Sabbatical @ Happy Valley

White-Rumped Shama

2011-12-30T09:41:00.000+08:00

Many thrushes are powerful songsters but the White-Rumped Shama Copsychus malabariscus is surely one of the best. Its rich and bubbling song is a delight to hear in the forest.

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A close relative to the Magpie Robin, the White-Rumped Shama is also a good songster; its rich bubbling fluty whistle a characteristic sound of the lowland rainforest. Because of its beautiful song, it is trapped for the cage bird trade. It often descends to feed on the ground but delivers its song from a perch. Specimens see in cage are likely to be escaped cage birds. Source: Strange & Jeyarajasingam (1993)

Head, breast and wings are entirely glossy black in male; bold white rump and long, graduated black tail with white edges; lower breast and abdomen rufous-orange. Female similar but dark grey and rufous rather than black and orange; shorter tail. Source: Davidson & Y.F. Chew (1995)

Pacific Swallows

2011-12-24T15:10:00.000+08:00

Pacific Swallows are found everywhere, but usually near water and open country. In Singapore, they are particularly common along the coasts, and also found in mangroves. Earlier this year, a few pacific swallows rested outside my office window. Thus, I was able to take some close-up photos of them.

photo: Kent Ridge

Pacific Swallows eat insects, catching them during flight. To feast on swarming insects, they may join other birds like Swifts. But unlike Swifts that simply trawl the air with their mouths open, Swallows don't hunt on the wing. They perch and wait, then actually chase after individual prey and perform aerial acrobatics to catch them. Swallows also hunt at lower levels than Swifts.Unlike Swifts, Swallows can perch and also come to the ground to drink or gather nesting material.

This species is a small swallow at 13 cm. It has a blue back with browner wings and tail, a red face and throat, and dusky underparts. It differs from Barn Swallow in its shorter and less forked tail.
Adult: Upperparts metallic blue; forehead, throat, upper breast chestnut; lowerparts grey, never white.

Juvenile: Upperparts browner; less chestnut on throat and forehead.

text source: http://www.naturia.per.sg/buloh/birds/Hirundo_tahitica.htm

Asian Koel

2011-12-17T15:05:00.000+08:00

Some time back, a pair of Asian Koel was sighted on the tree outside my office. Big and long-tailed, the male is glossy black all over with red eye and pale heavy bill. Female similar in shape but dark brown with bold spots and bars all over. Calls unmistakable, often starting before dawn: ten or more increasingly loud glissading notes, koel!

A remarkable case of rapid spread: in ten years koels have colonised the whole peninsula of Malaysia, as nest parasites of crows and mynas. Like many species of cuckoos, Asian Koel practices brood paratism, which is defined as a bird laying its eggs in the nest of another bird (either another species or another individual of the same species) so that the young will be raised by the host parents.

NUS Kent Ridge

My search on the internet reveals that cuckoos have evolved various strategies for getting their egg into a host nest, depending on the host defensive strategies.

Egg-laying strategy: Female cuckoos have evolved secretive and fast laying behaviors, and in some cases, males have been seenn to lure host adults away from their nests so that the female can lay her eggs in their nest in the first place. It is also noted that the shells of the eggs of brood-parasites is usually thick - they have two distinct layers with an outer chalky layer that is believed to provide resistance to cracking when the eggs are dropped in the host nest.

Egg-mimicry strategy: Some host birds are able to distinguish cuckoo eggs from their own, leading to those eggs least like the host's being thrown out of the nest. In such setting, female parasitic cuckoos lay eggs that closely resemble the eggs of their chosen host. Parasitic cuckoos that show the highest levels of egg mimicry are those who hosts exhibit high levels of egg rejection behaviour. Some hosts do not exhibit egg rejection behavior and in these cases, the cuckoo eggs look very dissimilar from the host eggs.

Egg-camouflage strategy: Other species of cuckoo lay "cryptic" eggs, which are dark in color when their hosts' eggs are light in color. This is a trick to hide the egg from the host, and has evolved in cuckoos that parasitize hosts with dark, domed nests.

Big-bully strategy: Some parasitic cuckoos have also exhibit "mafia-like" enforcement, in which adult cuckoos will completely destry the host's clutch if they reject the cuckoo egg. In this case, raising the cuckoos chick is less of a cost than the alternative - total clutch destruction!

It's in the genes: The cuckoo egg hatches earlier thatn the host's, and the cuckoo chick grows faster; in most cases the chick evicts the eggs or young of the host species. Since the chick has no time to learn this behavior, it must be an instinct passed on genetically.

source: Davidson & Chew (2008); wikipedia.

Spotted Dove

2011-12-10T14:44:00.000+08:00

The Spotted Dove is a very popular cage bird and the illegal trapping of will individuals is still a common practice. An adaptable bird with a wide tolerance for habitat, it is found in woodlands, open country and fields. It spends a lot of time walking on the ground near long grass, feeding on seeds.

Feeding on the ground, this is the most abundant pigeon of open country and cultivation.

Description: Brown above, mottled darker brown; vinous pink head and underparts, with white-spotted black half-collar joined round sides and back of neck. Taking off, conspicuously whitish sides to tail and pale grey panel on carpal joint of each wing. Singly or in pairs on ground, feeding on seeds and other bits of vegetation, or perched on wires or low trees; not large flocks. Call a three- or four-note coo.

source: Davidson & Chew (2007); Strange & Jeyarajasingam (1999); Photographic Society of Singapore (2010)

Pinked-necked Green Pigeon

2011-12-03T14:22:00.000+08:00

PIGEONS are mainly arboreal birds while DOVES usually feed on the ground in more open habitats. Together they form the family Columbidae.

NUS Kent Ridge

The Pinked-necked Green Pigeon is a widespread and common garden bird throughout South-east Asia. This chubby pigeon can be enormously common in coastal scrub when fruits are abundant. From a distance, the birds look predominantly green. While this is true for the female, the male is more colorful, wearing a light pink neck and splashed with an orange spot on the breast.

Description: It can be distinguished from other green pigeons by grey tail with black band and grey tip. Male has grey head passing through pink to orange lower breast; green back and wings. Female dull green without markedly pale throat, best identified by tail pattern and association with distinctive male.

Calling a lilting coo, varied and prolonged. This pigeon usually forages in flocks, especially near coast in mangroves, scrub, secondary forest, forest edge, feeding on a variety of fruiting trees. It is particularly fond of figs (as shown in the photos above).

source: Davidson... ; Y.K. Chew (2007); K.S. Ong (2008); PSS (2010)

Common Tailorbird

2011-11-26T14:03:00.000+08:00

WARBLERs are a large family of small insectivorous birds. Some are found in forests, others in mangroves, gardens or open grasslands. Many of the species are somewhat similar in appearance, they all move quickly through the vegetation, and are hard to photograph. Some recreational bird photographers give them a miss as they are simply too hard to locate and capture.

Bt Batok Nature Reserves, Singapore

The tailorbids are a delightful genus of warblers, being active, vocal and attractive. But the 11-12 cm long birds which move with lightning speed through dense trees and bushes are not easy to photograph. Found in secondary growth, scrub, gardens, plantations. Their darting, low flight from thicket to thicket and continual change of perch make tailor birds hard to see well even when they are very close.

Description: Olive above, creamy buff below including buff under tail-coverts, with rufous forehead and thighs, greyish face. Often shows some grey or even blackish feather-bases on throat but always less than Black-necked Tailor Bird; distinguished from that species also by thigh colour, lack of yellow on under tail coverts, longer tail.

An active and vocal bird, it always move about low in the bushes looking for insects. Call: a loud kedeek kedeek kedeek. True to its name, it actually builds its nest inside two large leaves which it sews together using silk for thread.

source: Davidson & Chew (2007); K.S. Ong (2008)

Keep Me Save (Psalms 16: 1-11)

2011-11-20T13:40:00.000+08:00

vv 1-2. Keep me safe, O God for in you I take refuge. You are my God and apart from you I have no good thing.

vv. 5-6 Lord you have assigned me my cup and my portion; you have made my lot secure. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places.

Location: Wildlife Reserves Singapore

vv. 7-10 The Lord who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me. I have set the LORD always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken. My heart is glad & my tongue rejoices; my body rest secure; because you will not abandon me...

v. 11 You have made known to me the path of life; You will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.

Coppersmith Barbet

2011-11-19T13:44:00.000+08:00

BARBETS are related slightly to woodpeckers, both groups have strong bills and feet and nest in tree cavities. Barbets, however, feed mainly on fruits, while woodpeckers hammer into dead wood and bark for ants, termites and larvae. Barbets are colourful and attractive forest birds, but most species live mainly high in large trees, and getting good views of them is difficult. They usually move inside the foliage and are best located and identified by calls.

Location: NUS Kent Ridge

The Coppersmith Barbet is a common resident that prefers open-country habitats. It is found in parks and gardens, on the fringes of mangroves and even in busy heartland districts. This species often goes unnoticed due to its small size and habit of perching on the top of tall trees.

Though this bird is typically solitary, groups of more than ten have occasionally been seen at fruiting trees. Close up, this bird is a gem with its red forecrown and breastband, brilliant yellow throat and reddish feet. Plummage is dark green with streaked buff and green abdomen.

Call a repetitive choink, choink, choink, of metallic tone, more than one note per second, sounding like a coppersmith's hammer. The only brightly coloured barbet of open areas. Found in scattered trees in open country, secondary growth, gardens.

The nest is built in typical barbet fashion, inside the cavity of a tree trunk. It can be seen feeding in fruiting trees.

Source: Davidson & Chew (2007) Birds of Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore; Ong K.S. (2008) A Passion for Birds; Lee T.K. (2010) Birds in the Garden City.

Be Glorified! (2 Thess 1:12)

2011-11-15T22:01:00.001+08:00

This song by Don Moen kept resonating is my heart for the past two weeks... Be Gloried! Today, my devotional scripture reading is on 2 Thessalonias 1:12 which also focuses on the there... may the name of Jesus be glofied in you! What does this means? Listen carefully to the lyrics of the song...

With every beat of my heart
Every song that I sing
Every prayer that I pray
Every offering I bring
In every thought that I have
Every word that I say
Oh, be glorified (yeah, yeah)

From the start of each day
'Til the end of the night
Let me bring praise
Let me bring light
Lord, I offer my life
As a sacrifice
Be glorified (yeah, yeah)

This is my prayer
It's the cry of my heart
Lord, I want my life
To reflect who You are
Oh Lord, please stir up the fire
And burn everything
'Til all I desire is You

With every breath that I take
In everything that I do
Let me lift up Your name
And bring honor to You
Let the words of my mouth
Only speak truth
Oh, be glorified (yeah, yeah)

This is my prayer
It's the cry of my heart
Lord, I want my life
To reflect who You are
Oh Lord, please stir up the fire
And burn everything
'Til all I desire is You

This is my prayer
It's the cry of my heart
Lord, I want my life
To reflect who You are
Oh Lord, please stir up the fire
And burn everything
'Til all I desire is You

With every beat of my heart
Every song that I sing
Every prayer that I pray
Every offering I bring
In every thought that I have
Every word that I say
Be glorified (be glorified), oh, oh
Be glorified (be glorified), oh yeah
Be glorified (be glorified), oh Lord
Be glorified

In everything I say
Everything I do (be glorified)
In every situation
Every conversation (be glorified)

It's my prayer (be glorified)
Be glorified

Yellow-Vented Bulbul

2011-11-12T13:01:00.000+08:00

photo: Dairy Farm Nature Park, Singapore

This is probably the most conspicuous garden bird in Singapore. It will be difficult to find a park in the region that doesn't support a population of this attractive bird, feeding in ornamental trees and breeding low inside dense bushes.

Call is a brief bubbling series of notes, the two birds of a pair calling and raising spread wings over their backs in unison. Its bubbling song provides the wake-up call at daybreak in any 'kampong' or housing estate with a bit of grenery.

Description: Brown above, the head chalky white with a dark crown and dark stripe through the eye; underparts are white, tinged brownish-grey on breast which looks faintly mottled; under tail-coverts pale yellow. Crest often raised into a short peak.

location: NUS, Kent Ridge

The nest is a shallow cup built low inside a dense bush.

photo: Botanic Gardens, S'pore

source: Davidson & Y.F. Chew (2007) Birds of Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore

Devastating Events

2011-11-05T08:52:00.003+08:00

Devastating events – disappointments; reversals; anything you didn’t want but got anyway; Plan B, not Plan A; things that discourage, that disappoint; things that threaten your well-being and threaten your understanding of the purposes of God?

We know what it is like to see our lives plunged into turmoil. We know what it is like to see our plans dashed. We know what it is like to see our dreams crushed. Every one of us has had that. … When those things happen to us, they will either make us bitter or they will make us better. It will be one or the other.

photo: sentosa, singapore

Seeing God in the midst of devastating events: These things didn’t happen outside the understanding of God. They don’t surprise God. These devastating events that Satan may have meant for our ill, God means for our good. He will bring us through those devastating events into an encounter with Him. He is preparing to meet us in a special way.

If we look carefully into the devastating events of our lives and into those things that threaten our well-being, we will find that there is a burning bush, and God is endeavouring, through those devastating events to bring us to Himself.

source: James T. Draper, Jr (2004) Joy for the Journey in Preaching with Passion

Never Refuse Friendship

2011-10-26T07:48:00.003+08:00

"Never refuse any advance of friendship, for if nine out of ten bring you nothing, one alone may repay you." - Claudine Guérin de Tencin, French socialite and author.

photo: at wildlife reserves singapore.

The Stilling of the Storm (Luke 8:22-25)

2011-10-22T19:34:00.008+08:00

A great sense of relief... I have just completed today my lecture series for this semester. The title of the lecture today is “Riding the Market Cycles”; and the synopsis is – Getting started is the largest single challenge in the real estate business. Surviving when faced with adversity is a close second since the real estate market goes through cycles of boom and bust. I would like to anchor this sharing on a key point in my lecture, which is weathering the storm.

Today, I would like to share my reflections on a familiar passage in Luke 8:22-25... One day Jesus said to his disciples, “Let’s go over to the other side of the lake.” So they got into a boat and set out. As they sailed, he fell asleep. A squall came down on the lake, so that the boat was being swamped, and they were in great danger. The disciples went and woke him, saying, “Master, Master, we’re going to drown!” He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm. “Where is your faith?” he asked his disciples.
There are many valuable lessons we can learn from this story. For example, the Life Application Bible suggests that “when caught in the storm of life, it is easy to think that God has lost control and we’re at the mercy of the winds of fate. In reality, God is sovereign. He controls the history of the world as well as our personal destinies. Just as Jesus calmed the waves, he can calm whatever storms we may face.”

But tonight, I find comfort in the writing of Robert Llewelyn, entitled The Stilling of the Storm. As you read the scripture passage in Luke 8, consider this point… that there is a sense in which Jesus worked this miracle unwillingly. The impression is that the better way would have been for the disciples to have passed through the storm confidently and courageously, and that the miracle was worked as a concession of their weakness. “Why are you fearful? How is it that you have no faith?”

What is the storm that you are facing right now? Whatever it is, God could remove this obstacle, this trial which presses heavily upon you, by an act of power, as Jesus stilled the winds and the waves on the Galilean lake. And sometimes he does remove the storm, and we may praise him for it, for he knows best. But it may be that his primary will for us is, as was his primary will for his disciples, not that the storm should be removed but that we should pass through it with untroubled hearts and our faith intact.

In his writing, Llewelyn recounted the case of a woman of remarkable faith and character who worked as a matron in a school he was serving in India. He remember the day when she told him that she had been diagnosed as suffering from cancer, and that she would have to leave the school for a period to undergo an operation and treatment. In his words, “We had a special service of intercession for her and many remarked on the Spirit’s power on that occasion. I have no doubt that God could have arrested the cancer and reversed the decaying process by a single act of power had he so willed, but he chose not to remove the storm but to see her through it. I had a letter from her – telling of the indescribable peace and sense of God’s protecting love as she awaited her operation in the ward and then on the operating table. She was out of the hospital in less than half the expected time – no doubt her deep trust and acceptance assisted her recovery – and she lived for another thirty years.”

Llewelyn went on to conclude, “May we not believe that God wrought a deeper service for this person by drawing out her faith and courage, and our faith and love – seeing her through the storm – than would have been possible if the storm has been removed?” It may be that we often get our priorities wrong in these matters. We look for our storms to be removed whereas God would have us pass through them in serenity and trust. For the one who had built their house upon the rock of the gospel we are not told that they would be protected from storm and tempest. We are told rather that when the rain fell, and the floods came, and the storm raged the house remained standing. That was their reward: the house stood firm!

Whatever trials we are going through, as the Psalmist went through in Psalm 46, may we take time to be still and know (and exalt) Him as God! The Lord Almighty is with us; the Lord is our fortress; our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear (Psalms 46:7, 11, 1, 2).

A Friendly Trail

2011-10-17T22:26:00.003+08:00

"Try leaving a friendly trail of little sparks of gratitude on your daily trips. You will be surprised how they will set flames of friendship that will be rose beacons on your next visit."

