A Master's Mouldings

3 Bs

2009-03-14T23:31:00.011+08:00

3 Bs

Pardon my absence, my silence of many months.

But God has not been absent, nor silent in these many months.

In fact, His presence radiated through and through.
In fact, He spoke like never before.
Through His Word, through prayer, through His beloved people.
Through circumstances, through life, through death.
In song, in music, in poetry. In plain simple words. In the tears of others.
Sometimes in a still small voice, as with Elijah.
Other times out of the whirlwind, as with Job.

This is but a small preview into my life right now.

It has been a complicated yet fulfilling journey.

Bear with me while I sort out my thoughts, feelings, emotions further, before I add to this space again. It's been a long while since I shared what I've learnt in clinicals- the non-medical side of it. Last I mentioned was Emer Med, Paeds. Much I learnt in Ortho, Patho&Forensic Patho, Anaesthesia, Ophthalmo, ENT, Obs&Gyn, Radiology... and so far the Electives: Palliative Medicine. But yes. Too much to say for now. 3 Bs if there must be said: Blessed Beyond Belief. Chew on it. I'm still chewing and assimilating. Righto.

Be assured, however, that I am alright.

Also preparing my heart before I fly off to India for clinical electives for 2 months in April and May. Blessings:)

"The Still Small Voice" ~ A Painting a Day by Connie Tom

"Whirlwind" ~ by Michael Lightsey

Christmas 2008 - A King's Love

2008-12-15T00:18:00.008+08:00

Christmas 2008 - A King's Love 一个国王的爱

Dear beloved friends,

Ever wondered why your heart felt squeezed when you heard the moving story of a …...

Patriot that died for his country;

Lover that remained faithful to his ill spouse till death parted them;

Mother who sacrificed her life to protect her child?

“Greater love has no one than this,
that he lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13.

Love, isn’t true love, without sacrifice.

This Christmas, we invite you warmly to join us to hear the story of the King who loved unconditionally.

Immerse yourself in original music and lyrics put into a lighthearted Christmas play in Mandarin
and discover how the

Christmas play is more than a stage production;

YOU and I have a part in this story.

*click on pictures to enlarge*

I hope to see you there! Feel free to return an email or contact me via SMS / phone-call
if you need more details to find your way here.

Bring your family & friends too! We welcome all!

With Love,
Wei Teen

Have a BLESSED CHRISTMAS!

Yes, I'll be acting, singing etc in this musical, alongside the teens & youths:)

Really hope to see u all!

More about His Chastening:)

2008-11-15T01:29:00.003+08:00

More about His Chastening:)

God has no pleasure in afflicting us,
but He will not keep back even the most painful chastisement
if He can by thereby guide His beloved child
to come home and abide in the beloved Son.
~Andrew Murray

"I'll Paint You A Rainbow,"
by Grace E. Easley

I'll paint you a rainbow to hang on the wall,
to brighten your heart when the grey shadows fall.
On a canvas of joy outlasting the years,
with a soft brush of sweetness to dry all your tears.

I'll paint you a rainbow with colors of smiles
That glow with sincerity over the miles.
On a palette of words I will tenderly blend
Tones into treasures of sunlight and wind.

I'll paint you a rainbow that reaches so wide,
Your sights and your sorrows will vanish inside,
And deep in the center of each different hue,
A memory fashioned especially for you.

So lift up your eyes, for suspended above,
A rainbow designed by the fingers of love...
Comes for you from high above..........

***

"I'll Paint You A Rainbow"
(another version)

I'll paint you a rainbow as a gift from me
Then hang it from heaven for the whole world to see.
On a canvas of love I'll cover your fears,
With a soft brush I'll dry all your tears.

I'll paint you a rainbow with feelings so deep,
My stroke will be gentle, my touch you may keep.
On a palette of words I will tenderly blend,
Colorful thoughts with bright verses to send.

I'll paint you a rainbow in reds, blues and gold,
Stretched like loving arms ready to enfold.
And deep in the center of the most vibrant hue,
I'll etch from memory the essence of you.

I'll paint you a rainbow, a bridge to my heart,
So loneliness and pain can begin to depart.
Just look up at the sky when life hits a bend,
I painted a rainbow for YOU my friend.

God is LOVE... Amen!

A Time of Chastening

2008-10-25T22:59:00.010+08:00

a long lull since i spoke herein
but life has been in all abundance
allow me though to share within
it has been and is still a deep moment...

***
A Time of Chastening
*Teenster*

Too much carried within my heart to bring to words
Overwhelmingly so, yet I know I'm not unheard
The Spirit's interceding with groans that words can't express
Even as my soul stirs in unfathomable unrest

A Father's promise to His son, and His child
In words so tender, loving and mild:
"My child, because you I love, I will discipline,
As a Father the child whom I delight in."

So in my tears of sorrow may I look up

To Him Who pours overflowing grace into my cup
And I know this is the Shepherd's chastening
In a time of trial and quiet abiding

Oh Lord may I be humbled in Your presence
Come before Your throne in complete reverence
And resist not Your staff and rod which comfort
As You direct my steps in this desert

Teach me Lord to come to You in obedience
Throwing aside all judgement and grievance
To draw near to You Who promises closeness
Whose love and grace comes boundless

A time of chastening Your Beloved children know
A lifetime of lessons to help us spiritually grow
Though it be now a painful, tearful interval
Our Father's loving refining will yield fruits peaceable

So let us be prayerful and earnest in this learning
Father, as You purify and keep our hearts burning
Though the storm blows, our Ark's kept buoyant
As we wait in faith to see Your rainbow of covenant

***

It is a time of awaiting.

Thank you to XG for sharing the article by Spurgeon on Chastisement.
I always wonder at how God has such amazing timings:)

***
Let me share this article from a blogger
God's Purpose For Chastisement
(credits to

http://walkingwithnehemiah.blogspot.com/2008/02/gods-purpose-for-chastisement.html ):

In the days of Nehemiah, the Jews were suffering the consequences of God's chastisement.
Leviticus 26:14-45 explains why God brought this chastisement upon the nation of Israel.

Key phrases in this passage are:
"If you do not obey me . . . I also will do this to you"

*I will set my face against you

*you shall be defeated by your enemies

*you shall flee when no one pursues you

But that's only half of the story.
There is a rainbow in the last section of the passage.

"if they confess their iniquity . . . and accept their guilt"

*Then I will remember my covenant

*I will not cast them away

God punishes the wicked, but he chastens his children.
There's a difference, and the difference is in the purpose and intent of what God is doing.

The Bible says that the whole purpose of chastening is to bring us back to a right relationship with God.
It is not to punish, but to restore.

Hebrews 12:11 says, "Now no chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful; nevertheless, afterwards it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness . .

"When we find ourselves in the midst of God's chastening, there is a remedy:
"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins,
and to cleanse us from all of our unrighteousness."
(I John 1:9)

But, more than a remedy, it is a prevention.
I John 1:9 will keep us from chastisement, before it is necessary for God to apply it.
Keep short accounts with God.
***

An old Proverb says thus:
A gem is not polished without rubbing - nor a man perfected without trials." How true this is, for we all need God's chastening.

The Heavenly Father has no spoiled children. He loves them too much to allow that.
~Fred Mitchell

Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent.
(Revelation 3:19)

And finally, a rainbow seen at our home after almost a year's stay on 30 Aug 2008:

His blessings abound:)

2008-08-04T00:59:00.001+08:00

As Pastor Simon shared with us today in closing of our topic,
A Christian Perspective & Management of PR in Church

If I have not compassion on my fellowservant,
even as my Lord had pity on me,
then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If I can easily discuss the shortcomings and the sins of any;
if I can speak in a casual way even of a child's misdoings,
then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If I can enjoy a joke at the expense of another;
if I can in any way slight another in conversation, or even in thought,
then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If I can write an unkind letter, speak an unkind word,
think an unkind thought without grief and shame,
then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If I am afraid to speak the truth, lest I lose affection,
or lest the one concerned should say, "You do not understand,"
or because I fear to lose my reputation for kindness;
if I put my own good name before the other's highest good,
then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If I myself dominate myself, if my thoughts revolve around myself,
if I am so occupied with myself I rarely have "a heart at leisure from itself,"
then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If I cannot in honest happiness take the second place (or twentieth);
if I cannot take the first without making a fuss about my unworthiness,
then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If I do not give a friend "the benefit of the doubt,"
but put the worst construction instead of the best on what is said or done,
then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If I take offense easily; if I am content to continue in a cool unfriendliness,
though friendship be possible,
then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If a sudden jar can cause me to speak an impatient, unloving word,
then I know nothing of Calvary love.
For a cup brimful of sweet water cannot spill even one drop of bitter water,
however suddenly jolted.

If I say, "Yes, I forgive, but I cannot forget," as though the God,
who twice a day washes all the sands on all the shores of all the world,
could not wash such memories from my mind,
then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If souls can suffer alongside, and I hardly know it,
because the spirit of discernment is not in me,
then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If the praise of man elates me and his blame depresses me;
if I cannot rest under misunderstanding without defending myself;
if I love to be loved more than to love, to be served more than to serve,
then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If in the fellowship of service I seek to attach a friend to myself,
so that others are caused to feel unwanted;
if my friendships do not draw others deeper in, but are ungenerous,
then I know nothing of Calvary love.

That which I know not, teach Thou me, O Lord, my God.

From If by Amy Carmichael.
Christian Literature Crusade © 1991
Amy was a missionary in Southern India

Let us love, for love covers a multitude of sins. God be with u!

