Serve Philippines 2005

2 years back..

2007-08-10T16:27:00.001+08:00

Memories are still vivid in me..

i wonder what about you...

thanks for remembering =)

2007-05-11T22:13:00.000+08:00

thanks, peiqi for the lovely card

thanks, gladys for the lovely emails

thanks, lindsey for the lovely invite

thanks to all for getting lindsey to do the lovely invite

how r u all?

keep in touch k?

missing ya

BA Alumni Networking Tea Gathering 2006, 9 Dec, Sat @ 2 pm

2006-11-13T15:53:00.000+08:00

It's time for tea gathering & networking!!!

Date :9th Dec 2006, Saturday
Time :2.00 to 4.30 p.m.
Venue :Ngee Ann Polytechnic, StaffHub Dance Area, 16-03-011A, Sports Complex

This networking opportunity is opened to all BA alumni from all the diplomas.

We look forward to seeing you !

Would you care for the UNWRITTEN?

2006-11-07T22:09:00.000+08:00

Have you ever assumed how an ex-offender would look like? We probably would have, wouldn't we?

Have you ever wondered who you are sitting next to at the bus-stop, at the food centre, or in a movie theatre? We probably wouldn't, would we?

A group of five youths did not just wondered about it.

(Photo: from left to right) Nadiah Kamsir (WIL Alumni, BIT graduate of 2005), Nicholas Goh (Nanyang Polytechnic Final-Year student), Isaiah Das (NUS Final-Year Honours student), Mazuin Khamis (BA CARES Alumni, BS graduate of 2004), and Gladys Wong (BA CARES Alumni, BS graduate of 2005), have come together to write the book, 'Unwritten'.

Their book chronicles the trials and tribulations of the some of those who have served time for crimes such as rioting, theft, underage sex and drug use. Would you want to read about it? We hope you would.

Proceeds from the sale of the book will go to Andrew & Grace Home for troubled female teens and Ngee Ann Polytechnic's Student Aid Fund. It will be officially launched on 25th November 2006 in conjunction with a 100km run to raise funds for the home. The paperback version will be sold for $10 each and the hardback for a minimum donation of $100. Orders can be placed by e-mailing to unwritten.stories@gmail.com.

Check out their story at http://www.lifemcqs.blogspot.com/.

Never Too Late.

2006-01-12T08:19:00.000+08:00

I was at Victoria Island yesterday and very interestingly, i got reminded so strongly of something that i've so conveniently forgotten for almost 6 months or so.

While we were in Philippines, we always ran to look for Greenwich whenever we were in the Malls during meal times. When we're there, we'll always order everything off the menu on the wall. Those minutes spent waiting for our food to arrive always seemed like hours and years because we were always starving. (And greedy.)

When the orders came one by one, we would always grab them off the trays and finish them in two bites. Having to be selfless and share our food always seemed abit unachievable and too big a sacrifice.

"Shiok man! This is good!

--I'll always remember Xueling telling me that in between her frantic chews.

And i'll always remember Philippines, and the fantastic food Greenwich serves.

One day, we'll all go back to Philippines again; For the last time, or probably just one in many of future trips.

And we'll never forget the place, and what happiness it brought us.

--For we once walked the streets as Filipinos,

And cried the tears that came with being a part of the team.

merry xmas!

2005-12-25T10:44:00.000+08:00

MeRrY ChRiStMaS tO aLL!!!

dear all, have an enjoyable christmas...not to forget...ur loved ones...=P hee...take care!!

happy happy november

2005-11-11T23:17:00.000+08:00

entry #1

2005-09-17T13:45:00.000+08:00

its seems to be ages that this blog is being updated. well.. finally got to see the photos tat peiqi collated, they really trigger memories. Looking at the pictures and videos, i just wonder how has the rest of you all haven been ever since, we last tok. This are memories that will last this lifetime. glad that there is a gathering coming up..

oh.. i have a nice picture to post..
er.. i did not seek consent of the pretty ladies n handsome guys to post this photo. Apologise for that.

Navin's email

2005-09-08T19:15:00.000+08:00

Hi all,

How is eveyone getting on? I have not posted any article on the board
for a very long time........ anyway, Just wanted to say that I felt
great when I was given the chance to meet up with the team again on
20/8/05..............

Please do keep me posted on any developments regarding the
team........
as for the future meet-ups, do update me I will try my Very Best to
come...........

GOD BLESS ALL!!
Have a great day,
Regards,
N. Nair.

[nell: Navin, nevermind, I post for you =)]

Tie a Yellow Ribbon...

2005-07-14T18:52:00.000+08:00

<><><> THANK YOU TO ALL WHO CAME DOWN FOR THE CEREMONY! <><><>

<><> THANK YOU TO THE LOVELY PRESENTERS! <><>

<> THANK YOU TO THE PRETTY DANCERS! (PLUS 1 MACHO DANCER) <>

<><> THANK YOU TO ALL THE BOOTH'ERS! <><>

<><><> Thank you to Lek for pulling all this together! <><><>

(And a special Thank you to the lovely lady who came down despite the loss of her loved one... *hugz*)

BA Yellow Ribbon Ceremony

The School of Business and Accountancy (BA) will be organizing a BA Yellow Ribbon Ceremony (BAYRC) on the 20th August 2005,(9:30am-12pm) in support of the national Yellow Ribbon Campaign first launched in 2004. This campaign serves to raise the awareness of the Singapore community regarding the needs of ex-offenders in their difficult journey towards leading normal lives.

The central message of the BAYRC is in "giving a second chance" - especially in a society that is continually striving for excellence, and how this can inspire transformation in lives of individuals who have made mistakes in the past.

The BAYRC will be a platform for students and community recipients of 3 service-learning projects to share their learning experiences and objectives achieved. The 3 projects are selected because of their partnership with community recipients who appreciate the support of the Yellow Ribbon Project.

The WIL (Work-Integrated-Learning) Module
Currently in its 5th run, this module engages final year students of the Business Information Technology (BIT) diploma. The students impart basic IT skills to reformative trainees (RTs) from the Prison Aftercare Supervision Section (PASS) and in the process to help them re-integrate back to society through being their role-models. In this semester, the 10 students were also tasked to set up an IT Room at PASS with the funds awarded from the Samsung DigitALL Hope grant. The BA Yellow Ribbon ceremony will be also the NgeeAnn-Samsung IT Centre ribbon-cutting as well as a graduation ceremony for the RT boys.

