Casino Royale

I wasn't that convinced when I heard that Daniel Craig was the new Bond - a blonde Bond? Plus he didn't quite have the Bond look (I liked Pierce Brosnan's charm and 'suaveness'). But, after watching Casino Royale last night, I think Craig is a fantastic choice! He's very different from Brosnan and seems to make Bond more believable and more human. And I like this brooding, dark, intense new Bond (as opposed to Brosnan's pretty boy, metrosexual Bond).

Back to the movie... Casino Royale is actually the first of the Bond stories as Bond has just gotten his '00' status (and incidentally the movie is apparently pretty close to the story in the book by Ian Fleming). There is a bit more focus on Bond and for once, Bond actually seems to draw blood in fight scenes! The fight scenes and stunts are more down-to-earth (no flying through the air after a crashing airplane kinda stuff). For once, there are no fancy gadgets, no Q, so Bond has to resort to 'normal' weapons. And don't worry, there are still enough explosions and fight scenes to keep the guys happy. There is a good story line and good characterisation. We also see more of M (Judy Dench), which is great.

Overall, I really recommend the movie. Its different from the the last few Bond movies though still has good effects (explosions), is slick and there are nice cars. I used to put Bond movies into the brainless entertainment category but now I think its a movie I would recomemmend to 'serious' moviegoers. At least I didn't go away thinking I had wasted $12 and should have just watched it on DVD (like I did with MI3). I think characterising Bond as brooding, dark and intense definitely has added a lot of depth to the character and the movie. I'm already looking forward to the next Bond movie!

Tis that time of year again

Christmas is just around the corner. Its less than a week to go. I'd hate to be in town this week and next weekend. I'm sure it will be crazy at the malls.

I have to say I'm not a big fan of Christmas. Before I go on rambling, just wanna say, I am not the Grinch nor am I scrooge-like (maybe?). I used to like the Christmas season. Maybe for the novelty of it. Growing in Malaysia we went carolling for the entire week before Christmas and was involved in the midnight mass at the Anglican parish I went to. So weeks leading up to Christmas meant lots and lots of practices. But I did enjoy it. Cos I got to do things that I didn't get to do at other times of the year and I got to hang out heaps with my friends. Christmas wasn't much of a family event when I grew up. We had a meal together maybe with friends or relatives and my parents would give us presents. But its was simple and low-key.

I find Christmas in NZ very stressful (or perhaps I am just getting older and grumpier). You feel left out if you didn't have family or didn't have friends to spend Christmas with. You finally have some time off work but your friends are all stressed and have left to go back to wherever their families are gathering for Christmas. Then there is the mad Christmas rush where there are lots of people everywhere - malls, shops, supermarkets etc. Its stressful just watching them!

I've given up buying people Christmas presents. First of all, I can't figure what to buy. Then you just go ahead and buy something and wonder if they will actually use it or chuck it in a dark corner of their room. Then you wonder who else have you forgotten and mostly then if you are like me, you will go shopping in the last week leading up to Christmas when the whole city is out shopping, so you are pushing and shoving while still deciding what to buy. So I have decided that I will not buy any presents for people because it is just far too stressful. Anyways, there is a website that suggests just that. So perhaps I will spend my money on a piglet or a goat or an acre of farmland. Let me know if you wanna go halves on a donkey. They cost quite a bit but will go a long way...

The Time Traveller's Wife

I have really enjoyed reading this well-written book. It is essentially an old-fashioned, boy-meets-girl, love story. Except that Henry met Clare when he was in his 40s and she was 6 and then they got married when he was 30 and she was 22. How? Well, he is a time-traveller.

The book chronicles the many magical meetings between Clare and Henry as she as growing up (and him time travelling to meet her) and also their life together. Imagine meeting the person you are to marry as an adult as you are growing up. But only being able to meet him for brief moments sometimes months or even years apart. As you can imagine its not a "normal" relationship at all as Henry suffers from a rare medical condition - he time travels. He is prone to disappearing from the present at any time which also makes their relationship interesting. At times, Henry in the present is interacting with a Henry that has time travelled. We also get a glimpse of what life was for Henry as he grew up (he started time travelling when he was very young) and also of Clare's life which helps flesh out and give life to the characters.

The book is written as a first person narration. So we get the story from Clare's or Henry's perspective. It is very easy to read and I was very quickly engrossed in the lives of Henry and Clare. I highly recommend it. It will make a nice easy read for the summer.

