Bukit Tabur....excellent

Some time before the explosion of the the third wave of Covid-19 in the country, my family and I  were most fortunate to spend some time with some families for our yearly getaway vacation together. Four families including ours managed to pamper ourselves at an ABNB place at Bukit Tabur, Selangor.

To me, it was one of the most looked forward holidays together with great friends and families. What was unique about this holiday and with these families , was that plans would be made, discussed, meet-ups and imagination will go wild ranging from the tip of Johor to the tip of Perlis including Sabah and Sarawak! Despite all the wild sharing of experiences, tales and fickleness, everything will turn out alright. I am serious when I say everything will turn out alright; just like this trip to Bukit Tabur. There was really plenty of excitement when plans were drawn and responsibilities were allocated. It was just as exciting as per all the trips we have done thus far and it was a really good outing as usual. 

Upon arrival at our ABNB accommodations, I applaud the owners for trying to keep this place as authentic as they could. Nice, cool and lovely place amidst the green lush vegetation of semi-jungle setting and hill top scenery overlooking the township. After settling nicely in our "home" for the day, we set out to enjoy ourselves at the nearby river. It was really a fun time for the children and adult alike to dip into the cold, cool moving river waters. It was really a refreshing change of environment and a good time of rest and relax for the menfolk who had been hard at work. As for the ladies, it was the break that they needed amidst the lush massaging waters as one lays between the naturally piled rocks and flowing waters. 

I could have sworn that I could have rested there the whole day if I could. However, BBQ dinner hastened us back to our home for the day as we made preparations for a good BBQ dinner. That night, e had BBQ lamb, beef and chicken. The food was really good including the chicken curry ordered by Dinesh for our diner which was brought all the way from Melaka. Dinner was fantastic and everyone ate their hearts content. Cobs of corn, sweet potatoes, tau kees, fish balls and a spread of goodness were there for all to savour and digest! "Monkey Shoulder " was thrown in to "liven up" the whole situation as we wind down for the day with some nice karaoke songs and great time of fellowship. Overall, it was a good night and a very good day indeed. 

As I reflected back on the day amidst the raindrops pelting the corrugated roofing sheets,  it was a great day for all of us to interact, communicate and mot important of all, touched other people's lives with humbleness, honesty, sincerity and good warm love. Sure, we made fun of ourselves and act silly in our own way but that's just honesty of who we are and what we are. There are no sins for being truthful, straight and being ourselves; yet we held so much respect and high regards for our peers for being able to laugh at and laughed about in whatever situations we are in. 

I guess, we are all nicely unique in our own ways and respectful in our own ways. I cherished this group of friends despite our diverse personality, character and thoughts. The one thing that binds us together is definitely the enormous need for great food, great company and great grand dosage of love for one another all in one big ball! Honestly, it was just an amazing time of fun, humour and great fellowship.

Looking forward to next year's escapade! 

Living

It’s been a while since I last wrote anything and so, I am beginning to have the inspiration to write again. Hopefully, something good will come out of it since I now have some time on hand to write again. It is always my pleasure being able to express myself in whatever way I could and writing is what I like very much.

For about 2 month plus now, I’ve had the tremendous time of rest, relax, reflection and re-collect my entire life. Previously where I’ve had had times of insomnia, stress, depression, self-doubt and unduly bashing physically, mentally and socially, I just wanna say that I’m doing alright now. I am thankful for many who had shown much love, care and concern for me after getting out of the workplace environment. With the ever looming depressing Covid-19, economic downturn, loss of jobs and loss of source of income, there are people who snickered and sneered at my decision while a good company of people who had actually shown their support though they are not sure why I did what I did. I anticipated the reservations and the genuine love but I am a firm believer that GOD is in control of our lives.

All I want to say is that nobody knew why I did what I did except GOD, of course. I want to say that no one actually knew what I was going through and what struggles I had in my life. Not even family. Not even friends. Not even good colleagues of mine. That will always remain that way. Maybe I am an introvert, afterall despite my exterior outlook…

I’ve had the opportunity to grow in my career and yet, I’ve always believed in not joining the rat race. I know the implications, the enormous responsibility and I know the games people play for the rat race - lack of respect, lack of integrity and lack of morality in life. Lack of ambition, you may say of me but I am never like that. I’ve always been comfortable in the supportive role in whatever I did. I would rather pay the second fiddle than being the biggest dirtiest rat in the world! However, in saying that, I am also very comfortable in seeing good people climb the corporate ladder and do well. I NEVER had any envy towards anyone on this and I NEVER will. I just hate office politics, dastardly acts of dishonest ways and I do detest that very much. I would be a grand moron and stupid if I say that money wasn’t important for me but honestly, if you know me well enough, that wasn’t my whole motivation in life either. I’ve worked all my life because I was happy. I've started working as early as 12 years old as a petrol pump attendant during the school holidays and worked at my dad's workshop some days too. So, it is alright. To me, I am at work because I am happy to make new colleagues, happy to meet people, happy to learn something new each day. I do look forward to work those days. Mind you, it was hard days of work with less remunerations but I was happy because we always had good laughs, jokes and even a good solid talks over coffee or tea. I do look forward to enrich my life with experiences and to make a better day for my colleagues too if I could. Once that joy and the happiness are gone as we get some stupid corporate individual assholes snowballing and stuffing their ideas, expectations and responsibilities down our throats, I guess, I felt dead inside. That was the quintessential requirement for me. That “happiness” was gone. It was a morgue-like environment thereafter. When that’s gone, it was time for me to go. I could have gone on and stay stupid, shut my mouth up and just take the money each month but I wasn’t like that. Maybe, some of you could live with that but I just couldn’t, mate. I would rather live than die a broken-hearted, stressed and pissed off man, right? So, I decided that though I am aware that I have to watch my expenditure, spend wisely and perhaps, do some tightening around the daily budget. I am good with that as long as I get to live happily.

Look guys, I am not asking you to do what I did but just live the life you want. People today says that you can’t and you need this and that especially tons of money to do this and that. To me, you need to have a sound financial understanding of your own living and live within that means. You don’t need a whole load of money to do what you do and BE HAPPY. If you are stressed out, unhappy and broken inside, you will die faster than you think as everything in you will “shut down” because of that sinking feeling you have of yourself. To me, GOD, my Jesus, made me so whole again by giving me that perspective in life as I read His words. I could breathe better, see things better and feel better about myself these days. I could have easily languished in the bottomless pit of self-pity, depression and stress out feeling but I chose life as Jesus would have me do, yunno. The best part, I just do nothing for a while; just soak in the perspective of life and just rest,yunno. Fought too many hard battles, won some and lost some along the way. Got bruised and “injured” along the way and that’s all part and parcel of life.

Those days, people looked at me as a strong man of faith and confident but I am actually far from it as I am also weak, sinful and small in faith just like any other person. It’s that facade/mask that we all have to put up each day. That’s my honest confession. The one thing that I have never let up is my believe in Christ Jesus. I held on to Him as I wrestle each day of my life with my iniquities and my daily failures. That kept me going all these years. I do not know what you may believe in but as long you believe in GOD, it is fine with me. I do not want to court any controversy of this mad society we have today. So, I shall leave it to you to believe in whatever religion you may believe in but just believe in GOD.

