FUN AT BUKIT TINGGI
Monday, December 17, 2007
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL DIES
You can erase the mark
But the paper's thinner
And the surface scarred
No longer smooth as before...
The same with a hurt
Perhaps a heedless word
And though you apologise
Something beautiful dies...
SIMON YAP
But the paper's thinner
And the surface scarred
No longer smooth as before...
The same with a hurt
Perhaps a heedless word
And though you apologise
Something beautiful dies...
SIMON YAP
Thursday, October 11, 2007
BUILDING PYRAMIDS IN EGYPT
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
I have always believed that "success" is the measure of the person I am. Hence, spending hours in the library and subsequently, slogging away behind the office desk was a given. Anyone who complains of long hours and hard work is deemed weak. I subscribed to the saying: If you are not Somebody you are Nobody and I worked hard at making sure everyone knew I was Somebody.
Well, I was Somebody all right, but I soon learnt that being Somebody can be lonely. To my colleagues I was "the threat", to my subordinates I was the "B#$%@", to my friends I was "too busy"and to my family I was "absent". If a name describes a person, then I truly did not like who I have become. The Somebody I have become is not at all the person I had worked so hard to be.
After 18 years of studying and 10 years in the working world, I find myself divorced and living alone and realizing that "success" is measured on many fronts, but more importantly it does not make a person. A few weeks ago, Pastor Chew spoke on the book of Exodus and how many of us are slaves to Egypt, building pyramids for ourselves and forgetting the promised land. This truly hit home.
I am starting with small gestures, taking time to call friends up just to see how they are, remembering their birthdays and spending time with my family. I recently took a day off work just to take my nephew to Genting Highlands! To many it wouldn't mean much, for everyone who knows me, it's almost unheard of. (Remember I was the type who use to take pride in not taking leave and never calling in sick.) But the look on his face at the rides and how he still talks about that day being James' Day with a twinkle in his eyes, I know that we will all remember that trip for a long time.
Today I am called by nicer names, "Yi Yi", "best friend", "terribly lazy sleepy one" ;-)
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Confession : Guilt Post
Been checking the blog and found that it has been stagnant for a while. Have been busy and, also, been going through a little "down period" last few weeks, hence could not be bothered to post anything. But I've picked up these days, by the Grace of God, and after a little chat with Anna this morning, felt kinda guilty that I haven't done my bit so here it is - a new post, mostly out of guilt, but also because I have a little time with nothing really urgent or pressing today ... :-)
The only little problem is I don't really have any story in mind, or any inspirational thoughts that I think is worthy of sharing. But I also realised that if I were to wait for "worthy thoughts" or something special before I blog, it might be forever! So I decided, what the heck, just do it!
I guess what's foremost on my mind is to give thanks to God. Like I said, was going through some down time, and the fact that I feel lifted now is already something I am totally grateful for. Thank you, God, for your Grace. And during this down time, I thank God for Cornerstone sisters who took time to just hear me out, talk to me and encourage me, and most of all, upheld me in prayer. You know who you are, may God bless you for being there. I truly appreciate it.
Well, I thank God for being gracious because during this down time, I didn't "feel" very hot for God, if you know what I mean. Fire seemed to have sort of slowed (thank God it didn't die down) and problems seemed larger than life. But one thing I told myself - that even when my prayers sounded empty, when the songs I sing didn't seem to lift me up, when my heart didn't seem to be very close to God - I decided that I would not stop. I made up my mind that empty though everything may seem - better empty prayers and praises than no prayers and praises. If nothing else, I will NOT let the Devil have the pleasure of robbing God of that. But in case you think that was awesome - don't - because nothing really happened. I went on for days substituting mere words for prayers, and played songs on the CD because the heart didn't feel like singing. There was no great uplifting or miracles. Bet even God wasn't thrilled.
