Sunday, November 16, 2008
What makes your dream house?
Saturday, November 15, 2008
as the dawn of weekend approaches...
Today is A Friday. Hooray! I made it to provide an update within two days of my previous entry.
I’m sitting in my mom’s office entering this post after a spending half a day helping her to run her school concert. Finally after days of preparation, sweat and much stress, everything fell into place by the grace of God. True, there’s much room for improvement, but I do feel that everybody involved put in their best for today. There was marked improvement exhibited by every performing group. And these are primary school kids who have invested much time and effort into putting up a grand show for today!
Then as we grew up, we learnt more about friendship, politics, fell in and out with ourselves, and learnt to be more careful with choices. We learnt about relationships I still can’t believe I had my first experience at Primary 5. Predictably, it didn’t last. We chose to end the relationship because, uhm, we ended up in different secondary schools. Right.
The most memorable relationship I had was in Sec 2. I tried so hard to chase this girl, got her at last (with a little help from my friends of course) and then broke up over some silly issue. We fought and quarrelled a lot, but we knew that this relationship was one to remember with sweetness. Almost ten years later, we’re still in contact. I dare say we’ve really made our marks on one another.
Ah, puppy love.
I feel really old to be turning another year older in a couple of days. It really rocks knowing that you can’t even earn yourself a green note for change when you tender red notes.
As I approach this magical age I’m looking forward to be blessed with a partner. Not for the sake of status, but one that I can grow and mature with, and experience things together. Above all Id like to know what it is really like to love somebody.
Funny post? Yep, attribute that to a really tired me. But hey, I mean every word I say here!
“Attention, its time to dance”
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
midweek ramblings
Time flies. It’s midweek already! And I’ve missed the Tuesday deadline which keeps me in line with my goal of updating this place every two weeks.
Notwithstanding the weather of 18-22degrees in
I am pleased to announce that there are ZERO casualties from my gardening attempt-not bad, considering that 8 pots were changed, along with the soil and what not. Perhaps four days is too short a period of time. Those gardening pundits might agree.
On another note, the camera I’ve always wanted to buy, the Panasonic FX38, is now more affordable to me at $480. That’s a lot closer to the $400 I’ve set aside so far as compared to the original retail price of $549! That said I might need my mom’s help in chipping in for the mini tripod and extra battery pack (:
I’m glad to have finally expressed my frustrations over the PA ministry in church to the head honcho who has always been very patient and supportive, while keeping me in check. Once, I thought things were not going to move, but finally, the wheels are grinding. Boy, I am glad! Prayer moves mountains.
Monday morning’s storm proved to be a disaster: I left for work early and ended up soaking wet and dripping. Seriously, it was flooding all over Ang Mo Kio! Every sheltered walkway, a supposed blessing, ended up as wading pools that many disgruntled residents like me had to deal with.
And then there was this bird brained driver who cut into the sheltered walkway as I was crossing halfway. AND because she stopped right smack in the middle, blocking the way, I just looked at her. She just waved an apology, and that’s it!
So, I had to step out of the shelter and get myself very wet in the process. Mind you, she wasn’t waiting for anybody, and I thought that she should have reversed a little, and come in later. She was depriving us (the pedestrians) the use of the shelter, for in my opinion, her selfish little convenience.
I was close to asking her if she would bother to send me to the MRT station since I was already soaking wet. All she could offer was another feeble wave of apology. What an imbecile.
At that point I swore to myself that I’d never be that idiotic as that woman. Later I was on the train, furious, wet and angry. I was asking myself if there was anything to be thankful for, and somehow I managed to come up with this feeble list.
- My train gets me out of the rain
- I could have slipped and fell with all the water around, but I didn’t
- Despite my encounter with the bird brained driver I still boarded the train in one piece.
- The crazy storm didn’t stop the train from getting me to work anyway.
