On Saturday, our life group went out to shop for Christmas presents for kids from Rumah Hope, whom our church is having a Christmas celebration with on the 12th of December 2004. Rumah Hope is a home for children who've been abused or abandoned. A few months ago, BLC-ians paid these children a visit and had a blast with them apparently! :) Unfortunately, I had to pull out of this celebration because of work in the last minute but I'm sure not missing out this time around!
The experience without a doubt became an experience for ourselves as well simply because me, James and Moh Foong are big kids ourselves! Each life group is in charge of buying presents for 10-11 kids. So for ours, we decided that the boys will buy the boys presents and the girls will buy the girls some nice gifts.
Toys!! Now, that's something I might never grow tired or out of! I sometimes joke about 'fighting' with my children in future over the toys we want to play with! *haha* Or I just might play with the kids so much just because I love toys too! I get scared of stepping into toy stores also because I always come out with purchases OR leave empty handed and sad because I want many things in there but cannot afford to be spending that kind of money! :( We had to remind ourselves during this trip that we weren't there for ourselves but for these Rumah Hope children :) It didn't stop James from buying his toys though! *haha*
Oh, and the beautiful weather and skies before the rain came on Saturday meant me and James whipping out of cameras as usual and appreciating God's blessings in our own unique way ;) As you can see, 2 best friends are often of the same mould. People think we're tourists sometimes, or they just think we're nuts! *snickers* Oh, and 2 best friends also behave similarly at times! We love doing silly things for the cameras. I mean, sure it's kinda embarrassing for some doing stuff like that in public but to us, it's a whole load of fun! Wish I could share more than just a picture with you on how that road-crossing experience was like. You should have been there, great fun!
Monday, November 29, 2004
Sunday, November 28, 2004
Bring on the evil...
No, I didn't switch allegiances.
No, I'm not a childish pr*ck mocking and challenging the evil one.
Evil, darkness, the bad, the rotten, whatever - they're coming. They're here. They always are anyway.
So what? Will it destroy the paradise that is good? No. Should we stay defeated or continue to fight the good fight? Should we stop believing?
No matter what, I vow to fight the good fight and to never stop believing. I vow to stay 'Modified'. The 'version He custom-upgraded' me to be. No matter what. No matter what...
I've developed a knack for taking photographs while driving lately. It's dangerous and if it was a common thing, they probably would ban it just like talking on cellphones while driving is banned. I do practice caution anyway, honest! But i've enjoyed picture taking very much lately. I picked these 3 out of the lot I took today. I won't talk about my day even though I said I would (sorry James!), but these 3 pics sorta paint the stories I want to tell, the emotions being felt and in connotation to the above thoughts before I began on this paragraph.
Will attempt on blogging about photo-taking whilst driving at another time perhaps. For the time being, those who cannot multitask, please oh goodness please, don't even think about it ok! Even I shouldn't do it, but I can't help it...
No, I'm not a childish pr*ck mocking and challenging the evil one.
Evil, darkness, the bad, the rotten, whatever - they're coming. They're here. They always are anyway.
So what? Will it destroy the paradise that is good? No. Should we stay defeated or continue to fight the good fight? Should we stop believing?
No matter what, I vow to fight the good fight and to never stop believing. I vow to stay 'Modified'. The 'version He custom-upgraded' me to be. No matter what. No matter what...
I've developed a knack for taking photographs while driving lately. It's dangerous and if it was a common thing, they probably would ban it just like talking on cellphones while driving is banned. I do practice caution anyway, honest! But i've enjoyed picture taking very much lately. I picked these 3 out of the lot I took today. I won't talk about my day even though I said I would (sorry James!), but these 3 pics sorta paint the stories I want to tell, the emotions being felt and in connotation to the above thoughts before I began on this paragraph.
Will attempt on blogging about photo-taking whilst driving at another time perhaps. For the time being, those who cannot multitask, please oh goodness please, don't even think about it ok! Even I shouldn't do it, but I can't help it...
Friday, November 26, 2004
Lost & Found - A father's love; and his son's too
Pictures paint a thousand words indeed. So the saying goes. That's my dad right there in that picture. This picture pretty much sums up the kind of childhood and teenagehood I had with my dad, a disjointed and separated one. It always felt like we were in separate booths and places, just like this picture, divided by some sort of barrier.
To cut a long one short, and besides, my life's story is personal and the stories are far too many and long; it was not till I turned 21 that our relationship began improving. Mum always reminds us that no matter what, I'll always still be his flesh and blood. Yes i am. The anger, resentment, discontentment and premature hatred are gone now. We learn to let go, God gives us patience and love for those things :)
I may not have understood why other kids went for fishing with their dads and stuff when I was a child, or why a man who saw so little of me, spent most of his time scolding or beating me when he did see me. But I finally know something now, being a man myself, I do love him, deep down, all this time.
