螃蟹蘭 Christmas Cactus

客廳裏的螃蟹蘭，因為有充分的陽光和營養，就在聖誕節這段時間裏熱熱鬧鬧地開了起來。其實種植室内植物並不困難，只要利用洗米水和泡過蛋殼的水交互澆灌，就可以養出健康漂亮的植物哦！ 噢，對了，先生説還有一個原因是因為他常常和它們説話。。。難怪它們都長得比女兒和我漂亮一些。。。

Our Christmas Cactus is blooming during the Christmas season. Actually it is quite easy to grow healthy and beautiful in-house plants. I always water them with the leftover rice-rinsing and eggshell-soaked water, and place them at the location with good sunlight. BTW, my husband said that part of the reason is that he talked to them often... No wonder they are much prettier than Vivian and me...

德布西第五號鋼琴序曲 Debussy Prelude Book I, V for piano

最近雖然學校正在放寒假，但是Vivian一點也不得清閒，在家裏忙著練鋼琴、大提琴和錄音。這一首是德布西作的鋼琴序曲第一冊第五號，標題是Les collines d'Anacapri - Anacapri的山丘。學音樂是一條漫長又艱辛的路，若不是有熱情和興趣，是很不容易走下去的。

Even though it is winter break now, Vivian didn't get to break at all. She has been busy with practicing and taking recording of cello and piano. This one is the Debussy piano prelude no 5, Les collines d'Anacapri, meaning the hills of Anacapri. Music is a long and hard road, very difficult to continue without passion and ambition.

充滿歡樂的季節 T'is the Season to be Jolly

聖誕節就快到了，到處洋溢著一片過節的氣氛。馬路上車來車往，尤其是靠近購物中心附近的街道，更是車潮不斷。剛來到美國時不是很習慣這個送禮物的習俗，直到這幾年我才漸漸體會出來，送禮物的意義不在它本身的價值，而是在於它背後蘊藏的那一份心意。當我在列送禮名單時，我開始記起過去這一年中有這麼多的人照顧、關心、幫助過我們，我們曾經一起同工，彼此鼓勵，也願意用這個機會，向一些人表達對他們的感謝和關懷。尤其是像我們不是很善於用言語表達的民族，這一份小小的禮物抵過千言萬語。

可惜的是，許多人專注於送/收禮物，卻忘了為什麼我們要慶祝這個日子。那是因為在兩千年前的這一天，神賜給我們全人類一個最大的禮物 -- 祂自己道成肉身，來到我們中間，充充滿滿地有恩典有真理！有許多人甚至改口稱「聖誕快樂」為「假期快樂」。殊不知，若不是祂自己的降生，所有的慶祝都是徒然，我們今天無法活在恩典之中，一切的快樂都只是表面的假象，也沒有永生的盼望。

所以，親愛的朋友們，讓我在此祝你聖誕快樂！願主的恩典充滿在你的生命中！耶穌愛你！

Only two days left before Christmas, you can smell the holiday everywhere. Traffic is busy especially on the streets surrounding shopping centers. I didn't understand why people give gifts on Christmas until recent years. The significance of giving gift is not about the gift itself but the thought and heart behind it. When I started to write down names on my list, I recollected that there were many people helped me and cared for me in the past year and I remembered how we have worked together and encouraged each other. So I love to use the small gift as a token of my appreciation and care. It means a lot especially for us who are not good at express ourselves in language.

The only thing is, a lot of people only focus on the gift and forgot why we celebrate this special day. It is because God came to earth in human form on this day about 2000 years ago to give us hope and lead the way. Some people even changed from saying "Merry Christmas" to "Happy Holidays". If it is not for Him, all the celebrations are meaningless and there is no hope of eternity.

So, my dear friends, may you have a wonderful Christmas with your family, and may the Lord bless you abundantly in the coming new year!
Merry Christmas!! Jesus loves you and me!

一個夢 A Dream

昨天和Vivian有一點不愉快，她回家後就把自己關在房間裏不出來，我們一直到睡覺前都沒再説過話。我想是因為這樣，所以我做了一個夢。。。夢中我和Vivian有點爭執，我又因她動作不夠快上學要遲到了在生氣，反正夢裏是一團混亂。後來夢境轉為她爸爸要開車帶她出門，好像她要去日本還是臺灣。我因為還在生氣（不知道為什麼自己氣那麼大），甚至不願意和她説再見。一直到周圍的人開始唱詩祝福她，我記得很清楚大家是在唱「從今天起」，我的心就軟下來，忍不住跑過去緊緊地抱著她哭了起來，後來我是從夢中哭醒的。。。那時的心情是原諒、歉意、愛和不捨，錯綜複雜。

我知道神在對我説話。其實我心裏也很清楚，她再過兩年就要離家讀大學去了，我們能常常在一起的時間所剩不多，而且我們的生命並非自己能掌握，每一天都仰望神的恩典，所以每一天甚至每分每秒都應該好好把握。記得幾年前我在上班途中看到一個車禍，從那時起我就時時提醒自己，要珍惜和親人在一起的時間，所以當以後他們想起自己的時候，記憶中是充滿了愛而沒有後悔或遺憾。雖然理智上知道該怎麼做，但是由於肉身的軟弱，有時候行起來由不得我。神藉此提醒我，要把神的愛放在我的心裏，因為祂的愛能勝過一切。

最要緊的是彼此切實相愛．因為愛能遮掩許多的罪。-- 彼得前書４：８

Vivian and I had a little disagreement last night. She stayed in her room the whole night and we didn't get to talk again until this morning. I think I had this dream last night because of this... In my dream we had an argument over something I don't remember anymore, and I was also mad because she was slow in the morning before school, anyway it was a mess. Then it turned to the scene that her daddy was taking her out probably to the airport, my impression was that she was going to Japan or Taiwan. Because I was still angry so I didn't even want to say good-bye to her until people started to sing a praise to give her blessing. I remember clearly it was "From This Day On". My heart was softened and I could not hold it any longer, so I ran to her, hold her in my arms and started to cry. I woke up in tears and a mixed feeling of forgiveness, sorry, love and compassion.

I know God was talking to me through the dream. I know clearly in my heart that she is leaving us in a couple of year to attend college, after that our time together will be very limited. I also need to constantly remind myself that our life is not in our hands and every breath I take is by God's grace. I remember driving by a scene of car accident on my way to work several years ago. I kept reminding myself that I need to cherish every second of my time with my loved ones ever since. So when they remember me, their memory is filled with love and no regrets. Even though I know it in my brain, but sometimes it is hard to do because of our own weakness. That's why God reminds me to keep His love in my heart, because His love conquers everything.

Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. -- 1 Peter 4:8

團隊建造 Team Building

昨天下午我們辦公室的幾個同事組隊參加了一個很有意義的團隊建造活動--到辦公室附近的一個公益機構「奧勒岡食物銀行」去當義工，總共有17個人參加。我們的責任是把一袋袋100磅的白米倒進一個罩有塑膠套的大容器中，再兩磅一包地分裝到貼有標簽的袋子裏並裝箱。開始的時候負責人要我們每個人都洗手，戴上頭罩、手套，穿上圍裙，舀米的人還得在手臂上戴上塑膠套，然後七人一組，兩人抓住裝米的袋子，兩人舀米，兩人封袋，一人裝箱、過秤、並確定每一箱都最少是32磅，其餘的人有的在袋上標貼使用説明，有的封箱，等等。雖然我想發揮聖經上「上尖下流」（不是尖酸刻薄帶下流的意思喲）的精神，讓收到的人多拿一些，但我們在嚴格的品管控制之下，必須用他們提供的容器，很精確地估算大約多少米是2磅，到最後我已經成了一個舀米專家。他們的要求很嚴，掉到地上或桌上、從米箱裏的塑膠罩漏到外頭直接踫到箱子的全都不能要。三個小時下來，我們處理了5376磅的米，根據食品標準管理局的數據，相當於4135餐飯，所以一個人包裝了243餐飯。這些米將會被分送給需要的人。我很高興能為這個社區貢獻一點力量，為需要的人提供一點幫助。

聖經上是這麼形容好的量器的：
你們要給人、就必有給你們的．並且用十足的升斗、連搖帶按、上尖下流的、倒在你們懷裏．因為你們用甚麼量器量給人、也必用甚麼量器量給你們。 -- 路加福音6：38

Several of us from our office attended a very meaningful team building event this afternoon. We went to a charitable organization "Oregon Food Bank" to do volunteer work. There were a total of 17 people attended this event. Our mission was to pour the white rice from 100 lb bags into a huge container covered with plastic sheet, use the measuring cup they provided to separate them into 2 lb bags labeled with instruction, seal and box them. The supervisor asked us to wash our hands cleanly, put on the hair cover, plastic gloves, plastic apron, and plastic arm cover. We were divided into 7-people team: some scooping the rice, some holding the bag, some twisting and tying the bag, some boxing them, weighing the box and making sure it is 32 lb each. The rest were responsible for putting the label on the bags and move the finished box to the pillar. At the end I had become a scooping pro. I thought about the good measure in gospel of Luke... but we were under strict QA so we had to adhere to their rules. After three-hour of hard work, we processed 5376 pounds of rice which is equivalent to 4135 meals. Each of us helped 243 meals. The rice will be shipped to those in need. I feel good for being able to give back to the community and contribute my time and energy to the needed people.

