by how many strings of A's one gets. Sometimes I wonder why some people can afford to live in a big mansion yet couldn't carry themselves well in the public. Life's unfairness yet just. It's not how long we live our lives but how we decorate the content of our lives. Life's liken to a book of white pages. We will write and draw and even sketch the different fragments of our lives.

When we're happy, pleased and delighted, we will draw colourful pictures. We will pay attention to the minute details, that even the border of the pages will be decorated and trimmed.

When we're calm, relaxed and reserved, we will write words of encouragement to ourselves. Whatever that comes to the mind will be translated intop words by hands, energized by the core of our heart.

When we're down, upset and challenged, we tend to sketch only part of the facets. We don't even bother to make a picture out of the sketches. After all, not many strangers will come and appreciate the pictures anyway. So, what's life for?

One fact remains : tough people last through thick and thin of the jungles of life.

Storms in life

2009-07-20T09:03:00.003+08:00

Remember the story where Jesus walked on water and later commanded Peter to come to Him on water? Peter actually walked on water towards Jesus until storm came and he started to sink. In our lives, we are bound to have Struggles in our daily walk that sometimes violate our principles, Troubles in our work that sometimes we hardly have space to breathe, Obstacles that demand us to face them and not turn away, Relationships that are complicated to be comprehended, Money matters that seeks our immediate attention. Jesus says, "Take heart, for I have overcome the world. Peace, I leave with you."

When we have Struggles with ourselves pertaining our principles, we need to Seek into God's Word to gain wisdom just as how Solomon asked for when he was given the liberty to choose

When we have Troubles and trials of all kinds in our work, study, family, ministry whatsoever, we need to Trust in God's Word that He will still be by our side just as the psalmist says in Psalm 23, "Even I walk through the shadow, I shall fear no evil for you are with me."

When we have Obstacles in handling tasks, no matter how big or tough the obstacles are, all we need to do is to Open our eyes and see God bigger than all these and we will have personal breakthrough. God says "My grace is sufficient for you." The end of Man is always the beginning of God.

When we have Relationships conflicts due to misunderstanding or communication barrier, forgiveness is the key to victory. All we need to do is to Rest and be still and let God deals with it. God says be still and know that He is God and that He will rest our case. Jesus says forgive up to seventy times seven and don't let the sun go down while we are in anger. To err is human but to forgive is divine.

When we have Money matters that might burn a hole in our pocket, making our wallet thinner and thinner, remember God is our Provider. All we need to do is to Meditate on God's promises and claim them. His provision always comes in times we least expect them. All we need to do is Ask, Seek and Knock.

The only way to fight raging STORM in our lives is to call upon a greater STORM. All Jesus asks is for us to continue to fix our eyes upon Him and we will see all STORM around us began to subside, when the Lord of STORM comes.

Is it worth it?

2009-07-17T21:47:00.003+08:00

Today I examined my car again. The scratch is so deep and so long and has been there for almost 1 month now. And what saddens me is the culprit still at large and yet to be apprehended. I couldn't help but to wonder is it really worth my time to continue to work in such an environment? This year is really a happening year ; so much duties and responsibilities, be it career, be it ministry, be it personal breakthrough. Someone told me that and has reminded again that we need to count blessings and name them one by one. The real truth is... it hardly sinks into the deep core of my heart.

Well, to trash all things out, the only worthwhile thing that keeps me going on is perhaps the better students who sincerely wanting to learn and develop themselves. I try hard to look for these students in each class that I teach. Indeed, I find not one, but a few of them. But then again, spending my time and effort into it, is another issue alltogether. Entering my own class, seems the best of all.. this is really a blessing among all blessing. Not because of the class is small, but because the new students there are better behaved than the rest... generally saying, they are good bunch of people. Almost too good to be true. No doubt, students will be students, teenagers will be teenagers. Naughty and playful. Yet, many of them are teachable. How I wish if all of them are teachable.

As for the other classes, at times I do drag my feet into them. How I wish, I don't have to stay in there longer than even 5 minutes!! But God seems to have the remedy - Wednesday and Friday seem to be the days that my feet will be light. I would wait eagerly when will the time to enter my class, my fortress. Some times though, I wish they will be better behaved. Bible says if the house that we visit welcomes us, then let us bless the occupants the peace that our feet bring. So, I pray every time I enter my class, I will remember to leave my peace and blessing in it. And, that's not the end. I pray every one who enters my class, they too will be blessed.

LIFE as it is ...

2009-07-12T16:08:00.003+08:00

Today's sermon dwells on serving and ministry, part of a series of sermons with the theme Nehemiah 52-Plan. Once again, we are serving God not men. Therefore, we should not feel discouraged or disheartened when our people do not respond well or our ministry doesn't seem to bear fruit. After all, we are bearing fruits that are supposed to last forever. Remember Christ mentions, for where your heart is, there is your treasure as well?

So, Lord Is For Everyone. Simply put, the Lord Is For Every human on earth. So, serve Him with all your heart, soul and might. One day in the house of the Lord is better than a thousand days on earth. When we serve the Lord, we are actually introducing Him to the people around us. Lord grant us strength and grace.

Esau vs Jacob

2009-07-11T22:38:00.004+08:00

Have you heard the story of Esau and Jacob? I personally have heard the story many times, but today's message impressed me the most. Ps Dr Tan Hann Tzuu asked the question, "Given the choice, what type of friend do you want? Jacob or Esau?" We all know Jacob is a deceiver, so I don't think I want him as my friend. Esau, on the other hand, though he might be rowdy, at least he won't lie or cheat the way Jacob cheated Esau's birthright.

If we read the passage further and think deeper, it seems that Esau was criticised more than Jacob. Why? Gen 27:34 - Then Jacob gave Esau some bread and lentil stew. He ate and drank, and then got up and left. So Esau despised his birthright. Esau despised his birthright just for a bowl of soup. All he ever thought of was eat and drink. Is life just for eat and drink and play? I too believe that God has a higher calling for us.

Look into our lives. Sometimes, we too despise our birthrights. How many of us know that we are the children of the Lord Most High. We claimed we are from Him, but we don't act like one. Isn't that a despise to Him? We are supposed to be the salt and light of the world, but are we acting like light and salt? Sometimes we are not. Or rather most of the times, we are not.

Jacob knew how to claim his blessings from God, his Heavenly Father. Just like the parable of the prodigal son. Towards the end, the Bible says that the father told the elder son, that all he has is him. All that God, our heavenly Father, has, all that belongs to us too. So, do we want to despise our birthright for a "lentil soup"?

