Goodbye 2007! Hello! Two-0-0-EIGHT!
29 December 2007
26 December 2007
Ending 2007, How Happy Are You?
Take the quiz to find out "How Happy Are You?" as we end this year
2007 is coming to an end. Are you more happy than 2006? As we come to the end of it, let's us reflect on what we have done. "How Happy Are You?" Find out by taking this life-satisfaction quiz, developed by Ed Diener and used to measures happiness worlwide. Indicate your agreement with each item using this 1 - to - 7 scale. Then add up your total score.
7 - Strongly agree; 6 - Agree; 5 - Slightly agree; 4 - Neither agree nor disagree;
3 - Slightly disagree; 2 - Disagree; 1 - Strongly disagree
____ In most ways my life is close to my ideal.
____ The conditions of my life are excellent.
____ I am satisfied with my life.
____ So far I have gotten the important things I want in life.
____ If I could live my life over, I would change almost nothing.
- 31 - 35 Extremely satisfied
- 26 - 30 Satisfied
- 21 - 25 Slightly satisfied
- 20 Neutral
- 15 - 19 Slightly dissatisfied
- 10 - 14 Dissatisfied
- 5 - 9 Extremely dissatisfied
"We have all been placed on this earth to discover our own path, and we will never be happy if we live someone else's idea of life."
To find A Purpose Driven Life and to prepare for the new year, click here.
"It isn't life that weighs us down - it's the way we carry it. "
2007 is gone, we'll be a better person in 2008! Oh, YES!!
Heart2heart would like to wishing you:
A Purpose-driven, Happy, Blessed and Fruitful 2008!
God Bless You and Yours!!25 December 2007
Jesus vs Satan
This may be a joke, but is a "very good" joke:
Jesus and Satan were arguing over who was better with computers. Finally God suggested a way to settle it: Each would spend two hours using spreadsheets, designing web pages, making charts and tables.
The two sat at their keyboards and began typing furiously. Just before the two hours were up, the power went out. Once it came back on, they booted up their computers.
"It's gone! It's all gone!" Satan screamed. "My work was destroyed!"
Meanwhile, Jesus began printing out His work. "Hey, he must have cheated!" Satan yelled. "How come his stuff wasn't lost?"
God shrugged and said simply,
"Jesus Saves."
Merry Christmas! remember, Jesus SAVES!!!
there is Victory in Christ Jesus! read here!
Jesus and Satan were arguing over who was better with computers. Finally God suggested a way to settle it: Each would spend two hours using spreadsheets, designing web pages, making charts and tables.
The two sat at their keyboards and began typing furiously. Just before the two hours were up, the power went out. Once it came back on, they booted up their computers.
"It's gone! It's all gone!" Satan screamed. "My work was destroyed!"
Meanwhile, Jesus began printing out His work. "Hey, he must have cheated!" Satan yelled. "How come his stuff wasn't lost?"
God shrugged and said simply,
"Jesus Saves."
Merry Christmas! remember, Jesus SAVES!!!
there is Victory in Christ Jesus! read here!
18 December 2007
12 December 2007
A Threat = An Opportunity 危机 = 机会
The Golden Compass: A comment from Bible Society
The Bible and prayer together make a more trustworthy ‘compass’ for people's lives - Bible Society.
The Golden Compass is one of a stream of big budget fantasy films for children and adults that have recently received wide distribution.
But Bible Society asked Luke Walton, its Arts Officer, and Lindsay Shaw, editor of its Reel Issues film and faith discussion service, to comment on this particular film for three reasons:
• The film’s engagement with issues of faith and spirituality,
• The immense popularity of the His Dark Materials novel trilogy which lies behind The Golden Compass and
• Because of concerns the trilogy and film has prompted in some sections of the Church.
‘Bible Society is committed to the biblical view that human creativity and use of the imagination are essential to what it means to be human and made in God’s image,’ the two Bible Society spokesmen agreed.
‘Philip Pullman, the writer of the His Dark Materials trilogy in which this story is the first episode, comes in a long line of evocative fantasy storytellers,’ Luke says. ‘But unlike CS Lewis and JRR Tolkien, who wrote from a Christian vision of the world, Pullman comes from a different and perhaps opposing position.
'Nevertheless, he has created a vivid and beguiling fantasy world. And only those who have dug into their Bibles will fully understand some of the story’s underlying themes, even if we may disagree with his conclusions.
‘We do not share Pullman’s view that free will is the ultimate source of guidance for our lives,’ Luke commented, ‘But we welcome the opportunities this offers for Christians to talk with their friends about God’s guidance through the Bible and prayer as a more trustworthy ‘compass’ for their lives.’
Some Christians have been especially concerned by Pullman’s representation of a Church-like organisation, ‘The Magisterium’, the chief villains of the film (whose name the novelist borrowed from a term for the authoritative teaching of the Roman Catholic Church).
This organisation (never named the ‘Church’ in the film although it is in the books) seeks to suppress all free thought, and goes to the extent of authorising experiments on children to render them conformist and happy.
‘As with all caricatures,’ Luke says, ‘There is a tragic truth behind this. The Church has too often been guilty of abusing its authority and Pullman’s criticism is a cautionary reminder to us.
'But his fictional representation only tells part of the story and ignores the thousands of Christians who have spent their lives in humanitarian work, service to others and activities that have allowed communities to flourish.’
‘Interestingly, Pullman has said on his own website that his real beef is with “those who pervert and misuse religion”,’ Lindsay Shaw adds.
