of hopes & dreams + the 'lil things

Saying goodbye

2010-02-20T12:30:00.004+08:00

I've come to say goodbye...as I have officially changed my blog site to http://jielynn.posterous.com

The site with Posterous.com, I realised, can better cater to my current need..as I am constantly on the go and having my iPhone with me, Posterous.com does make it very much easier for me to post my entries via email.

Still, I loved and had enjoyed the times I typed my blogspot entries away in front of my trusty computer. :)

And thank you, for reading my entries here. You can come over to read my entries on the new site now.

Saying goodbye is always hard but I would always like to keep in mind that memories can always be relived by a click back to this blogspot site.

So, thank you everyone, and the blogspot team too!

Love,
Lynn

Expansion

2010-02-08T20:50:00.001+08:00

This word comes to mind a lot now.

Expansion.
Expansion.
EXPANSION.

I'm in the season of expansion.

Of the mind, of the heart, of the soul, of the spirit.

And I know that I can't do it by my own. I need to zoom in on God, to cast everything of my care upon Him. I need Him more and more.

Sometimes, it's very tempting to think otherwise of ourselves - that is, to think the opposite of who God has made us to be.

We are people of great capacity. We can do many astounding things in life.

We are who He created us to be.
Ever expanding.

EXPANSION.

More of Macau Trip

2010-02-07T20:34:00.008+08:00

Here's a bit more of Macau..I just got these photos from my bro's camera.

Hmmm... I kinda miss Macau's weather - really chilly but it's great because when the sun shines, you feel the warmth and yet the temperature's that of being in an air-conditioned room. Really love it. :) The yin and yang of hot and cold, hahaha...

I was having a

super-duper-ultra delicious Belgium Chocolate ice-cream

from Haagen Daz! :D It was really yummy.

And this shot was taken by my bro..

he got me to do this pose, -_-"'
but it turned out well; really like how St Paul's Ruins can be seen in the background :)

We've got gals from three generations here:
my mum, myself and my niece
:)

Eeks..my eyes look really bad here. But still, I like this photo..
There's myself, my nephew, my cousin and my niece. :)
During the trip,

I did feel tired at many points because of the babies..
I still am amazed at the amount of energy

a parent can have in taking care of their children.
I know one day, when I have my own,

I will finally understand the heart of a real parent.
Let me first start with having an even greater heart towards the people around me.

At St. Paul's Ruins

Giving is of God's nature

2010-02-04T23:05:00.004+08:00

I have been thinking about giving lately. You know, giving is HUGE.

Sometimes, the things that we give aren't material. Sometimes, they are. And all the time, if the giving comes from the heart, it can mean a lot to the person on the receiving end.

Just yesterday, I received a snail mail from a friend and in it read a few lines...

Seeing you once in however long, is simply like a reminder of God's love and goodness. Please continue to shine so ever brightly. It's my prayer that you bring joy and hope to all those around you just as you have blessed my life with these precious gifts God's given you. =)

This reminds me of giving is two-way. Doing so blesses the giver and the one receiving the gifts. Whenever I give, I feel happy. And even during those times when it takes more of me to say "yes" to giving, I always get back my returns in manifold.

Giving also teaches me to remain thankful and to keep a heart of gratitude. This is especially towards the people who have poured their lives into mine....

This week, I finally got my dad a new phone - the iPhone. Come to think of it, I had always wanted to give him a new phone..I remembered thinking "how good it'd be if I can get Dad a new, good smartphone" for every birthday of his for the past few years. This desire has finally been realised. :)

Today, I gave a little something to the staffing consultant who had helped me get into the banking industry two years ago. I told her I really appreciated her help and that where I am and what I can enjoy having today...it all had a great deal to do with her assistance. I could see she was very touched to hear these words and I felt so happy.

So, giving does make a difference in our lives.

Of all the things we can afford to give..I think the best will be one's self.

I am going through a season of my life when I am seeing more of what a little giving, a little going out of our way, a little running the extra mile can do to the lives of others. And I am enjoying it..because I know God is showing me more of His good shepherd heart. :)

A shot I have in my iPod..

I like how it shows the reality we live in:

Lives are broken and are in great need of healing.

The two words at the bottom are placed by me..

because I believe that in our hands lies the power to

HEAL HEARTS

Made Beautiful

2010-02-02T23:22:00.001+08:00

Today, I was observing the people around me more. And what I came to realise and understand is that we are all made beautiful.

Sometimes, the world puts a label on us like "average", "pretty", "charming" or "plainly-looking" and even "just ugly"...but we are all made BEAUTIFUL.

What the world thinks as ugly, God has already preordained to be made perfectly in His image - unique, one and only..and beautiful.

Let's not get robbed of knowing this!

Better, not bitter

2010-02-01T23:18:00.001+08:00

My Chinese is not the in the category of good but I tweeted this earlier on while still doing some overtime in the office.

从小，父母亲都教导着做事不能半途而废、工作上要勤劳。。所以我不会埋怨的。"Never Give Up!" 是在我个人字典里字体最最大的三个字！:)

Well, if I were to explain it in English, it'd be:

Since I was a child, I have been taught by my parents to not give up easily on what I have set my heart & mind to do..and that one must be diligent in his work. Therefore, I will not grow to hold any resentment or bitterness. "Never Give Up!" are the three biggest words in my dictionary. :)

Hmmm..why this sudden tweet?

I think it's because in my daily life, I see a lot of people who grow bitter and began to resent giving their best in what they do. Perhaps they had been greatly disappointed for a good many times and that's why they even resent the thought of having once given their all in doing something.

I have thought of myself too..how I react to being assigned something which takes a lot of strength, time and not just these..but my entire being too. Like loving the people God has placed in my life, like being a better and more excellent worker every single day, like loving God and choosing to obey even when I don't understand why.

There are many things in life that does not seem fair. But really, life isn't necessarily fair. People don't get appreciated the way they deserve to at times. There are merciless killings taking place somewhere in another part of the world even as I type these words.

But God is fair. He is just and He is all good.

I always take comfort in knowing that even when no one else knows what has been done, given, sacrificed..it's okay. Because God knows it all and He looks at the heart. :)

Be better, not bitter.

Acceleration

2010-01-31T22:35:00.006+08:00

I have so much to blog about!!!! I actually made a promise to myself that I must really blog tonight. :)

The other day, I was just thinking to myself that I am a young person called to fill great big shoes. I mean we all are. I have a colleague who's just a year older than I am and she's also in the sales line (that is, the very frontline of the company..acquiring business and such)..she needs to have a Blackberry and is always on the go, hopping from place to place and getting new businesses for us etc. I mean, our parents did not have such opportunities when they were twenty-three!

Taking myself into consideration..no one in the bank could believe me at first when I revealed my age. People think I am with the company for a long time because of the things I do and the connections I have all over the company. Hmm, what is this called now? I believe this is the acceleration that Pst Phil had spoken about three to four years back.

I remembered very clearly on how he said that in the days to come, there will be acceleration. So much so that, what took others ten years to achieve could now be done in a very much shorter time say, a year. And I think the same applies here; what our parents' generation did when they were forty, we are doing now when we are just in our twenties. More is being accomplished in a shorter time. It is indeed from glory to glory.

Ahhh... I have much to say, much to say. I think the thing about blogging is that you either don't blog or you blog too much. haha.. I need to be focused and select just one main thing to blog about for every entry. Hmmm, will try to work towards that.

Anyway, here's a photo of myself. hahaha.. this is so abrupt.

I had tidied my hair with a cut just yesterday..feeling really neat and light (had my hair thinned too) now. :)

This is me on 30.01.2010

(I love the effect on this photo, it's called "Vignette Blur" and I think it added some nice yet natural colour to the otherwise quite pale skin. - I wonder why!! I used to be of more "colour", like I was naturally tanned in my childhood days. During these recent years, I have grown to be fairer..something I don't want happening. Lord, make me tan again! :D)

Work is everything (??)

2010-01-27T08:08:00.001+08:00

Lately, I've been facing some stress at work and the pressure is indeed great.

It is funny how we usually only have the stress & pressure and the issues we presently face in sight. I'm not sure about you..but I remembered thinking PSLE & the O'levels was "everything" & the "greatest thing" I'd face back then.

So even as I have an avalanche of work staring back at me everyday and on some days feel like it could all swallow me up, I'm constantly keeping myself aware that it is NOT everything.

Our lives do not just consist of the work that we have to do in the office. Sometimes I see myself getting lost in its pile and I have to pull myself back a little to just you know, chill.

My guess is that working in our workplaces make up such a huge part of our days that unknowingly, some of us would have caused it to become our everything.

To me, God is everything. Therefore, I need to stay focused on what exactly He wants me to do. And I know that work (as in working hard in my workplace/ in my position in the company) is just an aspect of it. It is just one thing, not everything.

And I wanna remind myself right here...
God is THE BOSS. :)

I'm home!!

2010-01-25T23:04:00.001+08:00

"I'm home!!" are always the first words I speak upon stepping into my house every single day.

I look forward to say those words each time..it's the most natural thing to do - be it whether I'm happy or down.

On most days, "I'm home!!" is chirpy..and it pierces through the air at home, bringing a relief to my parents..especially on those late nights or the times when it looks set that rain is to come.

Then there are those times when "I'm home" comes with no exclamation marks but a resigned tone..it sends some signals through the air that I need some time alone to recover from the battle-weary day.

My buddy said saying these words are liken to making a grand entrance, macam a big shot telling everyone that he's here. Hahaha... Well, I guess the best & most beautiful part of saying these words is..there are people at home waiting for this announcement, ready in receiving the one who shouts it out.

* A thought just flew & perched itself on the window of my mind ~ what will it be like to reach Heaven's gates one day & be able to shout: "I'm home!!" ?

Things on mind that I need to get typed here..

2010-01-24T01:29:00.001+08:00

Hi all,

it's 1:04am but there're some things on my mind that I need to get off for a bit so that I can get to bed..haha..just thought I can type 'em out here..

• we need to be more outward-looking rather than constantly looking inward into our world & needs. Pity-parties don't do us any good.

• I want a heart that listens to what's beyond spoken words. Hearts are broken. I want to be able to help with the healing process.

• there's a burning desire to pray more for my loved ones. My family, my friends..people who matter to me. I want my prayers to cover them.

• things can seem hard at times. But I wanna focus on what I know. ALL I KNOW is that with each passing day, my entire family's getting closer to their salvation.

• I have so many things to do and oversee at work. But I can do it! I'm only gonna be more excellent in all my doings that no promotion can be denied of me! :)

• where will I be in ten years' time? I don't know but for now, I am dreaming the best I can and my dreams are in God's hands, He shall do what He deems is best for me.

• I love God. I love Him, I really do.

• I want more of God. I want to learn how to love people the way He does.

• sometimes, we think God loves it when we slog it all out and it shows that we're really "doing something". But the something He truly wants & would be truly pleased with is us giving our willing hearts. A living sacrifice. God honours our faithfulness.

• we shouldn't get jaded of life. Why will people get tired of living? Perhaps because they don't see any hope for a better tomorrow? I want to live as long as I possible can, here on earth.

• I want to say "I love you" & "You are important to me" more and to all who needs to hear these words from me.

