Sunday, August 19, 2007
the awakening of....
Praise to be God. There were no hiccups during the session at all! The program was astonishingly smooth, even on my end. This is despite the fact that I did not realise that they were into the actual program...until 30 minutes later. I drove stuff till red lamps were flashing, but things were sure really under control.
God seems to be really telling me something.
For once, I appreciate our church's 16 year old mixer. Cranky as it may be, I really do feel its a great piece of equipment that can be smooth sounding.
The greatest highlight of today was God's peace. Things went wrong for the 1st half of the day, but God helped me in remaining calm and collected all the way. I surprised even myself by packing up with a smile and yes, making new friends with ease.
If its of encouragement, it really makes a difference when you commit unto God your cares. But I have been outrageously guilty of not doing that.
This comes after my previous posts which reflected the mess I've gotten myself into. A close brother suggested that we'd feel all sorts being distant from our Maker. How true. I was in a complete mess that week.
Speaking of which, I'd really like to thank CUZ for having such a great heart and love for those around him. What a tangible representation of God. Firm and convicting, yet gentle enough to look beyond the surface and emphatise. Thank God for blessing me with you in my life.
And for the countless people who've stuck around, shown concern and administered God's love, I really appreciate you all! =)
To sum it all up, the pain, anger, hurt and bitterness remains. But I guess I now have the courage to stand strong, deal with them one at a time and move on because of God. Zai succintly sums it up when he remarked that as believers, we have the privilage of having a Divine being of whom we can pour our cares and sorrows unto.
'nuff said. my nose is screaming for tissue.
*winks*
Always,
noed resarf
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
:X
I realised how old I really am..after feeling so extremely exhausted after walking from the MRT station to office today. Then again, I do realise that I am not exactly in the pink of health, and I feel pretty good to have completed the walk under the hot sun.
So much for saving energy. I thought I'd go without my cranky airconditioner last nite and sleep. Alas, my blissful sleep was somehow interrupted by the need to switch on the aircon in the middle of the night as it was EXTREMELY muggy in my room.
It sure helped me enter sleep better but I was coughing non stop because of the dry air. So much for the need for cool and humid air. Thats despite the fact that its set to 25 degrees!
I have a cranky aircon that takes FOREVER to cool and freezes when it decides to (normally about 3AM in the morning). The sleep mode is useless as it switches the fan speed to low and I dont really get much air movement with that speed.
Oh well oh well. Its time to invert...I'm grappling with sleepiness, grouchiness and a very bad migraine.
Signing off...
Monday, August 13, 2007
angster
I'm writing this at the point when I'm on the verge of breaking down...again.
Why do all these happen? When I make a stand to offer my life to be used by You, something always happens. I'm tested to a point where I don't think I can stand it anymore. I hate myself for being fragile and shaky.
Indeed, the enemy knows what matters to me most. I've been tested in ways unimaginable. every statement is an accusation, every turn down a rejection. People seem to have offended me to a great deal lately.
At times I do wonder if all these "evils" are pulling me further away.
If you would Lord keep me from evil. I seriously doubt I can take it any longer..
When I almost cried myself to sleep last night and cried out to you in prayer, I heard you asking me if I would just trust You. The worrisome thing is that I could not even reply. Letting go has become so difficult. There is so much rage and anger in me...letting go has not become an option anymore.
My mom told me gently last evening that I had become too withdrawn, and that I should start spending time with family and others instead of always cooping up. Point is, I tried to share but to no avail. No one seems to want to listen.
Even God seems so far at times...an alien being in this huge universe, a remote being. Though a fraction of me tells me that I have every reason to run back to Him.
Why can I relate to the song Step Back so much? Indeed, I do feel the desire to quietly go away...and not live amidst all these anymore.
I dread returning to 11.30am, seeing that same face that really drives me up the wall, sends me off in a spasm to control myself from punching the wall. I dread going back cos it is so difficult to deal with.
