Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Have Christians learned the costly lesson?
Josh Hong | Feb 22, 08 1:33pm (Malaysia kini)
Goh Keat-Peng, a Christian leader and keen watcher of Malaysian politics, crossed the Rubicon when he entered party politics by becoming a founding member of Parti Keadilan in 1999. This created a bit of a stir within the Christian communities in Malaysia, with some criticising Goh for joining an opposition party as a prominent Christian.
Ten years on, the shouts for Reformasi have kind of died down, while the political climate in the country has vastly changed. Dr Mahathir Mohamad, whose sacking of his deputy Anwar Ibrahim triggered the crisis, is even struggling to make his feeble voices heard – just like the rest of us.
Paradoxically, it was against this background of the seemingly moderate and progressive "Islam Hadhari", promulgated by Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, that a series of controversies took place, all of which involved Islam and other faiths. On the eve of the 12th General Election, the Christian Federation of Malaysia (CFM), long perceived to be transcending politics, suddenly came out with a statement calling for Christians to "vote wisely."
If you ask for my frank opinion, I would say the wording of the original press statement is rather too cautious and level-headed, with no offence to any party. That is sensible. Still, it contains nothing new, and reeks of xenophobia even as it refers to a survey by the Star that "illegal immigrants" are among the issues central to voters' concerns. The innocent and helpless face of infant Jesus seeking refuge in Egypt
After years of the carrot and stick approach by the authorities, Malaysia's religious communities have, generally speaking, developed severe political phobia for politics. In view of this, credit must still be given to the CFM for having taken the lead and set itself as an example for other religious groups to follow.
The statement is issued with a view to reminding Christians of their responsibility as citizens; it also spells out some guidelines which Christians should consider when they exercise their right to vote, and the criteria include "integrity, honesty and efficiency" of political parties, as well as candidates' past performance and stand on "constitutional rights, civil liberties and freedom of religion". Although the statement falls short of unequivocal support for the opposition, the discontent with the Barisan Nasional government over the Islamization of the country is too conspicuous to be ignored.
Christian politicians
His mission on earth may have been short, Jesus made justice the core of his sermons nonetheless. Malaysia has held no less than 11 general elections since the 1950s, yet it does not take a genius to tell in all honesty how many of them can be said to be squeaky clean.
If the CFM hopes to make some real impact on the reader, it should have touched on several serious concerns also, such as the gerrymandered electoral map and the absence of free press and independent media in Malaysia. This could help the intended public come to grip with realities.
Of course, there are always Christian politicians who do not just sit idly by when the rights of non-Muslims are encroached upon. Apart from some opposition parliamentarians, Loh Seng Kok, the MCA Member of Parliament for Kelana Jaya, once voiced the concern that the new edition of history textbooks used in national schools made light of non-Malays' contribution to nation-building. Loh, in one of the parliamentary sessions, also requested that the directive of the Islamic Development Board (Jakim) for the private sector to conduct Muslim prayers during meetings be retracted.
Unavoidably, Loh's conscientious acts hit a raw nerve when some Umno extremists gathered outside his service centre and yelled at him, warning him to mind his own business. But Loh lives in a country where absurdities and bizarreness abound. Instead of seeing the mobs punished for their unruliness, we now know that Loh has been dropped from the MCA candidates' list.
But the most unbearable humiliation for Loh is perhaps the vandalising
Damaging dispute
Having said that, I just wonder if Malaysia could have spared the damaging dispute over Lina Joy and Moorthy's dead body had the Christian communities chosen to speak out without fear and favour on injustices over the years, and to show concern to all the weak minorities – "legal" or "illegal" alike, by virtue of the strength that springs from their faith.
Whatever has happened in regard to religion clearly indicates that non-Muslims in Malaysia can no longer pin our hope on some "powerful politicians" in government to safeguard our rights when the country's democratic institution is seriously flawed.
After all, these politicians, Christian or not, are beholden to a racist and hegemonic party and can ill afford to sacrifice their political career, the latest example being Lee Hwa Beng who, like many BN leaders, is quick to blame the press for "misquoting" him. ()
It would be disingenuous for me to say there has been no breakthrough between the days when Goh Keat-Peng joined Keadilan and the moment the CFM statement was issued. Still, if Christians are still not grounded in the biblical teaching for us to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God, we may not really learn from the costly mistakes over the past so many decades and are bound to repeat them.
