D art of Sharing the Story of an "ugly retarded girl"...

About six years ago, I went to the Poconos for a winter retreat with my church. It was a small, simple gathering of about forty kids.
We were not yet teens but slowly coming to realize ourselves as more than just children.
Since I was new to the church, a few friends of mine gave me a basic overview on the kids of our youth group. I can still remember a few random faces and the descriptions that went with them:
"Oh, that's so-and-so. He's such a pussy; he wet the bed at last year's retreat." or "That's the kid that kicked so-and-so's butt cuz he bothered his sister." Yet the one that haunts me with such clarity to this day is of a little girl, probably in the third grade at the time. With uneven locks of greasy hair adorning her mishappen face, she was constantly bombarded with ridicule from the heartless and unsympathetic. She was born with a physical ailment that affected her coordination and altered her facial features. It would be almost a daily retreat tradition for us to yell "retard" as she passed by on her way to the chapel. Yet, as the final day of our retreat neared, we all prepared our hearts for the most emotional night...the night in which voices would cry, hands would be raised, and eyes would flow freely without considering what the person next to you would think the following day. Yet, instead of pouring our hearts out in a scattered groups on the floor as expected, our pastor told us to stay in our seats for a moment. After about three minutes of composed silence, he said with calm, monotone sincerity,
"Who here loves Jesus?"
Everyone raised their hand; some even shouted small cries of their devotion. "Who here really loves Jesus?" he repeated. Again, everyone raised their arms, some fists clenched, accompanied by countless amens and hallelujahs. Then, as the silence reentered the room, he slowly produced a seven-inch long, steel stake from behind his back. With eyes of ice, he said, "Then those of you that really love Jesus please come to the front of the room...and suffer his fate."
A confused and scared silence congested the air of the room. No one dared make a sound, even a cough, for fear that everyone else may look at him. It seemed as though everything had been frozen in a heavy fog that engulfed the room. Watches seemed to have stopped. Eyes ceased to blink. The only thing that moved was the flowing perspiration as we all waited for something to happen. The pastor clenched the stake high above his head.
"Who here is willing to place their hand out for this stake to puncture it? Who? WHO?!" A small, scraping sound arose from the back row. It was the sound of a little girl, whimpering and stumbling, slowly rising from her chair. She broke the expectations of every person that had looked down on her, the retard, the ugly retard, just as Jesus had been resurrected in spite of the Romans' hatred of him. She bore the weight of everyone's stares and snickers as she limped up the aisle to the front of the room, just as Jesus had arduously carried his cross. Slowly lifting her ugly head to the pastor, she muttered,"I will." Tears coursed from the pastor's eyes as he asked her with fervent conviction, "Are you willing to pierce your hands for Jesus? Are you?!"
Her face was streaked with the rivers of tears, not emotional tears like that of all of ours had been, but spiritual tears flowing from her dull eyes. She slowly peeled her arms from her sides and lifted them to the man before her. "Yes."
Not much changed the next day. She didn't miraculously lose her physical defects. She was still made fun of...mostly by the kids that weren't at the last night's service. And I'm sure that if I asked any of the kids that were in that room the final night if they ever made fun of anyone ever again that they would all say yes. But the fact of the matter is, that occurence will stay with all of us, the teachers, the kids, everyone, for the rest of our lives.
And perhaps we should all stop being so judgmental, so ready to accuse or ridicule or hate, and stop modeling ourselves to be like the Romans. Because as much as it surprised us all, the only one of us that approached the pastor with a sincere courage was that "retard, that ugly retard" girl. And even though we already know to do this, do we really always follow it? Well, that just shows the understanding and love of Jesus, of how much he can allow himself to be spit on and laughed at and still forgive us...just like a humble, disabled little girl with a monumental spirit. Share this...hope this girl's courage and sincere faith has affected you and will remind you of Christ's love as much as it has me.

~Author unknown~

The Bridge (based on true story)

There was once a bridge which spanned a large river. During the day the bridge sat with its length running up and down the river paralleled with the banks, allowing ships to pass thru freely. But at certain times each day, a train would come and the bridge would be turned sideways across the river, allowing a train to cross it.

A switchman sat in a small shack on one side of the river where he operated the controls to turn the bridge and lock it into place when a train crossed.

One evening as the switchman was waiting for the light of the day to come, he looked off into the distance thru the dim twilight and caught sight of the trainlights. He stepped to the controls and waited until the train was within a prescribed distance within the bridge. He turned the bridge into position, but, to his horror, found the locking control did not work. If the bridge was not secure in position, it would wobble back and forth at the ends when the train came on to it, causing the train to jump the track and go crashing into the river. This would be a passenger train with many people aboard.

He left the bridge turned across the river, and hurried across bridge to the other side of the river where there was a lever switch that could hold to operate the lock manually. He would have to hold the switch back firmly as the train crossed.

He could hear the rumble of the train now. He took hold of the lever and kept applying the pressure to keep mechanism locked. Many lives depended on this man's strength.

Then, coming across the bridge from the direction of his control room, he heard a sound that made his blood run cold. "Daddy, where are you?"

His four-year-old son was crossing the bridge to look for him. His first impulse was to cry out to the child, "Run! Run!" But the train was close; the tiny legs would never make it across the bridge in time.

He almost left his lever to run and snatch up his son and carry him but he realized that he would not be able to get back to the lever in time. Either the people on the train or his little son must die.

He took a moment to make his decision. The train sped safely about, on its way, and no one aboard was even aware of the tiny broken body, thrown mercilessly into the river by the onrushing train. Nor were they aware of the pitiful figure of the sobbing man, still clinging tightly to the locking lever long after the train had passed. They did not see him walk home more slowly than he had ever walked: to tell his wife how the child had brutally died.

Now if you comprehend the emotions which went this man's heart, you can begin to understand the feelings of our Father in Heaven when He allowed His Son to bridge the gap between us and eternal life.

Can there be any wonder that He caused the earth to tremble and the skies to darken as His Son died? How does He feel when we speed along thru life without any thought to what was done for us thru Jesus Christ?

