A little space to share

Slow Fade by Casting Crowns with lyrics

2009-08-10T20:30:00.001+08:00

This song serves as a good reminder to us, whether our daily choices bring us nearer to Him or further away ...
We'll have to bear the consequences of our choices, especially at times when we have hardened our hearts.

Of course, He is gracious to us whenever we come to Him again and again, but we should not take His grace for granted...

Everlasting God by Lincoln Brewster

2009-04-04T20:57:00.001+08:00

This song has been ringing in my head since last weekend .. haha =)

All else will fade but God lasts forever ... His grace, love and mercy last forever.

Every Time I Pray (我以禱告來到你跟前)

2008-10-20T21:37:00.001+08:00

A song that I sang as a teenager in church. The chorus echoes the truth as a believer in Christ - Pray - in whatever situations we are in.

I still prefer the chinese lyrics though yesterday then I realised, it was originally writen in English but popularised in Mandarin.

我以禱告來到你跟前

詞、曲：吳華樂

１﹒我以禱告來到你跟前我要尋求你
我要站在破口之中在那裡我尋求你

每一次我禱告我搖動你的手禱告做的事我的手不能做
每一次我禱告大山被挪移道路被鋪平使列國歸向你

２﹒主我是軟弱及無助你卻是我的力量
以你親切的手引導我那就是我的得勝

Benjamin Zander on music and passion

2008-10-18T18:38:00.005+08:00

http://vodpod.com/watch/841201-benjamin-zander-on-music-and-passion-video-on-ted-com
An amazing teaching on classical music and passion. His passion is indeed contagious.
Just listen to it though classical music is not your cup of tea =).

''SHEPHERD OF MY SOUL''

2008-10-18T18:25:00.001+08:00

Shepherd of my soul I give you full control,
Wherever You may lead I will foll-ow.
I have made the choice to listen for Your vo-ice,
Wherever You may lead I will go.

Be it in a quiet pasture or by a gentle stream,
The Shepherd of my soul is by my side.
Should I face a mighty mountain or a valley dark and deep,
The Shepherd of my soul will be my guide.

Shepherd of my soul Oh You have made me whole,
Where’er I hear You call how my tea-ars flow.
How I feel your love how I want to se-rve
I gladly give my heart to You O – Lord.

Be it in the flowing river or in the quiet night,
The Shepherd of my soul is by my side.
Should I face the stormy weather or the dangers of this world.
The Shepherd of my soul will be my guide.

我要向高山舉目

2008-10-15T18:36:00.001+08:00

(詩 121:1-2)
"我要向山舉目。我的幫助從何而來。我的幫助從造天地的耶和華而來。"

Tommy Emmanuel - Since We Met

2008-10-06T16:22:00.001+08:00

Instrumental music without words has its way of inviting us into its world ...

Just the melody itself, plus your little bit of imagination and that instinctive feel, a story unfolds according to its title.

Andy Mckee - Rylynn - Acoustic Guitar - www.candyrat.com

2008-10-06T16:14:00.001+08:00

Home

2008-10-03T18:33:00.016+08:00

Most of the time when you think of foreigners, you may link to the idea that their home is somewhere else... far away perhaps.

Well, as a foreigner in Singapore, who have stayed for like 8 years, I'm really glad and thankful to say that, I actually have a home here in Singapore, that I look forward to going back everyday =).

The place is rented, partially furnished, mostly second hand furnitures, no air-conditions, limited space ... but it is the people that makes a difference.

This is also a home filled with God's grace because we almost had no where to stay and by divine appointment, we secure this place within one day.

No matter how tired I feel after toiling for the whole day, when I reach home, I feel refreshed and sometimes, I can even start a second round of work.
"God's presence must have something to do with it." I always have this conviction.

Come to think of it, we foreigners may be quite lucky because most people have a home but we can have two, only if you wish to make the place that you are staying now - a home.

Born on the same day but living different lives

2008-10-02T15:30:00.015+08:00

http://www.30hourfamine.org.sg/2007/lylong-interview.html

Showed this video to my class during character education. At the end of it, I asked some questions and gathered some responses.

What are some lines from the boy that spoke to you?
- "My father didn't support us..."
- "I feel embarrassed to pick rubbish..."
- "if we die nobody would know..."

What can we learn from this documentary?
- learn to appreciate and treasure what we have
- help them in whatever ways we can

Even without processing, the sec 2 students could tell me all these model answers. Immediately in my heart I feel that, almost all kids instinctively recognize these facts. Just that, sometimes they need reminders and explicit teachings to draw it out and help their hearts to feel for others in need.

Though Ly Long experienced a traumatized childhood, I admire his courage to live on. He seems 'poor' on the outside, but I feel he's 'rich' on the inside - thankful for the little things he has; having a dream to teach others to become teachers and doctors.

He has a hope to live and he moves on ... =)

You may not have a lot or all the good things you wish for in life, but count those that you have and be thankful. Make full use of it. Like Ly Long, find a purpose in life and learn along the way.
You'll then be able to take little steps forward and get nearer to your dream.

And always help those in need, with a genuine heart ... =)

Israel & New breed - You Are Not Forgotten

2008-10-01T19:57:00.020+08:00

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=kjRQZ-xwSUI

People walking by, very seldom they say "hi"
they don’t know how wonderful you are
If they only knew all the things you’ve been through,
if only they could see your heart
I hear you crying for help, please don’t blame yourself..
You are not forgotten, you are not forgotten

When it’s time to go to sleep and you try your best to keep..yourself from falling apart.
There’s no need to fear, because I’m already here, and I’m the one who sees your heart..
I hear you crying for help, please don’t blame yourself..
You are not forgotten, you are not forgotten

You are not just a face in the crowd, you are not a forgotten child
Let Me whisper it loud, I love you, oh, I love you

You can hold your head up high, ’cause I’ll make everything alright, I’m committed to you smiling again
And eventually you’ll see people’s similarities, everyone just needs a friend..
And when they’re crying for help, you’ll be able to tell them, please tell them for Me
You are not forgotten, you are not forgotten
You are not forgotten, you are not forgotten

Just remember, you are not forgotten

This is a msg from God to us, especially when we feel down and alone, seems like no one can understand us ... But God says,"You are not forgotten..."

F1 race

2008-10-01T17:24:00.011+08:00

Didn't manage to watch the whole race from TV but I do find it exciting - the loud engine sound; that perseverance to go through the same route umpteen times; requiring focused attention ... not forgetting that driving skill...

Haha, actually I don't know much about the race but somehow because I like driving, that's why I'm attracted to it. If I have the chance, I don't mind experiencing the thrill out of it. Heard that one can experience that at Sepang circuit, KL. One of my wild dreams if I have the chance ... =)

Well, this is quite fun. Enjoy!
http://www.visitsingapore.com/racer/index.html
(use the keyboard cursors: up, left and right to maneuver the car)

A thought about race:
Life is like a race too. It's rather unpredictable at times.
Sometimes u thought u r at the leading front but who knows half way through the journey, something happens and you are found way behind the rests...
I think what's more important in this race of life is that, you give your very best in preparing for the journey and experience every moment, then I believe it will minimize whatever regrets one will have ...

Steven Curtis Chapman - Cinderella Music Video and Story

2008-07-05T22:53:00.001+08:00

She spins and she sways to whatever song plays,
Without a care in the world.
And I'm sittin' here wearin' the weight of the world on my shoulders.
It's been a long day and there's still work to do,
She's pulling at me saying "Dad I need you!
There's a ball at the castle and I've been invited and I need to practice my dancin'"
"Oh please, daddy, please!"

So I will dance with Cinderella
While she is here in my arms
'Cause I know something the prince never knew
Oh I will dance with Cinderella
I don't wanna miss even one song,
Cuz all to soon the clock will strike midnight
And she'll be gone

She says he's a nice guy and I'd be impressed
She wants to know if I approve of the dress
She says "Dad, the prom is just one week away,
And I need to practice my dancin'"
"Oh please, daddy, please!"

So I will dance with Cinderella
While she is here in my arms
'Cause I know something the prince never knew
Ohh-oh ohh-oh, I will dance with Cinderella
I don't wanna miss even one song,
Cuz all to soon the clock will strike midnight
And she'll be gone
She will be gone.

Well, she came home today
With a ring on her hand
Just glowin' and tellin' us all they had planned
She says "Dad, the wedding's still six months away
but I need to practice my dancin'"
"Oh please, daddy please!"

So I will dance with Cinderella
While she is here in my arms
'Cause I know something the prince never knew
Ohh-oh ohh-oh, I will dance with Cinderella
I don't wanna miss even one song,
(even one song)
Cuz all to soon the clock will strike midnight
And she'll be gone

August Rush - Raise it up

2008-06-30T21:57:00.001+08:00

Amazing voice from the little girl, Jamia Simone Nash.

August Rush - movie

2008-06-30T21:54:00.001+08:00

So far this is the trailer that I like most, about this movie.
Ya, somehow I'm bias towards movies that talk about music ... like music and lyrics, haha.
Because music is a language, and it speaks to me.

It's an urban fantasy that talks about musicians and how music connects people ...

Amazing - Paradise Live

2008-06-24T23:15:00.004+08:00

Somehow I was being ministered deeply by this song in last week's worship though we've played it quite a few times in service. More than the beautiful melody and challenging playing on the keyboard, the words came alive...

http://www.imeem.com/kimisaki/music/v1bL2_gh/paradise_community_church_amazing/
(hope you can hear the song from this website)

You are amazing
Forever saving
Captured by the power of Your love
Jesus I worship You

I am speechless before You
I am nothing without You
I adore You my Lord my God
My saving grace

Jesus all I live to do
Is to love You my God
I stand amazed captured by Your grace
Let me sing Your praise
And stand in awe of You
I stand in awe of You

Tan Hong Ming's love

2008-06-11T23:37:00.015+08:00

Check out this youtube video, really worth watching. It's simple but strong in bringing forward a message...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J8cGKY9U46Q

Newspaper resource:

http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/5/6/nation/21159830&sec=nation

The TV commercial entitled Tan Hong Ming, conceptualised and directed by renowned Malaysian advertising creative director and filmmaker Yasmin Ahmad, has won three awards (two gold and one bronze) at the 2008 International ANDY awards in New York.

The commercial is a cute little vignette about a little Chinese boy, Hong Ming, who has a crush on his Malay schoolmate, Umi Qazrina.

Yasmin recalled that the commercial was not at all difficult to shoot. “A month before the shoot, we contacted the schools in the Klang Valley to set aside students aged between seven to nine whose best friends are from another ethnic group. Out of 46 students, eight stood out – Hong Ming was one of them.”

She had a 15-minute reel of Hong Ming telling her of his crush on his best friend, Umi, which was filmed at Hong Ming’s school in Taman Tun Dr Ismail.
“It was edited down to a 90-second commercial, and is available for viewing at Yasmin’s blog yasminthestoryteller.blogspot.com

“People see advertisements as a nuisance, but with Petronas’ Merdeka ads they have become something to look forward to,” she said.