The SERVE PHILIPPINES 2005 Youth Expedition Project
In May 2005, a tripartite team comprising of 19 students from BA, 6 girls from the Andrew and Grace Home (AG Home) and 4 differently-abled youths from Teach-Me Inc embarked on a project also to set up an IT centre and train the trainers from 2 partner organizations - the Association of Disabled Persons, Iloilo (ADP-I) and the Special School for Exceptional Children (SPED School, Iloilo) in the Philippines. This inaugural tripartite expedition had been an expedition of unique challenges and learning experiences in more ways than one. The team will be sharing a little about their joys and pains during the BAYRC.

The EXTEND-Turning Point Project
EXTEND (Experiential Training for Entrepreneurship Development), as its name implies, is an experiential project where students from the Diploma of Business Studies (BS) taking the Entrepreneurship Option work with partners like businesses, schools and voluntary welfare organizations on business plans and proposals. The EXTEND-Turning Point project involves 5 students working with Tuning Point on a proposal to help Turning Point research on the possibility of applying for a food license to operate a cookie production, as well as identify and negotiate for marketing and distribution channels for these cookies.

Would you like to give a Second Chance?
So dear Serve Philippines team, would you like to contribute to this worthy cause? Please contact Lek to be The Light of Someone's Life =)

Aug 13 (Sat) Ngee Ann Poly LT26 8am-2pm - Full-dressed rehearsal including ServePH and other participants
Aug 20 (Sat) Ngee Ann Poly LT26 8am-2pm - THE ACTUAL DAY!

Your Students, The Graduates

2005-06-29T23:17:00.000+08:00

Your Students, The Graduates
Remember all those lives you touched?
Here's an email from May Rose A. Devaras, President of ADP-I, to all of you =)

Hows everyone there now?

Everyone just wish to extend their heartfelt thanks to you and your team.
it was a great fun and a real great experience for all of us.

How are the kids, i forgot to tell them the wristbands we gave them are
called friendship bonds, a sign of friendship so every one won't forget us,
just tell them, the other ones made from bamboos are used to scrath
itchiness on areas of the body you cant reach like our backs. the ones we
gave u is a symbol of our Filipino culture, the native nipa hut for u not
to forget us also. Thanks once again.

we miss u guys, hope to see u again, just keep in touch.

May

Home Away From Home

2005-06-26T22:56:00.000+08:00

Home Away From Home

Remember the Classrooms where we called Bedrooms?
Remember the Kitchen where the 10-course meals were whipped up?
Remember the Basketball Court where we ate, played, gathered, and even slept?
Remember the kind Principal Elizabeth?

Here's an email from her to all of us =)

Sorry for have'nt responded soon. Indeed I'm so glad to have heard from you. We all miss you! Your visit was a verymemorable experience for us. In so short a time you have touched our lives and we have found friends in you! on behalf of the Sped Isec family I sincerely thank all of you for sharing with us your lives. Thanks for the computer units, the printer most especially the LCD projector you donated to the school. They really are of big help to us especially in making lives more meaningful and comfortable to our students who are in some ways different. We are looking forward to seeing you once again! Sped Isec is your home away from home.Do consider us as your sister school. We miss you and we love you all! You are God's blessing!
best regards,
elizabeth

ignorant -> changing -> changed

2005-06-02T01:18:00.000+08:00

A path that I've walked through...

Three diversified groups, NgeeAnn Polytechnic, Andrew and Grace Home, Teach Me Inc., coming together to form one team, Serve Philippines, Iloilo (SPI).

Been back in Singapore for a week, the memories of the 14 days expedition in Philippines are still so strong and clear. Guess these memories will stay in my heart forever...

Before I set off for Philippines, I was put in-charge of all the Logistics matter, from the consolidating of computers to T-shirts' designs. I took up the duty with pride as I have never been in the logistics committee in my own voluntary organization. Thinking back, the pre-trip preparation was really tiring but that was also where I learnt most about my ability. I got to juggle between my work in the office and the preparation work for this trip.

Under this committee, there was so much to be done. Facilitators asked me to delegate out the duties, I did as much as I can. However, I realized even when I delegated the tasks out, my team mates would still have to come back to me to go through what they have done.

There was fun too in my committee, driving around Singapore to collect computer systems from friends, it was then I realized how much help I could get from them. In e past I always thought and felt that I should be the one giving as much as I could and tried not to accept any help. To me, that signified how strong I can be. Never did I think that by always giving and not accepting others’ offer, it gave others the impression that I'm too strong-headed and too proud of myself. I should have given others the opportunity to give as well. Lynnette, one of the facilitator once told me, a bottle of water with a hole at the bottom, will loses all the water if it never gets refilled.

Before leaving, my objectives for this expedition were to interact with the Filipinos for cultural exchange and to set up a useful IT lap for them.

"Was the trip a fun one?" That is what I have been asking myself ever since I was back in Singapore. I did not feel that it was just a fun trip but I learnt a lot about myself and how I should handle various situations well. After all, isn't this a service-learning trip?

First few days of the expedition, it went quite smoothly, even there were unhappiness between my buddy and I, we were able to solve it. My tolerance level throughout the trip was not high due to lack of sleep before the trip and even during the trip. I came to realized that in order to be happier in this trip is to learn to accept each and everyone and not just to tolerate. Once I am able to accept who my team mates are, everything seemed to be easier.

Having to take care of Yuan Ping, my buddy, who is a wheel-bound student from Teach Me Inc., further tire my body and another buddy of mine, Winnie. I remembered Winnie once asked me, if the responsibility to take care of Yuan Ping belongs to just both of us or the team. From then, we trained up a few other girls to take care of Yuan Ping, in case at times Winnie and I have to be way to carry out other duties. Thanks a lot to the male students who have been carrying Yuan Ping up and down the coach. Most importantly was Yuan Ping begun to be more independent during the trip. I thank Winnie too, she was just like a sister to me and taught me so much of what she learnt from the bible.

Most memorable moment for me was the surprise birthday celebration held for me on 6th May midnight. A million thanks to my team mates and most importantly to Miss Nellie Chew, one of the facilitators, who were the organizer for the whole celebration and the birthday cake was bought by her too. Having to cook and wash on my 7th May, made me realized that even it was my birthday, I still have to carry out my duty well. Overall, it was a tiring but memorable birthday I ever had in my life.

Half way through the trip, I realized the main objective for this expedition was not to set up the IT lap and the skill transfer; it was more of individual character building. Under those living conditions where all of us did not have enough sleep, most of our true colour appeared; some also started losing the ability to control their temper, including myself.

