1. How to sniff out God's leading in life?
2. How to live a life that is not my own?
3. How to give my all in all that I do?
Paintings are pretty to people who have the lenses and understanding of it's background to appreciate it.
I find that it's the same for people. People are pretty to those who have the lenses and understanding of the person to appreciate the person for who he or she is, and hope for the best for him or her.
God always sees me as pretty, as his beauty, as his treasured being. He always tells me.
If all women knew this point, then beauty parlours would probably all be out of business, perhaps.
How do I honour the One who places me high upon His pedestal? In humility and trust, to follow His leading; having the confidence in Him, and knowing where to draw the line.
As I ramble on....
This blog has been up for some time. Besides putting across my thoughts, it has always been my hope that whoever visits this place, will also be drawn into the mood of contemplativeness. Thinking about what is life about, who they are, and what is the essence of it all. A time for all to come to face the mysteries of life, to see how they fit into the picture, and to seek the best for themselves and others.
That's the reason why "moments like these" are so important. Moments captured, are usually hard to forget. Such moments, keep us reminded of goodness, sadness, joy, peace, excitement, disappointments and so much more. Such moments, are non-exchangeable and non-refundable, but they add up to our wealth of experience. Such moments, can never be felt similarly as what you feel, by anyone else, but only yourself.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Hope Church 16th Anniversary
Hope Church's 16! Our pastors kids are now old enough to be emcees! We are old enough to... ....I shan't go there... ...
The three of us all over again - all in white...all being of service in the anniversary.
This anniversary was interesting also, because it's the FIRST time my blood actually boiled for a while during the serving process. Overall, it was a good learning opportunity throughout it all. (:
Monday, September 10, 2007
Why Our Paths Cross?
There are countless people I meet daily.
I walk pass them, and smile or nod my head, or just greet them "hello". I don't know their names. I only know that they are in my workplace for a purpose, and that purpose, of great probability is not pleasant.
All of us have the opportunity to meet different people daily. The only difference is whether we slow down to get to know them that tad bit better. To help them with that little something. As they stare blankly at the many words in front of the directory, wouldn't a nice warm voice help that bit more?
Sometimes, I walk past someone and that person's smile seem more like a smile, more like a smile that encompasses, "how are you, I hope you are well", there are those who smile, as though they want to eat you, yet, there are those who smile as though they want to pick you up, and of course, there are times when you wonder if that smile means that there's vege stuck between your teeth!
Whatever it is, a good connection between people is hard to achieve. When that happens, friends are found. Then a deeper connection goes on, and buddies are bred. Thereafter, if it goes another notch, who knows? Paths are crossed, friendships are created - by beginning with that smile, that nod, and the many words that come after.
That's one of the privileges we have as humans - the ability to connect cognitively....emotionally...
I walk pass them, and smile or nod my head, or just greet them "hello". I don't know their names. I only know that they are in my workplace for a purpose, and that purpose, of great probability is not pleasant.
All of us have the opportunity to meet different people daily. The only difference is whether we slow down to get to know them that tad bit better. To help them with that little something. As they stare blankly at the many words in front of the directory, wouldn't a nice warm voice help that bit more?
Sometimes, I walk past someone and that person's smile seem more like a smile, more like a smile that encompasses, "how are you, I hope you are well", there are those who smile, as though they want to eat you, yet, there are those who smile as though they want to pick you up, and of course, there are times when you wonder if that smile means that there's vege stuck between your teeth!
Whatever it is, a good connection between people is hard to achieve. When that happens, friends are found. Then a deeper connection goes on, and buddies are bred. Thereafter, if it goes another notch, who knows? Paths are crossed, friendships are created - by beginning with that smile, that nod, and the many words that come after.
That's one of the privileges we have as humans - the ability to connect cognitively....emotionally...
Sunday, September 9, 2007
Camaraderie; Faith
Past week, I was busy working hard at two areas, work per se and a captain's ball match at my workplace. I was never a sports person when I was in my academic years. After two years of playing captain's ball in my organisation, I began to regret not being involved in sports when I was way way younger.
Thank God though, He allowed me to enjoy the bond and the experience of teaming up to play competitively with my fellow colleagues. This year, I experienced the sweetness of victory, and the bitterness of loss. The team was definitely closer after the game. It is little wonder sports brings people together. After work we trained together, during lunch hours, we trained together. It all brought our relationship with one another to another level. It is something that I treasure.
Through the entire competition, I realized one thing. Skill isn't the MOST important, camaraderie with your team mates is of greater importance. It's just like how it is emphasised that it is better to have a heart that is humble to learn, than to have knowledge and arrogance. The winning team this year had both - the ultimate combination. It's a valuable lesson brought smack right in front of me.
Another thought that came to me all this while also - how strictly do I want to adhere to the rules? Am I able to stomach the consequences of not sticking to the rules? This applies to all of my life.
