Monday, June 30, 2008

You are my hope...

Listening to: One Thing - Hillsongs UNITED

It seems as I browse from one blog to another, I seem to find even more and more people facing trials and tribulations in this current period. My week just got incredibly messed up and increasingly turbulent. The Devil sure is working overtime.

However, one thing that has kept me optimistic (though I remembered telling myself that optimism is not my strong point) is the fact that everyone seems to be able to cling on to Him, for this simple reason; No matter what may come, God is faithful through and true. What He has done on the cross is reason enough to be eternally grateful.

And God, if this is a test from You, I wanna say that I'll pass it with flying colours!

Hanging on to You.

Signing off,
Matt

Sunday, June 29, 2008

Twitch me not!

Listening to: To Know Your Name - Hillsongs

Worship Encounter was explosive today, and it truly was a worship worthy of an encounter with the King of Kings. After the whole thing, there were a lot of handshakes, and hugging going around among the worship team on stage. It was indeed something to be remembered, and I'm truly very priviledged to be working with the whole lot of talented musicians we have.

My limbs felt like spinach, or taufu...whichever you prefer. Thankfully, all those constant push-ups and weight lifting as somewhat helped increased my endurance level and I was able to play for that amount of time. Worship was indeed refreshing, and I've never felt better. Its amazing how His presence does wonders just like that.

Anyway, came back feeling a lil off again, and I'm honestly just waiting for this week to pass. I can't wait for it to just go pass so I can move on with life again. Anyway, perhaps someone is worth mentioning here. Thanks for always making my day whenever you're online. You've quickly established yourself as a chatting personality I await online. Cheering me up is within your natural capabilities.

Thank you Lerry Berry. Made my day again. = )

Signing off,
Matt

Saturday, June 28, 2008

Might as well end my misery...

Listening to: Lead me to the Cross - Hillsongs

I must admit, I have not felt this in a very very long time. Talk about the number of times I've heard people talk about me being emo. Frankly, I'm no emo kid, and I hate to be emo but there are times when we go through tough times and its no surprise if we feel it. I'm just more expressive.

Its been really really long. It sure sucks...

I'll take 1 week to clear things through. Honestly, I hope this week is gonna be a better week. After this week perhaps, I can really see clearly.

Thank God He's the only One keeping me sane, and probably the only person to cling onto.

Signing off,
Matt

PS: Worship Encounter tomorrow! I want a touch from You, to be reenergized.

Friday, June 27, 2008

I look at the stars and I see you glittering...

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I'm back...from the football training session. Forced myself to go, out of courtesy and my own dislike for fong fei kei-ing people last minute without notice. Though I was boggled down with lethargic-ness due to two previous nights of inadequate sleep, I forced myself to turn up.

I managed to meet up with Wy Kit who is leaving for Australia with his beau in order to further their studies. Sweet much no? Anyway, met up with him a last time before he leaves for a long one and a half years of studying in Melbourne. Said our goodbyes, and he will definitely be missed someway or rather, whether for him being eccentric at times, or just plain wacky and witty.

Anyway, after almost two hours of solid football, my whole body felt like it was carrying a weight that far superceded my capacity. I refuse to be sick though, cause Worship Encounter is on this weekend, I'm on drums and I know God will give me the strength to prepare myself for the weekend. I'm off to sleep in a short while.

At 8pm?

The answer is a resounding YES! I'm zonked out and my head feels like it might fall off anytime. I'm not exaggerating.

Looking forward to a great worship service this weekend, but I really need to rest. Constant football and the constant loss of sleep due to Euro 2008 has definitely taken its toll on me. Till then, I'm signing off.

However, before I sign off, I feel like its my duty to blog about the quarter-final Euro encounter between Spain and Russia (Maybe cause I'm bias for Spain). Pictures from the semi-final encounter...

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Check out the flying shoe. = )

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David Silva scores the third goal for Spain.

As it turns out, the final score was at a 3-0 routing to Spain and a tantalizing final between Germany and Spain awaits us on Sunday. Truth be said, I am an avid Spain supporter. So I'm estatic that they are in to the finals. Russia failed to live up to their true self when they surprisingly beat Holland in the previous round.

Till then, Viva La Espana.

*Pictures credit to The New York Times.

Signing off,
Matt

PS: Thanks buddy. You asking me to message you when I got back means a lot. Shows you care indeed.

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Thursday, June 26, 2008

Time and tide waits for no man...

Listening to: Salvation - Planetshakers

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Time is a beautiful thing. It's like when you meet an old lover on the street six years later and they don't look so ugly anymore ~ Sarah McLachlan



Perhaps there are so many things that pass us by as we journey through the paradox of time. Occasionally, it may even seem that we've missed out on certain things that have played a part of our lives, and yet slipped out of our grip somewhere in the past.

