My Prayer - from "For the Love of God" book & "Heart of Worship" video

This book is like Chicken Soup for the Soul series - full of inspiring real stories (mostly few pages long only so is an easy read), under different themes, like "Challenges", "Living up your Faith", "Miracle - big and small", "Living the Golden Rule", and the "Power of Prayers". 

Of all the authors featured, I quite like Jerry Hendrick.  He wrote a few stories - one was about his daughter going to get paralysis due to a rare cancer, and how God had prepared his family for her amputation to save her life. 

Jerry wrote another story about the Mysterious and Wonder Prayer - and I hope he doesn't mind I repeat his prayer here as I find it extremely meaningful and relevant.  This will surely benefit a lot of people out there who are in search of some hope and inspiration.  Jerry wrote this prayer after he sought help and direction from God on the areas of his life where he needing most help.  Jerry suggests us should do the similar to customise our own version.

My Prayer

1. God grant me a thankful heart, so I appreciate all of the blessings I have been given.
2. God grant me strength, so I can stand up to whatever trials I will face in life.
3. God grant me courage, so I will live a fearless life for you.
4. God grant me grace, so I will accept without complaint whatever comes my way.
5. God grant me faith, so I will stay true when doubt and discouragement attack my spirit.
6. God grant me compassion, so I might show Your love toward others, near and far.
7. God grant me humility, so I will remember I am no better than anyone else.
8. God grant me character, so I might be an example for others.
9. God grant me patience, so I am able to wait for Your perfect timing.
10. God grant me forgiveness, so I can forget whatever wrongs I have known.
11. God grant me love, so that I might warm Your heart and the souls of those I meet.
12. God grant me peace, that only comes from pleasing You.

I think I am gonna to revisit these 12 pointers from time to time, and meditate on the one(s) that I need most direction at that point in time.

Before parting, let me share a video on a beautiful song that I learnt from the Sunday Church that I am attending.  The theme for my church this year is "Return to the Heart of God", and whenever we sing this particular song during worshipping, I felt particular touched (very often with moisted eyes).  The name of the song is called "The Heart of Worship" by Matt Redman.  There was a story behind how this song come about, but let's share this later.  Let's enjoy the song first.

Interview with an Angel - Ariel (part 2)

This is probably the second or third time I picked up this book to re-read again.  While I was reading it, I remembered I had blogged about it before few years back.  I deliberately didn't want to read that old blog post until I have finished this round of re-reading.  :P

This time round, I found I picked up most insights towards the end of book, when Ariel talks about the Jesus Christ, Adam and Eve, and some other Biblical story and characters like Exodus, Cain and Abel.

The sharing from Ariel (these group of angelic beings from other realm) is again profound.  She will only share what is appropriate and suitable for human beings' understanding at that point in time, no more no less.  Nevertheless, she will still try to help us to fathom using the limited understanding and words we have now to describe the indescribable.  I particularly like that part when she explained who Jesus Christ was - a being who was in total communion with God, while incarnated in human form.  Jesus' love has achieved such a state that there is total forgiveness - where judgement does not play any part at all, thus there is nothing to judge.  That's the end state the human evolution is heading towards.

Forgiveness that results from the state of love through unity with God was the entire teaching.

Jesus' teachings are to be experienced, to be felt, not just to be read, therefore a lot of things were not written nor recorded, even recorded it was many years later and bound to have misses or inconsistencies (deliberate intent).  The emphasis on direct communication and direct experience really distinguishes the message from this book to others.  The metaphor (or real story?) of Eve and Adam left Eden - is to show the separateness mankind took onto separate from God, after having eaten the apple from the Tree of Knowledge.  Once the Ego has become separated from God (Good), and took on a different evolutionary path, it was where the hardship and suffering arise.  On one hand, the Ego is trying to protect mankind, on the other hand, it is drifting from the truth farther and farther.  The return of Eden is to know that truth (wisdom - which unlike knowledge can't be taught - is simply just knowing) - that we all come from Tree of Life, and have been blessed with the same life force that creates this universe, everything.  The lesser struggle we have, the easier we will be able to  adapt to the flow of life and the smoother our journey back home will be.  One way is to surrender and believe there is higher being (God) that will take care of everything.

The book talks a lot of opening our Heart, power of Prayer and Meditation - which has strike me times and times again.  Instead of searching outside (without), we shall be searching within - and we shall hear the tiny faint little voice that God or beings from other realms have been trying to communicate with us - but we were too busy or too scare (when fear kicks in after Ego has been bruised so badly).  I am going to remind myself to continue my prayer, meditation and spend time to cultivate the relationship with God.  After all, who else should I or can I turn to?  :)


 

When I am afraid ...

Long time no blog. This is a long overdue post. I had been bringing my kids and family to a church near to my house, on and off, a few times.  Each time also gave me good impression, many things to chew on, and some inner strength. Guess when time and schedule permits, we would be going there more often.

I remember the very first time, when I was with my younger son Lincoln in the younger kids class, I learnt about golden verse like "When I am afraid, I put my TRUST in You" from Psalm. Also, the Parable of Sower from Matthew, about the seed growing on different level of soil (faith) and how the environment affect the growing of the seed into a plant.  The teachings and sharing by the teenage leader, and some young teacher, are simply truthful from their heart, and inspiring.  I had learnt about those teachings when since young (I went to a Christian Primary school, and a Catholic Secondary school, even took Bible Studies in my O-Level exam, and got an distinction), but never had thought about the meanings behind are so deep.  Yet, can be explained to kids in an interesting manner that you will feel amazed on the kids response :)

Today, the topic was on "Hope", and "Faith" which are quite abstract concept and not easy to explain, but the young teachers were able to pull it through. When I was watching one video being shown to this combined class comprises of Pri3 onwards kids, my eyes were moisted.  The simple cartoon was from Korea. http://youtu.be/Kusgx612VMs

 

Please have a look if you have few minutes to spare.  You will feel much relieved that it has been all worth the wait, and the 'hard work'.  Now I know why people are crazy about K-Drama. The song and video is simply touching, and certainly has created a huge impact on me.  I had taken the above photo on one Saturday morning after slight drizzling in the East Coast Park near my home.  Now I know why I had taken the foot print.  It must have been about the footprint in the sand poem by Mary Stevenson.  The one set of foot print is when God was carrying us, when we were down, during our most trying periods.