Thanks Blogger for listening quietly. Its been a long time and hard time bottling up all these...and I'm glad that I was able to do it in a peaceful manner.
God, I do wonder what are your thoughts on this. Perhaps if You've read my blog..but then again I suppose You already know how I am feeling.
I hate myself for being so fragile.
Saturday, May 12, 2007
Words...
To a certain extent, I wish they would have been more sensitive and tried to put themselves into the shoes of the other party..
In any case, I do try to think of all the nice things that they've done for me, and its easier to release the neg feelings. In any case, its a timely reminder for myself to watch what I say to others, too.
Words can break.
P.S. Get good contractors to fix your air conditioners, don't be too critical when it comes to price. Service quality counts!
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
randomathic
So much has happened since what has last happened; and God's grace is amazingly evident throughout this period of time. I had many people voicing their concern about my previous posts. I thank you for your concern and I'd like to assure you that things have been very sorted out =) Like I told a close pal, I needed the space to indulge in some form of expression, and this blog has served its purpose hard and well.
I remember sitting in church one Sunday, with a million thoughts crossing my mind as my pastor preached on God's message. The call for us was to be effective tools and ministers of God in our marketplace (i.e. workplace). As such, we were going through a series of studies that would prepare us in our aim to be a worthy messenger.
As I was listening, I was reflecting and constantly asking myself how I could just do that. In a business world where most people would fall into the trap of underhand means just to secure deals and earn quick bucks, it seems a necessary evil to practice secular measures to ensure survival. I remember the days as a management student, where I read that the biggest objective of any business entity as "profit making". How then, could we strike a balance between ethical practices and practical measures?
Let me qualify. Im blessed to work with a group of God loving, God fearing people. I must say that this is not an uphill struggle as far as I am concerned. Still, I felt God's prompting for a change...
And so it was a pleasant surprise to have my towkay mention on a Monday morning about the introduction of devotional studies during work. In fact, he had called me on the very same Sunday after my service to hear from me. God works in amazing ways!
I often feel like Im living as a defeated believer. Of late, a simple dinner resulted in an accident that saw me losing my cool and blowing up at a stall owner. Apparently, the slow me had already finished two bowls of rice and my herbal soup. My mom, who had ordered way before me, was still waiting for her food.
No excuses, but this was why I was so mad...
1) My mom was extremely hungry
2) The stall owner was extremely rude in his dealings and at no occasion offered any apology.
So I blew and cursed them silly. Needless to say, I got a scolding from my mom as well. As I reflected, I realised that there was this strong sense of injustice and hatred in me. At times, I do feel that the feelings are so intense that I imagined myself doing the unthinkable.
So that is just me. I have a strong tendency against injustice and unfairness. It freaks me out to think that I could be capable of harboring such intense levels of hated and dislike for some.
Leon puts it rightly when he quotes :"If you hate someone, you have already committed murder in your heart."
I still think I need help....while I can still deal with such incidences in my life without going berserk. And then again its amazing how God has blessed me with so many people who have partnered me in my journey to become a better person.
And yes, the Chinese medicine I have been taking knocks me out on time and puts a full stop to my gastric pains for the time being. All the bitter medicine and the increase in the fold lines on my face is well worth it! Thanksssss SCKW =)
And no, my aircond is still NOT OK. Thats another incident that really challenged me, but Im thankful for the ability to stay calm and resolve the issue in an appropriate manner.
Adieu. Please do not work till you drop --> Read TNP yet?
Saturday, April 21, 2007
arigato
Its been a few hours since I last received the news and I am feeling peaceful already.
=x
Lightning does strike the same place twice.
I'm in a pretty messed up state right now, with yet another issue to grapple with. I just wonder if there's any end to it. God, is this your sign for me? Grant me your wisdom so that I may understand..
Right now, I will just accept the truth and be forward looking to see how I can address the issue. Right now, I can only be thankful for my colleagues who have really extended their tangible helping hand in times of this.
I need to be still and trust in Him..this is what I identify as a big stone that could cause me to stumble..
