Episodes of a Bao's life

2010 A New Year Ahead

2010-01-04T01:49:00.004+11:00

Hello World. It has been a while since i last blog in this entry. I realise in 2009, i had only blog once, but this was because 2009 had been such a busy year. I was active in both film studies and also in my service to our LORD. For me it has always been a struggle between both.

My initial plan for 2010 was to commit all my time into filming. I prayed about it and told the Lord, " hey lord, i want 2010 to myself, to improve my skills in creating films and doco, you know so that one day i can use my skills to serve you better. But it might also involve some weekends and might have to miss church meetings once in a while too." Then the Lord replied me from his Word.

If you turn back your foot from the Sabbath, from doing your pleasure on my holy day, and call the Sabbath a delight and the holy day of the LORD honorable; if you honor it, not going your own ways, or seeking your own pleasure, or talking idly; then you shall take delight in the LORD, and I will make you ride on the heights of the earth; i will feed you with the heritage of Jacob your father, for the mouth of the LORD has spoken.

Isaish 58:13,14

As i read these verses, I thank the Lord, for his gentle reminder that i should never forgo fellowship with Him just for improving my own skills and giving an excuse of serving the Lord. Our heart is indeed deceitful.

The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it?

Jeremiah 16:9

I thank the Lord how He has led me till 2010. The coming year, prayerfully i will be able to get my honors, the other is also serving the Lord in OCF EXCO, taking up the Mission Secretary Role. I am really excited to see how the year will go. But i pray the Lord will always keep me close to Him. In the recent OCF 50th Convention, it was really encouraging to see how all the old-timers have been so faithfully serving the LORD so many years of their lives. I really enjoy Rev. John Ting's msg. It was really something i could relate to. I will blog it up one day. The Lord has been good to them, and i also believe the Lord will be good to me, as i faithfully serve Him.

My life on earth is only 70 years, i got another 46 more to go. But i have all eternity to enjoy true fellowship with God's people. So with the remaining time, i would like to continue to preach hisWord and His Love, so one day i can enjoy all eternity with all of you. Be well everyone.

God Bless

Baoshun

Unity quick thought

2009-03-22T23:08:00.002+08:00

Hello people! How has everyone been? it has been awhile since i updated this blog. haha! Sorry think i really getting bored with this blogging thing. Anyway i decided to put this post up here because God spoke to me during Sunday morning message and i felt like sharing this with you guys.

This past week has not been the best, if fact, i think it was one of the worst few i have had in the year. I fell sick, had alot of shoots to go for, essay to write and readings to catch up on. But praise God that i got through all of that. But what was worst were my thoughts on service to God. For those who do not know, i am serving in this ministry called OCF. Overseas Christian Fellowship.

For the past week, i was utterly disappointed, discouraged and disgusted with the OCF members. They really have been a huge disappointment when i look at our service to our Lord. I guess i asked the question what is a fellowship, then i look at the members, and i see how selfish each one can be. They are only interested in their own life, things that they would like to do, without considering others before them. Not only so, they cant keep what they have set out to do. Its not just one or two, its like... almost all of them.

So it reached the point i ask God, how. I really wanted to just give up the fellowship, i think it really affected my spiritual health for the week. I mean if everyone is selfish, fine, i will be selfish too and guard my own time and do things i would like to do. But at the same time, i still love God's people and i really do not want to see them just slowly waste their life away.

It had been a constant struggle and God answered me. He gave me Ephesians 4:1-6. Our morning speaker shared on this verses. Paul reminded the Ephesians to live a life worthy of the calling, and with complete humble and gentle; being patient, bearing with one another in love. Making every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit. When he read it loud, i was stunned for a moment. When he went on to explain, why Paul ask the people to do such with humility and gentleness, it really struck me hard.

He gave the example, everyone has their own way of living, everyone have their own preferences, and everyone has their own reasons for doing things. We cannot force someone else to fall into what we want out of them and make them live the way we want. Because in that itself is selfish. He shared about a youth pastor who helped grew a youth group to 200 people, but when it reached that point, the church fired him and hired another pastor to take over. Now it benefited the church as it grew to 400 youths, but the youth pastor was so discouraged that he got fired when he sees his ministry growing and stopped serving. Now is it right that the youth pastor was fired for something that God has bless? Alot of times we see things in our own way without looking at how other see things and because of our own pride, we think we are right.

Where complete humility is important, because we have to humble ourselve down, knowing that God is in control, that no matter the circumstance, it is God who will bring us through. Then when you understand complete humility then you will want to practise complete gentleness, because no matter how many times people may disappoint you, you would still want to teach them and help them. If you are not truely gentle, you will bear a grudge and not do it the Godly way. So be patient and bear with each other in love. =)

I want to see God's kingdom grow and though they may be a disappointment in my life, i believe God will change them. Now i am reminded that i am not doing this alone, God is the one changing them, my job is to trust and be faithful in doing God's work.

Take care all of you. Hope to see you soon.

Resolutions for 2009

2008-12-31T16:54:00.002+08:00

Hello everyone! Hows things been? i am been really busy! I got back to Singapore on the 12th of December after convention. There are so many things on my mind now that i am about to explode. Well this entry will not be that long, but i will put up my resolutions at the end of it.

OCF Convention 08 was indeed really excellent. Although at the start of it, i was tired and feeling a little down, but as the days go by, i pick up my good joyous mood and was having so much fun. The messages were really excellent stuff too. We had 2 good speakers sharing from the book of Thessalonians, straight to the point and spoke without beating around the bush.

After coming back to Singapore, i went to my church youth camp, and i helped out in a few items during camp. The sad part about the camp was that during the camp, my camera battery died! It was only day 2, that was saddening. Anyway i got a new battery now, so i am back in action. Camp was alright, as it was meant to be an evangelistic camp, so got to talk to a few non-christians and was quite interesting to find out their thoughts.

After camp, i spend the next few days shopping and spending time with family. It was good =) Got quite a bit of new clothes to wear in Perth next year. Yes Yes i am changing my clothes. Time flies by so quickly. Today would be the last day of the year.

So here's my resolution for 2009:

Produce and direct my own short film
Run a marathon
Have my Mexcian dinner with Helen
Learn the keyboard
Make an impact in people's lives
Quit whining

I think thats it for now, if i think of more, i will add it in.

Well see you guys in 2009 unless the Lord decides to return tonight. haha.

God Bless
Baoshun

In a thinking mood..

2008-10-11T19:20:00.002+08:00

Hello everyone! It has been a while since i last updated my blog again. Hows everyone been? The year is coming to an end soon, another year just went by so quickly. Soon i will be twenty-five, I will have lived a quarter of a century. Other than assignments, i have been thinking quite alot about next year. Plans for my life, OCF, and my thoughts on some issues.

Now where shall i start? It is going to be a really long entry. So i hope you guys be patient with me.

Lets start with my thoughts. Recently i have been thinking about what i would like to do next year, it will be my final year here in Murdoch University. I was thinking that i should be more involved with what i am studying and helping out in production areas whenever i can. With that means most of my time will go into it, and thus i will have to give up certain other aspects of my life. In this sense, i would think that service in ministry might get affected.

As i thought more about it, the more i want to be equip in my area of expertise. Sometimes in school, i do feel that i am lagging behind, everyone seems to know what they are doing, and there i am struggling with work and theories. It does get really frustrating, especially after getting back my results, it is like adding oil to fire.

So in frustration, i cry out to God. I really just keep asking him everyday what i should do, and how i should carry on. Job has been my source of motivation. The idea of asking God what He wants. I really did not know what i should do, i just wanted God's direction. I just wanted Him to show me where to go, God for a moment felt so distant. This went on for quite a few weeks, and still nothing, then, during homegroup one night, God answered me. Not really the answer i was looking for.

If you guys have your bible with you, would you like to turn to James 4:1-10. I kinda got scolded. James here was scolding the twelve tribes in the Dispersion. They were asking God for things that are for their own passion. He was asking them to stop being hypocrites or double minded snakes and remember who they are suppose to be serving.

As i thought more about it, i questioned myself. What is the motivation that i would like to be more involved and what are the reasons for it. Being honest to one self is not easy. As i thought further, i realise i am doing all these because of my own passions, my desire of wanting to be good, to be seen a pro by others. Pride was my greatest enemy! v10 says therefore humble yourselve before the Lord and He will exalt you.

Well some of you guys might think its foolish, that i should make my own decisions with what i want to do in my life. As i think about it, i do make my own decisions in my life, only that my purpose is not for self glory but to glorify my LORD; my saviour and friend. With this, i know what was God answer to me already, and i decided how to go on next year.

