Back from a family trip to USA from 7th Dec-19th Dec.
Missed two weeks of service but have thoroughly enjoyed myself in the trip.
Finally cleared my Breakthrough Giving! Yupps you are shocked! Cos its like after so long! But I really felt a sense of achievement. It was not easy but I am glad to have done it and cleared the payment. Believing God's blessings will flow through once I have cleared the debts. Watch this space for all the USA shots! :)
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Monday, November 17, 2008
I want to know You more (In the Secret Place)
I want to know You more
In the secret
in the quiet place
in the stillness You are there
in the secret
in the quiet hour i wait
only for You
`cuz i want to know you more
i want to know you
i want to hear your voice
i want to know you more
i want to touch you
i want to see your face
i want to know you more
i am reaching for the highest goal
that i might receive the prize
pressing onward
pushing every hindrance aside
out of my way
`cuz i want to know you more
i want to know you
i want to hear your voice
i want to know you more
i want to touch you
i want to see your face
i want to know you more
i want to know you
i want to hear your voice
i want to know you more
i want to touch you
i want to see your face
i want to know you more
i want to know you
i want to hear your voice
i want to know you more
i want to touch you
i want to see your face
i want to know you more
P6 Graduation Ball 14th Nov 2008
I am so going to miss my P 6-xers this year. Although I had not taught them literally, but I had actually been through with some of them during the dance practices and rehearsals. The peak period was during the SYF competition this year.
I have not been in the school for long but I am so going to miss them especially my dancesport P 6-xers, Dehua, Wanyi and Jacintha.
They have really put in a lot of effort for the CCA and worked very hard, ever so willing to come down for practices and training.
Sometimes, you just wish that the children would not grow up so fast...
Dehua, Wanyi and Jacintha, I wish you all the best for your future studies!
Love lots, Always!
Me with Jacintha from 6P
Me with Wanyi and Dehua after they had changed into their outfits
+195.jpg)
The highlight of the night - Dehua and Wanyi jived to "Candyman"
+102.jpg)
Melissa Lee and me with the dancers
I have not been in the school for long but I am so going to miss them especially my dancesport P 6-xers, Dehua, Wanyi and Jacintha.
They have really put in a lot of effort for the CCA and worked very hard, ever so willing to come down for practices and training.
Sometimes, you just wish that the children would not grow up so fast...
Dehua, Wanyi and Jacintha, I wish you all the best for your future studies!
Love lots, Always!
Me with Jacintha from 6P
Me with Wanyi and Dehua after they had changed into their outfits
+195.jpg)
The highlight of the night - Dehua and Wanyi jived to "Candyman"
+102.jpg)
Melissa Lee and me with the dancers
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Sick for over 2 months!
Would you believe it? I am sick for over 2 months! The last time I remembered was that I had this recurring cough when I came back from India on the 30th August. I did not recover at all. Lost my voice during Children's Day completely and was husky ever since!
I am so sad now cos I could not reach certain notes that I used to be able to sing. I really suffered during Praise and Worship when I could not reach certain key of the songs sungs....sigh...was on mike for over a month and the cough and flu got me so bad that I am like a tap....gross thought eh?
Asked Michael Santoso to pray for me last Sunday. Its very true, our physical self ties in with our Emotional and Mental health. My body bantered through this year...am very tired and yearning for rest. I want to hang on for one more week yes that's just one more where I can experience a little bit more freedom that I yearned for. Please heal me Lord! Help me to get well soon.
I am so sad now cos I could not reach certain notes that I used to be able to sing. I really suffered during Praise and Worship when I could not reach certain key of the songs sungs....sigh...was on mike for over a month and the cough and flu got me so bad that I am like a tap....gross thought eh?
Asked Michael Santoso to pray for me last Sunday. Its very true, our physical self ties in with our Emotional and Mental health. My body bantered through this year...am very tired and yearning for rest. I want to hang on for one more week yes that's just one more where I can experience a little bit more freedom that I yearned for. Please heal me Lord! Help me to get well soon.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Long Service Award - Hope WAMer
3rd November 2008
I was really honoured to have received the Long Service Award for being in the Adults' Worship Band for 5 years. Yes...time really seems to slip by. I remembered the time sometime in 2003 when I was still a NTU student and was serving in the ushering ministry, when I was giving pamphlets for the congregation.
I saw it. The call for musicians and the magic word just struck me. "We are looking for violinists" I had my old Suzuki 14 year old violin then bought since my Primary school days. Mind you those days we still had to travel all the way to Joo Chiat Office to do worship practice in the ground floor "warehouse" where all the musios squeezed together admist all our props and goods and practiced.
I remembered I was auditioned by Jacob and the twins and I played two worship songs, There's No greater Love and one other which I cannot remember. There, I made it. My debut was in post Christmas 2003. The rest is history.
5 Years...cheers to the last 5 years...do I have any more 5 years to give?
Feels like doing an SK II advert eh?
:)
I was really honoured to have received the Long Service Award for being in the Adults' Worship Band for 5 years. Yes...time really seems to slip by. I remembered the time sometime in 2003 when I was still a NTU student and was serving in the ushering ministry, when I was giving pamphlets for the congregation.
I saw it. The call for musicians and the magic word just struck me. "We are looking for violinists" I had my old Suzuki 14 year old violin then bought since my Primary school days. Mind you those days we still had to travel all the way to Joo Chiat Office to do worship practice in the ground floor "warehouse" where all the musios squeezed together admist all our props and goods and practiced.
I remembered I was auditioned by Jacob and the twins and I played two worship songs, There's No greater Love and one other which I cannot remember. There, I made it. My debut was in post Christmas 2003. The rest is history.
5 Years...cheers to the last 5 years...do I have any more 5 years to give?
Feels like doing an SK II advert eh?
:)
Friday, October 03, 2008
How much are you willing to lose?
Today's Readings:
Job 9:1-12,14-16
Ps 88:(3) 10bc-15
Luke 9:57-62
http://www.usccb.org/nab/100108.shtml
Audio:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/08_10_01.mp3
How much are you willing to lose?
In today's first reading, because Job had lost nearly everything that was dear to him, he is now in danger of losing his trust in God. Isn't that how we feel when bad things happen to us? We wonder why God has let us down. We think he's being unfair and cruel. It feels like his love has abandoned us, and we choose to trust in our feelings instead of what we cannot see, hear or feel from the Lord.
God never abandons us. The fact is, WE need to abandon everything that is not Godly.
This does not mean that all of us are called to give everything away and embrace poverty in order to be holy, like some of the Saints have done. There are other ways to abandon everything to God, namely, by considering everything as less important than Jesus. Everything is less important than our obedient dependence upon God.
Even those activities that God has called us to do, and even the possessions he has provided for us through our jobs, and even the people he has given to us in relationships: All must be abandoned into an awareness that God is more important.
God and me alone — that's true holiness. From this intimate friendship springs everything else: our families, our friends, our ministries, our jobs, our homes, our possessions, etc. Whatever is good and right for us, whatever will enhance our friendship with God, whatever is a gift of his love for us, these come from the solitude and solidarity of our unity with God.
Job protected himself from a loss of faith by recalling God's awesomeness. He realised that nothing truly matters except God, for he is far greater than all else. He recognised this awesomeness in the vast difference between God and himself: "If I appealed to him and he answered me, how amazing that he would hear my words!" Humility put his terrible situation into the right perspective.
Nothing really matters but God. We can lose everything, and as long as we still have God, we are doing exceedingly well. It might not feel that way, but it's the reality.
Today's Gospel passage reminds us that we have to lose (abandon, sublimate, reduce in priority) everything earthly to follow Jesus, who gave up his home, his career in carpentry, and his earthly life for our sake.
If we look back and miss what we've given up, wishing to once again make them a higher priority than Jesus, we break our unity with him. Who, then, are we following? Where will it lead us?
We must keep our eyes on Jesus. By abandoning everything into his hands, he gives back to us whatever truly is right and good.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
© 2008 by Terry A. Modica
Job 9:1-12,14-16
Ps 88:(3) 10bc-15
Luke 9:57-62
http://www.usccb.org/nab/100108.shtml
Audio:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/08_10_01.mp3
How much are you willing to lose?
In today's first reading, because Job had lost nearly everything that was dear to him, he is now in danger of losing his trust in God. Isn't that how we feel when bad things happen to us? We wonder why God has let us down. We think he's being unfair and cruel. It feels like his love has abandoned us, and we choose to trust in our feelings instead of what we cannot see, hear or feel from the Lord.
God never abandons us. The fact is, WE need to abandon everything that is not Godly.
This does not mean that all of us are called to give everything away and embrace poverty in order to be holy, like some of the Saints have done. There are other ways to abandon everything to God, namely, by considering everything as less important than Jesus. Everything is less important than our obedient dependence upon God.
Even those activities that God has called us to do, and even the possessions he has provided for us through our jobs, and even the people he has given to us in relationships: All must be abandoned into an awareness that God is more important.
God and me alone — that's true holiness. From this intimate friendship springs everything else: our families, our friends, our ministries, our jobs, our homes, our possessions, etc. Whatever is good and right for us, whatever will enhance our friendship with God, whatever is a gift of his love for us, these come from the solitude and solidarity of our unity with God.
Job protected himself from a loss of faith by recalling God's awesomeness. He realised that nothing truly matters except God, for he is far greater than all else. He recognised this awesomeness in the vast difference between God and himself: "If I appealed to him and he answered me, how amazing that he would hear my words!" Humility put his terrible situation into the right perspective.
Nothing really matters but God. We can lose everything, and as long as we still have God, we are doing exceedingly well. It might not feel that way, but it's the reality.
Today's Gospel passage reminds us that we have to lose (abandon, sublimate, reduce in priority) everything earthly to follow Jesus, who gave up his home, his career in carpentry, and his earthly life for our sake.
If we look back and miss what we've given up, wishing to once again make them a higher priority than Jesus, we break our unity with him. Who, then, are we following? Where will it lead us?
We must keep our eyes on Jesus. By abandoning everything into his hands, he gives back to us whatever truly is right and good.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
© 2008 by Terry A. Modica
I opened my mouth to speak and no words come out of my mouth...
Yes folks, its husky Rachel for the past 1 week. In fact today it has made a turn for the worst. No voice at all...absolutely none. I thought that the one day break would do me good but nooooo....Not even the microphone can help me in anyway...I am in pain today as I have to scribble everything on the white board as instructions.
Help me Lord, Help me...
Help me Lord, Help me...
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Lost my voice!
hey hey yes...I was supposed to blog about my India trip...too tied up with work...fell sick again :( lost my voice totally first time in my teaching career!
