Great is thy faithfulness

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases

His mercies never come to an end

They are new every morning

New every morning

Great is thy faithfulness, O Lord

Great is thy faithfulness

Sunset

Though I didn't get to see the sunset yesterday, God allowed me to see one along the journey today :) A short 6 minutes but the memory last for a lifetime.

UP

Going to catch this show with Alexis and Pris tomorrow! Free tickets :P

It was such a fantastic show and meaningful & sweet as well :) I love Russell, the little boy. His never say die spirit is inspiring and his child-like faith refreshing. A bit awkward, a bit unsure but definitely not afraid and ready to go the extra mile. No wonder he was able to touch the heart of the old man and draw him out of his world into world of hope and faith. Many touching moments which brought some warmth to my heart...

New friendship. Special moments :)

Moonstone Bar

Went to Moonstone bar @ Jewel Box, Mount Faber together with wei, the view was beautiful. Overseeing the cable cars in the background of the blue sky with shades of orange. No wonder mount faber is one of the best places in singapore to catch the sunset. We went during happy hour and the alcoholic drinks were at half price! All patrons are entitled to sit on the cable car for just $3!!! From the usual price of $12.90 and it brings us to vivocity through the sky in just 10 minutes.

Happy Hours Timing
Sunday, Monday: 5pm -1am
Tues - Sat: 5-8pm

Live music (band: 3 in a box)
Thurs, Fri and Sat starting frm 9pm

If you go from Monday - Wednesday, the place is pretty much vacant and quiet. To make reservations, you can call 63779688.

Simplicity is beauty

A man must be able to cut a knot, for everything cannot be untied; he must know how to disengage what is essential from the detail in which it is enwrapped, for everything cannot be equally considered; in a word, he must be able to simplify his duties, his business and his life
- Henri Frederic Amiel

Making the simple complicated is commonplace; making the complicated simple, awesomely simple, that's creativity - Charles Mingus

A little simplification would be the first step toward rational living, I think
- Eleanor Roosevelt (My Days)

It is the sweet, simple things of life which are the real ones after all
- Laura Ingalls Wilder (Little House in the Ozarks by Hines)

Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler
- Albert Einstein

Any intelligent fool can make things bigger, more complex, and more violent. It takes a touch of genius—and a lot of courage—to move in the opposite direction - E.F. Schumacker

The boy and girl going hand in hand through a meadow; the mother washing her baby; the sweet simple things in life. We have almost lost track of them. On the one side, we overintel-lectualize everything; on the other hand, we are over-mechanized. We can understand the danger of the atomic bomb, but the danger of our misunderstanding the meaning of life is much more serious.
- Edward Steichen

The sculptor produces the beautiful statue by chipping away such parts of the marble block as are not needed- it is a process of elimination.
- Elbert Hubbard

Happiness comes of the capacity to feel deeply, to enjoy simply, to think freely, to risk life, to be needed.
- Storm Jameson

At the right pace

It's been quite a while since I woke up so early in the morning - 6am! For those who know me, that's quite a feat for me especially the night before we stayed up till pretty late. All this in an attempt to catch the sunrise. I arranged with pris to watch the sunrise at fullerton at 7am as it was reported that yesterday, the sun will rise at 717am. well well, much to our disappointment, when we came out of the train station, Pris said, "looks like it's raining" and I was like, "The sky looks bright." No sunrise, just a lovely morning with clear, cool air and the lovely buildings in the background.

We walked on nonetheless. It felt good to stop and smell the flowers. pris took a lovely pic of a bee resting on a flower. She said that she has not seen a bee in a while. I am pretty amazed at that ha. We sometimes get so busy to stop and take a look at the nature around us, pretty much stuck in the four walls where we call our office. Had a fantastic breakfast and when I asked her what time it is, she said 830am. Feels good that there is still much time left. I had such a fruitful day because my day began early.

How I wish I can have limitless energy and that everyday can be spent this way but I know I am no super human nor is it my aspiration. But it does feel good to be feeling life, doing life, living life. At the right pace.

Going to watch sunrise sometime soon at changi pt or pasir ris park. excited!

My first job experience

Was listening to the Christmas songs played on my colleague's radio and it brought back the memories of my first part-time job. I remembered my mum didn't want me to go and work as she wanted me to stay at home and help her to babysit the children. I was upset as I wanted freedom. I didn't want to stay at home for the holidays and I was adamant on it, so much so that I threatened to go for the 6-month poly orientation if I was not allowed to work. How wilful, as I looked back at myself. haha... I was only 16 years old. Migosh, that's like 10 years ago. Time flies.

First day of work, I was extremely excited, looking forward. Even the uniform was appealing to me. I was ready to work as a sales assistant at Liang court. The stockings, the black court shoes, the uniform. Little did I know that I would find it such a hassle as time passes, especially when I am running late for work and needed to get myself ready fast. It was the first time I put on make-up, the first time I wore stockings and I was just a little girl in an oversized uniform. It must have been a pitiful size.

