Re-blogged from a fellow brother in Christ, Dan Shih: A grace-filled letter to Ghandi

Also found on his blog (from "Boundless"), The Marks of Manhood

James 3-4: Prayer Requests

1. To repent of my arrogance/pride, and learn to be humble and not judge

2. For forgiveness for the times I have not been encouraging/loving

3. For godly wisdom in my conversations with people (To be peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy, impartial, and sincere)

Goals for 2011

1. Study hard and salvage what's left of my GPA
2. Read "My Utmost for His Highest" by Oswald Chambers

to be continued...

Crap, I hate physics! That just ruined my winter break. So much to do next semester to make up for that...UGH.

edit// Dorothy: Peony, YOU WILL NOT SLACK OFF NEXT SEMESTER!! Come to my room and study--we can eat ramen at 3:00 AM YOU WILL GET A IN PHYSICS!!!

Uncle Kracker - Smile

You´re better than the best
I´m lucky just to linger in your light
Cooler then the flip side of my pillow that´s right
Completely unaware
Nothing can compare to where you send me
Lets me know that it´s ok
Yeah it´s ok
And the moments when my good times start to fade

(Chorus)

You make me smile like the sun
Fall outta bed
Sing like a bird
Dizzy in my head
Spin like a record
Crazy on a Sunday night

You make me dance like a fool
Forget how to breathe
Shine like gold
Buzz like a bee
Just the thought of you can drive me wild
Oh, you make me smile

Even when you´re gone
Somehow you come along
Just like a flower poking through the sidewalk crack and just like that
You steal away the rain and just like that

(Chorus)

Don´t know how I lived without you
'Cuz every time that I get around you
I see the best of me inside your eyes
You make me smile
You make me dance like a fool
Forget how to breathe
Shine like gold
Buzz like a bee
Just the thought of you can drive me wild

(Chorus)

Oh, you make me smile
Oh, you make me smile

Started reading C.S. Lewis' "Mere Christianity." This man was such a genius and such a great philosopher. He's able to explain abstract concepts so well and provide such strong rebuttals. I'm running out of words to praise his thinking and his eloquence with words.

This is going to be fun....

The most dangerous thing you can do is take any one impulse of your own nature and set it up as the thing you ought to follow at all costs. There is not one of them which will not make us into devils if we set it up as an absolute guide. You might think love of humanity in general was safe, but it is not. If you leave out justice you will find yourself breaking agreements and faking evidence in trials "for the sake of humanity," and become in the end a cruel and treacherous man.

- C.S. Lewis, "Mere Christianity"

P.S. Going to need a good hi-liter for this book.

P.P.S. Start reading "My Utmost for His Highest" when 2011 begins.

Day One: Ten things you want to say to ten different people right now.

1. I wonder about our friendship...if it'll last, or even if it's still there. I feel like you don't really care about our relationship, so part of me wants to just give up and move on. The other part of me cherishes all the times we've had and is grateful for all the times you've been there for me. Maybe I need you more than you need me. But I don't want to be your charity case either. And I also know that to give up on a friend wouldn't be what God wants me to do. Guess only time will tell what will happen to us.

2. Things have certainly changed between us since the time we first met. I still don't really know what happened, and while my mind constantly thinks about it, I don't want to be thinking about it anymore. But I am starting to see what you were saying, how maybe it is the timing, or maybe we just weren't what the other was looking for. Reflecting back on all the times we had, I do remember how sometimes I wished things were different; how our circumstances were different, or even how you would be different. But what's over is over now, so guess I'll just have to continue to rely on Him now to see where He brings us in our friendship and how He'll shape the rest of each of our lives.

3. I don't know how we ever became such good friends, as well as how we became sisters-in-Christ. But it's amazing how He works, and I'm so so grateful for you. You're definitely one of the people who I can see that we're growing separately but not apart from one another. Thank you for being there for me, for caring so genuinely. I only pray I can love and care for you like you do for me. By the way, I miss you so much right now. I hope you're enjoying Christmas with your family. And remember, don't ever let anyone put you down. They just don't see how amazing you are. <3

4. Also for you, I don't know how we ever became such good friends and brother-sister in Christ. It's been such a blessing to catch up with you when we're both back from college. I love how we can just sit there and talk for hours. I'm always so encouraged by our conversations; the work God's been doing in your life, especially when you're away at college, is amazing. You've grown so much spiritually. I'm excited to see how our lives will change, but how we'll probably still be meeting up at Starbucks, sitting down, sipping our espresso's, and chatting like things have never changed.

5. Thanks for being there for me, especially when I'm back in NYC. I consider NYC home but sometimes I don't feel at home. It's times like that when you come along and make me feel better.You've really been an awesome big brother in Christ. We still have yet to go to Alaska together so you can lick your iceberg, haha. As well as Australia so I can attend your wedding and hold a wombat. I'm kinda of kidding, but kind of not. :)

6. We don't talk anymore, but I know that you played a huge role in my life. You showed me what it meant to be a friend, what it meant to open my heart to someone, and then what it feels like to be abandoned. Not sure if we'll ever talk again in the future, but I still hope that we will someday.

7. This isn't really to one person, but to a collective of people. Thank you for the kindness and excitement you showed me. I'm glad I was able to experience such a warm, welcoming community, if even just for a short time. Definitely a bit sad that I don't have an excuse to come by anymore.

8. I wish you were home right now. I don't always enjoy our conversations and wish we had a better relationship, but of course I still love you. Just a thought I had today was, how boring it'd be if I was an only child. So yeah I'm definitely grateful for you in my life, and I pray ever night that I'll still see you in eternity. I don't know what happened in that relationship of yours, but I pray hard for it.