Faith that comes beyond words, through actions and irregardless of emotions. Idealistic. Do I have to chase after ideals? Do I need to chase after ideals? Do i want, to chase after ideals?
Thank God though, He allowed me to enjoy the bond and the experience of teaming up to play competitively with my fellow colleagues. This year, I experienced the sweetness of victory, and the bitterness of loss. The team was definitely closer after the game. It is little wonder sports brings people together. After work we trained together, during lunch hours, we trained together. It all brought our relationship with one another to another level. It is something that I treasure.
Through the entire competition, I realized one thing. Skill isn't the MOST important, camaraderie with your team mates is of greater importance. It's just like how it is emphasised that it is better to have a heart that is humble to learn, than to have knowledge and arrogance. The winning team this year had both - the ultimate combination. It's a valuable lesson brought smack right in front of me.
Another thought that came to me all this while also - how strictly do I want to adhere to the rules? Am I able to stomach the consequences of not sticking to the rules? This applies to all of my life.
Faith that comes beyond words, through actions and irregardless of emotions. Idealistic. Do I have to chase after ideals? Do I need to chase after ideals? Do i want, to chase after ideals?
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
MmmMmmm
Sun's rays shone through the glass panels of the roof, creating shadows on the floor. With each turn, those shadows seemed to turn on it's own axis.
The air filled with the smell of butterscotch cookies, candy floss and caramel flavoured popcorn.
The pace of the countryside life. The sounds of the tinklings of the candy machines, and the melodious tunes of the carousel.
The little girl twirled and twirled around the candy cane pole.
Her mother looked upon her, beaming, filled with pride to see her daughter being as cute as she can be.
Bliss.
The air filled with the smell of butterscotch cookies, candy floss and caramel flavoured popcorn.
The pace of the countryside life. The sounds of the tinklings of the candy machines, and the melodious tunes of the carousel.
The little girl twirled and twirled around the candy cane pole.
Her mother looked upon her, beaming, filled with pride to see her daughter being as cute as she can be.
Bliss.
Monday, August 20, 2007
Here I Go Again
After two short holidays, one to Redang, the other to Bintan, I am back in the race once again. It's just like a hamster, that keeps on going at the wheel, and seemingly goes nowhere, and at times, get tired, and just hops off the wheel (that's where holiday comes in), then after a while, decides to go back to the wheel and have another go at it again.
What an analogy. It is a very true fact of life though. That many are like this. Myself included. Though I plan and plan my life, seeking the direction and eventual destination, I still come to such a point some time in my life.
That's where I realize, I need to get out of the cage. It ain't just the wheel! Ha.
Been reviewing my life once again. And yes, there are new things I find out about myself. Some of it, I have better decide fast whether I want to still be the way I am, or whether I want to do something about it.
A random trivia - I realize I really lurve to sit on the bus, plugged into my mp3 and listen to some inspirational tunes that somehow or other make me lost in another world of my own, letting the lyrics bring me to fantasy island, and bringing me back....hmm...a pleasure of life.
Yes, that's what a typical working adult is like. Sometimes, it does sound quite sad. Is it? Or is it not? Hmm...
What an analogy. It is a very true fact of life though. That many are like this. Myself included. Though I plan and plan my life, seeking the direction and eventual destination, I still come to such a point some time in my life.
That's where I realize, I need to get out of the cage. It ain't just the wheel! Ha.
Been reviewing my life once again. And yes, there are new things I find out about myself. Some of it, I have better decide fast whether I want to still be the way I am, or whether I want to do something about it.
A random trivia - I realize I really lurve to sit on the bus, plugged into my mp3 and listen to some inspirational tunes that somehow or other make me lost in another world of my own, letting the lyrics bring me to fantasy island, and bringing me back....hmm...a pleasure of life.
Yes, that's what a typical working adult is like. Sometimes, it does sound quite sad. Is it? Or is it not? Hmm...
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
Reminisce
I came home from facial last night, had a late dinner, and slouched in my couch.
My mum suddenly excitedly came to me with a photo album. Yellow, slightly tattered at the corners, and definitely smelled of old, ruffled papers. Once in a while, she'd come up with something interesting for me to ponder over. Last night, was one of those nights.
"Hey, you look at this. Don't you think that my friend's face shape is just sooooooo different? She must have did something to her face!"
Yeah, her friend, is now my beautician.
They have been close friends for a long while. The thing that brought them apart - marriage, kids. Now that their kids are older, do they have time to sit down and talk. It's really that hard, I guess, for a typical person to upkeep friendship. Though this is something I don't really like, it's also something that I prepare myself mentally for.
As I watched them talk over coffee and toast two weeks back, each knowing each other's preferences, I thought of the coffee talks I have with my close friends. It's like watching life fast forward to 30 years on, and this is how it'd look like.
One thing I really found true-er and true-er now, is as a particular person once said," What you do before you are 30, determines what you would do after 30." Both of them have always been in the beauty line. The skincare regime has kept them youthful. I could see for myself one thing - maintenance, for a woman, is really important. The both of them didn't look "ah-sor". I really hope I'd be somewhat like them...aging gracefully.
