Here comes February

I want to take back my words, January wasn't slow by the way. It was really just a blink of eye that now we are in the second month of 2010.

Just got an email from my boss indicating that I am now officially the Staff Writer for the University Chronicle. My fourth stories, excluding my opinion pieces are published this in this week's publication. It is a good news because all my writings, from now on, will earn me $10 each.

I felt that I am getting more and more passionate about writing news articles now. I find it fun to interview or talk to different people, especially interesting people while writing my stories. The most memorable interview I had was with Barney Smith, a member cum the artistic director of VOCES8 choral group.

VOCES8 is an international award-winning Capella octet. They came to perform at my school on Saturday evening in conjunction with the SCSU Concert Choir's Big Sing Honor Festival Concert.

It was really interesting to talk to Mr. Smith as I have to try hard to understand his British accent. It was not so bad after all. I managed to jot down all his quotes.

Being a student journalist, my schedule is now inconsistent. The funniest time I had last week was when I woke up at 12noon on Friday, checked my email inbox, and found a reply on a message from the interim director of choral activities from the Music department wanting to see me at 12:30pm.

It was just fun as I learn along the way.

Cheers, life marches on!

Oscar race-awards update

his would be interesting. I mean woa! From side A u have, the biggest movie of all time with weak storyline and amazing special effects. Side B includes the independent gem? "Up in the air", musical "Nine", hardcore drama "Precious", the awesome war?-film "The Hurt locker" and QT's latest masterpiece "Inglourious basterds".
Now why this is interesting. Because "Avatar" swooped two golden globes

It has been Good

Hey peeps, let's jump around!

Everything has been going well since my last update here. Classes went quite well, had my two articles published in the Chronicle again, went to the spring musical audition today and had 3 out of 4 CA workshop completed.

Rewind back to the weekends, it was a sweet yet bitter memory. I was invited by Noah to his grandparents home to watch the champion game between Vikings and the Saints. Sweet memory because I spent quality time with the family and I felt so comfortable being with them. Bitter part is when Vikings lost to the Saints by 3 points. Even though they did not make it to the Superbowl this year, Good News church will still definitely going to have a big annual Superbowl party next week.

Political science class was canceled on Monday, had the rest of the day running around to cover one of the news for this week. Now I know how it feels to be a journalist, there's not much time hanging around, every second is precious.

Last update for today will be the audition, for the Threepenny Opera musical that is going to be played in April. I practiced my vocal a few times in my dorm room with the help from Ms. Jaime, who helped me to record the piano music sheet and send it to me all the way from Malaysia, by email of course. Performance wise, did pretty good at the singing, judges are pleased. Screwed the dancing, I think I am not so talented in this area. Will see how it goes, callbacks list will be up on Thursday.

All I want to say is to thank God for a chance to participate. Never had I thought that I would stand at the center of the stage alone and sing. I felt good even just for the short moment on stage. Whether I will be selected or not, it is not as important anymore, I have achieved my goal that is to try out the audition and embrace my fear. I could say I did a not so bad job on this.

Oh yea, please take time to look at this too, it took me 150 minutes in from of the PC at Atwood Memorial Center to put everything together. It is my journalism class assignment but I made it into more like a collection approach, to keep all my clippings. Comment on my articles if possible!

Looking forward to more challenges installed ahead!

Ninja Assassin is way too cool!

Now that's entertainment. Ok the exit for conservatives is on ur left. I don't care how violent or silly it is. i absolutely loved it. The story is pretty much simple so i am not going to describe it. It's a revenge tale, straight down and simple. Only it is related with ninjas. This word happens to be one of my favourites. N-I-N-J-A. Oh yeah! Ok, let's do business. I hate critics. In fact i

The book of Eli-good news, my balls have just arrived...

Another monstrosity? Denzel's mistep? Masterpiece or cult creation of future? Well, none. That's the problem. Zero. This movie is so so so so so average that u start wondering what the Hughes Brothers had in mind. Known for making violent and realistic movies, their last film was the super atmospheric "From Hell", their take on Jack the ripper. So after an 8 year hiatus, the bros chose for their

Lovely songs from MY astro.

I always support MY Astro in their Chinese New Year songs. Here's the two that I love the most for this year. Hope you enjoy them.

P/S: One of my college friends is in the MTVs, he is Ryan. He won the 5th Place in the Astro Talent Quest 2009 if I have not mistaken. =)





I want AngPao...