Miracle Drug!!

Just to prove that I was actually at the concert...

Elaine and I waiting in line. Elaine came up with a bunch of friends from the Mount. They got in around 1-ish and starting waiting in line inside the blue tent. She was the one who told me to come to blue tent and "smuggled" me to where she was cos when she arrived there were only about 200 people in front... Roger took this picture with his phone - hence the bad image quality.

Thats me in front of the stage cos I managed to get into the front mosh pit bit. I bought a U2 t-shirt there which was a good thing cos I felt quite cold when it poured (and I got wet) and was glad to have 2 t-shirts under my thin jersey... But it was all good!

The circle (which the arrow is pointing to) shows where I was standing for the concert. I decided to stand by the barrier to the claw-like extension. Though it meant I was slightly further away from the main stage, it meant I was about 2 metres away from Bono (and also Adam and Larry when they came down that extension bit) at times. But considering I was expecting to be standing in the middle of the field having to tip-toe and just be able to make out who the tiny people on stage were, being able to be so close was totally surreal!

ooo... the sweetest thing

Friday night, 24 Nov will be a night to remember! I was not entirely excited about the concert for some reason. My bro couldn't sleep the night before as he was so excited about it. But I slept like a log, and neither did I get up early as well, in anticipation. In fact it felt like a normal day.

Got to the stadium at around 3 and went to buy a T-shirt before the hoards of people arrived. Then went to look for the blue tent as Elaine said. Got there and got in the queue and rang Elaine to say I was in the queue. Thanks to her I managed to jumped ahead by 50-80 people as she and her friends had gotten there around 1pm. Heh.. heh... But the good thing was the first 1800 (or so) people to queue got to be in elipse bit!! So I was so near the stage! I decided to park myself by barrier of one of the claw bits which meant that when Bono (or Adam or Larry) came out to the claw bit, they were like 2 metres away from me!! It was just unreal! Unfortunately, I hadn't bothered to bring my camera cos I thought the likelihood of being close enough to take a decent photo as close to impossible - afterall there were 42,000 at the concert and prob about 15,000 or some would be on the field. And in many ways, the concert sounded like a good ol' Kiwi sing-a-long.

The concert started with City of Blinding Lights, Vertigo and then Elevation where Bono made references to NZ. And of course he sang One Tree Hill - but not without poking fun at it first (he said to bring some seeds up there!) and managed to intersperse a few lines from 4 seasons in One day in it too. The stage set-up was just incredible. A giant screen (of sorts) behind them and video screens on both sides of the with a camera focussing on each one of teh band members. The set ended with One and Bono promoting the Make Poverty History campaign. It was awesome when he got everyone to hold their cell phones up cos it looked like the stadium was covered with fairy lights. Oxfam were there earlier selling white bands and hopefully the Make Poverty History campaign got more people signing up to the mailing list and from there more people wanting to be more aware and be pro-active on the issues.

I was pretty impressed at Bono's attempt to sing Pavarotti's part in Miss Sarajevo. Then it was cool havign Larry come out onto the claw (the one I as near) to play the tom and cymbal that was set up there for Love and Peace. Bono then continued the banging the drum in the intro to Sunday Bloody Sunday. There were two encores. Included was a rousing rendition of Angel of Harlem, and towards the end of Myterious Ways, Bono got a girl onto the stage and serenaded her with With or Without You. The final encore ended with Kite where Bono released a kite into the sky (which unfortunately got caught on the giant screen thing on the stage).

The only disappointment was that they didn't sing Yahweh or '40'. In the US and European legs of the tours, they mostly finished with '40'.

But still... I couldn't have imagined a better night. The concert was fantastic, and bring up the front was an unbelievable bonus. It definitely worked like a miracle drug.

its going to be a beeeeeeeeautiful day

One more sleep!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

to build or not to build

I'm in Auckland at the moment, so thought I will blog about an Auckland issue - whether or not to build a stadium on the Auckland waterfront (picture shows artists depiction of the proposed waterfront stadium). Apparently it will cost $500 million, but knowing how these building projects go, it will be likely to cost around $700 million (thats my uneducated guess).

Politicians like to be able to leave a legacy - usually a visible one if possible. And I wonder if building the stadium is their (local and national politicians) way of leaving something that they can point to and say that they built that stadium.

