Neurology has been 1 of my sore spots in medicine, but my 3-month neurosurgical rotation in Australia has been fun. Somehow, 2 calls in neurosurgery has completely ruined my impression of it :p lolz
After finishing work at 6.50pm during a long surgical day, was just about to grab some dinner and have a rest, when neurosurgical male ward called at 7pm. They needed somebody to call Kluang hospital's MO to accept a patient due to be transferred. It's funny how the person who wrote the referral letter earlier did not call them up as well.
Going through the case files, before I could figure out what to do or say, rushed to the Neuro HDU - 1 patient has asystole. Upon arrival and jumping onto the bed to commence CPR, the heart monitor reveals the rhythm to be ventricular fibrillation (this would be a very good time to try and remember what was practised during SIM centre).. The MO allowed me to play with the defibrillator (different from the one we used in Monash / Australia), so I delivered 3 shocks to the patient. Adrenaline and atropine given. No response. The MO told me to go do rounds since nothing much could be done.
Going back up, managed to call up Kluang hospital and push through the referral, only to be told that the Kluang ambulance people could not wait and had already left. So the patient is staying with us, whether we like it or not. Returning to the HDU, had the unenviable task of filling up the death certification and documentation, as well as informing the friends who arrived and family over the phone. So unprepared.. I think I did fine, but if 1 thing bothers me, CPR attempt was documented as 30 minutes in duration, when in actual fact I don't remember anybody bothering to go on even more than 10 minutes..
Was in the process of taking ABGs when the OT called to run for blood at the blood bank. An 8-year old boy whom we saw earlier when he came to HDU was undergoing craniotomy, but upon arrival at the blood bank with the patient's info, they denied receiving any forms for blood request. It turned out that of all the bloods taken, the nurse forgot the GXM cross-match, and knowing how difficult it is to take blood from kids in the middle of surgery, the anaesthetist literally blew up in the OT..
It's already midnight, and I have been running up and down, and up again to the paediatric surgery ward. New case for admission, as the poor little girl fell forward off her bicycle and hit her head on the handle bar. You know what was the best part of clerking her? Dozing off in front of her mum.. and to add another moment of laughter, when I drew the diagram of the haematoma, I was actually extremely tired and sleepy, so for some unknown reason I labeled the wound 'For bowel prep'. By the time I was done, started TDS rounds at some weird time in the morning - 2am at male ward, and 3.30am at female ward.
At the female ward, I was greeted to the sight of a patient who appeared tachypnoeic, which was being ignored by the staff nurse to my annoyance. Suddenly, she began hyperventilating / gasping, and you could hear wheezes from her tracheostomy. ABG: respiratory alkalosis. Gave her some nebuliser and trachymask oxygen. Sent down to neuroHDU.
My colleague, who came into NeuroHDU as I left, was greeted to a sight of 10 patients, and turned towards me and griped, "Why in the world did you fill up my ward??!"
Call ended around 6.45am. No time to shower / eat / sleep also.. start surgical rounds.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
30
The following 30-hour marathon takes place between 5.30am (14 February) and 12.30pm (15 February).
6.00am - Leave for work.
6.30am - Start clerking patients.
7.15am - Patient came in for epigastric pain TRO acute cholecystitis. Amylase 2478. Acute pancreatitis! Quickly scramble with MO to work out our management plan.
7.45am - Another surgeon replacing my consultant comes to review patients. Changed the Ranson criteria to modified Glasgow criteria. When everybody (even the MO) did not know what is the Glasgow criteria and its significance, he called all of us @$$h****, and asked how in the world did I pass med school.
9.15am - For some reason, today there are only 3 of the usual 5 people in our team. So with 1 patient who needs to rush to the scope room accompanied by a houseman, 3 patients who need to be discharged, nurses bugging you for bunged IV drips and bloods to be taken, the pancreatitis patient who needed an ultrasound etc, the surgeon asks 2 of the 3 to go down to clinic immediately coz it's overfilling with patients and the 5 housemen rostered for clinic are missing,(obviously not possible, ward work needs to be done 1st).
10.10am - The usual routine of being yelled at by the radiologist.
10.25am - Cancer patient A needs to postpone chemotherapy due to electrolyte imbalance. Palliative care unit not picking up the phone.
10.26am - Cancer patient B needs an oncology opinion regarding her chemotherapy due to neutropenic sepsis. HSI not picking up the phone.
12.15pm - A patient previously discharged after a Hartmann's procedure got readmitted for wound breakdown. The ward is filling up.
12.55pm - Just when you thought you have finished the work and are about to grab a quick lunch, the paediatric ward upstairs called. As the neurosurgical HO on call, need to review a young kid who suffered a temporo-parietal haematoma after a fall from 1 metre supine onto the concrete pavement while at the playground.
1.45pm - Rush back to the ward to review patients for afternoon rounds.
2.35pm - Afternoon rounds start.
3.15pm - Our consultant surgeon came. Learnt a lot from him, though got grilled a lot also. Asked me to be more confident.
4.15pm - Apologised to head of department who happened to be in the ward, for failing to trace his patient's histopathological report. Simply did not have the time.
4.40pm - Just realised that the next day's on call roster has not been drawn up.
4.45pm - Patient suspected anastomotic leak post-reversal of Hartmann's, planned for CT gastrograffin. Rushed to take consent and fill up forms.
5.15pm - Patient who came in earlier for wound breakdown had seropurulent discharge when sutures removed. Surgeon was initially worried about faeculent material resulting from fistula.
5.45pm - Family of a patient who has recovered from an upper GI bleed due to a gastric ulcer demands that you allow her to be discharged as she has been feeling anxious and uneasy with her hospital stay, though you wonder how to break the news to them that you were actually awaiting medical opinion regarding beta blockers for her sinus tachycardia, and psychiatry review for her apparent symptoms of low mood, poor eye contact, symptoms of persecutory delusions (bed has electric shock) and hearing voices of children playing nearby. Eventually no psychiatry condition elicited, allowed AOR discharge.
6.30pm - After the tests were planned, confirmed, and everybody has gone home, patient who was planned for CT gastrograffin mentioned that she had the abdominal pain because the nurse clamped her CBD. She felt better after its release. Endured a scolding from a pissed off MO to just do what the boss ordered when asked opinion to cancel the CT.
7.00pm - Ward work done. No time for dinner. Grabbed a bun and start Neurosurgical HDU night rounds.
8.15pm - Wondering what are all the PEEP/SIMV/CPAP measurements which the consultants and lecturers all dismissed as not important for our level during medical school..
8.30pm - 8 ABGs to be taken, 4 turned out to be VBGs.. *swt* have to re-do..
10.30pm - Night rounds at male and female ward upstairs..
3.30am - Finished night rounds. Felt like sleeping in one of the ward beds. Blurring of vision sets in (hungry and running on 2 cans of coffee) :p
4.30am - Patient from Segamat suspected intracranial bleed. Inserted CBD. Patient decided to urinate before CBD could be secured with balloon. CBD was shot right back out of his urethra, followed by a fountain spray of urine. What a mess..