- Dale Carnegie, How to Win Friends & Influence People.

Is Your Life Green & Blossoming? (Matthew 3: 8 - 10)

2011-09-18T00:23:00.005+08:00

Outside my office stands an old “tree of enlightenment” which has been faithfully producing fruits. It provides shelter and food to many species of birds, which allowed me to take close-up photos of the birds (see below)...
This morning, my devotion/study is focused on the passage in Matthew 3:8-10. John the Baptist admonished the religious leaders to “produce fruit in keeping with repentance…; every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.” This verse is often cross-referenced to Acts 26:20, in which Paul shared “I preached that they should repent and turn to God and prove their repentance by their deeds."
It is not my intention to enter into the debate of the role of faith and works in salvation here. Suffice to say Jesus’ harshest words were to the respectable leaders who lacked the desire for real change… they want to be known as religious authorities; but they didn’t want to change their hearts and minds. Rather, my meditation was on how productive is our life… The Message paraphrased the passage in Matthew as follows: What count is your life: Is it green and blossoming? Because if it’s dead wood, it goes on the fire…”

In the book of Matthew, the passage went on cover baptism with water and with the Holy Spirit & fire. For the purpose of my meditation this morning, I prefer the follow-up passage in Luke 3. The same incident of John the Baptist admonishing the hypocritical religious leaders and his reference to the fruitful tree is reported in verses 7 - 9, but what was interesting was the follow-up passage from verses 10-14. In response to John’s teaching, three groups of people (the crowd, tax collectors & soldiers) asked him the same question, “WHAT SHOULD WE DO THEN?”

In his reply, John gave three specific and practical responses:
(1) share what you have with those who need it;
(2) whatever your job, do it well and with fairness, and
(3) be content with what you are earning.
His advice is worth repeating: share what you have, do your work honestly and well, and be content! Let us reflect and ask ourselves: What count is your life: Is it green and blossoming?

Source:
Life Application Bible & The Message

What a Waste! (Mark 14:4-5)

2011-08-13T18:17:00.005+08:00

From one perspective, the Dawn Prayer I attended last week was a waste of time!

This year, the dawn prayer week coincides with a busy period for me. I could only attend one session on the fourth day. By Wednesday night, I was totally exhausted from conducting an executive training course the previous two days. It was also the start of the new academic year, so there were many meetings and important stuff crying out for my attention. Go for Dawn Prayer? Waking up early and reaching church by 6.00 am to pray? No thanks, what I need most was physical rest... sleep! (Even the pastor jested that the last time he woke up so early was a year ago, during last year’s dawn prayer).

But I found myself amongst a gathering of God’s people at the dawn prayer on Thursday (August 4). What happened at the dawn prayer was the same routine you would get in a usual church service or CG meeting… opening prayer, worship, word, and pray… Come to think about it, we didn’t get to pray much… at most 10 mins?

I am sure many have testified how tremendously blessed they were from attending the Dawn Prayer. Well, what I received that morning was nothing out of the extraordinary… In fact, I found the worship normal, the word sharing good and the prayer session short! Well, I did sensed a closeness to God during worship and also felt God speaking to me during the word exhortation, but really this is no different from having a good daily communion time with God.

Let me do a cost-and-benefit analysis of my attending the Dawn Prayer… 2 hours of sleep, ½ hour stuck in the morning heavy traffic after the service, and the feeling of tiredness throughout the day... as they say, walking half asleep, half awake…! So, from one perspective, it is a waste of time!

However, I learnt from the pastor’s sharing from Mark 14:1-11 at the Dawn Prayer that nothing offered to God sacrificially is a waste of time. What men would considered as wasteful, from Jesus’ perspective, it is considered as worship!

Case in point is the incident where Mary broke the alabaster jar of expensive perfume and poured it lavishly on Jesus. Consider the cost of this act – the perfume was worth a year’s wages… so if you are earning $60,000 a year, imagine spending the whole amount at one go…

When the disciples saw it, they were indignant, saying, for what purpose is all this waste? And they rebuked her harshly (Mark 14:4-5). In a way, they are justified to think that Mary was wasteful… imagine what could be done with $60,000? Wouldn’t it be better utilized to feed the poor and hungry? Their reasoning, giving money to the poor & helping people in a more practical way, was certainly reasonable, but an excuse nonetheless… indeed men are good at justifying their actions… working hard to provide for the family, spending time with family, taking care of the next generation, helping others, and taking a rest … they are all good reasons, but they could also be excuses for not ministering to the Lord.

Our alabaster jar is filled with a precious thing… our whole life. Like Mary, we need to break it and give it ALL to the Lord. To the world, this is a waste, but that is what God wants… that we pour out our life to HIM! To the world giving of oneself to Jesus is a pure waste. They say, why pour it out and waste it on Jesus? Waste simply means giving too much… Waste means you give something too much for something too little… But let us not be waste conscious Christians who give as little as possible to the Lord and yet want to get as much as possible from Him. Often waste gives us an excuse not to do anything…

Three more thoughts:

1) “And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.” (John 12:3)… when we break our alabaster to minister to Jesus in an act of loving extravagance and spontaneous generosity, others around us will be blessed too.
2) “Leave her alone. Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing to me…”, said Jesus (Mark 14: 6-9). Just as he rose to Mary’s defense, Jesus is our defender when the world accuses us of being wasteful to the Lord!

3) “She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial” (Mark 14:8). Christ’s death on the cross is but a costly outpouring of God’s love for the world. For God so love the world that He wasted his one and only Son, Jesus, to die on the cross for us so that we may have everlasting life. As Christians, we are the recipients of God’s wasteful love.

Exhortation:Let us waste our time and resources in sacrificial service and giving to the Lord. In the eyes of God, worship is never wasteful! The real waste is when we use our life and resources for temporal things. What a waste then! Rather, let’s be wasted for Jesus!

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Monuments & Legacy

2011-07-30T08:45:00.003+08:00

LEGACY - What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.... “If I have done any deed worthy of remembrance, that deed will be my
monument. If not, no monument can preserve my memory” - Agesilaus II.

"Monuments! What are they? The very pyramids have forgotten their builders, or to whom they were dedicated. Deeds, not stones, are the true monuments of the great." - John Lothrop Motley.

photo: pryamids of Giza, Egypt (Dec 2010)

The Two Rails Life

2011-07-22T23:41:00.007+08:00

We have to learn to deal with both the good and the bad of life.... "I used to think that life was hills and valleys – you go through a dark time, then you go to the mountaintop, back and forth. I don’t believe that anymore.

Rather than life being hills and valleys, I believe that it’s kind of like two rails on a railroad track, and at all times you have something good and something bad in your life... No matter how good things are in your life, there is always something bad that needs to be worked on.... And no matter how bad things are in your life, there is always something good you can thank God for." - Rick Warren, Purpose Driven Life.

photo: railway track along Upper Bt. Timah Rd, Singapore

Continue to Climb

2011-07-16T08:01:00.005+08:00

Whatever the struggle, continue the climb... "I've learned that everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the happiness and growth occurs while you're climbing it.” (anon).

photo: steps up Mt Faber, S'pore

How Long........? (Psalms 13)

2011-06-14T07:59:00.015+08:00

Having sorrow in your heart daily? Your enemies rejoicing over your troubles? Lost the sparkle in your eyes? Lost the song in your heart? Lost the rest in your sleep?

We just came back from a 2-week working and holiday trip to the US and UK. Amongst the many places we visited, we spent four days in State College... the place where we spent our sabbatical more than 3 years ago; where this blog was first initiated. We connected with old friends and visited the church, which was starting a new series on the book Psalms... I was refreshed by the sermon and decided to focus my bible reading over the next few months on Psalms.

This morning, I read and meditated on Psalms 13. It is a short one... containing only 6 verses. The context of the prayer is that of an anguished complaint concerning a prolonged serious problem that threatens death. It begins with a question, "How long, O LORD?"

The feeling of “being forgotten” is addressed in this psalm. King David, the author of this psalm, frequently claimed that God was slow to act on his behalf. Don’t we feel the same impatience? We can identify with the author as he enumerates having sorry in his heart daily; we have been through these situations; we’ve lost the sparkle in our eyes; we’ve lost the song in our heart; we’ve lost the restedness in your sleep; and our enemies are rejoicing and triumphing over our troubles!

BUT…. despite these, King David found hope and confidence in God… He remembered God’s unfailing love. In the last two verses, David affirmed that he would continue to trust God no matter how long he had to wait for God’s justice and deliverance to be realized.

Are you waiting for relief from despair? Like King David, we must continue to trust God even when he doesn’t answer us immediately… Join me in my prayer for today, which is anchored on Psalms 13: 5-6.

“But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing to the LORD, for he has been good to me.”

Don't Fuss, Relax!

2011-04-22T11:35:00.009+08:00

Walk into the fields and look at the wildflowers. They don’t fuss with their appearance – but have you ever seen color and design quite like it?
- Luke 12
photo: http://abbylanesphotography.blogspot.com/

It has been a long while since I posted my reflections from the Word of God. Today is Good Friday… I decided to take the time this morning to reflect on my journey as a Christian and to thank God for his goodness all these years. My recent meditations have been on THANKSGIVING... "So, then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strenghtened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thanksgiving." (Colossians 2:6-7). Jerry Bridges in his class book The Practice of Godliness wrote that "thanksgiving is a normal result of a vital union with Christ, and a direct measure of the extent to which we are experiencing the reality of that union in our daily lives."

From the Message Bible, Luke 12 continues... "What I am trying to do here is to get you to relax, not be so preoccupied with getting so you can respond to God’s giving. People who don’t know God and how he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. Steep yourself in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. You’ll find all your everyday human concerns will be met. Don’t be afraid of missing out. You’re my dearest friends! The Father wants to give you the very kingdom itself."

Greater Racquet-tailed Drongo

2011-03-22T21:14:00.004+08:00

The most conspicuous and well-known drongo is all the biggest in the region and the most spectacular. Glossy black bird with red eye, large size and somewhat rounded crown.

S'pore Botanic Gardens

Tailed forked not square, the two outer feathers having elongated bare shafts (up to 25 com) and large rounded and twisted racquets. Many birds have one or both racquets broken off, but traces of elongated broken shafts are usually visible, and large size, profile and forked tail without any upturning at tips are then distinctive.

Bt Timah Nature Reserves

Calls frequently, giving a variety of harsh and bubbling, bell-like notes, including good imitations of many other birds. Found in lowland forest, plantations, secondary growth. I have seen this bird in several places in Singapore, notably in the Singapore Botanic Gardens, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and the Southern Ridges.

Source:

Birds of Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore (2007)
Birds of Malaysia and Singapore (2010)

Black-Naped Oriole

2011-03-19T09:08:00.001+08:00

A very common resident and familiar to many Singaporeans as it occurs whereever there are sufficient tall trees in which to perch and feed. It is a most attractive bird of brilliant yellow plumage with a wide black stripe through the eye and round the back of the neck, with a distinctive red bill.
It frequents tree tops and never comes to the ground preferring to feed on fruits, berries, and insects on the foliage. Its fast and direct flight can easily be recognised at a distance due to the unusual manner of freezing its flapping motion at intervals.

A very vocal bird particularly first thing in the morning and has a variety of flufy notes issued in a rapid ascending and descending manner. Call is a melodious four-note whistle, "what the devil!" with much individual variation.

Source:
A Guide to Common Birds of Singapore (2002); Birds of Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore (2007)

Olive-Backed Sunbird

2011-03-13T08:51:00.002+08:00

The olive-backed sunbird, which is the smallest of sunbirds, is a common resident seen wherever there are suitable flowering shrubs and may occur regularly in parks and gardens very close to buildings. Tiny but very active, often in pairs, with territorial males pursuing each other from treetop to treetop.

The male (above) has an irridescent purple throat contrasting sharply with the bright yellow breast and the latter feature is also present on the female (below). The olive back is a confusing distinction as many other females have this but note that the white tips of the tail feathers which help to separate it from the similar and equally common Brown-throated Sunbird.

The sunbird takes nectar from a wide range of flower species and shapes, including mangrove trees as well as garden flowers, plus many invertebrates, especially spiders. Continuous calls as it feeds with precise clicking noises. Builds a bulbous nest of moss and lichen as shown in the photograph above.

source:
A Guide to Common Birds of Singapore (2002)
Birds of Malaysia and Singapore (2010)

Scaly-Breasted Munia

2011-03-08T09:03:00.000+08:00

One of the commoner munias in gardens and towns, this bird can often be seen on overgrown roadside verges. At close quarters, it is a very attractive bird which has white spots on the breast in the shape of scales and a large seed-eating bill typical of its family.

photo: Dairy Farm Nature Park, S'pore

Commonly found in the short or long grass of parks, gardens, golf courses and rural areas, always occuring in small flocks which may comprise other munias. It is a common resident and will nest in low bushes making a structure of domed grass.

Eats many types of grass seed, as well as ripening rice. Often hunted by birds of prey and are constantly on the move in rapid fluctuating flight before gliding into cover to other feeding locations.

Source:

A Guide to the Common Birds of Singapore (2002)
Birds of Malaysia and Singapore (2010)
Birds of Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore (1995)

Collared Kingfisher

2011-03-05T21:20:00.006+08:00

The Collared Kingfisher is unquestionably Singapore's most commonly sighted kingfisher. Of 24 cm in length, it is an unmistakable bird with bluish-green head, upper parts and wings, and a white collar adjoining white underparts. The white collar is a prominent division between the crown and back and is edged with a thin black line only visible at close quarters.

Photo: The presence of the Collared Kingfisher is unmistakable for its boisterous calls can be heard from afar. These photos were taken in NUS Kent Ridge campus.

Probably the most vocal of all kingfishers, with harsh, loud territorial calls typcially consisting of repeater clusters of 2-4 shrieks. Frequently issues a noisy shriek resembling a saw grinding against metal which sounds like "kree chah kree chah". It is an attractive bird with a loud voice that is best described as harsh loud maniacal laughter, it also has a gentler chup-kree call when at rest.

Also a common resident to be found in parks and gardens and near the seashore or close to reservoirs. Nests in tree holes or earth banks which it may select from a number of prospective sites and defends aggressively from any possible competitors. The sexes generally look alike although females overall appear more with green tones than blue as compared to the males.

They are fond of lizards, frogs, small snakes and fish. Perched on a suitable branch, the kingfishers regularly collect mantids, geckos and tadpoles from the ground as food.

source:

A guide to common birds of Singapore (2002)
Birds of Malaysia and Singapore (2010)

Scarlet-Backed Flowerpecker

2011-03-04T08:56:00.003+08:00

God spoke: "Swarm, Ocean, with fish and all sea life! Birds, fly through the sky over Earth!" God created the huge whales, all the swarm of life in the waters, And every kind and species of flying birds. God saw that it was good. - Genesis 1:20-21

A tiny bird of the tree tops, the flowerpecker measures just 9 cm long and may weigh as little as four grams. A twenty-cent coin is heavier than this little wonder.

It is constantly on the move feeding on flower nectar, buds and small insects and is fairly common where these occur. However, due to its very small size, it may be easily missed. It presence may be discerned by the repetitive ticking call "tut tut tut" issued in flight as it moves from tree to tree.

this tiny flowerpecker visited the bamboo plant in our planter box (Hillview, S'pore)

The male is black with a wide red band running from the crown to the rump giving the appearance of a painted stripe. The bill and feet are black while the eyes are dark brown. Its underparts are whitish with grey to the sides of the breast and flanks.

Separated from the sunbirds by their rather squat appearance due to their very short tail and their short bills.

Sources:
A Guide to Common Birds of Singapore (2002)
BIRDS seen at the ISTANA (2005)

Oriental Magpie-Robin

2011-03-02T23:43:00.005+08:00

It has been a while since I last blogged. Have been spending my time taking photos of birds in Singapore. Thus, I am restarting my blog by featuring the many variety of birds that I have photographed.

Let me begin with the Magpie Robin - "the robin is a delightful bird to observe as it is active and tends to be found in open areas near human habitation. It is also a well-known song bird possessing a repertoire of calls ranging from a loud melodius song to a mournful rising whistle and even an alarm note best described as a harsh che-ee. When it sings, it is conspicuous, as it loves to exercise its musical talent from exposed perches." (BIRDs seen at the ISTANA, 2005)

photo: male Magpie Robin (Botanic Gardens)

Its habitats range from the mangroves to gardens and parks. It drops to the ground for insects, worms and small vertebrates. I took these two photos at the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Both are male - distinguished by a glossy black head, breast and upper parts with a blue tinge. The rest of the underparts are white while the tail is black with white outer feathers. There is a also a prominent bold white wingbar. (Females are more subdued grey and cream with a white wingbar)

A common bird in the past, the population of Oriental Magpie plummeted due to its ease of capture and its attractive singing voice. Popular as pets, its melodius calls are music to the ears. Attempts have been made in recent years to reintroduce birds in certain areas and this appears to be successful.