Angel Facies

2008-06-20T23:40:00.004+08:00

Angel Facies

yeah i shd hv been here earlier, heh since sch's out for almost 3 wks & starting again in 2 days' time! (takes a huge swallow&tries to brace herself)

well BUT it has been one of the REAL hols where i din need to do anytg related to medicine at all: not studying, revising etc. but really holidaying n resting, catchin up with pp long-forsaken.

but still more nocturnal than diurnal (like how YY's spending her break now before she begins work as a full-fledged pro)

many thots since this year began, esp with the clinical postings covered this yr.. wat with Emer Med and Paeds, these 2 which truly underline, bold, & italicise the fragility of life. But because life is fragile, life is unpredictable, therein lies HOPE.

the title of this post is not misspelled. no, if u go google the word 'facies', ur returns will be many more than u expect. but the 'facies' i use here has no reference to the word coined by Swiss geologist Amanz Gressly which simply defined:

'A facies is a body of rock with specified characteristics... A facies should ideally be a distinctive rock that forms under certain conditions of sedimentation, reflecting a particular process or environment.'

the term 'facies' in medicine-The appearance or expression of the face, especially when typical of a certain disorder or disease.

and so in my time around the wards/clinics/books the terms tt are used include:

-Moon Facies

Roundness of the face due to increased fat deposition laterally seen in patients with hyperadrenocorticalism, either of endogenous (e.g., cushing's disease) or exogenous origin, such as the use of cortisone-like drugs as therapy.
-Hippocratic Facies

the face as it appears near death and in some debilitating conditions marked by sunken eyes and temples, pinched nose, and tense hard skin -- called also facies Hippocratica

-Adenoid Facies

The appearance in children with adenoid hypertrophy, associated with a pinched nose and an open mouth.

-Thalassemic Facies/Chipmunk Facies
Marked frontal bossing and marked overgrowth of the forehead and cheek bones to produce the typical thalassemic facies in those with thalessemia-major.

-Cherubic Facies
The characteristic childlike facies seen in cherubism; also seen in glycogenosis, particularly type II. Do read about this lady Vicky Lucas. Never take someone at face-value.
Cherubims are angels mentioned in the bible, and in Renaissance times, largely illustrated in art masterpieces. Here look at Raphael Sanzio's Cherubs in Sistine Madonna:

So many different "facies", yet used in a syndromic manner.
To describe ppl with disorders.
To classify abnormality.
To delineate differences.
Are we not already dichotomised enough?
Are we not already split enough by geographical borders?
So would u look at someone and relate it to a "facies"?
Or would you look at someone as they are- people?

I was inspired while teaching the Teens Sunday School about the great Bible evangelists. In closer reading of Stephen, the 1st Christian martyr stoned to death, was described as having "the face of an angel". Stephen, one of the 1st 7 appointed deacons delivered the longest sermon in the bible in front of a crowd who persecuted him.

(Acts 6:10) but they could not stand up against his wisdom or the Spirit by whom he spoke.
(Acts 6:15) All who were sitting in the Sanhedrin looked intently at Stephen, and they saw that his face was like the face of an angel.
But in the end, after his delivery out of a love for God and men, recounting the wonders of God since their very beginnings, they stoned him to death.
(Acts 7:59-60) While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." Then he fell on his knees and cried out, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." When he had said this, he fell asleep.
Here was a man of Angel Facies, who preached in love, and forgave because of love, because he first tasted what LOVE is.

Cherubic Facies being the closest to "Angel Facies", when i searched the net for "Angel Facies" only 2 hits came back. of which one i presume was meant to be spelled as "angel faces east".
the other one tho is interesting to note: a photo!

Girls in First Communion Dresses

Photographer D. Schwarz in Jevíčko (Bohemia, Czechia). Cabinet card circa 1910
yup someone commented they had angel facies.

When we consider every life, every one is beautiful. Looking in and up. That's how we look at people, i remember my Lit teacher once told me.

The people, they saw the face of an angel- Stephen. But they did not look in and up, they did not see the beautiful soul of a an ordinary man who loved them because he was first loved. Tho he be the first Christian martyr, he beheld the glory of God beyond beholding the physical pain inflicted upon him.

The people, they saw red. Not the redness of the blood of Christ which bled for them to bring them unto eternity. They saw the redness of fury and anger because Stephen spoke the truth. i dont know what Stephen saw as he looked at the faces of anger surrounding him. they were definitely not mirrors of his own angelic facies.

Rembrandt's "The Stoning of Stephen" from the year 1625

But I believe Stephen saw something more.

(Acts 7:55-56) But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. "Look," he said, "I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God."

As he beheld the glory of God, he saw something too, which I would like to use this line from the musical Les Miserables "To Love Another Person Is To See The Face Of God". i only just recently heard this line from playing the soundtrack at home while busying myself with packing. again and again i returned to this track, almost the last song sung by Jean Valjean.

And each time i heard it, it drew tears from me, it shook me from within.

Yes, clearly, as Stephen preached and was stoned, as he gazed at every angry face, every face blackened with anger, every face flushed, every face hostile, every face scowling-- he saw the face of God. God, who created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. (Genesis 1:27) And God is Love. (1 John 4:17)

No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us. (1 John 4:12) To Love Another Person Is To See The Face Of God. the comment in the hyperlinked article cannot be more true: to see the face of God in the unloved and the unlovable is more likely to advance our respective journeys to the Light.

How many unloved have we met? How many unlovable have we labelled? How many because they have no angelic facies, because they rubbed off unlovable 1st impressions, henceforth we ignore or detest or gossip about?

Paul, who witnessed Stephen's stoning, giving approval to his death (Acts 8:1), but later came to know God, speaks clearly in 1 Corinthians 13:

If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put childish ways behind me. Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.
And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

“When we see the face of God we shall know that we have always known it. He has been a party to, has made, sustained and moved moment by moment within, all our earthly experiences of innocent love.”-C.S. Lewis

Facies. Faces. Facades.

Easy to see. Easy to label. Easy to link & hyperlink & hyper-hyperlink.

But, do we see the ones within? Look in and up. Before u create the hyperlinks, see the One.

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. (Matthew 5:8) To see the face of God, first purify our hearts from prejudices, hatred, easy judgements. Cleansed with hyssop to be clean, washed to be whiter than snow.

Angel facies or not, pray this be in my heart as I behold every person:

To see God in every bit of His creation and... to LOVE.

This, underlined, bolded, italicised.

Amen.

Rainbow Lessons

2008-05-05T19:00:00.000+08:00

RAINBOW Lessons

i dont need to reiterate the point that i'm kinda unfaithful to this space.. but often duty calls me to more impt things in life

of reflections that have not much time to be written/typed out yet they have time, and they MUST be inscribed upon mind and heart

placed in a safekeeping treasure chest- 4 chambers of the heart, the gyri n sulci of the brain

even, even if with age, these organs age physiologically..

even, even if sometimes these deposits are only meant for oneself..

even, even if sometimes the lips and tongue wish to roll forth these experiences..

even, even if someday i have to be laid to rest..

But, let me not forget how experiences shared can convict ourselves more

let me not forget how experiences shared grow us in life as ppl in turn share theirs

after all if we keep our money in our bank, the interest is so little, we dont increase it much..

so experiences alike oughta be taken out, circulated, and yeah the Multiplier Effect will run wild, real wild:)

let me keep my side of the promise to June.. albeit it come very much later~heh

******

so since the last time i left off, much has happened...

completed the 3rd yr exams (praise God He's ALWAYS so gracious!!!),

re-entered the whitewashed walls of a place called hospital

***

1st to CGH Emergency Department

here i learnt that life and death r but a thin bare line across. aye it pained my heart..

out of the 5 CPRs i performed at the resuscitation rooms, only 1 made a comeback, of which i dont even know if he lived to survive further. and in the process, i learned the hard truth also tt we dun jus do repeated CPRs on and on, but somehow there's a time to stop. becos even if we bring back the pulse, breath and bld pressure of the patient, he/she was already down more than 15min, and hence technically no brain perfusion. so when the downtime is >15min, it is difficult to continue an adequate resuscitation. one doctor said when we asked: "You must know the truth.. are u really saving the patient? or is it the drugs that are causing him to seem to recover? u can continue to pump in more drugs, but No One who has a downtime of more than 15min ever walks out of the hospital again, not one."

this "truth"... reminded me about this bible passage when Jesus stood on trial before Pontius Pilate:

Jesus Before Pilate (John 18)
28Then the Jews led Jesus from Caiaphas to the palace of the Roman governor. By now it was early morning, and to avoid ceremonial uncleanness the Jews did not enter the palace; they wanted to be able to eat the Passover. 29So Pilate came out to them and asked, "What charges are you bringing against this man?"
30"If he were not a criminal," they replied, "we would not have handed him over to you."
31Pilate said, "Take him yourselves and judge him by your own law."
"But we have no right to execute anyone," the Jews objected. 32This happened so that the words Jesus had spoken indicating the kind of death he was going to die would be fulfilled.
33Pilate then went back inside the palace, summoned Jesus and asked him, "Are you the king of the Jews?"
34"Is that your own idea," Jesus asked, "or did others talk to you about me?"
35"Am I a Jew?" Pilate replied. "It was your people and your chief priests who handed you over to me. What is it you have done?"
36Jesus said, "My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jews. But now my kingdom is from another place."
37"You are a king, then!" said Pilate.

Jesus answered, "You are right in saying I am a king. In fact, for this reason I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me."
38"What is truth?" Pilate asked. With this he went out again to the Jews and said, "I find no basis for a charge against him. 39But it is your custom for me to release to you one prisoner at the time of the Passover. Do you want me to release 'the king of the Jews'?"
40They shouted back, "No, not him! Give us Barabbas!" Now Barabbas had taken part in a rebellion.

Emergency Dept left me mulling over the state of humanity again, and how as the physical life comes to an end, i wonder if these ppl hv a greater hope of eternal life? that is the greater truth.

yet i remember God's convenant in the rainbow, as written in Genesis 9:

12 And God said, "This is the sign of the covenant I am making between me and you and every living creature with you, a covenant for all generations to come: 13 I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth. 14 Whenever I bring clouds over the earth and the rainbow appears in the clouds, 15 I will remember my covenant between me and you and all living creatures of every kind. Never again will the waters become a flood to destroy all life. 16 Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and all living creatures of every kind on the earth."
17 So God said to Noah, "This is the sign of the covenant I have established between me and all life on the earth."

so after the rains, the sun still shines bright in the skies and throws the light into a sevenfold colour, a rainbow, a promise, a covenant between God and man.