The other thing is family and friends. Surround yourself with good friends while family is the ultimate. Sometimes, family may cast doubt in your life but if they love you and you love them, you take the opportunity to explain to them and speak to them while letting GOD to do the rest. Like I said, family especially your spouse, just wants one thing from you - financial security. If you could convince that woman/man with your financial strategy/savings and a good heap and doses of prayers, you’ll be alright! Frankly, sometimes, your personal well-being is a good give-away to what you have become over the years. To me, as man, you are expected to bring in the bread and the bacon for the family. It is never an easy thing but nowadays, single income earner is so history. Nowadays, both spouses are expected to be wage earners and this would help the ever evolving cost of living today. However, in saying this, it is also important for spouses to be “responsible” in what they spend, thrift upon and do the savings. It is important for us to bring in the “dough” (money) in the form of savings. That’s your responsibility but remember, what is the use if you lay down nicely in the decorated casket and waiting to be lowered down in the 6’ X4’ plot because you suddenly had an abrupt heart attack because you were busy “bringing in the bread and bacon”? Yeah. Think about it. Take care of your life and live that balanced life of wealth , health and GOD. It is so easy for people to continual fall into the mind trap that “I am bringing in the money” thus forgetting or using it as an excuse to spend further time in office and less time in building the home. Watch that trap and DON’T you ever humour yourself with that excuse! Remember, good counsels from family and good friends helps a heap along the way.

Yeah, I am well aware that not many people have that privilege to not work but like I said, plan your financial strategy in life and work towards a healthy and God-centred lifestyle. Put GOD first in everything you do and He will honour you. In many of my life travels down that winding road, I have failed tragically and miserably many many times, but GOD is always there to lift me up. I am really nothing but a poor wretched old soul but if you know GOD, He will lift you up even when no one wants to lift you up from your dumps. In saying so, you too have to be very wise in your walk of life lest you fall into set-up traps or get crushed in life by stones people throw at you. 

I seriously do not know what lies ahead of me but I am pretty sure that I’ll walk it the best way I could or at least, the way I know how. I do not have all the bloody answers to the never ending questions in life but I am sure to ask GOD when I arrived there with Him up there. For the time being , I am contented to sit this one out; gazing at the flowers ,catch up on some nice TV shows and even spend some time walking at the recreational forest at the nearby vicinity. Hopefully, my fragile life will be prolonged a little while before I meet my Maker. Here’s hoping for the best. Cheers!

Fishing is fun!

16 September, 2020 as Malaysians celebrate Malaysia Day, I was out to the deep blue sea at Straits of Malacca for a day of fishing with my colleagues, Firdaus and Shafiq. This was to make up for the disappointment of not being able to go out to the sea at night on 15 September, 2020 as we were informed that the unpredictable weather had acted up in the night and it would be dangerous to go out in the dark night. Massaging our disappointment, we decided that fishing in the morning of Malaysia Day would be just as interesting and what a day it turned out to be , actually.

Peeling back the events prior to the fishing trip, I had cajoled (crudely it should be “harassed or bombarded”.….. hahahahahaha ) my good colleague, Firdaus and Teo to follow me for a fishing trip to graze my exit from my work of 23 years.  After much persuasion and cajoling, my colleague, Firdaus finally relented and took me to see our boatman’s son, En.Wan and En.Farid for a “chat” ( meaning getting to know and getting the right price for our fishing expedition ) I must say that I am very impressed with how these people, especially my Malay friends do their business over a chat and a firm handshake. No airs, no pride, just plain humbleness and word of mouth promise. I guess, seeing all these brings back memories of the yesteryears when friendships are forged and respect was the forte of the day.  I soon realized that it was a difficult decision for Firdaus as he has had the “trauma” of being  a victim of a boat capsized during a fishing trip some years ago. This “unpleasant “ memory haunted him for many years and robbed him of the pleasure and joy of being out in the sea. I could sense that pain and I was determined to get him to overcome this and to enjoy the little things in life that is far more valuable than silver or gold could offer.

I must admit with all humbleness that I am not a very good angler but I am willing to learn and do what I can to enjoy this sport. I find it therapeutically enjoyable and calm when fishing. To me, it wasn’t about the fish but just the enjoyment of being out to the wide sea, enjoying the breeze, the blue sky and occasional wave and calmness of the sea. I was to find out later that all these are good but vomiting and bawling out the contents of your stomach from sea sickness can be quite a pain in the ass!! Hahahahahaahaaaaaaaaaaa…….

Anyway, that morning, we were greeted by En.Sham, our tekong for the day while I had managed to persuade another colleague, Shafiq to join us in the fishing trip. Shafiq is a new colleague of mine and he is quite a character. I applaud him for being a steady fella and even when fishing doesn’t go well for him, he was every willing to try and try again. The three of us, Firdaus, Shafiq and me ( Teo had opted out due to some unforeseen circumstances ) together with our tekong, En, Sham headed out to the sea at about 9.00am that morning in his 29 footer boat and two 55HP engines. We headed out nicely and soon, we were headed out to some areas of fishing interest. With the fish finder on, we stopped at one of location and soon, we were putting out our lines in the water. Our tekong, En. Sham was a very chatty person and quite an encourager. We would laugh and teased each other and it was all good. We fished at this one spot for about an hour and after landing some fish , we headed out to another area of interest. Our tekong, En. Sham had lamented on “big water” or “air besar” timing and the difficulty in landing bigger fishes and better species. Of course, we were landing fishes of palm sizes and the ever nuisance, ikan duri ( marine catfish ) was in abundance during the change of tides. En.Sham says that these fishes are good for assam pedas but we echoed that he could have the fishes when we are at shore. He laughed triumphantly that his sons would have some great ikan duri assam pedas in the next few days! Easily, between us, we caught between 4-5kg of ikan duri. We were also landing ikan serkut/gerut or commonly known as grunters and also, ikan gelama or jewfish of considerable sizes.

Even though the tide was fast and sometimes, it is depressingly sad to lose fish while at the line, I have gained a lot by learning how my tekong fished and how the change in tide brings a change of species of fish. There were many great moments of laughter and fun.  Our tekong, En.Sham together with my colleague, Firdaus were never short of quips and laughs while it was encouraging to see everyone having a good time out there. We cruised and fished along Pulau Lalang, Pulau Besar, Pulau Burung and Pulau Serimbun areas. The sights were good.

One thing I must say is that I vomited and bawling out the entire contents of my stomach very early on during the trip. It was the most excruciating gut wrenching feeling ever but I was determined to finish this trip nicely. Meaning standing on my feet and fishing right through the end and I did it. That morning, I had 3 pieces of bread and a cup of Nescafe. I guess, it was the bobbling of the boat at the first location that caused me feel queasy and the contents in my stomach went into the sea. Probably, out of curiousity, this could have been the factor for us to have more fishes after that …….hahahahahahahahahaaaaaaaa…. All this while, our tekong, En.Sham asked me to drink plenty of water and puke as much as possible and lay down to rest for a while and I would feel better. I took his advice and I felt better when I took a 20 minutes nap later. I did not have any trouble later on.  I am thankful he took us to a different location, away from the bobbling waves later on and to steady our nerves on fishing and beating the seas sickness ( a.k.a mabuk laut ). I am not shy to admit that it was a humbling experience for me as I am not used to bobbling boat and I fell off balance a few times and I was apologetic about breaking the styrofoam fish cover to the cooler box due to my clumsy fall. En.Sham joked that it was better to fall on the cover rather than into the sea! He’s a real joker and a good encourager. I am truly glad to meet him and to be able to be in the boat with him as my tekong.

The other experience was pulling up the anchor experience. Wow, that’s a tough one indeed. It is back breaking work,ok? Luckily, all three of us took turns to haul up the anchor which weighed like a ton of bricks after a few locations change  and the tide change.  Phew! It is pure hard work and I actually would rather pay for another deckhand to just attend to the anchor duty! Poor fella, Shafiq, being the greenhorn at fishing , was seconded to the duty of the anchor job but we all chipped in to help in. I could still feel the strain on the back due to the assist to Shafiq during anchor up duty. It was a nice experience indeed but at that time, you just wanted to cut loose the anchor and just drift to nowhere….hahahahahahahaha………It was quite an experience, though.