This is how Bible describes a good measure:
Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you." -- Luke 6:38

指揮家陳美安 Conductor Mei-An Chen

昨天PYP在例行練習時，指揮陳美安對他們說了一席話，讓我很感動。

陳美安是來自臺灣高雄的一個年輕指揮家。她十六歲時拿到新英格蘭音樂院的全額獎學金來美就讀，專攻小提琴，但指揮一直是她的夢想。所以在大學小提琴及指揮雙主修畢業，研究所拿到小提琴演奏碩士和指揮碩士後，專攻指揮學，並拿到博士學位。畢業後不知多久，被聘請來PYP帶領PYP五年，給這些年輕人很大的幫助。她在2005 年在丹麥舉行的Nicolai Malko國際指揮大賽中展露頭角，擊敗其他參賽者，從240人中脫穎而出得到首獎，是他們史上第一個得到這項殊榮的女性指揮家。今年她應亞特蘭大交響樂團的邀請，到那兒去擔任副指揮。這是PYP的損失，但是是她事業的一個轉捩點。PYP的這些孩子們到現在還在為她的離去而難過，頻頻地拿客座指揮來和她比較。。。

我很欣賞她的指揮，我覺得她的音樂很真摯並充滿了生命及活力。我也相信她真是認真又有才華的一個音樂家，值得最好的樂團，但這些都不是真正讓我感動的原因。她鼓勵這些年輕人，給新的指揮們以及即將來的候選人一個機會，打開他們的心胸，也許新來的指揮將是一個非常適合來帶領他們的人，她自己也曾走過這條路。她並且勸誡這些年輕人，不要認為他們所擁有的一切都是理所當然。在她讀博士的時候，為了掙生活費減輕家裏負擔，她替別人割草、清潔房子。畢業後一時找不到適合的工作，於是她以教小提琴為生，並在擔任樂團經理時做盡了一切粗重的工作，打雜，並搬重物搬到腰受傷，一路跌跌撞撞，直到五年前PYP給了她這個機會。當初她剛來時，也沒有立刻被完全接納，同樣地被拿來與前任指揮作比較。但若不是PYP，她今天也不會有這樣的成就。她放棄了一年中唯一的兩個禮拜假期，來擔任他們聖誕音樂會的指揮，因為PYP的這些孩子們在她心中有非常重要的地位。

我曾經在報導上看過，她全家都是虔誠的基督徒，因此她即使站在這麼高的位置，仍不忘將榮耀歸給神。感謝神！ 我真是以她為榮，也覺得很有幸能親眼看見她在這些孩子們身上作的工。

「指揮不只是揮揮棒子，如果沒有心靈的感動，就只是製造聲音。音樂不只是音符，如果沒有生命的養分，就稱不上是音樂。而生命中種種的挫折，則讓我的生命更甘美。」 -- 陳美安

只要仔細觀察用心體會，你會發現人生時時有驚喜，生活處處充滿感動！

Yesterday during PYP rehearsal time, their conductor Miss Mei-An Chen said something to them which really touched me.

Mei-An came from Taiwan. She received full scholarship from New England Conservatory at age 16 and started her study in the US. She majored in violin initially, but decided to double-major in both violin performance and conducting. She received her bachelor and master degree majoring both, and doctor's degree in conducting since conducting is her dream starting at young age. After she obtained her dr's degree not sure about how long, she was invited by PYP to lead these young musicians for 5 years. In 2005, she attended the Nicolai Malko International Conducting Competition in Denmark and won the first prize among the 240 competitors from around the world. She is the first female ever to win this competition. She left PYP in 2007 because she was invited to be the assistant conductor by Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. This is a great loss of PYP but the turning point of her career life. The kids of PYP are still suffering from her departure, and they keep comparing other guest conductors with her...

I really appreciate her conducting style because her music is full of life. I believe she is a very talented musician and she deserves the best. Very proud of her!! However, what really touched me is what she said to these young people. She encouraged them to embrace the change and to open their hearts and give the guest conductors and candidates a chance, just like what PYP has given her 5 years ago. She also told them not to take everything for granted. When she was studying her PhD degree, she worked 3 part-time jobs to support herself. She had cleaned people's houses, mowed the lawn, taught 30 violin students in a week, and worked as an orchestra manager. She has even hurt her back by carrying and lifting heavy stuff while she was an orchestra manager. She struggled and stumbled until finally she and PYP found each other. When she first started as a conductor with PYP, she was not well-received immediately and was compared to the past conductor as well. Had PYP not offered her the opportunity, she wouldn't be what she is today (but I believe she would still eventually succeed regardless!). Instead going home to see her family, she uses her only two-week vacation time to come here for their Christmas concert because these kids have a very special place in her heart.

I read in a report that her whole family are Christians, and she gives thank and honor to God for what she has accomplished today. Praise the Lord!! We feel so blessed to be able to witness her work with the kids in the past.

"Conducting is not just waving the baton. It is simply producing sound without the touch from the bottom of one's heart. Music is not just notes. It is not music without the nutrition from life. And all the struggle and suffering is to make my life more beautiful." -- Mei-An Chen

北風南風 North Wind South Wind

今天聽了一個師母見證分享的錄音，我一邊聽一邊流淚。這位師母與我們年齡差不遠，但她自己十幾年前曾經經歷過一個大車禍，躺在病床上十八個月，身體裏面打了鋼釘才能把身體撐起來，從此以後與疼痛結下了不解之緣，現在無論走到哪兒都帶著拐杖和座墊。在五年前她又被診斷出得了乳癌，但她再次經歷神的醫治。雖然她生命中有許多的疼痛，但她知道神與她同在。她在人生的道路上遇過許多基督徒，他們對她的苦難有著不同的反應，有的躲避，有的生氣，有的為她禱告到處求醫治。然而她知道，她在神的手中，我們的神是一個醫治的神，而且她知道神要她向世人作見證。她說每個人生命中都有不同的痛，也許是婚姻、健康、孩子、工作、財務、等等，要有信心向神求，即使神不把我們的痛完全拿走，祂也一定會有話語給我們。也許我們的生命中現在是吹著和煦的南風，也可能正刮著凜冽的北風，她鼓勵我們要勇敢地面對自己的痛，倚靠神，神必帶領我們經過我們生命中的曠野，就在我們覺得沒有力量無可指望的時候，祂必定會緊緊地牽著我們。

她說舊約的雅歌書是她非常喜歡的一部書，裏面描述了一個基督徒與神關係的成長，也在過去的苦難中給她很多的安慰與提醒。透過她的見證讓我對雅歌書有了新的認識。有時候我們自己的苦難，會成爲別人的祝福，那時我們的生命就流出了基督的芳香之氣，就像這位師母一樣。神知道什麼時候給我們南風，什麼時候該刮點北風，讓我們的生命更成熟。

I listened to an audio recording of a testimony by a pastor's wife today. I was weeping as I listened. She is not much older than me but she has experienced way more than I have. She was involved in a serious car accident more than 10 years ago. She had to stay on sick bed for 18 months and she has to carry a cane and a pillow with her wherever she goes ever since. She had to receive steel implant in her body so she can stand up again, and she has the constant pain all over her body. Five years ago she was diagnosed breast cancer yet she received healing once again from our Lord. Even though she experienced many wounds and pains, but she knows God is with her. She had met many Christians in her life and they have different reactions about her current health situation, some are angry, some try to avoid her, and some keep praying for her and take her to all different healing crusades. However she knows that she is in God's hand, our God heals, and she knows she is to witness to the world. She said we all have different kind of pains in our life, whether marriage, children, work, health, or finance, but we should keep praying by faith. Even though God may not remove our pains completely, but He will give us words and comfort us. We may be in a comfortable situation and everything is going smoothly like the soothing south wind, but it can also be the bitter north wind blowing in our life right now. She encouraged us to face our pains bravely and trust in God, He will lead us through the tribulations. Even when we feel hopeless and find ourself lost strength to fight, He will hold our hands tightly and never let go of us.

Song of Songs is the book she likes the most in Bible. It describes the stages of a Christian's spiritual growth and relationship with God, and it give her great comfort and encouragement when she is in trouble. It gave me a brand new perspective of this book. Sometimes our own loss can become blessings of others, at that time others can smell the fragrance of Christ through us just like this pastor's wife. God knows when to provide us south wind and when to blow the north wind to make us stronger.

總算完成了 Finally completed

忙了好一段時間的樂譜校正工作總算是告一段落了。原本只是協助王子音樂事工校譜的，但是由於我「龜毛」（挑剔又囉嗦，好聽一點叫完美主義）的個性，後來演變成鋼琴編譜。雖然真的是忙得不得了，常常要熬夜趕工而且長途電話不斷，但是我很感謝神讓我有這樣的機會，藉由我過去所受到的訓練來參與一個音樂事工的事奉，我也因此學到了許多只有真正動手做時才學得到的經驗。現在我開始期待接下來的服事，聖誕夜慶祝活動以及2008宣教聯會（Mission ConneXion)，期間我還要帶Vivian 去一趟達拉斯(Dallas, TX)。。。真是豐盛！　

我們曉得萬事都互相效力、叫愛　神的人得益處、就是按他旨意被召的人。 -- 羅馬書8：28

Finally, the music score validation/correction work I have been working with Children of God Music Ministry for the new album has come to an end. It started out with validation, but turned out to be piano score re-arrangement due to my picky personality... Though I was extremely busy in the past month or so, often times had to stay late to catch up with all the work piled up on me, I also had to stay on long distance call frequently, I learned a lot through this working experience. Thanks to God for the opportunity so I can use what I learned in the past to serve Him and this music ministry.　Now I start to anticipate the future events, Christmas Celebration and 2008 Mission ConneXion, in between I will take Vivian to Dallas, TX... How exciting!!

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. -- Romans 8:28

一段錄音 A recording, finally

昨晚我們磯法（G5)音樂事工小組和阿布弟兄到教會去，把送給那位伯母的生日快樂歌錄影/音下來了。我們要把這段影音送給她作為紀念。

這是我頭一次貼上有人物的照片。。。照片中有G5成員及影音同工阿布。我們小組在一起同工將近六年了。很感謝神讓我們能一同事奉祂，也讓別人從我們的事工上得到一點點的益處。事實上，雖然我們奉獻了一些時間，但我們自己在這過程中學習到的彼此鼓勵等候、互相寬容、彼此相愛、如何同工，以及在音樂上小小的長進，使我們成為在這個事工中，獲益最大的人。雖然神沒有給我們很大的舞臺，但是只要我們在祂託付給我們的事上忠心，一樣能將榮耀歸給祂。

所以弟兄們、我以　神的慈悲勸你們、將身體獻上、當作活祭、是聖潔的、是　神所喜悅的．你們如此事奉、乃是理所當然的。 不要效法這個世界．只要心意更新而變化、叫你們察驗何為　神的善良、純全可喜悅的旨意。 我憑著所賜我的恩、對你們各人說、不要看自己過於所當看的．要照著　神所分給各人信心的大小、看得合乎中道。-- 羅馬書12：1-3

G5 went to church last night to do video/audio taping of the birthday song for the grandma at our church. We plan to present this recording to her as a souvenir.

This is the first time I posted a picture with human faces... These are the G5 members and video/audio coworker A-Po. We have been coworking together for almost six years. We are truly blessed to be able to serve together, and we are also grateful that if other people can be benefited somewhat by our offering. Actually, we are the ones learned the most through our coworkingship. We learned how to wait on, encourage, love, and cowork with each other. Along with the musical improvement we made over the years, we are the ones with the biggest gain. Although God didn't provide us with a big stage, as long as we are faithful on what He entrusted us to do, we can still give glory and honor to Him.

Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. -- Romans 12:1-3

我主真偉大 How Great Is Our God

這首Chris Tomlin 寫的「我主真偉大」是我最喜愛的一首英文敬拜歌曲。歌詞的大意是這麼説的:
何等尊貴君王，充滿威嚴榮光
讓全地同歡唱，讓全地同歡唱
發出榮耀光芒，黑暗無處隱藏
顫抖於祂聲響，顫抖於祂聲響
我主，真偉大，齊頌揚
我主，真偉大，都要看見
我主，我神，真偉大

祂堅立到萬代，永恒由祂掌權
從亙古到永遠，從亙古到永遠
神聖三一真神，父、子、與聖靈
獅子與羔羊，獅子與羔羊
我主，真偉大，齊頌揚
我主，真偉大，都要看見
我主，我神，真偉大

超乎萬名之名，祂配得一切讚美
我心要頌揚，我主，真偉大

為何説獅子與羔羊？主耶穌是榮耀的君王，祂戰勝罪惡，就像獅子一樣撕碎獵物。但祂同時也是神的羔羊，代替我們承受一切罪的責罰，為我們獻上生命，用血洗淨我們一切的不義，使我們能夠再次回到神的面前。

This is my all time favorite English worship song written by Chris Tomlin. The lyrics says:
The splendor of a King, clothed in majesty
Let all the earth rejoice All the earth rejoice
He wraps himself in Light, and darkness tries to hide
And trembles at His voice Trembles at His voice
How great is our God, sing with me
How great is our God, and all will see
How great, how great is our God

Age to age He stands And time is in His hands
Beginning and the end Beginning and the end
The Godhead Three in One Father Spirit Son
The Lion and the Lamb The Lion and the Lamb
How great is our God, sing with me
How great is our God, and all will see
How great, how great is our God

Name above all names Worthy of all praise
My heart will sing How great is our God

我最近缺席的原因 The reasons that I have been absent

最近我們教會的詩班正在積極地為聖誕節的慶祝活動作準備，我們要唱彌賽亞中的幾首選曲，而且要和我們教會青少年組成的樂團聯合演出。同時，感謝神使用我們，很榮幸地我們被西北區一個宣教盛會Mission ConneXion邀請去帶領明年大會中的一場聚會，那是一個通常有千人以上參加的大型聚會，所以現在正在緊鑼密鼓地練習中。今天他們的負責人親自來我們教會看看我們的敬拜隊和詩班，他並且告訴我說，我們教會將是第一個參與這個事奉的少數族裔團體，所以我想我們的責任是很重的。

今天還有一個大喜事，我們教會有一位伯母過九十歲生日，主日崇拜後我們給她唱了一首特別製作的生日快樂歌。這首歌是上星期天早晨起床後進入我的腦子的，於是我決定把它寫出來送給這位伯母。看到我們教會中的伯父伯母們，總覺得他們都好可愛，也很關心我們，有時好像把我們當成他們自己的孩子們一樣看待，常常給我們打氣與鼓勵。真是感謝神，雖然自己的父母親不在身邊，卻有這麼多屬靈的父母能常常與我們在一起。我也很羡慕這些能與父母常在一起的弟兄姐妹。。。
旁邊就是這首生日快樂歌，喜歡的話就印出來唱吧。

Our church choir has been very busy preparing for the Christmas celebration event. We will be singing some selections from Messiah with our church youth ensemble. At the same time, give thanks to the Lord, we are invited to participate in the 2008 Northwest Mission ConneXion event. We will be leading a worship session in this event which will be held in January of 2008. The coordinator came to check out our worship team and choir today. He told me that our church will be the first minority group participating in leading the worship service. So I think we are carrying an important mission.


Today we had another happy event at our church. A grandma is going to have her 90th birthday in a couple of days, we sang a special Happy Birthday song for her after our worship service. This simple song came to my mind last Sunday after I woke up, so I decided to write it down and dedicate it to this grandma. I feel very blessed to have these many grandpas and grandmas with us. They are all so loveable and they care about us. Often times I feel that they almost treat us like their own children. I give thanks to our God that though my own parents are not here, but we have these many spiritual parents with us. I also envy those brothers and sisters who are able to live close to their parents...
Attached is the Happy Birthday song. Feel free to print it out and use it if you like it.

祢提昇我 You Raise Me Up

這首很美的詩歌源自有名的愛爾蘭傳統歌調Londonderry Air，它曾被用來紀念美國911遭受的恐怖攻擊。我把歌詞翻譯了一下，大意是説：
當我消沉、心靈疲憊的時候
困難來臨，重擔壓著肩頭
我要安靜，耐心地靜默等候
直到祢來，在我身旁守候

祢提昇我，讓我站立在山頂
祢提昇我，戰勝狂風巨浪
我堅強，當我倚靠祢肩膀
祢提昇我，超乎所有想像

每個生命，時時刻刻在尋覓
不安的心，何時得到平靜
但祢來臨，使生命充滿驚奇
我深知我已看見永恆生命

每個人都有遭遇困難、苦難、與憂傷的時候，但主耶穌是我們永遠的膀臂。祂能提昇我們，帶領我們到更高之地，超過我們所求所想。


This beautiful praise has been used for commemorations of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The melody is based on the traditional Irish tune Londonderry Air. The lyrics say:

When I am down and, oh my soul, so weary;
When troubles come and my heart burdened be;
Then, I am still and wait here in the silence,
Until you come and sit awhile with me.

There is no life - no life without its hunger;
Each restless heart beats so imperfectly;
But when you come and I am filled with wonder,
Sometimes, I think I glimpse eternity.

You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;
You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas;
I am strong, when I am on your shoulders;
You raise me up: To more than I can be.

背影 Backshadow

許多人都讀過朱自清的「背影」（如果你沒看過或想再讀一次的話，可以在這兒看到）。中學時代每次讀到他在文中藉著他父親送他上火車時爬過月臺為他買橘子過程的描述流露出對父親深切的思念，往往和他一同流淚。沒想到事隔多年，現代「新背影」就在我們自家上演。。。

我每天都送女兒上學。雖然有校車接送，但是上車時間很早。她因每天練琴讀書都睡得晚，我想讓她多睡一點，所以我自己送她到學校去。我通常會先幫她把早餐準備好帶在車上，然後她一邊吃著早餐，我們一邊聊天一起上班上學。到了學校停車場，下車後她需要走一段斜坡才能進到學校去，我在停車場迴轉一圈離開之前，都可以看到她背著背包，慢慢往教室走去的背影。我現在已經養成了一個習慣，在離開以前都會很快的在學生群中搜尋她的背影，然後面帶微笑滿足地離開，並開始為她的一天禱告。很快地她即將離開家去上大學，我相信我會想念這一段兩人每天固定獨處的時光，也會將她交託在主的手中，天天為她祈求與感恩。

感謝您父神，帶領Vivian認識您這位又真又活的神。我祈禱她能全心尋求您，且在她一切的需要上依靠您。父神，求您牽住她的手使她不害怕，保守她的平安，領她經過困難的時刻，並讓她明白你與她同在；您是她的神，使她不驚惶。您必堅固她，幫助她；必用您公義的右手扶持她。阿門。

你不要害怕、因為我與你同在。不要驚惶、因為我是你的　神。我必堅固你、我必幫助你、我必用我公義的右手扶持你。 －－ 以賽亞書41：10

I am pretty sure many people know about the article "backshadow" by Mr. Ziqing Zhu. I am not sure how to translate the title into English correctly and it actually means the look of someone from behind. It was in our middle school Chinese textbook. He showed that he missed his father very much by remembering how his father climbed over the train station platform to buy tangerines for him(this was published in 1925 by the way). I am always touched no matter how many times I have read it before. Many years later, the similar situation is happening in my own family...

I drop Vivian off to school everyday. Though there are school buses available but they come very early. Vivian always stays late for practicing and school work, so I decided to take her to school myself. I usually get the breakfast ready so she can eat in the car, then we will hop in the car and go to school/work together. She needs to walk a 200-feet slope from school parking lot to the building, so I can still see her after I make a U-turn in the parking lot before I leave. I have developed a habit to look for her from behind, watch her walking among the students, and start to pray for her. I am pretty sure in a couple of years after she goes to college, I will miss the precious time we have together, and I will remember her in my prayer everyday.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for leading Vivian into knowing You, the living God. I pray that she will follow You and lean on You wholeheartedly. Father, please hold her hand so she will not be afraid, keep her safe, lead her through difficult time, strengthen her and help her, and let her know that You are her God and You will be with her always. Amen.

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. -- Isaiah 41:10

冥王星 Pluto

一個小小的常識測驗：太陽系裏最大的行星是哪一個？
最近Vivian嘗試著教我一些簡單的西班牙文，她從一週裏的七天開始。不知道是誰說老狗也可以學新花樣的？至少我這一條老狗就很難。光是要我記住哪一天是哪個行星代表的就已經很傷我有限的腦力了，更不用説要用西班牙文了。結果她測驗成果的時候，我沒有一題是答對的。在問到我星期四的時候，她很好心地給我提示：「最大的行星是哪一個？」我想了一下（不知道我為何要浪費這個時間去想，其實想不想結果都是一樣的），給了一個很沒常識的答案：「冥王星！不，土星，呃。。。」當我還在考慮要不要再換個答案的時候，已經聽到她在一旁無法克制地爆笑：「哈哈哈哈。。。冥王星。。。哈哈哈哈。。。」
後來她告訴我，原來冥王星不只是最小的一個（比我們的月亮還小），而且近年來已經被「矮化」成為「矮行星」了。她把這件事放在她的部落格上，得到的回應是一致的：「哈哈。。。」還有一個人留言：「我就說你媽媽很爆笑。」唉。。以後怎麼在他們面前擺出我的威嚴哪？

One small trivia for you: what is the biggest planet in the solar system?
Vivian has been trying to teach me Spanish recently, and she chose to start from the day of the week. By the way, who said that old dogs can learn new tricks? At least not this one. It is already difficult to remember which planet represents which day for me, not to mention that I have to translate it to Spanish. When she asked me about Thursday, she gave me a hint "what is the biggest planet in the solar system?" I "thought" about it for a minute, trying to find any information in my memory, and gave a not educated randon guess "Pluto, uh, no, Saturn..." While I was still considering to switch to another planet, I already heard her uncontrollable laugh "Ha ha ha.... Pluto...ha ha ha..."
Then she told me, not only is Pluto the smallest one, but also got downgraded to dwarf planet recently. She posted this conversation on her blog and received the same response from everyone who posted a comment "Ha ha ha...". One even said "I toldja your mom is hilarious!"