But while there was seemingly nothing for me and nothing for God, God just reminded me that, at the same time, there was nothing for the Devil too. And today, as I am blogging, I know that even if I was praying out of "duty" and letting the CD sing instead of my voice, God will not hold it against me. He may not be totally estatic with me, but He is not unhappy. And because of that, He was gracious to send people along the way to help me, and pick me up. And today, I stand again, giving praise, and have learnt the lesson that I should never take another ordinary day for granted - for everyday that is not a "down" day, is truly a gift from God. I am reminded that I must never just live for the "highs" or the "up" days, and that ordinary days are indeed a blessing, and the highs are a bonus!
I should also recount some of the good things that happened when I was feeling down - my son finally graduated to KidZone, and is enjoying it. He learnt to sing "Come Holy Spirit" and has been singing it often, has been reciting memory verses and reminding me to pray when I forget! My sister has joined the cell and is enjoying it. I even had work yesterday, and got paid for it. I had the fun of trying out a "yoga" session, gym session and today, line dancing! Though I felt like an elephant trying to do ballet, it was fun.
And to anyone reading this who is going through down time - I know nothing I say will really help, so I won't pretend it will. But know this, and know this well - that God is never far, no matter how YOU feel. Be down if you must, but don't let the Devil win no matter how far down he pulls you. If you don't give in, he'll let go eventually because he'll lose patience and try something else and probably someone else. After all, patience is a Godly virtue, and the Devil is far from Godly.
And maybe, just maybe, this elephant will at least learn to move a little more gracefully, if not do the Nutcracker. As they say, hope is eternal ... :-)
God bless
Jacq
The only little problem is I don't really have any story in mind, or any inspirational thoughts that I think is worthy of sharing. But I also realised that if I were to wait for "worthy thoughts" or something special before I blog, it might be forever! So I decided, what the heck, just do it!
I guess what's foremost on my mind is to give thanks to God. Like I said, was going through some down time, and the fact that I feel lifted now is already something I am totally grateful for. Thank you, God, for your Grace. And during this down time, I thank God for Cornerstone sisters who took time to just hear me out, talk to me and encourage me, and most of all, upheld me in prayer. You know who you are, may God bless you for being there. I truly appreciate it.
Well, I thank God for being gracious because during this down time, I didn't "feel" very hot for God, if you know what I mean. Fire seemed to have sort of slowed (thank God it didn't die down) and problems seemed larger than life. But one thing I told myself - that even when my prayers sounded empty, when the songs I sing didn't seem to lift me up, when my heart didn't seem to be very close to God - I decided that I would not stop. I made up my mind that empty though everything may seem - better empty prayers and praises than no prayers and praises. If nothing else, I will NOT let the Devil have the pleasure of robbing God of that. But in case you think that was awesome - don't - because nothing really happened. I went on for days substituting mere words for prayers, and played songs on the CD because the heart didn't feel like singing. There was no great uplifting or miracles. Bet even God wasn't thrilled.
But while there was seemingly nothing for me and nothing for God, God just reminded me that, at the same time, there was nothing for the Devil too. And today, as I am blogging, I know that even if I was praying out of "duty" and letting the CD sing instead of my voice, God will not hold it against me. He may not be totally estatic with me, but He is not unhappy. And because of that, He was gracious to send people along the way to help me, and pick me up. And today, I stand again, giving praise, and have learnt the lesson that I should never take another ordinary day for granted - for everyday that is not a "down" day, is truly a gift from God. I am reminded that I must never just live for the "highs" or the "up" days, and that ordinary days are indeed a blessing, and the highs are a bonus!
I should also recount some of the good things that happened when I was feeling down - my son finally graduated to KidZone, and is enjoying it. He learnt to sing "Come Holy Spirit" and has been singing it often, has been reciting memory verses and reminding me to pray when I forget! My sister has joined the cell and is enjoying it. I even had work yesterday, and got paid for it. I had the fun of trying out a "yoga" session, gym session and today, line dancing! Though I felt like an elephant trying to do ballet, it was fun.
And to anyone reading this who is going through down time - I know nothing I say will really help, so I won't pretend it will. But know this, and know this well - that God is never far, no matter how YOU feel. Be down if you must, but don't let the Devil win no matter how far down he pulls you. If you don't give in, he'll let go eventually because he'll lose patience and try something else and probably someone else. After all, patience is a Godly virtue, and the Devil is far from Godly.
