Pilgrims in Zurich

This blog is not dead yet.

2009-10-18T16:59:00.002+02:00

This blog has been left hanging ever since we left for our grand tour to Scandinavia, Italy and France. But i don't want it to end just like that. I've so much to blog about, so many experiences, so much joy, the many blessings and friendships, and the hardships too.

If time permits, i would really like to dig out my past memories (if they haven't already disappear), and blog about some of the more significant experiences. Perhaps, perhaps, i would be able to do so when fyp finally gets out of my sight, and mind, for good.

Updates

2009-06-27T18:17:00.002+02:00

God has been really good to us thus far. The many blessings, we are really thankful for:

1. Both dear & i have passed 5 modules each. And 1 more which is not released yet.
2. We had a really wonderful trip to Scandinavia, and also in Switzerland (Geneva, Interlaken) with dear's family. It was a great time of family bonding, getting to know dear's family better, and had a marvelous time seeing God's wonderful creation of mother nature. Norway is really spectacular.
3. We managed to finish tying up most of the loose ends...packed our luggages, cleaned our rooms etc.
4. We're leaving for France & Italy tomorrow morning, and we're really excited.
5. For the new friendships that have been forged with the Seefeld home group, the God-sent Aunties & Uncles (Auntie May, Auntie Pooh Lii, Auntie Lee Hiang, Uncle Chung Chi, Uncle Frips, Uncle Clarence), the dietikon hostel-mates, and some friends and classmates we've made (Isabella, Rahel, Regula, Clementine, etc etc.
6. For all our friends back home, who have shown their love through little ways. We really appreciate that so so much :) Can't wait to get back home to catch up with them!
7. This exchange experience is really God-sent, as both dear and i prayed to go for exchange together, and we only applied for this university. What a rare-chance to be able to go on exchange together. I'm really grateful.

This exchange experience has been really enriching, exciting and meaningful, despite some little hardships faced here and there. Really, thank God.

Do pray for journey mercies as we leave for Paris tomorrow (there're lots of pickpockets), and also for our fyp! I really don't know which fyp i should go for, but i sense that God wants me to do this particular one...Well, if it's meant to be, God will make it happen. But do pray that I'll be able to have internet access in France. And also thakn God for sweet friends like Guo yi and Doreen who're willing to help me ballot if i can't do it.

Nevertheless, we're both really looking fwd to go home! It's time to settle down :) Think we had enough of nomadic travelling! hehe.

Doing the SEP thing...

2009-06-14T22:19:00.005+02:00

....travelling!

I officially ended my exams last friday. Have to really thank God, because the exams turned out better than I expected. Not all our grades are out yet, but we'll just trust God that we'll pass :). So anyhow, we're leaving for Scandinavia for 1.5 weeks in about an hour's time to Zurich Airport. Then, we'll be back to Zurich for a week and travel around Switzerland, before leaving for France and Italy from 28th to 18th July...and fly back to Singapore on the 19th july...So we'll reach Singapore on the 20th of july :)

So it's a whole lot of travelling. We're not really going to a lot of places, but spending more time in each place we go, so that we see more of the country..rather than rushing here and there, which is pretty tiring. Hopefully our trip will be as relaxed as we like :)

And a prayer request I really need...i'm actually feeling a little sick since last night..down with slight sorethroat, and a little woozy, slightly feverish at times. I seriously cross my fingers and hope it's not swine flu. I doubt it is, because I didnt go out of zurich, and didn't exactly meet anyone that has fallen sick. So i hope it's just sorethroat due to eating thai curry a few days ago and the lack of sleep due to all the studying...Just pray that I'll get well really soon, because I don't want to be a burden to Matt's family when we travel around Scandinavia! Prayers much appreciated :)

Don't think i'll have much time to blog anymore. There's actually so much to say about my exchange experience, but i usually share it to matt all the time, that i feel so lazy to blog after that. hahaha. Maybe i'll do so when i'm back in singapore.

:)

The Rhinefall

2009-06-09T17:33:00.001+02:00

(Picture Taken: Schloss Luafen Am Rhinefall, Switzerland)

2009-06-08T19:19:00.002+02:00

Somehow, I begin to see things from a deeper perspective.
Perhaps I was too shallow back then,
thinking that I have to be nice to everyone so that people may come to know Christ..
thinking that christians need to be nice.
No, it was all too superficial.
I have been superficial.

Many times,
I volunteered to help,
I volunteered to pray,
I forced a smile,
I tried to be nice.
But no, that wasn't me.
I am no Jesus,
I am imperfect.
I am aware of my own iniquities,
that I am not always right.

Life is not a bed of roses for Christians.
It's a tough road, and i finally know why.
Christians face a road of persecution.
Christians are not guaranteed with successes,
not guaranteed to be popular,
not guaranteed to have many friends.
It's hard to swallow but
The Christian road is a life full of thorns,
yet, protected by the grace of God.
We just need to recognise the blessings He has given us.
Be contented.
Be thankful.
Believe that this is the right path.
Follow the light.

I believe God has a divine plan for me.
My role here on earth,
is not to spread the gospel to every single person I know.
Not to be nice to everyone.
Not to pretend to be nice all the time.
But, to be myself
To have a sincere heart,
help when I sincerely want to
So that people may see Christ in me.
I need to be who I am.

Often, popularity and attention seemed so appetizing.
It definitely makes one feel good to have many friends around,
to be involved in all invitations to dinners, parties,
to be well-loved by everyone,
to receive tons of facebook messages from friends.
Deep inside, many of us are nice for an underlying quest for attention,
or acceptance by certain people.
But it's all too superficial.
Life isn't that perfect.
We need to look into things deeper.
Plainly being popular or nice won't bring people to Christ.
I should stop seeking for the attention,
just to make myself feel good.

People choose who they want to be with
.People choose to form their own cliques.
But i never believe in cliques.
Just like a cell group,
it shouldn't be a clique.
It should always be an open invitation to others,
welcoming people.
I am tired.
Yet, I have a long road ahead of me,
and I will continue walking.
But in the light of Christ,
and not in my own light.

There's always time,
always time to reach out,
always time to make friends.
But we choose the friends we want to make.
We choose the friendships that will last.
And I know who are the friends that will stand by me when the currents are strong.
And I appreciate and treasure them a great deal,
even if I don't express it outwardly.
But deep inside, I really do thank God for each and everyone of them.

I don't believe I am meant to be friends with everyone,
for that's just too idealistic.
There are people whom I am not meant to be friends with,
people whom I am not meant to share Christ with.
Then, I should spend my time and effort on others,
looking back to help those who have been left out,
those that have been rejected by many,
rather than trying to be their friends.

I think,
our role as a christian is not just about reaching out all the time but
We must always remember our fellow brothers and sisters.
Remember them in prayers, and build a community of faith.
Just like the church,
the people must build a strong foundation of faith,
in one body of Christ,
before they can go out together to spread the gospel.
A body cannot function without an arm or leg.

Too many times,
I feel disappointed with people.
Our love,
our friendship becomes transactional,unreciprocated, unappreciated,
and leaves us jaded.
The world always fail us
because of the expectations that we set,
failing to think of what God wants out of us.

Perhaps I have made wrong turns in my decisions, in my life,
and said the wrong things,
but I will move on. I have to.
And I will.
Time moves on and I still have a long way to go.
And I take joy with every disappointments that have come,
for there's always a message from God for every boulder that comes my way.

I will continue to pray for friends that have come and go.
For people whom I no longer am friends with.
For people that seems so hard to love.
For friendships that are so hard to go deeper,
For friends whom have too different principles from me,
that always lead to conflicts and disagreements,
For unreciprocated friendships,
For the hi-bye friendships,
For the people that haven't received God's love.
I pray that God's love will come shining through their lives one day,
not by my will but His.

Life isn't in my control.
I cannot control who I want to be friends with.
I cannot control the people I want to enter God's kingdowm.
But I know God has a plan.
He always has a plan for every friend that I am meant to be with,
for every circumstance and situation.
Life is no coincidence.
And I pray He'll give me an extra portion of faith,
for this road is too rough for me to handle alone.
And I know I won't be lonely,
for even if I have only one friend,
God's with me.
And I know my darling will always be my side,
walking with me.
That alone,
I take joy.
And am contented.
Count your blessings.

God, take control of my life.
This, I ask of you,
for I need to be broken,
to wash away all my imperfections.
I am a sinner.

2009-06-07T08:30:00.003+02:00

When you really don't know what to say...

There comes times in your life, where you just don't know what to say.
When there are problems that come; and they just really stay.
Amazing, how it sounds, but as true as can be,
This is life, this is my story, this is me.

There's time to play here, time to see,
there's time to watch the clouds go by.
Rainbows, waterfalls and mountains ahead,
but pity; the rain came out today.

Home is far, a million miles,
while Dietikon seems a little bit dreary.
Its not the place, its not the time;
but its something that caused me to sigh.

This is my story, this is my life,
my life in the land of cows and cheese;
Switzerland, and Zurich, the best place to live;
but not the best place to come.

Its sad to see how things are like,
its depressing to know what i am.
But little by little, the sun comes out.
You know you're loved again.

Not by people, but by God,
not by those who want to be free,
But far away, a little bee came,
he told me "He" still loves me.

God loves, in all eternity;
some people know but don't see.
What it takes to be Jesus,
we try our best; but still others don't see.

Have faith, not cries,
for the end is near, and hope has come again.
For one to know what is fear,
and to know that all is lost; but not gained.

People come and people go,
but i'm glad for those who have stayed.
for thats what friends are to me,
my friends, my smiles; who i believe.

i have to say i miss them,
for it has been meaningful to me;
the understanding, the hand they reach to me.
no one else can see.

Many think i'm random,
because of what i'm like
but inside my heart, it all has a purpose;
it takes more than eyes; to see light.

Through every danger, toil and snare.
i've lived my life with integrity;
as honest as i am, and as much as i believe;
i did the right thing for "Him".

My dream for an entire community;
housed in NZ to be,
is actually just a little thought,
of what heaven would be for me.

Its sad, though, to know,
what life here has become,
it seems like the river has stopped its' flow;
the ducks have herded; the fish are gone....

But, somehow; God still made me happy.

2009-06-07T08:23:00.003+02:00

Its a little pokemon game.
You've just gotta catch them all!
Raichu buzzes, and jumps from tree to tree
caterpie sleeps in his little cocoon
Little butterfree flits around the room
while the Eevee is not as cute as it seems.
Dragonair is as strong as it comes,
while the Exeggcuter grew, just from a harmless egg.
Also, Wartotle, water guns and bubbles;
all just seems such a fun little puzzle.

Thanks yiling! :) you're soooo sweeet! :) :)

2009-06-01T19:13:00.001+02:00

Appreciate your encouragement loaaddss! :D

Love travels over distances...

2009-06-01T17:15:00.002+02:00

(Picture Taken: Changi Airport, T1, Family farewell picture before i left for Zurich)

It means so much to me when my mom sends me an sms, no matter what the content may be or when i received it. It never fail to bring a smile on my face. For every single exam that I have taken or about to take in ETH, my mom would always send me a message the day before the paper. Just when i felt so saturated from studying, I was just wondering if my mom would send me a message before she goes to bed tonight...and suddenly, my phone vibrated. I knew it was her. As usual, she would ask me to not overwork, drink lots of water, sleep early, eat more fruits, do my best. Even though she always say the same thing, it means so so much. And i feel so much encouraged now, ready to go a mile further in my revision.

Family, matters so much, even in the simplest way.

He will carry us through :)

2009-05-31T21:41:00.001+02:00

(Photo taken in Lake Geneva, Montreux)

Photo credits: Matthias

Prayers much appreciated!!

2009-05-31T20:26:00.002+02:00

2nd June - Envt sanitation in developing countries (Matt & Me)
4th June - Project Management (Me)
5th June - Human Resoruce Management (Matt and Me)
12th June - Mathematical Modelling in Process & Chemical Engineering (Me) --- the HARDEST one....

And so, this is my exam schedule. As you can see, i've 3 in the next week, and matt's exams will be done really early!! *envious* but i can't complain, cos he's been and will be cooking meals for me till the end of my exams. How lucky i am. And his meals are really sumptous! :D

Do keep us in prayers. Jess, i know you'll be there praying...thank you so very much. you're always there =) i hope u're doing well! miss you loads, and keeping u in prayers too, despite the fact that u've finished ur exams. huggs.

btw, yuting and sandra! i made kaya toast today (with your kaya paste of course), and it tasted sooooo goood...!!! i took a picture of it, but currently too busy to upload. will do so when my exams are done! :) :)

Sorry dear.

