Was in a "can't be bothered" mood today. Finished work at 3PM since my last lesson cancelled yesterday cos she was sick (genuine in fact, cos she was already losing her voice on Monday night's lesson). So I had all this free time to spare. Went to my Men's Store appointment to get some waxing done. That only took about 10-15 minutes then I was back out in town again. It was raining so I had my big umbrella up. People were busy rushing about. Cars and buses were busy going to their destinations. Everyone had a purpose. Yet I felt purpose-less, I felt aimless. Originally I thought I might go to Next or M&S and look for suit trousers to replace my current ones. And maybe even look for light jumper/ sweaters for having long sleeves for work in the car. The recent dramatic change in weather has caught me out a little, especially last Monday when it was absolutely baltic. Anyway, after using the toilet at Buchanan Galleries I just sat at the internet kiosk area, played with my phone and just couldn't be assed doing anything.
There was a feeling of loneliness creeping up inside me. It has always lurked in the backgroud, but I do my best to fight it, not succumb to it. I try to ignore it. When I mentioned it to someone close, he said that I have the gym and my business to keep me occupied. That is true. I suppose keeping myself busy may "drown out the noise" for a while. But what about after that? What about at the end of the night? The gym closes. I finish work. Then...? I mean, sometimes things can feel so meaningless. Get what I'm saying? It's like a rich man who has all money and fame and power. But no friends or family, sleeps alone at night. No one to share happiness and wealth with. Whats the point? Yes I have friends and I have family. But no significant other. That gaping "hole" is getting more and more obvious now, at least to myself.
I'm not ashamed to say that but that longing is increasing daily. I know some people say that they don't like to put things online, that they want to keep things private, don't want to let people know so much etc. Well, that's their choice. Too long have I listened to people's "advice" or "comments" and try to work them into my own life. But you know what? I don't think it'll work for me. This is me. This is my blog. And I trust that it is my friends who actually read my blog. Anybody else who stumble across my blog through Fb or through keyword searches are very welcome to read all this too. Cos at the end of the day, this is who I am. Gordon So, an ageing British Born Chinese Christian guy. Yes I am a Christian, yet that does not stop me from having feelings and emotions right? That doesn't mean I am free from feeling sad etc right? Cos after all, it is these feelings and emotions that I share with the Lord and now I am sharing with y'all.
Some people might say that I needn't put things online, instead find a few friends to talk to and pray with you etc. Well finding a few friends would mean having to repeat everything a few times. Do you think I'd want that? I might end up missing things out or saying the wrong things. And most likely, when meeting with guys you don't get that emotional anyway. Guys "act tough" and might not express themselves that well. So if you wanna read this, then you're welcome to. What you do with this information is also up to you. Pray for me? Laugh at me? Tease me? Share with your friends? Whatever!
My sister is getting married next summer and will later migrate to Singapore to be with her hubby Nick, who so happens to be one of my close friends. I am very happy for them deep down, genuinely. Once Cat leaves though, the flat will only be occupied by mum and me. Though I cannot fully comprehend what it will be like say exactly a year from now (20th October 2012), I know the house will be a lot quieter. I will be 29 then and mum will be... nah, I am not telling you THAT! But anyway, there will be simple meals at dinner. Mum will be older so will be more tired after work. Will I still be moaning like this? Will the quietness at home mean I have more time for my mind to wander? What's quite sad is I might not even have a partner to go to my sister's wedding with. Who knows what God has in store though. But at present the prospects are not looking good. Why can't I find someone who is willing to commit to a relationship? Why do so many people I know have to be studying? Have to be in different walks of life from me? I know God didn't create man to be alone, therefore when he created Adam God also created Eve as a partner for him. In search of my "Eve" I have to remind myself that God has a plan for me. A plan to prosper me, not to harm me.
Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Showing posts with label Dear Diary. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Dear Diary. Show all posts
20 October 2011
13 June 2011
Elated
Have not updated in a long while. But since I have an unplanned four hour break I thought I might as well put thoughts onto paper, or in this case, onto text. Haha!
I felt very happy last night. The feeling of elation, the moments where everything seemed so nice, so peaceful and 'as it should be'. It is hard to describe, but I'll try and break it down. Hmm... where do I start though? Lol! Ermm... ok, dunno how to say this without sounding like I'm bragging, so I shall stay as level-headed as possible.
I had a reaaaaally nice dinner last night. It was not just a run of the mill eating out dinner, but a home cooked meal. The menu had what I like in it too: chicken (protein), egg (protein), tom yum (spicy), pork ribs (protein + fat) and later some home baked chocolate dessert too. I'm not one for dessert usually, but boy was I taken in by the food presented to me. Seeing the production process I could appreciate the amount of effort put into the meal. It was not easy. I think I would have been all flustered or struggled a bit. Haha!
Each spoonful I had I ate with a smile which resulted in a funny looking face each time I chewed. Haha! I truly appreciated everything. Helping wash up was the very least I could do in response to such kindness. Immediately after dinner there was some musical performances too. I enjoyed the music very much and whilst listening I was very impressed inside. Wow!! I was invited up to play some piano as well. Was made a piano partner in a very simple piece but very nice. Ok, my part was very simple, though I struggled to get my head around how to do it for the first five minutes, but once I got the hang of it, everything seemed to flow. I am a slow learner you see. I may take several shots at something before fully getting the hang of it. But once I do, I stick to it and become better at it. I think my personality is like that of a train - slow start up but with a very powerful drive afterwards. Boom!!! =P
Anyhow, those moments playing the piano, absorbing the air, listening to the music, laughing, smiling, focussing, making mistakes, starting again, laughing, making another mistake, finally getting it right... all seemed very very nice. Hard to describe in words, but I think the word to use would be elation. Yes, I felt elated. I could just stay in that moment forever I think. Haha!
All good things come from God. God blesses us in so many different ways. I truly felt blessed and I made that known to God at the end of the night. These opportunities do not come by often, but when they do, I have to show appreciation to God and I have to give thanks to Him. If it is His will, He will give other blessings to me too :)
I felt very happy last night. The feeling of elation, the moments where everything seemed so nice, so peaceful and 'as it should be'. It is hard to describe, but I'll try and break it down. Hmm... where do I start though? Lol! Ermm... ok, dunno how to say this without sounding like I'm bragging, so I shall stay as level-headed as possible.
I had a reaaaaally nice dinner last night. It was not just a run of the mill eating out dinner, but a home cooked meal. The menu had what I like in it too: chicken (protein), egg (protein), tom yum (spicy), pork ribs (protein + fat) and later some home baked chocolate dessert too. I'm not one for dessert usually, but boy was I taken in by the food presented to me. Seeing the production process I could appreciate the amount of effort put into the meal. It was not easy. I think I would have been all flustered or struggled a bit. Haha!
Each spoonful I had I ate with a smile which resulted in a funny looking face each time I chewed. Haha! I truly appreciated everything. Helping wash up was the very least I could do in response to such kindness. Immediately after dinner there was some musical performances too. I enjoyed the music very much and whilst listening I was very impressed inside. Wow!! I was invited up to play some piano as well. Was made a piano partner in a very simple piece but very nice. Ok, my part was very simple, though I struggled to get my head around how to do it for the first five minutes, but once I got the hang of it, everything seemed to flow. I am a slow learner you see. I may take several shots at something before fully getting the hang of it. But once I do, I stick to it and become better at it. I think my personality is like that of a train - slow start up but with a very powerful drive afterwards. Boom!!! =P
Anyhow, those moments playing the piano, absorbing the air, listening to the music, laughing, smiling, focussing, making mistakes, starting again, laughing, making another mistake, finally getting it right... all seemed very very nice. Hard to describe in words, but I think the word to use would be elation. Yes, I felt elated. I could just stay in that moment forever I think. Haha!
All good things come from God. God blesses us in so many different ways. I truly felt blessed and I made that known to God at the end of the night. These opportunities do not come by often, but when they do, I have to show appreciation to God and I have to give thanks to Him. If it is His will, He will give other blessings to me too :)
29 May 2011
Little pond?
He must have been a Godsend. I think DD was right. Maybe I have been looking in the wrong pond. Big fish in little pond perhaps? Time to move on I think...
It's amazing how God works though. Just out of the blue out pops the question. And of course, I gave honest answers. I spoke my heart. It's amazing how God can provide a counseller, a listening ear. Someone to show concern. I live at home with two women. I don't have any senior guys to talk to conveniently. After all, being Chinese as well, we are more 'conservative' when it comes to these things, usually. I'm not that shy about these things, but just find it hard to find 'suitable' people to chat to. So many people around me, all at different stages of life.
The prayer meant a lot to me. Oh Lord, lead the way :)
Athlean-X Training System
On a different note, I have decided to change my workout regime and try out a new 90 program which is to help me develop more lean muscle mass. Although currently I feel I am quite big in size and live up to my nickname Big G, I know I have a lot of body fat as well. Too much in fact. So this program, which has been vouched by thousands to have made a difference in their lives, is set out to give me different workouts every day for twelve weeks, along with an eating plan. Follow it as closely as you can to get as better results as possible. This would involve weight training Monday, Wednesday and Friday with conditioning (cardio) on Tuesday and Thursday. Guess I can rest on the weekends. Instead of slaving away at the gym for hours on end, each workout is designed to last about 40 minutes tops, leaving you more time to yourself yet having your heart beat just as much if not more than a long workout session. The results should be seen within 3-4 weeks. I am looking forward to this change. New exercises to challenge the body and keep it guessing.
I will need to change some habits like try to get at least seven hours of sleep each night. I will try to constantly drink water. I will try to eat small portions every 2-3 hours of the day and keep my metabolism running high. What else... erm... oh yeah, will continue using my mobile stopwatch to time my breaks between workout sets, making sure I don't slack when resting and take too long to get back into it. Might mean no eating out for a good number of weeks too!
I took my weight this morning, one day before I start this program. Most updated figures are:
212.2lbs - 96.2kgs - 15st 2lbs
I shall update after a week I think. Here's hoping I can get through this one week of training! Haha! If anybody is interested in seeing what this program is about, check out the link below! =D
ATHLEAN-X
It's amazing how God works though. Just out of the blue out pops the question. And of course, I gave honest answers. I spoke my heart. It's amazing how God can provide a counseller, a listening ear. Someone to show concern. I live at home with two women. I don't have any senior guys to talk to conveniently. After all, being Chinese as well, we are more 'conservative' when it comes to these things, usually. I'm not that shy about these things, but just find it hard to find 'suitable' people to chat to. So many people around me, all at different stages of life.
The prayer meant a lot to me. Oh Lord, lead the way :)
Athlean-X Training System
On a different note, I have decided to change my workout regime and try out a new 90 program which is to help me develop more lean muscle mass. Although currently I feel I am quite big in size and live up to my nickname Big G, I know I have a lot of body fat as well. Too much in fact. So this program, which has been vouched by thousands to have made a difference in their lives, is set out to give me different workouts every day for twelve weeks, along with an eating plan. Follow it as closely as you can to get as better results as possible. This would involve weight training Monday, Wednesday and Friday with conditioning (cardio) on Tuesday and Thursday. Guess I can rest on the weekends. Instead of slaving away at the gym for hours on end, each workout is designed to last about 40 minutes tops, leaving you more time to yourself yet having your heart beat just as much if not more than a long workout session. The results should be seen within 3-4 weeks. I am looking forward to this change. New exercises to challenge the body and keep it guessing.
I will need to change some habits like try to get at least seven hours of sleep each night. I will try to constantly drink water. I will try to eat small portions every 2-3 hours of the day and keep my metabolism running high. What else... erm... oh yeah, will continue using my mobile stopwatch to time my breaks between workout sets, making sure I don't slack when resting and take too long to get back into it. Might mean no eating out for a good number of weeks too!
I took my weight this morning, one day before I start this program. Most updated figures are:
212.2lbs - 96.2kgs - 15st 2lbs
I shall update after a week I think. Here's hoping I can get through this one week of training! Haha! If anybody is interested in seeing what this program is about, check out the link below! =D
ATHLEAN-X
16 May 2011
Hello again
Hey all!