Of course, spiritual and emotional health are more important, but nowadays, we look to holistic needs. All encompassing needs being met. Sounds a hefty feat.
My mum suddenly excitedly came to me with a photo album. Yellow, slightly tattered at the corners, and definitely smelled of old, ruffled papers. Once in a while, she'd come up with something interesting for me to ponder over. Last night, was one of those nights.
"Hey, you look at this. Don't you think that my friend's face shape is just sooooooo different? She must have did something to her face!"
Yeah, her friend, is now my beautician.
They have been close friends for a long while. The thing that brought them apart - marriage, kids. Now that their kids are older, do they have time to sit down and talk. It's really that hard, I guess, for a typical person to upkeep friendship. Though this is something I don't really like, it's also something that I prepare myself mentally for.
As I watched them talk over coffee and toast two weeks back, each knowing each other's preferences, I thought of the coffee talks I have with my close friends. It's like watching life fast forward to 30 years on, and this is how it'd look like.
One thing I really found true-er and true-er now, is as a particular person once said," What you do before you are 30, determines what you would do after 30." Both of them have always been in the beauty line. The skincare regime has kept them youthful. I could see for myself one thing - maintenance, for a woman, is really important. The both of them didn't look "ah-sor". I really hope I'd be somewhat like them...aging gracefully.
Of course, spiritual and emotional health are more important, but nowadays, we look to holistic needs. All encompassing needs being met. Sounds a hefty feat.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Three Years On....
[a fren] says: hey hey
[a fren] says: help me see this photo
[a fren] says: and tell me wat is this gal's name
[a fren] says: she is on my right side in the photo. i bumped into her yday, and i can't remember her name.
This was my HRC convocation in 2004. 3 years on, and a typical conversation like that comes by. Do we really have no heart? Only 3 years, and we can't remember the names of some of the people whom we had studied with for 2 years.
Humans, really have some memories that we cannot forget, while we also have those that we cannot remember. We are just that interesting creatures. We are given the capability to remember, to feel, to experience, but sometimes, we just don't harness that capability.
I can't even remember things that are so dear to me at one point in time. Yet, it is something that I know I must do...especially things that I am to give thanks to God for. Gratefulness, is something very important. It brings everything back to perspective. It brings me back to knowing who I am, the rights I have as a human being, and who gave me this rights, who gave me this life, who gave me these opportunities in life..
It is a simple concept, but not a simple feat to keep doing it.
Just like this short conversation on people, our memories, if we didn't dwell a little more on it, then we would not be appreciative of the times we had together. That in the years of 2002 - 2004, our paths crossed, and that is something to be thankful for.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Politicking
Being a part of the grapevine is a very risky thing to be in. Then again, grapevines can be good and bad. Depending on what you do with the information from the grapevine. Sometimes, as I am on the grapevine, I see sour grapes, big juicy grapes, succulent grapes and dried grapes...are there more? Definition is up to your own imagination. Personally, I usually end up in the sour grapes category.
I had an invigorating discussion with a sister last night on this, more commonly known as office politics. Surprisingly, I find that I am a person who can be slightly aggressive. If you step on my toes, you know you'd be in for it, just sooner, or later. As I gloat in glee of the supposedly wonderful plan of "something".
This sister practised the art of displeasure. Ha ha. Then again, it's also the art with an underlying message of "enemies multiply kisses, but wounds from a friend can be trusted". Yes, as I pondered over it as we discussed more into it. Actually, what happened was that I popped a lot of questions, that I had the answers to it myself!
This morning, as I read a passage from Proverbs 6, it gave me the commandments against office politics. It told me what to do with my eyes, mouth, hands, feet and heart. Quite cool yah. Here's the verses:
There are six things the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to him:
haughty eyes,
a lying tongue,
hands that shed innocent blood,
a heart that devises wicked schemes,
feet that are quick to rush into evil,
a false witness who pours out lies and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers.
When I looked at it, I knew I found the answers to the tool against office politics. How contemporary the word of God can be. Just avoid the above, and you know you are in the right path.
As a particular sister always quotes : leave justice to the Lord.
I had an invigorating discussion with a sister last night on this, more commonly known as office politics. Surprisingly, I find that I am a person who can be slightly aggressive. If you step on my toes, you know you'd be in for it, just sooner, or later. As I gloat in glee of the supposedly wonderful plan of "something".
This sister practised the art of displeasure. Ha ha. Then again, it's also the art with an underlying message of "enemies multiply kisses, but wounds from a friend can be trusted". Yes, as I pondered over it as we discussed more into it. Actually, what happened was that I popped a lot of questions, that I had the answers to it myself!