I was optimistic though, at least in front of my mother before I go to work. I always appeared happy in front of her, the pride was at work. I did not want to admit to her that work was tough so she could not tell me, "See, I told you. Do you want to quit now?" I refused to cave in and hang on though there were days I felt my legs could break and the aircon was so strong but I was not able to wear a jacket. It was Christmas period and everyday they play the Xmas songs till I was sick of it. People asking me which colour suits them better, picking up the hangers, folding the clothes, that's my everyday routine. The time when I was happiest, aprat frm pay day, had to be when my friends came to visit me at my workplace. I still rem a friend saying that my uniform looked wierd haha...

I think what really killed my soul was when I missed the millenium. I was like, "The Millenium!!"I couldn't believe I had to work on the eve of the new year and Christmas as well. I guess my mother was shocked at my persistence (or stubborness) as well. I had, in an attempt to gain freedom, step into another cage. The happiest time had to be my pay day and in my free times, I will just take out the calculator to see how much I have earned ha. And all my money goes to my mum. But I was ok, I was happy I was able to earn the money to give her. I bought her a ring for the first time. Not sure if it's still ard though but I know she wore it.

I am thankful for that experience as I tasted what it was like to come out of my comfort zone. It may not be totally sweet but I left a different person.

Death

Death is not to be feared by one who has lived wisely

Dying is one of the few events in life certain to occur, yet one we are not likely to plan for.We spend more time getting ready for two weeks away from work than we do our last time on Earth.

Relating to our bosses

I had a good catch up with June and Jinghe tonight sharing about our lives and having some interesting conversations. Also learnt a new term on "The Harnessing Approach" to counsel a suicidal person...well.. Jinghe shared abt his lunch with his christian colleagues and what he learnt from them. It is very encouraging and makes me wonder abt the kind of relationship I've with my colleagues as well as my boss. Sometimes not too satisfying but I guess the key to build relationship is to first understd the pple we wrk with. Here's an interesting profiling of bosses which I sent to the CG before:

High D's Tendencies Relating to a High D ...

Motivation: Results, Challenge, Action
Feelings: Detached and independent; Control; Tend not to value feelings; May be hot-tempered under pressure
Be efficient, stick to business, Be direct; share the bottom line first then the impact of his plans/decisions on staff members
Interaction: One way; not a good listener; Tell others to just do it; no explanation given

High I's Tendencies Relating to a High I ...

Motivation: Recognition, Approval, Visibility
Feelings: Optimistic; Emote; readily express their own feelings and respond to others' feelings
Interaction: Enthusiastic; One way; tell ... love to verbalise
Take a seat and make yourself comfortable, Don't be a wet blanket; support their ideas whenever possible

High S's Tendencies Relating to a High S ...

Motivation: Relationships, Appreciation
Feelings: Warm and accomodating; Emote to inner circle of friends
Allow time to "warm up" to you, be appreciative' be his friend, Show how your ideas minimise "upheavals"
Interaction: Good listener; Tend not to initiate changes or relationships; Ask "how" and "who" questions

High C's Tendencies Relating to a High C ...

Motivation: Being Right, Quality
Feelings: Cautious; Control; does not say / reveal much
If appropriate, provide reassurance that his plans are right, Don't try to be more right/ correct than he is, Be supportive
Interaction: Good listener; Ask "what" and "why" questions

Convincing a ...
High D
Show the gains and suggest what needs to be done
High I
Provide positive setting and talk about who will be involved
High S
Show how your ideas minimise "upheavals" and talk about how you will work together
High C
Talk about why and how things will be done

Disagreeing with a...
High D
Agree with him on a broad level then he is likely to be open to other possibilities/options
High I
Don't! Let time pass and emotional enthusiasm to fizzle out
High S
Find common grounds to disagree together!
High C
Disagree with facts

The Generation Y

A Crash Course in Understanding Generation Y

1. Hear me out.
These young adults have had a say in how things go since they were five. They expect to express themselves, to upload, vote, blog or update and they believe they’ll be heard.

2. Keep it real.
The only thing worse than being uncool is being unreal. They demand authenticity. Anything that smells “plastic” is a turn-off. They value genuine people and leaders.

3. Let’s have fun.
They believe work and fun can be combined; they don’t want to separate the two. In fact, they may stop working midday to have fun and work again at midnight. It’s a continuum.

4. My way now.
They’ve not heard the word “no” very often growing up. As a student or new employee, they expect to get their way and don’t see why adults can’t understand their perspective.

5. Make it count.
They want to do things that matter. Meaning is as important as money at work. They don’t think small. They like projects that are very important and almost impossible.

6. Let me know.
They’re used to constant feedback. They got trophies on teams just for showing up. They got lots of kudos from parents for years and today want it instantly from their leaders.

7. Plug me in.
You already know this. They’re a connected generation. They can’t imagine a day without constant connection with friends. Technology is an appendage of their bodies.