Goh Keat-Peng, a Christian leader and keen watcher of Malaysian politics, crossed the Rubicon when he entered party politics by becoming a founding member of Parti Keadilan in 1999. This created a bit of a stir within the Christian communities in Malaysia, with some criticising Goh for joining an opposition party as a prominent Christian.
Ten years on, the shouts for Reformasi have kind of died down, while the political climate in the country has vastly changed. Dr Mahathir Mohamad, whose sacking of his deputy Anwar Ibrahim triggered the crisis, is even struggling to make his feeble voices heard – just like the rest of us.
Paradoxically, it was against this background of the seemingly moderate and progressive "Islam Hadhari", promulgated by Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, that a series of controversies
If you ask for my frank opinion, I would say the wording of the original press statement is rather too cautious and level-headed, with no offence to any party. That is sensible. Still, it contains nothing new, and reeks of xenophobia even as it refers to a survey by the Star that "illegal immigrants" are among the issues central to voters' concerns. The innocent and helpless face of infant Jesus seeking refuge in Egypt
After years of the carrot and stick approach by the authorities, Malaysia's religious communities have, generally speaking, developed severe political phobia for politics. In view of this, credit must still be given to the CFM for having taken the lead and set itself as an example for other religious groups to follow.
The statement is issued with a view to reminding Christians of their responsibility as citizens; it also spells out some guidelines which Christians should consider when they exercise their right to vote, and the criteria include "integrity, honesty and efficiency" of political parties, as well as candidates' past performance and stand on "constitutional rights, civil liberties and freedom of religion". Although the statement falls short of unequivocal support for the opposition, the discontent with the Barisan Nasional government over the Islamization of the country is too conspicuous to be ignored.
Christian politicians
His mission on earth may have been short, Jesus made justice the core of his sermons nonetheless. Malaysia has held no less than 11 general elections since the 1950s, yet it does not take a genius to tell in all honesty how many of them can be said to be squeaky clean.
If the CFM hopes to make some real impact on the reader, it should have touched on several serious concerns also, such as the gerrymandered electoral map and the absence of free press and independent media in Malaysia. This could help the intended public come to grip with realities.
Of course, there are always Christian politicians who do not just sit idly by when the rights of non-Muslims are encroached upon. Apart from some opposition parliamentarians, Loh Seng Kok, the MCA Member of Parliament for Kelana Jaya, once voiced the concern that the new edition of history textbooks used in national schools made light of non-Malays' contribution to nation-building. Loh, in one of the parliamentary sessions, also requested that the directive of the Islamic Development Board (Jakim) for the private sector to conduct Muslim prayers during meetings be retracted.
Unavoidably, Loh's conscientious acts hit a raw nerve when some Umno extremists gathered outside his service centre and yelled at him, warning him to mind his own business. But Loh lives in a country where absurdities and bizarreness abound. Instead of seeing the mobs punished for their unruliness, we now know that Loh has been dropped from the MCA candidates' list.
But the most unbearable humiliation for Loh is perhaps the vandalising
Damaging dispute
Having said that, I just wonder if Malaysia could have spared the damaging dispute over Lina Joy and Moorthy's dead body had the Christian communities chosen to speak out without fear and favour on injustices over the years, and to show concern to all the weak minorities – "legal" or "illegal" alike, by virtue of the strength that springs from their faith.
Whatever has happened in regard to religion clearly indicates that non-Muslims in Malaysia can no longer pin our hope on some "powerful politicians" in government to safeguard our rights when the country's democratic institution is seriously flawed.
After all, these politicians, Christian or not, are beholden to a racist and hegemonic party and can ill afford to sacrifice their political career, the latest example being Lee Hwa Beng
It would be disingenuous for me to say there has been no breakthrough between the days when Goh Keat-Peng joined Keadilan and the moment the CFM statement was issued. Still, if Christians are still not grounded in the biblical teaching for us to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God, we may not really learn from the costly mistakes over the past so many decades and are bound to repeat them.
Elections - Pray for the peace of Jerusalem
God is not to be mocked (Galatians 6:7). God is up there seeing all the corruption and injustice.