Feel much better getting this off my chest for a while. I have been thinking of all these; they're words of the heart.

p.s.: If you're up at this hour still, please get some sleep soon. :)

Interesting Observation

2010-01-20T23:11:00.005+08:00

Something that I observed in the office today got me really intrigued..

Colleague A (a female) was given a nice compliment on her looks by Colleague B (a male).

A while later, as Colleague A passed me by, I noticed her whole countenance was full of radiance and glow. It was really nice and there was really an aura about her, like you could imagine the whole of her surrounding brightening up..like a princess singing and waking up all the droopy flower buds and blossoms as she passes them by. :)

I was intrigued, amazed and really surprised at my observation. Of course I know that everyone loves a compliment and a nice word or two..but today, I saw the "power" of the words coming from an opposite gender!!

Note: The male need not be the boyfriend/husband of the female

The results are simply intriguing. It made me think if it goes the same for guys. Apparently, it does.

I guess this is how God has made us (men & women) to be. And this is probably one of the important factors that comes handy in God's writing of all of our love stories. :)

When someone tells you to not take leave no more

2010-01-19T23:34:00.001+08:00

Today, I had a client told me to not go on anymore leave for the rest of the year.

Haha..it actually made me very happy. To me, it's an outright compliment made on my service and the attention given to the customer. And by his "complaining" that the past week during my absence had been "hell" for him, I know I nailed it. I know I have gone beyond what has been expected to serve this client.

And that's what makes me happy.

Never Give Up!

2010-01-18T20:51:00.006+08:00

You know, I mentioned about my Macau trip being fruitful...

And this was something which added to its fruitfulness.. I saw this ad while shopping in a mall. And to me, seeing it meant a lot.

I believe it was God's way of speaking into my life even though I was miles away from home. Anyway, God is omnipresent and so it doesn't matter where we are, He simply speaks to us anytime and anywhere, through things and people in the most amazing ways.

As you can see, though it's not very clear, the message on the ad is: Never Give Up

I was in awe when I saw it and upon passing it by, I decided I have to get back to the spot to capture it with my phone's camera. :)

"Never Give Up" is the message of my life. I carry these three words with me all the time. It is what I believe in and what I want others to also believe in - that by not giving up, we can reach beyond the wildest dreams our hearts carry.

Never Give Up!

110 :: Macau :: Character vs Charm

2010-01-17T23:34:00.009+08:00

Heys all,

As promised, this is step numero uno to being a more regular blogger this year. :)

Would like to backtrack a little bit first.. I didn't have the chance to blog on 11 Jan, which was a day before I flew to Macau, because I was so busy with many stuff.

But 11 Jan was a BIG day for me. I have always loved the eleventh of every month because I gave my heart to Jesus on an eleventh. But this one had been more special.

11 Jan 2010 =110110 and it so happened to also be the 110th month of my knowing Christ. :)

It was also a day when many things in the areas of my life were being thought over and some decisions were made; decisions, I believe, that will change my life - a turning point.

I am always thankful for God's saving grace upon my life.

~~~~

Visiting Macau had not been the smoothest of all trips but it has been most fruiful. It was a family trip, along with my cousin's family unit with my aunt & uncle..our families are very close-knit and while there had been some friction along the way, I gained a lot from this trip.

Physically, I am a bit worn, perhaps it's because travelling is not my top avenue of getting recharged. But spiritually, I had been observant and alert to what God has to say on certain things..and He really does speak a lot on trips! :) He has shown me on some things that I need to quickly change and I also saw how communication is so important. If there's miscommunication in our lives, there will be room given for relationships to break down.

Anyway, the many random shots have been posted on my Facebook profile..the more proper, family ones are still in my bro's camera..and I will try to post some up soon :)

Here's a few taken with my phone..

I am greatly amazed by what I see out of the windows whenever I am on flights.

How can anyone deny the existence of God?

He is real.

He is Creator.

He is most amazing.

My two year-old nephew, Darius

He's a darling.

She's about to wring herself out of my hold in this shot, haha.

My 6 month-old niece, Katie.

My love for Starbucks proven.

I did go in for a cup of Mocha Frapp... :O

And how can a trip to Macau be completed without a visit to the St Paul's Ruins?

I loved the place.

~~~~

Read a tweet by Sidney Mohede earlier...

Personality and charm have the power to open doors. Character keeps them open.

And I want to say that this is really true. I have been thinking a lot about this lately.

Sometimes, we meet people who have absolute charm and they can be Miss Personality or Mr Charisma..but if there's no right character beneath it all, things start to crumble after some time.

In my industry, I meet a lot of charming personalities and I get to work with them as well. But I'm constantly compelled to be not just a charming person or a girl with a good personality. Godly character matters a lot.

Not that we don't improve the way we look or the way we dress and even how we relate to others..but there's got to be substance beneath!

I wanna be a woman of greater substance in 2010 :)

I love you all

2010-01-12T13:41:00.001+08:00

One thing I'll miss abt Sg:

The people :)

Off to Macau now and will be back with photos to share plus a plan on being a more regular blogger. Hahaha..I'm serious! Pardon me guys.

Miss every bit of Singapore already...

You'll Never Walk Alone

2010-01-04T23:47:00.003+08:00

It's my 300th post and I wanna talk about soccer. Haha, okay, it's Liverpool.

I thought it's really divine that my company's got the main sponsorship for Liverpool..because this whole "You'll Never Walk Alone" thing has become the official theme and spirit that we carry. Everywhere I go..I see, hear and think these words: You'll Never Walk Alone

I think it's another amazing and big way that God has chosen to speak through to me..that I'll never be walking this road alone.

That speaks to all of us. We really are not alone, Jesus is IN this; together with you and me.

Today, I got to see the lyrics of the team's anthem and I thought it's so meaningful and close to the heart..am gonna leave you with the beautiful lyrics and I do believe it's what God wants to say..

When you walk through a storm
Hold your head up high
And don't be afraid of the dark
At the end of the storm
Is a golden sky
And the sweet silver song of a lark

Walk on through the wind
Walk on through the rain
Though your dreams be tossed and blown
Walk on walk on with hope in your heart
And you'll never walk alone
You'll never walk alone
Walk on walk on with hope in your heart
And you'll never walk alone

My Current Faves (Music)

2010-01-03T23:57:00.003+08:00

Shall spend the last three mins of Day Three talking about my current "on repeat mode" songs :)

Marie Digby. Have you heard of her? Her voice's superb. It has a clarity that I want to have and she writes her songs..it is really a different thing to sing the songs you've personally penned.

Do enjoy these..very contrasting but these two songs bring out different sides of the singer..

"Say It Again" - Something every gal in love will want to sing to her guy

"Spell" - This song was on an episode of Smallville

I really like these two songs and I am truly inspired to keep the songs in my head coming..perhaps, I might one day pick up learning to play on the guitar again :)

New Year :: New Song :: New Things

2010-01-02T17:03:00.002+08:00

Hi all,

HAPPY 2010!!! :)

It's more than a feeling..I know that this year is gonna be beyond what we could ever ask; it will be a most awesome year, one of many great breakthroughs and so much more.

I know I haven't been blogging for the longest time..but here I am, and here's a song that I penned while praying last night. Hope it speaks something to all your hearts. I have realised that I love putting melodies to my words and singing them out helps because these are songs from the heart.

This song's name is "Broken" and it speaks of how God picks up the broken parts of our lives & how we can always stand up and ready ourselves for a new start. I think it's perfect for the start of 2010.

Broken
by Lynn Teo

Broken..
You found me broken
Yet here I stand forgiven
I'm clean and pure again
Now I'm ready to make another start

Broken..broken..
The pieces of my heart
That of my life and dreams and hopes
Pieced together
Now I'm ready to make another start

You found me standing
On the broken roads
Before I fall You got me in Your arms
Saying "It's okay,
Let's start over
Because I'm ready to make another start"

You see me broken
Lost and in pain
You picked me up time and again
And said "You have a destiny in Me,
So don't give up, don't give up"

Relationships

2009-12-20T23:56:00.004+08:00

You know, it's been some time since I felt this way..but I'm a little saddened by some news I heard recently regarding a few couples I know.

There had been a few broken hearts in my circle of friends and though I've also learned about new love relationships blossoming..I cannot help but feel for those who are mending their hearts during this time of the year...

It takes faith to be in a relationship with someone.
I'm talking about relationships in general here.

During candlelight service today, I said a prayer for a very precious friendship in my life and asked God for restoration, for new beginnings, new depths of bonds to be created.

This Christmas, I'm praying that every heart will find a deep sense of security in God's love - to know that they are loved and that everything's going to be alright.

- Time does not do the healing, God does. -

Snippets of my Sat + a Mega Avatar craze

2009-12-20T00:26:00.002+08:00

First of all, I must say I'm totally impressed by Avatar and how much I have liked the whole thing about it. I still cannot get the movie out of my head. so people, catch it! http://www.avatarmovie.com/
I never thought I'd like such a movie but I did. James Cameron is brillant.

And though Saturday is already over.. a lot of the day is still running itself over in my mind. I totally love Saturdays. They are my rest days.

----

Something a friend said today...

The impression you give me has always been
that you are a very good person; very "angel" and no flaws / bad
points. Being optimistic and able to look at the
positive side of things is a very good gift you have in life.

His words touched my heart.
I am not perfect but the God I know and love is perfect.
He reveals through my living His goodness and mercy.

I also never want to take for granted the measure of positivity God has placed in me.
It takes faith to be positive and to always have a hope for the best.
But still, the thing I want to bank on is the relationship I have with God..
and not how positive a person I am or can be.

----

On shopping...

I am not someone you call an enthusiastic shopper.

For the record, I got so drained by shopping today (super long queues and seemingly endless walk-abouts) that I had to take a break at Starbucks..I was so tired, I felt like sleeping!?!

I truly wonder how people can take shopping as a form of therapy....

----

On the Christmas season...

I'm excited! Hearts are gonna be touched and lives are going to face transformation! This includes mine. :)

----

On my current thoughts...

I've been thinking about loving God.

The way I know the surety of my love for God is through my actions. Are they a result of my obedience to Him?

What He loves, that I want to love. What He hates, that I want to hate.

----

On God's love...

It is so wondrous. It is so immense, so great.

He draws all men unto Him indeed. I believe there will be a time of drawing..a time of a great redemption of those who had moved away from God at some point of their lives.

----

God is good!

Redeemer

2009-12-16T23:59:00.001+08:00

The bleakest situations
The most wrecked lives
God can redeem them all.

Because He is a Redeemer.
He brings hope wherever He goes.
God is HOPE.

Wala Fun

2009-12-14T22:39:00.003+08:00

As promised, here're some pics of my fun Saturday night.. :)

This is The Unexpected at Wala Wala on Sat night.
They are GOOOD!!!

I was caught doing this, :D
Must've been thinking about something..

The Malay guy on the right looks just like a part of us but he isn't!
He's a staff of Wala Wala. :)

This is us :)
(but the entire Dev Zone Band aka DZB is much bigger!)

I like this pic.

My tussled hair looks quite good for once :)

- Some people say there's no true friendship.
They haven't yet learned to be a true friend. -

12.12.2009

2009-12-13T10:46:00.001+08:00

12/12 had been a day of immense hilarity for me, :D

Dev Zone Band (DZB) had a mini meet-up after such a long while and boy, it was pure fun! What I liked and thank God for is how we could just click and connect with each other..the chemistry of the whole group was amazing.