Just thought I'd update a little post here since I've not said anything since.... 27th April!!! Lol! Time flies man! 27th April was two days before my 28th birthday! Yes, my birthday was on 29th of April. Oh my goodness! I am 28! That makes me one of the oldest member of the English Ministry in our church. How amazing is that! LOL! Praise God though, that I am still of use in the church and can serve Him through different areas and I feel so honoured to be listed as one of the leaders of EM. Sometimes time I feel so unworthy to be a leader. I feel I have yet so much to learn and I want to develop my faith in the Lord. I guess serving, seeking and learning runs hand in hand. I want to mature in God as I mature physically.
In recent months I've been reminded of God's Sovereignty through devotions, how God's authority rules over all the Earth, that nothing and no-one can be more powerful than God. Everything is in His hands, all things big and small. It brings great comfort to know that the God whom I worship, whom I praise is the same God whom I can fully rely on and fully put my trust in. I know no matter however my life unfolds, it will be alright, everything will be fine as long as I live according to His will, as long as I seek to please Him with all my actions. So I have been a lot more conscious of how my verbal and physical communications can portray or display Christ. I try to find ways to bring glory to God through what I do, what I say etc. I can't say that I succeed all the time, but certainly He is on my mind a lot more these days. And when my eyes are on Him more, I can certainly see His greatness and His Sovereignty displayed more and more around me and it is so encouraging! =)
What else is new with me...? Hmm... well I've just been working. Oh yeah... work-wise, well the month of April was quite busy as it was my first month as an independent driving instructor, which meant I am no longer tied to a franchise agreement with a national driving school. Been saving lots more in the weekly francise fee which equated to around £210 per week! Yup! Per week! Regardless if I was working or not. Well my weekly output these days are fuel and car washes. How good is that! I had spent lots on getting the car, the insurance, roof sign, business cards etc. Basically to get myself started up. So I need to wait a while before breaking even in that sense. Saw the accountant last week for tax and accounts for Year 2010/2011. Made a better profit compared to 2009/2010 but not good enough on paper to show banks for a mortgage. He forecasts I should have a much better amount of income for 2011/2012 and should be able to apply for mortgages etc within two years, which is more promising. Yes, two years sounds a bit far away. My initial life plans were to be married, settled with life partner and a house by 30 years old. Seems like that is not going to happen that way. But then again, I submit my life to God and know that His ways are different from my ways. So, Lord, take me, use me and mould me. =)
Back to healthy eating again and getting more focussed with my gym training. Been going to the gym at opening time of 06:30am nowadays. It's much better going early when it's quieter (compared to after work) and then getting home early enough to have a decent breakfast, make packed lunch and even do devotionals before leaving for work again. How I'd love to be able to do a workout, eat at the gym (nothing healthy there! and if I bring packed breakfast it will never be enough!) and then start work. But that's not an option. Guess morning is the only time I have for the the gym. The time I have for myself. Everyone else is in bed so I won't be disturbed and it is more of 'me time' before I start the day. Take tonight for example, I finished work 9pm and got in at 9:15pm. That's considered early, as I can be home as late at 9:40pm depending where the last lesson ends and if it runs over at all. Anyways, Greens shut 10pm so if I don't go early hours I won't get any gym time at all! =D It feels great though to have the workout done early on so I can focus on the rest of the day and all foods that I eat will be burnt away due to increase in metabolic rate. Does mean I get hungry oh so easily now!! Haha!
So that's it really. My life is pretty much focussed on these three things at the moment: God, work and the gym. During the week I don't get to go out much as these three things fill up my week. The weekends I get some opportunities to play. Watch a movie in the cinema if I'm fortunate enough, might even have dinner with brothers and sisters in church after service. It's nice to hang out and fellowship, to bless and encourage one another. Thank God the weather has improved overall in the past few weeks. No more blistering sunshine (which I am SOOO thankful for!) but enough light to give us longer bright evenings. Lol! Praise God!
Just thought I'd update a little post here since I've not said anything since.... 27th April!!! Lol! Time flies man! 27th April was two days before my 28th birthday! Yes, my birthday was on 29th of April. Oh my goodness! I am 28! That makes me one of the oldest member of the English Ministry in our church. How amazing is that! LOL! Praise God though, that I am still of use in the church and can serve Him through different areas and I feel so honoured to be listed as one of the leaders of EM. Sometimes time I feel so unworthy to be a leader. I feel I have yet so much to learn and I want to develop my faith in the Lord. I guess serving, seeking and learning runs hand in hand. I want to mature in God as I mature physically.
In recent months I've been reminded of God's Sovereignty through devotions, how God's authority rules over all the Earth, that nothing and no-one can be more powerful than God. Everything is in His hands, all things big and small. It brings great comfort to know that the God whom I worship, whom I praise is the same God whom I can fully rely on and fully put my trust in. I know no matter however my life unfolds, it will be alright, everything will be fine as long as I live according to His will, as long as I seek to please Him with all my actions. So I have been a lot more conscious of how my verbal and physical communications can portray or display Christ. I try to find ways to bring glory to God through what I do, what I say etc. I can't say that I succeed all the time, but certainly He is on my mind a lot more these days. And when my eyes are on Him more, I can certainly see His greatness and His Sovereignty displayed more and more around me and it is so encouraging! =)
What else is new with me...? Hmm... well I've just been working. Oh yeah... work-wise, well the month of April was quite busy as it was my first month as an independent driving instructor, which meant I am no longer tied to a franchise agreement with a national driving school. Been saving lots more in the weekly francise fee which equated to around £210 per week! Yup! Per week! Regardless if I was working or not. Well my weekly output these days are fuel and car washes. How good is that! I had spent lots on getting the car, the insurance, roof sign, business cards etc. Basically to get myself started up. So I need to wait a while before breaking even in that sense. Saw the accountant last week for tax and accounts for Year 2010/2011. Made a better profit compared to 2009/2010 but not good enough on paper to show banks for a mortgage. He forecasts I should have a much better amount of income for 2011/2012 and should be able to apply for mortgages etc within two years, which is more promising. Yes, two years sounds a bit far away. My initial life plans were to be married, settled with life partner and a house by 30 years old. Seems like that is not going to happen that way. But then again, I submit my life to God and know that His ways are different from my ways. So, Lord, take me, use me and mould me. =)
Back to healthy eating again and getting more focussed with my gym training. Been going to the gym at opening time of 06:30am nowadays. It's much better going early when it's quieter (compared to after work) and then getting home early enough to have a decent breakfast, make packed lunch and even do devotionals before leaving for work again. How I'd love to be able to do a workout, eat at the gym (nothing healthy there! and if I bring packed breakfast it will never be enough!) and then start work. But that's not an option. Guess morning is the only time I have for the the gym. The time I have for myself. Everyone else is in bed so I won't be disturbed and it is more of 'me time' before I start the day. Take tonight for example, I finished work 9pm and got in at 9:15pm. That's considered early, as I can be home as late at 9:40pm depending where the last lesson ends and if it runs over at all. Anyways, Greens shut 10pm so if I don't go early hours I won't get any gym time at all! =D It feels great though to have the workout done early on so I can focus on the rest of the day and all foods that I eat will be burnt away due to increase in metabolic rate. Does mean I get hungry oh so easily now!! Haha!
So that's it really. My life is pretty much focussed on these three things at the moment: God, work and the gym. During the week I don't get to go out much as these three things fill up my week. The weekends I get some opportunities to play. Watch a movie in the cinema if I'm fortunate enough, might even have dinner with brothers and sisters in church after service. It's nice to hang out and fellowship, to bless and encourage one another. Thank God the weather has improved overall in the past few weeks. No more blistering sunshine (which I am SOOO thankful for!) but enough light to give us longer bright evenings. Lol! Praise God!
27 April 2011
Total fail
We all have our good days and our bad days. Our ups and our downs. Guess today was my "down" day. Not all was bad, work was quite good today, praise God. Both lessons went really well. It was what happened between those two lessons that I am very disappointed in. Felt very let down by my phone today, how the battery died on me moments before a scheduled meet up time. I waited at the scheduled place but there was no show. There were no signs. I prayed that God's will be done cos without a phone meant no call, texts or internet, there was no communication and all that was left was prayer and trust in God. God gave me the patience to wait. I waited eagerly. Tried to start up the phone again, but the said smartphone boot up takes longer than sixty seconds, therefore eating up more of the reserved battery. Disappointing indeed. Half an hour later bumped into someone whom suggested the appointment may have been forgotten. Reluctantly I went back home to charge up the phone and powered up to check if everything was ok. Everything was fine. Apparently a text message was sent to me very near the time of meeting, but I still received nothing, even though battery was getting charged up. So, no reply from me (because of no batt!) resulted in no meeting up. What an epic fail! Sigh...! Everything else didn't matter. My sallow face reflected my mood. Total disappointment.
Nobody has any idea what this meant to me. Ok, maybe God does. Maybe it's His way of saying, "Son, give it up. Submit to me!" Arghh!!!
In my peed off mood, I shall no longer tolerate my phone having no battery, so tonight I went ahead with buying an in-car charger for my HTC Magic. Very cheap, only £1.87 total price inclusive of delivery. I can't believe this whole thing was messed up due to a dead battery. I maybe should not have unplugged the charger at 97% this morning. That 3% more power could have made all the difference to my day.... or could it have...?
Nobody has any idea what this meant to me. Ok, maybe God does. Maybe it's His way of saying, "Son, give it up. Submit to me!" Arghh!!!
In my peed off mood, I shall no longer tolerate my phone having no battery, so tonight I went ahead with buying an in-car charger for my HTC Magic. Very cheap, only £1.87 total price inclusive of delivery. I can't believe this whole thing was messed up due to a dead battery. I maybe should not have unplugged the charger at 97% this morning. That 3% more power could have made all the difference to my day.... or could it have...?
09 April 2011
If it is to last...(part 2)
Tonight went quite well. Weather was nice. Conversation flowed. Food was so-so. Wasn't as expected but at least the company was good. Made all the difference. =) Learnt a few more things as well. Ok, noted for future reference =)
Feeling quite privileged and I know it is by the grace of God that I am. Impromptu worship session was nice also. Quite a funny and nice feeling. Nerves were nowhere in sight. Felt very peaceful. Nice one! :) Still, take it easy. If it is to last... the Lord must come first.
James 1: 17 - "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows."
I am grateful Lord for what I have. I am grateful for what you have blessed me with. I fully trust in You with all my life and know You are in control of everything. Therefore I shall not think too much or do too much. Lord, I cast it all unto You. Amen =)
Feeling quite privileged and I know it is by the grace of God that I am. Impromptu worship session was nice also. Quite a funny and nice feeling. Nerves were nowhere in sight. Felt very peaceful. Nice one! :) Still, take it easy. If it is to last... the Lord must come first.
James 1: 17 - "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows."
I am grateful Lord for what I have. I am grateful for what you have blessed me with. I fully trust in You with all my life and know You are in control of everything. Therefore I shall not think too much or do too much. Lord, I cast it all unto You. Amen =)
08 April 2011
If it is to last...
If it is to last, I must submit it to the Lord.
If it is to last, I must stay level-headed.
If it is to last, I must do things differently.
If it is to last, I must pray more.
I must seek first His kingdom and maybe this will be added unto to me.
If not, I should not mind, because I should look to please God above all else. It should always be His will over mine.
I want this, but I want to please God more. He knows what's best for me, even better than I know myself. Keeping close to God really keeps me going, in all aspects of my daily life. On my most taxing times I look up to the heavens and draw strength from Him. He's truly amazing and awesome and my sole Provider.
I am confident He is my Provider, my Consultant, my Compass.
I am excited yet calm, surprised yet still, eager yet patient :)
If it is to last, I must stay level-headed.
If it is to last, I must do things differently.
If it is to last, I must pray more.
I must seek first His kingdom and maybe this will be added unto to me.
If not, I should not mind, because I should look to please God above all else. It should always be His will over mine.
I want this, but I want to please God more. He knows what's best for me, even better than I know myself. Keeping close to God really keeps me going, in all aspects of my daily life. On my most taxing times I look up to the heavens and draw strength from Him. He's truly amazing and awesome and my sole Provider.