A brick

2009-07-10T20:34:00.005+08:00

I received an email from my ex-principal today; about a brick. The story goes like this :

A young executive was travelling down a busy neighbourhood in his new Jaguar. He was watching out for kids darting out of nowhere between parked cars and slowed down when he thought he saw something. As his car passed by, no children appeared. Instead, a brick flew and smashed the Jag's side door. He slammed the brakes and reversed the Jaguar to the spot where the brick flew.

The angry driver jumped out of the car, grabbed the kid and pushed him against a parked car. He shouted, "What was that all about?! Who are you?! Just what do you think on earth you're doing?!"

The young boy was apologetic, "I'm sorry mister... please sir. I don't know what to do..." He pleaded,"I threw the brick because no one would stop..." With tears running down his cheek, he pointed to a spot just around a parked car. "It's my brother. He fell from his wheelchair and I can't lift him up."

Now sobbing, the boy asked the stunned executive, "Please mister. Would you please help me to get him back onto the wheelchair? He's hurt and he's too heavy for me." Moved beyond words, the young executive hurriedly lift the handicapped boy onto the his wheelchair, then took out a handkerchief and dabbed at the fresh scrapes and cuts. A quick look later told him that everything would be okay. "Thank you, mister. May God bless you". Too shock for words, the executive just watched the young boy pushed his wheelchair-bound brother down the sidewalk towards their home.

It was a long walk back to the Jaguar. The damage was noticeable, but the driver never bothered to repair the dented side door. "Let this dent be a reminder to me that I shall never go through life so fast that someone has to throw a brick at me to get my attention"

God whispers at our souls and speaks to our hearts. But many times, we are too busy to notice that. This week, the chapel sermon, the devotion, even Bible study and casual chat with friends, all seemed to flow along the tag "God is whispering. Are you listening?"

So, to me a brick is a reminder .. that God is looking into our hearts. How much are we willing to spend with Him? How much are we willing to share with Him?

New Journey

2009-07-08T22:30:00.002+08:00

Well, it's been two days since I started my post-graduate degree at UPM. Finally, after so many years of waiting, God has sent an angel to bless me. Indeed, the time has come rightfully for me to pursue my Masters in field that will allow me to not only go far in my career advancement, but also to extend my ministry arm. When he encouraged me to go for it, I couldn't do much but to just thank him and prayed a prayer of thanks to the Lord. I want to proclaim that God is the Lord who Provides. He is always there to answer our calls in distress, providing us with all our needs, even at times that we didn't notice of Him.

The only decision left for the coming week is how many credits should I register? Not even one week of lectures, there are two assignments on my desk ready to be read and handed in.

Finally .. it's started

2009-07-06T22:25:00.002+08:00

Finally, the day that I've been waiting has arrived! The only thing getting in my way are the rules and procedures. If given a choice, I would have wished today had happened 3 years back. Maybe if it had started then, I would not have to tolerate high boiling blood every day. I would have ended in university or college, doing research and lecturing instead of 'babysitting' some bunch of robots. The more I want to move forward, the more I would be held back.

No doubt this job is very fulfilling though not rewarding, interesting though not enjoyable. Many times, I wanted to leave. But many times He said "My grace is sufficient for you. Think of those who sincerely wanting to learn". Alas... my heart would feel so much for them. After all, even there is one soul left to listen to my lecture, it is still blessing. If he was to thank me after my lesson, that in itself is a double blessing. All I could now say is carpe diem...

Life ... a crisis or a marathon

2009-07-04T21:59:00.005+08:00

It's been a long time since my last blog. Been tied down with errands, assignments, workload all seem neverending and ever piling. Even the school is facing crisis after crisis. Little did I realize that God has a plan and a purpose in all that happens around us. The word crisis in Chinese can be viewed as danger or opportunity. Likewise, life is a crisis. If we choose to see it as danger then it is the greatest danger as we don't know what the future holds. The world around us has been so uncertain that things are becoming routines to many of us.

Today is the day that God has spoken. It reads in Jeremiah 1:5 "Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you, before you were born, I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations." We are all chosen by God and set apart by Him. How would we respond? It's a crisis; but it's definitely not danger! It is not even an apportunity, it's grace! A grace given in times we don't deserve it, when we are still filthy rags!

My friend today shared his experience about running a half marathon, 21-km race. When we asked what was his motivation, he answered "The ending line is my motivation. I just wanted to see how much I can go." That is exactly what the Bible talks about. Apostle Paul said, "I have finished the race, I have fought a good fight and I have kept the faith." Life is indeed a marathon race. We did not choose to be in it, but out of God's grace, we are in it. Are we alone in the race? No, He is there running with us, so long as we allow Him to.

Time Flies 2

2009-06-14T08:20:00.002+08:00

Time and tides wait for no man. A phrase that I've heard many times and yet it seems so fresh and sticking in my mind. It has now entered the second half of the year, time for more challenging happenings : Entreprenuer's-cum-Report Card Day, Speech Day, PMR Trial, SPM Trial, Final Exams, PMR and SPM, year-end camps. Wow!! Alas, time to reflect what have we learned throughout the first and second quarters of 2009. Time to plan and look ahead of the third and fourth quarters of 2009.

Time Is Making Exits;
Time Is Moulding Experience;
Technically I Must Endure

That's TIME for me ^^

Endure

2009-06-07T21:07:00.002+08:00

Endurance seems to be the key word for the next five days. It gonna be tough, challenging but at the same time, exciting and fun. That's what I have been hoping all these while. This is the real happening year of my ministry. I do hope that I will have breakthrough in my ministry, life and career.

The next camp is gonna be held at Pasir Panjang. I got to know the theme for the camp is ENDURE .. it actually stands for something which I couldn't recall for now. Well.. wish me luck..

Holiday yet no holiday ...

2009-06-02T21:45:00.002+08:00

It's holiday time and guess what? I have to attend to three camps. One of which I had to pay. Just came back from one camp.. two more days .. off to another camp. The last one will be next week. This year is really a happening year for me. Made many new friends, new and interesting students. Some of which really fascinate me and a few really made me want to continue to teach there.. Though it is really tiring, challenging and sometimes find it almost unbearable, the fact that these few are really those who show their sincere appreciation... and this has really touched me to continue to move on. Looking at them really gives me the energy to persevere because I know there is a purpose for me to be put there. Sometimes I only hope there are those who will want to say they have learned and they are inspired to move on.. as Christ has touched their lives.

Deep in my heart, a call seems so gentle persuading me to press on and to push on for He is there to strengthen and His grace is sufficient for me.

Time Flies ...

2009-05-21T22:22:00.005+08:00

Well... at the blink of an eye, it is Thursday. Even the Forms 1-3 have started their exams today. It simply means holiday is just around the corner. And it also means I may have to spend my holiday working .. just that I get to work without being disturbed. Looking back, I have now getting laid back .. holiday mood. Can't wait for my papers to start. Then I can start to mark and compute the marks. Alas... deep inside, I'm very worried that many would not make it.