Towards the end of this morning Sunday class, I was pleasantly surprised that the closing was about the book "Heaven is for Real" that the young teacher read recently, on the little boy Colton's short stay in Heaven for just about 3 minutes, and come back to tell his story.  My two lovely sons though have not read the book, shouted that they knew about the story (as I had downloaded the iPhone App before, and they must have been reading it many times).  Grin.  Do have a look at my other blogpost, when I reviewed about this interesting Heaven is for Real book.  It was a fun read.  Have a good week ahead folks!! Talk later.

Saved by the Light

 

Got the above book in first photo from the Taiwan book publisher recently. Was attracted by the title, on many prophesies that were made by this man, who had come back from a close shave of death. In fact, he had died 2 times before he wrote his first book "Saved by the Light". He is no other than Dannion Brinkley - a New York Times best selling author, by his three book series: 1. "Saved by the Light", 2. "At Peace in the Light", and last one - 3. "Secrets of the Light".

Instead of getting more details on the prophesies that was shown to Dannion in twelve boxes (or video tapes?) - that was in 1975, this book is more light hearted on his encounters when he was called back and shown the magnificent aspects of Heaven. There he went thru the holistic whole life review - and switched role to re-experience those he had hurt before, from other person's perspective. He described a lot more in his second death (think was a heart surgery) when he cheated death again. Both times he had a brief encounter, but was called back to earth, as he still has his unfinished business. This book was a light read. Then, I began to search and realize that I actually had and read his third book years ago in 2009.

The second photo is Secrets of the Light Chinese version (right), and the original English version (left) which I must have bought also sometime later (not yet read). I recently re-read the Chinese one. Just a quick update: this guy is real. The way he described his cerebral experience echoes a lot with Swendenborg's work. The only difference is that he described in such details that I have to say he must have personal experienced it, that left a profound imprint in his mind. The book will be a good tool book on really how to live the heaven life or create Heaven on Earth. I shall give a more detailed report after I finish reading the English original text. Just a preview, inside this last book, Dannion and the co-author (his wife) actually laid down the formula very clearly, using

A fourfold path to Power
1. The Power in Love
2. The Power in Choice
3. The Power in Belief
4. The Power in Prayer
These he called them the foundation.

And share how to live up the "7 Lessons from Heaven"  - more to come later. Stay tuned!!

Swedenborg's Great Gift

I first come across Swedenborg's work from a Japanese manga. It intrigues me a lot, as it describes his adventure between Heaven, Hell and the Soul world in great details. Reading the comic book is like having gone thru the same journey with him, as it's full of pictures and lots of visual impact.

Think I have seen this book around in Singapore few months back or last year. Didn't buy it until no more stock left. Anyway, I got it directly shipped from Taiwan the publisher, at a cheaper deal :) so still not missing much I hope.

A little intro about Emanuel Swedenborg. He was a talented Sweden scientist lived in the 16th centuries, often compared as great as Sir Isaac Newton. He experienced a life turning event when he was 57 years old, as he described Lord had chosen him to be the spoke person, to share his experiences when he was able to go back and forth between Earthly realm and other realms (Heavens, Hells and intermediate Soul worlds) using an out of body near death experience (NDE) that he could exercise at will and at ease. Since then, he had dropped his scientific work, and devoted his next 27 years, experiencing and recording a lot of literatures - there are many yet to be published. Swedenborg even prophesied the date he would die 1 year beforehand, and tried to expedite to finish the unfinished work until the last day.

This book is actually translated from Korean text, whereby Swedenborg Foundation condensed the key teachings - to serve as an intro into Swedenborg's world.

To cut it short, I like this book not just about its description on eternaity of soul, the different levels within Heaven and Hell (3 each), but especially also on why and how could we get back to our heavenly Home (aka Heaven) while we are in this earthy Home.

The path is simple: Love God, and love Others (ie People). (愛神，愛人)

Our ticket to heaven can only be earned when we are doing above two while we are on earth. In fact, one should blend in with others, not detached, and start to (re)pick up our long lost skill - by starting to love own-self, our family, neighbors, colleagues, company, nation and the Earth. It's so simple, but we just forgotten about it when we grow up, and buried by surrounding distractions.

The other point I like most, is on Free will and why is it the greatest gift from God. It's again simple - with free will, man kind can make decision, same as God. I read elsewhere before that Angels do not possess free will, as they have returned it back to God long back, so that their sole existence is to serve God. If even Angel does not have free will, while we human do have, how profound is this, that God as creator and parent has given this greatest gift to it's children!!

Like the front cover of this book says, just by browsing few pages of Swedenborg's book may change one's life perspective forever. Please grab one if you can. I am sure I will read it again from time to time, to familiarize myself to the way back to my true home :).  Hope you can, too! :)

Living from the Heart <3

Long time no blog. I just attended a Heart meditation workshop over a 4 days period, still trying to let the dusts settled in my heart on what I have learnt, and what I have changed. This blog post hopes to share some of my insights - thus far.

The workshop was based on Drunvalo Melchizedek's materials and his teachings. Start from a glimpse of sacred geometry, thru to calling of our angels to support us, revealing our true nature (we are eternal souls) and finding our soul purpose on earth, thru to healing work to clear our past emotional baggages and let love shine thru us, to open our hearts, and let us know "To Give is to Get"- when we do it with heartfelt love. All these are just prep work to get to next stage, which is to enter into a sacred space in our heart, and from another tiny space within the sacred space, that's the portal for us to connect to the Source and to get our third eye opened, our MerKaBa (our personal energy toroidal field) activated, before entering into the heart based creation process (whereby only positive stuff can be created, unlike mind based creation due to polarity nature, very often -ve thing will also get manifested unknowingly). The Unity breathing technique also reminds us about the love of Mother Earth and Father Sun have to us - every divine child on this planet. The fuzzy energy sensation feeling will keep me all pumped up and attune at the right vibes all day long, just like a long stamina smart phone (grin) that the battery never get depleted until you want to.

