Give up

Sometimes I'll think that I'm born to give up. I gave up on so many things in life of which, now looking back, I wish I hadn't. Being Asian, it isn't a surprise to be sent for badminton lessons, swimming lessons, calligraphy classes, ballet classes, piano lessons, art classes altogether in a week. If you think that's too much to bear for a child, I have friends who went for more classes than that in a week! I really wonder how they managed it. 

As years pass, I just got so busy with life (this is the best excuse I came up with, which after all, isn't so convincing still) that I eventually quit all of these classes or lessons one after another. Now, I not only lost all my physical stamina, I wasted the opportunity to develop my talents too. I can hardly run, do laps in the pool, play the piano or guitar or paint anymore. 

I remember how mom used to tell my brother and I that she sent us for piano classes so that one day we will be able to serve in church. Back then, I didn't see the importance of that. Now, whenever I see people serving in church, a small part of me gets jealous of their talents, but a larger part of me regrets on my lack of determination.

Thinking of how God gave everyone different gifts or talents, and that I've not put them into good use, or have I tried my best to discover them, i can't help but feel guilty at times. The next time I get an opportunity, giving up is no longer an option. 

On a side note, I'm trying to pick up the guitar once again! 

Week Four

I thought I could finally have some good rest to recuperate after a busy holiday, but once again, I was wrong. Apparently, our life group was in charge of the outreach event on a few days during orientation week. I never knew that orientation can be of such importance until today. What we were to do is to help new students get around campus, get them settled down, at the same time let them know about life group, church and our events, if they are interested.

This, obviously, was WAY beyond my comfort zone. I already have issues starting a conversation with people whom I know, and now what's required of me is that I go talk to people whom I don't even know their names. Immediately, I knew I was being pushed to my limit. I hardly have the courage to even go up and talk to a random stranger, what would he or she think of me? But deep down in my heart, I knew this wasn't about me anymore, this was about God. I had to learn this, by hook or by crook.

Joy. She was standing there, looking at her map, and then looking to her left and right. That is the best way to tell that a person is lost. My partner and I walked up to her. Indeed, she needed to go to the bus stop and we walked her all the way. Along the journey, she told us how her dad came to know Christ and got baptized, while she remained an atheist. Still, we told her that God's love is for all and she is always welcomed to receive it.

Emi, a Japanese-British who is here for an exchange to do her Masters in Education; Justice, a green-haired girl who claimed that she got her name because her parents are parents are hipsters; Jie Wei, a computer science PhD student who did his Bachelors and Masters in computer science as well. Emma, Vivian, Yuki, Clarence, the list goes on. Behind every name, there are stories yet to be revealed.

Within this short period of time, I've learned so much that I wouldn't have, should I stay home all day and rot. I learnt that:
1. God works in marvelous ways. I've met people whom stay so far away from our church/life group venues that I thought they wouldn't take the trouble to travel all the way to join us. If I were them, I might have just declined the offer, but no, they seemed so keen to join! I was indeed blessed by their positive responses.
2. general knowledge is of paramount importance. I have this friend who knows almost everything, or at least, a little bit of everything, which turns out to be extremely useful to keep a conversation going.
3. it really isn't that hard to offer someone your help, even if it is a stranger. When they are desperate, and your assistance came in handy, as long as it is sincere, they usually will just accept it.
4. prayer do change things. Before setting out for the day, we prayed for divine encounter, and indeed throughout the few days, I saw God's hands moving in our midst. We met the right people at the right times at the right places and said the right things.
5. everybody has a different way of approach, but despite being different, we only have one ultimate goal, which is to show people God's love.
6. everybody has his or her own interesting story to tell, and it is indeed a privilege to be on the listening end.
7. it is not always about what you gain in return. Genuine help usually comes from within, and there can be nothing more satisfying than to see the person you've helped happy.

***

I overheard a conversation of my friend volunteering at a soup kitchen. It has always been on my to-do list, but has yet to be accomplished. And now that the opportunity is wide open in front of me, how can I miss out? During the induction session, the lady in charge warned us things that we should avoid doing or saying, and also things that might happen such as gang fights. This got me a little worried, to be really frank, what have I gotten myself into?