‘What The Golden Compass doesn’t do is take issue with the very different values of Jesus and the Gospels. In fact, if we were a more consistent reflection of what following Jesus should mean, Pullman would have had to find another villain.
‘From our Reel Issues service we have seen the benefits of Christians using films like this as a natural talking point and opportunity to build bridges between the Bible and everyday life,’ Lindsay adds.
‘Perhaps the best response to The Golden Compass with adults, teenagers, and older children is to use it as a springboard for some honest, open, non-defensive conversations. Belief and spirituality, truth and freedom, the Church’s successes and failures – they’re all here for us to chew over with an audience who will be wide open for it.’
Lindsay Shaw is Bible Society’s creative resource officer and the editor of Reel Issues. www.reelissues.org.uk
Luke Walton is Bible Society’s arts development officer
10 December 2007
We Must Listen to Old Man
He lost his son 14 years ago (Dec 11, 1993) in this trategy in Ulu Klang, when I was still a student. He was once the Second Man to Tun Dr Mahathir, he was in Suhakam. On top of that, he was recently honored with the Honorary Doctor of Political Science degree by my alma mater.
This old yet very wise man, you got to listen to him...
When asked Is Malaysia ready for peaceful assemblies?
He answered: Yes! Come on, we have been independent for 50 years.
Ya lah! 50 years old should be mature enough!
When asked Is peaceful assembly a right?
He said:
"Expression comes in different forms. It also relates to the right to demonstrate your feelings, by word or by act. Freedom in a democratic society is quite clear. People do have a right to demonstrate and they must be given the right."
He kept on saying: "Try lah!!" I love this!!!
Lim Kit Siang also agreed with what he said....
Because he is MUSA HITAM!!!
TRY LAH!! Never Try Never Know mah!!
Read full interview here.
This old yet very wise man, you got to listen to him...
When asked Is Malaysia ready for peaceful assemblies?
He answered: Yes! Come on, we have been independent for 50 years.
Ya lah! 50 years old should be mature enough!
When asked Is peaceful assembly a right?
He said:
"Expression comes in different forms. It also relates to the right to demonstrate your feelings, by word or by act. Freedom in a democratic society is quite clear. People do have a right to demonstrate and they must be given the right."
He kept on saying: "Try lah!!" I love this!!!
Lim Kit Siang also agreed with what he said....
Because he is MUSA HITAM!!!
TRY LAH!! Never Try Never Know mah!!
Read full interview here.
27 November 2007
CS Boh Finally! Setelah Sekian Lama...
Chek Sing (Boh) my buddy (don't ask me his age
) finally going to marry this beautiful girl, Ee Chien from the "Land of Stones". If you know them either CS or EC, visit them at this web page here and give them your blessing here.I can tell you, he looks very "young" in the photos
, she is gorgeous and so beautiful! See to believe here.Congratulations!! May God bless the couple!!
~~~~~~
p/s:
To my "another sister" who is also from the Land of Stones: When is your turn?
And to my "sister" from the "Bandaraya Bersejarah", worry no.....for your true love is on the way!!
26 November 2007
Don't Challenge Us!
Yesterday, over 10,000 turned-up for the Hindraf Rally. PM Abdullah said those who have been organising street demonstrations seemed to be testing the Government's patience.
And below are some pictures of "Another group of Men" being challenged by some opponents to show their true color as MAN!
Warning: View at your own risk! (Rated 18Sx or PG13) Don't click if you are less than 18 years old!
Click here if you are above 18.
And below are some pictures of "Another group of Men" being challenged by some opponents to show their true color as MAN!
Warning: View at your own risk! (Rated 18Sx or PG13) Don't click if you are less than 18 years old!
Click here if you are above 18.
23 November 2007
Ah Ha! Hahahahaha!!
Via Screenshots, Ringtone of the Month!!
here!
Hahahahahahaha!!!!!
Now, everybody say:
Correct, correct, correct, ah, correct...ah, right right, yes yes. Koret Koret koret!!!
Wahkakakakakaka~~~~~
here!
Hahahahahahaha!!!!!
Now, everybody say:
Correct, correct, correct, ah, correct...ah, right right, yes yes. Koret Koret koret!!!
Wahkakakakakaka~~~~~
21 November 2007
Manyak-Manyak Malu leh!
You got to read this:
In higher learning Institution, we warn our students the danger of plagiarism, and warned them of risking their assignment downgrade to zero mark. "Plagiarism is unethical," we told them..
But, here you have a country using plagiarised photograph to support their claim of Pulau Batu Puteh (Pedra Branca) at International Court of Justice (ICJ)!
Macam mana-lah? Now tell me how to tell my students? Manyak-manyak memalukan-leh!!
Mana boleh lah! "Downgrade their mark to zero, Sir! " I can almost hear my students whispering at my ear...
Sedih, sedih....the whole world see this...this time really paiseh liao!
Malaysia uses plagiarist's blog to claim Pedra Branca at ICJ?
In higher learning Institution, we warn our students the danger of plagiarism, and warned them of risking their assignment downgrade to zero mark. "Plagiarism is unethical," we told them..
But, here you have a country using plagiarised photograph to support their claim of Pulau Batu Puteh (Pedra Branca) at International Court of Justice (ICJ)!
Macam mana-lah? Now tell me how to tell my students? Manyak-manyak memalukan-leh!!