9. I love you. I sure hope you know. I've been trying to show it more. And I pray for you every night also.

10. I love you. And I am thankful for everything you do for me, even though I'm terrible at showing it. Praying for you every day and night.

Day Two: Nine things about yourself.

1. I'm my own worst enemy.

2. It takes me a long time to trust someone.

3. I want to travel, but not by myself.

4. I'm introverted, but am shy and like to be social.

5. I'm an organization nerd.

6. I enjoy geeky jokes ^^;

7. I'm not very creative and wish I was more talented.

8. I value wisdom and knowledge.

9. I hate wasting time, but I need to learn that sometimes taking a break is not wasting time, especially at times when I feel so overwhelmed all I want to do is sleep.

Day Three: Eight ways to win your heart.

1. Show that you're thinking of me.

2. Show that you won't abandon me.

3. Show that you know me.

4. Love me for my weird quirks and in spite of my flaws.

5. My three top love languages: quality time, works of service, and physical touch.

6. Show that you love your friends and your family.

7. Win my family's and friends' approval.

8. And last, but most important, show that you love God, and encourage me to love Him more.

Day Four: Seven things that cross your mind a lot.

1. I think I think too much.

2. God, what the hell is the purpose of this?!

3. Who are my true friends?

4. Who and when?

5. Be patient; wait on Him.

6. First things first, God first. Everything else will fall into place.

7. Stop complaining.

Day Five: Six things you wish you’d never done.

- I'm not sure there's anything I wish I'd never done. Everything I've done or that's happened to me occurred for a reason and has contributed to who I am today. The good and the bad.

Day Six: Five people who mean a lot (in no order whatsoever)

- See "Day One" from above.

Day Seven: Four turn offs.

1. When you can find out more about a person from their Facebook than you can about them in person. It really irks me when some people are so outgoing and social online, but then once you meet him/her in person, it's like they refuse to speak. WTH?!

2. People who like something simply because that's is what other people like. I feel like with these people it's impossible to tell who they truly are, what makes them unique? Or do you believe that your purpose in life is to be like everyone else? Because if that's the case, that's just boring. [Side note, I think subconsciously these people tick me off because I used to be one of them. Then I realized things I thought were "cool" simply because other kids liked them were in reality just dumb.]

3. This goes along with #2. People who pretend to be someone else just so they will be liked. Be true to yourself.

4. People who don't really think. I feel like people who don't spend time in reflection don't know what they want, don't know what's important to them, don't know the seriousness of some situations, etc.

Day Eight: Three turn ons.

1. Maturity. Unlike people who turn me off, these people know what they're passionate about, and they go for it. They don't care what the world thinks. They know their values, and they stick to them. They do the right thing, not the easy thing. They think before they act. They plan ahead. They seek guidance and yearn for wisdom. They're considerate of others, selfless. And they're rightfully humble. (Like C.S. Lewis said, they don't think less of themselves, they think of themselves less.)

2. Romance: flowers, sweet texts, stargazing, walks on the beach, hand holding, and the like ;)

3. Commitment - walk the talk. And don't promise more than you can give. And this is kind of related, that he wants a Christian family in the future.

Day Nine: Two smileys that describe your life right now.

1. -.- <- praying

2. ???

Day Ten: One confession.

1. It's only by His Grace alone that I'm still alive today. His love and hope gives me purpose each day.

Born to Die by Bebo Norman

They never knew a dark night
always had the Son's light
on their face
Perfect in glory
Broken by the story
of untold grace...
come that day

Majesty had come down
Glory had succumed now
to flesh and bone
In the arms of a manger
In the hands of strangers
that could not know
Just who they hold

Chorus:
And the angels filled the sky
All of heaven wondered why
Why their King would choose to be
Be a baby born to die

And all fell silent
For the cry of an infant,
the voice of God
Was dividing history
For those with eyes to see,
the Son would shine
From earth that night

Chorus

Bridge:
To break the chains
Of guilt and sin
To find us here
To pull us in
So we can join in Heaven's song
And with one voice around the throne

Chorus:
All the Angels filled the sky
And I can't help but wonder why
Why the King would choose to be
Be a baby born for me
Be a baby born to die

For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
- Isaiah 9:6

Merry Christmas everyone!

The Father's Peace

Shattered pieces on the floor,

remnants of what used to be a whole.

Now broken beauty stained with blood,

too sharp to touch lest one wants to get cut more.

But in the Father's overflowing Love,

streams of Grace dull the edges.

Washing away the grime,

leaving a clear reflection of what used to be.

What High-Maintenance Girlfriends Want for Christmas This Year

Reblogged from my friend. Pretty funny. Poor guy, hope he earns a lot of money....

I FOUND MY PURITY RING! Apparently I lost it in my suitcase, haha. Yay!

Going to wear it on a fatter finger now, so can't wear it on my ring finger...oh wells. Just glad to have it back =)

This is so cool...mind-boggling...the nerd inside of me is so happy hahaha.

(Reminds me of what Louie Giglio did by comparing us to the size of the universe but I think this is better.)

Check it out: Scale of the Universe

Sanctus Real - Lead Me

Father, lead me, 'cause I can't do this alone

Done is Good

[X] Physics newspost

[X] Alumni Regional Scholars Application

[X] ASA Elections

[X] Chinese Written Final

[X] Chinese Final Project

[X] Chemistry Final

[X] Behavioral Neuroscience Final: Essay #1

[X] Behavioral Neuroscience Final: Essay #2

[X] Behavioral Neuroscience Final: Essay #3

[X] Laundry, Pack

[X] Physics Final

=> Winter Break 2010-'11

So close yet so far....

