Friday, 26 February 2010
Sunday, 21 February 2010
Guard Your Hearts
There is a light shining through in my terms with darkness, and these two verses reflects exactly why the light shines through:
There is this man whom I was attracted to for the past few months, whom I was waiting for to return, and there are these friends who advised me to let him know that I was waiting for a certain period of time. I wasn't sure of this urging from them, but after praying and asked for His guidance, I decided to let him know I'm indeed waiting for him because of how I've been attracted to him. It wouldn't hurt to take that risk, because either way, I would lose him, since I had made it clear to myself I would stop waiting if he doesn't come back on the particular date I have set for myself. I'd rather be in knowing position than not knowing.
And in his responsible, clear and honouring manner, he responded to my "information" via our only channel of communication. In a very respectful manner, I was told the feelings are not mutual. For once, I'm not embarrassed nor ashamed to share with you who read my blog about this, because this is a part of me whom you have to know. I am saddened by this loss of hope in forming a lasting relationship with him, but my heart is guarded and there was no anger nor disappointment against this brother in Christ. He, too, has guarded my heart in our friendship with each other.
What more, I have to thank God for allowing me this opportunity to experience such a friendship with a man who respects me as an individual, honours me as a lady and loves me as a sister. I can be certain and assured of this. And it is very responsible for him to let me know and stated very clearly his decision without leaving any empty space in between.
How many men would leave some empty spaces so that if any other relationship they have with other women doesn't work out, they would still have a "spare tyre" who may be waiting for them? Definitely more than this rare case of godly man.
Though I'm sad because I've been rejected, but I feel thankful that I finally met a responsible man who rejects my feelings of admiration for him in a way which honours and respects me. And our friendship still stands valid. God is our Witness in Heaven for sure. I trust that God knows what I need best and not what I desire most. If my desires match His designated plan for me, they will be granted. If it is not good for me, I know He will protect me from all harms and dangers. That is my God. By His grace, I will be healed. I shall take my time to mourn over my loss. It is important that I do, because this knowledge is also a liberation for me. Thank You, Lord God.
"Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."
~ Philippians 4: 6-7 ~
~ Philippians 4: 6-7 ~
There is this man whom I was attracted to for the past few months, whom I was waiting for to return, and there are these friends who advised me to let him know that I was waiting for a certain period of time. I wasn't sure of this urging from them, but after praying and asked for His guidance, I decided to let him know I'm indeed waiting for him because of how I've been attracted to him. It wouldn't hurt to take that risk, because either way, I would lose him, since I had made it clear to myself I would stop waiting if he doesn't come back on the particular date I have set for myself. I'd rather be in knowing position than not knowing.
And in his responsible, clear and honouring manner, he responded to my "information" via our only channel of communication. In a very respectful manner, I was told the feelings are not mutual. For once, I'm not embarrassed nor ashamed to share with you who read my blog about this, because this is a part of me whom you have to know. I am saddened by this loss of hope in forming a lasting relationship with him, but my heart is guarded and there was no anger nor disappointment against this brother in Christ. He, too, has guarded my heart in our friendship with each other.
What more, I have to thank God for allowing me this opportunity to experience such a friendship with a man who respects me as an individual, honours me as a lady and loves me as a sister. I can be certain and assured of this. And it is very responsible for him to let me know and stated very clearly his decision without leaving any empty space in between.
How many men would leave some empty spaces so that if any other relationship they have with other women doesn't work out, they would still have a "spare tyre" who may be waiting for them? Definitely more than this rare case of godly man.
Though I'm sad because I've been rejected, but I feel thankful that I finally met a responsible man who rejects my feelings of admiration for him in a way which honours and respects me. And our friendship still stands valid. God is our Witness in Heaven for sure. I trust that God knows what I need best and not what I desire most. If my desires match His designated plan for me, they will be granted. If it is not good for me, I know He will protect me from all harms and dangers. That is my God. By His grace, I will be healed. I shall take my time to mourn over my loss. It is important that I do, because this knowledge is also a liberation for me. Thank You, Lord God.
Friday, 19 February 2010
When Things Are Difficult...
What do you do when things become difficult?
I'm no saint, it is obvious. And I'm human, even more obvious. Definitely I'm not a bot which operates the laptop and starts writing long entry for blogs. Hence, I have emotions and sometimes, uncontrollable, because of the events occurring in my life. So what can I do about it?
I have choices. I can choose to sweep it under carpet (which many people do) and pretend I'm alright all the time. Or I can choose to display it and scare people off. Or I can keep to myself and simmer it like a pot of stew. I can also choose to get away from situations and keep to myself and safe people around me. Or I can choose to tell it out to safe friend and get healed with their support.