The team even had disagreements with the facilitators and I only realized that I have made a mistake during one of the reflections when I was back from the expedition. I was very defensive towards myself and not for anyone else. After a reflection on my own, I realized how selfish I was and how my insensitivity has hurt my facilitator, Mr. Leow Teck Sim.

During this trip, 2 of the team mates reminded me to be myself which I did not think that I should always be myself. I should strike a balance between being myself and think of others before I act. However, I learnt from them about loving others when I do not see a need to. Love than to hate made me a happier person during this expedition.

Overall throughout this expedition, from pre- trip, during the trip and post trip, I felt that it was really a fruitful one. Firstly, I found that I played a part in helping one of the girls from Andrew and Grace Home to open up herself. From the start of knowing her, I spent a lot of time, trying my best to make her comfortable working in the team. She was an introvert who did not bother to mix around with the team. Now, she is a girl who can even crack jokes and shares about her dreams. On top of that, there was another girl who totally changed my impression of her, she is Cyndial. I salute her, she’s a real chef and most importantly, she has touched my heart.

Secondly, I have made a friend from this trip that is Miss Chew. In the past when I first knew her as my lecturer, I gave a very superficial judgment and I did not have any good impression of her. During the pre-trip preparation, I was given the opportunity to work with her, made me realize how naive I was in the past. During this whole expedition, I had the most support from her; I felt that she played her roles well, as a facilitator as well as a friend. I learnt the most from her.

Thirdly, I managed to cook for my team, wash stacks of dishes, wash clothes for others and put up a very last minute party for the children. In Singapore, I just took it for granted that all these would be done by my family or people around me. Over there, I managed to step out my comfort zone and serve others. From impossible to possible, I thank the facilitators for training me up to prove that I can do what I thought I couldn't in the past.

Still... I missed the days in bonding camp a lot... There's where I felt we all started off...

gladys (=^o^=)

Reflections

2005-06-01T23:49:00.000+08:00

To be honest, i took the trip as an opportunity to go overseas. Although going there to help is the primary reason, i did wanted to go there for all the fun i could have. True that i wrote about learning the different cultures, helping the needy n etc was the reasons i wanted to go Philippines but another side of it was to ensure i get to go for the trip.

Initially, there was several meetings n planning. I took it as a hastle. I thought i only needed to just go there and teach. Never did i think that its all for getting to know each other and bonding.

The bonding camp, i was reluctant to go. But when i was there, i had all the fun. i got closer to the members in Teach Me Inc and the girls in Andrew and Grace Home. There was a night we were chatting with the girls from Andrew n Grace Home.They told us the reasons they were sent there. There was this girl that made my heart sank. She did not hesitate to tell us the reason. I admire her courage to face everyone. I admire her courage to face her own future. I couldnt imagine what i would do if i was the one in her position. In my heart, i saluted her. That was when i realised something. I need not learn from someone who is highly educated. i can even learn from someone who had done a silly mistake which i had never done before. I've learned her courage.

On the departure day, i was still in the mind that this trip is just going to be a 'having fun' trip. We took about more than 2 hours to check in. I thought nothing about it.Honestly i didnt do much to help. In fact, i should say i didn't even do anything to help.

At cebu, we had reflection in the morning, before departing for iloilo. We talked about sensitivity and awareness. And mentioned about the check in duration. I realised everyone made a slight difference in every action we take. I helped out at the cebu airport. If i could remember clearly, we took less than an hour to check in. i felt a great sense of achievement though it seemed to be something small.

At Iloilo SPED school, we had to clean up the rooms.It was really dirty.Insects everywhere. At that moment, i regreted going to Philippines.Everyday, we got to do cleaning up n cooking. Despite that, we got to help the disabled and we had little sleep due to the activities. There was a point i thought to myself, why am i here to suffer? I am here to teach but now im here to clean up the place. I even questioned, we paid 500 to come here. there are 30 participants. 500 x 30 is 15 000 whis is 450 000 pesos. we could just use this money to make a better place for them. Why do they need us here?

Through events, i was aware that i am not just there to help. I was the day in-charge for 2 days. i got to ensure activites went smoothly. That was also an opportunity for my leadership power to be shown. However, majority of the participants are my senoirs. This put me in a difficult position. I needed to be aware of my tone when giving announcement and all as im usually loud and rather curt at times. i was afraid that i might offend my team mates.Hopefully i did not.

And on the very day that i was in charge, some problems started to crop up. All of us were mentally stress. We were exhausted from all the mind games that was created by the facilitators for us to learn from. There were several times that i broke down. I complaint alot. I should say too much.I couldnt take it any longer. I wish i could just go back home and forget about everything after the trip. I even told myself that the trip is the worst that i've ever gone to. Sometimes i wish i could just sleep and morning never comes as i had to face the problems once im awake. The problem made everyone quiet on a particular morning. The atmosphere was extremely tense. The team was on the verge of breaking down... However, we tried to clear the air. We voiced out all our unhappiness. Things turned better...

And there was an particular event which made me love my mates more. It was the kids event. I was put in charge. And we were late from the schedule as the bus was travelling slow than we expected. Due to the time constraint i was under pressure. I wished someone could just tell me what to do. I was helpless but i knew i need to do something. Hence i assigned everyone with a job. Regardless it's preparing food, decorations, gamings etc, no one was free from job. Everyone made themselves useful. They were really doing all their parts. the event was a success. I was so glad. The team had gained back the team spirit again.

However, throughout the trip i realised some learning points. it is true that everyone has different level of maturity. However maturity doesnt tally with age. People might be much older than you but not as mature as you. And all this is because he had not experience as much as you.I've also learn 3 types of people. People who wait for things to happen. People who make things happen. And People who see things happen.I've learned that people should know how to juggle around to be this 3 types of person at different situation.Initially, you have to make things happen. Later on, you will have to wait for things to happen. Follow on, you will get to see things happen. At the stage where you see things happen, that is when you know you had positively influence your mates.