Mana boleh lah! "Downgrade their mark to zero, Sir! " I can almost hear my students whispering at my ear...
Sedih, sedih....the whole world see this...this time really paiseh liao!
20 November 2007
Which Car is Environmental-Friendly?
Read the following report published in The Economist.com
At the top (no. 1) is Peugeot-Citroen, with the lowest emission of 144g carbon dioxide per km, followed by Fiat (144g), Renault (147g), Toyota (153g), Honda (154g) in the year 2006. Consider these cars when buying new cars. Looking at the name, you should either go for Honda or Toyota lah! Because the other names are too-Europe!
DaimlerChrysler, the manufacturer of Mercedes Benz has the highest emission at 188g/km, followed by BMW (184g) and Mazda (173g). So, stop thinking of having these Cars in your dream! No good for the mother earth!
A..wait, Were is Proton? Not in the league meh? Oh! I forgot...they just said that they can survive on their own...They need no foreign partner now, their persona doing very well oh!
Merdeka for now? But, can sustain kah?18 November 2007
未來不是夢，職場目標從「五年規劃」開始...
Recently, there are quite a number of my students graduated from College/Universities and become a freshmen in the Society. Some of them have embarked on a new job, some of them are still looking for one. And most of the time, I heard them saying: I don't like this job; I can't see the future in this job; My skill and qualification doesn't match the job and etc.
Here is an article I believe will help the current students to plan ahead and be prepared before embarking on the job.
「五年後我的人生如何發展」？如果在學的學生能掌握這觀念， 就不會慌張，反而能給自己更多的時間去準備職場人生。
不久前，我遇到一位國貿系畢業的學生，一畢業就進貿易公司，她以為在那裡會接觸到很多的人，沒想到，整天都在處理行政瑣碎的工作，開始不想去上班。
在跟我的訪談裡，她回憶，自己在大學社團活躍，從小就是喜歡跟人相處，卻沒想過職業對她的影響是什麼。
她漸漸發現，在貿易公司的工作就是接訂單、打訂單。戲劇化的事來了，有一天，她打卡下班後去看海，她問自己，「要這樣過一輩子嗎？」那時候薪水很不錯了，但她卻找到另一家公司的人資管理部門的助理，薪水比原來的少一萬，但她徹底了解她喜歡什麼。
其實，今天的年輕人不是找不到工作，大部份在職場工作兩、三年的職場新鮮人關心的，其實是，「五年後我的人生如何發展」？
如果在學的學生能掌握這觀念，就不會慌張，反而能給自己更多的時間去準備職場人生。
在學生階段很重要的是，認識自己、認識職場、認識世界。
認識自己是從小開始累積的，對自己多些了解，比較容易找到方向感，那不是說就確定職業，而是了解性向與感到成就感的方向。
我們對人有興趣，有可能做人資、業務，但你要這種人去做文書與行政就可能痛苦。職涯輔導是慢慢收束、慢慢聚焦。
有了方向感，你才能做計劃，你才能應變，因為你知道主軸在哪裡，至少不會那麼慌亂，你有一個核心，然後慢慢修正。
我們設想一位大學生一直沒做這準備，跟大家玩或無目標的打工，如果沒有家世背景，五年後，能突破天花板嗎？兩個同樣沒有背景、學歷相當的人，在職 場上如何分出高下？其實就是看你有沒有其它能證明你的能力、有沒有把握機會實習、有沒有曾經因為你有所規劃，在科系外，修過其它科目或學程，這差別就出 來。
有了收束的工作類型選項，再回頭盤點在學的自己，有哪些缺乏的能力，有哪些努力的空間。
今日學生缺乏的能力
有些能力是學生比較缺乏的，因為我們的教育沒有配合未來競爭邏輯快速修正。
第一，表達能力變得前所未有的重要。以前生產線的時代、操作機器設備的時代，哪需要表達能力；但現在任何工作都要求表達，因為工作環境經常面對不 可知的情況；像以前的工程師很安靜，但現在的工程師不能沈默，當製造業服務化、客製化的時代，即使是工程師，也要隨時用視訊解決外國客戶的問題、面對國際 性的貿易與管理，但教育沒有給足這訓練。
表達能力如何訓練？從寫報告、做科展、寫日記、寫週記、上台報告都是很好的訓練。
第二，企劃的能力。未來的職場會期待積極表現的個人，即便很基層的人都被鼓勵表現自己，每個人都可以完成一項專案，策畫活動、提案的能力變得很重要。
第三，開會的能力。職場上愈來愈重視團隊合作，合作必定需要大量的溝通與小組討論。
從小到大，大家都開過班會，但是，兩個人在一起怎麼討論，四個人怎麼討論，都是訓練，這些是英美在教育改革時很重視的。
一項針對美國企業主所做的最新調查顯示，企業主認為最重要的四項能力與態度，分別是：溝通能力（包括口頭及書面）、誠實與正直、團隊合作技能、人際相處能力。
但最後必須提醒的是，各國研究都指出智慧跟才能外，努力、堅持才會讓人成功。成功沒有捷徑。
Here is an article I believe will help the current students to plan ahead and be prepared before embarking on the job.