Reblogged from Sunny: "if karma doesn't hit you i will"

That's how I feel about some people during finals week, especially those that are super loud in the library.... Ugh, sorry. I know I know...I'll stop. So cranky...this is why I should just stay in my room and just study. Less than 24 hours left....

editt// This is ironic.... Researching for my BNS essays and reading about the terrible effects of anxiety and stress on brain development.

Have you ever had an amazing time with someone who you connected so well with, and then when it's time to part from one another, it becomes really awkward and neither of you knows what to say? That's because those good-bye's are never meant to happen.

I think the saying goes that "When God closes a door, somewhere He opens a window." But I feel the saying would be more correct if revised like such, "When God closes a window, somewhere He opens a door." Looking back on my life, I see how when I struggle to go my own way, He stops me only to present me with an opportunity far better than I ever planned for myself.

Currently Listening To:
- "With Everything", Hillsong United

MICHELLE'S GETTING BAPTIZED TODAY!

I'm so happy for her. And I'm terribly sad that I can't be there for the ceremony, but I look forward to seeing the videos and photos of Da Jie getting dunked later =)

When it comes to the times we've had, walking down memory lane is so fun. That quiet, skinny little Asian girl I first met at Boon and then hung out with at Bronx Science... has now become that rambunctious, skinny, Asian girl that I know and love. God's brought us through so much, and I'm so grateful that throughout many of those times I've had you there with me. It's been such a blessing to see how God's been working in your life...to seeing the genuine struggles you've had with doubt, and now, to knowing Him in His fullness of Grace and Love. I thank God for you; to have such a fellow sister-in-Christ. And it's been so encouraging to hear how you've been living out your faith each day, and growing so much spiritually since you've been off at college. Words cannot express the joy I feel when I think about how faithful our God has been in our lives. I pray that you may only continue to grow in Him. "So then, just as you have received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in Him, rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness." (Col 2:6-7)

Praise God! To Him be the glory and power always and forever more. Amen.

"Today for our anniversary, I brought home a puppy for my wife. Her face lit up when she saw it. She took the puppy into her arms, ran off a couple steps, ran back, gave me a kiss on the cheek while admiring the puppy, and ran off again. I'm glad I made my wife happy, just feeling a bit lonely now since I got replaced."

Hahaha, awww <3

Hogwarts Dinner at Bryn Mawr College

Not I, but Your Kingdom.

Not to be served, but to serve.

Not to search for love, but to realize that Love found me,

and so to love others.

Thank You Jesus.

Oh, words cannot tell, not even in part, of the depth of love that is owed by this thankful heart.

Currently Listening To:

- I Will Offer Up My Life, Matt Redman

- We Will Worship the Lamb of Glory, Dennis Jernigan

Loving this night...my girls Lisa and Michelle (via vchat), Dan, Preston, Arnold, Rebecca, as well as Tim and Andrew from Tim Be Told.

By the way, can't wait for Tim Be Told's new album "Humanity." It's so awesome.... =)

Currently Listening To:

- Humanity, Tim Be Told

- Lament, Tim Be Told

- Reach for the Light, Tim Be Told

"There is nothing on this earth to be prized more than true friendship."

- St. Thomas Aquinas

"Friendship is when people know all about you but like you anyway. "

- Unknown

"Remember, we all stumble, every one of us. That's why it's a comfort to go hand in hand. "

- Emily Kimbrough

"Many people will walk in and out of you life, but only true friends will leave footprints in your heart."

- Unknown

"Wherever you are, it's your friends who make your world."

- William James

"The most beautiful discovery true friends make is that they can grow separately without growing apart. "

- Elisabeth Foley

"A friend is the one who comes in when the whole world has gone out. "

- Grace Pulpit

Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing

Come, Thou fount of every blessing,
Tune my heart to sing Thy grace;
Streams of mercy, never ceasing,
Call for songs of loudest praise.
While the hope of endless glory
Fills my heart with joy and love,
Teach me ever to adore Thee;
May I still Thy goodness prove.

Here I raise my Ebenezer,
Hither by Thy help I’ve come;
And I hope, by Thy good pleasure,
Safely to arrive at home.
Jesus sought me when a stranger,
Wandering from the fold of God;
He, to rescue me from danger,
Interposed His precious blood.

Oh, to grace how great a debtor
Daily I’m constrained to be;
Let that grace now like a fetter
Bind my wandering heart to Thee:
Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it;
Prone to leave the God I love.
Here’s my heart, oh, take and seal it,
Seal it for Thy courts above.

Oh, that day when freed from sinning,
I shall see Thy lovely face;
Clothed then in the blood washed linen
How I’ll sing Thy wondrous grace!
Come, my Lord, no longer tarry,
Take my ransomed soul away;
Send Thine angels soon to carry
Me to realms of endless day.

http://www.education.com/reference/article/avoiding-sophomore-slump/

Am I making a huge mistake...?

http://isaacblog.wordpress.com/tag/internships/

good times...good times... i miss those simple summer days...

Counting Down the Days...(cont'd)

12/1 - Swim for a Cure Relays, Swim meets vs.Arcadia & Cabrini

12/2-4 - Lisa Visiting!

12/3 - Tim Be Told Concert!; Dan and Preston Visiting!

12/9 - Last day of classes for fall 2010 semester!

12/12 - Finals begins

12/?? - Done w. finals!

12/17 - Examination period ends; Winter break officially begins!

1 swim meet, 1 concert, 9 more days of classes, and 4 finals....

Dang, I wish my laptop/earphones could blast this music louder....

Currently Listening To:

- Just the Way You Are, Bruno Mars cover by Ahmir

- Love the Way You Lie/Not Afraid Mashup, Jason Chen

- My Time with You, David Choi and Kina Grannis

- Rocketeer, Far East Movement

- Analyze, Tim Be Told

Oh, and shout-out promo: TIM BE TOLD (acoustic performance) @ BRYN MAWR COLLEGE, TGH 7:30PM!

