Hike + Relationship

I once told Gan that his blog is haunted because it's outdated. I chuckled as I stand in that same spot now, too. My last post was, I  think, about 1 year ago. Seriously honestly, I have only been blogging in this brain of mine. If that's not the case, then it will be journalism. Have I mentioned how I loooooove journaling?? Contrary to what people said, journalism is more than a therapeutic thing to do. The spiritual journal that I have is precious conversation between me and Abba. It's a safe place for me to express myself. Spiritual journalism helped me in a tremendous way. Being an introvert, words are many in my brain than in speech (although I have somehow learned to become extrovert in a way, at times, I do get wordy. P.s.- Gan can testify this hoho)

There was once when I was at a low point, I felt a nudge to read up one of my earliest journal book back in 2009. It was mind-blowing and eye-opening! God has been so so rich in His goodness. I read and read, and although it was written by me, it felt like Abba was consoling me over and over again. I couldn't help but broke down in tears. Even words are so limited to describe that moment.

These few weeks I am reminded again of His favor. That He, stedfastly, is with me. Yesterday, our youth group went for a hike to the Crocker Range. What I thought to be a 3-hours hike turned out to be 4-hours hike. My last, long hike was years ago and so, I felt like an old grandma going up the hill by foot (okay, maybe not as old as a grandma, but my point is - IT'S TIRING)

When we started, it was easy and fun. Then it became challenging as we hike to a higher altitude. Soon, we began panting heavily. The too-relaxed-muscles began to work and contract. As we reached a stretch of palm trees, Fenella said, "This is Forgetful Green!" Now, Forgetful Green she referred to was a place in a book that she just read, where people tend to forget their main purpose/focus/destination. Often, it was because of the attractions of the surrounding or influences that distracts. As we hike further up, it became clear that we need to rest. We continued for the steeper slope and just longing to reach our destination. After 2 full hours, we finally made it!

Life is as such. There are times to walk on, time to slow down, time to rest. However, I learned that the journey is worth it because of the destination that awaits, the company around us that encourages and God's presence that assures & empowers.

(When we reached our destination during the hike, the funny thing was this: Fenella said OK now it's times for us to go back because God says our job is not done yet! haha..)

Moving on...

Today -  marks 2 full years with Gan (YAY!). He is my bestfriend and a man that is after God's heart (and after my heart. No no, I'm kidding. But not really kidding.) I remembered when I first met him, being only as friends, I was being very, very stereotypical about relationship. Like, VERY. I would intelligently predict his motives based on his actions and tried to make conclusion in my brain that his true color would show over the time. Ugh. Ugly truth but, that was how it started. Nevertheless, he was amazingly calm (or, look calm) and wasn't being defensive. That was one of the reasons when I realized he was a very friendly, good guy. We get along well and became good friends.

[Long story cut short] After some years of friendship, prior to going in a relationship, he met with my parents for blessing. Now, let me tell you - this wasn't our custom. Normally, boys and girls hook up with anyone, without anyone's knowing. (I can testify to this, too) So I had some time of my own to process this when Gan brought it up. The day came when he sat down with my parents and dined together. And talked. And it was a good night. I didn't expect to have such a feeling, at that moment. Not only we were already officially a couple, but there was something more. He honored my parents. And that is one thing that I am truly grateful for!

There was ups and downs in our relationship. Needless to say, this is totally normal in any relationship. I would say, in short, over the 2 years, we have learned to respect one another, communicate better, encourage one another better, speak truth to one another, pray for one another and love one another. And I know both of us would say, this would not have been possible if Abba is not in it. In fact, being both leaders, our big heads got bigger sometimes, and there are numerous times when we felt that Abba is teaching us to be humble to one another. Now "that" is something powerful in a relationship. If we are not humble, either one of us will have dominion over the other (And we are no Adam & Eve or whatsoever). Thank You, Abba...

Wow, I would never thought I would write this down in a post. However, I thought it will somehow bless others. So, be blessed!

Nethy.

God is still in control.