What could be done had already been done. What is left now is to let them experience it. My only hope is that at least some will score at least some Bs... Alas, it is beyond my control. Sometimes I think, am I a good teacher? If I am good, are they good students? Is like chicken and egg situation.

One more .. Just one more

2009-05-20T22:08:00.006+08:00

Wow!! I just realized my latest blog is exactly one week after my previous blog! Is this some kind of magic? I can't help but to pen down another. Really don't want to miss this chance of a lifetime. As the saying says, "Strike while the iron is hot" .. and my giant mind has begun to pour in words after words. So, here is goes ...

Exam is finally here to say its prayer

Xtra attention is required of us

Adrenaline seems to pump faster than ever

Memory seems to be the master over self

We are all chasing after time

Every tiny little minute matters

Every droplet of blood and sweat means a mountain

Knowing that time is our arch-nemesis

So, we had better buck up or be flung out

Time is our best discipline teacher now

Readily assures that he will let us rest on one condition

Every formula, points must be brought to memory

So we would have them at our fingertips in the exam hall

Silently we are hoping that we would be extra careful

Even a small tiny mistake can cost high and wild

Do we even dare to slumber this hours

We all have stress.. one way or another. But you all are going to make it! Carpe diem ^^

It's EXAM !!

2009-05-20T21:54:00.006+08:00

The word EXAM either sends everyone up to ceiling or down the deep sea. It is the word that will render one helpless, capable of making one feels stressed from the inside out, an arch-nemesis of insomnia, maybe the best friend of worry.

Well, in anyhow, it is one element that's EXtra Attention Matter that seeks your attention. It is the time that we all know how much we really put our efforts in. It is the time that we evaluate ourselves, how much we have progressed so far.

Well.. it is either Exam = EXtra Attention Matters or Exam = EXcellent Aptitude Mastery ..

After all STRESSED = DESSERTS .. reckon this anyone ? ^^

CIA? What CIA?

2009-05-13T06:59:00.002+08:00

I'm pretty sure most of us, if not all, know what CIA means. You may asked, "Why need CIA?" I'm talking about another type of CIA. A trainer told the class, during our last night's session, that if we want to achieve success in our lives, we definitely need to have Character, Integrity and Attitude.

Character determines how we look at life. We make decisions based on what we believe (our belief system) and what we think (our value system). We also shape our personality basing on our character.

Integrity is something that you do right even when no one is watching you. Even then, God is always watching us from above. We know what is right and wrong. At times, we are so tempted to do the wrong just out curiousity or for the fun of it. Well, for every action, there is a consequence and a price a pay. The price may be hefty, like it or not.

Attitude is all about our behaviour. It is said our attitude determines our altitude in life. The corporate world emphasizes on the importance of attitude. HR people would tell you that if one lacks knowledge and skill, he can learn about it himself or go for skill training. But if one lacks attitude, he can go nowhere, as attitude cannot be taught; either you have it or don't.

Can you eat an elephant?

2009-05-13T06:54:00.002+08:00

The trainer cum lecturer asked, "Can you eat an elephant?" Obvious answer was "No!!"... Smiling and laughing, he added, "Well, why can't? All you need to do is to kill the elephant. Next, cut it into smaller pieces and refrigerate them. When you need to eat, just take out the amount the you want and cook. You may end up eating elephant burger for one whole year!!"

Coming to think of it, well, it is true. Our mind, most of the time, could only think logically. We need to have paradigm shift; thinking out of the box. No wonder the Scriptis ure says there is nothing that is impossible. Anyone reckons this? ^^

New Wine into New Wineskin

2009-05-09T13:49:00.002+08:00

Much had happened throughout this week. I wonder how I managed to get through this period. And I wonder why this year seem to be a hectic year. Time really flies fast - in the blink of an eye, it was Friday (and time to pass up record book) and lo and behold now it is Saturday. As I observed silently behind every corner, I started to realize that soon some of us will face "extinction".

The world around us has evolved so fast that some of us just can't catch up. It is exactly how it is as the Scripture has said, "Never put new wineskin into old wineskin". Looking into the batch youngsters we have now, it kind of sends a signal that we need fresh new ideas to come up with new ways to reach out to them. Some of us are still using old methods to talk to them, while they are talking to us in their "new language". The world has lost its human touch.

We need new wine. We need new wineskins. The issue here is "where can we get the new wine and new wineskin"? -- carpe diem

Prayer Part 1

2009-05-03T17:04:00.003+08:00

This week's message seems to touch on prayer. Today's sermon was one of the these heard so far about the misunderstandings about prayer

Myth #1 - The more you pray, the more powerful you would have
Response - The Bible mentions nothing about how much we should pray. However, Paul in Philippians did mention that we are to pray to God always, giving thanks to God in all circumstances. So how much should we pray? The answer lies in are we praying in the will of God?

Myth #2 - Praying in a crowd is more powerful
Response - Jesus said in Matthew 18 that for where two or three gather in His name, there He will be them. So, the key point here is unity in the mind. It is not the number of people praying that matters the most. What matters the most is are we are all praying in unity?

I forgot myth #3. If I manage to recall, I will update here. In all, prayer is simply to talk to God what you feel and think. And the same time, it is being still, enjoying the fellowship with God.

Be Still

2009-05-02T08:09:00.005+08:00

It was Labour's Day and there was my holiday offshore. It was one of the very few days that I got to work uninterrupted, away from distraction whatsoever. Started off the day calmly until persuaded by the inner voice. "Hey, can't you ever take a rest?" Alas, how can rest be if there are still pending tasks? Hence, off I went to school, just that now I didn't go in early hours as usual. And there before stood a near-empty school premises.

Half day went past and I did manage to finish, not all, but some works, getting prepared for the meeting on Monday. Left school to reki the meeting venue. Thanks be to God, God knows how I ended up right in front of the hotel. Well, I was more than just satisfied. I'd done two main tasks today.

But wait, there was one more! And that was the usual work at home. It was all in a day's work. And God seems to be reminding me to be seriously still and know that He is God. The same thing I told someone that he is to be still before God. In the course of telling, I myself learned a new meaning in being still. Being still is simply being Silent Till It Lifts Loads, enjoying Solidarity Till It Livens Life, Surrendering Totally In Lord's Love - being STILL is Simply Tuning Into Lord's Light.

The Tough Gets Going

2009-04-26T21:44:00.002+08:00

In a race, all runs but only one gets the prize. Though there are three prizes given, but in reality only one gets the title champion. But, to really think it deeply, aren't we all champions? Each and every one of us are champion. We are, in fact, running a great race in our lifetime.