The govenment has said that part of the funding will come from taxes. I'm not sure I want my tax money to go into building a stadium that is quite likely to be empty for most of the year. I am rather (optimistically) hoping that tax money will go into better use like health funding and reducing waiting times on waiting lists. Not to mention the potential eye sore it will be on the Auckland waterfront!

Sometimes I wish politicians would stop stroking their own egos and do things that would benefit the community even if it means they themselves are unnoticed.

In the meantime, (and as much as it pains me to say this) perhaps Australia should start getting ready to host the World Cup.

Let me sing you gentle songs

This book is set in a village in Sweden and tells the story of 2 women. Veronika is seeking refuge in the village to try and write her book and also to piece together her life again after some unexpected tragedies. Astrid is an elderly recluse in the village - her life a mystery to all as she harbours secrets from her past that seem to haunt her.

They unexpectedly cross paths, and an unusual friendship develops. They share stories of about their lives which brings about healing and helps each woman to move on.

I really enjoyed reading this. It was well written and descriptive which helps to create a visual backdrop of the Swedish countryside in which their various rendezvous takes place. I particularly enjoyed how bits of poetry (mostly Swedish, and translated into English) are interwoven into the story.

The author - Linda Olsson - is originally from Sweden, and now resides in Auckland. She does a great job setting the book in her native Sweden and we get nice glimpses of NZ through Veronika telling the story of her time with James.

I highly recommend it.

What lies beneath

Who would have thought that yesterday we were having gale force winds, some of the sea was ending up on the road and numerous flights were cancelled due to the heavy winds. Today, the sea was calm (much like the picture - courtesy of Google images), the sun even came out and it was even warm-ish! What a stark contrast to the wild weather from yesterday.

I was listening to National Radio in the car driving along Oriental Bay and they were talking about the Kahui twins case. Someone (the father) has been arrest. There weren't any arrests for 3 months after the tragedy and apparently, that is just terrible. The police were not to blame, but the were lots of cover ups by the family. Someone remarked that the whole family needed to be charged for obstruction to justice.

Officially NZ has 10 cases of child killings a year - which makes us 3rd in the world (not a position to be proud of). Unofficially its 40. NZ has one of the highest rates of youth suicide in the world. What does this say about our nation? A couple of months ago, statistics show that crime is on the increase in this country as well. What lies beneath this nation of fun loving, innovative, creative and friendly people? What are we not acknowledging or talking about? And most importantly - what can we as a nation (not just teh government or people in position) do about it?

No more coveting!

I no longer covet my friends' digital SLRs. Looking forward to playing with my new toy! Maybe I can truly begin to discover my 'creative' side...

Check out the flickr link on the right for a sample of my experimenting with taking photos.

Musical genius

I went to the Jacques Loussier Trio concert. Gosh, Jacques Loussier is a musical genius. I can understand why he can't be categorise either as a jazz pianist who plays classical or a classical pianist who plays jazz. But whatever it is, he is am amazing pianist with incredible creativity. Who would have thought to play Bach jazz style? He has a very serious, distinguished look on him, but a great and subtle sense of humour.

And the trio (piano, double bass and drums) are such a tight unit. Their timing is impeccable. It is obvious that they have played together for a while. It was such a pleasure to listen to the Trio. They started their repertoire with Bach (not surprising since Jacques Loussier's first Trio was called Play Bach since they mostly play Bach jazz style). Then they also Spring, from Vivaldi's 4 Seasons (quite appropriate, I guess). Followed by 2 French composers - Satie and Ravel, with the last piece being Ravel's Bolero. Bolero was apparently written for a full orchestra, but the Trio managed to pull it off very impressively. I am now very tempted to buy an album with that piece on it.

Its been a while since I have been completely mesmerised during a concert. It was definitely a magical musical experience and undoubtedly one of the best concerts of its kind that I have been to. If you come across any of their music, I recommend you buy it without hesitation!

That gluggy feeling

Been sick for the last week and a bit. Besides my asthma flaring up quite badly, my other symptom is glugginess... my chest feels gluggy. Well, at least my doctor understood me, which is the most important thing. So been on antibiotics since Monday but it doesn't seem to be clearing it up. At least I have my many inhalers to keep me company too. Incidentally, the southerly made its move into Wellington sending temperatures plummeting to winter-like coldness. Which of course did not help at all. I went around the house with a hot water bottle that seemed permanently stuck to me. (By the way, my pills unfortunately don't look that cool!)