Some people choose to pretend they are alright when they are not. This is the way of the world, telling others they are alright when things are messed up in their own lives. By living a life of plasticity, maybe others will think they are fine and well off in whatever they are doing. However, when deep inside is badly messed up, one is not whole, nor complete.
Will you fast according to the Law or will you do what is according to God? Will you choose the way of God instead of the way of the world? Again and again, books and articles often quote Romans 12:2 "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of yours minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God -- what is good and acceptable and perfect." This is a reminder from Apostle Paul about the difference between God's way and the way of the world. Which one will eventually be our choice? God gave us freewill to choose. Are we going to choose wisely?
Today's reading from Isaiah struck me at these verses:
I have to admit, I'm no saint. Last night I had a terrible time on the phone with my mom. Not verbally, but inside my heart, I died of multiple hurts and abandonment. There was anger, and I never wanted to talk about it. This reading struck me like lightning rod. I called her back today. Told a white lie, but she feels good. I died, but He will raise me up. What I'm left is the hope I place in Him, because He knows best all that I'm going through. Yes, I'm no saint. But I know God calls me to be holy as how He is holy (cf. 1 Peter 1:16).
So whoever you are, judge not and you will not be judged.
I'm no saint, it is obvious. And I'm human, even more obvious. Definitely I'm not a bot which operates the laptop and starts writing long entry for blogs. Hence, I have emotions and sometimes, uncontrollable, because of the events occurring in my life. So what can I do about it?
I have choices. I can choose to sweep it under carpet (which many people do) and pretend I'm alright all the time. Or I can choose to display it and scare people off. Or I can keep to myself and simmer it like a pot of stew. I can also choose to get away from situations and keep to myself and safe people around me. Or I can choose to tell it out to safe friend and get healed with their support.
Some people choose to pretend they are alright when they are not. This is the way of the world, telling others they are alright when things are messed up in their own lives. By living a life of plasticity, maybe others will think they are fine and well off in whatever they are doing. However, when deep inside is badly messed up, one is not whole, nor complete.
Will you fast according to the Law or will you do what is according to God? Will you choose the way of God instead of the way of the world? Again and again, books and articles often quote Romans 12:2 "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of yours minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God -- what is good and acceptable and perfect." This is a reminder from Apostle Paul about the difference between God's way and the way of the world. Which one will eventually be our choice? God gave us freewill to choose. Are we going to choose wisely?
Today's reading from Isaiah struck me at these verses:
"Is not this the sort of fast that pleases me: to break unjust fetters, to undo the thongs of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break all yokes? Is it not sharing your food with the hungry, and sheltering the homeless poor; if you see someone lacking clothes, to clothe him, and not turn away from your own kin? Then your light will blaze out like the dawn and your wound be quickly healed over."
~ Isaiah 58:6-8 ~
~ Isaiah 58:6-8 ~
I have to admit, I'm no saint. Last night I had a terrible time on the phone with my mom. Not verbally, but inside my heart, I died of multiple hurts and abandonment. There was anger, and I never wanted to talk about it. This reading struck me like lightning rod. I called her back today. Told a white lie, but she feels good. I died, but He will raise me up. What I'm left is the hope I place in Him, because He knows best all that I'm going through. Yes, I'm no saint. But I know God calls me to be holy as how He is holy (cf. 1 Peter 1:16).
So whoever you are, judge not and you will not be judged.
Thursday, 18 February 2010
Boyfriends on Sales in Shopping Mall
In conjunction with the recent Valentine's Day and my conversation with a friend on FB, hence the post.
Many people may think that I'm attached to some guy out there, and even if I tried to explain in lengthy details that I am NOT attached but AM very single, nobody ever really believed me. Perhaps that explains why no man ever approaches me romantically for fear for hearing, "Sorry, I'm not interested." or "Sorry, I have a boyfriend." from me. This is funny, but it is true that males do have issues with the word "NO" most of the times. However, I also have to admit that females also have the similar issue with the word "NO".
Back to my topic of the day. My friend was telling me to go and find a boyfriend, which leads me to think and review my life as a single, working young adult. Throughout my teenage years and these few years working, of course I have met some interesting male characters who stayed in my life for a while as a faithful male companion, and I did take interest in them at that time. However, somehow, it didn't work out. The recent male companion decided to go abroad rather suddenly, and now I'm in the mode of waiting until the end of March.