Perhaps things are going on like this for the sake of the "big picture"
God, if you will, please show and guide me along.
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Please Help Me
Although I am still far from "dragging" my feet to work...Lord, please please show me your will. Am I the misaligned one??
O God, wont you just say something or show me something so that your Will will be revealed to me...
I shall try to be still and know that You are God.
my weary soul.
This is my personal blog. I think it is time I have to come clean with certain things I have felt in my heart. Its pointless keeping a blog if I cant even be honest with myself.
Work hasnt been good for me. I noticed that I've slipped into what Econs describes as the LDMR...the law of diminishing marginal returns. If I had ever hit the peak of my performance, that is.
I've been really troubled by my less then ideal performance at work weekly. I shall make no attempt to hide the fact that I havent been efficient. Worse still, Im a non efficient workaholic...I stay late or work during the weekends, yet remain counterproductive. Things have not been going smooth, and I do feel that fingers are pointing in my direction.
Am I really such a bad employee where I am now?
Its hard for me to really answer this question myself. My only saving grace is a boss who still believes in me ( I guess), and God who feels the anguish in my heart even as I type this.
I joined the company to challenge myself and to hone my talents, and hidden talents. Yet, part of me secretly craves for a job that's not desk bound, not 9-6. Part of me wants to slip into my jeans and tees, (I feel really more confident in that), and part of me really wants to just run around and pursuing my passion. Never mind the sunburn, the aching arms, and the sweat.
Yet again, I am thankful where I am. I see this an given opportunity, and another part of me feels that I have much to give to this company, and look back seeing how much we have grown and beat the odds. I want my boss to know that he has made the right choice...in taking a gamble and proving him right.
Yet I feel so discouraged. A lonely soul on the L4, -. A soul who's feeling detached and losing touch with the good old folks...a soul who feels insignificant. Nothing. At times, I miss the times where we were.
I cant be a hypocrite and try to smile through the changes as if I don't give a damn about the progresses.
Am I in the right place? In an organisation where them others are well versed in the right ways, I do feel left out. I dont participate in such related affairs since I dont know much. I feel overburdened. I feel attacked at times.
Screw me.
Im so lost and discouraged right now that I wanna cry and just drop everything. Yet, a part of me struggles knowing that there is a bigger picture. But how long and how can I hold on?
Those who are meant to read this will read this.
I have nothing to be cheerful about.
Monday, April 09, 2007
Underproductive
It seems that I always have a problem doing proper work on Mondays...When will I ever learn how to sleep well on Sunday evenings so that I'd be efficient on Mondays?
I really had enough of this...Its frustrating that my brains wake up only in the evening and late night. If I stay up late to finish all my work, I'd probably wont have enough physical rest to report to work on time tomorrow..
And if I try to sleep by 11pm, my brain literally yells at me to be doing something else, to be waking up and refusing to let me sleep.
Looks like I've reached the end of the road now..I really need a fix for this. Wont you just help me, O Lord?
I want to well rested and productive in all I do. I want to kill that eyerings that now lie under my eyes. I dont want to behave like a zombie on the train I take to work...
I shall try anyway.
God help me!
Sunday, April 08, 2007
experience_sound
Visit it at http://experiencesound.blogspot.com/
For all you sound lovers out there, be sure to input your comments so that I can learn from you all as well! :)
08042007
As opposed to news articles of seemingly inconsiderate individuals who refuse to give up their seats to those who needed them more, it was a real sweet feeling to experience two incidents that was indeed heartwarming.
Two individuals gave up their seats to an elderly gentlemen and a physically challenged lady in the same journey. There was no hesitation- the smile and expression of gratitude of the elderly folks was akin to a megawatt bulb.
Why am I bringing this up? I think we had enough of concentrating on the unpleasant things around us. This incident has shown that there are still people who are selfless. Their attitudes are indeed laudable.
Blame me for being an optimist, but I do feel that it is only when you focus on the positive that you can be at peace with yourself.How can you ever be happy if your thoughts are filled with negative notions?