5.55am - Half an hour more before my presumed end of neurosurgical call (and freedom) when the HDU phone rang. Please come upstairs to neurosurgical ward female, a patient chose this moment to go into asystole. CPR for over half an hour and had to accompany patient back to HDU..
7.30am - Start morning rounds (despite it being public holiday)
12.30pm - Finally able to go home.
6.00am - Leave for work.
6.30am - Start clerking patients.
7.15am - Patient came in for epigastric pain TRO acute cholecystitis. Amylase 2478. Acute pancreatitis! Quickly scramble with MO to work out our management plan.
7.45am - Another surgeon replacing my consultant comes to review patients. Changed the Ranson criteria to modified Glasgow criteria. When everybody (even the MO) did not know what is the Glasgow criteria and its significance, he called all of us @$$h****, and asked how in the world did I pass med school.
9.15am - For some reason, today there are only 3 of the usual 5 people in our team. So with 1 patient who needs to rush to the scope room accompanied by a houseman, 3 patients who need to be discharged, nurses bugging you for bunged IV drips and bloods to be taken, the pancreatitis patient who needed an ultrasound etc, the surgeon asks 2 of the 3 to go down to clinic immediately coz it's overfilling with patients and the 5 housemen rostered for clinic are missing,(obviously not possible, ward work needs to be done 1st).
10.10am - The usual routine of being yelled at by the radiologist.
10.25am - Cancer patient A needs to postpone chemotherapy due to electrolyte imbalance. Palliative care unit not picking up the phone.
10.26am - Cancer patient B needs an oncology opinion regarding her chemotherapy due to neutropenic sepsis. HSI not picking up the phone.
12.15pm - A patient previously discharged after a Hartmann's procedure got readmitted for wound breakdown. The ward is filling up.
12.55pm - Just when you thought you have finished the work and are about to grab a quick lunch, the paediatric ward upstairs called. As the neurosurgical HO on call, need to review a young kid who suffered a temporo-parietal haematoma after a fall from 1 metre supine onto the concrete pavement while at the playground.
1.45pm - Rush back to the ward to review patients for afternoon rounds.
2.35pm - Afternoon rounds start.
3.15pm - Our consultant surgeon came. Learnt a lot from him, though got grilled a lot also. Asked me to be more confident.
4.15pm - Apologised to head of department who happened to be in the ward, for failing to trace his patient's histopathological report. Simply did not have the time.
4.40pm - Just realised that the next day's on call roster has not been drawn up.
4.45pm - Patient suspected anastomotic leak post-reversal of Hartmann's, planned for CT gastrograffin. Rushed to take consent and fill up forms.
5.15pm - Patient who came in earlier for wound breakdown had seropurulent discharge when sutures removed. Surgeon was initially worried about faeculent material resulting from fistula.
5.45pm - Family of a patient who has recovered from an upper GI bleed due to a gastric ulcer demands that you allow her to be discharged as she has been feeling anxious and uneasy with her hospital stay, though you wonder how to break the news to them that you were actually awaiting medical opinion regarding beta blockers for her sinus tachycardia, and psychiatry review for her apparent symptoms of low mood, poor eye contact, symptoms of persecutory delusions (bed has electric shock) and hearing voices of children playing nearby. Eventually no psychiatry condition elicited, allowed AOR discharge.
6.30pm - After the tests were planned, confirmed, and everybody has gone home, patient who was planned for CT gastrograffin mentioned that she had the abdominal pain because the nurse clamped her CBD. She felt better after its release. Endured a scolding from a pissed off MO to just do what the boss ordered when asked opinion to cancel the CT.
7.00pm - Ward work done. No time for dinner. Grabbed a bun and start Neurosurgical HDU night rounds.
8.15pm - Wondering what are all the PEEP/SIMV/CPAP measurements which the consultants and lecturers all dismissed as not important for our level during medical school..
8.30pm - 8 ABGs to be taken, 4 turned out to be VBGs.. *swt* have to re-do..
10.30pm - Night rounds at male and female ward upstairs..
3.30am - Finished night rounds. Felt like sleeping in one of the ward beds. Blurring of vision sets in (hungry and running on 2 cans of coffee) :p
4.30am - Patient from Segamat suspected intracranial bleed. Inserted CBD. Patient decided to urinate before CBD could be secured with balloon. CBD was shot right back out of his urethra, followed by a fountain spray of urine. What a mess..
5.55am - Half an hour more before my presumed end of neurosurgical call (and freedom) when the HDU phone rang. Please come upstairs to neurosurgical ward female, a patient chose this moment to go into asystole. CPR for over half an hour and had to accompany patient back to HDU..
7.30am - Start morning rounds (despite it being public holiday)
12.30pm - Finally able to go home.
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Week 2 in General Surgery - Things that keep you going
Currently listening: Hillsong - Love like fire
Surgeon: So Gary, do you like surgery enough to become a surgeon?"
Me: Err.. actually not that keen on things which require quite a fair bit of hand dexterity.
Surgeon: I see, so what do you prefer? Something which requires more of foot dexterity?
Me: *swt*
2 weeks already. Finished tagging and already went through 1 episode of Operating theatre on-call. Imagine the sight of laparotomies and colostomies at 2am in the morning. 2 hours of sleep before starting next day of work, making it 36 hours straight on the job. Nevertheless, I think I can say things have been good so far.
Fell sick while working during Chinese New Year, but no choice lar, since I am saving my leave for convocation in Sunway. Being a 1st poster in the ward, among mostly more senior and experienced housemen can be intimidating, but should be fine as time passes. My philosophy has always been 'I may not be the smartest, but I try to compensate for it through hard work'. Yes, did get scolded by surgeons for things which are not really your fault, MOs who are hard on you coz I was quite blur having forgotten a lot of things since leaving med school, nurses with attitude problems, and colleagues who disappear and dump their work on you.. Also have been thrown into the deep end by being called down to review patients in the clinic, despite being only 2 weeks on the job (due to staff shortage).
However, amidst all these, able to see the positive results of going the extra mile for your patients, some of whom actually walked up all the way to your ward workstation to shake your hand in gratitude, while 1 Chinese patient gave me an angpau and orange.
There was also a difficult moment with an elderly Malay patient. She was a known case of anaemia, had cholelithiasis and was due for a cholecystectomy. Initially she was allowed to eat, then fasted, and the cycle repeated for 3 days in a row as her surgery kept getting postponed. Her young daughter, whom had taken weeks of leave from her workplace in Simpang Renggam, broke down in front of me, at the sight of her mother having to endure such a fate. Duno what to do or say, could only offer reassurance and a packet of tissue. When the surgery was over, the T-tube dislodged, and they had to go back in to adjust it and correct the peritonitis. By the time they were done, she had severe metabolic acidosis and altered mental status. Despite her daughter's frantic cries at the bedside, she could neither recognise her, nor me. Honestly, I was trying very hard not to shed a tear.. but we did all we could.
