Happy New Year's Eve!
posted by Benita at 4:18 PM
Friday, December 31, 2004
Thursday, December 30, 2004
A rare day in which I didn't set foot out of the house at all, in hope for a nice home-cooked dinner which I've been deprived of for weeks - and my mom didn't cook. I have only No. 4 left for my graphic communications assignment, and I have not really a clue on how to go about getting it out on print.
Threw 4 chicken breakfast sausages (which smelt suspiciously like armpit odours, but they're fresh okay) into the water to cook and appease the impending gastric pains which were threatening to corrode my gastronomous organ, as the mother and the sister goes forth in search for kill for me.
Cancelled piano lesson today, due to my waking up at 2.30pm (I slept at 12mn, weirdly enough) and also a bad throat and green mucus jamming my nostrils. I didn't want to infect the poor girl okay, so there. The mother spoke a ton of intelligible words, and a groggy me just croaked repeatedly that she needs to ask her daughter to practise regularly, not just wait for her to tinker on the piano on her own.
Till today, I still can't understand Indian accents over the phone.
___
Last night was Omega Nite 2004, the last YF event of the year, to signify the closure of a fruitful year. We had a video done by Pastor Wesley which was a recap on the year. There was our AmazingRace 2, a successful Underground Church Lock-in Nite, many good YF talks by various speakers such as singer/composer Clement Chow, and of course, our YF camp 2004: Return of the King. It is amazing and touching, how God has worked in our YF this year. Many have grown in faith and stature, and its really wonderful to see many youths maturing in Christ.
Due to some last minute changes, where my original drummer was grounded and Stanley couldn't help me right before worship started, I had to play with the grand piano covers over my legs instead of leading worship together with Rose.
The theme was the 70s, and it was really cool to see many of the youths turning up in their parent's outfits. I didn't turn up in mine, though. Borrowed a green striped dress from Kesh (thanks, girl!) and my mom's green scarf. Char's earrings for me for my birthday came in pretty handy and throw in my heels - you had my outfit. Alright, so I won Miss 70s. Pretty surprised, considering many of the girls were really nicely done up. Thanks to those who voted for me, though my 'trophy' was smashed soon after. Ohwell, there still is the TIARA (don't laugh). Will put up some pictures later.
'Twas dinner after the video, praying for the tsunami flood victims (one of them was a church member, relative of 3 youths) and some sharing. The following post will be reiterating what I shared.
It was a good dinner - finally a good caterer, I must say. Then it was the LAMEST skit I have ever seen, written by my sunday school class' resident lamer - Qi Heng. Darth Lamer vs Elvis Presley, with LOADS of wheelchair jokes. How's that for a music prodigy and an idiot of IQ of 140! Dumb but talking, oh the horror. Well done! I couldn't help because of doing worship, but hey, it was great watching them (:
It was phototaking session after the event, and some clearing up to do. Plus a short, emotional farewell with my drums.
Welcome back, Jacinth! It was certainly good to see you yesterday (:
Kudos to the planners, too! It was a job well done.
And its the next year, in 2 days.
Threw 4 chicken breakfast sausages (which smelt suspiciously like armpit odours, but they're fresh okay) into the water to cook and appease the impending gastric pains which were threatening to corrode my gastronomous organ, as the mother and the sister goes forth in search for kill for me.
Cancelled piano lesson today, due to my waking up at 2.30pm (I slept at 12mn, weirdly enough) and also a bad throat and green mucus jamming my nostrils. I didn't want to infect the poor girl okay, so there. The mother spoke a ton of intelligible words, and a groggy me just croaked repeatedly that she needs to ask her daughter to practise regularly, not just wait for her to tinker on the piano on her own.
Till today, I still can't understand Indian accents over the phone.
___
Last night was Omega Nite 2004, the last YF event of the year, to signify the closure of a fruitful year. We had a video done by Pastor Wesley which was a recap on the year. There was our AmazingRace 2, a successful Underground Church Lock-in Nite, many good YF talks by various speakers such as singer/composer Clement Chow, and of course, our YF camp 2004: Return of the King. It is amazing and touching, how God has worked in our YF this year. Many have grown in faith and stature, and its really wonderful to see many youths maturing in Christ.
Due to some last minute changes, where my original drummer was grounded and Stanley couldn't help me right before worship started, I had to play with the grand piano covers over my legs instead of leading worship together with Rose.
The theme was the 70s, and it was really cool to see many of the youths turning up in their parent's outfits. I didn't turn up in mine, though. Borrowed a green striped dress from Kesh (thanks, girl!) and my mom's green scarf. Char's earrings for me for my birthday came in pretty handy and throw in my heels - you had my outfit. Alright, so I won Miss 70s. Pretty surprised, considering many of the girls were really nicely done up. Thanks to those who voted for me, though my 'trophy' was smashed soon after. Ohwell, there still is the TIARA (don't laugh). Will put up some pictures later.
'Twas dinner after the video, praying for the tsunami flood victims (one of them was a church member, relative of 3 youths) and some sharing. The following post will be reiterating what I shared.
It was a good dinner - finally a good caterer, I must say. Then it was the LAMEST skit I have ever seen, written by my sunday school class' resident lamer - Qi Heng. Darth Lamer vs Elvis Presley, with LOADS of wheelchair jokes. How's that for a music prodigy and an idiot of IQ of 140! Dumb but talking, oh the horror. Well done! I couldn't help because of doing worship, but hey, it was great watching them (:
It was phototaking session after the event, and some clearing up to do. Plus a short, emotional farewell with my drums.
Welcome back, Jacinth! It was certainly good to see you yesterday (:
Kudos to the planners, too! It was a job well done.
And its the next year, in 2 days.
posted by Benita at 10:12 PM
Post-camp,
many of the youths have been going out very frequently, staying out till late, even sleeping over. Not that its a bad thing to be fellowshipping with each other; it isn't a good thing either when it becomes way too frequent. Whatever reasons (valid or invalid - invalid, mostly) they have given, I have heard of complaints from parents and fellow YFers alike.
Think this way - the main concern here is not about spoiling your fun, but about your parent's concerns.
One may say, "Relax, they're still kids. Let them have their fun."
But when does fun start going overboard? When you start going out oh-so-often, even lying to your parents in wanting to do so, coming home way past your curfew, it is time to get serious. Parents start complaining and getting all unhappy over the YF. Not only you. It is NOT as though they haven't let you enjoy yourself this holidays. They have. But who will seek responsibility should something happen to you? You may think that yes, I'm old enough to take care of myself, so just let me be. But just think about who will have to bear the brunt of all your fun.
"I'm going out with the YF people."
Remember- its not all about you.
No one can stop you from even walking, much less organising your own activities. Please be responsible for your actions, by sparing a thought for the innocent others you may be dragging down in the process.
Neglecting your own family duties is one of the last things your parents want to see happening.
School's starting in a couple of weeks, and how many of you are actually ready for school? Two weeks will be up before you know it. They are also worried that your holiday-mood momentum can't be broken when school starts, and its not going to be easy getting you back in track for school.
There is always a limit to everything, and before your parents start drawing the line and you get rebellious and all unhappy and so does everyone else, be more mature and responsible for your actions.
I have been through this myself, and I certainly don't want to see these mistakes I have made happening again - when they can be prevented. The countless number of times I've fought with my parents because of my inability to be responsible made me feel so shameful about my selfishness. Now I see what my mom says as true. What will this reflect upon the YF as?
I see cliques forming too. Is this actually good at all? Think about the content of your conversations. Do encouraging words rule, or do gossip?
I'm praying for a mature YF which encourages each other not only in our spiritual growth, but also in our daily lives - the Godly way.
many of the youths have been going out very frequently, staying out till late, even sleeping over. Not that its a bad thing to be fellowshipping with each other; it isn't a good thing either when it becomes way too frequent. Whatever reasons (valid or invalid - invalid, mostly) they have given, I have heard of complaints from parents and fellow YFers alike.
Think this way - the main concern here is not about spoiling your fun, but about your parent's concerns.
One may say, "Relax, they're still kids. Let them have their fun."
But when does fun start going overboard? When you start going out oh-so-often, even lying to your parents in wanting to do so, coming home way past your curfew, it is time to get serious. Parents start complaining and getting all unhappy over the YF. Not only you. It is NOT as though they haven't let you enjoy yourself this holidays. They have. But who will seek responsibility should something happen to you? You may think that yes, I'm old enough to take care of myself, so just let me be. But just think about who will have to bear the brunt of all your fun.
"I'm going out with the YF people."
Remember- its not all about you.
No one can stop you from even walking, much less organising your own activities. Please be responsible for your actions, by sparing a thought for the innocent others you may be dragging down in the process.
Neglecting your own family duties is one of the last things your parents want to see happening.
School's starting in a couple of weeks, and how many of you are actually ready for school? Two weeks will be up before you know it. They are also worried that your holiday-mood momentum can't be broken when school starts, and its not going to be easy getting you back in track for school.
There is always a limit to everything, and before your parents start drawing the line and you get rebellious and all unhappy and so does everyone else, be more mature and responsible for your actions.
I have been through this myself, and I certainly don't want to see these mistakes I have made happening again - when they can be prevented. The countless number of times I've fought with my parents because of my inability to be responsible made me feel so shameful about my selfishness. Now I see what my mom says as true. What will this reflect upon the YF as?
I see cliques forming too. Is this actually good at all? Think about the content of your conversations. Do encouraging words rule, or do gossip?
I'm praying for a mature YF which encourages each other not only in our spiritual growth, but also in our daily lives - the Godly way.
posted by Benita at 9:08 PM
Tuesday, December 28, 2004
Make up, close up. Look ma, no more pimples! Rahh. Ames and I!
This is my handbells uniform. Known as the Powerpuff Girls/Cream Puff and THE cakeskirt I so daringly wore to town.
posted by Benita at 11:47 PM
Blogger is trying to tease me about my almost-but-not-yet-there Chinese, eh?
Blogger.com/home is in Chinese. Ancient chinese, to be exact.
__
Yesterday was one sway day. I tell you, the worst things happen to me in Decembers.
So it was another rarity - I wore a skirt to school. And I had to literally soil it after SpeechCom lecture. Rahh.
Was walking towards a nice-looking bridge outside the convention centre with the girls when I realised that what surrounded it was freshly dug soil. With nice morning dew mixed with the soil.
See, to avoid muddy places you go for the grassy areas. But alas, squish! Soil splashed unto my butt (I didn't know I was THAT heavy). My feet was soil-y, legs had some, and butt.
The best thing? The soil smelt like shit. Make that again, literally.
Charmie ran off in all directions and Annie helped wipe my legs. Urgh. Thank God that I lived a 10 minute walk away, and that there was a 2 hour break before the next lecture.
Had to endure (more) stares at my ass, ha, and to avoid every living creature possible within a 10m radius of me lest they think that I'd really poopoo-ed on my skirt.