「五年後我的人生如何發展」？如果在學的學生能掌握這觀念， 就不會慌張，反而能給自己更多的時間去準備職場人生。
不久前，我遇到一位國貿系畢業的學生，一畢業就進貿易公司，她以為在那裡會接觸到很多的人，沒想到，整天都在處理行政瑣碎的工作，開始不想去上班。
在跟我的訪談裡，她回憶，自己在大學社團活躍，從小就是喜歡跟人相處，卻沒想過職業對她的影響是什麼。
她漸漸發現，在貿易公司的工作就是接訂單、打訂單。戲劇化的事來了，有一天，她打卡下班後去看海，她問自己，「要這樣過一輩子嗎？」那時候薪水很不錯了，但她卻找到另一家公司的人資管理部門的助理，薪水比原來的少一萬，但她徹底了解她喜歡什麼。
其實，今天的年輕人不是找不到工作，大部份在職場工作兩、三年的職場新鮮人關心的，其實是，「五年後我的人生如何發展」？
如果在學的學生能掌握這觀念，就不會慌張，反而能給自己更多的時間去準備職場人生。
在學生階段很重要的是，認識自己、認識職場、認識世界。
認識自己是從小開始累積的，對自己多些了解，比較容易找到方向感，那不是說就確定職業，而是了解性向與感到成就感的方向。
我們對人有興趣，有可能做人資、業務，但你要這種人去做文書與行政就可能痛苦。職涯輔導是慢慢收束、慢慢聚焦。
有了方向感，你才能做計劃，你才能應變，因為你知道主軸在哪裡，至少不會那麼慌亂，你有一個核心，然後慢慢修正。
我們設想一位大學生一直沒做這準備，跟大家玩或無目標的打工，如果沒有家世背景，五年後，能突破天花板嗎？兩個同樣沒有背景、學歷相當的人，在職 場上如何分出高下？其實就是看你有沒有其它能證明你的能力、有沒有把握機會實習、有沒有曾經因為你有所規劃，在科系外，修過其它科目或學程，這差別就出 來。
有了收束的工作類型選項，再回頭盤點在學的自己，有哪些缺乏的能力，有哪些努力的空間。
今日學生缺乏的能力
有些能力是學生比較缺乏的，因為我們的教育沒有配合未來競爭邏輯快速修正。
第一，表達能力變得前所未有的重要。以前生產線的時代、操作機器設備的時代，哪需要表達能力；但現在任何工作都要求表達，因為工作環境經常面對不 可知的情況；像以前的工程師很安靜，但現在的工程師不能沈默，當製造業服務化、客製化的時代，即使是工程師，也要隨時用視訊解決外國客戶的問題、面對國際 性的貿易與管理，但教育沒有給足這訓練。
表達能力如何訓練？從寫報告、做科展、寫日記、寫週記、上台報告都是很好的訓練。
第二，企劃的能力。未來的職場會期待積極表現的個人，即便很基層的人都被鼓勵表現自己，每個人都可以完成一項專案，策畫活動、提案的能力變得很重要。
第三，開會的能力。職場上愈來愈重視團隊合作，合作必定需要大量的溝通與小組討論。
從小到大，大家都開過班會，但是，兩個人在一起怎麼討論，四個人怎麼討論，都是訓練，這些是英美在教育改革時很重視的。
一項針對美國企業主所做的最新調查顯示，企業主認為最重要的四項能力與態度，分別是：溝通能力（包括口頭及書面）、誠實與正直、團隊合作技能、人際相處能力。
但最後必須提醒的是，各國研究都指出智慧跟才能外，努力、堅持才會讓人成功。成功沒有捷徑。
16 November 2007
FINALLY!! Royal Commission!!
Finally, the government agreed to set up a Royal Commission to probe the Lingam video aka Mr. Correct's & Mr Judge. see the report here:
Was it due to Bersih? or was it due to Sultan's disquiet? Or maybe the general election is round the corner...
Anyway, this will be the right move to "bersihkan" the judiciary system in my beloved country...Malaysia, tanahairku...
other related reports
政府根据三人小组建议设皇委会调查司法丑闻
首相宣布设皇委会查司法影片下周内阁会议决定人选和范围
| November 16, 2007 19:01 PM |
Royal Commission To Be Set Up To Probe Controversial Video Clip
BON VOYAGE… Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi bids farewell to Uruguayan President Dr Tabare Vasquez (left). Pix: Azman Firdaus
KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 16 (Bernama) -- A royal commission will be set up to investigate a video clip featuring a purported telephone conversation between a prominent lawyer and a senior judge over the appointment of judges.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi said the establishment of the panel was deemed appropriate based on the report by a three-man panel set up to determine the authenticity of the video clip recently.
"We've agreed to set up the commission. Now we're deciding on the terms of reference, the tasks to be undertaken by the commission," he told reporters after calling on Uruguayan President Dr Tabare Vasquez and his wife, Maria Auxiliadora Delgado de Vasquez, who are making a five-day visit to Malaysia, here today.
Abdullah said the three ministers who were tasked by the cabinet to give legal input on the report by the three-man independent panel would give their views and suggestions at the weekly cabinet meeting on Wednesday.
The prime minister said the members of the royal commission would be determined after its terms of reference were finalised.
Asked whether the government was pressured into establishing the commission by certain groups, Abdullah reiterated that the decision was based on the report submitted by the special panel.
"Before this we said that please wait for the panel to come up with its report. The report is out and based on its contents, it appears that it is appropriate to set up the royal commission, hence our decision," he said.
The special panel comprised former Chief Judge of Malaya Tan Sri Haidar Mohd Noor, social activist Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye and former Court of Appeal Judge Datuk Mahadev Shankar.
