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.
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Friday, March 6, 2009
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.
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.
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!
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!
Monday, March 2, 2009
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.
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.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
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.
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.
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?
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?
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