Words could not describe my relief after a good scrub and a good, clean pair of shorts.
Sadly, my butt was subjected to more groping, no thanks to the Wank-gers. I think they've been abit, um, holed up. Ohwhee. Was literally running down the killerhill can.
Then it was filming! It was a pretty tedious process - 2 hours for just 6 minutes of film. Imagine a 30 minute tv episode la! Alright, we are just novices afterall. But I enjoyed every bit of it, though rushed. I was the camerawoman. I like being the camerawoman.. Anne was our actress, and Eve was (no surprise) the Ah Ma!
Laughed my stomach out during the filming, and while watching our film. Heh. It was hilarious alright. Wheee.
After we wrapped up, I went for Rose's surprise farewell party at West Coast Park. About 60+ of us turned up, and we had a short singspiration together. Things got overly poignant for me. I couldn't help it - Rose is one-half of the Twin Towers in my life, together with Doreen. Although she'll only be away for 6 months, I'd still miss her so much, sigh.
Me and Rose (:
I hate to admit this, but I've never cried nor been this emotional so often in my entire life - till this year.
But still, with all that I've gone through this year, I've emerged a stronger, more matured and grateful person- though I'd rather have learnt it another way instead. Real, wonderful friends, and also a greater faith in the Almighty, who has ever been so faithful to me. Next year will be a brand-new one for me - and I mean, brand-new.
All in the 17th year.
Medisoc was positively horrible. Jerked up awake at 8am today (class was at 8am), half slid-walked (Sleepwalk! Gettit? Gettit?) my way to school, no thanks to grooveless slippers and a slippery floor. Almost fell 3 times, and I guess I was quite a sight to watch. How embarrassing. I chased myself up killerhill and stepped into the LT at 830am sharp. If not for attendance's sake, I wouldn't even have turned up. The lecture (how apt) was peppered with annoying pffts and puhs, plus a scriptreader (who doesn't seem to know the slides) with poor diction is more than enough to draw all our attention - away. I don't see this as dissing - it is that bad. Hey, I'm paying for this afterall can. Bah.
I haven't been concentrating much in lectures already, and there just so happens to have 2 lectures which most of us somehow find zero ability to just listen in on. I think I can only count on myself already.
Speaking of which, Graphcomm is due this Friday (but I heard rumours that it is fine if it is handed in on Monday), and I haven't a clue on what to do, much less start. Wonderful. This semester is a far cry from the last. The only 2 modules I enjoy this term is Location Video Production and Sports and Wellness.
Rahh. I need to focus!
Blogger.com/home is in Chinese. Ancient chinese, to be exact.
__
Yesterday was one sway day. I tell you, the worst things happen to me in Decembers.
So it was another rarity - I wore a skirt to school. And I had to literally soil it after SpeechCom lecture. Rahh.
Was walking towards a nice-looking bridge outside the convention centre with the girls when I realised that what surrounded it was freshly dug soil. With nice morning dew mixed with the soil.
See, to avoid muddy places you go for the grassy areas. But alas, squish! Soil splashed unto my butt (I didn't know I was THAT heavy). My feet was soil-y, legs had some, and butt.
The best thing? The soil smelt like shit. Make that again, literally.
Charmie ran off in all directions and Annie helped wipe my legs. Urgh. Thank God that I lived a 10 minute walk away, and that there was a 2 hour break before the next lecture.
Had to endure (more) stares at my ass, ha, and to avoid every living creature possible within a 10m radius of me lest they think that I'd really poopoo-ed on my skirt.
Words could not describe my relief after a good scrub and a good, clean pair of shorts.
Sadly, my butt was subjected to more groping, no thanks to the Wank-gers. I think they've been abit, um, holed up. Ohwhee. Was literally running down the killerhill can.
Then it was filming! It was a pretty tedious process - 2 hours for just 6 minutes of film. Imagine a 30 minute tv episode la! Alright, we are just novices afterall. But I enjoyed every bit of it, though rushed. I was the camerawoman. I like being the camerawoman.. Anne was our actress, and Eve was (no surprise) the Ah Ma!
Laughed my stomach out during the filming, and while watching our film. Heh. It was hilarious alright. Wheee.
After we wrapped up, I went for Rose's surprise farewell party at West Coast Park. About 60+ of us turned up, and we had a short singspiration together. Things got overly poignant for me. I couldn't help it - Rose is one-half of the Twin Towers in my life, together with Doreen. Although she'll only be away for 6 months, I'd still miss her so much, sigh.
Me and Rose (:
I hate to admit this, but I've never cried nor been this emotional so often in my entire life - till this year.
But still, with all that I've gone through this year, I've emerged a stronger, more matured and grateful person- though I'd rather have learnt it another way instead. Real, wonderful friends, and also a greater faith in the Almighty, who has ever been so faithful to me. Next year will be a brand-new one for me - and I mean, brand-new.
All in the 17th year.
Medisoc was positively horrible. Jerked up awake at 8am today (class was at 8am), half slid-walked (Sleepwalk! Gettit? Gettit?) my way to school, no thanks to grooveless slippers and a slippery floor. Almost fell 3 times, and I guess I was quite a sight to watch. How embarrassing. I chased myself up killerhill and stepped into the LT at 830am sharp. If not for attendance's sake, I wouldn't even have turned up. The lecture (how apt) was peppered with annoying pffts and puhs, plus a scriptreader (who doesn't seem to know the slides) with poor diction is more than enough to draw all our attention - away. I don't see this as dissing - it is that bad. Hey, I'm paying for this afterall can. Bah.
I haven't been concentrating much in lectures already, and there just so happens to have 2 lectures which most of us somehow find zero ability to just listen in on. I think I can only count on myself already.
Speaking of which, Graphcomm is due this Friday (but I heard rumours that it is fine if it is handed in on Monday), and I haven't a clue on what to do, much less start. Wonderful. This semester is a far cry from the last. The only 2 modules I enjoy this term is Location Video Production and Sports and Wellness.
Rahh. I need to focus!
posted by Benita at 4:37 PM
Monday, December 27, 2004
I'm re-considering my whole life and its direction.
It's about time I did so; compromises no more.
Get ready for surprises.
posted by Benita at 11:22 PM
Saturday, December 25, 2004
Christmas
It was certainly a travesty when the CD bailed out on us 3/4 into our dance last night. All was fine during the rehearsals; and you only thought this could happen if luck was seriously not on your side.
Whee I'm a jinx. -snorts-
Alright, I shall listen to Charchar and stop harping on what can't be undone.
But we simply continued, singing the song out loud as we danced - finally bringing consummation to the 2 months (including an intensive 5 days) of sweat, tears and aches, to probably the loudest cheers ever to fill the sanctuary. It was a wonderful feeling too, to know that in the end, God appreciates the dance, whether it was successful or not. 'Cos He knows that we'd done our best!
AND. I was in eyeliner. Mascara. Concealer. HAHAHA. Pictures up when I get them la. It's Halley's Comet passing through again! Hurhur.
Carolling was great. We visited only 4 houses this year (imagine 45 people in ONE team?!), one of them being a top real estate agent, Ivy Lee's house. It was... FWOAH. Cabinets by Versace, pictures of her with SM Goh, Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan (he's quite cute actually. Nadiah! Another I.S.G for you! Spicehh armpits, whee), Trophies all over for TOP REAL ESTATE AGENT.. Blahblah. She's quite pretty for her age. And she's single. Never knew she attended my church!
Singapore's most eligible bachelorette, anyone?
(Lemme digress - spinster is the correct word for an unmarried lady. But spinster sounds sad. Always associated it with widow, don't most of us do? You don't see 'The Spinster' on reality TV aye. 'The Bachelorette' sounds a hundred times more splashy.)
So the company which went was great, too. Carolling, though with the pastors on our team, wasn't as 'disciplined' as it usually would be. Previously we just went there to eat and sing, and being all bored and tired after a maybe couple of houses.
Thanks to the 2 of our church's best guitarists, Dom and Jeff, and of course a ton of the youths, we harmonised all the carols (almost the whole 1130 worship team was there!), jammed and sang as and when we pleased. Even danced, heh.
Christmas is becoming a love-hate thing.
Oh man it just started raining, and the sky is bright. Okay it has stopped, and the sky is still bright. Not making any sense yes, but whatever lah.
Anyway, I would have went to everybody's blogs on my list to wish them Merry Xmas, but I'm dying of lack of sleep now. So here goes...
To everybody!
BLESSED CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEARRRRRAH!
It's been a year. What do you feel?
It was certainly a travesty when the CD bailed out on us 3/4 into our dance last night. All was fine during the rehearsals; and you only thought this could happen if luck was seriously not on your side.
Whee I'm a jinx. -snorts-
Alright, I shall listen to Charchar and stop harping on what can't be undone.
But we simply continued, singing the song out loud as we danced - finally bringing consummation to the 2 months (including an intensive 5 days) of sweat, tears and aches, to probably the loudest cheers ever to fill the sanctuary. It was a wonderful feeling too, to know that in the end, God appreciates the dance, whether it was successful or not. 'Cos He knows that we'd done our best!
AND. I was in eyeliner. Mascara. Concealer. HAHAHA. Pictures up when I get them la. It's Halley's Comet passing through again! Hurhur.
Carolling was great. We visited only 4 houses this year (imagine 45 people in ONE team?!), one of them being a top real estate agent, Ivy Lee's house. It was... FWOAH. Cabinets by Versace, pictures of her with SM Goh, Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan (he's quite cute actually. Nadiah! Another I.S.G for you! Spicehh armpits, whee), Trophies all over for TOP REAL ESTATE AGENT.. Blahblah. She's quite pretty for her age. And she's single. Never knew she attended my church!
Singapore's most eligible bachelorette, anyone?
(Lemme digress - spinster is the correct word for an unmarried lady. But spinster sounds sad. Always associated it with widow, don't most of us do? You don't see 'The Spinster' on reality TV aye. 'The Bachelorette' sounds a hundred times more splashy.)
So the company which went was great, too. Carolling, though with the pastors on our team, wasn't as 'disciplined' as it usually would be. Previously we just went there to eat and sing, and being all bored and tired after a maybe couple of houses.
Thanks to the 2 of our church's best guitarists, Dom and Jeff, and of course a ton of the youths, we harmonised all the carols (almost the whole 1130 worship team was there!), jammed and sang as and when we pleased. Even danced, heh.
Christmas is becoming a love-hate thing.
Oh man it just started raining, and the sky is bright. Okay it has stopped, and the sky is still bright. Not making any sense yes, but whatever lah.
Anyway, I would have went to everybody's blogs on my list to wish them Merry Xmas, but I'm dying of lack of sleep now. So here goes...
To everybody!
BLESSED CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEARRRRRAH!
It's been a year. What do you feel?
posted by Benita at 1:12 PM
Thursday, December 23, 2004
Crustacean with the family today, farewell lunch for the brother.