8. Just do it.
Words that describe their world are immediacy and convenience. They’re not prone to waste a lot of time with committee red tape or protocol. Stuff should happen fast.

(from Tim Elmore's blog)

Are you a gen Y? Is this true? :)

It is more blessed to give than to recieve

I was wondering about some questions - ministry, relationships, self-preservation. Yes, self-preservation. This has been shared by Pastor Jeff a few weeks back during his sermon. It reminds me of the image of a porcupine. Any step closer and out comes the spikes. Have you ever seen one before? I did and it's true, before u can even reach them, it happens. They defend.

This led me to think about Paul, one of the heroes in the bible. How in the world did he manage to find zeal to serve God in his busyness and yet able to stay focused, moving forward in his ministry? Because he is Paul? Well, isn't he human afterall? Doesn't he have needs, just any one of us. I am sure his flesh will be tested, his heart tempted to stray.

As I read through Acts, I see Paul going from one place to another preaching the WOG, testifying to the truth of the gospel. Despite his amazing persuasive skills, he was not able to convince all his audience and was even being abused by them. Even after trying his best, yes. However, his response is always to leave the place after his work is done and continue on to the next place. He said, "...your blood is on your heads! I am clear of my responsibilities" (Acts 18:6) and "when they asked him to spend more time with them, he declined" (Acts 18:20). He certainly knew when and how to say no! :)

I wondered, is he able to remain so focused because he lacked emotions and was only interested in completing the task? Not true. In Acts 17:6, "he was greatly distressed to see that the city was full of idols." God said to him in Acts 18:9, "do not be afraid, keep on speaking." He has his fair share of fears and distress, just like anyone else. Paul - eloquent, determined, confident and not easily intimidated. He was so badly hurt that he shook out is clothes in protest. He must have wanted to go into self-preservation mode but God stopped him, pulled him back and comforted him. He assured His presence and the people who will support him.

Alas, I understood. He knew what the Lord wants him to do instead of looking at what he wants. Therefore, he was able to surrender the outcome to God. Acts 20:24. He knew that when he has done what God has asked him to, it is enough. Acts 20:26, "I declare to you today that I am innocent of the blood of all men. For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God" and verse 25, "you yourselves know that these hands of mine have supplied my own needs and the needs of my companions. In everything I did, I showed you by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the word the Lord Jesus himself said, "It is more blessed to give than to receive." Even after all that he has been through, he was still able to maintain that it is more blessed to give than to receive. This is an amazing example to learn from!

This verse took on a new dimension for me today...

Inspirations

I saw this some time back but this morning when I received it again, it brought great refreshment to my soul :)

Am I a good friend quiz

Quiz results: 65

You rate a happy medium on the friendship scale. You are a regular good pal, someone friends can turn to turn to in times of need - whether emotional, financial, or otherwise. You are giving of your time and are generally thoughtful. While your heart is in the right place, however, you might sometimes slip up and forget special occasions or do slightly "selfish" things. This does not mean you are malicious or that you intend to hurt anyone - only that you are human. In fact, your approach to camaraderie is healthy and balanced; you realize that you don't always need to place your friends at the very top of your priority list, especially when it is to your own detriment. You know that true pals will respect, and even appreciate, your ability to say "no" or put yourself first from time to time. The most important thing is that you keep the lines of communication open and build the level of trust and respect necessary for a lasting bond.

expand my heart

It has been a great weekend. I thought that I will be completely blown away by my first week of lessons but it was not to be. I was truly refreshed and had learnt much - about myself, my classmates and how I am as a therapist. Yup, my growth journey in this area.

The second day, I was the client sharing to the counselor in front of the class about my issues. There was much anxiety, the fear of being judged or worse still, read wrongly. The counselor who is my coursemate asked some good questions which set me pondering and the classmates analysing my problems made me feel understood and to think deeper about myself and how I handle my relationships with people. It was a great experience. After I left the place, a coursemate came up to me and thank me for my courage in sharing as she shared to me that she has a similar experience but did not have the courage to share. I felt very affirmed and realised that different people have different level of openess.

Today I had the opportunity of being a therapist. Surprisingly I was not as nervous as when I was a client. I guess I am pretty used to this role. Some of the feedback given affirmed me a lot. They shared that I was able to think out of the box, asked good exploratory questions, had a nice pace, relaxed, warm and focused, encouraging, sincere, affirming and good wrap-up. Wow, have to admit it boosted my ego quite a bit haha...However, some of the other feedback set me thinking such as I could have more opportunities for empathy. This really jolt me. What happened to that part of me? Have I become so solution-focused that I have failed to dwell with the feelings of the other party enough. This is something worth reflecting about for myself.

I pray that as my skills and knowledge increase, the heart will also expand.