 Fishing was nothing to shout about as the strong tide and heavy current does play havoc to our fishing. Overall, I enjoyed the fishing experience of at least got some tugs and fishes at the end of the hook. Nevertheless, we always lament the big ones that got away and sure enough, Firdaus and I had that experience of missing out the big one. Never mind, we will have other times to tackle the fishes someday. I have also learned very quickly that you need the right hooks and weights for bottom fishing. I have also learnt that using “tanduk”  ( line spreader ) is also important. Really, so much still to learn in fishing experience.  It can be quite an expensive hobby once you look into this. I believe, circle hooks are best for bottom fishing and sea fishing while wide gap hook which I had used does yield quite a catch too. I believe the rule of thumb is to suit the situation, water condition and the target fish. Just adapt and do your best. Like they say “ just count your blessings and just enjoy the fishing”.

 I realized that when I was in the boat, I could see the clear blue sky and the surrounding islands. It was a beautiful sight indeed. The breeze was just nice while the weather was good and hot though. I just love the feeling of being at sea and fishing, actually. I felt very blessed that the weather was good and sunny. Probably, I am burnt by the reflective rays of the sun via the sea water that makes the skin around my face to blush red. But I love it all including the sun burnt as I felt very alive, actually.

As we ended our trip at about 6.30pm that evening, I thanked En.Sham, our tekong , for his kind encouragement, help and most important of all, got us all back in one piece and without any mishap. He is truly a gracious, humble and a real encourager. I learnt a lot looking at how he used his Apollo hooks and also how he tied his bottom fishing sinker line set. He also made sure that we get the full experience of fishing even though it may not be a good day for fishing. We bid farewell with a firm handshake that we shall meet again soonest for the next good fishing day appointment.

That night, I slept late as I had to clean the fishes of ikan serkut (a.k.a grunters ) and ikan gelama ( jewfish ) before putting them in the freezer. It wasn’t tough but one that I enjoy very much though I was dead tired. I cleaned up the rods and reels and washed the fishing bag and some accessories too. It is the right thing to do. Guess, my dream of getting some ikan tanda ( blackspot snapper fish), ikan kerapu ( grouper fish  ) and ikan jenahak ( snapper fish ) had not been fulfilled yet and so, I intend to fight another day at the sea for a chance to pull these fishes out from their comfort zone and land them on my dining plate. With a dose of God’s goodness/approval, some fishing skills and a little bit of luck, it should be good for the next trip. I guess, I am already looking forward to that.

There should be a wide smile etched across my burnt face by now……………….      

Inner growth....

Lord, make me an instrument of Your peace. 

Where there is hatred, let me sow love. 

Where there is injury, pardon. 

Where there is darkness, light. 

And where there is sadness, joy.

For it is in giving that we receive. 

It is in pardoning that we are pardoned.

And it is in dying that we are born into eternal life. 

Amen.

- Spencer Stone

" The 15:17 To Paris "

Read on...

I have learnt over the years that when you are involved in a church ministry like I am, you learnt a lot about people and what makes them tick in their element. Like I said, I am always intrigue and fascinated with people and their very essence of their character. I must say that I am glad and blessed working with a group of dedicated individuals who doubled up as teachers in the Children Ministry of our church. I must honestly admit that sometimes it is hard for me to juggle between work, family and ministry but one thing I’ve learn very preciously is that there is a whole lot of satisfaction at the end of a good Bible lesson teaching to children. I just can’t describe it to you but it is like you have this enormous gladness in your heart that the children had had a time of learning and fun with you. Sure, you’ll be extremely exhausted after teaching the children but I guess, the awaiting reward from above outstripped the physical body tiredness. Hey, I am not that good in what I am doing for there are far better people in the field but at least, I will try to do my best. That’s what I can do, at least.  

To me, I guess, the enormous responsibility of not leading these children astray or to teach something which is not right in our faith seemed to weigh heavily on my shoulders each time. I believe, as teachers to the young children and of the Word, we are to be correct, caring, giving and fun. Honestly, the children can be a handful at times with their own antics, likes and dislikes but come to think of it, we are all like that, isn’t it? The only difference is that adults tend to be “diplomatic” in their criticism and “accommodating” in their ways while children are more fervently blunt, straightforward and honestly crude at times but honestly, that’s how I like it. At least , they are brave and not timid or else the bullies are gonna have a field day with them! That’s why these children’s lives are so important at this stage and to walk them through the right path of life in the early years of their lives are so crucial and important. I am blessed being able to work with talented and good hearted people like  Dinesh, Suk Vooi, Joo Li, Loreen, SLing, Sharon, Stephanie, Abby and so many others in the Children Ministry. They are really wonderful, full of enthusiasm and energetic. However , it can be tiresome days but nevertheless a rewarding one when the children remember you as their Sunday School teacher when they grow up. 

The other thing I learnt getting involved in this ministry is the work we need to put in prior to teaching the children. I have learnt that when it is my turn to teach the children, I learn a whole lot more about the Word in the Bible and the greater understanding of the Word. I guess, it is God’s way to teach this old fool fella! It is really very enriching, engaging and poignant when one engages the Word and seeking the Lord’s understanding of the Word. I find it especially satisfying when I learn a new perspective of the Word or a new angle of how to teach the Word and so on. I guess, to people of the Christian faith, things can be pretty enriching indeed.

This week’s lesson is on “The Good Samaritan”, one of the most popular parables and story in the Bible. This parable is a very well-known parable for those in the Christian faith and one of the most talked about parable defining the most faith challenging provocation of heart and mind on the topic, “Who is my neighbour?”. There is so much to learn from this parable and while we do have our own constricted and views of what it meant to each individuals, I beg of you to allow yourself to explore the surroundings to the situation, indepth thought of the condition of the heart and a time of great reflection of who we really at this time as we go through the verses from Luke 10: 29-37. Needless to say, for a person like me, I ran through every piece of information I could get my hands on and I read a lot of Bible commentaries verse by verse, sifting through the very scrap of information from Bible scholars on each verse but I found that yielding to the Lord to enlighten your spiritual vision of what was to unveil was surely the best. I must say, each one to their own personal walk with God, each individual experience is different but the core essence of truth, honesty and the indepth message remained the same. For me, it is always, what do I bring to myself and to others after reading through this portion of the Scripture. This is my end goal.

Primarily speaking for myself, I tend to paint a picture, rather, a full scene of cinematic colours and spectrum in my imagination as I read the Scripture or the Word. I can’t digress or digest when I just read the Word. I needed that pictorial view of the Word or the “scenes” as I called it.  In that way, I could imagine myself standing at the side and watching the entire Word of the Bible being laid out before me in a dramatic fashion for me to envision the scene. To me, I feel the full embrace of the impact of the Word. In that way, my understanding of the Word is embedded in my heart and mind. Along the way in my own world, I would have lots of questions and embraced the full emotions of watching a scene unfold. In my inquisitive ways, I would pour myself into research and learning the intrinsic value of the Word rather than just the head knowledge. To me, the head knowledge is less important than the heart knowledge. To me, the heart knowledge invoked the very compassion and realness of you. What’s the use to have all the head knowledge in the world but no heart knowledge, right? In a way, we need a good balance la, really. I guess, I learnt the Word better that way and with the Lord’s guidance along the way. Honestly, there are no hard and fast rule on reading and understanding of the Word. Like I said, each to their own style, perception and ways of understanding the Word. The important part is that the Word impacts you and made a change in you simply because it is you that matters. When you start the change, you will affect lives closest to you, around you and the greater circle in others. That’s for sure!