This morning, as I read a passage from Proverbs 6, it gave me the commandments against office politics. It told me what to do with my eyes, mouth, hands, feet and heart. Quite cool yah. Here's the verses:
There are six things the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to him:
haughty eyes,
a lying tongue,
hands that shed innocent blood,
a heart that devises wicked schemes,
feet that are quick to rush into evil,
a false witness who pours out lies and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers.
When I looked at it, I knew I found the answers to the tool against office politics. How contemporary the word of God can be. Just avoid the above, and you know you are in the right path.
As a particular sister always quotes : leave justice to the Lord.
Sunday, July 8, 2007
One Year Anniversary
It's been a year. Time has just taken away another year of my youth....OMG...hehe..ok...seriously, I just wished myself Happy 1st year...with my organisation.
It had been a very challenging first year, and the second doesn't seem any easier. Today's sermon that I sat through is really apt..."Help me, Lord"...to do the best that I can, in all that I can, and to everyone that I can...
I ain't that smart, but I do hope to be smart enough to always remind myself that I ain't that smart. =) Wise words, from a wise man paraphrase.
The past year had been a fruitful one, with many failures but yet, many successes. I know in the recesses of my heart, that those failures made me stronger, those successes were the result of reliance upon Him for guidance and insights. There are just too many things that I seen His hand in it, and I still see Him working through it all. It's amazing.
This upcoming year, I anticipate it to be one filled with much more learnings and growth. My wish is that my life will keep on telling the glory story of God.
It had been a very challenging first year, and the second doesn't seem any easier. Today's sermon that I sat through is really apt..."Help me, Lord"...to do the best that I can, in all that I can, and to everyone that I can...
I ain't that smart, but I do hope to be smart enough to always remind myself that I ain't that smart. =) Wise words, from a wise man paraphrase.
The past year had been a fruitful one, with many failures but yet, many successes. I know in the recesses of my heart, that those failures made me stronger, those successes were the result of reliance upon Him for guidance and insights. There are just too many things that I seen His hand in it, and I still see Him working through it all. It's amazing.
This upcoming year, I anticipate it to be one filled with much more learnings and growth. My wish is that my life will keep on telling the glory story of God.
Monday, June 25, 2007
7 Habitssss
7 Habits...a course I took over the past week for three whole days. My colleagues are also facilitators for this course...and we came up with our own rendition...especially for the people who are probably more heartlanders...
H1: Ai Zhi Dong
H2: Ai Xio Ho Say
H3: Ka Tiong Yao eh Xi Zo Seng
H4: Ai Xio Jia Eh Ya
H5: Ai Tia Ho Say, Jia Wuey Hiao Yi Gong Xi Mi
H6: Teamwork ah...
H7: Toh Buah Lai Lai
It was a very good learning experience on my part. Was in a class with different designations of different hierarchical levels. The sharings and discussions were engaging and enriching. It was a rare opportunity to me to learn from many seniors and how they linked up the concepts of the course to the workings of the organisation.
I look forward to many much more rich discussions to come over time, in work, and in my personal life. I guess, I'm just a s***er for such things...oh wells...
H1: Ai Zhi Dong
H2: Ai Xio Ho Say
H3: Ka Tiong Yao eh Xi Zo Seng
H4: Ai Xio Jia Eh Ya
H5: Ai Tia Ho Say, Jia Wuey Hiao Yi Gong Xi Mi
H6: Teamwork ah...
H7: Toh Buah Lai Lai
It was a very good learning experience on my part. Was in a class with different designations of different hierarchical levels. The sharings and discussions were engaging and enriching. It was a rare opportunity to me to learn from many seniors and how they linked up the concepts of the course to the workings of the organisation.
I look forward to many much more rich discussions to come over time, in work, and in my personal life. I guess, I'm just a s***er for such things...oh wells...
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Mary's Willingness, Faith & Trust
This morning, I read a passage that made me go OMG!!!
What is it about? It's from Luke 1:26 - 38 - The Birth of Jesus Foretold.
Doesn't seem like a very inspiring passage right? I mean, what can be so happening about this passage telling one how Jesus came to this earth. There's only, but one way?
What that made me exclaim in much "pain" is the very last verse of v38:
"I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. "May it be to me as you have said." This is what she responded when the angel Gabriel told her that she will be with child through the Holy Spirit.
If it was me, I believe that history would never be what it is today. You'd get a shrew bickering, arguing, debating, doing all that she can to wriggle her way out of the proposition given.
I think, I would have probably given Gabriel the anecdotes of practicalism:
1. There is no way that such a thing can happen. Then, I'd give him a biology lesson.
2. I would not want to be pregnant without getting married! Can you imagine the social response?
3. How the heck am I going to explain to my husband to be that, err, I am pregnant? But I'm a virgin?!?!
4. I DON'T want to be pregnant! My career is just picking up some steam....and I don't want it to be back to non-boiling point again...
5. I don't want to get fat, ok, fatter....
6. And, even if I'd be given three months of maternity leave.....it doesn't equate to three months of worthwhile stay - home pay!