When was the last time you thanked Him for the sacrifice of His Son?

D art of Sharing Christmas Gift

A friend of mine named Paul received an automobile from his brother as a Christmas present. On Christmas Eve when Paul came out of his office, a street urchin was walking around the shiny new car, admiring it. "Is this your car, Mister?" he asked.
Paul nodded. "My brother gave it to me for Christmas." The boy was astounded. "You mean your brother gave it to you and it didn't cost you nothing? Boy, I wish..." He hesitated.
Of course Paul knew what he was going to wish for. He was going to wish he had a brother like that. But what the lad said jarred Paul all the way down to his heels.
"I wish," the boy went on, "that I could be a brother like that."
Paul looked at the boy in astonishment, then impulsively he added, "Would you like to take a ride in my automobile?"
"Oh yes, I'd love that."
After a short ride, the boy turned and with his eyes aglow, said, "Mister, would you mind driving in front on my house?"
Paul smiled a little. He thought he knew what the lad wanted. He wanted to show his neighbors that he could ride home in a big automobile. But Paul was wrong again. "Will you stop where those two steps are?" the boy asked.
He ran up the steps. Then in a little while Paul heard him coming back, but he was not coming fast. He was carrying his little crippled brother. He sat him down on the bottom step, then sort of squeezed up against him and pointed to the car.
"There she is, Buddy, just like I told you upstairs. His brother gave it to him for Christmas and it didn't cost him a cent. And some day I'm gonna give you one just like it... then you can see for yourself all the pretty things in the Christmas windows that I've been trying to tell you about."
Paul got out and lifted the lad to the front seat of his car. The shingled-eyed older brother climbed in beside him and the three of them began a memorable holiday ride.
That Christmas Eve, Paul learned what Jesus meant when he had said, "It's more blessed to give...."

~Author Unknown~

Merry Christmas!!!

D art of Sharing A Candy Maker's Witness

A candymaker wanted to make a candy that would be a witness, so he made the Christmas Candy Cane. He incorporated several symbols for the birth, ministry, and death of Jesus Christ.

He began with a stick of pure white hard candy. White to symbolize the Virgin birth and the sinless nature of Jesus, and hard to symbolize the Solid Rock, the foundation of the Church, and the firmness of the promises of God.

The candymaker made the candy in the form of a "J" to represent the precious name of Jesus, who came to earth as our Savior. It could also represent the staff of the "Good Shepherd" with which He reaches down into the ditches of the world to lift out the fallen lambs who, like all sheep, have gone astray.

Thinking that the candy was somewhat plain, the candymaker stained it with red stripes. He used three small stripes to show the stripes of the scourging Jesus received by which we are healed. The large red stripe was for the blood shed by Christ on the cross so that we could have the promise of eternal life.

Unfortunately, the candy became known as Candy Cane-a meaningless decoration seen at Christmas time. But the meaning is still there for those who "have eyes to see and ears to hear." I pray that this symbol will again be used to witness To The Wonder of Jesus and His Great Love that came down at Christmas and remains the ultimate and dominant force in the universe today.

D ARt of Sharing : Forgiveness

A letter written to a man on death row by the Father of the man whom the man on death row had killed:

You are probably surprised that I, of all people, am writing a letter to you, but I ask you to read it in its entirety and consider its request seriously. As the Father of the man whom you took part in murdering, I have something very important to say to you.
I forgive you. With all my heart, I forgive you. I realize it may be hard for you to believe, but I really do. At your trial, when you confessed to your part in the events that cost my Son his life and asked for my forgiveness, I immediately granted you that forgiving love from my heart. I can only hope you believe me and will accept my forgiveness.
But this is not all I have to say to you. I want to make you an offer -- I want you to become my adopted child. You see, my Son who died was my only child, and I now want to share my life with you and leave my riches to you. This may not make sense to you or anyone else, but I believe you are worth the offer. I have arranged matters so that if you will receive my offer of forgiveness, not only will you be pardoned for your crime, but you also will be set free from your imprisonment, and your sentence of death will be dismissed. At that point, you will become my adopted child and heir to all my riches.
I realize this is a risky offer for me to make to you -- you might be tempted to reject my offer completely -- but I make it to you without reservation.
Also, I realize it may seem foolish to make such an offer to one who cost my Son his life, but I now have a great love and an unchangeable forgiveness in my heart for you.
Finally, you may be concerned that once you accept my offer you may do something to cause you to be denied your rights as an heir to my wealth. Nothing could be further from the truth. If I can forgive you for your part in my Son's death, I can forgive you for anything. I know you never will be perfect, but you do not have to be perfect to receive my offer. Besides, I believe that once you have accepted my offer and begin to experience the riches that will come to you from me, that your primary (though not always) response will be gratitude and loyalty.
Some would call me foolish for my offer to you, but I wish for you to call me your Father.

Sincerely, The Father of Jesus

D Art of Sharing : A New Meaning For ASAP

Always say a prayer

There's work to do
Deadlines to meet
You've got no time to spare
But as hurry and scurry
Always say a prayer



In the mist of family chaos
"quality time" is rare
Do your best Let god do the rest
Always say a prayer

It may seem like your worries
Are more that you can bear
Slow down and take a breather
Always say a prayer

God knows how stressful life is
He wants to ease our cares
And he'll respond asap
Always say a prayer

To Blame GOD???

On June 7th, 2000 I was involved in a pretty bad motorcycle accident. I broke both of my feet, broke my right collarbone, separated my left shoulder from my arm and shattered the left side of my pelvis. By God's grace the doctors were able to piece me back together and after some time in the hospital I was back home. I was wheelchair bound for awhile but now am making a full recovery.God has given me many great people in my life through this accident. He had carried me most of the time. Some may say..."How can you still worship a God that would allow you to go through so much pain?" Well, I'm going to tell you a story. When you were young and your father was teaching you to ride your bike for the first time and you fell off and hurt yourself, did you get mad at him? Of course you didn't. He didn't push you down and you know the furthest thing from his mind was to cause you to get hurt.
Well, God's allot like that. He steers you through life. Sometimes you fall and hurt yourself physically and spiritually. But He is there, to help lift you up. He will hold you and comfort you in those times. Grateful that I have a Father that will pick me up and comfort me in my time of need.Just like your dad did when you fell off that bike. Am I mad at God for what happened? NO! I am grateful.