Life in Subang. Its 2 weeks more to go and we welcomed our new housemate Jacquelina! She decided to move in with us due to the long distance from her place. Things are going well here. Everyone is quite busy and handful with the practices and preparation for the graduation next week. Lessons are getting more interesting and intense. I can't be grateful enough for everything that God has done for all these times. Helped me a lot to think and see things through different perspectives. Today we learned about the book of Amos. Talks about the injustice of the heathen and non-heathen nations and God's judgement over them. 

Moving on......

GE13. Recently there's a lot of buzz about the nation's 13th general election. Be it before, during or after. Being a first time voter, I am really proud to be able to cast my vote. It is an exciting moment and unforgettable moment. Among our line on the polling day are all the young voters as well. The atmosphere that day was, of course, very HOT, but its quite exciting! Waiting the result at night was exciting as well. Opened all sources of information (that is, honest information). It was a long night that I literally fell sleep while waiting. Waking up in the middle of the night, the result was already out by then. Well, we all know it. I shall not write it down again as it was all around Facebook and Twitter and ETC.. I could post a long essay on GE13 but I would hold it until here. 

No matter what, God is still in control!
And its just amazing when you pause and ponder, that God is omniscient. That means He knows what is to come. Lets keep praying and rise up for the kingdom of God is near!


Nethy.

Taken care of

So, its less than a week. *Counting the days down*
Got my schedule already (Excited) and preparing things. I'm glad I have more time at home these days.

Recently, I've met a good, old friend of mine (unplanned) and had a wonderful time talking to her about things that God is doing in our lives. I was actually quite shocked seeing her because few days before that somehow I was thinking how is she doing nowadays. Glad to know she's doing well and I was surprised listening to her testimony! We shared the same desire of seeing the body of Christ to be united in prayer and fellowship. She is, in fact, one of my friends in Christ who encouraged, prayed and supported me all through the times since I first believed. The interesting part is this: We seldom meet up. But when we do, it will always leave a memory in me. I thank God for such a friend.

Going for SOM is exciting but thinking of the expenses I need while I'm there, well, I can't say I'm not thinking about it. It worries me (in a way). But God's Word says 'He will provide' because 'we are His children' and that 'He will never abandon us nor forsake us'. So holding onto this, I cast all my anxieties to Him. Recently, in church services, during the tithes offering, I've been giving my LAST note of money. With faith, believing He will take care of me. 

[For early info: We used to collect offerings back in Labuan and these money are used for our ministry back then. So after Labuan, we go to different Uni and my friend kept the money and pass it to another friend, and lastly it was passed to me. I hadn't opened it for ages. I even almost forgot I keep it with me all this time.] 

Couple of days ago, I received a text message from this same friend of mine whom I met recently. She asked about the money. She explained that she has asked the others' opinion and they've agreed to let me use it for my 3months study. I was taken aback and speechless for a moment of time (too speechless to reply, in fact). See, God is so good! He knows our needs and He is our provider. Have faith! :)

Grateful and blessed.

Be blessed!

Nethy. Athena.

GB = Graduation + Birthday

Hello November! Nice to meet you. ^^ 
I know I'm totally late for an October post. But still, I wanna mention two highlights of what and how October went (in a nutshell). I will go briefly specifically.(i just tend to be a lengthy writer at times.)

1. Graduation.
   - 3 years of being a biotech undergraduate
   - Having the opportunity to officially graduate feels awesome. I couldn't believe how the years have passed    by so fast!
   - I love my family. =) I hope I made them proud.

How u spell Family = Father and mother, i love you. =)

2. Birthday
   - So, I haven't really decided how to celebrate my birthday this year actually. My parents decided to 'makan2' at home in conjunction of both success (age and scroll). A big one. I thought not many are coming but it turns out mannnyy. Families... And I'm so grateful to have most church members came that night. One family in Christ, indeed. =)
   - Later on,the night before the day, i went out with my high school besties. There were 5 of us (wish Gloria could join us!) and 3 of us planned a surprise for 2 of us (me & Geraldine). Our birthdays were just 3 days apart.. It was a lovely surprise in Bali Bali Garden. Thanks for the gift! ^^ The waitress came out with the cake after we are done with dinner. Along with the band singing a Happy Birthday song. I just didn't expect they would surprise me in such a public way. haha! 