I was first inspired by my other friend to volunteer at soup kitchens. I remember him telling me about his experience, where he met a old man saying to another old man these exact words: 'How can you steal my cardboard box? That is my house!' To us, a cardboard box is like any other cardboard boxes, and often times mean nothing to us. To them, it is their shelter, their life, their privacy, their everything.

Newcomers get to take a ride in the van to Emma Miller Place where food will be served, so that we can experience setting up the tents and tables. 

When we arrived, those scattered around the place made a line in no time, waiting in anticipation for the food to be served. 

This was totally not what I've pictured. There was zero percent violence and hundred percent politeness. I was serving them mixed vegetables soup and I warned them that it was really hot. The response I expected to get was simply an 'oh okay', but what I got while serving these people was like as if I saved their lives. Some even said things like 'have a good day ahead' or 'thank you so much for your time spent on us' or 'such kind heart you have there to serve us'. Despite being homeless, they are grateful for what they are given and not rant about what they lack.

These people didn't want to be where they are, I believe, but life just forced them into their current situation. My heart goes out for these people. I heard there was this guy who used to be a chef at this very soup kitchen but he became homeless and couldn't bring himself to help out any more. Life is as cruel as it can be.

Every second spent with these people are worth it, they need company. More importantly, they need to experience God's love. No matter how different they might seem to us, they are just as treasured and loved in God's eyes. I didn't get to talk to many of the homeless this time round, but I did manage to have a chat with a couple of the volunteers. To know their heart is such a blessing. This, indeed, was a humbling experience. 

"The King will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brother and sisters of mine, you did for me.'"(Matthew 25:40) Amen to that! Now, I couldn't wait till the next time I get to come back.

Despite a busy holiday, I am glad that it was well-spent. 

Sydney

Day 1

I really need to start of this post by saying how overjoyed I am seeing Germany win the World Cup!! I've been supporting them ever since the 2006 World Cup and words can't describe how happy I am to see their hard work finally pay off. Not only that, Klosé even broke Ronaldo's goal records in the World Cup. They totally deserved the trophy. 

This is my first road trip with my friends in my entire life. I have mixed feelings about this trip to be honest. On the one hand, I was really looking forward to this trip. But on the other hand, after my Melbourne trip earlier this year, I don't know if I could travel in a group again. Oh well, I guess a change sometimes is good. 

Our flight to Sydney was exactly during the World Cup final, what a bummer! But we had an uneventful flight. In fact, I even maximized my time learning Japanese. I've been to Sydney 7 years ago, but surprisingly I hardly have any memories of this place. It really feels good to be touristy - getting lost, asking around and finding our way. 

Initially, we thought we missed the bus stop that we should get off the bus to get to our accommodation. Little did we know that we actually got off the stop right in front of the accommodation!

It took us FOREVER to look for a place for lunch, because everyone wanted to go to a high-class restaurant. Ironically, we ended up going to a food court. Haha so much so of wanting to have high class food. We walked down Circular Quay and randomly met this group of Germans who were still very excited about their country's victory. They asked us if we could help take pictures for them and we ended up taking a photo with them. 

We did a little bit of walking today, mainly to see the Opera House and Harbour Bridge from different angles. The most enjoyable thing I did today was the ferry ride. I love ferry rides - the wind, the scenery, the bumpy journey make it altogether fun. 

We headed off to Darling Harbour at night and tried to compensate for our lack of high-classness in the afternoon by dining at the Hard Rock Café. To be honest, I think it is overrated. But then again, I don't really have a tongue for good food anyways, so I shouldn't comment. 

Finishing my one month's quota of data right at the beginning of my trip isn't a good thing. Now, I live on other people's hotspot or free wifi zone. But I think sometimes in life, we really have to learn to let go of some things that we deem are important, but in fact are not.