Yasmin admitted that this particular ad has cut through all kinds of barriers, because the two are so real.

“I had lunch with Hong Ming recently and he said his schoolmates still tease him about the ad.”
And yes, Hong Ming and Umi are still best friends.

Still, the kids know it better ... no boundaries between human relationships. Note that genuine expression on the little boy's face ... priceless... =)

Iklan Merdeka Petronas - How To Spell Dinosaur

2008-06-10T22:52:00.001+08:00

What is race??
Race car lah ... =)

The kids know it better than us ... no difference between races.

Natasha Bedingfield - Unwritten - Acoustic Performance

2008-06-07T20:50:00.001+08:00

I am unwritten
Can't read my mind
I'm undefined
I'm just beginning
the pen's in my hand
ending unplanned

Staring at the blank page before you
open up the dirty window
let the sun illuminate the words that you can not find
reaching for something in the distance
so close you can almost taste it
release your inhabitions

feel the rain on your skin
no one else can feel it for you
only you can let it in
no one else, no one else can speak the words on your lips
drench yourself in words unspoken
live your life with eyes wide open
today is where your book begins
the rest is still unwritten

I break tradition
sometimes my tries
are outside the line
we've been conditioned
to not make mistakes
but i can't live life that way

Staring at the blank page before you
open up the dirty window
let the sun illuminate the words that you can not find
reaching for something in the distance
so close you can almost taste it
release your inhabitions

feel the rain on your skin
no one else can feel it for you
only you can let it in
no one else, no one else can speak the words on your lips
drench yourself in words unspoken
live your life with eyes wide open
today is where your book begins

feel the rain on your skin
no one else can feel it for you
only you can let it in
no one else, no one else can speak the words on your lips
drench yourself in words unspoken
live your life with eyes wide open

today is where your book begins
the rest is still unwritten

Who am I ????

2008-06-06T13:35:00.005+08:00

I am your constant companion.
I am your greatest helper or heaviest burden.
I will push you onward or drag you down to failure.
I am completely at your command.
Half the things I do you might just as well turn over to me
and I will be able to do them quickly and correctly.

I am easily managed – you must merely be firm with me.
Show me exactly how you want something done
and after a few lessons I will do it automatically.
I am servant of all great individuals and, alas, of all failures as well.
Those who are great, I have made great.
Thos who are failures, I have made failures.

I am not a machine, though I work with all the precision of a machine
plus the intelligence of a human.
You may run me for profit or run me for ruin – it makes no difference to me.

Take me, train me, be firm with me, and I will place the world at your feet.
Be easy with me and I will destroy you.

Who am I?

I am HABIT.

From "The 7 habits of highly effective teens" by Sean Covey.

Article: Strong-willed children

2008-06-06T12:53:00.003+08:00

How do you discipline and train a strong-willed child without damaging the self-concept and destroying the spontaneity inside? It’s a question that I’ve been asked often.

To answer it, you really have to understand of the difference between breaking the spirit and shaping the will of the child. The human spirit relates to the self-esteem or the sense of personal worth.
As such, it is exceedingly fragile at all ages, and it just has to be handled with great care. Anything that depreciates a boy or girl’s self-worth can be very costly to the spirit. However, the will is made of steel. It arrives full-strength at the moment of birth. Anyone who has ever witnessed a full-blown tantrum knows what I’m talking about. Some two-year-olds can become so angry that they’ll hold their breath until they lose consciousness. Such is the strength of the will. How, then, do we deal with these two components of the human personality: The will and the spirit? We do it by setting up and defending reasonable boundaries while never resorting to that which attacks the personhood of the child.

To say, “You must do what I tell you to do” is proper, and it’s addressed to the will. But to say, “You stupid brat! Why don’t you do anything right?” is an assault on the spirit. The bottom line, again, is to shape the will without breaking the spirit.

adapted from "Today's Newspaper"
By Dr. James Dobson

http://www.focusonthefamily.com/

MacGyver theme song, solo acoustic guitar

2008-05-29T21:37:00.001+08:00

A different feel for the theme song of MacGyver show. Nice ...

MacGyver Intro

2008-05-29T21:35:00.001+08:00

This familiar tune caught my attention when I passed by that tv box yesterday! MacGyver!! Ah, this show is really good ...

When I was in primary 1 or 2, I tried my best not to miss any episodes. I can use the word 'hero' on him because he never used violence but always managed to think of something or even weird ideas to salvage the situations or save lives...
A very witty and down-to-earth figure ...

Should watch it if given the chance! Rtm 2, malaysian channel is showing it again on every friday, midnight though ...

What are the teachers doing during the holidays?

2008-05-29T21:05:00.003+08:00

I guess this could be one questions that students may be thinking ... since it's school holidays =)
Well I can't speak for all teachers.

Usually, teachers will still have to go back to school to finish up some administrative matters, CCA camps or activities, supplementary lessons especially for graduating classes and preparing some teaching materials for next term, which will be the most hectic term throughout the year.

Of course, we really do appreciate flexibility during this holiday.. more time and space for families, friends and ourselves for reflection and recharge purposes.

In Christ Alone - Brian Littrell

2008-05-29T21:02:00.001+08:00

A very beautiful song.

This version of the song has actually stayed in my laptop for a long time, at least 1 year plus but just didn't realise it until one month back... happened by chance when I decided to play everything in my laptop, which is the unusual case, cause most of the time, I only listen to my favourite songs.

The moment I heard it, it just hit me ... so ministering..
Everytime I hear a meaningful piece of song, just felt like I've found a tiny piece of treasure.

Sometimes, life could just be like that ... we take a slight different course in our mind or action, and something interesting may just happen ... =)

So young people, hope that you will make full use of your holidays!
Bother to find something meaningful and do for yourself ...

When you believe ...

2008-03-23T18:59:00.002+08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KZHA9_AwBTM&feature=related

This is a song that has been ringing in my mind for the past one week. I was worried about our upcoming choir solo concert, which was held on 20 march. And the most worrying thing is I’m the overall in-charge. I need to acknowledge that I really didn’t have much clue what I was about to plunge myself into when taking over it .... until the actual day of performance, just before the rehearsal in the afternoon, there were more problems surfaced which I’ve neglected while planning. Thank God for the advice and support from senior teachers, I learn to rectify and make do with whatever we already have.

This has been a great learning journey for myself, working together with my senior teachers, conductor, choir students, PA crew, colleagues and students who have volunteered themselves .... Indeed without any of them, the show wouldn’t have been great and well received.

I thank God that our choir students dared to step out of their comfort zone and challenged the traditional perception of - choir only sings – by adding movements and acting to their singing. Indeed it’s my privilege to work and learn together with them.

And I thank God too, for the forgiving spirits of my colleagues and students, to accept my impatience throughout this journey... On top of this project, we still have our normal teaching workload to attend to, the stress was indeed unbearable at times... but I thank God for seeing me through these times.

In my personal faith journey, I’m once again reminded of God’s faithfulness and favour, like how He has blessed my last year involvement in the hall production, a memory which I hold so dearly till now....

I can still remember the choir’s united voices, singing this chorus after the show ended, presenting to their conductor ....

There can be miracles

When you believe

Though hope is frail

It's hard to kill

Who knows what miracles

You can achieve

When you believe

Somehow you will

You will when you believe

Deeper in Love

2008-02-17T23:16:00.001+08:00

Deeper in love with You Lord ....

Mourning into Dancing - Spring Show 2007

2008-02-17T23:09:00.001+08:00

CHORUS A (x2):
He's turned my mourning into dancing again, He's lifted my sorrows;
I can't stay silent, I must sing for His joy has come.

INTRO RIFF

VERSE:
When there was once only hurt, He gave His healing hand;
Where there once was only pain, He brought comfort like a friend.

I feel the sweetness of His love piercing my darkness;

I see the bright and morning sun as it ushers in His joyful gladness.

CHORUS A:
He's turned my mourning into dancing again, He's lifted my sorrows;
I can't stay silent, I must sing for His joy has come.

CHORUS B:
You've turned my mourning into dancing again, You've lifted my sorrows;
I can't stay silent, I must sing for Your joy has come.

VERSE:
When there was once only hurt, You gave Your healing hand;
Where there once was only pain, You brought comfort like a friend.

I feel the sweetness of Your love piercing my darkness;
I see the bright and morning sun as it ushers in Your joyful gladness.

CHORUS B:
You've turned my mourning into dancing again, You've lifted my sorrows;
I can't stay silent, I must sing for Your joy has come.

BRIDGE:
Your anger lasts for a moment in time,
But Your favor is here and will be on me
For all my lifetime.

my mp3 player

2008-02-17T22:54:00.004+08:00

My mp3 player has been a good companion for me for long journeys especially. About 2-3 weeks ago, it was infected with virus. The moment I found out, I became miserable .... Trying to solve the problem, have been wanting to reformat but could not ...

Today after service, I decided to check out at Courts, the place which I bought my mp3 player. Not knowing what to expect, I told them the condition of the player and I am still under the extended warranty by Courts.

Guess what?

They replaced a new one for me within 5 minutes!
I got the same brand, Samsung (which I prefer the sound quality with the budget I have), 2 Gb, which is about 4 times the memory of my old mp3 player!!

I didn't pray to God for replacement .... was asking for wisdom how to save my old mp3 player ... but God has blessed me with more than I've asked or imagined .... really amazing....

This season

2008-02-17T00:08:00.013+08:00

The students asked why do I like to give them timeline ... Well, by putting down your due dates for occasions and activities, it does allow one to better recognize certain seasons in life and be better prepared for it with proper adjustments.

It has been 7 weeks since school started, it is very tiring but really have to thank God, it is fulfilling too =). This year also marks a new responsibility for me as the choir teacher in-charge, learning to plan a concert, without prior knowledge about CCA management.

I've learnt to work very closely with the conductor, and learnt to understand how helpful my colleagues are. A few of the non-choir teachers volunteered to help out, especially in the props, costumes and animal make-ups for the 2nd half of the show, which is a mini musical. One person I have to mention is Gery, who gets the ball start rolling for this creative side, which I obviously lack confidence and knowledge in.

Yesterday, we started a journey from 10 am to 10 pm, hunting for 'stuffs' from Arab street, Victoria street wholesale centre to Bugis junction. It was a fun time, exploring ideas, widening my knowledge, experiencing places I've been before. Basically a trip to excite the nerve cells in my right brain. Of course, the time spent with them for good food was also satisfying.

Everyone is working hard towards this concert, and I pray that the students will look good on that day and put up a show that they are proud of. 1 more month left ....

Oh ya, starting from tomorrow, I'll be at a very exciting place - Changi Coast Adventure Camp! Well, it's a camp for all the sec 2 students and the mentors of the respective class have to go. That makes me one of them.