So, in this period of MCO, clear the dust off your good ol’ Bible and take a good and hard peek into those Scriptures and start to enjoy the “movie” in your head and mind. From the mysteries and answers to be sought and there are jewels of life to be unearthed. Book of Genesis to the Book of Revelation, there are stories to be told. There are technicolors of the spectrum of life to be experienced and the quantum solace of emotions and heartfelt feeling all bundled up in an experience of a lifetime. Sound like some vacation brochure, right? Well, I find it to be that way for me. So, let’s go for an enjoyable “vacation of life”, shall we? 

A Chai tea journey.....

Foraging in the old mind of mine, I am reminded of how things were in my days at work and as I sipped my Chai tea last night after a long day in the office ( even during MCO period! ) I really had a good working environment those days. Sure, there were workloads, deadline and enquiries but everything was done in the great spirit of mutual respect and great understanding. I am very respectful in saying this because I did have a good working environment in those years. Everyone was helping out every one in every possible way and never thinking of being selfish or who was greater and so on. Individuality and personal glory comes second while the team needs and yearly team production matters. I must say that there was much respect even in the hierarchy of things. Over the years, I have grown fond and had good wonderful working relationships with colleagues whom I have regarded as close friends and family in a sense. Helping out one another was something that was often done and without hesitation. Nowadays, we have grown cynically apart and selfish because of the indoctrination and emphasis of the personal production and branch production for the egoistic, couldn’t care less and fatten bloodhounds.  

As years go by, the old made way for the younger group of people to take over and this was done smoothly without upsetting the great balance of working relationship and expectations. I must admit with much chagrin that when you have young, ambitious and blood hounds wanting to pounce on the tower of climb and doesn’t mind bringing down others or letting others to fall to die, somehow the dynamics of that working relationship changed. People tend to stand back and watch the blood hounds tearing at the leaders first; to take over by hook or by crook. Then, equipped with promises of better production, increase in intensity of work and spewing the word of more production and more money for the organization, these blood hounds get the attention of the Management who always welcome more money into their pockets in whatever ways or means possible. Hence, starts the downfall or the ecological good balance of the office dynamics. Young blood hounds always felt that they are far superior from the older ones in terms of motivation, drive, expertise and all that.  Well and good ,actually but not on other people's heads and backs, for Christ sake!  There is no doubt that these young blood hounds have all these “qualities” but they forget a couple of things along the way, actually. They forget that many others extended their help to them when they were younger in the office. They forget too that everyone has a limit in patience, work stress and temperament. They forget too that we all have a shelf life with GOD and they forget that they will one day be old too. 

Life is really a bitch when it comes to vicious cycles. There are just too many to see in our lifetime. That’s why I am laid back when I see young bloodhounds claw their way by means of  devices & plans for takeover or to push out the older leaders and so on. I am concern of their unscrupulous tactics of intimidation, verbal assault and even belittling tactics all in the name of putting more money in the pockets of the directors; their own pockets actually. As they go two or triple jumps in the hierarchy, their own coffers grow and they enjoy such benefits and perks while the actual genuine workers languished steadfastly at the bottom rung. I have learnt over the years that good  leaders are the ones who work alongside their staff and out of the sight of limelight. I am a very firm believer that you do not need to blow your trumpet as others will do it for you eventually as they do know who is helping and who is not helping.

I have heard meaningless phrases like, “You are the pillar of this company” shaking your hand profusely and aggressively but in the same breath a week later, “ You did not hit your target.” “ You should be working more or even”, “You are not a team player, are you?” “You are so experience, you should not be making such mistakes.” “I don’t care how you do it, you need to get this done by this week.” ect.etc.  You get an insincere accolade and then in the same breath you get chided for your work performance.

You busted both your nuts and ass working in the office when no one is looking or even in a catastrophic conditions and then the very same blood hounds tells you that you did not hit your target and hence, a lower bonus or worst still, no increment in your salary adjustment. Then, they confused you even further by paying your remunerations half here and then the other half later and then you totally forgot whether you are paid or not in the first place as letters of remuneration are not issued. A very normal situation nowadays but you worked on because you just needed to put food on the table for your kids and your family at home. Sounds familiar? Well, this has been the story of many many good employees over the years. Such hypocrisy of the highest level! To be honest, so-called praises and accolades doesn't move me one inch at all at where I am standing, baby! I am deeply rooted and that's on the ground. Just a load of insincere crap and a load of bullshit, actually.

It is a crying shame for good workers to then deteriorate into just a zombie like worker with no mind of its own, without motivation and without the ability to do what is right any more as everything is dictated by these bloodhounds who are only out to get rid of you or to put you under their thumb of control. Worst still, their way or the highway threat is very real indeed. 

How many of these young blood hound even speak to or speak off  staff who had worked hard and goes back home at 9.00pm or even 11.00pm at night? That is how pressured some staff are nowadays. I believe, staff like these really care for the work they do. They are conscious of their responsibilities or maybe they are saddled with their own problems. No matter what, they needed that space and time to sort out what they go through. Don’t need to bite on their neck or breath down their neck each day. 

Anyway, these are what young blood hounds do each day. Chasing their dreams by pressing others to achieve that dream for them. My question is simply, “When are you going to be satisfied?” There can never be the word “Enough” for these bloodhounds because there is always more to take, more to conquer and more to lust after. The heart is deceitful and lusty which will only lead to destruction. I have learnt a long time ago that feeding the dreams of these young blood hounds are a dangerous journey and eventually, there will be a revolt in the body,mind and soul.

Maybe, I am already at the last leg of my life and the bullshit that I am still young is just another play ploy to feed another adrenaline rush for the wicked blood hounds. To me, count your blessings and take a good look at the people below you; away and past the sides of these young blood hounds. Look at those who had been tapping on their computers faithfully and suffering in silence. Look at those who drag their weary, bruised and battered physical bodies back to see their awaiting family only to slump on the sofa without a word being said. Look at those who are so abused by words and demeaning words throughout the day. Look out at those who remain quiet and suffer in silence every time someone else gets the credit for the works done. Look out for the ones who would just do their work responsibly without muttering or murmurings as they suffer in silence while the boisterous blood hounds reaped the glory and accolades.

These are truly the everyday heroes that I get to see in this little office of ours. These are the heroes that trudged on despite losing their bonuses and wronged in the first place. These are the heroes who still continued working despite being told that they are fools, old and useless. This is the world we live in today. This is what is happening despite your abhorrent denial or refusal to accept such facts. Why? Simply because these things are hidden from the knowledge and sight of the upper crust of the goons too. It doesn’t take one hand to clap but it takes many hands of these young selfish blood hounds to clap together to deafen the cries of help from the bottom section.

Me? I am part of that old, fool and useless category, actually. Ahhh! The Chai tea does smell and taste good……..somehow……

A Walk.....

Today, I want to own up and take care of what had happened to me over the past few weeks. For most of the people who had known me, they would have never thought of me of what could have befallen me. For many days, I have contemplate whether should I write this or not but I guess, the human side of me gets the better of me and the most important thing is that I want to thank God for helping me through while the “morning session theraphy” with my good friend/family, Errol had helped me stay sane. I used to have a very good confidante and friend to whom I could share my thoughts, frustrations and aspirations very much but I guess, we all have limitations to ourselves. I still treasure that good friend a lot, though.