Okay, I'm hitting the OTT syndrome. Bottom line: I would not be willing. If I did, I'd writh in agony. :P
Lesson learnt: It was humbling. After the whole time pondering over the passage. I know, I need to love my God more than I love myself. God willing, God helping, I hope that I'd respond like Mary when the situation calls for it.
He spoke to me one thing - that, be kept in the recesses of my heart, where He has the key to open it. I said, "Ok, I'd believe that you'd do it". Whatever it is, it has been a very sobering morning. Praying that I'd be more willing to respond to His requests.
What is it about? It's from Luke 1:26 - 38 - The Birth of Jesus Foretold.
Doesn't seem like a very inspiring passage right? I mean, what can be so happening about this passage telling one how Jesus came to this earth. There's only, but one way?
What that made me exclaim in much "pain" is the very last verse of v38:
"I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. "May it be to me as you have said." This is what she responded when the angel Gabriel told her that she will be with child through the Holy Spirit.
If it was me, I believe that history would never be what it is today. You'd get a shrew bickering, arguing, debating, doing all that she can to wriggle her way out of the proposition given.
I think, I would have probably given Gabriel the anecdotes of practicalism:
1. There is no way that such a thing can happen. Then, I'd give him a biology lesson.
2. I would not want to be pregnant without getting married! Can you imagine the social response?
3. How the heck am I going to explain to my husband to be that, err, I am pregnant? But I'm a virgin?!?!
4. I DON'T want to be pregnant! My career is just picking up some steam....and I don't want it to be back to non-boiling point again...
5. I don't want to get fat, ok, fatter....
6. And, even if I'd be given three months of maternity leave.....it doesn't equate to three months of worthwhile stay - home pay!
Okay, I'm hitting the OTT syndrome. Bottom line: I would not be willing. If I did, I'd writh in agony. :P
Lesson learnt: It was humbling. After the whole time pondering over the passage. I know, I need to love my God more than I love myself. God willing, God helping, I hope that I'd respond like Mary when the situation calls for it.
He spoke to me one thing - that, be kept in the recesses of my heart, where He has the key to open it. I said, "Ok, I'd believe that you'd do it". Whatever it is, it has been a very sobering morning. Praying that I'd be more willing to respond to His requests.
Saturday, June 16, 2007
Time Investment
Most of the people I meet regularly are away this week in Malacca. I was thinking, this is a guage of whom I spend much time with every week. Would there be a difference in my social life this week?
Surprisingly, there wasn't much of a change. I realized an "independence" from an entity. It strengthened my understanding, that i "choose" to be where I am, and who I want to be with, who I want to invest my time with.
Through the period, I realized that the people I talk much to, weren't merely from a particular organisation, but were all around. I guess, that's what I am hoping for too. My role, is supposed to bring people from one end to another. If I have all people on one end, and not the other, that's not very possible too.
Then again, I find that I am also one who tends towards the other end.....the forbidden fruit always seem to taste better.:P
Surprisingly, there wasn't much of a change. I realized an "independence" from an entity. It strengthened my understanding, that i "choose" to be where I am, and who I want to be with, who I want to invest my time with.
Through the period, I realized that the people I talk much to, weren't merely from a particular organisation, but were all around. I guess, that's what I am hoping for too. My role, is supposed to bring people from one end to another. If I have all people on one end, and not the other, that's not very possible too.
Then again, I find that I am also one who tends towards the other end.....the forbidden fruit always seem to taste better.:P
Monday, June 11, 2007
Growing Up
Maturity is interesting. It is a state of your mind. Your mind will never stop gaining experiences, until you tell it not to. Until you refuse to gain and make sense of your experiences, you'd keep growing.
There are quite a lot of ways how one grows in God. It can be through the truth setting you free, your experience with God, correction from people and so on. Each one of the ways has it's pros and cons. Sometimes, we see the need to grow, that we don't see that growth comes from God.
I realized this about myself after reading this book - there are many ways of growth, and each person has to have a combination of ways to grow. One must not impose our ideology of growth on the person.
As the verse states, I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. 1 Cor 3:6
God made it grow. I am the instrument to other's growth, and also of my own growth. There are dual responsibilities of each person - to personally grow, and to help others grow. Yet, it should never inhibit God's working in that person's life. Now, that's the challenge.
There are quite a lot of ways how one grows in God. It can be through the truth setting you free, your experience with God, correction from people and so on. Each one of the ways has it's pros and cons. Sometimes, we see the need to grow, that we don't see that growth comes from God.
I realized this about myself after reading this book - there are many ways of growth, and each person has to have a combination of ways to grow. One must not impose our ideology of growth on the person.
As the verse states, I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. 1 Cor 3:6
God made it grow. I am the instrument to other's growth, and also of my own growth. There are dual responsibilities of each person - to personally grow, and to help others grow. Yet, it should never inhibit God's working in that person's life. Now, that's the challenge.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Real - life crisis
Previously, I spoke about change management from a bystander's point of view in my previous organisation.