Korea from 27/12 - 05/01, then its army 06- beyond.
S&W was cool, SaB was... MKT is a nice guy la. Be nice to him, he be nice to you.
"Every man has a little boy in him." - MKT, 2004, answering questions on adult toys by an innocent little me.
__
Xmas Party was cool, too. Until the inner-child in me escaped.
Please pray for the speedy recovery of Christina's ankle.
__
I'm one frigging jinx. I can't stand it anymore.
Why does this always have to happen to others, not me??
I'd rather not be this 'lucky' if I could take someone else's pain instead.
This is going to be some Christmas. Oh, what a nice closure for the craziest year ever in my short little life.
Is this going to be a trend?
Somehow I already dread this particular season ever since.. Last year.
'Tis the season where it all began.
Damn do I miss you.
Zhi=-: Yes, next Wed!!
eve: You don't say so. ):
Mabes: Do sports!! Do lunges!
nurul: Heehee. Can't wait too!!!
Korea from 27/12 - 05/01, then its army 06- beyond.
S&W was cool, SaB was... MKT is a nice guy la. Be nice to him, he be nice to you.
"Every man has a little boy in him." - MKT, 2004, answering questions on adult toys by an innocent little me.
__
Xmas Party was cool, too. Until the inner-child in me escaped.
Please pray for the speedy recovery of Christina's ankle.
__
I'm one frigging jinx. I can't stand it anymore.
Why does this always have to happen to others, not me??
I'd rather not be this 'lucky' if I could take someone else's pain instead.
This is going to be some Christmas. Oh, what a nice closure for the craziest year ever in my short little life.
Is this going to be a trend?
Somehow I already dread this particular season ever since.. Last year.
'Tis the season where it all began.
Damn do I miss you.
Zhi=-: Yes, next Wed!!
eve: You don't say so. ):
Mabes: Do sports!! Do lunges!
nurul: Heehee. Can't wait too!!!
posted by Benita at 1:28 AM
Tuesday, December 21, 2004
Billiards after 3 months today.
Did only 3 games in almost 2 hrs... A drop from our usualy 4 games in 2 hrs.
Quite pathetic.. But my cueing is better I think. Super rusty still.
Best game was 56 pts - I think.
Super tired today. My eyes were perpetually threatening to close shop.
The ABCdE cheered me up, as usual. Harmonizing Christmas carols and our signature song ("You and me baby ain't nothing but mammals..")! (:
Its gonna be a real busy Christmas.
It's been a year.
Scandal of the day - My butt was checked out by a certain figure. Rahh.
Alright, I've no mood to blog already. Goodnight.
Life can easily go on for you.
me; a train has run through.
Did only 3 games in almost 2 hrs... A drop from our usualy 4 games in 2 hrs.
Quite pathetic.. But my cueing is better I think. Super rusty still.
Best game was 56 pts - I think.
Super tired today. My eyes were perpetually threatening to close shop.
The ABCdE cheered me up, as usual. Harmonizing Christmas carols and our signature song ("You and me baby ain't nothing but mammals..")! (:
Its gonna be a real busy Christmas.
It's been a year.
Scandal of the day - My butt was checked out by a certain figure. Rahh.
Alright, I've no mood to blog already. Goodnight.
Life can easily go on for you.
me; a train has run through.
posted by Benita at 11:21 PM
Sunday, December 19, 2004
YF Camp 2004: Return of The King
"Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come." -Matthew 24:42
This is by far, the most draining camp for me - mentally and physically, as I have mentioned in the previous post. But I was spiritually refreshed, having seen and felt God's presence working amongst all the youths, and within myself.
Evangeline was the camp commandant, the assistant, Vivien. It certainly was no mean feat for a 10-strong committee to plan the whole camp and the 12 Team Leaders (TLs) and their assistants (ATLs) together run the 121-strong camp.
I was part of the committee, in-charge of Worship and Fame Nite. The preparation, with God's grace, went smoothly. However, many attempts by the devil to greatly discourage me were made. Right before the camp, I had a big fight - the biggest this year - with my parents. Why? Because I told them that I'd skipped SAB. I didn't tell them that I had to go earlier to camp to run through the songs with the musicians due to the lack of preparation. They blew up because they felt that I misplaced my priorities. Settled things, not without threats to look up the youth pastor and tears and prayer.
Yes, this fight alone killed my enthusiasm almost completely. I had almost no heart to even go to the camp, much less lead the musicians. It did not help that more miscommunication arose in the practice itself, and I felt really discouraged. Then as Evan led me in prayer, I realised that in my helplessness and despair, I had omitted one very important person - God.
I won't say that the music was at its best, but my first big project as a camp worship in-charge taught me much more than just leading a team. It taught me that at the end of the day, the stress, the inexperience and the music didn't matter. Not in the sense that pathetic music is allowed, though - ironically good and bad music are actually both distracting - but that the heart of worship, the desire to worship in spirit and in truth, is the most important. Once done, the rest of the worship becomes God's.
Musically-wise, I have a ton to learn still, but when I prayed hard, then went up there to lead the campers into worship, I suddenly felt all worries pass and I simply enjoyed my time up there with God. Some of the songs I introduced were not easy to play, but I'm equally proud of the young and talented music team who managed to pull it off all the same.
Thank you, Joshua (piano), Crystal and Aaron (guitars), Priscilla (drums) and Jeff (bass) for your dedication and hardwork for the camp!
The camp's theme, Return of the King, was a follow-up of our Lock-in Nite's Underground Church theme on the return of Christ. We had to learn to see the signs of the coming and prepare ourselves for the day itself. Pastor Ronnie Hoh of Adam Rd Presbyterian Centre was the speaker for the camp. He doesn't look any of his 32 years of age - he'd have passed off as a 26-year-old. Would have preferred a longer sermon, but it did brought the focus of the message across. I still feel that this subject, is a much deeper topic to delve into and requires much more in-depth studying of.
Chalcedony was my group (a mouthful for a cheer eh), the third foundation stone of the New Jerusalem, or Heaven. Led by first-time leaders Leon and Melissa, I should say that it has not been easy to gel the group together, considering the age range our group had. Having been a TL for the past 2 years, I know that Evan had chosen all the leaders for a reason. I'm glad that this time, I could take a break from leading a team because I knew that I needed to learn to take a step back, listen and follow. I could see signs of struggling, but I only waited till there was a really apparent sign before stepping in to help. Everyone had something to learn, be it learning to take a step back or firmly exerting authority, speaking up or toning down, and so much more.
Fame Nite was pretty much a success to me, though preparation time for the teams was a combined less than 4 hours. Squeezing 12 groups' worth of skits into 90 minutes IS a feat okay. Christina and I barely even rehearsed the hosting or the games, and again, it was rather an impromptu hosting session with scares with sequences, lightings and material losses. Was again discouraged just before the Fame Nite's commencement, but prayer renewed me yet again. The groups really impressed with all of their effort and creativity! I gave them fake time limits and judging criteria (heh) which they took seriously and stuck to real closely, and it certainly was a hard topic - to come up with a 'Masquerade' incorporated within a skit, revolving around the camp's theme. Congratulations team Beryl on their really impressive skit ("I'm so hungry, you can see my bones. And my heart. Would you like to take a closer look? -detaches detachable heart."). Terence's 2nd win in a row under his leadership! Congrats to Melissa with her maid accent which got her the Best Actress award. Whee, glad that we did have 'rehearsals' wayyy before camp, eh? :DD
Games were a blast - though the Candle Fight was really dangerous in nature itself, I have to admit that it was fun. And crazy. But it was a strain on resources and logistics and not to mention cleaning up the wax (and horror, excavating holes in the process) on the courtyard. Martial Arts Showdown consisting of station games and 'challenges' saw my group bonding, and it had me at a moment feeling really miffed at a certain group member.
Suddenly, I knew that I had to learn to be patient and from there, winning didn't really matter as much anymore. Doing one's best in games still runs in my blood, but encouraging each other and teamwork was what I saw more of, as a team member. Having been a TL has made me see only competition as of more importance, actually. Which leader wouldn't want his or her team to win, right?
Competition has always been a rather prominent feature in our YF, and somehow I feel that it causes strains no matter what. There's a fine line between being competitive and rough I guess.
Was asked to go back to school to attend my classes, sigh. I only got to step into Snow City for less than 5 minutes. Take a picture, and out I go.. Heard that they had a ton of fun. ): But ohwell, I knew that I had to be an example to the others. Then it was Sentosa! Talk about the temperature differences man. The weather held through our Scavenger Hunt and Ultimate Frisbee competition, then it poured when it was time to go. Thank God again!
My ankles, knees and nose were failing me throughout the camp. Prayer and Praise meant that my poor hamstrings and calves were put to maximum stress with the drums, and no thanks to 'Celebration Praise Medley' and 'Better than Life', where Jeff sabotaged me but nevermind that. It was a Good 'PnP' though, with group prayers for the church and YF. Many were touched, re-committing their lives to God. I prayed only one thing - that those who stood up to agree to re-commit their lives, meant what they said. Many tears were shed that night, a little of mine included. Wei Xiong, a cute little primary 6 boy, accepted Christ during the camp. Thank God and pray that he'd continue to seek God fervently.
The last night was the movie 'Left Behind', regarding rapture during the 2nd coming of Christ. The storyline was very poorly organised, and those who didn't read the book will surely be lost. I needed a 'live commentator' beside me in the form of Joan, heh.
Wide angle shots, Tall shots.. Rahh. They're haunting me even during today's Ocean's Twelve! 28 of us took up the Cinema in PS. Ha.
I digress.
So, it was Prayer Room after the movie, which was already 1am and sleep creeping up on all of us. It was distracting with screams and sounds of games going on below, but the Prayer Room was a very very good idea, with cards given out to write on and posters put up teaching us on how to pray, following the ACTS (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving and Supplication) method. The young ones impressed much, and a 20-minute time slot extended unconsciously to a 50-minute one, with God's grace. All the other groups also exceeded their time limits, which was a good thing actually. My nose was clogged up and so were my ears, and I had a hard time concentrating and trying not to disturb the rest.
Stayed up to play Captain's Ball with the rest till 4.30am before I K.O.ed, but the merry-making (not alcohol-wise) went on till the break of day.
The camp was definitely a success for God! Camp debrief was a short but meaningful one, though I was not feeling well.
I pray that God will keep working in our YF as we move on to start a new structure next year, and that the YF will grow stronger together spiritually - which I feel is the most important thing right now.
3 day's worth of stuff - and I'm glad that I've emerged stronger. Let this Post-camp flame keep burning and never die out, both within me and the youths! Amen!
"Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come." -Matthew 24:42
This is by far, the most draining camp for me - mentally and physically, as I have mentioned in the previous post. But I was spiritually refreshed, having seen and felt God's presence working amongst all the youths, and within myself.