I can foresee that this trip is going to be very different from any other trip that I have had in the past, because different people have different priorities. But I shall treat this as another learning opportunity, to get used to living with people. 

Day 2

Zoo. I really don't know what to think about today. As you can tell, I'm not an animal person. I can drive all day seeing scenery or visiting historical buildings or museums or art galleries (although I don't really appreciate artworks, I still enjoy seeing them), but food and animals are completely out of my usuals. 

We had the option of Taronga Zoo or Madame Tussaud's wax museum, and obviously we all went for the zoo. The zoo was HUGE, I'm not even exaggerating. The animals were so adorable. You'd think that only the plush toy manufacturers make their products look cute. But no, in real life, those animals are jut as cute! The reactions of little kids when they see the animals are even more priceless. What made the trip fun was the company I had. We are real good commentators when we want to be, lol. 

There were too many animals exhibited that after a while I gave up taking pictures. I also enjoyed the seal show very much. It really made me realize how wonderful God's creations are, from the tiniest microorganisms till the largest animals. Sadly, we didn't get to see a platypus. 

We headed to the Bird Cage Alley after that, but unfortunately, by then, the sky was already too dark for any decent photos to be taken.

Queen Victoria Building was our next destination. Boy, the architecture in there are just so delicate, giving the entire building a classy and majestic look. And obviously, this is quite a posh place, with shops of many branded goods. 

Isn't it amazing that no matter how far away from China you go, you'll still be able to find a Chinatown somewhere? Funny how we get tired of western food so easily that we resolve with Chinese food eventually, despite growing up with Chinese food for practically our entire lives. 

On our way home, our bus stop was directly in front of the Anzac War Memorial, so I went over to have a look at it's outside. This, is the kind of things I will appreciate. To whoever who gave up their lives in various battles, you guys are the heroes. Lest we forget. 

Day 3

We finally had our mandatory beach day today! I realized that I can't go with a holiday trip without a day at the beach. It was super gloomy (and drizzling) when we left our accommodation. We totally had no idea how to get from our place to Bondi beach, and the bus driver, being grumpy and unfriendly, did not make our journey any easier. Good thing we met an elderly who so happen was heading toward the same direction who gave us directions to our destination. 

I hate it when beach days are gloomy. Somehow, it changes the entire mood of the environment. I couldn't be any happier when the clouds finally disappear.

I think Asians are born with the photo-taking genes. We spent close to four hours at the beach, and we didn't even go for a swim or surf or picnic. The only thing we did was posing and taking pictures, tons of them. I have to say that the view was breath-taking, though, and worth the pictures taken. I'm glad my 'craving' was satisfied. Beach day, checked. 

By the time we had lunch, it was almost sunset. I hate how we have such short day light time during winter. However, a visit to The University of Sydney is still a must. Whoever said that USyd is pretty, they aren't lying. The main building gives a tinge of ancientness to the modern buildings surrounding it. The sad thing was that my phone memory was full and I had no choice but to organize a massive deletion of photos, else I won't be able to take more pictures. 

A Taiwanese dinner was a good way to end the day. On a random note, we managed to brave the 10 centigrade weather in shorts, people must have thought that we were crazy, but who cares? 

Day 4

Seven years ago, I see people on the train all with newspapers or books in their hands while on public transport. Seven years later, which is now, I see people with electronic devices in their hands. Times have changed, life goes on.

Sometimes I wonder how life would be without public transport. In my mini 'voyages' around Australia, I have been so dependent on trains, buses, trams and ferries that I've forgotten how tough life was back home where public transport isn't the most convenient mode of transport. Moreover, long rides is one of the efficient means for me to slow down my pace in life, reflect, and analyse. 

Today, I revisited the place with thousand memories - Blue Mountains. We took the train down to Katoomba Valley. Note to self: one day, I will have to hop on a scenic train, at least once in my life.

Somehow, I still have vivid memories of my previous trip to Blue Mountains. The panorama up in the mountains is exhilarating. The wind was blowing so hard that there were times we felt like we're being blown off the ground. The Three Sisters still stood faithfully as it did seven years ago. 