To cut the long story short, she did come out of ICU a few days later, anxious to go home after bouts of physiotherapy. Today although I was not the one to write her discharge summary (as I'm not rostered for work), she doesn't need me now - her family is currently by her side, and the last sight as I walked out of the ward was that of her daughter's face brimming with a smile. Priceless :)
Surgeon: So Gary, do you like surgery enough to become a surgeon?"
Me: Err.. actually not that keen on things which require quite a fair bit of hand dexterity.
Surgeon: I see, so what do you prefer? Something which requires more of foot dexterity?
Me: *swt*
2 weeks already. Finished tagging and already went through 1 episode of Operating theatre on-call. Imagine the sight of laparotomies and colostomies at 2am in the morning. 2 hours of sleep before starting next day of work, making it 36 hours straight on the job. Nevertheless, I think I can say things have been good so far.
Fell sick while working during Chinese New Year, but no choice lar, since I am saving my leave for convocation in Sunway. Being a 1st poster in the ward, among mostly more senior and experienced housemen can be intimidating, but should be fine as time passes. My philosophy has always been 'I may not be the smartest, but I try to compensate for it through hard work'. Yes, did get scolded by surgeons for things which are not really your fault, MOs who are hard on you coz I was quite blur having forgotten a lot of things since leaving med school, nurses with attitude problems, and colleagues who disappear and dump their work on you.. Also have been thrown into the deep end by being called down to review patients in the clinic, despite being only 2 weeks on the job (due to staff shortage).
However, amidst all these, able to see the positive results of going the extra mile for your patients, some of whom actually walked up all the way to your ward workstation to shake your hand in gratitude, while 1 Chinese patient gave me an angpau and orange.
There was also a difficult moment with an elderly Malay patient. She was a known case of anaemia, had cholelithiasis and was due for a cholecystectomy. Initially she was allowed to eat, then fasted, and the cycle repeated for 3 days in a row as her surgery kept getting postponed. Her young daughter, whom had taken weeks of leave from her workplace in Simpang Renggam, broke down in front of me, at the sight of her mother having to endure such a fate. Duno what to do or say, could only offer reassurance and a packet of tissue. When the surgery was over, the T-tube dislodged, and they had to go back in to adjust it and correct the peritonitis. By the time they were done, she had severe metabolic acidosis and altered mental status. Despite her daughter's frantic cries at the bedside, she could neither recognise her, nor me. Honestly, I was trying very hard not to shed a tear.. but we did all we could.
To cut the long story short, she did come out of ICU a few days later, anxious to go home after bouts of physiotherapy. Today although I was not the one to write her discharge summary (as I'm not rostered for work), she doesn't need me now - her family is currently by her side, and the last sight as I walked out of the ward was that of her daughter's face brimming with a smile. Priceless :)
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Movie review - Voyage of the Dawn Treader
Currently listening: Carrie Underwood - There's a place for us
This holiday season, took Joyce's advice to catch the latest installment of the Chronicles of Narnia, one which I really enjoyed. Despite it being a midnight show, I guess it left a deep impact on me, due to several parts which I identified with. Would definitely consider watching a 2nd time..
The latest adventure whisked Edmund and Lucy Pevensie, along with their mischievous and annoying cousin, Eustace Scrubb on an adventure onboard the Dawn Treader. Accompanying Caspian X (King of Narnia) and crew, they set off on a journey to rescue citizens from Lone Island who were sacrificed to the green mist, and defeat the evil originating from Dark Island before it grows and consumes Narnia.
Along the way, Lucy ripped a page from the Book of Incantations, and secretly read the torn page containing the spell to make her beautiful as her sister. She suddenly finds herself as Susan, and back on Earth at a party, together with Edmund and Peter. Realizing that Lucy is not around, she's bothered by her conscience and decides to be herself again. She sees Aslan through a mirror, who tells her that she mustn't lack self-value for she is beautiful just the way she is. Lucy wakes up, goes to Caspian and Edmund, who have also plagued by the green mist playing on their personal struggles: Edmund's self-doubt assuming the form of the White Witch which offered to make him a king with more power, as well as Caspian, with his fear of not living up to his father's expectations. It deals with the issue of one's self image and lack of security as a result of their perceived weaknesses.
At first, Eustace irritated everyone with his attitude, but it dramatically changes after he was cursed into being a dragon for greed and selfishness, as he attempted to steal some treasure from a volcanic island they landed on. Eventually with the support of his cousins, and even more of the warrior mouse Reepicheep, Eustace becomes a more generous and cooperative person, using his dragon form to the Dawn Treader crews' advantage, earning their respect. Hence, began the unlikeliest of friendships between warrior mouse and a brat, the former teaching the latter about honour, courage and loyalty. When Aslan changed him back to his original form, he realised that he could not do so by himself no matter how hard he tried, and the pain which he went through in the process was a good transformation process. I suppose it's something to be thankful for as God's grace is sufficient for us, even at times when we make mistakes.
Dark Island served as a reminder that whether we choose to admit it or not, deep inside of us lies our greatest fears, and temptations which might drive us to do undesirable things if we are not careful.
In the end, with the evil forces banished, Caspian along with Reepicheep, Lucy, Edmund, and Eustace, ventured in a small boat through a sea of lilies until they reach a wall of water that extends into the sky. There they meet Aslan, who tells them that beyond the wall of water, lies his country. Caspian asks Aslan whether his father is there, but Aslan said that the only way to know is to go there by himself though he may never return from there. Caspian decides not to go, as he cannot leave his kingdom which his father fought for until his death. Reepicheep gains Aslan's blessing to see his country, paddling a coracle up the waterfall to be never again seen in Narnia. Aslan then sends the children home, telling them that Edmund and Lucy will not return to Narnia because just like Peter and Susan,they are too old to return now and that they should learn to know him better by another name in their own world. However, Eustace, now a much nicer person from his time in Narnia, can return someday.
We can be the kings and queens of anything if we believe.
It's written in the stars that shine above,
A world where you and I belong, where faith and love will keep us strong,
Exactly who we are is just enough
There's a place for us, there's a place for us.
This holiday season, took Joyce's advice to catch the latest installment of the Chronicles of Narnia, one which I really enjoyed. Despite it being a midnight show, I guess it left a deep impact on me, due to several parts which I identified with. Would definitely consider watching a 2nd time..
The latest adventure whisked Edmund and Lucy Pevensie, along with their mischievous and annoying cousin, Eustace Scrubb on an adventure onboard the Dawn Treader. Accompanying Caspian X (King of Narnia) and crew, they set off on a journey to rescue citizens from Lone Island who were sacrificed to the green mist, and defeat the evil originating from Dark Island before it grows and consumes Narnia.