***
and after all the adrenaline rush, now i'm into 5th week of:

***
Paediatrics Posting NUH/KKWCH

ah children.. frm the littlest to the big gangly ones, each hold a life within that u cant deny.. many things to make one happy, yet also many things to draw tears frm my eyes and heart when i go abt sharing a little of myself with these beloved.

June i rmbr when we 1st met in Sec 3, and u and YY were sitting behind me and Qi, i think abt the 1st thing u told us is that u want to be a paediatrician.
but seems like paediatricians are all high-flyers and many of them are president scholar material! very bright and brainy ppl!
but u still get ur dream of working with kids:))

u cant help being amused and bemused by kids. they chatter, they clatter, they matter.

some recover quick, yet some of them have so longstanding, chronic health issues their casenotes so thick, just like full sets of encyclopedia. and they are wonderful historians, well read into their own conditions. knowing so much more than us students. humbled by them. inspired by their fight to not only live, but live well.

and for me who jus came out frm a terrible bout of respiratory infection tt caused me to be down and out abt 5 days, and being disgusted with the medications, i jus need to think abt how each of these children, especially the renal patients hv to down 20-30 pills a day. as if PILLS are their staple diet.

quite some yrs back i rembr in DHS they showed us some slideshow or the like showing kids who need help..
and the final food for thought came in these words

...if u cannot hold them in your hands,
...hold them in your heart.

indeed, how many can i hold in my hands?

or in my lap for that matter?

that's me struggling to keep the bunch of girls up during CNY this year during out teen/youth fellowship CNY visiting.

that i may hold them in my heart and prayer!

ok tata for now!!

Pictured Love

2008-03-07T02:50:00.012+08:00

Pictured LOVE

it's been a long while since i've posted pics here, cos the lazy bugs alwys come creeping in to deter me. wat's more there's an internal itch but i cant shake it off.. hehe

so now i've FINALLY got some energy to brush the bugs away, let me jus upload some pics to make this place more colorful & of cos, more imptly, in GIVING THANKS to the ppl in these pics.

Bday Celeb with the dear 4B gals

u all went out of the way to make it a BEAUTIFUL surprise for me..

it's decorum (i think) tt GOH for events turn up late, so i got the benefit of being late:P

Zhen opened up her place for humble moi to stayover & i really enjoyed the company!

won't ever forget the 'bowls' of tiramisu & dripping candles..

& the sparklers to write my name..

& the prezzie & the hand-made card!

& a solid head-to-head talk with June on the L-shape sofa..

(which caused us to fail to awake in the morning tho HL prolly had to remove her labcoat as gently as possible frm my legs haha)

missing u Ning! but thank u so much for the cutesy card flown in from UK!!

Dinner Treat (Zhen giving tuition).. we purposely took the 福

Playing Citadel.. the mind & strategy game..

moonshine taken on journey to zhen's place, for Lua:) (autobalanced)photoedit: transparency

photoedit: chalk & charcoal

photoedit: watercolor (it has some semblance to Van Gogh's Starry Starry Night eh)***

Bday Celeb with the dear meddie gals

thereaftr the nx aftrnn it was with the meddies 七姐妹, tho Ann cldnt join us

thank u to Ah Sing's nicely baked chocy cake:) we'd a cosy lunch at 老娘's recommended place & then phototakin @ Esplanade. nice to know this place is a common fave arty hangout for diff grp of frens!

most photos here courtesy of 佩姐's wonderful cameo skilss! u r certainly GREAT!

Sculptured Figurines

The Muses

Shadow Play

La Guillotine

Singapore Flyer!

Amazing Feat!

MJ the Armadillo: Dost thou not lifteth this burden?

As the world goes by...

phew had a hard time uploading these so ta-ta for now!
hopefully this isnt jus some monthly affair!

Thots

2008-03-03T17:12:00.003+08:00

Thots

recently been given many opportunities to share life testimonies among a varied group of ppl & frens, and thru it all was reconvicted abt my purpose in life & the way that lies ahead.

perhaps as i'd shared with some, that it has been a long wait. a time of waiting on God, a time of many tears, sometimes of lonely leadership, but God has been extremely GOOD and GRACIOUS. if i'd waited 10years & i'd thought it was a long wait, then i am wrong. for in this time of waiting, my heart was blessed many times, and my life touched immeasurably.

and as 2 Peter 3:8-9 says:
But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.

and just came across this poem, the author unknown:

I counted dollars while God counted crosses
I counted gains while He counted losses
I counted my worth by things gained in store.
He sized me up by the scars that I bore.
I coveted honors and sought degrees.
He wept as I counted the hours on my knees.
I never knew until one day by the grave.
How vain are the things that we spend life to save.

so why count the time and the years? for i have eternity already. Praise God!!

Giving Thanks

2008-02-06T23:55:00.000+08:00

Giving Thanks For A Good Year

i believe amongst some of my frens, who've asked me what i do in church, and what is Youth Fellowship, it is not possible for me to explain evry experience i've shared with such wonderful ppl God has blessed me with all these years. ervy little experience, every ministry, every service together in God's love is AMAZING & filled with His own presence, and bound in His lvoe n grace.

so herein i upload this video of a collection of photos of experiences shared, that u may too hv a look into our lives-- beautiful moments tt our Abba Father has blessed us with. Captured moments are only SOME moments. there are so many more, so many more, of which I am immensely thankful for.

This Video: The-Vine's A Walk To Remember 2007 is only a small picture of His wonderful blessings.

As u enjoy the pictures, reflect too upon how 2007 has been so richly blest by our heavenly Father, and how you have grown:)

Thank you dear Brothers & Sisters in Christ, for the amazing fellowship! Indeed each of you are a beautiful creation of our Lord God!

As Ephesians 4:15-16 says:
Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.

Let us cherish this beautiful community of Christ God has given us!

And, dear Friends, I welcome u all; even more, He welcomes u all to come into His Kingdom.

Glory to God!

2007-12-26T20:10:00.000+08:00

GLORY TO GOD!

6 months...

From the faith to believe
From the burden to reach out
From the love because we were 1st loved

We began A Walk To Remember

A Walk To Remember because it is a walk with God
Because we were so touched
Because we were so called

Moved as He moved
And when we began, He had already prepared the way ahead
He had already promised His omnipresence
He had already given His love

Sometimes, we stumbled a little
Sometimes, we cried a little
Sometimes, we lost heart a little
Sometiems, our faith became little

Many times, He caught us when we were falling
Many times, He dried our tears
Many times, He renewed our hearts
Many times, He increased our faith

Thank you Lord for all You have given!
Thank you Lord for Your faithful providence!

*****In Appreciation*****
Our Heavenly Father whose eternal love abounds!!

Pastor Au who gave the go-ahead

Esther & Yang Hui (Producers)
Esther (Director, Stage Manager)
Yang Hui (Pianist)
Dorcas (Co-Director, Props Manager)
Esther & Dorcas (Worship)

The Cast
Main Cast
Moses (Landon)
Wei Heen (Jamie)
HanWuGe (Old Landon)
Uncle GuoGui (Pastor, Jamie's 爸)
Uncle Spencer (Landon's 爸)
Sister Quennie (Landon's 妈)
Sister Nina(OuYang Laoshi)

The Beloved Kids
NingNing, ZhiYi, JiaYi, BaoYang, ZhengXian, ZhengWen, WeiEn, KeiKei, RuMin, LeMin, LeYi, LeLe

The Heat-Ups
Wen Yuan & Wei Teen (Dancers)

The Adult Choir
MingLuanJie, FangLanJie, Wang-Tai, Lao-Tai, a lady

The Backstage
The Sound/Lights
Halyey, ZhiHao, XinGui, XiuHuaJie, Sheldon, Uncle Steven, Uncle Beng Hui

The Props Machos
XiuQi, XinZu, BaoYang, JunSong, YuSen

The Mike Movers
Wan Ting, Christal

The Decor
YiJuanJie, JingDingJie, RunQiangGe, LaiXingGe etc

The Stylists
Wen Hui, Wan Ting, YanMeiJie

The Ushers/PeiTanYuan
Uncle RongXiang & Team

The Supper
Dorcas, BaoYunJie & Audrey, MingLuan Jie etc

The Publicity
QiMiao, Wei Teen, XiuHuaJie

The MANY MANY others who did the miscellaneous things and doubled up many roles Throughout this walk.
The MANY MANY who kept us all and the musical in prayer.
The MANY MANY who expressed concern & love.
Indeed, this list is not exhaustive.
So THANK YOU to all!

And, let us not forget God's Word in all that we do!
Here is a read for all of us:)

James 1:2-16

2Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. 4Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. 5If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. 6But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. 7That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; 8he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.
9The brother in humble circumstances ought to take pride in his high position. 10But the one who is rich should take pride in his low position, because he will pass away like a wild flower. 11For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich man will fade away even while he goes about his business.
12Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
13When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; 14but each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. 15Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.
16Don't be deceived, my dear brothers. 17Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. 18He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.

All Glory to God!

Amen!