瘦火雞長尾巴囉 Skinnyturkey's tail is growing!

我們磯法音樂事工(G5)裏的小弟鋼琴手瘦火雞（Skinnyturkey, 又稱天象Sky Elephant)今天長尾巴了。願他生日快樂，主恩滿溢！
Today is the birthday of the youngest one in our G5 ministry, Skinnyturkey (aka Sky Elephant). I would like to wish him a very berry happy birthday, and God's blessings be with him always!

當你生日時 我們就把奶油調成水彩
再加進款款的祝福 畫你成红蕃的歡呼
趁你驚惶失措 用小火車偷偷把你的憂愁嘟嘟地載走
當你生日時 我們就把蛋糕當作磚塊
再加進默默的祈禱 砌一座摩天的城堡
趁你踮起足尖 用小風筝偷偷將你的身高又拉長不少

這也使我想起Vivian小時候，有一年她過生日，她daddy 和我對她說：「Vivian, 你今天長尾巴喲！」她馬上聲明：「沒有！我沒有長尾巴！」我們解釋：「你今天過生日啦！長尾巴就是過生日呀！」她嚇得都快哭出來了：「那我不要過生日了！」
This also reminds me that on one birthday of Vivian when she was young, her daddy and I told her "Vivian, your tail is growing! (In Chinese, it means having a birthday)" She immediately claimed "No, I don't have a tail!" We explained to her "It's your birthday, growing tail means having your birthday." She got so scared and almost cried and replied "No, I don't want to have a birthday then!"

奇妙恩典 I'm Amazed

我在校譜的時候看到了這首歌，實在忍不住要與大家分享。這也是一首布魯克林會幕教會的詩歌，下面的中文譯詞來自王子音樂的負責人洪啓元弟兄。聽了他們的歌聲，你會深深地覺得，當一個曾經失落、在痛苦中掙扎的人，被主耶穌的愛摸著之候，那從内心深處發出來的感謝與讚美的呼聲，是沒有任何其他聲音可以比擬的。

沒有人知道我的孤寂
沒有人明瞭我内心的空虛
我曾誇口說沒有神也沒關係
其實是掩飾我内心的空虛
有一天 有人向我傳講你的恩慈
告訴我加略山上愛的故事
你為我死 以重價將我贖回
使我靈自由 勝過罪惡權勢

有時候我仍然令你失望
主你也知道我也曾經迷失
但我知道你的愛勝過我的軟弱
你總是耐心聆聽我的呼求
沒有人會對我如此關心
朋友們也不曾如你般親密
明天的難處 你賜我勇氣來面對
主耶穌 你是我隨時的幫助

你的愛 奇妙恩典 我卑微 你顧念
藉由你寳血 我得赦免
我所有過犯 不再被記念
我的罪已得赦免

I came across this song when I was working on the score, and I feel compelled to share it with you. This is one of the Brooklyn Tabernacle's songs by Carol Cymbala. Chinese translation above is done by Chuck Hong of Children of God Music Ministry. When a once lost person is touched by Jesus' love, the thankful praise and joyful shout from the bottome of his/her heart is one that nothing can compare.

No one knew how alone I was feeling,
And the emptiness I tried so hard to hide
Though I laughed and said my life was fine without You,
I was covering up the secret tears I cried
Then one day someone told me of Your mercy
And the love You showed on a hill called Calvary
There you died and purchased my redemption
When you broke sin’s power and set my spirit free

It’s true there have been days when I’ve failed You
Lord, you know the many times I’ve gone astray
But I’ve learned that Your love is stronger than my weakness
And your ear is open every time I pray.
No one else has ever cared for me like You, Lord
Other friends could never be as close to me
I’m not afraid to face the problems of tomorrow
Knowing You are everything I’ll ever need

I’m amazed that you love me
I’m amazed how you care
Through your precious blood,
I’ve found pardon
And my sins are washed, they’re all washed away
All my sins are washed away

主啊, 原諒我！O Lord, forgive me!

今天早晨上教會時，下了高速公路以後準備左轉到往教會的路，我的前面停了另一輛轎車，右側車道停了一輛聯結車，大家都在等號誌燈準備左轉。綠燈亮了，三輛車同時左轉，但在左轉後道路縮減，右側車道的車輛必須要切入我們走的左側車道。那輛聯結車左轉後馬上就要卡進來，前面的車他追不上，但他看不起我這個和他並排的小車，就硬往我這兒擠。我最看不慣仗勢欺人的人，所以我當然不會讓他，靠著車子的好性能，油門一踩就衝到他前面去了。「轟！轟！」聯結車很不滿意，對著我猛按喇叭，那時我已經被他氣得只差沒有鼻孔冒煙、口吐白沫，他竟然還敢按我喇叭，我就很用力地也給他「叭---」回去。。。

後來聯結車轉進倉庫區去了，我才稍稍消氣，但一想不對呀，前頭那輛車，在這個時候往這個方向去，那不是也要去教會嗎？慘了！要是給弟兄姐妹看到我這種行為，那就會毀得很難看。果然，那輛車在教會的停車場停了下來，我就把車稍稍地停遠一點，Vivian和我都坐在車上，偷偷地看他們是誰，結果是一對我們不認識的夫婦，還帶著一個小女孩。我真是不好意思下車，於是在駕駛座上越縮越低，只希望他們會以為這開車的人憑空消失了。Vivian一邊看著他們一邊向我報告他們的動作：「他們一直在看我們這邊。。。他們往這邊走過來了。。。」叩！叩！完了！他們還來敲我的車窗！我只好陪著笑臉硬著頭皮下車，一下車這位先生就開口：「對不起。。。」我不等他說完就馬上搶著說：「我不是要叭你的！是那個卡車太可惡了！」他停了一下繼續說：「不好意思打擾你，請問你們教會是不是九點半開始聚會？」啊！完了！我怎麼會沒想到，他們是新來的！這下裝得再可愛也沒有用，他們一定會對我們教會印象不好，都是我的錯。後來帶他們去主日學和兒童崇拜，跟他們聊了一下才知道他們是從華盛頓特區（Washington D.C.)搬來的，昨天才剛下飛機，今天就到我們教會來了。等我回到車上，Vivian説：「我想他們應該沒看到我長什麼樣子，還好。。。」

主日崇拜時，牧師講道的主要重點就是要有謙讓的心，並說溫柔就是能控制自己的能力，又拿出半杯醬油和甜甜圈來做例子。主啊，我知道我錯了，我會記得以後要謙讓，車子性能再好也不需要開得這麼勇，更希望那個新來的家庭能在我身上看到甜甜圈，而不在乎那只剩下半杯的醬油。

男生開車都要用自動導航 All men need GPS

我的小外甥曾經在他爸爸開車的時候指正他，提醒他要打開自動導航系統，並且加了一句：「男生開車都是要用自動導航的。」在他小小的心靈裏，不知道是以使用自動導航為榮，還是透過觀察父母開車時的互動而得來的結論，但他說得真是符合我們家的實際狀況。在我們家的車子有自動導航系統以前，駕駛兵旁邊的指揮官（那就是我啦）就是導航系統，有時甚至是走了多少年的老路也得提醒一下，否則不知道什麼時候那根筋忽然扭了，仍然要走錯。

神把兩個人放在一起時，就已經計劃好了要兩人互相扶持，互補不足。一個人粗枝大葉，另一個就小心謹慎；一個精明能幹，另一個就難得糊塗；一個老謀深算，另一個就不用腦筋；一個老掉東西，另一個就成了找東西專家；一個遇事暴跳如雷，另一個就得不動如山；一個人不認路，另一個就得當導航啦。其實有時候，難得糊塗不必用腦筋，才是真正的幸福！

18 耶和華　神説、那人獨居不好、我要為他造一個配偶幫助他。 22 耶和華　神就用那人身上所取的肋骨、造成一個女人、領他到那人跟前。 23 那人說、這是我骨中的骨、肉中的肉、可以稱他為女人、因為他是從男人身上取出來的。 -- 創世記 2：18， 22-23

My little nephew once corrected his daddy when he was driving. He told him to turn on the GPS system and added "all men need to use the GPS". I am not sure if he was proud to use GPS in his little mind, or if he concluded this finding by observing his parents' interactions while on the road. But I have to say, he was so right!! Before the time of GPS, in our family, the commander (it was me by the way) who sat next to the driver was the navigation system. Sometimes reminders are still needed even on the same route that we have been taking for many years.

When God puts to people together, He has a plan to let them help and supplement each other. One is careless, the other is careful; one is tense, the other will have to take it easy; one is forgetful, the other one need to be attentive; one has bad temper, the other will promote harmony; one easily gets lost when driving, the other will be the GPS.

18 The LORD God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him." 22 Then the LORD God made a woman from the rib he had taken out of the man, and he brought her to the man. 23 The man said, "This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called 'woman,' for she was taken out of man." -- Genesis 2:18, 22-23

感恩節快樂 Have a blessed Thanksgiving holiday

明天就是感恩節了，願大家都有一個溫馨美好的感恩節假期，與家人和朋友們一同分享神豐盛的賜予! 下面這段音樂是喬治溫斯頓作的 "感恩"，讓我們一邊聆賞一邊感恩吧！
Tomorrow is Thanksgiving Day! May everyone have a blessed Thanksgiving holiday and share God's abundant giving with your family and friends! The following music is Thanksgiving written by George Winston. Enjoy!

貓頭鷹 Owl

上星期天在崇拜之前，看見教會外頭的樹上站了一隻大大的貓頭鷹，這是我生平第一次看到活的野生貓頭鷹 。牠的一雙眼睛瞪得好大，我還以為貓頭鷹白天都在睡覺，只有晚上出來活動呢。由於我沒有帶相機，所以我請阿布幫忙拍了一張。

We saw a huge owl standing on a branch outside of our sanctuary last Sunday right before worship service. His/her eyes were wide open and I thought owls sleep during the day. Because I didn't have my camera with me so I asked Jerry to take a picture of it. This is from Jerry.

結婚週年快樂 Happy Anniversary, my dear friends

今天是Qinwen和Eric的結婚週年紀念日，如果我沒記錯的話，是17年了吧！聽説Eric也總算決定把他的生日就定在今天。。。 這首“最浪漫的事”我非常喜歡，相信也是許多女孩子一生的夢想。我願用這首歌來慶賀他們的週年紀念日，預祝他們在接下來的幾個17年裏幸福美滿，並祝Eric生日快樂。

Today is Qinwen's and Eric's wedding anniversary. If I remembered it correctly, they have been married for 17 years. Also, Eric finally decided to settle his birthday on this day too... This song "The Most Romantic Thing" is one of my favorites, and I believe it is the lifetime dream of many girls as well. I would like to use this song to congratulate them on their marriage, wish them the best for the many 17 years to come, and say "Happy Birthday" to Eric.