This adventure camp will definitely benefit the students, in terms of character development for the individuals, as well as working as a team. There's always something special about kinesthetic learning.

On the other hand, I'm worried for myself cause it will be my first time going for this kind of camp. I'm not too sure whether physically, I'll be able to conquer my fear in this area but mentally, I would really like to challenge myself.

I do hope I have some good stories to share when I come back =).

What makes a good teacher?

2008-01-26T23:07:00.000+08:00

Recently, I’ve been thinking about the question, as the title suggests. Tonight, I did a few google search trying to understand some of my beliefs in teaching and how far have they carried me.
There is this quality mentioned by the author of this website, that reaffirms what I think of all these while.

Good teacher thinks of teaching as a form of parenting

"It means knowing when to stand firm on a deadline or a standard of excellence, and when to bend or apologize. It means knowing when to give students someone to talk with, when to be the rock that students can test themselves by trying to move out of the way, when to protect students from the ugly evils of the world, and when to let them face those evils in all of their ugliness. It means knowing the difference between soft caring and tough caring. It means recognizing that students are adults, sort of, but children, sort of."

http://www.mnsu.edu/cetl/teachingresources/articles/goodteacher.html

Really need a lot of wisdom and patience to exercise this quality. I have to admit that recently, I kind of lose patience over certain situations. It is not easy at times when you have 7 classes with 40 students each to handle, with different expectations that not only comes with teaching but other responsibilities. I only hope that I will not lose heart and always have the strength and creativity to continue on, as long as I’m a teacher.

Once again, I’m reminded of this phrase that goes like this:
“A teacher teaches students but not the subject”.

youtube videos ONLY

2008-01-26T23:02:00.000+08:00

"chinfen, your blog is full of youtube videos with music only ...."

"teacher, share more about your life leh... how come only youtube videos ..... "

Heh, these are the comments I've gotten recently about my blog. Hmm ... to me, sharing music is also about sharing, because these songs speak of what I think and how I feel about certain situations in life.

But alright, I shall learn to share more with WORDS rather than music only starting from now =)

He Made A Way In A Manger

2007-12-25T14:38:00.001+08:00

Longing for a savior
a hopeless world would wait
sin demanded justice
at a price we could not pay
but God displayed his mercy
the greatest gift of love
when we could not reach heaven
heaven came to us

He made a way in a manger
a way through the cross
Messiah the promised
before time had begun
for God so loved this world
though he knew what love would cost
He made a way in a manger
to make a way to the cross

In Bethlehem a stable
became a throne of grace
as God himself our Savior
drew near to take our place
his mother smiled in wonder
as shepherds stood in awe
the sacrifice of heaven
lay sleeping in the straw

He is the life that died our death
the precious Lord Jesus
laid down his sweet head . .

By Lee Black, Steve Merkel

Everything to me By Avalon

2007-12-25T14:31:00.001+08:00

I grew up in sunday school
I memorized the Golden rule
And how Jesus came to set the sinner free
I know the story inside out
I can tell you all about
The path that led Him up to Calvary

But ask me why He loves me
And I don't know what to say
But i'll never be the same
Because he changed my life when He became

Everything to me
He's more than a story
more than words on a page of history
He's the air that I breath
The water I thirst for
And the ground beneath my feet
He's everything, everything to me

We're living in uncertain times
And more and more I find that i'm aware
Of just how fragile life can be
I want to tell the world I found
A love that turned my life around
They need to know that they can taste and see

Now everyday I'm praying
Just to give my heart away
I want live for Jesus
So that someone else might see that he is

Everything to me
He's more than a story
more than words on a page of history
He's the air that I breath
The water I thirst for
And the ground beneath my feet
He's everything
And looking back over my life at the end
I'll go to meet you saying you've been

You're everything to me
You're more than a story
More than words on a page of history
You're everything to me
You're more than a story
More than words on a page of history
You're the air that I breath
The water I thirst for
And the ground beneath my feet
You're everything to me
Lord, you're everything to me

They may appear weak on the outside but definitely strong on the inside

2007-12-23T22:45:00.000+08:00

She is the lady who wrote the lyrics in my previous entry, entitled "If I could sing". Her name is Huang Mei Lian.

She suffers from cerebral palsy since she was born due to a high fever. This then led her to a physical disability that loses control over her muscles in the body, for example balancing co-ordination and the ability to speak.

I can still remember the video testimony that I saw so many years ago about her describing her inconvenience. When she saw somebody in pain and wished to show concern, she just couldn't control the muscles of her facial expression and usually being misunderstood as laughing at them. To her, even holding a pen to write was not a privilege or right.

But all the external circumtances do not dampen her fighting spirit. She crafted out a path for herself and finally got a doctorate degree concentrating in fine arts from the University of California. She paints with her heart and life experiences.

Her story is like Nick Vujicic's ...

Yes, there are circumstances that we can't change in our lives but we need not change that to make us feel happier or treasured. The basis that God loves us and that He never make mistakes in our lives is just enough for us to live out our lives to glorify Him.

His grace is sufficient for us .... that strength, that fighting spirit, that love, that smile .... which we need for each day will be provided.
I'm somehow reminded by this poster in my room back in hometown:

"What you are is God's gift to you;
what you become is your gift to God."

如果我能唱

2007-12-23T22:07:00.002+08:00

詞：黃美廉　曲：王麗玲

如果我能完整唱一首歌

那將是對祢的感恩和讚美

苦難中祢給我安慰

徬徨時祢給我智慧

雖然我不能開口唱一首歌

我卻要對祢獻上真誠敬拜

每時刻祢的手牽引我

祢慈愛使我開懷

天上的雲雀啊　

會唱的人們哪

你們可願代我　

歌頌上帝無比之美

我願用耳傾聽　

我願用心共鳴

這發自內心深處　

最美的聲音

我真愛祢　我真愛祢

作者黃美廉博士誕生於一九六四年的台南市，由於接生醫師的疏忽，造成了黃女士運動神經的傷害，導致在出生後即罹患了腦性麻痺, 直到六歲錢全身還是軟綿綿的毫無智力與行動跡象，顏面肌肉嚴重扭曲，隨時隨地口水不受控制，甚至小時後鄰居向黃女士的祖母戲稱：『你這個孫女，我看以後只能到馬戲團表演......。』

現在的黃女士，曾在一九九三年取得美國洛杉磯加州大學藝術博士的資格，甚至榮獲教育部十大傑出青年獎章，舉辦過不少令人稱羨的畫展，集榮耀與掌聲於一身，誰又記得那背後的污衊與辱罵。　　

因為曾經協辦或參與一些的活動，也聆聽過幾回黃博士的演講，看著她吃力的手舞足蹈表演或透過朋友的翻譯，將她所願呈現的資訊完整的分享給喜愛她的大眾，看著她那堅忍不拔卻有滿懷感恩與喜悅的心，不知不覺在心中有強烈的吶喊，發自內心鼓掌的激情似乎大大的超過政治人物無情的吹噓。

身為牧師的父親相信：『凡神所賜，都是好的。』簡單的道理，不願放棄也不顧他人的眼光，每每在公眾的場合並非遮遮掩掩的不願正面承認這樣的女兒，反而更大剌剌的將黃女士放在最顯眼的地方，驕傲的告訴他的朋友或教會的中的教友：『這是我女兒，上帝愛她，我也愛她。』而現在，大家都愛她。

從小，黃女士的父親從來不因她的特殊而有不同的教育，讓黃女士不因此而認為自己有所特殊，接受相同的照顧，接受相同的懲罰，在國小老師的鼓勵下，毅然決然的走向藝術之路，也走出了屬於自己與世界的一片天空。

在這不完整的身軀卻活出最完整的生命，心中充滿著生活的熱情，對神對人對世界的感動，藉由歌詞訴說無限的感恩完全的讚美。聽過黃女士對生命的奮鬥，四肢健全五官完整的人們似乎無權抱怨人生，更應該熱愛這樣難得且完整的生命。

Taken from:

http://tw.myblog.yahoo.com/austinlin811/article?mid=2096&prev=3670&next=876&l=f&fid=40

I'll be home for Christmas-Thomas KinKade

2007-12-16T22:05:00.001+08:00

I haven't been home for christmas for the past 2 years. It has always been my mum and younger sister visiting us before christmas.

And tomorrow will be the day for me to go back HOME .... for christmas ... no longer in my dream =)

The Stand

2007-12-15T07:13:00.001+08:00

This song has ministered to me ...

God songs

2007-12-13T12:09:00.000+08:00

Songwriting is an emotional medium, a vehicle for the expression of feelings.

Think about it. If your message consists only of a series of facts and makes no emotional impact, you would do better to present it not as a song but as a list or paragraph.

Try to match the mood of the music to the meaning of the message, so the listener can feel it.
This way, the song becomes more than the mere transfer of data - it becomes an experience.

Emotion is the soul of a song.

That's why computers can't write songs. Even if they can be programmed to think, they still can't feel it.

an excerpt from "God songs" by Paul Baloche, Jimmy and Carol Owens

Angel In Disguise - Corrinne May

2007-12-12T00:26:00.001+08:00

It has been raining these few days. And everytime when I see raindrops, I remember this "angel in disguise"....

There used to be no sheltered pathway from the MRT station back to my house.

One day, as usual after work I was so tired, just wanting to quickly go back home and rest. Who knows, it rained heavily when I stepped out of the MRT station. Waiting for the heavy rain to subside is usually a painful experience, especially when u can just see your destination right there, 10 minutes away from where you are standing. I was just so tempted to gather courage and run back home in the rain.

Suddenly, there was this bright pink old fashion floral printed umbrella presented right in front of me. A dark, unassuming uncle in his 40s I guess, stood in front of me. In chinese, he repeated, "Gei ni, gei ni." Meaning give it to you.

He just pushed the umbrella into my hand and I asked him whether he would need it for his next destination since he's heading towards the MRT station. He just waved back vigorously, insisting he didn't need it.

He disappared into the MRT station and I was left with the umbrella....

God knew I was eager to rush back home and there He sent a stranger to bless me ... The umbrella is still with me.

Come to think of it, I've another story about 'angels in disguise' to tell next time ... it happened in NUS ... =)

True Worshippers Youth- I Surrender All

2007-12-11T08:34:00.001+08:00

Thank you for the cross that you have made
For all my sins You sacrifice yourself
I am nothing Lord without your grace
You were there to lift me when i fall

As I lift my hands for your mercy oh God
Longing for your presence God
As I lift my hands for your mercy oh God
Longing for your presence God

I surrender all
I will follow you
I surrender all
Bring my life to you

I surrender all
Lay my life for you
I surrender all
I surrender all

To You Jesus

True Worshippers Youth- Allah Perkasa

2007-12-11T08:29:00.001+08:00

It is in Bahasa Indonesia. Did a simple translation as shown in brackets.