There was non-stop laughing and seriously, I haven't laughed so much in a single night before yesterday!! I reckon some photos will be up here soon. :)

Just a little post to thank God for the people He's placed in my life..and the fact that He is a God who's into having fun and laughter :))

Jesus is my Hero*

Staying in love

2009-12-11T00:27:00.001+08:00

Falling in love is easy. We feel good, attracted to the person..we fall in love. But staying in love is a different thing.

We choose to stay in love because of the person. We remember the first-ness of the relationship. How we were touched by the love. How our hearts were won over.

To fall in love is a great thing. But what's greater would e making the choice to stay in love with the person you fell head over heels with. :)

Something I hope for

2009-12-09T22:24:00.004+08:00

I'm happily tired. :)

Today seemed so surreal..my work was a breeze and I had a wonderful lunch. Everyday must be like today. I am more than a conqueror.

Anyway, I had lunch with seven other new people today..instead of the expected two. But I am just so glad. Because God answered my every prayer and He did so with much more. I really, really hope for these new friendships to take off like never before. I believe there can also be a support group within the marketplace. Colleagues you don't just colleagues..but colleagues you can call friends.

Two months from now, I want to see some real good fruits coming forth from these friendships. I need to sow more into them. STEP OUT!!!!!

- I'm loving life because everyday's an adventure with You -

God-divine connections

2009-12-07T21:49:00.001+08:00

I'm theming my week "Lunch with Wonderful Colleagues". I have lunch appointments with at least three pairs of colleagues - Mon to Wed :)

Pair #1: Monday (today) - this was really abrupt because I saw a former intern who came back to work for yet another short period. Then I realised another intern whom I also know has came back with him. We knew each other in May - same job training batch.

Pair #2: Tuesday - tomorrow, I'm gonna lunch with two colleagues whom I've known since American Express days. This means I've known them for about 20 months. One of them will be leaving and yet, the other has just rejoined the company last week. It's so bittersweet; this separation & reuniting thing.

Pair #3: Wednesday - this would be lunch with colleagues I got to know through a fire drill in October. :D there had been relocation for many departments this year and theirs was one of those affected. We sit just less than ten workstations away from each other.

I've come to see how God works in very amazing ways. Ways you and I can not imagine. It's just beyond us. He is creative, mysterious and always love surprising us.

Three different groups of colleagues. Three different ways of getting to know them at three different phases of my life.

For each pair, I've prayed and asked for God to bring the friendship to a higher level. For each pair, God did.

You know we'd never know how each person can change our lives or the impact we can make on each person's life.

I didn't think I would meet the interns after they left months back. I didn't think I would see a former Amex colleague come back. I didn't think I would get to know the people I so wanted to befriend with at a fire drill.

God is divine..and so is everything that He's got a touch on. :)

Decembery

2009-12-02T00:34:00.001+08:00

It's already the early hours of Dec 2!! Haven't quite got to mind that we're hitting the first decade of this millenium just so soon.

I can still remember year 2000 and all that dose of "Y2K"..haha. I was so young then! I know I still am..but the next ten years are gonna be even more glorious ones - wanna make the most out of the years. Indeed, I wanna learn to number my days :)

Anyway, I have been busy at work but I am very happy because I'm gearing up and learning more. I'm trying to put my best effort in what I do and because favour is never a substitute for excellence.

I have been receiving comments from friends, colleagues that I'm changing and I've grown to become prettier and even more like a young woman. Honestly, I'm happy, of course.. :)

I thank God for the countenance that He's given to me..that even through tough times I can always be of good cheer. And I also thank God for His glory and for beautifying me.

But more than all these, I thank God that I am indeed changing - not just on the outside but from inside out. I am better, I am getting somewhere..each and every day of my life.

We can't keep saying "Lord, change me" without making the decision to change. God provides grace so that we can change. But we have to WILL ourselves to change! - Lynn Teo -

What's in a name

2009-11-29T10:54:00.005+08:00

Jielynn

do some of you know me by this name?

It is my name. Although my Chinese name is spelt as Jie Ling. :) my English given name is spelt as Lynn. I did a mini "combo" here :)

I love my name.

I used to dislike my Chinese name very much because I was always being teased about it in school.

But in 2007, while I was in class during SOT one day, God spoke to me about my name.

He asked if I disliked it and He asked why. I told Him that I do love it but it makes me cringe hearing people talk about it in the past.

Then what He said next changed me. He asked, "why do you dislike it..do you know the meaning of your name?"

It struck me. Perhaps I didn't really know. I mean, Mom told me why she named me Jie Ling but what is the true meaning that God's trying to tell me here?

He broke down the two characters to me:

洁 - this is "jie" in Chinese writing
灵 - this is "ling" in Chinese writing

In Chinese, 洁 means clean and 灵 means soul; spirit.

That day, when God showed this to me, I teared.

Clean (pure) spirit.

What's in YOUR name?

- THANK YOU -

2009-11-27T15:45:00.002+08:00

This is my thanksgiving post. :)
I think it is very important to remember our Qs.. a thankful heart is a faithful heart..it is a loyal heart.

I want to thank Jesus for everything.

The word "everything" seem too compact to express what He has given us.

It is really His all.

I want to give my all to Jesus too.

Without Him, there will be no me.

I am also very thankful for these people in my life:

My church & pastors - Being in church every single week for the past 9years changed my life. I grew up learning about God and how to lead my life, plus so much more..I would be so very different if I don't have the church and its leaders.

Dev - He is my zone leader and I really admire his intellect plus his big, big heart for people. I want more of his kind of capacity.

Tizane - She is more than a leader to me. She is mentor, she is friend, she is sister, she is spiritual mother, she is confidant, she is much more. She is a person who willingly lays her life down for me..someone who truly wants to see me excel and succeed, someone whom I can cry and bawl and be silly and goofy in front of. I can be anything and all that I am when I am with her. Tizane, if you're reading this, thank you for all that you've done and all that you are to me in my life.

Rina - She is someone special because we two came a long way and God used both of us to, as what the bible says, "iron sharpens iron". Over time and by God's loving patience and grace, we two are more united and our friendship grew stronger. Rina, here's to stronger bonds and closer ties! I love you!

Josephine - She is BUDDY. We entered into each other's life in very divine and amazing ways. I will never forget how Holy Spirit told me to press into her life and be a friend. And how on her side, she was praying for someone to come along just as I was..to share a friendship. I learnt from this friendship that we build closer and stronger friendships by choosing delibrately to press in to the lives of people. Jo, you are very precious to me. Let's bring our friendship to eternity. <3

A - He is a colleague whom I can call friend. I am truly grateful because he teaches me and guides me in my daily course of work..I often irritate him with the many questions about speaking in Bahasa Indo. hahaha. He is godsend. He is a big brother and many times, I feel like God had arranged him to be in my company for this purpose of being there for me.

God's divine connections for my life... :

Willy Joe & the meet-up people

Dev Zone Band

Newfound friendships in my workplace

At the end of last month, I tweeted this: Home! so happening today: made new friends w another dept's ppl during FIRE DRILL. what a way! God, let these friendships GROW as only YOU CAN!

And God does hear our prayers..yes, even our thoughts. I remembered telling God how nice it'd be if I can have lunch with the group of colleagues I got acquainted with...

Guess what? I will be having lunch with the newly made friends from the other dept on Monday.. :) I was being asked by one of them just two days ago. So happy. Let new good, true friendships spring forth!

The people God placed in our lives are by no accident..I'm thanking God for divine connections in my life!

I Love You Sweet Jesus

2009-11-27T11:49:00.003+08:00

I'm really touched by this song, it's by our Children's Church.
But it speaks volumes..right to the core of the hearts of everyone - young & old.

This is the cry of my heart.

I belong to no one else but Jesus.

I LOVE YOU SWEET JESUS
I LOVE YOU MY LORD
I DESIRE MORE OF YOU
CLOSER IN MY LIFE
I SURRENDER MY HEART TO YOU

I LOVE YOU SWEET JESUS
I LOVE YOU MY LORD
I'LL GIVE UP ALL I HAVE
IN EXCHANGE FOR ALL OF YOU
I BELONG TO NO ONE ELSE BUT YOU

I CLOSE MY EYES
LIFT MY HANDS TO WORSHIP YOU
YOU'RE THE LOVE OF MY LIFE
NO ONE ELSE MATTERS
IN THIS WORLD BUT YOU
NO ONE CAN TAKE YOUR PLACE
IN MY HEART

NO ONE LIKE YOU

Updates!! :)

2009-11-22T23:41:00.011+08:00

Ready for another round of point-form chunks of updates & thoughts going through my mind..? :)

1. There is HOPE

I want to be a true prisoner of hope. I know I have always been someone hopeful. But I want to be more. One who does not fall into despair but keeps on keeping on, holding on, clinging on to HOPE. That even when it seems like all hope is lost, I can't help but be chained to the shackles of HOPE.

God is my hope. Kaulah harapan dalam hidupku.

2. New times

I feel like I am stepping into a whole new season of my life. I'm very excited because I know God is calling me to go deeper. I want to have more of Him. My love for Him is growing day by day. I adore Jesus. It is like someone just pulled a veil off and I find myself literally stepping into something new. In all the areas of my life.

This is awesome. God makes all things new.

3. My love

God has plans for me to have a good husband. Not just good but so much more than that. I am not looking into having a relationship now but I am gonna commit more time praying for my future partner.

At the same time, I want to tell all singles reading this now to keep hope. We are all pieces of "work-in-progress" and so are our future partners. Can you take this time to think and imagine and come to realization that while you're waiting, holding out for the man/woman of you life, God is on the other hand, with him/her too..working in his/her life, getting him/her prepared just for you.

We (us & our future partner) are supposed to be an invincible God-ordained pair that would result in greater exploits being done for God in the future.

This requires us to be impeccably prepared, equipped and armed..even before we get together! When both are whole and strong, coming together results in greater strength and glory.

Keep hope! And make chance out of the waiting period - allow God's hand to move deeper in your own life.

4. Simon

Simon was my classmate in poly and recently, he made the best decision of his life. It is his birthday today and seeing him praising & worshipping God beside me in service just now made me feel so much - I am beyond happy. I couldn't express my thanks to God enough. I'm very touched by His love and HIs great plan for every single one of us.

I want to thank God for being the Writer of our life stories. He is our salvation. We have a destiny in God.

5. Work

I am gonna get better at work. I will live up to having an excellent spirit. My God is an excellent God.

6. December - God's constant providence

December has got lots in store for me.

my iPhone!!

a colleague's wedding

many meet-ups with friends & family for Christmas

Christmas services - best time of the year

year-end celebrations

vision-casting for 2010

God has been super good, I just received a very substantial work incentive recently which had me so dazed and excited at the same time. Why was the incentive given? Why is it so timely..just when I needed the extra monies..they come to me. These were thoughts running through my mind.

God is my Provider. To those questions, I only have one answer. IT MUST BE GOD.

7. The person that I am

I am a pen & paper person. Even with the advancement of technology and the coming out of eBooks.. I can't.. I need paper..I need pen. I can't get used to using my iPod's organizer..I need the traditional pen & schedule diary to keep my planning of days orgainzed. I can't type sermon messages or any revelational thoughts into my iPod's Notes function for long. I need my pen & paper.