- By Ira Stinson

D art of Sharing : the scent of a perfume???

"Just dont b too sensitive, Learn to be strong, there are much to come" were the comforting words uttered to me after i have been brutally AIMED at and suffocated by the scent of the perfume (or rather the word-)"F*UK" by some1 who has practically got no brain in my office (hope u know what im saying here) Guess what??? She labeled the "unfriendly talk" as sharing.....!!!!Yiaksss..so "Smelly"!!!!!! Well, comforting words came from "an angel" who has been assigned to assist me in my work. I didnt feel "ok" rite away..but rather i was left to think of what she has said to me. She's not a Christian (though been attending some churches b4 she got married) YET her words came at the right time to soothe my ailing heart. GOD sent angel??? Hmmm......I dunno....However,one thing i do know is that GOD put us in an "odd" situation just to show us that HE Cares......eventhough it's really "odd" to accept the fact that HE works through the words/actions of HIS creation i.e. Human sometimes who is yet to be called the "Child of GOD".

...been long now...

It has been EXTREMELY long now since my last update on this blog. Things have changed..for sure,... not necessarily for the better BUT otherwise! Tears been shed....Questions been asked...abusive words been hurled....BUT as usual, answer is no where to be found. Perhaps, we all should accept the fact that at some point in our lives, changes are inevitable and it's a part of the "Creation" bestowed on human race. Hmmmm.....(dont worry, i dont get it as well) My life in the office without someone whom i call "my defender" (or pretender...i dunno) has been challenging....yet....not a total disaster i would say although i believe some1 (i know) is eagerly waiting for me to stumble N to signal a distress call...Ha!ha!ha!......When GOD is with us..who is against us??? Thus, this "painful transitional period" at my workplace has kinda proven to me that no one in this world is indispensable...EXCEPT our Saviour, of course. Im tired but not all defeated...Glad to hear huh? Dear "ENEMIES",im so sorry b'coz im still alive and im thankful for that. Guess, u gonna think of a better plan next time before launching another attack on me.....GOD LOVES U ALL......

We r hard-pressed on every side, but NOT crushed; perplexed, but NOT in despair; persecuted but NOT abandoned; struck down but NOT destroyed.We always carry around in our body the death of JESUS, so that the life of JESUS may also be revealed in our body ~2 Cor4:8-10

Don't Quit!!

When things go wrong as they sometimes will,

When the road you're trudging seems all uphill,

When the funds are low and the debts are high,

And you want to smile but you have to sigh,
When care is pressing you down a bit...

By all means pray, and don't you quit.

Success is failure turned inside out,

God's hidden gift in the clouds of doubt.
You never can tell how close you are,

It may be near when it seems afar.

So trust in the Lord when you're hardest hit...

It's when things go wrong that you must not quit!

The past few weeks have been nothing but "crazy" for me. I have been continously "stormed" by many unexpected challenges or rather unwelcomed problems..that have victoriously consumed ALL..and i mean ALL my energy. My superior is leaving while im forced to handle some "Big" files, screaming here.....yelling there.....tension everywhere etc. At some point, i was hurling abusive words at someone i love dearly....while remembering myself throwing and breaking things that i shouldnt have. I ended up being an idiot myself and hurting the feelings of the people around me. I knew "satan" was laughing at my defeat.Im truly "troubled" because although a bro from HK sent me a bookmark saying "Challenge is the fuel that drives the winner", i never really see myself as a "winner" and wouldn't have thought myself as one because i hate challenges.... the sacrifice that i would have to make is far too costly...or i dunno.. perhaps im just too afraid to face the ...when trial knocking on the door. Things being said....Im truly blessed bc i have found some1 special in my life...someone that would make me stand up for what is right.....someone that would make me feel complete.....and "TREE", u will always be the one despite all the unpleasant things happening around us. TOGETHER WE STAND HAND in HAND.....under the umbrella of GOD's sufficient grace N Care....far far away from raging storms...we are safe!!

And we know that in all things GOD works for the good of those who love HIM, who have been called according to HIS purpose. ROMANS 8:28

D Art of sharing : Another inspirational Story

Cleve Francis, M.D.,is a practicing cardiologist and well-known country-western singer. At the age of twelve, however, he had no idea that he would be either.
About the embark on his teenage years, Cleve became keenly aware of the inequality of being poor and black. Though his family was religious, he began to wonder if God was punishing him for something.
One day, while walking with his mother on her daily seven mile trip through steaming heat to the "big house" where she was maid, he asked, "Mama, why am I black ?"
His mother replied, "God is a good God. He made the heavens and the earth. He made the great mountains, rivers, and oceans. He made all living creatures and He made you. He gave you a beautiful black color. God make no mistakes, Cleve. You were put here on this earth for a purpose and you must find it. "
Cleve was instantly filled with joy and a sense of purpose and belonging. And with this new perspective on life, he began seeking in earnest to find his purpose.
How 'bout us ?

D Art of Sharing : Money for a Chicken

One fine evening a man walked in a fast-food chain and bought a nine-piece bucket of chicken. He took his chicken to the park for a romantic picnic ynder the moonlight with his woman.
Upon reaching into the bucket, however he received a surprise. Instead of chicken he discovered what was apparently the restaurant's night deposit- nine thousand dollars. The young man brought the bucket back to the store and asked for his chicken in exchange for the money.
The manager, in awe of the young man's honesty , asked for his name and told him he wanted to call the newspaper and the local news station to do a story in him. He would become a local hero, an example of honesty and morality that would inspire others!
The hungry man shrugged it off. "My date's waiting . I just want my chicken." The manager's renewed amazement over the young man's humility almnost overwhelmed him. He begged to be allowed to tell the story on the news. At this the honest man became angry with the manager and demanded his chicken. "I don't get it," the manager responded. "You are an honest man in a dishonest world! This is a perfect opportunity to show the world that there are honest people still willing to take a stand for what is right. Please give meyour name and also the woman's name. Is that your wife?"
"That's the problem," said the young man. "My wife is at home . The woman in the car is my girlfriend. Now let me have my chicken so I can get out of here."

