Year 2.31 was a blessed week dreaming of Doris. On Monday I had a weeks training using Zoom to broadcast to 23 students overseas. It started at a cautious pace, unsure what it entails. At noon I could do some writing, but mostly it was a quiet affair as my buddies are on holiday.
Day 2 was another day of broadcast. Because the classes are mainly in the morning the students have to make a lot of ground. I cannot go easy on them. The rest of the day was work day as usual.
On Wednesday I had to forsake my morning swim because the students prefer ending classes earlier. The earlier time enabled me to attend a core meeting. After a brief rest I attended a language meeting and the rest of the noon slipped away in futility. At night I attended a leaders' meeting till 1130pm.
On Day 4 besides broadcasting I rushed to get my hair cut to remember Doris' loss the next day. I even get to have lunch with coworkers. It was a half day, so I had my hand treated.
On Friday i dreamed of Doris. It was a sweet moment. She was the same as she was. This time she wanted to choose a country to reside in, if there is such a place as Trojan that appears in my dream. At noon our department had lunch for a coworker's birthday.
Day 6 The broadcast was over. The day was just as long with fellowship party at night. The good thing was my neck was healing as I could sideways to look around. At night I received the wonderful news that all corrections were made to Grammar Bible
On Sunday I dreamed of a man who looked like my father and I got his email. Maybe I am looking for family ties. The day wasn't uneventful. I had to read a group apology statement, attend youth party, then Filipino gathering. At night I had American friends at a company dinner for three. On eve of Christmas I sent out to friends the web link for Grammar Bible http://bible.ryl.hk/web_v1/
as a Christmas gift!
December 26, 2017
Tuesday, December 26, 2017
Monday, December 18, 2017
Year 2.30
Year 2.30 was a blessed week dreaming of Doris. On Monday I went to Sheung Wan where we ate BBQ rice and bought some inexpensive winter clothing after lunch, including Cowboys and Mavericks caps for twenty bucks each and fleece for forty.
Day 2 began with a call from the publishers office, confirming my book 再向苦路行 will be released. I could not be happier with Doris' last Lent devotions ready for debut. At noon I had a last minute dental appointment which I was grateful for despite the unease. At night I had dinner at a neighbor coworkers place, followed by another neighbors hand treatment for me.
Wednesday was murder with vetting from 10am to 330pm. The only good thing was skipping another overlapping noon meeting. At least there was peace. The only thing to do was to get a destress drink after.
Day 4 I had a visitor that was a whiner over many petty things such as chairs. In life there are many struggles and setbacks but infighting makes the devil happiest.
On Friday i changed my language office hours to today to free up more space there. At noon I was requested to accompany a person to report a case. It took me to hours and they another five hours. At least they can breathe easier now.
Day 6 I have a wonderful dream of living in a hotel with Doris when she announced last minute she wanted to eat at Oz dairy company on the day we checked out the hospital. I suggested we go with there and later return for our luggages. At night we had a wonderful fellowship Christmas.
Sunday I attended a language worship before returning to putonghua worship, followed by baptism at 3pm. At night Doris' Canadian friend visited and we went out for dinner with Doris' sister. It was a long week but the dream made up for everything.
December 19, 2017
Day 2 began with a call from the publishers office, confirming my book 再向苦路行 will be released. I could not be happier with Doris' last Lent devotions ready for debut. At noon I had a last minute dental appointment which I was grateful for despite the unease. At night I had dinner at a neighbor coworkers place, followed by another neighbors hand treatment for me.
Wednesday was murder with vetting from 10am to 330pm. The only good thing was skipping another overlapping noon meeting. At least there was peace. The only thing to do was to get a destress drink after.
Day 4 I had a visitor that was a whiner over many petty things such as chairs. In life there are many struggles and setbacks but infighting makes the devil happiest.
On Friday i changed my language office hours to today to free up more space there. At noon I was requested to accompany a person to report a case. It took me to hours and they another five hours. At least they can breathe easier now.
Day 6 I have a wonderful dream of living in a hotel with Doris when she announced last minute she wanted to eat at Oz dairy company on the day we checked out the hospital. I suggested we go with there and later return for our luggages. At night we had a wonderful fellowship Christmas.
Sunday I attended a language worship before returning to putonghua worship, followed by baptism at 3pm. At night Doris' Canadian friend visited and we went out for dinner with Doris' sister. It was a long week but the dream made up for everything.
December 19, 2017
Tuesday, December 12, 2017
Year 2.29
Year 2.29 was a cold week in more ways than one. On Monday I was cheered by lunch with buddies, buying flowers and group prayer. At night I devoured relatives supply of food. After that I enjoyed my first Monday night workout since joining the gym
Day 2 I started my new division week at ICC, sitting in the office to make my presence felt. I was happily surprised by the work with Nepalese moms at the center by another group. It gave me new inspiration to work with more ethnic groups locally. I ducked out during the break to give moms more privacy. I
was invited to lunch last minute by the pastor.
Wednesday began with 8am breakfast meeting. Next I attended my first prayer meeting in my new task and it turned out to be a thankless and tiring schedule eating into my Sunday sermon preparation no welcome lunch could compensate. After lunch I have my first language meeting. The folks leading take a long way to get things done. The previous coordinator introduced me to little effect, so change is slow and sullen.
Day 4 morning was a return to normalcy. Later I found one or two useful illustrations, so I am happy. My hand treatment turned into head rubs on the bumps from my cold and the stiff and strained neck.
On Friday I was almost done with sermon preparation but loose ends were plenty. At night I had dinner with my app support and fellowship Thanksgiving but I was too tired to enjoy, leaving home midway.
Day 6 I attended couples Thanksgiving after noon and fellowship at night, and in-between I texted my publisher who agreed to print my next book 再向苦路行. I left fellowship early to wait for my friend Jon who will stay a short overnight at my place. We had supper at a new place in TY as I showed him the Grammar Bible app. I suddenly thought I gave the wrong file to my app support, but it turned out the system itself withdrew all the vp participles.
Sunday's sermon turned out to be shorter than I thought, ending ten minutes early. Then I joined a group for dim sum. The town hall voting ended in good spirits. A bunch of us went out for drinks. At night as I was having dinner with a new friend, news filtered in that the vote was passed favorably. Praise God, let us hope we have turned a page on the past.
December 12, 2017
Day 2 I started my new division week at ICC, sitting in the office to make my presence felt. I was happily surprised by the work with Nepalese moms at the center by another group. It gave me new inspiration to work with more ethnic groups locally. I ducked out during the break to give moms more privacy. I
was invited to lunch last minute by the pastor.
Wednesday began with 8am breakfast meeting. Next I attended my first prayer meeting in my new task and it turned out to be a thankless and tiring schedule eating into my Sunday sermon preparation no welcome lunch could compensate. After lunch I have my first language meeting. The folks leading take a long way to get things done. The previous coordinator introduced me to little effect, so change is slow and sullen.
Day 4 morning was a return to normalcy. Later I found one or two useful illustrations, so I am happy. My hand treatment turned into head rubs on the bumps from my cold and the stiff and strained neck.
On Friday I was almost done with sermon preparation but loose ends were plenty. At night I had dinner with my app support and fellowship Thanksgiving but I was too tired to enjoy, leaving home midway.
Day 6 I attended couples Thanksgiving after noon and fellowship at night, and in-between I texted my publisher who agreed to print my next book 再向苦路行. I left fellowship early to wait for my friend Jon who will stay a short overnight at my place. We had supper at a new place in TY as I showed him the Grammar Bible app. I suddenly thought I gave the wrong file to my app support, but it turned out the system itself withdrew all the vp participles.
Sunday's sermon turned out to be shorter than I thought, ending ten minutes early. Then I joined a group for dim sum. The town hall voting ended in good spirits. A bunch of us went out for drinks. At night as I was having dinner with a new friend, news filtered in that the vote was passed favorably. Praise God, let us hope we have turned a page on the past.
December 12, 2017
Tuesday, December 5, 2017
Year 2.28
Year 2.28 is the last week of the Israel trip. On Monday we returned to Jerusalem. One of the highlights of the two days there was visiting the Wailing Wall. I could not help but weep both times my hands touched the wall thinking of losing Doris and my life as a whole. There was much thanksgiving and tears. A new friend Lewis joined the trip
On Day 2 seven skipped the days plan due sickness. That was when I realized to thank God for all sorts of small back, head and neck ailments that cleared up in time. I made it through the trip with just a chilled head from air-conditioning on the way to Israel that cleared up by taking a Nyquil Jon offered.
On Wednesday it was time to leave. The security was predictably horrible. I was glad I got an aisle seat last minute. The return flight was pleasant with Wonder Woman and Fury Road for company to choose from the top. The ten hours flight was over in no time.
On Day 4 I arrived home. I had a colleague visitor Jon overnight at my place but leaving for USA next day. The most I got from the trip besides the scenes must be befriending Jon. He's the only one who can see the revolutionary impact of the Grammar Bible. We checked out Salvation Army camp and had Vietnamese dinner before calling it a day - he in the living room.
On Friday I had breakfast with John. Thankfully I was back to work one day earlier than expected because of my miscalculation but I had lots to do. My new division budget is still not done. At night I had dinner with Doris' sister, bearing two crosses for two sisters.
Day 6 began with a head massage that I needed to counter the sinuses on my head, at least I think so. The day was the start of my new division.I had to skip the stadium gospel event to lead Bible study but it was a solid one. At night I was invited to a Mei Foo BBQ that I almost forgot to attend.
On Sunday I went to my first ICC worship followed by English worship. The latter has potential while the former needs work. The speaker Tim was great! The noon twon hall special event was fraught with tension. At night I ate food relatives gave.
December 5, 2017
On Day 2 seven skipped the days plan due sickness. That was when I realized to thank God for all sorts of small back, head and neck ailments that cleared up in time. I made it through the trip with just a chilled head from air-conditioning on the way to Israel that cleared up by taking a Nyquil Jon offered.
On Wednesday it was time to leave. The security was predictably horrible. I was glad I got an aisle seat last minute. The return flight was pleasant with Wonder Woman and Fury Road for company to choose from the top. The ten hours flight was over in no time.
On Day 4 I arrived home. I had a colleague visitor Jon overnight at my place but leaving for USA next day. The most I got from the trip besides the scenes must be befriending Jon. He's the only one who can see the revolutionary impact of the Grammar Bible. We checked out Salvation Army camp and had Vietnamese dinner before calling it a day - he in the living room.
On Friday I had breakfast with John. Thankfully I was back to work one day earlier than expected because of my miscalculation but I had lots to do. My new division budget is still not done. At night I had dinner with Doris' sister, bearing two crosses for two sisters.
Day 6 began with a head massage that I needed to counter the sinuses on my head, at least I think so. The day was the start of my new division.I had to skip the stadium gospel event to lead Bible study but it was a solid one. At night I was invited to a Mei Foo BBQ that I almost forgot to attend.
On Sunday I went to my first ICC worship followed by English worship. The latter has potential while the former needs work. The speaker Tim was great! The noon twon hall special event was fraught with tension. At night I ate food relatives gave.
December 5, 2017
Tuesday, November 28, 2017
Year 2.27
Year 2.27 is spent in Israel. Lunch was with buddies before I board the plane at 430pm. Praise God, my stiff neck did not bother me anymore. I met up with the Taiwan team at the airport.The airlines staff noticed my glasses and a L.A. visitor said, Your glasses is cool! Israel airlines service was terrible. There were few movies on the screen and the movies do not begin from the start. The only two movies I saw were the new spiderman and A family man. The twelve hour flight was murder. We arrived past midnight.
Day 2 was the occasion of Doris' loss for one and a half years. I sent a short quote of hers to friends to remember her. The second day in Israel was in full swing. We were in Caesarea and visited Nazareth. The first impression of this ancient city was very nice. I really liked the hotel that was by the Sea of Galilee. Four of us took a stroll by the neighborhood at night.
By Wednesday I noticed my face was already rounder with all the buffet. Capernaum was a good visit though by now all pictures are the same. Taking a short boat ride in the Sea of Galilee was meaningful. I regret not buying a polo shirt on board.
Day 4 Megiddo was breathtaking. The land was spacious for the final battle on the last day, within reach of Israel's various neighbors. Visiting the ungodly high places of Samaria, especially Dan, was like stepping into history. The idolatry and idols were not limited to the northern kingdom, but also the pagan practices of Israel's enemies.
On Friday as we passed Israel's immigration, a lady inside the office booth said to me, You have cool glasses! We crossed over to Sinai to be greeted by the news of the slaughter of 300 Sufis in their mosque earlier in the day. Our immigration stop in the late afternoon was delayed subsequently by an hour and a half because of the presence of 17 Americans in our team, so we were accompanied by a local police in our bus for our safety.
Day 6 The trip to Mount Sinai was arduous. I rode a camel up at 2am but slipped on my side after I dismounted the mountain halfway to the top. The next half up the steps was hardship but we reached there to watch the beautiful sunrise. The way down the hill bottom was ugly as I stubbed my big left toe endless times in rock, causing it to turn blue. We headed back to Israel after breakfast. The food and economy of Egypt is much inferior to Israel. Night massage helped. A young man Jeff sent me the first version of Grammar Bible app that will debut next year!, I couldn't wait!
On Sunday we had a short worship followed by lunch in a busy downtown hotel and a stroll in the streets of Jerusalem. Later we went to the Dead Sea where I floated in the buoyant waters with Paul and Jon. After that I covered myself in the black mud, the only person in our team to do so. Praise God, the trip so far was most meaningful, memorable and pleasurable.
November 28, 2017
Day 2 was the occasion of Doris' loss for one and a half years. I sent a short quote of hers to friends to remember her. The second day in Israel was in full swing. We were in Caesarea and visited Nazareth. The first impression of this ancient city was very nice. I really liked the hotel that was by the Sea of Galilee. Four of us took a stroll by the neighborhood at night.
By Wednesday I noticed my face was already rounder with all the buffet. Capernaum was a good visit though by now all pictures are the same. Taking a short boat ride in the Sea of Galilee was meaningful. I regret not buying a polo shirt on board.
Day 4 Megiddo was breathtaking. The land was spacious for the final battle on the last day, within reach of Israel's various neighbors. Visiting the ungodly high places of Samaria, especially Dan, was like stepping into history. The idolatry and idols were not limited to the northern kingdom, but also the pagan practices of Israel's enemies.
On Friday as we passed Israel's immigration, a lady inside the office booth said to me, You have cool glasses! We crossed over to Sinai to be greeted by the news of the slaughter of 300 Sufis in their mosque earlier in the day. Our immigration stop in the late afternoon was delayed subsequently by an hour and a half because of the presence of 17 Americans in our team, so we were accompanied by a local police in our bus for our safety.
Day 6 The trip to Mount Sinai was arduous. I rode a camel up at 2am but slipped on my side after I dismounted the mountain halfway to the top. The next half up the steps was hardship but we reached there to watch the beautiful sunrise. The way down the hill bottom was ugly as I stubbed my big left toe endless times in rock, causing it to turn blue. We headed back to Israel after breakfast. The food and economy of Egypt is much inferior to Israel. Night massage helped. A young man Jeff sent me the first version of Grammar Bible app that will debut next year!, I couldn't wait!
On Sunday we had a short worship followed by lunch in a busy downtown hotel and a stroll in the streets of Jerusalem. Later we went to the Dead Sea where I floated in the buoyant waters with Paul and Jon. After that I covered myself in the black mud, the only person in our team to do so. Praise God, the trip so far was most meaningful, memorable and pleasurable.
November 28, 2017
Tuesday, November 21, 2017
Year 2.26
I write this post on exactly Week 26 of Year 2, one and a half years without Doris. On Monday morning I was given a good 45 minutes workout by a neighbor friend a the club gym. Later I went with a good buddy for lunch at Prince Edward and got lilies for Doris. Later I had prayer with two friends.
Day 2 was nervous division interview day. I woke up with a headache on the right side for a change, possibly from pressure. I did not have to answer any questions by coworkers and the vote passed. Tea treat was mine. At night we had men's fellowship, attended by nine brothers for the study of Gideon.
On Wednesday the headache was bigger and I soon got a stiff neck. Lunch was with buddy and MOS to know more about the latter's work. The leaders' interview went well with only a friendly question from friend Stephen.
Day 4 I had lunch with a USA friend and his wife who were in town. Evening could not come fast enough for my hand massage that turned out to be head massage. The neck and shoulder were sore too. The treatment ended early as I went with my USA friend and wife to have dinner and send them off. We exchanged 500 USA dollars.