Had to rely on a mike to speak and teach on Friday. I had really hard time making myself understood the last few days...can't believe the day has come..showdown.
Collected back the work that I gave out the kids, could you believe it when the kids are nodding furiously over what you have taught them and when you mark them its all rubbish? sigh...
get my voice soon ya...coughed till I can't sleep the past few night..yes it will be over soon...
Had to rely on a mike to speak and teach on Friday. I had really hard time making myself understood the last few days...can't believe the day has come..showdown.
Collected back the work that I gave out the kids, could you believe it when the kids are nodding furiously over what you have taught them and when you mark them its all rubbish? sigh...
get my voice soon ya...coughed till I can't sleep the past few night..yes it will be over soon...
Monday, September 15, 2008
Sunday, August 31, 2008
My Yearbook
Found a funny website where you could upload a photo of yourself and create some really vintage looking pics! Had a good laugh after looking through them...www.yearbookyourself.com
me circa 1954...
me circa 1962
me circa 1964
me 1972
This one takes the cake! me circa 1982
me circa 1954...
me circa 1962
me circa 1964
me 1972
This one takes the cake! me circa 1982
Thursday, August 28, 2008
In India
I don't know why everytime, i go off with a trip with to developing countries I would fall very sick. Vomitted at the school staffroom today. So funny, due to language barriers with the staff, they could not understand what I had wanted. Was so sick that I could not eat for the whole day...India's learning experience is great! will blog more...watch this space...:)
Sunday, August 17, 2008
What's in a gift?
This is a question that closely ties with the highly successful book - The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman. I think this is not just a ladies thing. I really do value special dates and occasions a lot. I was having quite a lot of expectations over the weekend for my birthday but mostly I just wished for a simple sms.
Was very happy that most of my friends sent me messages to encourage me of my birthday. Was sad that one particular one did not...What had happened that had caused us to come to this stage? I was upset, I was totally affected.
That was when I suddenly remembered my Dad's golden words. "Do you really expect everyone to give u a gift? Sometimes, the gift you received may not be what you really need or wanted. So then, what for a gift, rather than the gift of the person's presence and well-wishes?"
I was jostled out of my socks. Such was the shallowness of my character. To expect a physical gift as an expression of love from my family and friends? But I really do think one of my love language is really Gifts. Experiencing love through receiving gifts.
I told God that, hey God You, in Your Almighty power, help me manage and handle my expectations. I cannot take it anymore. I went with a relaxed heart to meet them and although the response I got from them was really not what I had expected. I was thankful and glad for their response. Give thanks to the Lord that for every one that you yearn and hanker after for attention, God grants and gives lovingly 30 others who would really remember you and care for you.
Relax, leave it in God's hands, the power of presence really surpasses and outweighs the physical receiving of presents! :)
Was very happy that most of my friends sent me messages to encourage me of my birthday. Was sad that one particular one did not...What had happened that had caused us to come to this stage? I was upset, I was totally affected.
That was when I suddenly remembered my Dad's golden words. "Do you really expect everyone to give u a gift? Sometimes, the gift you received may not be what you really need or wanted. So then, what for a gift, rather than the gift of the person's presence and well-wishes?"
I was jostled out of my socks. Such was the shallowness of my character. To expect a physical gift as an expression of love from my family and friends? But I really do think one of my love language is really Gifts. Experiencing love through receiving gifts.
I told God that, hey God You, in Your Almighty power, help me manage and handle my expectations. I cannot take it anymore. I went with a relaxed heart to meet them and although the response I got from them was really not what I had expected. I was thankful and glad for their response. Give thanks to the Lord that for every one that you yearn and hanker after for attention, God grants and gives lovingly 30 others who would really remember you and care for you.
Relax, leave it in God's hands, the power of presence really surpasses and outweighs the physical receiving of presents! :)
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Count your blessings :)
I am greatly BLESSED.
This year, the Lord has worked wonderful miracles in my life. I have been healed miraculously of 2 major illnesses in my life. Even until last Thursday, I was setting up for the Sport's Station for my school when I reached home, my whole body outbreak in patches of very itchy red rashes. Cantonese say,"Feng Mo" It did not go away and I was so upset because I had promised my friend that I would go to school early in the morning to help him setup. I scratched until scratch marks could be seen. Amazingly, after a trip to the doctor at 9 plus that night, the rashes vanished without a trace. Thank God for His wonderful Grace again!
Thank God for my family and friends who are always so supportive and always standing by me through my ups and downs. You have friends who put up with your nonsense and how you always seem to show your temper and let them down but they still forgive you? Well, true and rare buddies in church. Thank God for Jeannie, Sarah and Mingzhu and CC. My mum, who unceasingly cares every nitty gritty detail in my life. My sisters who provide me with much joy and laughter!
Thank God for my dad, for providing me every day unceasingly transport to school so that I would reach school first thing in the morning. For being the great source of advice and a good listening ear. I am so thankful for him. I should have spoken to him earlier to know about more truths than to just wander off in my own dreamworld of expectations! Actually, if not for my dad, I would not have realised how lofty my expectation of people are and how miserable I could have been if I have not learnt to let go and relax and place it in the Almighty's Hands. Thank God for you Pa!
Thank God for all the little blessings. For every little thing that seems to weigh us down, there are at least 20 blessings that seems to outweigh it all, I told CC the other day. Was in my tantrums again, but I realise that once I started to give thanks for all the people that were blessed into my life versus the little bad things that I hang on to. There's no competition. Bo Beh Chao.( No horse run) God is so interested in my life, your life that would He not at the most appropriate time, release upon you and me His wonderful and unsurmountable blessings, such that you are literally blessed out of your socks? I learnt the hard way, rather than to complain and mumble, use the heartaches and pain to trust in the Lord and lean on Him with all my strength. It all boils down to a decision, how much do you want to love and trust God to put the same love and hope into people?
"In quietness shall be your strength"
A very different birthday, but the gentle serenity of it all is really unlike the crowd-loving me. I really enjoyed it. May all birthdays be like this. Cosy and nice.
This year, the Lord has worked wonderful miracles in my life. I have been healed miraculously of 2 major illnesses in my life. Even until last Thursday, I was setting up for the Sport's Station for my school when I reached home, my whole body outbreak in patches of very itchy red rashes. Cantonese say,"Feng Mo" It did not go away and I was so upset because I had promised my friend that I would go to school early in the morning to help him setup. I scratched until scratch marks could be seen. Amazingly, after a trip to the doctor at 9 plus that night, the rashes vanished without a trace. Thank God for His wonderful Grace again!
Thank God for my family and friends who are always so supportive and always standing by me through my ups and downs. You have friends who put up with your nonsense and how you always seem to show your temper and let them down but they still forgive you? Well, true and rare buddies in church. Thank God for Jeannie, Sarah and Mingzhu and CC. My mum, who unceasingly cares every nitty gritty detail in my life. My sisters who provide me with much joy and laughter!
Thank God for my dad, for providing me every day unceasingly transport to school so that I would reach school first thing in the morning. For being the great source of advice and a good listening ear. I am so thankful for him. I should have spoken to him earlier to know about more truths than to just wander off in my own dreamworld of expectations! Actually, if not for my dad, I would not have realised how lofty my expectation of people are and how miserable I could have been if I have not learnt to let go and relax and place it in the Almighty's Hands. Thank God for you Pa!
Thank God for all the little blessings. For every little thing that seems to weigh us down, there are at least 20 blessings that seems to outweigh it all, I told CC the other day. Was in my tantrums again, but I realise that once I started to give thanks for all the people that were blessed into my life versus the little bad things that I hang on to. There's no competition. Bo Beh Chao.( No horse run) God is so interested in my life, your life that would He not at the most appropriate time, release upon you and me His wonderful and unsurmountable blessings, such that you are literally blessed out of your socks? I learnt the hard way, rather than to complain and mumble, use the heartaches and pain to trust in the Lord and lean on Him with all my strength. It all boils down to a decision, how much do you want to love and trust God to put the same love and hope into people?
"In quietness shall be your strength"
A very different birthday, but the gentle serenity of it all is really unlike the crowd-loving me. I really enjoyed it. May all birthdays be like this. Cosy and nice.
Quiet but memorable birthday
Came back from Potluck at Jeannie's place
Jeannie and Sarah's treat at Sun with Moon Jap Restaurant
With CG at Sakae Teppanyaki at Plaza Sing
With Mingzhu
Yes, I have turned a year older....BUT I am still 20-something mind you...heee heee. Chose to keep a relatively low key this year to spend with a few close friends. It's more meaningful this way. Can really share more and talk more. I have been on an EATING SPREE the last weekend!
8th August (Friday)
Lunch went with Cindy, Pat, Shanice and KX to eat at Sakura Buffet Restaurant at Tampines.
Night time was Marsli and ALbert's wedding, good food, great company!
9th August - Saturday
Lunch celebration with family at Poh Kee Seafood Restaurant, this really good restaurant off Tiong Bahru Market.
Night time - Potluck at Jeannie's place, lovely Chocolate "Smores" Ben & Jerry! Thank you!
10th August - Sunday
Lunch at Sun with Moon and Sakae Teppanyaki! I can really eat I tell you
11th August - Monday
Lerk Thai!
phew! 4 continuous day of straight eating and eating! I gained back a few if my lost 10kg I think.
Many thanksgiving points. Shall blog more about them in detail later ...:)
Sunday, August 03, 2008
Sick for the past 2 weeks!
This has to be another stretch of time when I am absolutely sick and not able to function well.
It had started last Friday 25th July with a bad sore throat on tow. By Saturday morning, I had developed myself a nasty cough and fever. Remembering my bad cough stint 5 years ago when it had developed into bronchitis. Very bad situation. Went to see doctor and was even too weak to go church that weekend.
Tried to go to work on Monday and Tuesday but by Tuesday morning 29th July, I lost my voice after the first two periods! It was really terrible. Hoarse voice plus stuck and runny nose. I took half day off to see a doctor and finally got my MC. But stress overwhelmed me and I was afraid to take the take off to rest. Sigh....dragged on for the next few days till today finally made my way to church after two weeks!
I realised that I had not seen my CG members for the past 2 weeks and wow...I was a bit "sair" already to react to the new bits of information and the changes that were going on. Still sniffing and coughing during the shepherd's meeting today. Buay tong ah... Met Jennifer, KX's friend to pass her the notes and books for NIE. Cannot tahan anymore, to meet Jeannie. Went home after that....slumped into my chair...sigh...