A lot of fellow workshop mates felt changes happened, and I am no exception. I would say my mind is clearer now - just like another veil has been lifted thus can see a further horizon, and more intuitive now. Perhaps, my once asleep sixth sense has finally come back. Welcome back. :) and the teachings and experience I gained from other spiritual workshops the dots start to connect now. What a good feeling.

The workshop talks a lot about our hearts, and the importance to shift our consciousness from mind based to heart based.

There are many times the teacher referenced to Yeshua (Jesus) famous quote "unless you turn and become like childlike, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven". This echoes exactly as another quote I heard it years ago, when a HK author Ronald Fung (溤兩努) shared with me when he was leaving with me after his speech in my university campus "成大人者, 必不失其赤子之心" loosely translated as "To be a great person, one must not forego his/her childlike heart". Heart again!!

The revelations I got from this workshop are immensely useful for me to carry on my life in a steadfast manner now. For this I am forever grateful to my teacher Amun Brown, the organizer Kingsley Sok, and all the soul class mates for their unreserved sharings during the class. We all felt like a family reunion.

Before I end this post, let me share just one more finding- which I saw it from another FB message lately after the workshop. It is about the Chinese words 開心, which means joy or happiness. It's made up of 2 words: Open開 and Heart心, so ancient Chinese already discover the secret to happiness i.e. to achieve a blissful state, one must keep his/ her heart open, or vice versa, when our hearts are opened, there should be no reason we won't have joy while we are in this earthy world.

Let's keep our hearts opening, more and more, and day by day, okay?? :)

Have a great day, till I next write, please take care for yourself and your heart too.

Heartfelt thanks and love from my heart to yours...

PS: To my Singaporean friends or those stay nearby, if you are interested to know more about this subject, when is the next intake timing (end Oct), please feel free to contact me. Be still, and listen to your heart. It will tell you what to do. When the student is ready, the teacher will appear.

Energy Mgmt: Sleep Cycle iPhone App

After back to HQ, I have been to more lunch time talks these days. One recent one I went to was about Energy Management. 

The speaker Dr John Ng says very often people mixed up Time Management with Energy Management.  Poor energy mgmt will most probably lead to poor time mgmt, but not necessary the other way round. 

We need to identify those Energy Depleter vs Energy Energizer.  Energy is such a life force that without preserving it, it will not be possible for one to pursue the goals we set forth. 

There are 5 levels of Energy, for which the speaker dwelt a lot on first 2 only, owing to time limit. 

1.  Physical Energy

2.  Emotional Energy

3.  Mental Energy

4.  Social Energy

5.  Spiritual Energy

When one achieves the optimum experience, the FLOW pattern will appear.  In other words, one finds true purpose and start to be in the game. 

A)  To re-coup and prepare for Physical Energy, is none other than having good sleep, enough rest, take in healthy food and have exercise. Sounds simple, isn't it?

B)  To get into Emotional Energy, one needs to know ourself and others, thus will adapt the right strategy when dealing with others.  The speaker uses simple grid: Introvert vs Extrovert, and Task vs Person. 

So for I&T quadrant person: need to give them clear agenda, time to prepare and think, and a safe environment before they will speak up.

On the other end, for an E&P person, they will like to speak up even without encouragement, and brain storm will sure work for them etc

Knowing basic personality difference is yet another simple yet effective strategy to adapt the different style accordingly, without draining one's energy unnecessarily. 

There are few key points which I couldn't recall under which topics, but noted down for sharing anyway:

* Past experience will determine our response to Present and Future.  Unless we find value and meaning in the past Bad experience, we will always live through the past -- beware, need to Move on!!

* What you Fire, you Wire

* What you Focus, you Magnify

I did follow the Speaker advice to take One action and practise it. Which is to download the Sleep Cycle iPhone app - a fantastic sleeping pattern and alarm app, that makes use of iPhone's sensitive accelerometer to detect your body movement and determine the optimum time to wake you up at the right moment i.e. when one is in the slightest wake up period.  I had tried a few nights and had to admit it is pretty accurate.  I was gently awaken by a very soothing alarm that I felt refreshed. The app actually tracks stats and can do further analysis.  A wonderful app that I come to use it so late.  Had heard about it sometime ago. :P

For those interested to learn more about the speaker Dr John Ng, one can find more info from his company website:www.meta.com.sg.

In particular, on Energy management topic, John actually created a few blogposts for this:

http://meta.com.sg/?s=Energy+time+management

Have fun exploring Sleep Cycle app, sorry Android phone users. Oops!! :)

Self Praise Diary

Have been reading this book written by a Japanese lady author, practicing it for over 1 week, and found some amazing results - thus intends to share over here how it works.

Basically, to boost up one's self esteem and keep one motivated, maintain a positive perspective, and be able to bounce back from trough in shortest time possible - build up some mental resilience- is very easy. You just need to spend few minutes a day, jotting down the journal of self praises into your personal diary. Yes, that's it. It costs next to nothing apart from a writing pad, a pen and few minutes of your time.

Few things to take note:

1. The encouraging words to our own-self needs to be handwritten! This aims to exercise our prefrontal part of the brain (前額業), and make the positive thinking circuit wider and deeper!

2. It takes time and time taken varies between different individuals. There's no comparison. Some see positive impact and changes happening as soon as weeks or days. The key is to have the momentum, patience and persistence.

3. The praises or words can be praising anything: good behavior, positive feeling, decision made, action taken against difficult situations etc. It's to be intimate and true fully reflects how one feels, and seeing progress made, albeit how little it is at the start

The self praise dairy has helped many depression patients coming out from their self sabotage and withdrawal state. It also helps to counter the self denial mentality that is deep rooted in most Asians' mindset that self boasting or brag is not to be condoned with.

It was most touching when I read the part many readers shared their diary and witnessed their progress - some dated recent back to Mar 2011 tsunami disaster, and how practicing self praise dairy has given them strength to carry on with the recovery work, and still maintain positive outlook to LIFE.