背靠著背坐在地毯上
聽聽音樂聊聊願望
你希望我越來越溫柔
我希望你放我在心上
你說想送我個浪漫的夢想
謝謝我帶你找到天堂
哪怕用一輩子才能完成
只要我講你就記住不忘
我能想到最浪漫的事
就是和你一起慢慢變老
一路上收藏點點滴滴的歡笑
留到以後坐著搖椅慢慢聊
我能想到最浪漫的事
就是和你一起慢慢變老
直到我們老得哪兒也去不了
你還依然把我當成手心裡的寶

因為祢與我同在 For You Are With Me

昨天Vivian從學校帶回來一個不好的消息：她們學校一個很優秀的十一年級生，功課很好，小號吹得很棒，曾經代表學校得過全州高中組獨奏比賽冠軍，最近被診斷出罹患血癌。原先他們以為他得了支氣管炎，到醫院作進一步檢查以後才發現原來是血癌。Vivian和他曾在初中時同在學校的爵士樂團裏，再加上前一段時間他們學校才有一個女孩子因血癌去世，所以Vivian心情很沉重。她說她一想到這種事情就覺得很累，但她最後補充了一句：「唯一值得安慰的是，他已經是基督徒了。」

她的心情當然要沉重，連我都覺得很難過。我們遇過與見過的事情都比他們多得多，而他們生命的樂章才剛剛展開，就得面對這種無法解答的問題。我問她我們能怎麼幫助或支持他呢，她回答得很簡單：「為他禱告。」感謝神！在這些孩子們還年幼的時候，就讓他們認識祂，當他們遇到危險與困難時知道能倚靠祂。相信信心和仰望，必能幫助他和他的家人度過最困難的時刻。如果你願意，我邀請你和我們一起，每天為他禱告，求神親自醫治他。

我雖然行過死蔭的幽谷，也不怕遭害；因為祢與我同在，祢的杖，祢的竿，都安慰我。 -- 詩篇23：4

Vivian came home with a bad news from school yesterday: one of the junior students was diagnosed with leukemia. He is one of the best students of the school and a very good trumpet player. He once represented the school and won the first place in the State Solo competition. They thought he had bronchitis at first, but after further checking they determined that it is leukemia. Because they attended the same jazz band in middle school plus there was one girl from their school passed away due to leukemia not long ago, Vivian was sad to learn this news. She said she feels tired when thinking about this, but she added "the only good thing is, he is already a Christian."

Of course her heart is heavy; even I am saddened. We adults have seen and experienced many things in our lives, but they just started to explore the world and have great future ahead of them and yet they have to face this kind of things. I asked if there is anything we can do to help or support, she said "Pray for him." I give thanks to our Lord that He brought these kids to Him when they are still young, so they know they can trust and rely on Him in times of trouble. I believe that faith and the simple trust in our Lord will be able to lead him and his family through this difficult time. If you are willing, I would like to invite you to pray for him everyday for the healing from God.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. -- Psalm 23:4

三塊錢的愛 Three Dollars Worth of Love

在被女兒和我霸佔了十幾年後，先生總算有機會休了兩個星期的假，一個人回家去給他父親過生日，也用這個機會專心陪陪父母，孝敬老人家。早上送他到機場，停了車，陪他去check-in行李，辦好手續。平常「洽北北」（就是赤趴趴，又稱匈巴巴）的我，這時後偏偏兒女情長起來，拉著他不讓他馬上去候機室，硬要他陪我坐在休息區磨蹭了半小時才讓他去安檢。我更是一反平日明快果斷的作風，在安檢區外婆婆媽媽地看著他通關，穿鞋，收拾東西，直到他消失在我視線之外才離開。

到了停車場要付停車費時，才發現自己竟然忘了帶錢包，身上又沒有現金。在手提袋裏胡亂掏了一陣，才在我丟在包包裏亂七八糟的卡中翻出了一張莫名其妙的信用卡。等我終於開始付錢時，停車時間已經變成一小時又三分鐘，為了這三分鐘，我多付了三塊美金。這個對勤儉持家:)、小氣巴拉的我來説，簡直是太不划算了，於是馬上開始自我檢討，腦子裏浮現出許多的假設，如果我有帶錢包，如果我走快一點，如果我沒有在機場久留，如果我沒有看著他通關，等等。但當我想到陪他候機的那一段時間，韃伐聲的氣勢變得越來越弱。。。雖然多花了這三塊錢，但它換來的是我們之間多一點相處的時間，讓我體會到要珍惜我所擁有的，讓我能再多陪他一會兒（正確的説法是，讓他能再多陪我一會兒）。。。我們之間所能表達及感受的，又豈是任何其他三塊錢所能買得到的呢？

After being completely occupied by Vivian and me for almost 17 years, David finally got a chance to take two weeks off (from work and from us) and went home by himself to celebrate his father's birthday with his family. We drove to the airport in the morning, parked the car, checked bags and got everything ready to go. I was usually not a gentle and loving wife but I still didn't want him to leave immediately, so I dragged him to stay in the waiting room with me for 30 minutes. When he finally had to go, I waited outside the security check and watched him walked pass the check point, put on his shoes, got his stuff, and walked out of my sight.

I didn't know I forgot to bring my wallet until I reached the machine to pay for the parking fee, and I had no cash with me at all. After digging in my bag for a while, I finally found a credit card that I am not familiar with in the pile of cards I dumped in the bag. By the time I paid, it showed 1 hour and 3 minutes. I ended up paying $3 extra for the 3 minutes. This is not good to me who possesses a good virtue of practicing thrift :), so I started to examine myself and thought if I didn't forget my wallet, if I had walked faster, if I didn't stay that long, if I didn't watch him passing the security check point... I started to forgive myself when I remembered the time we stayed together in the waiting area. Although I spent $3 more this morning, but I got to stay with him longer and I got to realize the importance of cherishing the one I love. What we had experienced and expressed is nothing we can buy with any other $3.

狗的眼睛是鹹的 Salty Dog Eye

昨天Vivian上大提琴課的時候，她的老師對她女兒有些小小的抱怨。她說不知道為什麼，最近她女兒變得很不容易溝通。舉個例子，早晨穿衣服時，她不是嫌顔色太花，就是袖子太短，要不然太厚了，否則又太緊了，反正不論做什麼都不對就是了。她擔心現在就這樣，十幾歲時還得了。我問她女兒是不是七歲了，果然，她馬上就要過七歲生日了。我笑笑對她說，過一段時間就好了，因為我自己也是過來人。

小時候哥哥是我的偶像，無論在家或是在外頭玩，我老喜歡拖著兩條小辮子和兩道鼻涕跟在他後邊跑，他常常被我弄得受不了。記得有一段時間，他開始對我說「七歲八歲狗眼鹹」。那時我童智未開，知道的字彙有限，所以不明白為什麼狗的眼睛是鹹的。既然哥哥是對我說的，跟我一定有什麼關係，又不太敢問他。後來問媽媽這句話是什麼意思，媽媽才告訴我，七八歲的小孩子，連狗看了都討厭。哦，原來是「狗眼嫌」哪！後來自己有了女兒，等她長到七歲的時候我才發現，天哪！狗的眼睛真的是鹹的！！

如果你家有這個年紀的小孩，而你又剛剛好嚐到鹹鹹的味道，感謝神！神給了你一個鍛煉的機會，讓你在孩子進入青少年期之前，先來個實戰演習，才不會到時後措手不及，不戰而降。

Yesterday during Vivian's cello lesson, her teacher complained about her daughter. She said that she doesn't know why but her daughter has been very difficult to deal with recently. Take dressing her up in the morning for example, if she doesn't complain about the sleeves being too short, then she must hate the color; otherwise it is either too thick or too tight. She was worried that she will not be able handle her daughter when she becomes a teenager. I asked if she is seven now and she said yes. I told her not to worry too much, it is normal for a 7-year-old kid to behave this way. I have been there and done that myself.

When I was little, my big brother was my idol. I always loved to follow him wherever he went. He must have felt miserable at that time. At one point he started to say "7-year-old, 8-year-old, even dogs don't want to see you" to me. I didn't really understand what it meant at first. I was wondering why dogs' eye balls are salty? (The pronunciation is the same in Chinese). I knew it must have something to do with me, but I didn't dare to ask him. After I checked with my mom, then I realized it means that even dogs don't want to see a kid when s/he is at the age of 7 or 8. Ouch!... Then I have my own daughter. When she turned 7, oh my, the dogs' eye balls are really salty!!

If you happened to have a kid at 7 or 8 at home, and you happened to feel the same way, praise the Lord! Because He has given you an opportunity to practice and train up yourself before your child turns into a teenager.

管理衆人之事 Governing Public Affairs

幾天前看了一個政論節目『臺灣胼手胝足史』，讓我想起了很多事情，其中他們提到過去一個「客廳即工廠」的口號。沒錯，小學時代爲了賺些糖果錢，曾經在放學後在家裏串聖誕燈泡，纏電線。那時手腳利落，眼明手快，因此成績很不錯。弟妹對我又羡慕又嫉妒所以叫我「小女工」。現在我們用的聖誕燈飾故障時，我仍然記得該怎麼檢查或是換燈泡。這個就叫做「吾少也賤（貧賤，非下賤），故多能鄙事。」

節目最後，主持人說了一句話給我感觸很深 -- 「政治家關心下一個世代，政客關心下一場選舉」。放眼望去，有多少人是真的為了下一代的福祉而籌謀，又有多少人是只計個人利害，不顧別人死活呢？

A couple of days ago, we watched a TV program talking about how Taiwan grew from poverty to prosperity. It reminded me of many things. One thing they mentioned about was the concept "your living room is your production plant". That's right! We used to assemble Christmas lights which were used to export to the US and other foreign countries at home to make some candy money. I was very good at it so I made quite a lot of money (in a kid's mind). That's why I can sometimes fix the Christmas lights when they are out of order.

At the end of the program, the host said one phrase which really made me think -- "A good politician thinks for the next generation, but a bad one only worries about the next election." Look around you, how many people contemplate for the welfare of the general public and how many only care for their own success?

何當共剪西窗燭 When will we be together again?