Along the way, Lucy ripped a page from the Book of Incantations, and secretly read the torn page containing the spell to make her beautiful as her sister. She suddenly finds herself as Susan, and back on Earth at a party, together with Edmund and Peter. Realizing that Lucy is not around, she's bothered by her conscience and decides to be herself again. She sees Aslan through a mirror, who tells her that she mustn't lack self-value for she is beautiful just the way she is. Lucy wakes up, goes to Caspian and Edmund, who have also plagued by the green mist playing on their personal struggles: Edmund's self-doubt assuming the form of the White Witch which offered to make him a king with more power, as well as Caspian, with his fear of not living up to his father's expectations. It deals with the issue of one's self image and lack of security as a result of their perceived weaknesses.
At first, Eustace irritated everyone with his attitude, but it dramatically changes after he was cursed into being a dragon for greed and selfishness, as he attempted to steal some treasure from a volcanic island they landed on. Eventually with the support of his cousins, and even more of the warrior mouse Reepicheep, Eustace becomes a more generous and cooperative person, using his dragon form to the Dawn Treader crews' advantage, earning their respect. Hence, began the unlikeliest of friendships between warrior mouse and a brat, the former teaching the latter about honour, courage and loyalty. When Aslan changed him back to his original form, he realised that he could not do so by himself no matter how hard he tried, and the pain which he went through in the process was a good transformation process. I suppose it's something to be thankful for as God's grace is sufficient for us, even at times when we make mistakes.
Dark Island served as a reminder that whether we choose to admit it or not, deep inside of us lies our greatest fears, and temptations which might drive us to do undesirable things if we are not careful.
In the end, with the evil forces banished, Caspian along with Reepicheep, Lucy, Edmund, and Eustace, ventured in a small boat through a sea of lilies until they reach a wall of water that extends into the sky. There they meet Aslan, who tells them that beyond the wall of water, lies his country. Caspian asks Aslan whether his father is there, but Aslan said that the only way to know is to go there by himself though he may never return from there. Caspian decides not to go, as he cannot leave his kingdom which his father fought for until his death. Reepicheep gains Aslan's blessing to see his country, paddling a coracle up the waterfall to be never again seen in Narnia. Aslan then sends the children home, telling them that Edmund and Lucy will not return to Narnia because just like Peter and Susan,they are too old to return now and that they should learn to know him better by another name in their own world. However, Eustace, now a much nicer person from his time in Narnia, can return someday.
Thursday, December 09, 2010
Post-15th MNC
Currently listening: Desperation Band - Counting on God
Convention is over, and so we bid farewell to Penang. The land of Char Kuey Teow and Asam Laksa, where we came and left via a 12-hour bumpy bus ride, was also the site of 4 days and 3 nights of intense teaching, preaching and also praise and worship with 1500 people. How was it? Well, the theme was on unity, something which is of utmost importance but also something difficult to achieve in our midst today, especially since humans are naturally wired to usually look after our own self-interests / preferences 1st.
Personally speaking, as someone who is going through quite a rough season at the moment, I came with expectations of receiving a spoken word that would directly address my circumstances. I have been blessed with previous experiences during conventions or whenever I had opportunities to interact with certain people (both Malaysia and Australia),when I will be reminded of certain things through the person praying / prophesying for me as I reflected on it, but this time there was none.
Nevertheless, God did not disappoint, instead choosing to work through the lessons we were being taught. I was actually not expecting much for the 2nd night and 3rd morning sessions, but as Pastor Simon and Pastor Moses preached the word, it felt as if it was cutting through certain attitudes of the heart which (being an extremely task-/result-oriented person) I needed to change (eg being patient with one another, the way I see others, proper conflict resolution - rather than just scolding people who don't listen when I'm not happy or avoid confronting the problem etc). It's hard, but in a way it's a blessing in disguise.
U3 Core Team (Ethan, Belinda, Dominic and me) went for bowling and a game of pool at Pelangi.
Lifegroup this week - nothing fancy. A potluck cookout where those who could, contributed some food for dinner, but in the midst of such simplicity, was able to see how God move in the hearts of people. Dominic shared about how from everyday life experiences (eg asking for 1, but ended up scoring 2 strikes though he was not good at bowling), he got reminded the need to bring forth a simple heart before God. Maureen (1 of our African sisters) was encouraging - against all odds, her research proposal got past a strict supervisor, and in the process, she managed to bring along another friend whose troubles were resolved thanks to her help.
Ethan took Pastor Jeff's suggestion to share our greatest fears during discussion group, which helped draw us together to understand each other more. As for me? I came to another humbling realisation that if I were to continue doing God's work using my own strength, it's going to be a very frustrating path ahead..
|
Untitled from HIM Videos on Vimeo.
Convention is over, and so we bid farewell to Penang. The land of Char Kuey Teow and Asam Laksa, where we came and left via a 12-hour bumpy bus ride, was also the site of 4 days and 3 nights of intense teaching, preaching and also praise and worship with 1500 people. How was it? Well, the theme was on unity, something which is of utmost importance but also something difficult to achieve in our midst today, especially since humans are naturally wired to usually look after our own self-interests / preferences 1st.
Personally speaking, as someone who is going through quite a rough season at the moment, I came with expectations of receiving a spoken word that would directly address my circumstances. I have been blessed with previous experiences during conventions or whenever I had opportunities to interact with certain people (both Malaysia and Australia),when I will be reminded of certain things through the person praying / prophesying for me as I reflected on it, but this time there was none.
Nevertheless, God did not disappoint, instead choosing to work through the lessons we were being taught. I was actually not expecting much for the 2nd night and 3rd morning sessions, but as Pastor Simon and Pastor Moses preached the word, it felt as if it was cutting through certain attitudes of the heart which (being an extremely task-/result-oriented person) I needed to change (eg being patient with one another, the way I see others, proper conflict resolution - rather than just scolding people who don't listen when I'm not happy or avoid confronting the problem etc). It's hard, but in a way it's a blessing in disguise.
U3 Core Team (Ethan, Belinda, Dominic and me) went for bowling and a game of pool at Pelangi.
Lifegroup this week - nothing fancy. A potluck cookout where those who could, contributed some food for dinner, but in the midst of such simplicity, was able to see how God move in the hearts of people. Dominic shared about how from everyday life experiences (eg asking for 1, but ended up scoring 2 strikes though he was not good at bowling), he got reminded the need to bring forth a simple heart before God. Maureen (1 of our African sisters) was encouraging - against all odds, her research proposal got past a strict supervisor, and in the process, she managed to bring along another friend whose troubles were resolved thanks to her help.
Ethan took Pastor Jeff's suggestion to share our greatest fears during discussion group, which helped draw us together to understand each other more. As for me? I came to another humbling realisation that if I were to continue doing God's work using my own strength, it's going to be a very frustrating path ahead..
Monday, November 29, 2010
Wo Xin Wo Xing (A Walk of Faith)
A journey of mingled sensation
Ever thought of giving up in the midst of storms
There can be a victory amidst a life filled with tears
When we are willing to offer up our lives again and again
I will no longer dwell in self pity
For there's always sunshine after the storm
No matter how tough the way is, I will persevere on
Making the choice to run towards the Vision undoubtedly.
Chorus
A walk of faith
I have no doubt in my future
Facing everyday full of confidence
Taking on every challenge with total courage.