Now moving along to my plans for next semester. If given the opporunity to help out in production, i will not hesitate and go for it. This is not for my own self glory, but so that i can equip myself better for the future when i go into ministry. If it does not come, then i will not chase after it either, but build my own knowledge first. Now that i have learn to take things seriously, next is to learn not to take things so shallow, but be more in depth with things.

Next i would have to start thinking about what i want to do after university.

Now in regards to OCF, i wonder what will it be like next semester. I was thinking, serving in ministry is not easy, it is very easy to burn out. When we get discouraged, we tend to just give up after. Now i think there is where we find joy, knowing that we suffer for God and also knowing that He is building us up to be good worksman for him.

Next year OCF Murdoch's theme will be AGAPE LOVE. Now we split AGAPE into acryonames. A for Assurance, G for Giving, A for Acceptance, P for Passion, E for Endurance. So interesting, i have to write Bible study materials on it. It will be kinda exciting. I need help~~~~~

okie what else am i going to do in OCF next semester, well its still uncertain, but i will keep you guys updated.

Now at the end of this entry, i realise how immature my thinking is.

The beauty of Spring

2008-09-07T00:16:00.006+08:00

Hello everyone. It has been a while. Sorry this post will be mostly photos. I went to Araluen again this year to take nice pictures of the tulips. Sadly to my disappointment, the flowers arrangement were not really nice, there were only so few flowers and my photography skills have not improve in a year. I need to buck up.

Okie the photos look more colorful on my computer, i guess it must have loss some of its resolution when it got uploaded.

The greatest director

2008-08-02T22:39:00.002+08:00

I was reading a book, and it stated that some people call God a scriptwriter. A scriptwriter writes a script, and in the script, the writer states who the characters are, their emotions and the things they say and do. Some people describe this as God. God as our sovereign ruler, decides everything for us, our actions, our thoughts, which is why He knows everything about us.

As i thought more about it, God is sovereign, but i think He gives us the freedom to choose. I would say that God is more like a director. The script has been selected, the roles are given, whats going to happen God knows. When the script is being played out, the actors and actresses though they have a script to follow, they can choose to follow exactly, or choose to say something else but its still along the same lines of the script. So in life when we made decisions, i do sometimes feel that God gives us the choice, that either decision we make will ultimately end up according to His plan.

But this play cannot 'cut' and redo, its a one way show. So live your best for Him and make decisions wisely. The stage has been set, it will come to an end soon.

The Selfish I am

2008-07-20T15:14:00.002+08:00

Hello everyone. Its been a while since i last updated my blog. Well i have been really busy these holidays. In the month of june, i had friends from Singapore who came over to visit. So had to bring them around. After that, there was OCF winter camp, and finally the past 2 weeks, i get to rest at home. Time flies, school is starting in 2 weeks time again.

When i had to bring my friends around, we went to swan valley. Its like a place full of wineries. There is this particular winery that attracted my attention. They sell non-alcoholic wines, in other words, sparkling juices. Oh its really good! The winery is called Patritti. I love the Grape sparkling one. I will buy a few bottles back when i go back Singapore. So people in Singapore can wait for it. Also i went to this pizza place called 'Little Caesars', they serve the best pizza there. Its a world famous award winning pizza outlet. I kinda expected to have a large dining area, but its like really small. But its pizzas are so good, especially the dessert pizzas, makes a person drool in his/her sleep.

The other place i visit was the aquarium, its really nice, i think i can just sit down at the underwater tunnel and stare at the fishes all day. The biggests StingRay in the world is known as Smooth Rays apparently, or maybe in Aussie Land. Its 4.3metres long. The first thing that came to mind was Sambal Stingray, think about the amount of meat it will have. Yum.

Well after those highlights, the next highlight was OCF Winter Camp. It was 25mins drive from my place, so near home. That camp was really good. The theme was "God, Our Confidence". or something like that. Anyway made alot of new and good friends there. It was a combine camp between the three centres. The theme verse was taken from Romans 8:1. We are no longer condemned, PRAISE GOD!

We have a hope for the future. A hope that is not uncertain, but a hope that is certain. You know people these days always say :"i hope my exams do fine, i hope that things will turn out alright". They hope in something that is not sure of, but the hope we have in Christ is something that we are sure of, and something we can look forward to because we know God keeps his Promises.

This is only possible because of what Christ has done. God did not do it to reward or to discipline us, but because of His Grace and Mercy. Humans are bound to die, because it is our punishment for sin. All have sin, everyone has done something wrong before. Dont deny it. But God in his great love and mercy, sent Christ to pay the price. We are therefore free. Yet you see God is not a God who forces people to accept it, so you have the freedom to choose whether to accept or not.

It is true, that if you do not accept it, you go to hell, and its true that if you do accept it, you will be with God in heaven. Heres the tricky part. So why do you accept it? Because its your ticket out of hell? I am sorry to say, if thats your motive for accepting it, i believe that God knows. And that i wont be surprise on that day he will say "I never knew you". Matt 7.

Accepting God means admitting you have sin and thanking God for Jesus Christ. Not only so, you will want to change and repent from your past. And now being changed, we can do what is genuinely good and right, because we are made righteous.

Now what is meant by genuinely good and right? It means to do good or right things for another person to benefit. Everyone is selfish, all of us do good because we benefit from it. People say that all religion are the same, all teaches us to do good, but really i think christianity is really different. People do good deeds, because they want to save themselves, the more good deeds they do, the more "good points" they earn. So therefore knowing that i help an old lady, is something good, and therefore i have earn "a point" for my future. So the more good things i do, the more "points" i earn. Now with christianity doing good does not earn any "points". We do good because we want someone else to benefit from it. We hope that the person will be bless because of what we do. Which is why christians should be seen as unselfish people to help within the means of what they can.

I dont think every Christian can be perfect and that good, but with the help of the holy spirit, it slowly changes us and mold us to become like Christ. When you struggle, you know, that the spirit is there helping you and guiding you. It cries out for us. So always set your eyes on what is ahead. The hope that we are assured of.

I only recently discovered that i am that selfish person too. Its really all about me. I do things to be recognize, think about my own benefits and with service is so that i am seen to God as "a good and faithful servant". Service is more than just being seen as doing what is good to God, it also means to make sure someone else whom you are serving is benefiting and that God is seen by others because of what you do. I do not think i can do this by myself, but i firmly believe as Paul has, that in Christ who strengthens me, i can do all things.

Well other than that there were workshops during camp. The one on being single is very good. If YF needs a speaker on it, let me know. haha. i wont mind speaking on outreach too. Alright till next time guys seeya!

It is time

2008-06-22T21:40:00.002+08:00

Amazing grace! How sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost, but now am found
Was blind, but now i see

Twas grace that taught my heart to fear
And grace my fears relieved
How precious did that grace appear
The hour i first believed

Praise God! Praise God! Praise God! Praise God!
Praise God! Praise God! Praise God!
Praise God! Praise God!Praise God! Praise God!
Praise God! Praise God! Praise God!

This song has been ringing in my head for the past few weeks. Looking at God's salvation for man. I really cannot stop giving praise to Him. Today in church, a speaker mike rayson was sharing with us, his life story. The struggles that he went through, and how he hit life's bottom rock. But he reminded us that the rock that he hit was not any hard rock, but was Christ the solid rock. Understanding the very foundation that he has, he cannot stop but give thanks to God. I thank the Lord for the grace that he had given us (Roms 8:32).

The speaker shared about "Walking in the valley of the shadow of death" (Psa 23:4), that we are all walking in this valley till the day the Lord comes again and the most amazing thing is that we have God with us as we walk through this journey.

It is time to let go of things. Pray that i walk in faith.

Documentary....

2008-06-07T00:53:00.002+08:00

Hello all. Hows everyone been? The exams results are all right? how did everyone fair? i hope you guys went well. ZhiQiang and Rosemary congratulation's! God bless the marriage! I am sorry i cant be there for the wedding, sigh, i really wanted to, but kinda broke. Anyway will keep you guys in prayer!

Well today has been quite exciting and happy. This semester, my film group have been focusing on doing a documentary on a transsexual. We talk about his life before and what cause him to become her. It was really an eye opener, at the same time really saddening.

So in school, we had like a mini "film festival". Show casing some of the year two's work. There were documentaries and short drama films. I have to say, i am impressed with some of their work. There were really good.

So in this mini "film festival", we had nominations for different categories, such as sound, cinematography, director, best drama, best doco etc. Our documentary was nominated for best Sound, Director, Documentary and Production.