The word of God asked us to pray for the peace of Jerusalem and our homeland here in Malaysia is our "Jerusalem". In the natural there is not much we can do to see changes happen in Malaysia as the control the media, money, police and even the Electoral Commission are in the hands of the ruling elite. We pray to God to instill god-fearing leaders to lead this country, as change can only occur if He intervenes.
I have nothing against any government or parties but yet I yearn for justice and a better Malaysia for all of us.
The word of God asked us to pray for the peace of Jerusalem and our homeland here in Malaysia is our "Jerusalem". In the natural there is not much we can do to see changes happen in Malaysia as the control the media, money, police and even the Electoral Commission are in the hands of the ruling elite. We pray to God to instill god-fearing leaders to lead this country, as change can only occur if He intervenes.
I have nothing against any government or parties but yet I yearn for justice and a better Malaysia for all of us.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Elections - Godly candidates (1) - Tony Pua
I'm a Malaysian former CEO and founder of a public listed IT company. I've graduated from Keble College, Oxford University with a degree in Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) with a scholarship from MTC Foundation in 1994. Prior to that, I was fortunate enough to receive Asean and Shaw Foundation scholarships to pursue my 'O' and 'A'-Levels in Raffles Institution and Raffles Junior College.
It was my wish to be able to retire early quite comfortably so that I will be able to devote most, if not all of my expendable time on socio-economic and political affairs. Well, I'm right in the thick of it as I've sold my company and joined the Democratic Action Party (DAP) as the Economic Advisor to the DAP Secretary-General.
I've always had faith that there has been a guardian angel looking after me all these while - my personal well-being, my education, my career. Some will call it "God's will", some "fate" while some others, "destiny". I strongly believe that it is time for me to repay the kindness and fortune showered on me by my family, the society and of course, not forgetting, my guardian angel. :-)
I look forward to the day when I can truly help make our country a better place for all communities, and a country we can all be proud of.
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Tony Pua for Parliament
It's now officially confirmed. I will be standing as the DAP parliamentary candidate for Petaling Jaya Utara. I will be contesting against a very strong opponent, Datuk Paduka Chew Mei Fun who is not only the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry for Women, Family & Community Affairs, but also MCA Wanita Deputy Chief designated for higher positions.
It will be a tough battle, and I dare say that the BN candidate has an edge having been the incumbent for two terms. Particularly, we lost by a massive 13,000 votes in the 2004 elections. However, with greater awareness among the PJ electorate of the deteriorating national cirumstances - from crime, to inflation, to integrity, to governance and to leadership, there is a fighting chance of making it - but if and only if, discerning Malaysians turn up in force to vote.
The following are 5 important reasons why voters should opt for me and DAP candidates in the Petaling Jaya. Spread the word and vote for change.
1. The role of a Member of Parliament (MP) or State Legislative Assembly (SA)
We are committed to the principle that a member of Parliament's ultimate responsibility is towards the national policies and legislations to be debated and enacted in parliament. At the same time, the role of a state assemblyman is to enact state laws in the state assembly.
Where there have been areas of unjust policies or even bad legislation which needs to be updated or reformed, it is the duty of the MP or SA to propose the necessary changes. You can be assured that in this regard, DAP MPs and SAs will do so without fear or favour.
A good MP does not hide from responsibility to its constituents in the parliament. Examples are aplenty, with the disgraceful episode(s) of BN MPs insulting women ('bocor', 'terowong') and the handicapped ('Tuhan dah ajar dia'). MPs across the divide must unite to reprimand such atrocious behaviour, instead of being conspiciously absent from the Dewan, despite being in the vicinity when a vote is called.
Other BN MPs cannot escape blame for the persistence of such behaviour and more, among their colleagues over the years.
2. Serving the Constituency
At the same time, it cannot be denied that it is very important for an MP, particularly in Malaysia to serve the specific needs of the local constituency.
However, serving the constituency cannot be limited to issues such as mending potholes, fixing street lamps and unclogging drains, or for that matter, 'donations' in kind and cash to local residents' associations and societies. It also doesn't mean that an elected opposition MP or SA does or cannot not play the role of improving roads or street lamps – Teresa Kok and Tan Kok Wai are perfect examples of dedicated MPs who keep their constituencies ticking.
On the other hand, an MP or state assemblyperson in Malaysia has the extra heavy responsibility of monitoring and check the all-powerful local councils. Malaysia has no democratically elected local government, but instead has one which is based on a system of political patronage where local BN party leaders are appointed councillors.