My voice is really a few tones down now...hahaha...Husky voice ya...
It had started last Friday 25th July with a bad sore throat on tow. By Saturday morning, I had developed myself a nasty cough and fever. Remembering my bad cough stint 5 years ago when it had developed into bronchitis. Very bad situation. Went to see doctor and was even too weak to go church that weekend.
Tried to go to work on Monday and Tuesday but by Tuesday morning 29th July, I lost my voice after the first two periods! It was really terrible. Hoarse voice plus stuck and runny nose. I took half day off to see a doctor and finally got my MC. But stress overwhelmed me and I was afraid to take the take off to rest. Sigh....dragged on for the next few days till today finally made my way to church after two weeks!
I realised that I had not seen my CG members for the past 2 weeks and wow...I was a bit "sair" already to react to the new bits of information and the changes that were going on. Still sniffing and coughing during the shepherd's meeting today. Buay tong ah... Met Jennifer, KX's friend to pass her the notes and books for NIE. Cannot tahan anymore, to meet Jeannie. Went home after that....slumped into my chair...sigh...
My voice is really a few tones down now...hahaha...Husky voice ya...
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Be Strong!
Be Strong!
===========
You are preparing to enter one of the most difficult periods ofyour life.
Be strong!
When you persevere through this severe trial you will bestronger, more confident, richer, refreshed and better.
Be Strong!
The desire to give up is sometimes overwhelming but don't quit.
Be Strong!
Many of you are now entering the 7 day water portion of 42.
Many of you are just going through a rough time that hasabsolutely nothing to do with 42.
Be Strong!
"I Am Strong!" is energizing and helps to give you power.
Be Strong and remember, YOU are strong!
~A MountainWings Original~
===========
You are preparing to enter one of the most difficult periods ofyour life.
Be strong!
When you persevere through this severe trial you will bestronger, more confident, richer, refreshed and better.
Be Strong!
The desire to give up is sometimes overwhelming but don't quit.
Be Strong!
Many of you are now entering the 7 day water portion of 42.
Many of you are just going through a rough time that hasabsolutely nothing to do with 42.
Be Strong!
"I Am Strong!" is energizing and helps to give you power.
Be Strong and remember, YOU are strong!
~A MountainWings Original~
Friday, July 25, 2008
More on Fasting and Prayer
Fasting and Prayer
TGIF Today God Is First Volume 2, by Os Hillman
06-23-2008
"So, after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off" (Acts 13:2).
There are times in our lives when major decisions require a concerted effort to press into the heart of God. In Acts, chapter 13 we find a situation in which the disciples were worshiping during a time of fasting. During this time God spoke to them with some specific instructions. It was a strategic time in the church in which Barnabas and Saul were being set apart for the work God had called them. Fasting was an important aspect of hearing from God.
Angie and I have often set aside times of fasting and prayer whenever a major decision has to be made. Fasting is a physical demonstration to God that we are serious about wanting an answer. It allows us to be totally focused on the issue at hand. The physical aspects of fasting contribute to our mind being more in tune with the spiritual dimensions of life.
In 1997, before I was married to Angie, I was troubled over where I was in my life. It seemed nothing was moving forward. I was struggling with whether to rebuild my advertising agency, or focus on the new calling God seemed to be raising up. I assumed my fast would be a few days. However, as each day went by I did not feel I was getting direction. I extended it for a few more days. By the time I was on my fourteenth day I decided to fast for forty days.
It just so happened that the last day of my forty day fast was the first day of a conference I had planned to attend months earlier. That night an intercessor from South Africa came forward with a word of prophecy for someone in the audience. The minute he read his words, I knew they were directed at me because the scripture verse he used had been a passage that God has used consistently in my life during my journey recently.
The next time you have an important decision to make, consider setting aside a time of fasting and prayer to gain clarity on your decision.
TGIF Today God Is First Volume 2, by Os Hillman
06-23-2008
"So, after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off" (Acts 13:2).
There are times in our lives when major decisions require a concerted effort to press into the heart of God. In Acts, chapter 13 we find a situation in which the disciples were worshiping during a time of fasting. During this time God spoke to them with some specific instructions. It was a strategic time in the church in which Barnabas and Saul were being set apart for the work God had called them. Fasting was an important aspect of hearing from God.
Angie and I have often set aside times of fasting and prayer whenever a major decision has to be made. Fasting is a physical demonstration to God that we are serious about wanting an answer. It allows us to be totally focused on the issue at hand. The physical aspects of fasting contribute to our mind being more in tune with the spiritual dimensions of life.
In 1997, before I was married to Angie, I was troubled over where I was in my life. It seemed nothing was moving forward. I was struggling with whether to rebuild my advertising agency, or focus on the new calling God seemed to be raising up. I assumed my fast would be a few days. However, as each day went by I did not feel I was getting direction. I extended it for a few more days. By the time I was on my fourteenth day I decided to fast for forty days.
It just so happened that the last day of my forty day fast was the first day of a conference I had planned to attend months earlier. That night an intercessor from South Africa came forward with a word of prophecy for someone in the audience. The minute he read his words, I knew they were directed at me because the scripture verse he used had been a passage that God has used consistently in my life during my journey recently.
The next time you have an important decision to make, consider setting aside a time of fasting and prayer to gain clarity on your decision.
Sowing in Tears
Sowing in Tears
TGIF Today God Is First Volume 1 by Os Hillman
Friday, May 16 2008
"Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy." - Psalm 126:5
The most difficult place to keep moving in faith is the place of extreme pain. Extreme pain, especially emotional pain, can become immobilizing to the human spirit if it is allowed to overcome us. The psalmist tells us there is only one remedy for overcoming painful circumstances that will result in joy. We are to sow in the midst of these times. You cannot do this if you live by feelings alone. It is an act of the will. This act requires that we go outside ourselves in pure faith.
I learned this principle during one of the deepest periods of my life. I had lost much that was dear to me. A mature man in the faith admonished me to reach out to others in spite of my own pain. "Invest in someone else," he said. I did not realize what a place of healing and comfort that would become.
"He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him" (Ps. 126:6). Pain can become a source of joy if we take the first step by planting seed. There is a harvest that will come if we sow in the midst of tears.
TGIF Today God Is First Volume 1 by Os Hillman
Friday, May 16 2008
"Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy." - Psalm 126:5
The most difficult place to keep moving in faith is the place of extreme pain. Extreme pain, especially emotional pain, can become immobilizing to the human spirit if it is allowed to overcome us. The psalmist tells us there is only one remedy for overcoming painful circumstances that will result in joy. We are to sow in the midst of these times. You cannot do this if you live by feelings alone. It is an act of the will. This act requires that we go outside ourselves in pure faith.
I learned this principle during one of the deepest periods of my life. I had lost much that was dear to me. A mature man in the faith admonished me to reach out to others in spite of my own pain. "Invest in someone else," he said. I did not realize what a place of healing and comfort that would become.
"He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him" (Ps. 126:6). Pain can become a source of joy if we take the first step by planting seed. There is a harvest that will come if we sow in the midst of tears.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Monday, July 14, 2008
Whirlwind Night
It was just a lazy Sunday evening. Had woke up early today to reach church to play guitar for Sub District Prayer meet. Shopped like crazy buying up stuff for Ballroom Dance CCA. Cosmetics must be my forte, swept up all the "gim gim" makeup! You have glitter mascara, eyeshadow, body glitter, and lots of other makeup knicks and knacks that are really dramatic to top up my spending up of 272 bucks!
Woo hoo...SaSa loves me i think!
I was marking my compositions when I received a frantic call from SW. She was in bad shape and had high fever and rashes all over her body. There was no one in the area to send her to the doctor. Her parents were out and she was alone in the house. I think my protective instinct over dear SW was just activated just like that. Worried that she may not be able to handle herself and walk, I jumped out of my seat and immediately changed, asking my sisters and called KX to help. Wow, sounds like a cool rescue operation. My sis accessed the website and found some 24-hour clinics and much to my chagrin, some of them are NOT updated.
I think I have the sweetest dad. I told him of my situation that my friend fell ill and needed my help, no questions asked he just said, "Take my car!" Ladies and gentlemen, where can you find a super Dad like that right? So sensitive and caring!
Grabbed some 24-hour clinics addresses and dashed out of the house. Reached SW's house in no time. My heart went out to her. Her face and eyes were swollen, rashes and fever raged on. Decided to go to the nearest 24-hour clinic at Rivervale Plaza, but hey, really made a wasted trip! The clinic there had stopped their 24-hour consultation.
Quickly called KX for help, my navigator hehe... was a great help to locate all the nearest clinics and their names for me...Was a bit hestitant to call this clinic at Hougang, but decided to go anyway, had a mini saga at the clinic which I shall not elaborate but suffice to say, I was stunned. The consultation fee alone came out to 83 bucks!!!! Total medical bill came to a whopping 144 bucks! Scary sia...
Thank God the whirlwind ended at around 1:30am in the night. I can't really sleep after that...got up and made pancakes at 4:45am! hahah...crazy me...am zombified the rest of the day today...Thank God for sustaining me.
Had a refuelling session though with the Cindy, Pat and KX at Hougang Suki Sushi :P
It's really worth it after all.
SW, you are in my prayers :) Get well soon!
Woo hoo...SaSa loves me i think!
I was marking my compositions when I received a frantic call from SW. She was in bad shape and had high fever and rashes all over her body. There was no one in the area to send her to the doctor. Her parents were out and she was alone in the house. I think my protective instinct over dear SW was just activated just like that. Worried that she may not be able to handle herself and walk, I jumped out of my seat and immediately changed, asking my sisters and called KX to help. Wow, sounds like a cool rescue operation. My sis accessed the website and found some 24-hour clinics and much to my chagrin, some of them are NOT updated.
I think I have the sweetest dad. I told him of my situation that my friend fell ill and needed my help, no questions asked he just said, "Take my car!" Ladies and gentlemen, where can you find a super Dad like that right? So sensitive and caring!
Grabbed some 24-hour clinics addresses and dashed out of the house. Reached SW's house in no time. My heart went out to her. Her face and eyes were swollen, rashes and fever raged on. Decided to go to the nearest 24-hour clinic at Rivervale Plaza, but hey, really made a wasted trip! The clinic there had stopped their 24-hour consultation.
Quickly called KX for help, my navigator hehe... was a great help to locate all the nearest clinics and their names for me...Was a bit hestitant to call this clinic at Hougang, but decided to go anyway, had a mini saga at the clinic which I shall not elaborate but suffice to say, I was stunned. The consultation fee alone came out to 83 bucks!!!! Total medical bill came to a whopping 144 bucks! Scary sia...