I am confident He is my Provider, my Consultant, my Compass.
I am excited yet calm, surprised yet still, eager yet patient :)
27 March 2011
Blessed brothers
Had a really good evening tonight. After Bible study I went to dinner with Vince and Gary. The dinner was unplanned. Initial idea was to go to Rumours, then we checked out La Tasca, a Turkish grill place, Mussel Inn and then finally we settled for Pulcinella on Hope Street.
The dinner was was quite impromptu, but I was glad we chose the Italian restaurant because we had good seats with lighting through the window and the glass entrance. Red and white large checked table cloth and light wooden chairs gave it a nice Italian "homely" feel (reminds me of the Dolmio pasta sauce adverts). The waitresses Italian accented English also completed the authentic Italian feel. Haha! Enough of these descriptions as I am not here to review the restaurant nor the food. =P
We had a three course meal, and over the sharing of food we shared about our lives and how great God has been to us individually. Besides being Chinese and roughly the same age, the biggest thing the three of us had in common was the fact that we were at a crossroad of our lives and God is leading us into new adventures. We all had good news to share!
The good news
Vince will be going to China to teach English. After months of praying to God for direction and not knowing where to go. After facing a numbers of disappointments when doors closed on him, God has finally showed Vince where He wants him to be and provided this great opportunity for him uproot and move to the land of the unknown. Obviously this is an exciting time for Vince, but also a very big move and one which really needs God's guidance and His presence. I remember just a few months back Vince was saying how he felt quite lost at the crossroads of his life and was seeking God's will. Aaron reminded him to "enjoy this time of sabbatical" and during this time God could be preparing something great for Vince. Now here we are and we now know where it is God is leading him to. =)
Gary was praying and seeking God's will regarding his career. His heart's desire was to be a chef and he had applied for various jobs as a commis chef. Also met with a few disappointing responses from applications Gary did not give up in applying nor in prayer. Eventually last Friday he was given the opportunity of a work trial in a high class restaurant about ten minutes drive away from his house. Although there was a slight mix up with the time of his arrival to the trial. Although there were two other people doing the same work trial too. Although Gary was asked to perform certain tasks he had not done before. Despite all these things, he was offered the job over the other candidates!! How amazing is that! In today's world when it is so hard to find a job. It's such a competitive market where sometimes qualifications and work experience could mean nothing because of job cuts everywhere. But that did not stop Gary from getting the job. When God is for you, nothing will be against you! This is another story of God's awesomeness and a display of His amazing love and providence for Gary! =)
It was a great evening of sharing about God's greatness and generally it was a very happy time at the table. The restaurant wasn't too busy either so noise level was minimal and we managed to have good conversations. I felt really at peace over dinner and felt God's amazingness. The three of us at the table were at the crossroads stage of our lives. We were all heading into new directions with God as our compass.
As for me, well I am coming to the end of my franchise with the national driving school AA. I have been with them since day one, trained and qualified with them and then took a franchise from November 2009. This will end on the 30th of March 2011 (this coming Wednesday). During this time I have met a lot of fantastic people through the training and also as a qualified instructor. God has been with me throughout the whole process: the theory test, the extended driving test and the most dreaded test of instructional ability. When I felt at my lowest, when I struggled with things the most, God provided me with people who would give me encouragement, give me inspiration to fire me back up. These included family, friends, Christians and non-Christians. Throughout it all I was reminded that God has a plan to prosper me, a plan not to harm me but give me hope and a future. On the day I qualified I knew I had nothing to boast but to boast in the grace and love of God for me and my future. It was strongly affirmed that this was a path God wanted me to be in.
Working as a driving instructor has it's many ups and downs. I found myself at the mercy of the weather on numerous occasions and it was mighty frustrating. I ranted and moaned but ultimately I know God was still in control. After being with the franchise for sixteen months I have learnt enough about the industry to become confident enough to start up my own business, my own driving school where I give tuition in my private vehicle and no longer rely on the franchise brand to help me attract potential pupils. Truth be told, I have not had any AA-introduced pupils for at least six to seven months now. Every pupil whom I've met have come through word of mouth, which again I put down to God's providence. He has provided enough for me to sustain myself and I rely on that rather than rely on a national franchise. "Going independent" has it's risks and I had carefully considered my options before deciding on sending the letter of termination to the franchise. I then had to look for a suitable vehicle to give tuition in, install dual controls, find driving instructor insurance, order a roof sign and order accessories for the vehicle. This is finally all complete after a hectic four weeks and I am now only awaiting my roof sign to arrive and everything will be all set for my to start my first day of a new business on Friday 1st April.
A new adventure
I am so looking forward to starting this new adventure as well. God has been there throughout this setting up process too and helped me find the right car, getting a good deal, helped me find the right insurance at the right price. He blessed me with instructor friends who'd offer lots of help and advice as I was setting up and when I was most frustrated recently and occasional self-doubt, He once again blessed me with reassurance that I can do it, that I have a good car, that everything will be ok! :)
I am very thankful to God for His wonderful self and I am forever grateful. Not one day goes by without me thinking of how amazing He is to me and I look up to the sky and smile. I want to venture into this new journey with God and I look forward to the road ahead, wherever it might take me. I won't have to worry because I know God will be with me every step of the way =)
Jeremiah 29:11
"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
The dinner was was quite impromptu, but I was glad we chose the Italian restaurant because we had good seats with lighting through the window and the glass entrance. Red and white large checked table cloth and light wooden chairs gave it a nice Italian "homely" feel (reminds me of the Dolmio pasta sauce adverts). The waitresses Italian accented English also completed the authentic Italian feel. Haha! Enough of these descriptions as I am not here to review the restaurant nor the food. =P
We had a three course meal, and over the sharing of food we shared about our lives and how great God has been to us individually. Besides being Chinese and roughly the same age, the biggest thing the three of us had in common was the fact that we were at a crossroad of our lives and God is leading us into new adventures. We all had good news to share!
The good news
Vince will be going to China to teach English. After months of praying to God for direction and not knowing where to go. After facing a numbers of disappointments when doors closed on him, God has finally showed Vince where He wants him to be and provided this great opportunity for him uproot and move to the land of the unknown. Obviously this is an exciting time for Vince, but also a very big move and one which really needs God's guidance and His presence. I remember just a few months back Vince was saying how he felt quite lost at the crossroads of his life and was seeking God's will. Aaron reminded him to "enjoy this time of sabbatical" and during this time God could be preparing something great for Vince. Now here we are and we now know where it is God is leading him to. =)
Gary was praying and seeking God's will regarding his career. His heart's desire was to be a chef and he had applied for various jobs as a commis chef. Also met with a few disappointing responses from applications Gary did not give up in applying nor in prayer. Eventually last Friday he was given the opportunity of a work trial in a high class restaurant about ten minutes drive away from his house. Although there was a slight mix up with the time of his arrival to the trial. Although there were two other people doing the same work trial too. Although Gary was asked to perform certain tasks he had not done before. Despite all these things, he was offered the job over the other candidates!! How amazing is that! In today's world when it is so hard to find a job. It's such a competitive market where sometimes qualifications and work experience could mean nothing because of job cuts everywhere. But that did not stop Gary from getting the job. When God is for you, nothing will be against you! This is another story of God's awesomeness and a display of His amazing love and providence for Gary! =)
It was a great evening of sharing about God's greatness and generally it was a very happy time at the table. The restaurant wasn't too busy either so noise level was minimal and we managed to have good conversations. I felt really at peace over dinner and felt God's amazingness. The three of us at the table were at the crossroads stage of our lives. We were all heading into new directions with God as our compass.
As for me, well I am coming to the end of my franchise with the national driving school AA. I have been with them since day one, trained and qualified with them and then took a franchise from November 2009. This will end on the 30th of March 2011 (this coming Wednesday). During this time I have met a lot of fantastic people through the training and also as a qualified instructor. God has been with me throughout the whole process: the theory test, the extended driving test and the most dreaded test of instructional ability. When I felt at my lowest, when I struggled with things the most, God provided me with people who would give me encouragement, give me inspiration to fire me back up. These included family, friends, Christians and non-Christians. Throughout it all I was reminded that God has a plan to prosper me, a plan not to harm me but give me hope and a future. On the day I qualified I knew I had nothing to boast but to boast in the grace and love of God for me and my future. It was strongly affirmed that this was a path God wanted me to be in.
Working as a driving instructor has it's many ups and downs. I found myself at the mercy of the weather on numerous occasions and it was mighty frustrating. I ranted and moaned but ultimately I know God was still in control. After being with the franchise for sixteen months I have learnt enough about the industry to become confident enough to start up my own business, my own driving school where I give tuition in my private vehicle and no longer rely on the franchise brand to help me attract potential pupils. Truth be told, I have not had any AA-introduced pupils for at least six to seven months now. Every pupil whom I've met have come through word of mouth, which again I put down to God's providence. He has provided enough for me to sustain myself and I rely on that rather than rely on a national franchise. "Going independent" has it's risks and I had carefully considered my options before deciding on sending the letter of termination to the franchise. I then had to look for a suitable vehicle to give tuition in, install dual controls, find driving instructor insurance, order a roof sign and order accessories for the vehicle. This is finally all complete after a hectic four weeks and I am now only awaiting my roof sign to arrive and everything will be all set for my to start my first day of a new business on Friday 1st April.
A new adventure
I am so looking forward to starting this new adventure as well. God has been there throughout this setting up process too and helped me find the right car, getting a good deal, helped me find the right insurance at the right price. He blessed me with instructor friends who'd offer lots of help and advice as I was setting up and when I was most frustrated recently and occasional self-doubt, He once again blessed me with reassurance that I can do it, that I have a good car, that everything will be ok! :)
I am very thankful to God for His wonderful self and I am forever grateful. Not one day goes by without me thinking of how amazing He is to me and I look up to the sky and smile. I want to venture into this new journey with God and I look forward to the road ahead, wherever it might take me. I won't have to worry because I know God will be with me every step of the way =)
Jeremiah 29:11
"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
10 February 2011
Free to jump
How I long to be free from sin, free from bondage, free from troubles of life, free from worries of the world. However, life can't be all plain sailing, can it? Some stuff that trouble me I brought upon myself. This I know and I regret, repent and turn away. But have I let go? If so, will it still trouble me? There are times I realise I bring troubles and worries upon myself because I haven't truly let go. I am still curious about certain things, and I check them out, and I let my findings 'affect' me. This can be positive or negative effects. Probably cos I still care. I know if I feed my 'curiosity' there is a 50-50 chance I can be affected positively, yet at the same there is also the negative part to deal with. What if? It's still a big risk isn't it? 50-50 chance of making the wrong decision. Sometimes you take the plunge: you hold your breath, you close your eyes, go by faith and jump! The moments you are in 'freefall' feel very surreal. You've done it. You've taken the gamble. You've taken the risk. This 'freefall' moment can last for any length of time: seconds, minutes, days or months (you get the drift), then just like a parachuter when you fall pass all the clouds and the air clears up, you start to see which 'landing pad' you will end up on. Remember it's 50-50. You chose to take the leap. Nobody pushed you. You had the time to think things through. You jumped knowing you might land on gold or you might land on manure (just random examples guys!).
The jump
I took that jump. In fact, I take these "jumps" every day. We all do. Mini "jumps" or big "jumps", they are still risks. The "jump" I took recently has landed me in manure and I can't blame anybody but myself. I am heavily disappointed. I really thought the 50% of "gold" would be enough for me to land on. But no, I ended up in manure (I'm not in trouble, don't worry, again just example words). What can I do? Once I can stand up and get out I will catch my breath (it's gonna smell reaally bad) and I will start cleaning myself off these things. Cleaning the crap off. And hope that the stench will wear off after numerous showers, scrubbing. But that's gonna be of no help if I wear the same clothes that I wore when I fell into the manure. How can I be free from stench if I clean myself yet still put on the old stinky clothes? Decision: get rid of the old clothes too. In fact, burn them. Get something new. Be free from the stinky clothes. Tonight I have decided to do that. Burn stinky stuff...