So we won, best Director, Documentary and Production. woo hoo! Honestly, i think we should have won best Sound too. Maybe we won too many and they decided to give it someone else. Actually in my opinion, we should not have won best Production, we had really bad visuals and the edit was not that smooth. I guess maybe they decided to give us best Production instead of Sound. Best Production should have been given to another group.

A lot of the other groups were not happy with our production. They feel that the tutor was bias. Our tutor is the unit coordinator. So that kinda explains why they feel that way. Although our visuals and edit is not that good, but i think the one thing we really have is content. Squeezing 9 hours of content into 35minutes was not easy. There was so much "meat" that had to be taken out. Moreover, we receive a lawyer's letter that we are not to mention his wife or his children in our film, which probably cut away 50% of our original footage. So i conclude that "content is king".

Although our documentary did well, but i think this is only our beginning. For myself, i learn a lot from making this documentary. I realise there is still a long way to go. This is where my headaches come in. Next semester i have to choose on what roles i would like to specialize in. I was thinking "director" and "editor" or just "cinematographer". Any comments on that?

Well, really Thank God for that. Alright i hope to hear from you guys soon. Take care and God bless.

A tiresome day

2008-05-26T23:46:00.003+08:00

Hello world, hows everyone been? I have handed in another assignment, but i get this feeling i did it wrong. Pray it goes well.

Well i think this half year God has answered so many prayers that i am really so thankful for. But i think it came abit too much too. I always have this impression that i have a never dying battery in my body. I have the energy to keep going no matter the circumstance. So i pray and ask God to show me my limits. He has answered my prayer. I found my limit.

I think this is where i have to stop and take a break.
I am tired.

A new idealogy

2008-05-23T23:42:00.002+08:00

Hello everyone! Exams are drawing near for lots of people in Perth. Everyone seem so stressed. I was just thinking through my philosophy for life. It changes as one matures. At this stage, i have developed my own philosophy for life.

" I do not aim to do well, but to do my best in everything."

How did i come up with that? Well i was thinking about doing well in studies, doing well in service, doing well at work. I just want to do well, and when something wrong comes, i crumble and start whining. I get disappointed. People would always encourage you to never give up, but to keep trying and learn from mistakes. Thus i came up with that.

The higher ones' aim is, the harder the fall. But if you try your best in everything, you know where your limits are. When you reach your limit, you know where you can further improve yourself. Even if you fail, you know you tried your best, thus would want to even try harder.

This also comes with the idea that God is whom i worship. Because God is one that i wish to honor, thus i would want to do my best because i know He is there with me. My teacher and my source of strength.

To many, the line between doing well in everything and doing the best is very thin. I would say it is the attitude that would be different in both circumstance. If you did aim to do well, you do not, you would usually get very frustrated and disappointed with yourselve, and thus avoiding it all the next time it happens. Some may not, but most usually will.

Alright an update about me so far in Aussie land. I am currently staying with 2 other guys, Leighton Gan and James Ho. Leighton is a guy i met in OCF, while James is Lindy's bf. Leighton works in subway, so i have been eating loads of subways cookies! I am so going to put on weight in winter. Time to exercise!

There is a time for everything, from the book of eccs. Something i have been learning. To learn when to talk things of necessity, to know the right time to do things and the right time to serve. It comes with a lot of discipline (self control) and knowledge. I guess to give up something i enjoy doing, really teaches me that it is not me, but Gods'.

The other day i went for an evangelism talk, it kinda shock me. We were asked to think about a person whom we are trying to evangelize to and throw out some of his core beliefs. Then i was thinking to myself, there are so many people i have been trying to reach out too, but i never really knew or understand their core beliefs. It make me reflect about the way i do evangelism and the relations i build.

The talk was really good, man after that i was so on "fire". Not really to go out there to preach , but to give a talk on what i have learnt! Haha I will start praying if there is a chance i will give a talk to OCF or maybe YF about it. I need 1.5 hours. haha! its a workshop.

Alright thats all for now, see you guys soon. I miss Singapore food. ~~~

The "I" Age

2008-05-06T08:31:00.005+08:00

Hello everyone, its been a short while since i last blog. Hows everyone doing? People back in Singapore are currently having their exams right? I pray that you guys did well for it. For some, it will be the end of their school days and would jump right into the working force.

Recently i have been thinking about this word "I". People are actually selfish people. They think for themselves and no one else. When people give they expect a return. For example, if someone ask you for help, you would expect that someone to return the favor to you some day in one way or another. If you ask that person for help and the person did not help you back, you would feel frustrated and think to yourself why did you even want to help that person and thus you would conclude that you would not help that person again. Sadly, even Christians fall into this category too.

Now what has this got to do with the "I" age? Well the current age we live in, stressed alot about "I". It is all about me, everything that is around is all for me. This can be seen through advertisements and promotion. When selling skin care products, they would tell you this would make your skin look smooth, it will make you stand out as an individual. Thus making you feel important and without this, you would just be a regular person. I am not saying that it is wrong to advertise that way, because that skin care product may be good for you. What i am saying is that the thought process after seeing it. You feel that you want to buy it, so that YOU would stand out among the rest, feel different from everyone. You would not buy it because the product is good for you. It is all about me.

With technology these days, we can get all kinds of information by ourselves and not relying on others. As i think about my youngest brother, he grows up with computer games, internet and televisions. The interaction with people is almost non-existence other than school. His generation may be one that would not how to socialize or know how to take hardships in the future. Thinking about it again, but if everyone cannot take hardship in the future, maybe there would not be any hardships then? I doubt it.

We think alot for ourself and not for other people. I mean it is their own life and what right do we have to interfere in someone's life. It is because of that mentality that distance us away from people, make us judge against others. Isolation begins.

Now about Christians, forgive me for those that i may offend, the songs we sing these days, is also alot about "I". For example songs like "Jesus died on the cross for my sin..." That in itself is not wrong, but when in worship, we would start to think about our own relationship with God. Are we giving God the utmost glory? We are called to worship God as one body, but if each of us during worship is thinking about our own relationship with God, how then can we come together to worship God as a whole? We are singing praise to God as a group but yet as separate entities.

In our daily walk with God, we might subtly have this same "I" thinking. We think about our relationship with God, how we have sin, and how we ourselves must work out that relationship with God. I would encourage everyone to take one step further and look beyond that. It means to share our lives to people around. This is where accountability takes places and it helps to build each other up even more. Its no longer an "I" thing but a "We" thing. Unity comes into place and we stand firm together to worship our LORD.

hm.. okie to end it off just a short sharing. 2 kings 5:1-15
This guy name Naaman is a great commander but yet has leprosy. He received news that Elisha the prophet has the power to heal him. So he set forth to seek him out. But when he arrives at Elisha's place, Elisha did not meet him directly, but instead send forth a servant to talk to Naaman. Naaman got really angry because he thought that Elisha would come out and wave his hands and a miracle would happen. Not only that, he has to wash himself in the river of Jordan.

In our own lives, when we are in trouble or when we need directions, we tend to look out for a sign from God. Hoping that God would outrightly show us what to do and where to go. Let us learn to humble our hearts and listen to God's people, for they are the ones that God may use to guide you. In the passage, it was the servants that convince Naaman to go wash in the river. Not just one servant but servants, as we listen wisely, do not just listen to one, but yet the opinions of a few and see what are the common thoughts. Also i think his servants know him quite well and thus brave enough to tell him, so as we listen, listen to those that understand us and not from anybody.

Not only that, let us come before God with a humble attitude trusting that He will guide us and not demanding that he will guide us. Naaman was a proud man, but in v15 he acknowledge God in the end. Even for us, after learning a lesson from God, let us acknowledge and give thanks to God for what he has taught.

Alright guys enough for the week, i think i make alot of sweeping statements in this post, haha those who disagree, do let me know your thoughts.

Standing Firm on my Two Little Feets

2008-04-23T22:58:00.005+08:00

Hello World. How have you guys been doing? i have been wondering if anyone still reads my blog these days. But nevertheless i will still continue blogging for the sake of my fans out there. Nah i am just kidding about the fans part.

Its my break week, i had a good break and so now starts the assignment parts. Pray for strength and discipline. Went shopping at the city on Monday for Pearline's wedding present, was supposed to go on Tuesday, but in the end no one organize it, i wonder why. Anyway shifu, i got you this really cute ornament, i think you can find it in Singapore, but well its the thought that counts right?

Recently there has been quite a lot on my mind. Can someone actually not change and remain the same in his/her character or beliefs? I used to believe so, but as i grow up i realize it is not possible. I can no longer behave or act like what i used to be like 5 years ago, young, childish and hot-headed. I have to change.

