Alive and good

Alright, I'll admit I'm a loser for not updating lately at all. So many things has happened ever since I last posted back in June. By now, you will probably have guessed blogging has not been my priority and as a result sadly left and push aside; almost abandoned and forgotten. But this post serves to show it is still alive and I shall endeavour to write more and keep you all posted in the future. Especially the wonderful testimonies of God's goodness and faithfulness to his beloved children:)

Busy. Very busy. These two words describes it all. Work has been more demanding lately especially with two of my colleagues on holiday and one of my closest colleague leaving the Systems team for good. And so more work just piles my desk and my responsibilities just grows by the week. Its definitely a good thing though, being able to contribute more significantly and being able to play a bigger role. Currently I'm doing a lot of interfacing with the designers in India, working on Line Lists generated by SPP&ID (Smart Plant P&ID) and issuing these drawings for client reviews. Its pretty tedious and requires much concentration but I've really learnt so much from doing this! Especially reading P&ID's and checking for potential mistakes. I've found this to be much more exciting compared to drafting MSD's and just having review meetings with Technology. So much so, at times I work till past 7 and forget the time. This morning, I told my team leader that I would like to be involved in HAZOPS and I thank God for her being so accommodating and helpful. She has talked to the safety experts and I'm really looking forward to the experience:)

God has indeed been good. For He never fails us nor forsakes us. But desires for us to know him more intimately every single day. To love Him as much as He has loved us. Church has been good and God has blessed me with so many friends. Friends who genuinely care, friends who pray together and friends to just have fun! I have been very privileged to be invited to many birthdays, BBQ's and dinner outings.

And last weekend dear Cheng Lu came down to visit. Short and sweet, yet filled with much fellowship and testimonies. Tried uploading some photos but internet connection seems too slow for that so you'll just have to wait:) And Meli and Janice, you were both definitely mentioned in much of our conversation!

Okies, I need to go to bed soon as it's getting late. A long day ahead but its the weekends soon. Hopefully catch some of you soon! And Janice you're returning back to the UK next Thursday! Shall definitely talk to you online before your Europe trip!

knackered

Absolutely knackered and drained. My first week working has really worn me out; nevertheless, it has been a superb eye-opener and a great experience. I have finally gotten a true flavour of what it means to work and as cliche as it is, it needs to be re-empahised: working life isn't a bed of roses; being a student is indefinitely better.

As I work, I begin to appreciate you Dad much more, for the years of toil and hardship for me to lead a comfortable life. With your sacrifices, you have provided me with one of the best gifts a child could possibly ask for: a dream education in UK fulfilled and realised. Never have I truly understood the reality and pressures until this week when it unfolded before my eyes. Sitting with a higher ranking colleague and listening to his rantings and beratings, colleagues frantically working long hours to meet deadlines and chassing after meetings only to be chided like a child has made me realised how sheltered I was and how naive I was of the real world. How self-centered I have always been and how tiny my responsibility to study and do well is when compared to yours of supporting the family and providing for our needs. Truly, I have appreciated all that you have gone through and am extremely thankful and grateful.

Though quite drained, I am very blessed to have the opportunity to work for such a large multinational consultancy firm, Foster Wheeler, reputedly with the largest process engineering department in Europe. I am currently working in a large team (200-300 engineers) at the FEED (Front End Engineering Design) stage of the Qatar Petrochemical Complex Project based in Messaid, Qatar. Though trained as a chemical engineer, I work as a Systems Engineer working closely with the Materials and Process Specialists. With the existing PFD's and P&ID's as well as the process data sheets from various licensors ( Bassell, Axens and Lummus to name a few), I convert them into MSD's (Material Selection Diagrams). A little tedious and at times monotonous, my ability to read and comprehend PFD's and P&ID's has improved drastically. A useful and key skill which I hope to develop even further as I progress into my working life.

It's getting real late here in Reading and think I better sleep. It has been a long and tiring week and I'm glad its the weekends now and for once I can finally rest and relax. Thank you Abba Father for providing for me and for protecting me throughout.