Through this trip, my leadership power, awareness, sensitivity, maturity, tolerance and analyzation ability had increased. Thinking about this, i realise why i was there for. I realise why i cant just contribute the 5oo for the philippinos to set up the laboratory. It's more than setting up the lab, more than helping the needy and more that anything else, which is i've learned and gained. A beautiful experience...One that made me a different person.

my thoughts

2005-05-31T16:48:00.000+08:00

before the trip: physically challenaged people to me are just another bunch of people
i never really bothered myself with them
never thought what it would be like to be living under the same roof as them

during the trip: they amazed me..
alot of things they could actually do it better than us - normally abled people
which got me thinking, if im in the same predicament
would i be able to live my life like them?
would i be as strong willed as them?

conflicts are inevitable when 3 diverse groups come together
it part and parcel of any trip
patience and empathy plays a big part to bring about harmony in a group
but of course, what is said is easier than done
at least i learnt that if everyone thinks in the same manner
alot of misunderstanding can be avoided

our team bonded well
i know each and everyone of us would cherish the times spent there
and hold these memories close to our hearts
.......
waking up early in the morning
sharing 3 toilets amongst 33 of us
bathing time limited to 10 mins
grocery shopping
cooking for the whole team
jeepney rides
teaching the PWDs
napping in our rooms whenever possible
and of course
our filippino friends

although the trip is merely 14 days
i have learnt to think in other people's shoes
trying to visualise other people's thoughts
im still not exactly very good at it yet
but im working on it.

i feel that i have achieved my aim of going there
i have learnt more about myself

si hui

back fr philippines trip

2005-05-31T16:16:00.000+08:00

for me at the starting i don really like tis trip cos quite a lots of unhappy things happened .but the last few days there is quite happening get to know more philippines people and feel more bounding

hmmmx... bleahx...

2005-05-31T15:03:00.000+08:00

hmmmx... really glad that i could be in the team... everyone was just very helpful and really cared alot for others... had a great time with them... actually we came from different part of the world and yet we were bonded together... really saw lots of effort in the team... althought there were some " conflict" but we managed to solve the problem... we may have a distance apart after the conflict but in the end we were all together as before.... take care

ah bi

Looking Back...

2005-05-30T22:36:00.000+08:00

We began this jouney with an assortment of people; we came from very different organizations, backgrounds and lives. Yet we all came together in our passion for this trip and this project. We taught each other, we learned from each other.
Over the 2weeks in Iloilo, although we failed to set up the IT lab for the PWDs, the Microsoft lessons went on smoothly and we managed to teach them some IT skills. We had the freedom to explore the city - going out to the local markets for grocery shopping, riding the jeepneys, home-stay with the locals, which enhanced the cultural experience and exposed us to different perspectives and lifestyles of Iloilo.
We left Iloilo as a group, a team, a soul. The things we had experienced on this trip affected each and every one of us. We left the place becoming more understanding, sensitive, wiser, and more mature all at the same time. Our feelings were mixed, our experiences varied. But regardless of our individual experiences, we left together with a deep connection. And most importantly, we won’t forget the people we met, the lives we touched and those who touched ours in so many ways.

Xueling

:) my reflection

2005-05-30T20:52:00.000+08:00

There was a quote I placed in the box during the bonding camp in Punggol, during the Serve Philippines 2005 YEP group reflection time. We would sit in a big circle, scribble down our thoughts and feelings for the day and put it in a box. There was a day where I finally realized how meaningful this trip would and could be, and how lucky I felt to be part of this group.

“From nothing to something, from something to everything.”

It was a quote taken from a close friend, and it described this whole mission well. We all came from different lives and backgrounds; Ngee Ann Polytechnic, Teach Me Inc and Andrew and Grace Home. Being part of Andrew and Grace Home, I was apprehensive on how the other organizations would look at us. Do they see us as a bunch of mischievous girls who do not know right from wrong? I was also wondering how seemingly normal young adults from Ngee Ann Polytechnic and differently-abled people from Teach Me Inc could possibly blend in and do something meaningful. I was indeed doubtful.

Right in the beginning, I was not told that it was a combined trip. And many others like me did not look forward to the bonding camp in Punggol. However, the camp brought out a spark within; it gave me hope and showed me a glimpse of what team spirit can do. Highly geared up from the camp, leaving Singapore to take on a whole new mission was an easy task.

Honestly, living in such unfamiliar grounds with 32 other acquaintances is not as simple as it seems. Throughout the trip there were some hiccups, some disagreements, some conflicts. We hid them with cheery “Thank you very much”s and uncontrolled laughter during contact with the Filipinos. We went all bitter and some were ready to give up, wanting to fly back to Singapore immediately and to forget that this trip ever happened. And I was one of those few, until realization hit me.

I was helping a fellow teammate wash up. She was wheelchair-bound and had difficulty climbing the stairs, going to the restrooms and bathing. It took her much effort just to step out of the room. And as we went to the room where she was going to bathe, it just hit me right on the spot. There we were, upset about such petty and trivial things, that we did not see the simplest logic behind it all. We all came to learn. We came with hearts to inspire and give. We wanted to help the Filipinos and at the same time, learn from them as well. Some might have even come on this trip in order to understand the plight of the disabled and to offer them a helping hand. Most of us want to make a difference.

Like the colours of a sunset, it is how you look at it. Some might choose to look at the darkening hues that are highly hung, while others might focus on the watercolour reds below, the remains of the sun. Many times we come with a purpose, but leave with bitterness. I am glad to say that for this trip, however, we came back changed. And we did make a difference, when tears from our Filipino friends fell from their eyes. It was something out of plain nothing, which like our team leader said, “making things happen”, where we took it in our own hands and made that something everything.

Hmm?

2005-05-30T17:47:00.000+08:00

What can i say?

Mmm, learnt alot from this trip. Never regretted joining the team. Throughout this trip, i've seen that many people actually care for one another in some ways. Just like how Nicholas cared for Navin. Also, i'm really glad that through this trip, i've gotten to know many more people and get to know also a bunch of good buddies.

People have changed in one way or another in this trip and this includes me. My patience has been tested and i would like to apologise to Navin for flaring up at you on the last day. You know when.

Service through learning or something like that, i'm sure most of us have learnt to be more independent and stuff like this. This trip is indeed happening. Many relationships have improved and stuff. Hope to see it going on as a team. All the best.

A moment to share

2005-05-30T01:48:00.000+08:00

ConcepcionSunrise6, originally uploaded by bacares.

Sunrise @ Concepcion

Just helping winnie to post

2005-05-30T00:38:00.000+08:00

Just helping winnie to post... yeah... wahaha

Kinetic,
Kenneth

WINNIE'S REFLECTION Part I: NEVER KNEW

2005-05-29T23:10:00.000+08:00

WINNIE'S REFLECTION Part I: NEVER KNEW
An extraordinary life changing experience.

"I cried when I had no shoes until I met someone with no feet." This quote best summarises my feeling for this trip.

I never knew having an able body is a blessing;
I Never knew able to walk is a blessing;
I never knew able to speak clearly is a blessing;
I never knew bathing in 5 mins is a blessing.

