It has been a busy week.
Travelling to NUH everyday is no joke. Daily 1h journey at645am, it's truly tiring. Have to rely on the kopi-beng to keep awake. Still got to do this for the next 6 weeks. Sigh...But it could be cos I've been sleeping late...Why?
1. Almost every night got playhouse practice. End up reaching home by 10++pm. Though I sld not complain (cos many others have put in so much more effort and made alot more sacrifices), but still, it is tiring.
2. Got to study for ID. I like ID. It's something familiar, yet such a mystery. It's a joy reading for ID. But 2 weeks to cover so many topics is really not easy. Haha, even before the test, I've still got a few sets of unread notes...naughty boy. So have been trying to study a bit every night, but as expected, falling asleep with the guilt of not reading...haha...
Nonetheless, it has been an eventful and blessed week. Much to give thanks for:
1. Haha, Mon's lecture was one of the few lectures I managed to stay awake!!! So proud of myself . Now I know it's possible to pay attention...but oh, did I mention that I forgot that there was an 8am, lecture and tot the 1st lecture was at 930 :P Haha, careless boy. Regardless, it's a small step...and a prayer answered :)
2. It was great to be back at CF on Tue, to just join in worship and be amongst the sweet fellowship. Ah, how I miss everyone...Oh, pleasently surprised to see Stephen joining us (cos Shieng is still running the science CF...hmm...)
3. Thank God for friends who have been such a great encouragement and blessing. Though I so often feel like slacking (both in my studies and spiritual walk), friends around motivate me to keep moving on. May the Lord continue to bless you all as we continue to uphold each other!!!
4. Deeply encouraged by my classmates, for everyone who took time off to participate in our final playhouse, for sacrificing precious time and energy just to train/practice with everyone. Though things are rather messy, though we seem way behind what other batches are doing, we are still carrying on. The show must and will go on. It's the spirit that counts!!! I'm so proud to be part of Class05/10. Friends, let's do it together!!!! It doesn't matter if we win anything at all, it's the process and unity that counts.
...thankful for the opportunity to know a few of my classmates better.
But still, the busy week has taken time off my loved ones...Ah Dear, I really miss you.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Misunderstandings...
From Daily bread for Doctors...
But if when you do right and suffer for it patiently, you have God's approval. 1 Peter 2:20
Ever since I was a child, nothing would cause me to lose my temper more quickly than being accused of something of which I was totally innocent. Even today I find it hard to take such misunderstandings, especially when it is the spiritual dimension of my life that is under fire.
My postgraduate training in medicine has recently involved much close contact with a senior doctor who has been observing not only my clinical ability, but many other aspect of my life, and with whom I have had hours of both academic and social discussion. He is one unbeliever who has grown to know me fairly well, and I have been literally staggered by the misconceptions he has about Christian belief that come up in our conversations.
As we have considered the old problems of euthanasia, abortion and so on, I have realised why this man initially looked at me so askance on hearing that I was a follower of Jesus Christ.
To take just one point, he had always thought that Christians were rather `anti-life' in their approach. They were so concerned with heavenly goals and aspirations that, compared with life hereafter, our three-score and ten on earth were completely overshadowed; so it didn't really matter too much what our values on human worth were like!
It was both a painful discovery to realise that I was viewed in this way, but also a useful opportunity to try to correct this man's distorted vision of Christianity. However he is only one of many thousands who do not understand us. And I have come to see that being misconstrued in this way is part of the price that all Christians have to pay for their faith, and perhaps particularly those of us who are also doctors and who thus have our reputation with our patients at stake.
We can thank God that the Lord Jesus is our brother in this, as in all other areas of life. His reputation was something that he was prepared to hold very lightly indeed as he faced the misunderstanding and ridicule of the many, in order that he might bring the truth to those who were really ready to listen.
Are we willing to follow his example or are we over concerned about what the majority of our contemporaries in medicine will inevitably think?
Further reading: 1 Pet 2:18-25. Eph 6:5-8. Col 3:22-25.