From left: Ellie, Eca, Geraldine, me & Mel

Eca: my childhood friend, neighbour, teman satu bas skolah, teman main masak2 masa kici (masak Maggie sampai kering tu air. haha!), classmate, schoolmate, ketawa-mate and bestmate. 
Mel: pengawas yg nampak garang, classmate, schoolmate, gengkaras-mate and bestmate.
Ellie: teman seperjuangan di zaman kegemilangan/zaman keremajaan, fashionista (you really have to give me credit on this. haha), classmate, encouraging-mate and bestmate.
Geraldine: Pustakawan paling kiut time highschool, classmate, geng karas-mate, Uni mate (We graduated in UMS at the same time) and bestmate.
Thank you so much! Words can't describe it. And sometimes my actions may not describe it too. But I truly am blessed to have you girls! *groupie hugs* =)
   - One church leader happened to be there with his family at that time. So I cut some cakes for them as well. He is also watching the whole surprise thingy going on. Hohohoh.. 
   - So anyway, after that my friends dared me to sing on stage with the band. I thought of it lightly at first but then thought, Why Not? So I did. As an appreciation of what they have done, I sang LOVE by Frank Sinatra. The band was awesome. We had great time. ^^ We hit Party Play later on for desserts (choc fondant! #yumness)
   - On the night of the real day, I went out with my Uni friends. There, again, I had a second surprise! I thought there was no cake or whatsoever, since we did a surprise a week ago for Sue. When I first arrived at the scene, they were singing me birthday song, so i thought there might be a cake prepared. But there isn't any! Then Acho pulled out his SG Tab and open a candle application. Yessss...that's what you thought it is. I am supposed to blow a digital candle. How impressive is that? XD It did blowed out like a normal candle though. Without the heat and smoke, of course. haha! 
   -While we were talking and chit chatting as we wait for our meals, Acho and Sue came with this cake that came out from nowhere (well, actually, its from my left side XD) and they were singing birthday song to me again (for the second time of the night!)
   -  I laughed my heart out that night. Thanks for the humor. I love the big orange card without pictures on it! Especially the music notes. Pretty! =)

(left) me, Sue, Acho - (right) Mc, Annas, Kenny

Oyoe was the funniest that night without even intending to be funny. Owh! Dan photographer berjaya! Ko break record gambar2 yg diambil sebelum ini. XD
Kenny, as always, the organizer and main planner. (After all, we were partner in crime a week ago. hehe..)
Annas, the cheerful one. Always with the smile and gentleness. tapi beware...garagas mati kopio oi.. :p hehe..
Sue, ko la paling macam Mama2 tapi paling innocent. Tapi, ko juga la partner in crime ni kali. haha. 
Acho, thank you sebab susah2 bwa tu kek dri kadai. haha. And also sbab jaga kawan sia bagus2..hehehe.. 
Mc, thank you sbab sudi turun n celebrate with us!  X sia2 ko dtg, byk mknan dan hiburan yg menyenangkan hati. hohoho.. Plus, jumpa teman sebangsa ko lagi tu (trus kami jadi blur =.=")!

In a nutshell, Thank you, uri chinggu ya! Posting this post is what I can do to show my gratitude (again!). 
God bless y'all! My sincere prayer is that let the friendship sustain through eternity! =)

Be blessed,
Nethy.

Iron sharpens Iron

During my first year in campus, I remember waiting for Sue, Kenny and Oyoe to finish class on every Friday and heads off to Glory Place to fellowship together. If one of us is still having class, the rest of us would go to the Piano room while waiting. We would sing and chit chat and laugh and sing some more…

I remember the times in Glory Place where the four of us just pray and worship together, sharing the Word and simply fellowship without any agenda prepared, just hearts seeking God more and more. We would advise one another, pray for one another, intercede, build and even correct one another. It doesn't matter what is our church background because we serve the same God. And trust me, God definitely wouldn't ask about it during judgement. 

After all the busyness in Uni life, minus everything, thinking back of those moments (and others not mentioned here) I am very blessed to have such friends in Christ. J As time goes by, I know we would head for different paths but I know one thing: friendship in Christ would last forever. 