Then again, there are decisions or opportunities that come our way in the present and we contemplate on taking the right steps. The thought of the present actions bringing forth the consequences in the future leading to the sequence of events that somehow mold and shape our lives, just because we took a step in the past.

Perhaps the underlying matter that I want to bring to attention is the fact that we are who we are today because of the past. Matt is not Matt without his past failings or his past achievements. Time can be such a mystery but yet we live life devoid of understanding and embracing its true nature.

A phrase that goes "life is too short for regrets" have never been more apt when it comes to explaining about the short time span of life. As life goes on, the value of life should of all things appreciate rather than the usual spiral downward towards depreciation. Time should prove to be a reminder, rather than the object of regret and blame.

Perhaps comprehending this would lead us to come to grips with the present, and to look to the future and even forgive ourselves of the sins of the past. Ah, the irony of time. However, that what makes time so precious. The beauty of life.

Yet another contradiction...

Half our life is spent trying to find something to do with the time we have rushed through life trying to save ~ Will Rogers

Signing off,
Matt

PS: I've found the people worth being there for, and the people worth tucking away.

Wednesday, June 25, 2008

Looking for that shining star...

I do not want to feel like this anymore.

A mixture of confusion and I've come undone.

Stuck...

Idea-less as to what to do.

Low EQ perhaps?







Not again...

Signing off,
Matt

Monday, June 23, 2008

For everything You are to me...

Listening to: I Need You - Planetshakers

I guess you've figured it out by now that I've decided not to make my blog exclusive and to keep it publicly open. So be glad that it stays that way.

I've also given up on nuffnang. Doesn't seem to work much, and honestly, I'd wait a gazillion years for the amount to even reach 50 bucks. Maybe I might try google ads? Ugh, the greed for some extra money.

Just back from futsal, and I have my scars. Extreme oversized out of proportion blisters on both my big toes, as well as some pain on my ankles. However, the stinging pain definitely is nothing compared to the sweet victory. Bah, pictures would totally gross you out.

I'm tired...

...

...

I don't know what to think.

Signing off,
Matt

PS: Spain is through to the semi-finals. Viva la Espana!

Saturday, June 21, 2008

Not Your Average Super Hero

Ever wondered how superheroes saved the world but yet leave a devastating trail of damage that ensued along the highway and the city? I'm sure every average movie patron would agree with me when somehow they do end up saving the world, but at the same time the irony of the damage caused is still there.

A while ago, I watched the Incredible Hulk (refer to my previous posts) and it came across my mind the massive destruction left by the hulk after defeating his nemesis. I wondered to myself, "I wonder how he's gonna pay for all the wrecked cars, the torn-down buildings, and not to mention the long stretches of roads that have been crushed and stamped on by the incredibly huge feet he possesses."

I can imagine if the government actually issued a long list of claims to Bruce Banner a.k.a. the Hulk for the damage caused when he transformed into his alter-ego. He may be a brilliant scientists, but he is definitely not a millionaire. One may even wonder if the "good" he has done outweighs all the damage caused to the city.

This scenario is also put into the latest Will Smith's movie, Hancock whereby Will Smith (the superhero) saves the day, but leaves so much damage in the wake of his "day saving job" that the citizens even wonder if he's worth the superhero title that is supposedly bestowed upon him.

I for one cannot wait for the movie to begin. So until then, get out the popcorn and brace yourself for the movie which begins screening in cinemas on the 3rd of July.

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For more details, check it out at the nuffnang site right here.

Cheers.

Signing off,
Matt

Friday, June 20, 2008

Walking down the path of uncertainty...

Listening to: Saved the Day - Planetshakers

*edited*

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Kung Fu Panda.

Had to edit this post to do my movie review. Anyway, the movie was average as expected. The jokes were hilarious at times, and the movie is suited very well for kids. However, that does not mean that the show is only catered for them. This movie did not do too bad in my opinion, and I enjoyed it thoroughly.

Jack Black did a good job as the flabby and lazy but funny character as Po the panda. Not a must watch in my opinion, but still worth the money nonetheless.

Verdict: 7.5/10

*edited*

Friday morning, and its my off day. Friday classes have yet to begin, and God knows when they'll actually start IB classes on Fridays. So, its time for a blog updating session since there are quite a fair bit of updating to do. Wednesday's wet game of football ended in a 2-1 defeat, but I believe come the next round, we'll whoop them nicely. The defeat was largely due to the lack of playing together, and the wet conditions.

Before the game however, this was what happened...

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Taken during lunch @ Old Asia Cafe, OU.

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After lunch, our next destination. By the way, we were in Toys 'R' Us, and not as the sign mentioned above.

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Spidey fan?