You cant be nice to anyone if your thoughts are always of the negative and hawkish nature.I choose to focus on the good things and remind myself that this world still has some credibility to it.
Geez, this is such perfect irony for a self professed worrier like myself.
I had a whale of a time catching up with my boss on a lovely Saturday noon. We met for lunch and shopping thereafter (for the office, please). It amazes and inspires me how much my effort my boss invests in the development of those working with him (me included). We had a great time chatting about the exciting plans ahead, and wiring up the office. The place looks real sweet now.
I wonder how God saw it fit that I deserve such divine love, that manifests itself through my job, those I work with, and my lovely bunch of friends, and my family. Indeed I am blessed!
Now thats what the Bible means when it says : "Count your Blessings!"
Thursday, April 05, 2007
A good day
For some unexplained reason, I do feel happy today despite the crazy sunshine, besides the fact that my good old gastric friend has decided to come back to me. I guess it must be the joy of the Lord that's working in me!
For the first time in my life, I chipped in for the family expenses. It isnt a big amount, but I do feel that its a good habit to start with. But on the other hand, it just means that I'd probably be turning more of the aircon these days. Heh.
I just had a chat with Sir Fergurson recently about some hifi stuff. He then asked me to consider starting a hifi blog. I was a little taken aback then, as it wasnt the first time that someone asked me to consider starting a blog of that nature.
Well, given my limited knowledge of such stuff, I do hope that the blog will serve as a venue for people to exchange ideas and knowledge. No, I do not have a fantastic sounding system yet!
Here it is. experiencesound.blogspot.com. But hang on first, there are no posts up for the time being. As time comes, I hope to move on from a blog to a forum.
Sir Ferguson, you've certainly rekindled that old love once more. Pal, do yourself a favor and pick up this month's copy of What Hifi!
On another hand, Good Friday is nearing the corner, and I wish all of my readers a blessed Good Friday..may the Love of God touch your heart.
Monday, April 02, 2007
2nd April 2007
Well, then again, maybe not.
Three amazing months have passed. In case you're wondering, my light is finally up and in good working order..no more mini explosions in my room. Its better having a light that lights up the room. Just enough light for my feet to walk on, I guess.
Speaking of which, I am tempted to draw a biblical line between the room light and God's light in my life. Just as I stumbled and tripped over furniture, or even felt awkward without the presence of light, the past few months have shown me how more important it is to be living in the Light of God.
Of late, I've been blessed with many helpful souls in the office. That said, we've finally expanded (all glory be to God) and I am truly blessed to be with a company (noticed I said with, not working for) that is truly full of talented people, many of which are superstars in their own right. I am glad to have been able to work with each and every one of them, and to have learnt more abt myself.
Shan is brimming with energy. Its amazing how she can upkeep the lively atmosphere, and that chases the bad blues away. Qixiang is a talent in the making, and an absolutely great pal to yak with. Weizheng is a focused and determined lady, and Im glad that she remains positive in spite of what happened. Joane is frank, yet displays the attitude to learn and never fails to lend a helping hand.
God certainly has, on several occasions, taught me how important it is for me to lean on His strength and providence for my daily life. The perpetually non-stop me overworked on my own confines and yeah..suffered quite a bad burn out lately. I literally cried unto Him, and His mercy and grace was evident.
Even as I was sharing my testimony yesterday, I could see how beautifully God has made things. I was late, but early enough to get some stuff that the PA team needed. I was late,but the item came just as it was needed.I was late, but I waltzed in minutes before my 5 minutes of air time.
Then of course, I totally ditched my script and spoke from my heart. Who needs a script when its the truth you are telling? I felt truly blessed as I looked out at the sea of people seated before me. The countenance on their faces told me that I was making sense.
To God be the glory! I've seen how much my life has been transformed.
Of which, Im intending to start a hifi blog. I dont know alot, but then again, thats what learning is for, isnt it?