I finally get to go on the world steepest train again! Well, it definitely was a fun ride. Thank God that the weather was perfect while we were there because it started raining after we left Blue Mountains National Park. It feels good to be back.

Day 5

We woke up with the news of MH17 being shot down by a missile at the Ukraine-Russia border. This is the second tragedy Malaysian Airlines had to face in less than half a year. The stories of the innocent souls keep haunting me as I see news after news, pictures after pictures of these people on social media. They didn't deserve what they experienced, and my heart goes to all those lives and their families. 

I am not a foodie but when it comes to fish, I go crazy. We went to Sydney Fish Market today and just the sight of all the seafood alone made my day. You can say I'm easy to please. I had salmon, calamari and scallop for lunch. Man, I really wish I could buy more and bring home some. I never thought I would miss seafood so much.

We didn't have any plans for the rest of the day so we decided to walk around the city. We had an impromptu visit to a playground and had tonnes of fun there. Swings are still my best friend. Back home in Malaysia, only those who are 12 and below are allowed to play in playgrounds. 

Day 6

We had no plans at all today so we randomly jumped off a bus, walked around city aimlessly till we found a place we felt like having lunch. This went on till dinner. Or I should say, tea break, because we came across Pancake on The Rocks and we were all up for a sugar rush, so we went in. The pancakes were pretty good, to be honest, but after a while, you get really tired of them. Fireworks at Darling Harbour was a perfect end to our entire Sydney trip. 

Indeed, this wasn't the kind of trip I was looking for. We spent more time on food, sitting back and chatting than anything else. In fact, it was the most relaxing trip I've had in a long time. There are still tonnes on my bucket list that has yet to be accomplished - Blue Mountains hike, Coogee to Bondi Beach walk, Sydney Opera House tour, Harbour Bridge climb and also Pylon Lookout. Oh well, I guess I will have to make another trip here again. However, I was glad I still came for it because only then I get to spend more time with this bunch of lovely people. After all, it's another whole new experience for me. 

Our 'pre-return party' which starred apple cider and Cluedo turned out to be a failure because everyone, including myself, were too preoccupied with our phones. But oh well, it was a fun trip indeed. 

Now, I'm on a plane heading home to reality. Boy, am I not excited for school again. 

Peace out from all of us!

Power 14

My life group mates asked me about my expectations towards this year's Oceania Convention, and I don't know what to reply. This is the second time I've attended a conference, and I wasn't told that we need to have expectations towards such things. Now, I realize that that wasn't just a lousy excuse, but also a colossal mistake. After my experience, I can safely say that not knowing what you want from attending a conference is equal to not having your heart prepared for God to make changes in you. I went in empty, and I came out as empty as before.

During prayer on the first night, I felt a gush of heat running through my spine, from top to bottom, but I didn't know what that was. Later, on the second day, pastor Randy Clark explained that heat and energy usually implicates healing. And for the second time, I felt that heat again during prayers, and I was comforted by God's presence. 

Randy Clark taught us about words of knowledge about people's situations when we pray for them. It is amazing to see how God uses different people for different purposes by granting them different gifts. 

At night, when Pastor Randy prayed for the floor to ask for impartation of the Holy Spirit, I see many manifestations. Though I wasn't shocked, simply because I've come prepared, I was rather disappointed when I wasn't one of them, to be honest. I felt as if God was very distant. More so when I heard others' testimonies or stories about their experience. I know I shouldn't be having that feeling, but I couldn't help it. However, at the same time, I rejoice for those who have had an encounter with God.

The next day, during the healing rally, I invited a few of my friends to join us. It was a whole new experience for me and for them, and I was glad that their response were positive, too. I believe, the journey is still long and this is just the beginning. God's presence could be sensed in the hall, and He was performing miracles after miracles. 

My experience of this year's OC is rather uneventful, but I've learned my lesson: never come unprepared. 

Western Australia, Part One

Day 1

We arrived at Perth extremely early in the morning. On a random note, the Netherlands beat Mexico in Round 16!! Ever since we went to New Zealand last year, my family had been loyal YHA members. 