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED It's easy to look good to people who don't know you. Many of us do a good deed here and there, go to church, say the right words, and everyone thinks we're something that we're not. But God sees your heart (1 Samuel 16:7). It really doesn't matter how much you do or what other people think of you. What matters is what's oin the inside. :)

Who Makes the Coffee???

A man and his wife were having an argument about who should brew the coffee each morning.

The wife said, "You should do it, because you get up first, and then we don't have to wait as long to get our coffee".

The husband said, " You are in charge of the cooking around here and you should do it, because that is your job, and I can just wait for my coffee."

Wife replies, "No you should do it, and besides it is in the Bible that the man should do the coffee."

Husband replies, " I can't believe that, show me."

So she fetched the Bible, and opened the New Testament and shows him at the top of several pages, that it indeed says .

"HEBREWS"

-IMPORTANT!! : read about the above "story" from a Christian website. Though it's hilarious, it reminds us that the noble meaning that lurked behind Bible verses are NOT to be twisted/misinterpreted!!!

Shhh?...Im NOT done yet!!!!!

Upset with the unfriendly remark made earlier, I purposely went to search for an article under the heading of “Rebuke” in “Our Daily Bread” devotional booklet and found a “relief”. We tend to be NICE and chose to remain silent because more often not we are reluctant to be labeled as Nosy. Sometimes, We tend to compromise obedience to God’s Word to avoid losing “popularity”. As per the article, “…some curb their tongues, not only in form but also in substance…this is not civility, it is cowardice, or well-intentioned self-deception at best”. Jesus confronted the Pharisees and exposed their sins when HE said that they were like “whitewashed tombs…full of dead men’s bones”

“Some will hate you, some will love you;
Some will flatter, some will slight;
Cease from man, and look above you,
Trust in GOD and do the right” – by Macleod

Shhhhh....quiet..not a word pls.....

"Do us a favour, will u...Just keep quiet!" - That was another brutal attack on my effort to "change" my selfish, arrogant, irritating, annoying....... "Sifu"! Someone told me the other day that we are to mind our own business despite the fact that she (Sifu) seriously needs to be "corrected" or rather rebuked (although in a "well-mannered way"). "Just leave her alone-lah to decay...She's terminally ill, emotionally-cannot b cured oledi, She has got no heart, so why bothered?" Oh.....what is wrong with them?? Things right been perceived as WRONG now b/c that poor lady whom i call "Sifu"does not deserve our sympathy? They even gone far by labeling me as someone without wisdom bc i tried to "help" those who has not helped themselves.
Hmmmmmmmmmm..............Ahhh.....how i hate my "job"!

...to be continued...

Huh???

U have to know Malay before u can really understand this. Got this from a Malay fren...can some1 get me a dictionary pls?????


Tijah ingin "BREAK" dengan boyfren OMPUTIH melalui surat : Hi , my motive (in Malay: tujuan) write this letter to give know U (in Malay: bagi tahu) something. I want to cut connection us (in Malay: putus hubungan kami). I saw u play wood 3 (in Malay: bermain kayu tiga) in front of my eyes (in Malay: depan mata saya) . so I break connection to pull my body (in Malay: tarik diri) from this love. I have think about this very cook2 (in Malay: berfikir masak-masak) .I know I clap one hand only (in Malay: bertepuk sebelah tangan sahaja). I dont trust u again.i dont want u to play with my liver (in Malay: bermain dengan hati saya). i have been crying until no more eye water (in Malay: sampai tiada air mata) i dont want banana to fruit two times (in Malay: pisang berbuah dua kali). safe walk (in Malay: selamat jalan!!)

D Art of Sharing : My thought

Sudden sense of loneliness swept through my heart.....so quiet....yet not peaceful..Almost all the relatives from overseas who came for my bro's wed have left.....Ahh..how much i hate that kind of feeling!! My superior told me not to be "emotional" BUT im definitely not being rational sometimes....or most of the time....I need adjustment. What's next? Im THANKFUL because im not ALone..i have u...."Tree"!! What? I need a translator here....How do u say "tree" in Mandarin????? :)

D ARt of Sharing : I "H.A.T.E" U

If some1 were to say "I H.A.T.E. You" pls dont get angry bc

H = Happy to see U
A = Always miss U
T = Take U in my mind
E = Everyday never forget U
So, i really wana say "I H.A.T.E. U"

note: got this msg from a frenz.....pls dnt misuse it....anyway, it's H.A.T.E and NOT "hate" :) hehehe

What a "20062006"

The news caught me by surprise 2day i.e. 20.06.2006...My Superior is resigning!!! I'm kinda "down" and disturbed bc she has been literally "my sifu" from the 1st day i stepped in2 the working world...despite the fact that my real master is a double degree holder. She may not be a flawless person that u would ask for, but she certainly has some virtues which are even lacking amongst our fellow Christians -generous, cheerful, confident with a heart of forgiving, to name a few!!! I know she's now looking for true inner peace and freedom N' i hope she would one day come to know her Creator!!!

Been sheltered in the past and i feel like an "anak yatim" now... i also feel vulnerable in the office and might be exposed to greater threat from "weapons of mass destruction". So many things to learn yet so little time......didn't get to fully equip myself with the relevant skill to fight my own battle....No "SIFU" = No "TOU DAI" (in Cantonese) Pray for me plz bc not ready to "navigate" clients and files yet.....SIgh*****and to add more to the list...sickening colleague whom i label as "Wantan Poh" (u know what i mean rite...No.no...no...im NOT Racist, ok?)