The race that we are running is indeed the toughest race. Thus, only the tough will get through it. My next question is : Are we tough enough to even walk through the race? There is a saying "When the going gets tough, the tough gets going" Heb 12:2 says we are to fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith. Thus, we must be tough to overcome the toughness of life.

Only the tough will get going in tough times. Let's be tough for Christ's sake.

A Word Well Said

2009-04-23T16:50:00.002+08:00

It is one of the best messages that I've heard today. No doubt that I know that it is a fact of life. Many times, I put Him aside as I'd be busy with my own chores. When I need Him, I will call Him. It happens many, way too many times. But I'm glad that He has reminded me again that He will always be there. It is true that we can walk on stormy waters. My question is how long can we walk there? When waves come, are we able to withstand the waves? Or are we going to sink?

To pray is to involve Him in everything that we do or say. He has all the resources in the world to help us. He won't give us stone when we ask for bread. He won't give us snake if we ask for fish. No wonder The Teacher says it is meaningless to chase after the wind, and that the only worthwhile thing in the world is to know Him, to serve Him and to love Him. That is the ultimate purpose of live. Have a purpose-driven life.

A Friend in Need

2009-04-19T20:55:00.004+08:00

Two are better than one. If one falls down, the other can help him up. If one feels cold, two can keep warm. If one feels down or sad, the other can cheer him up. If one is being tempted, the other can remind and two can keep watch on one another.

That was the message sent forth today at the church. As someone who values much on friendship, I really listen attentively, paying much attention to the examples mentioned. In today's world, we all need friends, like it or not. If the person is friendless, either he has some personalities problem or he is simply abnormal. No one could survive without friends. No matter how one's life is, he or she would have some friends, in one way or another.

Friends are those who really walk in when the whole world has walked out of your life. A friend can be a companion in need, a team-mate in favour and a buddy in times of tribulations.

Beautiful Earth

2009-04-17T21:34:00.010+08:00

What a beautiful earth that we live in. I'm indeed reminded again of how great our God our Creator is. He has created such a beautiful place for all of us to live in. Wouldn't we want to protect it at all cost? Wont we want our next generation to live in an environment that is clean and protected? All these images were sent in just to serve as a gentle reminder here - that our earth deserves our utmost attention!

Isn't our home a beautiful place? The wonders of the creations have spoken of the majestic sovereign Lord! Even the rocks, the stars, the seas, the trees will rise to praise Him!

Faith vs Fear

2009-04-16T21:16:00.003+08:00

Fear is actually False Expectations Appear Real. The Bible only talks on one kind of fear that we must have - the fear of the Lord. This fear is not any kind of fear. It is a reverent fear towards God our Creator for the Scriptures says that we are all wonderfully and fearfully made. We are made in His image. Psalmist says "Whom shall I fear?" I shall only fear the Lord. I shall not have False Expectations Appear Real but I shall have FEAR OF THE LORD.

When we are scared, we must cling on to FAITH for Faith Actually Ignites Tiny Hope. Remember the Bible says, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can tell to this mountain be removed and it shall be done for you. All it takes is just a step of faith in our daily walks, a seed of faith in our daily undertakings. Have FAITH! Be bold and courageous.

Just as when lights comes, darkness has nowhere to hide; when we have faith, fear is nowhere to be seen.

Praise the Lord

2009-04-15T20:47:00.003+08:00

Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. The Teacher says it is all about God and worship Him only. King David knows this well enough that has earned him the title of God's friend. How about us? Do we want to praise the Lord?

Praise is the power that enables the believer to
Rise to the throne of grace and mercy
Adding to the faith of the believer
Igniting the spiritual man in the believer
So much that knowing our God is alive
Everything is worth giving thanks and praises to

That is the power of praise. That is praise all about. It is all about Him. It's all about Jesus.

Law of Attraction

2009-04-15T20:12:00.002+08:00

Been awhile after my last posting. Now, as I reclined to the comfort of my desk, I couldn't help but to recall the Law of Attraction that I've learned. The Law works like a magnet. It attracts whatever that you desire. Do you desire success? How about fame and glory? Then apply the Law into your lives!

Now, there is a secret. Remember that whatever that you desire, you can attract it to yourself. At the same time, whatever that you don't desire, it will get attracted to you in one way or another. The Law works in both ways. All I want to do now is to apply the Law with discreetness.

He Moved His Hand

2009-04-13T21:08:00.002+08:00

How many times have you actually counted God's blessings? There was a Sunday School song that taught us to count our blessings, name them one by one. When I heard such a testimony, deep in my heart, I just wanted to name that blessing a special blessing. Why? Because I heard it from someone who just came to believe in Him and that it happened in his birthday!!

Brother, remember this.. when we thought there was no other way, when we thought that we are hopeless, when we thought that God has left us.. lo and behold, He will move His hand! He always works in ways that we cannot see or comprehend. He is always there by our side.

Bible says give thanks in all circumstances. At the same time, we need to see God bigger than any obstacles or problems that we are facing. How great is our God! Sing with me how great is our God!

He is Alive

2009-04-12T21:33:00.004+08:00

This year's Easter has been one of the very best of all I've ever had. Though was down with some hiccups here and there, I'm glad He has manifested Himself in ways that feeble mind could comprehend and ponder. I am reminded about the significance of Easter, how about you? What is Easter to you? Well, I presume that your answer could be one of the following :-

(a) I don't really know. My family celebrates it every year. I just follow.
(b) Well, all I know is that Jesus suffered and was resurrected on this day.
(c) It is just another festival whereby we remember the resurrection of Christ.
(d) None of the above.
(e) All of the above except (d)

If you choose from options (a), (b), or (c), at least you know there is a reason why we celebrate Easter. If you choose (d), I would say that you're simply being indifferent. If you answer (e), well you're just too busy to think of an answer that would convince me that you really understand the true meaning of Easter.

I couldn't help but to write this blog. You know, it all starts with us knowing who Jesus really. When you know who Jesus is, you will be able to understand the significance of Easter, and even Christmas or any event that is related to Him. Easter is just one event that helps us to recognise Jesus. As children of God, we have to know and understand

(1) the birth of Jesus
(2) the suffering of Jesus
(3) the death of Jesus
(4) the resurrection of Jesus
(5) the second coming of Jesus

We all know that Christmas is about the birth of Jesus. Then we are told that Good Friday is all about the death of Jesus, and Easter Sunday is about the resurrection of Jesus. What about the rest? All these events draw us back to knowing who Jesus really is. Now, aren't we glad we are serving a God who is very much like us and who is alive today!!

Happy Easter

2009-04-11T18:51:00.002+08:00

It was Good Friday and tomorrow is Easter. Years back, someone told me it is easier to make sense the meaning of Christmas than Easter. But now, I strongly believe that it is much easier to make sense the meaning and significance of Easter. Calvary Church really did a wonderful job bringing out the Easter story through their muscial drama. The CF and Lidra really put up a good show during the combined Easter Chapel. I wish I had the photos. Will upload them once I got them.