The title of my blog is My Life's Lessons. Well what did I learn from this? Well, here's what I learnt. Stick to what you know best. If you take a long time to trust someone, to take a risk with them, then just keep doing that. I changed my ways of doing things and took a "jump". That's why I now stink. Lesson point of the day: "Do not trust easily, Gordon!".
The jump
I took that jump. In fact, I take these "jumps" every day. We all do. Mini "jumps" or big "jumps", they are still risks. The "jump" I took recently has landed me in manure and I can't blame anybody but myself. I am heavily disappointed. I really thought the 50% of "gold" would be enough for me to land on. But no, I ended up in manure (I'm not in trouble, don't worry, again just example words). What can I do? Once I can stand up and get out I will catch my breath (it's gonna smell reaally bad) and I will start cleaning myself off these things. Cleaning the crap off. And hope that the stench will wear off after numerous showers, scrubbing. But that's gonna be of no help if I wear the same clothes that I wore when I fell into the manure. How can I be free from stench if I clean myself yet still put on the old stinky clothes? Decision: get rid of the old clothes too. In fact, burn them. Get something new. Be free from the stinky clothes. Tonight I have decided to do that. Burn stinky stuff...
The title of my blog is My Life's Lessons. Well what did I learn from this? Well, here's what I learnt. Stick to what you know best. If you take a long time to trust someone, to take a risk with them, then just keep doing that. I changed my ways of doing things and took a "jump". That's why I now stink. Lesson point of the day: "Do not trust easily, Gordon!".
07 February 2011
Nosy people
I should watch who I open up to sometimes. I think a storm is now brewing. I think I am about to suffer repercussions over stuff I've said during a moment when I felt trust and when I let myself be vulnerable.
I might be wrong though, but the feelings I get inside is of nostalgia. Nostalgia, not of the good kind, but the kind that makes me wanna say, "What the heck! Not this again? Why this all over again??!"
I wish people will leave me alone. Why can I be left alone? Why do people have to mind my business and ask questions or ask to speak to me? I've done it all before. Been there, done that. Doesn't work. Why do I have to meet people that I don't want? Am I too soft? Can't I say no??
Of course I can say No, but then I will always think what if people think I have something to hide? In fact I have nothing to hide. Whatever you ask of me you will get 100% truthful and honest answers. Ok, I will arm myself for that.
Just don't ask questions if you don't think you can handle the answers. And once I give my answers, just take them, digest them and leave. Don't come running back with questions or whatever. You had the opportunity to ask more at that point. Accept me for who I am and move on!
Ultimately... I think all this trouble stems from one source...
I might be wrong though, but the feelings I get inside is of nostalgia. Nostalgia, not of the good kind, but the kind that makes me wanna say, "What the heck! Not this again? Why this all over again??!"
I wish people will leave me alone. Why can I be left alone? Why do people have to mind my business and ask questions or ask to speak to me? I've done it all before. Been there, done that. Doesn't work. Why do I have to meet people that I don't want? Am I too soft? Can't I say no??
Of course I can say No, but then I will always think what if people think I have something to hide? In fact I have nothing to hide. Whatever you ask of me you will get 100% truthful and honest answers. Ok, I will arm myself for that.
Just don't ask questions if you don't think you can handle the answers. And once I give my answers, just take them, digest them and leave. Don't come running back with questions or whatever. You had the opportunity to ask more at that point. Accept me for who I am and move on!
Ultimately... I think all this trouble stems from one source...
03 July 2010
Glasgow Rain
It's raining outside and it has gotten quite chilly as well. Another evening of stark contract to the recent weather we have had in Glasgow recently. For the past number of weeks Glasgow has seen daily weather temperatures averaging 24C (according to my car trip computer) and we have seen days with blistering sunshine which puts lots of smiles onto peoples' faces. Supermarkets saw a huge rise in the sale of disposable barbeque sets along with all the barbeque foods. The sale of ice cream and cold drinks would also soar alongside that, benefitting the smaller businesses like newsagents, coffeeshops etc. Parks and green grass areas would be swarmed with visitors and their frisbees. They would sunbathe and have a barbeque as well then later drop litter around the overfilled bin that was not expecting to be used so much. The poor park attendants have to clean up so much more around this time. Tourists and visitors who arrived to Glasgow at this time would be very fortunate to have this weather and would definitely benefit from the sunlight as they check out the world famous architecture or come for university graduations etc. This weather can be described as "too good".
Glasgow is never famous for being dry or sunny or for it's good weather. Ask anybody local to describe the Glasgow weather and you'd hear something similar to "we get four seasons in one day". Check out any foreign nationals who have stayed in Glasgow for a period of time and you'll find they have traded in their shorts for long trousers and also an umbrella. "Glasgow weather is just unpredictable", however we know it's so ever-changing that we aren't that surprised by it anymore. But this recent heatwave did take us by surprise. It's so different. It's so unusual.
To be honest, hearing and seeing the rain outside tonight made me happy. It gave me a sense of normality. It was like Glasgow for the past few weeks has been too different. Glasgow in my whole life has never had so much sunshine for such prolonged periods. It was too unusual and affected my way of life. I don't mind sunlight, don't get me wrong. I am not a vampire who longs for darkness, but too much sunshine in Glasgow is just not normal. We've never experienced this before and frankly I do not know what to do in it. Besides being at work which is by the far the most boring thing to do - sitting inside a five door hatchback car being driven around Glasgow for prolonged hours seeing people enjoying themselves outside just makes life sucks! Being in the passenger front seat for the majority of my work time means my left arm gets more tanned than my right and this deep down really annoys me like nothing else. The weather is too hot to wear a shirt so I wear t-shirts or polo shirts for comfort, but then I realise the colour difference in my arms when I get home. What's worse is the sunlight also makes my skin itch and there were a few evenings when I find myself scratching the new tanned skin. Some people suggest using sun factor but personally I'd rather put on sun factor on my body and sunbathe like everyone else. Why should I put on sun factor to "encourage" further tanning? Even in an office job I'd finish around 5pm and can still go out and enjoy some sunshine with friends perhaps, but being a driving instructor I spend the best part of the day in a car getting tanned one sided.
I really do enjoy my job, but I'd much rather be outside getting an even tan. Maybe I am vain. Yes, maybe I am. I find having uneven tan marks very horrible. I'd rather be tanned all round or fair skinned all round. What's the point in looking tanned and light togther? Just not nice! =(
I love the summer sunshine whilst I am on holiday. I don't mind sweating away wearing shorts, sandals, sleeveless tops and carrying a backpack whilst touring Hong Kong. And of course with sun factor on. But I just cannot do such thing being at work.
Glasgow weather should just stop pretending to be what it's not. Just go back to being unpredictable, to be ever changing and sunshine should just play hide and seek with the clouds as it used to it. Us as human beings too - stop pretending we are something else or someone else. We can pretend for a while, for a day, two days, two year but deep down you're not, and one day it will be revealed. Being something you are not is just very difficult. Putting on a mask. Changing yourself to please people. If you are yourself then you read from your own script. You have your own dialogue. But changing yourself changes your character and you have to re-write your dialogue in order to suit the character you're playing. But God has already assigned you your role and character and has already destined you for great things. Why change that? If people are not happy with your character they can cast someone else for their "movie". You know your own CV and should keep on displaying that to those interested. Yeah, your life CV is shaped by God. What you don't have you don't necessary need to have, so don't need to strive to achieve. And if you do strive to achieve something, then listen to your conscience telling you if it's the right thing to do. If not, then reconsider what you're intentions are. For your benefit or for the benefit of others.
Life is too short, don't kid yourself on. Don't change yourself to please others. Going out of your way to help people is nice. However, don't change your personality just to please people. You cannot be what you are not.
My current passions are:
Working out: keeping and shaping a nice body which is the temple for the Holy Spirit.
Teaching people to drive: the happiness of pupils passing their driving test is undescribable. Only instructors will understand this.
Living a life pleasing to God: I am not the best Christian in the world, far from it, but I desire to be closer to God, to keep pure for Him and serving Him. To stay pure for Him I have abstained from viewing anything with adult contents for almost three months. This is through my computer, on tv or even anything tempting on the streets. I am very pleased that I can keep strong and God is my reason for this. I hope this can continue for a very long time, just like me abstaining from crisps since March 2008!! =D
Glasgow is never famous for being dry or sunny or for it's good weather. Ask anybody local to describe the Glasgow weather and you'd hear something similar to "we get four seasons in one day". Check out any foreign nationals who have stayed in Glasgow for a period of time and you'll find they have traded in their shorts for long trousers and also an umbrella. "Glasgow weather is just unpredictable", however we know it's so ever-changing that we aren't that surprised by it anymore. But this recent heatwave did take us by surprise. It's so different. It's so unusual.
To be honest, hearing and seeing the rain outside tonight made me happy. It gave me a sense of normality. It was like Glasgow for the past few weeks has been too different. Glasgow in my whole life has never had so much sunshine for such prolonged periods. It was too unusual and affected my way of life. I don't mind sunlight, don't get me wrong. I am not a vampire who longs for darkness, but too much sunshine in Glasgow is just not normal. We've never experienced this before and frankly I do not know what to do in it. Besides being at work which is by the far the most boring thing to do - sitting inside a five door hatchback car being driven around Glasgow for prolonged hours seeing people enjoying themselves outside just makes life sucks! Being in the passenger front seat for the majority of my work time means my left arm gets more tanned than my right and this deep down really annoys me like nothing else. The weather is too hot to wear a shirt so I wear t-shirts or polo shirts for comfort, but then I realise the colour difference in my arms when I get home. What's worse is the sunlight also makes my skin itch and there were a few evenings when I find myself scratching the new tanned skin. Some people suggest using sun factor but personally I'd rather put on sun factor on my body and sunbathe like everyone else. Why should I put on sun factor to "encourage" further tanning? Even in an office job I'd finish around 5pm and can still go out and enjoy some sunshine with friends perhaps, but being a driving instructor I spend the best part of the day in a car getting tanned one sided.
I really do enjoy my job, but I'd much rather be outside getting an even tan. Maybe I am vain. Yes, maybe I am. I find having uneven tan marks very horrible. I'd rather be tanned all round or fair skinned all round. What's the point in looking tanned and light togther? Just not nice! =(
I love the summer sunshine whilst I am on holiday. I don't mind sweating away wearing shorts, sandals, sleeveless tops and carrying a backpack whilst touring Hong Kong. And of course with sun factor on. But I just cannot do such thing being at work.
Glasgow weather should just stop pretending to be what it's not. Just go back to being unpredictable, to be ever changing and sunshine should just play hide and seek with the clouds as it used to it. Us as human beings too - stop pretending we are something else or someone else. We can pretend for a while, for a day, two days, two year but deep down you're not, and one day it will be revealed. Being something you are not is just very difficult. Putting on a mask. Changing yourself to please people. If you are yourself then you read from your own script. You have your own dialogue. But changing yourself changes your character and you have to re-write your dialogue in order to suit the character you're playing. But God has already assigned you your role and character and has already destined you for great things. Why change that? If people are not happy with your character they can cast someone else for their "movie". You know your own CV and should keep on displaying that to those interested. Yeah, your life CV is shaped by God. What you don't have you don't necessary need to have, so don't need to strive to achieve. And if you do strive to achieve something, then listen to your conscience telling you if it's the right thing to do. If not, then reconsider what you're intentions are. For your benefit or for the benefit of others.
Life is too short, don't kid yourself on. Don't change yourself to please others. Going out of your way to help people is nice. However, don't change your personality just to please people. You cannot be what you are not.
My current passions are:
Working out: keeping and shaping a nice body which is the temple for the Holy Spirit.
Teaching people to drive: the happiness of pupils passing their driving test is undescribable. Only instructors will understand this.
Living a life pleasing to God: I am not the best Christian in the world, far from it, but I desire to be closer to God, to keep pure for Him and serving Him. To stay pure for Him I have abstained from viewing anything with adult contents for almost three months. This is through my computer, on tv or even anything tempting on the streets. I am very pleased that I can keep strong and God is my reason for this. I hope this can continue for a very long time, just like me abstaining from crisps since March 2008!! =D
23 March 2010
17 February 2010
Caught in the Middle
It's not a nice feeling to be caught in the middle. Between the good and better. Between a rock and a hard place. Between two girls. Between two guys. Between family members. Between two job offers.