Things are not so simple as it seems. Even in Christianity, the only simple part is the moment a person accept Christ, other than that everything else is complex.
Proverbs 9:6,7
"Leave your simple ways, and live, and walk in the way of insight."
As we mature as a person, and even in our faith, we can no longer live life so simply, but to really understand and make the right decisions after much thought in any situations.

In one week, God has answered so many prayers that i am really amazed! Thank God for being such a wonderful teacher and also for his Grace and Mercy.

Let us turn our bibles to 2 Corinthians 2:5-11.
This short passage is about forgiving the sinner. Here Paul says that when someone sins, it is not Paul that grieves only, but yet is everyone who knows of the person's sin, grieves with Paul.
Not only so, Paul also knows that the person who had sinned is feeling really guilty about it, because in verse 6 Paul said that such a punishment would be enough for the person.

So what are we suppose to do? We are asked to forgive and love that person. Paul actually beg the Corinthians(verse8) to love that person by re-affirming him. This is so that the person will not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow. I can think of so many examples as Christians, we have rebuke a fellow brother or sister, but yet never really loving them after. This could be why we see christians nowadays giving up their faith after something "bad" has happen to them. When i say loving them, i do not mean just by thoughts or by words, but by actions. Most of the time, we pray for that person, or we just ask how that person has been doing, but never really taking any action to be involved in the person's life.

Christ when he taught us to pray in Matthew, he taught us to pray to forgive those who have trespass us. And if Christ is willing to forgive the person, are we not suppose to forgive that person too? When Paul said that he forgives is not because he forgives for the sake of forgiving, but for the sake of unity. If we are unable to forgive that person, there will be division, not just between the person and us, but even those around because they will start to take stands and have their own says. And Paul knows this clearly because he acknowledges that it is one of Satan's way of breaking the unity.

So i ask of those who have anger or are upset with people, learn to forgive and love them as Christ did, not because you have too, but because of the unity as a body of Christ that we may work as ONE to worship our God.

For those who are feeling guilty and upset. 2 Corinthians 13:4
we are all weak, even Christ himself was weak when he was crucified, but yet he was strong because of the power of God and He lives by that power. Never once did He doubt God, but was sure that God will carry him through. So even as we go through life's tough journey, let us remember we can do nothing by ourselve, but by God we can do anything.

Romans 8:1,2 We are no longer condemn, so do not feel guilty, but change and stand firm for Christ is our solid foundation.

I hope this serves as an encouragement to all.

Its been a long time...

2008-04-16T14:47:00.005+08:00

Hey all! It has been a while since i last updated my blog, getting lazy these days. So hows everyone been? Hope you guys back in SG are doing well. Its been quite a journey these 2 months back here in Perth.

So many things God has taught me! The other day had a mini retreat and just focus on the book of Proverbs. There is so much depth in that book on wisdom. God has been a good teacher, discipling and guiding me as i walk life's journey.

School has been alright, just the usuals busy with assignment. Next week is the 2nd term break i am having. Its going to be a stressful week, catching up on studies and finishing up assignments. 6 More weeks, and school will come to a term end.

Oh guys, i will not be coming back this winter. Sorry ZQ and Rosemary & Raymond and Ava i cant make it for your wedding, if you guys need anything from Aussie just let me know and see if i can get it. Oh shifu! your wedding too! 3 more weeks!!

Other than school stuff, have been pretty busy with OCF too. Alot of things happen in just a few weeks. OCF have been a place, where i have learnt alot about myself, my flaws and where i have really learn to depend on God.

The one major lesson i have learn is credibility. It does not just apply to service, but also even when you study or work in the future. Without proper credits, people will not take you seriously, or even choose to ignore you. Everyone is different in character, so do not let what other people say about you put you down, but yet to continue to do what is right in God's eyes.

A verse to share with those who are going through emotional/self-denial periods.
Proverbs 18 : 1,2
Whoever isolates himself seeks his own desire;
he breaks out against all sound judgement.
A fool takes no pleasure in understanding,
but only in expressing his opinion.

So do not isolate yourselve and think that you are right, but be open to yourselve and understand what people are trying to say.

Alright i am going off already, i will see you guys soon... i pray.

In God's Love
Baoshun

Perth Royal Show

2007-10-12T00:11:00.001+08:00

Hello everyone! hows' life been for you guys? How is everything back in Singapore? Anyway recently i went for the Perth Royal Show, it was really quite fun. Oh and i think i gained weight, thats bad

Here are some photos to share...
(btw they are taken without a tripod, so some might be abit blurry)

Space invader!!

Looks like ghost running away from ....

look i got a cap!

the duck who attacked the water

Show bags that i had bought

Lost of a friend...

2007-09-20T17:37:00.000+08:00

1 Thessalonians 4:13-17
But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep. For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord
(ESV)

There is hope.. Thank you Lord.

Araluen trip

2007-09-03T23:02:00.000+08:00

Dont you think it looks like a heart?

A New Season

2007-09-02T13:35:00.000+08:00

Spring is finally here! This is so exciting. I was really amazed that four weeks of school has just pass by. Now the term break is here, and i have a couple of things plan out for the week. Monday OCF is organising a trip down to Araluen botanic park to see the flowers bloom. Wee Foong dont worry, i will take photos and put it up here for your enjoyment. =p

Last week have been really tiring, i have taken over outreach and there are a few things i need to take over and plan out. Follow-up is something that i am not good at, so pray for wisdom for me that i will know how to do follow-up with unbelievers. If not i think God has really been good at teaching me to trust in Him for strength. I had two assignments due this week and still had to do other things, thank God the week went smooth.

Other than that, i think God has been teaching me to learn to plan my timetable. It really takes alot of discipline to plan out timetable and to follow it. At the same time, i am learning to surrender things to God. I was thinking like if we want to serve God, we will have to give up pleasures in Life, this may sound creche to you but its something i have been struggling with.

Now, OCF is really taking up quite abit of my time, meetings, prayers, gatherings. I realised that i have almost no time for other people. For example the past few times my flatmates went out for dinner, i really did want to join them, but there were OCF meetings or gatherings, so i could not go. So nowadays they would just plan things without me, so i do feel left out once in a while. At the same time, i already promise to serve in OCF, so i need to set my priorities right.

Saying all these does not mean that we have to serve and neglect our friends. I will always make time for them and i think we as christians have to be a light for the world, if we are just hanging around christian people, how are we to be a light? Vice versa, do not end up just joining them and neglecting our service to God.

This is my timetable for most of the weeks now.
Monday evenings - OCF LC meetings
Wednesday evenings - Mount pleasant Baptish Church (MPBC), small group meetings
Thursday evenings - Leader's Bible study discussions
Friday evenings - OCF meetings

Exciting right? i think it is, so can pray for wisdom to plan out my timetable and strength as i serve.

Moving on, i was planning to write a short article for BSC website, whats the mailing address again? It is on my quiet time and the book of Joshua (OCF bible study material for this semester).

I need sleep.

Oh ya peepz back in Singapore, sorry i have not really been catching up with you guys, been really busy this few weeks, so i will promise to message you guys if i see you on MSN, or just drop me a msn msg and i will get back to you as soon as i can. ^^

This morning's message at MPBC was good. The sharing came from Gal. 5:13-15. It was on us having freedom in Christ. The speaker was sharing about the law. He was saying that the law was not really just strict instructions from God, but it was God's way of revealing his character and love for us. God does not steal, God does not lie, neither does he commit adultery with anyone. He just loves us and in fact He gives us the best according to His will. He keeps his promise and will never forsake us.

The law is not about regulation, but it is about a relationship that God has with the Israelites. Looking at Exodus 19:4, this was the conversation that Moses had with God before he receive the 10 commandants. God was reminding Moses of what God has done for them, how He has carried them on eagles' wings and brought them to Him. God in v5 said, that if they will fully obey and keep His covenant, then the Israelites will be a treasured possession to God. God did not force them, but like a father to a child, want to have a relationship with them.

Now looking at Christ, Christ did everything that was in the law because He love God and because He knows God. how about us? Now that we are free because of Christ, and we have become God's children, do we do what God has set out for us? To love each other, to go out and be a light, to share His love? To what extend are we willing to step out of our comfort zone to make someone feel comfortable and see the love of God?

These are not easy questions to answer, the standard answer is yes, but it means to be taken granted for, to be used, to be tempted, to give up some of the things we enjoy. I am being abit extreme here, but it is good if we can reflect on some of the decisions we make and things we do.

Just something that i have to think about too. If you are free and have some thoughts on what i said, please do drop me some comments or questions i will try to get back to them asap.