Evangeline was the camp commandant, the assistant, Vivien. It certainly was no mean feat for a 10-strong committee to plan the whole camp and the 12 Team Leaders (TLs) and their assistants (ATLs) together run the 121-strong camp.
I was part of the committee, in-charge of Worship and Fame Nite. The preparation, with God's grace, went smoothly. However, many attempts by the devil to greatly discourage me were made. Right before the camp, I had a big fight - the biggest this year - with my parents. Why? Because I told them that I'd skipped SAB. I didn't tell them that I had to go earlier to camp to run through the songs with the musicians due to the lack of preparation. They blew up because they felt that I misplaced my priorities. Settled things, not without threats to look up the youth pastor and tears and prayer.
Yes, this fight alone killed my enthusiasm almost completely. I had almost no heart to even go to the camp, much less lead the musicians. It did not help that more miscommunication arose in the practice itself, and I felt really discouraged. Then as Evan led me in prayer, I realised that in my helplessness and despair, I had omitted one very important person - God.
I won't say that the music was at its best, but my first big project as a camp worship in-charge taught me much more than just leading a team. It taught me that at the end of the day, the stress, the inexperience and the music didn't matter. Not in the sense that pathetic music is allowed, though - ironically good and bad music are actually both distracting - but that the heart of worship, the desire to worship in spirit and in truth, is the most important. Once done, the rest of the worship becomes God's.
Musically-wise, I have a ton to learn still, but when I prayed hard, then went up there to lead the campers into worship, I suddenly felt all worries pass and I simply enjoyed my time up there with God. Some of the songs I introduced were not easy to play, but I'm equally proud of the young and talented music team who managed to pull it off all the same.
Thank you, Joshua (piano), Crystal and Aaron (guitars), Priscilla (drums) and Jeff (bass) for your dedication and hardwork for the camp!
The camp's theme, Return of the King, was a follow-up of our Lock-in Nite's Underground Church theme on the return of Christ. We had to learn to see the signs of the coming and prepare ourselves for the day itself. Pastor Ronnie Hoh of Adam Rd Presbyterian Centre was the speaker for the camp. He doesn't look any of his 32 years of age - he'd have passed off as a 26-year-old. Would have preferred a longer sermon, but it did brought the focus of the message across. I still feel that this subject, is a much deeper topic to delve into and requires much more in-depth studying of.
Chalcedony was my group (a mouthful for a cheer eh), the third foundation stone of the New Jerusalem, or Heaven. Led by first-time leaders Leon and Melissa, I should say that it has not been easy to gel the group together, considering the age range our group had. Having been a TL for the past 2 years, I know that Evan had chosen all the leaders for a reason. I'm glad that this time, I could take a break from leading a team because I knew that I needed to learn to take a step back, listen and follow. I could see signs of struggling, but I only waited till there was a really apparent sign before stepping in to help. Everyone had something to learn, be it learning to take a step back or firmly exerting authority, speaking up or toning down, and so much more.
Fame Nite was pretty much a success to me, though preparation time for the teams was a combined less than 4 hours. Squeezing 12 groups' worth of skits into 90 minutes IS a feat okay. Christina and I barely even rehearsed the hosting or the games, and again, it was rather an impromptu hosting session with scares with sequences, lightings and material losses. Was again discouraged just before the Fame Nite's commencement, but prayer renewed me yet again. The groups really impressed with all of their effort and creativity! I gave them fake time limits and judging criteria (heh) which they took seriously and stuck to real closely, and it certainly was a hard topic - to come up with a 'Masquerade' incorporated within a skit, revolving around the camp's theme. Congratulations team Beryl on their really impressive skit ("I'm so hungry, you can see my bones. And my heart. Would you like to take a closer look? -detaches detachable heart."). Terence's 2nd win in a row under his leadership! Congrats to Melissa with her maid accent which got her the Best Actress award. Whee, glad that we did have 'rehearsals' wayyy before camp, eh? :DD
Games were a blast - though the Candle Fight was really dangerous in nature itself, I have to admit that it was fun. And crazy. But it was a strain on resources and logistics and not to mention cleaning up the wax (and horror, excavating holes in the process) on the courtyard. Martial Arts Showdown consisting of station games and 'challenges' saw my group bonding, and it had me at a moment feeling really miffed at a certain group member.
Suddenly, I knew that I had to learn to be patient and from there, winning didn't really matter as much anymore. Doing one's best in games still runs in my blood, but encouraging each other and teamwork was what I saw more of, as a team member. Having been a TL has made me see only competition as of more importance, actually. Which leader wouldn't want his or her team to win, right?
Competition has always been a rather prominent feature in our YF, and somehow I feel that it causes strains no matter what. There's a fine line between being competitive and rough I guess.
Was asked to go back to school to attend my classes, sigh. I only got to step into Snow City for less than 5 minutes. Take a picture, and out I go.. Heard that they had a ton of fun. ): But ohwell, I knew that I had to be an example to the others. Then it was Sentosa! Talk about the temperature differences man. The weather held through our Scavenger Hunt and Ultimate Frisbee competition, then it poured when it was time to go. Thank God again!
My ankles, knees and nose were failing me throughout the camp. Prayer and Praise meant that my poor hamstrings and calves were put to maximum stress with the drums, and no thanks to 'Celebration Praise Medley' and 'Better than Life', where Jeff sabotaged me but nevermind that. It was a Good 'PnP' though, with group prayers for the church and YF. Many were touched, re-committing their lives to God. I prayed only one thing - that those who stood up to agree to re-commit their lives, meant what they said. Many tears were shed that night, a little of mine included. Wei Xiong, a cute little primary 6 boy, accepted Christ during the camp. Thank God and pray that he'd continue to seek God fervently.
The last night was the movie 'Left Behind', regarding rapture during the 2nd coming of Christ. The storyline was very poorly organised, and those who didn't read the book will surely be lost. I needed a 'live commentator' beside me in the form of Joan, heh.
Wide angle shots, Tall shots.. Rahh. They're haunting me even during today's Ocean's Twelve! 28 of us took up the Cinema in PS. Ha.
I digress.
So, it was Prayer Room after the movie, which was already 1am and sleep creeping up on all of us. It was distracting with screams and sounds of games going on below, but the Prayer Room was a very very good idea, with cards given out to write on and posters put up teaching us on how to pray, following the ACTS (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving and Supplication) method. The young ones impressed much, and a 20-minute time slot extended unconsciously to a 50-minute one, with God's grace. All the other groups also exceeded their time limits, which was a good thing actually. My nose was clogged up and so were my ears, and I had a hard time concentrating and trying not to disturb the rest.
Stayed up to play Captain's Ball with the rest till 4.30am before I K.O.ed, but the merry-making (not alcohol-wise) went on till the break of day.
The camp was definitely a success for God! Camp debrief was a short but meaningful one, though I was not feeling well.
I pray that God will keep working in our YF as we move on to start a new structure next year, and that the YF will grow stronger together spiritually - which I feel is the most important thing right now.
3 day's worth of stuff - and I'm glad that I've emerged stronger. Let this Post-camp flame keep burning and never die out, both within me and the youths! Amen!
posted by Benita at 11:06 PM
Saturday, December 18, 2004
I'm back from the camp. Mentally and physically drained - I already caught the chills on the first night. God has been really gracious and merciful, though. 120-strong crowd, ages 12 - 23, many touched. I've been put through many tests and trials, and I've learnt one most important lesson:
Never underestimate what God can do.
Was having breathlessness and almost shivering during the camp debrief meeting, and I missed my mom's first choir solo performance for the chinese service's Christmas celebration in 1347918739187 years because I overslept :(
She looked great with all the dress up, though. (: It's been quite awhile since she put on so thick make up, courtesy of a make-up artist and a hairstylist in our church. Heh.
Will blog about camp soon. 6.30am tomorrow!
Rahh. No difference from camp wake-up times can. Orchestra and handbell performances at church. I think it is time I rethink my ministry service. Being involved in so many areas means that I may have to compromise my best, and this is certainly not what I want to do.
Goodnight!
Never underestimate what God can do.
Was having breathlessness and almost shivering during the camp debrief meeting, and I missed my mom's first choir solo performance for the chinese service's Christmas celebration in 1347918739187 years because I overslept :(
She looked great with all the dress up, though. (: It's been quite awhile since she put on so thick make up, courtesy of a make-up artist and a hairstylist in our church. Heh.
Will blog about camp soon. 6.30am tomorrow!
Rahh. No difference from camp wake-up times can. Orchestra and handbell performances at church. I think it is time I rethink my ministry service. Being involved in so many areas means that I may have to compromise my best, and this is certainly not what I want to do.
Goodnight!
posted by Benita at 11:40 PM
Wednesday, December 15, 2004
I will be on a 4-day hiatus from blogging.
The highlight of the year is here!
I've noticed my blog's counters dropping, the number of tags lessening too.
But it's alright. I shall keep posting for as long as I want to; and I shall keep my faith going on my blog for as long as I can help it.
__
Rahh I can't be there to watch the FMS teachers carol tomorrow!! :(
Speaking of which, I would like to say that we shouldn't expect every single teacher in FMS to be a good lecturer/teacher. I guess it is because all the lecturers which we have come across are of excellent english standards, we are really condescending towards those who can't speak english as well.
But the Sad thing is, they really can't give lectures. And with that, credibility and job experiences don't count anymore. How do we learn!?
Mindless bitching during lectures can kill too. Kill me, that is. Think Free Willy. Its whale-y moans almost drove me crazy. I'm tired of bitching for the sake of it, much less simply listening. I'm not trying to be all goody-two-shoes, and I don't deny that I don't bitch. I do. But is it that satisfying to bitch, just because? If you are unhappy, fine. But what is the basis? Is it valid? Not for me. What is the point of getting yourself pissed at something which doesn't deserve your attention? Getting angry makes you lose those few seconds of happiness, and I don't see why I should shorten my life for such.
I don't value superficiality, and no one does either. Yet most do just that towards others.
__
Alright, before I disappear from here (do I hear champagne bottles popping?) for the next 96 hours, I want to wish
CHARMAINE CHAN JINGFEI my 'C' of the ABCdE a HAPPY 17th BIRTHDAY!!
LOVE YA SOOOOOOO MUCH!! :)
__
Please pray for the Youth Camp to go well, and that it will be a success for God!
The highlight of the year is here!
I've noticed my blog's counters dropping, the number of tags lessening too.
But it's alright. I shall keep posting for as long as I want to; and I shall keep my faith going on my blog for as long as I can help it.
__
Rahh I can't be there to watch the FMS teachers carol tomorrow!! :(
Speaking of which, I would like to say that we shouldn't expect every single teacher in FMS to be a good lecturer/teacher. I guess it is because all the lecturers which we have come across are of excellent english standards, we are really condescending towards those who can't speak english as well.
But the Sad thing is, they really can't give lectures. And with that, credibility and job experiences don't count anymore. How do we learn!?