Lots of lessons and values in life were learnt from this man, the man that I am today is also a credit to him, he had a hand in making me who I am, even though that hand was not always around. Every man has his misgivings. My dad has his. I fault him for some, but I also acknowledge the good man that he is, the kind heart he has, the good deeds he does, the good mind he possesses and the good thinker he is.
But I do love him. I guess I never wanted to believe that because of the spite. The best part of it all is, despite all the lost time that can never be retrieved, I finally can say one more important thing, the most important thing that I would never have said before this - I finally know, acknowledge and understand... that he loves me too.
To cut a long one short, and besides, my life's story is personal and the stories are far too many and long; it was not till I turned 21 that our relationship began improving. Mum always reminds us that no matter what, I'll always still be his flesh and blood. Yes i am. The anger, resentment, discontentment and premature hatred are gone now. We learn to let go, God gives us patience and love for those things :)
I may not have understood why other kids went for fishing with their dads and stuff when I was a child, or why a man who saw so little of me, spent most of his time scolding or beating me when he did see me. But I finally know something now, being a man myself, I do love him, deep down, all this time.
Lots of lessons and values in life were learnt from this man, the man that I am today is also a credit to him, he had a hand in making me who I am, even though that hand was not always around. Every man has his misgivings. My dad has his. I fault him for some, but I also acknowledge the good man that he is, the kind heart he has, the good deeds he does, the good mind he possesses and the good thinker he is.
But I do love him. I guess I never wanted to believe that because of the spite. The best part of it all is, despite all the lost time that can never be retrieved, I finally can say one more important thing, the most important thing that I would never have said before this - I finally know, acknowledge and understand... that he loves me too.
Tuesday, November 23, 2004
Broken
"One sad tune that's been broken again in two,
Always the same old tale with a different voice,
Happens so often some are already immune,
Cold and confused with all there is to lose,
One sad tune that's been broken again in two...
Echoes ring out from pain, misery and sadness too,
Knows no face, all of them are targets to whom,
Say that it's not right, the timing is wrong,
The heart is not ready, the body ain't strong,
That same old tune, that tune that's always in two...
Help me to build my confidence,
I am broken once again,
Like an angel's broke its wings,
Help me..."
- Copyright. All rights reserved. John's Mistress.
Don't know why but these 2 pictures made me think of one of the band's new songs called 'Broken'. The chorus was the only thing written till now, but the 1st part's the verses I wrote for it. Not sure if it'll eventually be used. But who cares anyway? I felt like writing it for fun.
It's back to some raining again these past few days. Lots of things in life go back and forth. Up and down. Good and bad. Darkness always threathens to engulf the light that is God, just like the 1st photo. But good always prevails, like the 2nd photo. There is always some good to fight for, we only need to believe that. Why shouldn't we anyway? We've been saved and chosen to fight for the good that is God, isn't that such an honour? Our brokenness and helplessness are taken away as we commit them, and leave them to Him to handle.
Thank You. Thank You our Heavenly Father.
Always the same old tale with a different voice,
Happens so often some are already immune,
Cold and confused with all there is to lose,
One sad tune that's been broken again in two...
Echoes ring out from pain, misery and sadness too,
Knows no face, all of them are targets to whom,
Say that it's not right, the timing is wrong,
The heart is not ready, the body ain't strong,
That same old tune, that tune that's always in two...
Help me to build my confidence,
I am broken once again,
Like an angel's broke its wings,
Help me..."
- Copyright. All rights reserved. John's Mistress.
Don't know why but these 2 pictures made me think of one of the band's new songs called 'Broken'. The chorus was the only thing written till now, but the 1st part's the verses I wrote for it. Not sure if it'll eventually be used. But who cares anyway? I felt like writing it for fun.
It's back to some raining again these past few days. Lots of things in life go back and forth. Up and down. Good and bad. Darkness always threathens to engulf the light that is God, just like the 1st photo. But good always prevails, like the 2nd photo. There is always some good to fight for, we only need to believe that. Why shouldn't we anyway? We've been saved and chosen to fight for the good that is God, isn't that such an honour? Our brokenness and helplessness are taken away as we commit them, and leave them to Him to handle.
Thank You. Thank You our Heavenly Father.
Monday, November 22, 2004
Guidance from The Light
Originally uploaded by Chin Hor.
"Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light for my path." - Psalm 119:105
James took this picture a year ago with my camera when BLC was undergoing renovations and we had our church's service at Lake Gardens that Sunday. I absolutely enjoy looking at this picture. I hope it touches someone else too... :)
Didn't realize that it's been 6 days since I last blogged! It was not too shabby a week though. I guess there wasn't much to blog about, or the things I could have blogged about were too personal. I know I did take quite a number of sky and nature pictures...but I already have enough of those on my blog for now! *haha* Another month is already passing by and coming to it's end. Times can be so exciting yet be a point where we are concerned and worried about things. But we shouldn't worry :)
"So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today." - Matthew 6:34
Tuesday, November 16, 2004
Difference Makers
I think all this raining is indeed the reason for all the beautiful skies I've had the blessing to enjoy :) Being out for lunch with the band for just a short time meant a window of opportunity to whip that camera out and snap away. It's been really really hot, just the type of weather and heat you'd expect from a beautiful sunny day. I'd pay the price of burning under the scorching sun anytime just to snap some good pictures and to enjoy looking at the chunks of clouds under the blue sky.
But because I've posted pictures of skies and clouds twice in the past week, I thought I'd balance that out with a picture I really like from my photo archive. This picture was taken down the street from where my church is, some time last year. I like being under trees just as much as I like rainbows and looking at the sky. Trees have this comforting aura about them. Like a protective umbrella from the sun sometimes. It's also beautiful to see the sunrays hit the leaves of trees, and one of the best views of this would be from under the tree. Gives it a mild golden tinge sometimes. I was surprised one of my bandmates didn't know that sitting under shady trees was a form of relaxation and a way to cool off from walking in the sun. My grandfather taught me that when i was 7 or 8. My bandmate must have thought that the only thing you find under shady trees are psycho flashers! *haha*
Alright...so I wasn't exactly true to my word, I've also posted up a picture of today's sky. I can't help it! 80+ pictures were taken within a short span of time. I picked this one from the lot. I mean I have plenty that looks like the one I posted a few days ago. I picked this because it looks a little different :)
It's sometimes helpful and comforting to see pictures like these. If you see these views in real life, even better! It could be a really mundane, sad, hurtful, disappointing, helpless, annoying, purposeless or confusing day; but sometimes, coming home, settling down and having pictures such as these could make a difference and draw a bigger picture of appreciation for life. It helps me sometimes. I hope it does for someone else too...
*Does anyone know how to copyright protect pictures posted on the internet? I just came to realize that many people post pictures on the net but they could be used by other people?*
But because I've posted pictures of skies and clouds twice in the past week, I thought I'd balance that out with a picture I really like from my photo archive. This picture was taken down the street from where my church is, some time last year. I like being under trees just as much as I like rainbows and looking at the sky. Trees have this comforting aura about them. Like a protective umbrella from the sun sometimes. It's also beautiful to see the sunrays hit the leaves of trees, and one of the best views of this would be from under the tree. Gives it a mild golden tinge sometimes. I was surprised one of my bandmates didn't know that sitting under shady trees was a form of relaxation and a way to cool off from walking in the sun. My grandfather taught me that when i was 7 or 8. My bandmate must have thought that the only thing you find under shady trees are psycho flashers! *haha*
Alright...so I wasn't exactly true to my word, I've also posted up a picture of today's sky. I can't help it! 80+ pictures were taken within a short span of time. I picked this one from the lot. I mean I have plenty that looks like the one I posted a few days ago. I picked this because it looks a little different :)
It's sometimes helpful and comforting to see pictures like these. If you see these views in real life, even better! It could be a really mundane, sad, hurtful, disappointing, helpless, annoying, purposeless or confusing day; but sometimes, coming home, settling down and having pictures such as these could make a difference and draw a bigger picture of appreciation for life. It helps me sometimes. I hope it does for someone else too...
*Does anyone know how to copyright protect pictures posted on the internet? I just came to realize that many people post pictures on the net but they could be used by other people?*
Sunday, November 14, 2004
Brand new - beautiful beginnings
It's certainly taking longer than me or any of my band members would have thought but John's Mistress' EP (not new album sorry!) is finally in its mixing stage. Things are going oh so agonizingly slow! For those who do not know, I revived
Just got an email from David Berry. A big welcome to baby Declan!! Thank God for blessing the Berrys, resident Aussies from BLC, with a beautiful baby son, a baby brother to young Kirsten who's 8 and a half years old :) Looking forward to meeting them all again in church. Pray that Sigrun, my partner when we're on duty as keepers at BLC, is in good health and recuperating well.