A walk of faith
This Vision is too great and life is too short
No time to pause and sigh
Let's lay down our burdens and march on.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Nostalgia
Something about my 1st year in Melbourne, which I came across while browsing through some old desktop files..
Monday, November 22, 2010
Class of 2010 - graduation dinner video
Video by Anna
A parody of 39 of us performed on that night, sung to Bruno Mars' 'Just the way you are'.
A parody of 39 of us performed on that night, sung to Bruno Mars' 'Just the way you are'.
Tuesday, November 09, 2010
Saturday, November 06, 2010
Unstoppable
I enjoy Denzel Washington's movies, and watching his latest release with my shepherd did not disappoint (for me, at least). Frank Barnes (Washington) is a veteran railroad engineer and single father who struggles in juggling between work and maintaining a good relationship with his 2 daughters; Will Colson (Chris Pine) is his young conductor in the process of dealing with a marriage fallout as a result of a misunderstanding with his estranged wife and kids. Initially both did not like each other as Barnes was forced into early retirement to make way for Colson's recruitment, and Will finds it difficult to tolerate Barnes' dose of sarcasm and harsh treatment.
Nevertheless, amidst their efforts to stop a runaway train (thus putting their own lives at risk), a few things were evident in terms of human relationships; 2 people may not see eye to eye with one another, but if we could learn to see beyond each other's differences and work together towards a common purpose, we could actually discover that we have more in common than ever imagined. In the midst of a crisis, you learn to say "Hey come'on, look at the bigger picture. There are more serious things going on which need to be dealt with, compared to our personal problems, which at times actually do appear petty.." It also shows how at times, it takes courage to do the right thing, even if it meant the costly decision of losing your job..
Anyway, the flick started off slow and builds up towards a climactic conclusion, so hang on :) I read somewhere that they minimise the use of special effects and the actors do most of the stunts themselves, which was cool!
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Currently listening: Keith Green - Make my life a prayer to you
Seriously, if you ask me? I duno. Duno what to do, duno whom to talk to, duno what's next.
Well I wanna thank You now
For being patient with me
Oh it's so hard to see
When my eyes are on me
I guess I'll have to trust
And just believe what You say
Oh you're coming again
Coming to take me away
Seriously, if you ask me? I duno. Duno what to do, duno whom to talk to, duno what's next.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Because someone picked me up - 2
Currently listening: True Worshippers (Youth) - Jadi SepertiMu
We watched a movie about Ron Clark, a dedicated teacher who left the comforts of his small town, to take up a teaching position in a problematic classroom at one of New York's troubled neighbourhood schools. I think most people (even myself) would have blown our tops having to deal with such hopeless kids who show no respect and go all out to drive you nuts. In other words, almost everybody has given up on them.
Nevertheless, able to see how this teacher was willing to go through great lengths and try all sorts of methods, even making a fool out of himself, in order to win the hearts of the students and help them achieve their full potential. Eventually by taking personal interest in them, he managed to bring forth change, and the worst class of the school ended up scoring the highest marks among other schools in the state for their exams.
God never gave up on us. Today, as Romans 5:8 put it that Christ died for us while we were still sinners, I'm especially thankful for those in my discussion group:
a) D*, for sharing how from being a stubborn person, what led to his decision to come to know God, and how his life was being transformed gradually in the process. Unexpectedly, he also apologised for being harsh to me in the past, when I initially tried to bring him to church.
b) C*, how despite her own nature of being a resentful person, God gave her the courage to take the 1st step to apologise (even though it's not entirely her fault) and forgive a good friend of hers, who had caused much personal hurt and grief. Could see that it was not an easy process, but it always starts from one person's willingness to let go.
"Ubah hatiku, seputih hatiMu
Setulus salibMu, kasihMu Tuhan
Biar mataku, seperti mataMu
Pancarkan kasihMu, ku mau jadi sepertiMu."
We watched a movie about Ron Clark, a dedicated teacher who left the comforts of his small town, to take up a teaching position in a problematic classroom at one of New York's troubled neighbourhood schools. I think most people (even myself) would have blown our tops having to deal with such hopeless kids who show no respect and go all out to drive you nuts. In other words, almost everybody has given up on them.
Nevertheless, able to see how this teacher was willing to go through great lengths and try all sorts of methods, even making a fool out of himself, in order to win the hearts of the students and help them achieve their full potential. Eventually by taking personal interest in them, he managed to bring forth change, and the worst class of the school ended up scoring the highest marks among other schools in the state for their exams.
God never gave up on us. Today, as Romans 5:8 put it that Christ died for us while we were still sinners, I'm especially thankful for those in my discussion group:
a) D*, for sharing how from being a stubborn person, what led to his decision to come to know God, and how his life was being transformed gradually in the process. Unexpectedly, he also apologised for being harsh to me in the past, when I initially tried to bring him to church.
b) C*, how despite her own nature of being a resentful person, God gave her the courage to take the 1st step to apologise (even though it's not entirely her fault) and forgive a good friend of hers, who had caused much personal hurt and grief. Could see that it was not an easy process, but it always starts from one person's willingness to let go.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Free time + People I'm grateful to
Currently listening: Rob Thomas - Little wonders (OST: Meet the Robinsons)
1. Revisited some my earlier posts when I 1st blogging, and was thinking to myself, did I actually write them? Coz they sounded childish and rather immature.. Oh well..
2. At times I tend to end up comparing with others the things I do..and it can get frustrating when I struggle to comprehend certain people's mindset. Nevertheless, got reminded of Psalm 126:5-6 - Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy.
3. Surgical elective concluded with a record number of surgeries witnessed and assisted (on my part as medical student) and a favourable report expressing confidence from my supervisor, which I'm thankful for.. She actually wrote at length about my strengths and areas for improvement. Monash doesn't pay her for my elective, and I felt a bit 'pai seh' when she invited me for her Hari Raya open house, so my way of thanking her and the department? A box of chocolates should do the trick :)
4. Dermatological posting was exciting - lasted only 4 days, but covered most of the skin conditions I would loved to have seen and diagnosed..
5. I requested several books from the main campus via intercampus loan. The people in Sunway initially refused since they only have 1 copy each, instead suggesting for the clinical school library to acquire the books over time. I'm thankful for our librarian here. No doubt it's a case by case basis, but she actually fought for the books on the basis that I'm a final year student. To my amazement, the books actually arrived within 2 days, guess I owed her one :)
|
1. Revisited some my earlier posts when I 1st blogging, and was thinking to myself, did I actually write them? Coz they sounded childish and rather immature.. Oh well..
2. At times I tend to end up comparing with others the things I do..and it can get frustrating when I struggle to comprehend certain people's mindset. Nevertheless, got reminded of Psalm 126:5-6 - Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy.