Mindless bitching during lectures can kill too. Kill me, that is. Think Free Willy. Its whale-y moans almost drove me crazy. I'm tired of bitching for the sake of it, much less simply listening. I'm not trying to be all goody-two-shoes, and I don't deny that I don't bitch. I do. But is it that satisfying to bitch, just because? If you are unhappy, fine. But what is the basis? Is it valid? Not for me. What is the point of getting yourself pissed at something which doesn't deserve your attention? Getting angry makes you lose those few seconds of happiness, and I don't see why I should shorten my life for such.
I don't value superficiality, and no one does either. Yet most do just that towards others.
__
Alright, before I disappear from here (do I hear champagne bottles popping?) for the next 96 hours, I want to wish
CHARMAINE CHAN JINGFEI my 'C' of the ABCdE a HAPPY 17th BIRTHDAY!!
LOVE YA SOOOOOOO MUCH!! :)
__
Please pray for the Youth Camp to go well, and that it will be a success for God!
posted by Benita at 12:00 AM
Tuesday, December 14, 2004
What IsAAc tagged on my blog made me realise that I took my living near school for granted. I know that it only takes me 10 minutes to reach school - so I take my time to wake up and wash up. But I'm still late for school in the end. When those living so much farther away (Pasir Ris?!) are on time.
And how time affects our lives so much. Time makes room for success and for failure; for good decisions and for mistakes. And time never turns back. A single tiny step taken, right or wrong, is the future changed.
Time and tide wait for no man.
So when we finally take a step back and look back in retrospect, we realise that things would have been different if, if and if. If we hadn't said that, if we hadn't done that, if we hadn't allowed that.
But how do we know what is the right decision? Is it to follow the heart, or the mind? Logic and emotions certainly aren't the best of friends. Then again, rules are not set without a reason; morals and ethics are not there for fun and religion - isn't just a purportless name. How do you define the lines? They are feathering incessantly, black and white are starting to melt into grey. It is scary, actually, this monolithic worldwide movement. Real scary.
To conform is to be mindless, yet to go against is Coventry.
Paradoxical it may be, but how many can take a proper and unwavering stand on life today? I think almost nobody. Nobody at all.
As time swiftly paces on, ditto life. Lives change, men age. The world dies slowly - dies in all aspects. It is coming to an end soon. Leave the ending of the world out, and think about your own life.
How have you made your time good?
Life is such an unexplainable word. I can't call it a thing, an event, a subject, nor any other verb. It leaves one exasperated, joyous, satisfied, wanting, and millions of expressions.
But it is still the Hope, that knowledge of salvation, of eternal life in a place aptly named Paradise, which makes life so much more fufilling and worth the living.
And how time affects our lives so much. Time makes room for success and for failure; for good decisions and for mistakes. And time never turns back. A single tiny step taken, right or wrong, is the future changed.
Time and tide wait for no man.
So when we finally take a step back and look back in retrospect, we realise that things would have been different if, if and if. If we hadn't said that, if we hadn't done that, if we hadn't allowed that.
But how do we know what is the right decision? Is it to follow the heart, or the mind? Logic and emotions certainly aren't the best of friends. Then again, rules are not set without a reason; morals and ethics are not there for fun and religion - isn't just a purportless name. How do you define the lines? They are feathering incessantly, black and white are starting to melt into grey. It is scary, actually, this monolithic worldwide movement. Real scary.
To conform is to be mindless, yet to go against is Coventry.
Paradoxical it may be, but how many can take a proper and unwavering stand on life today? I think almost nobody. Nobody at all.
As time swiftly paces on, ditto life. Lives change, men age. The world dies slowly - dies in all aspects. It is coming to an end soon. Leave the ending of the world out, and think about your own life.
How have you made your time good?
Life is such an unexplainable word. I can't call it a thing, an event, a subject, nor any other verb. It leaves one exasperated, joyous, satisfied, wanting, and millions of expressions.
But it is still the Hope, that knowledge of salvation, of eternal life in a place aptly named Paradise, which makes life so much more fufilling and worth the living.
posted by Benita at 2:37 AM
Sunday, December 12, 2004
Today's sermon was good. Short, but meaningful.
"Real Christians in Real-Time Christmas"
The speaker, Moses Lim (NOT the actor), said that Christianity is more of a relationship - our relationship with God, rather than a religion. I agree with him. We do not simply believe or 'practice' - we communicate, we trust - we have a special personal relationship with God, which nothing else can replace.
So how do we upkeep this relationship?
We have to be real to ourselves, real with our understanding of the Bible and real with our relationship with God. And this also needs good communication, just like in everyday relationships.
James 1:19-27
"19 Know this, my beloved brethren. Let every man be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger, 20 for the anger of man does not work the righteousness of God."
Be 'quick to hear' and 'slow to speak'; this definitely is what communication is about. Rambling on and not giving others a chance is definitely not the way to communicate effectively, as even common sense tells us so. Also, this applies to 'slow to anger'. When one is angry, isn't it true that he is quick to speak and slow to hear?
Moses (not the speaker; the ancient biblical one) threw his temper when the Israelites complained of thirst, and in his fury he struck a rock with his staff and water gushed out of it. But because of this display of rash violence, God did not allow him to enter the promised land.
"21 Therefore put away all filthiness and rank growth of wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. 22 But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. 23 For if any one is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who observes his natural face in a mirror; 24 for he observes himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like. 25 But he who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer that forgets but a doer that acts, he shall be blessed in his doing. 26 If any one thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this man's religion is vain. 27 Religion that is pure and undefiled before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world."
Reading the word and doing nothing is useless. There has to be a positive change in oneself, and in this case, it is with verbal responsibility. Ephesians 4:29 says, "29 Let no evil talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for edifying, as fits the occasion, that it may impart grace to those who hear."
Now you understand why I don't swear. I do my utmost best to refrain from doing so.
It is our social and moral responsibility to behave as a Christian. You never know if you will be a positive impact or an influence for Christ. People all around are watching, and judging. We are called to be the salt of the earth, the light of the world. But what is salt without the flavour? And what is light without its 'brightness'?
Yes, we are still human. Nobody said it was easy to live for God, nor that God will let life be smooth-sailing. Think about all the daily 'persecution' we already face with our struggles with morals and social pressures. It is through this, we know that we need God. And it is also with His grace, life is so much more fulfuilling. Amen!
"Real Christians in Real-Time Christmas"
The speaker, Moses Lim (NOT the actor), said that Christianity is more of a relationship - our relationship with God, rather than a religion. I agree with him. We do not simply believe or 'practice' - we communicate, we trust - we have a special personal relationship with God, which nothing else can replace.
So how do we upkeep this relationship?
We have to be real to ourselves, real with our understanding of the Bible and real with our relationship with God. And this also needs good communication, just like in everyday relationships.
James 1:19-27
"19 Know this, my beloved brethren. Let every man be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger, 20 for the anger of man does not work the righteousness of God."
Be 'quick to hear' and 'slow to speak'; this definitely is what communication is about. Rambling on and not giving others a chance is definitely not the way to communicate effectively, as even common sense tells us so. Also, this applies to 'slow to anger'. When one is angry, isn't it true that he is quick to speak and slow to hear?
Moses (not the speaker; the ancient biblical one) threw his temper when the Israelites complained of thirst, and in his fury he struck a rock with his staff and water gushed out of it. But because of this display of rash violence, God did not allow him to enter the promised land.
"21 Therefore put away all filthiness and rank growth of wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. 22 But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. 23 For if any one is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who observes his natural face in a mirror; 24 for he observes himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like. 25 But he who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer that forgets but a doer that acts, he shall be blessed in his doing. 26 If any one thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this man's religion is vain. 27 Religion that is pure and undefiled before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world."
Reading the word and doing nothing is useless. There has to be a positive change in oneself, and in this case, it is with verbal responsibility. Ephesians 4:29 says, "29 Let no evil talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for edifying, as fits the occasion, that it may impart grace to those who hear."
Now you understand why I don't swear. I do my utmost best to refrain from doing so.
It is our social and moral responsibility to behave as a Christian. You never know if you will be a positive impact or an influence for Christ. People all around are watching, and judging. We are called to be the salt of the earth, the light of the world. But what is salt without the flavour? And what is light without its 'brightness'?
Yes, we are still human. Nobody said it was easy to live for God, nor that God will let life be smooth-sailing. Think about all the daily 'persecution' we already face with our struggles with morals and social pressures. It is through this, we know that we need God. And it is also with His grace, life is so much more fulfuilling. Amen!
posted by Benita at 10:15 PM
Friday, December 10, 2004
Tell me if I'm wrong, but - somehow I noticed a +1 GMT difference whenever I noticed internet times. And I remember reading some satirical comic on this issue.. Can anyone enligthten me?
__
This morning my nose went bonkers. Its been a while since my sinus acted up this badly; on a day such as this, too.
Graphic communications lesson was an alternate blur, my mind switching back and forth between the lessons and space. Choy ended the class 1 hr early, thank goodness. I could've sworn class was held in Orchard Road (read: MACs). Hee hee hee.
If there were Media in the Society class today, it would definitely have been disrupted by my constant 150km/h wheezes. It made me almost breathless me, and my bulbous nose swelled about twice its already-humongous size.
It was church after brunch with the girls, and I stole a much-needed nap in the youth room instead of finding the chords and lyrics for my 20-odd songs for the coming Youth Camp on Wednesday! I'm really psyched about the camp (: Many thanks to Bryan and Leon for their much-needed help (hope it didn't drive you guys crazy)!
I almost went crazy myself, diving head-first through the songs together with the camp band. My voice was freaking shaky due to the sneezing which left me dry, and I haven't taught them the new songs yet, and I don't think I have the chance to run through with them already till right before camp! Arghh. But its alright. I have confidence in them, and God will guide us!
Had a super long day, with orchestra practice for Christmas after that.
'Tis the season to be jolly (and busy!) - cos I'm collecting my pay tomorrow! Its goodbye to Gabriel and Geoffrey. And I can finally return my dues. XB, here comes more moneh for you to spend on for my Christmas present! Hurhur. Another super long day tomorrow, with camp meetings, Eve's jam, then my uncle's twins' (in addition to his 3 children) 1 year old birthdays.
I need to spend more time with God in preparation for the camp. Been reading 'The Prayer of Jabez for teens', and I realised its application in my life. Will keep praying!
__
I really wish that things could have been different, from the start. No use crying over spilt milk now, but boy, it is so hard to see things otherwise already.
Repulse and longing shred my innards.
It was all foolishness on my part, thinking that I were something with those honeyed words. But no, dream on. I was nothing more than just another fool.
Too bad for me.
Its over.
__
This morning my nose went bonkers. Its been a while since my sinus acted up this badly; on a day such as this, too.
Graphic communications lesson was an alternate blur, my mind switching back and forth between the lessons and space. Choy ended the class 1 hr early, thank goodness. I could've sworn class was held in Orchard Road (read: MACs). Hee hee hee.