The brand new Sabbath day, brand new day of a brand new week has also brought brand new fresh reflections and insights into my life and life in general around me. Yesterday, I prayed in front of my mother, holding her hand, for the first time in 2 and a half years of being a Christian! We haven't had a family prayer before I think. Must be odd for some of you reading this to understand. We do not attend the same church too, well this is because I felt my calling elsewhere and my shepherd was my mentor. I was very pleased to have had the opportunity today to spend quality time with my mum, not arguing or feuding over silly things for once, getting her to read my blog so she knows a little more about me, sitting her down to have a constructive discussion about my life, my vision, my career, my future and about the son she doesn't know she has. It's funny because our loved ones sometimes think they know us so well, but they actually don't most of the time. I think sometimes it's attributed to taking things for granted and sometimes because with family, we sometimes do not have the same openness and closeness as we do have with our friends and peers. It was important for me to let my mum into my life and her to know my plans. I need my family and loved ones, friends included, to fully support me. I don't need half-hearted support. I always stress - if you want to support someone, go all the way. Don't hop onto the bandwagon only when things are fine and dandy. Stay aboard even when the chips are down.
A few friends got in touch with me as well; via telephone and also MSN. I do miss my friends sometimes. Of course I cannot be there constantly with everyone all the time, life has changed from the college/uni days, from the being single days too. In life, change is inevitable. I think everyone knows and realizes that. But change doesn't have to be viewed negatively always. Change can be a good thing. Sure, things between friends can never be the same. We all meet our future husbands and wives, forge beautiful relationships, get married etc. but friendships don't die. They may not be the same, like I can't hang out with my gal pals like I used to before because I have a girlfriend now but things being different can be as equally nice and exciting for friends too. My belief always has been that your closest for life friends are and should be the ones you forge the best friendships with during the college/uni days, the same days we grow into the men and women we are going to be for life, the defining days. The few friends I was in contact with, really warmed my heart. I hope our friendships grow or are rekindled from these conversations we had. I was touched by some compliments that came my way, I never knew or would have thought I had touched lives. I mean I do make every effort to touch lives, to help others, to put others before myself but to just hear someone thank you for being a friend, as simple as that - now that is just plain heart-warming and touching.
I always seem to have a gazillion things to blog about. I hope I am not boring anyone and I hope no one thinks I am a nutcase for ranting so much. Wait...should I even be conscious about it? :) No way! I love writing, I don't mind sharing some personals. Not all personals though *hehe* If things were too personal, you can bet they won't be posted here ;) This blog is a private domain anyway, I do hope not too many strangers visit it. So far, no strangers though. Just you friends and loved ones. I'd like to keep it that way...
Just got an email from David Berry. A big welcome to baby Declan!! Thank God for blessing the Berrys, resident Aussies from BLC, with a beautiful baby son, a baby brother to young Kirsten who's 8 and a half years old :) Looking forward to meeting them all again in church. Pray that Sigrun, my partner when we're on duty as keepers at BLC, is in good health and recuperating well.
The brand new Sabbath day, brand new day of a brand new week has also brought brand new fresh reflections and insights into my life and life in general around me. Yesterday, I prayed in front of my mother, holding her hand, for the first time in 2 and a half years of being a Christian! We haven't had a family prayer before I think. Must be odd for some of you reading this to understand. We do not attend the same church too, well this is because I felt my calling elsewhere and my shepherd was my mentor. I was very pleased to have had the opportunity today to spend quality time with my mum, not arguing or feuding over silly things for once, getting her to read my blog so she knows a little more about me, sitting her down to have a constructive discussion about my life, my vision, my career, my future and about the son she doesn't know she has. It's funny because our loved ones sometimes think they know us so well, but they actually don't most of the time. I think sometimes it's attributed to taking things for granted and sometimes because with family, we sometimes do not have the same openness and closeness as we do have with our friends and peers. It was important for me to let my mum into my life and her to know my plans. I need my family and loved ones, friends included, to fully support me. I don't need half-hearted support. I always stress - if you want to support someone, go all the way. Don't hop onto the bandwagon only when things are fine and dandy. Stay aboard even when the chips are down.
A few friends got in touch with me as well; via telephone and also MSN. I do miss my friends sometimes. Of course I cannot be there constantly with everyone all the time, life has changed from the college/uni days, from the being single days too. In life, change is inevitable. I think everyone knows and realizes that. But change doesn't have to be viewed negatively always. Change can be a good thing. Sure, things between friends can never be the same. We all meet our future husbands and wives, forge beautiful relationships, get married etc. but friendships don't die. They may not be the same, like I can't hang out with my gal pals like I used to before because I have a girlfriend now but things being different can be as equally nice and exciting for friends too. My belief always has been that your closest for life friends are and should be the ones you forge the best friendships with during the college/uni days, the same days we grow into the men and women we are going to be for life, the defining days. The few friends I was in contact with, really warmed my heart. I hope our friendships grow or are rekindled from these conversations we had. I was touched by some compliments that came my way, I never knew or would have thought I had touched lives. I mean I do make every effort to touch lives, to help others, to put others before myself but to just hear someone thank you for being a friend, as simple as that - now that is just plain heart-warming and touching.