Friday was my last meeting with pth staff as I assume LCD. For lunch we celebrated R birthday. Dinner was with relatives who changed more USA money for me for my Monday Israel trip.
Day 6 was the longest day. 11am LCD was followed by noon lunch, then two hours pre prestudy, and another hour of prestudy. I had a short tea with buddy and wife before an enjoyable study of Psalm 13 at fellowship.
Sunday sermon of Psalm 5 went well. A lady shared with me her husband needs help, so I asked a person to help out. I had lunch with a USA friend and a hk deacon before a bald shave by a good buddy before next day travel. At night village neighbor invited me for dinner but I received a panic call about a USA moody friend. We texted. After dinner and talk we walked a full round of the island.
November 22, 2017
Day 2 was nervous division interview day. I woke up with a headache on the right side for a change, possibly from pressure. I did not have to answer any questions by coworkers and the vote passed. Tea treat was mine. At night we had men's fellowship, attended by nine brothers for the study of Gideon.
On Wednesday the headache was bigger and I soon got a stiff neck. Lunch was with buddy and MOS to know more about the latter's work. The leaders' interview went well with only a friendly question from friend Stephen.
Day 4 I had lunch with a USA friend and his wife who were in town. Evening could not come fast enough for my hand massage that turned out to be head massage. The neck and shoulder were sore too. The treatment ended early as I went with my USA friend and wife to have dinner and send them off. We exchanged 500 USA dollars.
Friday was my last meeting with pth staff as I assume LCD. For lunch we celebrated R birthday. Dinner was with relatives who changed more USA money for me for my Monday Israel trip.
Day 6 was the longest day. 11am LCD was followed by noon lunch, then two hours pre prestudy, and another hour of prestudy. I had a short tea with buddy and wife before an enjoyable study of Psalm 13 at fellowship.
Sunday sermon of Psalm 5 went well. A lady shared with me her husband needs help, so I asked a person to help out. I had lunch with a USA friend and a hk deacon before a bald shave by a good buddy before next day travel. At night village neighbor invited me for dinner but I received a panic call about a USA moody friend. We texted. After dinner and talk we walked a full round of the island.
November 22, 2017
Tuesday, November 14, 2017
Year 2.25
Year 2.25 week was a good normal week for me. On Monday I met a neighbor at the gym who offered on the spot to help my body alignment . He was quite effective. Next I had breakfast with my coworker Tom who had moved to the island three days ago. The rest of the day was at wui wo retreat.
Day 2. The retreat went well, ending after lunch. On the bus home I talked to Some about adding a new workers to our department. On the way home we six had coffee at tung chung on the way back. At night I cooked dinner for my neighbor family whose mother is on a mission trip.
On Wednesday my neck suffered a sprain as I swam in the morning. It was a bad one with lumps on my head.my neck suffered a sprain as I swam in the morning. It was a bad one with lumps on my head. For breakfast I met a friend who has been offered to pastor a college town. Good for him but not for church development of her young pastors
Day 4 my physical problems spread to my back when I sneezed in the morning and my back was sprained too, making me very uncomfortable the whole day. At night I had a friend who worked in my head bumps. He gave me a thorough head rubbing and the lumps were less swollen.
On Friday I worked with a buddy on his pth sermon. At first he was reluctant but later he asked for for a double check on his pronunciation. I met my Indonesian counterpart but I told him my position is not fixed yet, so it ended early because he's still got a lot to do. At night a neighbor offered to work on my hand again after a months break. I felt embarrassed but he insisted.
On Saturday I had department meeting, talked with a coworker about an ex schoolmate and then attended 1111. At night I was invited to have dinner with Raymond and Sandra Shen who gave a marvelous music fest at night.
On Sunday buddy delivered a good message. I had to attend two prayer meetings, love HK and church prayer, where I met a young man who graduated from. Indiana at the prayer meeting. After heading home for a rest I went out for dinner with a friend returning to Chicago. At night the locksmith repaired my lock and door frame. Later I took Tylenol for a headache before sleeping.
Nov 14, 2017
Day 2. The retreat went well, ending after lunch. On the bus home I talked to Some about adding a new workers to our department. On the way home we six had coffee at tung chung on the way back. At night I cooked dinner for my neighbor family whose mother is on a mission trip.
On Wednesday my neck suffered a sprain as I swam in the morning. It was a bad one with lumps on my head.my neck suffered a sprain as I swam in the morning. It was a bad one with lumps on my head. For breakfast I met a friend who has been offered to pastor a college town. Good for him but not for church development of her young pastors
Day 4 my physical problems spread to my back when I sneezed in the morning and my back was sprained too, making me very uncomfortable the whole day. At night I had a friend who worked in my head bumps. He gave me a thorough head rubbing and the lumps were less swollen.
On Friday I worked with a buddy on his pth sermon. At first he was reluctant but later he asked for for a double check on his pronunciation. I met my Indonesian counterpart but I told him my position is not fixed yet, so it ended early because he's still got a lot to do. At night a neighbor offered to work on my hand again after a months break. I felt embarrassed but he insisted.
On Saturday I had department meeting, talked with a coworker about an ex schoolmate and then attended 1111. At night I was invited to have dinner with Raymond and Sandra Shen who gave a marvelous music fest at night.
On Sunday buddy delivered a good message. I had to attend two prayer meetings, love HK and church prayer, where I met a young man who graduated from. Indiana at the prayer meeting. After heading home for a rest I went out for dinner with a friend returning to Chicago. At night the locksmith repaired my lock and door frame. Later I took Tylenol for a headache before sleeping.
Nov 14, 2017
Tuesday, November 7, 2017
Year 2.24
Year 2.24 was a blessed week. On Monday my new coworker neighbor was at the island for a final cleanup before Friday's moving day, so we lad lunch together with another new friend, then had a leisurely walk through the old dilapidated village before we took a look at his rented two room apartment on the 22nd floor. Today I started writing questions to my Creation series, Gen 1-11. Doris wrote the application questions, so I hope to write the study questions.
Day 2 was the coldest outdoor swimming pool day, 25℃. There were only six swimmers, less than half the usual turned up. I was happy that I completed the first set of Bible study questions from Gen 1:1-2:3. Doris' former questions fitted perfectly.
Wednesday was a sermon day uninterrupted by meetings, so I could further work on Psalm 5, the subject for my next sermon on November 19 before my next day trip to Israel. Summer was not happy for a former coworker who wanted more responsibility at our fellowship but got little.
Day 4 was hand treatment. My right hand is better after many months of treatment for carpal tunnel and tennis elbow and weak knees! I met a neighbor on the bus who complained I did not seek him for help on my hand.
On Friday we had a meeting scheduled on my morning off day. I made up for my reluctance to meet by treating myself to a McDonald's breakfast but the line was super long. Dinner was with my laws before fellowship. As usual Doris' sister cooked me some food.
Day 6 was lunch with Couples core. After lunch I got rested and ready for 3pm prestudy. It went well and I got better at leading them. At night a fellowship member Wallace from buddy's fellowship invited me to dinner as well. In return I gave him Doris' blog book and our latest book.
On Sunday I woke to a dream of an exasperatedly smiling Doris whose cost-conscious sister M refused to go out for buffet with her. I volunteered to pay from my tax and other returns. Church anniversary and the songs we sang were hard on me. The pastor, for the first time, was more compassionate. The young man working on my Grammar Bible had lunch with me as we had a final meeting to tie up lose strings. At night I had dinner with a new friend at kwai fong.
Day 2 was the coldest outdoor swimming pool day, 25℃. There were only six swimmers, less than half the usual turned up. I was happy that I completed the first set of Bible study questions from Gen 1:1-2:3. Doris' former questions fitted perfectly.
Wednesday was a sermon day uninterrupted by meetings, so I could further work on Psalm 5, the subject for my next sermon on November 19 before my next day trip to Israel. Summer was not happy for a former coworker who wanted more responsibility at our fellowship but got little.
Day 4 was hand treatment. My right hand is better after many months of treatment for carpal tunnel and tennis elbow and weak knees! I met a neighbor on the bus who complained I did not seek him for help on my hand.
On Friday we had a meeting scheduled on my morning off day. I made up for my reluctance to meet by treating myself to a McDonald's breakfast but the line was super long. Dinner was with my laws before fellowship. As usual Doris' sister cooked me some food.
Day 6 was lunch with Couples core. After lunch I got rested and ready for 3pm prestudy. It went well and I got better at leading them. At night a fellowship member Wallace from buddy's fellowship invited me to dinner as well. In return I gave him Doris' blog book and our latest book.
On Sunday I woke to a dream of an exasperatedly smiling Doris whose cost-conscious sister M refused to go out for buffet with her. I volunteered to pay from my tax and other returns. Church anniversary and the songs we sang were hard on me. The pastor, for the first time, was more compassionate. The young man working on my Grammar Bible had lunch with me as we had a final meeting to tie up lose strings. At night I had dinner with a new friend at kwai fong.
Tuesday, October 31, 2017
Year 2.23
Year 2.23 resolved a few matters. Monday morning was gym time. At noon I was treated to a sumptuous lunch buffet at an expensive TST lunch by a young AV friend. At night I went to dinner and shop at Tsuen Wan with a USA friend to end the day.
Day 2 I started working feverishly on Psalm 73 for my Sunday sermon, a sermon I had laid aside for many months. It is a text that got my attention after Doris' loss, so I had to worked through it. I was glad I finished my vision statement by today's required date.
Wednesday morning was breakfast with a new believer that went on so smoothly but unfortunately by lunch time I was called to a meeting because of a dispute he had with a counsellor. The meeting lasted three and a half hours, so lunch was postponed. At night I had to talk to a good friend who thought I criticized him when. I asked if a note was "sent wrong(ly)" to me.
Day 4 as usual was a half day. My sermon was taking shape, but I still have to work on the third point and look for illustrations. At night I went for hand treatment. That did not stop me from my daily prayer night walk.
Friday was my last day to finish my sermon because the next day was Chung Yeung holiday, and I had signed up for fellowship outing tomorrow. At night I had progressive dinner at Jordan with a new USA friend, eating wonton, toast n eggs and dessert. Getting home I walked 45 minutes to get the weight off.
The fellowship went to Lai Chi Wo almost the whole day from 8am to 5pm. I know for sure I am getting close to my normal self because I was meeting and greeting all like a pro! The noon nap by the pier helped. The day ended with dinner with buddy couple before heading home.
Sunday morning arrived with an interview from a team of six at 845am. I took it in stride and responded to questions honestly. It ended around 1015am just before my sermon at 11am. The response song 除你以外 to my sermon Psalm 73 brought some tears to my eyes. I had lunch with former coworker Harold. Praise God he was back to his energetic self after a bout with tongue cancer. Dinner with my neighbor and his two kids was cancelled, so I ate curry my sister in-law prepared, which was very good. Doris' sisters had brought flowers in the morning for the festive weekend. At night I was misty-eyed before sleeping.
October 31, 2017
Day 2 I started working feverishly on Psalm 73 for my Sunday sermon, a sermon I had laid aside for many months. It is a text that got my attention after Doris' loss, so I had to worked through it. I was glad I finished my vision statement by today's required date.
Wednesday morning was breakfast with a new believer that went on so smoothly but unfortunately by lunch time I was called to a meeting because of a dispute he had with a counsellor. The meeting lasted three and a half hours, so lunch was postponed. At night I had to talk to a good friend who thought I criticized him when. I asked if a note was "sent wrong(ly)" to me.
Day 4 as usual was a half day. My sermon was taking shape, but I still have to work on the third point and look for illustrations. At night I went for hand treatment. That did not stop me from my daily prayer night walk.
Friday was my last day to finish my sermon because the next day was Chung Yeung holiday, and I had signed up for fellowship outing tomorrow. At night I had progressive dinner at Jordan with a new USA friend, eating wonton, toast n eggs and dessert. Getting home I walked 45 minutes to get the weight off.
The fellowship went to Lai Chi Wo almost the whole day from 8am to 5pm. I know for sure I am getting close to my normal self because I was meeting and greeting all like a pro! The noon nap by the pier helped. The day ended with dinner with buddy couple before heading home.
Sunday morning arrived with an interview from a team of six at 845am. I took it in stride and responded to questions honestly. It ended around 1015am just before my sermon at 11am. The response song 除你以外 to my sermon Psalm 73 brought some tears to my eyes. I had lunch with former coworker Harold. Praise God he was back to his energetic self after a bout with tongue cancer. Dinner with my neighbor and his two kids was cancelled, so I ate curry my sister in-law prepared, which was very good. Doris' sisters had brought flowers in the morning for the festive weekend. At night I was misty-eyed before sleeping.
October 31, 2017
Tuesday, October 24, 2017
Year 2.22
Year 2.22 was a very good week for me. On Monday I woke up to a cheery, energetic and positive Doris in my dream, taking medication in her stride, empowering me for the whole week. I had lunch with two good friends, treating them to celebrate my tax return. It was a rainy day but it did nothing to deter me from buying flowers for Doris. My buddy suggested new lilies for a change, so I got some white ones with big petals. I was really pleased with it. Unfortunately my friend's wife had a slipped disc and was hospitalized. I did some writing at the office before heading home.
Day 2 Unknown to me a long meeting was due on Monday. I could get very little done by the end of the day with coworkers meeting looming in the afternoon. I was still figuring out what my next sermon in November should be because I was told a visiting speaker will speak on Micah 6:8 as well, so I got to choose another..
On Wednesday morning I loaned Doris' college journal to BC, which she deeply appreciated, calling Doris her new rntor. I attended a long leaders meeting till 1030pm. Those that stayed behind for the next part did not leave till 1230am. It was a long day because I opted not to stay at home in the morning, but returned to office to do my own writing in the morning.
Day 4 I received an official division letter asking me to write my vision statement in more than 1500 words. The pending challenge of doing three languages is too tricky for any to do, so help me God. I was stuck after 1,000 words.
On Friday I and a colleague met with two reps to see if we could get a temp for college work, which was turned down. We had staff meeting followed by lunch with my predecessor. A young man had dinner with me and gave me a sample of Grammar Bible in app form. It makes me giddy thinking that the book could come out in app sometime soon. I also gave a seven-minute devotion at Couples Fellowship on Barnabas, which turned out really well.
Day 6 was lunch with fellowship staff before a lengthy three hour study, two with pre-prestudy group and one with group leaders. Following a short dinner with a buddy I attended Putonghua Fellowship. The study on Psalm 5 really invigorated me, so I will preach on it next month.
On Sunday the praise team sang 我知道我的救贖者活着, but for the first since Doris' loss I could sing it without tears. Since returning from missions last week I feel I have recovered significantly. Praise God, now I have energy in the abundance. At night I had dinner with a USA friend in Tsuen Wan and went to the new Ikea there. I watched the tenth episode of OCTB to end the day.
Oct 24, 2017Year 2.22
Day 2 Unknown to me a long meeting was due on Monday. I could get very little done by the end of the day with coworkers meeting looming in the afternoon. I was still figuring out what my next sermon in November should be because I was told a visiting speaker will speak on Micah 6:8 as well, so I got to choose another..
On Wednesday morning I loaned Doris' college journal to BC, which she deeply appreciated, calling Doris her new rntor. I attended a long leaders meeting till 1030pm. Those that stayed behind for the next part did not leave till 1230am. It was a long day because I opted not to stay at home in the morning, but returned to office to do my own writing in the morning.
Day 4 I received an official division letter asking me to write my vision statement in more than 1500 words. The pending challenge of doing three languages is too tricky for any to do, so help me God. I was stuck after 1,000 words.
On Friday I and a colleague met with two reps to see if we could get a temp for college work, which was turned down. We had staff meeting followed by lunch with my predecessor. A young man had dinner with me and gave me a sample of Grammar Bible in app form. It makes me giddy thinking that the book could come out in app sometime soon. I also gave a seven-minute devotion at Couples Fellowship on Barnabas, which turned out really well.
Day 6 was lunch with fellowship staff before a lengthy three hour study, two with pre-prestudy group and one with group leaders. Following a short dinner with a buddy I attended Putonghua Fellowship. The study on Psalm 5 really invigorated me, so I will preach on it next month.
On Sunday the praise team sang 我知道我的救贖者活着, but for the first since Doris' loss I could sing it without tears. Since returning from missions last week I feel I have recovered significantly. Praise God, now I have energy in the abundance. At night I had dinner with a USA friend in Tsuen Wan and went to the new Ikea there. I watched the tenth episode of OCTB to end the day.