**************
What a reminder to keep our hearts focused on the Lord and not on Man/things of the earth. This article spoke to me greatly as I am one easily affected by other's view of me (yeah, me love language is words of affection). But what a great reminder that our identity is not based on what others see, but what God sees of us!!!! I serve not Man but the creator of Man. I love because God first loved. Though the road ahead maybe tough, if we focus on the Lord, fix our eyes on Him, He will lead us and keep us from straying.
Praise be to God!!!
But if when you do right and suffer for it patiently, you have God's approval. 1 Peter 2:20
Ever since I was a child, nothing would cause me to lose my temper more quickly than being accused of something of which I was totally innocent. Even today I find it hard to take such misunderstandings, especially when it is the spiritual dimension of my life that is under fire.
My postgraduate training in medicine has recently involved much close contact with a senior doctor who has been observing not only my clinical ability, but many other aspect of my life, and with whom I have had hours of both academic and social discussion. He is one unbeliever who has grown to know me fairly well, and I have been literally staggered by the misconceptions he has about Christian belief that come up in our conversations.
As we have considered the old problems of euthanasia, abortion and so on, I have realised why this man initially looked at me so askance on hearing that I was a follower of Jesus Christ.
To take just one point, he had always thought that Christians were rather `anti-life' in their approach. They were so concerned with heavenly goals and aspirations that, compared with life hereafter, our three-score and ten on earth were completely overshadowed; so it didn't really matter too much what our values on human worth were like!
It was both a painful discovery to realise that I was viewed in this way, but also a useful opportunity to try to correct this man's distorted vision of Christianity. However he is only one of many thousands who do not understand us. And I have come to see that being misconstrued in this way is part of the price that all Christians have to pay for their faith, and perhaps particularly those of us who are also doctors and who thus have our reputation with our patients at stake.
We can thank God that the Lord Jesus is our brother in this, as in all other areas of life. His reputation was something that he was prepared to hold very lightly indeed as he faced the misunderstanding and ridicule of the many, in order that he might bring the truth to those who were really ready to listen.
Are we willing to follow his example or are we over concerned about what the majority of our contemporaries in medicine will inevitably think?
Further reading: 1 Pet 2:18-25. Eph 6:5-8. Col 3:22-25.
**************
What a reminder to keep our hearts focused on the Lord and not on Man/things of the earth. This article spoke to me greatly as I am one easily affected by other's view of me (yeah, me love language is words of affection). But what a great reminder that our identity is not based on what others see, but what God sees of us!!!! I serve not Man but the creator of Man. I love because God first loved. Though the road ahead maybe tough, if we focus on the Lord, fix our eyes on Him, He will lead us and keep us from straying.
Praise be to God!!!
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Way to go M5!!!
Many were tired, yet we persevered...
I'm so encouraged to see many of my classmates coming down to practice for playhouse despite SIP and EOPT. The unity and willingless to work together is truly amazing. Thanks everyone for coming down, for being part...of the class. May we present the best playhouse has ever seen!!!
Jia you!!!
I'm so encouraged to see many of my classmates coming down to practice for playhouse despite SIP and EOPT. The unity and willingless to work together is truly amazing. Thanks everyone for coming down, for being part...of the class. May we present the best playhouse has ever seen!!!
Jia you!!!
Thursday, October 29, 2009
"...不叫我们遇见试探，拯救我们脱离凶恶..."
I'm truly amazed by God's grace!!!
For the past few days (and many days before), I have been struggling with the temptation of you-tube (boys and girls out there, watch it!!!). Everytime I turn on the computer, I would end up going to www.youtube.com and watch random videos. As a reuslt, I sleep late (and thus unable to concentrate in school the next day), can't finish what I had intended to do, waste alot of time that could have been used to do constructive things (like sleep or revise my work).
I've tried so hard to make "mental notes" to not type youtube, but some how, I always end up there. Reason? Oh, cos I want to listen to music while doing work (multi-tasking). Oh, just want to have some entertainment to satisfy my heart's desire...Indeed, the flesh is often so so weak. I was almost desperate last night when I watched youtube till 2am!!! I prayed that God wld give me the strength to overcome the temptation...And He did.
I'm now going on a youtube fast (other than when I have to prepare for service).