I always seem to have a gazillion things to blog about. I hope I am not boring anyone and I hope no one thinks I am a nutcase for ranting so much. Wait...should I even be conscious about it? :) No way! I love writing, I don't mind sharing some personals. Not all personals though *hehe* If things were too personal, you can bet they won't be posted here ;) This blog is a private domain anyway, I do hope not too many strangers visit it. So far, no strangers though. Just you friends and loved ones. I'd like to keep it that way...
Saturday, November 13, 2004
Kept Visions
I feel bashful when I am told my photographs are nice. I've seen a gazillion more, online, by regular people like myself, which are way nicer than mine *embarrassed* But I enjoy taking photographs very much, I think i always have since i was old enough to hold cameras. I realized whenever I am inspired to take photographs; which is often, be it inspired by God, God's work, people, situations, events etc; I am in my own zone, my element :) I'm no pro though, I don't do it for a living.
It's been raining buckets lately. I think the monsoon season is coming earlier, just as Hari Raya and Chinese New Year are every year. It did not rain during the day yesterday though. I also realized that with all the raining lately, there are some days where there are simply amazing looking skies in our city, Kuala Lumpur. It sometimes annoys me that living in the city means I am almost devoid of beautiful looking rich blue skies and cotton candy clouds simply because our city air is extremely polluted. The skies above KL most of the time are either grey, white or awfully flat and ugly *puke* Makes 'crazy photographers' like myself and James demotivated sometimes *haha*
On my way to KLCC to have lunch with Bihzhu and Jo yesterday, I managed to catch a few glimpses of beautiful skies. Needless to say, out came my trusty digital camera and *click*click*snap*. Good thing I was caught in heavy traffic, gave me opportunities to snap these pictures. People must have wondered what I was doing, but who cares? :)
Lunch was good, it's always nice meeting up with some of your closest friends. I am at my best also when i am dishing out some verbal help and advice to people, that's what I realized about myself. I may be totally down in the dumps sometimes but I will never and can never turn down a plea for help. Like I mentioned in one of my older blog entries, helping others can help rejuvenate you, help you as well. Jo felt I gave good advice, as it was also applicable in our own lives as well. Like a reminder I guess...
Lately, I again have felt my life being nurtured and defined by God. I've questioned myself over and over the past year about what could possibly be my vocation from God. I've spoken to my mentor about this and thus far, me and no other person has really had a clue about this. However, I might be beginnning to catch a glimpse of what might be. The path that God is beginning to lay before me, away from what is behind me. I can feel God working in my life, places certain key pieces (people, scenarios, obstacles) in my life and I am beginning to see another big picture, but aligned with what was formerly, my vision. I've had all sorts of visions before. Those who know me, know what sort of person I am - I've made plans to undertake certain things most people wouldn't attempt to do or try.
My first 6 months as a Christian was a honeymoon. Then last year, God taught me a lot of things, made me realize a lot of things - but all the hard way. Knowing the life He's called me to lead, changing up my life and giving it one heck of an overhaul, made my earthly vision, a vision with agendas aligned with His agenda. I am not afraid to fall. Not afraid to try things. Not to sound hypocritical, and before someone attacks me, let me just be politically correct and say I still feel afraid too at times, I am but human; but I do not let it hinder me from rising up to the challenge my Maker has set for me. I have no earthly desire to succeed and gain approval in the corporate sector, to gain earthly accolades anymore. Everyone said I had it made for me, that I was gonna be successful and rich and yeah...whatever. Who cares? I have more risks now, more concerns, wonder more about when I might have a next job to do, concern about earning money etc. BUT I feel more fulfilled doing the kind of work I do now, I have more time for the truly more important things in life - God, ministry, family, loved ones and friends.
Me and Jo are beginning to have certain plans to begin doing certain things - and our careers are beginning to align as well. For the time being, they are too personal to share but am sure everyone will hear about it once things begin to kick off :)
"I don't need to be self-motivated, God is my motivation". (JJ, Nov 2004)
It's been raining buckets lately. I think the monsoon season is coming earlier, just as Hari Raya and Chinese New Year are every year. It did not rain during the day yesterday though. I also realized that with all the raining lately, there are some days where there are simply amazing looking skies in our city, Kuala Lumpur. It sometimes annoys me that living in the city means I am almost devoid of beautiful looking rich blue skies and cotton candy clouds simply because our city air is extremely polluted. The skies above KL most of the time are either grey, white or awfully flat and ugly *puke* Makes 'crazy photographers' like myself and James demotivated sometimes *haha*
On my way to KLCC to have lunch with Bihzhu and Jo yesterday, I managed to catch a few glimpses of beautiful skies. Needless to say, out came my trusty digital camera and *click*click*snap*. Good thing I was caught in heavy traffic, gave me opportunities to snap these pictures. People must have wondered what I was doing, but who cares? :)
Lunch was good, it's always nice meeting up with some of your closest friends. I am at my best also when i am dishing out some verbal help and advice to people, that's what I realized about myself. I may be totally down in the dumps sometimes but I will never and can never turn down a plea for help. Like I mentioned in one of my older blog entries, helping others can help rejuvenate you, help you as well. Jo felt I gave good advice, as it was also applicable in our own lives as well. Like a reminder I guess...