We set out to the north along the Indian Ocean Drive, heading towards Nambung National Park. Along the way, we stopped at several places, one being Lancelin. It is a small town famous for sandboarding. My virgin sandboarding experience was in 2007, and ever since, I've always wanted to sandboard again. After 7 years, my dream finally came true! 

Ah so much memories. The view from on top the sandune was so pretty. 

It literally takes forever to climb up the hill and five seconds to slide down.

The sandboarding experience ended with my hands and feet rubbing against the coarse surface and bleeding non-stop. Not the best experience, but still, I'm a happy girl. 

We continued up north to the Pinnacles. It was such a gloomy day that it is almost impossible to get nice pictures. The second disappointment is that I was expecting the Pinnacles to be bigger in size than what I saw. 

Yeap, this was it. I was expecting something more spectacular. But oh well. I managed to see a pretty sunset at the Indian Ocean though. And that marks the end of day 1. 

Day 2

Today is gonna be a long day. We have at least 10 hours of driving to do. It started off with a nice, short trail walk up to the foot of Lesmurdie Falls. Based on the amount of water at just the foot, I reckon that it will be something quite majestic up at the cascade. Sadly, we didn't have enough time to trail up to the head of the falls. 

We stopped by at the historical town of York on our way. The place is so small that the flour mill, which was once a big thing back then, had closed down. Even the cafe and gallery, even the toilets! LOL. But it was a pretty place, quiet and peaceful. The buildings along the Main Street make the town all the more worth visiting. 

Next stop, Hyden. This is where the famous Wave Rock is located. Upon arriving, we realized that there are so many more places to see around that area. We stopped at Mulka's cave, which has legend behind it. There was the Hippo's Yawn, of which I didn't manage to get a picture of because I was too busy with my brother's camera. 

Behold, this is the Wave Rock. Ah how dashing it is. 

The view from the top is simply spectacular. 

It feels like the dessert from the top. 

We managed to stop by Lake Magic on our way out. It is so clear it reminded me of Mirror Lake in New Zealand. 

Sometimes I really wish I can take pictures with just my eyes. Somebody's gotta invent that technology soon. The stars in the sky were so pretty. My brother taught me how to distinct a few horoscopes. 

On a side note, this is the first time I drove in Australia. The feeling of driving after being car-deprived (I totally just made that word up) for four months is the best!

Day 3

100% chance of rain, says the weather forecast. I don't usually check the weather forecast, but this, definitely isn't good news. And indeed, it rained. We headed up to Mount Melville that oversees Albany. The view will definitely be better if it wasn't raining. So this was all we saw. 

My brother was too smart that he decided to take a different route back to the carpark. We ended up getting further and further into the forest, not forgetting the pouring rain, and came out at the opposite side of the mountain. Soaking wet, we sought for help from an employee of the only workshop in sight. Such a Good Samaritan he was to give us a ride back to our car. 

Off we went to Torndirrup National Park. It was indeed a blessing to be able to witness such natural wonders. And the sky cleared up right when we got there. Perfect timing! The pictures below are The Gap and Natural Bridge respectively. We also went to a blowhole, but sadly, the waves weren't high enough for a picture. 

Up next, Williams Bay it is. The wind was so strong that I really felt like I was being blown away. It even made walking a huge challenge. There was the Elephant Rock and the Greens Pool. Goodness overload in a day. 

A walk in the Ancient Empire and Valley of the Giants, in the rain again, to end the day. There were some pretty cool-looking trees that were burnt down in a huge fire yet still survived till today. 

Day 4

Six centigrade. Climbing the 63m Gloucester Tree on metal pegs with bare hands. Not be the best thing to do early in the morning when the wind is strong, but we made it to the top! Initially the height looked so intimidating, but once we were on our way, we just kept going on (also because there wasn't an option for us to chicken out halfway through).