Thank God the whirlwind ended at around 1:30am in the night. I can't really sleep after that...got up and made pancakes at 4:45am! hahah...crazy me...am zombified the rest of the day today...Thank God for sustaining me.
Had a refuelling session though with the Cindy, Pat and KX at Hougang Suki Sushi :P
It's really worth it after all.
SW, you are in my prayers :) Get well soon!
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Bonuses, Bullies and Boo boos...
Ah....bonus is in for us yes...:) Dun envy us, we are covering more than what we are supposed to do. :P Hey I still love my job! It's a calling!
But I wanna thank God for a smooth Lesson observation today. It was supposed to be on Wednesday and I had prepared and went through the lesson with myself so many times that I got very stressed.
Rashes started to break out from my hands. It was postponed to Friday morning due to the Hair for Hope event in school where the principal and 50 other children took part in the event. Normally the Principal and Vice Principal would not make joint "appearance" at my lesson. But suddenly, not 3 but FOUR ppl turned up at my class to see me teach composition.
The two principals, my reporting officer came to observe my lesson and the Special Needs officer to take a look at my autistic child. Yes, you have 4 ppl looking at me teach composition.
Thank you all for all your prayers and your encouragement! The children were participative, they were responsive and they were very willing to take part in the activities and games played. A few glitches I made could be the video on School Bullies which I showed was not too edifying and the kids were actually laughing at it, and my time control...hopefully and prayerfully they would like my lesson. :P
The kids were able to identify with school bullies and some of time could describe in details on what horrible things that had been done to them. To my horror, some of them admitted that they themselves were actually bullies too.
The Holy Spirit was really moving in the kids hearts and in the classroom today. Wow...am amazed at how smooth the delivery of the lesson was. heheh His grace was upon me...din really prepare well enough for the lesson still I feel...
Phew! Can finally sleep well liao...:P
But I wanna thank God for a smooth Lesson observation today. It was supposed to be on Wednesday and I had prepared and went through the lesson with myself so many times that I got very stressed.
Rashes started to break out from my hands. It was postponed to Friday morning due to the Hair for Hope event in school where the principal and 50 other children took part in the event. Normally the Principal and Vice Principal would not make joint "appearance" at my lesson. But suddenly, not 3 but FOUR ppl turned up at my class to see me teach composition.
The two principals, my reporting officer came to observe my lesson and the Special Needs officer to take a look at my autistic child. Yes, you have 4 ppl looking at me teach composition.
Thank you all for all your prayers and your encouragement! The children were participative, they were responsive and they were very willing to take part in the activities and games played. A few glitches I made could be the video on School Bullies which I showed was not too edifying and the kids were actually laughing at it, and my time control...hopefully and prayerfully they would like my lesson. :P
The kids were able to identify with school bullies and some of time could describe in details on what horrible things that had been done to them. To my horror, some of them admitted that they themselves were actually bullies too.
The Holy Spirit was really moving in the kids hearts and in the classroom today. Wow...am amazed at how smooth the delivery of the lesson was. heheh His grace was upon me...din really prepare well enough for the lesson still I feel...
Phew! Can finally sleep well liao...:P
Monday, July 07, 2008
40 Day prayer and fasting
Our Sub District had called for a corporate prayer and fasting for 40 days last 2 weeks starting on the 30th June 2008.
So many things had happened since school started and I really thank God for answering my prayers and for bringing through all the things that had happened.
23rd June 2008
First day of school - Wham! Bam! start to Term 3 of 2008. Lotsa things happening and the kids are pretty sedated..quite glad though as it made teaching rather easy. Things moved and progressed and the Lord had really answered my prayers on a breakthrough in some things.
The call came. We had a long talk, one and a half hours! Sort of expected that things would turn out that way. But hey, how come I sense this strong sense of peace over me? Is it that I have been fasting and praying throughout these 6 months that my faith and trust in the Lord has increased?
Romans 8:28 - "God works for the good of those who love Him and who have called according to His purpose."
Talked about this verse many times, but ever since the Lord had spoken to me so many times about this person, I am hanging on! I am NOT giving up.:) It's tough but I would let the Holy Spirit lead, guide and direct. Things are certainly easier now that my burden is over and on His shoulders instead of mine. I have spoken my thoughts and feelings...let God intervene.:)
2nd July 2008 (Wednesday) - 3rd Day
Meeting time, struggle time. The 3rd day of our Corporate Prayer and fasting and I am even more expectant to hear from God and see Him move in my life. I was just wondering about all these, muttering the prayer under my breath. Thinking how I should carry on in relating to him when suddenly, Mary showed me this passage from the book "The Prayer of Jabez" It was like a direct call from the Lord!
"If you keep an expectant watch, God's intervention will be unmistakable. Whether it's the provision of millions for a worthy cause or the firm, gentle shifting of a loved one's heart - God will do before your eyes what you could never have done without His intervention."
I was jostled out of my seat. I was there so touched and shaken by this message! You know the kind of feeling when you had just finished your prayer and immediately God speaks? It's like you are dialing for God on the phone and God answers! Woa!
I know it is Him speaking to me about him...I know it and I will trust and hold on expectantly no matter how seemingly different things may be. I know the Lord is really moving. What a big assurance! My confidence is certainly boosted by the Lord and not what people say. Expectant watch...carry on praying, waiting and trusting and watch the Lord move in the hearts of all those whom we are praying for.
4th July 2008 (Friday) - 5th Day
Almost immediately, the Lord touched my life again this morning.
"The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love." Galatians 5:6b
We claim that we have faith in the Lord. Circumstances always seem to put us all down, we are amazed at the ways in which God works, certainly much higher than our ways. If we have faith in God, we carrying on loving. We express this faith in our Lord Jesus through showing love to people around us. Yes, have faith in God.
5th July 2008 (Saturday)- 6th Day
Received this sms from Wils "Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9
Wils had enc me that the Lord had brought this verse to him while he was praying for me. Thank you prayer warriors!
I can really wonder at myself how many times I struggled and grappled with the idea of giving up and fear of facing the unknown. This is another assurance from the Lord from what I have already received from Him about this matter which I have been praying about. This verse really boosted me up. I will be strong, I will be courageous, lead me O Lord, out of my disbelief and let me wait in strong expectancy at Your hand in all these situations...Help me to rest in Your loving arms and I desire rest and peace in the inmost parts. Lead me to make the correct decisions. Amen!
So many things had happened since school started and I really thank God for answering my prayers and for bringing through all the things that had happened.
23rd June 2008
First day of school - Wham! Bam! start to Term 3 of 2008. Lotsa things happening and the kids are pretty sedated..quite glad though as it made teaching rather easy. Things moved and progressed and the Lord had really answered my prayers on a breakthrough in some things.
The call came. We had a long talk, one and a half hours! Sort of expected that things would turn out that way. But hey, how come I sense this strong sense of peace over me? Is it that I have been fasting and praying throughout these 6 months that my faith and trust in the Lord has increased?
Romans 8:28 - "God works for the good of those who love Him and who have called according to His purpose."
Talked about this verse many times, but ever since the Lord had spoken to me so many times about this person, I am hanging on! I am NOT giving up.:) It's tough but I would let the Holy Spirit lead, guide and direct. Things are certainly easier now that my burden is over and on His shoulders instead of mine. I have spoken my thoughts and feelings...let God intervene.:)
2nd July 2008 (Wednesday) - 3rd Day
Meeting time, struggle time. The 3rd day of our Corporate Prayer and fasting and I am even more expectant to hear from God and see Him move in my life. I was just wondering about all these, muttering the prayer under my breath. Thinking how I should carry on in relating to him when suddenly, Mary showed me this passage from the book "The Prayer of Jabez" It was like a direct call from the Lord!
"If you keep an expectant watch, God's intervention will be unmistakable. Whether it's the provision of millions for a worthy cause or the firm, gentle shifting of a loved one's heart - God will do before your eyes what you could never have done without His intervention."
I was jostled out of my seat. I was there so touched and shaken by this message! You know the kind of feeling when you had just finished your prayer and immediately God speaks? It's like you are dialing for God on the phone and God answers! Woa!
I know it is Him speaking to me about him...I know it and I will trust and hold on expectantly no matter how seemingly different things may be. I know the Lord is really moving. What a big assurance! My confidence is certainly boosted by the Lord and not what people say. Expectant watch...carry on praying, waiting and trusting and watch the Lord move in the hearts of all those whom we are praying for.
4th July 2008 (Friday) - 5th Day
Almost immediately, the Lord touched my life again this morning.
"The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love." Galatians 5:6b
We claim that we have faith in the Lord. Circumstances always seem to put us all down, we are amazed at the ways in which God works, certainly much higher than our ways. If we have faith in God, we carrying on loving. We express this faith in our Lord Jesus through showing love to people around us. Yes, have faith in God.
5th July 2008 (Saturday)- 6th Day
Received this sms from Wils "Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9
Wils had enc me that the Lord had brought this verse to him while he was praying for me. Thank you prayer warriors!
I can really wonder at myself how many times I struggled and grappled with the idea of giving up and fear of facing the unknown. This is another assurance from the Lord from what I have already received from Him about this matter which I have been praying about. This verse really boosted me up. I will be strong, I will be courageous, lead me O Lord, out of my disbelief and let me wait in strong expectancy at Your hand in all these situations...Help me to rest in Your loving arms and I desire rest and peace in the inmost parts. Lead me to make the correct decisions. Amen!
Monday, June 30, 2008
30th June - Had a bad day
Yes, its not just the Monday blues...but its a bad day...the Lord has seen me through it and brought me in His arms. I thank God again for all the angels in my life.
I need help, I need sleep, I need prayers.
It's been one week...it hurts...
I need help, I need sleep, I need prayers.
It's been one week...it hurts...
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Is it right?
Is It Right?
============
Cowardice asks the question, ‘Is it safe?’
Expediency asks the question, ‘Is it politic?’
And Vanity comes along and asks the question, ‘Is it popular?’
But Conscience asks the question ‘Is it right?’
And there comes a time when one must take a position thatis neither safe, nor politic, nor popular, but he must doit because Conscience tells him it is right.
~Martin Luther King~
============
Cowardice asks the question, ‘Is it safe?’
Expediency asks the question, ‘Is it politic?’
And Vanity comes along and asks the question, ‘Is it popular?’
But Conscience asks the question ‘Is it right?’
And there comes a time when one must take a position thatis neither safe, nor politic, nor popular, but he must doit because Conscience tells him it is right.