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Laughter is the best medicine.

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Our source of laughter; the criminal mastermind named Shawty. xD

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Gloria having her share of fun.

After walking around aimlessly for the 10,465,235th time around OU, we went off to rendezvous with the rest of the team at Larsson's before heading off to BU4 school team for the match.

Thursday...

Which was yesterday, started of with the incredibly theoretical, hence boring class of Advanced Financial Accounting. I can't imagine a better lecturer than this, NOT! Anyway, lunch break was spent at DU for the usual nasi lemak before we headed off to OU to burn the extra time. Ended up at MPH at the girls' request.

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Trust me, he wasn't reading.

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They certainly aren't either.

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We got bored. = ) Picture credits to Adam.

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Finally resolved to reading the free newspapers provided. Pictures credits to Yan.

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Gloria magazine-ing. Picture credits to Yan.

After another class of Planning, Budgeting, and Control, I rushed off to Sunway Pyramid to meet Cla. Had McD's for tea, and caught Kung Fu Panda at 5.30pm. Movie review right after this. Anyway, after the movie, someone had a craving for Sushi and we decided to try out this place since she has not been there.

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The venue.

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The conveyour belt and its ordering system. Rather efficient.

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Wasabi. Good stuff.

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Cla took the first piece already. Haha! The basic...salmon and rice wrapped with seaweed. Forgot what its called.

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On the left is the soft shell crab that I ordered, and on the right is crab wrapped in cheese and of course the usual rice.

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Sakae Blossom. Their specialty perhaps. Tasted pretty good with wasabi especially. This was wrapped in omelet that was fried.

There was also miso soup, but I forgot to take a picture of that. To my surprise, it was rather filling, though some of you who know me better might argue that I couldn't possibly be full with the amount that I ate, but really, it was quite filling. The next time we go for sushi, perhaps I'll remember to set a bigger budget. Haha! The prices ranged from RM1.90 per plate, RM3.90 per plate, and RM5.90 per plate.

There were of course sets, and loads of side orders. I'm starting to develop a craving for sushi. Perhaps I should blame Cla. xD

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Super GT Exhibition.

Anyway, after dinner, we walked around to buy some stuff, before I dropped her back and came home and ended my day.

By the way, my apologies for the cloudy look my pictures might have had. This was Danial's fault who changed the settings of my camera and I did not notice it. Hence the orangey look some of the pictures had. My apologies once again.

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Random-ness.

Woke up feeling not too good this morning, and I have football training again later at 4pm in the afternoon. Yet to prepare my testimony for cell group tonight. So off I go...

Signing off,
Matt

PS: Germany is through to the semi-finals. So long Portugal. Tough luck to all the girls who are keeping a lookout for Cristiano Ronaldo.

Tuesday, June 17, 2008

Tried to take a picture of love...

Listening to: Empty - Click Five

Yesterday, classes ended 2 hours earlier, and a few of us decided to catch this...

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The Incredible Hulk.

Again, if you're into action packed movies, this is the movie for you. The scenes were done pretty well, and the CGI was decent. Ultimately, there was not much of a solid storyline to the show, and for what little it had was pretty much predictable throughout the movie. No surprises, or twists and turns that took us by surprise but a good movie to catch nonetheless.

Verdict: 7.5/10

Some random pictures after the movie.

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Adam and Dan.

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Matt and Dan. Credits to Adam for the picture. Notice the different quality of pictures taken between me and Adam. We know who's more professional now. =D

Its funny how us guys are always taking more pictures of ourselves than the girls. Did anyone catch the irony?

Signing off,
Matt

PS: Boredom sucks, and I'm hooked on Bleach! I'm turning into an Anime fan.

Sunday, June 15, 2008

You know best...

Listening to: Hands Down - Dashboard Confessional

First up...

Happy Father's Day to all fathers out there. Thank you dad for always being there. Though there were times where we've had our arguements, and where you've been strict (well, in my opinion anyway) but yet, I know you did it out of concern. We may not always be on good terms, but I thank God for your influence in my life.

I would never have become who I am today, never have overcome the challenges of the past, never have picked myself up from the rut if it was not for you. Thank you so much for everything. You're the best.

Thank You God for always being my Heavenly Father. You've been awesome, beyond words can say, beyond comprehension. You're the BEST!

A big thank you to the both of my dads. You guys are just amazing. Thank You God for giving me an awesome Earthly dad. No doubt You know what's best for me. = ) That being said, lets go on. Today is Father's Day, so we had a mini celebration. The kids did their presentation.

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Heartfelt songs from their hearts to their dads.

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The speaker; Pastor Lee Kuan Meng from GTPJ.

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Matt and Nicole. Have not seen her for ages. My other princess. =D

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Take 2. You can actually see Uncle George behind. Haha...