The three ministers asked to give legal input on the panel's report are Culture, Arts and Heritage Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Nazri Aziz and Home Minister Datuk Seri Radzi Sheikh Ahmad.
-- BERNAMA
Was it due to Bersih? or was it due to Sultan's disquiet? Or maybe the general election is round the corner...
Anyway, this will be the right move to "bersihkan" the judiciary system in my beloved country...Malaysia, tanahairku...
other related reports
政府根据三人小组建议设皇委会调查司法丑闻
首相宣布设皇委会查司法影片下周内阁会议决定人选和范围
26 October 2007
25 October 2007
Uncle Lim
He's gone, did he take anything with him? Did he leave anything behind? Yes and no..The old man "Uncle Lim" as he was fondly called was known for his wealth and "kingdom", but as SC Cheong put it in MCMC Forum, 可惜他还没有信主....(he didn't know Jesus)....
Below is one of the best article written by 鄭丁賢 of Sin Chew
very good, it makes you THINK and REFLECT.....read on
"從一個老人逝世談起"
一個非常，非常富有的老人家逝世了。
很多人，從達官貴人，到市井小民，都抬頭45度，仰望這位老者的影子。
45度斜角，如果方向正確，正好可以看到那個白天雲霧裊繞，夜間粼光閃閃的山頭。
老人就是從那兒發跡。
確是有過人之處。今天，一條媲美收費大道的公路，將國內外火山孝子日以繼夜都送到山頂，累積了富可敵國的財富。
這都和老人的毅力、意志、遠見，以及長袖善舞有直接關係。
這是老人的個人成就，從金錢和商業的角度，國內無人能出其右。爾後長眠高原上涼風習習，群峰環繞的墓園，猶能仰天長笑，餘音在谷中盤旋。
山腳下的凡夫俗子，又是如何評價老人？
可能有點複雜。
人，終其一生，追求的是甚麼？成功是甚麼？財富是甚麼？幸福又是甚麼？
資本主義商業社會的“顯學”，會告訴大家說：人生是一種投資，製造財富是一種驅動；兩者融合，就是成功人生。
渾渾噩噩的紅塵眾生，羨慕之餘，也想學老人賺到金山銀山般的財富，絡繹不絕的上山朝拜，然而，絕大部份卻是繳盡學費，最終學藝未成，敗興而歸。
在早期的遊牧社會，人類逐水草而居，維持基本的溫飽就足夠了，一片草原的草遲早都要吃光，要遷移時哪帶得走這許多身外物。
進入農業社會，人類定居下來，思維也稍微改變。人們需要儲蓄一些糧食雜物，以便在收成不好時，積穀防饑，於是，累積一些財富，成為生活的需要。
到了工業時代，經過資本主義狂潮洗禮，累積財富成為生存的目的，人們耗畢生精力追逐財富和伴隨而來的名利地位和權力。
然而，財富的真正意義又在哪裡？
這讓我想到巴菲特。有人稱他為股神，這也沒有不對，在商業社會，能夠在財富堆裡呼風喚雨，來去自如，就是神。
但是，人們沒有想到，在他有生之年，他把個人大部份的財富，300億美金，約是1000億令吉，捐了出去。
他甚至沒有要求這筆捐款，要以他的名字為紀念。300億美金，是投入其他人為名的基金之下，好像和他沒有關係了。
這筆龐大的金錢，將流到全球最貧苦，最需要求助的地方，尤其是非洲。
在西方文化中，追求財富是資本主義的特質；但是，它只是一個方式，以及一個過程，而不是終極的目的，換句話說，它不是生命的最重要部份。
得到財富之後，如何應用財富，才是智慧。
財富可以豐富人生，讓個人和家族改善生活。這一點，沒有人不知道。
但是，西方人看得更遠，在滿足生活之後，就要豐盛生命。
生命的豐盛，是要讓其他人能夠分享，得到滋潤。
幾乎所有西方的富豪，都有慈善基金，或是蓋大學、建圖書館、辦醫院、設立研究中心……
財富的意義，從美化個人的生命，擴大到造福社會人群，意義完全不同了。
在華人社會，這種觀念，還未成形。
確實有一些企業家熱心公益，在累積一定的財富之後，回饋社會。這種仁風義舉，的確應該受到表揚。
然而，比較起來，他們捐獻的數目，與留給家族的遺產，往往不成比例。
局部的捐獻，缺乏生命的深度。善款固然能夠協助一些貧病孤苦的個體之需，或是為教育和福利盡一分力，但是，卻不能完整傳達財富的價值和意義。
財富的累積，和財富的意義必須找到交集，生命才會豐盛。財聚財散，如花開花落，雲展雲舒，這才是幸福。 （星洲日報/情在人間•作者：鄭丁賢2007.10.24）
As Heart2Heart remember what the Wise man have said:
TO GET MONEY IS DIFFICULT, TO KEEP IT MORE DIFFICULT, BUT TO SPEND IT WISELY MOST DIFFICULT OF ALL!
It remind me of these questions?
Am I managing my money as God's possession, not mine? Am I following spiritual principles of complete honesty, honoring God by donating first to his work?
Let'us reflect and ACTS on that...God bless you!