It's not a nice feeling. Especially when emotions are involved.
It's not a nice feeling. Especially when emotions are involved.
04 February 2010
Beginning the countdown
So it's almost the end of the week after I handed in my notice of leave to my HR company. I guess now's the time if I had a monthly calendar, for me start red crossing off the days of the week until I reach the final "D-day" which will be Friday 26th February, where I will have circled several times. But no, I don't have a calendar and so I won't be crossing out anything. Instead, I'll just note down how things progress as my days in the office come to an end.
Monday (1st) was when I handed my notice in to my manager right at the end of my half-day shift. He was a little surprised to receive it now, although he had been expecting it since a few months back when he took up this position (my previous manager emigrated to Australia and is currently enjoying the sun and beaches with his family!). The shift from 8:45am-12:30pm went by quite smoothly without any problems. I also managed to print off some driving instructor stuff before I packed up for the day. Making using of the otherwise limited resources whilst I still had the chance. Haha! It was tonight that after praying I decided to ask AA for pupils. I set my maximum pupil number to 2 per week, just to start off with. I wait and pray.
Tuesday (2nd) I went to Body Pump class for 7am and felt fresh for my shift. But for some reason I got a bit frustrated with the usual training of two people. Dunno why, maybe I felt a frustrated because of something petty. The frustration appeared when I felt my "good intentions" were not appreciated. I couldn't wait for the shift to end.
Wednesday (3rd) Shift was better than the day before. Had checked my AA diary for new pupils and didn't see anything. In the evening a potential pupil who happened to be a friend contacted me asking if I were free to go out for driving lessons. We had a discussion about lessons before Christmas but nothing came of it, mainly due to the horrendous weather at the start of the year. Was told they would do lessons once the snow cleared. However, the snow was pelting down yesterday when I was asked if I were available. How ironic! The weather had been nice in the past two weeks but no signs from the pupil but now that it's snowing (again!). Excitement bestowed my heart as I called the pupil to arrange our first official meet up in a few days. In the back of my mind I reminded myself of God's goodness to me, blessing me with this pupil at this time :) Later on I checked my AA diary again and lo and behold a new pupil was assigned to me!! Whoo-hoo! Someone quite local as well which would make lessons much more convenient without the long travelling time. Two pupils in one night! Thanks be to God!!
Today... well this morning as I was leaving Greens Gym, I had to wait for the car park barrier arm to raise before I could drive out. A man saw me stick my fob at the machine and then called out to me, "Big man, how much do you charge an hour?" I told him the price and then he said he would be interested in taking some lessons. Looking at his age and the fact that he told me he had not been driving for thirty years due to injury helped me conclude he has a license but just needs refreshers. Nonetheless, I gave him my card and asked him to call me later to discuss lessons etc. I could not stop any longer as there were cars waiting to leave the car park too. My heart was so happy and filled with glee because again I felt God's provision for me. Three pupils in two days. Ok, I won't count my eggs before they hatch, maybe only two in two days, but still, I was definitely reminded of God's love as I drove to work. It added another spring to my step, along with the excitement after Circuits class. =)
So it goes to show, when God blesses you, nothing can stop it. It's just amazing and so overwhelming! Praise God! =D
Monday (1st) was when I handed my notice in to my manager right at the end of my half-day shift. He was a little surprised to receive it now, although he had been expecting it since a few months back when he took up this position (my previous manager emigrated to Australia and is currently enjoying the sun and beaches with his family!). The shift from 8:45am-12:30pm went by quite smoothly without any problems. I also managed to print off some driving instructor stuff before I packed up for the day. Making using of the otherwise limited resources whilst I still had the chance. Haha! It was tonight that after praying I decided to ask AA for pupils. I set my maximum pupil number to 2 per week, just to start off with. I wait and pray.
Tuesday (2nd) I went to Body Pump class for 7am and felt fresh for my shift. But for some reason I got a bit frustrated with the usual training of two people. Dunno why, maybe I felt a frustrated because of something petty. The frustration appeared when I felt my "good intentions" were not appreciated. I couldn't wait for the shift to end.
Wednesday (3rd) Shift was better than the day before. Had checked my AA diary for new pupils and didn't see anything. In the evening a potential pupil who happened to be a friend contacted me asking if I were free to go out for driving lessons. We had a discussion about lessons before Christmas but nothing came of it, mainly due to the horrendous weather at the start of the year. Was told they would do lessons once the snow cleared. However, the snow was pelting down yesterday when I was asked if I were available. How ironic! The weather had been nice in the past two weeks but no signs from the pupil but now that it's snowing (again!). Excitement bestowed my heart as I called the pupil to arrange our first official meet up in a few days. In the back of my mind I reminded myself of God's goodness to me, blessing me with this pupil at this time :) Later on I checked my AA diary again and lo and behold a new pupil was assigned to me!! Whoo-hoo! Someone quite local as well which would make lessons much more convenient without the long travelling time. Two pupils in one night! Thanks be to God!!
Today... well this morning as I was leaving Greens Gym, I had to wait for the car park barrier arm to raise before I could drive out. A man saw me stick my fob at the machine and then called out to me, "Big man, how much do you charge an hour?" I told him the price and then he said he would be interested in taking some lessons. Looking at his age and the fact that he told me he had not been driving for thirty years due to injury helped me conclude he has a license but just needs refreshers. Nonetheless, I gave him my card and asked him to call me later to discuss lessons etc. I could not stop any longer as there were cars waiting to leave the car park too. My heart was so happy and filled with glee because again I felt God's provision for me. Three pupils in two days. Ok, I won't count my eggs before they hatch, maybe only two in two days, but still, I was definitely reminded of God's love as I drove to work. It added another spring to my step, along with the excitement after Circuits class. =)
So it goes to show, when God blesses you, nothing can stop it. It's just amazing and so overwhelming! Praise God! =D
08 January 2010
Coldness
This blogging business is not an easy thing to keep up. Effort is required to put thoughts into writing words and how to chain those words into sentences that make sense. Have been busy this week but here I am wanting to blog again and say Hi to everyone. =)
Have been thinking just few moments ago, "why am I blogging?" Do I blog for myself? Or is it for other people? Is it cos I know there are people reading from around the world? It is cos there have been 6332 hits on my page since it was created at the end of 2008? Hmm... I think it is a mixture of both. Cos I initially started this blog as a "diary" sort of thing. I remember pre-warning everyone there might be words of honest that might shock you or upset you, but I'll write what I want. But at the same time, whenever I type up a post I do use the backspace button quite a lot. Not just for spelling mistakes or grammar, but to remove stuff that I don't think "appropriate" to display to the world. But then again Gordon, who are you afraid of? And why? Ack, I don't know. I think it's am image thing. The fear of destroying that "good guy" image of myself. The fear of giving a bad impression being a Christian man, or that of a driving instructor. Yes, at the end of the day, I do consider how people think about me.
Isn't it sad? I think it is a little. I mean, sometimes I wish I could say and do whatever I want. However, there are always other things that I consider too. How will people feel if I said this? What would they do if I did that? I try to make sure people around me are happy. I try to look out for those who are alone or needing attention, but might be too shy to ask etc. When I can make people happy, then I am happy. It gives me a sense of "accomplishment". In other words, I put people first very often. A good thing perhaps. However, at the same time I find that I deny myself very often too. Many a times I feel one way, but say another just to help ease a situation. Many a times I want to do one thing, but do something else just to help someone or make sure someone is safe. Classic example - I hate complaints. Repetitive complaints from repetitive patterns of behaviour that has the same outcome. In my laymen terms it is described as "you reap what you sow!" For example: A - "I am so tired! It is making me soo moody!". B - "Oh, why? Did you not get enough sleep?". A - "No, I didn't get to bed till X time cos I was out (*doing something useless*)". B - "Did you forget you had work/ uni today?". A - "No, I didn't forget. Just didn't feel like sleeping/ Just had so much fun!" Well, well, person A, in all honesty, you chose not to sleep for work or study the next day. It comes as no surprise sleeplessness can cause irritation as it affects concentration and reactions etc. So you should be aware of your own actions and even if you are in a bad mood because of your own decisions, other people have not done anything against you, so should NOT be feeling the wrath of your mood swings. So bite your tongue (not literally), and just smile and get on with what you're supposed to do. Then look at the source of your problem (lack of sleep) and look to solve it - Get more sleep! Simple! Am I just being a typical guy here who sees a problem and tries to solve it?
It's the same with bitching and stuff. I mean, girls complain more than guys, it's true. They have bitching sessions too! Whereas when guys get together it's more of a positive thing - guys watch movies or play on the games consoles or talk about cars, or does some DIY etc. Maybe on the odd occasion they will talk about girls and have a laugh. However, bitching and gossiping? What's the point? I really don't get it. Just be honest with the person you have a problem with - get any issues out in the open and sort it out. Some personalities don't get a long. Some don't have the chance to get along. Fine. That's life. But if there are clashes, then at least solve the immediate problem then try to avoid clashing again. Maybe easier said than done, but certainly sounds less complicated than holding on to "issues" in your heart all the time. It's tough you know. Free you heart of these unwanted issues. Learn to forgive. Learn to take the first step. Life is for living! Not for harvesting negative thoughts and wrong-doings etc. God has forgiven us, so we can forgive other people too, right?
Anyway the title of my blog..."Coldness" just describes the past two weeks. This morning the air temperature was -8C again according to my car's trip computer. I so didn't want to get up, but having a driving lesson at 11am meant I couldn't sleep in too long as I had to get up and shower and shave as well as have breakfast and brief myself of the Springburn area. The showering and shaving part is just part of my ordinary day's routine, however, with FROZEN PIPES in parts of my building it meant there was NO WATER supply for the kitchen side and since our hot water tank is in the kitchen it meant no hot water through the bathroom taps! Fortunately the electric shower produced hot water for bathing and, well for shaving too. Made the task more challenging of course. The pipes were frozen since yesterday morning, but thank GOD the water came back this afternoon after a neighbour called the Factor out for a visit. So that made preparation of dinner much easier tonight. Whereas yesterday mum and I had Asia Style takeaway so to avoid cooking and washing up. Also so much could get a well-deserved rest after work =)
Another thing about this coldness is how it affects the roads for drivers and pedestrians alike. Sigh!! Wonder when this "cold snap" would be over. C'mon!! If I weren't a self-employed driving instructor I would not be affected so much. But even in this below freezing weather where lessons are cancelled and driving tests are postponed, I still have to pay the same franchise fee! Argh!! Ok, don't worry Gordon. God will provide. He will take care of you =)
Ok, off to read the latest edition of Men's Health magazine now. =)
(6332)
Have been thinking just few moments ago, "why am I blogging?" Do I blog for myself? Or is it for other people? Is it cos I know there are people reading from around the world? It is cos there have been 6332 hits on my page since it was created at the end of 2008? Hmm... I think it is a mixture of both. Cos I initially started this blog as a "diary" sort of thing. I remember pre-warning everyone there might be words of honest that might shock you or upset you, but I'll write what I want. But at the same time, whenever I type up a post I do use the backspace button quite a lot. Not just for spelling mistakes or grammar, but to remove stuff that I don't think "appropriate" to display to the world. But then again Gordon, who are you afraid of? And why? Ack, I don't know. I think it's am image thing. The fear of destroying that "good guy" image of myself. The fear of giving a bad impression being a Christian man, or that of a driving instructor. Yes, at the end of the day, I do consider how people think about me.