My theory is that the haze in Malaysia finally got to me. Rubee kinda agrees but with a better explanation - that my immune system was somehow boosted during the time I was there to work extra hard to cope with the new environment and then for some reason (change in weather, perhaps?) gave in to the foreign invaders. That or just the change in temperature. Or that I caught some kinda bug somewhere.

On top of that, daylight savings has messed with my sleep. Its great that there is more daylight, but who would have thought that putting the clock one hour ahead could reek so much havoc?

hazy days

Greetings from Kuching! Unfortunately I don't have any photos to upload as yet, but they are soon to come! Kuching is covered with a constant blanket of haze - the product of burning forests across the Kalimantan border. It seems like a thin mist is constantly shrouding the city. I've been told it has improved the last few days as there has been rain. But basically it makes it really humid and awful. Apparently a number of people are developing/have developed respiratory illness is the last few weeks.

I got in at midnight on Monday and I think I am somewhat getting over jet lag. Felt very tired yesterday and today, but that may just be the remnants of a busy few months. So far, life consists of eating, shopping, sitting around (with some relatives), eating, and sleeping. I guess that is what is called a holiday. Though I have it constantly at the back of my mind that I have an assignment due a week after I get back.

Also, I am officially confused as to where home is. Before leaving NZ, I would refer to coming back to Kuching as home. But now, I would refer to Wellington as home. The most disconcerting moment was when we were arriving into KLIA. The announcement was somewhat like this "to those visiting, welcome to our country, and to Malaysians, welcome home". It was then that I felt like a visitor and not like I was coming home and the confusion in my mind began. But in the meantime, I will enjoy what I can't enjoy back home - fresh local durians, chicken rice with good chilli and soya sauce, iced milo and toast with kaya and butter at a local coffee shop. But then, that is the taste of home...

Så som i himmelen

A stunningly made Swedish movie: As it is in heaven

Synopsis: A famed conductor tours the world hoping to create music that will open people's hearts. His own heart, however, is in bad shape. After suffering a heart attack on stage, acclaimed conductor, Daniel Dareus, calls time on his illustrious career and retires to his childhood village in the North of Sweden. With a famous new arrival in town, it isn't long before he is asked to come and listen to the village's sad little church choir. Finding it difficult to resist their pleas for help, he reluctantly agrees to assist.

This is most definitely one of the best movies I have seen all year (but then to my shame, I have mainly seen brainless Hollywood blockbusters this year!). It had a simple setting and plot. And it certainly was refreshing to watch a foreign movie - on this case Swedish. In the movie, you get a glimpse of some of the lives of the people in the choir. And the portrayal of life in this movie is a bit more realistic. Shit happens to some and it doesn't always end well. It also depicts the joys and difficulties of what its like to do life in small village community. Sometimes its great that everyone knows each other. But sometimes, its not! The music in this movie is great (as one would expect from a movie about a famous musician).

Religion and in this case Christianity also makes it as part of the plot. There are some intense moments and exchanges between the pastor and his wife. It was a great reminder of why integrity is so important. And also the need to able to honest and vulnerable about our struggles and weaknesses.

I do highly, highly recommend this movie. Although not everything gets resolved in an ideal Hollywood way, its still a feel good movie and you leave the theatre feeling very satisfied with your movie experience. Its been on in the Penthouse in Wellington for the last few months so for those in Wellie - go watch it soon before it ends!

Pirates of the Caribbean 2

Went to watch Pirates 2 last night. After reading some reviews, I didn't expect much - which was good I guess. Some excellent swash-buckling scenes especially the 3-way sword fight. That was nice. The lines were not as witty as the first movie, but no doubt there were still some good ones though a lot more cheesy lines this time (unfortunately). As usual Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow is the highlight of the movie. There are funny moments, though the comedy on the whole seems more slapstick than witty lines and good comic timing. However, they did end the movie well - it leaves you wanting to watch the third one to know how it concludes.

There were a couple of intesting moments that manage to tickle my staffworker antennae. One was a very short exchange between 2 pirates while one is reading the Bible (though upside down)
Pintel: You know you can't read.
Ragetti: It's the Bible, you get credit for trying.
Pintel: Pretendin' to read the Bible's a lie! That's a mark against [points to the sky]
I guess that does represent some people's view of the Bible. Somewhat shrouded in superstition though. But then some are superstitious in their views about God and are willing to have things (like a copy of the Bible or a crucifix) to be on the safe side.

In another exchange, someone makes a comment about what is the point of looking forward to the afterlife. This life is cruel and so why should the afterlife be any different. I know these came from the movie, but are probably opinions held by some people.