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
t i r e d
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
undecidedly weary.


Yet another toy to my collection, courtesy of Shang. Some of you might have heard that I really want to own a Bose system and drive a Benz :) Well, part of the equation is complete, although I am still persuading the Bose system to emerge out of hibernation mode .
48 hours after Christmas, I must say that I'm still really tired out from having spent over 30 hrs in church over Saturday, Sunday and Monday setting up for, rehearsing, and mixing for the entire Christmas project for my church.
I dare say I've carried more stuff in all my ministry years put together in three days. A team of four from the sound team laid cables, placed the speakers in place, and were literally on their toes the entire day to make sure that the event ran well. Oh well, the joys of serving in this ministry indeed.
Nonetheless, I was glad that the opportunity really opened my eyes. Its wonderful to see how we, from different giftings and walks of life, have come together to present our best for the Lord. I was glad to have worked with ZhiZhen, Chai Heng, Esther, Han Wei and Jeffrey, who, in my opinion, are indeed promising musical talents!Man...I wished I could be like them at times.
And there were so many others from the Chinese congregation, like George and Joseph, who I'd never have the chance to know if I was not involved.
On another hand, I got to play with Bose speakers and a Mackie mixer. Its opened my world up and I'm glad to be able to lay my hands on such stuff!
As usual, I received my fair share of trials, criticism and frustrations while serving for this event. I guess its give and take. Working with others allowed me to have a clearer idea of their expectations and working styles, and it has certainly helped me in deciding if we should work together in the future. Hush on that.
It gets to me at times indeed. I kind of made a resolution that I would not serve in the PA ministry for any of the big events for the next year. I just felt a need for me to step back and find time to sit with my cell members, with the members of the congregation, and not get overly involved. But like what thend and earthdust and stardust II says, I often fail to listen to my own advice.
Oh well. Physician, heal thyself?
Having a chat with Armstrong last night was really an encouragement. James delivered a very powerful rendition of the song "I'm amazed" for two shows in a row, and I must say that I am indeed amazed by how God uses each and every one of us in ways we never thought possible. In my moments of despair and weariness, God sent this brother to minister to me and I am indeed thankful.
I'm also thankful to my usual gang for tirelessly administering God's love and grace, as well as lending a good ear when I really felt like shooting some people straight on their feet.
Indeed God is amazing. The reality and majesty of God just wants to make me contemplate my life, to continually check my heart, and motives. What would I want Him to say, and think of me, when I eventually stand in front of Him?
To me, that is the questions that I will live with.
As 2006 draws to an end, may 2007 be a year full of purpose and development for each and every one of us.
Blessed Christmas and new year!
Thursday, December 21, 2006
the passing of 2006.
It’s a couple of days before Christmas… I don’t feel the Christmas mood. I don’t revel in shopping. Not really. I don’t hang up stockings all over my place and expect Santa to come fill em up. I dont.
I woke up this morning with a backache. I was trying to wonder what I did that could have caused the backache. and I remembered. I was doing a hand wash for my new shirt.
And that causes me a backache? I think I should question the first two digits of my IC number.
This year has been extremely trying in all sorts of ways. Work. Relationships. Plans for the future, and even my spiritual life. As mentioned, 2006 was indeed a rough year. I can almost say that my faith was really tested this year.
2006 was also a year of soul searching, a time of questioning myself and my motives, and what I wanted to do. Wait, is it what I want to do, or what I want to do for the Lord? To be frank, I really wanted to leave the PA and VOX ministry because I felt that at certain times, that my heart was not in the right place.
Of late, I’ve been pretty burdened with the topic of passion. I will not discount the fact that gifts and talents are given from God. What is questionable is how you manage your passion. Does it end up equating to a “me only” equation?
My worry is that our passion serves to fulfil our own interests, and that it becomes our little focal of worship and adoration.
Talking to L made me see how some of us in the same faith could be so damaging. I was pretty upset to learn of what L had gone through and experienced. It is indeed the last thing I would be expected to be asked given my situation. And yet, I was reminded of what good old Tim always advocated: good relationships amongst each of us.