Your-SELF

My Acting course professor raised a very interesting topic in class recently. Before I go further into depth, try this out. Get around 3 to 4 of your friends and perform this exercise, a very simple activity.

Raise your index finger, pointing it upwards, and keep the rest of your fingers to the palm. Without thinking, when one mentions about "self", immediately point your finger to one part of your body that you think it is where your "self" resides.

Did you see any difference?

I was surprised when this took place in our class. I had always thought that our "selves" only resides in our hearts, that's where I've pointed to. However, more than half of the class placed their fingers at the side of their forehead - their minds.

I instantly understand that different people see their own selves differently. This makes me think of the ultimate question of the day, what really controls your "self"?

Are you guided by your mind or your heart? Is your thinking that drives you, or your emotions? I am so fascinated. I think it is the society that we are raised in that shapes the way we think of ourselves. When we meet problems, do you approach the problem by saying:

I think that I should do it this way...
or
I feel that I should do it this way...

This really triggers me. Today, my index finger clearly indicates to me the way I normally deal with problems, I feel them. I am the person who cares how I would feel and how others around me might feel towards the way I may solve an issue. I am always concerned with emotions.

I will not say which kind of problem solving is better, but feeling something makes me sensitive. I am glad that I've found where my true self is located.

But, like Prof. Hyde said, sometimes we just need the tolerance for not getting an answer. What is self? Is self a part of you, or is it you? Are you your self? We don't need to know the correct answer to it. All we need to is know that we have a self, in which drives us.

Have fun looking for your "selves"!

Today is the Day

Jan 19, 2010. I felt so much accomplishment today!

2 things that have made myself proud:

- I made it to the gym even though my evil inner voice directed me otherwise.
- My first article is published on the University Chronicle! [click link to view electronic version]

Thank God, all the hard time is now paid off. This also means I have to keep writing. It is this kind of little motivation that kept me moving forward. =)

Alright, I pray that this passion will keep burning. Feel good.

C'mon, life!

Golden Globes..or golden balls?

YEsterday, on 17th of january, for the 67th time the globes were delivered. The host was the anticipated Rick Gervais. How it went? Well apart of some really nice and crashy jokes, it was boring nevertheless, surprising. Now u may catch urself wonder? WTF is this guy talking about? Please allow me to be more specific.

The good bits:






1.Robert Downey Jr taking the globe for best actor in a

Updates - 1st Week of School

It seems like a month to me already.

Are you ready for school?

My classes for the Spring semester are: (listed according to level of difficulty)

1. Modern Journalism: Cardinal Principle and New Media
2. Introduction to Rhetorical and Analytical Writing
3. Democratic Citizen: American National Government
4. Human Relations and Race
5. Acting for Everyone
6. Video Editing*

*Begin in March.

The first two class subjects are killing me. I have "tough" professors for those two on the top (or I should say they are die-hard). Both classes required a lot of writings and readings. I would say I have been writing my veins off in this very first week of school.

It crossed my mind that I would want to switch classes because the comments on ratemyprofessor.com is really not encouraging. But, I think God has arranged all these for me to challenge myself and to trust my own ability. I know there are many "easy" professors out there. I may easily get an A to maintain my 4.0 grade points with those "easy" ones rather than holding my breathe here every time I submit an essay/writing for either of the writing classes and hope that they are up to standards, professors' standards.

I will never learn to better myself if I have always chosen the easy button. I hope I have made the right decision this semester. God bless my GPA. =)

Also, I am now writing - well, still contributing - for the campus newspaper called the University Chronicle. It will add up to all my already-killing-me-writing assignments. This mean that I will have to run around the campus for the happening events that take place every week. Yea, like a reporter.

I must say these are all experiences that I wanted to gain before I graduate from this place. One of my new year resolutions is to get myself involve more with the university and the community. I am now slowly accomplishing them. At the same time, I am having fun!

I may go for the Spring Musical audition at the end of this month too.

Alright, so many things lined up for this wonderful semester before I come back to Malaysia in May. I am so excited!

Good luck to everyone for this the chilly~~ Spring semester!

Haiti-a new tragedy

I can not say much. These people there deserve our thoughts at least along with our attention. We can make a difference by helping. Please think about it and take action. What if u were on their position? Only 5 euros each u help some people to restore their life although the sadness may never go away. Please help

This is the link for the red cross donation:
https://american.redcross.org/site/

Sherlock Holmes-superflous entertainment or a new generation franchise?