A counselor is a listener

Back from my first lesson from my second semester...feeling kinda proud of myself cos 1 person asked me not to daydream and the other ask me not to fall asleep during class and I did not do both! Yeah! I pity the lady next to me who was falling asleep though and the tutor said, "She must be really tired." Her response: still asleep. But I am really thkful for the classmates who went over to encourage her, gave her water during the break :) The classmate sitting next to me gave me digestive biscuits and milo, I was really touched. It feels like home :)

We talked about listening to our clients and my tutor was saying that the best kind of listener he knows does not ask a single question and yet able to get the information and emotion out of the client. Whoa! Talking about skill... I was pretty amused when we were discussing about empathy in the counselor. A classmate asked, "What if we are unable to empathise with what the client is saying, what do we do?" The tutor said, "Ya, sometimes when the client is talking, you just think to yourself, this is crap but yet, you can't tell the client, 'crap! Quit whining'" well, how real can this get?! I kept smiling to myself thinking how true this is. *Secret smile*

I am a tad worried abt tmr cos we will be taking turns to counsel one another for 15 - 30 minutes in front of the class and using this video for our assignment. What problem should I raise so I will not sabo my therapist and how do I counsel my "client"? But I feel really assured when my client-classmate put her hand on my shoulder and say, "I am sure you will be a good counselor."My confidence boosted. God, be with me :)

Beef Kway Teow

Lagoon Leng Kee Beef Kway Teow @ East Coast Parkway

East Coast Parkway
Stall 33 East Coast Lagoon Food Village

Going to try it tonight! Excited!

The rightabout way

The RIGHTabout way

They say life is about responding the RIGHT way
Two wrongs do not make a right
Either one is at fault
We all know that, don't we?
Life is 90% of what happens to you and 10% of how you respond to it

BUT...

What if doing the RIGHT thing still makes you wrong
What if having the RIGHT response still leads to 100% shit
What if the wronged is right and the right is wrong

The circle gets bigger but I am still not going anywhere...

MAPP - Free Career Assessment

Jiayan is conscious of existence, meaning, purpose, potential and destiny of humankind, people, and self. Jiayan is motivated by a self-felt, self-accepted calling to the cause of good, growth, and gain in the lives of others. Influential communication of ideas is a primary way of achieving those objectives. Perception and thinking tend to be holistic and conceptual; i.e., seeing the big picture. It is important to see which of the other traits are interactive with this trait because there can be many interesting combinations. This is a major trait in cultural, intellectual, academic, and creative activities. It includes ideas, concepts, theory, ethics, and values.

Jiayan prefers and needs change and variety. Change is motivating, stimulating, and energizing. Jiayan looks for new options, challenges, assignments, acquaintances, relationships, and even new careers in new places. Jiayan tires of sameness, repetition, and routine even in activities that were interesting at the start. Once things become routine for Jiayan, this becomes a motivation to move on to more interesting things.

Jiayan's preferences and motivations are derived from understanding the deeper or 'real' meaning of ideas and words and uses them effectively in written or oral communication. Literary in this factor means intentional search for ideas expressed by the minds of others for one's own use, assimilation, learning, etc. The source can be books, other publications, historical documents, research information, drama, movies, television, the "information highway" or internet, etc. Emphasis is on communication: picking up information from minds of others or communication aimed toward the minds of others. Journalism and writing are major activities. Literary activity is not exclusively intellectual, academic, or cultural. It may be an end in itself as in a bookworm for instance. And literary activity is not always accompanied by communicative activity, written or oral. On the other hand, communicative activity need not be literary in the classic sense. And one need not be persuasive to be communicative, but it helps. When the trait is highly motivated, as it is here, it suggests both literary and communicative abilities that are or could become a usable skill or a developed talent. By now you can see that only a review of all traits will clearly show the specific content of Jiayan's literary and/or communicative preferences and motivations.

Jiayan's motivations are heightened significantly by persuasive, gregarious, auditory-musical, visual-artistic, and communicative traits to entertain others with intent to convince them toward a particular idea, viewpoint, direction, objective, or product. In this motivational context, entertainment is more than pleasing people. It has promotional and marketing objectives. Some preferred activities include: marketing, sales, public relations, television commercials, lobbying, political campaigns, promotional consulting, sports announcing, etc. Motivations may also be driven at the prospect of efforts to get ahead in various areas of entertainment and/or acting, i.e., to advance one's own career. Persuasion is the primary preferred trait. A high level of motivation exists because there is an element of risk involved where the effort has a goal tied to the end of the act.

Jiayan is not motivated toward processing activities, no matter what is being processed or who is doing the processing. There is no natural preference for this sort of activity.

Along with other mental activities and preferences, Jiayan sees the big picture or assembles perceptions, thoughts, information, data, numbers, etc. in the context of the big picture. It is important to determine, by scanning other factors in this section, how high motivational levels are for synthesizing relative to other mental processes, regarding analyzing, comparing, and coordinating in particular. This comparison determines whether Jiayan prefers to start with the big picture, or build up to it later. Because Jiayan has moderate motivational levels for mental process, it will be more "down to earth" than "on cloud nine", more logical than fantasy or abstract.