And maybe, just maybe, this elephant will at least learn to move a little more gracefully, if not do the Nutcracker. As they say, hope is eternal ... :-)
God bless
Jacq
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Regrets..I've had a few...
Last Wednesday, we all had a good time during cell at Randy & Jacqui’s home (Thank You to you both!) sharing about what forgiveness means to us. It was a deep and awesome time for me as the members of the cell shared their life experience and some of their deep emotions for edification of others. Really, I felt very blessed by all that happened that evening.
However, one thing that we did not cover is the question of regrets. In the film clip that was shown last Wednesday, Morrie spoke of this to Mitch about his regrets; hardness of heart, things he did not do, and about his late father. Regrets that we have are about things that we need to forgive ourselves for; things we didn’t do when we should have, wrongs we made, hurts we caused. As Jacqui mentioned last Wednesday, forgiving ourselves is perhaps the hardest thing to do.
Having regrets is perhaps a healthy sign. We have them when we realise what role we have played in any strife and are deeply sorry for it. Two things happen when regrets hit us. First, we have finally arrived at the point of seeing a situation from the OTHER person’s point of view realising how hurt or disappointed that person was or is. Secondly, we realise that we too need forgiveness. If we can seek forgiveness from anyone that we have wronged, then the best course of action is to seek out the person and say, “sorry”. But like Morrie, oftentimes we cannot do so. And just as hurting as a wrong unto ourselves, a regret can also be a stronghold in us that grows bitter roots undermining our self confidence and self worth.
This is not the Lord wants for us. He wants to set us free from any hindrance that may stand in the way of our relationship with Him. Colossians 3: 13 says, “Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” We have to remember that the Lord has forgiven us. Forgiveness is a character of Christ. We are asked to forgive others as we have been forgiven. When it comes to our regrets, we must forgive ourselves as it is pointless to hold onto something that has ALREADY been forgiven by the Father. If He does not hold our wrong against us, why should we hold onto it ourselves? His forgiveness is our freedom. For John 8:36 says, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” So, accept that we are forgiven for our wrongs. That is the first step towards forgiving ourselves.
Rodney
However, one thing that we did not cover is the question of regrets. In the film clip that was shown last Wednesday, Morrie spoke of this to Mitch about his regrets; hardness of heart, things he did not do, and about his late father. Regrets that we have are about things that we need to forgive ourselves for; things we didn’t do when we should have, wrongs we made, hurts we caused. As Jacqui mentioned last Wednesday, forgiving ourselves is perhaps the hardest thing to do.
Having regrets is perhaps a healthy sign. We have them when we realise what role we have played in any strife and are deeply sorry for it. Two things happen when regrets hit us. First, we have finally arrived at the point of seeing a situation from the OTHER person’s point of view realising how hurt or disappointed that person was or is. Secondly, we realise that we too need forgiveness. If we can seek forgiveness from anyone that we have wronged, then the best course of action is to seek out the person and say, “sorry”. But like Morrie, oftentimes we cannot do so. And just as hurting as a wrong unto ourselves, a regret can also be a stronghold in us that grows bitter roots undermining our self confidence and self worth.
This is not the Lord wants for us. He wants to set us free from any hindrance that may stand in the way of our relationship with Him. Colossians 3: 13 says, “Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” We have to remember that the Lord has forgiven us. Forgiveness is a character of Christ. We are asked to forgive others as we have been forgiven. When it comes to our regrets, we must forgive ourselves as it is pointless to hold onto something that has ALREADY been forgiven by the Father. If He does not hold our wrong against us, why should we hold onto it ourselves? His forgiveness is our freedom. For John 8:36 says, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” So, accept that we are forgiven for our wrongs. That is the first step towards forgiving ourselves.
Rodney
Thursday, September 13, 2007
two stories that came to mind....
Let me start off by saying that I DID enjoy cell last night!! Hands up those of you who didn't???
Good, all very compliant, all enjoyed.........
During the course of the cell, and because of the discussions that took place, two stories came to mind.