2009-05-30T22:34:00.005+02:00

I did you wrong today.
And am reminded by God.

I need to change,
for the better of course.

I must, and I will,
No matter how hard it may be.

"Once bitten, Twice shy"
I need to remember that,
and imprint it on my heart.
You know, it's always so tempting to keep making the same mistakes,
to keep making the same sin.
The vicious cycle.

Change is always the hardest thing to do.
But something that's not impossible.

Be with me,
hold my hand and lead me to the right path.
Have faith in me.

The Measure of A Man

2009-05-30T10:23:00.001+02:00

This world can analize and size you up and throw you on the scales
They can I.Q. you and run you through
Their rigorous details
They can do their best to rate you
And they'll place you on the charts
And then back it up with scientific smarts
But there's more to what you're worth
Than their human eyes can see
Oh, I say the measure of a man
Is not how tall you stand
How wealthy or intelligent you are'
Cause I've found out the measure of a man
God knows and understands
For He looks inside to the bottom of your heart
And what's in the heart defines
The measure of a man
Well, you can doubt your worth
And search for who you are
And where you stand
But God made you in His image
When He formed you in His hands
And He looks at you with mercy
And He sees you through His love
You're His child and that will always be enough
For there's more to what you're worth
Than you could ever comprehend
Oh I say the measure of a man
Is not how tall you stand
How wealthy or intelligent you are

'Cause I've found out the measure of a man
God knows and understands
For He looks inside
To the bottom of your heart
And what's in the heart defines
The measure of a man
You can spend your life persuing physical perfection
There is so much more
More than ever meets the eye
For God looks through the surface
And He defines your worth by what is on the inside
I say the measure of a man
Is not how tall you stand
How wealthy or intelligent you are'
Cause I've found out the measure of a man
God knows and understandsF
or He looks inside
To the bottom of your heart
And what's in the heart defines
Oh, I say the measure of
The measure of a manIs not how tall you stand,
How wealthy or intelligent you are
Oh, I've found the measure of a man
God knows and understands it
For He looks to the bottom of your heart
And what's in the heart defines
Yeah, what's in the heart defines
Yeah, what's in the heart defines
The measure of a man
I know, I know

2009-05-29T23:41:00.001+02:00

"Its all but lost"

God Bless The Broken Road - beautiful song

2009-05-29T22:02:00.002+02:00

Geoff Moore \ God Bless The Broken Road

I set out on a narrow way many years ago
Hoping I would find true love
Along the broken road
But I got lost a time or two
I wiped my brow and kept pushing through
I couldn't see how every sign pointed straight to You

That every long lost dream
Led me to where You are
Others who broke my heart
They were like northern stars
Pointing me on my way Into Your loving arms
This much I know is true
That God blessed the broken road
That led me straight to You

I think about the years I spent just passing through
I'd like to have them back again
And give them all to You
But You just smile and take my hand
You've been there and You understand
It's all part of a grander plan
That is coming true

That every long lost dream
Led me to where You are
Others who broke my heart
They were like northern stars
Pointing me on my way
Into You loving arms
This much I know is true

That God blessed the broken road
That led me straight to You
Now I keep rolling on into You loving arms
This much I know is true
That God blessed the broken road
That led me straight to You

On the Other Side.

2009-05-26T18:00:00.004+02:00

I was talking to kings earlier online, but she had to go sleep for her grad ceremony the next day.

And i decided to continue writing what i thought here, so she could read it.
I was talking about crusade.

1. the staff that kinda understood my p.o.v. (at least where i was coming from) were leaving
2. there should be more focus on the evangelical foundations in crusade
and so on...

So i was telling her, that i'm really a conservative thinker. Many of the other students on exchange here have said i have a very narrow way of thinking, and i dun ever change from my values/perspective.
Which is weird...
beacuse, i was a scientologist when i was young, and turned into a fundamentalist just a few years back; before i finally subscribe to the "evangelical" way; that is the word of God is all encompassing and what we should follow, not just in the new testament, but in the wholesomeness of the bible.

and its interesting, because modern day christians think very radically different from christians in the previous generation. We believe, unequally yoke might be okay, we believe that prosperity gospel might be okay, we believe that women should have their rights and definitely be seen as equal and allowed to work, we believe that women can lead our church.

And although i might not be the perfect bible scholar, but i believe i've read and studied enough to know that my conservative values are probably right. That girls and women will probably think i'm chauvinistic to claim that women shouldn't concentrate so much on their work, but put their efforts into the family. That i'm too narrow minded to say that God planned for man to be at the head of the family, and the church. I've talked to the younger staff about much of this, and everytime; it seems like i'm wrong.

I understand we are living in a liberal world right now, and women stand on equal footing as men. And they always have, just that their roles are different. Its not that they are unimportant, rather it just seems their role is not as glamourous, but to me, definitely more important than working.

Likewise, i aslo believe that while the great comission has its place, it is important that each and every believer roots himself in the word. This issue came up because i always felt that the crusade materials that they gave us every week; was not helping me grow as a christian. That i was being felt the milk again, when i really needed the bread. And my old SM used to understand me, but yet, in other ways, i'm seen as a rebel for my opinions. There are also things, how i believe that not everyone should be doing "public" evangelism; because we are simply not called. And that you can't push everyone to do it; although we know we need to evangelize. I'm a good example of this, "i know its not my place, its not my gift".

To me, My christian values remain as firm as it should be.
Since primary school, i always remember my teacher saying that I was someone that kept hold to the principles i knew, and held fast to it.

And the funny thing is, the older generation definitely understands me. I've talked to many adults about my view points, and they definitely understand where I am coming from. They also agree with my point of view, and the values i have within me.

But sometimes around the younger ones (both christians and non-christians alike), i feel alone. Feel like i'm fighting a lost cause, that many ways of how God planned things to be will be lost by many. That my friends openly talk about their acceptance to premarital sex, about their acceptance of homosexuality, about how women should work if they earn more; make me sigh more, for the values are lost, and i can't change it in anyway.

Another more pertinent point is what this adult was saying about what he thought. About the "feel good factor", and how the young people just go to where it "feels good". Which is what is happening to many christians today, and as i was pointing out to one of my homegroup members here in switzerland. That the minute we say some new liberal christian value "is okay", thats the moment we have compromised on our christian values. E.g. homosexuality, we cannot say its wrong, but we can accept it. We might not even accept it, but we accept that other people can accept it. Or how it "feels good" just to be earning your money, or claiming that all the activities for fellowship are to really build up bonds, when its more of just fun and games for our personal pleasure.

And many of them (these younger generation) even refuse to listen to my point, choosing to argue their way through their own biblical interpretations. And i'm judged because i'm don't seem to be with the majority on this. Makes me JADED! but... i'm okay, i understand as well =)

And its funny, because a lot of biblical notions can be argued. The most common one is "we now live in a post-Jesus period, and as such, we live by the notion of grace and a life redeemed by the blood of Christ". But, then the biggest flaw is that we, as humans, as sinners; where have we not taken advantage of grace?

The best thing is that the bible shows clearly; the prophecies of all these!
And even if people don't believe me, its clear to see, its the end of the times.
And many prophecies about the degeneration of mankind's society is as plain as day.

I still wonder how people can think that I'm narrow minded.
Because i've always explored; and even one staff once told me, that i like to stay on the borders of christian values; i like to explore the boundaries.
I told him then: "that from that point, on that line, i get to see everything, that is why."
"but at the end of the day, i'm still firmly on God's side".

And the interesting thing is, now it seems, that so many others are "on the other side."

ps//

2009-05-26T17:32:00.001+02:00

please do keep matt in prayers, for his exam tomorrow. The module is called prospective environmental assessment, and it'll be an oral exam. Pray that all things go well, and that the exam will be a smashing one.

your prayers are greatly appreciated! :)

Feeling somewhat feeble...

2009-05-26T17:07:00.003+02:00

I don't know what went wrong with my body, but I've totally lost my appetite since yesterday. Somehow, i just couldn't force the food down my throat. And perhaps because of the lack of food, I am feeling so weak, listless, and energy-less.

This morning, I woke up with an immense jolt of pain in my lower stomach. It was so painful, i was in cold sweat, and I quickly rushed to the toilet. The pain was totally unbearable, I couldn't even sit properly on the toilet bowl. I had to sit on the toilet floor and i wanted to puke, but nothing came out. Then, my head felt dizzy, and my limbs turned cold and numbed. I couldn't really walk properly, i went straight to my bed, and clenched my stomach...but it didn't go any better. And I seriously don't know what went wrong, because i didn't have diarrhoea. I felt as though my time was almost up.

So, I ran as best as i could to dear's room, knocked on the door so hard. I know he's still alseep cos it was pretty early in the morning, but i couldn't take it any longer. I needed help. I rushed into his room, ran into the toilet, and poop-ed. No diarrhoea. No vomit. But immense pain. I dashed to his bed to lie down, breaking out in sweat, and i couldn't move my fingers at all. It was stiff, and i had to ask dear to bend them for me. I was really scared. What made it worse was I had to go to school in an hour's time because both of us have a presentation to do which is 50% of the grade. I think i made him worried sick, he kept asking me what's wrong what's wrong..but i kept saying ' i don't know, it's just so painful!!' So anyhow, he gave me carbon tablets. After eating 14 pills, i had to use the toilet and diarrhoea came. So, we concluded it was food poisoning. At first we thought it was menstural cramps, but i don't usually have them, so i don't really know if that was it. Slowly, he rubbed my tummy, and massaged my limbs to get my blood circulation back in order, and thank God, the pain subsided and i was able to go to school for the presentation. Sorry for the scare today, dear.

I seriously never felt in such great pain before. Totally horrible. But thankfully, the big hooha lasted for just an hour or so. Unfortunately, my appetite hasn't regained a single bit. I haven't eaten much since dinner last night, and i haven't felt hungry at any point in time since then. Weird, and it makes me really hard to prepare dinner...cos i've no appetite, and the sight of food doesn't really give me any joy in cooking. This sucks. Hopefully, i'll be well by tmr.

__________________________________________________________________

That being said, I wanna say to my dear bitsies, that your parcel came in real handy! Even though i'm not well enough to use those pastes now, i'm really looking forward to using them! It brought such great joy to me, and it came at the right time, cos i'm pretty stressed with my 3 exams that's coming next week. Your thoughtfulness and love really encouraged me a great deal :D Matt didn't exxagerate when he tagged the tagboard. Truly can't thank both of u enough. Really can't wait to go back to give both of u a great big hug! :)

Of course, we really appreciate and am very grateful for all our friends. For jess, for min hwee, yiling, lan anh, sylvia, kingslin, cell group, tim, reynard, for every single one that has been keeping both of us in prayers, in thoughts! :) we're truly so so so blessed!

2009-05-25T14:01:00.002+02:00

About half an hour before my exam. haha or presentation.
Made my nice slides as usual, on Singapore!
I really wonder what the teacher will think...
Tomorrow another presentation.
Then on Wednesday the biggest exam remaining.

There's always a big exam remaining.
That said, this trip and experience has been wonderful.
Nothing short of thanks to Uncle Chung Chi and Auntie Pooh Li, Uncle Frips and Auntie May for arrangning the many lunches and dinners for us; plus the amazing home group that we go to; Susan esp. for being so friendly, and even church.. I do miss Pastor Richard; the most respected pastor i've ever seen in my time (by me). He has great balance, amazing tone and articulation; and the warm spirit of a "father".
But there are sad things that come and go; that all you seek for in unity, has been disbanded by disunity. And its sad to hear what happens around, and what is happening around.
I remember reading this book which was titled, "If standing together is so easy, why is it so easy to fall down"?
And thats exactly the fact. And you wonder.

People fall down, because we are weak.
And everyone wants his/her own group.
Everyone wants their life to be secure/to be safe.
But then again....

The concept of love and service, is to help others before yourself.
To help others at the expense of yourself.
And to help those that need it.