(^that combined with finals coming up and swim practices and a meet is going to drive me crazy this coming week....)

"Agents of Secret Stuff"

Hahaha, I love when (Asian) artists collaborate.

Real Men

Real Men: This is your opportunity to celebrate the men who are making the world a better place by doing amazing things for women. They are the politicians, activists, campaigners and advocates who selflessly devote themselves to women’s causes. Some are internationally famous and others are less well known, but all are passionate about tackling injustice, fighting prejudice and creating fairer societies with equal opportunities for all. Here are just a few examples of the real men that SheSuccess admires.

Countdown to Thanksgiving Break

**Disclaimer: Does not include classes, would make this list too long and depressing.**

Saturday

[X] Swim Meet vs. Dickinson and Juniata

[X] ASA Culture Show (And got to meet Clara C!)

Sunday

- Dan, Happy Four-months to you too!

Monday

[X] Chem Exam

[_] Afternoon Swim Practice

[_] Chinese HW

[_] Physics Problem Set

[_] Chem Pre-lab

[_] ASA Board Meeting

Tuesday

[_] Morning Drylands Practice

[_] Chinese Quiz

[_] Meet w. Major Advisor

[_] Afternoon Swim Practice

[_] Chinese HW

[_] Pack

Wednesday

[_] Morning Swim Practice

- Head back to NYC for Thanksgiving Break!

//last edited// 11.22.10 2:08PM

Currently sipping hot tea from my hug mug...all set for tonight! =)

And Listening To:

- Jesus Lover of my Soul, Hillsong United

- Second Chance, Hillsong United

Can't wait to go home for the holidays...

For my Winter Break Plans:
- nyc for the holidays
- holiday shopping in nyc
- fancy food courts

thank you nycgo.com =)

If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. ² If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. ³ If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing. (1 Cor 13:1-3)

Was reflecting on the importance of correct theology - how it's important because it affects the way one's thinks, which in turn reflects the way one acts. And wondered about the significance of correct theology when it came to "Gospel issues" (theology central to the Gospel) versus "family issues" (controversy surrounding less pertinent issues of theology, which should not divide the family of Christ). This led me to thinking about how useful correct theology was if it did not lead to action though. That's when the 1 Corinthians 13 passage about love popped up into my head. Even if I can say I know theology, what use is that if it does not result in actions befitting of amazing Grace I know of? I'd just become a pharisee. Just a reminder for me to shape up. I also read something Paul wrote the other night. It went along the lines of how it would be better for him to go and be with God right then, but it was for the good of those around him that he didn't leave. Made me wonder how often we consider the purpose of our lives to be to benefit those around us. (And how often I rather just concentrate on my own stuff and be my introverted self. -sigh-)

Sorry if this blog post was unorganized or whatnot, it was just thoughts I wanted to get down after a long day and before running off to family group.

"Spiteful words can hurt your feelings but silence breaks your heart." - C.S Lewis

What do you do when it feels like you're constantly reaching out to a friend but the friend doesn't care enough about the friendship to reciprocate?

Considering the previous post I just made, I think I know the answer to this. Following through with that conviction is the hard part.

Random Reflections on Faith and Love

The Bible doesn't praise people who 'played it safe' but people who lived by faith. (Paraphrased from Francis Chan, from his second to last sermon at Cornerstone Simi Valley Church)

"Elijah was a man just like us. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years." (James 5:17, emphasis added)

Why do you pray for nothing to happen to you? Don't you know it's through those up's and down's of life that God sculpts you into the person you're meant to be? (Paraphrased from Pastor Joe's sermon last week at GCC Mainline)

There is no such thing as "conditional love." Biblically, the definition of love denotes that love is unconditional. So what are the implications of that when God commands us, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' " (Matt. 22:37-39) and "As I have loved you, so you must love one another." (John 13:34)?

Currently Listening To:

- Remain, Starfield

- A Mighty Fortress, Christy Nockels

Counting Down the Days...

11/20 - ASA Culture Show; Dan Visiting

11/24 - Thanksgiving Break begins (after classes)

12/2-4 - Lisa Visiting

12/3 - Tim Be Told Concert; Dan (and Preston?) Visiting

12/9 - Last day of classes for fall 2010 semester

12/12 - Finals begins

12/?? - Done w. finals

12/17 - Examination period ends; Winter break officially begins

Tim Be Told @ BMC 12/3!

Contract's still in negotiation's but hopefully everything will be set for Dec 3rd....

Love Language: Jubilee Project Short Film & Fundraiser

The Serenity Prayer

God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.

Living one day at a time;
Enjoying one moment at a time;
Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace;
Taking, as He did, this sinful world
as it is, not as I would have it;
Trusting that He will make all things right
if I surrender to His Will;
That I may be reasonably happy in this life
and supremely happy with Him
Forever in the next.
Amen.

--Reinhold Niebuhr

----

Thank You for showing me that Your works are amazing. It's not by my strength, but by Your sovereign Will or irresistible Grace . To You be all the glory, honor, and praise, forevermore.

I must admit that this past week was a bit depressing. As work and studying continued to pile on I felt like I was losing contact with friends. But I thank God for friends who make an effort to keep up with me despite my busy schedule =)

Omgosh, why is this weekend so awesome?! (Probably because this week was so terrible with all the work, exams, and workouts....) No swim practice tomorrow and no chem OWL's due sunday. I finally get to sleep in tomorrow. Going to treasure it, because once I wake up I should probably catch up on work I should've done a while ago and get started on the coming week's work. Can't wait until Thanksgiving break...T-13 days of class....