Before I stepped into banking, I nearly plunged into mass media and had I done so and went on to pursue journalism, I would probably be scribbling all details of the scoop on my frayed notebook with my trusty Uniball pen still. :)

I can do all things

2009-11-19T00:11:00.006+08:00

I am meditating on Philippians 4. I believe this was triggered by the "Nothing Is Impossible" song of Planetshakers that we sang in church on Sunday. (I absolutely love the sound of it; the spirit of the song)

And these have been the words to myself daily: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

But more than just having the song as a trigger, I believe this is what the Holy Spirit is impressing upon my heart. Philippians 4 brought much, much, much enlightenment and lifted the load off the shoulders.. sometimes, the commonly read verses are those that can leave tremendous impact, if we would only slow down and take a little more time to read deep into them.

In my line of work and the culture it's been embodied in, can I just say that peace is greatly needed and wanted.. There are times when I get anxious due to certain factors, not forgetting that I am still new to what I am doing..but what I am thankful for is that my GOD; the GOD I know..He is the source of peace. He is everything.

I have many dreams.

I dream of being capable in handling whatever that comes my way at work at the swiftest pace; with the greatest accuracy and the best follow-up and follow-through.

I dream of being the best RSM; one whom my peers can look to as a role model and one whom my superiors greatly cherish and take as a treasured aide in their work.

I dream of a new culture where I work. Not any "such-and-such organization" culture. But Kingdom Culture. The culture of God's house being introduced and deeply rooted into the hearts of the people; the heart of the organization.

"Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am." - Philippians 4: 13 (The Message)

Looking forward

2009-11-18T01:01:00.002+08:00

My block leave's officially over with the strike of midnight. I'm just getting ready now for bed, right after this and some ironing plus praying.

God has used this period to correct & mold me, love & guide me and encourage & strengthen me.

I am grateful.

I'm coming forth as a stronger, wiser, more humble & teachable Lynn. A Lynn with greater capacity.

Some things to especially thank God for:

• speaking to me & giving me a vision during praise & worship in DZ mtg

• guiding me, teaching me what exactly to let out of my mouth during prayer, P&W..so that it flows with the message

• Dev: My zone leader. He has the biggest heart. I'm very encouraged and touched by his words, questions and prayer.

• Rina: I have a lot of fun spending time with her earlier on (Time spent with you is precious, Rin!)

• a blessing of an umbrella & a bot of chrysanthemum tea :D - thanking Him even for the 'lil things..

** And now, I want to be physically ready to take on what's to come in the day! Nightoz!!!

Fullness of love

2009-11-14T23:46:00.001+08:00

I'm thinking of emotional healing.

People have hurts and we have the responsibility to let go of the painful, negative feelings and memories.

The more we hold on to them, the further we pull ourselves away from experiencing love.

But the minute we let go of them, we're set on a divine track of healing.

We can let go and dive deep into the ocean of love.

Yellow Friday the thirteenth

2009-11-14T00:52:00.006+08:00

Thanks to five days of block leave and counting, I could have an afternoon of meet up with friends from my polytechnic days. We had fun and it was as though we had gone back to those times when we were schooling in poly. Tampines was like my second home when I was 17 or 18 years old because I schooled, gave tuition lessons, hung out and attended church (Expo, :)) there.
Anyway, being able to catch up with some friends had been a bliss to me.

We caught 2012 and the movie made me think a lot. For the benefit of those who have yet to watch it, I shall not divulge any details here. But what I can say is that I thought a lot about people and God. :)

And if you're wondering what's so yellow about my Friday..the answer's this:

One of my poly friends gave me a sunflower during dinner and I thought that gesture was super sweet! I really thank God because it (the gesture and flower) simply cheered me up and lifted my spirits..made me very happy.

I think such thought and gesture, though small, are supremely important in every one of our lives because not only do they put a smile to the face, they put a smile on the heart. :)

9; "jiu"; sembilan; "gao"

2009-11-11T18:10:00.003+08:00

This is the love
By Lynn Teo

When my whole world fell apart
Lord, You picked me up
When my love for You starts to fail
Lord, You told me You never will

And this is the love..
I've been looking for
This is the heart..
I've been in search of

Wherever You may be
That's where I wanna go
Whatever You may give
Lord, that's what I wanna dream

Where You go, there I'll be
What You do, that I'll follow
And I never wanna be apart from You

* Nine whole years of accepting Christ has changed my life forever. But our story went back way before year 2000. It began in a small Lutheran child care centre that I had attended since I was two. It all began on the cross of Calvary's hill.

GOD + Stewardship

2009-11-10T21:48:00.006+08:00

Penned another short piece today..I like it when words and melodies come to me. I usually pen them down immediately while keeping a voice record of the melody.

This is the second day of my long leave and I'm very happy to have this part of me coming back again. I used to write poems every other day when I was younger and it helped in keeping me connected to my innermost feelings..now, allowing the short pieces to come forth as little melodies help me to touch God in a very real way, and keeps a fresh touch of God on my life.

Today's melody is titled: GOD

GOD
By Lynn Teo

God; He's more than a vending machine
God; He's more than all that we've dreamed
God; You are my everything
God; You are LORD and I will sing

Jesus...Jesus...
Jesus...Jesus...
God of my life
God of my all

The verse for this song is: Deut 6:4 (The Lord is ONE)

~ ~ ~ ~

I was also thinking about stewardship today. God reminded me that everything in my life - that I'm a steward of. Every single thing. Every person we have in our lives. Even the heart of our future spouse..it belongs to God. We are stewards; called to take care, look after and manage what God gives to us.

This reminder changed my perspective in many ways. I want to be a faithful steward of all that He has given me.

Try by Asher Book

2009-11-09T23:33:00.001+08:00

I absolutely love this song; really melted when I saw the scene in Fame sometime back in the cinema, :)

As a girl, I've always admired how some guys have such good ability to sing..I think it's a feat to sing well..even more so for guys because people always have a perception that songbirds are usually of the female gender.

Enjoy!!

some on-my-mind stuff

2009-11-07T18:53:00.004+08:00

1. My sanity

I am not losing it. Really. I feel misunderstood at times. But I know it's okay. It's okay to be me. It is okay if people think that certain aspects of you (your values, characteristics, attitudes towards life) is weird. It is okay if people see you busying about and think you don't "have a life". It is okay when you say you love God and people sometimes throw you irksome looks.

2. My future family

My student asked me to bring her to Sentosa on a Saturday, sometime soon. I'd love to, so wanna do that. She's 8 and I'm 21. But to say the truth, I've got a strong feeling that no matter how young I'm gonna dress up as, there'd be people on the beach who'd think I'm her unwed mother or something. hahah! :p

Praying I could get her mum's permission to do so. I love to know that a young one is being nurtured in my hands, in the hands of God who is with me.

I so wish I could have a future family now.
And I know I am only twenty-one.

3. My boyfriend

I don't have a boyfriend.
I am not looking for one.
I will have one, someday.
I don't know when.

These are answers I have been giving to the people around me; family and friends, colleagues, acquaintances, strangers. And myself.

I know I am of age. But only God knows whether I am ready for one and the "when" will always lie with Him.

But can I tell you that I have a Husband though. :) Forever His. <3

4. Banking Industry

Yesterday, I read a tweet from a friend.

I am still amazed of how God brought me into banking industry.

My heart skipped a beat when I read it. I was lunching with a colleague and we were talking about our jobs. We were just sharing about how mutual friends and even ourselves came into this industry upon graduation or from entirely different industries. We felt there was something so wonderful about this thing in common; coming into this industry, the love and interest for it, the willingness to plough in this industry.

God reminded me about my own case when I read the tweet. How I came into banking. How God brought me in. I will always be in awe of that.

5. Rest

It takes more faith to rest than to work. At least, for me..it is. I am trying to get a good balance between work and rest..I know I'm getting there. My block leave is so abrupt and sudden..but I am beginning to appreciate it.

I think God must have known how much I truly need a break. I honestly think I don't know it myself. Being forced to rest seems scary because at the back of your mind, worrisome thoughts can come creeping in at times. But I know I really need this Sabbath.

It will be a time of restoration.

6. Love

The world needs LOVE more than ever now.

I want to give more of it away.

7. Wholeness

Who can make us whole except God?

I wanna run to God first, only and always for wholeness. He makes me complete.

8. New beginnings

The number 8 reminds me of new beginnings and that's what it symbolises, biblically. I know good new times are coming. I want to start praying for the year 2010.

9. Christmas

I have always loved those candlelight services. It shows the romance between couples and the romance God had set right from the beginning of time. The romance between us and Him.

I love the way the light goes from one candle to another. Honestly, I always tear during candlelight services. The way the hall lights up from one single light never fail to amaze me and make me thank God for Jesus.

Jesus is our Light.

10. Sunflowers

I love sunflowers. Especially during those not-so-smooth-sailing days at work, I always have the urge to get myself a big stalk from the florist downstairs. Just to cheer myself up. :)

We gotta all learn what encourages us, cheers us up, makes us happy and light..and do it to ourselves.

A Willing Soul

2009-11-06T00:00:00.004+08:00

A Willing Soul
By Lynn Teo

They say I'm a fool,
Throw weird glances at me
Those looks that tell nothing good
But let them be

And yes, I'd admit I'm a little naive
But tell me, what's wrong..
What's wrong with keeping things simple
Is there any wrong in this simplicity

They got brainwashed by society
And ended up thinking they're so part of it
But no, we've all got something deep down
Something so great we must not try to hide it no more

* Who don't dream of better days
Who don't wanna make a change
But show me the soul who's willing to take
Just a few steps nearer to the ultimate stake

The truth is, we're all in this together
The closer we stand, the stronger we'd get
And we're all in this together
If one Man can make a difference
Tell me what can the rest of us do

when God speaks..

2009-11-04T01:52:00.002+08:00

God spoke just now and I listened. I nearly cried because it was so much needed and so straight to my heart.

Work has been real good fun plus downright tough all rolled into one lately. But I am very thankful that God has placed me in my company at such a time.

I love my job. I can excel at work. I will not ever despise the days of small beginnings. I have a purpose and destiny so big, and God knows exactly what He is doing in my life.

There's a longing in my heart...

2009-11-01T10:11:00.002+08:00

I really have this indescribable longing in my heart. To be someone better; to have so much more to give. It's like I just want to pour everything of me out.

I wish I am at a level with greater capacity now so that even more of me can be given away. More energy and strength, greater wealth and better health so that more of me can be given to others.

The song that's ringing in my head now is Relient K's Give Until There's Nothing Left.

I know someday, I'd reach there. In fact, I am reaching..with every step, every act taken, I'm a step closer to it.

The bible shows how God works in a little-by-little way so that we are able to have our capacity built over time (Deut 7:22)

I'm believing that I am getting stronger by the day. We all are.

Just this longing in my heart..

Timely Words

2009-10-30T00:17:00.002+08:00

God is amazing. I had a sudden thought of going to a particular date of entry in my previous blog on Livejournal...and I found just what I needed.

An excerpt of my 12th Sept 2005 entry:

MORE FAITH (from MountainWings.com)

God has more faith in you than you do in yourself.

You know what's ON you.
He knows what's IN you.

You know the weight you carry.
He knows your strength.

You know your pain.
He knows where your healing is.