Many people think it is important to have a relationship and then move on to marriage, etc. Well, I think so, too, no matter how strong from outside I look like. However, another thing which I love and find it important at this moment, is to be really single and embrace singlehood properly before being in a relationship. This is probably my weakest link at the moment, but I am learning to embrace singlehood and enjoying every moment of being single.
As for being available for relationship, I have to admit sincerely that I would like to be truly available, but I'm not exactly there yet. But if the right man comes and approaches me, I trust that the Holy Spirit will stir me from within and a sense of peace and security will come unto us to trust each other and to want to know each other deeper and better.
As for now, I truly believe that I have to be complete in Christ Jesus. I desire to be complete in Him and I pray my future spouse will also be a man after God's own heart who is also complete in Christ. When there is a secure relationship independently with God, two persons will be drawn nearer to each other. That's the concept. And I believe that the "he" who really is interested in me will approach me when it is the right time.
As for the boyfriends on sale in shopping mall theory, I guess I don't quite get it. I trust that boyfriend/spouse is a gift from God and I have to know the Giver properly and completely before I can enjoy the gift without turning my back against the Giver. Like what struck me in today's first reading:
It is important that we know our God and set our hearts on this God who loves us so much that He sent His only Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, to save us by death on the cross. If we are not cautious about this and we don't take heed from the Word of God, we will end up worshiping the very gifts that God gives to us in order to fulfill His plan in our lives. Then the good plan will take a longer time to be fulfilled and our lives may probably have more disastrous issues than we want. So we must always remember God in all that we do, and put Him first in our hearts. One of my favourite verses is:
Yet, we must also remember that God, in His mercy and by His grace, knows what we need most and will give us what we desire and is good for us, but not what we desire which is bad for us. He definitely will be in terror if we ask for a person whom He knows will be abusive to us in future. Or we ask for a car which He knows will eventually cause a terrible accident and maim us for life. No father on earth would do that, so our Father in heaven will even more not do that. Therefore, we must first learn to find delight in Him first and allow Him to take His time to give us what's the "bestest" for us!
So, come what may!
Many people may think that I'm attached to some guy out there, and even if I tried to explain in lengthy details that I am NOT attached but AM very single, nobody ever really believed me. Perhaps that explains why no man ever approaches me romantically for fear for hearing, "Sorry, I'm not interested." or "Sorry, I have a boyfriend." from me. This is funny, but it is true that males do have issues with the word "NO" most of the times. However, I also have to admit that females also have the similar issue with the word "NO".
Back to my topic of the day. My friend was telling me to go and find a boyfriend, which leads me to think and review my life as a single, working young adult. Throughout my teenage years and these few years working, of course I have met some interesting male characters who stayed in my life for a while as a faithful male companion, and I did take interest in them at that time. However, somehow, it didn't work out. The recent male companion decided to go abroad rather suddenly, and now I'm in the mode of waiting until the end of March.
Many people think it is important to have a relationship and then move on to marriage, etc. Well, I think so, too, no matter how strong from outside I look like. However, another thing which I love and find it important at this moment, is to be really single and embrace singlehood properly before being in a relationship. This is probably my weakest link at the moment, but I am learning to embrace singlehood and enjoying every moment of being single.
As for being available for relationship, I have to admit sincerely that I would like to be truly available, but I'm not exactly there yet. But if the right man comes and approaches me, I trust that the Holy Spirit will stir me from within and a sense of peace and security will come unto us to trust each other and to want to know each other deeper and better.
As for now, I truly believe that I have to be complete in Christ Jesus. I desire to be complete in Him and I pray my future spouse will also be a man after God's own heart who is also complete in Christ. When there is a secure relationship independently with God, two persons will be drawn nearer to each other. That's the concept. And I believe that the "he" who really is interested in me will approach me when it is the right time.
As for the boyfriends on sale in shopping mall theory, I guess I don't quite get it. I trust that boyfriend/spouse is a gift from God and I have to know the Giver properly and completely before I can enjoy the gift without turning my back against the Giver. Like what struck me in today's first reading:
"But if your heart turns away, if you refuse to listen, if you let yourself be drawn into worshiping other gods and serving them, I tell you today, you will most certainly perish; you will not live for long in the country which you are crossing the Jordan to enter and possess."
~ Deuteronomy 30:17-18 ~
~ Deuteronomy 30:17-18 ~
It is important that we know our God and set our hearts on this God who loves us so much that He sent His only Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, to save us by death on the cross. If we are not cautious about this and we don't take heed from the Word of God, we will end up worshiping the very gifts that God gives to us in order to fulfill His plan in our lives. Then the good plan will take a longer time to be fulfilled and our lives may probably have more disastrous issues than we want. So we must always remember God in all that we do, and put Him first in our hearts. One of my favourite verses is:
"Take delight in the Lord alone, and He will give the desires of your heart."