3. Surgical elective concluded with a record number of surgeries witnessed and assisted (on my part as medical student) and a favourable report expressing confidence from my supervisor, which I'm thankful for.. She actually wrote at length about my strengths and areas for improvement. Monash doesn't pay her for my elective, and I felt a bit 'pai seh' when she invited me for her Hari Raya open house, so my way of thanking her and the department? A box of chocolates should do the trick :)
4. Dermatological posting was exciting - lasted only 4 days, but covered most of the skin conditions I would loved to have seen and diagnosed..
5. I requested several books from the main campus via intercampus loan. The people in Sunway initially refused since they only have 1 copy each, instead suggesting for the clinical school library to acquire the books over time. I'm thankful for our librarian here. No doubt it's a case by case basis, but she actually fought for the books on the basis that I'm a final year student. To my amazement, the books actually arrived within 2 days, guess I owed her one :)
Monday, October 11, 2010
Escapade to Sungai Lembing - small tin-mining village town
During the Raya holidays, me and a fellow ex-classmate decided to do something which I have not done before - conquer Bukit Panorama. In order to make it to the top of the hill to catch the sunrise, we departed for Sungai Lembing at 5.00am, a 40-minute drive from Kuantan (it was crazy, woke up at 4.30am during school holiday)..
Upon arrival, the small village town was quiet, but you already see coffeeshops selling breakfast open for business. It was pitch-black, you actually need a torchlight to ascend the hillsteps. It was an alternating trail of concrete steps and slippery slopes, as some parts of the steps have been washed away by rainwater and landslides, so it's pretty hazardous to come on a rainy day.
A fellow friend asked if I could actually make it to the top (since I don't frequently exercise :p), but if I could conquer 1000 steps in Kokoda, why not a 400-metre high hill? So I finally made it, and so too did many other people, but to our disappointment, the view of the sunrise was partially obstructed by clouds in the horizon.. oh well, might as well take a few photos. You can also see a bit of the morning fog in the valleys below.
After breakfast, since the old tin mines were sealed off due to collapse, we went over the hanging bridge to a small housing area. Here, one of the industries include making noodles which are somewhat used for 'wantan mee'.. then we ended the day at the local museum..
To check out more photos, click here.
Upon arrival, the small village town was quiet, but you already see coffeeshops selling breakfast open for business. It was pitch-black, you actually need a torchlight to ascend the hillsteps. It was an alternating trail of concrete steps and slippery slopes, as some parts of the steps have been washed away by rainwater and landslides, so it's pretty hazardous to come on a rainy day.
A fellow friend asked if I could actually make it to the top (since I don't frequently exercise :p), but if I could conquer 1000 steps in Kokoda, why not a 400-metre high hill? So I finally made it, and so too did many other people, but to our disappointment, the view of the sunrise was partially obstructed by clouds in the horizon.. oh well, might as well take a few photos. You can also see a bit of the morning fog in the valleys below.
After breakfast, since the old tin mines were sealed off due to collapse, we went over the hanging bridge to a small housing area. Here, one of the industries include making noodles which are somewhat used for 'wantan mee'.. then we ended the day at the local museum..
To check out more photos, click here.
Saturday, October 02, 2010
Back at one
Currently listening: City Harvest - In your house
I remembered 4 years ago, around this same time back in my 1st year, I poured out wholeheartedly to my ex-shepherd in Melbourne, Jason how I was not prepared to go back to Malaysia. Not sure of what lies ahead, not sure of the many uncertainties coming my way. Looking back after more than 4 years on, could really reflect on God's grace through the ups and downs of many experiences I went through..
Funny that now, as I am nearing the end of my undergraduate studies, I find myself in the same spot I was over 4 years ago..
I remembered 4 years ago, around this same time back in my 1st year, I poured out wholeheartedly to my ex-shepherd in Melbourne, Jason how I was not prepared to go back to Malaysia. Not sure of what lies ahead, not sure of the many uncertainties coming my way. Looking back after more than 4 years on, could really reflect on God's grace through the ups and downs of many experiences I went through..
Funny that now, as I am nearing the end of my undergraduate studies, I find myself in the same spot I was over 4 years ago..
Monday, September 27, 2010
Mooncake LG
Mid-autumn festival is often celebrated among the Chinese as a time of family and friends reunion (as with Chinese New Year), where people will gather together to enjoy mooncakes and pomelo under the moon accompanied by lantern riddles, carry or light floating lanterns etc.
In short, there are 2 main school of thoughts of the story behind the festival. The 1st was the popular legend of Chang Er, how she being the wife of Houyi (an archer who shot down 9 out of 10 suns), consumed the pill of immortality given to her husband by the emperor. Some said that she did it the wrong way out of curiosity, whereas another version claimed that she took it to protect the people from her husband's tyranny, and ended up flying to the moon.
The 2nd, which was loosely based on historical events, proposed that rebels in China spread messages hidden in mooncakes for the people to overthrow the Mongol empire on a set date in conjunction with the festival, eventually establishing the Ming dynasty. Therefore, mooncake festival tends to be associated among Chinese with the issue of freedom.
Today as Christians when we talk about experiencing the true freedom in Christ, would like to give special thanks to Bel for sharing her testimony of her experience during her early years as a student, how God set her free from the bondage of her previous mindset:
"Hi, I’m Belinda and currently I’m pursuing my Masters (Biotechnology) in UTM. I give thanks to God for giving me the opportunity to share how God set me free from a stressful life studying during my undergraduate years, which eventually changed my life as well.
When I first came to UTM, I set a very clear goal to achieve a minimum cGPA of 3.5 and above in my subjects every semester, which I worked really hard for. Most of the time I will spend my time studying and making notes in my hostel room, regardless of whether it’s exam time or not. Regardless even if it’s just a minor class quiz, I will burn the midnight oil because to me, every mark scored matters. After my first semester, I was totally shocked as my result was the worst that I achieved throughout my undergraduate years, thanks to the Chemistry subject with a failure rate of 70%.
I started off my second semester working doubly hard to strive for better results. This semester was a bit different whereby sometimes during my own study time at night, a sister would come over and visit me frequently. She’s a fellow senior pursuing her Masters in research at that particular time. She introduced herself to me that she came from Hope Church. Usually she will share with me the word of God and before leaving, invite me to join their care group. I came from a Methodist background back in my hometown, and I don’t even know what in the world a care group is. I know that every Christian should go to church every week, so I joined my roommate to attend a Catholic Church every Saturday since I did not manage to find a Methodist church. To me, I have fulfilled my responsibility as a Christian by being a Sunday attendee. Hence, the invitation or sharing each time by this sister did not appeal to me at all because I did not see the reason why I need to join a care group or spend time knowing more about God. Mostly I will just ignore her presence and continue on with my studies. I couldn’t afford to waste even a small portion of my time. Time passed and as I received my 2nd semester results, I was expecting an improved result with the double effort that I’ve put in. However, things did not come out as I’ve expected. Once again, I failed to achieve the result that I wanted.