D Art of Sharing : Poisonous Rumour????

Don't ever listen to unfounded rumour!!! Your mind will be poisoned and this could lead to another problem - questioning of our faith and belief! Never compromise on Word of GOD although some are trying hard to persuade and to convince us that we should look for another alternative when things bothering us don't turn out the way we wanted it to be ...Likewise, we should not carry defamatory tales to the prejudice of others.No HEARSAY plz............

Jeremiah 9:5 And they will deceive every one his neighbour, and will not speak the truth: they have taught their tongue to speak lies, and weary themselves to commit iniquity.

WHat Should we do???

Does this look familiar?Almost everyday we are being confronted by so many choices, affecting ourselves and the people around us. We are torn and forced to choose between the two...to be good OR bad? We all have this "tendency" to sin...to be tempted...BUT GOD have given us a discerning heart...to decide and to uphold what is right in the eyes of our LORD..(and NOT what we think is right)!!! So, start cleaning our ears with a cotton bud, so that it's free from ear wax that causes bad reception...

1 Corinthians 10:13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

D Art of Sharing : Our HANDs?

We all seem to be hiding something from GOD!......from our loved ones! "Our HANDs"!!! Our "helping" HANDs that could change the world to be a better (NOTE: NOT THE BEST) place to live. We have "two HANDs and One Heart" . Let us not isolate ourselves from others (like those in the pic) We shall stand UNITED N' walk HAND in HAND as ONE despite our differences. We can put our HANDs 2gether and PRAY for our loved ones & frenz....So?what r u waiting for? Start holding HANDs...Oppss sorry i mean start praying , caring and giving generously without expecting a favour in return, as if it is a "HAND-out" approved by our Lord b4 things around them go out of HAND.

D Art of Sharing : jUST ANother thought

Have u ever thought of ur frenz in need? Have u forgotten them in the midst of ur hectic schedules? Have U been in the state of indifference for long? Did U chose to ignore/avoid/belittle them while having to enjoy an abundant life yourself? Look around U....there's always someone who's trying to speak to U not with his/her mouth but through his/her personal painful experiences...U'll be surprised what U have missed through that narrow biased eyes of yours and the misjudgement hurled at someone who are eagerly waiting for ur truthful care.

Things being said, let us FOCUS on Christ ALONE as Humans are fallible!

1 Peter 5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you

D Art of Sharing : Dad D's DAY!

SoLi ALL Ma-Mee, didnt get to post a "Mummy's Day" wish here. So...to all Dad-d,
Happy FATHER's Day!!
Son : Ummm....why with the frowning Dad-d? Why so Serious One???
Dad-d : Huh? No-no-no-no.....Son. That's U in the pic! Haven't u heard of people saying : "pity u- lah, raising
and taking care of incorrigible Monkeys at home!!

Psalm 148:01-06, 13-14

Praise for God's Universal Glory

Praise the LORD from heavens; praise Him in the heights!
Praise Him, all His angels; praise Him, all His host!
Praise Him, sun and moon; praise Him, all you shining stars!
Praise Him, you highest heavens, you highhest heavens, and you waters above the heavens!
Let them praise the name of the LORD, for He commanded and they were created.
He established them forever and ever; He fixed their bounds, which cannot be passed.
Let them praise the name of the LORD, for His name alone is exalted; His glory is above earth and heaven.
He has raised up a horn for His people, praise for all His faithful, for the people of Israel who are close to Him.

Praise the LORD

BEWARE....!!

Matthew 7:15 Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.

Acts 20:29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.

Wolf : "Oooohhh Yes..im a GREAT pretender...woooo wooo WOOO wOOO"

I shall not comment on this and perhaps this pic could best serve as a "Warning" to us. Don't be deceived..Do not be led astrayed...Be ALert!!!

Come on-LAH.....WAKE UP!!! "Meaaaakkk Meaaakkkkk" or "Wooooo Wooooo"? U ask GOD for wisdom to decide.

D Art of Enhancing Relationship : Be Patient

This is a true story which happened in the States. A man came out of his home to admire his new truck. To his puzzlement, his three-year-old son was happily hammering dents into the shiny paint of the truck. The man ran to his son, knocked him away, hammered the little boy's hands into pulp as punishment. When the father calmed down, he rushed his son to the hospital. Although the doctor tried desperately to save the crushed bones, he finally had to amputate the fingers from both the boy's hands. When the boy woke up from the surgery & saw his bandaged stubs, he innocently said, " Daddy, I'm sorry about your truck." Then he asked, "but when are my fingers going to grow back?" The father went home & committed suicide. Think about this story the next time someone steps on your feet or you wish to take revenge. Think first before you lose your patience with someone you love. Trucks can be repaired.. Broken bones & hurt feelings often can't. Too often we fail to recognize the difference between the person and the performance. We forget that forgiveness is greater than revenge. People make mistakes. We are allowed to make mistakes.
But the actions we take while in a rage will haunt us forever.

D Art of Enhancing Relationship : Personal Perception

Different people have different perception. One man's meat could be another man's poison. A couple bought a donkey from the market. On the way home, a boy commented, "Very stupid. Why neither of them ride on the donkey?“ Upon hearing that, the husband let the wife ride on the donkey. He walked besides them. Later, an old man saw it and commented, "The husband is the head of the family. How can the wife ride on the donkey while the husband is on foot?" Hearing this, the wife quickly got down and let the husband ride on the donkey. Further on the way home, they met an old Lady. She commented, "How can the man ride on the donkey but let the wife walk. He is no gentleman." The husband thus quickly asked the wife to join him on the donkey. Then, they met a young man. He commented, "Poor donkey, how can you hold up the weight of two persons. They are cruel to you." Hearing that, the husband and wife immediately climbed down from the donkey and carried it on their shoulders. It seems to be the only choice left. Later, on a narrow bridge, the donkey was frightened and struggled. They lost their balance and fell into the river. You can never have everyone praise you, nor will everyone condemn you. Never in the past, not at present, and never will be in the future. Thus, do not be too bothered by others words if our conscience is clear..