Not sure I agree with it all but gotta love that New Yorker pride! xD

50 Reasons to Be Pretty Damn Euphoric You Live in New York City

Talked to a "senior" tonight about accelerated graduation. She's graduating this year, but her class came in three years ago. Now I'm looking over my credits to see how feasible it is for me if I were to graduate early. I think if I wanted to graduate a semester early that's no problem. If I wanted to do a year early then I would have to take summer classes or overload some semesters.

Point of this post? High school AP credit mattered. If I did better on a test or two I'd have more credits right now. I blame the vacation to Hawaii the week before AP exams haha.

Should've been sleeping by now...need to wake up at 7am for drylands. But spent this time pre-registering for classes for next semester instead. Decided not to be so crazy next semester and repeat my MWF 9am-6:30pm schedule again. So I moved my chemistry and physics labs to TTh. Hope this will make me more productive and not just more lazy.

"What we call 'being in love' is a glorious state, and, in several ways, good for us. It helps to make us generous and courageous, it opens our eyes not only to the beauty of the beloved but to all beauty, and it subordinates (especially at first) our merely animal sexuality; in that sense, love is the great conqueror of lust. No one in his senses would deny that being in love is far better than either common sensuality or cold self-centeredness. But, as I said before, 'the most dangerous thing you can do is to take any one impulse of our own nature and set it up as the thing you ought to follow at all costs'. Being in love is a good thing, but it is not the best thing. There are many things below it, but there are also things above it. You cannot make it the basis of a whole life. It is a noble feeling, but it is still a feeling. Now no feeling can be relied on to last in its full intensity, or even to last at all. Knowledge can last, principles can last, habits can last; but feelings come and go. And in fact, whatever people say, the state called 'being in love' usually does not last. If the old fairy-tale ending 'They lived happily ever after' is taken to mean 'They felt for the next fifty years exactly as they felt the day before they were married', then it says what probably never was nor ever would be true, and would be highly undesirable if it were. Who could bear to live in that excitement for even five years? What would become of your work, your appetite, your sleep, your friendships? But, of course, ceasing to be 'in love' need not mean ceasing to love. Love in this second sense-- love as distinct from 'being in love'-- is not merely a feeling. It is a deep unity, maintained by the will and deliberately strengthened by habit; reinforced by (in Christian marriages) the grace which both partners ask, and receive, from God. They can have this love for each other even at those moments when you do not like yourself. They can retain this love even when each would easily, if they allowed themselves, be 'in love' with someone else. 'Being in love' first moved them to promise fidelity: this quieter love enables them to keep the promise. It is on this love that the engine of marriage is run: being in love was the explosion that started it."

- C.S. Lewis

I don't know whether to be more outraged or more upset...

Church Attack Seen as Strike at Iraq’s Core
"BAGHDAD — Blood still smeared the walls of Our Lady of Salvation Church on Monday. Scraps of flesh remained between the pews. It was the worst massacre of Iraqi Christians since the war began here in 2003. "

Your Type is INFJ

Introverted	Intuitive	Feeling	Judging
Strength of the preferences %
33	12	12	22

My results keep changing.... If/When I become a psych major I should really do more research on these personality test, specifically on Carl Jung's theories since this Myers Briggs personality test seems so popular.

So lethargic today...not feeling well physically or emotionally.

Amazing how much difference one's mood makes.

Currently Listening To:

- If You Want Me To, Ginny Owens

Can I go home now...? Please...? =(

I think I'm sick of college life, ready to move on.

Need to catch up on devo's - beginning to lose my patience.

Pray for me.

2010-11 Swim Season Preview | Athletics News

2010-11 Swim Season Preview | Athletics News

Jack Wang: "hey guys, just wanted to share this with yall. it tracks everyone in the world who has made a decision to come to faith IN REAL TIME!! so tightt, check it out and stare at the map for a while. its amazing to see God's kingdom growing before our eyes!"

>>http://greatcommission2020.com/

To Serve is to Suffer

Response written by Libby Little. Shortly after Libby Little wrote this response to Ajith Fernando's article on suffering, she received news that her husband had been brutally murdered while returning from a medical mission in a rural area.

The Five Pillars of Manhood: How Men Should Love and Respect Women

[Re-blogged from Jaeson Ma's 365 Days of Love blog]

Looking down at the floor there was a little black speck moving next to my foot. On closer examination I saw that it was a tiny ant. Usually I would have stepped on it without further consideration. However, on this day, I felt differently. Looking down at the tiny ant I was reminded of the metaphor that is always used to compare humans to God. How minuscule are we compared to the Almighty God. And the difference between us and an ant does not even being to compare to the difference between us and God.

The ant was wandering around on the floor. Meandering between the small tiles, going back and forth. It seemed lost. Staring at it, I didn't have the heart to step on it. Well my first thought was that I should show mercy like we were shown mercy (haha). But moreso, I wanted to give it a break in life...like how I wanted a break. Wandering around in this world, I'm not sure where I'm going either.

But I was reminded of how I myself was being watched over as well, by Someone much more powerful and compassionate than me.

Need to get my (spiritual) life back in order.

Currently Listening To:

- Our God, Chris Tomlin

- Every Move I Make

Lost my purity ring, and I can't re-trace my steps because I was traveling from NYC to Philly.

Called my mom before while I was panicking and before she found out what happened, she thought I got mugged or something. Then she was like, "It's okay, it's okay. The ring doesn't matter, as long as you still have what it represents." Can always count on her to lighten up situations (and make things awkward) -.-

My hand feels so naked now. All that remains now is a tan line of what used to be there....

=(

Home Sweet Home

To good friends, good food, and much needed rest.