~ Psalm 37:4 ~
~ Psalm 37:4 ~
Yet, we must also remember that God, in His mercy and by His grace, knows what we need most and will give us what we desire and is good for us, but not what we desire which is bad for us. He definitely will be in terror if we ask for a person whom He knows will be abusive to us in future. Or we ask for a car which He knows will eventually cause a terrible accident and maim us for life. No father on earth would do that, so our Father in heaven will even more not do that. Therefore, we must first learn to find delight in Him first and allow Him to take His time to give us what's the "bestest" for us!
So, come what may!
Wednesday, 17 February 2010
Model Christian
Any idea what a model Christian is like? Recently a concerned individual reminded me that the eyes of all my colleagues are on me because I've been appointed as the Religious Knowledge Coordinator of my school, hence I'm expected to be a "model Christian teacher".
Who am I to have such an honour that all my colleagues must have their eyes on the way I behave myself in front of these people? And all these whiles, I thought that everybody who is a Christian (doesn't matter Catholics, Orthodox, Evangelical Protestants, Adventists, etc.) has the same role to play -- to be a role model to the world base on the Christian values which we are supposed to live out. So what exactly was the intention of this concerned individual to remind me of these eyes who have been staring at me since the first day I received my new job description?
Today is Ash Wednesday, the start of Lenten season. The first day of the 46 days before Easter. A day of fasting and abstinence from meat. The gospel reading today (Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18) in fact answers my question of the "model Christian" issue which had been bothering me for a few days. St. Matthew in his gospel spoke about how we should behave when we give alms, pray and fast. And all was summarized here:
It is a call to learn meekness and humility from Jesus through His life on earth. It is a call to spend time with God. And God sees all our actions and thoughts, whether we like it or not. Yet, with His love, all our flaws are forgiven. In fact, He sometimes uses our flaws as His tool to shine His light to the people around us. Let God use us to the fullest in this season of Lent.
As for me, yes, I will work on being a model Christian, and live my life for Christ's sake, but I'd also invite everyone else who profess he/she is a Christian to do the same, instead of criticising how another Christian should live his/her life. Like what Jesus said, "Let anyone among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her." (cf. John 8:7)
Who am I to have such an honour that all my colleagues must have their eyes on the way I behave myself in front of these people? And all these whiles, I thought that everybody who is a Christian (doesn't matter Catholics, Orthodox, Evangelical Protestants, Adventists, etc.) has the same role to play -- to be a role model to the world base on the Christian values which we are supposed to live out. So what exactly was the intention of this concerned individual to remind me of these eyes who have been staring at me since the first day I received my new job description?
Today is Ash Wednesday, the start of Lenten season. The first day of the 46 days before Easter. A day of fasting and abstinence from meat. The gospel reading today (Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18) in fact answers my question of the "model Christian" issue which had been bothering me for a few days. St. Matthew in his gospel spoke about how we should behave when we give alms, pray and fast. And all was summarized here:
"Be careful not to parade your uprightness in public to attract attention; otherwise you will lose all reward from your Father in heaven."
~ Matthew 6:1 ~
~ Matthew 6:1 ~
It is a call to learn meekness and humility from Jesus through His life on earth. It is a call to spend time with God. And God sees all our actions and thoughts, whether we like it or not. Yet, with His love, all our flaws are forgiven. In fact, He sometimes uses our flaws as His tool to shine His light to the people around us. Let God use us to the fullest in this season of Lent.
As for me, yes, I will work on being a model Christian, and live my life for Christ's sake, but I'd also invite everyone else who profess he/she is a Christian to do the same, instead of criticising how another Christian should live his/her life. Like what Jesus said, "Let anyone among you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her." (cf. John 8:7)
Tuesday, 16 February 2010
Perseverance Unlimited
Tomorrow is Ash Wednesday. What is YOUR plan for tomorrow?
What I know it is a day of fasting and abstinence from meat. A day of obligation. The start of Lenten season. Some people do 40-day fast in this season of preparation for Easter. What about YOU?
As for ME, I do plan to only have one full meal a day. Will it be heavy lunch but no dinner? Or should it be heavy breakfast, no lunch and moderate/light dinner? Perhaps the latter. I still have a day to consider my fasting/abstinence plan. Maybe I should follow my puppies' diet of rice and fish only. They seem happy eating that day-in day-out. I know that the road to happiness is to be contented with what we have. Enough is good and sufficient is grace from God.