When Kelly was talking about legacies.....
We all know, the famous tenor Luciano Pavarotti just recently passed away. Within three days of his death, I got the first corny joke about his passing, and I forwarded that to some friends. One of them commented, 'aiyo, his body not even cold yet, and the corny jokes have started!!'
I replied to her, I hope someday when I die, there'll be loads of corny emails going around about me. Then I will know (hopefully I'll be in heaven when I come to this realisation!!) that I've arrived.
When we were talking about how you would live your life if you knew when you would die...
I read a story in the newspapers some time back. An old English gentleman was told he had a terminal disease (sorry, I forget what the disease was......) and that he would die in a short time, say one or two years (sorry again, I forget the exact time frame, it WAS a long time ago I read this story........). So he decided to be unconventional. Much like Morrie Schwarz he was given a finite timeline to live. He sold all that he had, cashed in on his insurance policies and set out to enjoy the rest of his life. He must've gone on a cruise or two, seen the world or three, and basically I'm certain, he partied like there was no tomorrow (there wasn't, as far as he was concerned).
What's the catch?? Well, three years down the road, (or more, I don't remember, but it doesn't really matter) something drastic happened. His money ran out. NO, he DIDN'T die. And he had no more money.
The story ends with him suing the doctors who diagnosed his disease and gave him his timeframe.
I just thought I'd share this with all of you, as I sat there thinking, even the best laid plans.........
Ok folks, consider that my orientation into the Group!!!
God Bless.
signed,
Mr. M
Good, all very compliant, all enjoyed.........
During the course of the cell, and because of the discussions that took place, two stories came to mind.
When Kelly was talking about legacies.....
We all know, the famous tenor Luciano Pavarotti just recently passed away. Within three days of his death, I got the first corny joke about his passing, and I forwarded that to some friends. One of them commented, 'aiyo, his body not even cold yet, and the corny jokes have started!!'
I replied to her, I hope someday when I die, there'll be loads of corny emails going around about me. Then I will know (hopefully I'll be in heaven when I come to this realisation!!) that I've arrived.
When we were talking about how you would live your life if you knew when you would die...
I read a story in the newspapers some time back. An old English gentleman was told he had a terminal disease (sorry, I forget what the disease was......) and that he would die in a short time, say one or two years (sorry again, I forget the exact time frame, it WAS a long time ago I read this story........). So he decided to be unconventional. Much like Morrie Schwarz he was given a finite timeline to live. He sold all that he had, cashed in on his insurance policies and set out to enjoy the rest of his life. He must've gone on a cruise or two, seen the world or three, and basically I'm certain, he partied like there was no tomorrow (there wasn't, as far as he was concerned).
What's the catch?? Well, three years down the road, (or more, I don't remember, but it doesn't really matter) something drastic happened. His money ran out. NO, he DIDN'T die. And he had no more money.
The story ends with him suing the doctors who diagnosed his disease and gave him his timeframe.
I just thought I'd share this with all of you, as I sat there thinking, even the best laid plans.........
Ok folks, consider that my orientation into the Group!!!
God Bless.
signed,
Mr. M
Friday, September 7, 2007
From the housefly’s mouth …
Hey there! You’re probably wondering where this is coming from. Well, it’s coming from me - you know, the great guy you try to swat all the time – yup, you got it. It’s me, Housefly. Well, to be precise, Housefly ala Amy and Derek Chin. That’s right. I’m not your usual housefly – I live at No. 6, Jalan TR4/1, Tropicana Golf and Country Resort. So, that makes me kinda high-class, no?
I don’t usually say much. I like to just observe. But I guess when something extraordinary takes place, I just can’t keep my mouth shut, can I? Well, OK, I couldn’t. So here’s an account of what happened at the Chin’s residence on Wednesday, 5 September 2007. An account from my point of view – your humble housefly.
Wednesday, 5 September 2007 started kinda perfectly. It was a sunny morning and I was so thrilled when the temperature picked up considerably as the day went on (hey, houseflies love the heat, no?). I was wondering what brought on this wonderful weather when it had been raining the last few days? On hindsight, it could have had something to do with those prayers Amy was muttering – asking God to hold back the rain! Wow, God must have really been listening!