Guess all this boils down to 2 things:

1. We need to love ourselves first before we can extend the love to others, and help influence them to seek greater love - which is universal. Universe loves us, all of us, and want us to remain in this state - which is our natural birth right.

2. The change starts from with-in before it gets extended to with-out. Self soul searching is again the key. Change yourself, and the world will be changed!

If you have not been getting praises from others or your love ones, why not start the ball rolling by giving yourselves a well deserved pat on your own back! :) Have fun journaling. You never know if you never try.

Sequel to Water: Love & Gratitude blogpost

Think I wrote about an experiment 2 years ago of putting a "Love & Gratitude" sticker to my mug to make the water taste sweeter - because of molecular resonance as reflected by these 2 powerful words - Love and Gratitude.

Was wondering why I am particularly fond of these 2 words. I accidental got the idea this afternoon while I was have a shower - no kidding. One often get a flash back of inspiration or message when your mind is wandering.

They are indeed the initials of my beloved sons' names. L & G. Bingo. Love is for Lincoln, whereas Gratitude is for Gordon.

We exert great love to my young son Lincoln as he had developed asthma since he was about one year old, in and out hospital A&E numerous times. With tender loving care by my wife (& encouragement from me also), Lin is a strong boy now. He recently just completed his first public Chinese WuShu performance, before he entered into Primary1 cheerfully. Lin has a remarkable smile and friendly disposition that is hard to forget. :)

For my elder son Gordon is another miracle which I still remember vividly the day when I first heard from the gynae doc that my wife was pregnant. The initial month was a bit roller coaster - we discovered late, and the condition was quite unstable. My wife was having medical leave at home just lying down, and couldn't move around - to that extent. I still remember calling the gynae on one Sunday morning for emergency check-up. Thank God the second trimester onwards things had become smooth. Gor is a Primary 3 boy now, and cheerful and loving to his younger brother. For this I am external grateful to our creator God and the universe.

I am just about to discover more and more new and good things. I am ready for more. Bring it on please. :)

PS: I supposed to write a blogpost on Dec21,2012 - but for some reason was sick for 3 days since Dec21. Think there's a reason I shouldn't have written that post. :)

Eleven Commandments of Negotiation

Thought of penning this down, and hope the speaker don't mind of me sharing. I find the speaker Mr. David Goldwich's talk one of the best amongst other outstanding speeches during the past PMI Symposium2012 just took place on Oct4-5 in Marina Bay Sands Convention.

Had heard of David (a lawyer turned trainer) before few years back in an SPMI talk, and bought his "Why did Chicken cross the road" book (haven't read it yet :P)

Have to say his talk is both entertaining and enlightening. Here is the gist.

Negotiation is actually Joint Problem Solving. It should be viewed more as a game, with a timeline to meet, and tactics to use, and ideally should play out to be Win/Win for both parties. And key thing is: "to have fun along the process."

Here comes The Eleven Commandments of Negotiations

1. Negotiation is a process

Prep & Strategize --> Info exchange --> Opening and making Concession --> Closing and gaining Commitment


2. Appreciate the power of Anchor Points

Has to be more aggressive on first Offer or first Counter offer, so as not to set at losing ground upfront


3. Never accept the First offer

Else regret and keep thinking was it a really good deal


4. Look beneath position to uncover interest

Distinguish between Want and Need, by asking questions!


5. A currency is anything of value

Identify currencies and look for ways to create Value


6. Treat every "No" as temporary position.

Ask why not. Turn No into a Yes (like children stubbornness)


7. Compromise only as last resort.

Not too soon!


8. Always have a Plan B.

Diminish Plan B of your opponent, too.


9. Never give something for nothing.

Else your opponent will keep asking for more!


10. Give an ultimatum only if you mean it - and do it gently.

Avoid the fallacy trap, of threatening with wrong intent. Will just backfire if luck is not on your side.


11. Make it easy to say 'Yes'

Bonus:

12. Don't let an Impasse get you down

Bonus of bonus:

13. Always have extras, reserve, buffer

That's it folks. I hope you can have more fun in Negotiating next time round. :)

Heaven is for Real

Got this book while I was browsing for CD instead in Popular Marine Parade branch. It's not the title that attracted me, but the toddler's big smile, and Don Piper's words. If Don Piper's 90mins in Heaven is the adult version of heavenly encounters, this little kid named Colton Burpo's 3 mins stay is certainly the kids no nonsense straight to the point version :)

Cutting the story short, this kid Colton when the ordeal happened (with a ruptured appendices not identified correctly and cured in time, dragged for days, almost caused him to die), the boy was about 4years.

With his miraculous recovery from death bed (it was his earth father's prayer answered - happens to be a pastor too), Colton started to recall his experiences in bits and pieces, very often shocking his parents.

Few points are especially touching:
o. That his not yet born sister was comforting and hugging him when he was first ascended to heaven

o. That his never met great grand father also spent time with him, and supported him (appearance in youth day though)

o. That how Jesus looks like, with white robe, purple sash, sitting at right side of God's throne. God is super big size. Gabriel sitting on God's left side.

o. That there's no darkness in Heaven. Everyone having wings (different sizes though). He even saw Satan, but declined to elaborate or even to mention it.

o. That how Jesus loves children. He repeated it many many times. How he was sitting in Jesus' lap.

o. That he didn't want to come back to Earth, but Jesus had to answer his dad's desperate even accusing prayer

The book is an easy read. My eyes keep welling up when I was reading the reminisce of the author (Colton's dad) about what happened to himself, his son and family as a whole when they went through those crucial days - really a matter of life and death.

There is a website on this too, and you can check out a great video on Colton when he has grown up into big teen now :) after like 7-8 years.

http://www.heavenisforreal.net

One thing I am sure is I will hug my boys at home more often, and pray to Jesus and God more frequent too (not just when in need or emergency) as they do answer every single one of our prayers, 24x7.

If you want to know how Jesus looks like, according to Colton, this prodigy Akiane's portrait is closest, almost perfect. Have a look out too!

http://newconnexion.net/articles/index.cfm/2006/03/Akiane_Kramarik.html

http://www.artakiane.com

To Heaven, and Back

This is definitely a great book not to be missed. I have been reading book after book ever since my last book review. Some finished, some still in progress. One book leads to another - in fact, the immediate one I have been reading is about recognizing signs that our spirit (soul) trying to communicate and guide us. Not too much about analyzing (individual facts) but interpreting (looking at the big picture).