Lately, I again have felt my life being nurtured and defined by God. I've questioned myself over and over the past year about what could possibly be my vocation from God. I've spoken to my mentor about this and thus far, me and no other person has really had a clue about this. However, I might be beginnning to catch a glimpse of what might be. The path that God is beginning to lay before me, away from what is behind me. I can feel God working in my life, places certain key pieces (people, scenarios, obstacles) in my life and I am beginning to see another big picture, but aligned with what was formerly, my vision. I've had all sorts of visions before. Those who know me, know what sort of person I am - I've made plans to undertake certain things most people wouldn't attempt to do or try.
My first 6 months as a Christian was a honeymoon. Then last year, God taught me a lot of things, made me realize a lot of things - but all the hard way. Knowing the life He's called me to lead, changing up my life and giving it one heck of an overhaul, made my earthly vision, a vision with agendas aligned with His agenda. I am not afraid to fall. Not afraid to try things. Not to sound hypocritical, and before someone attacks me, let me just be politically correct and say I still feel afraid too at times, I am but human; but I do not let it hinder me from rising up to the challenge my Maker has set for me. I have no earthly desire to succeed and gain approval in the corporate sector, to gain earthly accolades anymore. Everyone said I had it made for me, that I was gonna be successful and rich and yeah...whatever. Who cares? I have more risks now, more concerns, wonder more about when I might have a next job to do, concern about earning money etc. BUT I feel more fulfilled doing the kind of work I do now, I have more time for the truly more important things in life - God, ministry, family, loved ones and friends.
Me and Jo are beginning to have certain plans to begin doing certain things - and our careers are beginning to align as well. For the time being, they are too personal to share but am sure everyone will hear about it once things begin to kick off :)
"I don't need to be self-motivated, God is my motivation". (JJ, Nov 2004)
God, help me, and strengthen us.
Guide us, and if this is in your will,
we will struggle and fight for you, but guide us please.
Let us not feel discouraged and demotivated.
(JJ, Nov 2004)
Guide us, and if this is in your will,
we will struggle and fight for you, but guide us please.
Let us not feel discouraged and demotivated.
(JJ, Nov 2004)
Amen to that.
Friday, November 12, 2004
Hope drawn from The Shepherd
There are times or bound to be times when we feel in a rut. When life feels mundane or pathetic or lost or hopeless. We're always on the look-out for our exits, seeking any form of escapism. We run, but often to the wrong places. We give up easy. But there is always hope. Always...
In times of trouble and worries, I feel that's when God calls us to cling on to Him. It may be easier said than done, for some, but to me, if you can spend that time running and hanging onto other things, why not God? There is nothing in this world that can give the reassurances, comfort, solace and love the Maker can give. I listen to many people say, "I've tried everything, gave everything a shot but nothing seems to work. I still feel like this, like that..." Why not try going back to Him if you ask me :)
"The Lord is my shepherd; I have everything I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. Even when I walk through the dark valley of death, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me" - Psalm 23:1-4
"But the Lord still waits for you to come to him so he can show you his love and compassion. For the Lord is a faithful God. Blessed are those who wait for him to help them." - Isaiah 30:18
"The more we think about God's word, the less we'll think about our worries" :)
I don't even need to elaborate further about my 2nd picture. I think it speaks for itself, light emerging from darkness and obstacles :)
In times of trouble and worries, I feel that's when God calls us to cling on to Him. It may be easier said than done, for some, but to me, if you can spend that time running and hanging onto other things, why not God? There is nothing in this world that can give the reassurances, comfort, solace and love the Maker can give. I listen to many people say, "I've tried everything, gave everything a shot but nothing seems to work. I still feel like this, like that..." Why not try going back to Him if you ask me :)
"The Lord is my shepherd; I have everything I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. Even when I walk through the dark valley of death, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me" - Psalm 23:1-4
"But the Lord still waits for you to come to him so he can show you his love and compassion. For the Lord is a faithful God. Blessed are those who wait for him to help them." - Isaiah 30:18
"The more we think about God's word, the less we'll think about our worries" :)
I don't even need to elaborate further about my 2nd picture. I think it speaks for itself, light emerging from darkness and obstacles :)
Hyper-speed
Doesn't life seem to move slowly at times, quicker other times but most of the time, speed up?