As a result, we read of all kinds of abuses by the local councils with MBPJ being a prime culprit. Examples of corruption, abuse and sheer arrogance are once again aplenty, and you would probably have read the various columns in The Sun over the years. Some of the recent examples are the illegal siphoning of “donations” to an illegal “sports club”, attempts to develop open spaces and green lungs by consipiring with developers, official launching of a mega-PJ Exchange project by the Selangor Menteri Besar without the necessary approvals and traffic analysis, illegal privatisation of billboards etc.
The BN MPs and state assemblymen have unfortunately “closed one-eye” and maintained “an elegant silence” over the entire period either by claiming ignorance, or providing convenient and non-committal empty promises of “looking into the issue”.
3. National interest and the future of our country
Most importantly, your vote represents not only that of your constituency but also that of the nation.
It is not necessary to elaborate here on the issues affecting the nation today such as an crime, declining real income, weak and poor governance, racial disintegration, corruption, Islamic state etc.
While DAP would not have an opportunity to form the government in the next elections, it is critical that there should be a much stronger opposition to check the abuses by a hegemonic government, in our case, one with 91% control of the Parliament. Only when the voices of the people are heard, will the government of the day be more sensitive towards the needs of the Rakyat.
What makes the situation more dire politically, is the fact that constituencies have been gerrymandered extensively to make it ultra difficult for DAP to make major headway in terms of actual seats increase, despite a possible hefty increase in votes. Former opposition strongholds such as Kota Melaka or Bukit Bintang has been redelineated nearly beyond recognition.
Petaling Jaya Utara, despite DAP losing by a massive 13,000 votes the last elections remains one of a handful (literally) of seats in which we have a decent chance of wresting from BN. This is because, being a largely educated urban constituency, the number of swing voters who are attuned to national issues, is very high. Many constituents are contemplating or have already decided that their children's future should no longer be in this country which we so love.
As such, we are making a serious concerted effort to win in this constituency.
4. Position on key issues and more importantly, actions taken
With so many disturbing events affecting the country, what are the MP or state assemblymen's positions on these issues? Are they in agreement with UMNO's “ketuanan Melayu” approach or the statement by the Deputy Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak that “Malaysia is Islamic state,... it was never, never a secular state”, which the Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Abdullah Badawi himself concurred?
More importantly, if the MP or SA disagrees with such policies and practices, what are the concrete actions he or she has taken to improve the state of affairs? An MP or political party's responsibility to the rakyat is not to disagree “privately” with the major wrongs in this country, but goes along with it anyway. The President of MCA goes to the extent of publicly declaring that “UMNO is our best partner.... why end such a beautiful friendship” less than six months ago!
On the other hand, the DAP leadership as well as the team in Petaling Jaya, have put ourselves under public scrutiny by placing our opinions and policies for public scrutiny, e.g., in a regularly updated website or blog. When the Government does the right thing, we won't hesitate to commend them, and likewise, if something's wrong, then we won't hesitate to censure and provide alternative constructive proposals. Without the pressure applied by the DAP on the Government over the years, I dare not imagine the state the country will be in today (yes, it can still get worse).
5. Conclusion
To conclude, the DAP candidates including myself, have nothing to gain (and much to lose) from offering ourselves as candidates in the General Elections besides hoping that we will be given the opportunity to serve the community and make Malaysia a better country for all Malaysians.
In the coming general elections, the primary consideration for Malaysians must be to vote for both the future of our children and country.
We certainly look forward to your support! ;-)
It was my wish to be able to retire early quite comfortably so that I will be able to devote most, if not all of my expendable time on socio-economic and political affairs. Well, I'm right in the thick of it as I've sold my company and joined the Democratic Action Party (DAP) as the Economic Advisor to the DAP Secretary-General.
I've always had faith that there has been a guardian angel looking after me all these while - my personal well-being, my education, my career. Some will call it "God's will", some "fate" while some others, "destiny". I strongly believe that it is time for me to repay the kindness and fortune showered on me by my family, the society and of course, not forgetting, my guardian angel. :-)
I look forward to the day when I can truly help make our country a better place for all communities, and a country we can all be proud of.