Allah Perkasa - True Worshipper Youth

Verse: Bukan Dengan Kuat gagahku
(Not by might)

Namun Karena Kasih-Mu
(But by Your Love)

Kau yang menebus s'genap Jiwaku
(You have redeemed me)

Lewati Badai tak Kuragu
(Not doubting in the darkest time)

Kar'na Kau tinggal dalamku
(Because You live in me)

Dengan imanku ku berseru
(By faith, I proclaim)

Chorus: Kaulah Raja Allah Perkasa
(You are the king, almighty God)

Surga bumi pun menyembah
(All the earth worship You)

S'tiap firman-Mu t'rangi jalanku
(Your every Word lighted my path)

Kaulah Tuhan, Allah yang perkasa
You are God, great and almighty God)

Bridge: Yesus Kau Tuhan, Allah perkasa
(Jesus, You are Lord, almighty God)

True Worshippers Youth - Jakarta Praise Community Church

2007-12-10T23:40:00.000+08:00

It is just so amazing to know such a great worship team comes from Jakarta, Indonesia who sings both English and Malay christian songs... I got to know more about them here:

http://www.myspace.com/trueworshippers

"True Worshippers was established in 1996 as some young adults had encounters with the Holy Spirit. Their lives were then rebuilt on the truths and those youngsters became extremely passionate about God. As they gathered to seek God, there was an extreme manifestation of the Holy Spirit and they were renewed each day. More and more people came to join them and each was as thirsty for the presence of God in their lives. In early 1997 God sent some of the most talented singers and musicians into this community, and together they produced an album which later entitled ..Penyembah Yang Benar.. (True Worshippers). The name was then chosen to represent the praise and worship team under the leadership of Jakarta Praise Community Church...."

Update ... =)

2007-12-10T15:42:00.000+08:00

Yes yes, I've been 'missing in action' for quite a while from blogging not because I've nothing to blog, rather it's the opposite.

Many things happened and thoughts came by. But time is a factor that didn't really allow me to sort the thoughts out to share yet. I'm somehow more careful when it comes to blogging, cause I want to write in a way that ppl can understand and I, be responsible about the sharings.

Well, N and O-levels have finished ... Graduation night for the students has ended ...
So chunyang and cheryl must be enjoying nowadays ... =)

And yes, we had a cluster camp at MOE adventure camp ... haha, miaoting reminded me about the toad. Which I personally think the girls' screaming somehow scared me the most .. haha. But thank God for Suzanne, who's our hero! who saved us from the toad, by shooing it away!

Olivia, for the sharing of videos, I didn't do anything special. You know me, always blur in html language or whatever it is called. All you have to do is to sign up and get an account for youtube.com, type in your blogger information and click a button that allows you to post the video on your blog. =)

And jiayi ..... =) Haha... I still remember that day, when the 3 of us finally met up after almost 10 years ... it is so overwhelming .... All I can say is that and thank God is that, we are still on the same road to heaven by His grace ... Thanks for posting zhiwei's photo link =)
Hmm .. just thinking whether this meeting will inspire the 3 of us to write perhaps another chinese song? Really hope to capture that moment through music if possible ...

It's school holiday but it's part and parcel of a teacher's life to go back to school to do whatever we need to during this time. I've learnt to take it more easily nowadays. So here I am in school and gonna stay over 2 nights for a camp. You may be thinking "ohh .. must be a uniform group camp..". Well, not so, it's actually a modern dance camp =).

Tommy Emmanuel / J.Shimabukuro: While My Guitar Gently Weeps

2007-09-23T22:29:00.001+08:00

Neat piece of work between the 2 of them =)!!

By the way, that small string instrument is called ukulele (oo-koo-lay-lay). Hehe, interesting pronunciation right? It's just a tiny 4-string, 2-octave instrument. But yet in this young man's hand, it can perform more than what you can imagine.

Your Name by Paul Baloche (New)

2007-09-03T16:28:00.001+08:00

Some walls - Tommy Emmanuel and Lizzie Watkins

2007-09-01T20:36:00.000+08:00

Have been trying to post the video through youtube.com twice but failed. So I've decided to paste the link over here, and you'll click to view it =)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lIcgVyjxuL8

(Mary Ann Kennedy / Pamela Rose / Randy Sharp)

Some walls are made of stone
Sometimes we build our own
Some walls stand for years
And some wash away with tears

Some walls are lined with gold
Where some hearts stay safe and cold
Some walls are made of doubt
Holding in and keeping out

If there's any hope for love at all
Some walls must fall

Some walls are built on pride
Some keep the child inside
Some walls are made in fear
That love let go will disappear

If there's any hope for love at all
Some walls must fall

How will you ever know what might be found
Until you let the walls come tumbling down

If there's any hope for love at all
Some walls, some walls must fall
If there's any hope for love at all
Some walls must fall

It talks about the invisible walls that are unconsciously built in human relationships. Many times, we do so to protect our hearts from being hurt. But constantly doing so may cause our hearts to grow cold and ignorant of other's needs and feelings.

Love is then what we need to melt the walls in our hearts.
Hatred stirs up dissension, but love covers over all wrongs. – Proverbs 10:12

Let's always remember this, especially to our closest loved ones, family members.

Disney Beauty and the Beast (Belle - English Version)

2007-08-13T20:50:00.001+08:00

My favourite Disney classic, as well as my favourite character =)!

Listen to the beautiful arrangement of music that goes well together with the lyrics and emotions of the various scenes ...

Enjoy =)!

Jodi Benson and Alan Menken - Part of your world

2007-08-13T20:40:00.001+08:00

So heartwarming to listen to disney classics ... Reminds me of my younger days. Have always loved to watch disney cartoons and listen to their songs .. melodious tunes that have taught me to paint music with colours and emotions.

The lady behind Ariel's voice, Jodi Benson. She's at the age of 40 plus when the cartoon was first shown in 1989! What an amazingly sweet voice she has.

Alan Menken is one of the most admired and prolific composer for many Disney classis, like Pocahontas, Aladdin etc.

Of these all, Beauty and the Beast is my favourite =)

[Maybe he's right]
[Maybe there is something the matter with me]
[I just don't see how a world]
[That makes such wonderful things]
[Could be bad]

Look at this stuff, isn't it neat?
Wouldn't you think my collection's complete?
Wouldn't you think I'm the girl
The girl who has everything?

Look at this trove, treasures untold
How many wonders can one cavern hold?
Looking around here, you'd think
Sure, she's got everything

I've got gadgets and gizmos a-plenty
I've got who's-its and what's-its galore
You want thing-a-mabobs?
I've got twenty
But who cares? No big deal. I want more

I wanna be where the people are
I wanna see, wanna see 'em dancin'
walkin' around on those
Whaddya call 'em? Oh, feet

Flippin' your fins, you don't get too far
Legs are required for jumpin', dancin'
Strollin' along down the
What's that word again? Street
Up where they walk
Up where they run
Up where they stay all day in the sun
Wanderin' free, wish I could be
Part of that world

What would I give if I could live
Outta these waters?
What would I pay to spend a day
Warm on the sand?

Betcha on land they understand
Bet they don't reprimand their daughters
Bright young women, sick of swimmin'
Ready to stand

And ready to know what the people know
Ask 'em my questions and get some answers
What's a fire, and why does it
What's the word? Burn

When's it my turn?
Wouldn't I love?
Love to explore that shore up above
Out of the sea, wish I could be
Part of that world

Jeremy Camp - Walk By Faith ( Unplugged - Album )

2007-08-09T22:57:00.001+08:00

Will I believe you when you say
Your hand will guide my every way
Will I receive the words You say
Every moment of every day

Well I will walk by faith
Even when I cannot see
because this broken road
Prepares Your will for me

Help me to RID my endless fears
You've been so faithful for all my years
With the one breath You make me new
Your grace covers all I do

yeah, yeah , yeah, yeah, ya

well i will walk by faith
even when i cannot see
because this broken road
prepares your will for me

Well I'm broken- but I still see Your face
Well You've spoken- pouring Your words of grace

Well I will walk by faith
Even when I cannot see
Well because this broken road
Prepares Your will for me
(Repeat)
Well I will walk by faith
Even when I cannot see
Well because this broken road
Prepares Your will for me

Hallelujah, hallelu

I will walk by faith, I will walk by faith,
I will walk by faith
......

Tommy Emmanuel - Ruby's eyes

2007-08-09T22:50:00.001+08:00

A beautiful song with a sweet story behind...

He was at the airport one day. He felt a tune came to him and went to a corner with his guitar and started playing it...

Apparently he was so engrossed that he suddenly heard an angelic voice humming a melody .. he opened up his eyes and saw this little girl, with red curly hair and beautiful striking eyes.

The girl's mom joined in too. Before they left, he asked the mother for her daughter's name. And the mother replied, Ruby.

He knelt down and said to Ruby,"I've just written you a song, and it's called Ruby's eyes."

Through It All...by Hillsong

2007-07-16T18:59:00.001+08:00

You are forever in my life
You see me through the seasons
Cover me with Your hands
And lead me in Your righteousness
And I look to You
And I wait on You

I’ll sing to You Lord, a hymn of love
For Your faithfulness to me
I’m carried in everlasting arms
You’ll never let me go
Through it all

Hallelujah…

This is a song that God reminds me of His faithfulness to my family all these years, when I was writing a short testimony about myself for SOL some years back.

Today, I somehow felt overwhelmed by many things that started to swamp in... whether it be school, kids or personal...

Somehow I am reminded of this song again, as well as the birthday prayer blessing by my band mates, that God is protecting me, watching over me ... I believe for my family too...

Thank God for janelle's prayer of encouragement ...

Hallelujah (Praise God) ... even in situations like this cause He'll see me through.

just to acknowledge you ... =)

2007-07-01T22:45:00.000+08:00

These are the little 'managers' (xue, miao, olivia) who helped to set up my blog's tagboard and touch up a little bit here and there ... and bother to make the tagboard lively ...

Dear girls, just want to say thank you!

me, daphne, miaoting

olivia and xueting

Jump (Royal Variety Performance 2006)

2007-07-01T22:42:00.001+08:00

JUMP is a non verbal comic martial arts performance that has received numerous awards and toured internationally ... It was really amazing when I first watched it. They are so creative in fusing acting with martial arts, make it into a play that make us laugh unstoppably for at least one hour.

It was just apt for me when we watched it yesterday. Laughter is the best medicine for your heart.

By the way, my favourite character is the drunken uncle, whose personality amazes almost everyone; drunken acrobatic and acting skills are astounding.

Jesus Loves Me.

2007-06-26T05:54:00.001+08:00

How adorable this little girl is!! =) even though she may not know what she's singing ... But looking at little kids like her always remind me of approaching God like a little child, being simple and being yourself.