I miss home, well i pray that everyone is doing fine. do keep me updated in things going on at BSC! Haha! Take care guys!

Surrendering

2007-08-15T22:36:00.000+08:00

It has been a while since i last blog. I did not even finish the previous entry. Sorry but if you want to know the end to that entry, just ask me and i will try to share it to you. So how has everyone been? I bet all of you are already missing me, it is understandable. Everyone loves Bao.

Time flies, it has been three weeks since i left Singapore, i was missing home even before i left, guess i miss everyone just as much. God has been good, been doing well and trying to kick start back to school work.

This semester is going to be rather heavy and exciting, i will learn alot and yes shifu i will get my 3Ds. OCF is going to be a challenge too, taking up new roles and having to plan more things, i need to use my brain more often, i just realised that i can only do serious work for 1.5hours without break. After which i need an hour break before i can carry on.

Next week is AGM, i will be taking over the position as a outreach officer. The name sounds cool, but well i will need prayers. Pray i will be humble and learn to submit to God for wisdom to plan for events and how to reach out to people.

Just a short sharing from sunday message. currently mount pleasant baptist church is going through this theme on Amazing Grace. So the focus was on blessing. What does it mean to be blessed? The speaker was saying blessed means being distinctive in joy of experiencing the kingdom of God

God wishes to bless all of us but He does it in His own way. But sometimes we do question like why we do not have his blessings. Could it be because the "relationship" with him went wrong.? In the sense that we have turn away from God and though He still bless us, we are unable to tell.

When we turn away from God, we lose all sense of joy and the blessings that He gives us. This is because we try to take control of our own lives, thinking we can do better and not trusting in His strength.

The Holy Spirit is there to convict us of our sin and what we have done wrong, but it was never there to put us on a guilt trip, in fact, it was there to help encourage and strengthen our faith in God. Doing our quiet time helps us to listen to the spirit and learn to let it have control over our lives. For us to do that, we really have to learn to surrender all to God!!

Another point that hit me was why when non-christian come to church, why do they feel unwanted sometimes. It was because they feel like they are being 'judged'. We, christians sometimes look at others with judgmental eyes because they have not accepted Christ, or we feel or think that so and so will never accept Christ. Why did we accept Christ? not to judge but to share the joy of being saved.

Alright that is all for now good night guys and i hope to hear from you guys soon =)

Home sweet Home

2007-06-21T23:57:00.000+08:00

Hey! i am back in Singapore! Hows everyone been? i realised it has been a long time since i last updated my blog. Sorry to those who want to meet up but i have not got the time to. The past 2 weeks have been pretty hectic, been busy with Teen Games 07, managing teams for basketball and referee for captain's ball. It has been really tiring but fun.

Ever since i got back, i am still trying to deal with the weather, its real humid back here, i do miss Perth's weather abit, just abit. I should be available in the coming weeks, will be leaving on 29th of July. So will try to catch all of you before i head back, if not just wait till end of the year. Its only another six months away.

Time really flies, and four months just pass me by. Many things have happened and i have learnt more about myself during this period of time, there are areas in my life that i have to learn and change. But i do Thank God for always being there, sings "God is the strength of my heart...". A song that i want to teach yf-ers or probably share with them.

Its the GSS now! woo so many things i want to buy! The other day was with dear shopping, saw so many items that i want to get. sigh. I am so broke. Next week, going queensway to shop, anyone interested? Need to get tracks and burms.

The month of june has been an interesting month, learn a lot on LOVE. God's Love and Love for God's people. Maybe God is telling me i need to be more loving and never take His love for granted. But so many a times we all do that, dont we?

God's love is really amazing, just sharing from a passage Matt 14:22-33. Just before this was Christ feeding the five thousand, it was getting late, and Jesus was sending the multitude back. Interestingly, he asked his disciples to get on the boat to cross to the other side but he himself didnt. After finally sending the multitude away, he was praying alone and it was late at night, the boat that was out at sea was being toss around by the winds and waves, now you can imagine the fear of his disciples wondering if they would die.

Now think about it, if Christ was all knowing, why did he send them out there then? We are told later in the passage that Christ was walking on water in the storm towards them, wow. Its like Christ had purposely placed them there and now walks on water to them, what is he trying to do, showing off his power?? No, God forbids.

It is a lesson i learnt, that sometimes God placed troubles in our lives on purpose so that we will learn to lean on Him for peace and calmness. The disciples may be in trouble but at the end when Christ was with them, everything calm down. In our life, many things may go wrong, but in all of them i feel God has something to teach us, a lesson, for patience or to turn back to God. Its how we want to look at the situation and be willing to thank God for it. Well that passage included Peter, but thats another sharing. =)

Now about Love for God's people, was something i learn during brothers' retreat.

Sneak preview of bao's life

2007-04-24T08:38:00.000+08:00

Friends

My wardrobe table

Using his MacBook

Studying

AsleepLearning to cookWashing the dishesWatching tv when his freeMisses' back Home

A lovely surpriseNow i got something to hug. Thanx guys =)

A Good Break

2007-04-17T23:37:00.000+08:00

Hello everyone. Its been a while since i last updated my blog. Anyway my title is referring to the two weeks break i had. Nothing else. Two weeks past really fast, before i knew it, i am now back to school. During the two weeks i did nothing much, but it was a good break from school work, now i feel more refresh.

A new word. Tar - Thanx

Thinking back, i was totally burnt out before the holidays. I was emotionally unstable, mentally tired and spiritually down. Ever since i arrive, i got myself involved in too many things and at the same time trying to hang out with all my new found friends. Now, i decided i will just focus, this morning i came up with my motto, Work Hard, Play Hard, Honor God. The two week break i was forced to rest and relax, and also had a good time of reflection.

During the break, kwok's uncle came over to visit, he said our room's a mess. He should have seen it before we "tidy" it up. They went to many different places to eat, this place Witch's brewry or something like that, sounds kinda cool. If anyone is coming over, i will bring you to that place, but it is really expensive.

During the break, i went to Busselton with some OCF people. It was three hours drive down south. It was interesting, we left at 6am and make our way down. Lindy's family in one car, OCF perth i think was in another, and i was in a fellow OCF murdoch's car.

As we were early, we went down to Margrett's river. That place was great. I got to taste wine, beer and free chocolates! Only then could i taste the difference in wine, it was good. Benny would surely love the wines there.

About late afternoon we went down to Busselton Jetty. It is SUPER long. Walk to the end took us about 25minutes. There was this underwater observatory, but i did not go as i did not want to pay $20 just for 15minutes. Diving allows me to see so much more and for a longer period of time. When we were walking back, Lindy and i decided to jump off the jetty. We walk till we reach a platform and we got ready to jump. Our first jump was 15cm off the water, we were testing how deep the water was. Now the second jump was scary, it was about 4-5metres above the water. Lindy just jumped, it took me about two minutes to gather my guts, it was embarrassing as passerbys were urging me to jump. The water was warm till the sun disappeared, then it became really cold, i was shivering on the way back.

After that, we decided to make our way back to Perth, and i got to drive. It has been a while since i last drove, it was fun. Driving in Australia during the night is so interesting. Unlike Singapore, there are no street lights, or not many, so it was really dark. Some of the cars behind tend to turn on highbeam, it blinded me and i could hardly see my mirrors, irritating people. Thank God we got home safe and sound.

I think of my two weeks break, thats the most interesting thing that happened. Easter was good too. Good friday i went to mount pleasant for service, though the speaker's thoughts were all over the place, but it was good. Reminding me of what Christ had done for my sins, fully PAID. On Easter sunday, i went back to Mount Pleasant again, and this time a reminder that Christ had risen, we have victory. Glory be to God.

Talking about church service, currently there are three churches that i am considering to attend regularly. One is Subicao Church of Christ, BP Church of WA and Mount Pleasant Baptist Church.

Subicao is the church the Tan family are attending, worship and message is alright. The bible study classes are the ones that i am interested in, but i am not too sure if they have cell groups then. Probably they do.

Bible Pres. Church of Western Australia is the church Melissa is attending. Worship style there is similiar to that of BSC, only difference is that it is led. They sing hymms and the message style is good. The only thing i was uncomfortable with is the ritualistic practices, feels like a catholic Mass session to some extend.

Last church is Mount Pleasant. The church style of worship is not really baptist style, but more contemporary. What i like about them is they adopt different styles for worship. Sometimes its prayer, sometimes its songs and message, and sometimes its sharings and testimonies by people. But other than that, i dont really know the church that well. Well these are the churches i am considering, if anyone do read this, should let me know what you think.