Jiayan is strongly motivated to apply thinking to the big picture through holistic ideas, concepts, options, and strategies. This does not mean, suggest, or imply that thinking is kept only in a holistic context but it does mean that the first and constant priority or preference for consideration and focus are on the big picture. (Example: Jiayan more likely prefers to be an executive rather than a manager, and more inclined to be a manager rather than a supervisor.) Considering how pieces of the picture are brought in to the big picture stimulates motivation for the activity.

Theoretical, abstract math does not define a preference for Jiayan, and perhaps math itself simply may not be a motivational factor. Review of all related traits identify if and where math may motivate Jiayan and how that may be applicable to occupational activities.

Jiayan has creative writing and communicating preferences that are important vocational motivators. Mental preferences are holistic and conceptual and include abstract ideas, concepts, theory, capacity for fiction, and symbols. Writing probably is not so motivational as to be a specialized or professional activity, but Jiayan probably does consider it in particular areas. Other worker traits should be screened to determine where and how writing and other communicative media fits into Jiayan's vocational preferences.

This is really comprehensive. Try it! http://www.assessment.com

Street - level christian

"I am convinced these doors can be unlocked and God working through his Spirit can breathe new life into churches both small and large. These doors don't have to be locked. A fear-based faith will always try to control by discouraging anything that appears to be outside our comfort zone or familiar system. Consequently, the doors gets locked. On the other hand, a grace-based faith will change the hearts of men and women and cause them to live in perpetual thanksgiving.

I am not interested in doing anything that is unbiblical or moves us away from the core of the Gospel. Yet, I am interested in getting back to the very heart of what Jesus was about.

As long as we talk among ourselves and the conversation never gets outside ourselves, we will continue to play intramural theological games. However, when we begin to look and listen to the people on the street, we might hear questions that are not being asked behind these locked doors.

People have street-level questions and desire a street-level hope. After all, Jesus was the street-level savior who brought hope to the world. "

(taken from A place for the God-hungry)

The writer talks about doors which are locked, which prevent growth. Some of these locked doors may be the attempt to keep to the status quo of doing things. This impedes creativity and prevents real growth from happening. To get to the heart of who Jesus is requires more than following the norm. We are above the law.

Persist

Persist

It was Monday morning
And I wondered why the going gets tough
When doing the right things was all I wanted to do
I couldn’t help but feel discouraged
I couldn’t help but feel like giving up

But before I said “I do” to giving up I paused and pondered
Then I saw

I saw the sun faithfully shine its light
Over the righteous and the evil it never failed to rise and set
It dawned on me
The sun persisted because it was its DUTY to do so

I saw a colony of ants working hard carrying bread crumbs
They were storing provision for winter which was to come
It dawned on me
The ants persisted because they had the FUTURE in mind

I saw a runner competing in a world marathon event
His leg was crammed and his throat was dry
Still he kept running
It dawned on me
The runner persisted for the HONOUR of his country

I saw Jesus, the Son of God, walking towards Golgotha
His body was soaked in blood and His flesh was torn out
He was weary due to pain, hunger, thirst and no rest
Still He walked, walked and walked

I saw Jesus being nailed to the cross
The physical pain was excruciating
Insults and mockeries inflicted Him with emotional pain
Humanity’s sins placed on Him inflicted spiritual pain
That He cried “My God My God why have You forsaken me”
Still He remained and remained on that cross

It dawned on me
Jesus chose to keep walking
Jesus chose to remain on the cross
Jesus chose because of LOVE

I am sure glad that I paused and pondered
Now I know that I can choose to persist and not give up
I can persist because it is my DUTY to do so
I can persist because God promises a good FUTURE for me
I can persist because it is for the HONOUR of my God and His Kingdom
I can persist because of my LOVE for Him and His people

- Michael Buyung S.Raditya

I think this is a very inspiring poem which comes from the heart from a leader who never fails to perservere even in the toughest of situations. Do not just think, ponder. Do not just ponder, act on it! Thanks for putting in you 100%!

Be a vision-carrier

"God poured it out and He poured ALL for the people"

This statement touches me very much. It reminds me of the magnitude of the love of God. The human love is limited in having the capacity to give it all for someone. The time will come when the heart is tested to not give anymore. The person goes in "self-preservation mode", goes into the shell and take cover.

"When things are going well, we pray to God during breakfast, lunch and dinner. When we go through tough times, we pray to God all the time. We have a stronger root in the Lord.

It's always too early to give up in the Kingdom of God."

The challenge for a vision-carrier is not to go into self-preservation mode when tough times come but to go to God and grow our roots stronger in Him so we may be able to withstand the wind and storms that comes our way. Simply because it will come.

Keep on going on!!!

Courage is not the absence of fear

Something in Pris' blog stirred some great emotions in me today:

"Do you know that Salmon returns to the exact spot where they were born to reproduce? Not just that, they would die a few days after spawning. What encourages me most is that Salmon are survivors of nature! They can go miles and miles, upstream against the currents / torrents just to go back to where they were born to produce their off springs.Mind you, upstream and against the flow. How much strength is that going to take for them to go hundred of miles? How many of us have the courage to go against a stronger power to do what we have to do?"