This simple song has always blessed my heart since the first time I heard it ... May you also be reminded of His simple message for you, that He indeed loves you.

Jesus loves me this I know
For the bible tells me so
Little ones to Him belong
They are weak but He is strong

Yes Jesus loves me
Yes Jesus loves me
Yes Jesus loves me
The bible tells me so

May this little girl put a smile in your heart this day =)God bless ...

New - Bethany Dillon

2007-06-26T05:38:00.001+08:00

One of my all time favourite song ...

What is this sun that conquers mountains
Singing over what has been asleep?
What is it that softens all my doubting?
It's you

Morning brings a hunger for new eyes
That have been covered by the hurt of yesterday
Who could create in me the vision of a little child?
It's you

You take an ordinary day
And turn it into flowers like the month of May
Yes you do
You see all my pain
You cry over it for hours till I'm new again
Yes you do

When I have been a victim of familiarity
When my heart has fallen into sleep
Healing is the voice that awakens me
And it is you

You take an ordinary day
And turn it into flowers like the month of May
Yes you do
You see all my pain
You cry over it for hours till I'm new again
Yes you do

You, you make me new...

Indeed, God has made us new again, each and everyday with new faith, love and hope ...

Michael Bublé - Everything

2007-05-27T22:12:00.001+08:00

Now then I start to notice his songs.. this is a nice one =) just to share.

You're a falling star
You're the getaway car
You're the line in the sand
When I go to far
You're the swimming pool
On an august day
And you're the perfect thing to say

And you play it coy but it's kinda cute
Oh when you smile at me you know exactly what you do
Baby don't pretend that you don't know it's true
Cause you can see it when I look at you

And in this crazy life
And through these crazy times
It's you
It's you
You make me sing
You're every line
You're every word
You're everything

You're a carousel
You're a wishing well
And you light me up
When you ring my bell
You're a mystery
You're from outer space
You're every minute of my every day

And I can't believe that i'm your man
And I get to kiss you baby just because I can
Whatever comes our way

We'll see it through
And you know that's what our love can do

And in this crazy life
And through these crazy times
It's you
It's you
You make me sing
You're every line
You're every word
You're everything

And so la la la la... la la la
So la la la la... la la la

And in this crazy life
And through these crazy times
It's you
It's you
You make me sing
You're every line
You're every word
You're everything...

You're every song
And i sing along
Cause you're my everything

Yeah, yeah

So la la la la... la la la
So la la la la... la la-la-la... la-la-la

Tommy Emmanuel - Angelina

2007-05-27T21:56:00.001+08:00

It was his youngest daughter, now seven, inspired the song Angelina.

"I wrote it about three years ago when we were living in Suffolk in England," Emmanuel recalled.

"I wanted to write a song that spelled out her name. The melody spells out her name. I do have a lyric also."

Very nice playing by tommy emmanuel. If you listen carefully, he hummed softly at certain parts.
It is just so heart-warming to hear a song writen and played by a father to his child ... =)

Prayer ...

2007-05-27T21:17:00.000+08:00

This is a season of knowing more about prayer.

Below is a short excerpt from the book "The power of prayer" by Charles Spurgeon. Hope it deepens your understanding about your prayer to God.

Psalm 147:9
He provides food for the cattle and for the young ravens when they call. (NIV)
He giveth to the beast his food, and to the young ravens which cry. (NKJV)

As an old author has written,

Among fowls He doth not mention the hawk or falcom, which are highly prized and fed by princes; nor the sweet singing nightingale, or such like musical pretty birds, which men keep choicely and much delight in; but He chooses that hateful and malicious bird, the croaking raven, whom no man values but as she eats up the carrion, which might annoy him.

Behold, then, and wonder at the providence and kindness of God, that He should provide food for the raven, a creature of so dismal a hue and of so untuneable a tone, a creature that is so odios to most men and ominous to some.

There is a great providence of God seen in providing for the ant, who gathers her meat in summer; but greater in the raven, who, though he forgets, or is careless to provide for himself, yet God provides and layeth up for him.
One would think the Lord should say of ravens, Let them shift for themselves or perish; no, the Lord God doth not despise any work of His hands; the raven hath his being from God, and therefore the raven shall be provided for by Him; not only the fair innocent dove, but the ugly raven hath his meat from God.

Which clearly shows that the want of excellence in thee, thou black, raven-like sinner, will not prevent thy cry from being heard in heaven. Unworthiness the blood of Jesus shall remove, and defilement He shall utterly cleanse away. Only believe on Jesus, and thou shalt find peace.

This reminds me of Hebrews 4:16
"Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need."

You Alone

2007-05-14T23:42:00.001+08:00

You are the peace that guards my heart,
my help in time of need

You are the hope that leads me on,
and brings me to my knees.

For there I found You waiting,
And there I found release

So with all of my heart I worship,
And unto You I sing

For You alone deserves all glory,
for You alone deserves all praise

Father, we worship and adore You,
Father, we long to seek Your face.

For You alone deserves all glory,
for You alone deserves all praise

Father we love You
And we worship You this day.

New hairstyle ...

2007-05-01T15:07:00.000+08:00

About 8 months ago, I rebonded my hair. This was what I received the first day with that new hairstyle.

Student 1: Ehhh ms ho, you IRON your hair ah?
Student 2: Ms ho, you rebonded your hair right? The one they use something to KIAP your hair one oh ...

Student 3: Eeee... teacher your hair so flat ....
Student 4: teacher nice hairstyle ...

Haha, the students are so funny.

Yesterday, I went back to school with a fresh look. This time round, I cut my fringe. Not only the students, the teachers also commented.

comment 1: Eh ms ho, you cut your hair!!!
comment 2: Why look so 'kuku' ?
comment 3: very cute leh ...
comment 4: Teacher I want to take a picture with you ...
comment 5: hmm ... look like 'cleopatra' ...

All sorts of comments flying around. Hahaha, it's just a haircut but I have to admit, the fringe does make a difference. I only follow the advice given by the hairdresser.

But thank God, regardless of the various comments, Ps Khong has already asked us to claim this on sun.
Psalm 139:14 ... I am fearfully and wonderfully made ... ^^ !

CNY 2007 ...

2007-03-15T11:35:00.000+08:00

I know ... CNY is over =)
Just that I have some pictures to share for CNY, that's all !

It was a short and peaceful 4-day trip back home, Penang, Malaysia. We didn't go out except for church on sunday. That's my chinese new year. Stayed at home, watched tv programs, helped out in the kitchen...

And I'm glad to make 2 phone calls - primary and secondary school friends.

All dishes prepared by my younger sister, she's the 'chef' of our house. Amazing .. To her, baking a cake is releasing stress ... =)
My contribution was to be her dish washing 'maid' ... btw, I like to wash dishes. Don't know why .. perhaps the joy of seeing things being clean again.

younger sis, mum, me n elder sis.

You must be wondering, hmm ... what's this heavy previous stuff that we bring all the way from penang, via plane ...

AND ...

TADA!! A big stainless steel pot ... insisted by my mum =)

March holidays

2007-03-15T10:41:00.000+08:00

Yes, the students and teachers are having one-week break now. However, my school seems to be busy as usual - extra CCA activities, students coming back for remedials, teachers attending meetings and attend to unfinished markings, preparing for the weeks to come ... So, you roughly have a good guess of what I've been doing for the past few days =)

Yesterday was exceptional. A few of us attended "basic counselling skills course". For your information, teachers need to fulfill certain hours of courses per year. Sometimes, I've to confess that I'm reluctant to attend, whether during school term or holidays. But I've learnt that, since I'm required to spend my time there, might as well go with an open heart to learn something.
Indeed, it was a fruitful session, added with a touch in my heart towards the end of the session, when the trainer shared with us this video:

http://www.teachermovie.com/

Perhaps you've read this fiction before =)

God can use anything to speak to us, specifically to meet our needs. I remember about 1.5 years ago when I just signed my teaching contract and within that first week of teaching, I started to doubt myself. Am I in the right place? Why do I keep boiling inside me over the students' behaviour and attitudes? All the whys kept bothering me ...

In the same situation, I went reluctantly for a compulsory course for all the beginning teachers. When I stepped out of the place, I was reminded of my process of deciding to become a teacher. God was with me and it isn't a mistake at all though things didn't seem to go well for me at that time.

God knew that this time I need to be refreshed and reminded again to carry on for the next 10 weeks or so.... I've been blessed by those experienced, dedicated and caring trainers.

A talented young drummer !

2007-01-27T22:55:00.000+08:00

Chris, seth and sebas! check this out!
wow .. i thinks this is real... =) so amazing ...

2007-01-27T22:37:00.000+08:00

A laughing baby ... =)

This baby laughs hysterically at the slightest sound she or he hears ... Laughter is indeed contagious.

2007-01-27T18:27:00.000+08:00

Art Tatum- Humouresque

What an inspiring story .... he's not been deterred by his handicap.

Art Tatum was born Oct. 13, 1909 in Toledo, Ohio and despite being blind in one eye and only partially sighted in the other he became arguably the greatest jazz piano player who ever lived. He came from a musical family and when younger had some formal training at the Toledo School of Music, however he was largely self-taught ....

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Art_Tatum

Don't Quit

2007-01-20T23:49:00.000+08:00

Ps Eugene shared this message 'don't quit' on last Sunday service. On the following day, I was to teach a sec one class on one of the Habits of Mind (by Costa and Kallick) on Perseverance. Behind the set of student's handout, there's this short poem titled 'Don't quit', which i find it meaningful.

Don't quit

When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,

when the road you're trudging seems all uphill,

when the funds are low and the debts are high,

and you want to smile, but you have to sigh,

when care is pressing you down a bit -

rest if you must, but don't you quit.

Life is strange with its twists and turns,

as every one of us sometimes learns,

and many a person turns about

when they might have won had they stuck it out.

Don't give up, though the pace seems slow -

you may succeed with another go.

Often the goal is nearer than it seems

to a faint and faltering person;

often the struggler has given up

when they might have captured the victor's cup;

and they learned too late when the night came down

how close they were to the golden crown.

Success is failure turned inside out -

The silver tint of the clouds of doubts,

and you never can tell how close you are,

it may be near when it seems afar.

So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit -

it's when things seem worst that you mustn't quit.

Thank you teacher and God bless you !

2007-01-16T16:24:00.000+08:00

Haha, this is what I received when I finished class yesterday at 1I, a normal technical class.
What a surprise and it made my day, though I felt extremely tired. They are so cute...

First day of school in 2007

2007-01-08T19:22:00.000+08:00

For our school, the official lesson time starts this week because last week, all levels went for camps, either in school or out in the campsite.

Starting from yesterday night, I could feel the heat of this week, looking at the timetable. There are certain days that I need to talk for 4 or 5 periods consecutively. You know, sometimes it's just a mix feelings of excitement and anxiety the first time you enter the class you're going to teach.

