The States Thus Far

I'm just so grateful to God that I'm here...

There were a few adjustments I had to make and am still making but overall its been great. I'm just gonna go through a couple of things I've experienced etc. Condensing everything into a single post is not easy, it turned out longer than I wanted it to be but oh well.

1. The flight was surprisingly good. It went without a glitch. My flight was a day after Hurricane Irene and because so many flights were cancelled during the weekend I was expecting some huge aftermath as well. Turns out, there were no delays and absent-minded me didn't make much blunders. Thank God. I was tired after the flight and it was painful to sit for so long especially during the 2nd (11 hour flight). I had 3 flights; KLIA - Narita, Tokyo, Tokyo - Chicago, Chicago - Boston. Altogether including transit time was 28 hours. Pretty long huh. But God sustained me through it all.

2. The families I've met here, two in particular. One is a local couple. The wife is originally from HK and the husband's from here. They hosted me for a night because my friendship family (every international student here has one) wasn't around when I arrived. Anyway this couple was really nice and their house was just beautiful. Most of the houses in the area are! Then I met my real friendship family as well and just last night I went to their home and had dinner with them. They are so nice too. Both families are Christians, how wonderful is that. God is certainly bringing people to help me keep my feet on the ground. I can't ask for more.

3. The orientation both International Student Orientation and the freshman one was great and not too taxing. There were talks, activities etc planned everyday so I was quite busy but there wasn't anything too bad and I enjoyed it. Got to know lots of people through it as well.

4. The residence hall I'm staying in is more than I could ask for. Its a substance free dorm so there is absolutely no alcohol allowed and even if a person staying here comes back drunk, should he be caught will be charged with internal possession of alcohol. The state law is that no one under 21 is allowed to drink and drugs are absolutely prohibited. Its a rather safe place I daresay. Of course there are those who go agaisnt these rules but its hard to fine. Just need to mix with the right people and no problem would arise. Just last night a few parties were busted so its kinda interesting. This is America indeed. But on the contrary, my hall is probably never gonna host any of these parties for obvious reasons and its not really loud too so its super chill. And most of the people are really nice too which ties in with my next point which concerns

5. The roommates. I have 3 of them and initially I thought it'd be a problem to get privacy and all that. And if there's a bad hat among one of us its gonna be a huge problem to deal with for one year. So far (I hope it'll remain this way) things have been great. We don't have any personality clashes and no one's really dirty so its fine. We try to accomodate each other as well when one needs to sleep etc. Not everyone is always in the room so there is privacy at times. One of my roommate's a Christian and I'm so glad God answered my prayer (and hers too) for another. She's pretty solid in her faith I daresay so its great. There's a girl from China as well so its nice to have one from the same continent if not country. Hey, I'm Chinese too.

5. The friends I've made. I've met alot of people but not all of these people are my friends. I was told that most Americans are friendly but not deep and it seems to be true. Some people, you just can't get past a certain stage and its just a superficial friendship. Even a 'How are you' when you past each other doesn't mean much which to us Asians is like 'seriously'? But anyway, I've made a couple of friends (most in my residence hall) who are really nice and are not up for all those partying nonsense as well. Some of my other friends I've made aren't that 'innocent' so to speak but I'm not gonna be judgmental and I still accept them as they are. I'm glad that at least they are accepting enough to mix with someone different and they don't have any problems with that. But they're nice as people and its fun being with them as well.

6. The food is fattening. Haha. Well I'm trying to have a balanced diet here and its all Western food though sometimes there are international dishes as well. But its not too bad and sometimes its really good so no complaints!

7. The weather. It gets really chilly sometimes and without a sweater, I'd be really cold. But its still bearable. Its sunny in the day but its still cold with the wind blowing, definitely colder than Cameron's on any normal day. It was raining for a few days as well but I'm glad that season is over now. It's not fun walking in the rain with the COLD wind blowing right at you. Grrr... I don't want winter to come! (I'd like to see and feel and play with the snow but thats all! I sound like a kid now. Haha) The winters can last up to 5 months here. o_o

8. The classes. I've had a week of classes and I'm already having a couple of reading and writing assignments. Participation is vital in college and it affects your grade if you don't speak up. Thankfully I haven't had much of a problem saying things now and then. The professors are good so far. The only thing I have to do is time management and make sure I complete my assignments on time or I'm gonna suffer, badly. Oh and for this semester I'm taking:

A Pathway class (its like a course where we do in our first semester and then a continuation in our sophomore year that is a requirement for our education here).
Sociology
English
Math
Writing (mandatory for all freshmen)

I'm happy with the classes I'm enrolled in as well, I chose all of them. :)

9. The Christian Fellowship. I've only been to one meeting last Monday, a pretty small group but it was nice. Shared some testimonies and I talked about how God calmed the storms in me about coming here etc. Its not really the same as the CF's I've been involved in but what does it matter. As long as we serve the Lord, it doesn't matter how we do it. As long as He is glorified. As long as the gospel is being lived out. But the people are great and its so much more personal and close-knit. I went for a leadership retreat today and it was super chill. It was at a house just by beautiful Lake Sunapee. You can Google that =p. Glad for the new spiritual support group I've found, may we continue to walk and shine for Him in this place.

10. The campus. Its small but not TOO small. It takes around 15 minutes at most to walk from one end right to the other. Which is good especially during the winter when you wouldn't want to be walking much. Its just the perfect size. And its so green as well. The campus is pretty old so the buildings aren't too fancy but its still nice.

11. The town. New London is a beautiful place. A quaint, peaceful town. Trees are everywhere. Not many people live here so its not busy at all. The shops are along the side of the roads, mostly isolated buildings which makes it really nice. The pictures are all on my FB. Only walked into town once, no time yet. But I've got 4 years to explore as much as I want so yea. There's absolutely no public transport here so getting around won't be too easy but its not too hard either. Once in awhile the college vans leave for Concord, the capital and my friendship family offered to bring me shopping at other places when I need to so no problem with that. Also, my roommate has a car. Heh.

Overall, I would say I'm glad. I believe God had His purpose in allowing me to come here. And though I was initially fearful of so many things prior to coming, everyday He's showing me more and more of His grace and releasing me from my fears. Instead, He bids me each moment to draw near, to depend on Him and Him alone. He tells me that my only refuge, my stronghold is Him and its with Him I am able to overcome every challenge. I know the days ahead won't be easy and I have my concerns. But because I have Him I am strengthened and I am not afraid.

He leads me, I follow.

Lead me on, Lord. You're all I have, You're all I need.

And I love you guys :)

great

The week has been a great one to say the least. High Praise was on Friday; the events that led to it were uncalled for; problems arose and for a moment it seemed as if it wasn't going to go well; but God is so much greater than we know and at the end of the day, I learnt that when we give it all to Him, He blesses us tremendously. 

I have alot to say about it; how He came and touched me personally when I really needed His strength and comfort prior to the event. But this would suffice for now. 

I've also stepped down as V.P for CF, it's been a year serving in the CF committee, half a year as vp; it's been a humbling and great journey. I will also post the things in which I've learnt from serving... 

A few events during the week have particularly cheered me; which I will not mention. I have to say I am really surprised they took place after all... And I thank God for the wonderful opportunities; never would've imagined it... I am blessed indeed. 

I am happy; His joy fills me.. :)

Right now, I just wanna thank Him for everything. For showering me with love each and everyday.. 

Psalm 16:8 - I have set the LORD always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. 

all in one

Went to IKEA with aunty for breakfast.. 99cents only for noodles. And there's free coffee from 9-9:30. :). Had a pretty satisfying breakfast; walked around in Curve awhile while aunt went to get her stuff; went back at noon. Then I decided to join the guys at Mid Valley; since I had no plans for the day anyway.. By the time I reached it was 2plus; had lunch; walked around till 4plus and that was pretty much it..

Watched the derby; the match was LONG. 11 minutes of extra time for the whole game and I was doing a countdown during the last few minutes. Too tensed already. Thankfully; they didn't concede and got 3 points.. =).

College has been alright; so much better than I expected. I dreaded coming back again but I guess things have changed now. I should've known the feeling wouldn't last once I get back to 'reality'. I have Him to thank for..

This semester's time-table has changed quite alot. I have at least 1-2 hour breaks everyday. Fridays used to be my favourite; had only 2 classes then; and CF. This time around; my Fridays are fully packed. I can only go home at 4:30/5:30 everyday. But I shan't complain. There's always the bright side..

I've been trying to sort out my feelings lately. Lots of things have happened; some things have changed; some have not. Commitments I made are being tested; and I have to say it's not easy. But I know I can't compromise on them; no way.. It's gonna be real hard; but I know He shall be my guide.. Then there's the normal confusion that threathens to affect my mood; I force myself not to hope for the fear of being hurt again. I don't even know if that's possible.