Now left one big problem. Everything around me seems to have make sense the meaning of Easter except one. This is more like a crisis, like pouring new wine into old wineskin. I can't help but to feel sorry why have I made such a decision to join them? Maybe I should ask "God, what do you want me to do for now?"

Why can't this "society" experience more revival or at least Easter-related event? Anyone reckon what am I trying to say?

Faith Through Stormy Waters

2009-04-06T22:01:00.004+08:00

How many times we had let the storms of life to come hover us away? How many times do we actually see God bigger in every obstacle? It really saddens me to see someone so young and so close at heart to go through such hardships in life. But, I'm really glad that he still is very strong in his faith towards God. He is really having that faith that could sail through that stormy rough waters. I believe the angels are rejoicing on this. Abba Father is glad on it.

He reminded me that Faith Actually Ignites Tiny Hopes. Isn't that what Jesus told us about - having the faith of a mustard seed? Though the smallest of all seed, when grows, it becomes the tallest of all trees.

Brother, I thank God that the seed in you has finally sprouted strong. Stormy rough waters are there alright, but God is guiding you through. Storms are just Small Tiny Obstacles Raiding Many Youths but Faith Actually Ignites Tiny Hopes. Above all these, God is the all-powerful.

High Tech Mad

2009-04-04T19:54:00.002+08:00

We are living in an era whereby everything seems to be of high tech. I'm sure many of us would not survive without their mobiles, or internet or online gaming. Today seems to be most frustrating day of the week. I found out I couldn't register for one broadband service just because their system indicated that I'm on blacklist status.

Today was already one full day at school for an official event which was followed by a dialogue session with VIPs. The dialogue was a long but constructive but left many of us drained out of energy. When I got back home, I found out my blacklist problem still not yet solved. Really wanted to ask my lawyer friend to sue them. But then again, what the point of going through that hassle?

I don't want to have High Tech Mad anger symptom. I still want to save my youthful energy for my priceless life.

Unity

2009-04-03T22:11:00.002+08:00

When we say we are united, what do we mean exactly? Do we mean physically united? What about mentally united?

We have witnessed what power could unity bring us. Remember the Tower of Babel? God Himself said, if human are that united, speaking in one language, nothing in the world will be impossible for them. But, their intention was wrong: they wanted to create a name for themselves. That was why God scattered them all over and from there human began to speak in many languages.

After a few months of serving here, one thing I notice. These people claimed they are united, but in actual fact, each is doing his or her own thing. No one seems to bother what would happen, until some issues came up and need to be addressed. Are we united? If we are united, which aspect we are united? In speech? In action? Or just unity in lip service?

Obstacles

2009-04-01T21:30:00.004+08:00

Some people say life is never a bed of roses. Neither it is a bed of thorns as well. Life always has its ups and downs. Sometimes we just need to withdraw to ourselves, enjoying the serenity of life while at the same time learn some lessons from life.

I remember the phrase "Rainbow always comes out after storms". How true it is. Obstacles are always there to provide a bridge for us to overcome. Imagine life is so monotonous. It would be so boring and unexciting. Life is not monotonous. That's why problems come and problem go.

We are forced to learn to mature through persecutions, through hardships, and sometimes even through betrayals.

Now, isn't life as a man a wonderful journey? We need to learn from our mistakes in order to move forward. We need to forget about our glory, successes and even failures in order that life can teach us new lessons.

Life's is like a rainbow. Sometimes, it is red with dangers, at other times it is blue with peace. Still there will be times that it is so colourful that we don't know what blessings it brings us.

Carrot, Egg or Tea Leaves

2009-03-29T21:46:00.004+08:00

I just read an article today. As a matter of fact, I read this article few years back and now it is being published again. It all goes like this ...

One day, a daughter comes back and complaining how hard the day has been for her. Her mother was sitting quietly, listening and comprehending her complaints. When the daughter has finished her complaints, the mother took her into the kitchen and asked her to boil three pots of water. All along, the mother was smiling. Puzzled as she were, the daughter just did what the mother told her.

When the water has boiled, the mother had her daughter to put a carrot into the first pot, an egg into the second pot and some tea leaves into the third pot. Then, the mother asked her to let the pots simmer for some time. They just waited for the three pots to simmer. About 20 minutes later, the mother asked the daughter to turn off the fire.

"Take out the carrot, dear. Tell me what does the carrot feels like" "It is soft, mum"

"Take out the egg and tell me what it feels like." "Well, the egg is now hardened"

"How about this pot?" The daughter replied, "Wow, what a nice smell." "Now dear, pour out some tea and tell me more about the tea"

The daughter poured out and drank the tea. She was smiling and said, "Well, mum. This is oolong tea. Very nice. But what are you trying to tell me, mum?"

"Well, you see. The water is the same in all the three pots. These three things went in the pots containing the same water and being treated the same. The carrot went in strong, but it came out soft. The egg went in soft, but the inside of it became hard when it came out. The tea leaves, on the other hand, mixed with the water into nice aroma. Not only it smells nice, it also tastes nice."

"The water is the problem of life we all have. Some of us faced the problem the hard way, but in the end we became tired and burned out. Some of us faced the problem easily, but in the end, our hearts were hardened. Some of us are able to turn the problem around. These people are able to see blessings in every problem, they see problems as challenges not as obstacles."

The daughter finally learned one lesson today : treat problems as challenges, as blessings in disguise. Do you see the same? carpe diem ^^

If only I were ...

2009-03-29T21:18:00.003+08:00

If only I were an eagle
I would have flown high across blue skies
Gazing at the heaven's eye, flaming my wings of freedom
Diving into the clouds that would cross the horizon
Displaying the beauty of aerodynamics

If only I were a dolphin
I would love to dive deep into the oceans blue
Shaping even the sand on the deep floor
Swimming gracefully alongside with the marine friends
Displaying the beauty of aquatics

If only I were a horse
I would have galloped deep into the green forest
Passing across running waters, breezing grass
Dashing through even my shadow as far as my legs could carry
Displaying the beauty of athletics

If only I were a lion
I would enjoy to roar, to listen to my roars of victory
Commanding the creature of both great and small
Protecting the weak, establishing my kingdom
Displaying the awesomeness of God's creation

The splendour of His Majesty is displayed through the wonders of His creation
How majestic is His vast knowledge
How magnificent is His rich wisdom
He who fears the Lord will be wise

Discipline or Punishment

2009-03-29T20:44:00.002+08:00

This week's Sunday School was one of the most interesting that I've ever had. Sis Ai Ling taught about the book of Hosea. This is one of the books that depicted the love of God so much that we could actually see the salvation plan of God goes beyond the four walls of church. Imagine God actually told Hosea to marry an adultreous woman just to display the extent of His love.