"For I know the plans I have for you," says the LORD."They are plans for good and not for disaster,to give you a future and a hope." (Jer 29:11 NLT)

_____________________________________________

So often, I wonder if I am cut out for my job; for the banking industry..because there are just so much I do not understand of and it gets very tough working some times.

But I won't give up. Even if I have to work and strive many times harder than those around me, I will persevere on. FIGHTING!!!!!

Counting my blessings during lunchbreak

2009-10-28T14:57:00.001+08:00

I say, we always got to learn how to count our blessings. We will always find that they outweigh the bad stuff we go through..I am truly in another time of change; stress and pressure at work sometimes does press in so much..but I wanna stay thankful. So watch me as I count my blessings..and may you count yours too :)

1. Tues night dinner

I arrived at Dev's mtg late due to work but was amazingly refreshed by the ministering & encouragement received throughout. And dinner with them all made me feel so much lighter on the inside. I know there's always a group of ppl I can run to for safety and comfort. People I can call family in a place called home. :)

2. Doing my best

I was super comforted when a colleague said: "no, you're trying your best", in reply to my dejected statement about my ability to get things done w/o mistakes.

I guess all it matters is that God knows and He understands even when nobody else does.

3. Tizane

My leader is awesome beyond words. I am very blessed to have her in my life. Don't wanna do life without her.

4. Little gestures make me smile

Tiny gestures that can be taken for granted often really touches my heart.

• A particular personnel helps me with my access into office, esp when I rush to & fro the branch and back to office. He took special effort in recognizing me.

5. A&W

My two colleagues at work are my: friends, mentors, laughter-inducing machines, lameness-to-the-max jokers

They make my days at work very entertained and fun-filled

6. Me and more importantly, the HOLY SPIRIT in me

I am a blessing to myself. I care about myself and take time to encourage, stir, correct, love myself..but truly, it is because of the Holy Spirit living in me that I am able to do all these. He convicts us of sin so that even our very repentance & turning back to God is enabled by Him.

The Holy Spirit is very precious to me.

Whatever happens, I'm not alone. I am thankful for that.

*get down to counting yours now!!

ALL IN ALL

2009-10-27T07:14:00.001+08:00

All In All
By Lynn Teo

I bow my head in reverence today
I lift my hands high and I pray

You are my all in all
I can't do without You Lord, oh~
You are my all in all,
My all in all, my all in all
(Don't wanna do without You Lord)
My all in all, my all in all

A song that helped change my life

2009-10-25T23:14:00.004+08:00

Wanna blog about "Who I am hates who I've been" here.

It's a song by Relient K..one of their earlier pieces and it was the song that introduced me to the band when I was still a secondary school girl.

Anyway, just want to share how the song changed me.

I have always been very inclined to words and especially when listening to songs, I would pay great attention to the lyrics.

When I heard "Who I am hates who I've been", I couldn't get the song out of my head.

I know the title sounds strange at first reading but the song speaks to me about changing oneself.

And I really felt the sentence speaking straight into my heart: who I am hates who I've been

I was sixteen then but listening to these words made me want to change my life for the better. To be a better person, to change my ways. And for the next few years down the road, I was constantly reminded by the words.

The words spurred me on to renounce my old ways and to hate those past sinful ways I had dwelt in. I think it's important to remember to cast our old man aside and not go back to our old habits. To so utterly hate those sinful ways so that we won't ever go back to being our old self.

We're all changing for the better everyday.

Who I am hates who I've been

Crazy Friday

2009-10-24T00:59:00.000+08:00

1. Blogging Style

I realized this is a very effective way of sharing my thoughts in a blog post, that is, in short numbered points like this. hmmm...caught this from my bud, Josephine. :)

2. My tresses

I also realized how much my hair seemed to have grown over the past few months..what used to be a very stubby bun is now slowly developing into a nice rounded ponytail. hmm. (",)

3. The thing about tied hair

I further realized that I have a tendency to tie my hair very tightly in a bun when provoked - and in that I mean towards myself or situations, never against people. Like I would work and get frustrated when having sticky situations...I'd bun my hair up, hahaha. It sort of helps me to "streamline", LOL.. think: fish swimming

4. Me

I'm quite an open book. This is something I just learned of myself. When I am happy, you see it. When I am sad, you see it too. When I get flustered, it's written all over my face. When I get frustrated, you see it in my frown. hmmm, quite an open book most times.

5. A's wife

She's beautiful! :) saw my colleague, A's wife together with him at AMK station after cell group just now. Sucha loving, sweet and young couple.

6. Being a giver

I am more active on Twitter these days. I believe in encouraging and lifting people's spirits up whenever possible. Even on Twitter, I try to give by sowing words of goodness and encouragement. Words that can help spur my friends on. Don't wanna miss a chance to do so. Love being a giver.

7. Sleep + crazy day

I'm so tired now. It's been a super crazy Friday..it had zoomed past even faster than my Monday. But I'm one happy gal in the end. Tired people change the world, yeah!

Random but important stuff

2009-10-22T00:58:00.002+08:00

1. The Yellow Room

I wanna have a room next time that's painted yellow. It will have the words "Be Happy" on its door and will be a place to go to when I'm feeling down. There'll be bibles in the room and a sound system that will play the best songs. It will be somewhere I can meet with God.

2. A

My colleague, A, is godsend. I feel that God placed him right there to be a helping hand to me. No airs, no ulterior motives. The kind of colleague you can call a friend; not just colleague-"colleague".

3. "You've got me laughing while I sing, you've got me smiling in my sleep"

These two lines of Demi Lovato's "Catch Me" keep ringing in my ears & mind. Having God in our lives is like that. We always have a reason to sing, to smile, to dance & praise Him. Jesus is our reason.

4. iPhone

I can get an iPhone at a most inexpensive price come Dec when my current contract ends. All thanks to my corporate deal. So very attractive. Can't wait for year end. :)

5. Psalm 31:24

"Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all you who hope in the LORD. "

Very encouraged by this verse. The Lord is my HOPE.

God's grace

2009-10-19T00:53:00.001+08:00

What's the one thing can make you cry like you've never felt so saved and redeemed..?

I have many, many bouts of experiencing immense grace from God recently. Yes, His grace is on our lives but just these past few days....I found myself in situations and His grace was so evidently present - there to guide and help and to pull me out of any trouble.

I'm truly inspired by a scene out of a Korean drama:

a convict on execution grounds only to find his life spared by the announcement of the Imperial edict that the execution's called off.

What is the thing that had the convict on his knees, crying like a baby, relieved, grateful and finding hard to believe that his sins could be pardoned..praised and thanked the King through his words?

GRACE.

Morning thought

2009-10-18T08:32:00.001+08:00

-- There may be prices to pay but God isn't one who shortchanges. --

Tweet tweet + interesting encounter on the MRT

2009-10-16T07:56:00.003+08:00

I remembered a tweet I read quite some time ago..it keeps coming back so I decided to talk about it here.

But you're so busy changing the world
Just one smile and you can change all of mine
- from lyrics of "Angel" by Jack Johnson

I think song lyrics make great impact on me, always. They make me think alot. Hmmm..power of words.

Anyway, it hit me when I read these two lines. I haven't heard the song but I like these lines. They speak volumes.

I know this song's probably about the relationship b/w a guy and a girl but doesn't it speak about our own lives too?

Personally, I'm thinking of the times that I get caught up with work and busying about doing my own stuff. Those times when I strive so hard but forget that we change the world one heart at a time. And it starts from those closest to us.

When I read the two lines, I think about:

• my family & friends - am I too busy that I neglect spending quality time with them?

• my cg members - am I too busy to hear them out..what about those times when simply a smile and words of "I believe in you" can help build them up and change their lives? Am I stopping to meet needs like this?

• strangers - we never know how we can be factors that change a person's life. Maybe a simple warm smile can lift a stranger's spirits..how would we know?

I was on the train going back home last night and the old man I gave my seat up to began speaking to me. I was beat after a long day but somehow, I felt compelled to continue the conversation for 10 stops..and it did refresh my soul. We spoke on so many things and he got off the train smiling widely.

I changed the world by putting a smile on his face yesterday. The world became a better place.

I know I wrote long..but I think this is the bottomline.
We change the world one heart at a time.

I know I'll always be keeping myself in check now. Don't wanna miss a chance to change a life. :)

Hitting the 1.5 mark

2009-10-15T07:36:00.001+08:00

Yesterday, I realised, was the mark of my being with the bank for 1.5yrs. I factored in the days before the acquisition of American Express and wow..time had passed just so very quickly.

During these eighteen months, I have matured. I have feared but mustered courage to step out. I have been anxious but learned to place trust in God. I have learned some things the hard way. I have cried and had some heartaches. I have had my embarrassing moments. I have had my glorious moments.

Most of all, my love for God has grown over this period, just am very thankful for this love :)

Words that had touched my heart...

2009-10-13T20:57:00.006+08:00

Remember my "Do me a favour.." post?

I received emails containing words that really touched my heart and I'm thankful for them. Thank you, to all who have taken the time to express your thoughts. Love you all!

Wanna post some of YOUR words here..as a form of reminder to myself of all the encouragement received. So some of you may find 'em familiar.. :), thank YOU all once again!

u always made the effort to cheer people up - the little cards with great words ;)

u've struggles in ur life, but u never give up ;)

hmmmm, my first impression of you was that you're a very nice person and although I only spoke to you for a few times, I can genuinely feel that you love God a lot, like really A LOT!!!

I really felt that you're a friend that I can freely open up too, someone whom I wanna mix around with so that I can rub some of your positiveness and uplifting spirit into my life as well.

Jesus played a big part of your life. You played a big part of my life too. Reintroduced me to Christ. That's one milestone in my life.

Joyful is being associated with you. Optimism is your strength.

I felt there are so much more things that I can talk to you about, because I feel you are a very warm, friendly and sincere person to everyone. More than anything else, u are a pillar of strength. You have the fighting spirit in you which can be seen through your blog posts which I read quite frequently.

I really admire that part of you, your passion for what you're doing and being so focused at your goal.

You have maturity that alot of people your age do not have.

I love You

2009-10-12T13:58:00.001+08:00

You know, growing up as a Christian throughout my teenage years, I often wondered what my response will be should I ever be held captive or be tortured because of my faith. I think this stemmed forth from reading those POWs' wartime stories and the heroic recounts of Corrie ten Boom.

Honestly, I don't know. I don't think we can surely say that we won't deny our faith at the point of facing certain death. But I know that if such times do befall us, our love for God; the depth of our relationship with Him will all be shown & made known.

I do think of this still, even now. At least now I truly know what it means to be fearless even in the face of death.

I nearly got into a road accident on Sat night and the incident left me shaken and reeling from shock for several minutes. But it reminded me on how being absent in the body means being back home with God..so my perspective on death did take a turn that night. Nothing to fear, really, we should not be afraid of death itself. But of course, I did "shake up" and realized how short and fragile life really is..I wanna make mine count.

I remembered reading from Dr Yonggi Cho's book on how a pastor nearly denounced his faith during wartime because the enemies threatened to bury his family if he don't do so. His wife prevented him from doing so and the entire family sang praises to God as the enemies buried them alive.

It got me thinking again. And if ever a day like this comes, I pray I'll be strong enough to say: "I love You and that's all I really know".

107 months

2009-10-11T11:06:00.001+08:00

This is how long I've accepted Jesus into my life as my Lord, my Saviour and my Best Friend.