Psalm 27:1 - The LORD is my light and my salvation--so why should I be afraid? The LORD is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble?

I shouldn't be afraid.

love enough

Went to college for CF today; some long story about lunch. Don't wanna get into details.

Was supposed to study at home but I came back at 9something and I'm quite tired right now. Will try to sleep early tonight. A first in a long time.

Watched two movies yesterday; 17 Again and The Time Traveler's Wife. The former was funny and I quite liked it. The latter was moving and has become one of my all-time favorites.. =)

Tomorrow and the day after; I shall go online only for research purposes. Hah. I keep telling myself it's just one more paper and I can't afford to screw up. Therefore I need to do something!! Hopefully; I'd have enough motivation to do it.

Your love it broke my fall
It’s more than enough and I need it
‘Cause I’ve never known better
And I’ll never know better

aches

My muscles are aching all over. But I actually like the feeling. Hah. I think it's been a long time since I actually ran around and exercised. Apart from the fact that I walk a pretty good distance everyday ever since coming here, I'm not the type who exercises. Maybe all the running around, rides and games yesterday has worn me out. I've been tripping especially more the past week; no idea why. My friends counted; 6 times on Thursday and 5 yesterday. Don't ask me why; I absolutely have no clue. But it's not that bad; not everyone knows about it. I still appear graceful to many people. =D.

This week will be the last week of college for the semester. Well of course it's not really over cause first semester A-Level exams are only in January but it's the last week of official classes. Will blog about this later on.

Anyway, as I mentioned, my business class had a party on Thursday evening; our lecturer isn't gonna teach us for the next semester so yeah.. =(. The party started at 6; started eating at 6.30. Then at 7smtg the non-business people came. We had room and enough food for more, so we invited some of those who stayed at the college accommodation; since our party was held at one of our friend's place there. 9 out of 12 of us from the class came (including Mr. John); and there were 8 others who came. Food was more than enough. 6 Large Pizzas, sausages, nuggets, drummets, shepherd's pie, punch, brownies, coconut jelly, konyaku jelly, Kit Kats; that's about all. Oh and there was ice-cream at the end for few of us who stayed on. We bought a watermelon too but completely forgot about it. We played a few games; charades (which I moderated), blanket-name game, Empire (nickname game), bing bang wa, mafia. I think that was all. It occupied the night. Some left early; most left at 9something. Only few of us stayed on till 10.15. Still pretty early la; but like for me, I was out the whole day so it was considered pretty late. Mr. John dropped me off at Sentral since it was rather dangerous to walk there at night. I did enjoy myself; I think most of us did. Though some people weren't in the mood prior to the party; I think they enjoyed themselves too?

They said this looked like a movie poster. Wonder what the title would be. LOL.

Till then! God bless.

They try to pull me away, but they don't know the truth.

eventful days

I actually posted something yesterday but I have no idea what happened to it. But anyway, these two days have been tiring, but it's all good. =)

Yesterday, I was out for around 15 hours. From 8 am right up to 11pm. Classes ended at 10. Went for breakfast, then wanted to do community service but no one wanted to go along, so I ended up helping to cut coupons from Games Carnival that was held today. After CF, I had an Econs replacement class since my lecturer couldn't make it the day before. At 3.30, I was supposed to go back, but help was needed for packaging stuff for Games Carnival. Nearly all of those who were supposed to help out went back, so me, Vincent, Wei Han, Isaac, Elle and Jun Yong ended up helping to pack those stuff. It was a pretty easy job, putting stuff into plastics, counting, packaging etc. And also carrying stuff up and down. By the time we finished everything, it was already close to 6. Elle and Jun Yong went back, so the rest of us went to Kenny Rogers at Sentral for dinner. I only had two muffins though; since my real dinner was gonna be with my aunt and her Japanese client.

Got home at 8plus and 15 minutes later, we went for dinner at a Jap restaurant which was the best in Malaysia, according to the Jap guy. It's called Jyu Raku. I wasn't really hungry to begin with and after yesterday's dinner, I need a break from extremely heavy meals. I wanted to take pics of the food, but I thought it was rude to do so... I will never forget the meal partly cause the first thing that came was a salad. And the Jap put some on my plate. How could I refuse and say I don't eat/like/fancy salad when he gave it to me? Had a hard time eating and was drowning everything down with green tea most of the time. Haha. Anyway, halfway during the meal, I thought we were done but more food came. He ordered this seafood gratin with cheese thing for me, and it was really good. 3 of us ate 7 things not including dessert and some of the stuff we ate were Wagyu beef, some special tofu, all kinds of seafood sushi (the size of the salmon was two times bigger than Sushi King's one.) and etc. The bill could have easily been RM400 just for the 3 of us. Food was good, but next time, I'll be sure to go with an empty stomach.