In this organisation, I am a change agent. Trust me, you can never be graded for emotional management.
To me, change management = emotional management. If you can manage the emotions of the people, then you have aced the "module", if not, good luck!
Today, my colleague and I went into a room filled with boiling-blooded creatures. I don't know, I thought hot was an understatement, hence boiling should be more apt. It started off like any other briefing, it reached the middle with spices & even more spicy spices, and ended off chao tar.
There was the cynical, the critic, the conventionalist, the contortionist, the case-builder, oh man, but thank God, there were some compassionates. For the time I was in there, I really just had eyes on one person, the cynical one, and I really felt like walking over to strangle him. And of all things, we were in the same colour shade - purple. Gosh.
As my colleague and I walked out of the room, all I could think of was. If only we had this filmed down, perhaps, my appraisal for FY 07 will have more compassionate points to add. It was also the perfect video for a change management consultant to use, captioned - 10 things you should never do as a change agent.
It was a good experience. Good, perhaps, an understatement? As that visa advert goes. Salary -peanuts. The experience earned - Priceless....
In this organisation, I am a change agent. Trust me, you can never be graded for emotional management.
To me, change management = emotional management. If you can manage the emotions of the people, then you have aced the "module", if not, good luck!
Today, my colleague and I went into a room filled with boiling-blooded creatures. I don't know, I thought hot was an understatement, hence boiling should be more apt. It started off like any other briefing, it reached the middle with spices & even more spicy spices, and ended off chao tar.
There was the cynical, the critic, the conventionalist, the contortionist, the case-builder, oh man, but thank God, there were some compassionates. For the time I was in there, I really just had eyes on one person, the cynical one, and I really felt like walking over to strangle him. And of all things, we were in the same colour shade - purple. Gosh.
As my colleague and I walked out of the room, all I could think of was. If only we had this filmed down, perhaps, my appraisal for FY 07 will have more compassionate points to add. It was also the perfect video for a change management consultant to use, captioned - 10 things you should never do as a change agent.
It was a good experience. Good, perhaps, an understatement? As that visa advert goes. Salary -peanuts. The experience earned - Priceless....
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Bittersweet
First, I shall start with the bitter.
Someone close to me was accused of something that could not be proven. Really felt for her. I guess, if there's one thing that I cannot tolerate is that of being given a tag that I shouldn't have "earned". It made me realize how difficult it is to be wronged. It made me realized how He was totally wronged, yet still see beyond that, for a purpose greater than His own pride, and status.
It was a very angsty day yesterday. It still is today, as I met her in the morning. Hopefully, things will get better as she cools down, and sees beyond as well. It made me sit up, and reflect more about my purpose in this place as well.
Now the sweet. One of my colleagues came to church last sunday. A personal breakthrough. Had been asking God over time that though I seem to keep sharing His word, and love, but then, why is there not much progress, not much fruitfulness? He gave me some encouragement through this colleague last week. She's a new friend I made, and also one I am beginning to know better and find that we can "click", even though she's six years junior.
I'm looking forward to having more of His presence at work, be it through me or others. Yet, I wish to be a vessel of love for Him. That's one of my purpose in this place.
Saturday, May 19, 2007
Facets About Taipei
I guess, I won't do justice to my trip if I don't talk more about the interesting things in this bustling city of Taipei. Some after-trip thoughts about the culture, architecture and idiosyncrasies.
Before I begin, I think, I should add a disclaimer - The below are merely what I observed in Taipei. It is not a full representative of the place.
1. The toilet cisterns do not take in toilet paper, tissue paper and whatever rubbish. Perhaps, the pipes underground are too small, or too fragile? Mainly, though, I believe that they are just very environmentally friendly.
2. Recycle bins for various objects are all over the place, and rubbish bins are labelled if they are for every kind of junk, or specific junk. Yep, they are quite organised. And, they seem to use those recycle bins quite seriously!
3. People are very colourful in their dressing. They don't seem to like plain colours. There must be stripes, dots, etc of some sort.
4. They speak mainly mandarin, hokkien, hakka and minnanese. The MRT train announcements also revolve around this few dialects.
5. They speak American - accented English a la mei yu.
6. They seem to love to read. Chen pin bookstore cum departmental stores are all over the place.
7. Quite a number of mountains.
8. Sales people have saccharine sweet and persuasive antics. Customer service is definitely very good. (which i find surprising, thought it was just towards tourists)
9. Buildings are rather old, to the extent of dilapidated. Cost of living is low. Salary is also low. Minimum income for a gold credit card is approx S$9K per annum (vis a vis S'pore)
10. The only acceptable coffee you can find is at cafes such as Starbucks, Dante's Coffee and those NT35 coffee stalls....the rest, CMI! Boo hoo hoo....