I NEVER KNEW wearing socks could be a challenge;
I NEVER KNEW staircase could be a challenge;
I NEVER KNEW going toilet without assistance could be a challenge;
I just NEVER KNEW how difficult life could be for the physical challenged.

There are just too many things I NEVER KNEW. But I am thankful that this YEP trip has helped me to discover more about life and most of all, about myself, my real inner self.

This programme was made known to me through Mr Leow, it caught my attention because it involved Andrew and Grace Home and Teach Me. I decided that I want to be part of this special mission trip. I have been involved in youth work for almost 3 years. Having a desire to share with every young person that I met a message: “everyone has a past, but that need not define us. We all can have big dreams and aspirations that could impact others and even the world.” My sole desire was to motivate as many as I could during the trip to dare to go for their dreams, not to look down on themselves. However, I guess I spent most of my time with the physical challenged during the trip rather than the AG Home girls. Nonetheless, that is still my desire and prayer for each one of them.

Many may feel that the journey starts when we left Singapore Changi Airport. But to me, my life changing experience started in the bonding camp. Remember I was there only for Sat and Sun. But it was a fruitful, inspirational and provoking camp. You may be wondering what so inspirational and provoking?

Three team mates who had challenged my minds and hearts, Read and discover if you are one of them, and to the THREE OF YOU, you would never know how much YOU GIRLS have ROCKED my world.

The first one is a wheelchair bound young lady. During the camp, I learnt how to transfer her to a special chair so that she could go washroom or bathe. And I practice that on the second day of our camp. When I saw all trouble that she has to go through just to bathe, by the time she gets back to the wheelchair, she literately perspiring again. Yet, she is telling herself to be strong to live on. Learning how and making effort to appreciate people around her more. My thought was "If she is willing to take so much trouble just to bathe, to go toilet, to go places, why a normal able person want to take their lives just because of stress or BGR problems? What is the big deal comparing to her physical limitations?" I just could not understand. More importantly, I decided to live boldly regardless of what difficulties in life, just as this wonderful girl has. Hey! God will use your family background and your life to testify His message of forgiveness and Mighty strength. Be strong and know that He is God.

The second one is a young courageous girl from Andrew and Grace Home who dared to admit and share her past. I took notice of her because of her penknife cutting scares on her hands and legs. I felt for her as I used to inflict self-injury when I was younger back in Hong Kong. Thank God that He has saved me. His great love for me, I no longer hurt myself. Despite of her inadequacies, she desires to become a counsellor one day to help those who have a similar backgrounds as hers. I admire her courage and inner strength. You know what I see? "If she as a young girl dare and honest enough to face her mistake and face life courageously, what so difficult about getting up from falls?" Hey! You will fulfil your dream one day as long as you follow God wholeheartedly. I truly believe our life will be a powerful testimony of God’s grace and love.

The last one but not least, is an optimistic lovely girl suffered from Diabetics from NgeeAnn Polytechnic. Her genuine concern for people and friendliness caught my attention. When I saw her holding the medicine box, I asked what is that. She explained to me in a very positive manner, she did not complain about life. I was amazed. At such young age, suffered from Diabetics, many could have been so bitter about life, but not her. Her enthusiasm and attitude in giving to people encourages me. She determines to live a purposeful life with no regrets. Absolutely commendable! Life is short and I am challenged to live my life to the fullest each day. As we never know what would happen the next day. I learn not to take relationships for granted. Hey! I love you. I mean it when I told you that I want to keep this friendship. Really enjoyed those times when two of us have private heart to heart talk. You will never be forgotten.

Beside all these inspirational and provoking thoughts, the trip was a character moulding experience for me as I make deliberate choice not to SEE things happen or WAIT for things to happen but MAKE things happen. Life was not easy then. Being a buddy of a physical challenged person tested my patience and willing to serve even in times of inconvenience and tiredness.......

There are still few more people who have influenced my attitude during the trip. I am tired today will fo a Part II soon. Coming up in few days time... Wait patiently... hee...

Winnie

Friendships and Memories and More

2005-05-28T01:22:00.000+08:00

Give a man a fish, and he will eat for a day. Teach a man to fish, and he will eat for a life time a phrase Peiqi quoted and one that I could agree with more also. Well what happened on the trip is truly on of passion and understanding not only of all the people on the trip but also of all the people we interacted with during our trip be they Filipino or American.

Looking back I realize on thing all of us be it the team or the people we interacted with did one thing on this trip showed one thing and passion for what we do and compassion for each other. This can be seen by the gracious of our hosts and what they did before and during our stay there, the Americans from the Peace Corps who were willing to give up 2 years of their lives for people they don't even know and even for the other Filipinos like Mayor and Dr. Banias and even Mrs. Laura G. Villarico who played a gracious hosts to us on more than one occasion and through our willingness to actually sacrifice a holiday just to serve the people there seen in the sacrifice all of us made at some point of time on the trip. For me I also took it that when I signed up it was form of dedication to go over to the Philippines to rough it out or to put it harshly suffer.

But when I came I was all ready for something to and that was to receive while I served. I was hoping that I would be able to serve more than we would receive. Well when I look back I realize one thing about and that is I gained more than we expected and gave less than what I hoped to give. Firstly, because we failed to set up the computer lab due in part to the failure of the computers to arrive on time. Secondly, because as I look back I really feel that whatever i did was so minute as to what everyone else did as a whole. I now see myself more as a piece of the puzzle and not as what I would think as one who made a big sacrifice.

I also learnt a whole much more whether being on time or even things like even if you want to speak you should learn to be more tactful when voicing your opinions as well. I also learnt not to be so idealistic as well. I believe these lessons would also be a crucial in life. I learnt this through feedback from Miss Nellie Chew and Mr. Leow and others in the camp. I also learnt that I should be a better listener as seemed as though I was a person that practiced a lot of selective listening.

With Regards to some of the things I learnt from my fellow participants, I learnt how to take care of the handicapped when I was helping out Navin and Yuen Ping participants from Teach Me Inc. He also reminded me about how I used take care of my grandmother. This helped me to be more patient and also to help him improve himself. This also helped look at things from a different perspective that I have not used in many years, Navin and Yuen Ping and the people from the Association of Differently-Abled Persons, Iloilo allowed me to look at things from a disabled person’s perspective and to see the certain challenges they faced and how they solved and countered them.