Well, another movie this month. The film that everybody knows. Sherlock Holmes. The storyline is kinda simple with Holmes and his loyal partner Watson trying to capture a dude that has been resurrected? from the dead and is killing people. I am not giving any more details. Did i enjoyed it? Hell yeah! Was it good? Absolutely. However, it has some flaws. But before i start my usual damnation, i

Mom said:

BOY

Get up now or you'll be late for school; always take your breakfast, eat your bread and do not throw them away in school! Why are your shoes always dirty? Did you just play football with your friends again? Are you done with your homeworks? Do it now! Turn off the TV, the CD player too; have your lunch here on the table, not on that couch; help your brothers with their schoolworks; did you drink the pop I put in the fridge today? Who took it? How much you scored for your spelling test today? 4 out of 10?! Did you tell your dad about this? I bet he doesn't even care; arrange your school bags under the shelf or I will throw them out of the house; what time is it now? Get ready for your tuition classes; what have you learned today? Go take your shower now; Are you doing a concert in the shower again? Finish up your homework, this is my last warning; I said turn the TV off!! Done, everything? Go to bed now; oh, before that, kiss your daddy goodnight; I love you too, son.

(Inspired by Jamaica Kincaid, from "At The Bottom Of The River")

############################

起床! 你要迟到了，把你的早餐给吃了，吃你的面包，不要把他们扔在学校里！为什么你的鞋子总是脏的？你刚才又和你的朋友玩足球啦？你的作业呢？现在就做！关掉电视，CD播放机也关掉; 在这里桌上吃午饭，而不是在沙发上，帮助你的弟弟他们作业，你喝了我今天放在冰箱的汽水？是谁拿的？您的拼写测试成绩呢？在10 分 才拿了4分？！你告诉你爸爸了吗？我敢打赌，他甚至不会理会; 把你的书包放在架子下，否则我将抛出房子，现在是什么时候呢？为你的补习班准备好了吗; 你今天学会了什么呢？现在去洗澡，你又在淋浴时开一次音乐会？完成你的家庭作业，这是我最后一次警告，我说关掉电视！！一切作完了吗？现在去睡觉; 哦，在此之前，吻你爸爸晚安，我也爱你，儿子。

############################

While I was writing this as class activity in my Human Relations and Multicultural Education class, I recollected some scoldings or nagging that I would hear at home everyday.

How much a mother or parent can influence a child?

Beyond measure.

Just another interest in...

Theatre and Acting

I had my first acting class today and I was so excited about it. It was the first time I actually walked around the Performing Arts Center as I have to locate my classroom, well, it was an arena stage actually.

I like my class's professor. Even though he sounded more like a philosopher, I like the way he delivered his thoughts and had made me sunk into deep thoughts too. His name is Dr. Bruce Hyde. You can look him up on Wikipedia. He mentioned that he acted with some popular actors in the older decades. He said that his "peak period" was when he acted in Star Trek.

It was one of my choices (intentions) to pursue the theatre or film studies major here in St. Cloud State. However, knowing that I do not have time to lengthen my education in college, I had to make up my mind. I've decided to continue with my Mass Communication major and both Psychology and Comm Studies minors since I have quite a number of credits from Malaysia.

I am not an expert in acting, let alone singing and dancing. But I have a strong passion for it. If God would give me another choice, I would definitely pick up theatre or film studies. I feel that acting is a way to express ourselves, both physically and emotionally.

Many a time, we are constrained by uncountable life situations, debts, responsibilities, roles, commitments, just to name a few. These invisible threads had tied us up so tightly that we could not really tell how we are feeling. I believe the stage is a very fine place to express and may be discover our true self too.

I recalled the time in SEGi when I co-directed a musical for one of my communication classes. It was great fun indeed. Having a musical put up from scratch (with help from my buddies of course) was the most joyous memory I had in college.

So, I still thank God that I get to enroll into this acting class, TH 148 Acting for Everyone, to fulfill my general education requirement. I'm so looking forward to coming next class meetings!

Cheers for tomorrow, for everyday to come!