最近這一陣子，我們疏於聯絡的幾個表兄弟姐妹，藉著電子郵件再次開始有一些交流。雖然不是很頻繁，但是我已經非常滿足了。

由於父母都上班，我和弟妹從小就受到阿姨許多的照顧。弟妹小的時候曾經跟著表哥表姐叫自己的爸媽姨父、阿姨，由此可見我們的關係有多親近。小時候每次聽到要去“阿姨家”，那種感覺就好像要去天堂一般快樂。記得以前姨父常常開著吉普車帶著一家人從台中來看我們，每次他們要走時，我總是眼巴巴的看著爸媽，他們一看我的眼神就知道我想跟他們一起回去。有時我可以跟他們去，有時就沒這麼幸運，那時我就只能眼淚汪汪地看著他們離開。從阿姨家回來時，也得上演一次同樣的戲碼，表姐們常常在浴室裏抓到我在裏頭偷偷擦眼淚。小學時，有一次我和朋友玩得不小心，摔了個腦震蕩，在家休息了好幾天。阿姨和表姐們有空時來看我，阿姨一進門看到我就抱著我哭了起來。。。我知道阿姨是很愛我們的。

長大之後，各自有各自的生活，從前玩在一起的表兄弟姐妹七個人，現在所在地是橫跨美洲，亞洲，及非洲，而最方便的聯絡方式竟然是電子郵件。每次回臺灣，總是缺了一兩個，似乎從來沒有湊齊過。科技的發達，把我們的距離拉遠了，現在我們也只能依賴科技以不同的方式聯絡。那一天我們才能再全都聚到一塊兒呢？

蕭邦第三號敍事曲 Chopin Ballade No3 Op47

這是Vivian彈的蕭邦第三號敍事曲，在大約一個月前錄的。我從以前就非常喜愛這首曲子，沒想到現在我女兒都已經可以彈了。希望你也會喜歡。
This is the Chopin Ballade No3 played by Vivian. It was recorded about a month ago. I have loved this piece since many many years ago, and now even my daughter can play it. Hope you like it as I do.

祂知我名 He Knows My Name

昨天主日崇拜過後，我們看了一段聖誕鞋盒的宣導短片。這個活動是由撒瑪利亞人錢囊這個機構（葛理翰牧師的兒子Franklin Graham主持的）發起，每年在聖誕節之前，在各處收集裝滿了禮物、文具用品和愛心的鞋盒，送給困苦地區的孩子們，也用這個機會把神的愛傳給他們。當我看到影片中的孩子們也聽到這首歌時，我的眼淚忍不飆出來了。我無法想像如果Vivian是他們其中的一個，我會是什麼樣的心情。想一想我們自己生活在富裕安全的地方，但是有許多幼小的生命，每一天在戰火、飢餓、和恐懼中度過。。。但是神知道他們，沒有忘記他們，並透過愛神的弟兄姐妹將愛送到他們生命中。由於他們需要在聖誕節時把鞋盒送到，所以收件截止時間已經近了。我們教會每年都會參加這個有意義的活動，如果您不知哪兒有收集鞋盒的地點，可以到這兒來查。如果您沒有辦法參加這個活動，您仍然可以在禱告中記念這些幼小的生命及這個事工。以下就是這個宣導短片。

Yesterday after Sunday service, we watched a short video clip about the Operation Christmas Child. This event is organized by Samaritan's Purse organization (lead by son of Rev. Billy Graham, Franklin Graham). They collect shoeboxes stuffed with toys, school supplies, and love every year before Christmas and send them to the children in need. When I saw the kids and heard the song in the clip, I wept. I can't image how I would feel if Vivian was one of them. We live in safe places and enjoy the prosperity, but there are many young lives living in the shadow of war, hunger, and fear... But God knows their sorrows and remembers them, and He send His love to their lives through the brothers and sisters who loves Him. Because they need to send the shoeboxes in time for Christmas, so the collection deadline is approaching (11/12 - 11/19). Our church participates in this event every year. If you don't know where the collection point is in the area you live, you can find out from here. If it is inconvenient for you to participate, you can still help by remembering these children and this ministry in your prayer. Below is the video clip.



影片中的詩歌叫“祂知我名”，是Tommy Walker作的。中文譯詞這麼說：
我有一位創造主，祂創造我心
遠在創世之前，我已在祂手中
祂知我名、我姓，祂知我的意念
祂看見我眼淚，祂垂聽我呼求

我有一位天父，我單屬於祂
不論我在何處，祂永不離開我
祂知我名、我姓，祂知我的意念
祂看見我眼淚，祂垂聽我呼求

I have a Maker, He formed my heart
Before even time began my life was in His hands
He knows my name, He knows my every thought
He sees each tear that falls and hears me when I call

I have a Father, He calls me His own
He'll never leave me no matter where I go
He knows my name, He knows my every thought
He sees each tear that falls and hears me when I call



祂知我名,也知道你。He knows my name, and yours too.

創意攝影 Creative Photographing

這三張照片是兩天前Vivian在我們開車時拍的。不知道她哪兒而來的點子，但我覺得還蠻不錯的。
These three pictures were taken by Vivian two days ago while we were driving. Not sure how she came up with this idea but I think it is pretty cool.

我也依樣畫葫蘆，結果變成這樣。
I copied whatever she did and it became this.

我的第一本聖經 My First Bible

小時候的我非常喜歡讀書。那時沒什麼圖書館，家裏也沒太多適合我們年紀的書，所以只要不是學校課本，凡是我拿得到的書都不會放過。我讀過母親的古今文選和詩詞選集，也是家裏固定第一個看父親每月收到的中央月刊的人（所以我幼年時代的思想教育做得非常徹底：），我甚至曾經數度潛進父母的房裏偷看我母親過去在報章上刊登出來的文章（因為裏面有些有關我母親身世的「秘密」，所以她從沒讓我們看過）。
小學四年級時，學校裏來了一個新的工友郭伯伯，他對小朋友們非常和氣，總是笑笑地，不像別的工友先生會對我們大呼小叫。有一次我當值日生和另一位同學擡全班的飯盒去蒸時，他給了我們一人一本小小本的「約翰福音」，並告訴我們那是聖經，要我們有空時讀一讀。我聽了非常興奮，聖經吔！想必是很深奧玄祕吧？回到家後迫不及待地拿出來讀，讀完以後我非常地困惑，想郭伯伯一定是弄錯了。這看起來像是一個叫耶穌的人的傳記，一點都不像一個宗教的經典，所以我第二天還特別跑去向他求證。。。這就是我對聖經最早的印象，也開始了我與郭伯伯一些有關聖經的對話。
現在想起來，真的就是這麼簡單。不需要玄祕的理論，祂曾經真真實實地來到我們中間，與我們同行，給我們指引方向。現在，祂仍然住在我們當中，只要我們願意尋求，用心體會。

神愛世人，甚至將他的獨生子賜給他們，叫一切信他的，不至滅亡，反得永生 。-- 約翰福音3：16

I loved to read when I was young. There was no library available at that time, and we didn't have too many children's book at home, so I read whatever I could get as long as they were not textbooks. I had read my mother's classical Chinese literatures, and I was always the first one to read my father's monthly political magazine issued by the government (I believe they had successfully educated me because of this). I even sneaked into my parents' room several times to read my monther's articles published on newspapers which talked about her family life when she was young (because it contained some information she didn't want us to know when we were too young, so she never showed it to us).
When I was at fourth grade, a new janitor came to our school. His last name was Guo so we called him Guo Bobo. He was very nice to us and never yelled at us like other "bobos" always did. One day when I was the student on duty and carried the bentos of all the students of our class to kitchen for reheating, he handed me and another student a little booklet called "The Gospel of John". He told us that it was Bible and wanted us to read it when we had time. I was very excited about it. C'mon, it's Bible!! Must be very special and mysterious! I couldn't wait to start reading it as soon as I got home. However, I was totally confused after I was done reading. It was just like a biography of a person called Jesus. I thought Guo Bobo must have been mistaken, and I even went to him the next day and confirmed that it really was Bible. This was my first impression on Bible and it also started some communicate between Guo Bobo and I about some questions I had with what I had read.
Now I think of it, it is that simple. We don't need profound theory to understand it because He came to earth as a human form, dwelled with us, and guided us the way to our Heavenly Father. Now He is still with us. We will see Him as long as we open our hearts and embrace His love.

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. -- (KJV) John3:16

螢火蟲之二 Firefly 2

為了還原當時的真實情況，特別加上圖片說明。。。
This was what happened that day...

精神講話正在進行中，要小心翼翼，不被發現。。。
Lecture was going on, had to be very careful so I would not be seen...






計劃泡湯了，都是刺蝟頭的錯。
My plan was ruined. It was all porcupine-head's fault.

結果，我不小心聽了爸爸的話，當了個小小工程師，哥哥卻成了外交官。其實我小時候曾經夢想過成為一個漫畫家，但經過這麼多年，我的繪畫還是停留在小學一年級的程度。。。現在你知道我為什麼只能當個工程師了。
As a result, I obeyed the instruction from my father and am currently working as an engineer, but my brother became a diplomatic officer. Actually I once dreamed about being an anime artist... After so many years, my drawing is still at the level of a first grade student. SoI'd better keep my day job!

螢火蟲之一 Firefly 1

有多少年沒有見過螢火蟲了？
小時候我們住在學校的教職員宿舍裏，宿舍後面是學校大操場，旁邊有一大片竹林，竹林再過去就是農田，所以夏天的夜裏常常可以看到螢火蟲出沒。但是因為我們家父母管得嚴，晚上是不准出門的，所以我們往往只能由窗戶往外看鄰居的小朋友們快樂地在草地上追逐螢火蟲的景象。
記得有一次不知怎麼的，有一隻螢火蟲飛到家裏來了，我非常地興奮，好想去抓它。但是很無奈，它竟然飛到哥哥的房裏去了，那時老爸正在他的房間裏訓話。由於我不想成為爸的下一個目標，所以我只能偷偷地往裏頭窺探，希望它趕快飛出來，或是爸儘快結束他的精神講話。過了好一會兒老爸總算離開了，我馬上跑過去問哥有沒有看到那隻螢火蟲。他的手往牆上一指，原來因為他的眼睛老是跟著它轉，所以它已經被爸打扁在牆上了。。。就這樣，唯一“囊螢夜讀”的希望也泡湯了。在那之後，也許由於環境的改變，我對螢火蟲的記憶就幾乎沒有了。
聽説美國中南部夏天有許多螢火蟲，真該找時間帶Vivian去看看。

When was the last time I saw a firefly?
We lived in one of the staff housing apartment unit of the middle school where my parents taught when I was young. The sports field was right behind us and a huge fan of bamboo was on the right blocking us from the rice fields. We used to be able to see fireflies in the evenings during the summer months. Our parents were stricter than others and we were not allowed to go out in the evenings, so we could only watch other kids chasing the fireflies through our window.
There was one night that one firefly came into our home. I was so excited and ready to catch it. However, it flew into my brother's room and at that time my father was lecturing him. Fearing that I could become the next victim, I didn’t dare to go in and only peeked into the room, hoping that it would fly out quickly. Finally my father walked out of the room and I rushed to my brother and asked if he had seen the firefly. He pointed at the wall and there it was, a smashed corpus of the poor bug; my father hit it with his flip-flop because my brother's eyes were following it during his speech. Thus, my hope of catching a firefly was destroyed.
I think it was because of the environmental change, I don't remember of seeing much of these cute little ones after that. I heard there are many fireflies in the southern states. I should find a time and bring Vivian to visit them.