Heavenly Love

2010-12-25T14:25:00.004+08:00

I wish for you my friend
This happiness that I've found;
You can depend on God
It matters not where you're bound,
I'll shout it from the mountain top - PRAISE GOD!
I want the world to know
The Lord of love has come to me
I want to pass it on.

My reflection for this Christmas: Two weeks ago on 14 Dec, marks my 25^th year as a Christian. I made a personal decision in 1985 when I was still an undergraduate to invite Jesus into my heart… and that was when I really found the true meaning of Christmas…

Not too long ago, a student in her email to me quoted a verse from a favourite book of mine, Tuesdays with Morrie. The quote reads,
"Love wins, Love always wins". The Bible has a somewhat similar verse, which goes “Love never fails…” I pondered over this statement for some time… how does it gel with people who have fallen in and out of love? Many marriages, even those that started with deep love, have failed and ended up in separation and divorce.

Given the worrying statistics on failed marriages, I am truly thankful to God when my wife and I celebrated our 18th wedding anniversary earlier this year. I am convinced we were made for each other... in thewords of Regina Hill, "when God made her, I have no doubt He knew exactly the time and place where we would meet. When He made the two of us, God knew what was good for us." Over the years, we have shared many beautiful moments. We've walked many roads together... we have travelled many roads, mostly smooth... thank God; but there were times when the journey was a lit bumpy as well… Whilst I consciously try my best to be a good husband and friend to her, I’ve had on few occasions made her angry; made her sad; and made her cry… So, after all these years, I have came to the conclusion that … although love never fails, people do… even the best of people will not be able to live up to our expectations all the time.

If it is not found in marriages, then where can we find the kind of love that does not fail? In my life, I have only encountered one kind of love that never fails… I refer to it as the Heavenly Love…. Why? Because it begins in heaven… in the throne room of God… John 3:16 proclaims, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his one and only begotten son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life...” If you think about it, Christmas is actually a heavenly love story that begins with God's love.. thru' the birth of Jesus, God offers us eternal life…. The best decision I have made is to accept the offer by inviting Jesus to be my personal Savior and Lord.

...Christmas Isn’t Christmas
'till it happens in your heart,Somewhere deep inside you
Is where Christmas really starts;

So give your heart to Jesus,
you'll discover when you do
That it’s Christmas
Really Christmas for you.

Careless Birds

2010-11-28T13:13:00.004+08:00

"Look at the birds, free and unfettered, not tied down to a job description, careless in the care of God. And you count far more to him than birds" - Matt 6:26 (The Message).

Yet another posting on bird photography :). A few weeks ago I had a lucky break... One of my dream shots is to capture a close-up photo of a kingfisher. So far, my efforts at Sg Buloh have not been very successful as the birds are usually too far away... But I had a windfall whilst visiting the zoo. I chanced upon a stork-billed kingfisher on a nice perch which is less than 10 feet away. Hence, I was able to take many close-up shots... and for bonus, the bird caught and ate two live ornamental fishes (which were released earlier by two elderly photographers to bait the bird).

Romance & Courtship: A Bird's Tale

2010-10-16T09:24:00.011+08:00

I received several wedding invitations over the past few months. In particular, October 10, 2010 was a very hot date: 10-10-10! My sincere congratulations to those who tie the knots recently or will be doing so over the next few months. As the saying goes,

"Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work; If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up!" - Eccl 4:9-10 (NIV)

I would like to use some recent photos I took on birds to depict the various stages of romance & courtship. Enjoy!

(1): The story begins with the lonely single, "where are you, my beloved?"

(2) "Here I am, the one that you have been waiting!"

(3) The fun days: courtship & romance; playing and dancing .

(4) The Day: "my beloved is mine and I am his; the banner over us is love!"

(5) The real work begins: "I am watching you... I have high expectations; don't you dissappoint me... & come home early"

(6) The friction starts: "...there, I told you so... why can't you just do what I say?... You never listen to me... You don't love me anymore..."

(7) The cold war: "I am not talking to you anymore..."

(8) Reconciliation: A Happy Family

When I Look at You...

2010-09-26T08:14:00.003+08:00

I see a remarkable woman
with a kind and caring heart
who is beautiful in every sense of the word
I see a smile that lights up
the room and laughter
that is truly contagious.

photo: Black Swans (Botanical Garden, Sep 2010)

You are everything wonderful
in this world and if I had
just one wish it would be
that you could see what I see
when I look at you.

author: Elle Mastro

What Drives Professors?

2010-08-29T16:37:00.007+08:00

Every morning, I will browse thru the newspaper quickly. I don't have much time to read in detailed all the articles. Today, one particular feature caught my attention... "Two top scientists on what drives them". The two scientists are:

Prof Emeritus Perry McCarty, a 78-yr old researcher from Stanford University, and
Prof Rudolph A. Marcus, a 87-yr don from California Institute of Technology.

Both have won numerous research awards in their field, including a Nobel prize for Prof Marcus. Both were in Singapore and had an interview with the Straits Times. Below are extracts from their interview which caught my attention:

Q: "What do you love about your job, doing both research and teaching?"

Prof McCarty : "Research has always been a passion with me. I like the thrill of discovery, ... However, I like teaching very much as well, as it provides the opportunity to pass on new concepts to those who will put them into practice. One of the greatest pleasure is to watch the many successes of former students. There are few greater rewards."

Q: "You are still doing research now at your age?" (87)

Prof Marcus: "Yes, very much so, 24/7. Most of the time, in fact. And even before I fall asleep I'm thinking of some problem, usually."

Q: "Do you view research as work?"

Prof Marcus: "Not as work, but it is work; but I don't view it that way. I view it is as: Here is something I'm trying to get an answer to, I try various ideas, I do a lot more reading... I view it as a challenge, now it turns out it is work."

"You have to go into things deeply, you can't be superficial. And sometimes, you have to go through the details to make sure you get the science right, and keep track of all sorts of things, so that is not very pleasant, but you have to do it, so you do it. Overidding all that is when something comes out, you get an answer that seems reasonable, it could be a tremendous satisfaction."

Q: "What gives you the most satisfaction?"

Prof Marcus: "One is getting successfully to a problem. Another, which is related to it, is getting new insights into a problem that I haven't had before, I finally see it in some way and understand it better."

"Being able to explain to students something which is fairly complicated and try to get the essence of it. And I still teach courses, so that's certainly something. Working with students and doing research, I get tremendous enjoyment out of that."

I couldn't agree more with what both professors had shared. Their sharing echoes the beatings of my heart. I am passionate about my research... I also enjoy teaching tremendously... I put in a lot of efforts for both, 24/7 but I don't see that as work....Nothing gives more satisfaction than being able to explain something complicated and seeing students' eyes opening to appreciate the real value of what they learnt... The true legacy of my time in NUS would be the success of my students (not my research papers & accolades).

If we emulate the two distinguished professors' spirit and passion towards research and teaching, we will never have to work another day. You will find that work, whatever our chosen field, despite the hard labor, can be fun, satisfying and rewarding.

A Drop of Water

2010-08-21T20:10:00.003+08:00

Quote & Photo of the Week

"How could drops of water know themselves to be a river? Yet the river flows on" - Antoine de Saint-Exupery

photo: Botanical Garden (Jul 2010)

"Unlike a drop of water which loses its identity when it joins the ocean, man does not lose his being in the society in which he lives. Man's life is independent. He is born not for the development of the society alone, but for the development of his self" - B.R. Ambedkar

Cherish The Seasons

2010-08-14T15:52:00.016+08:00

Yesterday, a friend from church shared a profound statement, "Every moment is beautiful. Treasure it." This afternoon, I took time to reflect and do some study on what it means to cherish the moments.

"We spend precious hours fearing the inevitable. It would be wise to use that time adoring our families, cherishing our friends, and living our lives.” - Maya Angelou

photo: harvesting apple (State College, 2008)

Below is a tragic poem (by Jason Lehman) on a man who never got what he wanted.

It was spring, but it was summer I wanted,

the warm days, and the great outdoors.

It was summer, but it was fall I wanted,

the colorful leaves, and the cool, dry air.

It was spring, but it was winter I wanted,

the beautiful snow, and the joy of the holiday season.

I was a child, but it was adulthood I wanted,

the freedom, and the respect.

I was 20, but it was 30 I wanted,

to be mature, and sophisticated.

I was middle-aged, but it was 30 I wanted,

the youth and the free spirit.

I was retired, but it was middle age I wanted,

the presence of mind, without limitations.

My life was over, but I never got what I wanted.

The author, John Mason, exposits that God is a God of seasons. Ecclesiates 3:1 proclaims, "To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven". Distinctively different things happen during different seasons.

There is a wintertime in God. It is a season of preparation, revelation and direction. It is also the time when the roots grow. God wants to establish the right foundation in you during this season. But there is no harvest now.

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There is springtime in God. It is a time of planting, hoeing and nurturing. In other words, hard work. God wants you to work your plan. But there is no harvest in springtime.

There is a summertime in God. Summer is a time of great growth. Nowis the time when activity, interest and people begin to surround your God-given idea. For all the activity of summer, there is only a minimal harvest. But then comes autumn.

This is God's harvest time. It is during this season that the harvest is reaped in much greater proportion than the work, activity or idea expanded. But most people never make it to the fall. Often, they end up quitting along the way because they don't know what season they're in.

When you understand that God is a God of seasons, it prepares you to do the right thing at the right time. It inspires you to persevere to the fall. God's Word is true when it says, "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up" (Gal 6:9).

reflection: if you pluck the blossoms, you must do without the fruit.

source: John L. Mason, An Enemy Called Average

The Cry of Blind Bartimaeus

2010-07-25T13:51:00.009+08:00

"What do you want me to do for you?", Jesus asked him.

"Lord, I want to see", he replied.

It has been a while since I updated this blog. This reflects how busy my life has been. Also, I have diverted my free time to a new hobby - photography. But today, I would like to take time to share a meditation on Luke 19: 35-43. Note that the same account is also reported in Matthew (20:29-34) and Mark 10: 46-52. Matthew records that there were two blind men, while Mark and Luke mention only one. This is probably the same event, but Mark and Luke singled out the more vocal of the two men (ref: LAB). In Mark, we learnt the name of the beggar is Bartimaeus (the Son of Timaeus).

As Jesus approached Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging. When he heard the crowd going by, he asked what was happening. They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.” He called out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy (pity) on me!” Those who led the way rebuked him and told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” Jesus stopped and ordered the man to be brought to him. When he came near, Jesus asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?”

“Lord, I want to see,” he replied. Jesus said to him, “Receive your sight; your faith has healed you.” Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus, praising God. When all the people saw it, they also praised God.

Contemplation

1. Every miracle is a sign! (i) That the Kingdom of God has come with power, (ii) God’s compassion revealed in Jesus Christ. Note Jesus has more compassion than any of his followers have. Jesus stopped! To care for the blind.

2. Misery is the object of mercy. Honestly, we lacked depth in our worship/prayer because we’re not deprived. M. Henry wrote, "there are many occasions where deprivation and sickness will for a while supply the outer circumstances…" Beggars, usually disabled in some ways, have little hope of escaping their degrading way of life. He shamelessly cried out for Jesus’ attention. But we are too respectable to make a scene - we don’t like drawing attention to our lack or openly admit our needs. We prefer to work within our comfort zone. Recall that “the wine has run out!” was the setting for the first miracle by Jesus.

3. It is good to be inquisitive. Those who want their sight should make so much better the better use of their hearing. When they cannot see with their own eyes, should by asking questions, make use of other people’s eyes.

4. He did not let the opportunity slip. This is a divine appointment. Rebuked, but he shouted all the more!

5. Seeing with your eyes doesn’t guarantee seeing with your heart! The blind man called Jesus “Son of David”, which is a title for the Messiah (Isaiah 11:1-3). This means that he understood Jesus to be the long-awaited Messiah. What irony! A poor and blind beggar could see that Jesus was the Messiah, while the crowd who see Jesus physically couldn’t see this. Note they called him “Jesus of Nazareth”.

6. He received double healing: (i) physical healing – he received his sight; (ii) spiritual healing – your faith has healed you. It is wholeness, not just health that is our deepest need. Desire a spiritual blessing, not just a physical blessing. C.f. Luke 17:11-19. “Where are the other nine?” The leper who returned to praise God has a deeper experience than the others. It is not enough to come to Christ for healing, but when we are healed, we must continue to follow him; that we may do honour to him, and receive instruction from him – M. Henry

Exercise: Feel the whole story from Bartimaeus' perspective: the long years of despair and frustration; the quickening spark of hope based on stories he would have heard; the courage and desperation behind his full-throated shout for help; his total disinterest in respectability and social proprietary - if he could be healed...

Let yourself be Bartimaeus, cry out to God for the healing you need. Respond with trusting openness, like Bartimaeus, to his power to break into difficult parts of your life.

reference: LAB, M. Henry commentary & R. Warren's An Affair of the Heart

Nature Photography 101

2010-06-26T18:03:00.008+08:00

Nature Photography @ Singapore Botanic Gardens: For novices to digital photography – start with capturing nature at the Botanic Gardens! See the sights the Gardens has to offer, appreciate plants at the same time. A collaboration with the Nature Photographic Society, Singapore, this 6 half-day course will expose participants to a wide variety of skills and passion.

I had my first lesson on nature photography today! I signed up for the above course which involves six 4-hour lessons divided into two parts: 8.00-10.00 am theory; 10.00 am to 12.00 noon practical. The setting is at the Singapore Botanical Gardens. Over 6 weeks, I will be learning with a group of 30 participants tips on landscape, insects & plants (macro) and aviary photography plus a session on post-processing using photoshop.

photo: dragonfly @ Botanical Gardens

The theory session for today was a bit overwhelming as the instructor was a pro who is really passionate and particular about photography. He showed us his portfolio of photos on birds, animals, etc. Many of which were published in professional magazines. He also travelled around the world to take photos; most of which you know you will never be able to capture because they take a lot of skill, huge investment in lenses (one of his lenses cost S$15,000!), and patience. He uses the analogy of a fishman to describe patience; he chooses the right spot and waits for the right moment to capture the best shot. Sometimes, this could take hours or days. In contrast, a hunter goes from one spot to another to choose his subject.

I benefited more from the practical session. We had to take close-up photos of dragonfly at a pond, but I was limited by my camera's ability (the best I could take was the shot above). To take really close-up picture of the insect, a macro lens is required. It costs about S$800 t0 $2,000, which I will need to invest in if I want to take macro pictures. For today session, I managed to borrow a close-up lens from one of the instructors to take a few shots. It was challenging as we had to use manual focusing. I am pleased with my maiden effort into macro photography. As it is sucking the flower, note the eye of the dragonfly staring at you as though it is asking, "what are you looking at? Don't disturb me!"

photo: "what are you looking at?"

London:Fish & Chips

2010-06-21T16:18:00.008+08:00

Fish and chips is Britain's national dish. According to a travel guide book, it was introduced to London by Murano Jews. It has since been Britain's fast-food since the mid-19th century. Britons consume some 300 million fish and chips meals per year. Unlike crisypy french fries, the English chips are limp but they burst open with flavor when eaten with salt and malt vinegar.

photo: fish & chips (Rock & Sole Plaice, London)

Our first meal in London, thus, has to be fish and chips! After checking into the hotel, we went to join the huge crowd outside Buckingham Palace to see the Queen, who was celebrating her official birthday. After that, we head for our fish and chips at Rock & Sole Plaice (47 Endell St., near Covent Garden). It was recommended in the guidebook. We met another couple from Singapore at the restaurant. I could recognized they were Singaporeans by their Singlish!

As we were not that hungry, my wife and I shared one order with an extra side dish of mushy peas (yummy, my favorite!). For the fish, we had a few choices, such a cod or haddock. We went for the later on the recommendation of the waiter as well as the guidebook which quoted a local saying, "haddock is for heroes, cod for zeroes". Overall, it was a good meal, but we agreed that we had better fish and chips in the past. It was nevertheless an enjoyable experience eating "al fresco", taking in the sights, sound and fresh air.

reference: Lonely Planet

On the Road: England & Holland

2010-06-10T14:17:00.009+08:00

We will be traveling from June 11-21. Our itinerary:
Jun 12-13: London, England
Jun 13-16: Reading, England
Jun 16-17: London, England
Jun 17-20: Rotterdam, Holland
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Our time in London will be free and easy. We do have two appointments to meet up with friends. Otherwise, it is pretty much taking it easy. We will probably not do much of the touristy stuff as we have been to London a few times. But time flies, the last time we were here was in 2000. Exactly, ten years ago!
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Our second stop is Reading (above photo), which is about 30 mins train ride from London. It is around halfway to Oxford. It is essentially a university town and my main purpose is to visit University of Reading, where I will be giving a research seminar as well as a workshop for PhD students. Then it is back to London again for another night.
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Our third and last stop is Rotterdam (right photo) in Netherlands. Here, I will be joining up with a group of academics for an international real estate conference. Rotterdam is about 30 minutes from Amsterdam airport by fast train. It is essentially a port city.