Here's to embracing life as how God has called us to relish and appreciate. Let's not waste life away moaning, grumbling, complaining; spend it sitting and not acting, resting on our laurels and talking but not walking. If life is slow, let's enjoy it. We probably need a break we don't even realize we need. If it speeds up, sit back and enjoy the ride to its fullest while you have it, it's not gonna be there long if it speeds up now will it? :)
Here's to embracing life as how God has called us to relish and appreciate. Let's not waste life away moaning, grumbling, complaining; spend it sitting and not acting, resting on our laurels and talking but not walking. If life is slow, let's enjoy it. We probably need a break we don't even realize we need. If it speeds up, sit back and enjoy the ride to its fullest while you have it, it's not gonna be there long if it speeds up now will it? :)
Minus one
The band was interviewed on Xfresh (103.0 on Malaysian radio frequencies) last night from 11pm till midnight. It was a little bit of a weird experience because Fumi, our frontman and vocalist wasn't with us due to some family matter. I don't think it's the first time something like this has happened but it sometimes feels odd not having him around for interviews. The rest of us had a blast even though no one seemed to bother that we were even there, for a while we wondered if it was still gonna happen. We were even about to leave! We finally just walked into the radio booth and asked the DJ if it was on and we did the interview as quickly as we could and went on air :) So what did we do during that one hour of waiting? Well...we took pictures of course! Among other things..
Wednesday, November 10, 2004
Smoked and clubbed out
Me and James had a shoot to do at Zouk last Saturday for an event. Those who know me well know that i never really liked going clubbing. It's just me anyway :) Some find it exciting, i find it boring especially if you frequent clubs more than once in a week.
Pic 1 - At least we could end our shoot with a good laugh :)
Pic 2 - *haha* one of our many silly poses from over the years of friendship!
Pic 3 - I like this picture, makes me look like an angel, but i'm no angel! I'm wondering to myself, "what am i doing here man?" *haha*
Pics 4 & 5 - My response to the above question in Pic 3 *snickers*
Pic 6 - *ahem* well...anyway...
Pic 7 - Getting edgy and wanting to have dinner/supper.
Pic 8 - *finding a way to escape* "Let's get out of here already!"
We were both feeling tired, me especially, before the shoot. But once i had to begin working, i was in work-mode thankfully :) Those who've worked with me before know how i am when i work ;) We didn't even have time for dinner so by the time we were done (around 11 or so), i was starving! With the thought of Jalan Sultan greasy and fatty food in my mind, i could not wait! I had yearned for Jalan Sultan food for quite some time prior to that day, so i was looking forward to going 'back' there for more.
Dinner/supper was good; good food and nice company with James' friends. The next time i go, i'll have photos to blog with. I could not this time around because we didn't have a usual seating place out next to the street, so no usual hawker feel :) We had to sit in some nice fancy air-conditioned restaurant :P Went over to Pete's (James' friend) place at Ampang Hilir after that for drinks and conversations. I konked off there for an hour, too tired. We drove back home around 330am and slept with the excitement of worship and service a few hours later in the back of our minds...
Oh! By the way, can someone tell me how to put subtitles for the photos i blog with? Shucks...
Pic 1 - At least we could end our shoot with a good laugh :)
Pic 2 - *haha* one of our many silly poses from over the years of friendship!
Pic 3 - I like this picture, makes me look like an angel, but i'm no angel! I'm wondering to myself, "what am i doing here man?" *haha*
Pics 4 & 5 - My response to the above question in Pic 3 *snickers*
Pic 6 - *ahem* well...anyway...
Pic 7 - Getting edgy and wanting to have dinner/supper.
Pic 8 - *finding a way to escape* "Let's get out of here already!"
We were both feeling tired, me especially, before the shoot. But once i had to begin working, i was in work-mode thankfully :) Those who've worked with me before know how i am when i work ;) We didn't even have time for dinner so by the time we were done (around 11 or so), i was starving! With the thought of Jalan Sultan greasy and fatty food in my mind, i could not wait! I had yearned for Jalan Sultan food for quite some time prior to that day, so i was looking forward to going 'back' there for more.
Dinner/supper was good; good food and nice company with James' friends. The next time i go, i'll have photos to blog with. I could not this time around because we didn't have a usual seating place out next to the street, so no usual hawker feel :) We had to sit in some nice fancy air-conditioned restaurant :P Went over to Pete's (James' friend) place at Ampang Hilir after that for drinks and conversations. I konked off there for an hour, too tired. We drove back home around 330am and slept with the excitement of worship and service a few hours later in the back of our minds...
Oh! By the way, can someone tell me how to put subtitles for the photos i blog with? Shucks...