I have to say my elder son always bring me to discover new book. In fact, he was the one urging me to find him more new book on Big Nate - his recent sensation. :)

Got this book on Sat afternoon from a local Borders like bookstore and I had the urge to finish it ASAP. Get it done with in a day. This book is just fascinating - no complicated story - all stories told from heart. The author is a spine surgeon - married with 4 kids, and run into a near death experience while kayaking. Got a glimpse to heaven, but sent back to complete her unfinished business - to be the support to her family. The author went on to describe her encounters with Jesus and Angels - and got to know some spiritual exchanges while she was still in ICU.

My eyes moist and tears rolled (many times) when I was reading the part about her eldest son need to depart, at age 19, from a tragic car accident. (that was part of reasons she was sent back to earth to keep her family strong after the loss of their beloved son, brother, young leader)

This little book reassures that Heaven and God does exist. God is Love, and we will never walk alone. God cares for every single one of us, and is ever ready to intervene and help us whenever we are in need.

Do check out the author's website when you have time. www.drmaryneal.com

Let me end this post with this sentence I particular like (roughly) 'We are like threads in a tapestry that forms a grand picture and flying high in the sky (or universe). We wouldn't know the grand design until when we are finished.'

The author actually shared these last parting words - she has been living these as her daily creed, which I find truly meaningful and remarkable. Hope you like it, too! :)

"God created us, knows us, loves us, and guides us. With love and grace, He commands us to:

# Rejoice in this knowledge always.

# Live a life of prayer, giving glory to God and continually listening for His Guidance.

# Live a life of gratitude, giving thanks in all circumstances."

The Healing Code

Long time no blog. Quite some time indeed. Had been reading many books, on DNA, TOEY way of life (yes, our big Toe does carry some significance), 2012 topic book, end of world prophecies, ultra slow jogging etc. But none carries as much impact as this book I am gonna to share.

Chance upon this when I happened to be in Popular bookshop, having member recommendation 30% sale, so bought it at a modest $11 dollars. Boy, the return is far above it ... many times.

I have to say even before I finish reading it, I can feel some change already happening to me, on the good side. Can't wait the time when I start to put it into practice, how it will help me to address some deep rooted issues at root cause level.

To cut this story short, the author is a medical doctor, but couldn't cure his wife who had suffered deep depression for 12 years. They tried all methods, seek all help, and spent countless money looking for the right cure.

It was in one day while the author was traveling in an aircraft that this healing method was literally downloaded into his brain out of the world. The author went on to refine it and test it for next 2-3 years before announcing it actually works, after many people had tried and testified it.

The healing code is a 6 minutes ritual (some finger pointing gestures) that is targeted at four energy centers in our body. It can work for oneself, or one can practice and apply to their love ones. The method addresses the deep rooted cause - bad cell memory response which needs a positive energy to neutralize it. We all have an immune system to trigger the self healing mechanism, however, it was due to stress and past bad memory that we are not able to release the needed right energy to combat it. In other words, we are trapped by our own fortress - partly due to our subconscious also trying to protect us from being hurt again.

The healing code is thus like a wave offsetting the distorted harmful energy wave, so that it becomes neutralized and body can take over and do the necessary healing, all at energy level.

There are many testimonials quoted throughout the book - some are not just physical illnesses, but others like human relationship, peak performance issues are all being healed, once oneself starts to practise the 4 healing codes. (I shall elaborate these 4 codes in another blog post, once I started and gained more experience on it)

The book is really testifying the Chinese idiom "心病��心��", direct translate into English is "need to address right to our heart on all the heart dis-ease matter". Throughout the book, it explains a lot on the how our heart (subconsciousness) actually wins over the our mind (consciousness), and anything not addressed the root cause at subconscious mind level will be short term and futile.

The analogy I particularly like is like a rechargeable vacuum cleaner may work after charging for a short period of time, but to provide the needed energy for it to work continuously, it needs to be plugged in to a wall pocket, which is like when one seeks and discovers the 'Truth'. Once knowing the truth, it will give the needed thrust and keep one going.

The English version is available in Times bookstore. I strongly urge you to give it a try - it may be the curing solution your heart has been longing for, and creates some un-imaginary result.

Disclaimer: Like the author says, pls don't replace it with main stream medication/ treatment that one is currently undergoing, but use it more like a supplement. Anyway, it's few minutes that it take, and by the time your body starts to see improvement, one will know when to stop treatment - just to prepare for some issues that have been embedded at deep level for so many years, it will take longer time for the positive energy to reach and complete the healing. Have faith and fun!! :)

Day Dreaming can also make Dreams come true!

Read this book by a Japanese pscho therapist on how to make dream come true. What strikes me is towards the ending part: one cannot share with others on which one does not already possess. "To share happiness, one should already be a happy person". How simple truth it is!

This book is full of graphical pictures. So animated to an extent that as if I am reading a comic book. Guess the intent is to appeal to our sub conscious mind also so as to form picture and build association. Apart from colorfulness, the exercises in the book always ask reader to visualize and imagine the form, color, sound, smell, weight of our self image/ character/ strengths/ weaknesses, which I find unusual and intrigue.

There was an exercise that interested me most, i.e. to visualize and trace back the past "me" in a sad moment/ event. Comfort him for his weakness and shortcomings, as without the past "me", there wouldn't be current "me". The current "me" is then to pull the past "me" out from the mental movie and merge the past and present together into one, absorb it into my heart, and give it a heart felt thanks, and promise to grow together from this point onwards.

Likewise, the other vivid pictorial exercise is to visualize the Demerits (form, color, temp, smell etc) on one hand (I mean physical hand), and visualize our Merits on the other hand, say "thanks" to our merits, and say "sorry" to our demerits, merge them together and accept who we are, treasure what we have and be what we want ourselves to be deep down our heart.