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Tony Pua for Parliament
It's now officially confirmed. I will be standing as the DAP parliamentary candidate for Petaling Jaya Utara. I will be contesting against a very strong opponent, Datuk Paduka Chew Mei Fun who is not only the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry for Women, Family & Community Affairs, but also MCA Wanita Deputy Chief designated for higher positions.
It will be a tough battle, and I dare say that the BN candidate has an edge having been the incumbent for two terms. Particularly, we lost by a massive 13,000 votes in the 2004 elections. However, with greater awareness among the PJ electorate of the deteriorating national cirumstances - from crime, to inflation, to integrity, to governance and to leadership, there is a fighting chance of making it - but if and only if, discerning Malaysians turn up in force to vote.
The following are 5 important reasons why voters should opt for me and DAP candidates in the Petaling Jaya. Spread the word and vote for change.
1. The role of a Member of Parliament (MP) or State Legislative Assembly (SA)
We are committed to the principle that a member of Parliament's ultimate responsibility is towards the national policies and legislations to be debated and enacted in parliament. At the same time, the role of a state assemblyman is to enact state laws in the state assembly.
Where there have been areas of unjust policies or even bad legislation which needs to be updated or reformed, it is the duty of the MP or SA to propose the necessary changes. You can be assured that in this regard, DAP MPs and SAs will do so without fear or favour.
A good MP does not hide from responsibility to its constituents in the parliament. Examples are aplenty, with the disgraceful episode(s) of BN MPs insulting women ('bocor', 'terowong') and the handicapped ('Tuhan dah ajar dia'). MPs across the divide must unite to reprimand such atrocious behaviour, instead of being conspiciously absent from the Dewan, despite being in the vicinity when a vote is called.
Other BN MPs cannot escape blame for the persistence of such behaviour and more, among their colleagues over the years.
2. Serving the Constituency
At the same time, it cannot be denied that it is very important for an MP, particularly in Malaysia to serve the specific needs of the local constituency.
However, serving the constituency cannot be limited to issues such as mending potholes, fixing street lamps and unclogging drains, or for that matter, 'donations' in kind and cash to local residents' associations and societies. It also doesn't mean that an elected opposition MP or SA does or cannot not play the role of improving roads or street lamps – Teresa Kok and Tan Kok Wai are perfect examples of dedicated MPs who keep their constituencies ticking.
On the other hand, an MP or state assemblyperson in Malaysia has the extra heavy responsibility of monitoring and check the all-powerful local councils. Malaysia has no democratically elected local government, but instead has one which is based on a system of political patronage where local BN party leaders are appointed councillors.
As a result, we read of all kinds of abuses by the local councils with MBPJ being a prime culprit. Examples of corruption, abuse and sheer arrogance are once again aplenty, and you would probably have read the various columns in The Sun over the years. Some of the recent examples are the illegal siphoning of “donations” to an illegal “sports club”, attempts to develop open spaces and green lungs by consipiring with developers, official launching of a mega-PJ Exchange project by the Selangor Menteri Besar without the necessary approvals and traffic analysis, illegal privatisation of billboards etc.
The BN MPs and state assemblymen have unfortunately “closed one-eye” and maintained “an elegant silence” over the entire period either by claiming ignorance, or providing convenient and non-committal empty promises of “looking into the issue”.
3. National interest and the future of our country
Most importantly, your vote represents not only that of your constituency but also that of the nation.
It is not necessary to elaborate here on the issues affecting the nation today such as an crime, declining real income, weak and poor governance, racial disintegration, corruption, Islamic state etc.
While DAP would not have an opportunity to form the government in the next elections, it is critical that there should be a much stronger opposition to check the abuses by a hegemonic government, in our case, one with 91% control of the Parliament. Only when the voices of the people are heard, will the government of the day be more sensitive towards the needs of the Rakyat.
What makes the situation more dire politically, is the fact that constituencies have been gerrymandered extensively to make it ultra difficult for DAP to make major headway in terms of actual seats increase, despite a possible hefty increase in votes. Former opposition strongholds such as Kota Melaka or Bukit Bintang has been redelineated nearly beyond recognition.
Petaling Jaya Utara, despite DAP losing by a massive 13,000 votes the last elections remains one of a handful (literally) of seats in which we have a decent chance of wresting from BN. This is because, being a largely educated urban constituency, the number of swing voters who are attuned to national issues, is very high. Many constituents are contemplating or have already decided that their children's future should no longer be in this country which we so love.