Oct 24, 2017Year 2.22
Wednesday, October 18, 2017
Year 2.21
Year 2.21 has been a fascinating week mostly spent teaching abroad. On Monday morning breakfast was at a popular bun QF restaurant near the sixth mouth. A class of 28 students, one audit, was waiting for me. They learned uneasily the grammar rules on the first day. Class ends at 530pm. After dinner with two students I returned to class to sit with a few students there because I did not want to sit alone in the small morel room. Interestingly this is the third generation I am training, having skipped the last generation because I was absent at home with Doris the last three years.
Tuesday was exegeting and preaching the first point in Philemon. The brighter students were two with law background and one from HKU. The audit and two older brother-sister siblings had it rougher. Overall most are unsure but are willing to learn. The two ladies from Greenland with me for dinner told me the first generation student I trained was their pastor's son.Tuesday I spent the evening in class too till 9pm.
The next day was the best. Most remarkably understood what I was doing and how grammar dictates preaching. One student who was worried if she could improve made major progress. So did the rest of the class. A former student took me to dinner and told me he had taught 100 students the grammar rules, 40 at seminary and 40 at missions. Night space was taken by church, so I spent some time at Starbucks, returning 9pm to watch an anti-triad TV series younger coworkers were watching, starring Jordan Chan to counter my boredom.
Day 4 was a fitting end to what I taught them. Most had control of grammar and their preaching. A student who gave me a hard time last night bought three small bags of mixed nuts to call it a truce. I found out one other student's supervisor and leader at Mountland was one of my former students too.
Friday was preaching day. All had a turn preaching one point. The class went so well that I taught then OT grammar using Obadiah. The class ended at 230pm so I could take an earlier cab to the airport for my 630pm flight. I regretted not taking a book to read for my three hours flight. I reached home at 1030pm to 651 messages! Overall I had three groups with connections to my past teaching, my pride!
Day 6 was back to work after my hand treatment in the morning. Five of us went to lunch. I had to write my leadership statement on a potential new responsibility. At night I had dinner snack with a pth fellowship group I spent the least time with.
The typhoon disrupted Sunday worship for the third time this year. Thankfully the church met the challenge with FB live by the pastor, followed by pth department live. Lunch was with a neighbor coworker followed by tea at the pier After the winds died down I did prayer walk and went to the gym and watch episode three. The biggest thrill was finishing the application questions to the Lent series even though there are six sermons still to be edited.
Oct 17, 2017
Tuesday was exegeting and preaching the first point in Philemon. The brighter students were two with law background and one from HKU. The audit and two older brother-sister siblings had it rougher. Overall most are unsure but are willing to learn. The two ladies from Greenland with me for dinner told me the first generation student I trained was their pastor's son.Tuesday I spent the evening in class too till 9pm.
The next day was the best. Most remarkably understood what I was doing and how grammar dictates preaching. One student who was worried if she could improve made major progress. So did the rest of the class. A former student took me to dinner and told me he had taught 100 students the grammar rules, 40 at seminary and 40 at missions. Night space was taken by church, so I spent some time at Starbucks, returning 9pm to watch an anti-triad TV series younger coworkers were watching, starring Jordan Chan to counter my boredom.
Day 4 was a fitting end to what I taught them. Most had control of grammar and their preaching. A student who gave me a hard time last night bought three small bags of mixed nuts to call it a truce. I found out one other student's supervisor and leader at Mountland was one of my former students too.
Friday was preaching day. All had a turn preaching one point. The class went so well that I taught then OT grammar using Obadiah. The class ended at 230pm so I could take an earlier cab to the airport for my 630pm flight. I regretted not taking a book to read for my three hours flight. I reached home at 1030pm to 651 messages! Overall I had three groups with connections to my past teaching, my pride!
Day 6 was back to work after my hand treatment in the morning. Five of us went to lunch. I had to write my leadership statement on a potential new responsibility. At night I had dinner snack with a pth fellowship group I spent the least time with.
The typhoon disrupted Sunday worship for the third time this year. Thankfully the church met the challenge with FB live by the pastor, followed by pth department live. Lunch was with a neighbor coworker followed by tea at the pier After the winds died down I did prayer walk and went to the gym and watch episode three. The biggest thrill was finishing the application questions to the Lent series even though there are six sermons still to be edited.
Oct 17, 2017
Sunday, October 8, 2017
Year 2.20
Year 2.20 was written earlier by two days because of my mission trip to today. Monday was a public holiday for China National Holiday. I conducted a Bible camp讀經營 for Yuen Long Bread of Life. They were very enthusiastic, ordering 33 Grammar Bibles. At night I treated the Goks and Moks for Vietnamese dinner. At night I found an endearing prayer from Doris found in her college journal:
主啊！今天自己要立下一個心志，不求主叫我離開苦難，只求主叫我在苦難中站立得住。求父教我不要時刻預備，先有一個樂於受苦的心志，好叫試探，苦難、撒旦的攻擊來到，我們能為主要受苦，也能依然站立得住。
Day 2 I was supposed to join two coworkers for dinner but my neighbor's wife had kidney infection and was hospitalized, so we cancelled dinner plans because I was the most suitable and nearest helper to care for the kids with mom hospitalized, but my coworkers brought food and joined us for dinner at neighbors home with me babysitting for one short night.
Wednesday was the eve of midautumn festival. My buddy Cheng and his friends Kwan invited me for dinner at a Hakka restaurant in Ta Wai, and dessert after dinner. Their two kids have completed lesson one of their marital counseling sessions. Cheng suffered from bad teeth problems.
Day 4 was lunch and dinner with Chicago friend. Unfortunately we ordered the previous day ticket that expired. At night I joined family for dinner and moon cakes. Today was a special day because my last sermon in Lent series was translated by Seven.
Friday was pth staff meeting. After staff meeting I met my predecessor who was back from USA. We had lots to talk about. Later I prayed with my buddies telling my anxiety about my trip. At night I had dinner with Faith and husband before attending couples fellowship.
Saturday morning was the worst hand treatment so far. I had lunch with a couples staff after I handed the 33 books to yuen long coworkers. Prestudy was good. USA friend Kenneth and Chang took me out for tea, then a buddy called me for McDonald's before I attended pth fellowship.
Sunday morning was Social concern day. An old song展开清晨的翅膀 from Ps 139 touched me deeply, and I was a little teary-eyed. As I depart on my trip I decided that I might as well eat at airport McDonald's before eating unhealthy local food on the next three days. I suspect my flight would be delayed and there would be tension at the customs office there. I need your prayers to calm my anxiety after four years of missions absence.
Oct 8, 2017
主啊！今天自己要立下一個心志，不求主叫我離開苦難，只求主叫我在苦難中站立得住。求父教我不要時刻預備，先有一個樂於受苦的心志，好叫試探，苦難、撒旦的攻擊來到，我們能為主要受苦，也能依然站立得住。
Day 2 I was supposed to join two coworkers for dinner but my neighbor's wife had kidney infection and was hospitalized, so we cancelled dinner plans because I was the most suitable and nearest helper to care for the kids with mom hospitalized, but my coworkers brought food and joined us for dinner at neighbors home with me babysitting for one short night.
Wednesday was the eve of midautumn festival. My buddy Cheng and his friends Kwan invited me for dinner at a Hakka restaurant in Ta Wai, and dessert after dinner. Their two kids have completed lesson one of their marital counseling sessions. Cheng suffered from bad teeth problems.
Day 4 was lunch and dinner with Chicago friend. Unfortunately we ordered the previous day ticket that expired. At night I joined family for dinner and moon cakes. Today was a special day because my last sermon in Lent series was translated by Seven.
Friday was pth staff meeting. After staff meeting I met my predecessor who was back from USA. We had lots to talk about. Later I prayed with my buddies telling my anxiety about my trip. At night I had dinner with Faith and husband before attending couples fellowship.
Saturday morning was the worst hand treatment so far. I had lunch with a couples staff after I handed the 33 books to yuen long coworkers. Prestudy was good. USA friend Kenneth and Chang took me out for tea, then a buddy called me for McDonald's before I attended pth fellowship.
Sunday morning was Social concern day. An old song展开清晨的翅膀 from Ps 139 touched me deeply, and I was a little teary-eyed. As I depart on my trip I decided that I might as well eat at airport McDonald's before eating unhealthy local food on the next three days. I suspect my flight would be delayed and there would be tension at the customs office there. I need your prayers to calm my anxiety after four years of missions absence.
Oct 8, 2017
Tuesday, October 3, 2017
Year 2.18 was a pleasant week heading into October. On Monday I had lunch buffet with Roger and Peter at Moko, where I ate a lot. It's no value for money but I took my share of oysters and sashimi. I bought our favorite lilies for Doris simply because of its fragrance. After tea I headed home for noodles.
Day 2 morning was breakfast with new believer. He's got tons of family problems and business decisions to sort out. I do my best to offer principles but I am no answer. Surprisingly the coworkers voted down an item, so we are back to square one to find replacement. Could be a new beginning.
On Wednesday I had dinner with a brother who offered to help turn my grammar Bible into an app. What a great gesture! But we still need graphic designer for the user surface.
Day 4 My coworker introduced me to a former pastor who might know bahasa. Instead I preached more in bahasa than him. We told him more about our ministry, what we lack and how to apply.
Friday was prayer with my buddies. At night I went with Tom to celebrate Frank's birthday in our neighborhood as well as show Tom an island apartment. All was well for him except for mosquitoes, but we talked till 10pm.
Day 6 I donated blood morning and the staff checked my high blood pressure for a perfect 125/80 ratio. My lunch company ironically was with four USA coworkers. I also went through 2 Tim 2 with a coworker. My buddy was out of town, so I took his place preaching. My text was Prov. 31 才德的婦人.
The next day was also a preaching day, on Psalm 13 HOW LONG O LORD?
1. Talk to the Master (1-2)
2. Turn Over the Matter (3-4)
3. Trust in His Mercy (5-6)
The response song 不變的應許 was wonderful, bringing a lot of tears to my eyes. After lunch I had coffee with a buddy just to catch up.
Day 2 morning was breakfast with new believer. He's got tons of family problems and business decisions to sort out. I do my best to offer principles but I am no answer. Surprisingly the coworkers voted down an item, so we are back to square one to find replacement. Could be a new beginning.
On Wednesday I had dinner with a brother who offered to help turn my grammar Bible into an app. What a great gesture! But we still need graphic designer for the user surface.
Day 4 My coworker introduced me to a former pastor who might know bahasa. Instead I preached more in bahasa than him. We told him more about our ministry, what we lack and how to apply.
Friday was prayer with my buddies. At night I went with Tom to celebrate Frank's birthday in our neighborhood as well as show Tom an island apartment. All was well for him except for mosquitoes, but we talked till 10pm.
Day 6 I donated blood morning and the staff checked my high blood pressure for a perfect 125/80 ratio. My lunch company ironically was with four USA coworkers. I also went through 2 Tim 2 with a coworker. My buddy was out of town, so I took his place preaching. My text was Prov. 31 才德的婦人.
The next day was also a preaching day, on Psalm 13 HOW LONG O LORD?
1. Talk to the Master (1-2)
2. Turn Over the Matter (3-4)
3. Trust in His Mercy (5-6)
The response song 不變的應許 was wonderful, bringing a lot of tears to my eyes. After lunch I had coffee with a buddy just to catch up.
Tuesday, September 26, 2017
Year 2.18
Year 2.18 was back to normal after a frenzy of church activities. On Monday our prayer group had lunch at Prince Edward, near where I can buy flowers for Doris. We spent some time in prayer after lunch. They mercilessly tasked me for gladly taking up leadership despite my verbal resistance. I bought some nice white Kenyan roses for Doris, sturdier than the Kunming roses last week. There was no hurry to return home to swim now that the indoor pool is closed.
Day 2 I had breakfast with Andy to help him with his Sunday sermon to preach at home in front of former USA friends. He will be good in a year's time. At night I had dinner with a new friend at langham and had coffee later to talk about ministry.
On Wednesday I began working on the only sermon left for me the rest of the year, Micah 6:8. It was a task I savor but I was getting nowhere the next three days. Now I know why others' effort at this passage was less than inspiring.
Day 4 I have a half day off
to finish up on the last of the Kings series and sent it to the editor who says he will reply next month. My barber buddy is out of town, so I opted to get a $60 mall cut but they would only give me 0.8 mm cut, not bald!
There was no Friday joint fellowship, so I joined a friend for dinner. The day was quite relaxing for a change with more checking on the editing done on my Lent series. Praise God for helpers and their tireless effort.
Day 6 An economic refugee told me his story before entering Hong Kong. I encouraged him to write his story. Today was such a hot day that even the cooling system inside MTR is hot! We had a big group introduction on Psalms for fellowship.
On Sunday afternoon I helped pth fellowship kicked off their first prestudy on Psalms, the first. It was a good study with application from Doris left in her computer. In the evening a coworker sent a song不變的應許 his praise team sang that I can't help but cry listening.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=JnXaTrJtbUA
原來哭有時 歡笑有時
過去所經歷的困難
更讓我看到 祢的信實
學會保留有時 放手有時
我選擇相信 祢美好不變的應許
September 26, 2017
Day 2 I had breakfast with Andy to help him with his Sunday sermon to preach at home in front of former USA friends. He will be good in a year's time. At night I had dinner with a new friend at langham and had coffee later to talk about ministry.
On Wednesday I began working on the only sermon left for me the rest of the year, Micah 6:8. It was a task I savor but I was getting nowhere the next three days. Now I know why others' effort at this passage was less than inspiring.
Day 4 I have a half day off
to finish up on the last of the Kings series and sent it to the editor who says he will reply next month. My barber buddy is out of town, so I opted to get a $60 mall cut but they would only give me 0.8 mm cut, not bald!
There was no Friday joint fellowship, so I joined a friend for dinner. The day was quite relaxing for a change with more checking on the editing done on my Lent series. Praise God for helpers and their tireless effort.
Day 6 An economic refugee told me his story before entering Hong Kong. I encouraged him to write his story. Today was such a hot day that even the cooling system inside MTR is hot! We had a big group introduction on Psalms for fellowship.
On Sunday afternoon I helped pth fellowship kicked off their first prestudy on Psalms, the first. It was a good study with application from Doris left in her computer. In the evening a coworker sent a song不變的應許 his praise team sang that I can't help but cry listening.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=JnXaTrJtbUA
原來哭有時 歡笑有時
過去所經歷的困難
更讓我看到 祢的信實
學會保留有時 放手有時
我選擇相信 祢美好不變的應許
September 26, 2017
Tuesday, September 19, 2017
Year 2.17
Year 2.17 ended with nostalgia for Doris. On Monday I had lunch with leader D and wife lending support to him in his year old position. He is a confident, positive and caring person. The lunch at Lion was good. I can't wait to take coworkers there. I bought ten kunming roses for Doris, but they do not look sprightly.
Day 2 I received a big surprise. A manuscript I had sent two years ago for editing before Doris' loss arrived in the box. An editor had previously asked if I have written anything on Kings or Chronicles because there is a lack of materials on that historical period. I patched together 18 chapters but did not think much about it because it was not a priority for publisher or me. Even so two years is a long time but I am not fussy. Rather I am thankful I have three unpublished books with Doris in stock. In the morning I read a coworkers sermon and at night had men's fellowship, which had dropped in attendance now that school has started.
On Wednesday I received a positive reply from the book editor regarding copyright that galvanized me to work: 不同作者不同合作也有不同的， 而一些有年期一些冇年期. At this time in my life I want to free the books, not freeze it.
Day 4 After checking with the editor the previous day I worked on my morning off today and after work on the book till 1am checking minor odds and ends. It is a beauty, no doubt. My place was to finish it in two days.
On Friday I met with good USA friend Michael for lunch. Poor guy, he lost weight. Later I was so excited that I have finished working on the content part of the book with the morning off due noon work today. Also I checked on another coworkers sermon due this Sunday. Near evening I quickly send off the book to attend anniversary night celebrations.
Day 6 it was a busy day. Fellowship prestudy group had lunch followed by two hours of preparation and another hour of fellowship study. Another good friend from USA came by for dinner, this time eating teochew hand having coffee and even buying clothes. I was pampered for a change and longed for old friends.
Sunday started on the right track. My coworker preached an outstanding sermon. AGM was an emotional affair for me. I could only think of Doris in my tearful outburst with the song 恩典够用 https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=vYiodNJcFN4
at AGM. I also remember how proud and delighted Doris was of our coworkers the one year she attended when I was out of town.