My dear is no longer coming over this month to visit me =( guess i will have to wait till June. Oh guys, i will be back on the 10th of june. i will be leaving about 20th something of july. I was thinking of doing a short film when i get back with the theme"transformed lives" anyone interested in helping?

Now that school has started, the flat is getting more lively again, Brandon, marleens' bf bought PS2. Sam is back together with her twin Sister, who is here for a holiday. They really dont look alike, compared to the Yaps.

i got alot of assignments due this three weeks, so i wont be posting for a while again. All of you do take good care of yourself, do not end up burning up like me. Also you cant please everyone, just do what you can. God bless ya. Seeya soon

Cheers

Downcast

2007-03-31T05:14:00.000+08:00

Hello everyone! How's everyone been? it has been a long time since i updated my blog. Sorry for the long wait, its not because i do not have time, but just lazy. Anyway here i am to tell you what have been going on recently. I am **** sick. It ends with the letter E. Guess. Home sick, what were you thinking of?

Comparing life here and back in Singapore, its so different. I was just telling a friend the other day, coming over here is a fresh new start, new lifestyle, new hobbies, new friends. There is the downside too, when you are depressed, there is no one you could turn to and share your problems. You do not know who you can trust and who will listen.

Truthfully, the 'fun' period is over, i am starting to miss home, people and life back in Singapore. In the past, i am able to find people i trust to talk to any time and any where. Now i sulk in depression alone. Its 5.30am and here i am blabbering away. There is Sam that i always talk to, but i feel bad disturbing her when she has got so much work to do.

To those who do not know, the time here in Perth is the same as that in Singapore, daylight savings is over. It turns dark at 7pm now. Weather here is turning cold too, starting to freeze, the other day i had to wear 3 layers to feel warm.

Its the start of my two weeks break, seems like a long time, and nothing to do. People have asked me to go on road trips and sight-seeing, its hard, i got assignments due after the break. I will drown myself in movies and assignments.

Recently i have been hook to this game. http://www.weffriddles.com I have completed batch one. So if you need help, just ask, the forums are a giveaway at times.

I have picked up a few other skills, Capoeria (not too sure about the spelling), its a a kind of brazilian martial art. Salsa, yes i am learning again. Its salsa casino that i am picking up, its really quite fun. Diving. I just went diving last Saturday. It was a day dive, two dives in total.

Diving was a disappointment. In the morning, i had to trouble a friend to fetch me to the train station to catch the 7am bus, so i could be at the dive shop by 7.30am. The morning weather was freezing, i nearly froze to death waiting for the train to come. I went because Lindy was doing her basic, so at least i thought i had company.

We went to rottnest island to dive, beautiful island, but a return ticket on the ferry cost AUD$40. We went on the dive boat, so it was included in my package. Upon reaching the island, i found out the beginners were going somewhere else, there goes my company.

The people i had to dive with were nice, got to know this international couple. The guy is from switzerland and the lady from Korea. My dive buddy, from Australia. He has make 250 dives, really experience, i think.

Two dives and both at the same place. The place was bad. Visibility was about 5 meters, no coral life, not much fishes. I did see a stingray and crayfishes. Crayfishes look like lobsters or are they? Anyway the wind was strong that day, so we could not go deep.

God is somewhat missing. Its either i have been neglecting, or i lost the motivation. I no longer burn like when i first came over, has the mundane life i led got to me, or the choices i have made make me like this. I do not know. The word whatever has actually pop into my head a few times. To those who do not know, i have a strong dislike for that word, or the context it is used these days.

June holidays, i really do look forward to going back to Singapore and seeing all of you guys. Then again, will it still be the same? Anyway do the team games people need help? i should be back by then, if you do just email me or something.

Flat 40 Room 4, Murdoch University, Student Village Po Box 1055, Canning Vale DC, WA 6970
my address, feel free to drop me mails. The other day, for the first time, i felt excited opening a letter box, but only to my disappointment i had no mails.

Alright i will try and get some sleep, got OCF meeting at 9am and might be running just before that. Sorry for the post, its not really exciting to read, thanks for bearing with my thoughts and complains.

End of a week

2007-03-04T18:50:00.000+08:00

End of the week once again. Its been 3 weeks since i came here, still trying to adapt to the weather. Its really going to be hot in the coming days, 38degrees. This week been trying to study, so long since i last studied. Not easy to focus, moreover the writers of the book are really bad. Maybe its me, but the english they use is not easy to focus. Their points are all over the book.

Saturday, i went crabbing with OCF. Its really fun. Anyone coming to perth at the end of the year? I will bring any of you coming to go crabbing. Crabbing means catching crabs. You walk into the seashore and catch crabs with a stick. At one end of the stick, there is this metal ring in the shape of a cone. Crabs are really sad, they can only run left or right. So its really easy to catch them.

We spend two hours in the sea. During the first hour, i totally had no luck, but i had a good time reflecting and praying. Looking out to the sea and was so amaze of God's creation. How vast He is, and how small we are. He created everything so wonderful, the different islands position, the clouds and the sky.

After a good time of praying, i was asking God if i should join OCF. So i told God, if i catch a crab by the end of the day, i will join. Not sure if it was meant to be this way, but at the end i caught three crabs. Anyway, James,Lindy's bf, was good at stepping on crabs, he caught quite a few. The weather was really cold, i nearly froze to death.

Sunday i went to visit Perth Christian Living Centre. Something like that. Well it was a PentaCoasta Church. Get it? Well the pastor was not around to give a message, so i will probably go back there one more time. Worship was so really bad. If anyone want to know why, can ask me, i will not post it here.

Though i did not really join them "in spirit" for worship, i was just thinking about blessings. Correct me if i'm wrong. Now that i look at blessings, i do not feel it means good things that happen in your life. To me, its more like God's love on you. When he pour out his blessings, it can be good or bad. He can choose to shower more good things on you, or he can choose to shower more bad things on you. Its still his love of wanting you to grow, just in different ways.
Well, i may be wrong. Buts that how i look at it.

After service, came back to study, got quite a bit of work to catch up with. There was this 5-on-5 basketball tournament on. I signed up for it weeks ago. In the game, i felt quite useless. The other players are like so much taller, and faster. The moment i get the ball, they pin me down, i can not do anything, they are heavy. You think Zhiqiangs' pressing is tough, wait till you play against those Westerns. Overall had fun.

You guys remember jenny? It was hilarious, she played and was starting jumper. She had to jump against a guy who was about one and a half head taller than her. Anyway she got injured at the end of the day. Fierce.

Alright i will be heading back to my books, see you all soon. Have a nice weekahead yea. Thank God.

PS to all: Anyone knows what Melissa or Joe email is? I forgot to bring their contact over and i am suppose to meet up with them. Help! Or do you know the church that they attend, will you please be kind to let me know. Thanks alot

Syndesmos

2007-02-26T13:29:00.000+08:00

The title is a greek word. Its pronounce as 'Su-Des-mos'. Its been an exciting weekend, went for OCF summer retreat. It was a three days and two nights camp. There, i got to know a group of people, either from Malaysia or Singapore. The camp was relaxing and fun. Messages were good. It was a good reminder of my own objectives and also a good time of fellowship. But i got to say, it seem a little disorganised.

New words and name
Mozzies - Mosquito
Uti - Utility vehicle (pickup or lorries)
Chook - Chicken
Peta - Peter (Female version)

Thursday, had a tutorial, which was canceled and nobody knew. We were standing outside the class for 45minutes, waiting for the tutor to come, but he never came. After i got back, i was exploring around the unit's website and i came across the discussion board where the tutor put a topic, stating that there was no tutorial in week one. The rest of the day, i cannot remember.

Friday, i had an hour lecture, it was on introduction to mass communication. The lecturer had a script in his hand and he was reading off it. Now can you imagine how boring would that be. Anyway, after i got back i had to pack my bag for the retreat. Since it was only going to be a short camp, i packed light. Did i mention, it cost me AUD$50.

The pickup time was 245pm. I was 5 mintues late, when i got to the meeting point, there was no one. I started to panic, i was wondering if people here really keep to the timing. So i waited, at 310pm, there was still no one. I called Lindy, and was i told that the timing had be changed to 315pm. I was relieve and a little annoyed. People started appearing at 320pm. By the time all arrived, it was 4m already. The camp starts officially at 4pm, and we left the pickup point at 4pm. Maybe they do not really keep to timing after all.

By the time we got the the campsite, it was 430pm. I thought we were very late; i looked around, and realised Murdoch OCF was the first to arrive -- the retreat consist of people from Murdoch, UWA and Curtin. People started to come in as time past, introduce myself and got to know more people.