Friday, November 05, 2004
Drumming for Him
That's me on the drumkit, but not just any drumkit - the BLC drumkit :) That picture is not from the first time i played the drums for God in church though, but the last time i did a month ago. I remember the 1st time i played was in July, way before i was scheduled to be on the worship team as a musician. I'll be playing the drums again this Sunday, and looking forward to it.
It's truly an honour to serve God, in any form - be it serving as an usher, keeper, altar decorator, soundman or musician. In most cases, people forget what it takes to be a musician for God. They forget it isn't about being on stage and treating it like some concert. We never place ourselves before God. God comes first and is the center. Being on the worship team takes commitment - to God and also to serving, the member of the church has to attend regularly and is active in church among other things.
In the middle of July this year, i quit one of the worst habits in the world and won the battle against smoking. I had smoked for 10 years. Since my salvation, many things in my life changed, for the better. I was also swearing less and smoking less especially this year, after i quit my full time job and began freelancing again. I asked God to help me quit smoking every now and then. Gradually i did feel sick of the taste of cigarettes and began smoking less till i stopped buying my Dunhills.
What was more interesting during these times was one conversation James took forever to have with me. I kinda figured it was about this so i waited as patiently as i could - he was gonna talk to me about serving in church as a musician as well. I'd been a keeper and soundman in church up till then. In BLC, those serving in the worship team as a musician would need to fit a list of criteria - committed to church, our walk with God etc. According to James, i fit those things, except for 2 things - i still hadn't quit swearing and smoking. And i quote him, "if you were in any other church, u'd have become a musician by now". Perhaps. Although i did not agree with him, coz i think i suck in playing the drums, i must say i've heard countless stories about people who are musicians out of church, just walking into their church's worship team just because they can play an instrument, irregardless of their commitment and the works. What i really want to say is, from this conversation on, i suddenly felt the strong sense of responsibility and dedication towards what God wanted me to do and this fuelled me to quit both habits. Occassionally i still accidentally combust and curse, but those are very rare. I'm still human and still a sinner u know? Those words have been replaced by words such as shoot, darn, shucks, haiyah or something! :)
I'm just thankful for the opportunity to change, to be a better person and who God calls me to be. I'm just thankful for the opportunity to serve Him in any way I'm called to serve. Amen to that! :)
It's truly an honour to serve God, in any form - be it serving as an usher, keeper, altar decorator, soundman or musician. In most cases, people forget what it takes to be a musician for God. They forget it isn't about being on stage and treating it like some concert. We never place ourselves before God. God comes first and is the center. Being on the worship team takes commitment - to God and also to serving, the member of the church has to attend regularly and is active in church among other things.
In the middle of July this year, i quit one of the worst habits in the world and won the battle against smoking. I had smoked for 10 years. Since my salvation, many things in my life changed, for the better. I was also swearing less and smoking less especially this year, after i quit my full time job and began freelancing again. I asked God to help me quit smoking every now and then. Gradually i did feel sick of the taste of cigarettes and began smoking less till i stopped buying my Dunhills.
What was more interesting during these times was one conversation James took forever to have with me. I kinda figured it was about this so i waited as patiently as i could - he was gonna talk to me about serving in church as a musician as well. I'd been a keeper and soundman in church up till then. In BLC, those serving in the worship team as a musician would need to fit a list of criteria - committed to church, our walk with God etc. According to James, i fit those things, except for 2 things - i still hadn't quit swearing and smoking. And i quote him, "if you were in any other church, u'd have become a musician by now". Perhaps. Although i did not agree with him, coz i think i suck in playing the drums, i must say i've heard countless stories about people who are musicians out of church, just walking into their church's worship team just because they can play an instrument, irregardless of their commitment and the works. What i really want to say is, from this conversation on, i suddenly felt the strong sense of responsibility and dedication towards what God wanted me to do and this fuelled me to quit both habits. Occassionally i still accidentally combust and curse, but those are very rare. I'm still human and still a sinner u know? Those words have been replaced by words such as shoot, darn, shucks, haiyah or something! :)
I'm just thankful for the opportunity to change, to be a better person and who God calls me to be. I'm just thankful for the opportunity to serve Him in any way I'm called to serve. Amen to that! :)
Wednesday, November 03, 2004
6 years ago...
...I met and befriended a very nice chap during orientation in college/uni. At first sight, I mistook him for some cocky rocker gangster dude. But after getting formally acquainted, it turns out long-haired cocky rocker gangster dude was really long-haired, nice, kind, amiable (thanks for teaching me a new word Jo *haha*) and instantly became chums with me. We've been brothers since. Monday was his birthday. Happy birthday James :) Now, everyone go wish him if you haven't! *ahahaha*
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