Another learning point: I’d be dammed if I sped on a rainy day and got some pedestrian soaking wet because of my lack of consideration. Ugh.
And for some major reliefs: I am thankful that my leave on Thursday and Friday is approved so that I can help my mother with her graduation concert and prize giving ceremony. The last I heard, the recent rehearsal had tons of room for improvement.
So that’s my major consolation for the week, besides the fact that we met up with two nice clients over the two days, which helped in chasing the overcast clouds away. And with that, I end my midweek entry!
Sunday, November 09, 2008
10 days away...
Friday, November 07, 2008
Traffic Lights
Friday nights are supposed to be light and happy. Not today. I fell ill on Monday, was coughing through the week, and dragged my heavy bag and aching body back from work today.
Not that it was a bad day at work, though. I just decided to rest well since I'd be needed for worship practice tomorrow. After dinner, a little housework and an enjoyable time with my brother Leon, I sit here ready to end my day after this post.
Why the post title? I feel that once again, God seems to be beaming His red traffic light in front of me. By that, He is once more asking me to entrust all of my cares unto Him.
Goodnight.
That's quite a lot, actually. I've been so caught up in planning for this and that, being worried for the wrong reasons and causing much damage to myself when I had an easier option- to submit all these in prayer.
God, like my driving instructor, seems to have pulled up the emergency handbrake, drawing me to a screeching stop, and prompting me to cast my cares upon Him.
How foolish I've been indeed. Little wonder why I'm burnt out and frustrated just about everything.
Lord, if there's one thing that I ask for today, that would be the FAITH to depend on You and commit everything I am doing, or undergoing, into hands. Amen.
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
I'm still very much alive, thanks.
Stumbling through the cobwebs, droppings and stale air, I throw the windows open, flinch at the amount of sunlight coming through and begin my entry.
As I pen this, I bemoan the fact that I’m turning 26 this month, still single and making my way up that proverbial shelf on the wall, and not getting more handsome...NAH….Godliness with content is great gain!
So much has happened in the past few months that it’s almost impossible for me to list them in chronological order. For the sake of your sanity, I shall demarcate, and shed light on the more significant ones.
a. Love Life.
The last I shared, there was this sister in Christ I was praying for. I’m glad I’ve finally made known my feelings to her, and though it was tough accepting the fact that we could not be together, I delight in the fact that we did not wreck our already close friendship, and I will still love her as a dear sister.
It wasn’t easy. I remember the night I learnt that she was exploring another path with another gentleman. I remembered - the wallpaper on her laptop were obvious tell tale signs. I almost cried.
But it’s fine now, that I’ve gotten over the hurt and rejection. I’m enjoying my singlehood as of now, and waiting upon the Lord. In the meantime, I’m actually actively seeking the Lord. My heartstrings have been tugged once again.
A shout out to all those who have expressed their care and concern: I thank you so much from the bottom of my heart.
b. Walk with God
The Lord has used this incident to encourage me, and prod me in the direction seeking Him actively-even as I was hurting over this. He has, in many ways, brought me in broken-ness and hurt before Him, allowing me to experience His inconceivable, gracious love. For that I’m thankful.
It’s been a positive experience spending quality time with Him and I look forward to growing and maturing. Its all easier said than done, though. The battles of the men (outer, and spirit man) are strong, and my strong reaction to “injustice” gets in the way of me responding in a biblical manner to the many struggles I face.
I can only look to Him for faith, courage and assurance as I press on.
c. Ministry Life.
I’ve have had the pleasure of meeting several nice folks in the course of serving in the PA ministry as a wedding and event technician at church. Several of these acquaintances have become friends, and one couple has even introduced me to rock climbing (thanks guys, I’ll see you in three months!) and I’m thankful for these friends and family in Christ that God has placed into my life.