HOW MANY OF US HAVE THE COURAGE TO GO AGAINST A STRONGER POWER TO DO WHAT WE HAVE TO DO?

Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgement that something else is more important than fear. ~Ambrose Redmoon

Breakthrough

Yesterday's Cg was enjoyable and ministering. I can feel God's power moving - in the midst of us and through the people who are ministering. The kingdom of God is forcefully advancing and God's hand is in it! Biblical breakthrough - a near and yet far concept. Far cos it appears to be unreachable at times of uncertainty, disappointments and discouragement but power is released when we pray a faith-filled prayer to God. When was the last time I prayed such a prayer to God? Many times. I just need the power of the holy spirit. Near cos God is not just with us, He lives in us! What is the image we see when we look into the mirror. The image of God in us or a defeated, pathetic soul? When we realise our identity as children of God and embrace His calling for us, we will experience a breakthrough. No standard formula. Just a shift in perspective. Through the eyes of God or through the eyes of Chia Jiayan. I choose the first because it brings FREEDOM.

Here we come

Goodwood Park Hotel - Here we come!

An exciting vision

Tonight was a special night spent with 2 other people of similar vision and passion in the area of counseling - Huiling and Junting. I thank God for His divine intervention in bringing the 3 of us together in serving Him in the area of our giftings/calling. Indeed, 2 are better than 1 and a cord of 3 strands not easily broken. I look forward to this new partnership in Christ and more to join us in this journey of service to the Lord and His people.

I was reading the parable of the talents this morning during my QT. The man with one talent said to his Master, "I knew that you are a hard man, harvesting where you have not sown and gathering where you have not scattered seed. So I was afraid and went out and hid your talent in the ground." The master replied to him that, "...you should have put my money on deposit with the bankers so that when I returned I would have received it back with interest."

The parable reminded me that even if we have one talent from God, we have to be faithful with it and not allow the fear of hardship to prevent us from multiplying the talent which God has given us. God, help me to be faithful with what You have given me. I know you will bring me through in all of this for You are a faithful God.

Cast your burden

"Cast all your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you;

he will never let the righteous fall."

- Pslam 55:22

What does it mean to "cast your burden"? Strong's concordance has an interesting note that the noun form of this word, "cast" can refer to a pelican because of the way it casts itself into the sea to capture its prey. "When I have been on the beach in Florida on the Gulf of Mexico side, I've seen this occur dozens of times. The pelican glides gracefully over the blue waters of the Gulf. Then it casts itself into the water with abandonment and purpose. What a picture of the way God wants us to approach Him in prayer!"

"Cast your anxiety on Him because He cares for you" - 1 Peter 5:7

Eyes of faith and heart of child

Dear Jiayan,

clearing out my computer, and came to these 2 phots, which ive always greatly treasured. They spent some time as my wall paper =) I like them not because we look great in it, but because i see the closeness in the pictures, and i see the care, concern and love in your eyes for me as you took care of me :)

That was one of the happiest day in my life, as i committed it to God. It was the mark for me, not when i received Christ...=)

I will walk on with eyes of faith and the heart of a child :)

Thanks for walking with me =)

Love you,
Tracy
--

Haha..U make me feel like crying la :)

You have brighten my life a lot as well. While I took care of you, u have been taking care of me all along as well :)

Hope to spend more time tog my dear :)

When I looked at the photos, I see simplicity. I see joy...Many people say to me, "This looks like a very old photo." Haha...3 years ago. How long does it take for a photo to be a very old photo? I hope the feelings never change, that it will always feel just like yesterday.

Every year I grow, You are bigger

In the midst of change and transformation, we realise that the older we get the more we need somebody bigger than we are to restore what we have lost. In Prince Caspian C.S. Lewis gives us a magnificent illustration of this. Lucy has just came face to face with Aslan:

"Welcome, Child," he said.

"Aslan," said Lucy, "You're bigger."

"That's because you are older, little one." answered he.

"Not because you are?"

"I am not. But every year you grow, you will find me bigger."

God has promised that when we find him, it is not that everything around us has changed but that we have become new. The old way of looking at things is gone. Retaining while moving forward becomes the glimpse given to the new creation. It is not that there are no more dissappointments but that we look at them differently. It is not that there are no more temptations but that we respond to them differently. It is not that there is no more of the same old thing but that we have learned to appreciate and treasure the old things. It is not that nothing is ever lost but that we don't hold on to things in the same way. It is not that nothing is ever new but that we receive it with a different perspective. The more we mature in our thinking the bigger God looks to us, because it is we who need to grow, not He.

(From Recapture The Wonder)

Our Calling

Today I was reading an article written by a teacher who has been in service for 15 years. It is entitled, "Called To Teach." Below is an excerpt from her article which spoke to me...