11. Shilin night market is any girl's paradise. Wufenpu wholesale market, provided you buy in bulk.
12. Those with a penchance for sweet stuff and fruits will find this place heavenly. They give you extra topping for milk for your ice shavings.
13. Snacks galore, food galore and nuff said. Just eat!
14. If you are in a hurry, forget about the lifts at the MRT stations....walk is faster. Even the cleaning auntie told us to walk "kah ging". =p
That should be the main points...till I think of more...
Before I begin, I think, I should add a disclaimer - The below are merely what I observed in Taipei. It is not a full representative of the place.
1. The toilet cisterns do not take in toilet paper, tissue paper and whatever rubbish. Perhaps, the pipes underground are too small, or too fragile? Mainly, though, I believe that they are just very environmentally friendly.
2. Recycle bins for various objects are all over the place, and rubbish bins are labelled if they are for every kind of junk, or specific junk. Yep, they are quite organised. And, they seem to use those recycle bins quite seriously!
3. People are very colourful in their dressing. They don't seem to like plain colours. There must be stripes, dots, etc of some sort.
4. They speak mainly mandarin, hokkien, hakka and minnanese. The MRT train announcements also revolve around this few dialects.
5. They speak American - accented English a la mei yu.
6. They seem to love to read. Chen pin bookstore cum departmental stores are all over the place.
7. Quite a number of mountains.
8. Sales people have saccharine sweet and persuasive antics. Customer service is definitely very good. (which i find surprising, thought it was just towards tourists)
9. Buildings are rather old, to the extent of dilapidated. Cost of living is low. Salary is also low. Minimum income for a gold credit card is approx S$9K per annum (vis a vis S'pore)
10. The only acceptable coffee you can find is at cafes such as Starbucks, Dante's Coffee and those NT35 coffee stalls....the rest, CMI! Boo hoo hoo....
11. Shilin night market is any girl's paradise. Wufenpu wholesale market, provided you buy in bulk.
12. Those with a penchance for sweet stuff and fruits will find this place heavenly. They give you extra topping for milk for your ice shavings.
13. Snacks galore, food galore and nuff said. Just eat!
14. If you are in a hurry, forget about the lifts at the MRT stations....walk is faster. Even the cleaning auntie told us to walk "kah ging". =p
That should be the main points...till I think of more...
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Refreshed, Renewed, Recharged
I am just back from my holiday. Six days of getaway. One which gave me an injection of new energy for the upcoming months ahead.
Taipei - beautiful place, friendly people, environmentally friendly, delectable delights, breath-taking views, weather to die for. Sounds like I should just move over there, right? On hindsight, perhaps, it's because I am only there 6 days, so everything looks nice? Ha ha..
As I am typing this, am really thinking, what should I write about? The experiences that I had at each destination I went? The description of the things I did, felt and enjoyed? The bottom line is - the trip's really satisfying. A time for me to smell the flowers, feel myself walking, breathing, thinking. Seriously, when I slow down, I realize that walking is something to give thanks for too.
Many interesting and quirky things happened in Taipei, which I believe my travel buddies will also agree with me. A number of firsts, in this trip, including places which were not on our itinerary, and happenings that never thought would occur. Then again, all the experiences lived up to the plan that we had - free and easy. It was a myriad of experiences and feelings.
Through the time in Taipei, one thing that came to my mind most was this. How you want something to be like, how you want your mood to be like, how you hope to see something - it is a decision to make at each point.
As I marvelled at God's creation of nature, the culture of the place, the lifestyle of the people, many things ran through my mind. The differences are rampant. The geographic location is different. The systems are different. One can keep focusing on differences, or find the binding point that brings people, things and faith together. Which one do I want to look at?
It was a fruitful trip. All the way.
Oh, and this I must add. We bought enough shoes, bags, clothes, pastries and instant cup noodles to probably open a store at the pasar malam!
Enjoy the photos on flickr. (=
Taipei - beautiful place, friendly people, environmentally friendly, delectable delights, breath-taking views, weather to die for. Sounds like I should just move over there, right? On hindsight, perhaps, it's because I am only there 6 days, so everything looks nice? Ha ha..
As I am typing this, am really thinking, what should I write about? The experiences that I had at each destination I went? The description of the things I did, felt and enjoyed? The bottom line is - the trip's really satisfying. A time for me to smell the flowers, feel myself walking, breathing, thinking. Seriously, when I slow down, I realize that walking is something to give thanks for too.
Many interesting and quirky things happened in Taipei, which I believe my travel buddies will also agree with me. A number of firsts, in this trip, including places which were not on our itinerary, and happenings that never thought would occur. Then again, all the experiences lived up to the plan that we had - free and easy. It was a myriad of experiences and feelings.
Through the time in Taipei, one thing that came to my mind most was this. How you want something to be like, how you want your mood to be like, how you hope to see something - it is a decision to make at each point.