D Art of Enhancing Relationship :NO POINTING FINGERS

A man asked his father-in-law, "Many people praised you for a successful marriage. Could you please share with me your secret?" The father-in-law answered in a smile, "Never criticize your wife for her shortcomings or when she does something wrong. Always bare in mind that because of her shortcomings and weaknesses, she could not find a better husband than you." We all look forward to being loved and respected. Many people are afraid of losing face. Generally, when a person makes a mistake, he would look around to find a scapegoat to point the finger at. This is the start of a war. We should always remember that when we point one finger at a person, the other four fingers are pointing at ourselves. If we forgive the others, others will ignore our mistake too.

D Art of Sharing : Joy of Baptism

Matthew 28:19-20 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen. To be administered in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.

Im Thankful bc thru' the GRACE of GOD i have finally been accepted into the blessed family of Christ and is now called the "Child of God". Been baptized on Easter Sunday i.e. 16 April 2006 and witnessed by ALL! There have been much struggles in the past few weeks.....and doubts, fear, insecurities etc have surely robbed me of my confidence, faith and i was on "shaky ground", wrestled with my guilt, sins and ill-motive. Wanted it to be "special" since i was a kid, BUT guess GOD has shown me that HE is the REASON, the ONLY REASON for the confession of my sins and proclaimation of my faith! Dear Lord-my Savior, thank U for everything!! TQ Suz for her love N' unceasing support, my family members-esply mum for she has kinda "moulded"/taught me to become the person that i am today, the present prayer warriors-Bros Josh N Brandon for their words of wisdom/daily sharings via sms, my previous and current cg members, my current CG leader-Sis Jolyn for your encouragement, Teacher Chan Yoke for teaching me alot of things, those/everyone in Kepong & KL Grace Church (truly miss our fellowships) n Sun. school teachers in Kepong Gospel Chapel (the church i attended when i was a kid), Sis Wan Loo (my true faithful spiritual fren), Mr and Mrs Amen Li ("spiritual dad") and all my frenz in Hong Kong-Andy, Alice, Ada, Mr Louis, Yee Hang, Miu, Yuet Kam (u know who u are-thank u for the prayer support/lending ur ears for all these years), Danielle-a Christian fren from South Africa whom i met online...Pastors Yaw, Tan, Siow, Pastor Shuat Yien...Rev...Elders...my Cousin Sis-Selina, Special thanks to Mr Victor of KCMC-thank u for taking pics of me (u r truly a blessing to others)...Aunt Ester Ah-Chiew-whom i respect and miss dearly (she had been called to be with the Lord now)...N every1 i know, ur presence (in the past, present n future) has/will surely left/leave an impact on me/my life (sorry guys/gals, cant name u all here)

D Art of Enhancing Relationship: CREATING PERFECT RELATIONSHIPS?

A person visited the government matchmaker for marriage, SDU, and requested "I am looking for a spouse. Please help me to find a suitable one." The SDU officer said, "Your requirements, please." "Oh, good looking, polite, humorous , sporty, knowledgeable, good in singing and dancing. Willing to accompany me the whole day at home during my leisure hour, if I don't go out. Telling me interesting stories when I need companion for conversation and be silent when I want to rest." The officer listened carefully and replied, "I understand you need television." There is a saying that a perfect match can only be found between a blind wife and a deaf husband because the blind wife cannot see the faults of the husband and the deaf husband cannot hear the nagging of the wife. Many couples are blind and deaf at the courting stage and dream of perpetual perfect relationship. Unfortunately, when the excitement of love wears off, they wake up and discover that marriage is not a bed of roses. The nightmare begins.

D Art of Enhancing relationship : NO OVERPOWERING!

Many relationships fail because one party tries to overpower another, or demands too much. People in love tend to think that love will conquer all and their spouses will change the bad habits after marriage. Actually, this is not the case. There is a Chinese saying which carries the meaning that "It is easier to reshape a mountain or a river than a person's character." It is not easy to change. Thus, having high expectation on changing the spouse character will cause disappointment and unpleasantness.It would be less painful to change ourselves and lower our expectations..

D Art of Enhancing Relationship : Right Speech

There is a Chinese saying which carries the meaning that "A speech will either prosper or ruin a nation." Many relationships break off because of wrong speech. When a couple is too close with each other we always forget mutual respect and courtesy. We may say anything without considering if it would hurt the other party. A friend and her millionaire husband visited their construction site. A worker who wore a helmet saw her and shouted, "Hi, Emily! Remember me? We used to date in the secondary school." On the way home, her millionaire husband teased her, "Luckily you married me. Otherwise you will be the wife of a construction worker." She answered ,"You should appreciate that you married me. Otherwise, he will be the millionaire and not you." Frequently exchanging these remarks plants the seed for a bad relationship. It's like a broken egg - cannot be reversed.

D Art of Enhancing RelationshipS : TRUST

TRUST is a very important factor for all relationships. When trust is broken, it is the end of the relationship. Lack of trust leads to suspicion, suspicion generates anger, anger causes enmity and enmity may result in separation.

Easter....

D ARt of Sharing : 2nd Thought for 2day

The WORLD is changing!!! Once being oppressed,..but now oppresing others!

Revenge time??? Well, this is exactly what happened in my office. Ironically, those who were subservient in the past have now been elevated to a position where they are capable of "Balas Dendam" (in Malay) and showing true colors...and some even go to the extent of "Yar Man Yar Mou" (in Cantonese) Arghhh....

Leviticus 19:18 ~ Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the LORD.

In a totally different perspective, this pic depicts how some superiors/leaders are being led astray by followers because that little tiny follower called "Lau Soo" got "P.O.W.E.R"-ma. Hmmm....the "Meow-meow" must now change name to "Wou-Wou"??...How sad!

...BUT what a "good dog"???....