In conclusion, I am thankful and grateful for the honour, opportunity and privilege to be part of this team that went over to Iloilo City in the Philippines. Friendships and learning experiences are truly the things that make us better persons in life and without them we will all be stagnant beings. Most importantly, I learnt that it is true about another phrase we heard a lot in camp and on the trip, One Team One Spirit One Soul, without this the team would have broken up as this was something we lived by.

Iloilo City will forever remain as a memory in my mind, For all the treasures as well as friendships that i cultivated and built over the trip and all its meetings before and after.

tired after the trip...

2005-05-27T23:13:00.000+08:00

sigh...back in singapore....feels good...but totally missed the people in philippines sia...sigh...also looking at a few reflections...hmm...sigh again~~ my english aint that good...but i will still reflect...

can really say that i learnt alot throughout this trip...i made things happen...i wait for things to happen...of coz....i see things happen too....who doesnt?? anyway, i also see things happening around me...awareness got a little higher (although people say that my awareness is zero)...i think im far better than before liao...but its quite tiring to be aware of what is happening around me every second...very tiring i can say...

this trip wasnt really counted as a success...we were supposed to set up IT lab for the people there...but we didnt manage to, due to some unforeseen situation...but we still managed to transfer IT skills to the people at SPED school and popcom...while transferring skills to them...we get to interact with them too...i personally havent taught at popcom before...coz have been assigned to teach at SPED school...a class of like 11 people...but there's always like 6 or 7 students only...hee...i gotta say, the students there get distracted real easily...i remembered the very first lesson we had with them...we were offered food and drinks...it seems more like a interacting session...a get-to-know-you session...they are so friendly...so enthusiastic in learning too...basically, most of them already know some basics of the microsoft office...so its quite ok to teach them...from what i remembered, they are such keen learners when it comes to microsoft powerpoint...so passionate i realised too...coz when we asked them to create a powerpoint on their own...they created stuffs like "Mother's Day" or things that gotta do with love...so passionate subjects...envy their passion for one another...there's this grandma, Elsa...always with a camera....always touched by her smile...and not to forget Hose, who brought us to the wet market to buy the cheapest ingredients...and of coz other teachers there who helped us in one way or another, such as Glenda and Vanessa etc...

also like what peiqi said...we have unknowingly called SPED school, the place given to us to stay for the 2 weeks, as our home...we will unknowingly say "hey...time to go home le!"...enjoyed the times when we go for groceries shopping as a group...then we all go home to cook...also buying things that our home lack, like rubbish bags, detergent, washing detergent etc...we cleaned and cleared up the place...making it like our home, as we will be staying there for 2 weeks...we had our meals there...we sleep on the hard floors there...bathe there...we shit there...we had our reflections there...during our free time, we played..frisbee...basketball...we slacked...we napped...we nagged at one another...sometimes, we complained to one another about this and that....some of us even broke down and cried...well...i did....for something i shouldnt have said...being childish and saying things without thinking of the consequences...purely stupidity too...but well....we all grow up through learning from our mistakes....so i learnt a lesson...

well...my stay in the hospital was also memorable...not much people get to stay in hospital while overseas lar...hmm...but well...not that i want to...high fever plus allergy...sigh...anyway, i got to see the responsibility of the nurses and doctors there...there's this 19-year-old male nurse, Chriss...the one who attended to me...well...chatted a little while...got to understand how their working life is like...he kept saying that he wants to come to Singapore to work...cant imagine he's only 19 years old, and already full of ambitions...looking at myself...hmm...20 years old...unemployed...sigh~~

the homestay was also very new to me...too bad we didnt get to spend more time with them...a night is definitely not enough, i can say...but through this only night...my host, Donna, was really hospitable...even the hyperactive 5-year-old niece of hers...totally showed the hospitability of filipinos...even prepared a room for us...showing full friendliness, although we are like total strangers to them...the only thing i regret not doing is to take a photo with them...gosh...how can i forget...well...i did forgot...sigh~

i remembered the time when we were at SIF...we were asked whether we will give more or receive more?? hmm...i think that time my answer was that i will give and receive the same amount...but i realised...i received really more than i have given...the filipinos have taught us alot of things without us realising it...well..some of us certainly have given more than they would have given...going over their limits...doing things that they would never imagine they will do in their lives...full of admire for them too...i guess sometimes i wont even go to that extent to do such a thing for a person..."never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game"...some quote i heard somewhere...neber to give up...something that i kept telling myself throughout the trip...but i guess i kinda stress myself too much...but i feel that i have shown more leadership skills than i would have...quite a great achievement for me...some people bring out the leadership in me...some people helped mi in leading...some people work with mi to lead...there are so many different categories of people...

some participants of this team made mi realised that i dont appreciate the life im living...there are people who have a far worse life than mi and they are stronger than mi...there's yuanping...who really changed a lot from before the trip, to during the trip, to after the trip...she has an improve in her attitude...there's lek...who made mi realised that life can still goes on even if it gets a little rough...i admire her...for her braveness to carry on her life despite her illness...there's the AG gers...they made mi change my thinking of typical home girls...intially i thought girls from such homes wont be too good...but i was wrong..totally wrong...these AG gers made mi feel the love in Andrew and Grace Home...there's the Teach Me people...they made mi change my thinking of differently-abled people too...gotta admit that before this trip...whenever i go on the road and see such people...i will tend to give them a second, or even a third look...the way the walk...the things they do....but after i interact with them...i realised that they are the same as us...now, when we go out with them...when i see people staring at them...i would just feel like telling them not to stare...because they are normal too....but in some way, i cant...anyway, there's also navin...the guy whom we thought brought us alot of problems...but he made me understand that life is never easy...i feel that the Teach Me people has taken a big step by being on this trip...being more independent...as i was saying, nobody's life is easy...life is full of ups and downs...sometimes when something happen...a scar will be left there....so it wont get back to normal again that fast...but with the willingness to forgive and forget...things might get better...also, i get to see the true selves of the yep people...including myself...there's good and bad...there's happy and sad...there is bound to be...

well...i feel that the facilitators did quite a pretty good job in guiding us...they have been through a lot too i guess...also, they have taught mi alot...directly and indirectly...but sometimes...they do things without telling others the reason why they do it...which makes it kinda tough for both us and them...it would have been easier if we were told ba...anyway, its also good...they got us all thinking...brain cells improve alot...hee...this trip has made mi tired physically and mentally...a very tiring trip indeed...

the memories will remain in mi...the experiences...missed the philippines people...missed the yep team...wishing that we could go back one more time...this time maybe to fulfil the initial objectives of our trip...that is to build the IT lab...or maybe just to visit the people there...to just have fun and enjoy ourselves...