What i don't understand even more, is the fact that everyone thinks so "short-term"
Is life just about the next 2 years, or the next 5 or 10 years? Or even the next 30?
This i don't understand, yet i'm very sure many don't understand my POV as well.

All is fair and love and war, and is less fair in a game of love and war.
But its love that rules; and not yourself.

2009-05-24T21:26:00.002+02:00

1 time was enough.

Twice, was too much.

Three times, was something that ought to be forgotton.

But the fourth, deserved something not for me to decide.

Thank God and you :)

2009-05-15T22:36:00.002+02:00

I've just finished 2 exams this week, and I must really thank God for guiding us through..and i can't thank you more dear. Thank you for your infinite support and help. I want you to know that i truly appreciate all that you've done and sacrificed for me :) love you.

It's my 1st time taking an oral exam today and it was an experience. The feeling is just so different from written exams, but i probably don't have a good gauge or opinion about this since the lecturer for this module is from Hokkaido and there were only 4 students including me.

All in all, i just want to thank God, thank my other half, and the friends who prayed for me. The following week, dear would have 2 exams and both of us would have a presentation to do...so do continue to keep us in prayers!

It's my turn to support you! :) :) huggs.

Only God truly knows our needs...

2009-05-13T16:51:00.001+02:00

Let Us Pray - Steven Curtis Chapman

I hear you say your heart is aching
You've got trouble in the making
And you ask if I'll be praying for you please
And in keeping with conviction
I'll say yes with good intentions
To pray later making mention of your needs
But since we have this moment here at heaven's door
We should start knocking now, what are we waiting for?

CHORUS:
Let us pray, let us pray, everywhere in every way
Every moment of the day, it is the right time
For the Father above, He is listening with love
And He wants to answer us, so let us pray

So when we feel the Spirit moving
Prompting, prodding and behooving
There is no time to be losing, let us pray
Let the Father hear us saying
What we need to be conveying
Even while this song is playing, let us pray
And just because we say the word, "Amen"
It doesn't mean this conversationi needs to end

Let us pray, let us pray, everywhere in every way
Every moment of the day, it is the right time
Let us pray without end and when we finish start again
Like breathing out and breathing in, let us pray

Let us approach the throne of grace with confidence
As our prayers draw us near
To the One who knows our needs
Before we even call His name
Let us pray everywhere in every way
Every moment of the day, it is the right time
Let us pray without end and when we finish start again
Like breathing out and breathing in, let us pray

Great and Mighty is our Lord!

2009-05-12T21:51:00.002+02:00

(Pictures Taken at Europe's highest mountain lift, Zermatt)

The Great & Mighty Cross, towering over the Swiss Alps.

Isn't it just wonderful to see people recognizing and dedicating Switzerland's beauty to God's creation? :)

ABRSM - another chance?

2009-05-10T10:16:00.002+02:00

It's Mother's Day today, and so, we webcamed and had a good chat with her, as well as my dad, my brother and gf. They told me that they were considering to buy a new piano cos the one we have now is too old, plus it contains my vomit stains when i was really young. (yes, i vomitted on the piano when i was little...imagine, a new piano and their little precious daughter vomitted on it...must have been painful back then hehe)

My mum mentioned that my ex-piano teacher tried to contact me recently, and she said that my teacher's kinda sad to know that i'm not really playing the piano anymore. So, my parents are kinda encouraging me to take up lessons again after i graduate, and finish up my grade 8. Yeah, I failed grade 8 when i was in jc 2 taking A levels and SYF at the same time...and it's kinda a pity to leave it hanging at grade 6 since i skipped grade 7. Yet, I know what ABRSM exams are like...it freaks me out and i don't really have a talent for classical music. And the thought of sight-reading and oral doesn't help! But, on the other hand, i really do want to hone my piano skills and play really nice christian songs. It still makes me go green with envy whenever i see someone playing the piano so fluently and elegantly.

Should I take up piano lessons once again? If i do, i would want to pay the tuition fees myself cos i know it's expensive and i shouldn't let my parents pay when i've started work.

And what about driving lessons? baptism classes? I don't think I have that much time available when I start work! At least, I think i've about a year to consider. Afterall, there's no need to hurry. I'm still young right?! :P

Dedicated to my Mum

2009-05-09T20:18:00.002+02:00

To the Best Mother in the world:

(Picture taken in Mirabel Gardens, Salzburg where Sound of Music was filmed)

Life is like a Tandem Bike

2009-05-08T20:48:00.001+02:00

"At first I saw God as my observer, my judge,
keeping track of the things I did wrong,
so as to know whether I merited heaven or hell when I die.
He was out there sort of like a president.
I recognised his picture when I saw it,
but I didn’t really know him.

But later on when I met Christ,
it seemed as though life were rather like a bike ride,
but it was a tandem bike and I noticed that Christ was in the back helping me pedal.

I don't know just when it was
that He suggested we change places,
but life hasn't been the same since.
When I had control
I knew the way.
It was rather boring, but predictable ...
It was the shortest distance between two points.
But when He took the lead, He knew delightful long cuts, up mountains and through rock places
at breakneck speeds.
It was all I could do to hang on!
Even though it looked like madness,
He said, "Pedal!"

I worried and was anxious and asked,
"Where are you taking me?"
He laughed and didn't answer,
and I started to learn to trust.

I forgot my boring life and entered into the adventure.
And when I'd say, "I'm scared,"
He'd lean back and touch my hand.

He took me to people with gifts that I needed.
Gifts of healing, acceptance, and joy.
They gave me gifts to take on my journey,
my Lord's and mine.

And we were off again.
He said, "Give the gifts away; they're extra baggage,
too much weight."
So I did ... to the people we met.
And I found that in giving I received,
and still our burden was light.
I did not trust Him, at first, in control of my life.
I thought He'd wreck it;
but He knows bike secrets,
knows how to make it bend to take sharp corners,
knows how to jump to clear high rocks,
knows how to fly to shorten scary passages.

And I am learning to shut up and pedal in the Strangest places,
and I'm beginning to enjoy the view and the cool breeze on my face
with my delightful, constant companion, Jesus Christ.
And when I'm sure I just can’t do anymore,
He just smiles and says... "Pedal!"

-- poem by Richard Farmer

Blessed

2009-05-08T15:29:00.003+02:00

2 days ago, marked our 30 mths of being together.

(Taken in one of the gardens in Prague)

Thank God for you :)

Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.
-Ecclesiastes 4:12-

The wonders of God

2009-05-08T15:16:00.002+02:00

Sunset from the balcony of my hostel room, Dietikon

- Psalm 148 -

Praise the LORD.

Praise the LORD from the heavens,

praise him in the heights above.

Praise him, all his angels,

praise him, all his heavenly hosts.

Praise him, sun and moon,

praise him, all you shining stars.

Praise him, you highest heavens

and you waters above the skies.

Let them praise the name of the LORD,

for he commanded and they were created.

He set them in place for ever and ever;

he gave a decree that will never pass away.

Praise the LORD from the earth,

you great sea creatures and all ocean depths,

lightning and hail, snow and clouds,

stormy winds that do his bidding,

you mountains and all hills,

fruit trees and all cedars,

wild animals and all cattle,

small creatures and flying birds,
kings of the earth and all nations,

you princes and all rulers on earth,
young men and maidens,

old men and children.

Let them praise the name of the LORD,

for his name alone is exalted;

his splendor is above the earth and the heavens.

He has raised up for his people a horn,

the praise of all his saints,

of Israel,

the people close to his heart.

Praise the LORD.

Dear Lord,

2009-05-07T19:59:00.002+02:00

Grant me a heart that's pure and holy.
Grant me a heart that seeks after You and not the worldly pleasures.
Grant me a heart that fears You.
Grant me a heart that truly loves You.
Grant me a heart that is truly repentful for all the sins i've made in my life.
Grant me a heart that is self-controlled.

I want to surrender my everything to You. Help me to do so.

And may You look at me, and smile and not regret for this creation that You've made from Your hands.

I pray to know You more,
Amen

when time stands still

2009-05-07T18:25:00.003+02:00

"come what may"
its really in-between; and you kind of feel numb at this moment in time.
The swine flu around, people going everywhere, people studying; and those in singapore so happy its all over.
And you feel just so lost, in between that huge gap between nothingness.
And you can keep waiting;
but the excitement never dies down.
And you know, that something is coming, something big and marvellous
yet you have no idea about, and that people are all lost in what they're doing
and they forgot to remember, what's in store.

its more than june, thats for sure.

here comes the exams!

2009-05-05T22:55:00.003+02:00

And so, the aftermath of travelling leads to the upcoming of exams.

I have been travelling quite a bit, and i really enjoy it albeit the tiredness and cumbersome planning. During Easter, we went to budapest, vienna, krakow, prague, salzburg. And during the last labour day weekend, we went around Switzerland...stayed 2 nights in Zermatt which was truly a winter wonderland (even though it's may now, there's still plenty of snow there), went up to the highest mountain lift in Europe to have a fantastic aerial view of the mountain ranges and the famous Matterhorn mountain, afterwhich we headed to Montreux where we had a beautiful view of lake Geneva and then to Lausaunne.

Still got many places in Switzerland unventured yet, but probably got to give them a miss due to lack of time and budget constraints. The next, and probably the last trip in Switzerland would be Schauffhausen which we plan to go on the 16th May.

Anyhow, i've got 2 exams upcoming next week...
12th May - Food Fermentation
15th May - Physics of Ice

Hopefully, i'll pass them! :)

Anna's birthday; BBQ at Auntie May's place (25th April 09)

2009-04-30T10:51:00.004+02:00

The pastries Anna baked for her birthday. They were superb.

Half of our home group! (a bible-study group we're attending in IPC)

Anna has dozens of beautiful roses in her house! (Anna is the lady in red)

The very yummylicious food Uncle Frips bbq-ed for us

The really lovely and beautiful garden Auntie May has

Lovely Dinner with lovely people.

It was a nice gathering, and a nice get-to-know occassion with Auntie May's nephew (Wei Ren) and his girlfriend (Eileen) who are currently in St Gallens doing an SMU 1 month summer programme.

We've truly been very blessed to be able to meet these wonderful people here.

some pics taken from the wildlife park and silhwald forest

2009-04-25T10:09:00.002+02:00

2009-04-22T22:25:00.002+02:00

Through the river, as it flows
A rock tumbles,
grinds; battered and bruised
Weathered down into a little stone.

The river rages
havoc on these stones,
the water carves a picture;
never once foretold.

The stone tumbles
and grumbles, and falls
by the wayside
It remains, but never alone.

A little favour...

2009-04-07T21:42:00.002+02:00

I would like to sincerely ask all our christian friends out there, who reads this blog, to say a little prayer for Matthias. He'll be having his 1st oral exam in ETH tomorrow, and thus, he doesn't know what to expect. Do pray for the following:

- calm mind, calm heart, God's peace
- clarity in speech, good articulation, succint points
- that his answers will be relevant to the question
- grant him favour in the lecturer's eyes
- warm and friendly atmosphere between him and the lecturer
- to know how to answer the questions
- that God would grant him a pass
- faith in God that He will guide him
- focused and in the best physical state

His Exam Details (i only know the rough one):
Topic/Module- Ecotoxicology
Time- 2.30 -3pm (30 mins)
Venue: ETH Zentrum

Thank you so much for your prayers. They're greatly appreciated :) God bless all of you!

p.s.// keeping u in prayers dear! i'm with u, God's with u, and u'll do well i'm sure :) - huggs -

Bad cooking experience...

2009-04-04T20:40:00.003+02:00

Well, cooking is really fun when the result turns out good. But when it's bad, u just sigh cos of the waste of food and wished it was better. As dear will be having his 1st exam next wednesday, I've been cooking both lunch and dinner for the past week and most of them turned out pretty well. But today's dinner was a tad disappointing. I planned to cook sweet & sour chicken wings but somehow, i probably didn't mix the starch well enough with the tomato pury and added too much lime. It turned out too sour and too starchy, making the entire dish taste weird. Perhaps i should have tried the taste while cooking and add some sugar... But it's okay, i'll try it again another time. Thankfully, the corn rice didn't turn out too bad.