Isn't it sad? I think it is a little. I mean, sometimes I wish I could say and do whatever I want. However, there are always other things that I consider too. How will people feel if I said this? What would they do if I did that? I try to make sure people around me are happy. I try to look out for those who are alone or needing attention, but might be too shy to ask etc. When I can make people happy, then I am happy. It gives me a sense of "accomplishment". In other words, I put people first very often. A good thing perhaps. However, at the same time I find that I deny myself very often too. Many a times I feel one way, but say another just to help ease a situation. Many a times I want to do one thing, but do something else just to help someone or make sure someone is safe. Classic example - I hate complaints. Repetitive complaints from repetitive patterns of behaviour that has the same outcome. In my laymen terms it is described as "you reap what you sow!" For example: A - "I am so tired! It is making me soo moody!". B - "Oh, why? Did you not get enough sleep?". A - "No, I didn't get to bed till X time cos I was out (*doing something useless*)". B - "Did you forget you had work/ uni today?". A - "No, I didn't forget. Just didn't feel like sleeping/ Just had so much fun!" Well, well, person A, in all honesty, you chose not to sleep for work or study the next day. It comes as no surprise sleeplessness can cause irritation as it affects concentration and reactions etc. So you should be aware of your own actions and even if you are in a bad mood because of your own decisions, other people have not done anything against you, so should NOT be feeling the wrath of your mood swings. So bite your tongue (not literally), and just smile and get on with what you're supposed to do. Then look at the source of your problem (lack of sleep) and look to solve it - Get more sleep! Simple! Am I just being a typical guy here who sees a problem and tries to solve it?
It's the same with bitching and stuff. I mean, girls complain more than guys, it's true. They have bitching sessions too! Whereas when guys get together it's more of a positive thing - guys watch movies or play on the games consoles or talk about cars, or does some DIY etc. Maybe on the odd occasion they will talk about girls and have a laugh. However, bitching and gossiping? What's the point? I really don't get it. Just be honest with the person you have a problem with - get any issues out in the open and sort it out. Some personalities don't get a long. Some don't have the chance to get along. Fine. That's life. But if there are clashes, then at least solve the immediate problem then try to avoid clashing again. Maybe easier said than done, but certainly sounds less complicated than holding on to "issues" in your heart all the time. It's tough you know. Free you heart of these unwanted issues. Learn to forgive. Learn to take the first step. Life is for living! Not for harvesting negative thoughts and wrong-doings etc. God has forgiven us, so we can forgive other people too, right?
Anyway the title of my blog..."Coldness" just describes the past two weeks. This morning the air temperature was -8C again according to my car's trip computer. I so didn't want to get up, but having a driving lesson at 11am meant I couldn't sleep in too long as I had to get up and shower and shave as well as have breakfast and brief myself of the Springburn area. The showering and shaving part is just part of my ordinary day's routine, however, with FROZEN PIPES in parts of my building it meant there was NO WATER supply for the kitchen side and since our hot water tank is in the kitchen it meant no hot water through the bathroom taps! Fortunately the electric shower produced hot water for bathing and, well for shaving too. Made the task more challenging of course. The pipes were frozen since yesterday morning, but thank GOD the water came back this afternoon after a neighbour called the Factor out for a visit. So that made preparation of dinner much easier tonight. Whereas yesterday mum and I had Asia Style takeaway so to avoid cooking and washing up. Also so much could get a well-deserved rest after work =)
Another thing about this coldness is how it affects the roads for drivers and pedestrians alike. Sigh!! Wonder when this "cold snap" would be over. C'mon!! If I weren't a self-employed driving instructor I would not be affected so much. But even in this below freezing weather where lessons are cancelled and driving tests are postponed, I still have to pay the same franchise fee! Argh!! Ok, don't worry Gordon. God will provide. He will take care of you =)
Ok, off to read the latest edition of Men's Health magazine now. =)
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16 December 2009
Nine days till Christmas!!
Those of you who follow my Facebook status might have read that I won a watch at the office Christmas night out last Friday. The Christmas night out took place last Friday at Hilton Grosvenor but I did not attend. I went to the gym instead after giving a driving lesson. We were all informed there would be a prize draw for all members of staff regardless of attendance, but I had not expected anything out of it at all.
Monday morning I was congratulated for winning a watch!! Haha! At first I was not sure what sort of watch it was. However, I did hear that there were other prizes like £300 worth of holiday vouchers, a Playstation 3, £40 Marks & Spencer vouchers etc and the lowest of the prizes were £10 vouchers. So my watch was listed around the top eight in value order. I was pretty surprised to see it was a Ben Sherman's watch when Fiona from the social committee dropped it off at my desk this morning. I am wearing it as I type this blog post. Just wanted to try it on. Haha! =P
This is totally God's blessing for me. Not luck, not chance, but God's grace. Grace is when we do nothing, yet God gives us something. Each and everyday we are surrounded by His grace and it is sufficient for us to live in. Just like we discussed over dinner tonight with two friends - we are indeed very fortunate to be where we are today. Each of us warmly clothed, sitting in a Chinese restaurant consuming Chinese food, drinking Chinese tea, having a laugh, sharing a good time. There are many people who are homeless, many who may die from the freezing cold weather. We might complain we are poor sometimes, but in fact, we actually live in abundance with what "little" we have. We should appreciate each and every thing we possess. We should learn to accredit it all to God above. Nothing we have here is ours, but is blessed by God. Even this watch! :)
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13 November 2009
Last weekend of freedom!
Yes, this is my last weekend to enjoy myself, relax before I go down to Leicester for my AA induction and come back with my new tuition car. So what will I be doing this weekend?
Tonight after work I will go for a few farewell drinks with my boss who is leaving for Australia. Then I'll be going to watch the latest disaster movie "2012" at 8pm. Man, I can't believe this will be my first visit to Cineworld since 21st October when I went to see "Couples Retreat". Almost four weeks ago man! That's disgraceful! I usually average once a week. In October I saw six movies. In August, ten movies. So I'm definitely NOT getting my money's worth this month. Reason for this? I've spent so much time on preparing for driving tuition: reading books, publications, talking to instructors. As well as attending church meetings etc. I have no more social life. No more time of leisure and it's sooo sad! Really! This morning I woke up and I asked myself WHY I have to be so busy? WHY have I not been to the gym? WHY can I not get to lie in in the mornings? WHY do I have to get up early again tomorrow? WHY WHY WHY? Yeah, you can tell I was a bit peeved off this morning. Things have settled down a bit, for now.
But seriously. This ain't easy man. I have so many things to read: finish off Instructional "Techniques and Practices" as well as reading new magazines that the Driving Instructor Association has sent me as part of their welcome pack for joining. Need to check driving instructor websites to keep myself updated with changes to the instructor world. Need to familiarise myself with test routes and areas of teaching, especially in Springburn area and the south side. I am familiar with east end with, Baillieston test area and I know enough of the west end, Anniesland test area to get me started teaching there. But south side I have no idea where to go and what to do where, and that's gonna be embarrassing! I only have one south side pupil for now, which is good. So will have to discuss with them what to do. Let's learn together! Lol! Joking aside, Saturday morning I will have to wake up early and go driving around two test centres and follow my printed out test routes from the DSA website, in hope of remembering where I should go to teach pupils in Anniesland and in Springburn. I'll start with Springburn as that is nearer my house. And nearer Costco. So after spending the morning in that area, I will pop into Costco for lunch then drive to Anniesland for an afternoon session, BEFORE going to Edinburgh church Coffee Night for 6pm. So you can imagine, by the end of the night I'm gonna be knackered. I don't hope to get back from Edinburgh that late. Event should finish 9:30pm and then there's the 45mins drive. No - I don't speed anymore. Need to watch what I'm doing as my career would be on the line!
Sunday... Sunday morning I think I will sleep in a little bit. Till 9am or something? That's considered late for me! How pitiful eh? Will probably get some reading done and might get to do some exercises at home. Won't go to the gym as I'll need more time for that and I am helping out with transport of PA equipment this Sunday as well, so will have to be at church for 12:45pm. I will be assisting Sunday School class during service. After service there will be a PA and Worship Team technical training session which I arranged, between 3:30pm-4:00pm. Then I will have Specsavers opticians appointment at 4:20pm!! Only around 5pm will I be free!!! But again, I don't know what I will do with that free time? Meet up with people from church and hang out for a bit? Do some more reading in my favourite Starbucks Borders till closing time of 7:30pm? Go home and make Japanese jelly for mum? Catch up on Flashforward online before the next episode comes out? The gym will close at 5:30pm. Argh!!
Then there's Monday, my second-last full day at work. I will finish at 5pm and then will be free. Then again, the above questions will come out? How do I spend my last free time?! More reading? Go to the gym? Go home to chill? (waste of time in my opinion) Or go to Tesco to buy food for Tuesday's trip to Leicester? I'll be taking the 1000hrs train from Glasgow Central on Tuesday, so I will need to pack on Monday night as well. I will bring my laptop down with me, not really for work, but so I can upload any pictures that I take and also update my blogs with what's happening. The AA have given me two night's stay in Hothorpe Hall as opposed to the standard one night stay, due to the fact that the course starts 10:30am on Wednesday morning and I would not make it down from Glasgow in time on Wednesday. However, for Tuesday night, only the room is provided. I'll have to provide my own dinner! Ooh! Maybe I will learn hunting and gathering skills and capture my own dinner! Or maybe roadkill! Maybe English rabbit will taste different from the Scottish lemon-baked rabbit I once had in Skye! ;-)
Anyway, yes... this weekend is gonna be busy busy and as long as it does not rain, it should be ok. If rain comes along, then my my, it's gonna be sooo bad!!
Here's the link to the conference hall where I will stay and attend the AA induction:
http://www.hothorpe.co.uk
(5397)
Tonight after work I will go for a few farewell drinks with my boss who is leaving for Australia. Then I'll be going to watch the latest disaster movie "2012" at 8pm. Man, I can't believe this will be my first visit to Cineworld since 21st October when I went to see "Couples Retreat". Almost four weeks ago man! That's disgraceful! I usually average once a week. In October I saw six movies. In August, ten movies. So I'm definitely NOT getting my money's worth this month. Reason for this? I've spent so much time on preparing for driving tuition: reading books, publications, talking to instructors. As well as attending church meetings etc. I have no more social life. No more time of leisure and it's sooo sad! Really! This morning I woke up and I asked myself WHY I have to be so busy? WHY have I not been to the gym? WHY can I not get to lie in in the mornings? WHY do I have to get up early again tomorrow? WHY WHY WHY? Yeah, you can tell I was a bit peeved off this morning. Things have settled down a bit, for now.
But seriously. This ain't easy man. I have so many things to read: finish off Instructional "Techniques and Practices" as well as reading new magazines that the Driving Instructor Association has sent me as part of their welcome pack for joining. Need to check driving instructor websites to keep myself updated with changes to the instructor world. Need to familiarise myself with test routes and areas of teaching, especially in Springburn area and the south side. I am familiar with east end with, Baillieston test area and I know enough of the west end, Anniesland test area to get me started teaching there. But south side I have no idea where to go and what to do where, and that's gonna be embarrassing! I only have one south side pupil for now, which is good. So will have to discuss with them what to do. Let's learn together! Lol! Joking aside, Saturday morning I will have to wake up early and go driving around two test centres and follow my printed out test routes from the DSA website, in hope of remembering where I should go to teach pupils in Anniesland and in Springburn. I'll start with Springburn as that is nearer my house. And nearer Costco. So after spending the morning in that area, I will pop into Costco for lunch then drive to Anniesland for an afternoon session, BEFORE going to Edinburgh church Coffee Night for 6pm. So you can imagine, by the end of the night I'm gonna be knackered. I don't hope to get back from Edinburgh that late. Event should finish 9:30pm and then there's the 45mins drive. No - I don't speed anymore. Need to watch what I'm doing as my career would be on the line!
Sunday... Sunday morning I think I will sleep in a little bit. Till 9am or something? That's considered late for me! How pitiful eh? Will probably get some reading done and might get to do some exercises at home. Won't go to the gym as I'll need more time for that and I am helping out with transport of PA equipment this Sunday as well, so will have to be at church for 12:45pm. I will be assisting Sunday School class during service. After service there will be a PA and Worship Team technical training session which I arranged, between 3:30pm-4:00pm. Then I will have Specsavers opticians appointment at 4:20pm!! Only around 5pm will I be free!!! But again, I don't know what I will do with that free time? Meet up with people from church and hang out for a bit? Do some more reading in my favourite Starbucks Borders till closing time of 7:30pm? Go home and make Japanese jelly for mum? Catch up on Flashforward online before the next episode comes out? The gym will close at 5:30pm. Argh!!