Despite the second failure, I told myself not to give up easily. I readjusted my study time and methods. Rather than study alone, I tried studying in groups. I went through all sorts of adjustments just to make sure I’m going to achieve what I intended. Slowly, I discovered that I’ve been living a stressful study life. I didn’t enjoy or find my life as a university student fulfilling. At times, I just wish I could do something else apart from staring at my books, but I couldn’t because it was like a form of bondage stuck to me. Again, I failed to attain the much coveted Dean’s list. This time I couldn’t take it anymore. I started to realize that something must be missing.
For once, I started to make a prayer to God which I never did throughout my life in UTM. I asked for His help and expressed my desire to know more about Him. I made a decision to look for a new church. In the same week after that prayer, while I was in a computer lab, I met up with my senior (one from a different course but same hometown). Unexpectedly, the 1st question of all things that came to our conversation was “Do you still attend church?” I was shocked for a moment as it is not your usual way of exchanging greetings. I replied to her that I am currently searching for a church. She invited me to join the church she attends, that is Hope church. At that moment, it finally struck me that God had being trying to bring me near to Him all this while, but I had been so ignorant and stubborn.
I started attending the Sunday Service and few months later, I joined the care group as well. This also meant that my time to study became significantly less. Nevertheless, I found much joy and inner peace within me, as some of the sisters’ testimonies during care group about how God helped them in their studies really encouraged me. Furthermore, I also received prayer support from my newfound family in Christ. I still remembered at times when I struggled to come for the care group due to busy assignments and tests, they always encouraged me, “When you choose to honor God, He will honor you back.” I choose to believe with a simple heart and never missed the care group throughout that semester. I continued studying as before, but now after I know more about God, I came to discover prayer as a powerful weapon that helped me through. Every time when I come back from the care group, I felt so close to God. My 3rd semester went past just like previous semesters, but no longer was I bound by my boring yet stressful time of study. It was a season where I was being set free in Christ! Hence, I learn to uphold my result unto God’s hand for I know He cares for me. God is good! My 3rd semester results turned out to be the best compared to the previous 2 semesters. Not only that, I managed to be included in the Dean’s list as well!
Deuteronomy 28:13 mentioned that “The Lord will make you the head, not the tail. If you pay attention to the commands of the Lord your God that I give you this day and carefully follow them, you will always be at the top, NEVER at the bottom.“
Belinda Tiong
U3B"
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Alpha course weekend away
Went down to KL to catch up with ex-CG friends from Hope KL. It so happened that SSC unit had a trip to a small village town of Broga in conjunction with their Alpha course, which I tagged along. We started off at 7am, and arrived at our destination around 9am for breakfast. It was then a time of exploring the OUTBAC compound, with fun outdoor activities such as kayaking, cycling, obstacle courses integrated along with teaching sessions on the topic of the Holy Spirit. Challenged myself to take on some of the activities, with mixed consequences..
It was a refreshing time to see new people in the Subang-Sunway group, and also an opportunity for me to refresh myself on the topic which I have not read up for a while, and might need to do some teaching on soon. I think it was great that as a group, we are able to honestly express our burdens / issues and pray for one another in the afternoon.
Night wrap-up with the campfire in the background was awesome, as each person shared what they learnt throughout the day; a new perspective on the topic being taught, a refreshing time of fellowship and team-building - helping one another overcome the obstacles. I don't really join them much nowadays, but as someone who is graduating soon, I could only remind everyone to treasure their time as a group while they are still students, to support and encourage each other, to grow in service, practise what they have learnt, and make a difference wherever they are.And we shall cap things off with a song - with of course some accompanied background music :) Check out the rest of the photo album here.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Come what may
.jpg)
Synopsis:
Caleb Hogan wants to transfer to Patrick Henry College (PHC) to compete on the Moot Court team. His mother, Judith, who is a high profile constitutional lawyer, opposes his decision because Patrick Henry College teaches from a biblical worldview. To her, nothing is absolute and as a lawyer, it is the ability to be able to manipulate the grey areas in your favour that matters. Since Caleb insists that the PHC Moot Court team, champions for 2 consecutive years will provide him with the best training for working in her law firm, Judith agrees to pay for education for only 1 term, subject to the condition that he wins the Moot Court National Championship.
The Moot Court topic is soon announced as a case weighing a young girl's right to have an abortion, against her parents' right to know about it. Caleb believes that the team will be most successful by arguing for a small exception to the apparent "right to abortion" by showing substantial parental interests, not because he supports abortion but because he insists that attempting to overturn Roe vs Wade will provoke a negative emotional response from the liberal judges, 1 of whom was a former well-known Supreme Court judge. His partner, Rachel however, argues that they should make the case to go all out and overturn it, thus completely denying the right to an abortion. Caleb admits of being under pressure to win the debate competition at all costs, even through some form of compromise, if he intends to continue studying at the college.
Meanwhile, Judith is offered a case to argue in the Supreme Court on behalf of an abortion clinic who violated a state's parental notification laws. Against the wishes of her husband Don, a biology teacher, and her son Caleb, Judith takes the case to boost her reputation and asks Rachel to work as an intern at her law firm to help her prepare, which she refused. As the Moot Court championship tournament draws near, Caleb is faced with a growing rift forming between his parents, an escalating argument with his debate partner and the future of his education and his family at stake.
In the end, it's a matter of principle. It all comes down to taking a stand, whatever the cost. Caleb learnt that not everything is about winning and losing, and that despite being a losing finalist when he challenged the Supreme court judge panel by presenting an unpopular argument, his decision drew applause from the audience, and eventually lead to Judith realising her shortcomings. Both parents reconciled, so did Rachel and him.
And to add another lesson? Every life is precious..
Currently listening: 讚美之泉 - 展開清晨的翅膀 (Stream of Praise - Wings of the dawn)
|
主耶和華你已經鑒察了我
(Father you know all of my heart all my life)
我坐下 我起來 你都已曉得
(You know my ways, when I sit down and when I rise)
我行路 我躺臥 你都細察
(There's not a word, not a thought you do not know)
你也深知我一切所行
(My heart is glad to be known by you)
我舌頭上的話 你沒有一句不知道
(My heart cannot express the wonder of your love)
你在我前後環繞著我 按手在我身上
(How high and deep and wide, and flowing from above)
這樣的奇妙 是我不能測透
(My God is always there, he's faithful to the end)
你的至高 你的尊貴 是我永遠不能所及
(He will hide me under his wing, in his shelter I will be safe)
我可以往哪裡去躲避你的靈
(Where can I go? Where can I run to hide away?)
我可以往哪裡去逃 可躲避你的面
(As high as the sky, deep as the sea, your hands will guide me)
我若展開清晨的翅膀飛到地極
(No matter where, no matter what my life goes through)
就在那裡 你的雙手也必引導我
(Father above, my heart is glad to be known by you)
Saturday, September 04, 2010
Kite runner
Currently listening: 4Him - Be thou my vision
As we celebrated our 53rd National Day, our lifegroup came together and drove to Pasir Gudang on a hot day for an outing at Muzium Layang-layang. I believe that everybody had fun, amazing to see the excitement on everybody running off to fly their kites after the workshop and museum visit, and also to pray for our nation. We also spent some time making kites as a group, where like it or not, really need to learn to be patient and accept each other's different styles of doing things.
