LTC Reflections: Who I Am Makes A Difference

Back in the black! Sorry for the long hiatus, but I've been very busy with stuff. So here's my newest post. Cheers!

If I recall, this theme I used as my title was actually used in one of the leadership courses I attended some time back. I can't recall whether it was my first LTC, or the Youth Empowerment organized by INTI, or maybe it was actually from a book, but I remember it very well. Because what we all learned in the recent LTC leads us to realize this point.

Truthfully, I was honestly surprised by the affirmations I received from the people around me. People I never thought I'd impact felt inspired by me (as Deborah puts it XD) - and honestly I didn't expect to be like that. I just thought of doing what I believed what was right. Indeed, it takes guts to be the one to make the first move. And sometimes I find it hard to have the balls of adamentium to do it! XD It can be difficult to say what you wanna say when you worry about what they think of you.

Jokes aside, I was touched by what my friends had to say about me during the sharing session on the second night - specifically RJ, Kelly, Mabel, Tihn Chern, Jaden, Nick and Keng Fai. You showed me that you care for me, and you appreciate all I've said and done. And also not forgetting those who put the little affirmation notes in my envelope. You genuinely touched me for saying all that you've said/written. And yes, I'm glad to call you my friends! =)

I tell myself everyday that it doesn't matter what they say or do to you. What matters most is that you get the message across and they value it for all their lives. Before I started my Change, I was a little selfish when it came to helping people. I wanted their attention, and I wanted to be known as more than just an individual. It's not the way one should help others! When you put people ahead of yourself, you have to be more open with them and understand their needs. And when you are, all kinds of goodness will flow into their life and even into your own.

I firmly stand in my beliefs. But I never did think that in reality, there are people who actually value it - and value me in the process. I never want to be acknowledged for anything (I'm actually pretty thankful Deb didn't praise me on the last day XD) - like when RJ was asking everyone to listen to me as I prepared to talk about being proactive on the first day during the reflection, I was like, "RJ flatters me." Yeah, I'm sure you remember me saying that.

But I'm still human, and I can't deny even I do need attention and praise. It's like what Mr. Eric says: "When you praise someone, they'll reply like, 'No-lah, no-lah, it's nothing-lah!' But what they actually mean is 'More-lah, more-lah!'" Comedic as it is, everyone wants to feel like they belong somewhere. I confess sometimes it's hard to fit in with my close friends and even my siblings at times. I feel awkward being there when they're talking about something, and sometimes I feel like I'm left out. But I never complain. I just tell myself I should be there not for the small talk, but just to BE there. With them. Listening. Laughing together. Sharing a bit. Smiling. I don't mind. I get used to it.

And when the seven of you shared your thoughts of me, it... it felt strange. I won't deny I enjoyed the feeling! XD But then again, it never ever occurred to me that what I do leaves more than just a simple lesson/thought, but it leaves more than that. I was actually leaving a legacy without even knowing it. I surprised myself then. It's due to the fact the good things in life are always appreciated, no matter how small. And I forgot how important that value truly is.

They said of everything I'd done for them, what I do that makes others feel good, and how much I appreciate them as more than friends. And yes, you ARE more than friends! In fact, if it were possible I'd have every one I know become my sibling! So long as I can gain your trust and you gain mine, as Mr Palan said: "The sky's the limit." Believe it! When we all set our prejudice aside and unite, what we can achieve isn't just confined to our roles as a Prefect. When we think highly of others and praise their positive side, even though you hate that person and you have to say it through gritted teeth, don't be surprised that after a couple of months you'll become the best of friends. After all, opposites attract.

And when it came to the affirmations and the signatures in my magazine. Good grief, I was yet again surprised! It was the same effect as the sharing session the previous day. I never expected so many! And all your 'thank-you's will not go unnoticed or forgotten, I guarantee that! It's because of people like you that gives me the inspiration to do what I do. And I'm thankful for that. All your words of wisdom too will give me the strength to push on in the game of Life.

When I came back and started typing this, I ruffled through my stuff and uncovered the affirmations I received two years ago from my fellow Prefects of the term 08/09. I smile everytime I flip through them, and I reminisce on the great times we shared those days. People like Dominic, Timothy, Joshua, Nakhieeran, Hou Keat, Thomas, Venkeeran, Jia-Ee, Sue Jane, Sara, Karen, Ben, Leroy, Koy Yew, Kitt Leong, and all those who stood side by side in that term - man, we rocked the house. XD And I thank those who affirmed me during that LTC. I sincerely appreciate your encouragement. =)

I do believe there's more to come in Life. As Kelly wrote to me, "A journey of milestones begins with a simple step." We must move on and use what we learned to improve all areas in our life. Hopefully one day, even though our schedule will be tight on us next year, we can all come back together and celebrate the friendship that we cherish - for now and forever. Rock on, people!!!