 

We stopped by Beedelup Falls on our way. Bibbulman Trail seems to be everywhere. It is a 1000km trail from Albany all the way to Perth. 1000km, that's insane. One must really have a lot of stamina and determination to complete the entire trail. It always amazes me how people discover these trails, when technology was yet to be so advanced back then. 

The day just got more exciting. We headed to Cape Leeuwin, the most south-westerly point in Australia. I'm glad we actually did the tour up the lighthouse, it was really informative. It never dawned on me that a lighthouse keeper's role is that significant. Being a soon-to-be engineer, it got me thinking about how these people came across the idea to build a sophisticated lighthouse back in the 1890s. 

This is the cape that separates the Southern Ocean and the Indian Ocean. Or I should say, this is where the Southern Ocean and the Indian Ocean meet. I think I can stay out all day watching the ocean. 

We went to Mammoth Cave next, since my brother said we've seen too much of the ocean this trip. Caves always marvels me, it's the most fantastic and brilliant display of nature's works. Stalactites and stalagmites, straws and columns, never fails to amaze me. 

And also, I love the sun (very much) if you haven't known yet. Especially sunsets and sunrises. They are the best.  

All today, my brother and I have been talking about my sister. How we used to tease her and how she would respond to all our annoyance. We concluded that trips without her are so different. Oh how I miss that little kid. 

At night, we had fish and chips for dinner at Cicerello's in Fremantle. To be honest, I personally find the food there rather mediocre. After dinner, we took a stroll down the main streets of Fremantle, as well as along the beach. It indeed is a nice place to be. 

Day 5

Usually people leave the best for the last, but after a whole strand of scenic tours back to back, I find Perth city itself rather boring. There really isn't much that interest me here, no offense. We headed to the cultural centre where the state library, state theatre, art gallery and museum are located. 

Sometimes, I don't understand art. 

But at the same time, there were some displays that are really worth the visit. 

I noticed that parents or schools bring a lot of the children to visit the cultural centre, be it the museum, library or art gallery. It was a rather comforting sight, but at the same time, it got me thinking about what parents and schools back home do with the kids during holidays or free time. Nowadays, majority from the younger generation are so engrossed with techy stuff that they don't appreciate good knowledge anymore. I'm speaking for myself too, and it's time for a paradigm shift.

There was an exhibition hall in the museum that displays the history of aborigines in Western Australia. This is not the first time I've seen stories about aborigines or initial inhabitants of the land being oppressed by colonists. In fact, almost every museums I've been to have such displays, regardless of which country it was. It's really heart-breaking to see such violence, cruelty and discrimination. Many a time, it just highlights how strong and form these aborigines stand on their own culture and beliefs, refusing to succumb to unwelcomed authorities. I'm glad that today, such injustice has been reduced all around the world, but also sad to see evil transforming to other forms, such as child abuse and human trafficking. 

Although there weren't as much million-dollar scenery to see in the city, I indeed learned a lot today. Good information/knowledge that gets me thinking. 

We caught a bus to the University of Western Australia for a tour around the campus. Nothing beats the University of Queensland. Yet. Proud to be a UQ student. The historical buildings on this campus are remarkable, but other than that, it looks rather old. 

Sadly, they had an antique exhibition in the Winthrop Hall, or else we could have gone in and up the clock tower. They said the architecture on the inside is spendid. 

It just had to rain on our way up to King's Park. They say it's the best place to get a view of the entire Perth CBD. Unfortunately, we didn't manage to see that due to the thick clouds. Even the night view wasn't that great, but at least, it was better than nothing.

Today, while I was in the museum, I overheard the conversation of two Italians. The younger lady was translating the explanation on the displays to an older lady, while the older lady repeats whatever the former said. Also, at King's Park, I also encountered another two Italian talking about the rainy weather and about the locations of several buildings in the city. I'm glad that I can still catch part of the conversations, but I reckon it is time for me to polish up my rusty Italian. Note to self. 

This marks the end of our Western Australia trip. So long, for now. I will definitely come back one day. There are just so many places yet to be explored in this beautiful state. 

Till the next time!