Saturday, November 18, 2006 . 1:50 PM

Part 3 of 3: renewed

To all far-off family and friends,

Peering through the same window out of my room, I realized so much have changed over the course of 3 months… yes, 3 months already!!! No longer do I see the same luscious greenery out from my window. Instead, the trees outside have all lost their crown of glory. No longer do I feel the warmth of the morning sun radiating into my room - only the waft of the morning air that chills into my bone. The exuberance of summer has evolved into a seemingly lifeless and cold winter over the span of 3 months. Yes, merely 3 months. That leaves me wondering, how I too, have changed over the course of 3 months - just like the season and the trees.

I intended to name this entry “renewal”, as “renewed” has the ‘finality’ connotation. You know, “renewed” – with “-ed”– as in done, finished, completed, period, THE END? No…. it’s not the end, but yes, this is the end to my 3 part series – from rebirth to reformation to being 'renewed'.

Throughout my 3 months here, I’ve learnt so much to depend on God - everything big and small, major or minor. I would consider myself much of a “worry-wart” (satisfies Rey’s definition). Sometimes I really do worry a lot for nothing – and for most time, I find my fear unfounded. “For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline." – 2 Timothy 1:7. This may sound silly, or even weird, but sometimes I talk to God when I walk to classes, and the first thing that comes to my mind whenever I encounter a problem would be to pause and say a prayer. I must admit that never before have I relied on Him so much… Even so, there’s still so much room for growth. Like a pastor once said, it’s easy to be a Christian but it ain’t easy being a Christian. Things sometimes do not really turn out my way, but I’m glad to know that God has given me the motivation to carry on and has granted me wisdom to accept things I can’t change – to be able to trust in His sovereignty and wait on Him to reveal His plans to me. Granted, temptations still lurk nearby, waiting to ensnare me, to compel me to conform to the ways of this world. But I’m comforted – as I’m no longer held slavery to sin. Instead, I run away from what makes me fall, for I’ve become quick to discern between what is good and evil, and am able turn to Him in all circumstances, good times or bad times. Truly, the joy is inexplicable and it’s my prayer that you too may experience the joy I have in Christ. No doubt, the journey isn’t going to be an easy one, but take heart – God’s with you. And to say I’ve been “renewed” over these 3 months would be an exaggeration at best and utmost foolish at worst, for the renewal doesn’t end till the Day approaches. Everyone is on a journey in this life… I’m still on mine… Have you found yours?

And so, that said, this WAS me!!! hahahahaaaahhhaa


Ok, on a more light-hearted note!! I’ll be going to Door County, Wisconsin, for a long weekend get-away this Thanksgiving! Hoorah!!! 4 hours drive up North! Haha…. Phew, after such a loooonnngg wait. We’ll be staying in a log cabin, and will prolly set a bonfire – you know, like those you see on the movies? Those wooden houses with a bonfire with Christmassy socks hanging just about everywhere around the brick-red fireplace? Heard it’s really scenic as we’ll be chilling just beside Lake Superior (one of the Great Lakes)! Be sure to check back here for pictures (more pics at my online gallery)!

All the best for those preparing for their exams *gasps, oh no! Not the exams!!* !! 加油！がんばって! Bonne chance! Viel Glueck! Buena suerte! Am keeping you all in prayers!!!

And to family dearest, till Wednesday! *muacks* Hahahahahahaha…. I miss cakes!


With love,
dash