A big thanks to all my prayer warriors too, Dad, Mum, Care, Hannah, Meli, Cheng Lu, Janice, Lina...I send my love to you all(:

Hinds' Feet on High Places by Hannah Hurnard

It has been a while since I read such an inspiring book. If you have not read it, get a copy; it's well worth it:)

A truly amazing classic, it speaks of the journey Much Afraid went through with her Shepherd along with her two most faithful companions, Sorrow and Suffering. Though seemingly difficult and painful the long journey may seem, it was never impossible especially when it was in line with the Shepherd's will. Through it all, Much Afraid was transformed into something incomparably more precious; she was moulded and crafted into His likeness. Her thorny seed of love planted in her heart grew and yielded blossoms of fragrance. And finally with Hinds' feet and a precious crown of splendour she became the Shepherd's companion forever; being able to go wherever the Shepherd went.

This book really taught me so much and was exactly what I went through this two days. I was invaded by the Fearing Clan but came up victorious over my encounter with Pride. I have experienced the Shore of Loneliness but was ultimately reminded I have a direct line with my Shepherd. I have ascended the Great Precipice Injury and was certainly hurt and bruised but with the Cordial of Grace and Comfort; I was healed and strengthened. And though I walked through the Forests of Danger and Trials and was lost in the Mist, my Shepherd was close by at all times. His gentle and comforting voice was undeniable and unmistakable.

And through it all, I have grown so much in my own personal walk with the Shepherd. I have finally learnt to accept with joy the circumstances He has put me in. To surrender completely. To understand what it means when I say: 'Be it unto me, according to Your will.' To draw strength and comfort from the Shepherd alone.

'For there is nothing more exhilirating and delightful for the Shepherd than to turn weakness into strength, and fear into faith, and that which has been marred into perfection. Weeping nay endureth for a night but joy cometh in the morning.'

"My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."- 2 Corinthians 12:9

May you too be blessed and experience the Shepherd's goodness in a most unique way. To always be an obedient pupil in the School of Character and Discipline for we have been handpicked and chosen by the Shepherd himself to undergo special training:)

Do you still have faith?

Thank you dear all for your prayers and encouragement. Do love you loads.

Its difficult to understand why for this paper I didn't read the question properly when normally I have been so meticulous, reading every instruction even on my answer booklet. I am not sure why God let it happen and in some way I am very frustrated with God especially when I had all the hopes and trust. I was the one who kept calm and cool before the exam even seeing my friends frantically doing their last minute revision. I had such high hopes of scoring well and yet at that split second, I made the biggest mistake of my life. I am not sure how it happenned and the confusing thing was I actually spent 10 min analysing on which two to do and I never for once read there was a compulsory question. Honestly, it seemed that throughout the exam I was blinded. I am not sure what to say, what to do other than rush to see the lecturer straight after the exam only to understand he was busy in the meeting. I sent him an e-mail already but I doubt he can do anything, considering from their point of view, it was entirely my fault for not following instructions.

When I came back, I was just in a state of shock, pure shock, not knowing what to do. And worst still, I couldn't call home. And then, when God saw me in such despair, He sent Melissa to call me. Meli listened, and heard my cry over the line. She asked how my paper was and I poured out my anguish, my frustration. I was in the pits of pits. And then Mum finally called and comforted me over the phone.

After putting down the phone, I decided to phone Melissa and agreed to go over for dinner. During dinner, she told me how she had been thinking of me for a long time and wanted to 'celebrate' with me now that my third paper is over. She has been a hugh blessing, even cooked sweet and sour pork chops for me and was there to encourage me. I have found no friend like her and I can only really thank God for blessing me with her. Without her initial call, I am not sure how I could have taken it. The idea of losing my faith completely seems scary but honestly at that time, I had lost all hope. My studies were something I prized and was in a way proud of suddenly failed me. No words could contain the anguish. But dear Meli was there for me. When I needed her the most. She even blessed me with lettuce and fruits to take home. What a great friend and sister in Christ!

After dinner, I decided to go to the Whitworth Park music room and I managed to play the piano. Never have I enjoyed playing the piano so much. The cries of my heart as I played the worship songs. The music and chords somehow all flowed. I am amazed at how I could think of a song and play it immediately without any chords when usually I would stop and think what chord would come next. Somehow I wish I have a piano to play. Have actually been thinking about it for the past weeks...