2007-11-17T00:35:00.000+08:00

A Long Time Since

ooh it's been really a long while since i've been back here to give u dear frens any peek into my private life.. hee not tt private & i dun hv many secrets anyway!
wow it's really 1 mth plus according to the black & white date written on the last post!

sorry for the empty promises of updating this homeground as much as possible, cos sometimes i allow laziness to creep in or otherwise so much to say dunno where to begin..

yeah after Surgery at NUH like eons ago, i spent 8 weeks at TTSH for Medicine posting & tho it was a real stressor with the amt u need to read, to practice, to listen, to palpate, to feel within ur hearts, BUT, despite quite some tears & fears, queers & cheers, with dears & peers... overall i loved the doctors, the inspiration, the patients & the lot of things God spoke to me abt:) i learnt so much frm the beloved doctors, all whom at TTSH were more than keen & sincere in their teaching, earnest in growing u! tho now i've only been to SGH, NUH & TTSH for postings, i must say the best one is TTSH!!! wheet!

even Medicine @ TTSH is a 4 week history. cos i jus finished psychological medicine posting @ IMH & TTSH. and believe u me, it was an eye-opener, & a time when i came to understand the human mind & body more than ever before, and marvel @ the complexity and intricacy by which emotions, imaginations are weaved therein. once again, the psychiatrists were all so wonderful inspiring ppl whose words knock at ur heart & open us to the world of ppl like u & me who suffer much ostracisation & depression cos of what the powers of the mind can do.

had the opportunity too to be hypnotised as a stress relaxation exercise & coming to understand how all these are truly useful in the mission field.

definitely there are multiple anecdotes & words of wisdom possible to quote frm all the different psychiatrists who taught us, but let me share one with u, one which gave my beautiful time at TTSH a heartwarming, yet reflective close:

frm the much-respected Dr D Kwek:

be the difference between a 师 and a 匠. by this he meant tt a 匠 is only skilled at a technique, but as doctors, we shd be steps above techniques, to be a 师 who not only has technique, but more so, a love demonstration to others.

there's always this thing abt "judgement call" in psychiatry, whereby we ourselves "are our own barometer" cos we judge in rather a subjective/objective way what patient says. which means, we need more manna of wisdom, & most imptly, to love these beautiful ppl.

so i've ended this posting with tests 40 MCQs & simulated patient interview & discussion. yet to know results for both medicine & psych med postings, but watever these may be, i've been truly blest manifold. next up will find me 2 wks at a GP clinic @ upper thomson, then 2 wks at Choa Chu Kang polyclinic for Family Medicine, before the much desired 2 wk break in mid-Dec & christmas!!! tho prolly hv to study for Patho on 2 Jan 2008 then (wrinkles nose).

well in the midst of being a student, thankfully my life does not revolve jus ard academics, but been spending much time prep for different things!

1. Christmas Nite! 22 Dec 2007

this yr's going to be smtg more familiar to all of us, cos it's based on Nicholas Spark's "A Walk To Remember", produced by 2 musically-blessed youths. tho i'm not in the cast, my younger sis is in the lead-role, & i'm participating in anyway i can:)

see the poster below (sneak preview) for details & sure u r very much invited!! come join in the season of love & joy!!

2. teen & youth camp 27-29 Dec 2007 (生命舵手 aka Jesus take my wheel)
whoo this yr teens will take a bigger stake in the camp & while i'm camp commander, here's to challenging them to serve & take up roles of leadership!

3. & i'm shifting house.

next wed to be exact & i hv barely brushed the surfaces for packing up... brr & grr.. so MUCH to pack! think my family can open a huge library! & i dunno hw many trees we've brought home in paper form.. shifting house, not shifting home:)

ok ta-ta for now! my hands aching frm the packing already & there's a upper limb marathon i still hv to run heh:P

& this song i'm reminded of today tt's really beautiful:

*God Hath Not Promised*

1 God hath not promised skies always blue,

Flower-strewn pathways all our lives through;

God hath not promised sun without rain,

Joy without sorrow, peace without pain.

Chorus

But God hath promised strength for the day,

Rest for the labor, light for the way,

Grace for the trials, help from above,

Unfailing sympathy, undying love.

2 God hath not promised we shall not know

Toil and temptation, trouble and woe;

He hath not told us we shall not bear

Many a burden, many a care.

Chorus

But God hath promised strength for the day,

Rest for the labor, light for the way,

Grace for the trials, help from above,

Unfailing sympathy, undying love.

3 God hath not promised smooth roads and wide,

Swift, easy travel, needing no guide;

Never a mountain, rocky and steep,

Never a river, turbid and deep.

Chorus

But God hath promised strength for the day,
Rest for the labor, light for the way,
Grace for the trials, help from above,
Unfailing sympathy, undying love.

The Awesomeness of God!!

2007-10-07T19:30:00.001+08:00

The Awesomeness of God!!

IN CHEMISTRY, HE TURNED WATER TO WINE;
IN BIOLOGY, HE WAS BORN WITHOUT THE NORMAL CONCEPTION.
IN PHYSICS, HE DISPROVED THE LAW OF GRAVITY WHEN HE ASCENDED INTO HEAVEN.
IN ECONOMICS, HE DISPROVED THE LAW OF DIMINISHING RETURN BY FEEDING 5000 MEN WITH TWO FISHES & 5 LOAVES OF BREAD;
IN MEDICINE, HE CURED THE SICK AND THE BLIND WITHOUT ADMINISTERING A SINGLE DOSE OF DRUGS,
IN HISTORY, HE IS THE BEGINNING AND THE END;
IN GOVERNMENT, HE SAID THAT HE SHALL BE CALLED WONDERFU L COUNSELOR, PRINCE OF PEACE;
IN RELIGION, HE SAID NO ONE COMES TO THE FATHER EXCEPT THROUGH HIM;
SO. WHO IS HE?
HE IS JESUS!
JOIN ME AND LET'S CELEBRATE HIM;
HE IS WORTHY.
THE EYES BEHOLDING THIS MESSAGE SHALL NOT BEHOLD EVIL,THE HAND THAT WILL SEND THIS MESSAGE TO EVERYBODY SHALL NOT LABOR IN VAIN,AND THE MOUTH SAYING AMEN TO THIS PRAYER SHALL SMILE FOREVER.
REMAIN IN GOD AND SEEK HIS FACE ALWAYS.
AMEN

IN GOD I'VE FOUND EVERYTHING!
The Greatest Man in History Jesus had no servants, yet they called Him Master.
Had no degree, yet they called Him Teacher.
Had no medicines, yet they called Him Healer.
He had no army, yet kings feared Him.
He won no military battles, yet He conquered the world.
He committed no crime, yet they crucified Him.
He was buried in a tomb, yet He lives today.
I feel honored to serve such a Leader who loves us!
God's Blessing is Over Flowing!

Psalm 100

2007-09-16T00:35:00.000+08:00

Psalm 100

A psalm. For giving thanks.

Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth.
Worship the LORD with gladness;
come before him with joyful songs.
Know that the LORD is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name.
For the LORD is good and his love endures forever;
his faithfulness continues through all generations.

Yup this is in my mind & heart now tho i'm really tired!
jus came back frm AMKGH frm the Youth Gospel Rally:)
It was great, as we shared in the blessings of our Father,
and we had the opportunity to serve Him & give Him ourselves.
thru the rehearsals, which suffered quite a number of glitches here n there,
what we saw was the smooth running of the actual event
after we had fully surrendered it in prayer.
thank God for His providence!
be it the worship, or thru sharing the Gospel with a crosstalk with Yuan,
or singing the a capellas, it was jus amazing:D
many many instances during these weeks of practices hv touched me
time and again. and seeing hw this time round we commit more
to prayer too is a new growth for each of us.
indeed, when we think abt it, God doesnt need to use
our limited human minds, human hearts, human hands to
complete His work, to touch the hearts of ppl and cause them
to turn to Him. But bcos of His love & grace, He chose to use us.
to mould us more and more to reflect the goodness of Christ.
tt we may not be empty vessels, but vessels of use, vessels to bring othrs to know Him.
this in itself is simply amazing and more than we can ask for!
so just wanna give thanks!!

the past 4 wks @ TTSH hv been tiring, and Medicine posting really requires
alot more of reading than Surgery but hvnt had much time/energy yet
to really hit the books, but nonetheless, i'm thankful for all tt i have.
the wonderful tutots, the joy of learning, the making of frens
all hv been more than i can ask for. even tho Sats now also are workdays,
i'm learning & growing:)
Fri's mid-posting feedback session with assoc dean was good,
but it gave a truly clearer pic of what the next few yrs will be like.
alot to imagine abt, but i'll do me best in His strength!
it's hard putting all my tots down here, simply too many to be
properly dissected & laid out in clear strips, but herein are the
experiences tt have carved a portion of my life with much impact!

AMKGH Youth Outreach

2007-09-11T01:23:00.001+08:00

宏茂桥福音堂

Ang Mo Kio Gospel Hall
Youth Gospel Rally

*A Familiar Stranger*

Ever thot how we may be strangers to one another... but God knows us...
and we are no different in wanting a significance in our lives...
and desiring God to help us walk this life together...

Someone we do not know, yet Someone we seem to know.
This Familiar Stranger-- He awaits you to open your heart to Him:)

All are warmly welcomed!
Our youths will also be contributing items for the programme!

Pei Ling Hui

2007-08-27T01:53:00.000+08:00

Seminar "Eternal Value in Our Temporal Life"

Want to be refreshed?
Is you spirit thirsting for something more?
How can we consider eternity beyond our temporal life?
Come find out!
Seminar in Mandarin:)
Click on poster to see details:)

Just to Drop In

2007-08-27T01:01:00.000+08:00

Just to Drop In

Not having the time yet to give an appreciable update frm my side, but finally uploaded the photos i promised for the previous post, so scroll down to enjoy:)

am now at TTSH doing Medicine posting, after a hectic 8 weeks posting NUH Surgery. came out of it with a whole potpourri of emotions, thots, and many many experiences almagamated into one. yeah there were struggles here and there, and tears of varied emotions frm time to time, and heartstrings pulled and knotted... but thank God for His providence and looking out for me each & every moment, and His using His people to encourage me time and time again thru the days.

TTSH wont be any easier or simpler. But pray God grant me a heart of faith & courage to walk it well in His love, and to share this Love with all i cross paths with.

as for the relaxing moments, the times of play, i'd to relinquish some to balance priorities. so i humbly apologise to those whom had invited me for not being there to enjoy those moments with you. but for those that i went, i'll be sure to keep in my heart & mind for a long time to come, cos when Teenster plays, she plays hard. and she relishes each blessed moment & each blessed conversation with u.

till the next time when thots can be put down in words, when time allows.

Blessings.