Lessons learnt:
1. God is good, and He's ever there to help us. Don't wait till it's too late.
2. Focus. Don't try to multi-task. Know what you have to do and do what you have to.
3. I'm a weakling...so don't try to make things right by my own strength. It ain't going to work.
For the past few days (and many days before), I have been struggling with the temptation of you-tube (boys and girls out there, watch it!!!). Everytime I turn on the computer, I would end up going to www.youtube.com and watch random videos. As a reuslt, I sleep late (and thus unable to concentrate in school the next day), can't finish what I had intended to do, waste alot of time that could have been used to do constructive things (like sleep or revise my work).
I've tried so hard to make "mental notes" to not type youtube, but some how, I always end up there. Reason? Oh, cos I want to listen to music while doing work (multi-tasking). Oh, just want to have some entertainment to satisfy my heart's desire...Indeed, the flesh is often so so weak. I was almost desperate last night when I watched youtube till 2am!!! I prayed that God wld give me the strength to overcome the temptation...And He did.
I'm now going on a youtube fast (other than when I have to prepare for service).
Lessons learnt:
1. God is good, and He's ever there to help us. Don't wait till it's too late.
2. Focus. Don't try to multi-task. Know what you have to do and do what you have to.
3. I'm a weakling...so don't try to make things right by my own strength. It ain't going to work.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Doctors I want to become...
Going thru my surgical SIP at Tan Tock Seng Hospital, I've been blessed to meet deeply inspiring doctors I pray I would one day become. I thank God for such great tutors who have shown what being a Christian doc means.
1. Mr Terence Huey:
I'm not only amazed by his wealth of knowledge, but even more captivated by his heart for patients. Although a surgeon, Mr Huey's medical knowledge is remarkable, able to manage his patients holistically. Not only so, his compassion and humility towards everyone is a model and inspiration. He speaks truth with love, towards patients (never fail to comfort patients and alay their fears) and colleagues (when you make a mistake, expect a gentle but stern lecture from Mr Huey.)
2. Mr Lo Hong Yee:
Candid and jovial, there will never be a dull moment around Mr Lo. Every ward round with him is like going on an excursion, packed full of excitement. Working with him (and I say "with" not "under") has been a great inspiration. Everyone is part of the team, even puny SIPs like us.
3. Mr Chong Yew Lam:
Ever heard of a doc celebrating his patient's birthday, encouraging a depressed patient to live on and be an encouragement to others? Well, Mr Chong has done that and more!
...and the list goes on...
I know that I'm far from these great giants, in knowledge and amplitude. But Father, I pray that You would continue to mould and shape me to the person you want me to be! Though the road ahead will be tough, but God will be my strength.
1. Mr Terence Huey:
I'm not only amazed by his wealth of knowledge, but even more captivated by his heart for patients. Although a surgeon, Mr Huey's medical knowledge is remarkable, able to manage his patients holistically. Not only so, his compassion and humility towards everyone is a model and inspiration. He speaks truth with love, towards patients (never fail to comfort patients and alay their fears) and colleagues (when you make a mistake, expect a gentle but stern lecture from Mr Huey.)
2. Mr Lo Hong Yee:
Candid and jovial, there will never be a dull moment around Mr Lo. Every ward round with him is like going on an excursion, packed full of excitement. Working with him (and I say "with" not "under") has been a great inspiration. Everyone is part of the team, even puny SIPs like us.
3. Mr Chong Yew Lam:
Ever heard of a doc celebrating his patient's birthday, encouraging a depressed patient to live on and be an encouragement to others? Well, Mr Chong has done that and more!
...and the list goes on...
I know that I'm far from these great giants, in knowledge and amplitude. But Father, I pray that You would continue to mould and shape me to the person you want me to be! Though the road ahead will be tough, but God will be my strength.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
After so long
It's a wonderful night...
...
...
I know you are the one...
...
...
I know you are the one...
Let us love God before each other :)
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Being focused!! Staying focused!!!
The past 2 days, I've been coming home tired and congested. Tired due to the long days, with surgical ward round starting at 630am. Congested with all the new emotions and influx of thoughts stirring in my head.