With our trip coinciding with the World Cup, it will be interesting on match day. English and Dutch are fervent supporters of their national team and it may just be worth the while to join the crowd to watch a live match in the local pub! That's provided they are not playing an Asian team. I recall in one of the previous World Cups, the boyfriend of a student who was travelling in Europe was physically assaulted by a group of football hooligans when the local team lost to South Korea. Apparently, they can't differentiate Chinese from Koreans.

Which team am I supporting? Traditionally, I go for Brazil. But this round, I am placing my bet (literally) on Spain. If it wins, the retailer from whom I purchased my new digital SLR camera will give a 50% refund. That's $900!

Facebook | Your Photos - Zonal Connect

2010-06-03T23:36:00.001+08:00

Facebook Your Photos - Zonal Connect

The Fullness of Life

2010-06-03T22:27:00.006+08:00

I have recently acquired a new hobby. As a gift for myself on my birthday (May), I bought a digital SLR camera - Canon 550D at just below S$1,800. To learn how to use the camera, I have signed up for several photography courses. In Jun/July, I will be attending a nature photography course organized by the National Parks and the Nature Photographic Society of Singapore. It will be held over 6 half-Saturday (8 am -12 noon) which involves 2 hours of theory lesson in class and 2 hours practical at the Botanical Gardens.

In May, we celebrated our 18th anniversary! To celebrate, we took a “local” holiday. My wife didn’t want to travel as we are already going abroad in June (Europe) and July (HK). So, we decided to book a room at the Fullerton Hotel, which I found a bargain thru the internet. For $288 a night, inclusive of buffet breakfast, river cruise + F/B voucher of S$88 (which can be used for dinner). They allow late check-out till 3 pm. For an extra S$50, you get to upgrade to a room with the view of the Marina Bay. The upgrade was worth it as the room at the 7th floor comes with a balcony and overlooking the integrated resort and the Singapore flyer. It was also two rooms away from Room 777, which is the very room the late Goh Keng Swee and Hon Sui Sen occupied as Finance Minister during the early days of Singapore independeence.

Below is a photo I took using the new camera.

Finally, I would like to share the following prayer (twice I received it recently; first from my wife on my birthday, and second from the church elder during the contact group dedication):

“When I think of the wisdom and scope of God’s plan, I fall to my knees and pray to the Father, the Creator of everything in heaven and on earth. I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will give you mighty inner strength through his Holy Spirit. And I pray that Christ will be more and more at home in your hearts as you trust in him. May your roots go down deep into the soil of God’s marvelous love. And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love really is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is so great you will never fully understand it. Then you will be filled with the fullness of life and power that comes from God.”

(Ephesians 3: 14-19; NLT).

PEACE

2010-05-06T23:50:00.010+08:00

“Do not be anxious about anything but in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7

When I was about to graduate from the university, I went for a job interview with a prestigious MNC. During the interview, the MD asked, “What do you treasure most in life?” Very assuredly, I said, “Peace.” He replied, “You can’t find peace in this company.” Without pausing, I countered, "I disagree. Peace can be found anywhere. It is found within one’s heart!” Sure enough, I didn't get the job. On hindsight, I could have been more agreeable during the interview process. But I still hold the belief that peace is found in one's heart!

Anyway, this posting is not about job interviews, but rather on the subject of peace. Do you want to worry less? Imagine never being “anxious about anything”. Seems like an impossibility, right? We all have worries at work, in our homes, at school. So, how do I cope with worries?

One motto which carried me through my university days was “aim for the best; expect the worst”. The second half of the motto was my in-built mechanism to handle stress, worries and disappointments. Since the worst is expected, everything else will turn out better! It is quite similar to what one real estate entrepreneur said, "if you can live with the downside risk, the upside will take care of itself".

Since I became a Christian, I learnt there is a better way to cope with worries and face an uncertain future. As the scripture (Philippians 4:6-7) suggests, I now turn my worries into prayers. Whenever I start to worry, I stop and pray. God may not always remove the issue (or problem) that causes my anxiety in the first place. Instead, He promises a “peace which surpasses all understanding”; a peace that the world cannot provide; a peace that guards our hearts (our feelings) and our minds (our thinking) regardless of circumstances, people, or things that would otherwise steal our joy; a peace that doesn't mean the absence of trials on the outside, but it does mean a quiet confidence within.

photo: Miami (april 2010)

True peace is not found in positive thinking, in the absence of conflict, and in good feelings. It comes from knowing that God is in control and He cares for me.

On the Road: Miami & Naples, Florida

2010-04-12T05:03:00.009+08:00

From Palm Sunday (my last blog entry) to palms on the beach!

It is the time of the year again for my annual migration to the US to attend the American Real Estate Society (ARES) Meeting. This year, it will be held in Naples, Florida. Prior to that, I am visiting Florida International University (FIU) which is based in Miami. This will be my first visit to Miami, but my second trip to Naples, which I first visited in 2001.

In Miami, I will be staying at Sofitel Miami, which is close to the airport and FIU. It overlooks a blue lagoon (see photo on the right). The ARES meeting in Naples will be held at charming The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club. It is Southwest Florida's only resort with its own 18-hole golf course.

Facing the Gulf of Mexico, there is nothing much to do in Naples besides lingering on the gorgeous white sand beach (see photo below) and play golf (which I don't). Rather than being fronted by tall condominium buildings, the backdrop for the beach here is all the mansions along Millionaires' Row. Everything in Naples is laid back. But the guide book warned that this is not a place where little ones will have fun. Leave them at home. Also, it's not a swinging singles scene whatsoever. More of a romantic spot for couples.

It will be a busy meeting for me this year. I present a seminar at FIU, followed by three research papers at the ARES meeting. On top of that, I have to read a paper for a colleague and chair a session. These together with catching up with friends in the real estate academia circle as well as working on research with collaborators, will leave me little time to enjoy the beach.

Palm Sunday

2010-04-01T01:00:00.008+08:00

Sunday church service (Mar 28): the preacher exhorted the congregtion to develop a 20/20 vision. One statement which I noted in my journal is,

“Life is like that… We see many things. We don’t always see clearly. And we don’t think about what we see.”

After the service, I saw a young child holding a palm branch. I was reminded of Palm Sunday; the day Christians remember and celebrate Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. We are told in the scripture that as he entered the holy city, mounted on a donkey, Jesus was given a rousing welcome. A great crowd came to watch him, they waved their palm branches, and shouted “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD! Blessed is the King of Israel!" (John 12:13).

Monday morning (Mar 29): I was impressed to devote this holy week to reading, studying and meditating on Jesus’ last week on earth. Sometimes, we can become over familiar with a story such that we no longer pause to think deeper. From the scripture in John 12:12-21, I identified the different groups of people mentioned in the passage. Note their postures:

(1) The crowd – they are those that have come to celebrate the Passover feast; they are not inhabitants of Jerusalem. They are mostly country people; but devout Jews. Matthew Henry commented, “these were not the rulers, nor the great men, that went out to meet Christ, but the commonality.” In other words, they were ordinary people. What was their posture? (i) They had palm in their hands, which is an emblem of victory and triumph; (ii) they cried with a loud voice. In their exhortations, they acknowledge our Lord Jesus to be the king of Israel, and that he comes in the name of the LORD.

(2) The witnesses – they spread the word! What is the reason that instigated the crowd to come and pay respect to Jesus, though the government was so much against him? It was because of the miracle he had performed recently – he raised Lazarus from the dead. No doubt, the city heard about it; the report of it was in all people’s mouth, which is traced to the eye witnesses. It is probable that those who had seen the miracle did not only assert it to those who asked them, but published it unasked.

(3) Jesus – He rode on a donkey, which is a lowly animal (contrary to war horse). The slow-paced animal is symbolically linked humility and peace. Still, this is much more of state than he used to take; he used to walk on foot, but now he was mounted. Nevertheless, a commentator wrote, “according to the fashion of this world, to be introduced thus was a rather disparagement than an honour to the King of Israel, ... His kingdom is not of this world, and therefore come not with outward pomp.” In our modern day context, a car is not just a car. It is a status symbol… Mercs, BMW, Volvo, Jaguar… Jesus rode a colt – less than 1 horsepower! In comparison, a 2,000 cc car today is equivalent to approx. 150 hp.

(4) The Pharisees – consider their indignation; they rage. Their envy made them fret. They were determined to “go after him”, only to see the crowd has “gone after him.” Note that the word “go after” have opposite meanings (“catch” versus “follow”) depending on our posture. Matthew Henry commented, “considering how great these Pharisees were and what abundance of respect was paid them, one would think they need not grudge Christ so inconsiderable a piece of honor as was done him; but proud man would monopolize honor, and have none share with them (like Haman).”

(5) The Disciples – did not understand what was happening. Only after Jesus was glorified, did they realize… Jesus’ words and actions took on new meaning and made more sense…. As we journey through life, we missed many things along the way… But as we grow older, we’ll look back and see God’s involvement more clearly than we do now… We need a 20/20 vision!

(6) The Greeks – their address to Philip was short, “Sir, we would like to see Jesus”. Not satisfied being in the crowd and seeing Jesus from afar, they desire a personal converse with Jesus… They acted on their desire and approached Philip… (Note: it is good to know those who know the LORD. We should improve our acquaintance with good people who may lead to our increase in the knowledge of God).

As we prepare our hearts for this season, in prayer and penitence, may we adopt the same posture of the crowd, the witnesses, Jesus, the disciples and most of all, the Greeks:

“Sir, we would like to see Jesus.”

reference: Henry Matthew & LAB.

Hanoi, Vietnam

2010-03-20T15:02:00.020+08:00

"The Vietnamese nation was born among the lagoons and marshes of Red River Delta around 4000 years ago, and most of its independent existence has been ruled from Hanoi, Vietnam's comparatively small, elegant capital lying in the heart of the northern delta." -Lonely Planet

photo: Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi (Mar 2010)

My wife and I visited Hanoi last week. The air tickets came courtesy of the airmiles redeemed from SIA. Although Halong Bay was highly recommended as a-must-see sight off Hanoi, we decided we wanted to have a relaxing itinerary; literally doing nothing, except to "jalan-jalan and makan" (malay word for "walking and eating").

We stayed in the bustling Old Quarter, the city's commercial heart. As noted in a guide book, Hanoi is bursting at the seams. Almost everyone else zips on motorbikes. From a conversation with a local, I understand that the ratio of the no. of motorbikes to the no. of adults in Hanoi is 1.3!

Walking on the narrow street in the Old Quarter is a challenge for visitors from places with orderly traffic system, such as Singapore. Everything spillovers onto the road, as the pavements are often occupied with motorbikes. Pedestrians are, thus, forced to walk on the narrow & tumultous streets, competing with the motor vehicles, each honking their own way thru' without any regard for traffic rules. The air is distinctively polluted with traffic fumes and dust, evident by some locals wearing masks.

photo: our favorite pho in Hanoi

Our main agenda in Hanoi, as stated earlier, was walking and eating. However, since walking on the Hanoi streets is not pleasant, the highlight of our trip was reduced to eating! But, afraid that our stomach may not be strong enough, we were careful not patronize any of the stove-and-stools food stalls or street kitchens scattered throughout the city.

During the day, we went hunting for "famous" local eateries and sampling their specialties, such as the ubiquitous pho (beef) noodle soup; and bun cha (char-grilled pork served on cold rice noodles with minty salad greens). Other Vietnamese specialities we tried include: banh cuon, a snack consisting of almost transparent rice-flour pancakes stuffed with minced pork and black mushrooms (very similar to "chee cheong fun" commonly eaten in Chinese dim sum) ; cha ca, fried fish with a lot of fresh dill and eaten with cold rice noodles. For those who may be turned off by the unpleasant surroundings of the local food joints, Quan An Ngon would be a good option to sample upmarket street food. It is essentially an an open-air food court, frequented by both locals and tourists, with a more pleasant environment.

For dinner, we opted for a more western setting of spanish and italian food. We ate at the restaurants around St Joseph's Cathedral, which is a stone throw from our hotel, Golden Lake Hotel. The tapas, pizza and wine were ok but relatively expensive as compared to the dirt cheap prices we paid for lunch at the local eateries. On Sunday, Mai & her family treated us to an international buffet at an upscale restaurant. Located in a wealthy suburb in the south, it is close to a big mall in Hanoi. Effectively, there are two sides of the world in Hanoi - one for the ordinary folks, where you pay in Vietnamese Dong, and the other for the wealthy locals and international tourists

Below are some photos we took on the trip;

“The real test of friendship is:
Can you literally do nothing with the other person? Can you enjoy together those moments of life that are utterly simple? They are the moments people look back on at the end of life and number as their most sacred experiences.”

- Eugene Kennedy

Bad Apologies!

2010-03-06T17:28:00.000+08:00

I'd "rather die" than say sorry - Zinedine Zidane (Mar 2010)
...

"Never apologise and never explain... it's a sign of weakness." - 1949 film, She Wore A Yellow Ribbon

...

Footballers, whether they like it or not, are role models by virtue of their high profile. Over the past few weeks, two incidents involving famous footballers (both were captains of their respective national teams) have hogged the headlines.

The first incident involved France legend Zinedine Zidane, who headbutted Marco Materazzi during the 2006 World Cup final - an action which saw the France captain duly dismissed. That was to be the last game of his distinguished career. Italy went on to win the World Cup in a penalty shoot-out. In a recent interview (March 1, 2010), while Zidane admits he regrets what he did, he insists he will never apologise to Materazzi because of the insults against his mother that he claims provoked the headbutt.

The second incident involved Manchester City's footballer Wayne Bridge's refusal to shake hand with John Terry (Chelsea's captain), who had had an affair with Bridge's ex-girlfriend. Both were once best friends and teammates at Chelsea FC and England. As a result of the scandal, John Terry was removed as the team captain of England. Wayne Bridge, on his part, made himself unavailable for the World Cup citing John Terry’s failure to apologise as the main reason. When John Terry showed no signs of remorse in the statement he issued the day he was stripped of the England captaincy — and in his conduct towards Bridge himself — the Manchester City full back realised living in such close quarters to his one-time friend and colleague for the duration of a tournament was going to be impossible.

...

Hard to Say Sorry: Most people find it difficult to say sorry. As Gary Hayden wrote in his recent featured article in the Straits Times on Feb 25, 2010, "some people never accept blame and never apologise." In his article, Hayden highlighted some examples of bad apologies as well as how to say sorry.

Bad apologies are annonying and more likely to incense someone than it will placate him. Three examples of bad apologies highlighted by Hayden are:

(1) Insincere apologies - whenever a politician is caught with his hands in the till or a sportsman with his pants down, an apology will almost certainly ensue. However, we are left wondering whether the person concerned is sorry for what he did - or merely sorry he got caught. More often than not, we suspect the later.

(2) Half-baked apologies - these are often phrased using the passive voice. So instead of admitting "I made a mistake", we say "Mistakes were made". Instead of saying "I am sorry I wrecked your car," we say "I am sorry your car was wrecked". At the heart of these ineffectual apologies is an unwillingness to be fully responsible for what has happened.

(3) Back-handed apologies - worse, these are really non-apologies. Instead of saying "I am sorry I offended you, ", we say "I am sorry you took offense". The implication here is that you ought not really to have taken offence and Ihave not really done anything wrong but I had better apologise anyway or else I may never hear the last of it. Other examples of backhanded apologies, which subtly shift responsibility onto the victim, include "I am sorry if anyone misunderstood me" and "I am sorry you feel that way".

An incomplete apology is often, quite rightly, seen as a second insult. In the next blog, I will continue with the tips offered by Hayden on "how to say sorry".

source: Gary Hayden, "Hard to Say Sorry", The Strait Times (Feb 25, 2010); http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-1253880/John-Terry-didnt-say-sorry-The-reason-Wayne-Bridge-quit-England.html#ixzz0hM05le1v

Reaching & Touching

2010-02-16T10:34:00.009+08:00

We are in a matrix of relationships…. There are many different kinds of relationships. There is that of a man and a woman in marriage. There is, of course, that of a parent(s) and child. Beyond that there are the general friendships of varying degrees of intensity that we all pursue and enjoy. Do all of these relationships have anything in common? Absolutely! - G&G MacDonald

photo: Sunday Service Team @ CEFC (2009)

This year we had a holiday bonanza over this Chinese New Year because it falls on a weekend. As a result, we had four continuous days to break away from our normal routine. My wife and I made a trip back to Kuala Lumpur to visit my elderly parents. Most of the time we spent in KL revolved around family and food; buying, preparing, cooking, eating and washing up.

In addition, I took the opportunity to read an old book which I brought along for the KL trip. If Those Who Reach Could Touch is written by Gail and Gordon MacDonald in 1984. It is a good reminder for me on the importance, principles and practice of developing good relationship. I strongly recommend the book as it is both insightful and practical. Written from a Christian perspective, I think the principles are relevant to our day-to-day relationships.

Reaching out - an impulse basic to human life. From our ealiest moments we reach for security, for food, for help. Later we reach for companionship. Ultimately, we reach in response to the reaching of others: parent to child, friend to friend, stronger to weaker, whole to hurting.