Breaking the Silence Once Again!!

2007-07-09T00:15:00.000+08:00

Breaking the Silence Once Again!!

yeah know i've been on a hiatus frm this place for a long while..
a touch of laziness
a mind concentrated on other things
a body fatigued frm long days & nights
a heart & hand kept busy @ other stuff
but a spirit still kept joyful & hopeful by His abundant grace!

too many things to say, too many things thot thru, but difficult to put all down:]
if evrythg cld be expressed in words,
if evrythg cld be put down in black & white,
then we all might as well be jus books
thick, hard-covered books, perhaps even an entire volume of encyclopedia
so if anyone wishes to know one facet of us,
jus hv to take down the correct volume listed
scan the index & flip to tt one page & jus read
and perhaps be drowned in a long droning of a monocoloured word & world

but i am thankful we are not books
but human beings
persons
with personality
we are not jus personified
we are indeed PERSONs
loved & cherished
the breath of life given by the Almighty
Creator & Saviour

yes im back to the school after a short 3 wk break!! (the exclamation marks denote less of excitmement & more of indignance) nw gg to enter into 3rd wk of surgery posting @ NUH.
but short as the break was, it was lots more than i cld ask for, many many things & many many ppl ingrained into my memory for life.

jus so for all the posts missed, here's a quick recount for this past month-plus including some on elementary clinics @ SGH:

*SGH CSFC Posting*
-enjoying the last days of posting with a wonderful clinical group CG7
-talking to patients, learning abt the spiritual & emotional anatomy of the heart way more than human anatomy
-being touched countless times as i wore out my soles on the corridors of a complex melding of hope and despair
-reflecting upon the child-to-father run as i observed Sing's running to Dr M Ng & Dr Goh YT
-kept in wonderment time and again abt how He works
-perhaps one most memorable phrase if i hv to sieve out frm the many:
one frm Dr M Ng, whom i respect much!
"心不美，哪里都不美" said in response to an elderly lady suffering frm depression

*More Birthdays*
-Cass on 9 June
she is one very beloved fren & sister, who has oft times been a wonderful encouragemt in some of my dark moments. her quiet nature speaks of more inward innate resilience & tt faith! together with June, this lil trio has been amazingly placed in zones ard each otr to sharpen each otr in our life journey. and when one is weak, the othr is strong, reminding each other that God is only a prayer away. thank u Cass for the many many times!!!

-Shawn on 19 June
met u with Angie, Joy, Shawn, Davi, Revat & stayed e rest of the nite playing games extended at Mind Cafe. we ate lots, but was fun considering sch wld start soon!! wonder how Shawn feels in the midst of a bevy of ladies, none of which he can boast a more-than-platonic-relationship *winks*

The Birthday Boy Shawn Camera-Shy

Dalveer having to go into all forms & poses as required by the game:D A true dramtist indeed!

Dalveer & Revat & Girly Delites

Angie & Joy, 2 GREAT sisters!

-June on 29 June
wasnt able to attend June's party on 30th cos of cousin's wedding, but nonetheless, thankies to Cass who organised a timeout for jus the 3 of us. always so comfortable in each othr's midst & company, cos this frenship is sealed by His love!! and as usual aftr some garb & eating, our handy feet (sounds wrong) directed us to one of our fave hangouts- Esplanade. & there we sat ourselves upon the couch amid many others, sharing of our lives, our burdens, our tears. how blessed i am! drawing strength frm one another based upon His Word & His love, and blessed in His Spirit. and where i know silence is invaluable, because if there are instances of silence amongst this trio, tt silence speaks deep right down & overflows! & at the closing of our non-frequent-but-priceless-coversation, we prayed togthr:)

Cass, Moi & June outside Esplanade Library

sidetrack: i jus realised the above dates are 10 days apart each!!

-Xueqi on 7 July
blessed again to be in the midst of returning frens i hvnt met for a long while! we'd June frm Aust, Ning frm UK & all back from since a long time back to be tt EIGHT plus Lester & Jason. tho busy, we still find time to be with one another, updating our lives in the memory space of one another's minds, & the lil nooks of each othr's hearts! Dear Qi growing prettier!! & the only one attached, so frens, i still hv 6 others, all worthy catches!! had dinner @ MOF, Qi's treat & we'd the pleasure of watching fireworks lighting up the skies!
& oh, i'd my 2nd experience of pool, frm i think since Sec sch? cant recall but def enjoyed it much

Started 1st with the Pros YY & YT teaching us how to position our hands etc! Wonderful tutorship!Finally a suprise lil piece of fat-packed choc slice for dear Qi, featured with Lester:))

*Evening Times with Mum*
spent more time with Mum, gg for walks & jogs with her on several occasions, & spending time with her chitchat over tea & toast. & being ard to do the groceries with her.
and now i think, it's not so much of me taking time out to be with her, but she, the beloved Mum, taking time to be with me, to care & love me as i am.
if not for her, i'll def not be where i am now.

so dear frens, a cup of teh, a kaya-butter toast- simple & plain, not adorned with fresh parsley or paper roses, not sprinkled with spices, not dripped with caramel- & the eating place without chandeliers & flashy lights, without backgrd classical romantic music, without a cool ambience- jus a simple cup of teh & 4 slices of kaya-butter toast to share in-btwn... but i saw, i felt, i heard, i tasted, i smelled LOVE.
jus a simple cup of teh & 4 slices of kaya-butter toast to share in-btwn... the TIME of which i wld not hv exchanged for, & a time Mumsie's & Teenie's hearts came close togthr.

my humble advice to u: have a cup of teh & some kaya-butter toast with ur mummy:)

*Saying Goodbyes*
-one dear mentor leaving our teen & youth fellowship aftr 3 yrs.. upon graduation, she'll join her husband to serve in another church.. dear sister Taing Nee, who has oft been such an encouragemt to us all, & i alwys marvel at how she jus causes evry teen & youth to open up to her!! we danced a dance for her to the music of her fave song, & gave her smtg beautiful frm our hearts: a scrapbook lovingly complied with memories God gave us:)

*The Rededication to Daddy & The Resolutions*
the wonderful time spent at the camp at Batam was a moving experience tt moved me deep down to the recesses of my heart & challenged me wholly.
-to serve Him without considering whether it's worth it, for i am unworthy of His love
-to place BOTH my hands in His
-to remember my identity as a King's child
-to serve in unity alongside His ppl
-to follow simple instructions & listen to Him
-to know the options but to do in accordance to His will
-& we are only 12 inches away to revival
& we all came back fired up & thank God for such a time as this which grew us youths so much closer together as we walk this path togthr!

Tis an artistic shot taken unwittingly. Look at the snow & conifers!!

2 sailors- Teen & Yuan

A Bevy of Gals:) ZhiYi, Yuan, Dor, Esthercie

Another pride of a moment-- discovering the wonderful blend of sky & sea!

The Lady Deep in Thot.

Part of the Beloved Sailors!

*The Teens & Youths* played an afternn of games @ Mind Cafe with a bunch of rowdy youths but reali enjoyed the time 2gtr being in their midst. amazing how diff characters can still be fast firm frens:) & we had with us the blessed company too of Thomas & Bridget!

--------------------------------------------------------
yes after such a long post, it'll prolly be a while yet b4 i nx update, but this week doing paediatric surgery so hopefully not as draining!

all in all, i can never say enough thanks to Father for His wonderful provision & for His creation, His people, His beloved.

YOU are beloved. Very Beloved.

Yanying's 21stAnother Beautiful Song Sung

2007-06-20T20:42:00.000+08:00

26 May 2007
Yanying's 21st

*Another Beautiful Song Sung*
Gathering in celebration of the May baby, the 4th one after a string of January babies of our grp of 8! Glad to be able to spend time with them over BBQ even tho most of the ppl there are YY's Uni frens (either coursemates/hallmates/scrabble teammates!) also having the joy of just being in the midst of frens & enjoyin the time togethr.

also interesting & rather melancholic to see hw each of us seemed to hv changed.. not bad changes tho, but hving to experience u all close-up & 1st hand & tt being just so wonderful food-for-thot tt makes one chew thotfully over it.. well for the benefit of June & Ning who hv been missing out on some local changes in the "weather", here r some things u may wanna look out for when u return SOON! Yippee!

1. YuT's become more humourous (as in she has witty remarks for ur jokes)
2. Qi is of cos spending more time away frm us, but inching closer onto another (Dun Hit me!)
3. Zhen's growing prettier & more 'Tai-Tai' look
4. YY has entered the more adultish-working-life-kinda mentality
5. HL has grown more serious & thotful abt life
6. Teenster looks @ herself & says "Hmm... tell me when u come home!"
7. June... (fill in when u come back:P)
8. Ning (fill in when u come back:P)

Yes & Qi's the only one with half her heart given away while the rest of us r still clutchin onto ours (unless some of u r being secretive)

mayb one day all of us will follow e footsteps of Qi, & who knows, outrun her to be the 1st to step upon the red carpets, while the remaining 7 look on waiting to pounce(!) on the bouquet tt that No. 1 throws into the air amid the confetti & applause! Whoo, my imagination runs!

the nite ended with a summon for Zhen, but that din dull our mood too much!
now awaiting for the nx bday to celebrate, which will be our darling June's!

Frens who came

We worked our facial muscles (CN VII) in smiling, CNV in eating & also brain cells in mastering the white tiles (& featuring the BBQ pit to make June & Ning salivate!) (did i succeed?)

& of cos the other limelight pair for the evening! (Ha! biggest pic here sommore of Qi & Lester, since abt almost everyone who knows has been DYING to see!)

HL showing off her cleaned-out sticks; YuT born with plastic fork in her mouth; Teenster poaches pineapples; Qi with hotdog remnant; Zhen preparing to get drunk; YY caught unawaresafter YY was directed to make a speech & hug her mummy, the cake was divided!
& on the staircase to oops (the room), not heaven, we stole quick shots with the bday gal!

most of the poses YY was *forced* to do on revelation of her gift-- aint she befitting of a Tai-Tai?