Anyway, I just wanted to share what I really feel inside and I meant no malice to anyone lest you wield the axe, knives and spear me to death. I always am honest with my own feelings inside of me and I realized that it is getting harder and harder to speak the truth nowadays but truth must be spoken as that. I realised too that in this fallen world of ours, we get trampled along, get used by people in all sorts of ways and even been taken as a fool sometimes. For me, I’ve been through those days and I have never ever let those things get to me but I guess, like all people who inhabits this funny world, I do get hurt, angry, mystified and even disappointed at times. Usually, I would be able to shrug it off as His mercy & grace are new each day for me but somehow, this particular day was just different as the impact was just too great for me as far as I was concerned. 

To me, getting called names, spit on, received harsh words, received harm threats, intimidation, induced fear and all that crap doesn’t flinch me one bit but when the heart is bruised, it makes you stop for a while. That is what happened to me. 

To begin, I must say that for once in my life, I was depressed beyond words. At the moment of lowness in my life, I finally understood what it really meant to have the spirit of the Lord in us. No one could help me that day except GOD. I was beyond grief, hurt, anger and sadness. It was sorta unimaginable pain.

It all started on the days before the eve of CNY where I was still working. All of the Chinese staff were awaiting for news of what we had encountered in our bank accounts. For those who are working, head of the household or sole provider for the family, a bonus is an important part of your working career especially for CNY celebrations. A bonus is a pinnacle reward for any working individual from the top down to the workers. It would be the same for our other colleagues too who would be celebrating Hari Raya, Deepavali or even Christmas celebrations. I guess, everyone is fully aware that a bonus is prerogative of the company and we would have to abide by that. It is understandably all good that there is no bonus if the company is not doing well. Yes, no qualms of this if the company is not doing well. But if it is because of some  finance goons who had been poor in collecting the hard earned monies or some financial blunders or some financial scams or simply stingy of giving out bonuses, then, to me, that is unforgivable. Truly unforgivable.    

Anyway, the day before the eve of CNY celebrations, the Chinese staff noted with joy that there was some banking in of money into our accounts. So, naturally, most of us were happy thinking that it was the banking in of our bonus while I was very wary. Excuse me for my being cautious and wary of what had happened because it had happened to me before  (so many many times ) when I thought it was a bonus when it is actually the salary. Hence, after giving out the so-called “bonus”, I was caught not being able to pay for the installments, utilities bills and so on because I had thought it was the “bonus” when it is not. That two months were the hardest for me but luckily, SLing was able to support us at that time. It was an experience which would help stay on the ground when it comes to things like this. 

So, this time around, I probed, asked around and checked about this – still in my very wary state but mild wild celebrations in the office were on-going with the thinking that it was a good change for once that we are going to get our bonus despite no declaration of bonus for the past two years. “Hold on to your horses” is what I said to my colleagues and I even asked them to be wise in their spending so that they would not be in the situation I was in a few years ago. It was certainly frustrating and disheartening when somehow, we got the news that it was just “advanced salary” instead of bonus. It was heart wrenching and downright pissed as I realized that the guys in the office had already made plans to get this and that for their family. You could see it in the faces of the staff that there was so much frustrations, heartache and disappointment. It was crushingly cruel, thoughtless and painful move by the Management of the company. Yes, I do accept that nothing is fair in this world and these are hard times but to play this sort of games with your employees are just imperilously cruel and evil in many ways. 

For me, it is that small still voice in me that had held me back to be cautious and I am thankful for that. What hit me hard inside was what had happened to my colleagues. What if they did not know it was advance salary and had spent the money by putting into angpows for their parents and family members or even spent the money to buy clothes for their family? How would they pay their house installments, car installments, utilities and other bills when they have used up their advanced salary? Believe me when I say to you that I know exactly how it feels not being able to pay for those bills! What a tragic situation indeed! 

The saddening part for me was that the explanation for advanced salary instead of bonus came out later which was one day prior to the eve of CNY celebrations. By this time, some of the staff had gone on leave and did not know the news until our boss announced it to us that day. It was a big letdown after the announcement but I guess, I was already ready for it so it did not had much of an impact. It was when I looked at my junior staffs and fellow colleagues that I felt for them a lot. That hit me hard inside and I really felt for the older and new staff. The look on their faces – the disappointment, the hurt, the anger and the pain. That says it all for me. I just tried consoling the staff as much as I could while I vented out my frustration too as I have been through that road before. I guess, I have seen it all before. It was déjà vu all over again and again and again.

Why did you set a target for the branch only to raise it up all the time during the quarterly meeting? Every time our bosses are back from Management meeting, a different target is set and becomes unachievable. You hit us with talks like we are to work harder, our attitude , our work standards, our commitment and lower our expenses while work gets piled up with no incentive in front of us to work on. With the unachievable target, you used this excuse to say you did not achieve the budget and hence, your bonus will be lower. Then you make scapegoats out of staff so that they do not get or lose their bonus simply because you want to instill fear for the Management. I have seen these games all my life. It was all just too much for me. I started to develop a depressed feeling and hopeless feeling inside of me that day. I went home mentally drained, tired and angry. This burning anger consumed my thoughts and heart. I guess, it was so sickening feeling inside that the poorer folks like us are like mere pawns on some bloody chessboard of power play.     

On the eve of CNY, I was still at work and when I came in to work in the morning, the atmosphere was a somber atmosphere. It was hard for me and when a young staff came by to offer his CNY greeting to me before proceeding home for CNY eve celebration;  he thanked me for informing and advising him on the advance salary fiasco. Though I was depressed by this time, I sensed his genuine gratitude which moved me to tears inside my heart. I haven’t even told him of the days we had to wait at the bank on CNY eve night to get our bonus or salary in those days. I just could not imagine how we could buy anything on CNY eve evening or night time. Somebody, please enlighten me. I just gave him a smile and told him to be wise in his spending. Soon, the other staff came by to offer the CNY greetings before leaving home. I said the same thing to them. I don’t know if they would appreciate that or not but at least, I have done my best to help them in whatever small way I could. 

When I was in my car that day, I felt very down and depressed by what had happened. All sorts of questions came to my head and the arrows from the evil one never ceased. For many years now, all the staff had to endure and suffer in silence over such wicked, sadistic and inhumane ways and treatment by rats at the top who only knows how to abuse their power and status. They don’t care a two hoots of staff or their families. All the talk of “we are family” is a big lie and a farce to begin with when the only family known are rats and money diggers. That enraged my heart and my mind.   

Sadness soon turned to clenched fist and soon escalated to burning anger, curses and hatred. For a moment, I just lost it and engulfed with this bursting hatred at what had happened. Somehow, for a moment thereafter, I felt as though I was doused with water. It was like someone had poured cold water over me. I composed myself as the goodness and the provision of the Lord over my life all these years flashed before me. I am also reminded of those dark days, years and how the Lord had brought me out of it. Like what Errol had said to me this morning, there is a song in the dark as in the Book of Job. Yunno, the funny thing was that in spite of me being overwhelmed by the sadness and deep anger, there was a certain hand of comfort upon my heart. I really felt His hands upon my heart that day and I was comforted. I am still trying grasp what had happened that day.   

Slowly but surely, I overcame that depressed feeling and hopelessness as I looked on the goodness of the Lord to me.  Today, I want to say that God had asked, sorry, commanded us to love of our neighbour including our enemies, you know that?  I’ll be downright honest, I don’t know if I can do that as it is a damn difficult task, don’t you think so? BUT, that is His second commandment, right? I’ll take it slow as usual …..one step at a time , one fight at a time, one journey at a time …. one forgiveness at a time…. 