Daybreakers review

Now that is what i called class A of filmaking! U have a hand of really good actors but not hollywood superasses, a mediocre budget, a very common theme and directors that nobody knows (and cares..). This result tooooooooooooooo:
Daybreakers! The story is simple: Vampyres are the ruling!? species and they harvest humans for blood. The remaining "us" are hunted down and thus we are an endangered

Summary on Spring '10 Orientation

It was quite an experience having to serve as an International Peer Adviser (IPA) for this Spring semester. As IPAs, our roles were to provide as much help possible to the new international students, whether transfers or exchange students. We assist in many ways where we're capable of: help them moving into their residence halls, check-in and registrations, administrative requirements, payments, and also to help them to feel 'at home' in this totally new environment.

I was the Group Leader for the Red Group, together with Yin Feng from China. In my group, there were students from all over Asian and African countries. All of them are undergrad students. Me being me, I messed up with newbies from the other groups too! I found out that some of the Korean girls will be taking the same acting class with me in this semester.

So, basically we are helping them to get themselves familiarized with this new land. We brought them for campus tours as well as tours to Downtown and the other St. Cloud areas. It was fun to see their exciting faces for awhile. Most of them came from big cities, hence, just like what I've experienced, felt disappointed after getting to know this small suburban place.

There are 6 Malaysian students that came in this semester, 2 girls and 4 guys. One of the girls is an exchange student and one of the guys is a grad student.

I'm glad I made this decision to join the IPA team. Not only that I got to know many freshies but the CIS (Center for International Studies) staffs pretty well too. I also had closer bonds with some of the IPAs, namely the China students. They are indeed a bunch of crazy people to party with too~!

So, even though there isn't any paychecks, all I've earned is a bunch of new friends and a fruitful way to end my winter break.

Have fun in the first day of class everyone!

AVATAR shutters the box office

It is a fact. James Cameron latest opus AVATAR is going to be the most successful movie of all time. So far it has grossed 1,3 billion dollars and it is out for less than a month. It's been 13 years since Cameron conquer the title "king of the world" with Titanic. Do i need to remind u that titanic won 11 oscars and WAS the most successuful movie of all time. So what happened with AVATAR? When

Beauty of Languages

I was serving as an ESL Placement Test proctor for the new international students yesterday. A few of us helped Julie the ESL coordinator to look after the students who were sitting for the English writing test in Centennial Hall while she was busy preparing for the listening and reading tests.

The topic given for the writing test was to write an argument for whether or not to unify the world by asking everyone to speak only one language. Statistics were shown telling that about 94% of the languages (of 6,500 living languages) in the world today are only spoken by 5% of its native speakers.

Being a strong supporter of multilingualism and a lover of languages myself, I support the "NO" side to the argument. I believe that languages - be it a mainstream language or an underrepresented dialect - are arts. In fact, they are beautiful beyond descriptions.

Behind every single language laid the rich culture of its originality. Each language itself contains history. Even though some of these may not be very impressive, they each tells something about the speaker. By listening to the language spoken, we can tell not only a person's racial background, country of nativity, education level, and social economic status, we also see personalities. This is how much a language can present ourselves, before we even reveal our true self to others. It is like an invisible identity card. Not that we have brought this "ID" on purpose, but it follows us automatically wherever we go.

When a toddler first spoken a language, we call it the motherlanguage, or the mothertongue. Speaking one's own language feels like throwing ourselves back to our mother's arms. This feeling is indescribable. I think I should call it "the sense of belonging". It is often to see international students clinging to a group that speaks the same language even if they came from different countries, just like the Chinese and the Chinese Malaysians. It feels really good when someone pat on your back and say, hey, we both speak French! Comment vas-tu? Yes, a language connects people.

My final point is that different languages help us to understand others better; it also teaches us to humble ourselves and respect each other. There isn't one language is more superior than another. When we really come out to "the world", we see how fine and tiny ourselves are. We also see how others can interpret things in wonderful and unique ways. We then know how we are similar to a pieces of puzzles in which we need each other to form a better picture for the world.

In conclusion, different languages are necessary. It is next to impossible to use one unified language for our whole world. Whose language should be chosen then and why? No one may command us to abandon our very "mother's arm" and go into somebody else arms. I would just say that the beauty of languages are too marvelous for comprehension. Even linguists have to study years to deeply understand one language. Sometimes, you just need your own language. I mean, who needs English or Chinese when you are around a table full of Malaysians who love their Manglish?

Think about it.