Oh, NYC...how I have missed you....

To-Do

Countdown to Fall Break

- Chemistry Exam #2 [DONE]

- Physics Midterm [DONE]

- Behavioral Neuroscience Midterm [DONE]

- Chemistry Lab Report

- Chinese HW and Quiz

- Physics Problem Set

- Chinese HW

- Laundry, Pack for Fall Break

FALL BREAK

- Chemistry OWL Problem Set

- Internships planning

- Fellowships planning

- Academic plans

After Fall Break

- Chinese Exam #2

Tim Be Told @ Bryn Mawr College on Saturday, November 6th?!
(Along with Vudoo Soul?)

Possibly! Still in the process of getting things finalized....

And T-4 days until Fall Break!

=)

Some thoughts that I've been reflecting on as of late:

He tends to surround us with people who reflect how we've been acting to reveal to us our true attitudes, especially when it comes to our relationship with Him.

In a world that denies Him, are you willing to stand up and stand out for Him? What do you truly value in your heart? Do you need to ask for forgiveness?

Currently Listening To:

- If You Want Me To, Ginny Owens

- Desert Song, Hillsong United

- Be Your Everything, Big Daddy Weave

- The Stand, Hillsong United

- Alive in this Moment, Starfield

- All the Way My Savior Leads Me, Chris Tomlin

So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Phil 2:1-11)

For myself, to keep myself going....

Fri, 10.1: Chemistry exam #2

Sat, 10.2: GCC Mini-O's

Sat/Sun, 10.2/3: Physics midterm, Behavioral neuroscience exam

Fri, 10.8: Fall Break begins!

Wed-Fri, 10.13-15: Visit Michelle in RI :)

Mon, 10.18: Classes resume... - sigh -

Passion 2011 Live Link

Passion 2011 Live Link. September 27. 8:30PM EDT. Your computer.

Thousands of people just like you across the globe will connect via the Internet for a night of worship and prayer for your generation. Led by Louie Giglio and the Passion Band, along with Charlie Hall, the Link is NOT something for you to watch, but something for you to participate in as we unite and get excited about what’s in store for Passion 2011.

The Link is free, and you can be a part from wherever you are. All you need to participate is an Internet connection (A high speed connection will help.) So organize your crew (you can link in with friends or with your entire campus ministry) or just join us from the comfort of your dorm or apartment.

Whatever works best for you, it’s going to be powerful and a night you won’t want to miss.

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So excited! Might only be able to catch the first 30 minutes though... ><;

Happy 125th Birthday Bryn Mawr!

Yesterday's NYT article on BMC

Crazy photos of the storm in NYC: http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2010/09/16/nyregion/20100917_READER_STORM.html?src=tptw

So many fallen trees.... My home in NYC is right across from Alley Pond Park forest and in front of a huge tree.... Thank God the storm didn't affect my neighborhood that much.

Francis Chan - The new middle road - RightNow Conference

Hence begins the weird waking/sleeping hours.... ("Napped" from 12-4 and "studying" since then.) Must admit, I kind of missed this. I'll probably regret this tomorrow, but as of now, I'm kind of enjoying this. There's something about this time of night...the peacefulness.... When everything around you is silent and you're reminded of the essence of life itself, without all the distractions. Reminder of life...of the moments in the past...of God....

Anyways, I should get back to studying chemistry. Was thinking about the post-bac's in my PLI session tonight. These people went through their years of undergrad, some went to work a bit afterwards, and now are back in school so that they can go through more school (med school). No offense to the post-bac's, I really respect that they're willing to go back to school so that they could go to med school. But if I have to go to a post-bac pre-med program because I decide later that I'm serious about being pre-med, then I'm going to really regret all the years I didn't use my time now seriously. In short, education... I need to stop taking it for granted and take it more seriously.

Class hasn't even started for this week yet and I'm already behind. Wtheck?! I really need to stay on top of my work more and be more disciplined. I'm getting really frustrated with myself....

3:15AM already and I still need to work on preparing for chem lab tomorrow. And then a lot of make-up work that I'll probably do tomorrow....

Realizations After Staring at the Computer Screen for Five Minutes

I was looking at the youtube window of the "Just a Dream" Remix by Jason Chen and Joseph Vincent [see previous posts]. There was something about it that made me happy. (And no, it was not the guys.) I was wondering if I wanted to tweet the post to further support them; was it tweet-worthy? Well, yes, I thought. It's a good song and they're great singers. But then I realized there was another reason I wanted to share it. It was because they were Asian artists. But my thoughts didn't just stop there; it wasn't just because they were Asian artists.

Last night I was looking at Jason Chen's youtube profile and I saw that he was in UCLA studying business and planning to be an auditor. And looking through his videos I joked with Lisa how he was such the stereotypical Asian, with trophies lining the cabinets of his house in the background and how he could play multiple musical instruments. Lisa commented how his house looked very nice and I was thinking, figures...Asian parents and financial stability. My thoughts wandered farther to how we're all just trying to reach that American dream as well. One of a financially-secure job so we can get that nice house and support our families. However, is that American dream also one that ties us down and holds us back from our dreams?

I realized, in some way, maybe I feel connected to these people because we're all doing and struggling with the same thing. Are we torn between obligation and desire?

I don't know Jason Chen, so I can't say for sure that what I'm about to say about him and his parents are true. But when I look at Jason the image I get of him is that of a talented Asian singer who's passionate about music, and going into business to be financially stable so his parents will be happy. Again, maybe that's not his actual situation. But maybe that's the way my mind is interpreting it.

