Monday, December 31, 2007

Watchnight 2007

This night is about to end and soon a new year will begin. As I was writing this, I received, with deep appreciation several SMSes which conveyed warm wishes for the New Year! That's great! Thanks! This particular blog, the last for the year 2007, will not bore readers with all the details of the year. Like many of you, I assume that you have your share of 'ups and downs'too. Generally speaking, that's life, isn't it? However,the distinct difference for me (and I hope it is true for you too)is the ability to celebrate and thank God that in these circumstances, I have gained precious lessons in life such as insights into human relationships. For my family and friends who had journeyed with me through the year, let me say "Thank You" for your love, prayers and concern.I shall treasure them in my heart. To close the year, let me share with you the joy that my family and I had shared together when we celebrated Christmas in the beautiful Shangrila located more than 4,000m above sea level in Yunnan, Southern China and a pix that captured the free spirit of the birds that flew above Daguanlou Park in Kunming. May you have a beautiful New Year and one that soars like the birds!

Sunday, December 02, 2007

What's your season?

The four seasons of Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter have diffferent significance for different people throughout the world. Some would associate ski@Lake Tahoe during winter, fish@Florida during summer, admire the cherry blossoms @Japan during spring and enjoy the beauty of the autumn foliage along hillslopes/lakes, streets etc... However, these seasons could also bring in hardship and suffering for the poor and homeless.
As we reflect on our lives, we can draw parallel lessons from these changing seasons. Though the seasons are repetitive throughout the generations (in so far as humankind do not neglect to address the climate and environmental issues at hand), it is not so with life's season. Generally, we should learn to appreciate the precious innocence associated with childhood, the enthusiasm and energy of youths, the challenge to maintain a healthy work-life integration in aduthood and finally, enjoy the beauty of the golden years. We must learn to savour, learn and appreciate each of these seasons. Categorically speaking, the life span of humanity is often seen in terms of a journey. We grow from one season to another. And we recognise that the human clock cannot be unwind. In other words, we should thank God for the seasons that He has given to us and for family and friends who share the common journey. At the same time, we should not live in regrets for the things that we have failed to accomplish. We should learn some precious lessons from time to time and press on to embrace each season with faith and fortitude. Indeed, there is a reason for every season!