~Martin Luther King~
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Church Camp 2008 - Happenings 5th-8th June
The girls are the upon reaching Shah Alam Concorde Hotel 
Our CG flag in Chinese! 
Joe and Shi Ming mascots for NG6B2 and B3! 
CG ala Bruce Lee style 
Ending camp shot. I would say this Church camp is really life transforming and amazing. I came to the camp full of expectations and yearning to hear from the Lord over some things. The first night was exhilirating! I was so overwhelmed by the presence of the Lord that I knelt down again in prayer, really frustrated and lost over what to do in my personal life and work. I struggled so much to love, its was an eventful first night where I had to pray very hard for God to give me the grace to love. One thing happened after another and I found myself unable to rest well and spend some solitude with God in prayer. I was running around, talking to people and not realising my own limits and boundaries had tried to carry many burdens upon myself.
The second day, I fell sick after the morning worship and prayer as a result of unable to rest and sleep well. Rested in the hotel room. Went through KL ACTSperience, a whacky and zany afternoon where we shopped, cleared obstacles and checkpoints in ala Amazing race style. That morning had received an sms from Bernard stating that there were riots in KL city centre due to the fuel prices hike. The Lord was really with us that day. The streets were quiet, the malls were relatively empty and wow...I had a smooth time shopping :)
Really struggled to love and accept differences in the people around me, although I myself have to admit that I am no angel myself. When the time for the CG to say the CG Covenant together, I realise that to love and to forgive comes with a decision to want to do so. It is a choice and there are many times when circumstances do not call for it to happen, that's when the verse from 1 Corinthians 13 come to mind, "Love is patient and keeps no records of wrongs". I really do not want to be a hypocrite and prayed with all my heart that what I shared and said is really me being authentic and real. To love is a choice and it has to be constantly practised and renewed in the mind. To promise to love someone is a promise to easily broken as words are cheap and the distance from the heart to the mouth is the greatest, meaning there is a huge divide from the statement being said from the mouth and the actual heart conviction of the statement, ie the real decision to want to do something about it.
Was actually playing for the Extended Praise and Worship that last night in Church Camp. Was also praying to the Lord that someone would venture up to the Worship Band members and offer prayers, at least, I told God I wanted someone badly to pray for me. I thank God again for the amazing worship atmosphere that was there that night and I finally went to Fen to ask her to pray for me. She had prophesised over me that God really loves me and I had to let my life be led by the Holy Spirit and submit myself to Him fully. When QF shared to me the same thing that night in the hotel room, my tears just rolled down. She really struck a chord in my heart that God loves me and all the fears that I am facing and unable to face, the fear of rejection, the fear of loneliness, the fear of losing the things and people that I really love. I really cried. How God really really loves me to confirm with me the same thing twice in a night!
Thank God for QF that after so long, and many prayers about her, they were all answered. You are wonderful, amazing Lord. This camp has its impact on me, I can only hope, trust and carry on waiting upon the Lord despite all the uncertainties that I face and release my burdens upon Him. Need to constantly too, remind myself of His love for me...
Monday, June 09, 2008
Another Healing testimony!
Dear all,
Today's posting is to give praise and honour to the Lord God Almighty.
I went for my routine checkup at Tan Tock Seng Hospital for my thyriod scan analysis.
For those who are not familiar with thyriod condition it is when your thyriod glands expand bigger than usual. You may have growths in that gland and you would experience extreme weight loss or gain depending on your condition whether it is Hypo (slow down of hormones) or Hyperthryriod (increase in hormonal activity).
Today, I am proud to say that and give thanks to the Lord, that I am healed after 4 long years of appointment, scans done, blood tests. The doctor discharged me because even though my thyriod gland is larger than the usual of 3cm, mine measuring 6.1cm, I could be discharged because the doctor did not detect any abnormality in the growth.
I would say that these 4 years is not easy, filled with much tears and prayers, but I am glad that the Lord has seen me through again and I am once again an instrument of healing. May this really bless all your hearts to trust and wait upon the Lord! :)
His Love is amazing! :)
Today's posting is to give praise and honour to the Lord God Almighty.
I went for my routine checkup at Tan Tock Seng Hospital for my thyriod scan analysis.
For those who are not familiar with thyriod condition it is when your thyriod glands expand bigger than usual. You may have growths in that gland and you would experience extreme weight loss or gain depending on your condition whether it is Hypo (slow down of hormones) or Hyperthryriod (increase in hormonal activity).
Today, I am proud to say that and give thanks to the Lord, that I am healed after 4 long years of appointment, scans done, blood tests. The doctor discharged me because even though my thyriod gland is larger than the usual of 3cm, mine measuring 6.1cm, I could be discharged because the doctor did not detect any abnormality in the growth.
I would say that these 4 years is not easy, filled with much tears and prayers, but I am glad that the Lord has seen me through again and I am once again an instrument of healing. May this really bless all your hearts to trust and wait upon the Lord! :)
His Love is amazing! :)
Monday, June 02, 2008
3 more days to Church Camp 2008
1 Corinthians 2:5"...so that your faith might not rest on men's wisdom, but on God's power."
It is a short and simple part of a verse but it impacts me a lot. Being thinking through a lot of things, the insecurities, emotions, uncertainty, mounting up...Do we really want to follow what the world wants us to do or do we want God's Power? I think the answer is pretty obvious.
Can't even be still to enjoy the service yesterday and was wondering what had happened. Then I know it...the dependency has to be on God.
Slowly all these fears melted away when I chatted with KD. I think God put us 3 in the same situation together to mutually encourage, to prove that once again God's grace is sufficient for all in similar situations. We three are put the same amount of testing and the things we go through are seemingly in the same phase. Yes, KD, we are in this together :) Many times, we want to give up, we don't have to put up with this heartache and misery.
Why are we holding on? Because of the little things that GOD had spoken, the little confirmation that He has given through His verses, through signs, through situations that had happened that were unexpected. We could easily turn away but we did not why? We could have turned to others or simply the easy way out. I know and I know that the moment I do that, I would NEVER stand anywhere. God puts me to test for a reason cos He knows that I would escape, I would choose the easy way out...is to simply run away...How am I supposed to get the fruit of the harvest that God has in store for me the moment, I choose to give up when the going really seems tough?
The tears, the sweat, the heartache...I keep asking myself and God, is it really worth it O Lord? God is growing me, testing in my patience, cos He knows that me, the impatient and 'frust frust' Rac, high-strung and negative Rac who gets heated and stressed up easily. All these emotions melted away, after yesterday's extended prayer. I really prayed for peace, God's wisdom, not my wisdom, Holy Spirit's guidance and peace, not coming from my own...
You know what? I suddenly got the courage, I got the peace and called...had a really good chat...I could not stop smiling after that...it will come to an end soon...Let's hang on together KD! :)
luv lots...
It is a short and simple part of a verse but it impacts me a lot. Being thinking through a lot of things, the insecurities, emotions, uncertainty, mounting up...Do we really want to follow what the world wants us to do or do we want God's Power? I think the answer is pretty obvious.
Can't even be still to enjoy the service yesterday and was wondering what had happened. Then I know it...the dependency has to be on God.
Slowly all these fears melted away when I chatted with KD. I think God put us 3 in the same situation together to mutually encourage, to prove that once again God's grace is sufficient for all in similar situations. We three are put the same amount of testing and the things we go through are seemingly in the same phase. Yes, KD, we are in this together :) Many times, we want to give up, we don't have to put up with this heartache and misery.
Why are we holding on? Because of the little things that GOD had spoken, the little confirmation that He has given through His verses, through signs, through situations that had happened that were unexpected. We could easily turn away but we did not why? We could have turned to others or simply the easy way out. I know and I know that the moment I do that, I would NEVER stand anywhere. God puts me to test for a reason cos He knows that I would escape, I would choose the easy way out...is to simply run away...How am I supposed to get the fruit of the harvest that God has in store for me the moment, I choose to give up when the going really seems tough?
The tears, the sweat, the heartache...I keep asking myself and God, is it really worth it O Lord? God is growing me, testing in my patience, cos He knows that me, the impatient and 'frust frust' Rac, high-strung and negative Rac who gets heated and stressed up easily. All these emotions melted away, after yesterday's extended prayer. I really prayed for peace, God's wisdom, not my wisdom, Holy Spirit's guidance and peace, not coming from my own...
You know what? I suddenly got the courage, I got the peace and called...had a really good chat...I could not stop smiling after that...it will come to an end soon...Let's hang on together KD! :)
luv lots...
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
木船-民歌餐厅 Unit Event 24th May 2008
Me and my sis Jiaxin singing Ai4 Hen3 Jian3 Dan1 
Me and Jiaxin closeup 
My youngest sis, Shanice, me and KX .jpg)
I got fluawer...:) Last Saturday was my unit Min Ge Can Ting event. Am one of the singers and performers again with my youngest sis, Jiaxin. Although I sang lesser songs than the last event last November, I am definitely much happier, much more joyful. Felt more at ease when singing and the sense of support from my dear friend is stronger. Whenever I sing this time round, I attribute the songs sung with testimonies about God and how He touched my life. As each singer from the other unit, Candida, Jiexian, Patrick, Chukai and Cuifen went up to sing, all filled with praises of the Lord. The crowd's atmosphere was really lifted up.
We met with a full house that night. Was supposed to have around 60 people, but we ended the night with 70 odd people with not enough food! :P When I sang the first song, Ai Hen Jian Dan by David Tao, I am so full of thankfulness...from the start of this year when I am going through extreme stress and all the weight loss, God sends His angels into my workplace to take care of me. It is really not the work that we do, but the people there who makes a difference.
I am thankful for the truthfulness and boldness of my sis, Jiaxin who had the night before, had a fallout with me. It was ugly but I thank God that His grace were with us and when we sang the song, "Hate that I love you" by Rihanna, I give thanks and I really love this dear sis of mine, who had pointed out all my flaws and shortcomings. Cheers to sisterhood! We were able to be on stage together, despite our differences and present songs to the audience. Only God's love can bring us through such circumstances and bring forth forgiveness.
Not to mention, the mere presence of my friends there tonight. Speaks volumes le, all the little efforts made and I felt so touched.Lord, I give thanks for KX and Shanice for all they had done. :) Lord, You are really at work and I am so thankful. Think this is one event that has made a significant change in my perspectives towards things. Aching fingers lei...:P
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Fear, Frustration and all mixed up
Yes, it is really one of those days...One of those days when everything seems all mashed up again and I feel like giving up. I am holding on to it still cos of what God told me. The little, little confirmation that God has told me. The sweetness continue but the weight of the uncertainty is overbearing.