We have heard many times God disciplines those He loves. Now, how would you expect how God dealt with these people during Hosea's time? First, Hosea had to marry an adulterous woman. Then, he had to name his three children according to what God has called : the first born son is named Jezreel (to mean God's punishment), the second is a daughter whom he named Lo-Ruhammah (to mean not loved) and the third child, a son whom he named Lo-Ammi (to mean not God's people). Later, his wife left him, and he had to buy his wife back from prostitution.

Now, the question is : was God executing punishment or discipline? Make a wild guess.

Discipline is meant for restroration, is a process that is carried out hoping the individual will come to repentance. Punishment is, on the other hand, is painful and is a consequence of not obeying rules.

So, was God punishing or disciplining Israel? The answer lies in the book.

It's all about Maths

2009-03-28T18:25:00.003+08:00

Someone said learning is lifelong. This is especially true in the 21st century. There are just too much learning to be done. Won't you get bored and tired of learning? Well, if there are new things to learn, it wont be that boring and tiring. Anyway, if we stop learning, that is the day that we stop growing.

It's all about MATHS.

What has Maths got to do with learning?

Well, learning is about Message Acquisition Through Holistic Studying.

Message Acquisition means the lessons demand our attention, that require us to really look at them, read them and then understand it. We will able to acquire (remember) these message (lessons) if we work hard and work smart.

Holistic Studying deals with we have to read broadly. The Internet is our greatest friend as it is the largest library that we could ever asked for. Information is just at our fingertips. The more knowledge we have, the more we will be mature.

So, remember learning is Message Acquisition Through Holistic Studying.

Are you seeing stars?

2009-03-25T15:47:00.005+08:00

Just came out from the class. Week after week, lesson after lesson, they are seeing stars under the bright light. I wonder was it my lesson was so tough that caused them to see stars or they are that weak in that subject? Sometimes, they themselves are making me see more stars than they are seeing. How I wish that I can draw the lesson in their minds.

So, until and unless they master the concept, until then I would have to toil with them. To them, these are Some Tough Areas Recurring Steadily. To me, these are Standard Technical Areas Revisiting Students. Carpe diem.

Coin View 2

2009-03-24T22:12:00.006+08:00

There are always two sides to a coin. I wonder what do students really learn nowadays. On one hand, they seem to be learning and understanding. On the other, they just can't be bothered with reminders after reminders. Maybe when they reach my age, they will start to appreciate what they have been taught since young. Maybe they just want to continue being indifferent.

They are just giving us Challenges Obstacles Indifference Naughtiness. Sometimes I just wonder what on earth are they here for. But then, education is all about teaching people to learn, to think and to work. My question is "Are they really learning?" or should I ask "Is it my fault thay they are not learning?"

Well.. my only conclusions are as follow

1) so long as there is at least one person who is willing to listen, to give us the due respect and to really try to learn, there will always be a teacher there

2) so long as there is a lesson to be taught, no matter how impossible it is to drag our feet in to teach, we have to deliver the lesson

3) so long as there is a need to carry on teaching and explaining despite the hurdles of life, we need to move on and try various methods with the hope that one day the lesson will deliver a punching power into their minds

4) so long as there are Challenges in subject preparation, Obstacles in lessons delivery, Indifference attitude and Naughtiness of the flesh, we would be reminded that we are not alone in this task

Above all, we need to be like eagles soaring high above the high skies of problems. We need to have vision such as an eagle's - a vision that sees through the problems and to see that God is above there.

Winds of Change

2009-03-23T21:58:00.002+08:00

Just sat back relaxing after finished one of my three assignments. I can't help but to think of one particular dialogue I had and some emails that I had read. I think the only phrase that would explain this is Winds of Change. The society is looking for change. People are looking for a change in their lives. We have experienced changes in many ways, be it in our country, our ministry, our family, our friends and the list goes on. It all reminds me of the story of two frogs swimming in a pot of water.

Two frogs were relaxing in a pot of water. They were enjoying so much that they began to doze off. Suddenly, one of the frogs began to feel the water temperature is getting warmer. "Hey, dude. Do you notice that the water is getting warmer now?" "Why bother," came the reply "Isn't warmer better?"

"Well.. warmer is definitely better. But, it is getting hotter now. I think I better get out of here."

"Out you may go.. but I'm enjoying it here"

And so, one frog jumped out, leaving his friend enjoying swimming in the pot. Soon, the water is so hot that the poor frog couldn't save himself. He had been cooked alive. The moral of the story is : Once you notice there is a change, don't be indifferent. If you think something is wrong, better do something and not wait as if nothing happen.

Winds of Change are coming intensely. Those who heed the warning will be saved.

10/40 Window

2009-03-22T20:30:00.006+08:00

This month is the Mission Month of my church. We had a 3-week series of sermon related to mission and outreach projects. First week started off with one of our senior leaders in the church who shared with us the meaning of witnessing. Last week, I was away, but I heard the speaker talked about e-witnessing. It simply means reach out through websites and articles posted in the internet, using internet to witness. Today, another speaker talked about raising local evangelists and missionaries.

It really opened my eyes and reminded me again that the harvest is really bountiful but the workers are few. Some of us feel reluctant to go for mission trips. But now, people are coming to us. There are foreigners in our midst. We even have aborigines in our midst. They too need to listen to the good news. Let's PUSH.. remember Pray Until Something Happens?

No doubt 10/40 window is a hard boundary..but the window is now opening wider. All we need is to just do our part, pray for them, help to finance some of the reach out projects, or help to sponsor or adopt an orphan for good. Once these people obtain access to education, the good news will be within their reach.

FACE

2009-03-22T20:19:00.005+08:00

Life is all about excitement and challenges. We live this life once and therefore we should make the most out of it. We all need to have friendship because friendships is what FACE is all about. Friends Actually Create Excitement.

I think many would agree with me, Friends Actually Create Excitement. Friends are the ones that we actually spend almost more than half of our lives with. Some of these are our sparring partners, some are bosom buddies, eventually one of these becomes our spouse.

King David had his three mighty men, Jesus had His Inner Three as well. Even Paul had Timothy. Do we have any of these people?

Be Creative in Life

2009-03-21T21:12:00.002+08:00

I just came back from visiting one of the leadership camps held in a campus. This time round it was very differently held. Focus more on outdoor and leadership skills. It was quite fun watching them, the trainees, being trained and drilled and punished. One of the games, they literally had to protect a candle from going off from point A to point B. All managed to keep the candle burning right till the end of the track. They were very creative. All sorts of ways were tried to keep the candle alive, no matter how many water balloons were thrown at them.