Below is one of the best article written by 鄭丁賢 of Sin Chew
very good, it makes you THINK and REFLECT.....read on
"從一個老人逝世談起"
一個非常，非常富有的老人家逝世了。
很多人，從達官貴人，到市井小民，都抬頭45度，仰望這位老者的影子。
45度斜角，如果方向正確，正好可以看到那個白天雲霧裊繞，夜間粼光閃閃的山頭。
老人就是從那兒發跡。
確是有過人之處。今天，一條媲美收費大道的公路，將國內外火山孝子日以繼夜都送到山頂，累積了富可敵國的財富。
這都和老人的毅力、意志、遠見，以及長袖善舞有直接關係。
這是老人的個人成就，從金錢和商業的角度，國內無人能出其右。爾後長眠高原上涼風習習，群峰環繞的墓園，猶能仰天長笑，餘音在谷中盤旋。
山腳下的凡夫俗子，又是如何評價老人？
可能有點複雜。
人，終其一生，追求的是甚麼？成功是甚麼？財富是甚麼？幸福又是甚麼？
資本主義商業社會的“顯學”，會告訴大家說：人生是一種投資，製造財富是一種驅動；兩者融合，就是成功人生。
渾渾噩噩的紅塵眾生，羨慕之餘，也想學老人賺到金山銀山般的財富，絡繹不絕的上山朝拜，然而，絕大部份卻是繳盡學費，最終學藝未成，敗興而歸。
在早期的遊牧社會，人類逐水草而居，維持基本的溫飽就足夠了，一片草原的草遲早都要吃光，要遷移時哪帶得走這許多身外物。
進入農業社會，人類定居下來，思維也稍微改變。人們需要儲蓄一些糧食雜物，以便在收成不好時，積穀防饑，於是，累積一些財富，成為生活的需要。
到了工業時代，經過資本主義狂潮洗禮，累積財富成為生存的目的，人們耗畢生精力追逐財富和伴隨而來的名利地位和權力。
然而，財富的真正意義又在哪裡？
這讓我想到巴菲特。有人稱他為股神，這也沒有不對，在商業社會，能夠在財富堆裡呼風喚雨，來去自如，就是神。
但是，人們沒有想到，在他有生之年，他把個人大部份的財富，300億美金，約是1000億令吉，捐了出去。
他甚至沒有要求這筆捐款，要以他的名字為紀念。300億美金，是投入其他人為名的基金之下，好像和他沒有關係了。
這筆龐大的金錢，將流到全球最貧苦，最需要求助的地方，尤其是非洲。
在西方文化中，追求財富是資本主義的特質；但是，它只是一個方式，以及一個過程，而不是終極的目的，換句話說，它不是生命的最重要部份。
得到財富之後，如何應用財富，才是智慧。
財富可以豐富人生，讓個人和家族改善生活。這一點，沒有人不知道。
但是，西方人看得更遠，在滿足生活之後，就要豐盛生命。
生命的豐盛，是要讓其他人能夠分享，得到滋潤。
幾乎所有西方的富豪，都有慈善基金，或是蓋大學、建圖書館、辦醫院、設立研究中心……
財富的意義，從美化個人的生命，擴大到造福社會人群，意義完全不同了。
在華人社會，這種觀念，還未成形。
確實有一些企業家熱心公益，在累積一定的財富之後，回饋社會。這種仁風義舉，的確應該受到表揚。
然而，比較起來，他們捐獻的數目，與留給家族的遺產，往往不成比例。
局部的捐獻，缺乏生命的深度。善款固然能夠協助一些貧病孤苦的個體之需，或是為教育和福利盡一分力，但是，卻不能完整傳達財富的價值和意義。
財富的累積，和財富的意義必須找到交集，生命才會豐盛。財聚財散，如花開花落，雲展雲舒，這才是幸福。 （星洲日報/情在人間•作者：鄭丁賢2007.10.24）
As Heart2Heart remember what the Wise man have said:
TO GET MONEY IS DIFFICULT, TO KEEP IT MORE DIFFICULT, BUT TO SPEND IT WISELY MOST DIFFICULT OF ALL!
It remind me of these questions?
Am I managing my money as God's possession, not mine? Am I following spiritual principles of complete honesty, honoring God by donating first to his work?
Let'us reflect and ACTS on that...God bless you!
11 October 2007
Your Roadmap to Success
My sister Angeline finished this book in a very short time and ask me for more books. I told her "1 step at a time, you are not the lengchai aka rocketman...:p"...looks like she really benefited from the book!! Oh Yes!!So I thought it's good to share with you guys one of the best book by John Maxwell (an America's expert on leadership, founder of the INJOY Group, an organization dedicated to helping people maximize their personal and leadership potential.) who have written twenty-five books, including "The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership", "Failing Forward", "Developing the Leader Within You", and The "21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader".
May be this book can help you To Get There from Here, especially my another sister who seems to be very troubled by many things - their performance, by many questions thrown at her, by many unsuccessful events/trips - and as a result of that have to eat-2-live & growing very healthily lately... hehe!
ok, okay, lets get back to our review...:p
Defining success is a difficult task. Most people equate it with wealth, power, and happiness. However, true success is not a thing you acquire or achieve. Rather, it is a journey you take your whole life long.
In a refreshingly straightforward style, John Maxwell shares unique insights into what it means to be successful. And he reveals a definition that puts genuine success within your reach yet motivates you to keep striving for your dreams.
He shows that the keys to success are:
- Knowing Your Purpose In Life
- Growing To Your Maximum Potential
- Sowing Seeds That Benefit Other
As the author put it in his foreword: "I want to help you discover your personal road map for success, teach you what it means to be on the success journey, answer many of your questions, and equip you with what you'll need to change yourself and keep growing."