**************************************
(Chinese Version)

我昨天担任给予新的国际学生给予的ESL分级考试的普罗克托。我们中的有一些帮助朱莉为ESL协调员照顾的学生谁属百年厅作英语写作测试，而她正忙于准备听力和阅读测试。

为写作考试给出的题目是写一个是否按要求大家统一世界只讲一种语言的论点。统计数据显示说，大约94％，在世界上的语言（6500生活语言）今天只有5％的母语发言。

作为一个多语种的坚定支持者和爱好者的语言我，我支持“不”方的论点。我认为，语言 - 无论是主流语言或方言的不足 - 是艺术。事实上，它们是美丽而超越说明的。

单一语言的背后，奠定了其富有独创性的文化。每一种语言本身包含的历史。尽管其中有些可能不是很出色，他们各自讲述了事情的扬声器。通过听取发言的语言，我们不仅可以告诉一个人的种族背景，马槽国家，教育水平，社会经济地位，我们也看到人的本性。这是可以提出自己的语言，才更显示我们的真正的自我给他人。它像一个无形的身份证。这并不是说我们把这一“身份证”随身而带，但我们自动走到哪里它都遵循。

当宝宝第一次所说的语言，我们将其称为motherlanguage，或mothertongue。谈到自己的语言感觉就像把自己投回到了母亲的怀抱。这种感觉是难以形容的。我想我应该称之为“归属感”。人们常常看到不同的人组着一组，讲同样的语言，即使他们来自不同的国家，就像中国和马来西亚华人，国际学生。当有人拍拍你的背，说：嘿，我们都讲法语，感觉真的很好！Comment vas-tu? 是的，语言把人连接起来了。

我的最后一点是，不同的语言帮助我们更好地了解别人，而且还教我们谦卑自己，互相尊重。没有一种语言比另一种更优。当我们真正走出来“的世界”，我们看到我们自己的渺小。我们还看到其他人如何解释和独特的方式美妙的事情。然后，我们知道我们是相似的拼图中，我们相互需要，形成了世界更好的一个画面。

总之，多种语言是必要的。这几乎是不可能的使用我们的整个世界用一个统一的语言。谁应选择语言，然后，为什么？任何人不得命令我们放弃我们“母亲的怀抱”，并进入别人的怀里。我只想说，语言的美的理解过于精彩。即使是语言学家研究多年深刻理解一种语言。有时候，你只需要您自己的语言。我的意思是，围着一张桌子，充满了热爱自己的Manglish的马来西亚人，谁需要的中文或英文呢？

想想看。

Talking about Education...

I was glad that I had this conversation with a friend of mine from Shanghai, China over the topic of the necessity of higher education.

From his lens, I get to compare the differences between the China's emphasis on higher education with the Malaysians'. We also discussed on some of the factors that may have influenced the younger teens' decision in pursuing college education. We then also talked on some of the societal factors that may have been an issue for a student's choice on determining his or her field of studies.

Personally, I came from a large family that has no "proper" education background. Most of my aunts and uncles-including my parents-have never received full secondary level education. Some of them even dropped out of school since the elementary level. I assume that financial availability was the main factor.

However, I thank God that my parents had never neglected the importance of education. Even though my dad has never had an idea that I would make it up to college, both my parents had the belief that education shapes a better future. My mom especially trust that education is the tool to change the way of life.

Deep down in me I felt sorry for those who had not given their fullest effort possible to pursue higher education. Many amongst us had the finances ready, some even had more than sufficient. But many of these youngsters never had appreciated what they are truly blessed with. There are zillions out there that crave for an open seat in college. Most of these people are academically capable, only that money had held them back.

Still, I strongly believe a Cantonese phrase that goes "what is in you when you're 3 determines who you are till you are 80". Parents play a vital part in shaping their kids when they were young! Many parents from my parents' generation are dependent on school teachers to instill the passion for learning in their children. Even though many teachers did their part in doing so, I think parents must not forget that they are the ones who can influence their kids the most. They are also the role models for the younger ones.

I really thank God for where I am now. I have never dreamt that I would step foot in the States to further my studies. Ever since I was in college, I see how education can change one's life.

What I am trying to say are:

• If you now have the chance to farther higher education, don't hesitate! More knowledge won't kill!
• If you now haven't got the opportunity to do so, do not give up. God helps those who help themselves.

I hope you find this arguable. Feel free to drop your two-cents.