Like mine today, when it's time to enter 1I, a technical class. I'm just afraid that I can't control the class to go through proper lesson. Well, to teach in a technical class, it's more than being fierce. Sometimes it may not work. It just takes certain skills and a little bit of creativity to connect with them. To a certain extent, to even speak abit of their language. This is what I lack. Especially when my size is so small. Now I realised the benefit of growing slightly 'bigger' ...

But I do like NA and NT students. They are very sincere and humble. All they need is some simple encouragement and a little attention from you, then they'll learn. However, some kids do have problems at home. So one needs to put abit more effort to help them grow.

Surprisingly, my 1st time at 1I turns out to be quite a pleasant one. Back in my mind, I do afraid of the "what if one day .... all the true self is revealed" ... ? It's rather unfair to make this statement at this point of time, sounds like stereotyping, which sometimes I'm guilty of.

This is a new year and a year of victory! I'm hopeful enough to see that this class would be different as I journey on as their science teacher in 2007.

Today is only the first day of school. However by the end of the day around 2.30 pm ... almost all teachers look drained ... losing voice ... I guess this is a norm for every starting year ... so all teachers, 'jia you' !

Ganbatte ne!

What happens when you are NOT focused ...

2007-01-06T13:14:00.000+08:00

young teachers ...

2007-01-05T22:49:00.000+08:00

(Left: Nat, Benny, Janne, Yiyuan, myself, Kat)

I thank God for these colleagues of mine, who are of the same batch that got posted to Kranji sec last July.

We are all different in characters (trust me) BUT somehow we could just gel together and work and have fun. When things seem tough, we lend each other a helping hand if not at least a listening ear. Indeed, the presence of these people make me look forward to going to school everyday, besides the kids and the nature of the job.

Besides these young teachers, the cheerful spirits that the senior teachers in my sch have towards teaching job truly inspire me. Just unspeakable .... but you can sense it through their little gestures towards people and the students, may it be words or actions.

I hope to grow and be like them as time passes by... Still working hard as ever (regardless of age), yet enjoying what they are doing. I suppose this is - living out the calling of their lives. This reminds me of Ps Khong, our senior pastor.

2006-12-25T19:20:00.000+08:00

zhen1 xin1 ying1 shiong2

A 'hero' that's truthful or sincere ... about their dreams

FENNY ....

2006-12-25T17:40:00.000+08:00

To Janelle, Camy and Kenny ... this is NOT a post about myself ... hehe. In fact, I have a 'secret' to tell you, I have a friend whose name is FENNY... =)

And to my friend, Fenny, this may sound weird to you .. but haha, the 3 names I mentioned above, they call me 'fenny' in Singapore. Why? cause I don't have an English name. So by adding a 'ny' to my last name, it would give a rhyme corresponding to the rests like Ken'ny' and Ca'my'... am I right, Janelle? =)

We knew each other since 5 years old ... haha, we should have celebrated 21st anniversary this year but missed it lah ... aiyah didn't coordinate properly. But we've sort of agreed to celebrate our 25th anniversary together ya! haha.

It was a good time catching up with you Fenny. You're still you .... just say out whatever is in your mind, very frank and direct ... When I was on msn today talking to big ben, he just reminds me of Fenny. They are just comfortable being who they are before you.

And Fenny, it's true that we don't often email or talk to each other. After so many years, still whenever we have the chance to gather though very rare, we'd just somehow TALK! I always admire the courage you have in pursuing your dream in the visual productions and now audio production (maybe?). =) It's unconventional but I can see the support your family has for you and even your own persistence and passion for it.

Yea, to pursue a dream is definitely not easy. Many people talk about it but very few people are willing to pay the price or rather work towards it. The song "zhen1 xin1 ying1 shiong2" in the next entry speaks of what I feel about dreams. The lyrics are very meaningful. Those people who sang it understood it well because they themselves went through it... This chinese song just reminds me of our secondary school days when everyone dreams of their futures.

Everyone should have a dream and be dare to pursue it. Be persistent and enjoy the process, of course not forgetting your friends along the way. With the blessings and favour from the Lord (to some people, a Mighty One up there who decides how the world goes about), one day you'll get 'there'.

If it doesn't turn out the way you want it to be, there'll still be plenty of things that you can be grateful of: the friends who walked with you, the moments that have touched your life and others, the struggles that have made you stronger and more matured... Definitely all these would bring you to 'somewhere' if not the 'there' that you have wished for. What matters is that you've put your heart into doing everything - and that's a true hero =)

Fenny .... for you =) !

Merry Christmas ...

2006-12-25T16:02:00.000+08:00

Blessed christmas to all ! =) Christmas is a season of giving and a time to love. But above all else, it reminds us of the love that God has for us through His Son, Jesus Christ, who came about 2006 years ago.

I've chosen to spend my christmas in Singapore this year but before that, I went back home for early christmas. Nice christmas tree right? haha. I decorated it!

My younger sister made this lasagne for me! She likes to bake and cook while I like to eat and almost everything though I may appear tiny and skinny. In fact, I like beef! haha. It tasted good and does look quite pro to me.

This trip back home is quite a sentimental one. It's just a very different feeling from the usual rushing back home for chinese new year kind of trip. In fact, it was pretty relaxing and refreshing for me personally, as I've prayed in my heart for it.

Back at home, flashbacks of past scenes came into my mind. Every corner of our house brought back past memories .... foolish things me and my sister played at home, my favourite piano, the old sewing machine, the staircase which was once my 'playground' too! And my room ... where I used to study, read and dream about my future... and also a personal place that I spent time talking to God.

The last scene in my room that I remember was about 6 years ago when I asked God whether I should go to Singapore or stay in KL for studies, for the fact that I was already being admitted to a local university in KL. I had to decide carefully because that's the diverging point which had no turning back. It was a long-term commitment (at least for 6 or 7 years) for the cause and the community which I would decide to be a part of.

And 6 years have passed by... Indeed not an easy journey, being a foreigner in a strange land, striving to survive and yet not forgetting where we come from. That's why I can always identify with the feelings of foreigners. But one thing for sure and which I'm always reminded of is that, God brought me here. He gently and faithfully guided me through all those years despite my doubts. All things (good or bad) indeed work for good (eventually) to those who love Him and whom He loves first.

So if God would care for someone as plainly as me who's willing to trust in Him, definitely He'll do it for anyone who trust in Him.

Especially for minsun, esther and hannah.... even for Grace, Yuanjia, Kate and Jess if you have a chance to read it.

May you be touched, blessed and be reminded of God's love this season of christmas ... =)

Thankful for the little things

2006-10-30T16:55:00.000+08:00

I just couldn't contain my joy and want to share it!

God always bless those seemingly trivial but capable of causing me worries kind-of-things in my life - in this case, the travelling part. This december I've finally decided to go back home - penang. The fact is that, for the past 2 years I've not been back during december...

The common reason given is that, my mom and younger sister would be visiting us about the same time and Chinese New Year is just around the corner, wouldn't it cost me quite a bit to travel within this short period of time? If I were to travel, by plane or bus? Which would help me to save up a bit? Knowing now we have the budget airline - Air asia, but that's not always the case being the cheapest. And how about safety?

Worries and worries, they just enter my mind without being invited... not sure whether this is a sign of getting older. Or just girls? Anyway, God knows me best. Though sometimes, I would exercise the faith I have in Him by trying not to worry so much but still He took the matter upon Him and help me to settle it ... In fact I was prepared to settle for a trip by airplane and the other trip by bus (at least 10-hour ride). I quite look forward to long distance bus ride cause it's just a different kind of feeling when you travel long hour alone on the bus, giving you the time to ponder about life and the various incidents ... It's a breathing space that allows my mind and heart to transit from one familiar place to another.

But this time, there are concerns about time constraints because I wish to utilize my dec holiday fruitfully, spending time with family and friends both in penang and singapore... and more... Surprisingly, the price for the air ticket to penang on the date that I want drop to MYR 39.99 TODAY!! Previously it was like MYR 139 !! (exclusive of taxes). Thanks to my younger sis who spotted it! Trust me, in my whole life, you can count my 'lucky moments' with your five fingers .... so I know straight away, it's God!

Thank you LORD for this early christmas gift! =D

2006-10-21T11:44:00.000+08:00

In my life, Your will be done ...

Oceans will part (Hillsongs)

If my heart has grown cold,
There Your love will unfold;
As You open my eyes to the work of Your hand.
When I’m blind to my way,
There Your Spirit will pray;
As You open my eyes to the work of Your hand,
As You open my eyes to the work of Your hand.

Chorus 1:
Oceans will part; nations come
At the whisper of Your call.
Hope will rise; glory shown.
In my life, Your will be done.

Verse 2:
Present suffering may pass,
Lord, Your mercy will last;
As You open my eyes to the work of Your hand.
And my heart will find praise,
I’ll delight in Your way,
As You open my eyes to the work of Your hand,
As You open my eyes to the work of Your hand.

Chorus 2:
Oceans will part; nations come
At the whisper of Your call.
Hope will rise; glory shown.
In my life, Your will be done.
Oceans will part; nations come
At the whisper of Your call.
Hope will rise; glory shown.
In my life, Your will be done.

There are two lines from the lyrics that speak to me...

Jesus open my eyes to the work of Your hand;
In my life, Your will be done - surrender.

2006-10-14T18:46:00.000+08:00

Corrinne May - Everything In its time

Everything In Its Time (By Corrinne May)

Sometimes I wonder what lies ahead
How long till my hunger is fed
They say it’s hard to make it in this part of town S
o many people on this merry-go-around

Some folks try astrology
Some turn to crystal balls
To find an answer to get through it all

I just fall on my knees and I try to pray
In the silence I can hear Him say

The river runs and the river hides
Out to the ocean and under the sky
I promise you, the answer will come
Hold on to patience and watch for the sign
Everything in its time I

often feel like I’m two steps behind
Somebody must have moved that finish line
There are a thousand reasons why I should give up
But I’m stubborn in the things I believe

The river runs and the river hides
Out to the ocean and under the sky
I promise you, the answer will come
Hold on to patience and watch for the sign
Everything in its time

‘cause maybe there’s another plan
One I still can’t see
A little surprise, like your love in my life
Funny how time changes how we see

The river runs and the river hides
Out to the ocean and under the sky
I promise you, the answer will come
Hold on to patience and watch for the sign
Everything in its time
Everything in its time

*PS: sorry ... it's not a music video ... nothing about the video screen ...

Ah Ying ....

2006-10-14T18:32:00.000+08:00

When we were in S2A... 1994 .....

1998 gathering ..... when all of us doing pre-uni courses at different places

And 2006 .... here we are .... haha ... we've known each other for 12 years

Went out to have lunch with Ying today. She is my secondary school classmate back in Penang! Haha, what a small world ... we meet again in Singapore ... and continued our conversations after having had so many conversations back then in secondary school years.