I think one can come to either conclusion - superstition or real cynism if our search for God is still covered in our own selfishness and an unwillingness to really encounter truth. Having a superstitious view of God reveals a preference to be in charge of our own lives, but having items or doing rituals as 'insurance' (just the case). The cynism I guess is harder to break. But sounds more like an inability to reconcile a loving God with suffering in the world. I wonder whether this stems from prefering God to rule the earth according to our own ideal values.

Truth is meant to set us free and give is abundant life and hope. Reading the Bible is no more a thing done so that we can tick the box, but an excitement that continues to reveal who God is and let us in more on this Truth. And with Jesus, yes there is still suffering in this world, but Jesus understands because of His own suffering, and we can have hope of a better place to go to after this life. Otherwise, life just seems too futile.

My new favourite cafe

Simply Paris is a small and wonderful cafe at the top of Cuba St. Its got a simple French menu, complete with French staff, fantastic selection of cakes and desserts and great hot chocolate. The staff are friendly and easy going and happy to cater to your needs. I wish I could speak French so that it would make going to that cafe just that tad more authentic. But I do highly recommend it! It is just fabulous!

Up in smoke...

How strange. When I found out that the Sarawak Club, a place that I haven't frequented since coming to NZ 12 years ago burnt down 3 days ago, I felt really sad. It felt some some part of me, or my story, has gone as well. In reality, I am no longer a member of the club. My membership came under dad's till I turned 21, and being in NZ, it made no sense for me to be a member (considering the costs!). But I frequently went to the Club as I was growing up.

I learnt to swim there when I was 6. And subsequently went swimming there very often. It was convenient for my parents, and my cousins and I went there often during our school holidays. Meal were easy cos we just need to sign our orders and it got charged to our parents account! I always ordered Ribena 7-Up (7-up with a splash of Ribena) and enjoyed eating a chicken wing before dad picked me up. I had a number of favourite dishes there such as tomato mee and quail and even fish & chips! Later on, I had my squash lessons there (they had the best squash courts in Kuching). We often had dinners (with friends or extended family) at the restaurant there too and when I returned for my grandmother's 88th birthday in 2001 and had a kind of family reunion, all of us rang in the New Year there - all four generations of the family - dancing away with each other. Mum had her swimming lessons there too. And thats when I discovered the fun of swimming at night. My bro had badminton lessons there. And dad has (or now had...) his name on the board for scoring a 'hole-in-one' when they had a golf course.

Memories... of a place I have not been to for many years, and has changed much with the renovations over the years. But yet, after learning that the place has gone up in smoke, it has still created a sense of loss.

the Gizmo Project

check this out!! Its fantastic!

schoc-olate

Went to the new-ish shop on Tory St last Friday - Schoc - together with Gina and Kirsten. It was nice! The hot chocolates there are not cheap - well, the gourmet ones anyway at $5 a cup. And there are 4 flavours -dark choc, chilli dark choc, orange and cardamon white choc and lavender and orange dark choc. I reluctantly ordered the chilli dark choc drink. I had a chilli hot choc from another cafe before and didn't particularly like it. But this one was so much better! I think I'm beginning to warm up to it.

Also we tried some (well one diff flavour each) of their chocolates.... ohhhh.... just divine. I had the liquor cherry one which kinda looks like the one in the picture. Such a treat. I would definitely recommend the place if you want to treat yourself. Its not set up like a cafe, but there is a small bar-like setup with stools if you want to drink in the shop or slightly further in there is a couch. But careful, the chocolates at the counter looks delicious (and actually is!) and is very tempting!

Self-inflicted...

I have enrolled for my next paper and the material has arrived today. I have enrolled for MB722 Holy Spirit (with Carey Baptist College) and am doing it by distance. I am looking forward to it, but a bit overwhelmed by it at the same time. Last semester I did a paper equivalent to a stage 1 uni paper and found that really challenging. This is equivalent to a stage 3 uni paper, so I'm cringing already! Also, I had 3 other friends doing the paper with me, but not this time. So I will have to be very disciplined and hopefully be at the 8th floor of the library a bit more, and not just when I have assignments (of which there are 3!) .

I am looking forward to it as I don't think I have an good understanding of the person and work of the Holy Spirit at all. So I look forward to understanding more about the role of the holy spirit in the OT, a Biblical understanding of the doctrine of the holy spirit and an insight on current scholarship on pneumatology. But I'm pretty sure this is not the last you will hear about it!