Decade review part 3: Influential films

Most influential films of the decadeGroundbreaking achievements, eye popping effects, sound dazzling sound, magnificent pictures, fashion creators, innovators, trends, inspirators in movies were achieved this decade. These are the most influential films of the decade for various reasons as i consider them. Georgy's influential films of 2000's.Crouching tiger, hidden dragon: gravity defying

Reflections and Resolutions

Reflections

2009 had been great, very great in fact. Many new chapters of my life unveiled in the past 365 days. I thank God for walking me through the year. Now, I just want to take time to reflect on things that had taken place in each of the months and highlight some significant events in 2009.

January
Spent my first week of the new semester in Pantai Cheras Hospital. I was infected with Dengue fever and the 5 days in the ward was like hell. Thank God that many friends visited me and I felt so much love from my parents and those who cared for me. Also, I was appointed to be Staff Sergeant (SSGT) in the 1stKL Boys' Brigade Co. along with my fellow comrades, Kar Hoe and Sai Hong. It was one big transition.

February
It was the beginning of my Sophomore year. I spent my best Chinese New Year ever with family and relatives. When back to college, we had so much fun in classes and also I got a closer bond with my housemates and floormates at Casa Subang. We hanged out a lot.

March
We finally made it! Christian Fellowship in my college successfully organized a CF camp combined with our sister campus. We knew each other whole lot better and also made new friends in El Sanctuary, Malacca. Then, it was BB Outing to Ulu Yam, fun fun and fun with the Juniors especially.

April
Made my application to the St. Cloud State University. Experienced some down-period of life when I don't know what to do with my finances. Thank God that He offered me some freelance works. And then it was Final examinations for the Spring semester. The next tough question that followed was whether or not to do Summer classes.

May
It was semester break and I had my time well spent with the BB. 1stKL was busy preparing for its 55th Anniversary celebration. Practices, camps, all come at the same time. Praise God that everything turned out great. Oh yea, I also turned 19 on the 27th.

June
The anniversary was a blast. It was one of my best moments in BB. Summer classes took place. Participated in College Games Day, it was fun and muddy. M.J passed away, created a lot of woos and haas. Interviewed Hannah Yeoh as my group assignment, she's a State Assemblyperson who loves and fears God. Checked my emailbox almost every hours. Was anticipating for the reply from the records and registration department. No news at all. Experienced dilemma.

July
Finally got accepted into SCSU. Turned from checking my emailbox to my letterbox, was waiting for the I-20 documents to arrive. It was another hard time I went through. As promised, attended my college prom night. Moved out from college hostel.

August
It was the Month of the Year. It was the month that I experienced the most ups and downs within 30 days. VISA was held back for secondary clearance, flight date was postponed and postponed. Told the whole world that I was leaving, but still standing in Malaysia the next day. Attended my Grandma's 83rd birthday dinner. Then got a call from the U.S. Embassy saying that my VISA is approved, one day after my plane flew. Reset my flight date. Confirmed going to the States.

September
Settled down in Minnesota. Missed Malaysia's independence day for the first time in my life. I got involved with quite a few activities in school. Experienced Fall season for the first time, seeing the trees and leaves turning red and yellowish made me admire God's creation. It was a smooth sailing month. Also, realized that my mum started reading all my posts, haha!

October
Helped out in Malaysian Night. Seen my President's Award granted online. Went to Chi Alpha Fall retreat, made new friends, picked up new language! Seen snow for the first time in my life. Another nice and chilly month.

November
"Celebrated" Halloween in U.S. Had a good time over the Thanksgiving break in Little Falls with Hokansons family as well as with Sue's family. Got myself engaged with a lot of reading, for academic purpose.

December
Spent Christmas in the snow. Received many gifts from friends. Had several celebrations/parties. Attended the SCSU commencement. Cut my hair, never had it since I arrived in the States. Spent the last 5 days of my teen years in Kansas City. Welcomed the new decade with the presence of God.

Resolutions

2010 marks my age 20. I can't believe that I am on Earth for 20 years already! I believe this will be a life-changing year that God had many wonderful things installed for me.

I want to start off by looking at the resolutions that I've set for 2009 and see how far I've accomplished them.

1. Maintaining CGPA at 3.90 and above.
I did my best. I had 4.0 for this semester and my Gen Ed. GPA remains at 3.88.

2. Transfer into the US State Univeristy with scholarships.
Praise the Lord, it is where I am now, with the Academic and Cultural Sharing Scholarship.

3. Introduce 2 non-believers to Christianity.
I think this is my failure. I shall keep working on this.

4. Maintaining good relationship with Loved ones: Family, Friends and people around.
Thank God, I had a bunch of people who love me.