Today, I went to college again to help out for the Games Carnival. It's a games competition that involves secondary schools in the Klang Valley. Quite many people came to help out though there were only 5 people from my batch. Me, Vincent and Wei Han came without knowing what to do and I think we achieved in helping out quite alot today. Food packaging/Scoreboard/Award Ceremony/Picking Up Trash/Carrying Stuff you name it. Although it was a bit tiring, but I really felt a great sense of accomplishment just in helping out. Chilled out awhile later and then we went to Times Square. Shall leave out the rest of the details. Finally got back at 7. My aunt went to Fraser's Hill today so I'm pretty much home alone with her 7 dogs. Haha. I'm quite tired already. So till then. =)

p.s: He's faithful; always has been and always will be. Just knowing that, is all I need..

obvious

Today marked the very end of our orientation by the Student Council and beloved seniors. Haha. To tell the truth, it's kinda sad, at least for me. Surprisingly I enjoyed the 7am sessions where we did all sorts of things. It was fun, and good exercise too =p. Also, it means that I will not and can't...................... But it's not all bad, cause I can still do it. HAHA. You're not supposed to understand this too. Anyway, after our IELTS class today, we had to gather at the basketball court. First we played this Mummy game with toilet paper and water balloons involved. And after that, it was 'war'. Water balloons were thrown by the seniors. Pails of water, water hose etc. It's really funny to see how happy the seniors were in wetting people. HAHAHHA. Some even went upstairs to pour water from above, but they were obviously spotted! And something happened too.. Which I can't say here. Thankfully, only Eric saw. =D

Pre-U meeting tomorrow. Last week, some of the people from my intake already introduced themselves. The rest of us are supposed to do it tomorrow in front of like 300+ people. We have to say our name, status, and the most embarassing/funny thing that ever happened to us. And yeah, someone from the crowd will be picked to rate the person on a scale of 1-10, and they have to rate the chosen person too. I'll be brutally honest no matter what. Hah.

I'm quite sleepy already, but I gotta finish start and complete research on Thomas Edison for Business Studies. Suffice to say, I really do enjoy B.Studies. I could and should attribute part of my interest to the lecturer. He's from Ipoh too, and his teaching style is definitely NOT boring. Gotta run now. Till then. =)

blah

Thank God for the great week I've had. =).

I'm back in Ipoh for two days. Will be going back tomorrow night.. And yeah, I deleted the post before the previous one cause I felt I revealed too much about everything. So I guess my posts will be slightly more discreet from now on..

It was ragging week for the past 5 days. Although some found it to be somewhat torturing, I found it fun. A recap of what happened: We had different dress codes for each day. Some were ridiculous, some were pretty easy to follow. Some of us were forfeited when we obviously didn't follow. But it was all cool.

Morning exercise, games and other stuff were what we went through. And I've established another image for myself already, just because I did something that no one saw coming. Even if I forget it, people still remember me for that. What to do?? LOL.

Besides that, we were given a list of nicknames of our 'seniors'. Out of 60, we need to get 40 signed.. Deadline is on Tuesday but I handed mine in on Thursday, I was the first .WHEE. HAHA.. Oh, and having a thick skin really helps when you're in college. =P

I've got alot more to say, but I'll save it for another post. And I'll update more often. Hah. Nights!

I really wish it didn't happen, but now that it has, I can only hope... and pray.

it's time

Psalm 33:4: For the word of the Lord holds true, and we can trust everything he does.

He is so faithful. I can't express how His faithfulness has been my comfort and what pulled me through times I felt so low, so down, so forlorn. If only we could understand Him more, our problems would seem so small and insignificant..

Orientation was alright today. Today was more to briefings on other stuff like Community Service, clubs, IELTS etc. Finished around 12plus, but only left college at 2. Lunch at KL Sentral, McD... Sad case. Hah. Got to know more people better today though. =).

I've been thinking bout my subjects and stuff like that. Future university admissions, how I'm gonna fare... Honestly, I have to admit that I've been worrying, just a little... But it wasn't until I remembered that these aren't things that will last. Someday, it will all come to an end. What matters most is Him..