So, to many of you "young dreamers" who aspire to succeed in life, go and grab one at about RM23++ at MPH, NOW!
7 October 2007
Build to Last!
Today, our church MCMC launched the "Arise and Build" to buy next door unit at a price of RM320K. All together we want to raise RM420K in 6 months (RM320K + RM100K renovation funds). We believe in our God-Jehovah Jireh-the Provider and once again we will put our faith in Him to provide the RM420K from October 2007 to March 2007. He provided the money the last time when we raised RM600K in 2 years for our current building. read here
So, this time again, we believe our God is a Great Paymaster, and He never fails....because in Him we trust! and When God’s work is done in God’s way for God’s glory, it will not lack for God’s supply! (
"And my God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus." （Phil 腓 4：19）
The use of debt to build or expand the outreach of a church is so common a practice today that even to challenge the idea can create an air of animosity. However, just because a practice is normal does not mean it is scriptural or best.
It should be noted that most churches repay their indebtedness according to contract. So the discussion is not whether a church can repay (they must) but whether churches should borrow even if they can repay.
Is borrowing prohibited?
Church borrowing is an emotional and controversial topic. When the time comes to fund building programs or expansions, too many ministry leaders immediately call a bond company or make an appointment with a commercial loan officer at the bank.
Why do churches so frequently borrow to fund expansion? In many cases, they feel they have no other alternative. Church leaders too often feel trapped and resort to borrowing out of a sense of desperation.
Borrowing is not prohibited in Scripture. It is discouraged. There are no positive references to borrowing, but there are explicit warnings to avoid it. “The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower becomes the lender’s slave” (Proverbs 22:7).
Thus God’s Word indicates that an unnecessary authority is created by borrowing, plus borrowing denies God’s people the opportunity to experience His blessings (see 2 Corinthians 9:10).
Scripture points out four precedents concerning borrowing:
- Borrowing is always presented in the negative (see Proverbs 17:18).
- God never made a promise to anyone and then fulfilled it through a loan or debt (see Luke 6:38).
- God promised His people that if they would obey His commandments they wouldn’t have to borrow (see Deuteronomy 28:12).
- God had worship structures built at least three times in the Bible, and no credit was used.
How borrowing affects ministry
The philosophy of the day says to have it all now. This mind-set causes serious problems in the local church.
Members who are accustomed to making large purchases using personal credit carry that same belief system and practice into their churches. This has caused many local congregations to assume staggering amounts of debt that has resulted in high debt-service payments.
Many of these debts cut deeply into ministry resources to the extent that staffing needs and other opportunities have to be set aside in order to pay the mortgage.
A debt within the church restricts the ability of the members to serve God. Quite often, ministry decisions are based on the need to meet the debt payments rather than to fund current ministry needs.
Without a doubt, overly ambitious building programs have caused more stress in churches than any other financial endeavor. Many building programs have pursued what has been termed “architectural evangelism.” It is felt that a large, ornate sanctuary will draw people to the church. But at what cost?
Almost everyone agrees that the local church consists of more than simply bricks and mortar. But, then again, almost every church spends a great deal of time, energy, and money on buildings.
Huge portions of church collections go to meet interest payments. This money could be used to further God’s kingdom, rather than the world’s. Some major denominations spend more on interest payments than on foreign missions.
The need to build
There are some essential questions that need to be answered before spending church resources on building or expansion programs.
- What is the true motive for building or expansion? Is it based on a real or a perceived need (a want)? Is money for building going to be spent to the detriment of missions or essential ministry programs? The Great Commission never said anything about highly leveraged building programs.
- What effect will borrowing have on the cash flow of the church? When a church has a mortgage, the mortgage holder must get his portion first—before pastor, utilities, or missions are paid. In essence, a mortgage reorders all of the church’s priorities.
The mortgage must be paid first; everything else comes next, regardless of how the church feels God has called them to minister.
- Is God backing the decision? If God is backing the program, He will bring the funds in without the church having to borrow.
Raising money needs to be low-key and all funds need to be on hand before any construction begins.
- Is God the designer? If God is backing the project and He brings in the amount of money that is needed for the construction effort, the size and the cost of the building effort will be determined by how much God brings in, not by what a building committee says is needed.
Alternative to borrowing
There is an alternative to borrowing: generous giving by God’s people.
Christians need to give in a generous, joyous, God-first, servant-minded, self-sacrificial way, in proportion to their incomes.
Yet when challenged to give up personal desires in favor of contributing to the work and expansion of churches, too many American Christians say no.
This is not the giving attitude that is powerfully and consistently taught throughout the New Testament. If Christians would give as God clearly instructs them to, there never would be a need for churches to borrow.
Conclusion
Although it is not a sin for a church to borrow for building or expansion, it does circumvent the need to trust God.
If God is convicting the people to expand or renovate, there is enough money in each church to fund the project.
There are countless churches across America that are both large and thriving and have chosen to avoid debt. They have decided to build debt free and have delayed expanding until they could afford to do so. To these, the church is in their hearts, not in a building.
If emotion is driving a program, it probably will fail. If the desire to reach more people and show them God's love is the motivation, God will honor that attitude.
Buildings should not be built "to the glory of God," because God does not need buildings. So, if there is truly a need for expansion, the church leadership and congregation need to set aside some time to seek what God wants for the church and ask Him how the money will be provided.