But although we reach instictively, many times we miss our mark. We fail to affect lives. We reach, but we cannot touch. Perhaps, it's becasue we have never learned to touch effectively. Perhaps in the business of daily living we have forgotten how. Or perhaps past experiences have so bruised and blinded us that we are too afraid or too bitter to risk touching. As a result, our relationships have become stunted parodies of the love God created us to live in.

If Those Who Reach Could Touch takes a look at what the Bible says about reaching and touching - how it can be done successfully and why we fail so often. The authors seek to help us understand the ability we have to touch and be touched and show us how to care, to forgive, to encourage, and to confront until our relationships grow to the fruitful, satisfying potential God plans for all Christians.

photo: Christmas (2009)

Summary: Reaching and touching are the building blocks of relationships. …. Generally speaking, everyone reaches but not everyone touches...

Make relationships a priority in our lives…

My Blessings Are So Many

2010-02-04T02:49:00.009+08:00

The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you: The Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace. Numbers 6:24-26.

photo: rodendrum (State College, 2008)

Over the whole of last year, our church systematically studied the book of Numbers. The weekly sermons were anchored on chapters of the book. Whilst there are many lessons that can be gleaned, one of my favorite verses from the book is Numbers 6:24-26. It reminds us that God is looking out for us. As Max Lucado wrote, "... what the world has overlooked, your Father has remembered, and sooner than you can imagine, you will be blessed by him.

Further, my meditation today focused on John 1:16: "From his abundance, we have all received one gracious blessing after another." Browsing through my scrap book this morning, I came across a beautiful poem and prayer by Helen Steiner Rice.

My blessings are so many,
My troubles are so few,
How can I feel discouraged
When I know that I have You.
And I have the sweet assurance
That I’ll never stand alone
If I but keep remembering
I am Yours and Yours alone …
So, in this world of trouble
With darkness all around,
Take my hand and lead me
Until I stand on higher ground.
For anything and everything
Can somehow be endured
If your presence is beside me
And lovingly assured!
.
Prayer: Father, keep my faith strong, my fervor constant. Although I cannot see you, I know you are always near, always at my side. In every trouble and problem, there is a blessing. It takes patience and perseverance to see it. Improve my outlook, Lord, so that I can see clearly the blessing You have sent my way. Yes Father, your blessings are all around me. I thanked You for your generosity, Your mercy and Your love.

Thank you, Father, for the many blessings – visible and invisible – that You have bestowed upon me.

New Year Superstitions

2010-01-30T14:07:00.022+08:00

“a belief, not based on human reason or scientific knowledge, that future events may be influenced by one's behavior in some magical or mystical way."

... that is how SUPERSTITION is defined on the wiktionary. In a much stronger tone, Charles Swindoll (Come before Winter..., 1985) wrote, “conceived in the mind of ignorance, superstition cultivates insecurity and sends a legion of structural cracks through our character. It feeds on exaggerated, self-made lies which grow so thick that the boughs hide common sense and worse, God.”

Whether we like it or not, we find superstition everywhere. In sports, professional players testify how they go through strange warm-up rituals to get properly "psyched up" for a game....

....

Most would agree that the Chinese are generally a superstitious lot. As the Chinese New Year approaches, there are many superstitions that are believed and practiced for good luck. One example is the color red which is considered to bring luck. The practices of tossing of “yu sheng” or exchanging mandarin oranges, by virtue of their sound (pronunciation), are also associated with good fortune and wealth. On the other hand, washing hair or sweping the floor on the first day of the Chinese New Year should be avoided as this is believed to wash (or sweep) away the good luck. Similarly, do not use scissors or knives as it is believed to cut off good fortune and wealth. And the list goes on and on…

Over time, these superstitions have become a tradition. Just as a foreigner in Singapore observed, “While many Chinese people today may not believe in these do's and don'ts, these traditions and customs are still practiced. These traditions and customs are kept because most families realize that it is these very traditions, whether believed or not, that provide continuity with the past and provide the family with an identity.” Source:

http://wuerstelstand.blogspot.com/2008/01/new-year-superstitions.html

Recall that at the beginning of this year, we celebrated the New Year in the deep south of America. Not unlike the Chinese, we learnt that the Americans also have some interesting superstitions pertaining to what food to eat to bring good luck on January 1. In particular, U.S. Southerners eat pork, black-eyed peas and collard greens (served with rice and cornbreads) on New Year’s Day because they are supposed to bring good luck and prosperity in the coming year. We learnt of this interesting traditions when we visited Stacy Sirmans’ family on New Year’s day:

Because of their resemblance to coins, the black-eyed peas are considered lucky.

Collard greens being green, is associated with the US dollars, thus, symbolizing more money. The collard greens, despite its uninviting look, tasted surprisingly good (like the chinese 'mui choi') that we went for 2nd helping.

Pork is also considered lucky because pigs eat their food moving forward, thus eating pork on New Year’s will assure the year ahead will be bountiful.

Hog jowls (left) are a tough cut of pork that are typically smoked and cured, and taste similar to bacon, except more fatty. Note: The jowl comes from behind the jaw of the pig, weighing a pound and a half at most.

The Life of a Flower

2010-01-23T09:39:00.011+08:00

"Heavenly Father, give me vision to see the wise and inspirational message that you have placed within a flower. The life of a flower, like the life of a man, is measured not by what other are doing for it, but rather the enjoyment it is giving to others" - HSR

photo: "bleeding heart" (State College)

Sometimes when faith is running low
And I cannot fanthom why things are so...

.
.
I walk alone among the flowers I grow
And learn the answers to all I would know

For among the flowers I have come to see
Life's miracle and its mystery...

And standing in silence and reverie,

My faith comes flooding back to me.

.

Reflection: Hope is the lone flower blooming in times of life's desert.

What All Good Leaders Do?

2010-01-16T23:59:00.017+08:00

"Those of us who are strong and able in faith need to step in and lend a hand to those who falter, and not just do what is most convenient for us. Strength is for service, not status. Each of us needs to look after the good of the people around us, asking ourselves, "How can I help?". - Romans 15:1-2 (The Message)

........

This evening, I was browsing through the journal I kept for my sabbatical. In it, were a number of loose papers and sticky notes in which I scribbled some nuggets of truths, words of wisdoms, or inspiring thoughts that I came across. I believe most of them came from books or articles I read or sermons I heard during that year. Regretfully, I didn't do a good job recording their sources; thus, I may not be able to cite or acknowledge where I got them from. The scrap notes are currently all over the place. Over the next few weeks, I will be revisiting these gold nuggets, reflect and share them on this blog. Trust they will be a good reminder for you and me.

The first one is entitled "What All Good Leaders Do?". One, they get the job done. Two, they get people to produce. Three, they teach people how to do things right, and four, they delegate authority. Whilst all these are true, there's a simple answer that covers all that ground. It is:

"to bring out the best in the people you are leading."

A good scripture to accompany this thought is Romans 15:1-2 (above). In summary, strength is for service, not status. Leaders need to look after the good of the people around them, asking "How can I help them to be succesful?" We can have enormous influence on the people with whom we come into contact. That influence could be for good or for bad. Similarly, as a professor and an educator, my legacy will not be my research papers nor the awards, but the success of my students.

Field trip to Sentosa Cove (2006)

You have heard of MSG, which is often used in chinese cooking as a flavor enhancer. Well, have you heard of life enhancers? They are people who improve, strengthen, and beautify the world around them. In their interactions with other people, they bring out the best of people. They see something good in us, and then they help us see it too. More important, they help us tap into it... .

.
The bible has a lot to say about bringing out the best in people... "Let your words be for the improvements of others, as occasion offers" - Ephesians 4:29; "Therefore encourage one another and build up each other" - 1 Thessalonians 5:11; "The mouth of the upright is a life-giving fountain - Proverbs 10:11; "Say only what is good and helpful to those you are talking to, and what will give them a blessing" - Ephesians 4:29.

In closing, good leaders bring out the best in other people. It's better to build up than to tear down.

Wakulla Springs, Florida

2010-01-10T01:48:00.001+08:00

"The principal reason for visiting Wakulla Springs is to enjoy the scenery and to appreciate a part of Florida that remains pristine after hundred of years." - The Rough Guide to Florida

Fifteen miles south of Tallahassee, Wakulla Springs State Park is a 6,000 acre wildlife sanctuary quietly hidden in Spanish moss-draped Florida woodlands. The heart of the park is the world famous Wakulla Springs, which is believed to be one of the biggest and deepest natural springs in the world, pumping up 1/2 million gallons of crystal-clear pure water from the bowels of the earth every day. In addition, the Wakulla Springs Lodge, styled in Spanish architecture and completed in 1937, provides a quiet retreat from the modern world.

Note: "Wakulla" means "river of crying bird" or "strange and mysterious waters." A number of films have been shot here, including several of the early Tarzan movies and parts of The Creature from the Black Lagoon.

One of Wakulla Springs' main attractions is the guided boat tours that operate 365 days a year, depending on the weather. The 45-minute river cruise glides under moss-draped bald cypress trees and past an array of creatures, including precious manatees, massive alligators, tribes of turtles, and graceful wading birds, such as anhingas, green herons and white ibeses, up close.

Below is a slide show of the photos we took on our visit to the Wakulla Springs on 31 Dec 2009.

For the LORD your God is bringing you into a good land - a land with streams and pools of water, with springs flowing in the valleys and hills; a land with wheat and barley, vines and fig-trees, pomegranates, olive oil and honey; a land where bread will not be scarce and you will lack nothing; a land where the rocks are iron and you can dig copper out of the hills - Deuteronomy 8:7-9

source: The Rough Guide to Florida, Lonely Planet Florida, & Florida State Parks' brochure.

Hedgehogs vs Foxes

2010-01-07T00:34:00.004+08:00

“You want to know what separates those who make the biggest impact from all the others who are just as smart? They’re hedgehogs.” – Marvin Bressler, Princeton professor.

In his famous essay “The Hedgehog and the Fox,” Isaiah Berlin divided the world in to hedgehogs and foxes, based on the ancient Greek parable: “the fox knows many things, but the hedgehog knows one big thing.”

The story: The fox waits in cunning silent at this juncture in the trail. The hedgehog, minding his own business, wanders right into the path of the fox. “Aha, I’ve got you now!” thinks the fox. He leaps out, bounding across the ground, lightning fast. The little hedgehog, sensing danger, look up and thinks, “Here we go again. Will he ever learn?” Rolling up into a perfect little ball, the hedgehog becomes a sphere of sharp spikes, pointing outward in all directions. The fox, bounding toward his prey, sees the hedgehog defense and calls off the attack. Retreating back to the forest, the fox begins to calculate a new line of attack. Each day, some version of this battle between the hedgehog and the fox takes place, and despite the greater cunning of the fox, the hedgehog always wins. (p. 90-91).

The fox is a cunning creature, able to devise a myriad of complex strategies for sneak attacks upon the hedgehog. Day in and day out, the fox circles around the hedgehog’s den, waiting for the perfect moment to pounce. Fast, sleek, beautiful, fleet of foot, and crafty – the fox looks like the sure winner.

The hedgehog, on the other hand, is a dowdier creature, looking like a genetic mix-up between the porcupine and a small armadillo. He waddles along, going about his simple day, searching for lunch and taking care of his home.

Foxes pursue many ends at the same time and see the world in all its complexity. They are “scattered or diffused, moving on many levels,” say Berlin, never integrating their thinking into one overall concept or unifying vision. Hedgehogs, on the other hand, simplify a complex world into a single organizing idea, a basic principle or concept that unifies and guides everything. It doesn’t matter how complex the world, a hedgehog reduces all challenges and dilemmas to simple – indeed almost simplistic – hedgehog ideas. For a hedgehog, anything that does not somehow related to the hedgehog idea holds no relevance.

To be clear, hedgehogs are not stupid. Quite the contrary. They understand that the essence of profound insight is simplicity. For example, what could be more simple than e = mc2? No, hedgehogs aren’t simpletons; they have a piercing insight that allows them to see through the complexity and discern the underlying patterns. Hedgehog see what is essential, and ignore the rest. (p.91).

In his best selling managment book, Good to Great, Jim Collins, argues that those who built the good-to-great companies were, to one degree or another, hedgehogs. According to him, the essential strategic difference between the good-to-great and comparison companies lay in two fundamental differences. First, the good-to-great companies founded their strategies on deep understanding along three key dimensions (what you can be the best in the world; what drives your economic engine; what are you deeply passionate about). Second, the good-to-great companies translated that understanding into a simple, crystalline concept that guided all their efforts - hence, the term the Hedgehog Concept.

"Are you a hedgehog or a fox?"

source: Jim Collins (2001) "Good to Great".

I Believe There is More!

2010-01-01T01:00:00.004+08:00

"I will give them an undivided heart and put a new spirit in them; I will remove from them their heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh. Then they will follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws. They will be my people, and I will be their God." Ezekiel 11:18-20

Happy New Year! What is your wish for the new year/decade? I am not sure about you, but what I asked from God is an undivided heart and a new spirit. Hence, my meditation over the last few weeks of 2009 focused on the above verses in the Bible.

This time last year (31 Dec 2008), I reflected on how God has filled my cup till it overflows. http://happyvalley-prof.blogspot.com/2008/12/he-fills-my-cup-till-it-overflows.html. Yes, I have been blessed abundantly... Another year on, I am still overwhelmed by how much God has blessed me and my wife... BUT "Since you are already so blessed, since your cup is already overflowing..." some may asked, "..., what is there to look forward to?" Well, I still believe there is more. What resonates in my heart this new day is a song declaring, "I BELIEVE THERE IS MORE". Written and sung by Don Moen, who shared the following in his blog:

“People everywhere are sensing that God has more for them to do. They are tired of the “status quo” lifestyle. My friend, I really do believe God has more for you to do. He has more for me to do. We have to be willing to step out by faith into the “new thing”, whatever it is that God has put in your heart. This certainly does not mean what you have done to this point is insignificant. I believe it was all preparation. God is NEVER finished with us and no matter what the enemy tries to tell you, God has more for you to do. I am thinking I need to write a book about this. There is so much here.”- Don Moen

It is a beautiful song with inspiring lyrics:

You have been good to me (x2)
You have been gracious
You have been faithful
Meeting my needs
Lord, it's so plain to see
You have been good to me
I have been given so much I can't even
Begin to thank You

Chorus:And still I believe there is more
I believe there is more
I believe
So I open my hands to receive
All that Your love has in store
Lord, I believe

Everything I have done
All that I've said and sung
Lifting Your story, giving You glory
That's just the beginning

Father, I know there is more
Power to heal and restore
Miracles, wonders, blessings unnumbered
Love never-ending

(Chorus) Exceeding abundantly
More than our minds can imagine
Love overflowing
You are bestowing
Day after day after day

Lord, I believe; Lord, I believe; Lord, I believe

Faith Prayer for 2010: So, as we move into the new decade, join me to believe that there is more to your life! Let's open our hearts and lift our hands to receive - All that God's love has in store for us. Love overflowing. Love never-ending. More than our minds can imagine. Lord, we believe!

On the Road: Tallahassee & Atlanta

2009-12-29T01:22:00.007+08:00

Question: What is the capital of Florida state?

Answer: Tallahassee!

Huh, where exactly is it located? It is located north-west of Florida, just across the border from Georgia state. See map below.

Well, we will be spending four days in Tallahassee (photo on the right), visiting a friend. Our journey will take us via Singapore-Tokyo-Atlanta (20 hours by air, excluding stopovers) and then Atlanta-Tallahassee (6 hours, by car) .

After Tallahassee, we go back to Atlanta where we will be staying for another 3 days. I will be attending and presenting a research paper at the annual ASSA meeting.

We leave for the airport in 2 hours time, and will be back on January 7. Until then, our prayer for you is that may 2010 be an exceedingly prosperous year for you. May whatever you plan and do prosper and bear fruits in abundance.

Scripture for 2010: "Blessed is the man ... whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers." - Psalms 1:1-3

DOODLECHAMPS! Singapore

2009-12-27T01:09:00.001+08:00

DOODLECHAMPS! Singapore is a fantastic competition to discover the coolest and most talented creative doodlers in Singapore. After a challenging nationwide search, 24 of the most talented 9 to 11 year olds competed in the DOODLECHAMPS! Singapore TV show. For more information on the competition, visit: http://www.doodlechamps.com/tv-show .

Watch trailer of the show below!

After surviving rounds of elimination, our godson has managed to secure a place in the grand final. He won the semi-final round with total points of 38 (out of a max of 40)! In the grand final, which will be telecast on 31 Dec 2009, 8.30 - 9.00 pm on Octo TV, Jaye Young will meet another contestant to determine who will emerge as the Singapore DOODLECHAMP. The winner will represent Singapore to compete against winners in the other countries. Please tune in to watch and support Jaye Young!

Congrats JayeYoung!! Go for it!

Below are a sample of two drawings by Jaye Young (done under extreme pressure of time and competitive environment) during the earlier rounds of the competition plus the judges' comments.