I spent my day hovering around, as chirpy as I can be, watching Amy and her faithful helpers moving up and down, carrying tables, chairs … and instructions going back and forth … the level of activity picked up as did the temperature, as the day went along. Strange, I thought. Been a while since I see this much of activities and Amy looking so stressed out! And scones! I even smelt scones! Oooohhhh, this was surely going to be a perfect day!
Then some strange people turned up started a fire in front of the house. What were they thinking!!???! Didn’t they learn from the neighbour’s inferno? And then there was this really great smelling stuff they dished out and put over the fire … I got it, finally! It was a whole, roast lamb! By golly! What a feast! Just when you think that was the ultimate, a van came and delivered a whole load of food! Strawberries, pastries, lasagne, fried rice … ooooh, I salivate just recalling the scene!
More people started coming. Started with these two lovely ladies in white, which I thought was nice, but a little too much for just 2 guests, no? Hah, before I knew it, they started coming in droves! More and more women in white! Thank goodness the men were more imaginative! What’s wrong with these women?
I watched in fascination as someone arrived with a keyboard and microphones. This is one real party, even a housefly could tell you that! Things were happening so quickly after that, even I was getting dizzy. More food – yes – mee goreng, chicken wings, salad … gosh, they must be really hungry!
Then came speeches and, music! The songs filled the home, and our quiet home was ringing with the loveliest music ever. They were praising God, and I tell you, if I were God, I’d be pleased. And they prayed too. I loved the prayer for the Chins…they prayed for blessings not only for them, you see, but for the household, and that includes ME!!! Thank you, thank you guys … and yes, God, BLESS THIS HOME!
Then the eating and the real ruckus began. They were laughing, talking … where do they get their energy from? There were these two men in black that sure got a lot of attention from the women. Obviously, black is the colour for ladies and … that’s what I am! Hey – watch out, all ye, sexy housefly ladies!
I flew around and watched and took in all I could. It's been a while since I saw such revelry! But I was getting tired, and yet they didn't seem to show any sign of stopping! By 11.00 pm, I was really trying to keep my eyes open. And then, all of a sudden, they started saying good bye. But even that took a while! When they were all finally out the door, I closed my eyes to an end of a wonderful day, and the last thing I saw was my dear Lady of the House, Amy, heaving a huge sigh of relief with a smile on her face ...
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
CELL OUTING!! -( Musical) TUNKU
Woohoo!! We went for our very first cell outing before the cell even started! Ha Ha, yes, like Rod said - We hit the ground running.
The musical TUNKU was an excellent production. Glad most of the Living Stones went except for Jacq & Randy (no baby sitter for James), Sandy & Jackie Teoh and Bob and Pearl (work commitments). Joanne, glad you joined us, hope to see you at cell sometimes.
The musical TUNKU was an excellent production. Glad most of the Living Stones went except for Jacq & Randy (no baby sitter for James), Sandy & Jackie Teoh and Bob and Pearl (work commitments). Joanne, glad you joined us, hope to see you at cell sometimes.
.
As usual, we started with the serious business of EATING.
Chantelle and Chanelle
Simon & Kelly
The Wongs
The fair ladies
Satisfied looks
Where is Joey? Pheet! nice pose Chantelle.
Tabby (in red wrap) a member of the cast
It was a good night. I especially enjoyed the bonding.
Anna Koh
Saturday, August 25, 2007
WELCOME TO CORNERSTONE'S JOURNEY
Hello everyone!!
Our blog - an electronic journal for Cornerstone's cell members (Living Stones). Our cell will official start on 5th Sept 2007 but as of last week, we are already busy planning the party. Will post on the development as we go along.
Stay with this blog.
Anna Koh
Our blog - an electronic journal for Cornerstone's cell members (Living Stones). Our cell will official start on 5th Sept 2007 but as of last week, we are already busy planning the party. Will post on the development as we go along.
Stay with this blog.
Anna Koh
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