- lina -

PQ's Reflection

2005-05-27T22:32:00.000+08:00

From "Physically Disabled People", to "Physically Challenged People", to "Differently Abled People" and finally to "PWDs" or "People with Disabilities", the term used to describe some of my team mates and our Filipino counterparts had been constantly changing, and with it, there was a change of heart within me.

When I was first told the aims and objectives of this project, the first thing that struck me was its simplicity and its sensibility. It seemed to be the factual happenings of the age old phrase “Give a man a fish, and he will eat for a day. Teach a man to fish, and he will eat for a life time” and right then, I felt that this was going to be a project with real ambition, ambition not just to provide, but also to teach. That was when I decided to give my all to the attainment of our expedition aims.

In the course of teaching the PWDs, I had become attached to a certain few students who I came into contact often with. As I strove to teach them as much IT knowledge as I had, they shared with me their life stories and even offered me their lunches when I expressed my hunger once.

Apart from meeting our students in class, they had been generous enough to off us their free time to accompany us to do grocery shopping and to prepare a traditional Filipino lunch for my team. They brought us to the local market where the stall holders gamely made fun posses when they saw our cameras.

During the first few days of our trip, we referred to our living quarters by its name- SPED School, but as we grew closer as a team and our heart grew fonder of the place, SPED School became more than just a place for living, it became home. It was startling when we realized that we were now referring to SPED School as home so naturally, as it was so different from the place that we usually referred to as home. Home in Singapore was a small flat with fans and air-conditions, great plumbing, televisions and computers, big beds with soft pillows, and a mother or maid who would take care of the cooking and cleaning. In the Philippines, however, home was 4 class rooms, basketball court, 3 toilets which choked periodically, sleeping on hard floors with uncomfortable air-pillows, and cooking and cleaning for ourselves.

As we were required to cook and clean for ourselves, we would visit the nearby supermarkets often to do our grocery shopping. Security guards were placed at all entrances to carry out bag searches on all entering shoppers. Astonishingly, all security guards carried firearms, from pistols to shotguns. Despite their ferocious firepower, the guards were more than enthusiastic for me to take their picture.

For a community which guards their supermarkets so ferociously, they were wonderfully open to us with their homes and hearts. Besides offering us their hands in friendship, they opened their homes and families to us by playing hosts to our home stay. My host was a blind masseuse, Henry. He picked us up personally despite the inconvenience. We had dinner with him and his family while they shared their family stories with us. We then talked through the night and singing to music by the road side.

Even now, after returning to Singapore, we talk about returning to the Philippines to visit the people that we had met. We talk of living together as we had during that short period of 16 days. We talk of the amusing happenings which occurred during our communal living. We even talk of buying houses in the Philippines so that we would be able to return often and to be with the people we once were with. Through this expedition, SPED School and the Philippines has become more than just an expedition venue, it has become our home, and our hearts still long for it.

Experience it to know

2005-05-24T23:07:00.000+08:00

I touch my heart, the trip is not fun. But, its the most enriching trip i have even attended. Its fruitful in a way because i learnt alot, experienced alot and most importantly see alot during the 14 days.

I learnt about in life, sometimes you cannot control the enviroment. the logical method to adopt is smiply live with it. i lived it through and i learnt alot to adapt to the situation. never be a hero because hero always die.

I saw alot of events that shows alot of true characters emering during the trip and i am glad that they are very frank about their original characters.

The trip would not be complete if it is conflict free. Because, its through solving the conflict that will bond the people together. But, conflict is also like a double edge sword, either it promotes unity or breaks the unity that was made. Glad that, the conflict was solved in the end. And everything relatively went back to normal. Prefer the last few days of the trip, cause that is when all the things fall into place and most of the task that we are suppose to do are settled and this is when we start to know our team members better.

When we work as a team we learnt much more than we did alone.

THe experience at the hospital was one of the many experience i will not forget. Because it just proved to us that phillipinos are real nice people. Becasue they are willing to even help strangers like us to get a doctor as we do not know how to speak their languge.

The home stay was fantastic, stayed in gimeras island(the island that produces the SWEETEST mangos) for a night. journey to the place was far but, the experience is 1st class. the host, roslida is a real nice lady that is real humble. she showed us the place, explained to us all our doubts about phillipines. THe island experience in the morning was real nice. i've never woke up in a farm before in my whole life. i saw real dung outside at the farm with so much farm animals that we dont see here in SIngapore.
1St time in my life, i sat on a motor with 4 passengers.. real cool real fun, real gd experience. i just want to thank the host for their warmest hospitality. they will do their best to make you confortable. i will never forget the dinner we had at her house. the most heart warming meal i have even had. i will never forget them. thank you.

to sum up, thanx people, thanx for letting me have the most unforgetable experience in my life. U all were great.

see ya guys soon ya?
haha..

back to a place i called home

2005-05-24T20:43:00.000+08:00

Dear all,
From this trip i serve and learn at e same time, what i learn was I am surprised that our counterparts was so keen to learn despite the lack of computers, that is the point i ought to learn from them. If you ask me if there would be another trip back there, i will say i w go back again to meet my friends there.

after Effects of Yep

2005-05-24T10:20:00.000+08:00

my expectation did met.. and i hope i did become a better person.

=)

Results... ?

2005-05-23T22:41:00.000+08:00

Before the trip... expectations were wrote... was the expectations reached.... Hm... I think most of my expectations were reached and there was alot of times where there was disappointment... but everything went well... The lessons for the Microsoft went well and I guess that many benefited from the lessons and were able to use them in their own livelihood... The home stay was the best experience that I ever had i think.... it has really allowed me to feel the warmth and hospitality of the people... being able to experience their life and how they would live their life was really such a great experience... yup... being able to communicate with the locals and learning their ways of life and being able to be part of it has truly change my perspective of life...

My tolerance was greatly put to the test and it has really brought a new insight for myself and being able to put myself to the test... anothere thing that i have learned is to take a step back... yup... taking a step back... giving others a chance...

ok... thats it...

Kinetic,
Kenneth

BACK BACK BACK!!!

2005-05-23T12:50:00.000+08:00

Back! well, e trip is really a memorable one. nv did i haf such an experience before. so many learning points. im sure i've become a different person. a stronger one definately. really miss the days in philippines. a great thanks to SIF for e trip. n a great thanks to e facilitators and team mates. u made a difference in my life.

AfterMath Of Trip.