DODDLE DUEL

"Jaye Young, I love the fact that you took the squiggle and put all your characters outside this squiggles and these squiggles became the dance for your bees." - Ketna

"... you are clear in your illustration, ... fully utilising the doodle lines." - Farid

"... you have a special eye, ... great technical skills and lots of imagination." - Caroline

DOODLE TAG

"Jaye Young, ... 1, 2, and 3 a new species of dinosaurs are born." - Caroline
"I love your stuff... clear lines." - Farid
"... that dinosaur is so cuddly, as though it's stealing chocolates." - Ketna

The Christmas Story

2009-12-25T16:15:00.019+08:00

At a recent party my wife and I hosted, we started with an ice-breaker. Essentially, our guests are encouraged to pair up with someone they have not met before, introduce themselves and complete the following statements:

(1) I GET INSPIRED BY .... (2) ONE ESPECIALLY PROFOUND MOMENT OF INSPIRATION IN MY LIFE WAS WHEN ....

Each of us are inspired by different things. Some are inspired by nature, such as watching a gorgeous sunset, or just taking a leisurely stroll. Some are inspired by beauty, such as admiring a painting by Rembrant. Yet others are inspired by an uplifting book, a stimulating lecture or dialogue, or the beautiful lyrics of a catchy song. Since today is Christmas, let me share my inspiration from the Christmas story. The text comes from Philippians 2:6-8.

Think of yourselves the way Christ Jesus thought of himself. He had equal status with God but didn't think so much of himself. He had equal status with God but didn't think much of himself that he had to cling to the advantages of that status no matter what. Not at all. When the time came, he set aside the privileges of diety and took on the status of a slave, became human! Having become human, he stayed human. It was an incredibly humbling process. He didn't claim special privileges. Instead, he lived a selfless, obedient life and then died a selfless, obedient death - and the worst kind of death at that: crucifixion.

- Philippians 2:6-8 (The Message)

What inspires me most about the Christmas story is the incarnation of Jesus Christ. Our pastor highlights that the Christmas story did not begin in the manger; but in heaven. The Son of God assumed a human body and took on human nature. He set aside his divine rights to glory and power and became a human being who is subjected to place, time and many other human limitations. In short, Jesus choose to leave the comfort of heaven and the rich fellowship with God to come down to earth.

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So, why is this story inspiring? First, Jesus wasn't forced into it. He had a choice, and he choose to leave home! Second, his choice goes against our culture of "not losing out", or in Singapore, we call it the "kiasu" mentality. Today, most of us are driven by upward mobility, ie. upgrading and improving one's status. To leave heaven for earth, to exchange divinity for humanity, isn't that a big downgrade?

To appreciate the significance of this Christmas story, one needs to ask, "What propelled the Son of God to do so?" What was his purpose?

The Bible says that Jesus came to show us the way to God. What made his humanity unique was his freedom from sin. In his full humanity, Jesus showed us everything about God's character that can be conveyed in human nature terms.

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In the conclusion of his book, Come before Winter, Charles Swindoll shared the story of a farmer who became jaded in his faith. Skeptical, he chose to isolate himself from others and live out his days without the hassles connected with people involvements. It took a never-to-be-forgotten experience in the dead of winter to jar the man free from his self-imposed cynicism and draw him back to the One from whom he had distanced himself for so many years.

One raw winter night, the man heard an irregular thumping sound against the kitchen storm door. He went to a window and watched as tiny, shivering sparrows, attracted to the evident warmth inside, beat in vain against the glass.

Touched, the farmer bundled up and trudged through fresh snow to open the barn for the struggling birds. He turned on the lights, tossed some hay in a corner, and sprinkled a trail of saltine crackers to direct them to the barn. But the sparrows, which has scattered in all directions when he emerged from the house, still hid in the darkness, afraid of him.

He tried various tactics: circling behind the birds to drive them towards the barn, tossing cracker crumbs in the air toward them, retreating to his house to see if they'd flutter into the barn on their own. Nothing worked. He, a huge alien creature, had terrified them; the birds could not understand that he actually desired to help.

He withdrew to his house and watched the doomed sparrows through a window. As he stared, a thought hit him like lightning from a clear blue sky: If only I could become a bird - one of them - just for a moment. Then I wouldn't frighten them so. I could show them the way to warmth and safety. At the same time moment, another thought dawned on him. He had grasped the whole principle of the Incarnation.

A man becoming a bird is nothing compared to God's becoming a man. The concept of a sovereign being as big as the universe He created, confining Himself to a human body was - and is - too much for some people to believe.

Christmas is a timely reminder that God did indeed become a man. Because of Jesus, because He died for our sins and because He rose from the grave, the Christian faith has substance. Just as Swindoll wrote, He promises you not merely a temporary barn for overnight shelter but a permanent home with Him, eternal in heavens ... if you will only come.

The bible also says that "you are worth more than many sparrows." (Matthew 10:31). God is aware of everything that happens even to sparrows, and you are far more valuable to him than they are. You are so valuable that God sent his only Son to die for you. Because God places such value on you, you need never fear personal threats or difficult trials.

source: LAB; Come Before Winter, photos from internet

What Christmas Means for Us

2009-12-21T23:30:00.004+08:00

What Christmas Means to Me & My Wife? For us, Christmas begins in our heart! It is about receiving the greatest gift God has given us with a grateful heart.

Christmas is, firstly, looking up and thanking God for everything that He has done. Second, it is a time to look back and reflect on the year that has passed by. Third, it is a time to look forward with hope to a promising year ahead. Finally, Christmas is a good time to look around & appreciate our friends and loved ones whom God has blessed us with.

Below is a slideshow of photos we took over this Christmas season.

We thank you for impacting our lives in different ways. Our prayer for everyone today is taken from Numbers 6:24-26.

“May our GOD bless you and protect you; May the LORD smile on you and be gracious to you. May the LORD show you his favor and give you his peace.”

A Greater View of Self

2009-12-13T02:29:00.009+08:00

One more posting on The Ugly Duckling. Before that, here is a video clip of The Ugly Duckling, Walt Disney version.

The ugly duckling does not fit in. He is mobbed for being too different, too big, and too ugly. Similarly, many in the workplace feel discriminated against for not fitting the mold, whether because of gender, race, religion, education, or temperament. While such judgments can be hurtful, the serious damage occurs only if we adopt other people’s opinions as our own.

Not surprisingly, the ugly duckling develops a pitiful self-image. When a flock of birds are surprised, he thinks they fly up because he is hideous, and when a hunting dog doesn’t retrieve him, he reasons, “I’m so disgusting that even the dog doesn’t feel like biting me".

Leaving negative voices behind: Like the duckling, many of us have a harsh inner critic who constantly reminds us of our shortcomings and undermines our self-esteem… We need to leave these false voices behind before we can hear our own true voice. (p. 57).

After escaping the abuse in the duck yard and the violence in the marsh, the duckling finds safety with an old woman and her cat and hen. Unlike the mother duck, who simply conforms, the cat and the hen want control. They regularly preface their statements with, “We and the world!” as they think they are half of the world, and “what is more, the very best half.” They are like managers who see themselves as the brains of the company, and the best brains at that, or like recalcitrant coworkers who feel superior to management as they resist every change.

Stuck in a corner, the duckling begins to long for the water, wishing he could splash it over his head and dive way down to the bottom. The hen thinks his nonsensical yearning is caused by idleness and tells him to get busy. Fortunately, the duckling disregards the hen’s advice and decides to follow his longing.

Asserting oneself : Most of us have a bossy hen in our life. We can easily spot her in a parent, an in-law, a spouse, friend, colleague, or manager, but we often fail to hear her clucking away in our own heads. She is the responsible, close-to-the-ground voice that squzwks: “You can’t pay attention to your longing right now; it would hurt your career.” “You can’t, you don’t have the time.” “You can’t, others are counting on you.” Though her no-nonsense attitude helps us handle practical matters, we cannot let her run our life. If we do, we will become too busy to think and too close-minded to learn, and we will grow old before our time.

In the fall, the duckling gets a glimpse of what he may become as he sees a flock of magnificent swans fly up and begin their migration. The vision of the bird is unsettling, yet also compelling, and it sustains him through the harsh winter.

Finding oneself Approaching one’s greatness can be terrifying. While we feel safe viewing something extraordinary from afar, we get frightened when it comes straight toward us and says, “Join us!” We fear that we will not measure up, that we will embarrass ourselves. We would rather not take the risk, so we pull back. Yet, only when we dare to engage with those we consider “great” may we see our true essence.

Reflection: The ugly duckling’s identity develops through the tale, and similarly, each of us has our own inner journey to make.

Do you sometimes look around and think, “I don’t belong here”? Do you how your own with opinionated hens? To whom are you drawn, with whom would you like to spend time, from whom would you love to learn?”

source: The Ugly Duckling Goes to Work

The Ugly Duckling

2009-12-12T12:31:00.010+08:00

“When we heed our longing, we grow into our ‘swanlike’ nature.”

Most of us would have heard of The Ugly Duckling story. This is a story about self discovery. Written by Hans Christian Henderson (1805-1875), it is the most autobiographical of the Danish author's works. H.Topsoe-Jensen wrote, "H.C. Hendeson just like the ugly duckling, was the poor one, dependent on benefactors who did not understand him, tormented and mistreated, full of feelings of inferiority, enduring long and difficult times troubled by doubts about his own worth, but deep inside secretly convinced that the ‘hour of reckoning’ would come".

There was nothing romantic about H.C. Andersen’s childhood. Not only was his family poor, but it was also less than respectable. His parents barely married before he was born, his grandmother had been jailed for having too many illegitimate children, his grandfather was in the lunatic asylum, and his illegitimate half-sister worked in a brothel. Furthermore, he was an effeminate and ugly boy, with feet that were too big, limbs that were too long, and eyes that were too small. Yet, through his own merit, H.C. Andersen made his way to Copenhagen, gained royal patronage, and became one of the best-loved authors in the world.

The Story (an abridged version):

One summer, close to the moat of a manor house, a mother duck was nesting. One by one the eggs cracked, but an uncommonly large one remained. An old duck insisted it was a turkey egg and warned of the mother that turkeys were afraid of water. When it finally cracked, a large, ugly duckling tumbled out. Fearing he was indeed a turkey, the mother thought, “into the water with him, even if I have to kick him in.”

She brought her brood down to the moat, and one after the other the ducklings plopped in and they all floated splendidly, including the ugly one. “No, that’s no turkey!” thought the mother, “He’s my own alright!”

Once in a duck yard, the others picked on the ugly one for he was so different. The ducks bit him, the hens pecked him, and even the girl who came to feed them kicked him. His sisters and brothers said they hoped the cat would take him, and eventually even the mother wished him far away…

… the duckling loved floating and diving, but the other creatures continued to reject him. One fall evening the duckling noticed a flock of beautiful white birds with long, graceful necks: They were swans! The majestic creatures spread their wings and flew away toward warmer climates. The duckling felt strangely connected. Although they soon disappeared from sight, there was no way he could forgot those stunning creatures.

Winter came …. and finally spring returned and the duckling tested his wings. They made a strong swooshing sound as they carried him to a beautiful garden. When he landed on the water, he saw the majestic birds again, but this time they were coming toward him… He feared they might hack him to death for being so hideous. Accepting his fate, he bowed his head toward the surface of the still water and suddenly he saw his own reflection – he was himself a swan!

His Response:

“Then he felt quite shy and put his head under his wing – he did not know what to do. He was too happy! But he was not proud, for a good heart is never proud! He thought about how he had been mistreated and mocked, and now he heard everyone say that he was the loveliest of all the lovely birds. The lilacs bowed to him, … and the sun shone so warm and bright. And then he puffed up his feathers, lifted his slender neck, and rejoiced with all his heart; “I never dreamt there could be so much happiness when I was the ugly duckling.”

So what is the morale of this story? Mette Norgaard, in her book, The Ugly Duckling Goes to Work, argues that we do not succeed in life by having an enviable career; we succeed by finding where we belong and becoming the person we were meant to be. Just because we live with certain people, that does not mean we belong with them; we belong with those who share or encourage our longing. Also, just because we grow older, that does not mean we grow into who we were meant to be.

We grow into our essence only when our false self-images die and our true self is born.

source: Mette Norgaard, The Ugly Duckling Goes to Work

When I Became a Christian

2009-12-06T23:21:00.025+08:00

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believeth in Him shall have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but the world through him might be saved.” (John 3:16-17)

Next week, I would have been a Christian for exactly 24 years! I was rummaging through my old stuff the other day when I came across a testimony that I wrote on 8 April, 1986 (just four months after I became a Christian). The structure follows an inspiring testimony of a pastor in China. I am happy to share my story:

14th December 1985, I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and my Saviour. Most of my university friends were surprised with my decision.

photo: 16th birthday

My life before I was a Christian: As a teenager, I am no different from any other teenagers. Just like everyone, I wanted to be happy and happiness to me means freedom, power and wealth. Whatever I do, I wanted to be the best: the top student, the greatest doctor, or the wealthiest property tycoon. I normally carry a smile on my face and many indeed regarded me as one of the happier persons around. But I realized that my happiness was only external because it depended on my circumstances: If things were going great for me, I feel great. When things are not going well and out of control, I feel lousy.

Another thing about me is that I could not stand loneliness. Whenever I’m alone, I would feel lonely and would often ponder about the meaning of life. Not able to find any good answers, I would feel empty and low. So, I kept myself occupied under piles of books and flowed along with the social activities in the university. Whenever I gave myself to study and sports, my spirit would rise. In college, I also took up the executive position of Sports Secretary of the BEMS Society, partly to serve and partly for the prestige and its value add to my resume.

photo: Kent Ridge Hall, NUS (1987)
My attitude towards Christianity: By nature, I am curious and always keen to learn. Whilst I would ponder over many problems, but whenever the issue of Christianity was raised I would be hard hearted. I had a cold attitude towards Christianity. Somehow, I would react negatively towards Christianity, but not to other religions. Looking back, I really do not understand why. Perhaps, it is because some Christians I knew were either too pushy about their faith or I was turned off by their “holier than thou” attitude.

This continued until I heard someone in campus said that “religion should have the power to change one’s life.” That statement caught my attention and from that day onwards, I began to seek what is the actual meaning of religion. To my 20th year, I have always considered myself a free thinker, although I would declare I am of a certain religion when I had to fill in my particulars on official application forms etc.

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In campus, I met a group of Christians whom I observed had something different about their lives. One thing I admired them was that, unlike many of us, their happiness is not dependent on circumstances. I was won over by their sense of friendship. I started reading the Bible, I started asking question, and I started following the weekly radio broadcast (Sunday, 6.30 pm) secretly.

The day I became a Christian: On 14 December 1985, I accepted an invitation from a classmate to attend a Christian service at the National Stadium. The evangelist, Reinhard Bonke, used a very simple analogy to explain the cleansing power of Jesus Christ. Like a bar of soap, the evangelist stated that no matter how much knowledge you possess about a soap (even if you possess a PhD), you will not be able to experience its cleansing power unless you use it personally. I found myself agreeing with the preacher and told myself that I must try out the soap. After all, there is no harm trying, right? … if it doesn’t work, I can always say that I have tried and it doesn’t work for me!

At the end of the service, I found my way among a multitude of people going down to the field to pray to receive Jesus Christ into their lives. I remember telling the counselor who attended to me that I don’t want to pray the “sinners’ prayer. Instead, my prayer went something like this, “Jesus, I agree with the analogy used by the preacher. I am willing to use the soap for one month. Show me within this period who you are...” At that moment, I did not experience any sensation.

While I was travelling home, I realized that I would face opposition from my family and possibly, ridicules from my close friends. Doubts arose. I feared losing my lifestyle; I feared having to make sacrifices. I wondered if I have made the right decision.

Four months later: Now, I can tell you that I hadn’t made the wrong decision. Since that evening, my life was gradually changed. From one aspect, I start to experience true happiness and mental peace that are not influenced by circumstances. It wasn’t so much the absence of conflict or problems but the ability to cope with them. I can also control my emotional needs and desires better. I am no longer afraid of being alone. I also found my perspective of Christianity changed. I now have faith, I have purpose and I have the will to live a righteous life….

I am clearly aware of the change that had taken place in me. I became zealous for the way of the Lord. I no longer have the will to pass my days aimlessly but to live a fulfilled live through Jesus Christ, for the glory of God. Within me, there is an excitement that made me want to tell others of the good news I have received and experienced. Just like the verse of a popular song,

“that’s what it is with God’s love; Once you experience it, you want to pass it on.”

What I have done is to share what I’ve witnessed and experienced personally. I hope it bring forth understanding, comfort and encouragement to those who are tired and confused with the meaning of life. Christianity is not something that can be forced onto someone. God has given each of us a free will to make choices and the decision is ultimately ours. But his invitation still stands, if anyone opens his or her heart, Jesus will be delighted to enter. I find this prayer helpful for those who want to receive Christ:

“Jesus, I acknowledge and confess my flaws and sins. I hear that you love me and died on the cross for me. Thank you. I trust you as my Saviour and my Lord. Make me the person you have created me to be. Amen”

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p/s - I found out recently that Gurmit Singh, who is a popular show host, actor and comedian in Singapore, also prayed to receive Christ at same the Reihart Bonke mission. Gurmit shared his testimony (at our church's anniversary celebration last year) that he accepted Christ on Dec 13, 1985, which is just one day before mine.