At times I feel burdened, worn out and tired. It’s can be a challenge availing yourself for rehearsals, events and being involved in other activities where humanly speaking, the time could have been better spent on sleeping, and other affairs you may have to attend to. Yet I’m always reminded that this is a God given gift- and if need be, I should endeavour to bless with what He has so graciously provided me with.
God takes care of this aspect too. It brings a smile to my face when I recall that the bus to church always appears in no time (when I am on duty), and He sends people to send me home (when I make the effort to facilitate rehearsals and stuff) and for an understanding family who doesn’t moan about my often disappearances from home.
Enough of the rosy part. I feel extremely challenged working with people who, in my opinion, lack initiative, responsibility and urgency. I am, on many occasions, tempted to ask them to “wake up their ideas” and “get their act together” when they fail to notice things. Mind you, this is an I/C I’m referring to. I’ve always held on to the opinion that I/C’s should set a good example.
I’m frustrated because all these negative feedbacks come to me (and I’ve long passed the baton, mind you) and not to the I/C. My guess is that they’ve tried, but it has all come back to them void. So, they’ve reverted to telling me.
And since this is my personal blog, I spare no qualms in telling you that I feel exactly like the ex Prime Minister of a certain country, who is probably regretting passing on the baton to his successor. I alternate between wanting to throw my hands up in the air, and giving the person concerned a piece of my mind.
Enough is enough!
d. Work Life
Let me begin this post by thanking God for S and P, my great bosses, colleagues and family in Christ, who have offered their ears, sane advice and helping hands in time of need.
There comes a point of time when you feel stagnant, un-needed and thoroughly unmotivated. Then, you start wondering if you should move. You get held back my emotions and uncertainty, and then your work performance suffers. You keep asking yourself why you’re in this place yadda yadda.
That was me.
If I did not have bosses who possess great faith in me, I would have joined the ranks of the ever increasing population of unemployed individuals as I type this. But I’m not. They understood my concerns, fears and struggles and were very gracious with me.
I was presented with an open door (an events company) and decided to pay the chaps to have a feel and learn more. I went with an open heart, and decided that this was pretty much a closed door for me. If I had to make a choice, I choose to grow this company with S and P, no matter which division I end up in. Enough said.
The road ahead is exciting and I can only look forward in anticipation. Then again, I feel God’s prompting for me to rise up- and fulfill His purpose in where He has placed me, and in contributing to our corporate vision of growing His Kingdom!
Other personal affairs; the final point.
e. Sporting activities
I’m missing climbing for some time (3 months actually) because of a long term injury that was awakened recently. Its pretty humbling not being able to walk as briskly as I used to without experiencing sharp pains in my leg, and I now am able to empathize with other individuals who get shooed out of the way by impatient folks like me. So much for rushing into getting back into action! I’ve actually caused more damage to my already busted leg. =(
I went back to the walls yesterday to return a loaned harness to a friend, and was sour having to walk away without giving a shot at the walls. It was a terrible feeling.
Randy and Desiree, if you’re reading this, I won’t be able to have fun defying gravity with you for some time. Let me heal and I’ll see yer there in three months max!
On the other hand, cycling and running don’t seem to invoke much pain and damage (as far as I’ve observed) so I shall be catching up on these activities in the interim.
f. Year end plans.
Leon’s musical performance is slated to take place on the 23rd Nov. A few days away from us turning older, and I hope I can be there to catch his performance.
My mom’s school performance is really round the corner, and while I’m a little stressed, I’m looking forward to making this an event a memorable one, and an opportunity to lay my hands on her new sound system! =)
December beckons, and so draws near my much anticipated trip to Melbourne. My cousin’s getting married and I’m looking forward to be part of this chapter of her life albeit in a different setting altogether. This should serve as the perfect wrap up for 2008, and a perfect time for my family to bond and catch up with old friends residing down under.
And so, wraps up another long post from noed resarf. Guten tag!
Friday, June 06, 2008
looking forward...