Not only did the chicken wings turned out bad, these other things happened in the process too..
- didn't hold the bag of rice properly while pouring into the cup...so a lot of rice came spilling out...wasted almost half a cup
- pulled the kitchen drawer too hard till the whole drawer came falling down, along with all the knives, forks, spoons...

i could have been hurt by the latter...imagine if the angle of the knife is wrong, i would have been injured badly. Thank God that i didn't get hurt at all. My roomie was so funny...she heard the loud crashing sound, and ran to me, and when she saw the knives lying on the floor...she got so worried that i got hurt. Thinking i was in shock and needed to cool down, she insisted on rinsing all the fallen utensils for me haha. so sweet of her.

Somehow, today wasn't a good day...considering that i didn't do much work too.

Cycling arnd Zurichsee; Hiking in the Sihlwald Forest

2009-04-04T10:16:00.003+02:00

Just last sunday, we did cycling with the rest around Zurichsee and it was really fun though pretty dangerous since we had to go through all the traffic and cars and whatnot. Worse thing was the bike sizes are all standardized, so imagine me riding the same bike as dear's. My legs couldn't even tough the floor when i'm on the bike! We had Teddy as our tourguide, and he brought us through all the busy traffic to zurich lake. The weather that day was pretty nice, and it felt really good cycling down the busy old town of Zurich. And the best thing was that it was free! You can rent a bike for free here, anytime!

Yesterday, both of us headed down to Langnau, where we went to visit the Nature park. It was enriching and exciting. We managed to see mountain goats (huge ones), wild boar, wildcats munching on a fresh lamb leg, real wolves, fox, moose, deers, horses, wicent etc. And again, entrance to the park is free! :) :) So it felt like we were in a zoo for free. It's really nice, mainly because the park was totally natural on the mountain, and not like the man-mades ones we have like our singapore zoo. The entire park is hugge, and we walked quite a fair bit up and down the slopes. By the time we finished visiting the park, it was 2pm. So, we headed to start our hiking trails by taking the train down to Horgen.

The routes:

1. Aabachtobel Forest Educational Trail, waterfall
Bus stop Käpfnach - Käpfnerweg - Rietwiesstrasse - Dow - Eichenbänkli - Aabachtobel - Wasserfall - Bus stop Arn

2. Horgenberg mountain pond, swimming, barbecueing
Postauto bus stop Enderholz - Horgenberg mountain pond – Post Horgenberg

The 1st hiking trail was the best thing that we had ever experienced here. We went through the forest, with hardly any guide for us...we had no maps, so we just had to follow our intuition hehe. Pretty dangerous actually, but since we were heading to the waterfall, we just had to follow the river streams and go upstream. It was so fun, cos both of us went down the muddy slopes to the river stream itself. We were so excited, and it was really rewarding esp when we ended up at the waterfall....the beauty we saw in the forest took away all the physical tiredness we had. Truly rewarding! Do wait for the photos! The waterfall is just a mini one...but still, it's natural! haha. The entire route probably took us about 2 hours, thereabout.

Still having some time, we decided to go for our 2nd hiking route. This one wasn't as exciting. It was more challenging than anything else, cos there were too many alternative routes, and there were many logging paths as well...so we don't really know which is the right way. We just kept walking and walking, in search of the mountain pond...but all that we saw was a huge depression in the midst of the mountain, covered with snow. There wasn't any water or ice at all. So we figured that this route has probably been abandoned already. Anyway, to cut the long story short, we couldn't find our way out...so we just had to walk down the 30 degrees inclined pasture slope, and end up at the main road so we could find the nearest busstop. This hike was terribly exhausting...cos it was muddy and full of horse shit. We just had to keep looking at our paths, and kept walking and walking until we gave up finding the right path haha. So anyhow, we managed to get to the road after stepping lots of cowdung, cos the entire pasture slope smelt as smelly as cow dung. After walking along the road for several minutes, we managed to see a busstop and guess what, we were just in time for the last bus! I can't imagine being stranded there if we missed that last bus. Really thank God for guiding us safely through our entire hiking encounter.

We were both dead tired by the time we got back, and could barely walk. Nevertheless, the experience we had was once-in-a-lifetime! :)

Daylight Savings

2009-04-04T09:43:00.003+02:00

I've never encountered daylight savings before, and it's just weird cos suddenly, the day seemed so long. Now, the sun rises at about 6.30am, and sets at 9pm. Good thing too is that the time zone difference between singapore and zurich is now reduced from 7 to 6 hours.

Because of daylight savings, both of us didn't manage to go to church last sunday. Thinking it was just a normal day, we went to the train station, only realising then that the clocks have been adjusted 1 hour ahead. It felt really weird haha. But it's really nice to have long days, definitely makes travelling much easier!

A christian song I liked since secondary school...

2009-04-02T16:51:00.001+02:00

"Every Season" by Nichole Nordeman

Every evening sky, an invitation
To trace the patterned stars
And early in July, a celebration
For freedom that is ours
And I notice You
In children’s games
In those who watch them from the shade
Every drop of sun is full of fun and wonder
You are summer

And even when the trees have just surrendered
To the harvest time
Forfeiting their leaves in late September
And sending us inside
Still I notice You when change begins
And I am braced for colder winds
I will offer thanks for what has been and was to come
You are autumn

And everything in time and under heaven
Finally falls asleep
Wrapped in blankets white, all creation
Shivers underneath
And still I notice you
When branches crack
And in my breath on frosted glass
Even now in death, You open doors for life to enter
You are winter

And everything that’s new has bravely surfaced
Teaching us to breathe
What was frozen through is newly purposed
Turning all things green
So it is with You
And how You make me new
With every season’s change
And so it will be
As You are re-creating me
Summer, autumn, winter, spring

Swiss Friends

2009-04-01T16:34:00.002+02:00

It's really nice that we formed a project group with the locals today for one of our module, Environmental Sanitation in Developing Countries. We were quite a diverse group; 1 coming from Germany, 2 Singaporeans (that's us), and 2 locals! Both of us came here, wanting to make some swiss friends, and get to know more about their culture and their lifestyles but we both found it very hard despite us being very initiative already. The swiss students tend to keep among themselves and always sticking to their cliques...we felt as if we were aliens or something. But thank God for some really friendly swiss friends that we've made. Like Bea, she's really nice, she almost joined her usual clique to do the project, but decided to mix with us :) And she added that singaporeans doesn't seem very sociable (except for us! haha), but she said it was partly her fault too for she didn't make an effort to really speak to them. That was so nice of her. Other international friends that we've got to know from our classes are Isabella (from Austria), Clementine (from Switz), Rafael (from Switz), and Max (from Austria).

Thank God for them, for making us feel welcome here. It really means a great deal! =)

2009-03-30T18:41:00.002+02:00

people have come and people have gone;
and yet the same few remain.

And, sad as one may be; so may the sun rise again.
For, God never meant for us to be alone in this world;
But undoubtedly, a modern christian feels alone in this world.

For what he strives for, only few will see.
What he dreams of, only few will know of.

People have gone,
But we remain happy.
For the ones that remain,
remain in love,
and we are blessed.

2009-03-30T16:40:00.002+02:00

I think i'm getting quite jaded with people these days, probably because i feel unappreciated, or rather we. Many times, i do not understand why certain actions and words have been said. Things seemed to be getting kinda bleak here.

Many thoughts, but hesistant to blog it down...

2009-03-29T18:02:00.002+02:00

Never ask for more.

2009-03-28T22:03:00.004+01:00

If only everyone is just like Jesus, how nice this world would be.

I guess that only happens in heaven. And i pray I will be able to enter the narrow gate, together with my loved ones.

Something amusing!

2009-03-27T17:07:00.002+01:00

Do you know that a 35L garbage bag here costs 2 CHF each? That means, it's SGD 2.66, which is almost equivalent to a plate of chicken rice back home. Gosh. And for a 17L garbage bag, it's 1CHF each.

Crazy.

It's so expensive!! I was just wondering why was it so expensive when they wanted us to be environmentally friendly? If it was much cheaper, then people wouldn't throw their rubbish indiscriminately since it's affordable to get garbage bags! Then dear said that by doing so, then we would really learn to separate our garbage since the fines are so heavy here.

But then again, they have recycling bins for paper, cartons, and glasses. But how about plastics? Almost all the meat we buy here come in plastic boxes. Throwing them inside the garbage bag would take up so much space! It's still something I need to work out with, I need to optimize my garbage bag!! Funnily, i like singapore's garbage bags...so cheap, so big, and it's everywhere. You know, we could only find the right garbage bag that we had to use in 1 supermarket. Elsewhere, we had to buy additional stickers. So troublesome right!

And another thing, people here don't understand the word 'rubbish' or 'garbage'. We have to say 'waste' before they understand what we meant. Haha.

Room Cleaning...

2009-03-27T16:53:00.003+01:00

... is something that i don't like to do, but have to do.

It's quite a chore, really. That's why it's called household chores haha. (so lame). But seriously, ever since i came here, I really start to realise how precious my maid Mable is. It is here that i finally learn how to appreciate all the work that she does for my family and my home. I don't clean my room everyweek, I try to vacuum it every once in 2 weeks. And even so, it's so tiring. I have to admit I have been pretty pampered, or rather, very. Back home, I don't have to care about how dirty my room is; I can simply just sweep eraser rubbings onto the floor...but here, i would think twice and sweeped it to my palm instead and throw it in a bin. Back home, i can just use as many plates as i want, and my dear mable would wash it for me and everything will be spick and span. Here, I would think twice and use as little plates as possible so i can save some time from washing. Simple things like these.

I had to come all the way here to learn how to use the washing machine, hand-wash my clothes, clean the toiletbowl, wash lots of dishes quickly, mop and vacuum the floor. I have seriously been too pampered. Thank goodness i realise it here hehe.

I'm not complaining, but instead, i'm happy that i'm learning. This way, when i go back home, I won't take my maid and mom for granted anymore, and i guess, it'll be good for me in the future. Honestly, whenever i mentioned to anyone that i wouldn't mind being a housewife, I always think about cooking for my other half and taking care of our kids. Cleaning toilets wouldn't come into my mind instantaneously...and now i'm starting to imagine cleaning the entire house everyday. Oh my goodness. Cleaning my own room is already such a chore, i can't imagine an entire house! Haha.

2009-03-26T12:15:00.002+01:00

Seriously,
If you're not ready, you're just not ready.

You live in the present, not in the future.

When the basis is to always focus on the things that are eternal.

So drink your milk and eat your bread first.

Congrats Familee!

2009-03-25T23:46:00.002+01:00

The Lee family is getting a new member! Congrats to Gen, she's really good hahaha...it's gonna be their 3rd child. It's been a while since i lat talked to them, partly cos i left their cell group, and hence didn't really have much chances to talk to them. But nevertheless, i really thank God for allowing me to go through follow-up with Gen, and having Ben as my first cell group leader. I really like to have them in cell, but a pity that i couldn't get along well with the other cell members, prob cos of age difference. Well, but i've been keeping up with their blog almost daily cos it's so nice to read about their growing process as a family (reminds me of Jon & Kate plus 8 in discovery channel), thus I was really happy for them to know that there'll be a new addition to their family! They're truly blessed. I really think Ben & Gen are really really good parents! :)

____________________________

On a side note, i've been attending cell regularly @ Lars Nilson's house, and it's been really enjoyable. There're no guitarists, so we sing accapella for worship. It's different compared to back home, and i think i prefer doing worship just with voices alone.

Blessed with a cute and sweet roomy

2009-03-23T19:00:00.002+01:00

I guess I haven't really talked much about my roomy other than the time when i whined and got upset about her drinking. It's been 7 weeks now, and i must say, that i really thank God for her. Even though she's always pretty high, get frequent mood swings, and can get herself drunk quite easily, she's really adorable! One thing that i really admire and like about her is that she doesn't hide her emotions. She's doesn't put on a facade, and portrays who she really is all the time.

My roomy is a very happy-go-lucky girl who is always so optimistic and doesn't worry unnecessarily. Through these 7 weeks, she has unconsciously taught me to see things from a different perspective, to count my blessings and not focusing or worrying over little things. She gets happy so easily, and she makes me laugh so much. The fact that she's 2 years younger than me makes me feel like an elder sister to her. I've joked with her that i would want to adopt her as my younger sister haha! She's learning to be more sensible and practising more self-control over alcohols these days. There was a time when she started drinking in the room cos she was feeling very upset and vexed over something which i won't disclose, and it pains me to see her doing that. And i have to say that i'm really impressed with her teachable spirit. Ever since that only once incident that she got really drunk, she promised me that she won't drink to that extent again...and true enough, she didn't. She still drinks now and then, but she knows her limit and i'm really proud of her for that.