If there were Media in the Society class today, it would definitely have been disrupted by my constant 150km/h wheezes. It made me almost breathless me, and my bulbous nose swelled about twice its already-humongous size.
It was church after brunch with the girls, and I stole a much-needed nap in the youth room instead of finding the chords and lyrics for my 20-odd songs for the coming Youth Camp on Wednesday! I'm really psyched about the camp (: Many thanks to Bryan and Leon for their much-needed help (hope it didn't drive you guys crazy)!
I almost went crazy myself, diving head-first through the songs together with the camp band. My voice was freaking shaky due to the sneezing which left me dry, and I haven't taught them the new songs yet, and I don't think I have the chance to run through with them already till right before camp! Arghh. But its alright. I have confidence in them, and God will guide us!
Had a super long day, with orchestra practice for Christmas after that.
'Tis the season to be jolly (and busy!) - cos I'm collecting my pay tomorrow! Its goodbye to Gabriel and Geoffrey. And I can finally return my dues. XB, here comes more moneh for you to spend on for my Christmas present! Hurhur. Another super long day tomorrow, with camp meetings, Eve's jam, then my uncle's twins' (in addition to his 3 children) 1 year old birthdays.
I need to spend more time with God in preparation for the camp. Been reading 'The Prayer of Jabez for teens', and I realised its application in my life. Will keep praying!
__
I really wish that things could have been different, from the start. No use crying over spilt milk now, but boy, it is so hard to see things otherwise already.
Repulse and longing shred my innards.
It was all foolishness on my part, thinking that I were something with those honeyed words. But no, dream on. I was nothing more than just another fool.
Too bad for me.
Its over.
posted by Benita at 11:59 PM
Thursday, December 09, 2004
Looking at my tagboard, I think I caused a bit of an uproar and so, due to overwhelming response (to 2 people in particular only I guess), I shall blog about IS class yesterday.
BUT first and foremost, I'd like to wish my dearest ANNEMARIE LULUSICONG, aka the 'A' of the ABCdE, aka my grand-daughty, a most sWonderful 17th birthday on the 8th of Dec! It was chocolates which brought us together, and chocolates which will never do us apart! Our friendship WILL stay strong for the rest of these 3 years, you crazylaydee!
I Love Youyouyou, you are an idiot, haha ha haha! Hope you liked our little 'birthday song' and present! :D
(Sorry, inside joke, regarding that quite 'off' sentence.)
__
Alright, so what happened during IS?
Oh by the way, let me explain my not-blogging-about-IS. How can I associate such a un-sway thing with a sway post (read: yesterday's today post)? Right?
Right.
Like I've announced previously, I am in socceroo with Jay and Fifi. And I mean with Jay and Fifi, only - as the only 3 girlies in S&W's (somehow I see a kind of connotation in that abbrevation, go figure) soccerah. Our choices were swayed like granny panties hanging on bamboo poles to dry with Liz's warning that guys in soccer do not take the girls seriously, but when even the softball teacher-in-charge encouraged us to join soccer (and of course with an across-the-LT-appeal from Mr. Gopi to me),
soccer it was. (:
Am practising juggling my brother's handball now, much to the irritation of my mother ("You should join some graceful sport!"). I can't wait for soccer to start!
So our SAB lecturer, Mr. Mak Keen Tuck, was a jolly old fella whom we deduced that he considers himself pretty highly, after observing that the slides he used held many caricatures which bore an uncanny resemblance to him. He denies any coincidence, though, claiming that "he doesn't like to wear suits". At least he knows what he is talking about for a guy his age.
Anyhow, it was pretty monotonus till I decided to become 'Elin' at a spur-of-the-moment. Hanni becomes Benita, and Elin becomes Hanni. Things started picking up with a smattering of 'can(s)', vacuum-cleaner 'I suck' (Issac) lame-ness, and even an ironic exchange of cold+wheelchair+crutches jokes between Mr. Mak himself and I. He doesn't seem to take too well to my kind responsiveness and attempts to light up the class, though. I did not even try to be funny with him (a phrase which I've realised most teachers are pretty fond of), yet he kept saying that I wasn't paying attention when some under his very nose had gone into upright meditation.
(Please do not sue me for slander, I'm just trying to make things easier for me aye. Who knows if it is true anyway.)
So SAB (Starting A Business, if at this point you are still wondering what on earth is this module which sounds suspiciously like dried blood on wounds - they are related I guess) isn't too bad a module after all, as compared to some Futile Feline which apparently deserves to be exterminated.
It is still the henhen, Isucks, Nile and cans which brighten up the otherwise-hundrum class! Finally we meet. ;)
BUT first and foremost, I'd like to wish my dearest ANNEMARIE LULUSICONG, aka the 'A' of the ABCdE, aka my grand-daughty, a most sWonderful 17th birthday on the 8th of Dec! It was chocolates which brought us together, and chocolates which will never do us apart! Our friendship WILL stay strong for the rest of these 3 years, you crazylaydee!
I Love Youyouyou, you are an idiot, haha ha haha! Hope you liked our little 'birthday song' and present! :D
(Sorry, inside joke, regarding that quite 'off' sentence.)
__
Alright, so what happened during IS?
Oh by the way, let me explain my not-blogging-about-IS. How can I associate such a un-sway thing with a sway post (read: yesterday's today post)? Right?
Right.
Like I've announced previously, I am in socceroo with Jay and Fifi. And I mean with Jay and Fifi, only - as the only 3 girlies in S&W's (somehow I see a kind of connotation in that abbrevation, go figure) soccerah. Our choices were swayed like granny panties hanging on bamboo poles to dry with Liz's warning that guys in soccer do not take the girls seriously, but when even the softball teacher-in-charge encouraged us to join soccer (and of course with an across-the-LT-appeal from Mr. Gopi to me),
soccer it was. (:
Am practising juggling my brother's handball now, much to the irritation of my mother ("You should join some graceful sport!"). I can't wait for soccer to start!
So our SAB lecturer, Mr. Mak Keen Tuck, was a jolly old fella whom we deduced that he considers himself pretty highly, after observing that the slides he used held many caricatures which bore an uncanny resemblance to him. He denies any coincidence, though, claiming that "he doesn't like to wear suits". At least he knows what he is talking about for a guy his age.
Anyhow, it was pretty monotonus till I decided to become 'Elin' at a spur-of-the-moment. Hanni becomes Benita, and Elin becomes Hanni. Things started picking up with a smattering of 'can(s)', vacuum-cleaner 'I suck' (Issac) lame-ness, and even an ironic exchange of cold+wheelchair+crutches jokes between Mr. Mak himself and I. He doesn't seem to take too well to my kind responsiveness and attempts to light up the class, though. I did not even try to be funny with him (a phrase which I've realised most teachers are pretty fond of), yet he kept saying that I wasn't paying attention when some under his very nose had gone into upright meditation.
(Please do not sue me for slander, I'm just trying to make things easier for me aye. Who knows if it is true anyway.)
So SAB (Starting A Business, if at this point you are still wondering what on earth is this module which sounds suspiciously like dried blood on wounds - they are related I guess) isn't too bad a module after all, as compared to some Futile Feline which apparently deserves to be exterminated.
It is still the henhen, Isucks, Nile and cans which brighten up the otherwise-hundrum class! Finally we meet. ;)
posted by Benita at 10:23 PM
Wednesday, December 08, 2004
Today
I jerked awake to the irritating ringing of my dad's handphone. It was my favourite cartoon's ringtone cos I used to seize control of that phone (I don't know what kind of stares he attracts on the streets when it rings - 'wah piang eh, old man with ah-beng ringtone'), but having it at 8 in the morning wasn't the most pleasant thing. And it is not ah beng okay. Initial D is NOT AH BENG. Anything to do with cars is NOT AH BENG. Cars are next to the best invention since the lightbulb.
Okay so I said, it was at 8 in the morning when I woke up, and class happens to start at 8. Well done. I took a record 5 minutes to change, brush my teeth and comb (I think I did it all at the same time), and I took off for school. LT 26. Why did this LT sound so familiar? I'd looked it up on NP's website the night before, and I vaguely remembered it being behind Block 27. What a surprise eh. But still, I somehow felt that I had more than just knowledge of the place. You know, deja vu.
Ignoring my instincts, I took the safer route (or so I thought) via Block 27. When I reached Block 27, I kept my eyes peeled for LT 26. I spotted LT 25 and headed toward it. Climbing across a cluster of dusty study tables, I found a sign reading, 'Lecture Theatre 26' and I happily ran towards it. It seemed to be a back door though, and I hoped that it'd be unlocked.
Yeah, yeah spare the ah ma story. So where did I end up right?
The backstage.
(The NP Band performed there before.)
_____
edit_ To end off with what a wonderfully embarrassing day I had, breakfast ended up with me getting chilli sauce spots on my top. Which people thought that 1) it was part of the design, 2) I am really careless and 3) something I think I shouldn't go into.
And it was not any of the above 3.
The pepper holder slipped off my fingers (it was OILY) and fell into the pot of chilli sauce and splish, splash! The pepper holder was taking a bath!
All at the expense of my top, face and dignity.
_____
I'm in socceraaaahh! Thanks Jay and Fifi for joining me! Hee hee.
I jerked awake to the irritating ringing of my dad's handphone. It was my favourite cartoon's ringtone cos I used to seize control of that phone (I don't know what kind of stares he attracts on the streets when it rings - 'wah piang eh, old man with ah-beng ringtone'), but having it at 8 in the morning wasn't the most pleasant thing. And it is not ah beng okay. Initial D is NOT AH BENG. Anything to do with cars is NOT AH BENG. Cars are next to the best invention since the lightbulb.
Okay so I said, it was at 8 in the morning when I woke up, and class happens to start at 8. Well done. I took a record 5 minutes to change, brush my teeth and comb (I think I did it all at the same time), and I took off for school. LT 26. Why did this LT sound so familiar? I'd looked it up on NP's website the night before, and I vaguely remembered it being behind Block 27. What a surprise eh. But still, I somehow felt that I had more than just knowledge of the place. You know, deja vu.
Ignoring my instincts, I took the safer route (or so I thought) via Block 27. When I reached Block 27, I kept my eyes peeled for LT 26. I spotted LT 25 and headed toward it. Climbing across a cluster of dusty study tables, I found a sign reading, 'Lecture Theatre 26' and I happily ran towards it. It seemed to be a back door though, and I hoped that it'd be unlocked.
Yeah, yeah spare the ah ma story. So where did I end up right?
The backstage.
(The NP Band performed there before.)
_____
edit_ To end off with what a wonderfully embarrassing day I had, breakfast ended up with me getting chilli sauce spots on my top. Which people thought that 1) it was part of the design, 2) I am really careless and 3) something I think I shouldn't go into.
And it was not any of the above 3.
The pepper holder slipped off my fingers (it was OILY) and fell into the pot of chilli sauce and splish, splash! The pepper holder was taking a bath!