As such, we are making a serious concerted effort to win in this constituency.
4. Position on key issues and more importantly, actions taken
With so many disturbing events affecting the country, what are the MP or state assemblymen's positions on these issues? Are they in agreement with UMNO's “ketuanan Melayu” approach or the statement by the Deputy Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak that “Malaysia is Islamic state,... it was never, never a secular state”, which the Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Abdullah Badawi himself concurred?
More importantly, if the MP or SA disagrees with such policies and practices, what are the concrete actions he or she has taken to improve the state of affairs? An MP or political party's responsibility to the rakyat is not to disagree “privately” with the major wrongs in this country, but goes along with it anyway. The President of MCA goes to the extent of publicly declaring that “UMNO is our best partner.... why end such a beautiful friendship” less than six months ago!
On the other hand, the DAP leadership as well as the team in Petaling Jaya, have put ourselves under public scrutiny by placing our opinions and policies for public scrutiny, e.g., in a regularly updated website or blog. When the Government does the right thing, we won't hesitate to commend them, and likewise, if something's wrong, then we won't hesitate to censure and provide alternative constructive proposals. Without the pressure applied by the DAP on the Government over the years, I dare not imagine the state the country will be in today (yes, it can still get worse).
5. Conclusion
To conclude, the DAP candidates including myself, have nothing to gain (and much to lose) from offering ourselves as candidates in the General Elections besides hoping that we will be given the opportunity to serve the community and make Malaysia a better country for all Malaysians.
In the coming general elections, the primary consideration for Malaysians must be to vote for both the future of our children and country.
We certainly look forward to your support! ;-)
Monday, February 25, 2008
Elections
The elections are around the corner.
What should we look for in a government? The government is the servant of the people and not their master. In Malaysia, I don't see it being that way. We are enslaved by many policies such as the NEP, poor economic planning, tolls and more.
To those who are in government, every position has a responsibility, a duty and an obligation to those they serve and to God. But sadly, a lot of them serve themselves, enrich their families and become conceited.
A successful economy requires sound financial planning, execution and accountability from the government, but we see one government bail out after another on many mega projects, or see them being swept under the carpet.
There is sacredness in a promise, that a man’s worth should be as good as his bond. When a Prime Minister wows to wipe out corruption, but instead perpetuates its, then what is his worth?
What should we look for in a government? The government is the servant of the people and not their master. In Malaysia, I don't see it being that way. We are enslaved by many policies such as the NEP, poor economic planning, tolls and more.
To those who are in government, every position has a responsibility, a duty and an obligation to those they serve and to God. But sadly, a lot of them serve themselves, enrich their families and become conceited.
A successful economy requires sound financial planning, execution and accountability from the government, but we see one government bail out after another on many mega projects, or see them being swept under the carpet.
There is sacredness in a promise, that a man’s worth should be as good as his bond. When a Prime Minister wows to wipe out corruption, but instead perpetuates its, then what is his worth?
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Attacked
Last night I went for a Chinese New Year visitation as with every night the past week or so. I have been staying over in my parents' house this past week rather than in my own abode.
In the middle of the night I had a bad dream in which I was being tormented by some spirit and had my fingers burnt. It kept disturbing me and then I was so angry I gave the 'thing" a kick. I guess my kick was so violent I flew off the bed in my sleep and landed on my head after hitting the dressing table. Till now the temple bone on my head is sore and tender. I could not get off the floor for a while.
We must continuously pray for ourselves and loved ones (Jude 20) as there are open doors that the devil can attack for he comes to steal, kill and destroy.
In the middle of the night I had a bad dream in which I was being tormented by some spirit and had my fingers burnt. It kept disturbing me and then I was so angry I gave the 'thing" a kick. I guess my kick was so violent I flew off the bed in my sleep and landed on my head after hitting the dressing table. Till now the temple bone on my head is sore and tender. I could not get off the floor for a while.
We must continuously pray for ourselves and loved ones (Jude 20) as there are open doors that the devil can attack for he comes to steal, kill and destroy.
Monday, February 11, 2008
A Diana Ross song - If we hold on together
Old songs like this string a tune of life to our souls.
This is a song deep in meaning and transcends our spirit and inner being.