We knew each other since sec 2. Haha ... I could still remember. She wasn't a christian back then. But we just somehow clicked when we talked... about books, movies and most importantly music and dreams. All sorts of foolish dreams ya ... haha. I would always grab the opportunity to talking about God and she would always listen. After then, she as a stonge buddhist back then would share about her God... I had no choice but to politely listen too ... heh.

After SPM (O levels), she went to pursue her dream as a medical doctor in a private college, very different from mine which is going through STPM (A levels) then NUS. We didn't keep in close contact physically like calling or writing mails but in our hearts ... yes we remember each other.

One year during december, which was also near Christmas, she called me. We chatted as usual, like old friends catching up. And suddenly she told me, "Eh chinfen, I'm a christian now". Shocked for a moment but then yea =D! You finally became a christian!! HAHA what a surprising but precious christmas gift God has given me for that year. I know this has happened soo many years ago, maybe 4 or 5? Haha... ying so sorry ... i can't remember details nowadays ...

And till now, I thank God that she's still holding on to God even though life is not easy over here in Singapore. Really thank God that He has seen you this far in your career and that amazingly, our friendship can still 'resume' in this island.. heh =) We have so much in common .. very conservative .. very stubborn in certain things .. still have dreams .. very conscious .. wish to try new things but dare not .. always feel guilty over our old friends who remember us, especially our birthdays but we forgot! I just had so many thoughts today after our lunch.

The most hilarious thing is about her mom, telling her that should look for boyfriend now cause many of our classmates are attached or either married already!

The mom:"You and chinfen don't always concentrate on God's things ahh ... and don't always talk about God in your conversations ... scare away all the boys ... " HAHAHA

But we both share the same view, it's true that at age like this 26 or 27, everyone is talking about relationships or building families. However this pretty personal to each individual considering the circumstances and readiness. Yup, we will pray together for this matter but we will still talk about God at all times. =)

No one knows what's going to happen for the next 1 year ... 2 years or 5 years. You could be still in Singapore or back to Penang... Or perhaps Australia where your favourite old church is ... Maybe you are feeling unsettled at times ... Me too honestly confessing ... being a foreigner here. But above all else, we really have a BIG GOD who is good all the time. Everything will be revealed to us at its time ... which is governed by God.

Thought of sharing this song with you, by Corrine May called "Everything in its time". We both find that sometimes we don't know how to express our feelings and therefore we source out songs and books that help us to do so ... and this is one song that functions that way for me... =) Be blessed my dear old friend. Enjoy the old pics!! I'm surpised that I brought them over to Singapore.. haha.

2006-10-12T13:11:00.000+08:00

Who am I

It is a very beautiful and meaningful song, especially the lyrics. It reminds me of a few bible verses.

Isaiah 41:14
Do not be afraid, O worm Jacob, O little Israel, for I myself will help you," declares the Lord, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.

Exodus 3:14
As God said to Moses, "I AM WHO I AM".
This just simply reminds me of His sovereignty and greatness.

Psalm 8:4
What is man that You are mindful of him…

It was mixed feelings when first listened to this song. When you think about God who He is, it is just simply amazing that He would choose to come to us. At times, I felt unworthy just like the song described. However it is precisely because of how weak and unworthy I am that I need God the most. Because of Him, I have the identity, knowing who I am – His daughter.

Who Am I (by Casting Crowns)

Who am I, that the Lord of all the earth
Would care to know my name
Would care to feel my hurt
Who am I, that the Bright and Morning Star
Would choose to light the way
For my ever wandering heart

Not because of who I am
But because of what You've done
Not because of what I've done
But because of who You are

I am a flower quickly fading
Here today and gone tomorrow
A wave tossed in the ocean
Vapor in the wind
Still You hear me when I'm calling
Lord, You catch me when I'm falling
And You've told me who I am
I am Yours, I am Yours

Who am I, that the eyes that see my sin
Would look on me with love and watch me rise again
Who am I, that the voice that calmed the sea
Would call out through the rain
And calm the storm in me

Not because of who I am
But because of what You've done
Not because of what I've done
But because of who You are

I am a flower quickly fading
Here today and gone tomorrow
A wave tossed in the ocean
Vapor in the wind
Still You hear me when I'm calling
Lord, You catch me when I'm falling
And You've told me who I am
I am Yours

Not because of who I am
But because of what You've done
Not because of what I've done
But because of who You are

I am a flower quickly fading
Here today and gone tomorrow
A wave tossed in the ocean
Vapor in the wind
Still You hear me when I'm calling
Lord, You catch me when I'm falling
And You've told me who I am
I am Yours

I am Yours
Whom shall I fear
Whom shall I fear
'Cause I am Yours
I am Yours

The song now speaks to my heart in ways that I do not know how to express … May you be blessed and deeply convicted that God has genuine interests in your life and respond by saying “I am Yours”…

You are special

2006-09-25T22:08:00.000+08:00

http://www.lollie.com/thinkagain.html

Every day the small wooden people called Wemmicks do the same thing: stick either gold stars or gray dots on one another. The pretty ones--those with smooth wood and fine paint--always get stars. The talented ones do, too. Others, though, who can do little or who have chipped paint, get ugly gray dots. Like Punchinello.....

This is my all time favourite story even since I read and heard it more than 6 years ago, both chinese and english version. In fact, I prefer the chinese version because Punchinello has a chinese name called "little fatty"..... a name which is so undesirable but he had no choice.

Somehow, each of us have this "little fatty" in us. Especially in this meritocratic society, where people strive to outshine each other .... looking highly on paper qualifications... it's so stressful and discouraging at times. Rather than seeking approval from men, this is what God has offered, "My approval for you is not about your abilities. The fact that I've created you is what makes you special and most worth it of all."

May you be blessed by this children's story.

I have this little dream, if one day God allows, I hope to compose songs for this story and make it a musical =)

22 sept - 24th sept 2006

2006-09-25T19:49:00.000+08:00

It has been such a LLLOOOOoooonggggg time I last blogged ... so sorry even though not many people visiting this blog =)

Well, thought of sharing what happened over the weekend. It was indeed an exciting one. Friday night was yuanjia's baptism. I can still remember 2 years ago when she came over from China and how we met in the same group when I volunteered as the sm2 befriender. I thank God for seeing her through all occasions and has brought her to this stage. It isn't easy at all but definitely she has stepped out by faith. Many things flashed back in my mind about us ... =) though not very long but not to worry, we still have a long way to go! my dear girl, may you grow beautifully in the Lord!

After having the privilege to baptize her, i rushed down for the encounter weekend as a guide, where 2 of my korean girls (minsun and grace) and 1 of my cell sister's girl (petrina). We did a little side activity by decorating a plastic cup of our own.

Our names in korean =) (from top to bottom: grace, minsun, chinfen and petrina)

After this encounter, the rubbish in our lives would have been cleared and emptied, just like this plastic cup. Well this cup can't be left just like this. It will again be filled with something, either rubbish again if we choose to go back to our old ways or now, blessings from God. If we choose the blessings of God, we need to actively claim the promises of God into our lives.

So we started with faith by writing down a promise and put it into this plastic cup. By faithfully doing it everyday, the cup will soon be filled with many of His wonderful promises. Just like our lives, by faith, we want to see this happen.

I learnt alot through this encounter as a guide and also encountered God again. Have been ministered and being set free again. If I hadn't just simply go for this encounter regardless of the busy schedule in school, I would have missed all these blessings from God, including the time spent together knowing the girls.

Dear girls, what ever good work God has done in your lives, in Jesus name we seal them. I just want to encourage you with the lyrics of this song. I've tried so hard to upload to the website to share but can't make it .... pls forgive .... hope to learn it someday ..

Anyway, here's the song:

"On my lips" by Darren Morehouse, Ross Parsley

verse

All the chains are broken,
I have been set free
Every word You've spoken
is watching over me

So how can I stay silent
when I hear you call my name
Living in Your presence I
'll never be the same

PreChorus:

I've been found in You
and now I'll sing out Your truth

Chorus:

On my lips there's a shout of praise
Now I'm gonna dance for all my days
because I've seen the wonder of Your loving ways

So much joy here in Your embrace
makes me wanna sing and celebrate
because I've seen the wonder of amazing grace

http://www.pwarchive.com/song.aspx?SongID=2656&v=1

I've been listening to it over and over again for the past 2 weeks. It ministered to me every morning =) Regardless the day was good or bad, this song would just lift up my soul. I pray that the lyrics would minister to you. Let's grow strong together in the Lord !

And thank God for everything that you've brought us through this encounter.

(from left: Petrina, chinfen, minsun and grace - at the encounter weekend) =)

More than a year ago...

2006-08-12T12:55:00.000+08:00

I was clearing my mail box and found this email that I wrote and shared with some people.

This is an incident that happened more than a year ago (dated may 2005) when I just started contract teaching in a neighbourhood secondary school. Alot of mixed feelings when started teaching. However through this kid, I learnt something about myself and God ... It's quite a long story though.

"Week before last, me and another sci teacher (male) had a practical session with a sec one express class (first class). During that two periods, at least half of the class (20 odds) misbehaved... talked, laughed, walked around, couldn't follow instructions... as if we the teachers were invisible... I was really "boiling" inside however, my fellow teacher said "sec one kids are like that one .... " ... aiyoh... I was wondering how to achieve a balance between being patient and accepting who they are, and teaching them the discipline in a laboratory.
Finally, I decided that they have gone too much out of the boundary. So I made the whole class stayed back after the school bell rang. They thought it was going to be only ten or at most twenty mins detention. All packed up and hugging their bags waiting for the time to pass by. I was 'bad' in a sense, purposely said, "take out your books to do revision, why holding on to your bags? this detention is not going to be just those few mins. You've spent two periods (70 mins) having fun and making noise, now that you expect only a short detention for punishment ... no no no.... " Could sense their disappointment ... I added on further, asking whether they knew the reason for detention, am I being reasonable ? Most of them kept quiet knowing that they have wronged but some obviously weren't happy with detention, especially this chinese boy, Elliot, kept sighing loudly.
Later on, I tried to be reasonable, walked around and talked to some students. Then I reached Eillot, asked whether he had anything on ... he ignored me -_- ... "wah, never give the teacher face leh", my first thought. Well never mind, the bible said parents shouldn't provoke a child ... so shall I, let him cool down. After one hour, I let these kids off. Thought they would definitely dislike Ms Ho now... surprisingly some indian boys would still waive and say bye bye to me having being punished just some time ago... haha... kids.
I thought should I deal with Elliot, that rude boy? The next day I talked to him. He was frank, telling me that he was still unhappy. He thought I should only picked out those who made noise since I was walking around the class. I asked him how was the noise level? low, medium or high? He answered high. Ah that means it's at least half the class making noise loh, how to pick with only one pair of my eyes? Moreover, he sprinkled water to a girl in the class because she did that to him once. But he felt that this is unfair, cause he did only once despite the fact that he did it.... aih speechless.... the more we talked, the more unhappy he became. He turned his head towards the left when I was on his right talking. I knew that the talk was futile cause he just had this strong mindset that he is right. He won liao loh ... I ended the conversation with 4 things:-

1. Not responding to elder people is rude regardless how you feel. You are not respecting others. Do unto others how you would like others to treat you.