September 19, 2017
Day 2 I received a big surprise. A manuscript I had sent two years ago for editing before Doris' loss arrived in the box. An editor had previously asked if I have written anything on Kings or Chronicles because there is a lack of materials on that historical period. I patched together 18 chapters but did not think much about it because it was not a priority for publisher or me. Even so two years is a long time but I am not fussy. Rather I am thankful I have three unpublished books with Doris in stock. In the morning I read a coworkers sermon and at night had men's fellowship, which had dropped in attendance now that school has started.
On Wednesday I received a positive reply from the book editor regarding copyright that galvanized me to work: 不同作者不同合作也有不同的， 而一些有年期一些冇年期. At this time in my life I want to free the books, not freeze it.
Day 4 After checking with the editor the previous day I worked on my morning off today and after work on the book till 1am checking minor odds and ends. It is a beauty, no doubt. My place was to finish it in two days.
On Friday I met with good USA friend Michael for lunch. Poor guy, he lost weight. Later I was so excited that I have finished working on the content part of the book with the morning off due noon work today. Also I checked on another coworkers sermon due this Sunday. Near evening I quickly send off the book to attend anniversary night celebrations.
Day 6 it was a busy day. Fellowship prestudy group had lunch followed by two hours of preparation and another hour of fellowship study. Another good friend from USA came by for dinner, this time eating teochew hand having coffee and even buying clothes. I was pampered for a change and longed for old friends.
Sunday started on the right track. My coworker preached an outstanding sermon. AGM was an emotional affair for me. I could only think of Doris in my tearful outburst with the song 恩典够用 https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=vYiodNJcFN4
at AGM. I also remember how proud and delighted Doris was of our coworkers the one year she attended when I was out of town.
September 19, 2017
Tuesday, September 12, 2017
Year 2.16
Year 2.16 was filled with activities. On Monday I woke up at 840am, later than I have done for a long time. The ordination the night before took a lot more from me than I expected. At lunch I met up with Luen and Wallace at Kwai Fong S Life and had dessert at McDonald's. At night I had dinner with a new friend from USA and his wife. After dinner I remembered to go to the gym at night.
Day 2 was better but I still woke at 650am, later than my usual 630am. After my coworkers ordination I felt fresh the first day at work, as if a whole chapter has begun for me.
Wednesday was leaders meeting where a new division is approved probably with my involvement. I will think about what to do if and when it comes. My buddies attended with me.
Day 4 I have moved my hand treatment from Saturday morning to Thursday 5pm to accommodate the brother who does it. A pastor friend called me late at night. He was persuaded to leave his post (assistant department leader) to take a similar role in a new department. I encouraged him to leave but to retain his option to pick up or not his new responsibility.
On Friday the friend stated his position. Following my lead he asked for the opportunity to lead new branch in the future and his wife to join as staff. Miraculously his request was heeded. I also listened to a new coworkers message and realized I got to start afresh with new workers. One ordained but many more yet to work on, so no rest for me.
Day 6 My work day began with lunch for six people and department meeting. After the meeting ended another department rep brainstormed with me how to restructure his new work. It was a very good day for me as the pth fellowship completed the last 24th chapter of the book同作門徒. All have nothing but compliments for the book. At night my village neighbor treated my tennis elbow two days in a row.
Sunday was a tiring day with HK prayer and house gathering till 10pm. The host sang some opera songs for us and we join in for the few songs we know. I used Doris' tote bag to carry a T-shirt I can change to before heading to the family's house for the gathering.
September 12, 2017
Day 2 was better but I still woke at 650am, later than my usual 630am. After my coworkers ordination I felt fresh the first day at work, as if a whole chapter has begun for me.
Wednesday was leaders meeting where a new division is approved probably with my involvement. I will think about what to do if and when it comes. My buddies attended with me.
Day 4 I have moved my hand treatment from Saturday morning to Thursday 5pm to accommodate the brother who does it. A pastor friend called me late at night. He was persuaded to leave his post (assistant department leader) to take a similar role in a new department. I encouraged him to leave but to retain his option to pick up or not his new responsibility.
On Friday the friend stated his position. Following my lead he asked for the opportunity to lead new branch in the future and his wife to join as staff. Miraculously his request was heeded. I also listened to a new coworkers message and realized I got to start afresh with new workers. One ordained but many more yet to work on, so no rest for me.
Day 6 My work day began with lunch for six people and department meeting. After the meeting ended another department rep brainstormed with me how to restructure his new work. It was a very good day for me as the pth fellowship completed the last 24th chapter of the book同作門徒. All have nothing but compliments for the book. At night my village neighbor treated my tennis elbow two days in a row.
Sunday was a tiring day with HK prayer and house gathering till 10pm. The host sang some opera songs for us and we join in for the few songs we know. I used Doris' tote bag to carry a T-shirt I can change to before heading to the family's house for the gathering.
September 12, 2017
Tuesday, September 5, 2017
Year 2.15
Year 2.15 was bittersweet week. On Monday I met an old denomination friend and his wife for lunch. He suffered from cancer and has lost weight but thankfully he has years to live because the cancer is not an aggressive one. On my bus I heard a boy and his father bargain for an ocean park ticket in exchange for good grades and taking care of younger brother.
Day 2 was coworkers family day and I was assigned to yuen Long and we had a blast sharing till 5pm. At night I had dinner with Malaysian traveller and asked him to share gospel with my brother. At night I slept well for the first time this summer without turning on the AC unit.
On Wednesday night a bunch of us had dinner with our coworker T who returned from. USA. His wife will return later, resting from a successful cancer treatment. The dinner and dessert lasted three and a half hours. None wanted, but had to leave.
Day 4 I woke to a dream of a coworker informing me to beware of a leader who's been mocking my crying, very strange. On my morning day off I finally finished the whole forty chapter series book on Lent, of which I am very thankful I could complete what Doris had started. At the end of the day I got together with my neighbor family for dinner. The new school year begins for one of their two boys.
On Friday noon a USA classmate came by for a lunch visit. He is no longer in the pastoral ministry but goes to missions three times a year. I wish he could do both but he does not have heart for church ministry anymore.
Day 6 was a busy day with two fellowships. The prestudy was pleasant and relaxing. The night fellowship had sports, but I stayed for dinner with two members after taking a short nap. I also had to prepare a song for them the last minute for the ordination tomorrow.
My Sunday sermon was well received. I had to rest before the ordination, later the reception and then the dinner. At both dinner and reception I joined in singing. Finally my coworker Bon's ordination speech thanking me brought tears of joy to my heart as I thought of Doris.我多謝給我机會發夢的葉福成牧师 因為他對我的信任 對我的教導 冇放棄 我不可以忘記 雖然好多人知道他過得不容易 但他在事奉上的坚持給我 返到教會再發夢 再多謝葉牧师.
Sept 4, 2017
Day 2 was coworkers family day and I was assigned to yuen Long and we had a blast sharing till 5pm. At night I had dinner with Malaysian traveller and asked him to share gospel with my brother. At night I slept well for the first time this summer without turning on the AC unit.
On Wednesday night a bunch of us had dinner with our coworker T who returned from. USA. His wife will return later, resting from a successful cancer treatment. The dinner and dessert lasted three and a half hours. None wanted, but had to leave.
Day 4 I woke to a dream of a coworker informing me to beware of a leader who's been mocking my crying, very strange. On my morning day off I finally finished the whole forty chapter series book on Lent, of which I am very thankful I could complete what Doris had started. At the end of the day I got together with my neighbor family for dinner. The new school year begins for one of their two boys.
On Friday noon a USA classmate came by for a lunch visit. He is no longer in the pastoral ministry but goes to missions three times a year. I wish he could do both but he does not have heart for church ministry anymore.
Day 6 was a busy day with two fellowships. The prestudy was pleasant and relaxing. The night fellowship had sports, but I stayed for dinner with two members after taking a short nap. I also had to prepare a song for them the last minute for the ordination tomorrow.
My Sunday sermon was well received. I had to rest before the ordination, later the reception and then the dinner. At both dinner and reception I joined in singing. Finally my coworker Bon's ordination speech thanking me brought tears of joy to my heart as I thought of Doris.我多謝給我机會發夢的葉福成牧师 因為他對我的信任 對我的教導 冇放棄 我不可以忘記 雖然好多人知道他過得不容易 但他在事奉上的坚持給我 返到教會再發夢 再多謝葉牧师.
Sept 4, 2017
Tuesday, August 29, 2017
Year 2.14
Year 12.4 is a devastating typhoon Hato and Hurricane Harvey week. On Monday it was so hot that my invitation to walk outside Tsingyi mall was politely declined by my friend after lunch. The mainland friend dragged on about remarriage before aging sets in. At late noon a buddy gave me a bald cut before the monthly anniversary loss of Doris tomorrow.
Day 2 I put on my Hawaiian shirt Doris wore for her first post surgery body comfort. The special noon meeting with leaders was a long three hours with QnA. It was quite transparent and thorough although I was quite provoked with a coworker's habitual incessant out of turn talk. After that we had our own drinks talk.
On Wednesday the first typhoon struck HK for a full work day. After lunch I enjoyed a nap because I have not had one lying down for a long time, not after lunch at least. I did writing in the morning at our block's lobby lounge. After lunch I watched an hour's online video. When more writing after the nap got nowhere I watched another hour before I got down to the pier shortly before the typhoon died down for a snack and a drink from a vending machine. I was surprised the vending machine offered hot food團飯. I sat on the only bench with some cover for one and a half hours to sample the drizzling rain and the blowing wind.
Day 4 I had lunch with a new friend and worked on an interns sermon. I also continued my sermon preparation on 2 Thess 1 that began this week. When my coworker knew that I had Vietnamese food for lunch, he asked me take him for dinner at KF, even for dessert at McDonald's.
For Friday breakfast I met with a new believer who is in a spot over dividing family property. My advice is to deal with it positively, collectively and proactively. I am no expert nor wanted involvement. After lunch I helped a co-worker in her putonghua to get ready for her sermon on Sunday.
Day 6 I prayed for a couple at fellowship who are emigrating to Canada for the man's poor health reason. After night fellowship I asked a few for coffee, saying, There might be no worship tomorrow due typhoon. At least one considered my statement incredulous. At night I briefed my coworker how to use FB live if the typhoon comes tomorrow.
On Sunday I got up at 6 am and figured out the typhoon would last half day till noon, cancelling all worship but for our live FB worship that worked again. I slept and woke before 2pm to buy flowers for Doris and have tea with a USA friend, looking at his new quarters before buying BBQ to join a neighbor for dinner.
Aug 29, 2015
Day 2 I put on my Hawaiian shirt Doris wore for her first post surgery body comfort. The special noon meeting with leaders was a long three hours with QnA. It was quite transparent and thorough although I was quite provoked with a coworker's habitual incessant out of turn talk. After that we had our own drinks talk.
On Wednesday the first typhoon struck HK for a full work day. After lunch I enjoyed a nap because I have not had one lying down for a long time, not after lunch at least. I did writing in the morning at our block's lobby lounge. After lunch I watched an hour's online video. When more writing after the nap got nowhere I watched another hour before I got down to the pier shortly before the typhoon died down for a snack and a drink from a vending machine. I was surprised the vending machine offered hot food團飯. I sat on the only bench with some cover for one and a half hours to sample the drizzling rain and the blowing wind.
Day 4 I had lunch with a new friend and worked on an interns sermon. I also continued my sermon preparation on 2 Thess 1 that began this week. When my coworker knew that I had Vietnamese food for lunch, he asked me take him for dinner at KF, even for dessert at McDonald's.
For Friday breakfast I met with a new believer who is in a spot over dividing family property. My advice is to deal with it positively, collectively and proactively. I am no expert nor wanted involvement. After lunch I helped a co-worker in her putonghua to get ready for her sermon on Sunday.
Day 6 I prayed for a couple at fellowship who are emigrating to Canada for the man's poor health reason. After night fellowship I asked a few for coffee, saying, There might be no worship tomorrow due typhoon. At least one considered my statement incredulous. At night I briefed my coworker how to use FB live if the typhoon comes tomorrow.
On Sunday I got up at 6 am and figured out the typhoon would last half day till noon, cancelling all worship but for our live FB worship that worked again. I slept and woke before 2pm to buy flowers for Doris and have tea with a USA friend, looking at his new quarters before buying BBQ to join a neighbor for dinner.
Aug 29, 2015
Tuesday, August 22, 2017
Year 2.13
Year 2.13 was the occasion of my birthday week and with it memories of Doris. I finished what I thought was my last message to my Lent series entitled NO BETTER SACRIFICE (JOHN 10:11-18) but later found out there is one more must-have passage:
1. Be Acquainted with the Shepherd (11-13)
2. Be Added to the Saved (14-16)
3. Be Assured of the Safeguarding (17-18)
Before the morning ended I went to the gym for the first time to strengthen my weak biceps and thighs.
Day 2 was the eve of my birthday with a dinner planned at night. At 515pm the optometrist finally called me to say my uneven圆方glasses was ready. I picked up the 3k glasses for dinner with Doris' sisters and my friends. It was a wonderful dinner, something Doris previously insisted for me to have. This is almost my family in HK. Since the debut of my glasses I often have to answer why. My answer is that my life has been uneven (1) without Doris, (2) I am neither here nor there, not fully of Malaysia, USA or HK (3) and I gotta learn to draw square with left hand and circle with right the 周伯通 way because there is much workload. A deacon's spouse, however, asked, Can pastors wear those (my glasses)?
Wednesday was another eating and spending day. The morning began with early 7am breakfast with my neighbor Raymond 1 before my 830am 華福 devotion, followed by drinks with Raymond 2. Lunch was with a few coworkers and so was tea, and after that a few small cakes by lady coworkers, then dinner and another cake from interns. I counted six occasions. When pressed on my birthday wish, I answered, 同工同心. Best of all I bought myself Asus Zen Zoom that gave me 40 hours battery life with 10% battery life left. Tears welled up my eyes for Doris without a doubt today
Day 4 Lunch was with Calvin, a former college student I got to know in USA student. After lunch I bought mini roses for Doris. At night there was a wedding rehearsal for Saturday's wedding.
Friday morning was a staff meeting. I included a new item "health and help" for future regular staff meetings. Meeting ended with a birthday lunch. At midnoon was interns farewell sharing and at night I had dinner with Doris' sister and her husband before fellowship.
Day 6 2pm was wedding day, so I excused myself from two hours pre-prestudy and one hour prestudy. The wedding song *盟約*
我以永遠的愛，愛你，我以慈愛吸引你，聘你永遠歸我為妻，永以慈愛誠實待你，
哦，我願奪得主的心，用我注視的眼睛，
我的心如禁閉的井，新陳佳果存留為你。
將我放在你的心上如印記，將我帶在你手臂上如戳記，你的愛情堅貞，勝過死亡，眾水不能熄滅，不能淹沒。
我賜你肉心代替石心，把律法寫在你心裡，我用水將你洗潔淨，你眾罪惡我全忘記。
https://m.youtube.com/watch from Songs 8:6-7 (Set me as a seal upon thine heart, as a seal upon thine arm...Many waters cannot quench love, neither can the floods drown it) was hard on me, so I apologized blowing my nose before leading the couple to say their wedding vows. Surprisingly those present applauded. Later I joined two ladies for an early dinner.
Sunday morning was early breakfast with young B who got me a birthday present from Japan. I also met Glory and talked 20 minutes with him about current affairs. Next up was baptism. After joining youth fellowship for lunch and baptism candidates for pictures I left, taking a rest and doing laundry before dinner with a Malaysian traveller and an intern, walking from Shum shui Po to Mongkok to shed the weight after. Praise God E gave a good first sermon that day. A also did well but I cried a tear knowing how neglected workers are.
August 16, 2017
1. Be Acquainted with the Shepherd (11-13)
2. Be Added to the Saved (14-16)
3. Be Assured of the Safeguarding (17-18)
Before the morning ended I went to the gym for the first time to strengthen my weak biceps and thighs.
Day 2 was the eve of my birthday with a dinner planned at night. At 515pm the optometrist finally called me to say my uneven圆方glasses was ready. I picked up the 3k glasses for dinner with Doris' sisters and my friends. It was a wonderful dinner, something Doris previously insisted for me to have. This is almost my family in HK. Since the debut of my glasses I often have to answer why. My answer is that my life has been uneven (1) without Doris, (2) I am neither here nor there, not fully of Malaysia, USA or HK (3) and I gotta learn to draw square with left hand and circle with right the 周伯通 way because there is much workload. A deacon's spouse, however, asked, Can pastors wear those (my glasses)?