6 October 2007
Ten Commandments and Me
"Sixty percent of Americans can't name five of the Ten Commandments"
- USA Today 03/07 -
Eight in ten Americans know 2 All Beef Patties are in a Big Mac, but just over four in ten (41%) can't name "Thou Shall not Kill" as one of the 10 Commandments.
- Ten Commandments Commission Study (conducted by Kelton Research 2007) -
How about You? Take the Test now, as you listen to Jeremy Camp* I am Willing...
*Camp, named 2005 Best Male Artist of the Year by Gospel Music Association, said the song "I Am Willing” is about answering to God’s call in spite of the insufficiencies one may see in himself.
“Moses had a hard time stepping out at first. He was saying to God that I'm not a very eloquent speaker,” said Camp.
But it’s important to have a “willing” attitude, said the music artist, and tell God, “But Lord, I am willing, to be whatever you want me to be — with arms stretched wide — use me as you will.”
“In our own strength we can do nothing but in his strength we can do everything,” he added.
(http://www.christiantoday.com)
1 October 2007
To all of you...
Sometime, life seems difficult and full of challenges, but we do have hope in Him.....this one for you. When you are tired, down and wanted to give up walking this path called LIFE..... don't give up because there are hope and blessing in Him at the end of the journey, push on and don't give up...
Jesus loves you and He cares.....
Footprint
Footprint - one of the very inspiring story we heard all the time, available in flash
English version
Chinese version
(p/s: don't forget to on your speaker!)
30 September 2007
Tag: The truth....and nothing but the truth...
Esther & cute little Ethan tagged me on this, week ago...(paiseh...) finally got to be truth to myself at this wee hours....
1. Do you plan to have ONE more baby after Joyce?
hehehe! I love too...Joyce, so cute right? So I asked my darling-lah....and she replied me in hokkian:"Du Kaki Se!!
"(in english means: u go and deliver one lah!!")
aiyo....If I can, then don need to ask loh! ...can mah, why not? see...they so lovely..
The truth is....YES!! but in a very positive ways loh....positive reinforcement mah!!
You know, Children are from Heaven oh! remember? of course, sometime, we let our emotion climbed over us, then all those theories will remained as theories lah....so sad.....
3. What do you do when you are free and alone?
Well, I will sneak into a cinema and watch any movies, Yes! Any movie that is on show at that point of time.
with my right hand holding popcorn, left hand with hotdog 101...YOYO!! Oh YeS!! that will be the best thing to do during free time. BTW, when was the last time I do this huh??, sad....very sad....(bwttkk must be laughing at me now from a cinema in Langkawi)4. What will you do when you retire?
You know, I always have this plan of running a retreat centre with say 10-15 guest rooms and some basic facilities for "pure retreat" purpose for people who want to go away form their daily chores. In this centre, I will be the chef and operator who can arrange and facilitate the retreat activities, they can come and just relax and enjoy the stillness and quiteness
what do you think?
26 September 2007
Selamat?
Have you seen the photos of the Walk for Justice? If you haven't, Screenshoots have a full photo journal here, read on!
These photos reminded me of our national anthem that goes like this:
Negaraku, tanah tumpahnya darahku,
Rakyat hidup, bersatu dan maju,
Rahmat bahagia, Tuhan kurniakan,
Raja kita, selamat bertakhta.
Rahmat bahagia, Tuhan kurniakan,
Raja kita, selamat bertakhta.
In English[1]:
Oh, My Motherland,
The Land where my life began,
Where people live in harmony and prosperity,
With God-given blessings of happiness,
Our King reigns in peace.
With God-given blessings of happiness,
Our King reigns in peace.
(Read here to understand why Royal Commission instead of an Independent Panel. )
Let's us sing as we always do....
Rahmat bahagia, Tuhan kurniakan,
Raja kita, selamat bertakhta.
Rahmat bahagia, Tuhan kurniakan,
Raja kita, selamat bertakhta....
Negaraku.....
Yes, with God-given blessing of happiness, let's P.U.S.H. for Malaysia also...
24 September 2007
21 September 2007
A Day No Pigs Would Die...
The 921 dateline came, but the pigs survive...they must be dancing right now...
but not for long as the state government set 4th Oct (104) as a new dateline for the pigs farmers, report here.
We saw this on 904, (via YouTube) we wouldn't see this scenario today..and we don't want to see this on 104 either...Would there be A Day No Pigs Would Die?
After 104, only 48,000 pigs will be allowed in Paya Mengkuang, why?
listen to the Pig Farmers Story, then read the State Government argument, and you decide....
but not for long as the state government set 4th Oct (104) as a new dateline for the pigs farmers, report here.
We saw this on 904, (via YouTube) we wouldn't see this scenario today..and we don't want to see this on 104 either...Would there be A Day No Pigs Would Die?
After 104, only 48,000 pigs will be allowed in Paya Mengkuang, why?
listen to the Pig Farmers Story, then read the State Government argument, and you decide....
20 September 2007
CJ's 'judgment fixing' caught on tape
Have you watch this? click and see how sad Malysian are after viewing the video clip.
Read below for context:
1. 安华公布影片揭惊人司法弊端 指大法官和律师干预司法擢升
2. 大法官曾靠陈志远游说晋升？安华公布录像揭司法界丑闻
3. Judiciary at stake: Explosive 8 minutes, 2002
4. 对话提到安华黄朱强名字 安华疑有人妨碍司法公正
5. In a fix over naming of judges
P.U.S.H. now for Malaysia!!
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