I've come to realise that there is so much to look forward to in the next few months. For one, my boss has shared with us his heartbeat for the next financial year, and the vision he has for us. His energy is infectious- I'm both grateful for, and motivated by his sharing.
The PA ministry is growing well, and I foresee more growth and developments coming our way. Praise God for all He has been doing for the ministry thus far, and all that He will be doing. I pray that He will continue to transform our lives even as we serve in worship.
There's always the church retreat to look forward to. God knows I don't really fancy ferry rides, but I am confident it will be a good time to relax and to recharge! I'm really looking forward to it..
And most importantly, there's this very special person I've been waiting and praying for. In the right time, may the Lord help me be bold! And, special folks have returned from overseas too and I'm so looking forward to catching up with them.
Moving forward requires changes. I realise that I haven't been the most dilligent or efficient worker at my workplace- far from what I can be. It remains my prayer that I may really honor Col 3:23 to bless the organisation and honor God with my work ethics.
I'd like to thank the brothers who have been sharing their lives with me. I've have had the joy of being able to share their concerns and journey with them through this period of time. Guys, keep in touch with God and lean on His wisdom and understanding. And to a special couple ACCA who have shared their concerns with me, I'll remember you in thoughts and prayers! For that special sister who just started work, know that the Lord is faithful and He creates and sustains with wisdom.
My divine petitions go out for you, and you, and you.
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
The climb of faith
On this note I'd like to share that I've taken up rock climbing just-for-the-fun-of-it. I'm nowhere near professional, and that will have to wait till later. It all started when I did PA for this nice chap's wedding, who subsequently invited me up the pirate's ship. Having done reasonably well for the first session, I was sold.
I guess that's less reason for me to whine about my lack of bulk and light weight. So that I can spend less effort hauling myself upwards? If that's the case, thank God for my relatively lanky frame, too.
Being up almost four to five metres is a pretty refreshing experience, till you realise all that's holding you is a rope, in the hands of a belayer (that's the person who holds your rope down there, and pulls in your rope slack as you advance upwards, then releases the rope bit by bit when you've reached the peak).
I never realised I could place my life in the complete hands of another stranger, (not that Jacob's one, but I havent known him long enough then) but that reminded me about my faith in the Lord, to be my solid Rock (what I hold on to on the feaure wall) and my dependable Belayer.
Over time, I've placed more trust in my belayers as I advance up more difficult walls. I took a couple of near falls when I slipped off the walls yesterday, but thanks to my trustable pals, I was not harmed other than my heart missing a beat or two.
Which convicts me of my lack of faith in God sometimes, which is very much a recurring issue and something I have to work on. Its not that easy to remember that God is ever there and ever dependable no matter what hits the fan.
As a novice belayer- it rocks to know that people are entrusting their lives on you. Someday, I hope to really be able to trust God with mine- without any doubts.
For the record, rock climbing is fun!
peace out,
fraser
Friday, May 30, 2008
it was supposed to be...
It was supposed to be a happy day today.
I remember how we celebrated our birthdays. We’d have lovely cakes, family gatherings, and a simple meal then.
I’d remember the excitement and the special attention we’d shower on one another to make each other feel special. I remember, with a smile, how I insisted on going to
Today is your birthday. I wonder how it must have been like to celebrate your birthday for the past eight years, without the usual faces and usual practices. Are you having fun?
I feel a tinge of regret, yet detect a faint trace of mockery in myself as I pen this entry. Are you happy where you are now? Did the second step of faith lift you up, only to send you tumbling down greater depths? Do you ever regret and reminisce, I wonder.
I don't feel good remembering your birthday and not doing anything about it.
Happy birthday Dad. God bless.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Bleeding.
Monday, March 31, 2008
i is puzzled.
Dearest all,
Before I forget, blessed birthday to wwxd! God bless loads =)
It just occured to me that I’ve been with DC Samuel for almost two years. That, to me, was almost an impossible feat. (With 6 months the maximum duration I’d stay for any job) All this has changed drastically since I joined this team. (上贼船了) For once, I’ve experienced the goody old feeling that sense of ownership and belonging to an organisation! Thank God for His provision and blessing in every area.