When asked what they had learned, they just replied "Be creative". Now, isn't that is also part of life? We need to look at things differently in life. I'm sure many had heard the phrase "Thinking out of the box", "Blue Ocean Strategy" ... all these mean just the same. We need to be creative when it comes to problem solving.

I wish I could stay abit longer... I had to come back. But, the trip was worth all the trouble. After all, next year this task will fall on me.

New Wine New Wineskin

2009-03-20T22:43:00.003+08:00

As I mentioned earlier that this year I've met lots of interesting friends and companions. One such friend is such an encouraging youth. We seem to click in many languages and we both believe in the same principle.. contemporary living. Just as we witness how the world around us changes and develops into more and more complicated, we need to learn to adapt and adjust according to the environment. A church couldn't grow much unless it goes out beyond its four walls. People are reaching out for changes. The only thing that remains unchanged is the Word.

The church that grows the most nowadays is the one that emphasizes on contemporary living, a home church. This is liken to the saying new wineskin must be poured into new wineskin. If we pour new wineskin into the old wineskin, the wineskin will burst. Hence, Romans 12:2 says "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will"

Being Comical, Being Different

2009-03-20T09:02:00.004+08:00

Isn't life a wonderful journey? Along the path, we meet people of different walks, different races, different personalities, different perspectives, and the list goes on. Some of these will stay through the thick and thin of life while some will just remain as acquaintances. Some will just being indifferent, while some will be good activity partners. A small percentage will choose to be our advocates. In any way, we could not possibly please everyone, right?

One lesson that has refreshed my mind, or rather, life has reminded me once more, that at times we do need to be comical sometimes. Laughter is the best medicine. Not everyone has a great sense of humour, but we can all be comical. Imagine living as soldiers everyday. Everything is so rigid, where all it demands is just obedience and commitment. We would end up worse than robots.

On the other hand, imagine living as clowns everyday. Everything is so flexible, no rules, just laughters. We would hardly ever mature should problems arise. So, in life we need to be comical. Remember Patch Adam? He said, "If we treat a disease, we either win or lose. But if we treat a patient, we win." Now, that is very true.

The society needs good news. The people around us needs laughter. Technology could not provide these. Technology is to help us to connect better with people around us - the human personal touch. So, being comical, being different is reconnecting with people through our laughters.

COIN view

2009-03-20T08:36:00.004+08:00

This holiday doesn't seem to be one of the best as I'm working. The only difference is that I get to finish any pending tasks and clear piles of files on my desk easier than the normal days. Normal days, I will be even busier with daily class management, student management, you name it. I must say this is one of the toughest and challenging jobs in the world, but it is very rewarding at the end of the day when you how some one's life has changed for the better. The fact the transformed individuals would walk out into the society to contribute to the development of the society really encouraged me to move on.

Few major events happened this week that demand my attention. Deep within I realize that I have matured more but also I have become more task-oriented and perhaps self-centred. On one hand, some say I have done a good job, on the other, some are in doubt. Personally, I always try to look at two different perspectives. One thing that I can praise God is that I have found few close buddies who would stand by me at all times. They are bold enough to stand in to correct and are daring enough to admit their mistakes. After all to err is human, to forgive divine.

Now, this is what COIN is all about ... Crises, Opportunities, Individualism, Niche

Crises - allow us to view problems either as obstacles or blessings in disguise
Opportunities - allow us to assume new duties in job, ministry that enhance our knowledge, skills and attitudes
Individualism - allow us to recognise the uniqueness in each of us, that we are all playing complementing roles in a team
Niche - is the word that describes what we are good at, our strong points, our unique talents

Greatest Love of All - AGAPE

2009-03-20T08:21:00.005+08:00

The greatest love of all happened when one would go to the extent to die for His friends. The Greek word for this is agape. As I watched the drama "The Greatest Love of All", I can't help but to reflect on this. The world around us seems to view love differently. It is always easy to love someone that is lovable... but not so when it comes to those who are not lovable.

It is said that if we love only those we like, we are no different than those villians or criminals who would do anything for their friends. However, if we are able to love even our enemies, our love is deemed to be great and this makes us different.

So, the greatest love of all happened when the Above God Actually Paid Everything for us. He has "paid" for our debts of sins, that we are no longer slaves. He has "paid" with His life. In the end, only these remain :- love, faith and hope ; the greatest of these is love.

FEAR

2009-03-18T15:16:00.003+08:00

There are times when we are just fearful, but many times fear is just False Expectations Appear Real. When was the last time you were afraid of something or someone? Have we asked ourselves, can we ever overcome our fears? Frankly, I do have my own sets of fears too..yet I wont let my fears hinder me from stepping forward. Over the years, I overcome my fears one after another.

The times spent at the camp seem fresh in my mind, spirit and heart. That was one of the best camps that I have ever conducted. They were just very obedient. Some were so encouraging. They testified to us that they have overcome their fears by just obeying instructions and doing what they were supposed to do. Now, this has proved that FEAR is just False Expectations/Experiences Appear Real.

Discipline

2009-03-17T09:38:00.004+08:00

What is discipline all about? Let's read the following

1 Corinthians 9:24-26
Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training…therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air.

2 Timothy 2:4-6
No one serving as a soldier gets involved in civilian affairs – he wants to please his commanding officer. Similarly, if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not receive the victor’s crown unless he competes according to the rules. The hardworking farmer should be the first to receive the share of the crops.

I shared this in camp. As I ponder on it, few things I noticed from the passages. Discipline means the following :-
(1) Having a clear sense of direction, sense of purpose
(2) Having a strong passion and determination to finish a task
(3) Having a willing heart to sacrifice and to obey what has been instructed

Success does not come easy without sacrifices... This is a fact every successful person will agree on. Carpe diem...

TEAM

2009-03-17T09:14:00.003+08:00

Together Everyone Achieves More

Finally, I'm back from the camp. Almost always, after every camp, I would always wanted the camp to be longer. Longer camp would actually allow members to bond closer and to get to know them better, not as individuals, but more as companions in life.

I will never forget this camp, as this is the camp that I punished the Camp Committees despite the fact that they really have done a great task. But the fact that they stood as ONE TEAM ONE VOICE, and not as individuals, I gave them the due respect. This is the team that I can really see, when they realize what has gone wrong, they just speak up as one - one down, all down. Now, the next phase would be to coach them to coach the younger members.

One thought remains haunting; deep somewhere, there is still an element of self-centredness in each of the campers.. in fact, we all would be self-centred in some way.

Camp

2009-03-13T20:03:00.004+08:00

Holiday is starting again!! Well, to many it is a holiday, to me is still work and work. But I really enjoy it, though sometimes just tired and just want to rest and relax, spend time with people that I can work with. But, this is not the main key of this post...

