Wednesday, December 30

Christmas has come and gone. Personally, this Christmas season was a time of building and strengthening relationships. My mum has been on leave for the past 2 weeks and I had more opportunity to spend time with her as well as my sis who is on holiday. Just being able to hang out together was something I treasure and appreciate. With the KL trip, camp and the gatherings, I've got to make new friends whom I'm keeping contact with now and strengthening bonds with people whom I wasn't as close with previously.

I recognize how God has placed different people in my life, to play different roles and for me to know how to relate to the different people. I am very much blessed during this season as I receive this joy simply with the company of these friends. Even as the year comes to a close, I pray that these friendships and ties can be sealed and even strengthened further in the new year ahead, especially during my overseas trip.

jel; 1:28 pm

Thursday, December 17

was on the bus today when an elderly man sitting beside me started a conversation with me. He started with complaining about one of the car drivers and went on to talk about other topics, from universities to jobs to getting into relationships. I was pretty startled in the beginning and out of respect, I continued to listen. It was more of a one-way conversation with him talking most of the time. Gradually I was pretty amused at how the conversation started and continued for so long.

I figured that he belongs to this category of retired elders who do not have much to do during the day and have lack of company to chat with, so I became the willing listening ear to hear him share about stories of the past. It was pretty insightful to hear from such stories, considering that I am very much into heritage. Don't usually get to hear from first-hand experiences, so today was considered as a chanced opportunity.

jel; 8:45 pm

Tuesday, December 15

it has been a week of rejuvenation and refreshment for me as I spent the week in Phuket and KL. Two separate trips, two separate experiences. Phuket for me was a cosy and relaxing affair. No big plans, not travelling, just a time of relaxing under the sun, doing some reading and reflection, together with just a good buddy loke with me on this trip. Love the weather there, love the fact that even though i'm not far from Singapore yet with so many Caucasians there, i feel like i'm somewhere far. Will love to visit Phuket again in future for the many activities and sightseeing at the lovely landmarks.

KL was a different experience. Extended time spent with the spiritual family-building upon existing relationships and making new ones as well. Contrast with Phuket, this was a big family affair, coming together to enjoy the time together corporately. Thankful for this time, especially with my roommate benny. Had quality time getting to know him personally, beyond the lame and crappy behaviour.

Indeed, such times are hard to come by and I give thanks to God for all these precious moments. May the rest of this holiday break be a time of building and restoring of relationships with family and friends.

jel; 9:38 am