All at the expense of my top, face and dignity.
_____
I'm in socceraaaahh! Thanks Jay and Fifi for joining me! Hee hee.
posted by Benita at 7:50 PM
Tuesday, December 07, 2004
Today's dinner was Great.
What else can I say? I love the ABCdE.
We should compile a list of our idiotic-ness.
You are an Idiot, ha haha ha ha hahaaa
:D
School was very draggy today.
2hours, 3hours, 1hour break, 3hours. 8am to 5pm.
Okay, first 2 hours was cancelled, but thinking about next week makes me faint.
Tomorrow is good. 8am to 12pm. Won't go out or what after that -
got a ton of church stuff to settle..
Ohwell.
By now, you should be able to tell that I'm tired.
Yeah, I am tired.
I think I am going to become Benita the edit_ more Subdued.
Good, right? I'll shut up, shut up, just shut up.
I know what you're thinking right now. Perhaps it is impossible though.
I talk to relieve myself. I talk like how it is essential to pee.
Just that I happen to pee more, and louder. And sometimes with shit and a fart.
But I am so, so tired.
hypocrite.
What else can I say? I love the ABCdE.
We should compile a list of our idiotic-ness.
You are an Idiot, ha haha ha ha hahaaa
:D
School was very draggy today.
2hours, 3hours, 1hour break, 3hours. 8am to 5pm.
Okay, first 2 hours was cancelled, but thinking about next week makes me faint.
Tomorrow is good. 8am to 12pm. Won't go out or what after that -
got a ton of church stuff to settle..
Ohwell.
By now, you should be able to tell that I'm tired.
Yeah, I am tired.
I think I am going to become Benita the edit_ more Subdued.
Good, right? I'll shut up, shut up, just shut up.
I know what you're thinking right now. Perhaps it is impossible though.
I talk to relieve myself. I talk like how it is essential to pee.
Just that I happen to pee more, and louder. And sometimes with shit and a fart.
But I am so, so tired.
hypocrite.
posted by Benita at 11:34 PM
Monday, December 06, 2004
Tonight's dinner cost almost a grand, and perhaps my liver.
Where?
The Yakiniku-Tei somethingsomething outside Le Meridien's Monstercue.
Beef overload! I don't want to boast, but man, that was the BEST beef I've ever tasted.
Think Seoul Garden, but all beef beef and more beef. Ox tongue, beef belly, tenderloin, blahhh. Goodness gracious me.
The restaurant is run by a Japanese widow, a very nice middle-aged lady who is quite pretty. She took over her husband's business after he passed away just a few months after he started the restaurant. She deserves respect man.
Seems a good idea too - no chefs required; just meat, marinating sauce and knives. And the moolah comes rolling in! (:
Chivas Regal and my favourite plum wine (100x better than choya) ruled the night too. Whee.
Sigh, my appetite is bigger than my stomach (and pocket).
Where?
The Yakiniku-Tei somethingsomething outside Le Meridien's Monstercue.
Beef overload! I don't want to boast, but man, that was the BEST beef I've ever tasted.
Think Seoul Garden, but all beef beef and more beef. Ox tongue, beef belly, tenderloin, blahhh. Goodness gracious me.
The restaurant is run by a Japanese widow, a very nice middle-aged lady who is quite pretty. She took over her husband's business after he passed away just a few months after he started the restaurant. She deserves respect man.
Seems a good idea too - no chefs required; just meat, marinating sauce and knives. And the moolah comes rolling in! (:
Chivas Regal and my favourite plum wine (100x better than choya) ruled the night too. Whee.
Sigh, my appetite is bigger than my stomach (and pocket).
posted by Benita at 11:29 PM
Yeah everyone in the restaurant was watching. No prizes guessing whose idea it was for the pose.. I look buck-toothed in this la.
Mr. Stanley and I. I don't care that those things on our heads were countless number of butt's sources of comfort. I don't care. I don't. No I don't!
I was dressed so slack can. T-shirt and tennis berms and sandals. Cos I didn't think it'd be in a restaurant. No I didn't.
It was a waste if I didn't do something about the nice ambience.. Tomorrow the ABCdE will have 100x more pictures!!
My 2 very willing narcissistically-suppressed models, upcoming assistant leaders for the youth camp, Darius and Bryan. I call this picture... 'Serenity illuminated'. So act. Ha ha.
________
Lectures were cool, school was good; yet weird.
Somehow I feel unusual responses and different vibes. Not telling, and I will end here.
But - I missed so many people!
posted by Benita at 5:53 PM
Sunday, December 05, 2004
School's in in 11 hours!
__
The Cambodian mission trip video was played today to the Sunday school and the services.
It only struck me further, that many Christians have taken their freedom of religion for granted. We can worship God openly and freely, without having to worry about being persecuted or ostracised or mocked or even martyred.
But how many of us actually take our religion seriously?
I see many taking going to church as a routine; mostly at will of their parents. They complain that Sunday school is boring, and talk amongst themselves during class, then resume their I-me-mine lives the rest of the week. Quiet time or praying is, literally, a rarity.
When those in the 3rd world have absolutely no idea who God is.
Kids (mostly abandoned) roam the streets, some from as young as 2, and are left to fend for themselves.
Imagine a 3-year-old boy taking care of his 2-year-old brother, both homeless.
The weary smiles, the grateful faces, the whole-hearted singing, that joy which lit up their dulled eyes when they experienced clean water, plain bread and even trimmed fingernails for the first time - I felt so blessed and touched as I watched the video twice. I didn't have to be physically there to feel that warmth.
The Thai mission team has left for Thailand yesterday morning. Pray that God will keep them and that more hearts will be touched over there, where LESS THAN 1% of the population are Christians.
Despite facing persecution, these developing-countries' Christians have utmost faith and commitment. Their village shuns them and people ostracise them, yet under these threatening and formidable obstacles they remain stronger than ever in Christ.
And us, under the slightest mock we collapse; no need for all the persecution. The immoralities of the society has wormed its way into the bricks of our foundation, and a prod is all it takes for the rest to crumble along.
The end of the days is coming, and this is just the beginning (Matthew 24).
My pastor said that there is going to be a great revival and a great falling away when during the end times. There is a significant revival going on in the 3rd world countries. Could it be that the falling away will happen in the developed?
Well, all the more we must stand strong together and keep encouraging each other till the coming of the Lord!
Then we can safely say that - "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." - 2 Timothy 4:7
Amen!
__
The Cambodian mission trip video was played today to the Sunday school and the services.
It only struck me further, that many Christians have taken their freedom of religion for granted. We can worship God openly and freely, without having to worry about being persecuted or ostracised or mocked or even martyred.
But how many of us actually take our religion seriously?
I see many taking going to church as a routine; mostly at will of their parents. They complain that Sunday school is boring, and talk amongst themselves during class, then resume their I-me-mine lives the rest of the week. Quiet time or praying is, literally, a rarity.
When those in the 3rd world have absolutely no idea who God is.
Kids (mostly abandoned) roam the streets, some from as young as 2, and are left to fend for themselves.
Imagine a 3-year-old boy taking care of his 2-year-old brother, both homeless.
The weary smiles, the grateful faces, the whole-hearted singing, that joy which lit up their dulled eyes when they experienced clean water, plain bread and even trimmed fingernails for the first time - I felt so blessed and touched as I watched the video twice. I didn't have to be physically there to feel that warmth.
The Thai mission team has left for Thailand yesterday morning. Pray that God will keep them and that more hearts will be touched over there, where LESS THAN 1% of the population are Christians.
Despite facing persecution, these developing-countries' Christians have utmost faith and commitment. Their village shuns them and people ostracise them, yet under these threatening and formidable obstacles they remain stronger than ever in Christ.
And us, under the slightest mock we collapse; no need for all the persecution. The immoralities of the society has wormed its way into the bricks of our foundation, and a prod is all it takes for the rest to crumble along.
The end of the days is coming, and this is just the beginning (Matthew 24).
My pastor said that there is going to be a great revival and a great falling away when during the end times. There is a significant revival going on in the 3rd world countries. Could it be that the falling away will happen in the developed?
Well, all the more we must stand strong together and keep encouraging each other till the coming of the Lord!
Then we can safely say that - "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." - 2 Timothy 4:7
Amen!
posted by Benita at 11:56 PM
Saturday, December 04, 2004
Holland V's Essential Brew : Celebrating... Leon (21), Vivien (24) and Selin (19)'s birthdays! Not the whole group is in this pic.
There was super nice ambience and great dessert!! Food-wise, nothing to shout about though.
The ABCdE will be celebrating the A and C's birthdays there on Tuesday (:
Why are everybody's birthdays around this time of the year? My friendster is filled with cakes leh.
Is it because all the parents try for new year babies but the timing not accurate so they came out premature? Eh no offence ah. Just a thought.
Ohwell.
If you are reading this and your birthday is plus-minus 7 days, a Belated / Early Happy Birthday to you!!
posted by Benita at 11:52 PM
Friday, December 03, 2004
My dearest elitist brother dragged me up at 930am to make me sneak him into NP's library to look for SAT II books and to mug for his SATs tomorrow. Eww.
Talked to him the most in 5 years today over breakfast (Parmesan toast and coffee at the Deli!!) which lasted for.... 30 mins.
Yeah that's how little I've spoken to him.
Only a 1 year age gap but, man, I know so little about his life. Ditto for him about mine too. And when he enlists for the army on the 6th of Jan, I don't even think I can get to talk to him for another 2 years, much less see him. Waking up this early was a good thing after all. It will really be cool if I had a sibling whom shares with me.
If we don't support him, who will? He doesn't want things this way either. He needs a release, since you (I had the same sentiments as you. HAD.) don't seem to care either.
I don't want to take anything for granted already. I'm scared of losing the people around me whom I love.
Talked to him the most in 5 years today over breakfast (Parmesan toast and coffee at the Deli!!) which lasted for.... 30 mins.
Yeah that's how little I've spoken to him.
Only a 1 year age gap but, man, I know so little about his life. Ditto for him about mine too. And when he enlists for the army on the 6th of Jan, I don't even think I can get to talk to him for another 2 years, much less see him. Waking up this early was a good thing after all. It will really be cool if I had a sibling whom shares with me.
If we don't support him, who will? He doesn't want things this way either. He needs a release, since you (I had the same sentiments as you. HAD.) don't seem to care either.
I don't want to take anything for granted already. I'm scared of losing the people around me whom I love.
posted by Benita at 1:05 PM
Thursday, December 02, 2004
Who am I, that the Lord of all the earth
Would care to know my name
Would care to feel my hurt
Who am I, that the Bright and Morning Star
Would choose to light the way
For my ever wandering heart
One never cherishes till the seemingly-impossible becomes a reality.
By that time, is it too late?
So don't give yourself a chance to get torn up, or to regret.