I finally have come to understand why God wanted me to have her as my room-mate. Many times i get to share about my relationship with matthias, and she'll ask questions about certain things..and from there, i can share a bit more about our faith. Perhaps one day i could share with her more about God. Haha, and on her facebook, she wrote "I love my roommate". So sweet and adorable she is, always making people around her happy.

That's my roomy :)

Of plastics, environment and fines

2009-03-22T10:31:00.002+01:00

Are tourists really the main cause of litter and environmental pollution in Switzerland? Indeed, Switzerland is a pretty clean country, but i really feel the rules and regulations here are too exaggerating and too rigid.

So far we have 3 fellow singaporean friends in our hostel getting fined. 1 got fined for throwing rubbish in a plastic bag in a public area (and not using the proper garbage bag), another 2 got fined for using a zurich garbage bag but not the right one for the region Dietikon and the latter one was fined CHF100 each. It's ridiculous. Firstly, we don't know which is the right garbage bag, and we weren't really taught what's right or wrong. It's not indiscriminate littering, and they don't give us any warning whatsoever. It's a lot of money, really.

But i guess this is what it takes to be environmentally friendly, and to aid/facilitate their recycling processes.

2009-03-22T09:49:00.003+01:00

Somewhere out there, beneath the pale moonlight.
Someone's thinking of me, and loving me tonight.

Somewhere out there, someone's saying a prayer
Then we'll find one another in that big somewhere out there.
"An American Tail"

How apt.
If dreams came through; how wonderful it would be.
While the Alps are nice, it is still not wonderland.

Cruise to Rapperswill from Zurichsee

2009-03-20T11:26:00.002+01:00

@ Auntie Pooh Lii and Uncle Chung Chi's Place

There house is our dream house haha.

And the dinner they kindly cooked for us was fabulous!

Stroll down Zurichsee with Rahel

Walking down the longest wooden bridge in Switzerland @ Rapperswill

On the cruise towards Rapperswill ( 2 hours ride)

The magnificent view we witnessed from the cruise

Lugano

2009-03-20T11:16:00.002+01:00

Dear and i went to lugano about 2/3 weeks back, and it was a very lovely town. Sorry that the pictures are uploaded in reverse order haha.

Lake Lugano in the eveningSunset

Bike-race we witnessed that day

Lake Lugano from the hill which we climbed

Old Town

One of Lugano's park, where we had our lunch

Lake Lugano in the morning

Us!

View from our lunch place

Another beautiful garden

Trip to Germany (08/03/09) - Hiedelberg, Titisee

2009-03-20T11:03:00.004+01:00

Finally, pictures! :)The hostel we stayed in (20 euros per night)

Igloo at Titisee

Germanz's black forest

Hiedelberg (Redhaus castle)

Titisee's iconic glacier lake

2009-03-19T08:45:00.000+01:00

Here I am on the other side of the radio
Wondering why I'm here and why anybody cares what I say
No, I'm not a better man 'cause I'm singing my songs on the radio'
Cause we're all the same at the end of the day

Now I imagine you on the other side of the radio
Doing your homework or driving with your windows down on the freeway
I see you tapping the wheel, I see you bobbing your head to the radio
Oh, and it makes my day to see that smile on your face
And in some small way, I remember my place

'Cause it's you and me singing the same song right now
And maybe this'll bring us together somehow
And maybe there's a million people all singing along
Somebody started thinking about the third line
And maybe someone's saying a prayer for the first time
And that's enough reason to keep me singing my songs
Singing my songs on the other side of the radio

Crank up the volume and sing at the top your lungs with the radio
Tuning in to some good news, and laughing along with the D. J.
We're changing somebody's world from the other side of the radio
Oh, and it makes my day to see that smile on your face
And in some small way, I remember my place

'Cause it's you and me singing the same song right now
And maybe that'll bring us together somehow
And maybe there's a million people all singing along
Somebody started thinking about the third line
And maybe someone's saying a prayer for the first time
And that's enough reason to keep me singing my songs
Singing my songs on the other side of the radio

'Cause it's you and me singing the same song right now
And maybe that'll bring us together somehow
And maybe there's a million people all singing along
Somebody started thinking about the third line
And maybe someone's saying a prayer for the first time
And that's enough reason to keep me singing my songs
Keep me singing my songs on the other side of the radio
On the other side of the radio, on the other side of the radio
On the other side of the radio

2009-03-19T00:34:00.001+01:00

Life really has its full plethora of experiences.
But the wonderful thing is, God places the right people at the right time in the right place for us.

Coming to Zurich has been easy, but staying here has been hard.

Everyday now, i wished that things were different,
That i could do things differently; or just that some little part of the situation was different.

I admit it, I am emotional now.
But it makes a difference in my life, it helps me to reflect and rediscover myself whilst i'm here.
Everyday has not been a regret, but it has been a thought on the back of my mind.

I still remember the times in primary school where studying was such a breeze
Where the teachers liked me so much, and i was as proud as can be.
Then in primary 4, everything became harder.
New environments, new people... things were never the same.
I met one of my best friends ever, David, i guess.. But a struggle it was; nonetheless.

In secondary school, for the first 2 years of my high school experience; things were definitely rocky.
I, for one, learnt to be quiet.
I was surrounded by people who were better than me in so many ways.
I could learn, and had nothing to give.
In the later secondary school years, i met other people; broadened by perspectives.
And more importantly, i finall learnt enough to face my world; to open my wings a little bit.

In Sec 4, it came all crashing back down to earth.
I learnt humility, i learnt being helpless...
I learnt what it was to treasure the little most simplistic things i had.

In JC, it seemed like fun began.
But in the midst of tribulation, i found God and Jesus, and even the Holy Spirit.
I grew many times; in terms of spiritual maturity.
And even satisfaction with who i was, and who i could be.

In Army, it all came together, and i realized what God had equipped me for.
That i was already a difference; in more ways than one, and thats what God wanted me to be.

In NUS... i had to fight for myself, i had to face the harsh realities of the meritocratic world out there. But i relished the fight, and i never gave in.

But now in Zurich, it feels a bit different here.

It feels like time stands still, and nothing ever shows up.

It feels as though, the people are colder than the winters.

It feels like at times, we're all alone; just because we're together.

It feels now, that i made the wrong choices, and i went where God did not want me to go.

And now it feels like i'm suffering the consequences of it.

Do i feel betrayed, yes definitely.
Do i feel lost, yes, that too.
Do i feel misunderstood; completely.
Do i feel wrong, that too.
Do i feel like something was missing from the start....?

Each step i think of what i have done, and i admit i did it wrongly.
I chose the wrong thing, and i'm guilty of my own folly.
Even now, the spiral goes out of control and there's nothing i can really do about it.

But the wonderful thing is, God made it this way.
That i should learn, that all through my life, it has always been the same thing.
I was never one to rub shoulders with the best, or even the most recognized people.
My calling lay, fighting with those who never seemed to win, and never seemed to be loved.

This is my discovery thus far.
That i was born, and borne to do something different.
I was born a revolutionary, not for the people; but for the real people.

I am a real person, but a pity many around me are not.
I am true inside out, true to my beliefs and true to my love.
I am not judgemental, but yet i see.
God made me this way, and he has placed people that love me all around me;
even in the midst of these feelings that i'm unloved and unappreciated.
That he encourages me with the most unexpected of words;
when the most unexpected of setbacks befall me.

God brought my friends when i truly needed them,
he brought me my love when i was ready.
Now, he brought me little blessings that even i could bless,
when i needed it; and when it also needed me.
God brought me the people i cherish so much in my heart.

For I appreciate Him, and I appreciate them.

To Uncle Chung Chi, Auntie Pooh Lii for helping me settle in and for their kind hospitality, to Uncle Frips and Auntie May for keeping me on my toes, for even Tamisa for helping me see true happinness and sadness when it was due, for my dear, definitely for always being there. For bella, for Madis, for Agnes, Laura for being my friends in class. For Lars, Deborah, Susan, Torsten, Mark, Anna, Alessia and Todd and Philip for the amazing advice, not just through what was said, but what was shown. And also Chen Lu for fair forgiveness and graciousness. Finally, to God's Church, IPC; for it is truly a people of power.

These people set themselves apart; they gave more than they were given.
They loved more than they received.
They helped me when i needed it.

I realized that, that in them; God placed something special.
And its something that i must re-learn, because in a way; i lost it somehow.

"To love more than to be loved"
Is the most unseen thing which has the greatest impression on me.
And the greatest pity i've experienced in my time here.
Just because...
It is a lost culture in so many of us.
A missing value in our upbringing.
And so few of us find it.

Weekend trip to Germany (Hiedelberg & Titisee)

2009-03-19T00:16:00.002+01:00

It was a last minute decision to go with yeanching and ruili to Germany last weekend, but we had no regrets! Albeit a tiring trip, it was a really great one. The weather was good, and the scenery was really nice too. In 2 days, we took a total of 13 trains....We visited the oldest-ruined castle at Hiedelberg which was really nice, walked on the bridge, walked down the longest pedestrain street for 4 times, and stayed in a hostel for our very 1st time.

It's the 1st time we crossed the border of switzerland, and it's interesting to see how the cultures differ between switzerland and germany. Funnily, dear mentioned that switzerland has everything germany has, but germany doesn't. Germany is more laid-back in general, and the people are slightly less cultured, but very much more friendlier. Germany is huge though, and it seemed flatter than switzerland, probably coz i only visited 2 places. Anyhow, the hostel we stayed in wasn't too bad. We paid 20 euros per person for a night, and 4 of us stayed in a room with no attached toilet. Just outside our room, there are 6 more bunks which we had to cross everytime we wanna leave the room to go to the toilet. We met those 6 people, and they came from all over the place...some from germany, some from russia etc. And it was an eye-opener for me, cos they were drinking tequilla shots, and the girls were dancing quite sexually with the guys. They invited and kept encouraging us to drink with them, but dear and i can't hold liquour and we don't want to get drunk...so we just refused. But yeanching and ruili had 1/2 shots, they said it was good though hehe.

That night, we went out to the streets, and had an ice-cream (huge one) for only 1 euro! cheap and good stuff! We chatted that night in our room, about what we think of each other in terms of personality, and it was interesting.... a time of discovering ourselves haha. On sunday, we left for Titisee to visit Germany's black forest. It was really beautiful. For the 1st time in our lives, we saw the iconic glacier lake...a lake totally frozen, which we kept throwing stones on it to see if it cracks. It's a cute sight seeing ducks and birds standing on the froken ice. We went up the mountain and had a top-down view of the blackforest, and there was a ski areana there too, where there was an igloo. It is so cool seeing people skiing and snowboarding so skillfully...it always seemed so easy when we see them do it.

Travelling is not worry-free. We were on the top of the mountain, and because we wanted to take pictures, we walked down, planning to head for another bus-stop to get back. But, as we continued walking, we realised the bus doesn't go to that bus-stop, and we were getting worried, cos we had to catch a train in 1 hour's time or we'll have to get back to switzerland pretty late. Thankfully, we flagged another bus, where the driver kindly took us to the right bus-stop. haha. On the way back, we had to rush for 2 trains, where we had to run to another platform within 3 minutes. We ran for our lives, and it was so funny, all of us kept laughing as we ran. It was dead tiring, and we panted like never before. Thank God, we caught all the trains and got back safely. Wow, i've seriously never changed trains so many times within such a short time span before.

This saturday, dear and i will be going for the renowed glacier express train in switzerland from Chur to Zermatt. The train ride will last for about 5-6 hours, passing through the swiss alps. Hopefully, the weather will be nice, and we'll enjoy ourselves! :)

2009-03-17T00:46:00.000+01:00

Shades of Red; Where are the pillars?
At the end of the rainbow, where the indigo turns to red.
Shades of Grey, Where is the moonlight?
Hidden, shrouded by the clouds which drives out the rain.
Shades of Silver coloured petals, Where are the flowers?
Trampled, Under our feet.
Shades of Black, dotted with white, Where are we?
Far, far away; from the book of life.

2009-03-12T09:30:00.002+01:00

Summery days and Wintry Nights,
Thats how it is in Zurich.