Another person has come up and asked me about it already. What do I do about it? CC asked me. I am in a little fear, frustrated and all mixed up. How can someone, the moment you start drawing your boundaries, able to pull you away again from the lines that you have set and again get closer? The questions I have to consider... the sweetness all tangled up...sigh...God, please let me hang on to You...
Another person has come up and asked me about it already. What do I do about it? CC asked me. I am in a little fear, frustrated and all mixed up. How can someone, the moment you start drawing your boundaries, able to pull you away again from the lines that you have set and again get closer? The questions I have to consider... the sweetness all tangled up...sigh...God, please let me hang on to You...
Monday, May 12, 2008
Ecclesiastes 3:1 - There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the sun...
Heard this verse and sharing spoken to me at least 3 times over the weekend that has just passed and today.
The service and sermon was really impactful and left a deep impression in my heart.
Time is a gift from God.
God has given us time for everything and it is our responsibility what we do with it.
When I read the verses from the book of Ecclesiastes. I was stirred. Yes, there is a time for everything and a season for everything under the sun. What season am I at now Lord?
I was stirred in my heart to know and trust in the Lord for the appointed time that bring about God's anointing for God's work. I was reflective. Have I captured the opportune times in my life or have I just let a lot of things slip by and not even wanting to listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit?
Many times, the Holy Spirit spoke and convict of certain issues in my heart, but it is ultimately the choices that I have made that has caused me to be in my present state.
Many times, the voice is stifled by own desires and own wants that I am really lost and wandering.
I ask myself, have I come to a dry, stagnant point in my life that I have been doing the same things all over again and repeating the same routine. This is one season of my life that I have come, yearning and thirsting once again for my purpose and my rest and God's will to be done in my life. I am stretched, but I am joyful.
I am called to be a minister and is this the season of extreme testing or a deeper and further conviction of His vision for my life is pending? There are seasons of ups and downs...seasons of fulfilment, loss and dryness...
Had dinner with him today. He assured me in the same way," Pray and seek advice, you are dry because you felt something for what you are serving in right? There's a season for everything, ask God for what season He wants you to serve Him using your gifts. Ask God for His calling for you right now in your life"
He never fails to speak sense in my life. Am thankful for him. :)
Met CC after that, shared the same thing. The word "season" came to me again from CC and I know this is really from God. Lord, What season do You want me to be now today? Where do You want me to serve in and in what capacity? Is it pastoral? Is it that I carry on with the music ministry?
I told him, you are asking me to consider dropping the very something and essence that keeps me going and in fervour - Music
You sure or not? Lord, help me...
The service and sermon was really impactful and left a deep impression in my heart.
Time is a gift from God.
God has given us time for everything and it is our responsibility what we do with it.
When I read the verses from the book of Ecclesiastes. I was stirred. Yes, there is a time for everything and a season for everything under the sun. What season am I at now Lord?
I was stirred in my heart to know and trust in the Lord for the appointed time that bring about God's anointing for God's work. I was reflective. Have I captured the opportune times in my life or have I just let a lot of things slip by and not even wanting to listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit?
Many times, the Holy Spirit spoke and convict of certain issues in my heart, but it is ultimately the choices that I have made that has caused me to be in my present state.
Many times, the voice is stifled by own desires and own wants that I am really lost and wandering.
I ask myself, have I come to a dry, stagnant point in my life that I have been doing the same things all over again and repeating the same routine. This is one season of my life that I have come, yearning and thirsting once again for my purpose and my rest and God's will to be done in my life. I am stretched, but I am joyful.
I am called to be a minister and is this the season of extreme testing or a deeper and further conviction of His vision for my life is pending? There are seasons of ups and downs...seasons of fulfilment, loss and dryness...
Had dinner with him today. He assured me in the same way," Pray and seek advice, you are dry because you felt something for what you are serving in right? There's a season for everything, ask God for what season He wants you to serve Him using your gifts. Ask God for His calling for you right now in your life"
He never fails to speak sense in my life. Am thankful for him. :)
Met CC after that, shared the same thing. The word "season" came to me again from CC and I know this is really from God. Lord, What season do You want me to be now today? Where do You want me to serve in and in what capacity? Is it pastoral? Is it that I carry on with the music ministry?
I told him, you are asking me to consider dropping the very something and essence that keeps me going and in fervour - Music
You sure or not? Lord, help me...
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Petronas - Chinese New Year 2006 ad - Old Folks Home
Teared a lot during service today when this ad was shown although I have watched it before...still does it for me..enjoy ya?
Wednesday, May 07, 2008
Broken nail - Injured finger :(
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Yes, I am accident prone! All this have to happen on the week when I am supposed to be on duty on stage! :S
Was so angry yesterday. Kids in class were wild and I was scolding and screaming at them. Cannot make it. Had always a standing fan beside me in the classroom to beat the tropical heatwaves, in a fit of anger, I slapped the fan and a sickening grinding sound...
My fourth finger kena. Right hand somemore
Nail broke into the flesh and blood. All the kids were shocked! Good for dramatic classroom management...SILENCE.
All of the kids screamed, "Miss Tham go to the General Office NOW! Put plaster! Go wash your wound!"
Frankly speaking, I was too angry to care, you know what I mean when your emotions are all mixed up. The kids were more concerned over my finger than my Science Lesson. I displayed it over the visualiser and showed them the bleeding finger to add to the drama mama effect...hahahaah I do have my quirky moments. I just wrapped a tissue over my finger and carried on.
Had to do mass marking exercise in the afternoon for the Maths SA1 paper. Haha...well, at least there was some sweetness in the whole thing, there was physical pain but you experience sweetness ya know? Mixed up emotions again...can't stop smiling.
Marked till my finger was blue and swollen.
Got ice pack treatment :) (Rac smiles)
Got people sayang my finger :)
Seen the doc but din take the tetanus jab, despite the fan being very dirty. I know you all gonna say should take hor?
I can't play my violin and guitar!!!! This week how??
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
Goodbye Life Bookshop
"Sad to inform that Life Bookshop chain in Singapore has closed down all its branches. Too bad, it served the Christian community in Singapore for so many years. Apparently the company went broke. Sad. Now there isnt a Christian Bookstore in the west side of Singapore (barring church based ones)"
Quoted from guitar4christ.com.
I am a fan of Life Bookshop. Used to remember my schooling days where I would hang around that bookstore for hours, browsing and listening to all the latest music CDs. My favourite store was the one at Jurong Point. Lotsa presents, bookmarks, books were bought from that place. It's a small little paradise for me! When the Sengkang branch closed down, really felt a huge sense of loss, din know that its actually the whole chain of stores in Singapore! It was always easily accessible to find a Life Bookshope in huge shopping centre malls and people who walked past the stores are actually attracted by the shops. I would dare say also that pre-believers were also attracted to the shop because of its warm and friendly atmosphere...
I know that there are plenty of other similiar stores like ACTS bookstore, Tecman, Mount Zion etc but its really not the same la...
sigh
Quoted from guitar4christ.com.
I am a fan of Life Bookshop. Used to remember my schooling days where I would hang around that bookstore for hours, browsing and listening to all the latest music CDs. My favourite store was the one at Jurong Point. Lotsa presents, bookmarks, books were bought from that place. It's a small little paradise for me! When the Sengkang branch closed down, really felt a huge sense of loss, din know that its actually the whole chain of stores in Singapore! It was always easily accessible to find a Life Bookshope in huge shopping centre malls and people who walked past the stores are actually attracted by the shops. I would dare say also that pre-believers were also attracted to the shop because of its warm and friendly atmosphere...
I know that there are plenty of other similiar stores like ACTS bookstore, Tecman, Mount Zion etc but its really not the same la...
sigh
Friday, May 02, 2008
Weight Loss check: 9kg
That's it! I have been eating and packing myself with food...can't gain the weight..work and stress levels...all time high...still happy and joyful in the Lord yeah!
Help me!
Help me!
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Passed my Violin Grade 7 Exams!
Wanna attribute to God all the glory again from bringing me through the road leading up to the violin exams. I passed my violin exam with a high pass! Close to a merit grade tho :D The road is difficult but I am full of praise and thanks that the Lord had brought me through all this time and I want to continue to work hard again for my Grade 8. My prayers are answered! :D Gotta hone extra hard on my technique and skills
Praise and Thanks to the Lord! He is faithful and certainly never fails!
:)
Praise and Thanks to the Lord! He is faithful and certainly never fails!
:)
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
My school's Dancesport got SILVER for SYF 2008!
Kids Dancing...
Couple dancing before the actual performance
The dancers after the SYF performance
Teacher, dance instructors and Principal Willy Tan (far right)
It was really a hectic day yesterday...My hands did not stop putting on makeup since 645am! I drew like 20 pairs of lashes, eyebrows, put on eye shadows, glitter and body glitter...the most challenging being the glitter eyeliner...many times the kids were so fidgety that the eyeliner smudge and we had to redo. :S
The kids were even filmed before the process as archive for our school.
The makeup process carried on till on the bus journey and our school's principal Willy Tan was so kind enough to accompany us for the competition. He talked personally to all the kids giving them encouragement. I was super nervous...had not done this in a long time..I can still recall the very moment before we entered the stage area where I was still putting last min body glitter and eyeliner on the kids.
The kids were fantastic and dazzling that even the sound and lighting crew were dancing along to the beat with us!! They really looked great on stage with the lighting and all, making them very mysterious and cool. Their dance ended with loud cheers from the crowd. I really felt that they did well! :)
So the results were announced...SILVER...not too bad considering we were vying together with the other dances under the International Dance Category with included the more arty farty dances...:P
Can finally rest liao! Cheers to Edgefield Dancesport!
I am proud of you guys! :P
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
The latest cookie craze
This I gotta share...after I bought the Pistachio and almonds cookies during those Sunday afternoons after service, double up with the Chocolate Chip butter cookies from Marks and Spencer..they are CHOMPED up very fast!!!
I love the Chocolate Chip one...really the chocolate just melt in your mouth!! Destressing some more!
I cannot help myself but kept buying for the past two weeks..its really a splurge though...about 6 plus 7 plus bucks per pack and the cookies are really big!! Something like the size of McVities "Boosters".
Today my colleagues just started asking me about the cookies again, we are all so tired after Contact Time and preparing for the upcoming Parents' Symposium Workshop coming on Saturday...and the moment I opened the last pack...give it 10 minutes???!! It's gone....:P
A little advertisement space here la :P
I love the Chocolate Chip one...really the chocolate just melt in your mouth!! Destressing some more!