Indeed, if we can follow the river flow of happiness, not against the stream, we would have won half of the battle, just need to steer back when we are off course, and shall reach destination in a bliss.

But why people still not able to achieve their dreams even if they already know what they want and set the sail in the right course?

The answer to this are 4 key preparation steps, to equip our ourself first before jumping into our sailing boat!

1. Let go unnecessary emotional baggages (past bad experiences, wrong beliefs, etc) that are dragging our feet and sinking the boat

2. Truly accept ourselves with all the merits and demerits

3. Bridge the gap between dream and reality - by practicing "permission". Using this technique in our daily affirmation, it imposes less stress then using "should", "must", "don't", "can't". By allowing things to happen, we are giving control back to ourself. I permit/ allow as I chose to.

4. Gain an insight to the future: by asking our sub conscious for help. Visualize ourself as an animal, a plant or an object (whatever comes to our mind immediately) and see us from their perspective. It will give us insight, on the future direction, or solution to the problem that is bothering us.

Even if we have tried all these but still not seeing any results, it could mean that our current status quo is best for us. After all, our sub conscious mind knows what's best and in store for us, and will unveil itself in the right time when we are ready. The key again is to follow the flow :).

This author also pointed out a common thread, that I have seen from other JP author on the sub conscious subject.

That is: we should give ourself on things we would want to give to others. In other words, if we want people to love us more, we should love ourselves more. If you want to be kind to people, you should be more kind to yourself.

I am ready to love myself more (not narcissism lah), how about you my fren? :)

F.Y.I. - For Your Improvement

Ever wonder how many times you have to give feedback to own self, co-workers or even superiors- and we run out of words- or aptly put, run out of concrete feedback that is reflective enough and can lead to an actionable improvement plan?

I didn't have a good spell on it either until I attended a training workshop organized by my company on crafting personal development plan this morning. The speaker is none other than my HR Director. I can see the speaker is really passionate about the subject. The accompany FYI book (pic), from Korn/Ferry international, powered by Lominger Competency is really an excellent reference book that I can turn to for guidance as needed.

There are broadly 3 phrases in any of the personal development cycle:

a) Realization phase - this is where we identify areas needing improvement to make us from unskilled to skillful. By skillful means become second nature, it usually takes roughly about 9 to 12 months

b) "How to" phase - this is where we formulate action plan to bridge the gap. Can draw from the FYI book the Causes, Learning Mapping and then sample Action plan to act on it. Development opportunities can be via Experience (70% - eg actual work, on job training), Exposure (20% - eg mentor, role model) and Education (10% - eg course, reading)

c) Reflection phase - stock take, review and re-calibrate where necessary

Few key takeaways I have after this fruitful morning, thanks to the speaker pointed out, which I agree totally:

1. Be Specific when working on area of improvement. Once identified and confirmed, start to put into practice on daily or regular basis, until a new neurological pattern is formed (i.e. becomes habitual).

2. Don't overlook the Basics. Go back to fundamentals and build a solid foundation building blocks on top of each other.

3. Learning is an ever evolving process, and it should never cease.

Human beings are still more receptive to praises than criticisms. Next time when hearing negative feedback, first thing come to our mind should be these two words:

"THANK YOU"

After self evaluation, though it will take time to correct bad habit and replace with a new good one, we should appreciate and be thankful to people taking the effort to give us feedback.

I am ready to learn the basics again. What about you? :)

Using the Right Words in Speech

I attended another short training course on how to use the right words in speech organized by Civil Service Club over the weekend. It was a morning well spent. The instructor happen to be the same lady teaching PhotoReading that I also attended just 2 weeks ago. Was planning to write a blogpost about Photo-read, guess will have to do it later when I have a better grasp on the subject.

Back to this "Right Words" talk. It's full of practicality, thus time passed really fast.

The gist of it is: To elicit the right response that we desire to achieve during communication, we need to address it correctly at the recipient's subconscious mind level.

Ultimately, the thoughts that we have since young and upbringings, environment, teachings and experiences, and our constant inner chatters have already form a pattern that becomes part of our belief system, which is being stored in our sub conscious mind to guard and protect us, on an auto pilot basis. To get the right message across, we need to lower this instinctive guard, by utilizing below methods. Read on. I hope you can pick up a few tricks here. :)

A. Avoid the Words that shutdown the subconscious mind, these are the Fight/ Flight words that the reptilian part of brain particular sensitive:

Don't, Must/ Have to, You Always/ Never, You Better, Ought/ Should, Cannot, I told you so, It's not true, I don't agree, But/ However

B. The magic words that elicit right/ better response, like:

***"Don't" Language Pattern***
#1) Don't + "what I want" language pattern
This needs a little elaboration here. Like the saying goes: What you resist, persist. Instead of saying "Don't run" to kids (and the kids run even further, agree?), If you say "Dont"+"you want to come over and walk with me?" will be more effective. Another example. Instead of saying "Don't be lazy". Try saying "Don't" "you want to finish your home work first so that you have more time to play?"

***Humility builds credibility***
#2) "Would it be ok" if ...
Ask permission, lower the guard, and be more open mind, open heart
Eg Would it be okay if I come over and meet you at 2pm tomorrow afternoon? Would sound better than
I would like to meet you at 2pm ...

#3) "Probably"
Eg You probably already know this ...
Gives the benefits of doubt, give other people credit

***From Telling to Guilding***
#4) "Might/ Maybe"
#5) "Perhaps"

To make these "responsive" words work its magic, we have to bear in mind the 3 golden rules i.e. Most people want to:
1. Be Right
2. Have a choice/ choices
3. Move away from pain and towards pleasure

With the right Intent in mind, it's not about manipulative. Safely practise it! Have a great week ahead folks! :)

My Word is Law!

Bought this book from PageOne Vivocity during the period when storewide sale was at 50% off for members. Not sure when its final closing date will be. Its a real pity that another good bookshop is closing down :(

Anyway, I have been reading this interesting book for a number of times. Of all the books on sub conscious mind I been exposed to, this one clearly stands out. The concepts really attune and stick to my mind, hopefully for long! :)

To achieve great success and the results we desire, one needs to simply attune our two minds (conscious and subconscious) to have a common goal, and let them work hand in hand together in tandem. It's that simple.