I just started my surgical SIP in TTSH. Though I the week started with great anticipation, it was also with great fear that I stepped into the wards. Fear of not being able to live up to expectations (of man and God), fear of being a burden to others, fear of not being able to learn (yes, my pride and ego), fear of not being a good doc (esp after all that prep talk)...Then there's the whole getting-to-know-people stress...But God has been really gracious blessing me with great partners (Jacob and Gabriel) and a wonderful team!
Then, there's 2 nights of residency talk by NHG cluster which left us confused and even more uncertain of the future. It also revealed the painful competitiveness in the whole system which lies ahead eg. only 3 places for Emed in TTSH. Coupled with all the "which resisdency to do?" talk, about deciding our future, about thinking what I really want to do? Which route would suit me (and which I can do/get in), yea, there's really alot up there in my mind.
On my way home from TTSH, I could feel that heavy heart and trouble soul. With all the change happening around, all the chaos and flux churning within the limited cranial space, I feltso lost, frustrated and helpless. The future seemed bleak. The immediate future: Learning to survive each day in the wards and pick up important skills which will benefit my patients in the future. Realised (once again) that I'm so lousy and lost. The near future: To pass MBBS... And the future: Which route to take? What basis to work on helping me make the decision? Learning? Working? Working environment?
I'm now reading this book "Tender Warrior" by Stu Weber (Sam lent me). It has challenged me to be the Man after God's heart, the Man God has designed to be. In one of the chapters, Stu shared about being focused. A Man should be focused on the tasked assgin and the mission ahead Ah!!! Eureka!!! In all the sludge of thoughts, a bright light broke thru! In the midist of all the change, how much more important it is to stay focused on the mission God has set for me and more importantly, to stay focused on Him. Why be so caught up with the whole resisdency thingy? Does it really matter what route I choose? No, it doesn't!!! As long as I look to the Lord and focus on Him, even though I don't get into any resisdency, it doesn't matter. Yeah, I may lose a few years, but God has His greater plan thru all these.
Father, teach me to focus on you and not on Man. Whatever the storm, guide me thru that I may walk on water and fly under Your eagles' wings.
I just started my surgical SIP in TTSH. Though I the week started with great anticipation, it was also with great fear that I stepped into the wards. Fear of not being able to live up to expectations (of man and God), fear of being a burden to others, fear of not being able to learn (yes, my pride and ego), fear of not being a good doc (esp after all that prep talk)...Then there's the whole getting-to-know-people stress...But God has been really gracious blessing me with great partners (Jacob and Gabriel) and a wonderful team!
Then, there's 2 nights of residency talk by NHG cluster which left us confused and even more uncertain of the future. It also revealed the painful competitiveness in the whole system which lies ahead eg. only 3 places for Emed in TTSH. Coupled with all the "which resisdency to do?" talk, about deciding our future, about thinking what I really want to do? Which route would suit me (and which I can do/get in), yea, there's really alot up there in my mind.
On my way home from TTSH, I could feel that heavy heart and trouble soul. With all the change happening around, all the chaos and flux churning within the limited cranial space, I feltso lost, frustrated and helpless. The future seemed bleak. The immediate future: Learning to survive each day in the wards and pick up important skills which will benefit my patients in the future. Realised (once again) that I'm so lousy and lost. The near future: To pass MBBS... And the future: Which route to take? What basis to work on helping me make the decision? Learning? Working? Working environment?
I'm now reading this book "Tender Warrior" by Stu Weber (Sam lent me). It has challenged me to be the Man after God's heart, the Man God has designed to be. In one of the chapters, Stu shared about being focused. A Man should be focused on the tasked assgin and the mission ahead Ah!!! Eureka!!! In all the sludge of thoughts, a bright light broke thru! In the midist of all the change, how much more important it is to stay focused on the mission God has set for me and more importantly, to stay focused on Him. Why be so caught up with the whole resisdency thingy? Does it really matter what route I choose? No, it doesn't!!! As long as I look to the Lord and focus on Him, even though I don't get into any resisdency, it doesn't matter. Yeah, I may lose a few years, but God has His greater plan thru all these.
Father, teach me to focus on you and not on Man. Whatever the storm, guide me thru that I may walk on water and fly under Your eagles' wings.
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