I cannot help myself but kept buying for the past two weeks..its really a splurge though...about 6 plus 7 plus bucks per pack and the cookies are really big!! Something like the size of McVities "Boosters".
Today my colleagues just started asking me about the cookies again, we are all so tired after Contact Time and preparing for the upcoming Parents' Symposium Workshop coming on Saturday...and the moment I opened the last pack...give it 10 minutes???!! It's gone....:P
A little advertisement space here la :P
Sunday, April 13, 2008
What is the difference between the highest mark and the lowest mark?
As seen on a certain Maths Graphs worksheet submitted by pupils for marking...
Answers to the above question...
Pupil A: "The highest mark is smart but the lowest mark is stupid."
Pupil B: "The highest mark will pass and the lowest mark will fail."
Teacher laughs till tears come to the eyes...
Answers to the above question...
Pupil A: "The highest mark is smart but the lowest mark is stupid."
Pupil B: "The highest mark will pass and the lowest mark will fail."
Teacher laughs till tears come to the eyes...
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Lost another kg...
I have decided to fast and pray...not about losing weight but simply about the people I have always cared for. The first period of 40 day fast was amazing. God moved, God spoke, Holy Spirit led. There was really an increased understanding in so many things. Looking forward to see God move again. When things are looking up, all the more we should fight the spiritual battle. Don't want to be so complacent. Don't want to lose all that I have held on for so long until now..lest give in to all the struggles and spiritual attacks.
Just want to let you all know that I love you...from the bottom of my heart.
Just want to let you all know that I love you...from the bottom of my heart.
Monday, April 07, 2008
Healing Testimony - 22nd March 2008
This happened two Saturdays ago and once again God showed me that MIRACLES do happen.
Okay - WARNING: Gross, personal details are forthcoming so please clear your eyes and wipe off every gross thought. If you think you can't I suggest you stop reading PRONTO! :)
I am a rather active girl and I have to take my pupils to do morning exercises every Wednesday. On that particular Wed in the early part of March, I experience abdominal pains after my regular morning run with the children. I went to the toilet to check and to my horror, fresh swipes of blood appeared, and for all ladies, this is DEFINITELY NOT mentrual blood as the amount is quite considerable. I think a good chance is that I have experienced tearing of the you know what.
I thought nothing of that and left it as it was. A few weeks later which was the week leading up to Easter Sunday, 22nd March. I experience bleeding again mixed with discharge. This seemed to be getting serious and I went to a gynaecologist in AMK as suggested by my friend. That was the most traumatic experience that I have ever experienced. If the one and half hour wait was not long enough, the procedure, the scans done on my womb the PAP smear left me so traumatised that I applaud all pregnant women and mothers.
I was still bleeding from the smear and the doctor calmly showed me a scan which had 3 growths on my womb, or rather polyps. I was devastated as he told me too that I needed to remove them and described to me the procedures involved. He told me that it could be a cancerous growth and my heart really sank.
This operation meant a lot to me as a single, unmarried woman and I thought horrified of all the implications it might have, how do I explain to my husband? How do I account for all that has happened? I was ministering on stage too on Easter Sunday the next day and I needed God to help me and His mercy. I was so distraught that I told the doctor upfront that I wanted to cry and I did. I took 5 full minutes...crying my heart out in front of that male doctor. I could not help it.
I had to schedule immediately for a costly procedure which was about 700 bucks plus. It's never about the money folks. It's my womb we are talking about. I took a cab immediately home and broke down in front of my dad.
My mum, being high strung like me, could not calmly listen to me, I had to explain the WHOLE procedure to my DAD. Who happens to be the sweetest Dad in the world, promised to stand by me and sponsor all medical bills. I immediately took the chance to share to him about his healing testimony years ago when I fasted and prayed over his diabetes and how he was healed miraculously. I told Dad that I would fast and pray and I shared to him about my faith in Christ, amidst the uncertainty. Hey, its the Easter Weekend! Christ has already resurrected what else can't happen?
Nothing can stop me from meeting my dear friend KX and Cindy that afternoon. Hey I gotta be strong! God has an amazing way of putting bitter and sweet experiences together at the same time. That was the exact same day that we teachers had our bonuses banked in. KX called me and asked me about how I was, I was really touched la. When I met KX, he and Cindy prayed for me and I really felt from the bottom of my heart their love and concern for me. Thank God for such dear friends. I decided to respond to the altar call for healing and asked the pastor there to pray for me. This is time I gotta be strong and be a testimony to all.
On Tuesday 25th March, I promptly got an appointment with KK hospital and sought for a second opinion. That was when the miracle happened. The doctor showed me the same scan of the same area. The 3 distinct growths DISAPPEARED! It was exactly the same place and I could NOT believe my eyes. My dear sister Kerri who took leave to accompany me also could not believe it, "How do you expect me to explain to my boss that you are alright now? Your growths just disappeared like that?" I told her to trust in God and indeed God has so amazingly worked once again that I do not even need surgery of any kind to remove it. I promptly shared my healing testimony to my parents and to all who really knew about this.
Want to know the uncanny end to this story? I called the first gynae clinic to clear my appointment with it and to my surprise, the nurse told me that there's no record of my appointment! God is really at work again.
Dear all, thank you for being with me through these uncertainty and ups and downs in emotions. God is Sovereign and He is over all and above all, bringing us up out of every circumstances. Just continue to trust in Him and He would to the impossible for you, just to make you believe and know that HE LOVES YOU! :) Amen.
Okay - WARNING: Gross, personal details are forthcoming so please clear your eyes and wipe off every gross thought. If you think you can't I suggest you stop reading PRONTO! :)
I am a rather active girl and I have to take my pupils to do morning exercises every Wednesday. On that particular Wed in the early part of March, I experience abdominal pains after my regular morning run with the children. I went to the toilet to check and to my horror, fresh swipes of blood appeared, and for all ladies, this is DEFINITELY NOT mentrual blood as the amount is quite considerable. I think a good chance is that I have experienced tearing of the you know what.
I thought nothing of that and left it as it was. A few weeks later which was the week leading up to Easter Sunday, 22nd March. I experience bleeding again mixed with discharge. This seemed to be getting serious and I went to a gynaecologist in AMK as suggested by my friend. That was the most traumatic experience that I have ever experienced. If the one and half hour wait was not long enough, the procedure, the scans done on my womb the PAP smear left me so traumatised that I applaud all pregnant women and mothers.
I was still bleeding from the smear and the doctor calmly showed me a scan which had 3 growths on my womb, or rather polyps. I was devastated as he told me too that I needed to remove them and described to me the procedures involved. He told me that it could be a cancerous growth and my heart really sank.
This operation meant a lot to me as a single, unmarried woman and I thought horrified of all the implications it might have, how do I explain to my husband? How do I account for all that has happened? I was ministering on stage too on Easter Sunday the next day and I needed God to help me and His mercy. I was so distraught that I told the doctor upfront that I wanted to cry and I did. I took 5 full minutes...crying my heart out in front of that male doctor. I could not help it.
I had to schedule immediately for a costly procedure which was about 700 bucks plus. It's never about the money folks. It's my womb we are talking about. I took a cab immediately home and broke down in front of my dad.
My mum, being high strung like me, could not calmly listen to me, I had to explain the WHOLE procedure to my DAD. Who happens to be the sweetest Dad in the world, promised to stand by me and sponsor all medical bills. I immediately took the chance to share to him about his healing testimony years ago when I fasted and prayed over his diabetes and how he was healed miraculously. I told Dad that I would fast and pray and I shared to him about my faith in Christ, amidst the uncertainty. Hey, its the Easter Weekend! Christ has already resurrected what else can't happen?
Nothing can stop me from meeting my dear friend KX and Cindy that afternoon. Hey I gotta be strong! God has an amazing way of putting bitter and sweet experiences together at the same time. That was the exact same day that we teachers had our bonuses banked in. KX called me and asked me about how I was, I was really touched la. When I met KX, he and Cindy prayed for me and I really felt from the bottom of my heart their love and concern for me. Thank God for such dear friends. I decided to respond to the altar call for healing and asked the pastor there to pray for me. This is time I gotta be strong and be a testimony to all.
On Tuesday 25th March, I promptly got an appointment with KK hospital and sought for a second opinion. That was when the miracle happened. The doctor showed me the same scan of the same area. The 3 distinct growths DISAPPEARED! It was exactly the same place and I could NOT believe my eyes. My dear sister Kerri who took leave to accompany me also could not believe it, "How do you expect me to explain to my boss that you are alright now? Your growths just disappeared like that?" I told her to trust in God and indeed God has so amazingly worked once again that I do not even need surgery of any kind to remove it. I promptly shared my healing testimony to my parents and to all who really knew about this.
Want to know the uncanny end to this story? I called the first gynae clinic to clear my appointment with it and to my surprise, the nurse told me that there's no record of my appointment! God is really at work again.
Dear all, thank you for being with me through these uncertainty and ups and downs in emotions. God is Sovereign and He is over all and above all, bringing us up out of every circumstances. Just continue to trust in Him and He would to the impossible for you, just to make you believe and know that HE LOVES YOU! :) Amen.
Sunday, April 06, 2008
Poy and CC's wedding 15th March 2008
Poy and CC in the bridal car
Jie meis and the couple
Me and GL one of the big flower girls and boys marching down the aisle
The whole family of helpers and church friends
This has to be one of the more significant weddings for me. I have known CC for years now since NTU and Poy ever since I came into the Adults' group. I think their love story is really one of the sweetest and really according to God's will. I am so glad that I am able to witness their love story unfold and to see them move together from friends to a couple. CC has been my mentor for about 2 years now and I am really thankful for her life, her sacrificial spirit and her love for me. Many times I may not be able to understand her and her heart, I apologise and I really thank God for placing her in my life!
You know at times when you are asked to attend many wedding and you may not know the wedding couple too much? Well, this wedding is different, being involved as the "Jie Mei" , one of the drivers and really as one of the flower girls hahah...I felt an immense sense of happiness. Thankful to the Lord of what has been done in their lives.
Indeed the weather that day was beautiful, fraught with rain the past few days, the sky was sunny and a nice temperature too. :) Everything seemed more radiant and beautiful because what you are doing is for two persons in your walk with God that you really love and cherish, one your shepherd, the other your CL. Amidst all the fun and laughter, this couple has certainly blessed my life a lot, for their kindness, time, love and advice. (not to mention a FAT ang pow! hhahaha...) I pray constantly that God would bless them with a blissful marriage filled with much joy and peace. :P
Love you both, CC and Poy!