Covid-19 - Lighter side

Every morning since CNY 2020 and then towards mid-March, 2020, the printed news and the electronic media are constantly bombarded with news of Covid-19 pandemic. It’s cold, depressing, gloomy and sad news of what is happening around us but it didn’t really hit you until it hit your shores, isn’t it? While Wuhan and other parts of China were fighting tooth and nail over the sudden burst of COVID -19 pandemic situation, we could only watch, pray and hope it doesn’t hit us that bad, right? Well, it did and here we are in our MCO and still there are people who would defy the ban on the MCO. I can’t think of a more barbaric word to describe such people but I am constantly reminded to “mind my language” and be civil. Bah! Not that I have to mimic Doraemon voice or wear make up or even to giggle like some school girl to catch any attention, RIGHT? So, I believe, I am alright staying at home. Hey,hey,hey, I am trying to get the 6 packs, 8 packs or 12 packs or whatever but hey, Round is a shape, okay? By the way, I thought 6 packs was for beers or apple ciders ,man. Round is the BESTEST!

To me, it is kinda ironic that in every day work, I wished I could have days like that and when it actually came to pass, I often wonder how will I cope with it. Well, I survived not kicking my better half out of the house. ( I’m joking! I can’t. It’s MCO period, remember?) All the “sweet” chattering, instructions, commands and so-call advices are so subtle to the ears but deafening to the soul, man. You can get “deaf” occasionally but not very long. Somehow, you get the feeling that you are “not wanted” in the house feeling, you get that too? Good for you. Welcome to the club of hubbies getting clobbered physically, socially and mentally. However, I must say that all these are taken in with great humour and a very open mind. (Damn! Those pesticides shops ain’t opened yet, isn’t it?)

Anyway, when I actually need to get in to work, I felt like it’s different. With the masks and the restricted distancing and so on, I often wonder if it is just dollars and sens that matters or it is just another excuse to make us work during this MCO lockdown. I often ask this question in my heart and mind, “ Don’t our lives matter to anyone?” Of course, I have a lot of respect and admiration for the real frontliners out there like the nurses, doctors, bread man, police personnel, grocery stores, departmental stores people and all that. I also have a lot of respect and admiration for the work we do but I do hate pencil pushers or rather lip servicers. Try watching “Undercover Boss” sometime and learn some things or two of what it means to be at the bottom ladder rather than the top rung!  Sure, bottom line of the company matters and the other excuses just made it simplier and more “convenient” to our brains to get to work. I dunno if its to cover some high paying people’s ass paycheck or what but it does not make sense to risk people’s lives like that. I guess, every one has a sanity line at times. 

Anyway, let’s get to some good parts, shall we? Well, during the MCO, I have had the opportunity to watch some pretty good K-Drama like Kingdom 2 ( I love the history serials or drama! Watched most of the historical K-drama already ), Live, Warm & Cosy, Crash Landing On You, The Fiery Priest, Dr Romantic, most of the doctors dramas, Designated Survivor , Live and  movies like Dunkirk, The Darkest Hour, USS Indianapolis , Overcomer, Courageous , All Saints , Miracle at Cell No.7 ( a moving and heartfelt Turkish movie. Believe me, it is a good movie! ) and other movies of interest. Anything for  good entertainment and relaxation, actually. NETFLIX can be quite interesting too especially with the movie fares and the dramas. I guess, I have put some discoloration and dent bump onto the 2 seater cushion that I sat while watching the movies/dramas. With a cup of cooled drink like iced tea or coffee or even cold chilled plain water plus some crackers or snacks, this is the rare luxury of life, people. For me, watching a drama or a movie can be intense as you must get absorbed with the main characters of the drama/movie or movie plan as it does show you the human side of people. We can learn a lot from these human side drama or not to repeat the mistakes made by these people. I have also learned in reality that sometimes, people just needed one break in their lives to be successful like AGT, BGT, XFactor, The Voice or even Australia Got Talent shows.  I have also watched Undercover Boss, Secret Millionaire, Undercover Billionaire or Acts of Kindness ( Youtube clips ) which to me ; helped me see a lot of things in perspective and in reality. Yeah, take some time during the MCO to get on the Youtube to see these clips or better still , try helping others who are in need during the MCO like buying groceries or getting meals for the elderly.

The other lighter side of the MCO is I get to hone my cooking skills. Yup, all those hidden and dead buried cooking skills were “unearthed” ( meaning wife gently elevated some form of pressure and coaxed diligently with some veiled threats! ) for the better good of the family. Sure, I can cook but I don’t really know if the two women ( my wife and daughter ) in my house can eat it! Hahahahahaaaaaaaaaaaa……… Yeah, I tried my best to cook up a storm of variety of food I know how. Thank God! Both of the women had NOT been to the hospital! Been cooking mee goreng pedas, Mamee mee goreng, ABC soup and BBQ pork & onions filling for wraps thus far. They were a hit ( Yes, the women folk in my family says so! ) and I am trying to end on that winning note so far. Hopefully, I won’t get to do much more cooking.

The other thing I wanna mention is the time when I do get to go to the supermarket to get some groceries. It was really a happening day for me. I would fill the cart with what I believe SLing would be able to cook and what we would all enjoy. I know, we got to keep our distance and it was all done very well. I guess, Malaccans are more discipline in that matter but I was jokingly chided by SLing for spending  1½ hours at the supermarket – my excuse was that, well, I had many things to consider and many things to get and it’s like I am trying to jam all the information in my head on what to buy and so on. I don’t want to slip up and it would be a long time before I get to go out! Yeah, they are right. Men can be quite hopeless in getting the marketing list done because they are mainly “shot” at the main entrance of the supermarket with a temperature gun and poof! They forget the groceries list already! ( Cilakak! Mak Kiah also can’t help already! ) I was like trying to remember as much as I could and I could have sworn that the security guard was looking at me intently as though knowing that I have been in the supermarket for such a long time!

Then there’s this Zoom thing we did with our cell group members ( Hey, cell group members doesn’t mean we are some terrorist group, okay? Lest you have some funny ideas! Good Christian group meeting  la! ) Though it can be quite chaotic at first but to get to see each other after some time of not meeting up can be a really wonderful experience. We got to sing worship songs, learn the Word, gave our own testimony of what we did and we prayed for one another. I believe, it is important for us to stay “sane” by being in “contact” with people. It helps for us to feel together and united in a way in our fight against Covid 19 pandemic.  It is also a way for us to help one another in times of need such as delivery groceries , helping to purchase groceries or even help in any way with one another. That support system is so important during this time of lockdown. I am so grateful for the initiative of Dinesh, our leader and also our church, City Community Church (CCC)  to get us all connected in that way and to help each other out in any way we could. 

The other point I want to say is that I get myself hydrated more often and it is something that I enjoyed the most. Drinking plain water more often has helped me get hydrated and refreshed in a way. It has been very hot weeks but drinking water helped a lot. I guess, we, Malaccans, are unfortunate in a sense that with the MCO in force, we also had water rationing which could be quite uncomfortable to us. Thank God, good discipline and good sense prevailed amongst the Malaccans and we are going through it rather smoothly. So, do take in more plain water and get hydrated well in these blistering hot weather,ok?

My thoughts are really for the frontliners out there. Their sacrifices and dedication are truly commendable and a thankless job indeed. I wish more people would heed to the MCO instead of screaming their heads off at the police or at people enforcing the MCO. Don’t blame them. They are just carrying out their orders and if you want to blame anyone, blame the Minister in charge for not giving clear instructions or conflicting instructions. Yeah , I find the instructions given to be ambiguous, conflicting and confusing at times. Everyone had to get a grip of things and put in instructions clearly and precise. 