Planning is great, as always. But will I be persevering in this 40-day plan of fasting/abstinence? How many times we plan great things, with full of desire and passion, but end up limping because of lack of perseverance? Today when I opened my copy of The Light (daily readings), it struck me that the Church is preparing God's people for the season of Lent which will start tomorrow.
Indeed, it is also written some down the chapter that,
During Lenten season, we're still living our normal lives. The difference is this season is with the knowledge that we must remember the road that Jesus took in order to redeem us from our sins; in order to save us, He died the scandalous death. Are we going to just sit here and do nothing about it? Or instead, are we going to wait for His resurrection at Easter by dying daily to our sins and carry our daily crosses, yet remain joyful with trials and cling onto the Rock when tempted to go astray? We can be easily tempted because of our own desire. Sometimes, passion and desire can blind us.
James wrote that "by His own choice He gave birth to us by the message of truth so that we should be a sort of first-fruits of all His creations" (James 1:18) as the end of today's reading. God has given us, by His choice, His message of truth. As we are all children of the Father of all light, we receive His truth and hence should be the salt of the earth, light of the world (cf. Matthew 5:13, 14).
You can decide how you want to lead your life. Pray more? Pray less? Your decision.
May the grace and love of God be with you all on the 3rd day of CNY. May perseverance in prayers be your strength when in darkness and may the light of Jesus be the direction of your lives.
God bless!
What I know it is a day of fasting and abstinence from meat. A day of obligation. The start of Lenten season. Some people do 40-day fast in this season of preparation for Easter. What about YOU?
As for ME, I do plan to only have one full meal a day. Will it be heavy lunch but no dinner? Or should it be heavy breakfast, no lunch and moderate/light dinner? Perhaps the latter. I still have a day to consider my fasting/abstinence plan. Maybe I should follow my puppies' diet of rice and fish only. They seem happy eating that day-in day-out. I know that the road to happiness is to be contented with what we have. Enough is good and sufficient is grace from God.
Planning is great, as always. But will I be persevering in this 40-day plan of fasting/abstinence? How many times we plan great things, with full of desire and passion, but end up limping because of lack of perseverance? Today when I opened my copy of The Light (daily readings), it struck me that the Church is preparing God's people for the season of Lent which will start tomorrow.
"Blessed is anyone who perseveres when trials come. Such a person is of proven worth and will win the prize of life, the crown that the Lord has promised to those who love him."
~ James 1:12 ~
~ James 1:12 ~
Indeed, it is also written some down the chapter that,
"Everyone is put to the test by being attracted and seduced by that person's own wrong desire."
~ James 1:14 ~
~ James 1:14 ~
During Lenten season, we're still living our normal lives. The difference is this season is with the knowledge that we must remember the road that Jesus took in order to redeem us from our sins; in order to save us, He died the scandalous death. Are we going to just sit here and do nothing about it? Or instead, are we going to wait for His resurrection at Easter by dying daily to our sins and carry our daily crosses, yet remain joyful with trials and cling onto the Rock when tempted to go astray? We can be easily tempted because of our own desire. Sometimes, passion and desire can blind us.
James wrote that "by His own choice He gave birth to us by the message of truth so that we should be a sort of first-fruits of all His creations" (James 1:18) as the end of today's reading. God has given us, by His choice, His message of truth. As we are all children of the Father of all light, we receive His truth and hence should be the salt of the earth, light of the world (cf. Matthew 5:13, 14).
You can decide how you want to lead your life. Pray more? Pray less? Your decision.
May the grace and love of God be with you all on the 3rd day of CNY. May perseverance in prayers be your strength when in darkness and may the light of Jesus be the direction of your lives.
God bless!
Monday, 15 February 2010
How Does It Feel?
As I was browsing FB photos and reading blog updates (I do have a few blogs which I check regularly), I started wondering how an individual dating someone public would feel. "Someone public" includes celebrity (locally/internationally known), pastor/church leader, politician... (the list can be rather endless, anyway, so I shall end it before I get too long-winded!)
Just some questions that popped into my mind...
So what say you?
Just some questions that popped into my mind...
- Will it be easy to always have the relationship be in the limelight of the public?
- Will it be easy to see the boy/girlfriend always working alongside with the opposite gender?
- Will it be easy to have a committed relationship where most of the time the public one has no time for the other?
- Will there be doubts on the social circle of the opposite gender?
- Will the partner be ever secure of the commitment level of the public one?
- Will it be awkward being stared at when they go out on a date in public place?
- Will they actually have time to date?
So what say you?
Sorry
According to The Free Dictionary, the word "sorry" has THREE meanings:
But in Malaysia, you probably will find the FOURTH meaning.