Rena's 21st In His Grace

2007-06-16T21:57:00.000+08:00

25 May 2007
Rena's 21st

*In His Grace*
Yep that evening in all tiredness but happy tt it was FRIDAY! & to celebrate the beautiful birth of a fren (earlier than actual) but had to since it was e only free time we cld gather!
along e way to the Waraku restaurant, with Qi shuffling in her sole-worn shoes, we walked a long distance & waited a long while, tho having the honor of seeing some powerpuff performance! dinner was great & enjoyable & i'd the honor to pray for Rena.
thereafter we raced to catch our 1st close sight of Qi's other half Lester tho Qi outran me:P
& icecream for Rena, Angie & me!

Powerpuff Action

The Fantastic Four

Flanked by Blacks

Angie, Rena, Qi, Teenster

Off to Batam

2007-06-11T01:00:00.000+08:00

Off to Batam

apologies i hv been busy with othr stuff & not found time to upload pics of Rena & YY's bday photos so for those of u who've been waiting, sorry u hv to wait longer!

will be off to Batam for church camp 'Abundant Life' 11-14 June, will be back only on thurs evening. have a fulfilling time wherever u may be dear frens!

The Charge

2007-06-07T02:37:00.000+08:00

19 May
The Charge
[chahrj] –noun: a duty or responsibility laid upon or entrusted to one

went to attend the graduation ceremony of our teens&youths mentor Sis Taing Nee frm Singapore Bible College. she'd been mentoring us since mid-2004 & been such a lovely teacher in our midst!

Sermon given was abt 'Finishing Well' (1 & 2 Timothy), & the 5 things to note as one goes forth to serve in His Kingdom: Prayer, Teaching, Evangelism, Counseling, Leading

One other impt lesson was frm David Livingstone:
No Retreat, No Reverse, No Remorse

Posing with the dear Grad& every1 frm church who came & Surprise! also met Belinda frm CCC who graduated with doctorate!

with Belinda

Principal then gave The Charge to the graduating class, to go forth & serve faithfully!

reminded me then abt a lecture not too long ago when Prof Chia BL mentioned tt in his time, when he 1st entered the hospital as a medical student with his stethoscope, his 1st thot was "You have arrived".

Arrived at the door when you begin to
Heal Sometimes, Relieve Often, Comfort Always
& i think abt it, yes, the journey begins a new chapter & yet by no means will a stethoscope hung ard my neck/held in my hand/snug in my ears signify anything more than the call & duty to love every patient.

And i think abt tt day when i arrive at the gates of Heaven, will God look at me and smile, "My Child, you have arrived."
Not till His work is done & not till He has used me fully to His purpose,
not till the message of His LOVE is heard by all of u, my dear frens,
wld i want to arrive at the gates, without knowing tt i will see you & spend eternity with you.
I love u all, & more so, God who loves u in Perfect LOVE, for God is LOVE.

God can never love you more, and would never love you less
-Philip Yancey

Cry, My Beloved Heart! Yet Silence Be My Faithful Companion

2007-06-07T01:41:00.000+08:00

18 May
Cry, My Beloved Heart!
Yet Silence Be My Faithful Companion

experienced close-up my 1st death in SGH... we were hving surgery tutorial & entered the high dependency ward. standing @ the nurse counter, the closest bed up close had curtains drawn, & i quietly observed as family members of the patient entered the ward in tears, shaking their heads @ each otr in significance of a wld-be passing on. my acute senses picked up the cues, tho many of my team mates did not, & as the family gathered ard the bed, tears streaming, the only sound i heard (blocking out all otr mumblings) was the sound of tt dreadful machine tt records 1's heartbeats.. tee-tee-tee-tee-tee-------------------- (alvin looked up & commented: 'tt's not a nice sound) my heart was achin as tears formed to hwever much my orbits cld contain with my eyes & appendages, without letting e tears spill out & wet my face.

it was so painful, deep in e recesses of my heart, & the surg tutorial jus passed with me seemingly hearing, using wat ounces of my attention left to learn, holding a brave fort as i built up a Great Wall with my eyelids to dam up e wld-be flow.. & also trying to dig trenches deep deep in my orbits to fill the tears.. & oh heart of mine weeping!

had started e day in pure exhaustion & this only drove me deeper into inward silence. ann & sing patted me but i demanded they dun touch me, for any comforting pat wld jus trigger off a watery outflow frm the windows of my soul.

i rmbr this day well. its a day when the trio became quirky as we suffered brain drain & tt sly character called Weariness came & infused us more than it did b4.. where ovr fits of nonsense we laughed on our faces yet cried inwardly.. during tea aftr lunch

& thereaftr tt death took me deeper into a myriad of emotions..

but to e beloved ann & sing, we went aftr tt & talked ovr sugarcane, releasing some bottled up emos & fears frm within.. not complete release: tt only comes when 1 comes b4 our loving heavenly Father & draw close to Him.. but now, it was sufficient to say, words of wisdom & encouragemt patched up some of tt sore wound within..

tt day was 1 of those days i din feel lik replying smses.. jus needed tt time alone.. jus needed to come close to God & seek Him.. so if ever i dun reply smses for a long while, dun worry, for i am in safe arms..

"I, even I, am He who comforts you."
Isaiah 51:12

Celebrating Autumn Abundance

2007-06-05T21:36:00.001+08:00

17 May Thur
QiuYu's 21st

*Celebrating Autumn Abundance*

aftr celeb MingJun's bday @ Sushi Teh, i popped over to Vivo Marche to celeb QiuYu's 21st, a day earlier than her actual bday.
Had the greatest pleasure of meeting many wonderful frens i hvnt seen for a LONG while: HC, Joy, MF & also some sch mates frm DHS. WH i've prolly seen often ard in sch:D
I hv to agree tt many times, its during these kind of bday gatherings tt we get to meet frens we hvnt seen for long, cos somehow, these kind of gatherings 'demands' more of us to make an appearance & it is really a great time of coming 2gtr to jus chat & update & chillout!

Of cos, tho HC has been rather secretive wrt to *ahem*, my sensitive nose smelt out smtg fishy, & my accurate inference dug out smtg frm her. yes, not thru conversing with her, but long ago thru her blog! (ha! so now u know bloggin is a DANGEROUS thing) tt nite felt really blessed in the midst of close frens tho i ate nthg @ Marche, the company more than made up for it!

Past midnite, QiuYu sent a very long but touching SMS to us all who were there. Was spposed to be her speech, but she felt she'd cry if she recited it out loud, but hving it to keep here within the depths of my heart, i can only say "Thank you for loving ur dear Teen Teen! Indeed I am very honoured to spend ur special day with u! Wishing u many many blessed bdays to come!"

& let the pics do the talking, me darrlings!

Beloved Birthday Gal Blows Candle & Makes Wish

Joke: 小巫见大巫
Knights of the Rectangle Table
Ah Qiu & TeenTeen
Joy, Qiu, HC

The Infamous Miss Tok's Tutees

I'm like a Mother Hen... No regrets tho in protecting these beloved frens!

All frm S1A! Muifong, QiuYu, Joy, Huayching!

A Song Is Sung

2007-06-05T03:47:00.000+08:00

17 May Thur
MingJun's 21st

*A Song is Sung*
the 3rd in our “七姐妹”to welcome her 21st is MJ! Tho not many of us cld celeb it with her, the 4 of us who were there enjoyed tt time together. so very often, it's the TIME itself tt binds hearts together & grows us closer to one another! & we enjoyed the Jap dinner & it was great to see MJ's face all lighted up when she received her gifts:)

Proudly & joyfully holding up!

WT, MJ, Est, Jo Ovr Green Tea More of Duos & Acting Controversial Expressions

& Jo Scribbles a Love Note In Open Secret

Jo's Jubilance

2007-06-05T02:25:00.000+08:00

Pre-Post Note: Hah! I'm back to my backblogging business again cos of long-time delays:P

cos when i dun hv time to blog, or laziness creeps in, i do write down short notes to keep memories alive.. frm pen to paper! but it's hard to keep abreast here in this sphere, so forgive me!

to the dearies in the likes of Ning & Phei, hope these satisfy u & gimme some break frm ur pleas!

Beg & plea me not my frens so true!

Knoweth thee not patience a virtue?

The condensed meaning: My Frens, Patience!

12 May Sat

Jo's Jubilance

Jo's 21st bday was a start to a (w)hole in May 2007, which left me gaining pounds on my body, yet losing pounds frm me pockets.. (i luv this english language heh!)

but it's beautiful to see hw God protects us & keeps us year on year!

yeah so tt aftrnn clad in the Aquila house-shirt & a blue "cheerleading-kinda-skirt", i met MJ & we went tottering to the uniform party.

& we were received by more uniform-clad hosts & party-goers!

it was a good time of gathering & chatting with otr meddies & Jo's sharing was reali touchin:)

Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

Psalm 90:12

& i leave u with some photos frm Jo's bday!

Christelle's Sailor Moon Poses! (She can rightfully claim Best Dress Award:D)

Meddies of all Shades & Colours

Crusaders

Ann ready to pounce on MJ's tomato (Ann was so proud of her PE attire!)

Gals only!

Evan & Jo Mirrored

Counting Stones

2007-05-20T02:55:00.000+08:00

10 May Thur
Counting Stones

i add this in here for a bit of fun!
not to offend Sing!

Ann, Sing & urs truly assigned to major operating theatre (MOT) observin Op done for laparoscopic cholecystectomy, which was converted to open cholecystectomy after the surgeon decided they cld not effectively cut out the connecting tissues to separate the gall bladder.