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Matt and Barney in formal.

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Matt and Jeremy the "fishball."

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Take 2: Wonder how Carmen got into the picture.

That was about it. Hung out with the kids today. Honestly, it was relaxing. A change from talking about serious stuff all the time.

Thats about it. Going out tonight for dinner to celebrate Father's Day if I'm not mistaken. More pictures? Perhaps...Till my next post, adieu.

Signing off,
Matt

Saturday, June 14, 2008

I am but a flower that fades away...

Listening to: Calvary - Planetshakers

Ever wondered about the purpose of life, and questioned yourself perhaps about your reason being placed here? Its no surprise if you find yourself questioning the real reason. Does anything material give you reason enough to live? If you've answered that question, then life may be as temporal as whatever embodies that reason for living.

Perhaps too many a times I have questioned myself that, and its not till I realized that being placed here by God that helped me to look forward to everyday, every breath that I inhaled, every molecule and cell that gave me that will to live. I've been to the crossroad where I tend to question it all, and I've found my hope and my reason to live in my Creator.

Perhaps what was shared that day in cell group really captured my attention and I begin to place myself in perspective to what life really is.

"Just imagine the beauty of nature, or you and I for that matter. If God could freeze it for 1 second and ask you to snap a picture of your surroundings. Immediately after that, the following second God freezes it again and its a different scene already altogether. Can you imagine how everything changes within a second? Imagine how much money God uses to change all that in 1 second, if money was ever involved?"

Take a second and just imagined. I just realized how great God is, and the thought of it just humbled me to a point where I realized how insignificant I am, but how much God has His interests in me.

And in the end, I realize that it doesn't matterhow disappointing some people may be, or how difficult circumstances may be, or how big the problem is, cause God is BIGGER than anything else. I've come to realize that God is all I need, cause when all else fades, He is faithful and His love is unfailing. I've found my reason for living. What's yours?

God is AWESOME.

Signing off,
Matt

Everything I once held dear, I count it as loss...

Listening to: Lead me to the Cross - Hillsongs

Guys day out @ 1 Utama!

After morning classes, was supposed to go for Incredible Hulk, but timing wasn't with us. So I hung out at Danial's place, tasted his mum's cooking for lunch (awesome stuff), watched Green Street Hooligan, and then proceeded to pick my brother up from school. Picked Adam up right after, and went off to OU to hang out before football training at 5pm.

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Dan and Adam.

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First stop, Big Apple!

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Donut craze.

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Big Apple's lighting sucks BIG time. Makes Adam look bad. =P

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Thanks Dan for making me look like a hog. = )

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Next stop; Arcade!

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Read the sign, and if you're not laughing at the end of it, read again!

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Adam and Dan.

In between, there were more food, more window shopping, and more laughter. Well, we weren't really window shopping, just checking out sports apparatus and other related stuff. It was good to be honest. Rushed back from football and reached home just in time to bath and eat before heading to cell. Was dead tired after football training.

Upcoming: Match against BU4's school team.

Signing off,
Matt

PS: Holland are devastating. Looks like a force to reckon with. 4-1 over France. Unbelievable.

Thursday, June 12, 2008

Crushed apples with space for two...

"Blood runs thicker than water."

If you've heard of this phrase, then it simply means that the family's bond is stronger than any other bond. There are times where I guess we tend to really take our family neglected, and it isn't till something really nasty happens, or distance suddenly separates that you realize how important family is.

Ashley has been there on and off. We've had problems, and distance was always a problem, cause I'm over here in PJ, she's all the way in Klang. Even now, she's moved to Down Under and the only way to keep in touch is through technology, specifically MSN and blogs.

She's been there at my lowest moments, and even my highest moments. There was once where I almost lost her as a cousin due to a really huge arguement I had over someone who wasn't worth anything. In the end, things turned out for good and here we are. She's really awesome, and I miss hanging out with her a whole lot. Here's to you dearest cousin.

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Thats her. Can you see her? The 1 with the blur look? Hahaha! The 1 in black. This was her about 2 years ago or something.

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Yeah, she's the 1 in the middle. This was somewhere around last year.

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This was her around last year as well, on a holiday to somewhere.

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Finally, her most recent picture, her infamous grin. My cousin Ash: 2008. =D

We've grown over time.
We're maturing over time.
And thats probably what makes her stand out from the others.
Cause when the ups and downs come, we grow together.
I'm honored to have you be there all the time.
Proud of the way to how you've grown in so many ways.
Cheers to you!

She's definitely the closest among my cousins, and really best friend material. Till we meet again, take care. See you real soon! Faster come back! = )

Signing off,
Matt

PS: She did a post for me as well. Click here. Its the post that begins with "For old times sake."