Then there's Monday, my second-last full day at work. I will finish at 5pm and then will be free. Then again, the above questions will come out? How do I spend my last free time?! More reading? Go to the gym? Go home to chill? (waste of time in my opinion) Or go to Tesco to buy food for Tuesday's trip to Leicester? I'll be taking the 1000hrs train from Glasgow Central on Tuesday, so I will need to pack on Monday night as well. I will bring my laptop down with me, not really for work, but so I can upload any pictures that I take and also update my blogs with what's happening. The AA have given me two night's stay in Hothorpe Hall as opposed to the standard one night stay, due to the fact that the course starts 10:30am on Wednesday morning and I would not make it down from Glasgow in time on Wednesday. However, for Tuesday night, only the room is provided. I'll have to provide my own dinner! Ooh! Maybe I will learn hunting and gathering skills and capture my own dinner! Or maybe roadkill! Maybe English rabbit will taste different from the Scottish lemon-baked rabbit I once had in Skye! ;-)
Anyway, yes... this weekend is gonna be busy busy and as long as it does not rain, it should be ok. If rain comes along, then my my, it's gonna be sooo bad!!
Here's the link to the conference hall where I will stay and attend the AA induction:
http://www.hothorpe.co.uk
(5397)
06 October 2009
Wait wait wait!
As I sit here in the office, eating my char siu rice (my mum makes the best char siu btw!!) I think about the things that I have yet to do and what is holding me back. I am less than impressed with the recent Royal Mail strikes that have been going on locally and nationally. The employees have no idea what impact their actions and decisions have on ordinary people. In fact, being on strike: not collecting mail from post boxes, not sorting mail in delivery offices, and not delivery mail to houses and businesses, even for a day, can have consequences and cause chain effects to people's lives. It's very unfair. They do these things to show the "bosses" that they mean business. That they really want those pay rises or better working conditions. Fair enough, employees have a right to appeal for better conditions, but once the "bosses" give in and they come to some sort of agreement, business is never does "resumes as normal" because there will be a backlog, there will be people waiting for important deliveries of documents or ordinary mail. Bills of various sorts, for example, that might have a deadline for payment, will be stalled and might cause the debtor higher fines. Those who await/ expect delivery of important present for a special birthday would have to disappoint the 80 year old granny at her party, or worse still, it could be a sixteen year old girl's birthday. Fortunately I have not been affected in these described ways. However, I am STILL waiting for my ADI green badge!!
I sent the application away with my two passport photos and my cheque, on Monday 21st September, which was day two into the unofficial Royal Mail strikes in Glasgow. It was picke up on Wednesday 23rd September. There was no news or notification from the DSA and there was no movement in my account showing the cheque was cashed. Last Thursday, 1st of Oct, the three-figure amount was deducted from my account. So at least some action has been taken by DSA in processing my application. So now I await for the ADI badge to arrive any time now. However, there are STILL Royal Mail strikes happening around the UK. This time a lot of them being down England. The DSA is in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, but who knows if they are affected too? Sigh!! I don't want to wait so long for my badge, but because I want to get my AA tuition car asap. Already there are people asking me when I start. I can only tell them, "Soon, hopefully, in a few weeks." And I smile. But inside I am frustrated. Because once I know the date I collect my new Ford Focus, I will hand in my four weeks notice to my current employer. Hopefully I will have the car by week two of that notice, leaving me two weeks of possibly working evening and weekends before giving tuition full time. But for now I am STUCK!
Another thing I'm waiting for is letter of confirmation for my business account with the Alliance and Leicester. My telephone application on Monday 28th Sept went through fine and they sent me out a letter on the same day confirmation start of process of my application. However, I only received the letter last Friday (2nd of Oct!). On Sunday I got a call from A&L asking me to confirm my name again as I used my full name Kwok Wing Gordon So. I asked what stage the application was at, and the woman kindly told me it's almost complete. That was Sunday morning. Maybe they sent me the pack and it's stuck there not collected for delivery? Ok, maybe two days is too quick for me to expect my welcome pack and account details, but I feel so DELAYED right now!
Last Friday (2nd Oct), I ordered a mattress from Argos. Was told delivery would be within five business days and that they'd contact me soon to arrange delivery. I wanted to know asap so I could take a half-day off work to be home to receive it. However, Saturday (3rd) I received a call telling me there is a delay with the supplier (Rest Assured?) in getting the mattress, but once they get stock they will contact me again to arrange delivery. The latest they will contact me by would be 11th October. No way man!! =O Why is everything being delayed? This time, I can't pin the blame on Royal Mail. This time, it's just crap! If I wanted to kick up a fuss, I could have said their terms of sales said clearly delivery within five working days and taking me to (potentially) 11th October would surely exceed that! Sigh... but I'll wait. No choice but to wait. They have my money already. I'm at their mercy.
You see, I believe everything happens for a reason. God knows everything big and small thing that happens in our lives. I just wish I would know the reason for this wait. Is God teaching me patience? Does my patience have to be tuned up some more before I take behind the wheel and teach? Would this waiting game help prepare me in any way for the next steps into my career? Whilst I'm waiting to start as a driving instructor, am I of any use to anybody? Does anybody benefit from my presence? I know for sure a lot of people are interested in learning from me. No, please don't be mistaken, I am not getting big-headed here. What I'm saying is, there are expectations of me now. In fact, I would say there are great expectations of me. And I want to fulfil these expectations. I don't like letting people down. So why can't I proceed with my ideal job and make people happy at the same time? Huh?! =/
Still awaiting:
- Alliance & Leicester account details
- Mattress
- ADI badge
- Present
Things yet to be done:
- Confirm franchise with AA
- Choose accountant
- Hand in notice
- Join D.I.A.
- Register for Pass Plus
- Read up on Licensing laws (foreign/ provisional/ UK)
- Learn test areas and routes
- Inform HMRC of self-employment
(5031)
I sent the application away with my two passport photos and my cheque, on Monday 21st September, which was day two into the unofficial Royal Mail strikes in Glasgow. It was picke up on Wednesday 23rd September. There was no news or notification from the DSA and there was no movement in my account showing the cheque was cashed. Last Thursday, 1st of Oct, the three-figure amount was deducted from my account. So at least some action has been taken by DSA in processing my application. So now I await for the ADI badge to arrive any time now. However, there are STILL Royal Mail strikes happening around the UK. This time a lot of them being down England. The DSA is in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, but who knows if they are affected too? Sigh!! I don't want to wait so long for my badge, but because I want to get my AA tuition car asap. Already there are people asking me when I start. I can only tell them, "Soon, hopefully, in a few weeks." And I smile. But inside I am frustrated. Because once I know the date I collect my new Ford Focus, I will hand in my four weeks notice to my current employer. Hopefully I will have the car by week two of that notice, leaving me two weeks of possibly working evening and weekends before giving tuition full time. But for now I am STUCK!
Another thing I'm waiting for is letter of confirmation for my business account with the Alliance and Leicester. My telephone application on Monday 28th Sept went through fine and they sent me out a letter on the same day confirmation start of process of my application. However, I only received the letter last Friday (2nd of Oct!). On Sunday I got a call from A&L asking me to confirm my name again as I used my full name Kwok Wing Gordon So. I asked what stage the application was at, and the woman kindly told me it's almost complete. That was Sunday morning. Maybe they sent me the pack and it's stuck there not collected for delivery? Ok, maybe two days is too quick for me to expect my welcome pack and account details, but I feel so DELAYED right now!
Last Friday (2nd Oct), I ordered a mattress from Argos. Was told delivery would be within five business days and that they'd contact me soon to arrange delivery. I wanted to know asap so I could take a half-day off work to be home to receive it. However, Saturday (3rd) I received a call telling me there is a delay with the supplier (Rest Assured?) in getting the mattress, but once they get stock they will contact me again to arrange delivery. The latest they will contact me by would be 11th October. No way man!! =O Why is everything being delayed? This time, I can't pin the blame on Royal Mail. This time, it's just crap! If I wanted to kick up a fuss, I could have said their terms of sales said clearly delivery within five working days and taking me to (potentially) 11th October would surely exceed that! Sigh... but I'll wait. No choice but to wait. They have my money already. I'm at their mercy.
You see, I believe everything happens for a reason. God knows everything big and small thing that happens in our lives. I just wish I would know the reason for this wait. Is God teaching me patience? Does my patience have to be tuned up some more before I take behind the wheel and teach? Would this waiting game help prepare me in any way for the next steps into my career? Whilst I'm waiting to start as a driving instructor, am I of any use to anybody? Does anybody benefit from my presence? I know for sure a lot of people are interested in learning from me. No, please don't be mistaken, I am not getting big-headed here. What I'm saying is, there are expectations of me now. In fact, I would say there are great expectations of me. And I want to fulfil these expectations. I don't like letting people down. So why can't I proceed with my ideal job and make people happy at the same time? Huh?! =/
Still awaiting:
- Alliance & Leicester account details
- Mattress
- ADI badge
- Present
Things yet to be done:
- Confirm franchise with AA
- Choose accountant
- Hand in notice
- Join D.I.A.
- Register for Pass Plus
- Read up on Licensing laws (foreign/ provisional/ UK)
- Learn test areas and routes
- Inform HMRC of self-employment
(5031)
30 September 2009
Planned proposal
Two days ago I heard from a colleague that there was a mandatory business meeting for everyone in the office to attend. I was on annual leave though. So this morning when I got in, I was invited into a meeting room with two other colleagues who were also off yesterday, and we were told, that there are plans to close down the Glasgow office and shift the work to Poland. I won't mention my employer's name in this blogpost. The plans are still at "proposal stage" and nothing is confirmed. However, they want to give us all a heads up, because there are 91 staff members left here, after recent departure of another client group. Basically, if these proposed plans went ahead, we would all face redundancy.
When I heard the scripted official statement read out, it brought back a sense of deja vu for my time at Ford Customer Relationship Centre. I was only six months into the job when they officially announced the closing of the Glasgow office to relocate to the Midlands. My goodness, how devastated I was after hearing that. Back then I only had six months left before the changeover. Fortunately, the staff were all given lots of support to job-hunt and time off for interviews etc. That was how I came across my current employer, making it almost three years since I've been here. This time hearing the news, it was not as shocking or impacting as the first time it happened. Maybe because there were only five people in the room in contrast to the almost 90 people who would have heard it together yesterday. If the proposed plans go through the office will have until July/ August/ September 2010 to live before it goes.
Though my immediate future is planned out and I have job security, my heart goes out to those in the office who are feeling lost right. Those who don't know what to do, where to go and why this has happened. The unemployment rate is at an all-time high, so job competition will be fierce. I know that feeling from a few years ago. At least back then I was young and would be willing to take up any full time job to keep a living. However, there are more older workers here. Those who have dedicated their lives to this company, working very hard and learning processes, systems, IT skills etc in order to serve the clientele. What about them? Where are they going to go? They might question whether they are still employable, amidst the sea of youthful competition. It's sad, but I wish them all the best. Nobody could forsee this happening. Nobody has done anything to cause this either. It's cost-cutting, at it's finest. And it has happened so close to home!
Throughout the day my mind has been reflecting on how blessed and fortunate I am to have my driving instructor qualification now. I truly feel it has happened in God's time. Can you imagine me trying to sit an instructor exam with a cloud of sadness over me? Or with the feeling that my job/ redundancy/ future depended on whether I passed the exam? How much pressure that would be. I'm not sure how it would have worked that way, and I don't want to imagine it. Right now, I am very thankful to God for leading me to where I am today. Right at this moment, I feel God's love and care for me. I feel secure in His love and knowing that my future is safe in His hands. I will try to remember to pray for my colleagues as they start job hunting and try to find some security in life now. Not much more I can say here, but personally I am so thankful to God. =)
(4947)
When I heard the scripted official statement read out, it brought back a sense of deja vu for my time at Ford Customer Relationship Centre. I was only six months into the job when they officially announced the closing of the Glasgow office to relocate to the Midlands. My goodness, how devastated I was after hearing that. Back then I only had six months left before the changeover. Fortunately, the staff were all given lots of support to job-hunt and time off for interviews etc. That was how I came across my current employer, making it almost three years since I've been here. This time hearing the news, it was not as shocking or impacting as the first time it happened. Maybe because there were only five people in the room in contrast to the almost 90 people who would have heard it together yesterday. If the proposed plans go through the office will have until July/ August/ September 2010 to live before it goes.
