Wednesday, June 25, 2008

A week for a lifetime of happiness...

Finally back in Singapore and it doesn't seem that long from my last trip given that I was back in Feb for three weeks. But four months away from Xueyan have made this trip especially sweet for me when I surprised her at Bukit Merah. A pity I did not have a camera with me for that MasterCard moment.

The last five days have been extremely hectic. I am basically on a pseudo-PAP meet-the-people-session. I am so blessed to have caught up with people who matter to me and you, who have spared the time for me, even if it's only for ten minutes. And for that odd free meal. And the reason I wrote this is to remind myself of your kindness...

1. Peter, the first to catch up with me. That despite going away the very next day for a week-long trip to catch the Euro - LIVE! I know you were very busy but you always make time for me. Be it before I left for London more than two years ago, blessing myself and Xueyan with your family presence in London and offering support to us during this trying period. Your God-focus life will always be an encouragement and model for me.
2. Shu Ping and Chin Chin - the only bosses whom I have worked with in Singapore. Busy partners with high charge-out rates but not withholding time from me despite the fact that I am a "KPMG-deserter". The same six years ago and the same today - can only hope to find similar bosses when I return to Asia one day!
3. Weifu/Merlin/Jeiel/Joy - my best buddy and the Ong/Wee's pillar of support. Brother, you are the absolute role model for us. Your constant emails of advice and encouragement allow me to know God is at work. Despite the flaws that I have, you were never a "judge" like others. You live the "love the sinner, hate the sin" life and I can only be further blessed as I spend more time with you and the Lees. God has blessed you richly and I can be sure that the Lees will be more blessed. And as His blessings come on you, you will be the channel from which they will be passed on to many - us included.
4. Eliza - the same today and fifteen years ago (we do go back a long time huh?). The passion for Christ has only grown deeper and I am so thankful that you are in His service - not one which any TD&H can join. I am so happy that you are now... hmmm... you know la. So as you pray about what's next, I believe the desired conviction and serenity will come. Your obedience is unquestionable. His faithfulness is the answer.
5. Pearl aka Mrs Tang - I am so sorry that you might be the only VJ gal at THAT dinner. That's because you are special! Always so encouraged by our "yearly" meetings. Remember no subtle hints and knowing myself, Edmund cannot be faulted for being blur. Stay healthy and continue to pursue God. Prayerfully, Shane will be the first of many to come!
6. Shaiful/Serene/Ivin/Yu Ching/Jan/Amy (added) - there is life after KPMG! Shaiful, your time has finally come good. Those days of ranting and "red nose" have been rewarded. You give hope to better prospects outside practice. Three in four years, Serene you are a model for the Government's procreation campaign. I hope to rival you one day! As for the ING gang, we survived and seeing you today is a reward for the countless "work-past-midnight" peak season days. A compliance officer, a MAS assistant director and a mint manager. Not too bad!
7. Weixiong - short ten minutes lunch. Now that is really touch-and-go! But just hearing you say "Marriage has been great" was good enough for me. Your maturity and concern shown during our brief conversation is testimony to His work done. From the "fire-in-the-hole!" poly boy to a now responsible "no-secrets-between-husband-and-wife" man, you have certainly taught me some good stuff!

Okay, more meetings to come over the next few days and, undoubtedly, more blessings. Hopefully my stomach can take the triple-lunch sessions!

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