5. Earn > RM250 per month on my own.
I did, then I couldn't anymore once I arrived here in the States, I've sent my application to be a Community Advisor for the Fall 2010.

6. Continue to serve faithfully in 1st Kuala Lumpur BB Company.
I have served faithfully since my appointment and I couldn't helped but to call it a pause with my offer to study in the States. I will be back for Summer 2010 and I shall see all my fellow BB members in Pesta 2010, Penang!

So, my new resolutions for 2010 are as followed: (In chronological order)

1. Maintain CGPA at 3.90 and above.
2. Bring 2 non-believers to Christ.
3. Get hired as CA.
4. Get myself more involved in the University and Community.
5. Get one more Scholarship.

These will serve as my top-5 priorities in 2010. However, as a Christian, I want to do what God is directing me to do. I will allow God to use me as His instrument to accomplish His will.

Alright, that's all for the new year plans. Amen!

Onething 2009 - A Blast!

God had been really faithful.

I never noticed this conference until a friend of mine from the Chi Alpha campus ministry came up to me and ask if I want to attend this annual conference. I was quite reluctant in the beginning. But as time passes, I gave myself a reason to go, which is "a better way to spend my winter break". So finally decided to attend this conference which was going to be held from the 28th till the 31st December. I thought it was cool because it will end on the last day of 2009.

God works in ways that I couldn't comprehend.

Everything was just so perfect throughout this 4-day conference. It was the largest conference that I have ever been to. Each day, the convention center is filled with more than 20,000 people worship the Lord and listening to His teachings.

This event was organized by the International House of Prayer (IHOP-KC) Missions Base in Kansas City, Missouri. You can have assess to the IHOP homepage via the link on the right, under blogroll and interest.

What IHOP had impressed me is that they have a 24/7 Prayer Room. You can also have assess to it for FREE using the link on your right. For more than 10 years, the Prayer Room had been run by full time singers and musicians, open for anyone from anywhere at anytime to come pray and worship the lord. Can you imagine, even the 7Eleven convenient stores close on holidays, this 24/7 Prayer Room had never ceased since it started on Sept 19, 1999.

Let the pictures guide you as you read.

I have never seen such passions, passion and love for our God. The worship and teachings are just so powerful. The main speaker for the conference was Mike Bickle, the founder of IHOP-KC. Together with him was Allen Hood, the president of IHOPU (University), Wes Hall, Director of the IHOP School of Ministry, Lou Engle, the father of Bound4Life (Pro-life) movement.

I felt the HS ministering to me starting from the second day. When He touches me, there was stream of Joy and at the same time I felt Forgiveness. I also eye-witnessed hundreds of healing that were done each day of the conference, the strongest one was someone who was healed from the wheelchair. People pray for each other, whether he or she knows you or not.

Adults and children were baptized by immersion from the second day till the last day. Every time a soul was won, I feel the touch of the HS that I can't control but just to praise God in tears of Joy.

Among the worship leaders, all coming from the IHOPU Music Academy, Misty Edwards, Laura Hackett and Cory Asbury, I was moved most by Misty. Thanks to Connor (my roommate for the 4 days), who offered me to copy her album to my iTunes, now I can listen to Misty's songs while working out in the gym!

The whole event was recorded and shown on live webstream by the IHOPU Media Institute students. The media crews were so cool! I am so encouraged to join the school but just too bad time and money are my hindrances.

I seriously encourage you to look at the Prayer Room via webstream. Just click on the link at the right and then experience it for yourselves.

I've also got some MP3 and notes from the bookstore to give as gifts for my friends when I am back to Malaysia. Too many books that I wanted to buy but I don't have the financial ability.

I daresay I am spiritually changed after this experience with God in this conference. God had brought to me new friends from this 4-day event. I've met some students from Canada who happened to be Malaysians! Of course, I am also blessed to have Connor as my roommate, he's just a 14-year-old but his passion for God and the way he pray for others really inspire me a lot. I have had a whole new perspective for our Love towards God.

This New Year was really different. Never had I welcomed a new year with 20,000 plus people shouting "Jesus, King of Glory!" when the clock stroke 12. It was a whole new experience and I am glad that I've started 2010 with God Himself.

I will update more on some reflection on 2009 and also resolutions for 2010 by the next post. I thank you for those of you who follows and read my entries regularly. I pray that you are blessed too by witnessing God's works within my life.

Even though it was My life, I want it His way.