Itchy feet?

Obviousy I need to do more travelling!! I have only visited 19 countries or 8%...



create your own visited countries map

X Men 3

Came back not long ago from watching X Men 3. Was quite disappointed by it actually. I never read the comics and was never into X Men, but the trailer for the first movie looked good so I went along to that, really liked it and so went along to the second one and enjoyed it too (never expected to enjoy either movie that much). So was quite eager to watch the 3rd installment...

I think they should reclassify it as a comedy of sorts. I laughed at various points throughout the movie. Though I definitely was not expecting anything inspiring, but this movie still lacked any sort of vague emotional or intellectual appeal, or good characterisations as the first 2 movies did. Its merely an action movie with nice CGI effects, bad cheesy lines and an equally cheesy score to go with it. Maybe its something to do with the change in director (its a different director from X-men 1 & 2). The good points are Kelsey Grammer did pretty well as the blue hairy beast, and well... thats about it. And 2 things I learnt from the movie: "if the enemy is a mutant that can grow their arms back everytime you slash it off, then kick him where it REALLY hurts" and "stay in school".

My verdict? Its completely brainless and entertaining - and go with as little expectations as possible. But still, a disappointing way to finish the series. Oh, and stay till the end of the credits. There's a little clip that comes right after the credits are done (which also made me laugh out loud).

the Greatest song?

On the radio the other day, the annoucers were talking about "What is the greatest song ever written?" And I still can't seem to decide which song I think is the greatest song ever written...

Any other thoughts?

Isaiah 40

I had study group today for the OT paper I am doing through Carey. This week, we looked at Isaiah 40. I thought it sounded like a familiar passage, and upon reading it, realised that I had been quoted the last verse (v31: But those who wait on the LORD will find new strength. They will fly high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.) many times. Usually as a sort of encouragement, or when I am unsure about what to do next so am encouraged to 'wait on God', or when I've been tired after doing much 'ministry'. But having to read it and dig deeper into it today made me realise the full potential of that verse. It made me realise also, how we can diminish God by quoting verses like that out of its context.

What do I mean? Well, this passage (or prophecy) is written during the time of exile. In fact, this is the first passage in Isaiah written during the time of exile. So, in the beginning of the passage we have God reassuring his people that he is still there for them and hears their anguish of being conquered and taken away into a foreign land. And so the passage goes on to remind the readers (or hearers) about the glory, the grandeur, the majesty of God. That God really is bigger than all their troubles.

Back to that familiar verse (v31) again. Understanding the context of the passage has made the verse even more profound for me. Looking at it by itself, just tells me that if I wait on the Lord (whatever that means) all will be well again and God will make things right for me (emphasis mine because thats what I think it will end up being about - me, not God). But reading it in light of the exile, tells me that God exudes so much grace. The Israelites are in exile because of their own doing (or their ancestors doing). In many occasions, they have turned away from God and disobeyed God. In the end resulting in them beign carried away in exile. But still, God comes to them to reassure them that he still cares for them. God still comes to them to remind them that he is sovereign and about his glory. God still comes to them to give them hope, that He is their hope.

So now, this verse reminds me about God's compassionate nature. That God will extend grace despite my stubborness and disobedience. That God will bring me hope, and God will be my hope. That God is far bigger than anything else - nothing else campares to the grandeur of who God is. No longer does it imply to me that God will give me strength or whatever. It is about God. And who God is. And thats what it should be about. Because there is so much more hope in God and who God is than in merely thinking about what he can do for me.

So, perhaps another reason, why not to quote verses at people? It diminishes God.

MI:3

Went to watch the third installation of the Mission Impossible franchise. Predictable storyline and it delivered as expected - explosions, gadgets, different places in the world and once again, Ethan Hunt does the impossible (with the help of his team of course).

Some good moments in the movie, though the ending was far too soppy (even for chicks!). It was too much of a "happy ending". But I did enjoy it, and I do recommend it if you are after a brainless movie to chill out with. And, bring on X-Men 3!

David Gray

David Gray played in the Wellington Events Centre last night. And he was awesome! He does a fantastic live show, though I don't really get the head wobbling thing. Gosh, it alsmost seems like his head wasn't quite attached to his neck the way it was wobbling.