A leaf drops from the top of the tree, but never reaches the ground.
"Intercepted" they call it, intercepted by God's hand.

That is destiny, knowing that there was another leaf to break your fall.
Knowing that God saved you before you fell.

Crucially, it hurts.

2009-03-12T00:01:00.003+01:00

God controls our Destinies. God controls our coming and leaving. God controls it all. The alpha and the omega.

Certainly, it's gonna be a tough night for me; one filled with anxieties, sadness, worries and uncertainties. That's the human side of me. Yet, the spiritual side of me is telling me that I should trust God and know that whatever happens, happens according to His plan.

Emotional night it may be, teary-faced as i lie on the bed...seeking refuge and comfort from God. Thousand and one prayers from people, i'm thankful for them.

I believe in prayers. You'll be fine.

2009-03-11T18:25:00.002+01:00

"Grow Home"

There was once a very little boy who told himself, "I can see the world, all by myself."

When the boy grew up, he told himself, "I will see the world, all by myself."

When the boy turned a man, he told himself, "I have seen the world, all by myself."

And when the man grew old, he told himself, "I am all by myself."

And when the old man died, he told himself, "I can see the world."

Life has all its funny twists and turns.
And sometimes, as i sit by my table just wondering,
I ponder if i have thought too much.
That reflections upon reflections has yielded nothing;
but the meaning of what it means to reflect.

I have thought about the trees, the sky.
Thought about love, friends.
I've reflected upon sin and happiness.
But it has all come to naught...

Tomorrow will keep coming, and will keep bringing new things to think about.
Yesterday was always lost, Today always has its troubles.
But now, all I can think of is home.

Not just home, but home where everything is.

2009-03-11T15:51:00.002+01:00

People and Situations fluctuate too much.
Its totally unpredictable; there's no sure way to fully qualify or quantify how things will work out;
as long as people are involved.

Over in Switzerland, you feel a bit lonely; making friends with people.
By nature, it is hard to make friends here, because not only are everyone private.
I think, they think like me when it comes to making friends; what is the point of it all?
Considering, of course, that we are exchange students and are returning to Singapore in 6 months or so.
So friendships and all are on too deep a level; there is quite a bit of rationalization when it comes to this. So woe to me myself, i am a bit deep.
But conversely, we can be the sociable people, the Americans, but perhaps; that all might seem less meaningful.

It sure is difficult to make friends compared to the past.
There is simply too much personal preference here.
Personal preference affects how you treat/react to another person.
For example, one person can be absolutely mean to me just because i'm not good looking enough, but be perfectly nice to another person jsut because she/he thinks that person is really smart and can help her. There are a multitude of reasons why one person is nice to the other.
Truthfully, and there's no way we can get around that.

Honestly, the way things are now.
Not just caused by me, but by society as a whole.
Is that people are more private, no one wants to share their innermost thoughts, or what they sincerely feel inside.
That we treat each other with politeness, and a certain sense of courtesy.

Generally, we are too wary of one another; swiss included.
Singaporeans are too wary because we are too used to "clique" culture. We've ideally been brought up to compete with one another.
Swiss are too wary because they value their private life too much.

Its weird, that i've made so few friends here.
It should be more fun than that.
I fully believe the people here are just too diverse.
And just too private.
Or perhaps, the friendly people are too interspersed.
That it depends not just on the chance meeting, but also the chance that opportunity comes for an exchange of ideas and development of understanding, and finally the chance that newly formed social dynamics do not conflict with previously formed ones.

We all define what we like and treasure now; all too distinctly.
I miss my friends all over the world;
for 1. their honesty with me, 2. their openness with me, 3. the good values and fair ways they treat everyone, 4. the group spirit they have, 5. how they live and fulfill their life's dreams and goals, 6. for the nice people they are, not just to me but to many others.

How complex the world is.
How complex life here in Zurich is.
Seriously, familiarity doesn't breed contempt, rather it brings friends.

2009-03-07T08:52:00.002+01:00

Its amusing how so many people around here do not seek to understand others;
but just let themselves be understood.

Its a pity,
for great friendships were always made out of understanding.
And without understanding, nothing was ever accomplished.

2009-03-07T00:39:00.004+01:00

This is a formal log entry; of my dream.... of the dream i'd seek, the dream i'd wish to have, if not in my life, at least in heaven; as described.

I would like to see a deep blue sky, without any clouds; but with striations of a deep red; to signify love, and the romanticism of the sunset which i enjoy. I do not wish to see the sun, nor the moon; but a sky just filled with stars. I want it to be dim always, to always help me remember the refuge we have in each star up high.
I want to see trees, and fairies. I want to see little birds that fly around in pairs, that chirp harmonious melodies, and lay their eggs in little nests in the open shrubs. I'd like to see squirrels that run up and down each tree, searching and seeking for little bundles of joy. That they'll work with the fairies, to partake in their jobs of decorating the world. That they decorate the trees with nuts, the grass with little petals; and the lakes with perfectly placed pebbles and lilies. I'd like to see tulips and roses laid in rows, on pebbled ground, by the river. I don't want to see a mountain, as they bring too much mystique. Rather, i'd like to see rainbows, and hilly beds of flowers. On each hill, i'd like to see a little cottage. I'd like all my friends, each staying in a single cottage; and we rode on horses to visit one another. The wolves are our friends, they keep watch. There will be no sheep in this dream, but rather; i'd like to see angels growing beautiful stalks of wheat, corn and barley. I'd like to see lettuces, rows and rows of lettuce patches; interlined with cabbage patches. No farmer, no scarecrows. Rather, each friend, responsible for each part of our garden. I'd like to see the guys together, sitting down, chatting, reflecting; remembering the creations around us. I'd like to see us mending the fields, playing with our dogs, making sure the grass was always green. And i'd like to see the grass always green. i'd want davina to be my wife, and i'd want her to be happily cooking lovely pies in a central kitchen with my other friends / friend's wives. I'd like them to have endless teas and neverending songs from their lips.
In this dream, nothing is black, but everything should be in techni-colour, or in white, as a symbol of purity. I like to have God's angels up above, looking down; just watching over us. I'd like a waterfall, where the children could play; without any leeches, but crystal clear water and dolphins in these crystal pools.
The cottages we stay in, would never break down; but are forever, lined with snow. A fireplace that is always warm, and warm fur rugs line the rooms.
Most importantly, i'd want the world to be perfect, i'd want me to be perfect, and i want my friends to be perfect; and living in harmony. Here, there is a sense of unity, and everything is done together, and not a person left out. Here, everyone wears a smile on their face; and everyone is happy with their job. Here, everyone are friends and talks to each other in love and supplication. Not an unedifying word is said, nor a single word spurned.
Our houses would be in a square, each one joined to the adjacent one. On the inside, a central garden, on the outside, the vast ocean. and nothing else.
God walks in my world, on foot. And he lives up above the square of houses, not in a palace, but in a single cloud; which shines like gold. In my dream, there are no cars, no concrete buildings; neither are there any need for any other drink but water. For water taste as sweet and clear, and the sweetest nectar from flowers mixed with the freshest dew.
And more importantly, i want us all to be old. To understand the experiences life has brought us, to know God's presence, but more importantly; to have been through our entire youths and adulthood together. And in this state, i want us to live our eternal lives. For even if our bodies were strong, we would be weak; for in weakness, together we can derive strength. And even in our old age, we can see the true love each one of us has for the other. and in this dream; i want my darling to be by my side, always and forevermore.

This is my dream, and my prayer.
Amen.

2009-03-06T22:58:00.002+01:00

What is the meaning of it all...
Of fun, of games, of laughter.
Than one's opinions differ from another;
or that we ascribe to different things.
What does it matter,
that i see the sun rising from east,
or see the stars that glitter but do not shine.

To have my birthday here,
a birthday i am so used to having forgotton.
That sweetness is but a passing breeze;
and there are more important things than petty quarrels
or emotional needs.

the world has been polluted,
that an exam is more important than a life
that u matters more than me.
when photos are taken in a million;
it seems that moments are not captured anymore.

they just are taken, are printed;
and forgotton.

the night is young,
the day is old.
Christ is coming.......
That we debate about the inadequacies of...
or discuss about the qualities of...
does it matter;
what we talk about, for they are but mindless chatter.

Whether we listen or we speak;
does it matter?
That you feel left out, or feel so happy;
that a moment you matter, is
the day your dream came true.

But all that cares is that you matter;
and no one else.
For the world is lost in itself.

The other person should always say hi.
the other person is always the mean one.
those are the laws of life;
of people.

Dust to dust,
ashes to ashes.
from dust we came, and dust we shall return.
and dust is no more than what we deem does not agree with ourselves.

unity is lost.
so is sympathy.
others are missing,
from our own hearts.
selfishness rules,
but neither does love.
for love has deserted us.
if not me, than you.

what is a passing man in this country,
if he/she sees it as his journey.
But to see the flowers that pass him by.
And see their journey.

all is not lost in this world;
but neither has anything survived.
Our souls are horribly twisted,
our sin deeply rooted in our bones.

Alone has lost its meaning,
in this world lacking reflection.
and it all just remains a memory.
my life remains a memory.
my birthday, a passing thought.

and down the years;
i'll forget all that,
forget who.
forget what happened.
forget myself.

and remember that you existed,
in the bottom of my heart,
that only of which a glimpse remained.
in the patterns of the earth.
If only it was still around.

Those who were lost,
remain forever lost.
And those who found their way,
found that glimpse of their heart;
or the entrance to heaven.

2009-03-06T22:56:00.002+01:00

Hmm...
I somehow feel that I used to be nicer.
And i want to be nicer, but i can't. Not anymore.

But maybe, that really is more important than anything else.
Giving up the chance to be nice, to others.

Thank you God.

2009-03-06T21:17:00.003+01:00

Time flies. It's the start of our 2nd month already. Somehow, I'm starting to realise the purpose of why God placed us here in Switzerland, and why He planned for us both to be in the same exchange programme. Well, I have to admit that I ain't doing quiet time more regularly than in Singapore (it's still about the same pace), and in terms of bible knowledge, i really don't think i'm growing much because of my lack in discipline and poor priorities. Yet again, the conversations that we share here in my hostel with the other singaporeans and asians, seemed to reveal God's plan to me somehow. As we talk about relationships (a common topic in this age group), and especially when the christians share about how having the same faith is the most important criteria, i think it makes the non-christians wonder as well... I'm hoping that through our period here in exchange, our friends will be able to see Christ's love portrayed and shine through me and matthias's relationship.

It's funny how the chemical engineers here, are interested in taking environmental modules in ETH Zurich. You know, some of us (including me) have so much more interest in wanting to learn about the environment and helping the poor in sanitation, yet we still chose the path towards chemical engineering, where we often complain and regret with our choice. Somehow, i believe that the course you're in shapes and reflects your personality. Environmental Engineers generally tend to be nicer in nature, as they really do care for the environment and have the heart to help people. Some of us are taking this module "Environmental Sanitation in Developing Countries", and we're learning about the techniques and processes we can do to aid and alleviate the situation in these highly dilapidated areas. Most of the people taking up such modules or courses tend to be more kind-hearted (unless it's just plainly for the credits). But as i reflect upon the chem engineering modules and students back home, i must say...it's really competitive and merciless, which i forsee will happen in most chem engineering jobs in future. Money comes into play, producing the best process amongst the other companies, winning is key. And it's sad. Because we're slowly but surely geared towards this area of "being scared to lose", and it's so hard to get out of it when u're in it.

On a side note, it's the 6th once again, and this marks our 27th month together :) Happy monthsary!

2009-03-02T15:34:00.002+01:00

We visited Lugano just 2 days back, and it was really nice. The old town, the lake, the sunny weather, the people, the architecture...it's just so different from modern zurich. Even though the fog was a bit disappointing cos the mountains across the lake weren't really visible, i was really glad that we both went ahead with the trip. The train ride there was almost 3 hours long, and as the train pass through the alps, it was just purely magnificent. Can't wait to go for the glacier express train in a few weeks time, hopefully the weather will be really good then.

Spring is here, and somehow, i still do miss playing in the snow. I haven't really got the chance to build a proper huge snowman, cos most of the time, the snow is too powedery. But i've got my fair chance of snow bombs, making snow angels, and sledging. Unfortunately, we have not tried skiing or snowboarding and may not do it considering the fact that dear's kneecap was injured before.