Yeah, that's basically the whole drama unfolded. It has been a long day. I hope I shall not lose heart; rather be stirred and be moulded to what He wants me to be. To be renewed in mind and to practice what I read. What a coincidence I have just finished reading Philippians this morning. To have joy and to always rejoice. Pray I would be strong. Even with the little tiny baby faith. Above all things, whether I do badly or I do well, I shall give glory to God. Whether I fail or excel, I give thanks. Whether I have much or have little, I am content.

And a note for Meli too, God shall be our sustainer as He prepares and moulds us into what He wants us to be. We shall not be discouraged but grow stronger in faith daily.

Natural disasters

So many natural disasters of late....

No of deaths in Cyclone Nargis in Burma has risen to more than 40,000; China quake toll to top 50,000, US southern states hit by tornadoes and many were killed in the Uttar Pradesh storm in India today.

All of these unleash a devastating and an uncontrallable force. In a matter of seconds, lives are destroyed and are forever changed; never to be same again.

Power, strength and might - we stand in awe at these as they unravel before our eyes. Yet nothing, absolutely NOTHING can touch or even come close to the omnipotent display of God's power and natural wonder. He is the author and perfecter of life. He is the creator of all living things. From the kings of the forests, to the birds of the air and the fishes of the seas and even the insects in our garden, he created them all. And He has set the natural laws in place to govern all living things.

Life is full of surprises. We don't know what is to come except that the Sovereign Lord is in all control at all times. For us who belong to Christ, we need not be afraid of tomorrow and what it holds because our lives are in HIS hands:)

Really proud of you

Really super duper proud of you Care. Esp the e-mail from TISB. The thought of you entering Oxbridge has made me smile all day. Remember to continue trusting GOD and you shall soar and mount high on eagle's wings. 'Seek ye first the kingdom of GOD and all these things shall be added to you.' Channel your many many GOD-given talents and use it to glorify Him. You are incredibly blessed and you must always remember to give thanks:)

From the depths of my heart, my soul cries out to You

Never take life for granted. Live it to the fullest and with purpose. Life is like a piece of thread, so fragile yet so precious.

Life's one certainty is its sheer of uncertainty. As Scripture reminds us, we 'do not know what will happen tomorrow.' (James 4.14). Learn to appreciate the essense of life itself and live it with purpose for His glory.

I was shocked, well shocked last night when I recieved a text from dad. Literally burst out into tears for mum esp when Dad's text from Indonesia was so vague. Mum being sent to Manipal emergency ward- pls pray for her. So many things crossed my mind, and for once my faith went down to the pits! But I kept mum in prayer, secretly wishing for a miracle even with the little faith I had left.

While having dinner, I felt emotional again. And I started crying all over. I lost my appetite over my mixed vegetables; didn't even finish it and instead opted for digestives with nutella. Why did mum have to go through such pain and suffering? Why did such an accident befell her while my dad was travelling? Why???!

These questions shall only be answered when I reach heaven. However, I must acknowledge that peace and comfort overflowed as I read and meditated on Psalms. My fear slowly diminished as I entrusted my mum to the Lord, knowing that He is ultimately in control and that He would not give her more pain than what she could endure. I learnt what it means to have faith even in the midst of adversity. How to commit and trust.

I thank God and praise Him that He has heard my family's cries and mine too. She just had a couple of stitches done, lost 5 tooths in total and had some soft tissue injuries on her arms. Her chin and arms have all been bandaged and I'm so glad that she didn't fracture her jaw or broke any bones or it could well have been much worst. I am believing and trusting God that she will recover soon, that in the name of Jesus, all pain be gone. Her many cuts and wounds especially on her tongue will soon disappear and that she'll soon be able to enjoy her food. I thank you Father for your protection and for watching over my family.

For his unfailing love never ends...