D Art of Sharing : A Contemporary Gospel Song....

My All-In-All
Words & Music by Lawrence Keith Holder

When there is no peace, You are my Peace.
When there seems no hope, You are my Hope.
When the sun won't shine, You are my Light.
When I was lost, You gave me sight,And now I can see, my Lord, that You areMy All-In-All.

When the world says "take", You teach me to give.
When my strength is gone, You help me to live.
Tho' the mountains fall into the sea,You are the One sustaining me,
And day by day, I find that You areMy All-In-All.

And You hold me in Your Hand with a love, That will never let go...
Tho' the world around me should change, There is one thing I know...

When there is no peace, You are my Peace.
When there seems no hope, You are my Hope.
When the sun won't shine, You are my Light.
When I was lost, You gave me sight,
And now I can see, my Lord,
that You are My All-In-All.

You're my All-In-All!


-I found this song many years ago while looking for "new" Christian songs (on the net) to be used for our English Adult Sunday School P n W session at my prev. church and since then, the soothing melody and its lyrics have secured a place in my heart. Whenever we heard about tragedies, accidents, wars, epidemics, diseases, political turmoils, natural disasters, we get terrified...but remember the LORD is our P.E.A.C.E.

D Art of Sharing : How to ask your Boss for a salary increase?

One day an employee sends a letter to her boss asking for an increase in her salary!!!

Dear Bo$$
In thi$ life, we all need $ome thing mo$t de$perately. I think you $hould be under$tanding of the need$ of u$ worker$ who have given $o much $upport including $weat and $ervice to your company.

I am $ure you will gue$$ what I mean and re$pond $oon.

Your$ $incerely,

Marian $hih


The next day, the employee received this letter of reply:
Dear Marian

I kNOw you have been working very hard. NOwadays, NOthing much has changed. You must have NOticed that our company is NOt doing NOticeably well as yet.

NOw the newspaper are saying the world's leading ecoNOmists are NOt sure if the United State s may go into aNOther recession. After the NOvember presidential elections things may turn bad.

I have NOthing more to add NOw. You kNOw what I mean.

Yours truly, Manager

D Art of Sharing : Today's Bible Verse

D Art of Sharing: The Story of The King and His 4 Wives

Once upon a time there was a rich King who had four wives. He loved the 4th wife the most and adorned her with rich robes and treated her to the finest of delicacies. He gave her nothing but thebest. He also loved the 3rd wife very much and was always showing her off to neighboring kingdoms. However, he feared that one day she> >would leave him for another. He also loved his 2nd wife. She was his confidant and was always kind, considerate and patient with him. Whenever the King faced a problem, he could confide in her, and she would help him get through the difficult times. The King's 1st wife was a very loyal partner and had made great contributions in maintaining his wealth and kingdom. However, he did not love the first wife. Although she loved him deeply, he hardly took notice of her!One day, the King fell ill and he knew his time was short. He thought of his luxurious life and wondered, "I now have four wives with me, but when I die, I'll be all alone." Thus, he asked the 4th wife, "I have loved you the most, endowed you with the finest clothing and showered great care over you. Now that I'm dying, will you follow me and keep me company?" No way!", replied the 4th wife, and she walked away without another word. Her answer cut like a sharp knife right into his heart. The sad King then asked the 3rd wife, "I have loved you all my life. Now that I'm dying, will you follow me and keep me company?" No!", replied the 3rd wife. "Life is too good! When you die, I'm going to remarry!" His heart sank and turned cold. He then asked the 2nd wife, "I have always turned to you for help and you've always been there for me. When I die, will you follow me and keep me company?" I'm sorry, I can't help you out this time!", replied the 2nd wife. "At the very most, I can only walk with you to your grave." Her answer struck him like a bolt of lightning, and the King was devastated. Then a voice called out: "I'll go with you. I'll follow you no matter where you go." The King looked up, and there was his first wife. She was very skinny as she suffered from malnutrition and neglect. Greatly grieved, the King said, "I should have taken much better care of you when I had the chance!" In truth, we all have 4 wives in our lives: Our 4th wife is our body.No matter how much time and effort we lavish in making it look good, it will leave us when we die.Our 3rd wife is our possessions, status and wealth. When we die, it will all go to others. Our 2nd wife is our family and friends. No matter how much they have been there for us, the furthest they can stay by us is up to the grave.And our 1st wife is our Soul. Often neglected in pursuit of wealth, power and pleasures of the world. However, our Soul is the only thing that will follow us wherever we go. Cultivate, strengthen and cherish it now, for it is the only part of us that will follow us , when the world pushes you to your knees, you're in the perfect position to pray.

D Art of Sharing the Thought for 2day

Before we offer our assistance to "those in need", we must first ask this question : "Am I doing him/her any good by lending a helping hand?" Otherwise, we might end up "hurting" that person more rather than helping him/her. Inevitably, some people might also start questioning the rationale of our "foolish action(s)" regardless of how noble our initial motive(s) or intention(s) were. Constructive thinking to build but with destructive result/outcome????

D Art of Sharing A Student’s Prayer

I ask You for Your help, Lord,
So that I will always know
How to be a better student
And to make my knowledge grow.

Please give me understanding
So that I will clearly see
Which lessons are important,
And reveal the truth to me.

May I have the time to study
And improve my memory,
So I won’t forget the answers
No matter what the test may be.

Let me always keep on learning,
Even when the class is done;
May I use my knowledge wisely,
So it works for everyone.

~ Jill Wolf

N/b: well, the above is borrowed from a bookmark (dated 1/4/2000) which i received from a very good fren, Sis Wan Loo in Singapore when i was about to sit for a VERY important exam...and i will never forget the "pain" that I've gone thru during that time.Hmm..but it's OVER now. Sis Wan Loo also wrote the following : "Pray that whatever u learn, learn for HIM...Never give up...HE cares...."
Thanks N may all "Glory" be unto our LORD JESUS!!!!