Don't lose your way
With each passing day
You've come so far
Don't throw it away
Live believing
Dreams are for weaving
Wonders are waiting to start
Live your story
Faith, hope & glory
Hold to the truth in your heart
Many of us are weary and still soothing from the year that was. Let us not give up on our dreams, but continue to weave them and believe that by God's grace we will reach our destiny and realize the dreams that are dear to our hearts. Legitimate dreams are planted in our hearts by our Creator, so don't give up if things are not so bright for now.
If we hold on together
I know our dreams will never die
Dreams see us through to forever
Where clouds roll by
For you and I
Choose to live deliberately and not just float around like a cloud. I choose to live deliberately to see what life has to teach that I could not learn and not when I die discover that I had not lived. Only when we have driven our lives to a corner and reduced it to its lowest terms, could we have sucked out the marrow of life. The setbacks and experiences will serve to strengthen us for the future.
Souls in the wind
Must learn how to bend
Seek out a star
Hold on to the end
Valley, mountain
There is a fountain
Washes our tears all away
Words are swaying
Someone is praying
Please let us come home to stay
Our Lord is the bright and morning star. Wherever our life has blown as long as we seek Him we will all come through. He is the lily of the valley when we are down. He calms our fears and gives us rest. We used to live on higher ground and through Him we are reclaiming it.
If we hold on together
I know our dreams will never die
Dreams see us through to forever
Where clouds roll by
For you and I
When we are out there in the dark
We'll dream about the sun
In the dark we'll feel the light
Warm our hearts, everyone
If we hold on together
I know our dreams will never die
Dreams see us through to forever
As high as souls can fly
The clouds roll by
For you and I
Everyone needs a little hope, a little love and encouragement. He is there to see us through. He holds everything together. If we hold on to Him, our dreams will never die. So hold on to the end.
This is a song deep in meaning and transcends our spirit and inner being.
Don't lose your way
With each passing day
You've come so far
Don't throw it away
Live believing
Dreams are for weaving
Wonders are waiting to start
Live your story
Faith, hope & glory
Hold to the truth in your heart
Many of us are weary and still soothing from the year that was. Let us not give up on our dreams, but continue to weave them and believe that by God's grace we will reach our destiny and realize the dreams that are dear to our hearts. Legitimate dreams are planted in our hearts by our Creator, so don't give up if things are not so bright for now.
If we hold on together
I know our dreams will never die
Dreams see us through to forever
Where clouds roll by
For you and I
Choose to live deliberately and not just float around like a cloud. I choose to live deliberately to see what life has to teach that I could not learn and not when I die discover that I had not lived. Only when we have driven our lives to a corner and reduced it to its lowest terms, could we have sucked out the marrow of life. The setbacks and experiences will serve to strengthen us for the future.
Souls in the wind
Must learn how to bend
Seek out a star
Hold on to the end
Valley, mountain
There is a fountain
Washes our tears all away
Words are swaying
Someone is praying
Please let us come home to stay
Our Lord is the bright and morning star. Wherever our life has blown as long as we seek Him we will all come through. He is the lily of the valley when we are down. He calms our fears and gives us rest. We used to live on higher ground and through Him we are reclaiming it.
If we hold on together
I know our dreams will never die
Dreams see us through to forever
Where clouds roll by
For you and I
When we are out there in the dark
We'll dream about the sun
In the dark we'll feel the light
Warm our hearts, everyone
If we hold on together
I know our dreams will never die
Dreams see us through to forever
As high as souls can fly
The clouds roll by
For you and I
Everyone needs a little hope, a little love and encouragement. He is there to see us through. He holds everything together. If we hold on to Him, our dreams will never die. So hold on to the end.
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
Leap Month
This year is a leap year, and this month is a leap month.
A lot of us have been waiting for God to fulfill His promises in our lives. We may see our peers being ahead of us and wondering "O Lord, what is happening?".
In this leap month, God will make those who are righteous to leap ahead in our lives, business etc.
God Bless You All and Gong Xi Fa Cai!
A lot of us have been waiting for God to fulfill His promises in our lives. We may see our peers being ahead of us and wondering "O Lord, what is happening?".
In this leap month, God will make those who are righteous to leap ahead in our lives, business etc.
God Bless You All and Gong Xi Fa Cai!