This week has been a difficult week. Last Sunday, I fell from the bus and as a result sprained my ankle very badly. In fact, the pain must have been so great that I woke up a number of times! The next morning was worst. I literally struggled to class. Walking down the stairs have never been so torturous and painful. For once, I wished I stayed on the ground floor. I nearly gave up going to lectures but due to some commitments I made earlier last week, it was essential for me to be present.

After my work, I decided to give my local GP practice a call. Unfortunately, they were fully booked and hence could not see me. Following that, I dragged myself to the local NHS walk-in centre near the Piccadily train station but got absolutely frustrated because they refused to see me without proof of my original student visa. Reason being: not a permanent resident and never been to a walk-in clinic before.

Even in those frustrating circumstances, God has been so gracious. He has watched over me and heard my cry. I praise the Lord for the friends I have, every single one of them for their support, encouragement and care. As a result of my immobility, I spent a lot more time at home. I have enjoyed the precious moments reading His word, dwelling in His presense and praising Him in my room. His joy and peace were so great and His assurance and promises were so comforting in the midst of my struggles.

And I really thank the LORD for the great friends I have, every single one of them. For Melissa, for believing and having so much faith that my ankle will heal. For her care and concern. Her love and compasssion has never failed to touch my heart. For her faithful texts everyday, how's your ankle today? I have never found a friend like her; so true, so faithful and so loyal. And I can only thank the Lord for our friendship.

For Janice, for her encouragement, her prayer and her visits. Her love and her effort of specially taking the bus and bringing her super Kui Fah Yau all the way from Whitworth Park. I am extremely grateful for her thoughts of even coming over to pick me up by bus on Saturday for bible study. Thank you dear Janice for just being who you are!

For Jennie, for giving me her chinese ointment and Yoko Yoko. Truly appreciated your calls and for just being there for me. Remember that you are a wonderful child of God, created perfectly for His purpose.

For Feedo, for giving me his bandages when I needed them most. For offering me your painkillers when you saw me in such pain.

For Chris, for his advice and for going into city just to help me get the ankle support.

For my coursemates, for being so understanding and kind even during those times.

Thank you dear friends for everything! Words can never truly sufficiently express how grateful I am to you all. But above all, I give God all the glory for His great and supernatural healing.

"The unfailing love of the LORD never ends! By his mercies, we have been kept form complete destruction. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each day. I say to myself.'the LORD is my inheritance; therefore I will hope in him!' The Lord is wonderfully good to those who wait for him and seek him."
Lamentations 3:22-25

Healing in the name of Jesus

I was feeling quite discouraged when I couldn't talk to my mum today again. But I know God is her healer and that she has already been made well. She will regain her strength day by day and that she will not feel weak any longer. In the name of Jesus, cleanse her with Your blood and may you deliver her completely from her sickness. In the name of Jesus, I claim complete healing.

Psalm 30 (NIV)

1 I will exalt you, O LORD,
for you lifted me out of the depths
and did not let my enemies gloat over me.

2 O LORD my God, I called to you for help
and you healed me.

3 O LORD, you brought me up from the grave;
you spared me from going down into the pit.

4 Sing to the LORD, you saints of his;
praise his holy name.

5 For his anger lasts only a moment,
but his favor lasts a lifetime;
weeping may remain for a night,
but rejoicing comes in the morning.

6 When I felt secure, I said,
"I will never be shaken."

7 O LORD, when you favored me,
you made my mountain stand firm;
but when you hid your face,
I was dismayed.

8 To you, O LORD, I called;
to the Lord I cried for mercy:

9 "What gain is there in my destruction,
in my going down into the pit?
Will the dust praise you?
Will it proclaim your faithfulness?

10 Hear, O LORD, and be merciful to me;
O LORD, be my help."

11 You turned my wailing into dancing;
you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy,

12 that my heart may sing to you and not be silent.
O LORD my God, I will give you thanks forever.

Thank you dear Lord for your healing. To God be the glory forever and ever.

How to know if you are Chinese?

I really had a good laugh reading it! Hilarious. Enjoy reading:)

Some interesting facts about being Chinese. Some of them are actually quite accurate.

HOW TO KNOW IF YOU ARE CHINESE?