2. There is something call teamwork. Even when he enters NS later, he'll face some kind of corporate punishment too. They stand as a class. Morever, there is a valid reason for the whole class being held back.

3. He needs to get over with the negative feelings cause I'm going to teach next week. You won't learn with a receptive mind when you dislike the person who's teaching. I don't want him to end up like this.

4. If he thinks I'm wrong, time will prove and I"m willing to learn from my mistakes. But if he thinks that his attitude is correct, by all means carry on, time will prove too, by having other people correcting him next time.

The conversation ended unhappily. He is a stubborn and strong-opinionated boy, being one year older than the rest cause he has studied in sweden before. And that's why, he is quite proud of himself.
I was of course affected, examing my hearts over the weekend whether I was really that unreasonable? on the other hand, trying hard wanting to prove to these kids that, eh this is a good teacher k.. trying to help you to learn yet you don't appreciate leh.... But in the end, I relinquish my rights to God... why don't let God reign in this situation instead of using my own wisdom and strength? I commit to God ... I read this verse in Proverbs 12:1 .... he who hates correction is stupid ... haha, I giggled in my heart ... cause I never scold my students stupid but the bible did it on behalf of me ...
On monday, when I taught, I could sense that he was restless. Well, I just prayed and ignored. The next day, I was drawing on the whiteboard a concept map. While I was so engrossed with the drawing, a voice came to me from behind "teacher, teacher". No big deal, kids always call you from behind asking some nonsensical questions ... I turned around unwillingly and saw Elliot, the boy. He said, " teacher, sorry .." Then he kept looking at me, while returning to his seat just right in front of the teacher's table.
I was stunned for a moment. He was apologizing for that incident.... I nodded and smiled, gesturing that things were alright and carried on with the teaching. After the class, while I was relaxing and had a deep thought on those only two words, "teacher, sorry" , my heart melted .... sounded so simple, yet was truly sincere and I knew that it must have taken him great courage and humility to do so, judging by his strong character. From that moment onwards, all his wrong doings have been erased from my mind ... a new clean sheet....
This immediately reminded me of the story of the prodigal son... all the while, I couldn't understand, how come the father can be soooo forgiving, I always pity the elder brother. Worked so hard and well behaved, at least better than the younger brother, but the father threw a party for the used-to-be unfillial brother, instead of the good one who has always been around at home ......
Suddenly my eyes opened. It's love that makes a difference. The father had love (feelings) but the elder brother had no love for his younger brother, being very rational ... just like I used to be at times.
This experience really had a great impact on me, knowing that love from God is truly amazing and powerful. It painted a picture of how God loves me as well. It's not because that boy apologized and proved that I've won, not this feeling at all ... but the fact that he saw the heart of a teacher for a student (I am somehow amazed that my heart actually cared and loved these students cause many a times I doubted myself).... and this tells me about the heart of God too, is always at our interests but not Himself.... "

I wonder how this boy is doing now... Hope that his courage and humility will make him into a person with great character one day =)

Today in school ...

2006-07-25T11:25:00.000+08:00

7.45 am, I went to one of the sec one NA class. Have been with them for the past 4 weeks. Though I've heard of their misbehaviours, especially the 4 "heavenly kings", I try my best to always give them chance. After class, I usually talk to them personally.

Today, it is totally different. Initially I went into the class with great patience. I know usually NA students have problems at home, either about relationships or financials. Things are already tough for them at home so school must at least be a place where they find friends and learn sth. Therefore I avoid raising my voice too much but just enough to catch their attention. I brought them up to the lab for a change in the environment for learning.

Disastrous .... they started making noise. And I started shouting, raising my voice, in fact quite emotional. They kept silence except those 4, shouted across the class while I was disciplining, purposely whispered and giggled among themselves still... Then the rests thought I wasnt serious enough and started contributing to the noise level again.

That whole 2 period was gone ...

"Believing in people before they have proved themselves is the key to motivating people to reach their potential." (John Maxwell)
A small card pinned at the notice board on my desk.

I have tried to believe that they will change but as time passes by, they take my lesson for granted, taking my patience for granted. Felt guilty for the majority who wish to learn but couldn't becoz of these few ....

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ah great, ask them to stay back after school to look for me but in the end, I got to chase after them. Guess what? The moment they say me, they ran away! *_* hide and seek??

The music of our lives

2006-07-23T23:05:00.000+08:00

It's Sunday, 11.15 pm. Just started my weekly lesson plan for the coming week. It's not a simple plan but to include the various teaching methods which is suitable for the class and content to cover .... What are the learning outcomes for each lesson? Have been conceiving the ideas in my mind starting fri night. However today then I have the time to sit down and type them out. Still in the process of thinking whether the idea is feasible ...

Just felt extremely tired, both mentally and physically, accumulated over the past two weeks. So I flipped open this book before started 'working' - Streams in the desert by Mrs. Charles E. Cowman

July 23

Giving thanks ALWAYS for ALL things unto God. (Eph 5:20)

No matter what the source of evil, if you are in God and surrounded by Him as by an atmosphere, all evil has to pass through Him before it comes to you. Therefore you can thank God for EVERYTHING that comes, not for the sin of it, but for what God will bring out of it and through it. May God make our lives thanksgiving and perpetual praise, then He will make EVERYTHING A BLESSING. (Amen!)

We once saw a man draw some black dots. We looked and could make nothing of them but an irregular assemblage of black dots. Then he drew few lines, put in a few rests, then a clef at the beginning, and we saw these black dots were MUSICAL NOTES. On sounding them we were singing,

Praise God from whom all blessings flow,
Praise Him all creatures here below.

There are many black dots and black spots in our lives, and we cannot understand why they are there or why God permitted them to come. But if we let God come into our lives, and adjust the dots in the proper way, and draw the lines He wants, and separate this from that, and put in the restsat the proper places; out of the black dots and spots in our lives He will make a glorious harmony. Let us not hinder Him in this glorious work! C.H.P

Would we know that the major chords were sweet,
If there were no minor key?

Would the painter's work be fair to our eyes,
Without shade on land or sea?

Would we know the meaning of happiness,
Would we feel that the day was bright,
If we'd never known what it was to grieve,
Nor gazed on the dark of night?

Many men owe the grandeur of their lives to their tremendous difficulties. C.H. Spurgeon

When the musican presses the black keys on the great organ (or piano), the music is as sweet as when he touches the white ones, but to the capacity of the instrument he must touch them all.
Selected

This analogy spoke to me very much - the music of our lives. What's the tune like now? Major key or minor key? Regardless of what it is, the pianist is God, everything that comes out from Him is indeed beautiful.

About blogging

2006-07-16T19:50:00.000+08:00

Well, sometimes I wonder why I wanted to start a blog since I'm not someone who likes to talk about myself. Or rather since young, I don't have the habit of sharing to others about myself, at least not in this form, writing down my feelings and let others read about it. Talking to people and typing out your feelings to a computer is totally different.

So when I first heard about blog, I was very surprised. You mean nowadays people like to write and publish their thoughts in so called a blog - online diary? Diary is a very personal way to keep in touch with your feelings but now you want to publish it? Isn't it contradicting?

I doubted this concept but somehow curious about it because it's so popular. So I started visiting a few blogs of my friends. For some, I got to know more about them; and for others, I'm blessed by the message they share for the day. Sometimes, when the day seems dreary, it cheers me up by reading someone's blogs with funny jokes.

I now realised that it's a powerful tool to keep in touch with the people surrounding you and who knows, a simple message you share for the day may be a blessing to other people. The key is to start sharing. In one of the last few talks in NIE, an experienced teacher urged us to share about ourselves with our students, our passions, our interests as weird as they can be (hers is about keeping birds and different types of animals) ... because this connects you with them.

So I decided to connect with the people around me, starting with fear. Janelle told me that a blog can be personal but not private... This somehow englightened me and removed my fear, knowing that I can just be who I am to connect to people personally, through blogging =)

Leadership: Nice Guys Finish First

2006-07-10T14:11:00.000+08:00

http://finance.yahoo.com/columnist/article/leadership/2513

A little something we can learn about leadership and success.

Your father in you

2006-07-10T13:55:00.000+08:00

http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/health/view/214582/1/.html

"Fathers act as role models and the affirmation of a father can mean the whole world to a child. "

2006-07-07T22:27:00.000+08:00

Touching Triathlon

This video is about a father's love to his son and which pushed him to enter the triathlon games even though he's not an athlete....

The difference

2006-07-07T20:52:00.000+08:00

I got up early one morning
and rushed right into the day;

I had so much to accomplish
that I didn't have time to pray.

Problems just tumbled about me,
and heavier came each task,

"Why doesn't God help me?"
I wondered,
He answered, "You didn't ask".

I wanted to see joy and beauty,
but the day toiled on grey and bleak,

I wondered why God didn't show me,
He said, "You didn't seek".

I tried to come into God's presence;
I used all my keys at the lock

God gently and lovingly chided,
"My child, you didn't knock".

I woke up early this morning,
and paused before entering the day;

I had so much to accomplish
that I had to take time to pray.

(adapted from a postcard written by an unknown author)

Psalm 143:8

Let the morning bring me word of Your unfailing love,
for I have put my trust in You.

Show me the way I should go,
for to You I lift up my soul.

I asked God for a passage at the beginning of this year 2006. Psalm 143:8-12 is what I sensed God gave me, out of which, verse 8 spoke the most to me.
Most of the time, I am guilty of rushing into the day without much prayer. Occasionally, when I am reminded of this verse, I would quieten my heart to pray in the morning before starting anything. There is indeed a difference whenever I do so. However, I didn't take it seriously enough.

Being a full fledge teacher now, I have all the more reason of not being able to wake up ealier for quiet time. But for the past one week as I woke up early to prepare for some lessons of the day, I deliberately set aside a short time of about 10 mins to read through the 40-day prayer guide and commit everything to Him.

Amazingly, amidst of all the things, with my family visiting me, new responsibilities in schools, ministry, everything went well without regrets. No doubt that there were frustrations but God turned everything for good in the end.

It reminds me of this verse.

Romans 8:28
And we know that in ALL things (whether good or bad) GOD WORKS FOR GOOD of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.

So, I've decided to take it seriously what Pastor shared in his sermon, simply love God and serve Jesus, in everything I do daily =)

Just like the blooming sunflower that turns towards the east, where the sun rises each morning because it needs full sun to grow well;
Let us turn our hearts toward the Heaven each morning, because we need God to walk our lives well.