@ the end of the op, surgeon cut open e resected gall bladder & poured out e bile stones inside. den he asked "So what do u do with the stones?" Sing replied in all innocence "Count them"
every1 laughed. & the surgeon said "No, we give it back to the patient, to let them leave on the mantlepiece & when they hv visitors, to show them the stones"

i'm sure u hv things on ur mantlepiece more worthy to show!

smiles hiding our terrible shivers in the cold OT & dress room

Heart-to-Heart Connection

2007-05-20T01:42:00.000+08:00

Header: Breaking the Silence

Heh i've more in the sulci & gyri of my brain den what i put down in black & white here. yeah wld love to share more thru the wk rather than wait & give it in big chunks. but Time leaves me with a more enticing beckon to hit the bed when i've a choice, save today which i shall jus choose to ignore it's beckoning! will be doing alot of backtrackin thru e 2wks, cos its been simply such a big myriad of emotions! hold ur breaths;)

8 May Tues
Heart-to-Heart Connection

had a beautiful evening with tt wonderful bunch frm 4B. had debated whetr to join in the dinner appointmt with e gals b4 most start on their attachmts. was tired but hvnt seem them 4 quite a while&was more than happy 2 spend some time with them. no regrets=)

we're a bunch of very diff ppl, hah, diff goals, diff opinions, diff characters & personalities. it amazes me hw we find commonalities amid e differences, & hv stuck fast, some earlier, some later. Qi & YT frm sec 1 & HL&YY frm Sec 4, plus 2 otrs not ard: Ning in UK, June in Aust.

words & laughter jus bubble forth like froth whenever we gum ard & the things we do r a wide range! how we luv to tease 1 another (i seldom am the victim, thks 4 e respect!)& jus laugh & chatter ovr our meals. girlish hearts growing to womanly hearts.. each heart growing at a diff speed, yet the heart-to-heart connectn is not lost, but increased.. hw i can jus sit there to listen

yet am not left out of the chatter, wat with pet dogs becoming monkeys. (Qi, i still dun buy tt story)

it was truly your support during DHS days tt i jumped @ tt musical attempt, perhaps one of my best & which i remember fondly:) & truly ur beings who hv made me smile so brightly frm within time & again! may 'work' not be a barrier to our meet-ups & sharings!

with Qi

with YT
with YY
with HL
can u believe we took this w/o any1's help? kudos to YY's long arms!

& a compact spirit!

Qi, YT, YY: hv fulfilling attachmts! (Qi u hv 1 additional 1 with ur some1:P ; YT be confident! ; YY make the most of Tuas!)
HL: hv fun b4 ur attachmts! (dun 4get drug names!)
Ning: enjoy UK! awaiting ur return! (bring home a rose-cheeked self!)
June: enjoy Aust! awaiting ur June-made redbean soup:P

till we meet again to celeb YY's 21st! Whoo-hoo!

2007-05-15T01:45:00.000+08:00

Another Seminar!
Sam Ling * 林慈信
文化与福音的处境化

2007-05-15T01:34:00.000+08:00

Solid Seminars to Attend!

Stephen Tong * 唐崇荣
基督教信仰与世界宗教及文化

2007 归正福音神学讲座基督教信仰与世界宗教及文化

日期：

2007年5月17日(四) 晚上7.30-10.00
2007年5月18日(五) 晚上7.30-10.00
2007年5月19日(六) 晚上6.00-8.00（5.00-6.00有问题解答环节）
2007年5月20日(日) 晚上7.30-10.00

地点：纽顿生命堂 200 Keng Lee Road, Singapore 308410
讲员：唐崇荣博士主讲
翻译：杨达明长老（华译英）
敬请踊跃出席，并鼓励大家邀请亲友、同学参加。
欲知详情，请与我们联络。谢谢！并祝主恩永溢！
电话：+65 63330511 / +65 92266064 （星期一至五，9am-6pm)
传真：+65 63330522
电邮：contact@stemi.org.sg
网站：http://www.stemi.org.sg

2007 Reformed Evangelical Seminar, Singapore

Christianity & World Religion and Culture
Date:

17 May 2007(Thursday) 7.30pm-10.00pm
18 May 2007(Friday) 7.30pm-10.00pm
19 May 2007(Saturday) 6.00pm- 8.00pm (5.00pm-6.00pm Q&A)
20 May 2007(Sunday) 7.30pm-10.00pm

Location : Newton Life Church, 200 Keng Lee Road, S308410
Speaker : Rev Dr Stephen Tong
Interpreter : Elder Yong Teck Meng (Mandarin with English Translation)
Come and be part of this exciting seminar.
Do invite your friends to attend.
Please contact us if you need more information.
God Bless.
Tel : +65 63330511 / +65 98291320 (Mon-Fri, 9am-6pm)
Fax : +65 63330522
Email : contact@stemi.org.sg
Website : http://www.stemi.org.sg

A Week's Walk

2007-05-07T22:48:00.000+08:00

A Week's Walk

hmm looks like my blogging status has to be a weekly thing, cos dun hv time or comp not available on daily basis, so shall do some backlogging for wat has passed in the week:) was glad this week had only one day (Wed) in SGH, as the 1st week of clinicals has been absolutely draining, mentally & physically! needed the break & the no-labour day to get some rest! but after asking ard, i'm not the only one who has been worn out frm clinicals, so not abnormal huh. (thank God!)

***
Thurs & Fri we were in sch doing clinical skills like suturing of wounds, venepuncture, intramuscular injxn, IV drip, fundscopy, nasogastric tube insertion, perectal examination, cathetherisation of the urethra & listening to heart murmurs. till now still trying to classify my murmur! ha! yes HC, i got my stethoscope quite some time back & i promised u'd hv more than a look at it!

Mask-fit session amidst bitter tastes

Neuro-kit Suturing technique: subcuticular stitches for best non-scarring cosmetic effect
Sing stitches up her own hair too:P Ann doing IV drip

Finger-play

Ah! & Fri was Dad's bday! so for once since a long time ago, the whole Wong family gathered together to celebrate his bday & an early Mother's Day (& an impromptu celeb tt i passed yr 2) over dinner @crystal jade. really appreciated tt short but beautiful time togethr. all of us hv all been so busy with our own stuff & coming home late tt dinner had not been eaten 2gtr for a long time. by His grace, He gave us tt time which i do hope will be more frequent!

***
Sat was another great day! i awoke in a weary state wanting to get some powerpoint slides done but jus conked out on the sofa again, till i left home for Crusade DG (Disciple Group) @Great World City, my 1st time there, dun raise ur eyebrow. i was received with a poke in my ribs (ticklish!) by Jo, who apparently was the only 1 who sighted me, & i was just as blind. most of the group had watched spiderman 3 earlier & there was some animated discussion abt the show & the lessons learnt frm it. afterwhich we continued with bible study & the task set for the week is to apply the Word in our lives as said in 2 Tim 3:16-17.

decided not to go cycling with angie & rena aftr tt cos of a tired body, the timing & a pain in my left knee (prolly cold weather causing early-onset rheumatism... teenster shakes her head ruefully at rheu.) angie exclaimed ovr the phone tt i was going to DITCH them. well i'm more loyal than tt, angie u shd know better! yes i'll make time for u all best as i can! so instead they went ahead with cycling & i wld join them for dinner @ parkway later.

Jo & i went to chillout at SingPost coffee bean, where for the 1st time in my life, i ordered a shot of espresso. not desperate, jus needed an injection to keep me eyes open for the rest of the day & night hah.

had a wonderful time with angie & rena. seems to me everytime (which is regretably not often) we get 2gtr, we jus laugh & laugh ovr little things, recounting our days frm yrs ago. but deeper down, 'neath the humour, there is encouragement, there is pondering ovr our faith, there is God in our solid friendship. when i simply reflect upon it, it just bring tears of appreciation into my eyes...

Rena & TeensterAngie & Teenster & Rena We spotted this tagline: 'Nothing is quite as precious as Trust'!

there's this quote that goes smtg like tt that i saw during Singapore Biennale "Belief" last year which Evan brought me to, & which i went a 2nd time with Comrades Song (MJ) & Sing (HS). tt quote left a mighty impression on Sing. i cant reproduce it word for word, but it's smtg like "whenever u meet someone, when u leave, u leave with them a little of urself, & u take with u, a little of them". indeed! sharing lives!
thank u angie & rena for alwys remembering ur dear old fren whom u call GOH in ur get-togethers. wld love to give u more of my time & myself! u all hv blessed me so!!

the espresso worked. but wanna attribute it more to God giving me the strength to last the night w/o sleeping to finish the powerpoint for sharing with the teens on Sun & also drafting out a poster. He was with me thru the nite!

***
Sun started off with some anxiety abt whether i wld start rambling incoherently during the sharing session. had prepared the sharing to the teens on topic of "Living in Christ" ovr more than a mth but cos hadnt slept, who knows?! prayed for strength & God saw me thru. it was good. the effort multiplied. definitely cld hv improved on the delivery, but i enjoyed the session. there was laughter, some teasing here & there, & of cos some chuckling on my side.

questions were asked here n there & overall i was quite amused with their answers:
Q: in the desert, what did the Israelites eat & drink?
A: 鸟和面包！
comment: well on a broad sense, correct, but specifics included it's 鹌鹑 & 吗哪

Q: what are the fruit of the Spirit?
A: papaya! mango! (the creativity of Jing & SongY) (credits to WanT who could name all!)

thank God too for the ideas He inspired me, sharing & teaching them with things they study like properties of light (Reflection, Refraction, Absorption), photosynthesis & the like. & some medical stuff: xrays, layers of skin, heart op, knee reflex. lots of graphics too abt time-bombs, camels & cactuses, clay & pottery, double guarantees, downpayments & instalments, octopuses & millipedes...... i cldnt hv asked for more, tho the beloved teens did chatter here n there, they listened, it was interactive, they reflected on some issues & i pray whatever has been said will strike further down in their chords of their heart!
& if any of them reads this, here's a reminder: u gotta perform a heart-op, cut thru each layer & let God's love touch u, and love Him in return!