"Am I called to be a teacher? Yes, I think so. The struggle, no different from other believers, is that I have other responsibilities to family and church and one only has so much time and energy. The bible says there is a season for everything. Regardless of the paid profession in which we serve the Lord, there will always be many unpaid areas of service as well. We need His wisdom daily to know which should be our focus in this particular season."

As a christian, our calling from God is very important. Am I called to be where I am? This is a question we often ask ourselves. Am I living out the purpose God has for me and am I extending his kingdom through what I am doing...am I experiencing God's pleasure in the things I do? :) These questions is true for the many areas in our lives ( in our profession, in our families, our ministries, wherever we are). It is impossible to do many things at the same time but it is still possible to do what God wants us to do in our lives. Focus is the key. It comes from wisdom from God.

I recall a story shared by a speaker at the woman's conference. She shared that she is a very performance-oriented individual who has been brought up to top in all the things she does. Being a missionary, she enjoys bringing people to know God and experience God deeply though interaction with others. There was a period in her life, her husband was very sick and he has to undergo some fatal surgeries. During this time, she stayed at home daily and feed him medication, bring him for his treatment 3 times a week. As a result, she had to put down all she was doing and solely take care of her husband's needs. She shared that she felt trapped and unhappy as she believed God has a greater purpose for her to do more things with what she was given. However, this was a moulding period for her where God spoke to her that her husband was her ministry in that season in her life. God meant for her husband to be her focus at that time.

An amazing testimony. It reminds me to pray to God and ask Him for a focus in this season of my life :)

Once again - Matt Redman

You are special - Max Lucado

In this charming village of colorful shops and cobblestone streets live the little wooden people known as Wemmicks. Their workshops are on a high hill where they are able to view the entire village from. Every of them look different, some with big nose, some with big eyes, some tall, some short, some wearing hats, some wearing jackets. But they are all carved by the same person and they all live in the same village.

All day, everyday, the whimsical Wemmicks go about town doing the same thing: they give each other stickers. Golden stars are awarded to the talented and clever, while the clumsy and less gifted receive nothing but gray dots. Some of them are strong, some are able to jump very well. Also, some are very clever and some can sing very well. Everyone will give these people stickers. Some of them have stickers all over their bodies! They will think of more good things to do so that they can earn more stickers. Those who don’t have any talents will receive a lot of gray dots.

Punchinello is covered with the dreaded gray stickers. Try as he might, he just can't seem to earn even one golden star. He wants to jump as high as his friends but will always end up falling on his bum. When he falls, people will rushed over to put gray dots on him. After some time, he has so many gray dots on him that he did not dare to go out. He is afraid of doing more wrong things and getting more gray dots.

One day, he meets a most unusual Wemmick and discovers that things can be different. She has no stickers or gray dots on her. Her name is Lucia. Punchinello thinks to himself, “I want to be like that too.” He asked Lucia how he can be like her.

She asked him to visit a woodcarver who stays at the top of the hill. When he takes his new friend’s advice and visits the extraordinary woodcarver something strange begins to happen to Punchinello. The woodcarver said to him, “I think you are special”. Punchinello said, “Me? Special? I don’t run fast, jump high. Why do you care about me?” He looked at him and said, “Because I made you, you are mine.” At that time, the gray dots from his body dropped to the ground one by one.

Career Orientation

I did my career orientations inventory today and here's the results...

Lifestyle (Top)
Those who are focused on lifestyle look at their whole pattern of living. They not so much balance work and life as integrate it. They may even take long periods off work on which to indulge in passions such as writing a book, or travelling. They would not like work to compromise their lilfestyle.
(This is so true of me ...)

Service/Dedication to a cause (Second)
These are driven by how they can help other people more than using their talents (which may fall in other areas). They are willing to take lower status or pay, or even difficulties in the job if they see it as meaningful and doing good for others.
(definitely)

Independent/autonomy (Third)
These people have a primary need to work under their own rules and steam. They prefer to work alone, with little supervision. They like to be trusted and respected for their work.
(Yup!)

Ice age 3

Rational versus rationalising beings

"Life is about faith. Jesus knew that most of what we do in life is simply taken on faith. We like to think we are rational beings living logical lives based upon objective facts. But the truth is, we are rationalising beings who base most of our decisions on what we feel or believe and come up with the logic to justify our actions afterwards. We don't really know as much as we think we do. "

(Excerpt from Jesus The Greatest Therapist Who Ever Lived)

Roses are red, violets are blue

I have always liked new beginnings...creating something out of nothing :) These 2 days I have been setting up my study table, I call it my cosy corner cos I can be at my comfort where I am - studying, reading, writing, drawing, anything. I value comfort greatly :D

I saw 2 lovely red gerbera at Ikea and I knew I had to get it. They really cheered me up and true enough, it brings warmth and cheer to my cosy corner. I came across this flower years ago from a show I liked a lot, "To heart" and I have been drawn to it ever since. Did some research on it and also the flower that Pris likes - the white rose. There is this thing abt flowers that has a effect on most girls. The blooming of a flower - a breathtaking moment.