However, it's also hard truth that we can't achieve even those seemingly easy goals simply because our two minds are not in concerto. Very often due to our subconscious mind is pulling our leg or sabotaging in one way or other. But WHY does our subconscious mind do that, and HOW to overcome this?

Answers to these questions are easy though. Read on ...

Basically we need to know how our subconscious mind works, thus can communicate with it more effectively and have it help achieve whatever the conscious mind has set forth but facing difficulties with.

1. Law of Reversal (Opposite) 顛倒法則
2. Law of Regeneration (Rebirth) 重生法則
3. Law of Rhythm (Affirmation) 節奏法則
4. Law of Incantation (Spell) 咒語法則

On Oppositeness:
Our subconscious thinks oppositely, like in mirror. When someone praising you or commenting you for something, s/he is actually trying to praise/ comment for him/ herself. So stop criticizing other people from now onwards. Instead, the quickest and easiest way to win friends over is genuinely do more praises to others. Doing so in a way is to praise our own subconscious mind, once nourished, it will start to work magic.

The other powerful learning from thinking opposite sequence is about setting a solid Pivotal point to leverage. Very often our pivot is not set correctly, thus we can't achieve what we desire. Eg We often tell ourselves if/ when I have time, I will go gym. Guess how often we go then? Never! Instead, by shifting the pivot point to first stating: I will go gym. Our subconscious mind will help to fulfill it by finding ways to squeeze time. Its this paradigm shift of putting what we treasure (end goal) first that is important. Think differently and oppositely now! Think "I will excel (and opportunities will arise)", instead of "I will sure excel when opportunities arise".

On Regeneration:
Ever wonder why we need to sleep? It is for our bodily rest, but equally important is for our subconscious mind to emerge afresh. It takes time for the assimilation of new concept/ learning to gel with existing knowledge to complete. Sometimes it may take few nights or even longer! It's important to note not to hasten it, analogy: too frequent peeping into the fridge to see whether the pudding freezing is taking shape will just do no good to the formation. Sometimes the subconscious will create temporary setbacks or even complete failure to deter the conscious mind from interfering, why regeneration is taking place! When run into bottleneck, have a nap or walk to divert your (conscious) mind, and let the subconscious mind take over to continue tackle the problem on hand, it may just work wonders!

Ps: Since our body (physically) and our mind (mentally) are constantly being regenerated, it is clear that we are not bound by any past failures. Any past unpleasant experiences should not have any impact to future opportunities waiting for us. Believe you can change the course of your life from this moment, and you will! Everyday is a new start! Emile Coue once said this powerful motto "Everyday, in every way, I am getting better and better"

On Rythum:
Simply put, affirmation will not work if it's just mere repetition. To achieve its intent, one needs to weigh in the outcome (or past result). Once the subconscious mind is convinced of the results, it will form habit (be wary between good and bad ones). It's the getting used to this rythum (pattern) that keep us going. Set the right pace and direction and we are all set!

On Incantation:
To re-gain the power of our words and languages, one should be mindful and practice "do what I say". As simple as "I will drink this cup of water", once you have said it, better go and drink it. Start from small steps and really finish what we say we believe can achieve, we will be back to position that our subconscious mind will help us to achieve whatever we put forth, even it may seem a daunting task initially. This is when we achieve the state "My Word is Law". So be careful on what we think and speak, as the great Napoleon Hill once said the famous motto: "Whatever the mind can conceive and believe, it will achieve".

Think I better stop here, as the more I revise, will just add more contents and make it more lengthy. Have a good weekend folks! :)

The Dream Seller

Finally finished reading this book by Augusto Cury, a Brazilian author, quite sometime back like almost a month ago. It was a good read. The Chinese translator again did an excellent job, on an otherwise unusual novel, which was depicted from first and third person perspective interchangeably that could be confusing at times.

The author Augusto is termed a rising star best selling author in Brazil, or has he already surpassed Paulo Coelho in terms of no. of books sold? I haven't read any of Paulo's book yet, thus can't comment. But Augusto really does have something to share in his messages.

This book is the first of a trilogy series. Inside the main character is as mystic as a Prophet. He was trying to sell dreams (aka hopes) to those in need, so that they can get back up on their own feet, from whatever failures or setback they have been facing.

This charismatic prophet soon attracted a group of followers. The author (first person) is the first disciple, after he was saved by the prophet (teacher) from the brink of committing suicide.

There are a lot of references to Biblical teachings, especially those of Jesus Christ. I have been holding the suspense not to finish the last chapter to reveal who the real identity of this Dream seller is :)

As the story progress, more is known about the background of this 'prophet'. He was once a mental patient! Indeed, he went crazy for a period of time after his family was killed from an airplane crash. The prophet was spared because of his hectic work schedule, and didn't join them due to last minute office meeting over run.

After that incident, he went on for soul searching, gave up everything and become homeless. Towards the last few chapters, he was revealed indeed the CEO of the largest business empire Megasoft Corp.

There are many dramatic turns, all weave with smaller stories when the 7 followers were each introduced. An alcoholic rehab, university professor (main actor), a model, an old educated lady, a thief etc

The unusual scenes are plenty: and how the 'prophet' was able to turn the situation around by giving his unusual speech, and sold more dreams to the listeners. Eg he gate crashed to a funeral and urged people to remembrance the joyful moments of the deceased, and ended up become a carnival!! The other occasion was like when his identity was about to be disclosed, he actually led a group of high power executives to a tomb and reminded they are in fact the slave and deprived because of the work stress and constant worrisome that they are undertaking, as compared to their staff. How true it is!

At the beginning of the book, when the author ie the college professor was about to commit suicide by jumping off the roof top of the Megasoft building, that's where the 'prophet' appeared. He managed to convince the author not to jump down, by selling him more commas ",", the reasons to continue to live on his life, and not to put on a full stop (period) so abruptly.

Augusto says he still has 3000+ pages of materials not yet published. His main role is clinical psychiatrist and researcher. He has been writing non stop for the past 25 years, with a passion to share on what he has received as a calling. What a writer!