Time really passes so fast. It's alredy been our 1st month here. Somehow, i still do miss home. Nothing beats home really even though the weather is so unbearably humid and hot. School is busy, with work piling up esp projects. I feel like i'm in a mis-fit in school cos i'm taking master modules, when i'm just purely a bachelor student.

Church has been really lovely. It's something that brightens my sunday every morning. Attending IPC (International Protestant Church) gives me an awesome homely feeling. Seeing people from all over the world, coming together to worship God, is amazing. I really enjoy listening to the sermons by Rev Davis, and the coffee fellowship after service where we'ld always be welcomed with nice snacks and pastries. Thank God for the very nice people we've been meeting along the way. I belive each of them have been sent by God, and definitely not by coincidence.

It's funny how we always have to worry and think about our meals the next day...and whether we have enough groceries. We go to the supermarket so often, like never before...comparing prices all the time, and choosing the cheapest and most-worth-it option. When it's dinner, we have to think about our packed lunch the next day, and so forth. Things are expensive here, and i think i'm getting used to it. I guess as time passes, i will convert prices less often haha. Upkeeping of room is no easy task. We vacuumed the room, and a few days later, big blops of dust start appearing. Having a kitchen in my room is messy when it comes to cleaning up. And toilets, that's worse, i've never cleaned one before. Having constantly to think about meals, washing of clothes, cleaning of rooms, and all the homework, is pretty tiring. But then again, it really reminds me of how blessed i am back home, and how noble and sacrificial housewives are. Like my aunt christine and dear always say, "It is good training for you". haha.

But all in all, Switzerland is beautiful. I love the landscape (not so much of the city and urban areas though) and the freshness of the air. And i thank God, from the bottom of my heart, for this wonderful opportunity and learning experience.

2009-03-01T10:12:00.002+01:00

Time stands still for no man;
and everything takes up time, some more than others.
Sometimes, things don't take up time;
but they stall time.
In any case, time is lost.
And time is always precious,
in the perspective of the finity of our universe.

We always have time to play,
or to work.
We also have time to read our bibles,
or to study.
We have time to pray;
and to not pray.

Time stands still for no man;
and everything is lost in time.
We have time to play; but play is forgotton.
We have time to read our bibles,
but knowledge is futile.
We have time to pray,
but we don't always do it.
We have time not to pray,
and we do it more often than not.

Everything is lost in time.
The birds, the skies.
You and Me.

Everything is lost in time.
Our memories, our experiences.
Or to us; even the prayers we say.

Everything is lost in time,
Everything but God, that is.
God who remembers the birds and the skies
The God who remembers you and me,
our experiences; and even the prayers we say;
Or don't say at all.

2009-03-01T09:39:00.002+01:00

Its Church Today. IPC has been great.
I think the Americans in the congregation actually bring something to it.

Yesterday at Lugano, we met Damien, this Italian guy from the near parts of Tuscany, who now stays in Lugano; greeted us with a "ni hao".
Amazing, he learns Chinese and he wants to share the gospel with them.

I'm touched.
He had a hard life, in his younger days too, staying away from his parents who moved to Lugano ahead of him.

Aren't we fortunate, blessed if we call it?
But hardships really bring something different to your life.
They help you to appreciate every little single thing around you.
And when you do, maybe you'll see more meaning, more of God's presence and love around you.
For me, when this swiss girl and guy came to say hi to me in my lecture, that was God's love for me. It really made me happy, and finally feel welcome. But these things don't happen without reason. And i'm sure its no coincidence.

Many people don't experience hardships for many different reasons.
Sometimes, they're just brought up well off. (but then again hardships might come in terms of friendship or family trouble; on a deeper level).
some people are brought in happy homes (but hardships might come when they lose their happy homes through inevitable death of the flesh)
Some people are neither wealthy, or grew up in happy homes; but they simply choose to be happy, irregardless of the situation. (but is that then happiness without meaning?)
Some people have God, and experience JOY. That is significant. =)

does it happen all the time though?

2009-02-27T20:07:00.002+01:00

...

What each dot represents here is..

1. a dot for home, the little red dot.

2. a dot for little white snowflake that is gone; and will never come again.

3. and the final dot, for the black dot that just signifies the end

Today, Davina Dear pointed out the star above the crescent moon,

above the horizon, above the ground.

And, just being under the stars make you wonder.

If ever anyone has an "emo" side, it sure is now.

Its been so long since I last really felt sad; even leaving to Zurich did not feel so sad at all.

Being here, though not necessarily a dream come true (so far), does not make me sad.

I'm not homesick at all.

Is this a sign of growing up? Or is this a sign that I have lost that integral part of me which chooses not to rationalize everything.

I never realized growing up to be so hard, but now that i'm grown up.

I never realized the mid-life crisis to hit so hard; and so early.

Am i Old?

One fact points away from the answer to that question being yes; the simple fact that i'm blogging here. And a mature person can definitely handle his own emotions and keep his personal thoughts to himself.

But is mature where I want to go, where i want to be?

I see Yean Ching missing her friends, I see people just having such excitement seeing Europe.

I've been there, I've done that. I miss my friends too. Whats new?

It all just seems to old.... Whats new is not going on a holiday. Whats new is like working, building a family; and truly this just points in the opposite direction. I am Old.

So whats happening really?

I used to feel this way. When everyone went clubbing, when everyone just were thrill seekers.

But here, everybody still is.

What so special about a foreign land?

I might look young, but truly; this is one experience that i've been through.

Having the eternal in mind, seeing all the passing experiences others have.

I really don't know whether to sigh at myself, or at others.

Am i losing out, or are they losing out?

Or frankly, probably neither of us are losing out; but....

well, the question is... What is happening?

To see heaven and not touch it.

Or to not see heaven, but touch it.

ISN't that what happiness and joy is?

To me, we are all hypocrites; partly stemming from the fact that we're sinners and no one is perfect. Even those that don't recognize it are hypocrites themselves. It just doesn't stop there.

These days, I can examine myself, and nothing i ever say or do is completely or totally right.

Or even right in any sense of the word. There's always an element of wrong to it.

But in wrong, we christians, know we can see right.

And its the heart to change that matters.

Heaven is the best place on earth.

Whats depressing about eternity is that, in the midst of going there; something was eventually lost.

But then again, does it matter?

IT does. But we cannot lose ourselves in the process of making it as right and as perfect as we possibly can/want it to be.

2009-02-25T00:05:00.002+01:00

i admit i feel bad; because I remember that things can always go out of your control, whether it goes bad or good. When it goes well, we praise God... when it goes bad, i'm sorry.

Life is never what it seems, and birthdays are a passing celebration.
What lasts longer is the meaning and reason behind why it came to fruitition.

23rd Feb, will never be more important to me than 13th Nov.
For 23rd Feb, another sinner was born, to pollute e world; worse than it already was.

Reflections

2009-02-18T15:39:00.002+01:00

I'm now blogging in the school computer centre cos the internet in my hostel has been down for 2 days already, and i have to wait for another 15 mins at least to get my notes printed. Having the internet down really reminds me of how much we depend on IT, and begs the question as to whether the Internet is really indispensable to our lives now.

Anyway, school hasn't been really good for me, partly cos i am still struggling to deal with my inner emotions..an old time problem. These days i have been thinking and am reminded that Man will always fail man in someway or another, but God will never fail Man. And we shouldn't fully place our hopes on Man, but our hopes should be centered around God. I too have been questioning on why i'm always being affected by people, and why it bothers me when i simply don't understand the choices and actions people make sometimes. But then again, i realised it's not up to my control for we all have our free will. Just today, i was just thinking....maybe all the topsy-turvy feelings i'm having right now is purely because of myself, for i chose to be affected and failed to control my emotions.

Being a christian, I realised that it's harder than it seems to love people whom you find it hard to love, and especially so when you've been hurt greatly by someone before. Yet, nobody truly understands other than God. It's not about unforgiveness, it's about letting go my inner fears. I know that God has a plan, and sometimes, friendships are just not meant to be. Well... it seems like i'm back in square 1 again as always... but i choose to take it as a time of learning, a time of seeking, a time of discerning, and a time to be refreshed in His presence. I pray that whatever happens, God will show me the way and the right words and actions that i should carry out...so that whoever it may be, will be able to see love that is from Christ.

2009-02-15T22:17:00.001+01:00

And the two of us, knowing whats in the bratwursts but enjoying every bit of it from our favourite bratwurst store

2009-02-15T22:08:00.002+01:00

one road leads to heaven, the other to earth.

A man made flower; woven as beautifully as a natural one; yet so imperfect at its seams.

Lucerne; the thousands of majestic metres above the fallenness of mankind.

2009-02-15T20:42:00.003+01:00

Paradox of paradoxes, its all been a paradox.

That it can be a winter wonderland, yet such gloomy skies;
that grass is always greener on the other side;
and happiness can be so short lived.

What today brings, will never be the same tomorrow.
that with a single action, another can change my life, my mood so drastically;
and a picture never seems to be finished.

it seems ironical, that what wants in unity; can never be fulfilled,
as God made individuals to have their own choices.
But no one realizes, how much these choices affect another.

Sometimes I will not understand the choices another makes.
For even before consequences seem to arrive,
something was lost; something was never the same.
And it seems so lost in us, and hope gave up.

We can wonder for hours, days or even years;
we can search for answers, we can lose ourselves.
Our emotions runneth over, but yet we still remain not a step outside the zone in which we started with.
we can be in Zurich, yet still feel at home.
Home is still our refuge; God is still our refuge.
But while he is with us, why does our heart still feel empty?

Are we running on empty? Are we running with God, or are we
running races against the devil; and feeling so helpless and he seems to conquer our lives.
Can one trust God to vanquish these evil spirits, to warm our muscles, to help us run?
Or should we trust God for moving clouds, which sweep us off our feet; take us out of the race.
And still, there remains a million unanswered questions.

Can we simply say we listen to God, are all of us even capable of doing that?
Can we say we are right, or even half-right? That with God, we fear nothing?
But inside us, the paradox remains; we are trapped by the inadequacy of our finiteness;
stuck in the race to glory, our sinful hearts.

Each person is a paradox.
And 2 people is a paradox to the power of 2.
Give 5, take 32 in return.
But what if one person was a paradox in reverse?

That would totally mess things up...
Am i that paradox in reverse, or is he/she that paradox in reverse?

I don't know.
Ich einfach verstehe nicht.

But what i know, is where my trust lies, and where my trust was lost.
Where i'm right, and where I've gone wrong.
And thats the beauty of the Holy Spirit living in me.

Happy Valentine's / Friendship Day

2009-02-14T22:44:00.002+01:00

To dear, happy valentine's day! Thank you for the photoframe and the dinner u prepared today :) so sweet of you! hugggs.

We went out to Winterthur today with a few other friends (Yao wen, anitha and yeanching), and it was freezing! It's a beautiful old town, but not as nice as lucerne. There wasn't much to do cos it was saturday and the weather wasn't nice enough to walk around for long. We had some snowball fights, made a snowman, and shivered in the cold. It was quite memorable that we took a long time to find a place to have lunch cos we dont wanna pay and eat our da-pao sandwiches in restaurants and cafe...so we found an empty renovated shop, and sat on the staircase inside to have our lunch....quite pathetic, but it was funny and cosy. Walked up the hill, and got a good aerial view of winterthur but the scenery is kinda spoilt by some industrialized high-rise buildings and a crane due to renovation. So that was how we all spent our valentine's day!

To my dear friends, happy firendship day! miss all of you back home, hope everyone is doing great! tag me and update me!! i do miss home and the sunny, humid weather!! =)

2009-02-13T13:32:00.002+01:00

Things took a turn today. Well, basically, I prayed hard last night while lying on the bed waiting to fall asleep...praying that God would instil a sense of awakening to her. She was suffering last night, tossing and turning in the bed cos her head was too heavy. And i prayed that God would take away her pain and allow her to fall into sleep so she'ld be in good shape today. Thankfully she finally got into sleep at around 2am i think, so i managed to get some sleep too since i'm a light sleeper. So, when i was awake this morning, and she was awake too, i prayed that God would somehow help us to communicate that I would be able to talk to her firmly yet gently. I woke up, and went straight to wash up. When i came out of the toilet, she asked me " Davina, did i do anything bad yesterday? " I was quite afraid actually, because i don't know how to put words across. But somehow, i just spoke and told her how it wasn't very nice of her to drink and drunk...when she's not staying alone, but with me and how things might get worse the next time...because she can't hold her liquour well in the first place. The words from my mouth came out pretty harsh, but i told her too, that i don't hold it against her...cos i know she realised her wrong and her bad. Well, thank God because she told me how sorry it was and that it's actually her 1st itme going past her alcohol limit....and she promised me too, that it won't happen again. We'll see, time will tell :) But I'm really happy that she was aware and considered me. Thank God for giving me the guts to express my feelings to her.