Now let me tell you an encounter I had this evening which describes this particular definition of the word "sorry".
Location: W Store in 1Borneo, Workers A & B of W store and me.
Me: Excuse me, do you have any more stock of this (referring to Colgate toothpaste which has special discount, buy 2 twin packs for RM16, and there is only one twin pack left on the display shelf)?
Worker A: Umm... It's out of stock (after worker B checked out the store).
Me: It's alright then.
Disappointed, I decided to pick up my usual Fresh 'n' White toothpaste which can last me long enough until I go to Servay to pick up my twin packs (I'm an economist when it comes to buying toiletries).
While waiting to pay at the counter, Worker D decided to pay for her purchase (the exact same twin pack which I was looking for). Very loudly, here's what I could hear while standing behind her.
Worker D: Sorry ler, sorry ler. Apa boleh buat? Lambat. (Translate to: What to do? Late.)
Worker A: Dia tedi sedang cari tu (refering to the twin packs that Worker D was paying for // Translate to: She was looking for it just now).
Worker D: Sorry ler, sorry ler...
(In order to avoid direct unpleasant circumstance with that loud Worker D, I walked off to the other paying counter of Worker C).
Me: Umm... Lain kali minta pekerja kamurang jangan cakap macam itu, very impolite. (Translate to: Next time please ask your workers not to talk like that.)
Worker C: Ya... Ok...
Me: Seriously, it will ruin the image of W store. It is actually really very rude.
(I walked off from W store with my paid item after thanking Worker C feeling ridiculous at the ill-behaviour Malaysian workers are displaying to their paying customers. I know it is unfair that Worker C had to listen to my complaint about this, but I hope she will help to "correct" this kind of behaviour in her workplace)
That's how the word "sorry" is used in Malaysia by some of those individuals who felt smug by outwitting others in purchasing discounted products. It is definitely a victorious moment to be the last to get the special discounts, but it is bad for company's image if you happen to be wearing company's uniform and act like a smug in your own workplace in front of a customer, chiding the customer.
I am really disappointed with the ill-behaviours of Malaysian employees in many service outlets. FYI, I've decided to "assist" in the improvement of the W store by filing a proper complaint via their webpage.
I'm not angry, just felt ridiculous how people can use the word "sorry" to act like some ridiculous, uncivilized people from the jungle, just because of two twin packs of toothpaste with the cost of RM16. I pray that the company will do something to train their staffs to be more aware of their behaviours which may improve or deteriorate the business of the company which pays their bills at home (indirectly).
1. Feeling or expressing sympathy, pity, or regret: I'm sorry I'm late.
2. Worthless or inferior; paltry: a sorry excuse.
3. Causing sorrow, grief, or misfortune; grievous: a sorry development.
But in Malaysia, you probably will find the FOURTH meaning.
Now let me tell you an encounter I had this evening which describes this particular definition of the word "sorry".
Location: W Store in 1Borneo, Workers A & B of W store and me.
Me: Excuse me, do you have any more stock of this (referring to Colgate toothpaste which has special discount, buy 2 twin packs for RM16, and there is only one twin pack left on the display shelf)?
Worker A: Umm... It's out of stock (after worker B checked out the store).
Me: It's alright then.
Disappointed, I decided to pick up my usual Fresh 'n' White toothpaste which can last me long enough until I go to Servay to pick up my twin packs (I'm an economist when it comes to buying toiletries).
While waiting to pay at the counter, Worker D decided to pay for her purchase (the exact same twin pack which I was looking for). Very loudly, here's what I could hear while standing behind her.
Worker D: Sorry ler, sorry ler. Apa boleh buat? Lambat. (Translate to: What to do? Late.)
Worker A: Dia tedi sedang cari tu (refering to the twin packs that Worker D was paying for // Translate to: She was looking for it just now).
Worker D: Sorry ler, sorry ler...
(In order to avoid direct unpleasant circumstance with that loud Worker D, I walked off to the other paying counter of Worker C).
Me: Umm... Lain kali minta pekerja kamurang jangan cakap macam itu, very impolite. (Translate to: Next time please ask your workers not to talk like that.)
Worker C: Ya... Ok...
Me: Seriously, it will ruin the image of W store. It is actually really very rude.
(I walked off from W store with my paid item after thanking Worker C feeling ridiculous at the ill-behaviour Malaysian workers are displaying to their paying customers. I know it is unfair that Worker C had to listen to my complaint about this, but I hope she will help to "correct" this kind of behaviour in her workplace)
That's how the word "sorry" is used in Malaysia by some of those individuals who felt smug by outwitting others in purchasing discounted products. It is definitely a victorious moment to be the last to get the special discounts, but it is bad for company's image if you happen to be wearing company's uniform and act like a smug in your own workplace in front of a customer, chiding the customer.