Do You Remember?

2009-11-28T23:42:00.002+08:00

The anniversary is a chance to take a step back and have a look at the year that has gone by and do a close-up analysis of your marriage. It gives you the chance to rekindle some of the flame that used to burn brightly. It gives you a chance to say you’re sorry about things that have gone wrong and it gives you a chance to escape the world and concentrate on one another completely for 24 hours. With modern day society being as hectic as it is, it is so easy to get lost in the everyday drama of work, meetings, children, colleagues and more. Far too many couples get “lost” along the way and the anniversary is the perfect opportunity to get things “back on track” at least once a year – Marrilyn (Travelling Bride).

photo: The Padang, S'pore (Nov 09)

Today is the anniversary of “Will you Be My Wife (BMW)?” proposal. My wife and I share the same belief that each and every anniversary deserves to be celebrated in a memorable way. Some friends are amazed that we actually remember our proposal date. A few, particularly the guys, may even ask why fuss over anniversary? Why do we need to remember dates in the first place? Well, a simple reason is when we celebrate our anniversary each year it is an annual renewal of our commitment to one another.

In his sermon on The Importance of Remembering the Past, Bruce Goettsche notes as a nation, we have tried to keep our history alive through monuments. We have monuments to various wars. We have museums that contain artifacts that tell the story of the past. We place monuments in cemeteries and study family genealogical records, all in an attempt to keep our "history" alive. Similarly, God didn't just tell the Israelites to remember . . . He gave them aids to help them remember. In the biblical history of Israel, God made a habit of building monuments and establishing symbols that would keep his people informed. For example, He gave the rainbow to Noah; the rite of circumcision to Abraham; the sacrificial system & the required feasts, etc. And Jesus instituted Baptism and Holy Communion, commanding “This Do in Remembrance of Me.”

Goettsche went on to offer three reasons why we need to remember: (1) Because we have selective memory, (2) Because it reminds us of our blessings, and (3) Because it spurs us on and keeps us focused. Whilst his sermon focused on what remembering does for our spiritual lives, I feel that the same reasons apply to celebrating one’s proposal, engagement, or wedding anniversary.

Because we have selective memories: For the first point, he uses the following example to illustrate what he meant. When you are in a conflict with another person, what offenses do you remember most clearly? Your offenses, or the other person's? If you are like most people you remember what others did TO you while you spotlight what you did FOR the other person. We conveniently forget the things we did to provoke a conflict.

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Because it Reminds us Of Our Blessings. Isn't it a wonderful thing to page through a scrapbook or look at wedding pictures? Isn't it a precious thing to look through the photo albums and remember the people who have touched our lives and the events that enriched us? It's hard to look at those things and not be grateful for the blessings we've had.

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Because it Spurs Us On and Keeps us Focused. The whole point of remembering is to spur you on. Remembering your wedding vows helps you focus again on your commitment. Remembering how much it hurt to lose someone helps you cherish those you had taken for granted. Remembering how much a visit meant when you experienced loss will spur you on to make that difficult visit to a friend who is grieving. Remembering how scared you were when you were sick will help you to cherish the days you have.

In summary, when we forget the past we lose the anchor that keeps us from drifting. Just as God establish memorials to remind his people, celebrating our anniversary is establishing our own monuments of remembrance. For me and my wife, Nov 28 will be always be a special day! Because it is the day we committed ourselves and our future to each other… it is the day we agreed to be fellow pilgrims on this earth journey. And celebrating the anniversary reminds us of the circumstances, places and divine hand that brought us together.

So what did we do to celebrate our anniversary this year? We decided to break our normal routine and went on a date the whole day. Our date starts at Raffles City where we went shopping for a camera, tv and some gifts for her friends. Then, we had a relaxing lunch at a Japanese restaurant. After that, we took a stroll along memory lane – The Padang, the place where I went down on my knees to propose to her exactly 19 years ago. We went visited some art exhibitions at the City Hall before finding our way to Funan IT Mall where we had popiah and coffee.

At the mall, we bumped into a couple from church, who are also staying in our condominium. We had tea with them for an hour or so before making our way to Bistro 103 at Pasir Panjang for dinner - I found the casual bistro after googling on web as a follow up to my wife’s request to have BBQ ribs for dinner. The meal was nice and service was fast and good. We ended up chatting with the pleasant proprietor who readily gave us a 10% discount on hearing that it was our anniversary.

We didn't reached home till 9.00 pm. It was a long day but we had a wonderful time enjoying each other company. Below are the photos we took today (using the new camera) plus some old photos from the file.

Source: http://www.travellingbride.co.za/artickes-and-news/ ; Rev. Bruce Goettsche, LaHarpe, IL. 61450 www.unionchurch.com

Nowhere's Man

2009-11-21T03:02:00.010+08:00

Do you remember Randy Pausch? Yes, the computer science professor at Carnegie Mellon who became very famous because of his witty and inspiring Last Lecture. Although he died in July 2008, his legacy continues to inspire many.

"The best gift an educator can give is to get somebody to become self reflective." "We cannot change the cards we are dealt, just how we play the hand." - Randy Pausch

During my final lecture for RE4802 Real Estate Development, I entitled the revision lecture "The Last Lecture". I name it such because it was my last lecture for the semester. Also, for some students, it will truly be their last lecture in the university as they are graduating this semester.

I also shared with the students my posting on the Last Lecture (http://happyvalley-prof.blogspot.com/2008/11/last-lecture.html) in the discussion forum. At the end of that posting, if you recall, there was a reflection question: Consider what would be your last lecture. What wisdom would you impart to the world if you knew it was your last chance? If you had to vanish tomorrow, what would you want as your legacy?

Several students, to my surprise, responded and I was truly encouraged by their deep and insightful reflection. One in particular caught my attention and I have obtained permission to share it here:

I agree that education is indeed one of the most life-transforming careers (for ourselves and the people whom we impart to) and yet its value has often been undermined. Of course, not everyone would have the call and passion to teaching as a career, but I believe that in our life, we would have many opportunities to impact and influence the people whom we meet, and that itself is a chance to educate, to deposit something into someone and make a difference, no matter how direct or significant.

If I were to share something for my last lecture, I would encourage people to have a single passion to live by, not to waste our life. There's this song by John Lennon, 'Nowhere's Man':

He's a real nowhere man
Sitting in his nowhere land
Making all his nowhere plans
For nobody
Doesn't have a point of view
Knows not where he's going to
Isn't he a bit like you and me?

We only get one pass at life, and it would be a tragedy to see ourselves wandering aimlessly without knowing the essence or purpose for our lives.
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I hope that we won't be a nowhere's man and will live our lives with passion and purpose, not to have a minimal life but to live it to the full (well.. I can't and wouldn't want to define it here for you, it's for you to discover for yourself how would you not want to waste your life). Have that kind of single-minded commitment to your purpose and be prepared to take paths of risk and sacrifice. Live a life that counts, with passion and purpose!
And with regards to what I would like to be remembered for, I hope that I would have made a difference in as many people's lives as possible. It's about the lives I've touched and how much value I've added to them, through believing in them and giving them opportunities to grow in character and understanding and building them up. I believe that relationships are one of the key reasons why we are on earth. At our deathbed, no one would recall how much profits I've made for my company but it will be the people around who really matter.

So, I hope that my legacy would be one that people can remember me for the difference I've made in their lives. There is nothing more satisfying than that to me :)

Believe the Best

2009-11-18T02:24:00.013+08:00

Each of us is given seeds. Each of us bear fruit – a yield – very often in direct relationship to our ability to till, to plant, to nurture, and to reap.

This semester, which has just ended, has been a busy one for me. In the last segment of my last lecture, I shared with my students a few photos on maple trees I took in State College.

Matured maple trees are like the giants of the industry whom they encountered in the course of taking my module: CEO Keppel Land, CEO Singland, CEO Orchard Turn, GM Keppel Bay, MD Citibank, MD Knight Frank, Senior Exec Director Chesterton & VP Mapletree. Their achievements are the aspirations of many students.

But guess where do all these giant trees started?

Yes, giant maple trees all started from small maple saplings. And where do saplings come from?

Tiny Seeds!

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I went on to encourage my students not to underestimate the days of small beginnings. Just as every seed has great potential to grow and bear fruit, they have great potential in them. I shared my conviction:

"the best buildings are yet to be developed! The most innovative real estate deals have not yet been executed."

Why? Because the people behind those buildings and deals are still in my classroom today. I sincerely believe that this will come true one day. What I am doing is developing my students' expectation level by believing the best in them. As John Maxwell wrote, "when you look up to people, they begin to look up to their dreams". And if we have high expectation level and believe in people, we will encourage them. This is the principle of seeing people not as they are but as they can be.

Many people, according to John Maxwell, unfortunately have a low personal expectation level. Leaders and educators need to know how to develop a dream for others and share it with them.... If we can have four eyes, two for seeing what is and two for seeing what might be, we can help others dream. Everyone needs to be exposed to a vision. Unfortunately, not everyone will go for it. Pursue it with those who are ready to stretch.

Below are some photos my students took over the course of this semester. On the last day of lecture, they collectively decided to come to school wearing the uniform of their junior colleges/secondary schools:

source: John Maxwell, Be a People Person

Dry Curry Chicken

2009-11-14T12:34:00.013+08:00

Some funny quotes on food:

"Anything that walks, swims, crawls, or flies with its back to heaven is edible." - a cantonese saying; "My mother's menu consisted of two choices: Take it or leave it' - Buddy Hackett; "I didn't fight my way to the top of the food chain to be a vegetarian" - anon; "I do not like broccoli. And I haven't liked it since I was a little kid and my mother made me eat it. And I'm President of the United States and I'm not going to eat any more broccoli." - George Bush (1990).

Yesterday, whilst accompanying my wife to a supermarket in Bukit Panjang, I was attracted to a bunch of lemon grass. I asked myself, what could we do with this? Instantly, "curry chicken" came to my mind. Instead of the traditional version, I thought it would be nice to cook the "dry version", which has a thicker gravy. So, I consulted my wife if she is game for curry tonight?

Refer to earlier posting for recipe on traditional curry chicken: (http://happyvalley-prof.blogspot.com/2007/08/weather.html )

We decided to cook a big pot so that we could share it with some church friends whom we are meeting this evening. So, the frenzy shopping starts: from the lemon grass, which sparked to curry inspiration, we bought fresh tumeric (yellow ginger), galangal (blue ginger), dried chilies from the same supermarket. For the chicken, we decided to drive to our favorite poutry stall in Bukit Batok, but alas when we reached there, it is already closed for the day. No choice, we went to the nearby NTUC supermarket to buy a pack of frozen chicken tighs (12 pieces). We visited another provision shop to pick up onions and potatoes. At another shop, I bought some buah keras and yet at another vegetable stall, we bought some fresh chilies.

We went home happily thinking that we had all the ingredients for the curry (purchased from 5 different shops!). In the evening, I started preparing the cleaning & marinating the chicken, cutting the ingredients and pounding the ingredients. It would have been easier to use the blender, but I did it manually as I thought it would be a good way to relax and take my mind off my research. So, I spent a good time pounding away on the mortar.

However, just when we were about to cook the curry, I realized that we ran out of the most important ingredient: aiyah, no more curry powder! So, another mad dash to a nearby supermarket to replenish.

Below is a slide show of the preparation and cooking process:

BEMS Class 1988 Reunion

2009-11-09T23:10:00.004+08:00

Last Saturday (November 7, 2009), the Department of Real Estate and Department of Building at the National University of Singapore celeberated their 40th anniversary together. In total, there were more than 120 tables.

BEMS Class of 1988 had three tables. Below is a group photo we took at the dinner. Time flies, it has been 21 years since we graduated. Plus four years as undergraduates together, most of us would have known each other for at least 25 years!

seated (from left): Cara Kwok Sook Han, Tham Swee Hiong, Wendy Chan, Lorraine Phoon, Leng Chiak Sun & Celeste, Michelle Lee, Julianne Lee (Mong Ling).

standing (from left): Ng Kwee Ming, Ashley Wee, David Tham, Joseph Ooi, Quek Sze Kheng, Winston Cheah, Andrew Tan Tiah Yeow, Kam Teck Kwong, Donald Han, Herald Bangras, Tan Choi Heng, Ng Seng Tat (Jackson), Sally Mok, Judy & David Lim (Chee Seng), Joyce Koh (Peck Duan), Chua Ming Lee, Lee Mei Ling.

Attended but not in photo: Yip Kean Mun, Ching Aik Chuan, Wong Teng Teng.

Taking Ownership

2009-10-31T00:42:00.006+08:00

“Leaders take ownership of the results and do not try to excuse those or blame someone else for them.” - Henry Cloud

Workers, on the other hand, do a job. They do what they are told, and that is all they are responsible for, in their mind set. If the desired result does not happen, that is not their problem because they did what they were told. And at the “worker” level, they are right. They are not held accountable for results, but for what they do, i.e. whether or not they follow instructions and implement what management tells them to do (p. 186).

Leaders and, more than that, all successful people do not worry about just making the authority happy. They worry about the results…. It is not enough for the integrated character to be seen as “having followed orders” if the ship sinks or the company is not profitable… Integrated characters want good fruit. They want things to work, and they take ownership of the results as well as their own performance (p. 186-7).

It is human nature for us to blame and externalize. Losers excuse practically every result in their life and blame something outside themselves for what happens. They do not see themselves as contributors to the result...

Successful people, on the other hand, do not blame the outside world for their lack of success in any given venture or relationship.... Successful people care very, very little about ‘fault”. They do not worry about things “being their fault”. Fault to them does not have the most important implications, as it does for immature characters. What has the most important implications for mature characters is solving the problem.

If it means that they need to do something differently, that the way they did it was part of the problem, to them that is good news, not bad. They love knowing that. It gives them control of making it better (p. 188).

Source: Henry Cloud, Integrity

GUEST Service

2009-10-26T00:00:00.015+08:00

I have not been keeping this blog updated in the past few months as it has been a very hectic period for me. I am beginning to see the light in the tunnel, with the semester of teaching coming to an end soon. Below is a blog posting entitled, "Treat Your Customer as Your Guest" by NUS office of quality management which I find very meaningful. It is also appropriate since we have been hosting a number of professors visiting Singapore.

photo: Geoff, US (July 09)

One of the key success factors of great service organisations like Ritz Carlton and Walt Disney is that they treat their customers as guests. Therefore, to deliver great service, we first need to embrace the paradigm of treating our customers as guests. This involves learning and practising the "Guest” philosophy, a set of principles for delivering the extraordinary guest experience.

photo: Tony, US (Oct 2009)

Generosity in hospitality : The word “hospitality” is known as the act of generously providing care and kindness to whoever is in need. As a host, one should not only be concerned about meeting or exceeding the guest’s physical and functional needs, but also about satisfying his psychological and emotional needs. In the paper “Customer Experience: The Next Competitive Battleground” by Beyond Philosophy, 69 per cent of all consumers surveyed said that emotions accounted for 50 per cent or more of every customer experience. Therefore, to win your guest’s approval, satisfy his psychological needs; and if you want to win his heart, satisfy his emotional needs.

photo: Gianluca, UK & Dogan, Australia (Oct 09)
Unique individual : Every guest is an individual with unique physical, functional, psychological and emotional needs. Service thus has to be personalised as this would make the guest feel special, instead of like a digit in the stream of customers that come and go.

photo: Simon (UK), Kyung-Hwan (S.Korea) & Charles (HK)

Everyone is welcome : As all customers are your guests, every one of them should feel welcomed and be treated with dignity and respect. There should be no discrimination, prejudice or bias against your guest in terms of age, race, gender, religion or culture. Your guest is a human being; hence, any mistreatment will be felt and such hurt will not go away easily. The damage will be greater if the guest complains about the company to his friends, relatives, colleagues and business partners.
photo: Brent & Cinda (Oct 09)
Service to others : The hallmark of treating your customers as guests is to be of service to them. The host can feel an emotional sense of satisfaction when he sees and senses that his guest leaves the premises happier than when he first arrived.

Total guest experience: The contact that you have with your guest is not simply a short engagement but a summation of all physical and non-physical contacts the guest has with the organisation and its staff. People remember experiences and not just services or products.

photo: HRH The Prince Andrew, UK (Oct 09)
In summary, GUEST Service stands for (1) Generosity in hospitality, (2) Unique individual, (3) Everyone is welcome, (4) Service to others, and (5) Total guest experience.

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Source: Quality Blog, NUS (adapted from the article “Treat Your Customer as Your Guest”, Today’s Manager Jun-Jul 2009).