給照片化妝 Even Photos Can Use Some Makeup

平平凡凡的一張照片。

One ordinary picture of leaves.

這一張像是父親書桌上

壓在玻璃板底下的泛黃舊照片。

This one looks like the old pictures on my father's desk.

黑與白。
Black and white.

調整過曝光、色彩飽和度、和對比後，看起來就不一樣了。

After adjusting the exposure, color saturation, and contrast, it looks totally different now.

秋與霧 Fall and Fog

波特蘭的秋天常常起霧。通常在霧散之後，你會發現一片碧澄澄的晴空。今天早晨起來時，看到的就是這一片霧茫茫的景象。
Fall is a foggy season in Portland. Usually it is a big blue sky waiting to greet you behind the fog. I woke up to find this beautiful scene this morning .























難得深秋時候，仍能發現一樹的火紅。
It is not easy to find trees of simple red in late Autumn.


























黃綠相間。Green mixes with yellow.


































這張像極了我小時候愛收集的書簽。
This one looks like the bookmarks I used to collect when I was young.



這個部落格裏的照片，除了特別註明的以外，都是我自己拍的。有時因相機的不同，解析度會不一樣。如果您喜歡的話，可以隨意下載。這些照片的原始版權是屬於神的，我只是用人為的方法試圖捕捉一二。套句鑽石商的廣告，“刹那變永恒”（當男孩子把鑽石戒指帶在女孩子手上時，他們的愛變成永恒。。。有一點好笑，不過女孩子都吃這一套），這照片不可能是永恒的，但捉住的這一刻永遠不會再來。。。我唯一的請求就是請您記得，這美好的創造是來自於神，所以這一切都應用來榮耀祂的名。
All the pictures in this blog, unless otherwise noted, are taken by me. Sometimes depending on the camera I used the resolution will be different. If you like any of them, feel free to download as you wish. Because the original copyright belongs to God and I was just trying

to use human methods to capture some snapshots in time. My only request for you is to use them to glorify God since all the creations come from Him.

交響樂團 Symphony Orchestra

週一下午四時三十分，我坐在喬治福克斯大學的音樂廳裏，看著波特蘭青少年愛樂交響樂團的團員陸陸續續地從外頭進來，為晚上的音樂會作準備。這個號稱大波特蘭地區最好的青少年交響樂團，成員有六、七十位，年紀從八年級到大學二、三年紀不等。有人遠從華盛頓州的溫歌華地區來，有人更來自南邊的撒冷。他們固定每週一及週六的傍晚練習。看著這些年輕人每個人手上拿著樂器努力演奏，我不禁想著，是多少心血、努力、和忍耐，多少的時間和資源的投注，才能造就出其中的一個成員？若是這些孩子沒有從小開始學習、放棄遊玩機會、犧牲睡眠時間；父母們沒有盡心盡力地培植、不斷地鼓勵（有時得威脅：），並不辭辛勞地接送往返，他們就不會有今天。如果他們沒有共同的目標，不願意與人合作、彼此傾聽、互相幫補，只想表現自我，也就不能共同演奏出偉大的交響樂章。這不就和我們基督徒的生活與生命一樣嗎？

流淚撒種的、必歡呼收割。那帶種流淚出去的、必要歡歡樂樂的帶禾捆回來。-- 詩篇126：5-6
要作完全人．要受安慰．要同心合意．要彼此和睦．如此仁愛和平的　神、必常與你們同在。-- 哥林多後書13：11

Monday 4:30pm, I am sitting in the Bauman Auditorium of George Fox University watching the members of Portland Youth Philharmonic Orchestra coming in from the side door getting ready for the evening concert. PYP is claimed the best youth orchestra in this area. This orchestra consists of 60-70 young musicians (from eighth grade to college age) from many different places like Eugene, Salem, Portland, and Vancouver WA, they rehearse in the evenings of every Monday and Saturday. Watching them playing together, I can't stop thinking that without the perspiration and perseverance of these young people and their parents, there will be no PYP. Had they not given up their free time (sometimes sleep time too) practicing since their young age, had their parents not encouraged (or sometime threatened) them to do their best and transported them between places, they wouldn't be sitting on stage today. If they wouldn't listen to each other, follow the conductor's lead, and only want to show off their own techinques, they would not be able to produce the great music as a team. Isn't this the same as our lives as Christian?

Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy. He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him. -- Psalm 126:5-6
Aim for perfection, listen to my appeal, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you. -- 2 Corinthians 13:11

機遇 Fleeting Opportunity

兩週以前宣教年會後，我們與邱牧師及師母有一個小小的團契，並在聚餐後唱起了詩歌。唱著唱著某人就提起了「機遇」這首歌，把大家的思緒帶回了從前，一下子久違的福音電視節目像時兆之聲、星期劇院、還有一些人的名字都出來了。這首歌是趙蔚然牧師作詞作曲，我相信那個年代過來的人都不會忘記這首歌。歌詞這麼說：

像天空繁星忽現忽隱，像水面浮萍飄流不停，人生的機遇稍縱即逝，切莫等待切莫遲延切莫因循。
像晴空白雲連綿不盡，像江上帆影迎向光明，美妙的人生永無窮盡，我心嚮往我靈渴羨我願追尋。

因為當時的我實在太小了，所以是誰主持的節目，裏頭演過什麼，我都不記得了。我唯一記得的是，只要時間一到，我就會端著小板凳，坐到小小的電視機前，等著聽這首歌，等著聽主持人那溫暖深厚的嗓音。他們總帶給我一種祥和平安的感覺。時間過了這麼久，我依然清楚地記得這首歌與一些雲起雲落片段的依稀印象，還有那種渴望、追求、和淡淡的惆悵。。。

當年是由台視合唱團唱的。我找了好久才在網上找到劉罡（讀音"剛")唱的版本，歌詞些許不同，他也加入了一點旁白，並在旁白中提到了臺灣的一個小鎮。我不知道他是說那一個鎮，但希望它也能給你相同的感動。


如果你無法從上面的MediaPlayerControl聽到的話，可以從這裡到連結網站去聽。

Two weeks ago after our mission conference, we had a potluck with Pastor and Mrs. Chiu. During our fellowship time, we started to sing some praises. Someone proposed to sing the song "Fleeting Opportunity". It brought us back to many years ago when I was little and when some of the TV gospel shows were broadcasting on TV channel. It reminded us some of the shows and names, especially the one which always played the song "Fleeting Opportunity" as the show starting.

Because I was too young at that time, I don't really remember who the host was and what had played in the show. I didn't even know what the show was about. But I can remember clearly that I would take my little stool and sat in front of the TV. I liked it because it always gave me a very peaceful feeling. I would listen to the song, watch the the clouds on the screen arising blocking the sun and the sun would finally come out again, and feel the longing and a very slight touch of heaviness in the song. Hope you like it as I do.

一首詩 A Poem

不知道爲什麼，忽然想起中學時代最愛的一首詩，不是鄭愁予「我嗒嗒的馬蹄是美麗的錯誤。。」，也不是徐志摩「我揮一揮衣袖，不帶走一片雲彩」，更不是余光中「一萬匹飄著白鬣的藍馬」，而是徐訏（讀“需”）「最後的戀歌」：

我要唱最後的戀歌，
像春蠶吐最後的絲，
願你美麗的前途無限,
而我可憐的愛情並不自私。
開闊的河流難被阻塞,
偉大的胸襟應容苦痛,
人間並無不老的青春,
天國方有不醒的美夢。
秋來的樹木都應結果,
多餘的花卉徒亂天時,
長長的旅途佈滿寂寞,
暗淡的雲端深藏燦爛的日子。
願我有歌可常留此間,
讚美那天賜的恩寵,
使我在人間會相信奇蹟,
暮色裏仍有五彩的長虹。

如果我沒記錯，這首詩曾被譜成一首校園民歌。我喜歡詩裏那種偉大寬廣的胸襟，雖然富詩情但不酸腐。仔細推敲，還真有基督徒的心情 --暗淡的雲端深藏燦爛的日子。。。願我有歌可常留此間，讚美那天賜的恩寵，使我在人間會相信奇蹟, 暮色裏仍有五彩的長虹。。。！

This is about a Chinese poem, too difficult to translate into English...

美麗的星期五 Beautiful Friday

我知道神聽了我們的禱告，也憐憫我們的軟弱。記得我那個遇到試煉的好朋友嗎？感謝神！今天聽説最令人擔心的問題只是虛驚一場，另外一個要解決的麻煩似乎也有了眉目！除了感恩，我還能說什麼呢？祂在我們最驚慌無助的時候作我們倚靠的膀臂，又因祂的恩慈安慰我們，賜給我們力量和盼望。
今天的陽光看起來似乎分外耀眼，照得我眼睛都出水了！天父，你真是愛我們！願我這個朋友也能真真實實地感受到你的愛，親眼看見你，並早日成為你的兒女。

因為我遭遇患難、祂必暗暗地保守我；在祂亭子裏、把我藏在祂帳幕的隱密處、將我高舉在磐石上。-- 詩篇27：5
耶和華是我的力量、是我的盾牌；我心裏倚靠祂、就得幫助。所以我心中歡樂。我必用詩歌頌讚祂。 -- 詩篇28：7

I know God listened to our prayer. He is really compassionate and gracious. Remember that friend who is facing some challenges these days? Praise the Lord! We learned that the most worrisome issue was proven to be nothing, we have also seen some promising sign on the other problem. Whatelse can I say besides giving thanks to God?
The sun shines so bright today that it makes my eyes watery! Hevenly Father, You really love us!! Please help my friend truely experience Your love and become one of Your children.