I am really disappointed with the ill-behaviours of Malaysian employees in many service outlets. FYI, I've decided to "assist" in the improvement of the W store by filing a proper complaint via their webpage.
I'm not angry, just felt ridiculous how people can use the word "sorry" to act like some ridiculous, uncivilized people from the jungle, just because of two twin packs of toothpaste with the cost of RM16. I pray that the company will do something to train their staffs to be more aware of their behaviours which may improve or deteriorate the business of the company which pays their bills at home (indirectly).
Sunday, 14 February 2010
Puppies vs. Fireworks
This picture is pretty self-explanatory, but I'd like to add an anecdote to it.
Instead of A puppy, currently I am dealing with FOUR puppies (Panda, Betsy, Baby Gal and Toodoo). Though born of stray mother, we had been looking after them in terms of food and play and shelter since last month. And I finally gotten the sole responsibility of ensuring they get enough of the minimum three criteria this week. Thank God they all are somehow toilet-trained naturally. Only poop and pee on soil/grassy ground.
In conjunction with Chinese New Year celebration, fireworks have been colouring the night sky since the day my housemates left for their respective hometowns. The puppies, I believe, had been enduring the crazily loud (as defined in the puppy's world) firecrackers and fireworks since CNY eve. I've been observing their behaviour since then, and noticed that they displayed fear and disorientation regularly when there is a release of fireworks into the night air.
As the current co-owner of the puppies, I'm highly concerned of their well-being. A search on Google brought me to a website about fear aggression in dog or puppy. Now, this part of the article explained why they all disappeared after breakfast this morning, causing me to fret over it the whole day as I had to go out for the whole day. When I arrived home just now, only Panda was at home, in some sort of fear though. I finally found the other three and their mother a few houses from mine.
Some puppy dogs react and get extremely frightened and panic at the sound of lightening, thunder, or fireworks and there is no real reason they should. Some cases will cause fear aggression in the dog. These types of fears have caused many dogs to even run away from their homes in panic and disoriented, and unfortunately in some cases some have even been hit by a car due to running out into the road, and others have had difficulty finding their way home etc.
When a puppy is scared it becomes very evident in the way he begins to behave and the way he looks. Some puppies start walking form one side of the room to the other, looking for somewhere to hide and if there is an open door, some will run out without giving any warning to the owner.Pray that either the firecrackers and fireworks will stop soon, or that my puppies will grow out of the fear.
P/S: I have no idea why I'm naming them what I named them (especially Baby Gal and Toodoo), except for Panda, which has two black patches over his eyes. Basically they are rarely responsive towards the name given though. By next week, all will leave home to their foster families. Shall snap some pics and upload them soon!
Saturday, 13 February 2010
We Sing. We Dance. We Steal Things.
Nobody really discovers that I like music by Jason Mraz. Perhaps it was my pride which made me kept this from people, since there was a particular occasion where someone made fun of me when I said out loud that I like his songs. Those who have my Maxis number, and actually made it a point to call me, would realize that his song "I'm Yours" had been my caller ringtone for the past one year. Umm... Nope, I'm not exactly a CD-buyer, but I'm seriously considering buying his 2008 album (title mentioned on my blog post) because of his unique vocal and his music is really to my likings.
Here's the official MV of "I'm Yours" by Jason Mraz. Enjoy!
Here's the official MV of "I'm Yours" by Jason Mraz. Enjoy!
Where is God? by Dr. John Townsend
Like all his other books, Dr. John Townsend had written the book with an objective point of view of a God-believing psychologist. I enjoyed the "as-a-matter-of-fact" way of presentation which kept me returning to the book chapter after chapter. It helped to comfort my weary heart as I was in the darkness due to some internal struggle with hope. This struggle led me start doubting the God who loves me, and this book steered my way back to God as I start seeing the Light of Christ as I continued reading. There are recommendations of what we can do in the dark as we seek the Lord. And I truly learned that God is with me when I am facing difficulties and struggles in life.
In this modern world where people are struggling with individualism and materialism, this book brought us back to the understanding of having safe and loving community to support and encourage one another. I experience it myself the importance of having safe relationships which I can fall back on when things become difficult and God seems so distant. He is there, only our minds are bogged down and blinded. Thus we need people to affirm us of His presence.
Bravo, Dr. John Townsend!