1. You unwrap gifts very carefully, so you can save and reuse the wrapping (and especially those ribbons).
2. When there is a sale on toilet paper, you buy 100 rolls and store them in your closet or in the bedroom of an adult child who has moved out.
3. You keep a thermos of hot water available at all times.
4. You save grocery bags, tin foil and tin containers. You use the grocery bags to hold garbage.
5. You hate to waste food:
a) Even if you are totally full, if someone says they're going to throw away the leftovers on the table, you'll finish them. Your mum will give a lecture about starving kids in Africa.
b) You have tupperware in your fridge with three bites of rice or one leftover chicken wing.
6. You don't own real Tupperwares -only a cupboard full of used but carefully rinsed margarine tubs, take-out containers and jam jars.
7. You have a collection of minature shampoo bottles that you take every time you stay in a hotel.
8. You wipe your plate and utensils or wash them in a small basin of hotwater you eat everytime you go to a restaurant.
9. You own a rice cooker and a slow cooker.
10. You wash your rice at least 2-3 times before cooking it.
11. You fight (verbally) over who pays the dinner bill.
12. You have a teacup with a cover on it.
13. If you're under 20, you own a really expensive walkman. If you're over 20, you own a a very expensive camera.
14. You're a wok user.
15. You only make long distance calls after 7 p.m.
16. You prefer your shrimps with heads and legs still attached - it means they are fresh.
17. You never call your parents just to say hi.
18. If you don't live at home, when your parents call, they'll ask if you have eaten, even if it is midnight.
19. Your parents tell you to boil herbs and stay inside when you get sick. They also tell you not to eat fried foods or baked foods because they are heaty.
20. You e-mail your Chinese friends at work, even though you only sit 10 feet apart.
21. You always cook too much.
22. You eat every last grain of rice in your bowl, but don't eat the last piece of food on the table.
23. You starve yourself before going to 'all you can eat' buffet.
24. You know someone who can get you a good deal on jewelry or electronics.
25. You own your own meat cleaver and sharpen it.
26. Your tooth-paste tubes are squeezed paper-thin.
27. You wrap with napkins all the knives, spoons and forks of the airline that you fly on and put in your travel bag as souvenirs.
28. You never forget to take with you all the unused bath and facial tissues when you check out from the hotel because you believe that you have paid it all.
29. You will laugh at yourself when you read all of them.
30. And you will always be proud because you are Chinese.If you are laughing,you should be proud being one.

For my dearest sister

You, O Lord make my paths straight,
You are my guide and my light,
Help me O Lord to change, I pray,
In everything I do, I commit unto You.

Make me, mould me to what you want me to be,
My desire is to seek you first,
To honour You all the days of my life,
To run the race and fight the good fight.

Guide my heart, help me and teach me,
For I know with my own flesh, I am weak,
But in You, I am made strong,
May my weakness be made perfect in Your sight.

May I always be grateful and content,
For each and every single blessing,
No matter how big or small,
For I know all good things come from You!

May the life I live,
And the words from my mouth,
Continue to glorify Your name,
From now and forever!

(dedicated for Careena)

With God's favour, nothing is impossible!

How true is that statement! When we are in a difficult situation, when things are going tough, the best and only true remedy is to pray and seek God's favour and help. For we know we worship an awesome and powerful God and that with Him, nothing is impossible! Absolutely nothing!

Finally managed to sort out my banking this morning with Halifax after much hassle. But through it all, I have learnt so much about the finance and business world. The investments available, the different saving accounts with various benefits and the different interest rates. I have sat down with finance managers (though regretted not demanding for a cup of coffee as well, haha) for the first time seeking advice and being financially educated about the investment funds available. I have come to realise how important it is to be confident, assertive and be in control at all times. To make wise decisions and not be rash or easily influenced.

But I thank the Lord for his protection and wisdom as I handled all this. All part of the growing and learning process.

And yes, my FW contract has arrived today by post. Lots of paper work to do tonight, especially with the seemingly endless forms to fill:)

Growth is essential

Growth is not an option. It is essential. Without growth, we don't stay status quo, we deteriorate. Growth are essential for leaders and like Duanne Seeley said, 'when you stop growing, you stop leading'. Personal development takes perseverance and determination. It is not automatic. It must be planned, intentional, constistent and eagerly desired. More than what we plan to do, we must take action.