Wednesday was another eating and spending day. The morning began with early 7am breakfast with my neighbor Raymond 1 before my 830am 華福 devotion, followed by drinks with Raymond 2. Lunch was with a few coworkers and so was tea, and after that a few small cakes by lady coworkers, then dinner and another cake from interns. I counted six occasions. When pressed on my birthday wish, I answered, 同工同心. Best of all I bought myself Asus Zen Zoom that gave me 40 hours battery life with 10% battery life left. Tears welled up my eyes for Doris without a doubt today
Day 4 Lunch was with Calvin, a former college student I got to know in USA student. After lunch I bought mini roses for Doris. At night there was a wedding rehearsal for Saturday's wedding.
Friday morning was a staff meeting. I included a new item "health and help" for future regular staff meetings. Meeting ended with a birthday lunch. At midnoon was interns farewell sharing and at night I had dinner with Doris' sister and her husband before fellowship.
Day 6 2pm was wedding day, so I excused myself from two hours pre-prestudy and one hour prestudy. The wedding song *盟約*
我以永遠的愛，愛你，我以慈愛吸引你，聘你永遠歸我為妻，永以慈愛誠實待你，
哦，我願奪得主的心，用我注視的眼睛，
我的心如禁閉的井，新陳佳果存留為你。
將我放在你的心上如印記，將我帶在你手臂上如戳記，你的愛情堅貞，勝過死亡，眾水不能熄滅，不能淹沒。
我賜你肉心代替石心，把律法寫在你心裡，我用水將你洗潔淨，你眾罪惡我全忘記。
https://m.youtube.com/watch from Songs 8:6-7 (Set me as a seal upon thine heart, as a seal upon thine arm...Many waters cannot quench love, neither can the floods drown it) was hard on me, so I apologized blowing my nose before leading the couple to say their wedding vows. Surprisingly those present applauded. Later I joined two ladies for an early dinner.
Sunday morning was early breakfast with young B who got me a birthday present from Japan. I also met Glory and talked 20 minutes with him about current affairs. Next up was baptism. After joining youth fellowship for lunch and baptism candidates for pictures I left, taking a rest and doing laundry before dinner with a Malaysian traveller and an intern, walking from Shum shui Po to Mongkok to shed the weight after. Praise God E gave a good first sermon that day. A also did well but I cried a tear knowing how neglected workers are.
August 16, 2017
Tuesday, August 15, 2017
Year 2.12
Year 2.12 was a blessed week. On Monday morning I alerted others my disciple book was on sale for rmb$20 at taobao instead of it's HK$110 price. The response was hilarious. Some were furious, others were fine saying I am famous or others can benefit. At lunch with Doris' friends I asked her lawyer friend what guarantees do HK churches have if 一地兩檢 passed. The answer was none because law will be reinterpreted to governments wishes. Our churches must start diversifying her assets and properties.
Day 2 was men's fellowship. The attendance was encouraging, now at 13 studying Moses (Num 12), more young men than old. It was the fourth in our men series after Adam, Abraham and Jacob.
Wednesday was the last of this year's preaching class. The coworkers wanted to study ot to complement nt study. They were good by now at grammar. Before class I spent half an hour to help E prepare to preach ten days later for the first time as a minister.
Day 4 I went to an optometrist to make an uneven pair of glasses. Rev Leung from Texas and I had dinner. I had ran out of schedule slots, but impromptu worked. He is always so considerate thinking of visiting me.
I woke to a dream of Doris on Friday, her gift to me less than a week to my birthday. In the dream I asked where was Doris when a small fire occurred in the small cottage across street where she was at that time. A member Michelle said she left by herself. When we met later she said she left because she had made an appointment with two girls who were bothered by demon objects or voices. I started working on my CCOWE discipleship devotion. Unfortunately I stepped on my present pair of glasses before fellowship, so I wore an old pair that was out of focus.
Day 6 i decided to see if my glasses can be fixed because today was a wild day, attending a major concert, my first in HK, eight rows from front. Praise God it was fixed. A song 鐵塔凌雲 made me realized I am more local now.
On Sunday tears welled up every time the chorus was sung:
But I know whom I have believed
And am persuaded that He is able
To keep that which I've committed unto Him against that day.
At night I joined an intern for home made dinner, talking till 11pm.
Aug 15, 2017
Day 2 was men's fellowship. The attendance was encouraging, now at 13 studying Moses (Num 12), more young men than old. It was the fourth in our men series after Adam, Abraham and Jacob.
Wednesday was the last of this year's preaching class. The coworkers wanted to study ot to complement nt study. They were good by now at grammar. Before class I spent half an hour to help E prepare to preach ten days later for the first time as a minister.
Day 4 I went to an optometrist to make an uneven pair of glasses. Rev Leung from Texas and I had dinner. I had ran out of schedule slots, but impromptu worked. He is always so considerate thinking of visiting me.
I woke to a dream of Doris on Friday, her gift to me less than a week to my birthday. In the dream I asked where was Doris when a small fire occurred in the small cottage across street where she was at that time. A member Michelle said she left by herself. When we met later she said she left because she had made an appointment with two girls who were bothered by demon objects or voices. I started working on my CCOWE discipleship devotion. Unfortunately I stepped on my present pair of glasses before fellowship, so I wore an old pair that was out of focus.
Day 6 i decided to see if my glasses can be fixed because today was a wild day, attending a major concert, my first in HK, eight rows from front. Praise God it was fixed. A song 鐵塔凌雲 made me realized I am more local now.
On Sunday tears welled up every time the chorus was sung:
But I know whom I have believed
And am persuaded that He is able
To keep that which I've committed unto Him against that day.
At night I joined an intern for home made dinner, talking till 11pm.
Aug 15, 2017
Tuesday, August 8, 2017
Year 2.11
Year 2.11 was one, of my fondest weeks, in which Monday was the best. For the first time I dreamed of Doris not once or twice, but thrice in a night. In the first dream she laughed, having solved a problem for all. I said, It'll be great to have a mind like yours. In the second dream she wanted to be the car driver but her sisters objected. In the third dream I turned around to pick her up after barely dropping her off at a dilapidated neighborhood which she insisted was ok, but I could not find her nor the right neighborhood later. At 3pm I met with old friend Ben to see if we want to the Old Testament Grammar Bible. We were willing to try on the Pentateuch and Psalms.
Day 2 was prayer and meeting day, but there too much talking disrupted everything. I was still not making too much headway in sermon preparation but there is no pressing need because I have plenty in stock. At night I had dinner back at the island with a new overseas coworker.
Wednesday was a slow day. It has been like this on summer days with a lack of sermon assignments. Even my August date is cancelled. The preaching class after lunch was one of the best class with new coworkers and summer interns. They truly enjoyed the class, including the new coworker with two classes left.
Day 4 Morning was my day off. I called a neighbor to enjoy buy one, free one coffee locally. In return I was given a small, pointed physio rubber ball by a neighbor to help me with my tennis elbow. At night met a missionary friend for dinner but he overslept from the jet lag.
On Friday I had a short breakfast with a missionary, followed by a staff meeting and birthday lunch for a coworker. Our two interns joined us, adding new energy to the team. After lunch I gave an hour's interview to the missionary to complete his doctoral dissertation.
Day 6 After my hand treatment in the morning I got flowers in Prince Edward to get ready for home visits tomorrow from Doris' Vancouver friend and her USA sister. Two prestudy lessons were awaiting me, but I gave one hour to the newer coworkers, who did a commendable job.
On Sunday staff had lunch with a few volunteers who felt neglected. It went well, but complaints are complaints. At 3pm Doris' Kingston friends came by to pay respects to her with her favorite lilies, so did Doris' eldest sister from San Diego on her way to two months missions in Thailand. The family had dinner together in Sheung Wan at one of Doris' favorite restaurants, ordering Doris' beloved winter melon soup to end the day.
August 8, 2017
Day 2 was prayer and meeting day, but there too much talking disrupted everything. I was still not making too much headway in sermon preparation but there is no pressing need because I have plenty in stock. At night I had dinner back at the island with a new overseas coworker.
Wednesday was a slow day. It has been like this on summer days with a lack of sermon assignments. Even my August date is cancelled. The preaching class after lunch was one of the best class with new coworkers and summer interns. They truly enjoyed the class, including the new coworker with two classes left.
Day 4 Morning was my day off. I called a neighbor to enjoy buy one, free one coffee locally. In return I was given a small, pointed physio rubber ball by a neighbor to help me with my tennis elbow. At night met a missionary friend for dinner but he overslept from the jet lag.
On Friday I had a short breakfast with a missionary, followed by a staff meeting and birthday lunch for a coworker. Our two interns joined us, adding new energy to the team. After lunch I gave an hour's interview to the missionary to complete his doctoral dissertation.
Day 6 After my hand treatment in the morning I got flowers in Prince Edward to get ready for home visits tomorrow from Doris' Vancouver friend and her USA sister. Two prestudy lessons were awaiting me, but I gave one hour to the newer coworkers, who did a commendable job.
On Sunday staff had lunch with a few volunteers who felt neglected. It went well, but complaints are complaints. At 3pm Doris' Kingston friends came by to pay respects to her with her favorite lilies, so did Doris' eldest sister from San Diego on her way to two months missions in Thailand. The family had dinner together in Sheung Wan at one of Doris' favorite restaurants, ordering Doris' beloved winter melon soup to end the day.
August 8, 2017
Tuesday, August 1, 2017
Year 2.10
Year 2.10 Ten weeks into Doris' second year loss had already gotten underway. On Monday I went to Doris friend's office to get a certified copy of her will to complete another USA estate task. Her family on the USA side has been patiently doing all the paperwork for me. Lunch was with a buddy, who is a big flower guy. Besides lilies for Doris, he also bought a dozen roses for himself. One bunch was more than enough for me. At 5pm I sat more than an hour and a half at the pier bench to remember the love of Doris for the spot.
Day 2 was a busy day. A departing USA friend wanted to have breakfast together, followed by September sermon group at 11am on Matt 7, and more meeting at 2pm. Dinner was with neighbor and son over spaghetti , with prayer walk for compensation.
On Wednesday I sent the estate papers, hopefully the last I have to file. Shortly before I left office I was told my on and off language work offer is on again with some explanation given. I had no feelings for it. The night ended with the culmination of the Lent series as I finished the last sermon, on Mary Magdalene entitled THE FAIREST OF THEM ALL JOHN 20):
1. Be Poised to Persist (vv 11-13)
2. Be Prepared to Persuade (vv 14-15)
3. Be Passionate to Proclaim (vv 16-18)
Day 4 I prayed that I did not have to lead the language work. The morning was with friend Justin over a cup of coffee after our failed Habitu breakfast. It was a good break for me on Thursday after the Lent series. If not most Thursday mornings I work on sermons. At night I met with Doris' Kingston friends for dinner because a Canadian alum was in HK. The Singapore food at Mira was ordinary.
Friday was an unmotivated day, so I did my sermon preparation café style at the pantry. Surpringly I did quite well even with a lot of foot traffic. There was a break from fellowship at night, so I left early for prayer walk.
Day 6 was lunch with couples staff. It was all good until controversial subjects surfaced. Late noon was spent with buddy at the fruit market. My under pressure friend lightened up at the sight of various fruits. We had dinner together before I left.
Sundays song 耶穌我愛你 https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=G6XewDvplVc
really touched me with its lyrics: 我一生要尋求祢 and 我願意一生不要離開你. After worship a senior lady wanted to recommend a lady to me with her photo on her we chat app! Later I enjoyed the singing talent show at church. I retire to bed early because of the sweltering heat.
August 1, 2017
Day 2 was a busy day. A departing USA friend wanted to have breakfast together, followed by September sermon group at 11am on Matt 7, and more meeting at 2pm. Dinner was with neighbor and son over spaghetti , with prayer walk for compensation.
On Wednesday I sent the estate papers, hopefully the last I have to file. Shortly before I left office I was told my on and off language work offer is on again with some explanation given. I had no feelings for it. The night ended with the culmination of the Lent series as I finished the last sermon, on Mary Magdalene entitled THE FAIREST OF THEM ALL JOHN 20):
1. Be Poised to Persist (vv 11-13)
2. Be Prepared to Persuade (vv 14-15)
3. Be Passionate to Proclaim (vv 16-18)
Day 4 I prayed that I did not have to lead the language work. The morning was with friend Justin over a cup of coffee after our failed Habitu breakfast. It was a good break for me on Thursday after the Lent series. If not most Thursday mornings I work on sermons. At night I met with Doris' Kingston friends for dinner because a Canadian alum was in HK. The Singapore food at Mira was ordinary.
Friday was an unmotivated day, so I did my sermon preparation café style at the pantry. Surpringly I did quite well even with a lot of foot traffic. There was a break from fellowship at night, so I left early for prayer walk.
Day 6 was lunch with couples staff. It was all good until controversial subjects surfaced. Late noon was spent with buddy at the fruit market. My under pressure friend lightened up at the sight of various fruits. We had dinner together before I left.
Sundays song 耶穌我愛你 https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=G6XewDvplVc
really touched me with its lyrics: 我一生要尋求祢 and 我願意一生不要離開你. After worship a senior lady wanted to recommend a lady to me with her photo on her we chat app! Later I enjoyed the singing talent show at church. I retire to bed early because of the sweltering heat.
August 1, 2017
Tuesday, July 25, 2017
Year 2.9
Year 2.9 was far better than the uneasy previous week. On Monday a friend 關 and I took Paul Lai and wife to 黃石碼頭 and Geopark, a place few locals knew about. On the day when it was raining like no tomorrow I was grateful to see sunshine twice, at Sai Kung for breakfast and after the 黃石碼頭 boat trip. We scraped afternoon plans because of the downpour and went to Kwan's place for high tea. Without him the day was wasted. Early dinner was with a buddy ruminating over work tensions.
Day 2 morning was with Paul and wife again but this time with pastor. The rest of the day was study, meeting and chat. The tensions were lowered but shimmering below the surface.
Wednesday was a packed day. I went through with a coworker his sermon coming Sunday, followed by preaching class after lunch. As soon as class was over, I visited the funeral parlor to pay respects to a group leader's mother. At night meeting I asked "Did all parties know," but was checked by a neutral "We work very closely" answer. On the way home a disgruntled person texted I was unfair to him, so we set up a meeting tomorrow.
Day 4 was a busy day. The morning study on John 20 made little headway. I was invited by interns for lunch and waited for my crunch talk at 3pm. It turned out to be a friendly and brotherly talk. I can only offer to pray for him daily as we settled matters. Next I talked to a grad who decided his calling is at TST. At night I treated a neighbor friend and his boy to homemade spaghetti.
Friday meetings began with pth staff. We are a very cohesive bunch, so the meeting was an hour short. After lunch I had a haircut from a coworker to remember Doris' loss one year two months the next day and then began in earnest for night devotion on Acts 4:32. Praise God it touched hearts and the day was over with prayer walk.
Day 6 was hand treatment followed by couples staff lunch. We are really gelling together for service. The afternoon was blurry and the night ended with splitting time between two pth couples groups.
Sunday was a shocker. There was a crowd waiting for the supermarket to open. A typhoon warning was in effect when I was swimming. I returned home to more than one hundred messages on coworkers chat group. All worship meetings were cancelled. On the pth side a young adult moaned, “Why in this hi-tech world can't we broadcast worship?” I asked a coworker if it was possible to do Facebook live. When he said yes I hurried to church before the weather was in effect. At church I bought breakfast for two, opened a departed coworker guitar case to practice and look for suitable songs to lead. In the meantime my coworker and speaker that day got Facebook live ready. At 11am I led worship songs, my coworker spoke and the worship ended with Lord's Prayer. All applauded our effort. At night I had dinner with neighbor and son because I got home earlier than usual over cancelled activities.
Praise God from whom all blessings flow.
July 25, 2017
Day 2 morning was with Paul and wife again but this time with pastor. The rest of the day was study, meeting and chat. The tensions were lowered but shimmering below the surface.
Wednesday was a packed day. I went through with a coworker his sermon coming Sunday, followed by preaching class after lunch. As soon as class was over, I visited the funeral parlor to pay respects to a group leader's mother. At night meeting I asked "Did all parties know," but was checked by a neutral "We work very closely" answer. On the way home a disgruntled person texted I was unfair to him, so we set up a meeting tomorrow.
Day 4 was a busy day. The morning study on John 20 made little headway. I was invited by interns for lunch and waited for my crunch talk at 3pm. It turned out to be a friendly and brotherly talk. I can only offer to pray for him daily as we settled matters. Next I talked to a grad who decided his calling is at TST. At night I treated a neighbor friend and his boy to homemade spaghetti.