As I marvelled at God's creation of nature, the culture of the place, the lifestyle of the people, many things ran through my mind. The differences are rampant. The geographic location is different. The systems are different. One can keep focusing on differences, or find the binding point that brings people, things and faith together. Which one do I want to look at?
It was a fruitful trip. All the way.
Oh, and this I must add. We bought enough shoes, bags, clothes, pastries and instant cup noodles to probably open a store at the pasar malam!
Enjoy the photos on flickr. (=
Thursday, May 3, 2007
FareWell
"do all the good you can, in all the ways you can, to all the souls you can, in every place you can,
at all the times you can, with all the zeal you can, as long as ever you can....."
This was the farewell quote that a particular Dep Dir sent to all the staff in my company. I was rather amazed by it, and I believe, many others too.
The above quote, can be shown forth in his life. Anyone who knows him, knows that he has somewhat described what he lives for. The man who walks the talk. The above quote, describes how he treats people around him, how he lives his life. For the 11 years that he has been in this organisation, he left a great impression and impact in this place, and the people.
For my department, who used to be led by him, tears were shed, and many memories were talked about regarding this man. He is a man whom I had come to know briefly this period of time, and I can just say that he is a man who puts a few "F"s first in his life. Faith, Family and Friends.
You don't meet such people often. But when you do meet one, your life's changed, just merely being around him.
at all the times you can, with all the zeal you can, as long as ever you can....."
This was the farewell quote that a particular Dep Dir sent to all the staff in my company. I was rather amazed by it, and I believe, many others too.
The above quote, can be shown forth in his life. Anyone who knows him, knows that he has somewhat described what he lives for. The man who walks the talk. The above quote, describes how he treats people around him, how he lives his life. For the 11 years that he has been in this organisation, he left a great impression and impact in this place, and the people.
For my department, who used to be led by him, tears were shed, and many memories were talked about regarding this man. He is a man whom I had come to know briefly this period of time, and I can just say that he is a man who puts a few "F"s first in his life. Faith, Family and Friends.
You don't meet such people often. But when you do meet one, your life's changed, just merely being around him.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Quarter Time
The real test of a man is not when he plays the role that he wants for himself, but when he plays the role destiny has for him. - Vaclav Havel
Letting God take the front seat, instead of myself. That's what the above implies. Building my house versus building His.
God gave His children gifts. We can use the gifts in what we think is best, or we can use the gifts in accordance to what He made us for. In short, the calling that He gave each of us. There is something unique that each of us do best. Something that one of His child is able to do which is different from another. The particular niche that we are created for.
The work that He has created us to do, is definitely different for each one of us. As He had carefully and fearfully crafted us, He knew what He had crafted each one of us for. He wrote our stories before even the start of time.
As I seek forth His calling in my life, I come to realize more and more each day, what makes me smile in my heart when I do it, and what I like to do, but does not have that same satisfaction. I guess, that's one of the understandings. When I sense the Holy Spirit seem to beam within me, I know I am doing what He had crafted me to do, at that particular time. It is something that cannot be explained rationally, no matter how rational I can, and want to be.
As I face a quarter of a century of life, I begin to see how much I desire to be in the centre of His will, and how much I desire to be doing what He has always desired me to do. That we may both smile together in our hearts, that we may both know that that's the best thing on earth that I can do.
There are some things on my mind and heart, I know He has sealed. As the plan of His unfolds, I see my part in it more and more. The adventure that He has given me, and will give me, will be what I am looking out for. I may be driven by my own whims and fancies, but what will keep me going even more, will be what I am called for. The drive from that, will be even better than my personal drive. I just hope to be able to distinguish the two.
Letting God take the front seat, instead of myself. That's what the above implies. Building my house versus building His.
God gave His children gifts. We can use the gifts in what we think is best, or we can use the gifts in accordance to what He made us for. In short, the calling that He gave each of us. There is something unique that each of us do best. Something that one of His child is able to do which is different from another. The particular niche that we are created for.
The work that He has created us to do, is definitely different for each one of us. As He had carefully and fearfully crafted us, He knew what He had crafted each one of us for. He wrote our stories before even the start of time.
As I seek forth His calling in my life, I come to realize more and more each day, what makes me smile in my heart when I do it, and what I like to do, but does not have that same satisfaction. I guess, that's one of the understandings. When I sense the Holy Spirit seem to beam within me, I know I am doing what He had crafted me to do, at that particular time. It is something that cannot be explained rationally, no matter how rational I can, and want to be.
As I face a quarter of a century of life, I begin to see how much I desire to be in the centre of His will, and how much I desire to be doing what He has always desired me to do. That we may both smile together in our hearts, that we may both know that that's the best thing on earth that I can do.
There are some things on my mind and heart, I know He has sealed. As the plan of His unfolds, I see my part in it more and more. The adventure that He has given me, and will give me, will be what I am looking out for. I may be driven by my own whims and fancies, but what will keep me going even more, will be what I am called for. The drive from that, will be even better than my personal drive. I just hope to be able to distinguish the two.
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