Upsetment

2009-02-12T22:06:00.002+01:00

My roommate has been drinking the past 2 nights. It wasn't so bad last night cos at least she was partially sane, but today it was horrible. She was all tipsy, blasting the music, screaming and shouting, smelt of alcohol, and was drinking with a 3rd floor guy all alone in MY room. I was terribly disgusted and shocked. I didn't flare up, nor did i scold her, but i was burning within. Okay, she's only 19 and i should understand that she's still young and ignorant...but i was hoping she could at least show me some respect that half of the room is mine. Perhaps she's tipsy and doesn't know what's going on, but i really think it this way... if you can't drink, don't drink! It's a horrible sight to be seen drunk. No offense to anyone, but it was just overwhelming for me cos it's also my first time seeing a woman drunk upclose...and i have to live with her for 6 mths.

It's annoying because I simply don't understand what God's plan is. The main worry for me when i first knew i had a double room was to have a room mate that drinks and clubs, cos i really can't tolerate that. I need peace and quiet in my room, and i certainly don't want her to affect my studies as well. It was just so emotional for me, cos it totally ruined my entire day. But, i was also reminded by dear and erlin that i should be patient, and perhaps God wants me to learn to be firm and that she may see Christ in me and change for the better. However so, it's still gonna be real tough for me, and i don't know if it'll make my exchange here unbearable. Please pray for me to be patient and firm yet showing love to her. I personally find it really hard to express my personal feelings esp negative ones to another person....and i thus end up swallowing up all these upsetment and exercised endurance. If i really can't take it anymore, i might just want to change to a single room. Bah, i'll never make myself drunk. Guide me, Lord.

A time of learning

2009-02-11T10:29:00.002+01:00

It's almost 1.5 weeks since i arrived at Zurich. Living with a roommate is certainly not easy. Personally, it's my first time, and so there's a lot for me to adjust and learn. I was reflecting this morning, and dawned on me that both my room mate and i are actually very different in terms of personality. We have different religions, different habits, different standards of hygiene, different ways of upkeeping our room. Thus, sometimes, our differences do clash, and either i or her have to accommodate. She's a nice girl, but perhaps a little young since she's only 19....so there're lesser topics that i can relate to her with i feel.

Erlin was saying that it's better to have a room mate whom you're not so close with...so that gives lesser conflicts since you won't know her so well. But come to think of it, i beg to differ. Just like in a relationship, i personally feel my other half needs to have a personality more similar rather than different from me. Sometimes, the 'complement' thing just doesn't work all the time.

No, i'm not complaining abt my roommate. She's nice and very interesting :) And i'm contented. Just that when 2 person lives together, each of us must exercise patience, love, and know when to give and when to be firm and stick to your principles.

Day Trip to Lucerne

2009-02-10T16:57:00.003+01:00

Being amateurs in planning for trips, we arranged to wake up at 4.30am and head our way down to lucerne yesterday. Lo and behold, we reached there at around 6.30am, and lucerne was in total darkness. Everywhere was more or less closed other than a hotel which we stayed in there to grab maps and to keep warm. It was -1 degree centigrade when we reached there. Freezing cold. But when the sun began to come out, wow, lucerne was and is very beautiful. Thank God for the very beautiful weather, the sun was out and the sky was partly blue and cloudy. So, we headed for the Tourist Centre...and enquired about the renowed Mt Pilatus. Since it was only 36 CHF with our half fare card, off we went! Going up Mt Pilatus was the best highlight of our trip.

I've never seen so much snow in my life. The view up the cable car and at the peak of the mountain was breathtaking. I can't describe it.. it felt so surreal that i'm in the midst of sun, snow, mountains, winter trees. It's like a fantasy, a winter wonderland. Of course, we were greeted with the freezing temperature of -5 degrees up there. And to our pleasant surprise, we found out that we could sled down the mountain for free. Without hesistating, we went sledding...we all thought that it'ld just be a short jouney down, but who knows! We had to sled all the way down the entire mountain...which we took about 1.5-2 hours! It was tons and tons and tons of fun, tumbling and falling face flat in the soft powdery snow, absorbing the magnificent view, screaming our lungs out while sledding down steep slopes. To be frank, it's not very safe cos there weren't any instructions on how to use the sled, and we actually chose the difficult route cos we wanted the fun. Many times, we couldn't control our sleds and bumped into a huge pile of snow. For me, i couldn't slowed down, and ended up bumping the sled on my butt which was really painful, but thankfully, nothing serious. I could still continue walking and playing with snow. The experience is unforgettable, undescribable. Afterwhich, we headed to visit the old town, the lion monument, and the very famous chapel bridge with our icy soaked jeans and gloves.

I guess, it's not just about the fun. The company was great. 3 of us had so much of laughter and teasing, and of course whining about the cold and our physical tiredness. All in all, it was a great trip, a great experience! And of course, i really thank God for granting us this wonderful opportunity to witness His magnifcent creation and glory, and for journey mercy throughout the day. :)

2009-02-09T22:25:00.003+01:00

today, went to lucerne.
it was = winter wonderland, and thus i imagine that Jungfrau is overhyped.
Lucerne or Pilatus - Colder Winds = Jungfrau

Now,
Everyone seems to settle down, and shift into their own identity; be it good or bad.
Some seem nicer, and some not so.

Even a little bit of my ego is starting to show, and i must definitely remember its not always about who is better; even though Singapore brought me up that way.
I have to admit, i'm not that great, but i always try to be better.

Well, all in all. God's creation is majestic.
There are people who see the good in God's works; and i just hope they see the good in their lives too.

On a separate note, i do hope things with ETH Zurich settles down.
And i also pray that somehow, we might repair our broken image; of Singaporeans.

Thank you also to Uncle Chung Chi and Auntie Pooh Lii, Uncle Frips and Auntie May for all
the blessings showered upon us. Truly appreciated, always remembered.

My 1st post here

2009-02-06T22:58:00.002+01:00

Sorry for the lack of updates here. I've been wanting to blog, but the wireless here is really slow. I tried uploading just 1 photo on blogspot today, and it failed for 3 times until i gave up, so there hasn't been any pics here. Facebook is better, but i can only upload 10 pictures at a time which would take like 15 mins at least. Bleah. It's so slow, it's so hard to surf the net haha.

But anyway, i'm slowly adjusting to the new environment here. There has been ups and downs. Thank you all who took the effort to come down to send us off and also those who called and msged. I'm really so touched, i held my tears till i entered the departure gate. I was quite homesick for the past few days but it's getting slightly better now. I really do miss home; miss the convenience back home where i don't have to think about my meals 3 times a day; miss the conveniece of leaving the dishes in the sink and my maid mabel would nicely clean for me; miss the fact that i don't have to wash my own clothes; miss the days where i don't have to worry how messy or dirty my room is cos i know my maid will clean it everyday. Life is different now, and i've got a roomie....it feels weird still cos i haven't shared with anyone my room before. There's less privacy and i've got to learn to accommodate.

Things here are extremely expensive, which is a main concern cos we would always think thrice everytime we buy our groceries...and that's a headache. We have to think of the expiry date, look at cheaper alternatives, think about the storage space blah blah blah. Every single meal. It's TIRING. And washing up is a chore also. I guess we have to get used to it.

The culture here is really different, and we realised switzerland is not as democratic and transparent as what we thought / learnt in social studies. Double standards are common here, and it gets really frustrating. Many times it depends on luck and the person serving you. Some of us had to pay 120 CHF for our residence permit, some others juts paid 20CHF, some got it free. And it alll depends on luck. Sounds stupid, but we really couldn't argue our way through...it depends on your luck. And studying at ETH is not nice....everything is so rigid, and the exams are so subjective...since it's oral exams, whether you do well or not depends largely on the professor...and i heard they can be very biased.

Weather here has been nice. It snowed on the very first day we arrived, which was a prayer answered by God as i really wanted to see falling snow. Strange because Andreas said the weather is getting warmer and it'ld be unlikely for us to see falling snow...but we did on that day. Subsequently, it hasn't snowed so far... So, that's a dream come true. Snowing is beautiful, and we were all so happy and excited. It's gradually getting warmer, but it's still cooling and nice (about 3-4 degrees).

Hope everything is fine back at home. Being away really makes me realise how fortunate and blessed i am in singapore. I miss my family, I miss my friends, and truthfully, I think NUS might be better than ETH. We shall see. We haven't travelled out of zurich yet, but hopefully, we tog with erlin can go visit Lucerne next monday. Despite the downs, switzerland is a really nice place. It's pretty and the people here are rather friendly and

Will try uploading pics till it's successful (depending on how patient i can get). But i'll cont uploading pics on facebook (cos at least it works!)...so visit my facebook for some pics! :)

2009-02-02T21:07:00.002+01:00

Today; for dinner,

Spent CHF 11.35 / 5 = CHF 2.27 for chicken;

Spent CHF 2.10/10 = CHF 0.21 for vege;

Spent CHF 1.15/10 = CHF 0.115 for spaghetti

Spent CHF 2.00?/10 = CHF 0.20 for the tomato sauce

Spent CHF 0.10 approximately for garlic and onion

Bringing the grand total to CHF 2. 895 for 3 people.

Taking into account the conversion of approximately 1.33 it is SGD 3.805

Which is SGD 1.30 per person.

Not bad at all! Just that maybe we really undercooked; haha

and it wasn't so tasty cos we were trying to scrimp and save.

Secondly, we also quit the German Course to save CHF40.

Which we did because we felt the learning curve was too steep and stressful,

and the course did not really meet what we expected out of it, which was to converse with the swiss.

But we still learnt a bit... a teeny little bit of german.

But we saved ourselves from a lot of stress; and exchange isn't supposed to be that stressful isn't it?

2009-02-01T21:30:00.002+01:00

The thing that strikes me most about my hostel room is how quiet it is.
I really need a fan, really.
I like the whirring; it keeps me company when i'm alone at night.
Its just uneasy listening to my keyboard chatter,
and to the msn ring,
the silence is just simply too quiet, and so easily broken.

Feels a little bit different, culture is tremendously different; and i am trying to adapt. not used to seeing these europeans tower over me; feel so small and short. And they're such party-ers! I'm small and old now; that is definitely strange

Highlight of Today, is that i changed the bulb of my room light to make it more bright and cheery!

Also, i have red curtains, just like home. Don't have those really wonderful red walls though.

But, i really need some wind, the wind reminds me of God's presence.
The wind outside, however, is too chilly.

2009-01-21T17:06:00.001+01:00

Departure Details:

TG 410 at Terminal 1,
31st January 2009 (Saturday)
2100hrs

We will be there at approximately 640pm.

2009-01-14T15:41:00.002+01:00

Going to Switzerland so very soon...!

Have to say goodbyes, although we'll be back.

It feels a little bit funny going overseas; somehow, i still never truly saw the need for it...
Even till today.
Grass is always greener on the other side.
But, i always think the grass here is really green already.
Although, its not exactly the type of grass i like; but its satisfactory, pleasing enough.

What i really want to experience overseas, is making new friends.
Really getting to know people over there, and hear more about their experiences.
Want to know what they think over issues we always discuss here; even love and marriage.
Including, of course, how they live their lives compared against how we live ours.
We need to learn, how to live, the most fulfilling life available to us.
For that, we turn to the bible; but even through these one-in-a-million experiences, we get to learn through God's other children... which is such a blessing.

Going to switzerland, my main aim is really to rediscover God.
I need new perspectives, and a rejuvenated walk.
I need to find him in Switzerland;
in my learning journey of finding him in every circumstance;
in any situation;
for sometimes in Singapore,
the roses are there;
but we only stop when its too late.