Friday meetings began with pth staff. We are a very cohesive bunch, so the meeting was an hour short. After lunch I had a haircut from a coworker to remember Doris' loss one year two months the next day and then began in earnest for night devotion on Acts 4:32. Praise God it touched hearts and the day was over with prayer walk.
Day 6 was hand treatment followed by couples staff lunch. We are really gelling together for service. The afternoon was blurry and the night ended with splitting time between two pth couples groups.
Sunday was a shocker. There was a crowd waiting for the supermarket to open. A typhoon warning was in effect when I was swimming. I returned home to more than one hundred messages on coworkers chat group. All worship meetings were cancelled. On the pth side a young adult moaned, “Why in this hi-tech world can't we broadcast worship?” I asked a coworker if it was possible to do Facebook live. When he said yes I hurried to church before the weather was in effect. At church I bought breakfast for two, opened a departed coworker guitar case to practice and look for suitable songs to lead. In the meantime my coworker and speaker that day got Facebook live ready. At 11am I led worship songs, my coworker spoke and the worship ended with Lord's Prayer. All applauded our effort. At night I had dinner with neighbor and son because I got home earlier than usual over cancelled activities.
Praise God from whom all blessings flow.
July 25, 2017
Tuesday, July 18, 2017
Year 2.8
Year 2.8 ended with a big relief. On Monday I met last minute with a leader to talk more about his recent retirement, vacation and leadership experience near where I got flowers for Doris that day. It was so hard to find time to get together except on my day off but I have appointments the next two Mondays.
Day 2 I finally finished my second last sermon to my Lent series entitled WHO'S IN CHARGE? ( MATT 26:57-68)
1. Defend Yourself Without Apology or Arguing (57-61)
2. Disclose Yourself Without Ambiguity or Arrogance (62-64)
3. Dignify Yourself Without Animosity or Anger (65-68)
My couples team had lunch with an intern and her friend. Noon meeting did not reap much. At night we had men's fellowship, where we have 12 men studying on Jacob. For the first time the younger ones outnumbered the adults.
On Wednesday I woke to a dream of buying something from a convenience store and losing my small cart along the way, tricked by vendors who persuaded me to accept a laundry basket in exchange. The worst part was that when I realized Doris was alone at home, I remembered Doris had passed away. I also had slight coughing. My preaching class was a breakthrough. At least the students could speak in bits and pieces. At night I found a popular cable drama series with bahasa subtitles.
Day 4 collective meeting was frank, direct and tensed. Many were given opportunities to say or write their opinion. I had to reschedule a seminarian appointment because of the four hour long meeting. At night I bought dinner for an USA friend who brought me a DTS T-shirt.
Friday was a busy day with pth meeting before lunc with seminarians. Later in the afternoon we had a two hour 預prestudy due the busy day tomorrow. I was so tired after the meeting that I slept, waking 15 minutes late for dinner with sister in-law before fellowship.
Day 6 The town hall turnout won over a lot of folks. The explanations were generally acceptable. The gaps were narrowed. The response from pth was good. After a drink I joined fellowship.
Sunday was a good day. Paul Lai blessed us with a wondrous message and later I attended a small group to support a leader who gave much of his service to the church. By the time I got home I was so tired that I napped half hour before dinner.
July 18, 2017
Day 2 I finally finished my second last sermon to my Lent series entitled WHO'S IN CHARGE? ( MATT 26:57-68)
1. Defend Yourself Without Apology or Arguing (57-61)
2. Disclose Yourself Without Ambiguity or Arrogance (62-64)
3. Dignify Yourself Without Animosity or Anger (65-68)
My couples team had lunch with an intern and her friend. Noon meeting did not reap much. At night we had men's fellowship, where we have 12 men studying on Jacob. For the first time the younger ones outnumbered the adults.
On Wednesday I woke to a dream of buying something from a convenience store and losing my small cart along the way, tricked by vendors who persuaded me to accept a laundry basket in exchange. The worst part was that when I realized Doris was alone at home, I remembered Doris had passed away. I also had slight coughing. My preaching class was a breakthrough. At least the students could speak in bits and pieces. At night I found a popular cable drama series with bahasa subtitles.
Day 4 collective meeting was frank, direct and tensed. Many were given opportunities to say or write their opinion. I had to reschedule a seminarian appointment because of the four hour long meeting. At night I bought dinner for an USA friend who brought me a DTS T-shirt.
Friday was a busy day with pth meeting before lunc with seminarians. Later in the afternoon we had a two hour 預prestudy due the busy day tomorrow. I was so tired after the meeting that I slept, waking 15 minutes late for dinner with sister in-law before fellowship.
Day 6 The town hall turnout won over a lot of folks. The explanations were generally acceptable. The gaps were narrowed. The response from pth was good. After a drink I joined fellowship.
Sunday was a good day. Paul Lai blessed us with a wondrous message and later I attended a small group to support a leader who gave much of his service to the church. By the time I got home I was so tired that I napped half hour before dinner.
July 18, 2017
Tuesday, July 11, 2017
Year 2.7
Year 2.7 was not an ideal one professionally. On Monday it was raining as I got flowers for Doris. Later I found out that the flowers were sprayed rather than natural, such a shame. No matter how I try, my Lent series is slowing to a snail's pace, not for the lack of effort. It is very hard to understand the full dynamics of Jesus' trial under Caiaphas (Matt 26:57-68 ).
Day 2 At work we examined the merits of using the Revised Chinese CUV Bible for the whole church. The compromise is coworkers and putonghua worship can choose their own text. At lunch I joined the summer interns welcome lunch.
On Wednesday I went through with a coworker his Sunday sermon, and his passionate illustration touched me. At lunch I greeted a friend and the sixty three years old told me he was let go from his job. Still, he was passionate about his continuing education. After lunch the interns joined us for preaching class for the first time.
Day 4 I took a young AV guy for lunch a day short of his birthday. It was the least I can do for his help at church and doing Doris' videos. Today I officially finished revising Grammar Bible, hoping to put out an app in the future. On the bus home I bumped into Douglas and Chou and joined them midway through their dinner in my prayer walk.
On Friday I had to forsake my quiet morning for a meeting and attend night fellowship as well. In between was hard for a buddy, so we went out for a drink. There is nothing one can do when elephants rumble. At night I had dinner with Doris' sister and her husband before fellowship.
Day 6 It was a rainy day when I went to Causeway bay to pray for a friend's new store. Lunch was with a former deacon before a pth meeting and the rest of the afternoon a group of us were trying to cheer a coworker and one another. There was no stomach for food until after fellowship.
Before Sunday sermon a song 奔跑不放棄 already touched me. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=3tNKXsR-H_E
The message by a new hand speaking putonghua worked out well with his high energy making up for lacking language skills. Later I attended prayer meeting that Doris favored. At night I ate with thankfulness the food sister in-law had prepared and the soup a leader gave.
July 11, 2017
Day 2 At work we examined the merits of using the Revised Chinese CUV Bible for the whole church. The compromise is coworkers and putonghua worship can choose their own text. At lunch I joined the summer interns welcome lunch.
On Wednesday I went through with a coworker his Sunday sermon, and his passionate illustration touched me. At lunch I greeted a friend and the sixty three years old told me he was let go from his job. Still, he was passionate about his continuing education. After lunch the interns joined us for preaching class for the first time.
Day 4 I took a young AV guy for lunch a day short of his birthday. It was the least I can do for his help at church and doing Doris' videos. Today I officially finished revising Grammar Bible, hoping to put out an app in the future. On the bus home I bumped into Douglas and Chou and joined them midway through their dinner in my prayer walk.
On Friday I had to forsake my quiet morning for a meeting and attend night fellowship as well. In between was hard for a buddy, so we went out for a drink. There is nothing one can do when elephants rumble. At night I had dinner with Doris' sister and her husband before fellowship.
Day 6 It was a rainy day when I went to Causeway bay to pray for a friend's new store. Lunch was with a former deacon before a pth meeting and the rest of the afternoon a group of us were trying to cheer a coworker and one another. There was no stomach for food until after fellowship.
Before Sunday sermon a song 奔跑不放棄 already touched me. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=3tNKXsR-H_E
The message by a new hand speaking putonghua worked out well with his high energy making up for lacking language skills. Later I attended prayer meeting that Doris favored. At night I ate with thankfulness the food sister in-law had prepared and the soup a leader gave.
July 11, 2017
Tuesday, July 4, 2017
Year 2.6
Year 2.6 was a stable week with not much fanfare. Monday was a packed day. With a seminary graduation at night in mind I ate lunch locally, took a walk, went to swim and nap a while before I headed out. It was a fun and enjoyable night, ending before 9pm for pictures.
Day 2 After attending a seminary graduation I dreamed of returning to teach. I woke up thinking of recruiting two coworkers before realizing it was a dream. At office I worked feverishly on my coming Sunday sermon after speaking just two days ago. For the first time coworkers were encouraged to share freely their thoughts on the ruling and how it was handled. It lasted till 515pm, two and a half hours. At least most spoke their mind. At night I finally finished Luke 7:11-17 TRIP TO NAIN
1. Seek His Solace (vv11-17)
2. See His Sacrifice (v 14)
3. Speak His Splendor (vv 15-17)
On Wednesday I woke to a dream that Doris and I were renting in an upscale neighborhood and I was asking around where to buy her quality food to eat. Doris was looking forward to good food for her body. She said 早點吃 早點好返. Wine was also served. The preaching class had fun working on Phil 2:4-11.
Thursday was panic time. I prepared the wrong message, and so I had to work harder on translation. It was not so bad because I had preached two thirds of the passage seven years ago! It was a dull and hot day at the office, so I try to sit cozily at the lobby for better air conditioning.
I was surprised Doris' pastor called me on WhatsApp Friday morning for a talk. He asked me a few questions because he was looking forward to retiring. A coworker bought lunch for me because a lot of good things were working out for him, which I had offered help. There was no night fellowship due to a fifth week, so I could do a rare Friday prayer walk.
Day 6 morning I had breakfast with Doris' two sisters, telling them how fellowship was working put for me. After breakfast I attended a church talk but the enthusiasm was not there. After the talk a coworker looked for me to talk. He was far better airing his feelings and thoughts out.
Worship Sunday came but I forgot my notes, so I had to spend more time in the office preparing in the morning. All worked out well, closing out on the last chapter of Ecclesiastes.
July 4, 2017
Day 2 After attending a seminary graduation I dreamed of returning to teach. I woke up thinking of recruiting two coworkers before realizing it was a dream. At office I worked feverishly on my coming Sunday sermon after speaking just two days ago. For the first time coworkers were encouraged to share freely their thoughts on the ruling and how it was handled. It lasted till 515pm, two and a half hours. At least most spoke their mind. At night I finally finished Luke 7:11-17 TRIP TO NAIN
1. Seek His Solace (vv11-17)
2. See His Sacrifice (v 14)
3. Speak His Splendor (vv 15-17)
On Wednesday I woke to a dream that Doris and I were renting in an upscale neighborhood and I was asking around where to buy her quality food to eat. Doris was looking forward to good food for her body. She said 早點吃 早點好返. Wine was also served. The preaching class had fun working on Phil 2:4-11.
Thursday was panic time. I prepared the wrong message, and so I had to work harder on translation. It was not so bad because I had preached two thirds of the passage seven years ago! It was a dull and hot day at the office, so I try to sit cozily at the lobby for better air conditioning.
I was surprised Doris' pastor called me on WhatsApp Friday morning for a talk. He asked me a few questions because he was looking forward to retiring. A coworker bought lunch for me because a lot of good things were working out for him, which I had offered help. There was no night fellowship due to a fifth week, so I could do a rare Friday prayer walk.
Day 6 morning I had breakfast with Doris' two sisters, telling them how fellowship was working put for me. After breakfast I attended a church talk but the enthusiasm was not there. After the talk a coworker looked for me to talk. He was far better airing his feelings and thoughts out.
Worship Sunday came but I forgot my notes, so I had to spend more time in the office preparing in the morning. All worked out well, closing out on the last chapter of Ecclesiastes.
July 4, 2017
Tuesday, June 27, 2017
Year 2.5
Year 2.5 was my best in preaching yet, inspired by my beloved Doris and dreams of her. On Monday I had lunch with a coworker and bought roses for Doris instead of the usual lilies. I walked Fa Yuen street to let the lunch go down. After a swim and a nap I had dinner with a coworker from another church, hearing his personal, ministerial and family journey and struggles. The healing might take some time.
Day 2 a funny thing happened after my swim. A small dog barked at me in the morning by the lift. I asked the dog, why are you reasonable無理取鬧? The owner pointed to the big dog that stood behind me. I had mistaken the small dog's barking was directed at me. The work day was fast and furious as I had to preach Proverbs 31 on Sunday and it's been a while since I last looked at the sermon I had prepared months ago, minus illustrations and introduction/conclusion. Praise God, at the end of the day I got two points down.
Wednesday was a big day. First the 2017 preaching class for new coworkers got off to a great start. Two pastors' wives asked for permission to join, so did two fellowship pastoral assistants. At night the deacons meeting was lively, ending at 1145pm. Progress was slow but participation had improved and unity was present. It was one of the best meetings we had because of the openness to views.
Day 4 To remember Doris' monthly loss on the 22nd, I cut my hair bald yesterday, like I did last month, since the first anniversary. My buddy who cut my hair was shocked that I kept the bald look. Today I also put on the shirt Doris borrowed from me for her first operation because all others rub her skin the wrong way. A friend in our local café said I look like a triad boss with my bald head and black and white Hawaiian shirt. I was not happy that a leader said that a vocal dissenter I hardly talked to told others I agreed with his viewpoint. That's how people go down as victims, but it's a waste of time defending myself.There was also a publisher's article on our new book as a bonus
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1617111494998255&id=100000982595692&refid=8&__tn__=%2As
On Friday I woke to a dream of Doris eagerly getting a free bag, very much like the one I got from CCOWE. I carried it for her because she was in pain. In the dream I also got her a bagel that she wanted to eat. I got home unusually early on a Friday because there was no fellowship activity.
Day 6 I had morning massage for my hand that was slowly healing. I had lunch with two coworkers, then started working on a new sermon. At night an intern gave a reasonably good message at fellowship. I also heard amazing news from a new immigrant's wife that they have both passed an insurance exam to qualify as agents, relieving them of the economic losses they suffered since arriving in HK - one of my prayer items because I really did not know how things could work out for them. The best news of the day was I finally finished revising the Grammar Bible, removing the particles with an article "the."
On Sunday I woke to another dream of Doris, a bonus second dream in a week. This time I was boiling porridge so that we can have porridge, Doris' favorite, after we get home for an outing with a friend. I was anxious preparing, but Doris was all excited. On top of that I was busy reheating food for friends. The Sunday sermon was one of my best in tribute to Doris:
A VIRTUOUS WOMAN (PROVERBS 31:10-31)
1. Be Tough and Trustworthy (10-24)
2. Be Tender and Transparent (25-27)
3. Be Treasured and Thoughtful (28-31)
I held up quite well but the in-house apology made my tears well up so that it took me some time to come up with the benediction. I was feeling the tears the night before when I decided to stand with the speaker on the podium. The rest of the day was as peaceful as it could be.
July 27, 2017
Day 2 a funny thing happened after my swim. A small dog barked at me in the morning by the lift. I asked the dog, why are you reasonable無理取鬧? The owner pointed to the big dog that stood behind me. I had mistaken the small dog's barking was directed at me. The work day was fast and furious as I had to preach Proverbs 31 on Sunday and it's been a while since I last looked at the sermon I had prepared months ago, minus illustrations and introduction/conclusion. Praise God, at the end of the day I got two points down.
Wednesday was a big day. First the 2017 preaching class for new coworkers got off to a great start. Two pastors' wives asked for permission to join, so did two fellowship pastoral assistants. At night the deacons meeting was lively, ending at 1145pm. Progress was slow but participation had improved and unity was present. It was one of the best meetings we had because of the openness to views.
Day 4 To remember Doris' monthly loss on the 22nd, I cut my hair bald yesterday, like I did last month, since the first anniversary. My buddy who cut my hair was shocked that I kept the bald look. Today I also put on the shirt Doris borrowed from me for her first operation because all others rub her skin the wrong way. A friend in our local café said I look like a triad boss with my bald head and black and white Hawaiian shirt. I was not happy that a leader said that a vocal dissenter I hardly talked to told others I agreed with his viewpoint. That's how people go down as victims, but it's a waste of time defending myself.There was also a publisher's article on our new book as a bonus
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1617111494998255&id=100000982595692&refid=8&__tn__=%2As
On Friday I woke to a dream of Doris eagerly getting a free bag, very much like the one I got from CCOWE. I carried it for her because she was in pain. In the dream I also got her a bagel that she wanted to eat. I got home unusually early on a Friday because there was no fellowship activity.