Additionally, my smokin’ HP desktop at home decided to transmit its parting note via the means of a burnt 1GB RAM module, and simulating a temple like environment in my room on Friday night with the smoke and smells. Thankfully, it has been given a new lease of life by Mr and Mrs Ng, who have kindly blessed me with replacement parts. Count my blessings indeed- this was something much unexpected and something I am really grateful for.
For those who may know- good for you- for your ears only. For those who don’t know, great- cos I’m praying about it (struggling would be a better word). It pains me cos I do miss her (much more today), and I’m trying to balance waiting on the Lord, and just doing what my gut feeling tells me. Ugh. I’m stuck between telling her how I really feel about her, and being sensitive to her feelings lest I distract her.
Thursday, March 06, 2008
revisitations of fraserlogy
I see tons of cobwebs, lizard droppings and dust in here. The air smells musty, its certainly time to open the windows and open up.
I'm here again cos so many things have happened recently and it'll be a good idea for me to be able to pen it down, digest it and see my life in better perspective. Perhaps I wont be so influenced by my own mindset after all..
For one I have been relatively busy. Work's getting challenging (not that it's a bad thing) and as you get older there are certain things you want to achieve- a stable career, maturity in thought and behavior, experiencing love, and growth in skill sets.
Yes, I am a typical adult who would like to experience all these. Not that these are on the top of my list right now, but certainly goals in my life somewhere, somehow. As I grow older I increasingly see the need to contribute to the family (support Mom and ensure that Leon grows up well) and to society ( in the work I produce, and in blessing the lives of others) and my self development (taking up new challenges, pursuing self development in terms of education and spiritual awareness)
Sounds like a mouthful eh? For one, I have decided to postpone my audio engineering studies on a final note. I'd be pursuing a course of study (mass communications and marketing communications perhaps) which is more relevant to my short term needs and instrumental in the development of my career. (this helps me to contribute to what is more important)
They say life begins at forty. Perhaps that will be the age my kids might be ten, and I'll tell them that I am taking a hiatus from work and spend three years doing something I really like, while making a living out of it.
For two, I feel that my heartstrings have been tugged. I do feel the urge to get to know a nice lady really well, invest in a relationship, and love each other till the end of time. Well, but that's just a feeling. Call it delayed puberty or what you may want.
The past few weeks have seen me so exhausted that I just wanna plonk down on bed or even sleep as early as 8pm on certain days. Tsk Tsk. People who call be a bundle of energy haven't really seen the times where I just want to do nothing but SLEEP =/. Every Monday is a challenge- especially when I am the nocturnal kind who can't sleep early. Heh.
And yes, finally, the church renovations have almost come to a completion, and with that comes the fun of assimilate into the new systems. I've been literally waking up at 6.30am on Sundays to make sure that I have my breakfast then go to church early (to assist the sound teams with the new systems, to answer questions, and what not)
God has certainly opened my eyes to many many things, steadfastness, wisdom, and maturity being the more significant lessons. I still grapple with situations when I feel misunderstood, more so when people can't "seem" to grasp my heartbeat. I'll let God deal with me with regard to this issue.
God has been gently prodding me to release forgiveness and total surrender in the areas of my family. So many things have happened of late ( with regard to my estranged father) and these have, on many occasions tested my limited wisdom, patience and grace to an immense level. God, help me with this.
Even as I'm praying for directions, God seems to be speaking to me clearly about certain things He wants fixed- my commitment to knowing and applying His Word, for one. While it's really going to be a challenge "dying to self and enthroning God in our lives", as quoted by SH and advocated by so many others, I will make the conscious effort to do so.
Mark my words, O God, and help me!
Till then.
just me,
Fraser