2005-05-23T12:08:00.000+08:00

The trip was great................................. Had alot of learning points through the trip...........................
also had many falls............. & injuries................... but I still enjoyed the trip.......................
My heartfelt thanks to all the guys for helping me............................ and for carrying me too...............

Thanks a MILLION!

With Warmest Regards & Best Wishes To All,
N. Nair.

we are back!

2005-05-19T21:05:00.000+08:00

back from the trip le...missed the philippines ppl...missed SPED sch....missed the whole YEP team already!! gosh...sigh~~

my expectations are mostly met le...which is good ba...hee....

oh manz...totally missed everyone lar....life seems different le...wonder when will be the next time i can actually see the Teach Me people and the AG gers...gosh...even the np ppl too....coz well....afterall, im a graduate le..hee...

feeling bored at the moment...

hey...got friendster or msn...juz gif ur email add here leh....mine's lina_lim_85@hotmail.com

hee...ok...signing out...boredz!

Expectations ya?

2005-05-04T01:23:00.000+08:00

haha.. well, hope i can redeem my sins... whahahaha!! no la.. relax.. seriously i hope i will grow more intellectually casue im exposed to new stuff in a foreign land.. really hope i'll start to be more aware of things happening around me.. be more kind, friendly, helpful etc.. all the gd stuff and not the negative ones..

hope that everything goes on as plan, with no major setbacks on the things the team planned. casue they worked real hard on it..

i think thats all

going to pack my bag.. haha..

hope all things goes well!

.:. expectations .:.

2005-05-03T23:29:00.000+08:00

expect it to

1. have fun

2. have fun

3. still have fun!

hahha....enough of crap..

i wanna go there...

. learn about their way of living

.. tour around the country ---never been there

... expose myself to a different culture

.... try to learn to empathise with the children there

yup..thats all folks!

sherhui =)

Expectation of the trip...

2005-05-03T22:09:00.000+08:00

Well... want to go there and find a purpose in life and to learn... want to see more of the world and see more of what other humans are doing... yeah... to be able to leave something for the people there and at the same time to take back all those experiences... yeah...

Life a journey... where we all look forward and back....

Kinetic,
Kenneth

2005-05-03T16:33:00.000+08:00

My expectation of this trip is to learn more from the people there as well as from the rest of the team. Fun is also a must for us and we shall all enjoy this trip together and commit ourselves to it.

2005-05-03T09:36:00.000+08:00

Self- expectation
- empathy
- learn more about other values and culture
- more independent
- i wan to provide a service learning to the people there.
- i wan to be able to achieve our motto
- to do IT transfer
- learn to take initiative more
- more understanding
- i wan to be able to value relationship with ppl more
- be contented of life

Group- expectation
- I hope that every single one in the group can be in auto mode, be a bunch of people who make things happened.
- be more understanding and have higher tolerant level

expectations of all expectations?? =P

2005-05-03T03:14:00.000+08:00

personal expectations: -1- to learn more about phlippines's culture and the way they live their lives -2- to set up the computer lab (which i tink we will) -3- to be able to teach them the IT courses (praying real hard tt we realli can) -4- be able to open up to others and make more new frenz -5- be more initiative (making things happen) =P -6- definitely, to understand myself better...and to understand people around mi too -7- actually also to see whether i am able to put up with such toughness -8- having a real sense of satisfaction when everything's done

group expectations: -1- definitely, to have an open mind -2- being able to understand one another better, be it strengths or weaknesses -3- to be able to work as a team -4- to be equal...everyone is a leader...nobody is to be bossed around by anybody...

so that's abt it lar...blog totally for the sake of blogging..dohz...
--> lina

2005-05-03T01:48:00.000+08:00

Expectations.

To be able to complete our tasks there on time.
Learn from one another.
Everyone to be safe and take care of eachother.
and of course to have lotsa fun!

-Kerrie

Expectations

2005-05-03T01:21:00.000+08:00

Will it be a successful one! I hope my personal and the trip's objectives are met... I pray hard that we don't hv to use the insurance at all..Most importantly, I wana have heaps and heaps of fun, and learn how to cook chicken rice from Cindial.haa.
- Xueling

expectations....

2005-05-02T23:22:00.000+08:00

i expect dat i'll learn more from e ppl there n as well as they learn from mi too. obviously it will happen cos we learn everyday, everywhere. i also expect that i will have lots of fun over there. suppose we can give as much as possible to e ppl there. most of all. i hope this will be e most memorable experience dat i ever haf for all my life. i hope this will be a successful trip wif no mishap n unhappiness. wif lots of consideration, initiative n etc...

Expectations.

2005-05-02T13:04:00.000+08:00

expectations.

my initial expectations were rather simple: just stepping out to an unknown, unfamiliar place and to do whatever i can to help them. but of course, i do know that in the meantime, it'll be an amazing journey for me.

after all the preparations and all, i just want to go there and have fun and enjoy myself.

just to have a great time with great people.

Before Trip

2005-05-02T09:13:00.000+08:00

Just being part of this group is great...................
Have fun...................... & Learn as you give...............

Expectations and Hopes

2005-04-28T21:02:00.000+08:00

Find Us Faithful

We’re pilgrims on the journey of the narrow road

And those who’ve gone before us line the way

Cheering on the faithful, encouraging the weary

Their lives a stirring testament to God’s sustaining grace

Surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses

Let us run the race not only for the prize

But as those who’ve gone before us let us leave to those behind us

The heritage of faithfulness passed on thru Godly lives

Chorus

Oh may all who come behind us find us faithful

May the fire of our devotion light their way

May the footprints that we leave

Lead them to believe

And the lives we live inspire them to obey

Oh may all who come behind us find us faithful.

After all our hopes and dreams have come and gone

And our children sift through all we’ve left behind

Well ya also just hope that we will go there and be back in one piece.

Well I also hope that we will be able to work together and enjoy each others company more than we have already experienced.

my expectation for the trip

2005-04-28T13:27:00.000+08:00

To impart whatever skills i have in microsoft excel to the people there and to experience the culture there and to make friends with the people there.

We work as a team but with one soul, that is what teamwork is for.

Kathy

taggie??

2005-04-23T21:58:00.000+08:00

maybe a tagboard here will be better? =P

an image to motivate all

2005-04-20T11:21:00.000+08:00

Some useful resources

2005-02-21T15:25:00.000+08:00

Welcome to the Serve Philippines 2005 blog

2005-02-04T17:11:00.000+08:00

Hello,

Please share your ideas on this blog.