:)
Thursday, March 20, 2008
My Mum's Graduation - 14th March 2008
Last Friday, 14th March was my mum's graduation from Beijing University, a collaboration with UniSIM. My father and the rest of the family are so proud of her!
My mama is 55 this year and she took 5 years taking her degree part time to complete a literature studies in Chinese...cheem stuff if you ask me.
It really goes to show that learning never stops regardless of age! Her unwavering spirit has paid off!
Her graduating class, the Masters Degree graduants consisted of some well-known figures.
Remember the TV personnel, Mai Haowei? affectionately known as "Lao Hero"? He was a Masters Degree Grad in Linguistics in Chinese! wow...other famous figures are Liang Ping from Capital 95.8FM the news reporter..amazing...so proud of my mum!!
Anyway I met my dear old Dean from CEE in NTU last time, Prof Cheong Hee Kiat! He had since moved to UniSIM to be the Head there for the last 3 years. Miss him so much and had so much to catch up with him...missed the days that he taught us and when I chatted with him when I was in Civil main comm in school....sigh...
Time really flies...
:)
Mum receiving her degree from the Head of Beijing University
Me with my favourite Dean, Prof Cheong Hee Kiat
With my father and youngest sis at the Dining hall in SIM after the ceremony! :)
My mama is 55 this year and she took 5 years taking her degree part time to complete a literature studies in Chinese...cheem stuff if you ask me.
It really goes to show that learning never stops regardless of age! Her unwavering spirit has paid off!
Her graduating class, the Masters Degree graduants consisted of some well-known figures.
Remember the TV personnel, Mai Haowei? affectionately known as "Lao Hero"? He was a Masters Degree Grad in Linguistics in Chinese! wow...other famous figures are Liang Ping from Capital 95.8FM the news reporter..amazing...so proud of my mum!!
Anyway I met my dear old Dean from CEE in NTU last time, Prof Cheong Hee Kiat! He had since moved to UniSIM to be the Head there for the last 3 years. Miss him so much and had so much to catch up with him...missed the days that he taught us and when I chatted with him when I was in Civil main comm in school....sigh...
Time really flies...
:)
Mum receiving her degree from the Head of Beijing University
Me with my favourite Dean, Prof Cheong Hee Kiat
With my father and youngest sis at the Dining hall in SIM after the ceremony! :)
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
What He's Done
You know in times of extreme stress today? I blanked out in front of the white board.
Suddenly everything seemed so surreal: "What am I doing here? Why am I standing in front of the whiteboard and writing to the children?"
Extreme stress has caused me to break out in cold sweat yesterday along the streets after my violin lesson.
Lord, I need to release this all to YOU!
Heard this song at Trinity@Paya Lebar and it got stuck to my head for weeks. Can't get it out...Gonna figure out the chords pronto...it really ministered to me and touched me the first time I heard it and I sensed God really comforting me and my heart just overflowed with a lot of thanksgiving. Hope we can sing this too someday...What He's Done by Martha Munizzi, MP3 anyone?
Been singing this song to myself in the staff room...relieve a bit of all that stress la...:)
Found this on YouTube - a blind girl singing to this song
Martha Munizzi - What He's Done lyrics
Artist: Martha Munizzi
Album: No Limits: Live
Year: 2006
Title: What He's Done
[Verse:]
What He's done for me is so amazing,
the love He has for me I cannot explain.
All I know is I once was lost,
but now I'm found,
I was blind, but now I see;
and I know He will do for you
what He's done for me.[
Chorus:]
Amazing love, amazing love.
Amazing love, amazing love.
All I know is I once was lost,
but now I'm found,
I was blind, but now I see;
and I know He will do for you
what He's done for me.
[What He's Done Lyrics on
http://www.lyricsmania.com/ ]
Suddenly everything seemed so surreal: "What am I doing here? Why am I standing in front of the whiteboard and writing to the children?"
Extreme stress has caused me to break out in cold sweat yesterday along the streets after my violin lesson.
Lord, I need to release this all to YOU!
Heard this song at Trinity@Paya Lebar and it got stuck to my head for weeks. Can't get it out...Gonna figure out the chords pronto...it really ministered to me and touched me the first time I heard it and I sensed God really comforting me and my heart just overflowed with a lot of thanksgiving. Hope we can sing this too someday...What He's Done by Martha Munizzi, MP3 anyone?
Been singing this song to myself in the staff room...relieve a bit of all that stress la...:)
Found this on YouTube - a blind girl singing to this song
Martha Munizzi - What He's Done lyrics
Artist: Martha Munizzi
Album: No Limits: Live
Year: 2006
Title: What He's Done
[Verse:]
What He's done for me is so amazing,
the love He has for me I cannot explain.
All I know is I once was lost,
but now I'm found,
I was blind, but now I see;
and I know He will do for you
what He's done for me.[
Chorus:]
Amazing love, amazing love.
Amazing love, amazing love.
All I know is I once was lost,
but now I'm found,
I was blind, but now I see;
and I know He will do for you
what He's done for me.
[What He's Done Lyrics on
http://www.lyricsmania.com/ ]
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Played until my fingers hurt...
YES 19th March ...next Wednesday is the exam date...very scared and stressed...practising as hard as I can now...Lord, help me! :P
Monday, March 10, 2008
Whose child is this?
From Mountain Wings :)
Whose Child is This?
=====================
Whose child is this?
I asked one day
Seeing a little one outside at play.
"Mine," said the parent
With a tender smile,"Mine" to keep a little while.
To bathe him and comb his hair,
To prepare him that he may always be good
And each day do the things he should.
Whose child is this?
I asked again
As the door opened and someone came in.
"Mine," said the teacher
With a tender smile,
"Mine" to keep just for a little while.
To teach him how to be gentle and kind
And get the best he can from school.
Whose child is this?
I asked once more
Just as the little one entered the door
"Ours," said the parent and the teacher as they smiled.
And each took a hand of the little child
"Ours" to love and nurture together
Ours this blessed task forever.
~Author Unknown~
Whose Child is This?
=====================
Whose child is this?
I asked one day
Seeing a little one outside at play.
"Mine," said the parent
With a tender smile,"Mine" to keep a little while.
To bathe him and comb his hair,
To prepare him that he may always be good
And each day do the things he should.
Whose child is this?
I asked again
As the door opened and someone came in.
"Mine," said the teacher
With a tender smile,
"Mine" to keep just for a little while.
To teach him how to be gentle and kind
And get the best he can from school.
Whose child is this?
I asked once more
Just as the little one entered the door
"Ours," said the parent and the teacher as they smiled.
And each took a hand of the little child
"Ours" to love and nurture together
Ours this blessed task forever.
~Author Unknown~
Saturday, March 08, 2008
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Tuesday, March 04, 2008
Sunday, March 02, 2008
Encouragement for a dear friend KX
Dear UniSIM students
Regarding the recent announcement on Government Subsidy for part-time degree courses, existing students pursuing degree programmes awarded by UniSIM will qualify for the subsidy (subject to the terms and conditions set by the Ministry of Education). UniSIM is in the process of working out the details with MOE and shall make known the details to you once they are firmed up.
This post is for a dear friend if you are reading this now...got this off another friend's blog post...know that you have been actively searching MOE websites for degree courses offered at the various institutions and is a bit unhappy that part-time degrees are not offered in NIE at the moment...go for it man! Have great faith and trust in you that you can make it! Do take up courses at UniSIM if you can...the subsidy can apply to you too! Keeping you in prayers...
luv,
rac
Regarding the recent announcement on Government Subsidy for part-time degree courses, existing students pursuing degree programmes awarded by UniSIM will qualify for the subsidy (subject to the terms and conditions set by the Ministry of Education). UniSIM is in the process of working out the details with MOE and shall make known the details to you once they are firmed up.
This post is for a dear friend if you are reading this now...got this off another friend's blog post...know that you have been actively searching MOE websites for degree courses offered at the various institutions and is a bit unhappy that part-time degrees are not offered in NIE at the moment...go for it man! Have great faith and trust in you that you can make it! Do take up courses at UniSIM if you can...the subsidy can apply to you too! Keeping you in prayers...
luv,
rac
Friday, February 29, 2008
Monday, February 25, 2008
And you thought teaching is very boring and mundane...
The following pics which you are about to see are actually uniformed personnel disguised as teachers at Edgefield Primary School...a few of us were specially selected to don the various uniform at the Total Defence Day which was commemorated nationwide in schools on the 17th February, two Fridays ago.
I was dressing up as an "Inspector" and had so much fun... even went to the Net and searched specifically for the ranks of the Singapore Police Force to find out what it means! Teaching does has its perks. We stationed around the school and simulated wartime Singapore with bomb blasts and all, then us the uniformed ppl will run out and alert the pupils to go to the hall for activities. There, the Total Defence Day message was read after a siren was heard all over Singapore at 12:25pm that day.
The kids had a chance to witness how all the Uniformed Personnel in Singapore played a part in Total Defence and Racial Harmony was promoted. The kids went hyper with laughter I tell you when they saw us...the following pics which you see are really painstaking efforts put in by us...
I could fit in the Police uniform! hahah..check out my "chiong" baton..
The HOME Team! Azhari as Policeman, me, and KX as Civil Defence
KX - the PE teacher also known now as "Halim" We all spot different name tags!
Eugene one of the P6 teachers
David - our Discipline Master
Azmadi
Haril with his aim at the "gun" - we even got cool look alike props
The "pout" after the whole thing
That crazy candid shot with all the NE-SS teachers who put in the hard work!
I was dressing up as an "Inspector" and had so much fun... even went to the Net and searched specifically for the ranks of the Singapore Police Force to find out what it means! Teaching does has its perks. We stationed around the school and simulated wartime Singapore with bomb blasts and all, then us the uniformed ppl will run out and alert the pupils to go to the hall for activities. There, the Total Defence Day message was read after a siren was heard all over Singapore at 12:25pm that day.
The kids had a chance to witness how all the Uniformed Personnel in Singapore played a part in Total Defence and Racial Harmony was promoted. The kids went hyper with laughter I tell you when they saw us...the following pics which you see are really painstaking efforts put in by us...
I could fit in the Police uniform! hahah..check out my "chiong" baton..
The HOME Team! Azhari as Policeman, me, and KX as Civil Defence
KX - the PE teacher also known now as "Halim" We all spot different name tags!
Eugene one of the P6 teachers
David - our Discipline Master
Azmadi
Haril with his aim at the "gun" - we even got cool look alike props
The "pout" after the whole thing
That crazy candid shot with all the NE-SS teachers who put in the hard work!
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