I'm always blown away when I think of how I become who I am today because of Jesus in my life.

8yrs 11mths and still going strong..this is just a beginning. Newness is in the pipeline. :)

I told myself I must blog this..

2009-10-07T22:25:00.001+08:00

Read this part of Joyce Meyer's Never Give Up! while going home after tuition class:

While human determination is vital to never giving up, we need to remember to rely on God in every situation, never trying to "make things happen" in our own strength, but doing our part to persevere, while counting on God to bring the breakthrough we need.

hmmm..it really rings a bell in me. Brute strength is not enough, more than that..it takes leaning on God's strength, drawing from His infinite wisdom. That's what make things work.

I've been reading Heb 6 and it talks about inheriting promises of God through faith and patience.

I'm thinking: patience we do have..but FAITH?

We can choose to always cling on and yet not go anywhere. Or we can choose to hold on to God (patience, endurance) and still, trust and believe that He's taking us somewhere. :)

hmmm...patience and FAITH.

MC + Motives + Joy @ work

2009-10-06T11:29:00.001+08:00

okay, I'm down with a cold. but crazy as it may sound, I really thank God for helping me last through yesterday..I say, His strength never left me. I managed to get quite a lot done before leaving my office at a very late hr...I thought I might "collapse" but I didn't..phew.

You know, I've been thinking about motives. And it's a touchy topic because every one of us faces it - we all carry motives in every action taken and decision made.

I was thinking about Pst Tan's sermon and all throughout, he mentioned "for the Kingdom of Heaven's sake". That hit me.

It made me ponder on the things that I do..whether or not it's for an eternal cause. Like even with my work, I do think about why do I put in so much time & effort, tears even at times..."what is it all for?"

I know you've been hearing me talk about work, work and more work. Pardon me, because I'm in a season of my life where a lot of me is put into work. Just for you all who know the background of my job, I'm still in transition but slowly, things are taking on a brand new turn. (please keep me in prayers.. :))

So I was at work yesterday and someone mentioned to me (I wanna clarify here: out of pure genuine concern) that I should go back home early and added a casual remark that I won't be given a best employee award because of my effort.

I thought a lot about it. And started a whole self-search thing on it, after office hours..hahah. But I know deep down that no, the motive for staying behind is pure.

In the working world, some may say I'm crazy and silly and so very young & naive even, for working so much and putting in that kind of time & effort. I wanna be honest here. It does break my heart.

It breaks my heart because I see the kind of jadedness that is not supposed to exist. I mean, we are created to work, to labour and be satisfied & feel fulfilled with our harvest. And it's thru working too that we can build a closer relationship with God and understanding Him. Wasn't that what Adam experienced in Eden?

I want to tell (more importantly, SHOW) people that we can work and not get jaded with life. We can work and still have joy, great joy in doing what we do.

While it does hurt when sometimes, people don't understand...I'm really taking comfort that God knows & sees not just the things done..but the heart behind it.

p.s.: hmmm I don't know why I wrote so much on this here..but it's been good for me, done me much good. And perhaps, someone reading needs to know this (what I've blogged) too? pls let me know if you happened to be the one :)

Reminder to self

2009-10-02T06:36:00.001+08:00

What not to give up on:

• striving to be of excellence in my workplace

• becoming who I'm called to be

• being more disciplined everyday

• pouring out my heart to God

• people

• myself

October - The Last Lap with New Beginnings

2009-10-01T00:00:00.001+08:00

I just realised that October is a special month. It is actually very significant.

To the church, it is when we take time to evaluate how our growth over the past year has been. We plan for more growth and gear ourselves for the coming Arise & Build.

In the banking industry (actually, it applies to all Sales depts), people gun for the last quarter..getting figures reset to zero and giving their all to hit those sky-high targets.

And in our very own lives..we reflect. I'm sure I'm not the first to say: "huh, it's October..that's fast..!" and neither will I be the last.

It's the time of the year when we all pause to look back and see what has been done and then, look forward..to anticipate what the rest of the year might bring.

Hmmm..personally, I am excited because October is the (starting) mark of THE final lap of 2009..it's like we're gonna wrap up this whole year & with a loud bang, of course! :)

It is gonna be a most fun time. I believe in the redemptive power of God. Therefore, quantum leaps are indeed possible! Whatever situation in which we felt we have "lost out" in the year perhaps due to insufficient knowledge/skills or at times, negligence or laziness CAN BE REDEEMED. And it starts now - Oct 1st!

I am gonna focus on ending my year well - work on my strengths, improve on my weaknesses..just so very excited & determined to do so.

2009 is a fantastic year!!!!!!!!!!!

The day we went FLORAL

2009-09-29T00:36:00.003+08:00

Rina & I

Honestly, this is so not us! hahaha.. what happened was the two of us went for church service in entirely not-her-usual outfits yesterday, :D despite that, we managed to "flow"~ LOL.

Both of us wore floral prints (really tiny and sweet, small ones) and we two were surprised at each other's clothing too..so we took a photo as a momento, haha.

But I think changes are good, I definitely had a fun time with the change. Earlier on Friday, I had told my cell group members that I bought a dress from BKK which I thought is nice but doesn't quite suit me..and that I probably would not wear it even. And poof, I was in that very dress (forced by circumstances, in this case it was the lack of spare time) on Sunday morning, -_-"" never say never huh, :D

Well, changes are GOOD!

p.s.: I kinda like this shot... er, and that dress on me too. :)

Lunch @ Starbucks

2009-09-28T13:53:00.001+08:00

I know it's been quiet here..but just a quick but sincere Thank-you to all who have voiced your thoughts about me..I have read your mails and really, thank you.

Shall post more stuff on that soon.

Just wanna say something here.. I realised this lunchtime that:

No matter how bad things may seem, they are really not THAT bad. We can all definitely afford to think positively about all (every single situation/circumstance) that we are facing or are in.

A person, however positive he may be, will still have those tough patches in life. But the difference in such a person lies in the spirit. He never gives up.

* Always clinging on to God, my HOPE.

Do me a favour..

2009-09-24T21:54:00.001+08:00

...tell me what you think about me

these are the first two lines of a song called "Dream"..but I thought I'd pose it as a question up here.. :)

I have been thinking: what really goes into people's minds when they first see me? Or when they interact with me and get to know me..? What kind of a person or a friend do they see me as..?

So, I thought it'd be fun to open this up to gathering all the answers from you all. I guess I'm secure enough to receive not-so-good (but constructive) comments as well, :)

If you've been reading my blog or do happen to read this, please tell me! :) and be it having known me for days or months or even for the longest of times...please write your hearts out & mail it to: lynn.tjl@gmail.com

Thanks all!!

Never give up!

2009-09-24T00:25:00.001+08:00

This morn, I awoke with a Chinese song in mind with a sentence that goes: 不放弃就是成功

In English, it's loosely translated as: Not giving up is already a success of its own

And this was what rang in my mind all day long.

FYI

2009-09-21T22:37:00.001+08:00

There is such a word as "fruitfully" in the dictionary. :) made a check.

My PH was spent...

2009-09-21T22:33:00.001+08:00

I guess "fruitfully" would be the word if there indeed is such a word. :D

Still can't believe I have to be at work tomorrow...but I am gonna love it. I must.

Spent quality time with my fam & relatives during breakfast and I got back to the office to get some stuff done. It's those miscellaneous things..indeed, "the little foxes spoil the vines". Glad to have them cleared.

I met up with my buddy, Josephine, for dinner and movie. And herein lies a most fruitful part of my holiday. :) love it that I can be so carefree when with you, Jo..time spent always bring joy and lift stress outta my life (esp fr all the work I have.. I know u're reading this :) )

I'm thanking God again, for simply being a good Father. Gonna keep running into His arms of love. He's been showing (magnifying) the littlest things / details of my life...and telling me that He's got them all in mind.

Need more of You, Jesus.

God's love

2009-09-20T23:39:00.004+08:00

I experienced God's love and grace all over again today. It's amazing. He is so amazing.

Pastor said this and it kept ringing in my mind..."Lord, tell me my life is not wasted.."

Many times, we pray, make the decisions we feel God wants us to and get down to doing all we can for Him. God sees that.

Though along the way, we might stop to think if we've heard correctly. Whether we made the right decisions....

But God, He honours our faith. He remembers the moment we set our hearts to pray and seek on His will for our lives. The time we say we trust Him. The moment we made a decision to obey because we love Him. These matter a lot to Him. He holds these moments of ours as precious to Him.

This was what went into my heart today.

All's not wasted. We're drawing nearer to Him.

10 things on mind

2009-09-20T11:23:00.001+08:00

1. We're made to do greater things.

2. HOPE sees the invisible, feels the intangible and achieves the impossible.

3. What's not to love about You..about Your people?

4. Mummy sacrifices a lot for the family. Daddy too. I love them both so much.

5. I want to change the way I do life. For even better ways.

6. It's the meet up! And I can't wait.. :)

7. Looking forward to next year, it's gonna be blasting.

8. I'm EXCITED!! God has so much more on His plan for all of our lives.

9. I wish I could go to a city or an isle to spend some quiet and alone time. I think that'd be good therapy sometimes.

10. There are soooo many movies I want to catch!!! *Inglorious Bastards, Julie & Julia, Fame...many more!*

Early bird catches the best worm

2009-09-17T06:19:00.002+08:00

I'm up much earlier today for work. I gave tuition last night and made a decision to be earlier for work today so that what needs to be done can be done.

I was wondering aloud just now, thinking if every single day could be like this..because I really want to be an early bird. I think every one catches the worm, that is, get things done. But the best worm..? Greater productivity & efficiency, I believe, comes when we're early and all prepared to take on what's coming our way.

Believing for more of such early starts. I need to take ACTION!!!

Good Thursday morning peeps!

p.s.: am really looking forward to Fri, Sat & Sun...and yes, the coming MONDAY! It sure feels good to know there's a public holiday next wk!

first five mins home...

2009-09-15T22:59:00.000+08:00

and I just wanna keep something I will always want to remember posted right here.

Today was insane! Work was very "happening"...but in all the wrong ways. I felt quite helpless at one point of time because all avenues of solutions seemed to be exhausted...until God saved the day.

I felt horrible along the way but picked myself up. This is really true: people who succeed aren't those who don't fail bit those who pick themselves off the ground fast enough.

We don't usually think we can handle a lot....but truth is: we can.

Sometimes I feel like I'm gonna explode from all the buzz of things like my crazy schedule and my even crazier workload...but God showed me time and again that I CAN. I can handle all these. My capacity is big enough for all these. And it will get even bigger, for greater things.

Greater things need to be held by greater capacity.

I'm in a season when all of me is being stretched. Time, energy, patience... I feel like God's doing this so that He can put in me more, so that He can entrust me with more. I'm excited. :)

"If we don't try
We'd never know why
People say victory cry's the sweetest
Because that's when u've passed the test"

Saturday Post :)

2009-09-12T11:50:00.009+08:00

Ahhh...it sure feels good to be home on Saturday mornings.. :)

I had thought that there was a tuition lesson today when there wasn't supposed to be...haha, and I'm so enjoying my time home now.

FYI: I'm blogging using my home PC! It's been a long time since I've done so..most of my previous entries were done through my iPod, hence explaining the words-only posts.. :)

Anyway, a couple of shots to show ya some of my friends...