Day 6 I had morning massage for my hand that was slowly healing. I had lunch with two coworkers, then started working on a new sermon. At night an intern gave a reasonably good message at fellowship. I also heard amazing news from a new immigrant's wife that they have both passed an insurance exam to qualify as agents, relieving them of the economic losses they suffered since arriving in HK - one of my prayer items because I really did not know how things could work out for them. The best news of the day was I finally finished revising the Grammar Bible, removing the particles with an article "the."
On Sunday I woke to another dream of Doris, a bonus second dream in a week. This time I was boiling porridge so that we can have porridge, Doris' favorite, after we get home for an outing with a friend. I was anxious preparing, but Doris was all excited. On top of that I was busy reheating food for friends. The Sunday sermon was one of my best in tribute to Doris:
A VIRTUOUS WOMAN (PROVERBS 31:10-31)
1. Be Tough and Trustworthy (10-24)
2. Be Tender and Transparent (25-27)
3. Be Treasured and Thoughtful (28-31)
I held up quite well but the in-house apology made my tears well up so that it took me some time to come up with the benediction. I was feeling the tears the night before when I decided to stand with the speaker on the podium. The rest of the day was as peaceful as it could be.
July 27, 2017
Monday, June 19, 2017
Year 2.4
Year 2.4 ends with the first anniversary of Doris' memorial service, June 18. The week couldn't get off to a better start when I added more writing to John 14:1-3, a sermon for my Lent series that I did previously. I was invited for lunch by Doris' former classmate and his wife at East TST, to a very fancy restaurant HKH. They really gave me the royal attention, I am humbled. Dinner at night with a coworker's family was cancelled due the typhoon warning. I am glad I finished a prayer for relatives at work three weeks later:
A WORK PRAYER
May the Lord
Gain your trust
Grant you grace
Grow your wisdom
Grab your attention
Galvanize your faith
Guide your intellect
Get your confidence
Guard your emotions
Groom your potential
Gladden your motivation
Give you favor to glorify His name!
Day 2 I forgot to go work later at noon instead of morning because we have Men's Fellowship at night. At noon a new language division was proposed and all eyes were on me. The night study on Abraham's Sacrifice of Isaac was good because all was involved. A Malaysian visitor joined us, 11 altogether, including 4 for dinner. The study on Men in the Bible has book potential.
On Wednesday I woke up to a full-blown acne that surfaced the night before, probably from too much chilli and thinking of the new division. Work on Judges 7 Gideon was barely creeping along, but my prayer group had a good time after two weeks' break At night I listened with pleasure to Philemon Choi, who shared his mentoring experience.
Day 4 was a big let down because I was asked to consider taking the division assistant job instead of the head, so I declined. The work is too much and I had no control, so it does not help to reap suffering. It was a wake-up call for me that leadership is not what it seemed and not my cup of tea. It's an answer to prayer for me not to be attracted to leadership. I am more than content with my present work.
On Friday I woke up crying dreaming of Doris. For the first time I dream of her suffering from cancer, remaining still in a standing position, but we were not at home. I went over and hugged her, but the emotional pain was too much for me, so I could only cry. When I looked at the clock it was barely one hour into my sleep. Praise God I could continue sleeping. The negative but official ruling on a long running saga arrived before lunch and put a damper on all, putting office transition plans revealed two days ago in doubt and chaos, not withstanding our anniversary celebration. Later a friend Justin came by to visit and we had a good time sharing.
Day 6 couldn't be any busier. I did two hours of writing Bible study questions with two zone leaders, then led 30 prestudy leaders for an hour, returned to office to talk to my coworker for an hour, hurried to fellowship for two hours, had dinner with five others after fellowship before returning to catch a buddy's sermon near the end.
Sunday arrived with a touching song 宣教的中國 and an inspiring message by 龍醫 followed by a somber announcement of the ruling. A buddy asked me to join him for lunch. We shared a lot and was surprised by a diner who called my name. Again the same young man at church gave me dessert. Father's Day dinner was with Doris' brother in law. The trip was 1 hour 20 minutes door to door, which was how long it took Doris' sisters to travel at least two times a week to care for her when she was sick, what sacrificial love! Returning home with two hours more before bed, I managed to finish the John 14:1-3 The Third Person of the Trinity sermon for Lent:
1. The Spirit is Our Close Companion (v 1)
2. The Holy Spirit is Our Command Center (v 2)
3. The Holy Spirit is Our Choice Comfort (v 3)
Finally I thank and praise God for giving me a poignant and passionate dream of Doris on Friday, two days before anniversary of her Memorial Service.
June 19, 2017
A WORK PRAYER
May the Lord
Gain your trust
Grant you grace
Grow your wisdom
Grab your attention
Galvanize your faith
Guide your intellect
Get your confidence
Guard your emotions
Groom your potential
Gladden your motivation
Give you favor to glorify His name!
Day 2 I forgot to go work later at noon instead of morning because we have Men's Fellowship at night. At noon a new language division was proposed and all eyes were on me. The night study on Abraham's Sacrifice of Isaac was good because all was involved. A Malaysian visitor joined us, 11 altogether, including 4 for dinner. The study on Men in the Bible has book potential.
On Wednesday I woke up to a full-blown acne that surfaced the night before, probably from too much chilli and thinking of the new division. Work on Judges 7 Gideon was barely creeping along, but my prayer group had a good time after two weeks' break At night I listened with pleasure to Philemon Choi, who shared his mentoring experience.
Day 4 was a big let down because I was asked to consider taking the division assistant job instead of the head, so I declined. The work is too much and I had no control, so it does not help to reap suffering. It was a wake-up call for me that leadership is not what it seemed and not my cup of tea. It's an answer to prayer for me not to be attracted to leadership. I am more than content with my present work.
On Friday I woke up crying dreaming of Doris. For the first time I dream of her suffering from cancer, remaining still in a standing position, but we were not at home. I went over and hugged her, but the emotional pain was too much for me, so I could only cry. When I looked at the clock it was barely one hour into my sleep. Praise God I could continue sleeping. The negative but official ruling on a long running saga arrived before lunch and put a damper on all, putting office transition plans revealed two days ago in doubt and chaos, not withstanding our anniversary celebration. Later a friend Justin came by to visit and we had a good time sharing.
Day 6 couldn't be any busier. I did two hours of writing Bible study questions with two zone leaders, then led 30 prestudy leaders for an hour, returned to office to talk to my coworker for an hour, hurried to fellowship for two hours, had dinner with five others after fellowship before returning to catch a buddy's sermon near the end.
Sunday arrived with a touching song 宣教的中國 and an inspiring message by 龍醫 followed by a somber announcement of the ruling. A buddy asked me to join him for lunch. We shared a lot and was surprised by a diner who called my name. Again the same young man at church gave me dessert. Father's Day dinner was with Doris' brother in law. The trip was 1 hour 20 minutes door to door, which was how long it took Doris' sisters to travel at least two times a week to care for her when she was sick, what sacrificial love! Returning home with two hours more before bed, I managed to finish the John 14:1-3 The Third Person of the Trinity sermon for Lent:
1. The Spirit is Our Close Companion (v 1)
2. The Holy Spirit is Our Command Center (v 2)
3. The Holy Spirit is Our Choice Comfort (v 3)
Finally I thank and praise God for giving me a poignant and passionate dream of Doris on Friday, two days before anniversary of her Memorial Service.
June 19, 2017
Tuesday, June 13, 2017
Year 2.3
Year 2.3 was a fair week for me. Monday lunch appointment was a waste because I was earlier by a week and it was not due till next week, so I ate two buns from a fast food 包點, very good for the money's worth, less than ten dollars each. After swimming I met a pth friend for high tea, followed by a seminarian's graduation, the only person I interviewed to recommend for school. I arrived home near midnight with late supper included.
Day 2 we had the shortest meeting meeting for 1 Thess 4:1-7, ending in half hour. Noon staff meeting was a dud, but I was invited by the chair to a drink, which means work. I was again asked to lead a new language department, a subject previously broached that I resisted. My answer now is, up to leadership. I have no preference nor do I want to choose. My immediate task is to find two English speaking coworkers. After work I took home flowers from mother's fellowship that I requested a year later. I missed the flowers that reminded me of Doris and the kindness of others. This time, lilies were added due Doris' fondness for it.
On Wednesday I can only remember working on Gideon's story from Judges 7 for men's fellowship. The sermon preparation has not been going smoothly. The hot weather that started this week definitely induces sleep.
Day 4 was a hot morning, so I decided to have breakfast in local café rather than have bread at home. I was comforted by the thought of Doris not having to endure last year's summer.
On Friday morning I decided to return to office to escape the heat even though I worked from noon on. Staff was surprised to see me working on my PC in the lobby. I enjoyed doing so before Doris' loss but shied away for a long time. I received soup that I requested, again a year later. I was delighted it was served in the same blue flask.
Day 6 morning I asked masseur to treat my right leg as well now that the hand is better. The treatment on my left leg last week worked; my right knee, however, is still vulnerable from the air-conditioning chill. The person placed his elbow on the underside of my knees to separate the right veins and muscles. At lunch I got together with the new staff of couples fellowship, which we had two. We shared about our roles, how we can and should work and blend together. Coworker conflict can scar all. A song 尋求神的臉, sung in pth inspired me at pth fellowship. After fellowship I had a drink with a couple; one of them was invited to join leadership.
On Sunday morning I had a good high blood pressure reading of 130/87. I was emotional near end of song我知道我的救贖者活著. The same happened at noon prayer with the husband of soup giver present. A young man gave me homemade drink 羅漢果, so I was thankful, inviting a co-worker to drink with me at lunch. At night I had dinner with a visitor from Malaysia.
June 13, 2017
Day 2 we had the shortest meeting meeting for 1 Thess 4:1-7, ending in half hour. Noon staff meeting was a dud, but I was invited by the chair to a drink, which means work. I was again asked to lead a new language department, a subject previously broached that I resisted. My answer now is, up to leadership. I have no preference nor do I want to choose. My immediate task is to find two English speaking coworkers. After work I took home flowers from mother's fellowship that I requested a year later. I missed the flowers that reminded me of Doris and the kindness of others. This time, lilies were added due Doris' fondness for it.
On Wednesday I can only remember working on Gideon's story from Judges 7 for men's fellowship. The sermon preparation has not been going smoothly. The hot weather that started this week definitely induces sleep.
Day 4 was a hot morning, so I decided to have breakfast in local café rather than have bread at home. I was comforted by the thought of Doris not having to endure last year's summer.
On Friday morning I decided to return to office to escape the heat even though I worked from noon on. Staff was surprised to see me working on my PC in the lobby. I enjoyed doing so before Doris' loss but shied away for a long time. I received soup that I requested, again a year later. I was delighted it was served in the same blue flask.
Day 6 morning I asked masseur to treat my right leg as well now that the hand is better. The treatment on my left leg last week worked; my right knee, however, is still vulnerable from the air-conditioning chill. The person placed his elbow on the underside of my knees to separate the right veins and muscles. At lunch I got together with the new staff of couples fellowship, which we had two. We shared about our roles, how we can and should work and blend together. Coworker conflict can scar all. A song 尋求神的臉, sung in pth inspired me at pth fellowship. After fellowship I had a drink with a couple; one of them was invited to join leadership.
On Sunday morning I had a good high blood pressure reading of 130/87. I was emotional near end of song我知道我的救贖者活著. The same happened at noon prayer with the husband of soup giver present. A young man gave me homemade drink 羅漢果, so I was thankful, inviting a co-worker to drink with me at lunch. At night I had dinner with a visitor from Malaysia.
June 13, 2017
Tuesday, June 6, 2017
Year 2.2
Year 2.2 started by providing me a good signal to go ahead with blogging when Doris appeared in a dream. On Monday I killed two birds with one stone by meeting a friend in Prince Edward and getting flowers for Doris. He was hoping to get an overseas ministry position and got a call the same morning for his family to visit Canada. Evening was spent in fellowship with buddies, followed by prayer walk. There was also interaction with neighbors. It begins with a morning exchange with a lifeguard. He told me he's returned to church, invited by his former pastor to the latter's new pastorate. Good news for us because Doris and I have known the young man for a few years. At night I met a neighbor on bus and finally told him that it's been a year Doris passed away. He said he heard about the news from a morning fellow clubhouse member. Since we were nearby my apartment, I asked him to wait downstairs while I grabbed Doris' blog book and gave one to him.
Day 2 was Dragon Boat public holiday. Doris' two local sisters came in the morning with flowers for her and helped to clean up the two bouquet of flowers from her first anniversary loss. We head off for 飲茶 at North Garden, a place we have not returned to since Doris' loss, mainly because the restaurant has moved. After that I did work at our regular Sheung Wan cafeteria for two hours until it was high tea time, when I walked around a few
blocks before deciding to eat at our old Dragon Help eatery, ordering Teochew noodles with wonton for $28, plus another $5 for added beef balls. Later I took the 430pm ferry home, buying two buns at IFC just in case I was hungry.
On Wednesday I finally finished the hardest sermon in my Lent series, before I found out in the next few days there were other relevant Lent passages too. Here's my outline for Behold the Lamb (Isa 53):
1. Be Drawn to the Dear Lamb (1-5)
2. Be Delivered by the Dying Lamb (6-9)
3. Be Devoted to the Divine Lamb (10-12)
The next day was a relief for me as I finally finished my coming Sunday worship sermon. I was surprised the translation took me two days only instead of the regular three to four days especially on a tough text, John 4 on the Samaritan woman. I was short of time because Tuesday was a holiday, but here's my outline:
Heaven Came Down and Glory Filled My Soul:
1. Be Delighted: Your Wants are Delivered (7-15)
2. Be Deepened: Your Worth is Defined (16-18)
3. Be Devoted: Your Worship is Demanded (19-26)
On Friday I and two coworkers visited a friend who is in another ministry. The work needs time to get started and it was not easy to be by oneself in transition. At night I sat on front row in Couples fellowship for the first time in over a year!
Day 6 I woke up to a pleasant and poignant dream of Doris. She was anxious to drink and sample the soup she made. I, on the other hand, was sparing in giving away the magazines that we do not published in real life. It has been a while since my last dream of Doris. In the morning I met Doris' very good neighbor friend who told me, 冇諗咁多. I had lunch with an intern and at night I was touched by a familiar song 獻給我天上的主 and TVs Star Trek Into Darkness, shedding some tears.
On Sunday all went well with my John 4 message except I ran over by six minutes at least. A song inspired me 盡情的敬拜:
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=kYydYl5jmOw
I had lunch with a buddy before he left for missions next day.
Thanks for hearing me out. The second week has not been easy but God has been faithful.
June 6, 2017
Day 2 was Dragon Boat public holiday. Doris' two local sisters came in the morning with flowers for her and helped to clean up the two bouquet of flowers from her first anniversary loss. We head off for 飲茶 at North Garden, a place we have not returned to since Doris' loss, mainly because the restaurant has moved. After that I did work at our regular Sheung Wan cafeteria for two hours until it was high tea time, when I walked around a few
blocks before deciding to eat at our old Dragon Help eatery, ordering Teochew noodles with wonton for $28, plus another $5 for added beef balls. Later I took the 430pm ferry home, buying two buns at IFC just in case I was hungry.
On Wednesday I finally finished the hardest sermon in my Lent series, before I found out in the next few days there were other relevant Lent passages too. Here's my outline for Behold the Lamb (Isa 53):
1. Be Drawn to the Dear Lamb (1-5)
2. Be Delivered by the Dying Lamb (6-9)
3. Be Devoted to the Divine Lamb (10-12)
The next day was a relief for me as I finally finished my coming Sunday worship sermon. I was surprised the translation took me two days only instead of the regular three to four days especially on a tough text, John 4 on the Samaritan woman. I was short of time because Tuesday was a holiday, but here's my outline:
Heaven Came Down and Glory Filled My Soul:
1. Be Delighted: Your Wants are Delivered (7-15)
2. Be Deepened: Your Worth is Defined (16-18)
3. Be Devoted: Your Worship is Demanded (19-26)
On Friday I and two coworkers visited a friend who is in another ministry. The work needs time to get started and it was not easy to be by oneself in transition. At night I sat on front row in Couples fellowship for the first time in over a year!