Anyways, it was a welcome respite from the stress of the last 6 weeks (and more) and after a busy weekend and being unwell for the past week. He moved flawlessly from guitar to piano and the harmonica. I have a bad memory of song titles so I can't quite describe his set list. But I do know it songs from his latest album - Life in Slow Motion and also from his popular album - White Ladder. Another nice thing was that he didn't talk much at all! So it was all music! And he finished the encore with Babylon and got the audience to join in. Nice.

back to my roots?

On Sunday night for the ICF committee retreat, I led a contemplative time of reflection. I have done stuff like this before, but always together with someone. So this was the first time I prepared one on my own. I used the outline from the Sacred Space website (which is a site I try to use often to pray and reflect before I go to bed). I also used lots of written prayers from a book I bought last year and from the Book of Common prayer. It flowed really well. We had a good time to reflect on the last 3 months and then share and pray for each other. Then for the 'Word of God' bit, I used Psalm 30 from a Sons of Korah album and put that on repeat. And then we closed the time together and had chocolate fondue.

I grew up in an Anglican church, and I really disliked using liturgy then. But now, I have begun to like written prayer. I usually go to the Book of Common prayer to find some ideas/inspiration and I also have the New Zealand prayer book (which is the one used by the Anglican Church in NZ). And also try to find other sources where there is pre-written prayer and also contemporary liturgies/prayers. I have come to think that written prayers are just much more able to convey needs and expressions in such a succinct (and sometimes more poetic) way. Also in reflection times, I like the idea of just listening to the bible, and not have anyone explain it or give their opinion about it, but each person can just mull it over - just them and God. And allow the words to just bring healing, restoration, rebuke, etc. (Taken from a Taize style worship idea).

Worship/prayer sessions can easily be wordy. How nice to have simple words, silence, candles and simple music. I'm now finding this approach much more fulfilling and refreshing.

Love life!

Every now and then, I get a sense of appreciation of life and an "I'm so glad I'm here feeling" (particularly after recounting certain times I have expereinced). Tonight is one of those times. I have to come to appreciate these moments. There are times when I am thankful to God for particular things but its good to be thankful about life itself - appreciating life and appreciating God for life. And I hope I will always remember to appreciate and to savour life - having fun, discovering the unlimitless enormousity of God, enjoying meaningful connections with people.

Yes, life has its ups and downs, and no way am I saying that life is always a breeze. But as I try to survive the downs of life (and struggle through to the other side, I also want to ride the wave of the ups in life. And in the midst of it, to thank God and savour this life I have been bestowed.

Earth from Above

Currently in Waitangi Park, near the waterfront, is a free exhibition 'Earth from the Air' featuring works by photographer Yanns Arthus-Bertrand. I finally went to see it last night (I was told it was better going at night). Its an amazing series of photographs of earth, people, life - all taken from the air along with bits of information about sustainable development. People in Wellington who haven't yet been, go see it before it closes (April 9)!

Its good to be have things put into perspective. Seeing the photographs, reminded me that I am but a tiny speck in this world we live in; of how life goes on in other parts of the world can be much tougher than life as I know it; of why I should appreciate what I have and respect the earth; of the wonders of creation that reflects on the Wonder of the Creator.

A slice of heaven... on earth

One of my favourite things in the world....

Good things do come in small packages!

Life is not all ha ha hee hee

"Life is a dance between duty and desire"

How true.

Sporting the issues

The Commonwealth Games are just beginning. I think the idea of it is great. Athletes, who have trained hard, competing to see who is best. But sometimes, i can't help but think that usually the more well off countries win because they have the money. Its not always just about talent. Those with money can have all the experts at hand - coach, nutritionist, physiotherapist, phychologist and other experts. They also have the benefits of better equipment - shoes, clothes (it seems that the clothing is getting more and more sophisticated now). I think its no longer an equal slate.

Also, is it right that countries are putting in more and more money into the opening ceremonies (usually trying to outdo the one before it)? Millions - just to impress all who are there and who are watching. I'm sure there are benefits, but is it right?

If only...

I'm currently watching a BBC documentary 'Being Indian'. This episode focusses on a 15-year-old girl, Isha, in Delhi whose parents are rich enough to send her to a private school. The school is rigorously academic, and also has lots of facilities for sports and other activities. She has a cell phone, and can afford to take a taxi home if needed. Pretty usual for most schools here in middle class residential zones and also for private schools. But what strikes me about this school, is that the school partners with Unicef and gets their students involved in their programmes. Thus the students are exposed to those who are less privileged from them. They visit a slum and the impact on the students is tremendous. They are confronted by poverty, and Isha is challenged about the way she spends money. Their school also encourages them to teach someone who is illiterate to read and write. So Isha has been teaching her maid for the last 3 months and considers it her moral duty to teach someone to read and write. Wow!