When you want to send the gift of cheer, gerbera daisies are your sure choice. Distinguished by large flowering heads that closely resemble those of sunflowers, gerbera daisies come in a vibrant rainbow of colors. Bright pink, snow white, sunny yellow, and ruby red are just a few of the gorgeous colors that these happy flowers boast.

The gerbera daisy was discovered in 1884 near Barberton, South Africa, by Scotsman Robert Jameson. While the flower’s scientific name, Gerbera jamesonii, recollects the name of its founder, the meaning of its common name draws from German naturalist Traugott Gerber. Breeding programs that began in England in 1890 enhanced the flower’s quality and color variations. The gerbera daisy’s popularity soon traveled to growers in the Netherlands which, along with Columbia, is the primary distributor of the flower’s cut version today. The gerbera currently ranks as the fifth most popular flower in the world behind the rose, carnation, chrysanthemum, and tulip.

The meanings of gerbera daisies stem from those attributed to the general daisy family. These meanings include innocence and purity, and daisies are also a classic symbol of beauty. However, the gerbera variety holds an added meaning of cheerfulness, which stems from the assortment of colors available. An assorted bouquet of gerbera daisies can lift the spirit and sending one is an ideal way to brighten someone’s day. The sheer multitude of available varieties has helped the gerbera daisy become a favorite choice for many different occasions – birthdays, get well, congratulations, thank you, and more.

There are many types of flowers which can help to express our thoughts and feelings for our loved ones, but the gerbera daisy and its meaning stand out as one of the most distinctly bright and merry. With its bold and striking appearance, the gerbera daisy has become the most highly-prized daisy variety. When you send gerbera daisies, know that these fresh flowers convey a deeply meaningful message and make a lively lasting impression

The meaning of shimmering white roses is not very hard to decipher if you go by their appearance. The color white has always been synonymous with purity and virtue. And so, sincerity, purity, and chastity are some of the obvious meanings of a white rose. When you need to convince that your affections are straight from the heart and are as pure as virgin snow, use a white rose. But there are more hidden meanings in a white rose than meets the eye. White has ever been a symbol of innocence, of a world unspoiled and untarnished. The meaning of a bunch of glowing white roses is innocence and spiritual love. The white rose glorifies a love that is unaware of the temptations of the flesh and resides only in the soul. As opposed to the red rose that speaks of passionate promises, the meaning of a white rose is in its simplicity and pristine purity.

Purity, Innocence, Silence, Secrecy, Reverence, Humility, Youthfulness, "I am worthy of you", Heavenly, Loyalty, penetrating and platonic love, honor, spiritual love In Scotland, when the white rose bloomed in autumn, it was seen as a token of early marriage. Also symbolizing truth and reverence, it sends a message of loyalty and says "I am worthy of you." Create an atmosphere of purity and spirituality with a white rose. With their aura of innocence and honor, white roses have become popular wedding roses and are often used to symbolize new beginnings or as a tribute to a departed loved one. White roses have been symbols of reverence and humility ever since Medieval Christian Europe. In those times, Mary was often represented by a white rose to represent her purity. In Wales, white roses are seen to mean innocence and silence, and are often placed on the grave of a young child. Meanwhile, some native American cultures see the white rose as representing security and happiness, so this is why they are traditionally worn at weddings.

Sometimes called "the flower of light", one of the meanings of white roses is everlasting love - love stronger than death, an eternal love, undying and all sustaining. White rose speaks of a love that is sustained more by loyalty, reverence and humility than by red-blooded passion. So, in its capacity to worship someone till death, the meaning of a white rose is unchanging loyalty that endures beyond all else.

The white bouquet has been a tradition since Queen Victoria’s wedding in l840. It was in this romantic era that gentlemen started sending flowers to their lady friends to denote special meanings. The white rose is the queen of the bridal bouquet. Here, the meaning of a white rose is something different altogether. A virgin carrying the white roses seeks to assure her loved one of her purity and innocence. Untarnished and untainted - the white rose is the bride on her wedding day. In the "language of the flowers" the meaning of white roses is "I am worthy of you". The meaning of the white rose will not be lost on a groom when he sees his bride's eyes filled with unchanging love and loyalty, a promise to stand by him through all.

The meaning of white roses is not only in their full blooms. A withered or fading white rose is also clamoring to be heard. Fleeting beauty or “you made no impression” - as cruel as that may sound. When you need to keep away from the ardent sighs of an unwelcome admirer, perhaps it is wise to present a bunch of fading white roses.

The most famous meanings of the white rose arise from mythology. Many of these surround Aphrodite (Venus) as Goddess of love. She sprang forth into life from the foaming sea, and where the foam fell to the ground, white roses grew. This and later myths about Aphrodite display the dual nature of love: purity and innocence represented by white roses; desire and sexual gratification by red ones. In one story she runs to help her wounded lover Adonis and catches her flesh on the thorns of the white rose bush. Her blood falling on the bush turns the roses red, symbolizing the way innocence and purity change to experience and motherhood.