To the doctors and nurses, you are the frontline  heroes indeed. Your services and dedication are always in our hearts and mind. To the other Good Samaritans like Pastor Jit Pang in Kluang, NGO food providers everywhere ,  Food Panda Ipoh ( well done & thank you ! ) and many other organisations helping out the people, A BIG THANK YOU and God bless each and every one of you! You people are the “unseen” heroes each day and may many more MALAYSIANS wake up to help you rather than be racist and revel in putting down others in this time of difficulties for the nation. Afterall, we are MALAYSIAN, together forever!

Office Memo - A Satire

OFFICE MEMO

To All Staff of the Company

The Company acknowledges that with its rich past history of establishment, great business success, sound well-being in its financial standing and excellent rapport with business partners & clients, the staff had tirelessly made this Company a great success.

Thereby, the Company would be rewarding all Staffs that had been an integral part of the business success, general well being of this Company and for sacrificial great efforts by soaring into oblivion heights of success for this Company.

The rewards are as follows according to the years of services :

30 years of service and below :   Keju Island Trip 

Remarks:  Don’t be mistaken for Jeju Island because it is not. Nevertheless, the trip will be an exciting one while there will be free flow of varying types of cheese for your pleasure. This is line with our Company vision of “ Who Moved The Bloody Cheese” success story. You have made it thus far and you are certainly at the top of the food chain and you have been the Rat of The Esteemed Ratpack, a great honour given to any employee since 2020 is indeed the Rat Year. 

25 years of service and below :    Usahla Sibuk Island Trip

Remarks :   Again, don’t be mistaken for Osaka because it is not. This is a quaint island at the back of the office whereby one would be able to relax and see what great success contribution had been made over the Company over the years. Food and drinks are aplenty including free flow of liquor for you to drown your joy or sorrow in some of you. This is also the island trip to seek innovative and new ways to excite your sensors and contribute more to your climb to the Rat of the Esteemed Ratpack group of employees. New schemes and suicide mission operations will be revealed to the group for better understanding and better execution. 

20 years of service and below :    Pulau Jerejak Island Trip

The Company felt that for those in 20 years service, the tendency to take a softer and relaxing stand at work had been looked into. A trip to Pulau Jerejak will illuminate your sensors to work harder and contribute your experiences at a greater height. Should you have plans to swindle or commit CBT over the next few years, this is a gentle reminder of what it used to be in those days but this is a beautiful island getaway. Breakfast and lunch would be provided indefinitely. However, fishing rod, hook,line and cooking utensils would be provided for you to catch your dinner. It is truly an amazing and exciting adventure that awaits you! However, should you go missing without a trace or whatsoever, it is NOT the responsibility of the Company. A Disclaimer Form would be provided for you to agree upon.  

15years of service and below :    Pulau Carey Island Trip

Wonderful time of seafood and bird watching activities had been planned. Some of you had been taking your annual leave for nature expedition and some have not taken leave for years, well, the Company felt that this is the best reward ever so that you’ll come back refreshed and energetic! Please eat to your heart’s contents because there won’t be any other dinner celebration like this one for the next 10 years.

10 years of service and below :    Pulau Besar Island Trip

This idyllic island had been the perfect spiritual and resting placing for those of you who had worked tirelessly but couldn’t climb up the Management ladder. With this trip in place, you could reflect on what had gone wrong on your plans and contemplate what is your next career move in climbing up the ladder of success. There would be a “buang sueh” cleansing session to clear off the bad juju and restore your faith in the ladder climb. Should you not choose the cleansing session, you could opt for the yoga and shout mantra session whereby you will be taught how to shout obscenities and at the same time feel at peace after your blaring. All this will benefit your shouting or arguments sessions with your fellow staff, superiors and Management. However, we expect your shouting of obscenities to be restrained and yet vocal for the better good of everyone in the Company. 

 5 years of service and below :    Pulau Ketam Island Trip

This trip to this beautiful destination will sort of show you where you are at the present moment in the Company. Despite the never ending “unpleasantries” being dumped, you have survived and roughed it through. The Company truly appreciates your hardwork and swimming in “difficulties” at times but you have survived in “good faith”. There will be a boating experience whereby you would be given fishing rod, hook, line and bait to catch fish and for you to contemplate your next move in the Company at about 12.00noon in the ocean. If and when you survive, you will be able to feast a sumptuous meal during dinner and supper. Liquor and beers are free flowing but limited to 5 bottle per person for your entire trip as the bigger budget had been given to your more experienced colleagues. This is also to ensure that you shall “thirst” and “hunger” for success in the coming years. Only plain water will be provided by the Company. Should you like to have coconut drinks, can drinks, bottle drinks and any other juices, you are required to pay accordingly as these are not included in your trip.

2 years of service and newly recruited staff :   Pulau Melaka Experience

You will be treated with a trip to Pulau Melaka for a sniff of where you could be if you work hard in the Company and do your work accordingly. There would be guided tours which included a learning trip to Portuguese Settlement whereby you will learn of the highly productive ways of survival in the sea and way of life, Money Lenders Lane whereby you will learn of survival skills in the financial world and a guided tour in Pulau Melaka itself. This will motivate your sensors to work even harder and to gain better success with our Company. Unfortunately food would not be provided , however, a RM 20.00 cash incentive would be given to cover your entrance fees requirement at the places you would be visiting. Please do not break items during trips, caused nuisance  nor charge anything to the Company as these expenses would be deducted from your salary without hesitation. We hope the trip experience would strengthen you to move alongside the Company and grow as a Family.

Addendum : 

30 years and above experience 

The Company and its directors had agreed wholeheartedly and with great compassion had agreed to award a beautified graveyard plot measuring approximately “ 4” X 6” plot together with flower and a “Thank You” card for those in the above category.  This is definitely a great incentive as graveyard plots had become expensive and competitive over the years. As the Company has always been competitive and reasonable all these years, the reward is both satisfying and apt for the moment. In event our financial standing improves over the years, this incentive would be upgraded with prayer items, prayer fruits and maintenance works. Your afterlife needs will be taken of indefinitely.

Lastly, let it be known that it is NOT the responsibility of the Company should you get hurt physically, mentally or socially, poisoned, killed or kidnapped in any way. Supervision would be minimal as you are adults. Should you be caught by the authorities for any sexual offences, soliciting of desirous woman/women/man/men, caught with your pants down with woman/women/man/men or any other undesirable elements of life, you are on your own and your services would be terminated upon the return from the trip. There will be no police bails, lawyer assistance nor any help given. This will be strictly adhered to. The Company view such offences grievous, harmful and detrimental to the reputation of the Company. Thereby, please sign the Disclaimer Form ( Form 4 ) , Self Inflicted Injury Form ( Form 44 ) , No Apologies – Sex Offences Form ( Form 67 ) and Non-Responsibility Form ( Form 114 ) prior to your respective trips.  

May you have a joyous, prosperous and fruitful trip with our Company. Your dying or death are not our concern but we will try and take all reasonable  precaution, steps and due care to make it bearable for you.

Looking forward to have you for our trip !  Wishing you a prosperous career in our Company.

 Ban Ban See Chin Kan Cheong

Human Resource Manager Admin. Executive

Kadang-Kadang  Huat Sdn.Bhd.

(subsidiary of Takla Lugi Resources Bhd )

Chin Chia Huat

Chief Executive Officer

Kadang-Kadang  Huat Sdn.Bhd.

(subsidiary of Takla Lugi Resources Bhd )

*This is a computer generated letter. No signature is required *

A viewpoint.....