Things are planned here differently from that of Singapore. Its good that roles are given out properly, people know and complete the tasks that they are given, this will really help to get things organise. Thank God for people like Zhiqiang to always push for things. In a day, they have two messages, one in the morning and the other at night, and a workshop in the afternoon.

The theme of the camp was Unity in Christ. The person speaking on the messages was Pastor Timon Bengston. I felt he was good, the points he brought out were biblical and fair.
Four main points were given.
1) Defining unity John:17-20-23
2) 7 basis of our unity Eph 4:2-5
3) Purpose of unity Eph 2:11-22
4) Application Phil 2:1-15

Workshop was by uncle Nat, this is what they call him. We had to do the DISC test to find out our personality. D for dominant, I for Influence, S for Steady and C for conscientious. I am a SD person. I had only 1 point for C, now i wonder how did i become the administrator for last year youth camp.

Other that the talks, we had small debates. Calvinist against the amonians(or however you spell it). Tiring topic, never really came to any conclusion. But it did led to other interesting topics like, The right person for you. Is there only one, or are there a few or you can choose anyone as long as they are Godly people. Has God plan everything out or is there this permassive will he has, to allow humans to choose. Write in my comments to let me know your thoughts. No debates just thoughts.

The camp got to interact with people, played card games, taboo and bridge. Back in BSC, here is an idea i have which may be helpful. When we have events, maybe we could like set aside specific people to talk to new-comers when they come, not everyone has to be busy to setup the event, Sometimes we just want to help set up things or just want to do something to look busy, we tend to forget new comers and they just linger around. Those who have been selected, do not feel useless, or free just because you got nothing to do, your role is important so as to make people feel welcome and comfortable. It is not force, but something we want to do out of love. Break out of the comfort zone which we have been taught over the years but yet not do.

Well that was over the weekend. I came back on Sunday, and got to chat with my family and dear! She went over to my place to visit and taught my family to use skype. It was good to see them. Thanks dear!

Now that school has officially started, i have things to do. With the time i have, i will probably study most of the time. Still thinking whether i should use part of it to do my own personal inductive bible study. Its not that i do not wish to, but whether i will be displined to.

This post is slightly long, thanks for reading. Do continue to pray for me.
Prayer list
-Pray for focus on God
-Pray for a holy live and not be distracted by the distractions here.
-Pray for discipline and wisdom to spend my time.
I will see you all soon. God bless and take care.

"Good Morning Sir"

2007-02-21T21:38:00.000+08:00

School has finally begun. It feels weird going back to lectures and tutorials after three long years, got to adapt back to a study life once again. I have classes from Tuesday to Friday, Monday is the only free day i have; then again Thursday and Friday i only have an hour of lecture each.

On Monday, there was nothing much to do, but play cards and watch DVDs. During the evening i cooked for them, Kwok, sam, DJ, Rick and James. I made lemon beef, it was a recepie i found off the internet. It tasted a little too sour, added too much lemon. Overall, its still edible. Now anyone interested in trying? I will cook it for you.

Before i continue, Rick is from Sweden, my mistake from the previous post. And i also got Lindy's dogs' name wrong, its Marzo.

Tuesday, i officially start lectures. One was on photography, the other was on screen and sound. The photography lecture was interesting, talks about how pictures constitutes a message, in relation to us, society and the natural world.

The other lecture was three hours long. The lecturer talks about forms, narratives and shows. Interesting. People just walked out of the lecture; 'there goes one,' he says. It was not that boring, well after his hour of lecture, we watched a movie. Run Lola Run. Its a german movie i think.

We were released after the movie, and i went back to the student village. Upon getting back, i receive mails regarding the bank i signed up with. People here do not have a bank book. All you need is a bank card, dangerous is it not?

During Tea(dinner), we had spaghetti made by Sam. We had alot. While over dinner, i learnt more interesting information. Now, in Singapore, when we say 'stone', we are describing a person who is just staring blankly into space and not doing anything. Here is Australia, when you say someone is stonning or stoned, it means the person is on drugs. So do watch how you use that word here in Australia, we do not wish for anyone to get caught for wrong reasons.

Wednesday, had tutorials today. The tutorial classes here are really different. There are like only 8-10 people per class. Again, it may just be that i have a small class. Its really kinda interesting. In Singapore, when the tutor ask for comments or questions, nobody talks, or only one or two. Here, everyone talks, i was the only quiet one around. I am still trying to adapt to the system here, i am shy.

When people comment or ask questions, they usually think through it first. I am a slow thinker, i need time to digest and think through, but yet they can do it on the spot. A lot of catching up to do. Photographs and paintings, what are the similarities and differences?

After classes, met up with the guys: James, DJ, Rick and kwok. We went to Garden City to shop a bit. Did not buy much stuff except a bottle of lollies. Came back to have Tea. James and DJ cooked for us, noodles and chicken. It was good.

Thats about my week thus far, wonder how it will go on. I got movies to watch, not because i got nothing to do, but because its part of what i study. Story and plots, whats the difference?
Homeworks to do already. Well. see you guys soon, have to work hard from now on. Take care all, goodnight. Praise God.

Ps: to anyone who is free and will pass by clementi. I need to buy textbooks, i got a friend who is leaving on Saturday, if you could go down clementi on Thursday or Friday, please call me. Its beside Clementi S11. I think its called Clementi bookshop. Buying books here is very expensive!

To my dear: Dear, i miss you! been doing my QT =) hope you have too. Hope to see you online soon, so we can skype again!!

Festive Season

2007-02-18T22:39:00.000+08:00

Happy Chinese New Year guys and gals!!!

Sadly, this year i am not celebrating chinese new year back home, yet in Perth with the Tans' Family. It feels so different, no ang bao, no giving of oranges and no visitation. I always find it boring to have to visit others, being at a place you do not often go, greeting each other and always asking the same question; 'Hey what are you doing now?'

Just to backdate, friday was Festival Day. All the different guilds, clubs and societies were recruiting people. There were a lot; ranging from anti-nuclear society, Energy-saving, to Save-the-plants(wee should love it) and many others. Drama club was good, walking around with a suitcase and acting whenever he wanted.

After walking round and round, i decided to join the Murdoch Guild, OCF, diving, surfing and gym. There were a lot of others i would like to join, for example, kendo, fencing, but they are all too expensive.

On our(kwok and i) way back, we met a guy from Hongkong. It was good he met us, because he has not enrolled in any of his units. Monday we were starting school and he does not even have any class. So we helped him and explained to him how the system works and what units he has to take over the three years.

After a good 2 hours he finally understood and enrolled into his classes. Now he can start school without worries. We headed back to our rooms, and i slept till dinner. There is really nothing much to do here, except play cards and watch DVDs, till it was time to sleep.

Saturday had the OCF bbq event. People here have bbqs during the day, and we had sausages and sausages. There was salad too. The people are friendly, but somewhat people still tend to talk to those they know.

I guess its a asean thing. Correct me if i'm wrong, but this past few days, observing the westeners, they just go up to anyone and greet them. While looking at the aseans, they will tend to group together and talk among themselves. i wonder why.

Anyway, at night i had dinner at the Tan's place. We had steamboat. It was really nice of them to invite me over their place for dinner. One of the traits of a Christian family, hospitality. They had this dog, Muzzle; it reminds me of the weapons tip that nearly made me blind, its really big and playful. Kwok did not go, as he went freemantle with Sam and Jenny.

Learnt a few more new words.
Macdonalds --> Maccies
Freematle --> Freeyo
Lorry --> Lukies (or something like that)
A few more others which i am too tired to remember. They like to cut short words, maybe singaporeans are known as singgays. It works right?

Sunday went to Subicao Church of Christ again. Worship was alright, though Lindy said the lady leading was abit emotional, but i did not notice as i was not paying attention to what she was saying. They do sing hymns, contemporary hymns, which sounded quite good. Message was alright. I felt his points were all over the shop, it was on Proverbs 1:1-7. He covered a lot of points, but did not really link to each other. My opinion.

Came back and went round taking pictures with Sam. Recently we got to know three other guys, James, Rick and Dj. James and Rick stay directly below us and while Dj stays a distance away from us. They are all Aussies, nice and friendly too. Standing among them, i feel really short, not that i am tall anyway.

Dinner was another bbq organise by the student village. Then got to know a few more other people, whose names i have forgotten. Its not easy to remember so many names at a go. When i do, i will try to introduce them here.

Alright, i am off to sleep already, may you all collect a lot of ang baos and must treat me when i return. One last thing, i gave myself an english name, Philip. Its easier for them to remember. Sweet dreams all. God bless.