Recently I've been wondering about how much of what I do is out of passion and how much of what I do is out of obligation. Even if Jason Chen's situation is not how I picture it, I still know many other people, especially in the Asian population, that struggle with what they want to do with their life and what their parents want them to do with their life. Their dreams and desires conflict with the morals and values instilled in them by their parents. For example, I hear stories of pastors who went through law school or med school and got their degrees only to make their parents happy because then the son/daughter would have "something to fall back on," and their parents could say "my son/daughter is a lawyer/doctor" (even though he or she is actually working in a church). Then there's also all the other stories of talented (Asian) singers, artists, writers, etc. out there who are not studying their passions, but business, medicine, or something else instead. Have we accepted these alternate studies to be our lesser passions? Are we all in denial of our "true selves" (is there even such a thing)? Or maybe it is more wise to be practical in our thinking. Yet how come some part of me rejoices when I see some Asian artist pursuing their dreams against their parents' wishes?

So many questions.... Guess I should figure out what I want to do first....

A Call to Reconciliation

Read this in the NYT from yesterday...

-----

A Call to Reconciliation

We are blessed to be part of a particular community called the Collegiate Church of New York with almost four hundred years of continuous ministry in this city. We gather not only as individuals, but as communities through which we can impact the world around us. We are drawn together by Jesus' calling to love one another, and we share a common vocation of pursuing peace with all people (John 13.34 and Hebrews 12.14). It is from this basis that we, as a community of believers, offer the following comments on the controversy that has been generated by the proposal to develop a Muslim Community Center in lower Manhattan.

We live in the midst of God's marvelous mosaic. New York City and its environs is a place of cultural diversity and religious pluralism. The positive and inclusive nature of the Christian faith compels us to respect all people, listen to diverse viewpoints, and work in partnership with those who seek peace and the good of our community. While we pursue the path to truth and life through Jesus Christ, our Christian tradition and our American heritage promote the freedom of all people to seek their own religious paths and to worship however and wherever they wish.

We also recognize that there are deep wounds that still remain from the terrorist attack on our city on September 11, 2001. We honor the courage of first responders and advocate for appropriate health care benefits to address their ongoing medical issues. We grieve with those who suffered losses of loved ones on that day, and we acknowledge that the space formerly occupied by the twin towers holds a sacred place in the hearts of all Americans.

As we watch the fury over the community center intensify, we are also grieved by the mischaracterization of people and positions. A prime example is the way the Muslim leaders involved in this initiative have had their intent, beliefs, and character maligned. We are saddened to see our Muslim neighbors, friends, and colleagues so misrepresented. They are part of the rich heritage and religious tapestry of New York City, and they have done much to contribute to its well-being. Islam, like Christianity, is a large and diverse faith, and one cannot use one experience or expression of Islam to stereotype all Muslims, nor can all be indicted for the acts of a few. We also deplore the portrayal of Christianity as anti-Muslim through the desecration of their sacred text. Our faith calls us to respect others and to strive to represent them fairly. Doing so does not eliminate the space to disagree; it speaks to how we represent ourselves and others with integrity in the midst of disagreement.

The polarizing nature of the debate has left us listening solely for whether people are "for" or "against" the community center. The voices in the middle are being crowded out by extreme positions on both sides. In order to cultivate room to learn from one another and to create greater understanding among all concerned, we believe any engagement of this issue must be based on the following:

First, we call for civil dialogue where the rights of all people are respected. We recognize that the current controversy, in many ways, represents a conversation that we as a people never had after September 11. Moving forward, we pledge ourselves to be engaged in settings and venues where interfaith dialogue and cooperation is fostered throughout the city and beyond. We call upon all those who would exploit this situation for their own personal agendas through demagoguery and the demonization of others to cease their rhetoric and extend their ears and their hearts to all.

Second, we commit ourselves and encourage others to learn more about Islam. If the current controversy has shown anything, it is the great misunderstanding about the faith of Muslims.

Third, we commit ourselves and encourage others to learn the facts surrounding the proposed community center. No reasoned discussion can occur unless we have a common understanding of what is being proposed.

Fourth, we commit ourselves and encourage others to build relationships of trust between those carrying divergent positions in this controversy. A lack of trust prevents us from listening and learning from one another, and there will be no successful resolution without some measure of trust between those involved.

Because of who we are and who we are called to be, we celebrate a vision of cultural diversity and religious tolerance, a setting where we can learn about one another, participate across lines of race, faith, culture, and socioeconomic condition to be faithful to our calling in this city. Therefore we are committed to work with the organizers of Park51 and all concerned parties as a reconciling agent so that there is a new way for residents of this city and all Americans to move forward into a new future in which civil dialogue leads to healing and understanding.

Rev. Michael S. Bos, West End Collegiate Church
Rev. Dr. Michael S. Brown, Marble Collegiate Church
Rev. Robert Chase, Intersections International
Rev. Dr. Jacqueline Lewis, Middle Collegiate Church
Rev. Charles D. Morris, Fort Washington Collegiate Church

September 10, 2010

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After 9/11 happened, it was amazing to see the unity and outpouring of love and compassion from New Yorkers, as well as the rest of the country and world. Yes, 9/11 was definitely a tragedy. But it is also a tragedy now how disgraceful we're being in honoring those who we lost by becoming this unloving city over this mosque debate and all the enmity towards Muslims. It pains me now to see how we've lost all that love and compassion.

- From a fellow NYC-er

From the first FNL message of the year (from last night)...

Will you like the person you'll be when you graduate?

Because if not, the only person you'll have to blame is yourself.

Make the most of your time.

Always a good reminder.

Just a Dream Remix/Cover (Nelly) - Jason Chen & Joseph Vincent

I don't think the large amount of joy I get from taking out my comforter is normal, haha. Oh, sleep... how I miss you....