In all my growing up years, I’ve always have a certain level of respect for full time workers of places of worship. My historical religious background from young was a Buddhist but I have since been the first generation Christian in my family but that doesn’t take away the respect I have for full time worker of these religious places. I know that these people have dedicated their lives in their own religious beliefs and that is truly amazing. I must admit that some of them had displayed exceptional dedication to their religious cause and it is truly commendable. I guess, when it is someone else sons or daughters dedicating their lives to God, it is fine, right? But how do you feel and deal with that feeling when it is your own sons or daughters going into full time ministry? That is the question, isn’t it? It does prick you, doesn’t it? 

I must admit in all honesty, I was floored. I know that it is an honour to serve GOD as His co-worker in the faith but somehow that nagging feeling bugs you if your son/daughter would be alright or worse still, has he/she made the right decision. I guess, that is the humanistic feeling and biological response of any parent, right?  GOD does work in a mysterious way! I tell you, there is a never ending twist and turn from GOD in every facet of your life but they are ALL good, really. 

I remember when I was first informed of my son’s decision to go full time working in church, I was like “ Whoa, dude. For real?” All sorts of questions got jammed up in that brain of mine back then. No, it is not that the Unifi clogged up or the Streamyx lagged but mainly because the kueh teow up there in the head got shorted/fried somehow! Not wanting to cause a chaotic line of questioning and pandemonium outbreak of emotions from the womenfolk in my family, I guess, I did what most dad would do – break it gently to the family or is it the other way round? Hmmmnnn….. I wonder. I guess, it is always hard when “concerned” relatives would ask “innocent “ questions like “what is your eldest doing these days,ah?” “ Can survive ( financially) being a full time church worker, kah?” or even “Good meh?”. Yeah, there are days I do struggle with the answers as the womenfolk in my household grasped the matter better than I did, actually. However, questions from relatives and friends alike can be quite daunting, really.

I guess, when I indiscrimately and courageously tell my relatives what my son is doing, their facial expression says it all, man!  It is funny though, now that I think of it, how their facial expressions changes as fast as their cheeks seemed to lose some colours or facial expressions got a lot more distorted that I thought they usually are or their blushes says it all. It was as though the conscious cheek was acknowledging the GOD we serve and it ain’t winter here in Malaysia! Never mind, honestly, somehow, I wasn’t embarrassed or put off by such questions but it is hard to explain to people who has a “touch n go” situation with GOD. Meaning, they can call onto God when they need Him desperately and then goes into complete hibernating when they don’t need Him after the storm had subsided. I have learnt ever since that you can only plan the future but eventually, it is God who decides and determines what’s going to be done with your life. 

It was only recently that during a dinner function, a friend of mine from JB asked me about my eldest. So, when I told him of my eldest attachment to a church, he patted me on the back enthusiastically and congratulated me. I did not know if he was mocking me or genuinely happy for me then!  However, when he saw my expression, he asked me to cheer up and he kept telling me that how God would provide. I did not know what he was talking about but he took me aside and said ,” Look, do not worry, brother! God would provide and He would take care of things for you and your household.” He then went on to tell me about his sister’s decision to go full time in God’s ministry despite passing out with flying colors as a doctor in her overseas studies. He laughingly told me as an encouragement that his father did not speak and refused to speak to his sister for 3 full years! He then shared how his sister’s life transformed as a missionary and later as a full time church administrator. Yeah, God has a plan for everyone. I was encouraged by that …..a lot, really. 

I guess, as an old geezer and as old as I am, I needed to hear that and needed that dose of encouragement injection from  time to time. I went back home after the dinner function digesting the nuggets of wisdom and the miraculous happenings that had happened to those who put their trust and faith in the Lord. I am so thankful for that pep talk, actually. It made me realized a lot of matters in regards to trusting our Lord with our plans. Yes, HIS plans , not yours,ok? 

I must admit, there was a time, I also struggled as much as any other parent would but somehow, I was comforted as I grew older and mysteriously comforted by the hands of God at my heart.  Yunno, in the early days, I would confront God in my quiet time and asked “ Why, Lord? “ and then went on to ramble, rave and lunacy pleadings upon the sacrifices made, the ageing process of me, the financial effort in it all, my travel plans in old age, my retirement plans etc etc…..but somehow, the answer I got was “ Why not? Didn’t you dedicate him, your first born, to me and ask of me to do as I will?”. I was floored that day, I remembered and I rendered my heart to God but not before the long protest notes again and so on. (It’s still on-going, actually! Hahahahahahaaaaaa…… )  It was really tough at first and I still do have questions but probably I would store them away and ask Him when I get up there someday…..when I get there!  

What I want to say is that church workers are human beings too. They are a special breed of foot soldiers for God but they also do have their limitations ( physically, mentally and socially ) too. I often hear and see church workers going all out of their way to get things done and sometimes, it is heart breaking to see what they have to go through. I guess, their passion and enthusiasm  to serve and to avoid being criticized as “ what type of church worker! “ made them susceptible to doing everything that they are being asked to do even when it is generally not in their scope of work or expertise. It is like they are not able to say “ No” in fear of offending others and burning themselves out in the process under the license of “doing God’s work/serving the people” or they are the “one stop help centre” for everything and everyone. 

To me, that is a saddening but truthful fact. Church workers spouses, partners and even family members often crave for more time to be together or even doing things together. I am agreeable that working in church or any other religious establishment is not an occupation.  If it was, then all of us would be in trouble. It does take a very special passion, commitment, the calling and lots of love to do it but sometimes, they are, more often than not, a rather neglected lot in a way. I do believe that these church workers needed to be acknowledged , appreciated and we should learn to lower our expectations when dealing with them because they are really just human too. That’s the problem when we see them as “super” beings or we expect a whole lot of things or work from them when they, too, will breakdown due to tiredness, fatigue and even suffer emotionally and spiritually. 

However, in saying all this, I am all for working alongside God as a co-worker thing is equally important. I believe, the older need to shepherd the younger and open communication are vital in God’s ministry today. There has to be mutual respect while goodwill must prevail in every aspect of our lives. As always, there are things one can do while there are things one cannot do. So, as the pastors and church workers takes care of our needs, wants and demands, who takes care of them? If we are going to push it back to GOD, I believe, we do need to open up our horizons more or have our inflated big head examined, be wiser and be considerate. Yes, what I am saying is that, we , the general congregation are sometimes the reason for the pain, suffering and burnt out feeling of our church workers including pastors too at times.. We need to be considerate and be understanding in many ways lest we will lead our church workers to the threshold of exhaustion or simply push them off the cliff. 

I just asked of the people to not ask too much nor expect too much of the church workers. Give them a break because sometimes, the responsibilities they have to bear and carry are so heavy on their small shoulders. Their voices, aspirations, thoughts and even their grouses are often suppressed for the “greater good of the people” and  their hardwork and dedication are mainly overlooked or considered as mandatory or expected of them. Give them some space to breathe and to flourish in their own way through the tasks ahead of them. I believe, we do need to be aware so that our church workers would not burnt out or washed out. 

I am merely reminding us all that we are all just human being with our own limitations as GOD enables us. I know, I know, you don’t need to brandish your sharp parang and knives to remind me of what I am saying. The church workers are a special breed of people and “God would enable them “ but we really need to have that clear understanding of their limitations and etiquette of life as well.

I believe, striking a right balance in life is important. For a full time church worker, there is hardly time to get things done and so much to do with so limited time in hand. Thereby, it would be good if one takes a good look about meaningful living. You see, God can use it all in any situation in life. A trip, a conversation, an awkward scenario or even an unexpected occurrence could lead to one sharing of our faith. I guess, God is the arranger of that sort of opportunities. So, let us continue to be a blessing to one another, shall we?