The Tan Family(Lindy is covered by their dad)

Food

Can time fly?

2007-02-15T22:31:00.000+08:00

It is Thursday, been almost a week since i left. I remember clearly last week around this time, i was still busy packing my baggage, my dear had such a busy time helping me pack. Time really flies and God has been good.

Yesterday, Geoffrey came to visit us.

Below are a list of names if you have problems pronouncing them.
Geoffrey --> Jeffrey
Erin --> Aaron
Ellen --> Alan
If you have more, please email me, so as to help others know how to pronounce them.

There is really nothing much to do here. Played soccer today with Sam, Kwok and Jenny. Sam is a female soccer player, and she is really good. Making me feel like an amateur. After playing for 10mins, i realise how unfit i was; i will be starting my training soon!

After the game, we just sat down on the grass patch and relax. I never really understand why they would do that - No they are not cows. In Singapore, no one really sits on grass area to chilll out. Jenny was rolling around, in Singapore, you will only see army boys doing that. To know how it feels like, i tried to roll around too. After rolling a round, i just wanted to bathe.

Jenny and Sam cooked dinner for us tonight, it was their turn. We had angelios, however you spell it. It was great! Then we played cards. In two days, i learn to play two new card games. 'Poker' and '******'. The second game has no name for it, yet. We ended off the night with a movie.

Recently i started reading a book, Desiring God, it was from Jasmine and Rosemary(Thank you for the book). The first time i read it was when i was going to the toilet to clear my tummy upset. It was a bit confusing at first , because of the word Hedonism, which was new to me. It means please or pleasure, somewhere along that line.

A short paragraph caught my attention. It talks about 2 groups of people, during the night, being under the stars. One was a person, having a torch. He feels safe and secure, because that light is near to him, but yet because the light is so near, he fails to see the beauty of the sky and the stars. The other was a person without the torch, because he did not had the torch, he was able to see clearly the beauty of God's creation in the skies.

It strikes me, as i thought how sometimes we could be so caught up with things happening around us that we forgot to enjoy and see the what God has done. As i read on, i will share more.

Thats about the things that happen the past two days. I will be off to sleep now. Pretty dreams, and remember to pray.

To my Dear,
I hope you are alright. Working under stress is not easy, having so many customers and being short handed. Even though you might make a few mistakes, dont let it get to you k? Hugz. Take it in the positive light, you learn to cope better with stress and get your menus right. All of these takes time.

You should really get a better webcam, my place has! that day i could hardly see you over skype haha. Smile my dear =) Orange is smiling everyday. Get some and rest and take a picture of your bugs bunny toe and let me see! haha. Last thing, come online soon k? then can skype again! Miss you lots. Night

Decisions, decisions

2007-02-13T23:15:00.000+08:00

Hi guys, hope all of you had fun reading my first post. Please leave comments, i am trying to improve my writing skills.

Being in orientation for 2 days; which took up 2 hours each day, i am spoilt for choices. I am majoring in media studies, but i could either do a double major in Screen and Sound or a minor in Creative writing. Both seem excellent. At the end, i decided to do a double major. Well screen was something i wanted to do, and i may even end my course earlier (if all goes well).

Thus far, God has really been good. He has really bless me alot, and in many different ways. The weather has been good, hot sun; cool breeze. At night it tends to get cold, TG for the Tan family who lend me their quilt till i get my own. I do feel sad for kwok, he does not have any.

TG i am able to get the modules(units) i want for this semester, its really quite relaxing; instead of the usual 4 units i have to take, i only have to take 3. TG for my flatmate,samantha, really sweet girl; also i have a new flatmate, Marilyn. Lastly, TG for the things he has provided.

13th of Feb, evening, we cooked for Sam's dad. His name is Peter, nice and friendly person. His leaving on the 14th, so we wanted to let him have a taste of what asian cooking is like; we attempted fried rice. It was not too bad. They really liked it salty.

Sam's friend, Jenny, came over to eat - They met each other on the plane to Perth. She stays alone in another flat, therefore sam invited her over to eat. Thankfully we had enough to go round. It was a 3 course meal - Soup, followed by Fried Rice, then SaraLee dessert. After dinner, Jenny made us try this veggiemart with bread, it was the black stuff you put in porridge to add taste to it. Yuck. It goes with porridge, not with bread!

Following, we took some photos.

Left is Peter (Sam's dad), Sam
Sam and JennyAll of us

Peter bought a lot of things, i think we have enough to last us the next few weeks. I am going to grow fat. That is bad.

Well, this is just an update about whats been happening around, i think there were more, but too tired to think. Got to catch some sleep, meeting Geoffrey tomorrow - Geoffrey is another poly friend who came over to study.

Goodnight all. Sweet dreams. Thank God.

'Welcome to my Life'

2007-02-11T20:35:00.000+08:00

Hello Everyone!
I have decided to start my blog, sorry for the long wait. Well here's a summary of what i have been up to the past few days.

9th Friday
0730 Arrival at T2 Airport
0745 Check in of baggage
0800 Farewell to all
0845 Entering the gate
0935 Take Off
Good bye Singapore... To those who do not know, Perth is one hour ahead of Singapore
1535 Arrival in Perth (Perth's time)
Hello Australia...

After checking out, we had to wait for the pickup bus; waited for an hour. Both kwok and i felt so lost. Finally, the bus came and off to the student village(hostel)!

Reaching the place, we went to the office. The people there were friendly and helpful, and our Resident Assistant was a guy from Sri Lanka. Nice guy, but he ends every sentance with the word,'beautiful'. Interesting. Well after signing some forms we check into our room. Double-room, its really small. =(

Well after settling down abit, kwok's friend shellby came to pick us up and brought us the the city area for dinner and abit of shopping. Had jap food for dinner, it was not too bad. I bought pillows, bedsheets and my prepaid card.

Having finish our dinner, we went back to our hostel to unpack our stuff... i wonder how long more before i kill kwok or he kills me.
Ps. Thanks to those who came to send me off and those who did not.

10th Saturday
Got woken up early in the morning by a new flatmate who checked in at 0900. Her name is Samantha; which i forgot the next hour because i was sleepy. She is 18 this year and doing pet science. 5 years course.

Well after she settled in, her dad brought her out. For us, we went out shopping again with shellby. This time we got more stuff for our room; our room is really messy even though its only day2. Oh i got my student card in the morning, now i i have internet access. Woo!

When we got back, we decided to unpack our stuff and set up the different things. I was setting up the internet and kwok setting up the fan. Now, kwok was about to kill me, i deleted his 'heroes' which he downloaded in singapore by accident. =\ 'Close the browser la', i did just that. =\

Internet here is different, it goes by the amount of Kbytes used. I top up $20 into my card, which allows me of a maximum download of 515MB worth of things. So got to watch my internet access.

At night, had cereals for dinner then talk to the new flatmate for a while, then we caught High School Musical. Sam brought some DVDs and we decided to watch that. Haha, it was funny because when she brought out her DVDs, she was embarassed to display that show out and i saw it. Since kwok did not watch before, we decided to catch it. When it ended, we went to sleep.

We are both alive

11th Sunday
Woke up at 0830, as there was a welcome breakfast at 0900 for international students. Saw alot of people from all over the world; Hongkong, Amercia, Malaysia, Singapore, Australia.
Its going to be exciting.

After breakfast, waited for lindsey to come pick me up, was going to visit their church. The church is called Subiaco Church of Christ. Friendly people over there, about service, well i have say its slightly different from our church. Message was, well alright. Kwok did not want to come along, so well he stayed in the hostel.

After service, had lunch at a vietnamese place, the food was quite good. I tried to call kwok but the pig did not pick up. Oh well, i thought he went out with Sam, so did not buy food for him. When i got back i found him sleeping, what a PIG. haha too bad no lunch. Oh by now my Prepaid card is up and running! woo! finally after waiting for 16hours. To those who want my number, can get it from Corli; due to Bao's safety the number will not be placed here.

We waited for Sam to come back, then we went groceries shopping, bought back food to cook for the night, felt silly, should have bought food for the week. Well anyway after we got back, we cook fried rice. Rice, Ham, Egg and carrots, it was a success! Kwok admit it, the fried rice i cook tasted better. Yours well, i added too much pepper for you, haha sorry. =p

Evening had to settle my orientation stuff, going to sleep soon got to wake up at 7am Orientation starts at 0800 on Monday

Well thats a summary of my weekend. Do drop me emails or messages if you see me online, i will try to reply whenever i can. Goodnight guys. God bless.

OH we are still alive.