For in the day of trouble He will keep me safe in His dwelling; He will hide me in the shelter of His tabernacle and set me high upon a rock. -- Psalm 27:5
The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to Him in song. -- Psalm 28:7

給我一塊臭豆腐 Give Me A Piece Of Stinky Toufu

下班後在回家的路上，開車經過一片農莊。忽然間聞到一陣似曾相識的味道，說不出是什麼，但是它奇妙地牽動我腦海裏有關臭豆腐的聯想，一時之間有關臭豆腐及我所熟悉的各種小吃的記憶排山倒海而來。想當年我當師大路「路長」（同學封的）的時候，不只是吃遍了師大路、龍泉街的小吃，公館就不用提了，更是遠征士林，淡水，圓環，饒河街，西門町。。。什麼沒吃過啊？但我最鍾愛的仍然是臭豆腐。我最愛的那一「擹」，是在中學時代，老家鎮上菜市場邊邊的一個老爺爺做的。他做的臭豆腐，味道特別「香」，皮炸得酥酥薄薄的，心是軟軟嫩嫩的，再配上他獨門的蒜蓉辣椒和泡菜，真是好吃得沒話説。尤其以前，總得背著父母（爸媽愛乾淨，不吃路邊擹的東西），和同學一起在週六下午，或是補習結束回家前偷偷地去吃。因為是「偷吃」，那滋味就更好了（人性本惡啊）。。。想到這裡，就想起以前的同學，不知她們現在都過得如何？不想了，再想下去思緒汎濫，一發不可收拾，還是那位好心的，趕快給我一塊臭豆腐吧！！

I was reminded the taste of a Chinese delicacy -- stinky toufu -- by a strange smell when driving by a farm land on my way home today. Stinky toufu is my favorite food out of all the so called "roadside cafes". The one I loved the most was prepared by an old grandpa. His little food cart was right outside the traditional marketplace in my home town. I used to go with my middle school classmates on Saturday or after we came out of the afterschool class prepared for we losers. They smelled so good with crispy skin and soft and tender inside. It is especially good with his sauce and pickled vegetable. Because my parents didn't allow us to eat at the roadside cafe for health reason, so it tasted even better when we went secretly(human sinful nature I guess)... Man, I really miss it...and my partners-in-crime... Don't know how they are doing now. Maybe I can google their names and see if I can find them. But, before I do that, can someone give me a piece of stinky toufu to ease my craving?

主恩豐盛 God's Blessings Abound

最近在忙一件大事 -- 把從前錄下來的影帶轉到DVD上，也藉由這個機會回顧了一下過去。看著女兒從幾個月大還不會爬的娃娃，一天一天長大，從喜歡穿漂亮裙子的小女孩，成為現在老愛穿牛仔褲和T裇的少女；看著她從生嫩的琴藝，到今天可以流利熟練地彈奏出美麗的樂曲；看著先生的身材，從結實精壯經過小腹微凸，到現在比微凸再凸一點；看著自己的髮型，由長到短，再從短變長，雖然影像解析度不太好，但仍然可以察覺出歲月在臉上（和身上）留下的痕跡；看著過去讀書時住的公寓，還有經歷那一場大雪之後滿地的皚皚銀光；看著那年聖誕節全家人和媽媽妹妹及“Uncle Vincent”一同拆禮物；看著當年哥哥嫂嫂來時我們一同準備的海鮮大餐。。。回首前塵，一路走來都是成長的痕跡。小孩長的是智慧和身量與神及衆人愛她的心，我們看到的是神豐盛恩典的累積。雖然我懷念過去的日子，真想再抱抱那裏頭的娃娃，但在神的愛裏，在祂的保守帶領中，我仰望未來，知道我們的日子一天新似一天。我曾看過這幾句話，願與大家共勉：過去，是感恩的記錄；現在，是服事的記錄；將來，是仰望的記錄。

你以恩典為年歲的冠冕，你的路徑都滴下脂油。 - 詩篇65：11

I am working on a project to transfer our old VHS home video to DVD now. Because of this opportunity, we get to review some of the old tapes. I saw our daughter transformed from a small baby to a young lady, from one could only play simple tunes to be able to perform huge beautiful pieces; my husband's shape from slim fit to carrying a mid-sized pillow around the belly area; my hair style from short to long then from long turned short, and some trace of time on our faces. I saw the old apartment we lived in while studying in graduate school, and the unusual snow storm as well as the beautiful view it brought. I remembered that Christmas when we opened our gifts one by one with mom, sister, and Vincent, also that seafood feast while big brother and sister-in-law visited us. It is amazing to see how God has lead us through the years. Even though I miss those good old days and want to hold that little baby in my arms once again, but I am looking forward to tomorrow and the years to come. Because I know He holds our future and His blessings abound.

You crown the year with your bounty, and your carts overflow with abundance. -- Psalm 65:11

忙啊！Busy busy

李宗盛的那首歌是這麼唱的 -- 許多的電話在響，許多的事要備忘，許多的門與抽屜開了又關關了又開，如此的慌張。我來來往往，我匆匆忙忙，從一個方向，到另一個方向。。。。
從前仗著自己年輕記憶力好，書總是要等到最後一分鐘才唸，做事也喜歡一心數用來省時間。現在書不管什麼時候唸，結果都是一樣記不住；自己仍然可以同時做多件事情，但似乎沒有一件事是按照原定計劃完成的。老是做著這個想著那個，但是一回頭又忘了剛剛在干啥。昨天在禱告時，半途中我竟然忘了向神說到哪兒了。。。我想是太忙了吧！真該沉靜一下自己的思緒，放掉一些繁瑣的事務，專注在少一點事情上。否則將來在育“老”院見到親人朋友，還得問 “請問您哪位呀？”

如果我們能像小孩一樣有多好？純真、心思簡單、沒有雜念、更沒有煩惱。難怪耶穌喜歡小孩，要我們回轉，成為小孩的樣式。阿布提供了以下一段孩子們的可愛對話與大家分享。。。
弟弟：上帝比房子還大嗎？
哥哥：是啊！
弟弟：那耶穌也是嗎？
哥哥：是啊！
弟弟：那祂怎麼能進得去房子裡面呢？
哥哥：………?????

I found myself losing trend of thought more frequently now. Yesterday I even forgot where I was in the middle of my prayer. I am gradually losing my multi-tasking ability as well and get side-tracked easily. For example, I was going to garage to pick up some stuff from the freezer to prepare for dinner. On my way to the garage, I noticed that I forgot to finish my laundry, so I started to do the laundry. Then I saw all the dusts in the laundry room, so I decided to go upstairs to get the vacuum cleaner. The minute I got to the second floor, I saw Vivian's room, and I decided to clean up her room first... I think I am too busy.

快樂的臉龐 Happy Faces

We saw many happy faces on top of the Mt. Tabor Park today. This is Mr. Coque (ko-kee). He was pretending to be 'cool'. You can tell he had lots of fun by all the stuff over his face.
我們今天下午在Mt. Tabor公園裏看到了許多快樂的臉龐。這位是故作鎮靜裝酷的高奇先生。看他滿臉渣渣就知道他剛玩得不亦樂乎。







Coque again.
高奇的另一張照片。

This is passionate Miss Bella. Can you see that she is smiling?
這一位是熱情洋溢的貝拉（美女）小姐。你看得出她在微笑嗎？

寧靜　Tｒａｎｑｕｉｌｉｔｙ

藍山 Blue Mountain --
Courtesy of DavidC (because he was hogging the camera at that time...)

祂既看顧麻雀 His Eye Is On the Sparrow

兩個麻雀、不是賣一分銀子麼．若是你們的父不許、一個也不能掉在地上。就是你們的頭髮、也都被數過了。所以不要懼怕．你們比許多麻雀還貴重。（太十29-31）
所以我告訴你們、不要為生命憂慮、喫甚麼、喝甚麼．為身體憂慮、穿甚麼．生命不勝於飲食麼、身體不勝於衣裳麼。你們看那天上的飛鳥、也不種、也不收、也不積蓄在倉裏、你們的天父尚且養活他．你們不比飛鳥貴重得多麼。....你們這小信的人哪、野地裏的草、今天還在、明天就丟在爐裏、神還給他這樣的妝飾、何況你們呢。所以不要憂慮、說、喫甚麼、喝甚麼、穿甚麼。這都是外邦人所求的．你們需用的這一切東西、你們的天父是知道的。你們要先求他的國、和他的義．這些東西都要加給你們了。（太六25-26,30-33）

我願藉著這首詩歌，來安慰我一個親愛的朋友。她目前正在經歷一些改變，面臨一些考驗。願神的愛這時觸摸她，神的靈感動她，讓她明白她並不孤單。耶穌是我們永恒的依靠，只要我們願意接受。

為何灰心常怨歎，為何黑影瀰漫？為何心靈孤單？甚至欲脫塵寰？
耶穌是我的福杯，祂是我的良友，祂既看顧小麻雀，深知我必蒙眷佑，
祂既看顧小麻雀，深知我必蒙眷佑。

我聽救主溫柔聲，除去你心憂情，安息主懷多恬靜，毫無疑懼戰驚；
有主引領在前頭，步步跟隨祂走，祂既看顧小麻雀，深知我必蒙眷佑，
祂既看顧小麻雀，深知我必蒙眷佑。

當我每次遇試探，黑雲遮蓋迷漫，喜樂詩歌變哀歎，盼望轉為暗淡；
我就要更親近主，祂必除我憂愁，祂既看顧小麻雀，深知我必蒙眷佑，
祂既看顧小麻雀，深知我必蒙眷佑。

我唱因我有喜樂，我唱因我自由；
我救主既看顧麻雀，深知我必蒙眷佑。

A special message for one of my dear friends. She is experiencing some changes and facing some challenges right now. May God's love and Holy Spirit touch her, so she knows that she is not alone. Jesus is our confidence, as long as we are willing to accept.

Why should I feel discouraged, why should the shadows come,
Why should my heart be lonely, and long for heaven and home,
When Jesus is my portion? My constant friend is He:
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.

“Let not your heart be troubled,” His tender word I hear,
And resting on His goodness, I lose my doubts and fears;
Though by the path He leadeth, but one step I may see;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.

Whenever I am tempted, whenever clouds arise,
When songs give place to sighing, when hope within me dies,
I draw the closer to Him, from care He sets me free;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me;
His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.

I sing because I’m happy,
I sing because I’m free,
For His eye is on the sparrow,
And I know He watches me.