Words - Scrambled

2009-10-16T16:59:00.003+08:00

1. PRESBYTERIAN: When you rearrange the letters:BEST IN PRAYER

2. ASTRONOMER: When you rearrange the letters:MOON STARER

3. DESPERATION: When you rearrange the letters: A ROPE ENDS IT

4. THE EYES: When you rearrange the letters: THEY SEE

5. GEORGE BUSH: When you rearrange the letters: HE BUGS GORE

6. THE MORSE CODE: When you rearrange the letters: HERE COME DOTS

7. DORMITORY: When you rearrange the letters:DIRTY ROOM

8. SLOT MACHINES: When you rearrange the letters: CASH LOST IN ME

9. ANIMOSITY: When you rearrange the letters:IS NO AMITY

10. ELECTION RESULTS: When you rearrange the letters: LIES - LET'S RECOUNT

11. SNOOZE ALARMS: When you rearrange the letters: ALAS! NO MORE Z 'S

12. A DECIMAL POINT: When you rearrange the letters: I'M A DOT IN PLACE

13. THE EARTHQUAKES: When you rearrange the letters: THAT QUEER SHAKE

14. ELEVEN PLUS TWO: When you rearrange the letters:TWELVE PLUS ONE

15. MOTHER-IN-LAW: When you rearrange the letters: WOMAN HITLER

Thompson Seedless Grapes

2009-10-07T03:02:00.010+08:00

Grapes, however, are the very picture of fragility: nothing more than thin-skinned little bags of juice.

In her book, How to Pick A Peach, Russ Parsons described "table grapes are essentially nothing but guilt-free snack foods – conveniently packaged sugar water that allows you to feel virtuous while you eat it."

The dominant table grapes today are varieties such as Thompson Seedless, Ruby Seedless, Crimson Seedless and Flame Seedless. Their primary selling point is self-explanatory: seedless. It’s hard to be a popular convenience food when people have to interrupt their snacking to spit out the pips.

photo: Vineyard @ Rhine Valley, Germany (2009)
Originally called the Sultanina Bianca, Thompson Seedless was popularized in the US by William Thompson, a Californian nurseryman in the late 19th century. Today the Thompson seedless grape is the most popular table grape as well as one of the most versatile. It is also used for juice and inexpensive wine and accounts for 95 percent of the raisins produced in California.

Properly grown and matured to full ripeness, the Thompson Seedless has startlingly good flavor – a pleasingly flowery quality. The problem is that you can rarely find a fully mature Thompson Seedless in the market. When ripe, the variety has a tendency to ‘shatter’ – that is the grapes fall off the bunch. This is inconvenient for the growers, the retailer and the consumer. And so Thompson Seedless are usually picked when they are still green. At this point they can be sweet, but they are never much more.

The Thompson Seedless is coddled like some kind of exotic bonsai tree. Not only are the vines trained to grow along specially designed trellises, but they are also meticulously pruned to manage the right number of leaves, the right number of shoots and the right number of grape clusters. And that is just the start.

photo: Vineyard in Melbourne (2005)

Left on its own devices, the Thompson Seedless vines produces grapes that are quite small, particularly when picked early. To get around that, farmers have come up with some innovative techniques to increase grape size. Between girding and gibbing, a farmer can increase the size of an individual grape by as much as a third.

Girdling – which involves cutting a ring in the bark all the way around the base of the vine just as the grapes begin to emerge (and often again as the grapes begin to gain color). This interrupts the flow of nutrients to the leaves and concentrates them in the fruit.

Gibbing – applying gibberellic acid, a naturally occurring plant growth regular extracted from a cultivated fungus. It increases the size of individual grapes and also stretches out grape clusters, allowing better air circulation and thus reducing disease.

source: How to Pick a Peach

Failure is Not Fatal

2009-09-26T19:44:00.008+08:00

Last week, my students and I visited the newest shopping mall in Singapore at the heart of Orchard Road, namely the ION Orchard. The field trip started with a presentation by the CEO on the competitive advantages of the new shopping mall. After the visit, one student contributed the following on the discussion forum:

"In addition, the CEO mentioned that one of the challenges that she had met in this process is that everything is a risk to her. Even by bringing in new options and having a global flagships is a new thing that they are trying out. I feel that it is an important thing for us to be innovative when it comes to tenant mix as often singaporeans feel that shops in singapore are always the same. Therefore, i agree with her that everything is a risk no matter what we do, we should not always stay in our comfort zone but to step out of it and give it a try, only then could we know if we are successful."

In this posting, I would like to expand on the student's reflection which remind me of 3 four-letter words, i.e. RISK, FEAR & FAIL! Over this weekend, I came across an interesting quotation by Theodore Roosevelt:

"The only man who never makes a mistake is the man who never does anything."

The author of the book Bringing Out the Best in People suggests that we should probably reprimand our group if they are not having a few flops, for if they're not failing now and again, it's a sign they're playing it safe. Jack Lemmon once said, "Failure never hurt anybody. It's the fear of failure that kills you... You've got to go down the alley and take those chances."

Seneca also said, "if thou art a man, admire those who attempt great things, even though they fail." The author warned a fatal mistake made by some is to lash out so harshly at young people for some failure that they scale down their aspirations and not longer strive for high goals.

When asked for the ingredients of good managment, a CEO once replied, "You need the ability to fail. I'm amazed at the number of organizations that set up an environment where they do not permit their people to be wrong. You cannot innovate unless you are willing to accept some mistakes."

In the face of failures, there are two possible responses: (1) Quit - unable to rise from their failure, they scale down their dreams and live out their lives in resignation and cautious mediocrity, or (2) Overcome - when they stumble, they pick themselves up, look around o learn from their mistakes, and then go on to finish the race with distinction.

The best managers expect their people to make mistakes, and instead of replacing staff constantly, they recognize that it is more efficient to teach people to cope with their failures and learn from their mistakes. They create an environment whereby FAILURE is not FATAL!

source: Bringing out the Best In People

Prayer for Tourists

2009-09-21T23:22:00.014+08:00

"Busy sight-seeing, the frantic tourist rushes through the sites faster than a speeding bullet. The frantic's tourist's primary concern is merely to be able to cover as much ground as possible, in the least amount of time - just to be able to say, 'I've been there, seen this, and done that'. Then he hurries on in his conquest of space, but not in his understanding of it." - Edmund Chan

photo: Perth (Sep 1992)

In his book Growing Deep in God (page 97), Pastor Edmund Chan shared that he came across an interesting display-cloth with the printed words, “Prayer for Tourists” in Subiaco Market in Perth, Australia.

Melbourne (2005)

Heavenly Father,

Look down upon your humble obedient tourist servants, who are doomed to travel this earth taking photographs, mailing postcards, buying souvenirs and walking around in drip-dry underwear.

Give us this day divine guidance in the selection of our hotel; that we may find our reservations honoured, our room made up and hot water running from our faucets. We pray that the telephone works and that the operators can speak our tongues.

Lead us, dear Lord, to good and inexpensive restaurants where the food is superb, the waiters friendly, the wine included in the price.

Give us wisdom to tip correctly in the currencies we do not understand. Forgive us for under-tipping out of ignorance, over-tipping out of fear. May the locals love us for what we are and not for what we can contribute to their worldly goods.

Grant us the strength to visit the museum, the parks, the government buildings and all the musts in the guide book, and if perchance, we skip a historic monument to grab a sleep after lunch, have mercy on us, for our flesh is weak.

.P.S.

For husbands only: Dear God, keep our wives from shopping sprees and protects them from bargains they don’t need or can’t afford. Lead them not into temptation for they know not what they do.

For wives only: Oh mighty Father, keep our husbands from looking at foreign women and comparing them to us. Save them from making fools of themselves in cafes and nightclubs. Above all, do not forgive them for their trespasses for they know exactly what they do.

Spiritual Application:

Edmund Chan wrote that the frantic tourist is a parable of life. He is a parable of prayer. He reflects little on his journey, thus he understands little of it. Similarly, many people hurry through prayer, but reflect little on it. They see, but do not perceive. They observe, but do not understand. They hurry through prayers as if the destination is more important than the journey. They are compulsively driven to complete a task rather than to enjoy the presence of God. They pray driven prayers rather than devout prayers.

To grow deeper in prayer, we must not be in a hurry... Prayer is like taking an unhurried walk.

source: Edmund Chan (2008) Growing Deep in God - Integrating Theology & Prayer

Through The Years

2009-09-10T23:37:00.007+08:00

"Through the years, you've never let me down
You've turned my life around, the sweetest days I've found
I've found with you ... through the years."

My wife celebrated her birthday last weekend. We had a quiet dinner at Chalk, a supposedly french/italian restaurant located at an old school compound at Mt. Sophia. I picked the restaurant after reading the following review on the HungryGoWhere website:

"Chalk is definately a hidden gem located on Mt Sophia. Awesome food, awesome people and awesome environment. Great value for the quality food you are getting and it is definately an experience that's worth spending every penny on."

I booked a table in the air-con section, but we decided to sit outside on the deck as the evening was quite cooling. Ambience wise, it was pleasant and nice. The service staff was also very friendly. But the food was just average... In total, we spent $83... for seafood bisque ($15), rocket salad ($8), duck confit ($29), 12" pizza ($18) and fondant cake ($13). But we did enjoyed each other company; away from the hustle and bustle of daily routine.

In celebration, I dedicated the song "Through The Years" sung by Kenny Rogers for her. The words are very meaningful for a couple who have been through the years:

I can't remember when you weren't there

When I didn't care for anyone but you
I swear we've been through everything there is

Can't imagine anything we've missed

Can't imagine anything the two of us can't do

Through the year, you've never let me down

You turned my life around, the sweetest days I've found

I've found with you ... through the years

I've never been afraid, I've loved the life we've made

And I'm so glad I've stayed, right here with you

Through the years

I can't remember what I used to do

Who I trusted whom, I listened to before

I swear you've taught me everything I know

Can't imagine needing someone so

But through the years it seems to me

I need you more and more

Through the years, through all the good and bad

I knew how much we had, I've always been so glad

To be with you ... through the years

Its better everyday, you've kissed my tears away
As long as its okay, Ill stay with you

Through the years

Through the years, when everything went wrong

Together we were strong, I know that I belonged
Right here with you ... through the years

I never had a doubt, we'd always work things out

I've learned what loves about, by loving you

Through the years

Through the years, you've never let me down

You've turned my life around, the sweetest days I've found

I've found with you ... through the years

Its better everyday, you've kissed my tears away

As long as its okay, Ill stay with you

Through the years!

The Art of Persuasion

2009-09-03T22:42:00.011+08:00

To persuade (not manipulate; nor intimidate) means to use sweetness to get people to do things. Effective persuasion is a result of relating, not ruling. It speaks to the heart as well as to the head. - John Maxwell

photos: Switzerland (1993)

1) Know precisely what you’re trying to accomplish
Before you can persuade others on any issue, you need to know just exactly what it is you want to accomplish.

2) Place yourself in the other person’s shoes
We persuade, not from our own perspective, but from getting the perspective of others. What do they know? What do they feel? What do they want?
People have certain needs and expectations. If they can see that what you want can also give them what they want, they will be much more open and receptive.

When you want to convert someone to your view, you go over to where he is standing, take him by the hand (mentally speaking), and guide him. You don’t stand across the room and shout at him; you don’t call him a dummy; you don’t order him to come over to where you are. You start where he is and work from that position.

3) Expose the problems immediately
Lay all his cards on the table at the beginning… Always deal with the problem issues up front! This establishes a base of trust, which is necessary for any relationship.

4) Appeal to the higher vision
Most people are inherently decent and fair and they want to “do the right thing.” It is your job, as the persuader, to make them understand the human values represented by your position. They must be made to feel empathy for what you are trying to do so that emotionally they want to give you the response you seek.

5) Know when to stop
There is great dignity in simplicity. Simplicity is eloquent; it speaks loud and clear without insulting the intelligence of the listener.

6) Cover your topic with enthusiasm
Be enthusiastic! A speech without enthusiasm is like a landscaped painted entirely in shades of gray – there is form but no color. Enthusiasm alone will many times give you the edge you need.

source: John Maxwell, Be a People Person

Productive Confrontation

2009-08-27T23:43:00.010+08:00

Last Friday, our CG study the following passage in the bible: Numbers 27:1-11. It tells the story of five sisters who sought to secure an inheritance because their deceased father had no sons. They went to the entrance of the Tabernacle to give a petition to Moses, Eleazar the priest, the tribal leaders, and others who were there....

"Why should the name of our father dissappear? We feel that we should be given property along with our father's brothers."

Whilst many lessons could be gleaned from this biblical story, my reflection centred on the productive way in which the five sisters confronted Moses. It could have been so different...

Confrontation does not have to be adversarial. It merely means that we are going to “face this issue together instead of putting our heads in the sand and ignoring it.” …. Poor confronters turn things adversarial too easily and quickly. It is experienced as “me versus you”, or “us versus them”, as opposed to “you and I versus the problem”. In the later scenario, we are a team against what is wrong, and coming together to fix it. That keeps the problem, the person, the relationship, and the result all in mind in an integrated fashion (pp. 193-4)

Henry Cloud in his book Integrity, wrote that "one of the most important aspects of character of life, without question, is one’s ability to confront. It is true that you get what you tolerate. If the nature of reality is that there are always problems, if you do not confront them and instead tolerate them, then problems are what you will have (p. 191).
photo: vancouver (2006)
On the other hand, “a lot of people confront easily, even too easily, and yet do it in a manner that is more destructive than helpful. The combative or angry or critical, demeaning confronter does not solve problems. He or she usually drives problems more deeply into hiding by creating an atmosphere of fear rather than resolution (p. 191).

This is one of the areas where character integration is so important. If you fail to confront, you lose. But if you confront poorly, you will also lose. So, you must confront, but confront well. That means that the truth-telling side of your character must be integrated with the loving and caring side of your character. When you show up to deal with a problem, you must bring both of them together. Confront the problem, but in a way that preserves the relationship and the person. If you err on either side, the wake will be affected.

In theology, we hear of grace and truth, which means to be “for the person” and have standards. .. The important thing is to say what needs to be said, and to say it in a way that shows that you care about the person…. “I try to go hard on the issue and soft on the person.” That means that both his truth telling and his care for the connection came together at once. … Honesty without love is not integrity.

¨ But this requires a character that has neutralized the truth… If he or she is still running with a lot of anger inside that has never been integrated and metabolized, then confrontation is going to be toxic, “beating people up”. Love and healing must first have taken place inside people’s souls, or they might be in danger of treating others not in the way they themselves want to be treated, but in the way they have been treated. They repeat the abuse that they have been subjected to in their own experience (p. 192).

Another aspect of confronting well is that integrated people care about the results of the confrontation, not just making themselves feel good. So, they ask themselves before the confrontation, “what do I want to have happen as a result of this confrontation?”

If they are impulsive and don’t do that, then they might just care about releasing anger, or forcing someone to do things differently, or getting revenge and making someone feel bad and themselves feel better.

But if they are mindfully integrated, then what they do is desire an integrated outcome. They think, “I want to solve the problem, make the relationship stronger, help the person develop, and empower their development.” So, they confront in a way that is going to bring about that wake. (p.193).

Do You Lose Well?

2009-08-21T08:36:00.011+08:00

"The difference between winners and losers is not that winners never lose. The difference is that winners lose well, and losers lose poorly. As a result, winners lose less in the future and do not lose the same way that they lost last time, because they have learned from the loss and do not repeat the pattern. " - Henry Cloud

photo: First snow at State College, USA (2007)

In his book, Integrity, Henry Cloud wrote that we need to learn how to lose well. Why?

First, we will. We all lose. Things will not turn out well and will sometime be unable to be fixed, even through more perseverance, creativity, and resourcefulness… So, losing is a reality that everyone encounters, and therefore we need to negotiate it…

Second, and most important, the difference between winners and losers is not that winners never lose. The difference is that winners lose well, and losers lose poorly. As a result, winners lose less in the future and do not lose the same way that they lost last time, because they have learned from the loss and do not repeat the pattern. But losers do not learn from what they did and tend to carry that loss or pattern forward into the next venture, or relationship, and repeat the same way of losing. Therefore, they do not become people who lose, as everyone does, but they become people who never win because they do the same things over and over that led to their last loss (p. 160).

The first aspect of losing well has to do with the ability to “let go” and just face the reality that you have lost. As Ecclesiastes 3:16 says, “there is a time to search and a time to give up.” The truth is that sometime it is over, and more effort, attention or work is wasteful. But some people, because of character issues, just can’t let go. They can’t face the loss and reorganize in a new direction. It is the dead of winter and they are still looking for fruit on the tree. Better to use your energy to get ready for springtime so you can sow seeds that have a chance of growing (p. 160-1)

The next aspect of losing well is to “look back” after you let go. After the hope of something is relinquished and the defeat is embraced, the reasons for the loss are examined, understood and learned from. If the person does that before moving on to another venture of the same kind, then the loss will not have to be repeated (p. 162).
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To sit with failure and loss, and understand it, process it, and grieve it before going on, takes depth of character.

source: Henry Cloud, Integrity