Sam Tsui - Don't Want An Ending

Miss you....

Awesome way to procrastinate: http://www.thewildernessdowntown.com/ (An interactive film by Chris Milk)

To-Do

because Da Jie wanted me to post this...

• nap
• dinner
• pelt freshwomen with water balloons
• chemistry hw
• good night, sweet dreams to fellow mawrters

Life @ BMC... Parade Night 2010!

Note to Self

1. Stop planning

2. Stop worrying

3. Stop complaining

4. Stop making excuses

5. Be disciplined

6. Learn to say no

7. Sleep earlier

8. Just do it

Katy Perry Kesha California Gurls vs East Coast Girls / Your Love Is My ...

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Ooo, just found out about them from JP (while listening to their cover for Bruno Mars' "Just the Way You Are"). Thought this one was especially interesting though haha. I used to say how the east coast/NYC had a better song because "Empire State of Mind" is about dreams and determination while "California Girls" is just about girls, but this is an interesting spin on things as well. =)

Bryn Mawr College Tops The Princeton Review’s list of “Dorms Like Palaces” | Bryn Mawr Now

Bryn Mawr College Tops The Princeton Review’s list of “Dorms Like Palaces” | Bryn Mawr Now

Hmm...don't think this applies to my dorm room. I can see how this applies to Bryn Mawr though. Guess I'll see what dorms in other schools are like when I visit my friends in their colleges.

Other things from Princeton Review's College Rankings

Happiest Students - Brown University

Top Party School - University of Georgia (Penn State is now 3rd.)

For more rankings: Click here

I need to stop procrastinating...

http://www.givesmehope.com/

http://love.givesmehope.com/

A Different Kind of College Ranking

Bryn Mawr's #2!

"[...] It’s also all female, a trait that a number of other highly ranked colleges share. Bryn Mawr is number two this year, and Wellesley is number ten, with Smith not far behind. Most historic women’s colleges have long since become coeducational. Those that remain are distinguishing themselves in putting women on the path to opportunity."

For Rankings: 2010 Liberal Arts Colleges

"[Above, see link] are the Washington Monthly's 2010 liberal arts college rankings. We rate schools based on their contribution to the public good in three broad categories: Social Mobility (recruiting and graduating low-income students), Research (producing cutting-edge scholarship and PhDs), andService (encouraging students to give something back to their country). "

Heading back to BMC tmrw! Then I start class Monday ><;

It's not where you are or what you're doing that makes those moments memorable, but it's who you're with.

Currently Listening To:

- Summertime, New Kids on the Block

Summer's Coming to an End...

I don't think it's fully sunk in yet that I'm leaving for school this Sunday. But I'm beginning to feel the panic. With only so much time left, there's not enough hours to spend time with everyone I had hoped to and to do everything I wanted to do. Also, I haven't had time to figure out my responsibilities and expectations for the upcoming academic year. Oh, and I have to buy some stuff and pack.

In short, I'm really nervous about heading back to school. But just like with my uncertainty about this summer back in May, I'm lifting up my worries of the upcoming academic year into God's hands. If there's one thing I learned from this summer it's that He is good, and He works well. Very well.

"Taste and see that the Lord is good;

blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him." (Psalm 34:8)

Currently Listening To:

- To Know Your Name, Hillsong United

- How Deep the Father's Love for Us, Phillips, Craig, and Dean

- Grace Like Rain, Todd Agnew

- Alive in this Moment, Starfield

- Just the Way You Are, Bruno Mars

Wow this summer passed by so quickly. Tomorrow's my last day at VBS. And 16 more days until I head back to BMC. This is going to be an interesting and challenging academic year....

Also wondering if I should go to Passion 2011 on January 1-4 in Atlanta, GA. Looks like it's going to be amazing, as always. So much money though....

Currently Listening To:

- Say It Again, Marie Digby

- Just the Way You Are, Bruno Mars

Goals for Next Week:

- be purposeful and intentional w. my time with my parents

- QT (quality time) w. God

- relax

Currently Listening To:

- Our God, Chris Tomlin

- You Alone Can Rescue, Matt Redman

My Spiritual Reservoir

For the last College&Career meeting we were reflecting on our how the Lake Model played out in each of our personal lives. In other words, the question we had to reflect on was, is there a balance between the spiritual input you're getting and the spiritual output you're giving?

For myself, I realized that these last few weeks have been such a blessing. Currently my spiritual life feels balanced; that my spiritual input and my spiritual output have been about equal. I still need to increase my intake of Scripture and my outpouring of prayer, but the spiritual feedings I've been getting from fellowship and discipleship have been so fulfilling. Same goes for my outpouring of witnessing and discipling others.

In more detail, through my discipleship with Pastor Don and Pastor Scott, I've been both challenged and encouraged. Also, with the plethora of knowledge I'm gaining it's really helping me get a better grasp of what I'm doing right and what I need to improve on in terms of my faith and mindset on things.

Also, it's been so encouraging to experience true fellowship these days with brothers and sisters in Christ. Like I mentioned already, with my mentors, then also with Mushroom and Clarence at our Think Tank meetings, and with my small groups (Da Sisterhood and PRIME). As well as Sunny and Erica who I plan to start discipling, and all the other Boonies I've had the privilege of sharing in part of their lives with over the past few weeks (like today after evangelism outreach). Lastly, with the other ISAAC interns, in getting the opportunity to see more of Christ's body at His many different churches. Through all these experiences I think I'm really getting a better sense of what God calls 'fellowship'.

Anyways, need to sleep soon. Tired; sorry if this post wasn't very coherent. Much to do this week. And going to Aruba for vacation next week with the family. Hope to update more later but there's been so much going on these days it's so hard to find the time. =)