L, if you're reading this, I hope it touches your heart and remember always that God is with you and will continue to hold you in His loving hands. As per your confession, His love for you knows no measure!
I seriously hope that I have been a good friend and brother to all I know. I hope I won’t end up being hypocritical, rigid and superficial, and worse still, having the wrong focus behind my intent.
Nevertheless, I’m thankful for all the mercy that God has shown in my most undeserving moments, and for the encouragement that I received and is still receiving when things were really too much for me to bear and I really considered bowing out for good. Love ya all.
Christmas means a lot to me this year. I received the ultimate gift of all, beyond the oohs and ahhs of my childhood days. I experienced a love so immeasurable and unconditional, of whom I had the privilege to befriend and count on. I received the gift of Christ.
Will you receive?
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
....
Thanks M for spending so much time with me today and for having explained in detail the fundamentals of insurance policy. And I do realise the need to really start saving. As in REALLY SAVE. Do I want to end up being dependent in my later years? I hope not. At least I pray that I will still be able to stand on my own (yes without crutches and walking sticks, please) as well as financially.
Now that I've have had a clearer idea of how much I can potentially save per month, I'm really gonna take a hard look at what I have been spending on and cut down on what is unnecessary. On top of my mom, I'll have another "big brother" to watch out for me and keep me in check. Geez!
As my career (and pay ) grows, I'd want to take a look at my finances, and save, or give more. Tithing is one area I certainly need to look at. It's been a long time since I decently gave to the Lord and I'm thankful that He has been merciful and understanding thus far. Lord, help me to be a cheerful giver!
Work's been really exciting. Boss's very much excited and unveiling new and interesting plans. It's my confirmation soon, and while I am excited to be finally officially part of this family, I really pray for the Lord's blessing and directions to enable and empower me to be an asset to the company, yet still be a good son, brother, friend and...be able to spend quality time with those around me.
Sometimes I fear that I may not be good enough. Nonetheless, God has blessed me with a great boss and even wonderful colleagues who I can work with. Its amazing how comfortable I feel working with them now, considering the fact that this is my first job in this line. Well indeed, its all in His hands and all in his time.
Phil 2:13 says that it is God who works in us to will and act according to His good purposes. May that be fulfilled in me!
P.S : And for those of you who want to know more about insurance and financial planning, I'd be more than glad to refer you to this great guy I know. :)
Cheers.
noed resarf
Sunday, November 26, 2006
Are we unkind people?
Then I wondered why the queue was rather stagnant, and I saw this old gentlemen in the queue being extremely picky about the size of the chicken he was having; and even simple things like chilli packets etc etc.
Another counter was opened by another fresh faced teen, and she was, too, having this middle aged lady in the queue, who for some reason, refused to show her the staff pass when she needed to look at it one more time for verification purposes.
I mean, what is wrong with these people? Was there a need to be so picky and uncooperative? It disgusts me to think that there are such people around. We certainly need more graciousness towards one another.
I just find it repulsive when I hear service providers shrug their shoulders in resignation and say " What to do? The customer is always right". It just irks me. Why cant it be a little more beautiful? We pay for the service, but do remember that it is a fellow human who is providing the service, for Heaven's sake.
Still, I find it impressive that as young teens, Terence and Melissa managed to keep their cool and were friendly in the face of such people and remained professional. They even apologised although I am certain it was no fault of theirs. Mind you, this is KFC, not any hotel or boutique.I'd rate them ten out of ten for customer service.
Be realistic. Get real!
I wonder if this is God's revelation for me, to see my "blind spots". I must admit I'm not the patient sort, many have gotten a piece of me when they step on my tail. It certainly is a good scene to reflect upon. And I'm reminded as light and salt of the world, it is our responsibility to be ambassadors of Christ. I pray that God will allow me the opportunity to do so.
Be in the world, but not of it.