Goals and visions must be set in place. Develop a passion to see things grow. To not be content but always seek and grap any possible opportunities. Use our God's given talent. I was reminded by the parable of the king's ten servants in Luke 19: 11-27. How the king was so harsh on the man who had not increased the money. God too eagerly desires for us to grow spiritually and be mature in our understanding.

Good memories

Cindy and Charles enjoying Dim Sum at Pacific!

3 sweet sisters in Manchester:)
U gals rock! Love u all...

Easter hols

Easter hols have been great even though it is now drawing to an end... Have really enjoyed myself especially catching up with old yet precious friends.

Walked and explored round Manchester to places I have never even been before!

Took a look behind the scenes at Old Trafford. Stood at Fergie's spot in a match, sat at the player's changing rooms and emerged from the player's tunnel to the roar of the crowd.(envious?)

Marvelled at the splendour of the Manchester Art Gallery collection. Really appreciated some of the glorious artwork especially the Pre-Raphaelites paintings by Millais, Waterhouse and Rossetti (I guess all under the influence of our dear Cindy, hehe).

Admired the gothic architecture of the Old John Rylands Library in Deansgate. A must visit if you have never been before! An opportunity to see a rare fragment of the John's gospel:)

Oh, the joy of watching my friends savouring and enjoying their dim sum in the famous Tai Wu and Pacific.

Not to mention, the late nights chatting, baking and cooking together. The mouthwatering chewy nutty brownies, the amazing carrot cake with walnuts, the wonderful banana bread and the crumbly apple crumble with creamy custard... how could I resist???

And the trip to Peak District was most enjoyable eventhough it was freezing. I was certainly in awe of the breaktaking scenery, a wonderful reminder that our mighty God created it all! I'll upload the pictures later..

And even spending time with Meli has been great. I really thank the Lord for blessing me with such a wondeful sister. Continue to press on! Remember that you were made to be extraordinary ...crafted by God perfectly to fit his plan and purpose. These years will hold many significant signposts and will definitely prepare you for greatness!

Facing the giants

Just finished watching the movie 'Facing the Giants.' What an awesome movie it is and what a wonderful reminder that with GOD nothing is impossible!

'For I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me the strength I need.' Philipians 4:13

Another answered prayer...How can I thank my God enough?

As I was cleaning, I saw this prayer in an enclosed envelope I wrote to Jesus on the 26/11/07 during the Monday Grosvenor CU bible study.

Dear Jesus,

Thank you for what you have done for me on the cross.I pray that I will always remain faithful to studying and reading Your word. I pray that I will always give you all the honour and glory you rightly deserve.I pray dear Jesus you will help me through this journey. I especially pray for my interview with FW at 12pm on Wednesday and that it will go on smoothly. I pray I will keep calm and confident,speak slowly and steadily and that I may have the favour of the interviewer. I thank you Lord for what you have already done and accomplished. I know you have the best intention for me.

Thank you dear Lord,
Sheena

This prayer has been answered. Just last week, I received a phone call from FW saying that they wish to offer me a summer placement. I am so ever grateful...now awaiting the contract which is on its way!:) Thank you Jesus!

Back again

Tonight I have the sudden edge to begin blogging again after being silent for almost a year! Mine you, my walk with God hasn't been dormant, rather it has been an exciting journey.

There has been times when I was down but nevertheless because of His grace and faithfulness, I have risen again and grown.

There has been times when I have learnt to trust in Him wholeheartedly, everyday and every second of my life even when the answer seems far away.

There has been times where I have learnt what it means to live in the shelter of the Most High and find rest in the shadow of the Almighty.To not be afraid, because we are more than conquerors.

There has been times where seeking God's wisdom and discernment were essential especially when making wise decisions.

There has been times when I have learnt to surrender it all to Jesus.

So many things have happened within this year. But looking back, I know I have made it this far only because God has been gracious and kind towards me. The blessings He has showered I can never repay. Thank you Father! I will continue to seek YOU first above all things!