Winner of the kite-making activity depends on 2 criteria: creativity and flyability. Ethan's group decided to apply the basic method of designing the kite - the tried and tested diamond shape. Some of us actually went for the 'Wau Bulan' design.. Most of us, even himself wondered whether it will work out, whether his 3 diamond-shaped kites glued to each other to form a 3-storey structure will actually lift off. In the end, as he sprinted across the field with a string in hand, tugging the kite behind him against the wind, it turned out to be the one which soared the highest, and helped remind us to continue believing in things which seem impossible / yet to be seen happening.
Dominic and Jing Jing shared a relevant point - today as the times are becoming more developed and technologically advanced, the way we do things might change, so will the mindset of people, but the principles of God's word remain the same. It is a truth which has been proven to work for many generations. Therefore, as we soar higher like the kite, let us continue to remain grounded in God's word and not go astray, like the kite attached to the string of its maker.
Overall, it was an tiring but fun day. Happy 53rd birthday Malaysia :)
Photo reference: http://maplewood.blogs.nytimes.com/tag/floods-hill/
As we celebrated our 53rd National Day, our lifegroup came together and drove to Pasir Gudang on a hot day for an outing at Muzium Layang-layang. I believe that everybody had fun, amazing to see the excitement on everybody running off to fly their kites after the workshop and museum visit, and also to pray for our nation. We also spent some time making kites as a group, where like it or not, really need to learn to be patient and accept each other's different styles of doing things.Winner of the kite-making activity depends on 2 criteria: creativity and flyability. Ethan's group decided to apply the basic method of designing the kite - the tried and tested diamond shape. Some of us actually went for the 'Wau Bulan' design.. Most of us, even himself wondered whether it will work out, whether his 3 diamond-shaped kites glued to each other to form a 3-storey structure will actually lift off. In the end, as he sprinted across the field with a string in hand, tugging the kite behind him against the wind, it turned out to be the one which soared the highest, and helped remind us to continue believing in things which seem impossible / yet to be seen happening.
Dominic and Jing Jing shared a relevant point - today as the times are becoming more developed and technologically advanced, the way we do things might change, so will the mindset of people, but the principles of God's word remain the same. It is a truth which has been proven to work for many generations. Therefore, as we soar higher like the kite, let us continue to remain grounded in God's word and not go astray, like the kite attached to the string of its maker.
Overall, it was an tiring but fun day. Happy 53rd birthday Malaysia :)
Photo reference: http://maplewood.blogs.nytimes.com/tag/floods-hill/
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Walking out from your situation
Currently listening: True Worshippers - Take us higher
There was this story about an elderly lady from Taiwan (you can Google her story) who recently received an award from her country's government for her philantropic acts, and she was also inducted into the annual list of Time's 100 most influential people in the world. According to her, she sees her actions as nothing extraordinary, she donates money to needy people because she does not need that much for her daily expenses. But her life growing up is anything but straight forward.
While still a 13-year old child, her pregnant mum was admitted to a hospital for breech in labour requiring surgery. Nevertheless, doctors at the hospital refused to operate unless they are able to cough up the funds to pay for the operation. Therefore, the father had painstakingly to go to the market and streets to beg and borrow money for this purpose, which was not easy. However, at the end of the day, she witnessed her mother passed away in front of her, minutes before her father turned up with the money.
There are 3 responses which could come out of people from this situation. Firstly, she could be a person filled with hatred and bitterness, whose actions are unpleasant and difficult for others to tolerate/love. Some people see this incident as a license/passport, giving them the right to act in whatever way they please. Why? Because to them, the world owes them, it has robbed them of something precious. Many times, a person's seemingly annoying behaviour can be traced to their background.
The 2nd response, is trying to prove oneself to others. People in the world we live in today are practical. As the incident above would show, money is very important. These people will make themselves work very hard to overcome their weaknesses and circumstances (eg poverty). Now there is nothing wrong with working hard, but when it comes to the extent of doing so at all costs, it will lead to a proud and self-centred attitude. Such people build a wall around their lives, that they find it difficult to accept other people's weaknesses or receive constructive criticism from others. They always think that they are the ones who can do better than others.
The final response, is to walk out from your situation. What is past, is past, no point harping over it or wallowing in self pity. This lady went through a devastating experience as a child. Because of it, she had to quit school and work as a vegetable seller with her dad to help support her siblings, and there she has been until today. She stepped out from her tragedy and was able to be a blessing by giving to those around her in need. Today, her donations have helped built schools/colleges and fund projects among charitable organisations. An ordinary person, who brought forth an extraordinary change.
Today ask ourselves, is there any part of us which, because of what we had gone through in the past, cause us to be prejudiced or find it difficult to tolerate other people's antics? If so, quieten down yourself.. lay it down, and walk out.
I needed to.
There was this story about an elderly lady from Taiwan (you can Google her story) who recently received an award from her country's government for her philantropic acts, and she was also inducted into the annual list of Time's 100 most influential people in the world. According to her, she sees her actions as nothing extraordinary, she donates money to needy people because she does not need that much for her daily expenses. But her life growing up is anything but straight forward.
While still a 13-year old child, her pregnant mum was admitted to a hospital for breech in labour requiring surgery. Nevertheless, doctors at the hospital refused to operate unless they are able to cough up the funds to pay for the operation. Therefore, the father had painstakingly to go to the market and streets to beg and borrow money for this purpose, which was not easy. However, at the end of the day, she witnessed her mother passed away in front of her, minutes before her father turned up with the money.
There are 3 responses which could come out of people from this situation. Firstly, she could be a person filled with hatred and bitterness, whose actions are unpleasant and difficult for others to tolerate/love. Some people see this incident as a license/passport, giving them the right to act in whatever way they please. Why? Because to them, the world owes them, it has robbed them of something precious. Many times, a person's seemingly annoying behaviour can be traced to their background.
The 2nd response, is trying to prove oneself to others. People in the world we live in today are practical. As the incident above would show, money is very important. These people will make themselves work very hard to overcome their weaknesses and circumstances (eg poverty). Now there is nothing wrong with working hard, but when it comes to the extent of doing so at all costs, it will lead to a proud and self-centred attitude. Such people build a wall around their lives, that they find it difficult to accept other people's weaknesses or receive constructive criticism from others. They always think that they are the ones who can do better than others.
The final response, is to walk out from your situation. What is past, is past, no point harping over it or wallowing in self pity. This lady went through a devastating experience as a child. Because of it, she had to quit school and work as a vegetable seller with her dad to help support her siblings, and there she has been until today. She stepped out from her tragedy and was able to be a blessing by giving to those around her in need. Today, her donations have helped built schools/colleges and fund projects among charitable organisations. An ordinary person, who brought forth an extraordinary change.
Today ask ourselves, is there any part of us which, because of what we had gone through in the past, cause us to be prejudiced or find it difficult to tolerate other people's antics? If so, quieten down yourself.. lay it down, and walk out.
I needed to.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)