- I believe some of U have got ur exam results...N' what can I say?..Definitely, Some with good grades while the other not so good-lah. I was a student myself and all i wana say is that: NEVER GIVE UP and LEAN on HIS grace as U face another chapter of challenges in your life. It's NOT easy at all!!! My frenz in HK always reminded me that "We Just need to do our best, N' God will do the rest!" For "those of U" who are thinking of continuing ur studies...."GO confidently in the direction of your dreams"....(Hmm...u know who u r, rite?)?)

D Art of Sharing : 3-23

yEAP...(3-23) i.e. 23RD mARCh...my Princess' Birthday! Happy Birthday 2 U...


~May GoD continue to shower HIS Blessings Upon U~


Be joyful always, pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for u in Christ Jesus
~ 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

D Art of Sharing : the Essence of our "J"-CG

The LORD Is My Shepherd

Psalm 23 ~ The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. 3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. 5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.


~our "J-CG" leader Sis J-olyn has again led n' asked us to ponder on this Bible verse. during our meeting at Sis Anna's house on 17 March 2006

D Art of Sharing : the story of Meow-meow N' "RAT"??

Well, i had an "unpleasant experience/encounter" with my so-called Lady B0$$ 2day and that made me upset and disturbed. Hmmm.. i just dislike the popular saying that Bo$$ is always RIGHT (why not LEFT?? hehehe...) They can defy anything bc of the "$$" sign? Please share your experience with me (on how u handle them) as the "earthly Bo$$(es)" really make me "sakit" unlike our BOSS up there.May the LORD grant us w.i.s.d.o.m.


Meow-meow : Listen, im the Bo$$y Cat! U will do whatever i tell U...and now stand up straight n' repeat after me...Im a "rat"!!!
Squirrel : a rat?? I am? Ohh yes sure Boss..i mean Bo$$y cat...Im a....RAT! Im a....RAT!

D Art of Sharing via Inspirational SMS

Received this message/ reply from Sis Jolyn when i sent out "S-O-S sms" to all prayer warriors last year. Already shared it with some of my colleagues/frenz b4 and thought of sharing it with u all here:-
~Bro ralphie


Life is like a piano - White keys = happy, Black keys = Sadness, BUT as U go through life's journey, remember that Black keys make MUSIC too. So, stay JOYFUL, always!

D Art of Sharing thru' HanG-ing ON 2get-her!

Remember KMYF-Sisters' Nite 2005? This pic was displayed/shown during the slide show. Needless to say, it actually caught my attention while i was browsing thru' the net to search for suitable materials. It reminds me of how we should all "HANG OUT" and "HANG ON" 2gether in the midst of trials. However, we don't just pretend as if we are "ALL in ONE" or portraying an united front for a show, bcoz our action(s) and/or speech(es) are always under scrutiny by the ONE who created us AND yea, don't u think that the puppies in this pic look rather SAD (guess, not bcoz of being forced to dress up like ahemm, BABies wearing napkins/diapers? Eww) bcoz they are being "PUT UP" against their will in a "hypocritical" way. Do they really look that cute??? Think again!! Funny?,.. mayb. Hence, let us not be a laughing-stock to the non-believers bcoz of our lousy acting! LORD, have mercy on us.

D Art of Sharing our Burdens thru' PRAYERS!!

One of the many privileges of being a CHRIST-ian is that we get to pray for others whom we don't really know AND at the same time having the support from others through their unceasing prayers. Pray 4 others and others shall PRAY for U too!!
~Just a thought by Bro Ralphie

Dear Bros + Sis in Christ cum PRAYER WARRIORS,

-P.R.A.Y for my cousin sis, Selina Lee -for strength and health and faith in our Lord.

-P.R.A.Y for Bro Josh-coz he has gone for interview(s). Need wisdom and guidance from our Lord in his attempt to look for a "Better" job. Gambate Bro!!

-P.R.A.Y. for my "spiritual Dad" in Hong Kong, Mr Amen Li, also a faithful servant of GOD -for his health

-P.R.A.Y. for Bro Nicky and Sis Cheryl -for their wedding preparation.May GOD bless their "future home"

-P.R.A.Y. for my Bro James and Sis Grace (currently in UK)- also for their wedding, probably to be held on 8th of July 2006 in M'sia

-P.R.A.Y. for Sis En En - for her hectic working schedules

-P.R.A.Y for Bro Adrian Yong - as he's moving to Nilai, N9 soon..due to his work. Hope he can join our fellowship/come to church for Sunday service more often.

-P.R.A.Y. for Sis Xiao Fen's colleague -diagnosed with cancer and she's not a Christian. May the LORD heal her and b her Savior.

-P.R.A.Y. for Guo Hwa's grandpa - will undergo surgery to remove tumor, hopefully as scheduled.
-P.R.A.Y. for Sis Anna N' Bro Edmond (newly wedded couple) - their "new" family (BTW, Sis Anna has recovered)

-P.R.A.Y. for Sis Li San - having her Exams

-P.R.A.Y. for Gavin - for their future, career, studies,faith n' work.

- P.R.A.Y. for Sis Nicole (currently in Aust)- her studies + faith

-P.R.A.Y. for Sis Ivy (Ai Hui) - coz she's busy with her part-time job

-

(N/b: Item(s) amended/added)

D art of Sharing : "I said a PRAYER for U"

I said a PRAYER for you 2day

I said a prayer for you today

and knew GOD must have heard;

I felt the answer in my heart

Although HE spoke not a word.

I didn't ask for wealth or fame

(i knew you wouldn't mind);

I asked for priceless treasure rare

of a more lasting kind.

I prayed that He'd be near to you

At the start of each new day.

to grant you health and blessings fair,

and friends to share your way.

I asked for happiness for you

in all things great and small,

But that you'd know HIS loving care

I prayed the most of all

-Author unknown

D art of Sharing LOVE

Let us LOVE one another for LOVE is from GOD : & everyone who loves is born of GOD and knows GOD. ~ 1 John 4:7

May this blog be a channel of HIS UNFAILING LOVE..... Bro ralphie