Guess what.. holiday now means camp .. Creating Adventure Making Preparation for Christ's Accomplished Mission Post-discipleship plan .. Sounds so philosophical, right?

Well, isn't holding camps liken to creating adventures for youths, preparing them for something bigger in mind that not only they will have fun, they will also be life-transformed, ready for God's mission in their lives? Christ has accomplished His mission, so it is now post-discipleship plan - that we are the post-discipleship team (as we are called to take His light to the world). Yes, that's right. It sounds tough and may sound scary to some, but we are not alone. God promised that never shall we walk alone. He is always there to guide.

So, let's go CAMP ..

Putting in Order

2009-03-10T21:43:00.014+08:00

Looking at some old pictures from the camp we had at Dusun Eco two years back. The memories just came back, as if the camp was yesterday. And guess what .. I'm going there again this coming weekend.

Now at least I'm going in as Camp Advisor. This year is really a happening year to me personally. Let me list and name them one by one

1) Taken new role at State level

2) Assumes new offices locally

3) Sitting in the Council besides holding few portfolios

4) Advising few camps here and there

5) Has met new interesting people, thus enlarging my circle of influence

6) Being blessed to further studies

7) Being remembered deeply and encouraged

and the list is like can go on and on. Indeed, the blessings come. People investing in my life, I investing in other people's life and the process is repeated in God's grace and timing.

Lord, I only pray that You grant me the wisdom to handle these wisely, administering the gifts You've given me in times such as these.

We Are Not Mad Enough

2009-03-10T21:11:00.004+08:00

Are we MAD enough for Christ? Are we even dare to call ourselves disciples? I was reminded again by the saying that "never put new wine into old wineskin" at least twice for the past few days. Reading news daily, seeing how the world around us has turned into these days really makes me think "Are we MAD enough?"

What? Being MAD? Are you out of your mind?

No I'm not out of my mind ... I just want to be MAD .. Making A Difference .. to be MAD as much as I possibly can.

After all, we are the SALT and the LIGHT ... aren't we?

Crash Boom Bang

2009-03-10T20:52:00.003+08:00

Sometimes we all just wonder how could such thing happen? We saw this on our way back from Subang. All I could just do was hope and pray that no serious injuries. Since there were quite a number of people who were helping the driver, I suppose everything was settled. We were rushing back to KL, so couldn't stop either. We were travelling on our friend's car.

It was like CaR Accident Shouldn't Happened ...

One year wiser

2009-03-09T20:19:00.002+08:00

Just celebrated my big blessed day. One more year has gone by. To some, it is no big deal. To me, it is just another event that seems to be so significant in my lives. For the past 2 years, it has really made me to really count and name my blessings one by one. The best gift so far is being able to further study. The blessing just comes and for that I can find no words worthy enough to record my appreciation and thankfulness.

Indeed I have now one year wiser, one year older ... now to get to studying again, will I triumph? So, the Pen wonders ... ponders deeply.

Wishes come true ...

2009-03-08T21:06:00.004+08:00

Have you ever heard sometimes your wishes just come true? To me, many of these are coming to past. God has time and again proved Himself to be faithful. Not only I'm seeing myself expanding into uncharted territories more, I'm seeing His hand in all that I do. And now, He has provided a means for me to further my study into my area of specialization. That is like getting a bonus in an unlikely time.

In term of ministry, people are rising to take on more responsibilties and I must say that they are really doing very well. Stepping back to watch them really has been encouraging. A word of thanks is just not enough to express the appreciation.

Wishes do come true, again. I just hope I will have the strength, wisdom to handle these. Perhaps, sharing these with my significant other.

Carpe diem

2009-03-05T20:31:00.004+08:00

Wow.. time really flies! We have now come to the month of March and holiday is like just around the corner. No wonder Scripture says a thousand days with the Lord is just like a day. He has been good to me this year. Exciting news one after another.

Now I really hope I can enjoy the day. Enjoy the serenity of day, with the company of good friends and buddies. Nothing worth much more than just carpe diem. Look up... we would suddenly realize that we are nothing but a tiny speck of dust lying in a vast universe. Look within .. we should be encouraged to know that we are the apple of His eyes.

Great is our God!! So, carpe diem!!

Love Box

2009-02-28T22:41:00.003+08:00

Each of us are born with a love box. Sometimes our love box is half-filled, sometimes is otherwise. God created us with this box so that we shall learn how to love and how to receive love. Basically, this is the missing link in our lives... only Jesus can fill this link.

God speaks to us in 5 languages of love. Some of us feel loved when someone just willingly spends quality time with us. Their presence keeps us accompanied especially in times of difficulties. Majority of us feel love when people just give us words of affirmation. We all need to be affirmed sometimes.

What about acts of service? Have you come across people who just love to serve others. These are the people who have the servant's heart. I believe we like to receive gifts too. If you like to buy gifts to your friends, most probably this is your language of love too. Last, but not the least, physical touch like a handshake, a pat on the shoulder, and a hug is a form of love in action. Some people just feel the need to have physical touch to feel we are important in their lives.

In conclusion, love comes in 5 ways. Identify your language of love and be a blessing to others. You will never know whose life you're touching.

PUSH ... Are we gonna push?

2009-02-27T20:11:00.003+08:00

Resting, relaxing and reclining to my comfort, I couldn't help but to reflect... why the problems seem never ending? What is happening to our society today? Some even dread to think there is light at the end of the tunnel. We have witnessed the rise of skyscrapers, the betterment of facilities and the list goes on. What about the human touch?

Are we PUSHing hard enough? Are we Praying Until Something Happens enough? Deep within, I believe God is still in control. He is there to watch and guide. No matter how hard the situation is, no matter how impossible the outcome is... we need to Pray Until Something Happens.

Behind the mask

2009-02-23T22:26:00.004+08:00

People walk pass by us day after day. Some of these will leave their footprints in our lives. Some will just remain our close bosom buddies for life. Some are just making indifferent marks on our hearts (after some years, we tend to even forget their names) Of all these, I would rather have a few close friends, few those who don't put on their mask. They will be so real that they will stick closer than brothers in times of adversity. At times, I think I have found these close buddies. At times, I wonder where they've gone to...

But all in all, I couldn't help but to realize that people come and go. We can only make one good journey. This journey of life, what is more important is not what comes along the way.. it is how we choose to travel on it is all that matters. People may wear mask. We too can put on our masks. But, to some people, we really don't have to wear that mask. By just being ourselves, we are wearing masks too.. the only difference is these are real masks..

So, if you need to wear mask, wear that real mask. Don't pretend to be someone else. Just be true to yourselves, be true to friends, be true to your companions at arms, be true to Him who is watching over you.