If only schools in NZ would do that! Imagine what would happen if generations of school children are exposed to the 'other side of the coin' - the poor, the homeless, the down-trodden. What would that do? Perhaps we would have a generation of people who are acutely aware of inequality and are moved to action! Perhaps we would have more voices to speak out for the voiceless, more resources poured into fighting poverty, more people willing to do something! If only...

But in the meantime, let us do what we can.

this side of Heaven

At our office devotions today, we talked about heaven. To be honest, heaven is something I hardly think about. Mainly because I have no idea what its going to be like and hoping it won't be like how some people have suggested it could be like. But heaven (and hell) is not an uncommon topic in pop culture. Its used in advertising and in movies. In movies, people who die seem to go to heaven. But I'm pretty sure it does exist otherwise Elijah will be having a wild time somewhere up there in space.

On earth, we have a glimpse of God's creativeness - majestic mountains, delicate flowers, powerful waves. In heaven, I hope the beauty of all that is around me will blow my mind. On earth, we are comforted by God's Spirit. In heaven, I hope there will be no more tears. On earth, we press on to try and live a life that is worthy of the Gospel of Jesus. In heaven, I hope we will be made perfect. On earth, we are awed and humbled by the profoundness of Grace. In heaven, we will understand the culmination of Grace.

For now, I work towards what a follow of Jesus works towards - holiness, compassion, humility, awed by God through creation etc. And I live in hope that heaven will be much more than I expect it to be. But for now, on this side of heaven, I only hope to be of earthy good.

What does it mean to be a mature Christian?

We seem to classify those who call themselves Christians under various categories:
new Christians - those who have just come to the faith
mature Christians - those who have been in the faith for a while
nominal Christians - those who say they are Christians but don't seem to have active involvement

Firstly, by labelling people like that can be unhelpful as we are putting them into a box defined by a cultural stereotype. And secondly, didn't Jesus say not to judge so who are we to label others, after then we will be held to the same standard?

Back to the question. So what does it mean to be a mature Christian? I don't think I'm entirely sure the unwritten rules actually help here. It seems to assume that maturity comes after some time of being in the faith and having a somewhat active Christian life (else one be labelled nominal). However, I think that being in the faith for some time and having an active Christian life does not necessarily equal maturity. It also depends on a person's exposure to theology, exposure to good Bible exposition which can help them form their Christian worldview and values and priciples in which to live by.

I have encountered people who have been Christians for a while and have a shocking interpretation of Scripture and prescriptive way of doing bible study (reminded me of being in school again). And also recently encountered someone who though has been a Christian for just over a year, is able to lead bible study like someone who has been a Christian for ages.

As we all know (and have met), there are people who despite their actual age seems to behave like someone much younger than them. This we call immaturity. Yet maturity (a primary criteria being how long they have been a Christian for) seems to be a criteria for some Christian organisations or churches in choosing their leaders (I don't recall ever hearing the term 'immature Christian' used!).

So what is a mature Christian? I'm not entirely sure. And although I don't really like this term, I find that I do use it when I come across new students as I attempt to categorise them so as to spot the up and coming leaders. What are the initial markers? Its listening out (in conversation) whether they go to church, what their view is on certain things, their previous involvement in the Christian world, their current involvement etc. Pretty superficial I would say. But what is the alternative? Maybe next time I should give them some tasks to do - lead a bible study, interact with non-Christians, express their views on certian topics?

But perhaps its more healthy to try not to categorise people (rather unhelpfully) like that (or not categorise people at all if possible). Instead I'll seek to listen to their story. And give people (my students especially) a chance to do what they would like to do or encourage them to continually step out beyond their current comfort zone. Not sure if this is building 'maturity', but then I don't want to be into building mature Christians per se. I'm into holistic faith development and encouraging people (in particular the students I work with) to step out into their potential. Maybe its all one and the same, except that the term 'maturity' is so last millenium.

it's been a while...

Kinda took an unofficial break to my already sparse posts. But maybe thats what summer does - makes me slow down and take it easy. Not there hasn't been much to post. In fact there were times when I was composing posts in my head, but somehow what was in my head didn't translate to anything else. So I'm back in the blogosphere and will continue the sparse blogging...