Not because of who I am
But because of what You've done
Not because of what I've done
But because of who You are
Dear Issac, I will keep praying hard for you.
Will always be here for you alright? Stay strong please.
God has His purpose. We won't understand His ways - but they are definitely higher than ours.
He will reveal them in His time. Be still and listen to what He's trying to tell you in that small voice.. Keep praying..
I am a flower quickly fading
Here today and gone tomorrow
A wave tossed in the ocean
Vapor in the wind
Still You hear me when I'm calling
Lord, You catch me when I'm falling
And You've told me who I am
I am Yours, I am Yours
I have been out almost everyday - okay, everyday - this week, and even been to town a record 4 out of 5 days. Dance practice in church everyday (my muscles are a-c-h-i-n-g), jammed tons of Christian songs with Dom 'korkor' (I'm so glad that I picked up the guitar!) and this morning I met up with my NHSS percussion senior, Christina for brunch at Crystal Jade.
Blew a cool 16 bucks.. And I'm dead broke.
Its a wonder how I spend money on food. I'm serious. All my money seems to disappear, as though I'd literally eaten them up. I need to save save save. Am in deficit (read: owe) even before I get my pay!
I have decided to stop teaching the 2 kids after the next lesson. No point.
Who am I, that the eyes that see my sin
Would look on me with love and watch me rise again
Who am I, that the voice that calmed the sea
Would call out through the rain
And calm the storm in me
I really need to calm the storm in me.
This is a beautiful song, entitled 'Who am I' by Casting Crowns.
I am Yours
Whom shall I fear
Whom shall I fear
'Cause I am Yours
I am Yours
I shall fear no one. Amen.
Would care to know my name
Would care to feel my hurt
Who am I, that the Bright and Morning Star
Would choose to light the way
For my ever wandering heart
One never cherishes till the seemingly-impossible becomes a reality.
By that time, is it too late?
So don't give yourself a chance to get torn up, or to regret.
Not because of who I am
But because of what You've done
Not because of what I've done
But because of who You are
Dear Issac, I will keep praying hard for you.
Will always be here for you alright? Stay strong please.
God has His purpose. We won't understand His ways - but they are definitely higher than ours.
He will reveal them in His time. Be still and listen to what He's trying to tell you in that small voice.. Keep praying..
I am a flower quickly fading
Here today and gone tomorrow
A wave tossed in the ocean
Vapor in the wind
Still You hear me when I'm calling
Lord, You catch me when I'm falling
And You've told me who I am
I am Yours, I am Yours
I have been out almost everyday - okay, everyday - this week, and even been to town a record 4 out of 5 days. Dance practice in church everyday (my muscles are a-c-h-i-n-g), jammed tons of Christian songs with Dom 'korkor' (I'm so glad that I picked up the guitar!) and this morning I met up with my NHSS percussion senior, Christina for brunch at Crystal Jade.
Blew a cool 16 bucks.. And I'm dead broke.
Its a wonder how I spend money on food. I'm serious. All my money seems to disappear, as though I'd literally eaten them up. I need to save save save. Am in deficit (read: owe) even before I get my pay!
I have decided to stop teaching the 2 kids after the next lesson. No point.
Who am I, that the eyes that see my sin
Would look on me with love and watch me rise again
Who am I, that the voice that calmed the sea
Would call out through the rain
And calm the storm in me
I really need to calm the storm in me.
This is a beautiful song, entitled 'Who am I' by Casting Crowns.
I am Yours
Whom shall I fear
Whom shall I fear
'Cause I am Yours
I am Yours
I shall fear no one. Amen.
posted by Benita at 11:30 PM
Wednesday, December 01, 2004
A dear friend of mine has left for his motherland Korea for 6 years to study and serve stupid Korean NS.
We - his sister aka my godsis, him and I - were pretty close in the beginning of the year, till he went MIA for awhile, and we weren't so close anymore.
He reappeared, I saw him in church every week, but I couldn't interact with him much due to church commitments. Somehow I am always very happy to see him..
James, aka Kim "Kawasamy Maria I. R. Baboon" Jaehyeon - if you are reading this, I just want to tell you that you've always been one of my best buddies to me, as little as we speak to each other, and as short a time that we've actually been close.
Man, I miss you already. I miss all the crazy antics, everything.. Take good care of yourself alright.
God bless...
_____
I'm worth $2,024,405.61! How much are you worth?
_____
TAUFIK WINS!
Both have their appeal, but for the World (not Asian) Idol stage, Taufik is the outright winner.
This is what I imagine Simon Cowell saying to Sylvester, should he join World Idol:
"You can't hold your pitch well, You can't even speak english - what have you got to say for yourself?"
"Singapore voted for me."
And thank goodness this won't be happening.
_____
Issac: Earlier in the passage.....
49 John answered, "Master, we saw a man casting out demons in your name, and we forbade him, because he does not follow with us." 50 But Jesus said to him, "Do not forbid him; for he that is not against you is for you."
Perhaps what Jesus meant was that we should not judge people who too preach the gospel but do not seem to 'belong' amongst ourselves, ie. our own church, our ethnicity. We should not view ourselves as 'exclusive', because God gives gifts to everyone who loves Him, regardless of who he is.
I believe John had his reason to say what he did, because he was a 'direct follower' of Jesus, and he felt that since Jesus was the Saviour himself, as long as those who did not seem to be following Jesus directly are 'not orthodox'.
A friend's point of view:
"It seems that there are some disciples or believers that doesn't belong to the 12 in Luke 9: 1-6, but later in Luke 10: 1-12 Jesus sent out 70 disciples. Sandwiched in between these two commissioning was this incident of the dude casting demons in Jesus' name. He might have been one of those 70."
Hey man I hope this makes things clearer! Anyway, I won't be the one conducting the BS. My youth pastor is!
I'm glad that you're doing your QT too.... Keep it up man!!! (:
P.S. You must be aware of the 'on fire' thing - you may be very on about it for the first few weeks, but it may die out abit. It has happened to almost everybody. Me included, but hey. Keep praying mano!
_____
Juan_ The tune is happy and jumpy?! I don't really think so lehh. Its tempo is pretty moderate. And about the 'no friend' thing - this song tells us that God is always there for us. Man will fail but God never fails!
We - his sister aka my godsis, him and I - were pretty close in the beginning of the year, till he went MIA for awhile, and we weren't so close anymore.
He reappeared, I saw him in church every week, but I couldn't interact with him much due to church commitments. Somehow I am always very happy to see him..
James, aka Kim "Kawasamy Maria I. R. Baboon" Jaehyeon - if you are reading this, I just want to tell you that you've always been one of my best buddies to me, as little as we speak to each other, and as short a time that we've actually been close.
Man, I miss you already. I miss all the crazy antics, everything.. Take good care of yourself alright.
God bless...
_____
I'm worth $2,024,405.61! How much are you worth?
_____
TAUFIK WINS!
Both have their appeal, but for the World (not Asian) Idol stage, Taufik is the outright winner.
This is what I imagine Simon Cowell saying to Sylvester, should he join World Idol:
"You can't hold your pitch well, You can't even speak english - what have you got to say for yourself?"
"Singapore voted for me."
And thank goodness this won't be happening.
_____
Issac: Earlier in the passage.....
49 John answered, "Master, we saw a man casting out demons in your name, and we forbade him, because he does not follow with us." 50 But Jesus said to him, "Do not forbid him; for he that is not against you is for you."
Perhaps what Jesus meant was that we should not judge people who too preach the gospel but do not seem to 'belong' amongst ourselves, ie. our own church, our ethnicity. We should not view ourselves as 'exclusive', because God gives gifts to everyone who loves Him, regardless of who he is.
I believe John had his reason to say what he did, because he was a 'direct follower' of Jesus, and he felt that since Jesus was the Saviour himself, as long as those who did not seem to be following Jesus directly are 'not orthodox'.
A friend's point of view:
"It seems that there are some disciples or believers that doesn't belong to the 12 in Luke 9: 1-6, but later in Luke 10: 1-12 Jesus sent out 70 disciples. Sandwiched in between these two commissioning was this incident of the dude casting demons in Jesus' name. He might have been one of those 70."
Hey man I hope this makes things clearer! Anyway, I won't be the one conducting the BS. My youth pastor is!
I'm glad that you're doing your QT too.... Keep it up man!!! (:
P.S. You must be aware of the 'on fire' thing - you may be very on about it for the first few weeks, but it may die out abit. It has happened to almost everybody. Me included, but hey. Keep praying mano!
_____
Juan_ The tune is happy and jumpy?! I don't really think so lehh. Its tempo is pretty moderate. And about the 'no friend' thing - this song tells us that God is always there for us. Man will fail but God never fails!
posted by Benita at 11:12 PM
Did you ever talk to God above?
Tell Him that you need a friend to love?
Pray in Jesus' name believing
That God answers prayer
This song I'm sharing with you is one of my favourite songs..
Simple, yet powerful.
Did you tell Him all your cares and woes?
Every tiny little fear He knows
You can know He'll always hear
And He will answer prayer
I realised that everytime I type a post close to my heart,
blooger.com will screw up (just now I tried to post). Wonderful.
you can whisper in a crowd to Him,
you can cry when you're alone to Him
you don't have to pray out loud to Him - He knows your thoughts.
BUT
that will not stop me from putting up this post -
A reminder: we are all human, made of flesh and blood; susceptible to sin and deceit.
That's why we need an omnipotent, omniscience and omnipresent God!
5Trust in the LORD with all your heart; and lean not upon your own understanding. 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall make your paths straight. - Proverbs 3:5-6
Oh yes, everything is in His hands!
On a lofty mountain peak, He's there
In a meadow by the stream, He's there
Everywhere on earth you go, He's been there from the start.
Reassurance and armament, awesome. (:
Tell Him that you need a friend to love?
Pray in Jesus' name believing
That God answers prayer
This song I'm sharing with you is one of my favourite songs..
Simple, yet powerful.
Did you tell Him all your cares and woes?
Every tiny little fear He knows
You can know He'll always hear
And He will answer prayer
I realised that everytime I type a post close to my heart,
blooger.com will screw up (just now I tried to post). Wonderful.
you can whisper in a crowd to Him,
you can cry when you're alone to Him
you don't have to pray out loud to Him - He knows your thoughts.
BUT
that will not stop me from putting up this post -
A reminder: we are all human, made of flesh and blood; susceptible to sin and deceit.
That's why we need an omnipotent, omniscience and omnipresent God!
5Trust in the LORD with all your heart; and lean not upon your own understanding. 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall make your paths straight. - Proverbs 3:5-6
Oh yes, everything is in His hands!
On a lofty mountain peak, He's there
In a meadow by the stream, He's there
Everywhere on earth you go, He's been there from the start.
Reassurance and armament, awesome. (:
posted by Benita at 2:30 AM
About Me
- Name: Benita
- Location: Singapore
Maybe Thursday. Maybe not. (Blog header by the extremely talented Duaroti)
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