I look forward to seeing the part 2 and 3 sequels for the dream seller book series, to see what kind of dreams the seller has in store for us as the buyers! :)

The Laws of Spirit - A Tale of Transformation

I read the Chinese translated version of this Dan Millman book first, called 鹿智者的心靈法則. The Taiwanese translator surely did a wonderful job. His translated Chinese text was so well written that I thought the English original text must be equally good.

Guess this is the first time I wrote the blog, without going thru the English book. I did finish the Chinese book though. I was so impressed with the 12 Laws that were described that I went ahead to order the original English book as I don't think I can translate the Chinese text backward to English without much effort from my end, and still preserve the meanings :)

After comparing the Chinese and English version, I would say they both have merits. The whole book is about a Mountain Sage (presumably a female character) meeting with Traveller (Author), and sharing with him the 12 Laws, within like 48-72 hours.

There are many interesting parables and life exercise examples embedded to this little book (about 100 pages) that can be finished within a day. The storyline is simple, but the meanings behind each Law is deep and far reaching.

Without further ado, below are the 12 Laws. They all are distilled wisdom that I think worth reading again to contemplate the meaning behind. I would say quite some Chinese/ Zen philosophy behind them, too. Enjoy!!

1. THE LAW OF BALANCE
- Finding the Middle Way

If gravity is the glue that holds the universe together, balance is the key that unlocks its secrets.

Balance applies to our body, mind, and emotions, to all levels of our being.

It reminds us that anything we do, we can overdo or underdo, and that if the pendulum of our lives or habits swings too far to one side, it will inevitably swing to the other.

2. THE LAW OF CHOICES
- Reclaiming Our Power

We are both burdened and blessed by the great responsibility of free will - the power of choice.

Our future is determined, in large part, by the choices we make now.

We cannot always control our circumstances, but we can and do choose our response to whatever arises.

Reclaiming the power of choice, we find the courage to live fully in the world.

3. THE LAW OF PROCESS
- Taking Life Step-by-Step

Process transforms any journey into a series of small steps, taken one by one, to reach any goal.

Process transcends time, teaches patience, rests on a solid foundation of careful preparation, and embodies trust in our unfolding potential.

4. THE LAW OF PRESENCE
- Living in the Moment

Time is a paradox, stretching between a "past" and "future" that have no reality except in our own minds.

The idea of time is a convention of thought and language, a social agreement.

Here is the deeper truth: We have only this moment.

5. THE LAW OF COMPASSION
- Awakening Our Humanity

The universe does not judge us;
it only provides consequences and lessons and opportunities to balance and learn through the law of cause and effect.

Compassion is the recognition that we are each doing the best we can
within the limits of our current beliefs and capacities.

6. THE LAW OF FAITH
- Trusting in Sprit

Faith is our direct link to universal wisdom,

reminding us that we know more than we have heard or read or studied -

that we have only to look, listen, and trust the love and wisdom of the Universal Spirit working through us all.

7. THE LAW OF EXPECTATION
- Expanding Our Reality

Energy follows thought;

we more toward, but not beyond, what we can imagine.

What we assume, expect, or believe creates and colors our experience.

By expanding our deepest beliefs about what is possible, we change our experience of life.

8. THE LAW OF INTEGRITY
- Living Our Truth

Integrity means living and acting in alignment with spiritual law and with our highest vision, despite impulses to the contrary.

From the heart of integrity,

we recognize, accept, and express our authentic interior reality,

inspiring others not with words, but with our example.

9. THE LAW OF ACTION
- Moving into Life

No matter what we feel or know, no matter what our potential gifts or talents, only action brings them to life.

Many of us understand concepts such as commitment, courage, and love, but we truly know only when we can do.

Doing leads to understanding, and action turns knowledge into wisdom.

10. THE LAW OF CYCLES
- Dancing to Nature's Song

The world of nature moves in rhythms, patterns, and cycles -
the passing of the seasons,
the movement of the stars,
the ebb and flow of the tides.

The seasons do not push one another; neither do clouds race the wind across the sky.

All things happen in their own good time -
rising and falling and rising like ocean waves,
in the cycles of time.

11. THE LAW OF SURRENDER
- Embracing A Higher Will

Surrender means accepting this moment, this body, and this life with open arms.

Surrender involves getting out of our own way and living in accord with a higher will, expressed as the wisdom of the heart.

Far more than passive acceptance,
surrender uses every challenge as a means of spiritual growth and expanded awareness.

12. THE LAW OF UNITY
- Remembering Our Connection

We appear on Earth as separate beings with diverse destinies; but as each separate raindrop is a part of the sea, so are we each a part of the Ocean of Awareness, the Body of God.

Find love and inner peace deep within the highest truth that we are all one Family.

Leave behind the baggage of fear, envy, and resentment;
fly aloft on wings of understanding,
to enter the boundless Lord of Compassion.

Joseph cycle - 7 good years followed by 7 bad years

Ever heard of this Bible story? Joseph the dream interpreter who managed to crack the then Egypt Pharaoh's recurring nightmare dream: by explaining that the king's dream is to forewarn about 7 good years followed by 7 bad famine year, thus need to stock up and be prepared when the days are good. From a prisoner Joseph became the Prime Minister and successfully led Egypt avoid the pitfall when the bad years strike.

I remembered I read this Joseph Cycle book during 2008, when the times were good, before the last financial crisis. This Singaporean author is a chartist and analyst from UBS it seems. When he published this book at 2005/6, he was forecasting STI is on bull trend and may hit 4300 in 2008. Well, it was peak at 2008, and after Beijing Olympic things went downhill as per the cycle foretelling.

7 looks like a magical figure. It took God 7 days to create this world. There are 7 days in a week. 7 year of Itch. Lucky 7 is the jersey for greatest football player in the team etc.

When history repeats itself at times, and like pendulum. 14 years is the cyclic time. Each working adult should have 2 to 3 times to ride on the right trend.

Looks like we are on the downtrend, so folks, just have a lookout on it, preserve and capitalize the next macro uptrend from 2015 onwards, agree?

PS: Enlarging the pic so you can have a good read on the events. :)