Friday, 12 February 2010
A Hectic Week and an Inflamed Throat
Who would guess that I'd be having an inflamed throat two days prior to Chinese New Year! Blame it on my eating habit~ LOL! I haven't blogged for zillion years, and I find my writing skills a bit blunt. Need to sharpen it back.
Life, oh life! Let's see what was on my tight schedule... These days I seemed to be occupied with my work, also my very own mission with regards to reaching out to the youth. I find God is so kind to me, giving me an opportunity to re-form myself, and definitely to learn how to interact with the younger youth better. Sometimes I wonder if I'm at the right place. I'm being so convicted and want to do so much, but I had no choice but to "discipline" them because of the impossible and rather unacceptable behaviour in "classroom" context. It is never easy to link to the people whom I had no choice but to address them as my "students". Sometimes I really hope that my position can be named as "youth coordinator" rather than "RK teacher". Oh well, keep my fingers cross and wait for God to decide.
I know I'm still green when it comes to loving discipline method. I only learned from what I observed all these years. Not bearing an education cert may be a good thing, and a bad thing after all. Perhaps more training may help. Smiles... Let's see what the upcoming teachers' camp will do for us all. Another of my pet project - to make it happen!
Besides that, I have Youth Alpha as my main pet project. Many hiccups, but thank God for His grace and mercy on this pour servant of His. I really do appreciate that SHC is willing to send in two teams of Youth Alpha facilitators for the Form Fours and Fives. And I'm glad to get to know Jon Tse, the national Youth Alpha coordinator, who also agreed to assist this newbie (me!) for other forms. Now I'll just have to stop my mind working and allow God to transform all these into His miracle. Hopefully there will be sparks for the sake of the youth in MN as we (all who are involved in YA of MN) work together to build God's Kingdom on earth. We sow the seeds, and may the harvest be great in time to come.
I still have stuffs undone and my throat is inflamed. Hopefully I can still talk tomorrow morning when I wake up. If not, I shall stay at home, with the puppies, not going anywhere.
Have a blessed Chinese New Year, friends.
God bless!
P/S: Question for you to ponder about me -- do I have a life??
Life, oh life! Let's see what was on my tight schedule... These days I seemed to be occupied with my work, also my very own mission with regards to reaching out to the youth. I find God is so kind to me, giving me an opportunity to re-form myself, and definitely to learn how to interact with the younger youth better. Sometimes I wonder if I'm at the right place. I'm being so convicted and want to do so much, but I had no choice but to "discipline" them because of the impossible and rather unacceptable behaviour in "classroom" context. It is never easy to link to the people whom I had no choice but to address them as my "students". Sometimes I really hope that my position can be named as "youth coordinator" rather than "RK teacher". Oh well, keep my fingers cross and wait for God to decide.
I know I'm still green when it comes to loving discipline method. I only learned from what I observed all these years. Not bearing an education cert may be a good thing, and a bad thing after all. Perhaps more training may help. Smiles... Let's see what the upcoming teachers' camp will do for us all. Another of my pet project - to make it happen!
Besides that, I have Youth Alpha as my main pet project. Many hiccups, but thank God for His grace and mercy on this pour servant of His. I really do appreciate that SHC is willing to send in two teams of Youth Alpha facilitators for the Form Fours and Fives. And I'm glad to get to know Jon Tse, the national Youth Alpha coordinator, who also agreed to assist this newbie (me!) for other forms. Now I'll just have to stop my mind working and allow God to transform all these into His miracle. Hopefully there will be sparks for the sake of the youth in MN as we (all who are involved in YA of MN) work together to build God's Kingdom on earth. We sow the seeds, and may the harvest be great in time to come.
I still have stuffs undone and my throat is inflamed. Hopefully I can still talk tomorrow morning when I wake up. If not, I shall stay at home, with the puppies, not going anywhere.
Have a blessed Chinese New Year, friends.
God bless!
P/S: Question for you to ponder about me -- do I have a life??
Monday, 8 February 2010
Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus
It's been a while since I last blogged. Never really had much on my mind these days, besides procrastinating things which I was supposed to get done. I was checking out the blog of Jonathan Tse (someone recommended him when I told this someone that my school is introducing Youth Alpha to the RK classes), and I found this particular hymn ministering to me in the midst of my workplace at the moment. And I hope that you too will be ministered by this hymn. I pray that our eyes will turn back upon Jesus and receive sight again after being blinded by the things of the world. God bless!
Turn your eyes upon Jesus
Look full in His wonderful face
and the things of earth will grow strangely dim
in the light of His glory and grace
Look full in His wonderful face
and the things of earth will grow strangely dim
in the light of His glory and grace
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