My StandChart gals.. :)

we knew each other from training classes

my CG peeps
People who make me who I am

This is just a few of us..but I love this pic a lot :)

I have been reading up on Joyce Meyer's books and listening to her audio sermons...they are superb, I tell you. I love her zesty persona and her teachings have impacted me mightily. I have always been someone who is hopeful and my life message has got to do with having hope too..when I realised she teaches and emphasizes alot on having hope, I grabbed at chances to read up on her stuff. Good spiritual vitamins :)

Recently, I got busier at work because I officially took on my other job role and took on a lot more responsibilities at work. It's definitely not easy, sometimes I feel overwhelmed by this dual-role position I hold but something Tizane said during cell group last night gave me the strength to buckle up and brace myself again.

"Greater capacity can only come with greater responsibilities."

How true that is. If we want to be able to hold more and be a BIG person, we got to first learn to accept more responsibilities..it's the first step to having a bigger capacity.

Sure, I still feel overwhelmed at times by the avalanche of work and really, sometimes I feel so suffocated because of the "overneededness" in the office..but, (like something Joyce Meyer wrote in her book: Reduce Me to Love) I rather thank God for being able to be an answer to people's problems..being able to be one whom people see hope for their situations.

Really need to always have a thankful heart. :)

I know this post is full of different things but thank you for reading! There's always so many things to blog about..and I just wanna say what's been on my mind and in my heart here.

Anyway, I have been keeping a tweet in mind..it says about how disappointments are meant to say (remind us) that we're not in control and are never meant to be.

I thought it's a very good tweet. I did experience a few disappointments lately and I would say the tweet was very timely. I think we get disappointed because we tend to place expectations on people, on situations and sometimes even on the way God would respond to our prayers.

Whatever it is, the thing we should bank on is God's character.

He does work on a different time schedule as ours..but one thing we know is His character. God is good and His love towards us never fails.

*God knows better*

^have a great weekend, all!

all in a day's work

2009-09-10T21:58:00.001+08:00

Just got home from tuition and wanna blog here.

I've been busying myself about work, family, tuition, ministry, friends etc. But the one thing must remain steadfast is my relationship with God.

I can't live a day without God. If my life has got so much involved in it and I get absorbed into it all.....it can't be so. It mustn't be so.

My life got to revolve around Jesus. He takes centerstage.

Funny how we sometimes try all means to balance our lives and yet to no avail. The key to that balance is truly placing our relationship with God first. :)

Anyway, something funny happened to me in the office. My colleague from another department asked if I've "already gotten a lover" (those were her exact words, in Mandarin). I laughed because she went on saying that she noticed I've been dressing up more and I look better.

Honestly, I didn't! Haha..no drastic change in my dressing whatsoever. But I reckon it's the glory of God and..praise God for that!! :)

*glorious times are coming*

Lunchtime thoughts

2009-09-08T14:41:00.001+08:00

Love is never based on performance. No matter how well you do or how bad you fared, love doesn't have a scorecard.

Love looks at the heart.
God's LOVE.
He looks into our hearts.

BKK moments

2009-09-07T00:41:00.001+08:00

I'm doing my nails now! :) the last time I did them was in Feb..so I feel very happy to get to do 'em in BKK. ah, it's a luxury and a form of relaxation + pampering for myself. And I'm lucky to have found Internet connection here..I do miss SG.

Anyway, God is good. I actually enjoyed my sleep so much last night..I feel rejuvenated in my body. And today was just what I wanted & needed: own time-own target shopping and some gooooood R&R. I was actually hoping that nail services would be available because not all massage parlours offer it. God answered this small prayer..it just shows how He's all aware of even our smallest needs.

I love Jesus. Gonna keep staying in love with Him.

BKK

2009-09-06T23:13:00.001+08:00

I am happy to have this trip, really. My only wish is to have more time "retreating" than "advancing"...especially towards those shopping malls that are so mega-huge. :D

Still enjoying though!!! :)

I had a chance to pray while alone in the hotel room earlier today. It was wonderful. God's presence came and it filled the whole room.

I love Jesus. :)

Love

2009-09-04T01:21:00.001+08:00

I've been thinking a lot on LOVE. I'm referring to love in a general sense.

You know, in my workplace and at home, I constantly find myself being challenged to love more, love better, love the way Jesus would. It's normal, because I'm dealing with people; human hearts here.

Lately, I realised God's in the midst of doing a deeper work in me, especially in this area. And I'm learning to embrace it. I say learning because it can get hard sometimes..we all have people in our lives whom we have certain reluctance when it comes to having to love them. We're human in every aspect but God's grace enables us to extend our love to all.

I'm thankful for His grace. And indeed, God's gentleness causes us to be great.

Just when I thought my love tank is at good level, He brings and spurs me on to the next level. I love my King.

leaving you with this that struck me a while ago:

Love lets go of every chance to get bitter.

The magnitude of a gesture

2009-09-01T07:40:00.001+08:00

I read my friend, Enling's blog post last night and was very touched about what she had mentioned on giving.

On Sunday, I decided to treat her to the Hossan Leong show that both of us had gotten tix to...it was a "there-and-then" decision made because I felt prompted to do so. And I think God's wonderful.

When I read Enling's blog, I was lost for
words. I didn't know my gesture would lead into her writing about giving and being generous. I felt more blessed in return!

Because of this, people read her post about giving; being sacrificial, not giving up or being discouraged when you give in the midst of difficulty and the harvest doesn't seem to come. I'm blown away.

Just realized my lunchtime post just managed to post itself up NOW. -_-""

2009-08-31T20:26:00.001+08:00

Lunchtime post!

2009-08-31T20:25:00.001+08:00

Figured I would just use the last few mins of my lunch hour to blog, :) I know this space's been quite bare lately..I was either: unable to find time or when I did have, I didn't know what to blog. There's always so many things to talk and share about! :D

Anyway, I tried something quite new today. I spent (am still spending,:D) lunchtime at Starbucks alone. It's actually the first time I'm alone at Starbucks on a workday during lunch, quite novel :)

Anyway yet again, I LOVE(D) IT. I am beginning to realize that I actually enjoy doing many things alone. I think it's important to have such times when you can simply relax and be by yourself. It has definitely refreshed me; my body (not just because of the coffee!).

I caught the last part of Hannah Montana on my iPod. Super enjoyed it because the movie's full of songs, singing..and behind it carries a message. It taught and reminded me on the importance of staying as and being myself, no matter what heights I've reached. And it also drilled into me how one should never forget his or her roots - where he/she came from and the journey taken to get him/her to where he/she now is.

*I never want to forget God and the place where I can and should always run to -His arms*

to be continued..

Baby Craze

2009-08-31T01:15:00.001+08:00

Been a little more bustling at home, with our latest addition - Katie babe :)

She's my cousin's newborn and will spend two full weeks with us as her family takes a break abroad. So as they reaffirm their son (Darius boy, who's just two weeks shy from his second birthday) of their love for him, we do our part by taking care of the baby girl. She is so sweet.

I love this time though, there are so many things to note of while looking after an infant..it's exciting, despite the challenges.

Short post tonight, I'm so tired..need to sleep now!!

Travelling

2009-08-27T00:17:00.001+08:00

My boss is fatherly figure to me and I really enjoy working with him. I consider myself very fortunate to be under his guidance; I'm blessed.

Yesterday, he was telling me of his past travelling adventures (he travels alot) and told me that I should go out of SG to take a look at the world as much as I still can do so..now that I'm young and w/o much to take care of like family etc.

In a way, his words really did make me want to save up more so that I can afford short trips for exploration & relaxation. Ahhhh...nice.

Talking about trips, I'll be going on one in about a week's time! :) it's a corporate retreat to BKK from next Sat to the following Mon and I am once again, very blessed because it's fully paid for.

A real good perk. I didn't agree to go straight away but giving thought to it, I felt it's a prayer come true for my longing for a trip somewhere. :) since Langkawi, I've been itching to go on another vacation and so, though not as near the beaches and suburbs as I'd love to....this is it :)

Change & Breakthrough

2009-08-25T00:45:00.001+08:00

Today, I made a propsal to my boss of something that would radically change my life; lifestyle. I can't say exactly what but I'm very excited because I feel like I'm on the brink of breakthrough, especially in the area of my work.

I truly believe that this change is a key to unlocking many other doors; opportunites, promotions.

Am praying and believing God for the approval. I know there must be something more!!!

Friends

2009-08-23T01:36:00.001+08:00

I think this has been a season of deepening friendships in my life and I realized it's because of prayers made in the past that had it all triggered. Indeed, God hears and He does know all that's in our fist-sized hearts. :)

While out with Cedric, Emil, Stephen, Willy & Enling just now, we celebrated Cedric & Stephen (they're twins!) bdays and a part of Cedric's bday speech impacted me.

Quoting Cedric:
We often say "let's meet up soon" but never get to it, the "soon" never happens.. .. ..

I felt very convicted thereafter to make sure "soon" comes to pass with the catch-ups promised to my friends.

Many times, we are sincere in getting together but allow busyness to get in the way. I decided that, I am busy! BUT I must be in constant contact with whom I truly love and care about. Investing time in people does pay off!

Just looking at the friendship forged within the group with Willy Joe & co. never fail to amaze me. I'm thankful to God for such genuine friendships!

A shoutout to my poly peeps: Shirley, Sim, Alvis, Chung, Bie, Gek
*I love you, I love you, I love you all..please pardon my "busyness". I will make more time out for you people! :)

My friends are my estate. - Emily Dickinson

Memorial Stones

2009-08-19T23:19:00.001+08:00

Recently, I've been gently and yet constantly reminded about keeping the memorial stones of my life close to heart.

We all have memorial stones to mark the milestones, breakthroughs and phases of our lives. Be it regarding a career path, your purpose in life, a relationship, a promotion..we all have these stones as reminders.

Sometimes, I find myself as though aimless in this path I'm on but these memorial stones (events, incidents encountered, words of affirmation & confirmation fr close & reliable sources, rhema fr God) keep me on track by reminding me that it's not without an aim or a goal & purpose.

I say, the future may be uncertain but our hearts cannot be.

Our memorial stones keep alive and support the knowing that we're right on our way to where we're to be.

*clinging on to God's promises* :)

Early morning post

2009-08-18T06:30:00.001+08:00

GOOD MORNING!!

I've been up since 3am and I hope my physical energy can sustain until at least midnight because today's day ONE back to the office and there is Dev's mtg in the night!

Ok, you got it..I'm really excited and forward-looking. I'm happy and it's been like this since 3am. My body, soul and spirit is awake, refreshed and so, so excited.

I'm very thankful for the break I had this past ten days. Though it had been super packed, it allowed me to "breathe" and find myself, get joy back again. Not that I've been lacking in these..but there had been a renewing, a reviving and a re-awakening.

I loved my Sabbath. This period has been very fruitful, I've learnt to cherish and treasure Sabbath times. Sabbath as in not just a period of long break..but any given opportunity to refresh myself - my spirit man in the Lord.

And may I officially announce here that I'm a Twitter addict, hahaha.. I can finally see its amazingness (I beg your pardon, there's no such word!) in keeping people connected. Now I wish more people can get hooked on Twitter too..haha..let's connect there, peeps! Quick add me in your list (twitter name: jielynn)!