Though my immediate future is planned out and I have job security, my heart goes out to those in the office who are feeling lost right. Those who don't know what to do, where to go and why this has happened. The unemployment rate is at an all-time high, so job competition will be fierce. I know that feeling from a few years ago. At least back then I was young and would be willing to take up any full time job to keep a living. However, there are more older workers here. Those who have dedicated their lives to this company, working very hard and learning processes, systems, IT skills etc in order to serve the clientele. What about them? Where are they going to go? They might question whether they are still employable, amidst the sea of youthful competition. It's sad, but I wish them all the best. Nobody could forsee this happening. Nobody has done anything to cause this either. It's cost-cutting, at it's finest. And it has happened so close to home!
Throughout the day my mind has been reflecting on how blessed and fortunate I am to have my driving instructor qualification now. I truly feel it has happened in God's time. Can you imagine me trying to sit an instructor exam with a cloud of sadness over me? Or with the feeling that my job/ redundancy/ future depended on whether I passed the exam? How much pressure that would be. I'm not sure how it would have worked that way, and I don't want to imagine it. Right now, I am very thankful to God for leading me to where I am today. Right at this moment, I feel God's love and care for me. I feel secure in His love and knowing that my future is safe in His hands. I will try to remember to pray for my colleagues as they start job hunting and try to find some security in life now. Not much more I can say here, but personally I am so thankful to God. =)
(4947)
17 September 2009
ADI Pass
With nothing interesting to write about my career in the past few months, I finally have something say! I passed my final driving instructor exam today!! =D
Though I am quite tired just now, as it is approaching midnight, I still want to put into words how happy I am feeling and how much God has blessed me.
This has not been an easy journey let me tell you. Since May 2008 I have spent many hours studying and practicing for a big theory test test/hazard perception test (not usual 50 questions, but 100 questions with the need to pass at least 80% of each of the four categories before achieving overall pass!). Passed theory test/hazard perception in August 2008.
Then had to practice and improve driving skills to sit and pass and advanced driving test. Honing my skills to make sure I would not get any more than six minors on my one hour test. Finally passed the driving test January 2009 with one minor.
Next was the hardest part of this ADI journey... Instructor training. It was common for people to sit and pass theory tests and driving tests. I had been through it back in 2001/2002. However, this final hurdle really took the best from me. It involved a lot of studying at Hillhead library few nights after work. It involved meeting up with my instructor on a weekly basis to go through and learn teaching techniques, instructor techniques and various subjects and topics that would come up for my final exam and for my career as an instructor. I had to give up a lot of things, socialising being one of them. Had to reject certain parties or dinners cos needed to study or "train" with my instructor. Had to give up the gym at certain times to meet with training buddies.
There were times when I found the course very difficult. The things I were doing was not "up to standard" according to my instructor. When will he ever be happy? When will this end?
Through this time I met a lot of new people. Nice people. Ronnie, my trainer whom AA assigned to me from the very start. He's been my personal coach up to now, and will now be my business coach as I set up a franchise with the AA. Anne, my first training buddy. Ronnie paired us up to practice with each other in between the times we were not meeting him. We met up to train quite intensely between end of May and July. She sat test - Failed. I sat my test - Failed. She resat - Passed. She left to form her own business. I was left buddy-less. I was kinda hoping she'd still offer to come out with her new Corsa, but no. She got busy. It was ok. I had to plod alone. Ronnie kept telling me I should try to find a friend who is able to drive, ask to sit next to them and correct any faults they might do. Or just ask them to role play as we do, and pretend to be a pupil and "learn" from me. However, where could I find such drivers? I didn't ask anyone because it would be hard for them to use their time and petrol (money!) just to help me. Who would do it if they weren't to gain from it? And I certainly didn't have a lot of money during this time. The ADI test cost £111 a shot!
As I prepared for my second test date, 17th September, I was still meeting Ronnie regularly. But something was missing. There was no Anne, there was no buddy to train with. However, I thank God I met a guy called Matt. Matt is a very highly qualified driving instructor who also trains Potential Driving Instructors (PDI's as we're known) and he offered to take me out for a whole day of job shadowing him. My goodness. That day - Saturday 22nd August was a real eye opener for me! Learnt so much from teaching three of Matt's pupils and getting analysed each time. Having a real live pupil was so different from my instructor role playing as an inexperienced driver. Learning from Matt really opened my eyes and introduced me to many aspects of driving instruction which I was not exposed to. I found it so so useful and was very grateful for Matt's FREE offering of tuition. This gave me the much needed boost into getting my mindset back on track. I was looking forward to seeing Ronnie. When I did, Ronnie was impressed.
After two more meetings with Matt, my confidence was boosted to an all time high and I really looked forward to seeing Ronnie, showing him what I had learnt and how I had developed. Ronnie saw more improvement from me. Good - something is going right. Matt is a blessing from God. I wouldn't have met Matt if I didn't attend Ling's leaving dinner at Loon Fung back in July. I wouldn't have known Ling if it hadn't been for going to church. I wouldn't be going to church if God is not so great! :)
In the final meeting with Ronnie before my test (Friday 11th Sept), he told me he found me a buddy! The guy's name is Robert. Robert trained with BSM six years ago, but never passed his final exam. And after a few years in the financial industry, he decided to give driving instruction another go. He was needing practice with a buddy before booking his test again. Ronnie felt it would be great for the two of us to meet up to practice in the run up for my test at least and it would be good for Robert too because Ronnie went on holiday to Lanzarote! So Robert and I met up last Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday (yesterday). The practice sessions went well. Nothing intense, but managed to iron out and discuss my issues with each other.
This afternoon, I drove up to Baillieston Test Centre and met with a guy called Bryan. A newly qualified AA driving instructor whom I had to borrow his Ford Focus to sit the test. Bryan was a cool guy who gave me more insight into the life of a driving instructor with the AA. Telling me more about the car, the mobile they'll give you, how they sort out pupils for you, gave me tips on business accounts, insurance etc. 1:05pm I sat my test. 2:40pm I was out of the test centre with my test sheet and an application for my Approved Driving Instructor badge (ADI)! What happened between that time felt like it flew by! I was nervous, yes, but at the same time everything was so fast I didn't really have time to be nervous. One thing I must say is, I worked my ass off this time. I realised how many mistakes I made in my first attempt and boy did I do everything I could to avoid them and correct them.
Throughout this whole time I have met very interesting people who have helped me get thus far. I will no doubt meet more wonderful people as my career kicks off as an driving instructor. One thing is for sure. God has been my refuge and strength throughout. I've been through the toughest times in life, not just driving instructor training, but pressures from life in general. But each time, God carries me through. His mercies and grace every day are enough for me to carry on. I hope to bring glory and honour to His name through this career path.
:)
(4780)
Though I am quite tired just now, as it is approaching midnight, I still want to put into words how happy I am feeling and how much God has blessed me.
This has not been an easy journey let me tell you. Since May 2008 I have spent many hours studying and practicing for a big theory test test/hazard perception test (not usual 50 questions, but 100 questions with the need to pass at least 80% of each of the four categories before achieving overall pass!). Passed theory test/hazard perception in August 2008.
Then had to practice and improve driving skills to sit and pass and advanced driving test. Honing my skills to make sure I would not get any more than six minors on my one hour test. Finally passed the driving test January 2009 with one minor.
Next was the hardest part of this ADI journey... Instructor training. It was common for people to sit and pass theory tests and driving tests. I had been through it back in 2001/2002. However, this final hurdle really took the best from me. It involved a lot of studying at Hillhead library few nights after work. It involved meeting up with my instructor on a weekly basis to go through and learn teaching techniques, instructor techniques and various subjects and topics that would come up for my final exam and for my career as an instructor. I had to give up a lot of things, socialising being one of them. Had to reject certain parties or dinners cos needed to study or "train" with my instructor. Had to give up the gym at certain times to meet with training buddies.
There were times when I found the course very difficult. The things I were doing was not "up to standard" according to my instructor. When will he ever be happy? When will this end?
Through this time I met a lot of new people. Nice people. Ronnie, my trainer whom AA assigned to me from the very start. He's been my personal coach up to now, and will now be my business coach as I set up a franchise with the AA. Anne, my first training buddy. Ronnie paired us up to practice with each other in between the times we were not meeting him. We met up to train quite intensely between end of May and July. She sat test - Failed. I sat my test - Failed. She resat - Passed. She left to form her own business. I was left buddy-less. I was kinda hoping she'd still offer to come out with her new Corsa, but no. She got busy. It was ok. I had to plod alone. Ronnie kept telling me I should try to find a friend who is able to drive, ask to sit next to them and correct any faults they might do. Or just ask them to role play as we do, and pretend to be a pupil and "learn" from me. However, where could I find such drivers? I didn't ask anyone because it would be hard for them to use their time and petrol (money!) just to help me. Who would do it if they weren't to gain from it? And I certainly didn't have a lot of money during this time. The ADI test cost £111 a shot!
As I prepared for my second test date, 17th September, I was still meeting Ronnie regularly. But something was missing. There was no Anne, there was no buddy to train with. However, I thank God I met a guy called Matt. Matt is a very highly qualified driving instructor who also trains Potential Driving Instructors (PDI's as we're known) and he offered to take me out for a whole day of job shadowing him. My goodness. That day - Saturday 22nd August was a real eye opener for me! Learnt so much from teaching three of Matt's pupils and getting analysed each time. Having a real live pupil was so different from my instructor role playing as an inexperienced driver. Learning from Matt really opened my eyes and introduced me to many aspects of driving instruction which I was not exposed to. I found it so so useful and was very grateful for Matt's FREE offering of tuition. This gave me the much needed boost into getting my mindset back on track. I was looking forward to seeing Ronnie. When I did, Ronnie was impressed.
After two more meetings with Matt, my confidence was boosted to an all time high and I really looked forward to seeing Ronnie, showing him what I had learnt and how I had developed. Ronnie saw more improvement from me. Good - something is going right. Matt is a blessing from God. I wouldn't have met Matt if I didn't attend Ling's leaving dinner at Loon Fung back in July. I wouldn't have known Ling if it hadn't been for going to church. I wouldn't be going to church if God is not so great! :)
In the final meeting with Ronnie before my test (Friday 11th Sept), he told me he found me a buddy! The guy's name is Robert. Robert trained with BSM six years ago, but never passed his final exam. And after a few years in the financial industry, he decided to give driving instruction another go. He was needing practice with a buddy before booking his test again. Ronnie felt it would be great for the two of us to meet up to practice in the run up for my test at least and it would be good for Robert too because Ronnie went on holiday to Lanzarote! So Robert and I met up last Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday (yesterday). The practice sessions went well. Nothing intense, but managed to iron out and discuss my issues with each other.
This afternoon, I drove up to Baillieston Test Centre and met with a guy called Bryan. A newly qualified AA driving instructor whom I had to borrow his Ford Focus to sit the test. Bryan was a cool guy who gave me more insight into the life of a driving instructor with the AA. Telling me more about the car, the mobile they'll give you, how they sort out pupils for you, gave me tips on business accounts, insurance etc. 1:05pm I sat my test. 2:40pm I was out of the test centre with my test sheet and an application for my Approved Driving Instructor badge (ADI)! What happened between that time felt like it flew by! I was nervous, yes, but at the same time everything was so fast I didn't really have time to be nervous. One thing I must say is, I worked my ass off this time. I realised how many mistakes I made in my first attempt and boy did I do everything I could to avoid them and correct them.
Throughout this whole time I have met very interesting people who have helped me get thus far. I will no doubt meet more wonderful people as my career kicks off as an driving instructor. One thing is for sure. God has been my refuge and strength throughout. I've been through the toughest times in life, not just driving instructor training, but pressures from life in general. But each time, God carries me through. His mercies and grace every day are enough for me to carry on. I hope to bring glory and honour to His name through this career path.
:)
(4780)
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