Even though I've just said that, I do realize how important it is for me to do my best as well.. This isn't SPM. I won't say SPM was easy, God was extremely merciful for granting me results I did not deserve at all. But I think I've been taking it for granted for too long. With all that I've been given, I need to use it, for His glory. I can't imagine myself being a studious person after being so lazy for the past years in school. But I'm not gonna let that stop me from starting now. I really need to study consistently when class commences, which is tomorrow.. Discipline. Really need it. After all, it is possible, cause all things are possible with Him. =)

I can't, but You can. In every situation, when You are in control, I know I won't fall apart. My trust is in You.

birthdays

Went to school again yesterday; for the morning session CF. I shared about what I've been learning these past few years, which is Surrender. Though the response wasn't as good if compared to the previous day, I'm not really discouraged cause I believe that they've gained something from Him in some way or another.. And also, I could feel His presence and was touched by Him myself. Can't describe the joy He brings me.

It was my dad's birthday today. Bro and me baked brownies. We wanted to make chocolate chip cookies like ages ago, and we thought it would be good timing to do it on my dad's b'day. Made brownies instead cause there was a recipe that used the baking chocolate we bought. To our surprise, it turned out to be good. And my dad even said it was his best birthday cake. Haha. Dinner was at Citrus. Haven't been there even though the shop's been opened for more than a year already and it's near to my place. Food was good of course.

amazing love

Had quite an eventful day compared to most of the days spent at home (not that I don't enjoy it). Followed my cousin to school in the morning, went to Parade first to have my breakfast. I must mention that I've not been eating breakfast regularly for quite some time. It's lunch time when I wake up. Anyway, walked over to school for the afternoon session CF. Thank God for His presence and some hearts were touched by His love.. I was on the verge of tearing too.

Your love is so pure Your love so divine
Your love transforms my soul my mind
Your love has the power to bring new hope
Amazing love
Amazing love

Went to Jusco later in the afternoon with Rachel to watch Hannah Montana: The Movie... After hearing about it from a few people, I wanted to watch it so badly. But it seemed like the people I asked to watch it with me already watched it so I kinda left it aside. Just yesterday, I asked Rach if she watched it yet and thankfully she said no. Haha. Best to watch with a close friend anyway. Oh ya, I chose today cause it was Ladies' day and since the movie's been out for some time, I was pretty sure the cinema would be quite empty. We were led to Cinema 6 (small one) and lo and behold, there were only 2 ladies there.. After we sat, 1 guy and 2 ladies came in.. Miserable 6 of us in the cinema. But honestly, we were glad that there were only so few people. Hah. The movie was pretty good, at least it was for me. Worth watching.

And just yesterday I bought the exact same ramen I was given by the Koreans in the international camp. Thanks to Simon for telling me bout it two months ago. There was no need for supper today, but I ate the ramen anyway. More so, I was eating it for the sake of the memories it brought me. Such great ones. =). And I had forgotten how hot it was till I ate it again. Real hot stuff. Anyway, I'll stop here for now. Going back to school again tomorrow, its the morning session CF instead. Praying for Him to touch hearts, yet again.

You alone deserve all glory. You alone deserve all praise.

When a Nursery Goes Wild...

It leaves me mentally and physically exhausted.

Picture this:

10 kids sitting on chairs, while ABC's are being flashed.

I'm the only one with them in the hall. And suddenly, one starts shouting. Followed by a train of shouts from the other kids.

I ask them to stop. But my polite request was drowned by the noise. Not wanting to seem rude, I ask them again. Second attempt failed.

Instead, 8 of them get off their chairs and start running around. One girl grabs a toy and the other kids start pulling it away from her. They start teasing and pinching her. She cries.

I try to stop them, and manage to after awhile. But, they refuse to sit!

They continue shouting and some screaming. And then there were the complains: "Teacher, he beat me!" etc.

I try to calm them down for the next five minutes but I failed yet again!

And this went on for at least 20 minutes. Till the other teacher who was in the kitchen came out with a cane..........

So, maybe it isn't as bad as it sounds. But trust me, it really does wear you out. I think and I know that the reason why they don't really listen to me is cause I don't scold them enough. So yeah, they take advantage. It just feels weird today cause usually it isn't like this. They can usually be under control. Well, despite everything, of course I'm still gonna continue working. I don't think there's any reason for me to stop. And just by being among them, I learn alot from them as well. Which are to come later. I will retire early tonight, hopefully.