God taught me alot thru this entire prep & sharing. thru it all He reminded me how soverign He is & He reminded me about living in Christ too! Indeed without His showing me the relevant scriptures to read & use, without Him just giving me idea after idea to bring His Word across, i wldnt hv been able to stand there & speak without script. even during the sharing itself, new links came in! Thank U Lord! & i know smtg for certain: at the end of it all, my LOVE for the teens had grown!

aftr tt, back @ the youth fellowship, Hosea came over to speak to us on End Times thru Revelation. Been a while since last yr's teens&youths camp tt we last saw him. It's difficult to understand Revelation, but 1 thing we know for sure is that God is still very much in control in this world despite how this world may seem. Satan himself is under the power of God.
Hosea shared with us how when he 1st became a Christian, oft times he felt he was still unclean despite the complete forgiveness & salvation given by God.
then 1 day, walking into a Christian bookshop, he saw a tshirt with these words:
If Satan reminds you of your past, remind him of his future
indeed! i was moved by tt statemt & Hosea seemed to be too.

i can only say: This IS my Father's world.
once again i was in wonderment @ how God brings ppl 2gtr. made acquaintance with Hosea frm community projects in JC & he has been a solid fren ever since. God bless u in ur work & service in Habitat!

***
as for today, after lecs, went down to bugis to buy a gift for a fren with MJ & Sing. enjoyed that time togthr esp since now seeing MJ less since we're in different hospitals! thank u to u both for a joyful time salivating ovr every food stall passed, failing to resist the urge to satisfy our gastrointestinal system & stimulating our limbic system (brain reward centre)! hope the fren will love the gift when she receives it *winks*. MJ has a pact with me. i've shared with her abt Reflection, she guessed Absorption in another train (literal: MRT, figurative: neuro) of tot tt left me amazed, but Refraction & the other Absorption will be the things to share with her on Sat. Keep her in suspense for now;P

宋同志与黄师父

it has been a very blessed week, despite the weariness, for way way beyond tt weariness, i drank deep from the wells of Living Water! Amen!

Of A Pure Intent

2007-04-29T00:03:00.000+08:00

Of A PURE Intent

It has been a tiring & draining week with much walking ard at more-than-brisk paces behind docs & surgeons, talking to patients, & trying to fill my brains with some knowledge of what i hear and see.

BUT, fulfiling in every aspect, getting to see ppl on a wide spectrum.

Before the clinicals started, i'd a small view into another grp of ppl, living in our very midst. Went down last Sun to volunteer @ Karunya Clinic in Little India, with Ann & Eugene. Eug has been there for a year, whilst Ann & myself were newbies.

It's been a while since i last volunteered, yes, the last one dates back to last April's closing of YFC with HC, YL & Nina & VWO-mentor Rach. Like YL, i do miss those days of vol 2gtr, workin & learning alongside othrs, & hving the joy of seeing faces returning with smiles. i'd wish for more time to vol, but perhaps now, it has to take only a small portion of time amidst increasing busyness. Mayb june then, how abt 30 hr famine?

this week has moved & shaken me deep down multiple times, of which wld take me ages to pen it or down. but these life lessons will be here to stay deep within me. the patients seen, the words exchanged, the stories of each one... it jus reminds me so much of how blessed i am to be able to stand, sit, eat normally!

sitting in to observe @ the outpatient's clinic @ SGH, i'd the blessing to be in the consultation room of a seemingly fierce & hardcore doc. he had not left a good impression on me during an early morning conference, as he seemed to oppose the views of othr docs, & seemed proud. i didnt even expect him to talk to me, jus have me sit in quietly.

but i was wrong. he asked me a qn i've been asked several times "So why do u want to be a doc?" My reply came from experience with volunteering amidst the disabled, children & elderly, that i want to be able to help others in more ways than as a social worker, my 2nd choice.

He was quiet for a while, then returned with "So u want to save the world."
(it sounded more like a closed statement then a qn)

But i said "No, I cant save the world, but i hope to help some ppl."

a patient came in then, and he proceeded with the consultation.

when the patient left, & he prepared to go to the procedures room, he called me after him, saying "If this is your pure intent, & you keep it pure, this is the most satsifying job you can ever have."

then, "but many are corrupted or have been corrupted, & seek richness & status."

of the many many moving, impactful statements & conversations of which I hv been blessed with this week, i pick this to be an early reminder as i begin clinicals, tt i will keep this intent pure, in His strength!

For Those In The Midst Of Exams

2007-04-22T01:01:00.000+08:00

For Those In The Midst Of Exams

Teenster here keeping u in prayer, and a verse to share with u:

The LORD will guide you always;
he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land
and will strengthen your frame.
You will be like a well-watered garden,
like a spring whose waters never fail.

-Isaiah 58:11

Keep up the race:D

2007-04-22T00:18:00.000+08:00

The Word

Now tt the enthusiasm is still running in my veins, i shall deign it the time to fill u all in more!

jus returned from a 5-evenings course on "Doctrine of Salvation" in Chinese by Prof Lee KO based on John Murray's 9-steps. was a really solid course, which i signed up for in faith tt i wld give tt time to God amid some fears!
a peek into the steps:

Calling -> Regeneration -> Faith + Repentance (Conversion) -> Justification + Adoption -> Sanctification -> Perseverance -> Glorification

恩召 -> 重生 -> 信心 + 悔改（归正）-> 称义 + 嗣养 -> 成圣 -> 坚忍 -> 得荣耀

Definitely learned alot, & am blessed to have this time of learning amidst other fellow believers, clearing some doubts & unanswered questions hammering at me for a long while! if time permits, will share with u all more in time to come:)

been feeding on much of the Word lately, prep for teaching Luke 4, a lil sharing session with the teens in May on "Living in Christ", reading Revelation for Hosea's talk on End Times, listening to Stephen Tong's "God's Predestination, Human's Freedom" & Lewis' "Mere Christianity". Sometimes dunno where to start but each time so solid & awakening!

The Fun

And on top of all these, i'd a very very blessed thurs with some of the youths! our dear mentors gave us complimentary tix to go to Wild Wild Wet! & my, we sure had fun! So overjoyed to be able to spend tt thurs with them, tho i'd a anxious night before waiting for news! It's been long since i'd such pure fun, laughing madly in e midst of them, teasing them still!
kudos to Dor who was the coordinator for tt day's events, winks to Hoe who forgot to bring smtg & sportingly made do with what he had, thankies to Sam our lifeguard tt day & smilies to Yuan for the steadfast faith she holds!
Ha! i'm proud of meself tt i din scream, hving the greatest satisfaction being in e midst of screaming youths! (& all screaming differently too!) their screams were enough to cover up for a chuckling me, yeah?!
honestly i hvnt been in water for a long long time, but thanks to them all, my 1st time in years was really fulfilling! like children running to catch the falling water from the Yakult bucket once the siren sounds, taking e same ride many times to get a good grp photo, splashing water @ each other & racing in the pool on feet... wow!
once more, back to the good ol' days like a kid with not too much of a care & with smiles n laughter deep down from the heart! & touched to see how each of us has grown: to Hoe, my partner in Christmas 05, the WuXin to the increased faith; to Yuan whom i'm still heartily sharing half a watermelon with loads of meaning from Christmas 06; to Dor who has always been part of my teasing but whose spirit is so lovable; to Sam, of whom we both challenge each other in our faith & in the Word:)
& the other youths as well! we may be a considerably small group, but this is where God Himself works in each of our lives & in our fellowship, binding us all in His love! Really so blessed to have u all, dear sibilings! may we have many many more yrs to come, till we meet Him face-to-face, 在那不朽坏、不腐坏的身体！

Welcome All!

2007-04-21T15:58:00.000+08:00

Welcome!

Yesh, finally, for those of you who hv been waiting, Teenster has kept her promise in the materialisation of this blog 'A Master's Mouldings'!

Wld like to dedicate this very 1st post to dear June, cos we made a pact & she fulfilled her side of the pact way earlier than i did in tt we'd use our blogs to keep each other updated, since we meet so little now! 君无细言！Apologies for the delay cos had been busy with setting up teens & youths fellowship blog some time back & well, i dun exactly fancy html cos i do alot of figurin out meself :-*

Also to dear HC, who has faithfully kept tt old blog link on her blog, the one tt i only posted one entry & left to demise, what i told u long ago in Jan when we last met has come to fruition! now u can change it to this functional one:D

Some things abt this blog:

1. some ppl prefer really colourful blogs, but decided to keep it a simple black&white! cos i'm reminded how like the keys of the piano are just black&white, but in a master's hands, the keys make life very colourful, with various shades & hues of ethereal quality & i am one blessed soul to have many dear ppl in my life who can do jus tt: Heen, June, Cass, Esthercie, Dor, Net... i cant do that, wld prefer to be able to make wonderful music, but each of us have our different gifts. so, as simple as the layout of this blog is, i'd love to make it colourful, with God's mouldings & the words herein:)

2. i am clay in His hands & indeed without the Master's mouldings, i wld hv nothing at all to share abt my life, so i want to attribute every experience, every growth to Him, His intricate mouldings of this lump of clay!

3. the use of the name 'Teenster', from whom it really originated, i find hard to trace, perhaps it was Retta, who used it after Ms Rajan called Shawn 'Shawnster', & somehow it seemed to roll off e tongue. but also to dear Phei-jie who started using it on her blog;) i've lots of nicks, many of which r endearing in their own ways frm ppl close to my heart, but Teenster it shall be here:)

4. like June, i'm a busy but blessed person, so i cant promise frequent updates, plus e fact i also blog in the fellowship blog & i dun wish to duplicate entries here n there so when i'm silent here, i may be speaking aloud there, so u can look for updates at The-Vine Fellowship*欢藤团契 as well!

5. photos?! will try to upload some here, but cos most photos of me are prolly uploaded in multiple specific gallery & album accounts, i may not satisfy u with pics of me. and the online galleries are all password-coded, added here for easy access for those with passwords. so if u do want to view some photos, maybe:)

In her course, June learns tt speech is ephemeral.

Yet, silence is deafening.

So no matter how ephemeral speech is, speak still, but be careful:)

'The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart,

and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart.

For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.'

-Luke 6:45