Ending this post, I wanna tell myself what wowed me the most in Angel & Demons:

Go back (to work). Change the world.
- Lynn to Lynn (quoting Tom Hanks)

Jangan Bingung

2009-08-14T01:00:00.001+08:00

I learnt a new word in Bahasa Indonesia today: Bingung

So I tell myself "jangan bingung" (in Eng. Do not be confused)..very apt for what I'm facing now. I think there're times when we gotta just push thru the odds, hold firm the grounds on which we stand and do not waver.

I went with Carine to a hostel in Aljunied earlier and the students are really friendly. I admire their hospitality..even when they're in a land so far from home. And...it's not a real surprise, but I was once again identified as being an Indonesian. By a Chinese national at that! And by an Indonesian.

Everytime people identify (or ask if I'm one) me as an Indonesian, I feel happy, flattered even. I don't know why but I like to be identified as one. Maybe it's my (Malay background) childhood - I was being taken care of by a Malay family for most of my younger years..or the many Malay & Indonesian friends I used to be in company with while growing up and now have.

I really get a good time whenever people question my nationality :)

Trusting

2009-08-13T00:04:00.002+08:00

有你照亮我的路途
我再也不怕迷路
我知道你会心疼我哭

Loosely translated from a song in the Faith Map album:

With Your light shining on my path
I need never be afraid of getting lost
I know it pains Your heart when I cry

*this few lines really impacted me. I was listening to the song and I was reminded that God's a good Father. He won't ever set us on a journey without having the perfect game plan in hand. And when we hurt, He sees and knows it too.

I think the best I can give God is my trust.

I can't sleep!!

2009-08-12T01:02:00.001+08:00

It's the first time I cannot sleep in probably the longest time and I think this is bad... :(

I want to pray more. I know that's where I'd get all the answers I need.

Truth is, I'm in a period of transition. It's been going on and sometimes I feel weary but I keep myself up by clinging onto God. He's my hope, nothing else on earth can compare. I love Him more than I could anything or anyone.

Earlier on while worshiping God in Dev's meeting, I saw myself at the crossroads...the different directions beckoning to me to take them but I stood there, worshiping Him.

I know He wants me to trust Him. And I will. I will place my trust in Him.

It's a photo post :)

2009-08-11T15:30:00.006+08:00

FOP week... :)

Weizhen, myself & Boon Juan

Weizhen & I

That's Fiona & me :)

The b'days celebrated:

Hui Juan's :)

Tizane's :)

Tizane's again :)

The boy who stole my heart:

enjoying his early b'day gift from my family :)

I absolutely love him <3

His baby sister:

Sweet Katie girl..and I'm a proud young aunt! :)

The people I enjoyed being with:

Dev Zone Band (DZB)

DZB's Taiwanese photo act! :D

What I've been up to:

Sing, sing, sing!

(and I always will be)
:)

Long but FRUITFUL day

2009-08-09T01:38:00.001+08:00

My Saturday was looooooooooong. But I enjoyed myself through and through.

I got up early to give tuition, went to get some stuff done in the office, then went on to ION to meet my dear buddy Jo before heading to TCC beside PS for Dev's bday celebration. And am home only now! But it was all very fun and I enjoyed my Saturday.

I think to be surrounded by people you love and who loves you back is such a blissful thing. I'm enjoying and cherishing my friendships. :)

Alrights, early morning PM tomorrow..shall end here for now.

*Make friends with those who will love you for who you are and believe in the person you can be*

Taking A Sabbatical

2009-08-08T13:35:00.001+08:00

Taking the long weekend into consideration, I'm already started on my leave. :) it's sinking in only now that I would not be needing to get to office for work in the next week, haha.

It's only getting to me now because I am not one who takes leave a lot. Honestly speaking, I kind of dread taking leave because I'd have by mind all at work still and it worries me at times when I think about the load of work I've to see to and follow up on and the list continues..but well, I'm working hard on ridding that mindset. NO WORRIES right! :)

Anyway, half of me feel terrible about not being able to be at work while the other half feels glad, relieved and thankful for a break. My colleague once told me that my husband would need to either join my league as a workaholic or he has to be really understanding about my being one. Haha...but I'm quite sure I can do a good job of having work-life balance..being a good wife and mother will come before work because family always rank higher on my list :)

So, I'm learning to say no to myself when I need to.

I'm excited to be on leave mainly because it would be a time of seeking God more, spending more quality time with Him and getting myself recharged in His presence. I deliberately set my leave period to be on church's prayer week....I really, really want to strengthen my relationship with God.

I just gave my student tuition and today was FUN! I thank God for giving me creative ways to teach..we used the whiteboard for a few rounds of Hangman today and it was hilarious!

Towards the end of lesson, I shared a story on HOPE..and the moral of it was to never lose hope; to never give up.

When my student listened to how I tell and illustrate the story, I felt so happy. I feel it's a great thing to share with someone so young on not giving up. Out of her house and in the lift, I prayed she'd always remember this story.

You can fail but you must not give up
- Tizane

Shopping

2009-08-06T07:16:00.001+08:00

I know, what a topic to touch on at such an hour, right. Haha..I just thought I should share something of my day-to-day life..

Anyway, I am not a die-hard fan of shopping. I do find it a chore to purposefully set out to go shopping. For me, I like to have it done spontaneously - I walk past a shop and see something nice, get into the store, take a look and then two options: to buy or not. Case closed, done deal. Haha!!

Guess I'm "guy" in this aspect? Some of my male friends' love for shopping exceeds mine even.

But when it comes to books, it's a totally different thing. I can buy like there's no tomorrow! :)

I went to Raffles City after meeting last night and I absolutely enjoyed the time I had with me - just walking around alone helps with unwinding after a long day :)

And I bought a book (again!). It's by Paulo Coelho, a Brazilian author. He's really good, I tell you. :) so glad I'm able to get a copy of what I've been searching for!

* Happy Thursday morning, people!! *

HOPE

2009-08-05T07:37:00.001+08:00

How a person can hold on forever and not give up..if you look carefully, therein lies HOPE.

There's a power of hope; of not relenting in the believing for the best.

I don't want to lose hope when I know I can have God's best for me. :)

Morning Talk :)

2009-08-04T07:35:00.001+08:00

I had a very long and good rest last night, I slept at 10pm, people!! :) my body cannot tahan and I sort of knocked out.

Anyway, I had a rough start yesterday and I felt discouraged for a good part of my Monday morn but thinking about God makes everything better. I say, we can all run to Him and find refuge in His arms.

I love Jesus.

* * * *

I was just thinking about a baby's life..because I'm having my niece's one-month celebration cakes as my breakfast, hahah. Yes, I'm a second-time aunt to a really sweet Katie girl.

The reason why we celebrate a baby's first-month is simply because it used to be that (in the past) babies rarely get to live past their first month. Living past that period was considered a bliss, a miracle.

So really, we're actually all miracle babies.

We nearly lost Darius, Katie's elder bro and my heart pained when the church were told news of little Janelle's suffering.

Yesterday, when I ripped open our latest album, I was so touched to see a song written for Janelle. We're indeed a church family :)

A piece I wrote some years back, just read it again and was reminded of its contents today. :)

2009-08-02T22:29:00.000+08:00

Go the way before doing the works

Something good happened to me today,
As I woke up and began to pray,
For God to forgive my ways,
To use me from this day.

He showed Himself in a special manner,
Oh yes, I know He heard my prayer.

He said: "My child, won't you go the narrow way?
There'll be problems to conquer and prices to pay,
But didn't you say you wanna do as I say?
Then come with Me, and let me show you My Way.

Greater works. Much greater works.
You're meant for them. You know you are.

So stop procrastinating, don't hesitate.
The ransom for you has long been paid.
Let's take a look now, at what you can trade.
Your life that is, for this you've been made.

Let Me take all of you, in exchange for all of Me.
This day I've awaited; the joy of it--on the cross I did see.

Greater works. You're meant to be.
My child, won't you listen to Me?

Go the way, before doing the works.
Seek after eternity, not temporal perks.

Greater works..yes you're meant for them.
Go the way, before you do the works."

Bite-size entry :)

2009-08-02T05:44:00.001+08:00

Last night at FOP, God reminded me that He simply does things differently.

Jesus died to save us. Whoever thought of a hero had to actually die in order to save?

Jesus is the King of our lives yet He came to be a servant of all. Which king on earth does that?

The bottomline is:
We may not understand why..but where we are in and whatever we find ourselves to be doing is all in the plan of God.

He's in total control :)

August brings Christmas a few steps closer :)

2009-08-01T08:50:00.001+08:00

It's AUGUST! That's so very fast, we're just four months shy of the new year now.

I attended a corporate event yesterday called The White Party. It's actually the launch of our new, rebranded Priority Banking and it was huge, complete with the media coverage. I felt fortunate to be exposed to such events but last night made me think of my decision to step into this industry again. It wasn't a think-over, I know I have no regrets but it was a think-through.

"what do I want to be, why am I here for, in the next few years where do I want to see myself and what would I be doing?"

It spurs me to progress when I think this way.

Anyway, I woke up today with this thought and I know it's from God: "Never give up on being who you want to be"

He is a Person of Never Give Ups and therefore I am too :)

The post about my post :D

2009-07-31T00:58:00.001+08:00

Haha, my fingers were quicker than I thought they were..posted the previous entry faster than I wanted to :)

Anyway, the previous entry's on the short few sentences that just came into mind, along with a tune. So I thought I should get it down quick on my iPod :)

I was thinking about this: that whatever we want to do, we all got to start somewhere. Perhaps it requires us to be more confident, less fearful and the many other stuff about embarking on a new journey...truth is, we gotta start somewhere.

Hope this let u think a bit :)

Start somewhere

2009-07-31T00:48:00.001+08:00

I guess we all need to start somewhere
Between the how and the why and the when
Coming to the place with the beginning and the end
We see it in our hands, it's all in our hands

So we try and we break every single of those chains
No, oh nothing can stop us now
And every fear must go with the breath that we take oh yea
It will be shown, it will be known ~
But we gotta all start somewhere

Morning thanksgiving :)

2009-07-30T07:36:00.001+08:00

I woke up so many times during my sleep, feeling hot and my forehead was burning. But each time, I prayed for myself and believed that I'm gonna me healed even before daybreak.

I am healed :) thank God!!

Some Photos :)

2009-07-29T11:36:00.004+08:00

Hello all..

am resting at home for half a day..before I hop off to work :)

Anyway, I thought I'd use this time to upload some pics to my blog (my iPod's blogger doesn't have this function)..

I went for Nicole's (aka Siew Peng) 21st bday bash on Sun..unknown to many, we were pri. sch mates who later realised we attend the same church and then again, realised on the orientation day that we were bible school mates! :)

God really has ways of bringing people together. And it never fail to amaze me.

Headed to Novena to meet up with a group of wonderful people
(Fr left: Willy Joe, myself, Miguel, Emil & Cedric) + Enling who had to leave early
We learn more of everyone every time we meet up and it's awesome fun.
Love their company. :)

Not forgetting the beloved Dev Zone band!
This is the group of people who made P&W happen for our zone service.

Once again, God is so amazing and creative. He gathers people of different walks of life and cause them to gel together. Together, these groups of friends are an answered prayer from God. I believe there's more to come, simply because He's a good Abba. :)

It's mid-week, people...enjoy!