Yet, my bestfriend ever would still be Jesus. He’s the best. Ever. Ever heard of Him? He’s there every second of my life. He can hear my deepest thought although I tried to hide it from everyone. My every doubts and uncertainties are calmed by His reassuring Word of truth. My ugliest secret? He knew it. But He never avoid me, but came to my rescue when I call on His name. My weakness? …is my strength because I can do all things through Christ who strengthens when I am weak. How amazing it is to have such friend! ^^

My point of blogging this post?

Well, the bottom line is that - precious friends may come and go or stay and go. But we should not take lightly of our eternal friend and King and Saviour because He come and stay with us forever. :)

Be blessed!

The story of my 21st birthday.

Wow... Had a great night tonight! I believe all the good things come form You, Lord. ^^ Thank You Papa for everything. For my friends whom I dined with just now and for all the things they've done until giving me a surprise in Grace Point Memorial Park ! Honestly, I had no idea nor hint that they were doing this behind my back. Here's what happen...

Mel picked me up at home and I thought there were only 3 of us but it turned out to be four of us (plus Geraldine!). We went for dinner at Upperstar in Lintas and couldn't even finish our meal. When we waited for our orders to arrive, Mel and Eca went out to buy reload credit. Me and Gurl waited and waited. They took a long time... (After the surprise: it turns out that they were out buying the cake.) I even offered Mel to drive to our next destination but for the 1st time ever, she refused me driving. (For your info, Mel NEVER say 'no' when I offered to drive. she likes being the passenger i guess. xD)

We went to Taman Perdana around 9something for a short while since it closes at 10PM. IF i've known that we're going there, I wouldn't be wearing heels. It irritates me so much that I took 'em of and walk while we were in Taman Perdana. (Yeah, I don't like having blister. Ouch.)

After that, we went to Grace Point Memorial Park. There, the surprise was executed by Mel & Eca & Gurl (but Gurl got surprised herself by them). I was even more surprised when they gave me presents. (Awwww....) i love it. =)

Oh, and the lists go on and on.. But I'm glad we spent quality time together. =) 

Gurl & I

Yum yum...

I miss dad now. He's outstation and only will be coming back on Monday (tomorrow). I wanna have dinner with my family. =) Thank You Lord for You are so so soooo good... I remember in bible that says everything has its own season. There are season to cry, to laugh, to be silent, to speak, to sow, to reap and so on... (Ecclesiastes 3) I guess this day is the season to rejoice. So when every season has passed, let's prepare for another season (which are yet to be revealed)

Be blessed!

Love, 

Nethy. 

Just feel like saying...

A story to tell:

"I lose this friend of mine recently (well, not physically). I'm not quite sure how to put it in proper words but it hurts. It happened informally. No words is said but action speaks louder than words. 

I'm dissapointed. But I'm not gonna blame that friend for what he's done. Its his right anyway."

Another story to tell:

"I have a friend. He is everything I could ever asked for. When I confide to him, he would listen. Eventhough I may sound boring to others but with him, its different. I never thought a person like that existed. Until I came to know him. What I'm typing now sounds so POETIC but I mean it. Each season in my life, he is there. Itsumo... All my hurts and joys I share with him. I know with him, I am secure. 

And most of all, he loves me. And I love him. Very much."

Here's the bottom line of both this stories:

Things may change. Friends may change. They may come and go. Lovers may come and go. Money may come and go (and vanish!). Beauty may come and go (and rot!). Brain@IQ may come and go (and slow as you get old!). My first story is saddening. He is a good friend but unfortunately we are not friends anymore. I let him go as an amigo. My second story is heart-lifting. He is a good friend eventhough I have not seen him yet. His name is Jesus. He remains the same, yesterday, today and forever...And I'm glad I found him.  ^^ Gaining and losing is the essential in life. But one verse I found that strengthen me is in Job 1:20-21

"Then he fell to the ground in worship and said: "Naked I came from my mother's womb, 

and naked I will depart. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away;

may the name of the Lord be praised.""

Job lose his properties and sons and daughters. In a nutshell, he lost his everything and even became very poor. But these are the first thing that came out from his mouth as a response to these situations. I just pray that as time gets by, I will understand what is it really mean by living by faith and not by sight.

Be blessed!

Nethy.