Day 6 I woke up to a pleasant and poignant dream of Doris. She was anxious to drink and sample the soup she made. I, on the other hand, was sparing in giving away the magazines that we do not published in real life. It has been a while since my last dream of Doris. In the morning I met Doris' very good neighbor friend who told me, 冇諗咁多. I had lunch with an intern and at night I was touched by a familiar song 獻給我天上的主 and TVs Star Trek Into Darkness, shedding some tears.
On Sunday all went well with my John 4 message except I ran over by six minutes at least. A song inspired me 盡情的敬拜:
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=kYydYl5jmOw
I had lunch with a buddy before he left for missions next day.
Thanks for hearing me out. The second week has not been easy but God has been faithful.
June 6, 2017
Tuesday, May 30, 2017
Year 2.1
Year 2.1 was an unforgettable week because Monday was the exact date of Doris' first anniversary of loss. By 7 am Monday morning at a local cafeteria I began to put up the English version of Doris' blog, which was my goal for the day. Two and a half hours later Doris' sister and her husband arrived, coming by 10 am to pay respects to the sister she dearly missed. Her sobbing were sorely felt even in the living room where her husband and I sat, still uploading her blog. At 10:10am we took Doris' electric piano downstairs to wait for a delivery van to transport it to her sisters newly renovated house. A year after Doris' loss I could let go of the instrument because it was for a loving relative. Her sister even took the unused xylophone wrapped in plastic. Doris would dearly loved her sister to have both as her sister can occupy her time with music now in her retirement years. The sister had lovingly took an earlier six months retirement to care for Doris, what great love! After they left I went to have lunch with two buddies at Simply Life, one of Doris' favorites, where I ordered a hamburger, as she would have wanted me to because she did not want me to starve since we ate little when she was sick. After lunch we prayed, tearful and all. At night I was invited to a coworker's home for dinner. Halfway through a USA friend called me from the airport so I had to meet him because I would leave for Shanghai next day. I apologized to the family because my friend did not confirm his arrival because he had no internet access for some days in the field. It was awkward on this day but I could not ignore him and a friend with him because of my personal grief.
Day 2 was leaving for Shanghai. It was miserable at the airport where we were stranded in a plane on the runway for five and a half hours. On the plane tempers flared and quarrels ensued with the undersieged attendant. At least my three fellow sojourners from the Putonghua fellowship kept our conversation interesting and I did not feel tired, praise God. By the time we landed and ate wonton noodles it was 1230am next day. The nearest opened restaurant was ironically a HK restaurant!
On Wednesday morning, our first full day in Shanghai, we all slept in. I was actually awakened by a buddy's early text at 730am, which is an hour later than my usual waking hour. We did not wait too long after our 830am gathering to eat breakfast , which is fried bun 煎包. After breakfast we go to one of the longest and oldest shopping boulevard南京東路 in Shanghai. There people lined the streets for 粽. Most shops there are old brands. That takes us not far walking to the Bund上海灘. We stopped at Peace Hotel 和平飯店 reminiscing how Doris and I visited the hotel briefly, if only to use the restroom for hotel guests. On that occasion we were let in by a nice gentleman guest who held the door for us. Our group saw a sign that said $238 for western high tea and asked if we could order two sets for four people. The waiters gave a resounding yes because guests were few. It was money well spent because our craving was for local food. The view of the Bund was excellent from high up. I cried saying grace for the food. Later we headed to the Bund and walked for a few hours snapping photos where Doris and I used to pose two years ago. No doubt sentiments surged again where Doris used to stand at the adjacent 人民英雄紀念塔. We ate French bakery at a nearby cafeteria and lavish local Shanghai food at a store nearby our hotel. It was end of Shanghai day two, 9pm, as we returned to Okura hotel because our fifth sojourner from HK was expected to arrive.
On Thursday morning I walked out at 630 am to find out where Doris and I had coffee previously, but a sign said Open 830am, so I took my PC to work at a nearby Starbucks, returning later with the whole group to enjoy coffee. I ordered a flat white. At least I know the store is called Paras. We then had simple Shanghai breakfast and hurried to get tickets to Hangzhou. Everything was total recall on the trip. I told the group where we previously caught a bus to Westlake, and I was right! At Westlake we still had to walk more than half an hour to Shangri-la where Doris and I took pictures over high tea two years ago. I was emotional over high tea there thinking of past memories. My sojourners were great, putting me to exact spots and poses from two years ago. Earlier I couldn't answer if we took a bus home, but then I remembered we did. The only regret is not wearing the same shirt from two years ago. Returning to Shanghai we went to 新吉士 on a sojourner's request and it turned out that it was where Doris and I had dinner before. I was glad I took Doris by accident to a renowned restaurant before. Unfortunately it was closed at 10pm, so we hurried to the old diner 舊吉士 that closed at midnight, and we ate to our hearts delight at a bill of $777, an interesting number to HKers.
On the last day I went to Starbucks early to write, then joined the group for soybean咸豆漿breakfast, followed by Paras coffee, ordering Doris' favorite mocha. Then it was time to fly home. Dinner was at HK airport. I bawled before sleeping seeing the two years before and after pictures we took on the trip.
Day 6 was back to normal. I had a great time having my first lunch with a coworker I have known for five years because he's coming to pth worship to preach the next day. We recorded his sermon over 35 minutes long but merely a few minor words mispronounced. After resting for fifteen minutes I tried to work on an upcoming men's fellowship Bible study on Gideon in Judges 7. At least I got the observation part done before having a meal with a buddy and going home for my prayer walk, which I missed for close to a week. Following a news report of a worship leader Chris Blue winning the Voice contest in USA, I searched for the song Take Me to the King that soothed my soul:
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=GYU5aGQV6j0
I had to be alert and on my feet Sunday because many mainland visitors were in town for a 4,000 attendees conference. It worked out well because we have less people over the long weekend as well. I helped ushered the visitors, and our fellowship served some food. The speaker spoke well for a pth debut. Our visitors spoke glowingly of the reception. I was surprised a newly married young man brought soup for me, which was my dinner along with two small 粽. An intern said that I have written more books than his professors; indeed Doris and I were "productive" book partners. Another intern was sick, so I led pre-study for pth fellowship.
It's been a long road, a long, with a long, long journey ahead undoubtedly. Apart from Doris' English blog I have also enclosed the link to my 52 weeks of blogging:
http://dorisgoodfight.blogspot.com
http://etransplant.blogspot.com
I wanted to end blogging by the tenth week, but Doris appeared in my dream on the eleventh week, so I had something to tell. There's no telling when I'll stop now. Like my life nowadays, I can't think so far ahead. I have learned to press on, but not move on, which is insensitive nonsense to me. But thanks for praying for me, sharing and walking with me, plus reading our blogs, which I won't send now that the year is over, but you can check on the internet.
May 30, 2017
Day 2 was leaving for Shanghai. It was miserable at the airport where we were stranded in a plane on the runway for five and a half hours. On the plane tempers flared and quarrels ensued with the undersieged attendant. At least my three fellow sojourners from the Putonghua fellowship kept our conversation interesting and I did not feel tired, praise God. By the time we landed and ate wonton noodles it was 1230am next day. The nearest opened restaurant was ironically a HK restaurant!
On Wednesday morning, our first full day in Shanghai, we all slept in. I was actually awakened by a buddy's early text at 730am, which is an hour later than my usual waking hour. We did not wait too long after our 830am gathering to eat breakfast , which is fried bun 煎包. After breakfast we go to one of the longest and oldest shopping boulevard南京東路 in Shanghai. There people lined the streets for 粽. Most shops there are old brands. That takes us not far walking to the Bund上海灘. We stopped at Peace Hotel 和平飯店 reminiscing how Doris and I visited the hotel briefly, if only to use the restroom for hotel guests. On that occasion we were let in by a nice gentleman guest who held the door for us. Our group saw a sign that said $238 for western high tea and asked if we could order two sets for four people. The waiters gave a resounding yes because guests were few. It was money well spent because our craving was for local food. The view of the Bund was excellent from high up. I cried saying grace for the food. Later we headed to the Bund and walked for a few hours snapping photos where Doris and I used to pose two years ago. No doubt sentiments surged again where Doris used to stand at the adjacent 人民英雄紀念塔. We ate French bakery at a nearby cafeteria and lavish local Shanghai food at a store nearby our hotel. It was end of Shanghai day two, 9pm, as we returned to Okura hotel because our fifth sojourner from HK was expected to arrive.
On Thursday morning I walked out at 630 am to find out where Doris and I had coffee previously, but a sign said Open 830am, so I took my PC to work at a nearby Starbucks, returning later with the whole group to enjoy coffee. I ordered a flat white. At least I know the store is called Paras. We then had simple Shanghai breakfast and hurried to get tickets to Hangzhou. Everything was total recall on the trip. I told the group where we previously caught a bus to Westlake, and I was right! At Westlake we still had to walk more than half an hour to Shangri-la where Doris and I took pictures over high tea two years ago. I was emotional over high tea there thinking of past memories. My sojourners were great, putting me to exact spots and poses from two years ago. Earlier I couldn't answer if we took a bus home, but then I remembered we did. The only regret is not wearing the same shirt from two years ago. Returning to Shanghai we went to 新吉士 on a sojourner's request and it turned out that it was where Doris and I had dinner before. I was glad I took Doris by accident to a renowned restaurant before. Unfortunately it was closed at 10pm, so we hurried to the old diner 舊吉士 that closed at midnight, and we ate to our hearts delight at a bill of $777, an interesting number to HKers.
On the last day I went to Starbucks early to write, then joined the group for soybean咸豆漿breakfast, followed by Paras coffee, ordering Doris' favorite mocha. Then it was time to fly home. Dinner was at HK airport. I bawled before sleeping seeing the two years before and after pictures we took on the trip.
Day 6 was back to normal. I had a great time having my first lunch with a coworker I have known for five years because he's coming to pth worship to preach the next day. We recorded his sermon over 35 minutes long but merely a few minor words mispronounced. After resting for fifteen minutes I tried to work on an upcoming men's fellowship Bible study on Gideon in Judges 7. At least I got the observation part done before having a meal with a buddy and going home for my prayer walk, which I missed for close to a week. Following a news report of a worship leader Chris Blue winning the Voice contest in USA, I searched for the song Take Me to the King that soothed my soul:
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=GYU5aGQV6j0
I had to be alert and on my feet Sunday because many mainland visitors were in town for a 4,000 attendees conference. It worked out well because we have less people over the long weekend as well. I helped ushered the visitors, and our fellowship served some food. The speaker spoke well for a pth debut. Our visitors spoke glowingly of the reception. I was surprised a newly married young man brought soup for me, which was my dinner along with two small 粽. An intern said that I have written more books than his professors; indeed Doris and I were "productive" book partners. Another intern was sick, so I led pre-study for pth fellowship.
It's been a long road, a long, with a long, long journey ahead undoubtedly. Apart from Doris' English blog I have also enclosed the link to my 52 weeks of blogging:
http://dorisgoodfight.blogspot.com
http://etransplant.blogspot.com
I wanted to end blogging by the tenth week, but Doris appeared in my dream on the eleventh week, so I had something to tell. There's no telling when I'll stop now. Like my life nowadays, I can't think so far ahead. I have learned to press on, but not move on, which is insensitive nonsense to me. But thanks for praying for me, sharing and walking with me, plus reading our blogs, which I won't send now that the year is over, but you can check on the internet.
May 30, 2017
Monday, May 22, 2017
Week 52
Week 52 ended just one day short of Doris' first anniversary of loss. On Monday the emotions surged momentarily in the morning thinking of the coming week. I had lunch with Doris' St. Paul Co-ed classmates but not before I dropped off our latest book to Dr Tsang, one of the doctors Doris formerly consulted a few times. A person in the lunch group later said Doris belonged to the “hardworking” student category. Doris loved having lunch with her classmates.
Day 2 I had a session preparing a coworker for the person's next sermon date. It was quick and easy because the coworker learned how to follow the text's grammar. It took us less than half an hour. It took us less than half an hour. It ended when Doris' friend came by to pick up more books, including the last of the 400 copies I ordered also checked a coworkers sermon for Sunday. He did very well. At night I cooked spaghetti for a friend and his two kids while his wife was on a mission trip.
Wednesday was deacon's night meeting, so I had the morning off to work on a book. Since March my mind has been back to normal, just at the right time to plow full steam ahead for a new book.
Day 4 I decided at last to send last week's blog entry to our family chat group, which I do not normally do, just like Doris. Doris sister said, "I miss Doris so much, it is hard to pass this year." Later our department had a birthday lunch before the meeting.
On Friday I finally finished and sent my local tax. This year I have to mark the “widowed” box. How sad. I finished the second last NT text on Mark 15 preparing our Lent series. It was an enriching, fulfilling and satisfying study:
The Centurion and the Christ (Mark 15:37-39)
1. Hear the shout v 37
2. Heed the signs v 38
3. Hasten the surrender v 39
Day 6 I finished the last NT sermon on The Last Seven Words of Jesus for our Lent series. It took every ounce in me to complete it before the anniversary. I had lunch with three guys before our pre-prestudy group and then led the pre-study group. At night I excitedly looked at a video a friend transferred from another format to video for me. It was a vintage five year old video of Doris teaching the Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5, exactly what we studied in the afternoon! It was a blessed gift! At night I confirmed with Doris' sister that a moving van will help her and her husband move Doris' electric piano to her place when she visits on coming Monday anniversary morning. She wanted it for a long time and she just got her house renovated. It hit me emotionally that I would lose the piano but it was for a relative who loved Doris dearly.
On Sunday I gave thirty of Doris' blog books away. The song 我的心 你要稱頌耶和華 touched me deeply and I could not stop crying as it was a Doris favorite. Two younger coworkers took turns comforting me. After worship a friend cut all my hair off to represent my loss, lament and longing. Two families came to the island to share the rest of the day with me, walking to the park and old village, having German dinner, praying at my apartment and eating durian for dessert. I had no time to grief! Thanks friends! One even cut his hair shorter in support and one bald!
Please pray for me as I travel with pth friends to Shanghai to chase memories my last ever trip with Doris two years ago one day apart, to Shanghai.
May 22, 2017
Day 2 I had a session preparing a coworker for the person's next sermon date. It was quick and easy because the coworker learned how to follow the text's grammar. It took us less than half an hour. It took us less than half an hour. It ended when Doris' friend came by to pick up more books, including the last of the 400 copies I ordered also checked a coworkers sermon for Sunday. He did very well. At night I cooked spaghetti for a friend and his two kids while his wife was on a mission trip.
Wednesday was deacon's night meeting, so I had the morning off to work on a book. Since March my mind has been back to normal, just at the right time to plow full steam ahead for a new book.
Day 4 I decided at last to send last week's blog entry to our family chat group, which I do not normally do, just like Doris. Doris sister said, "I miss Doris so much, it is hard to pass this year." Later our department had a birthday lunch before the meeting.
On Friday I finally finished and sent my local tax. This year I have to mark the “widowed” box. How sad. I finished the second last NT text on Mark 15 preparing our Lent series. It was an enriching, fulfilling and satisfying study:
The Centurion and the Christ (Mark 15:37-39)
1. Hear the shout v 37
2. Heed the signs v 38
3. Hasten the surrender v 39
Day 6 I finished the last NT sermon on The Last Seven Words of Jesus for our Lent series. It took every ounce in me to complete it before the anniversary. I had lunch with three guys before our pre-prestudy group and then led the pre-study group. At night I excitedly looked at a video a friend transferred from another format to video for me. It was a vintage five year old video of Doris teaching the Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5, exactly what we studied in the afternoon! It was a blessed gift! At night I confirmed with Doris' sister that a moving van will help her and her husband move Doris' electric piano to her place when she visits on coming Monday anniversary morning. She wanted it for a long time and she just got her house renovated. It hit me emotionally that I would lose the piano but it was for a relative who loved Doris dearly.
On Sunday I gave thirty of Doris' blog books away. The song 我的心 你要稱頌耶和華 touched me deeply and I could not stop crying as it was a Doris favorite. Two younger coworkers took turns comforting me. After worship a friend cut all my hair off to represent my loss, lament and longing. Two families came to the island to share the rest of the day with me, walking to the park and old village, having German dinner, praying at my apartment and eating durian for dessert. I had no time to grief! Thanks friends! One even cut his hair shorter in support and one bald!
Please pray for me as I travel with pth friends to Shanghai to chase memories my last ever trip with Doris two years ago one day apart, to Shanghai.
May 22, 2017
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