Post-Convention Thoughts

Change brings opportunity. ~ Nido Qubein

The 21st National La Sallian Leaders' Convention came and went just like that. Time really flies, doesn't it?

When we first came together on the 16th of December, none of us knew what was in store for us. Well, maybe except myself. Even though this would mark the first time I came for the Convention, I had quite a bit of knowledge on what to expect thanks to early exposure to the La Sallian spirit and values and through my time from organizing this year's Northern Regionals. Of course, the most important thing that would come to us would be change. But where are we to change? Which explains why I came for the Convention: how are we going to change and make a difference? I wanted to know. Hopefully, I would know just where to start.

The Heritage play struck me the most throughout the entire Convention. I'd seen one and helped direct another, but none could compare to how the performance stayed very faithfully to the real La Sallian story. It was from that onwards that I knew I was bound to be awakened to something new in the next few days, something that I never really noticed or learned up till now. That was an opportunity I knew I had to seize.

And I was right. All our sessions, games and reflections helped each and every one of us realize how our world is suffering at the hands of the ignorant, the sinful and such others. They challenged our thinking, our beliefs, our principles. They made us see how real these problems are. They made us realize that change is a must to make things better. They made us realize we are not alone in this noble mission.

Change means that what was before wasn't perfect. People want things to be better. ~ Esther Dyson

In between, there were definitely moments of fun and laughter. Lame jokes, IQ tests and sharing sessions allowed us to build new bonds of friendship between fellow La Sallians. And I must admit that the sessions I led after the end of the day were kinda spontaneous. I only believed that each and every one of us has something to share. So why not allow that voice to come out to the fore?

And as I have said many times, my enthusiasm was at its peak. Never have I actually unleashed so much energy in any other camp I've been to. What made me do it? I don't even know why. But I'm glad that I did it. I'm glad I got the ball rolling for everyone.

And as the days rolled by, I stopped once in a while to check my affirmation pouch. Honestly, you guys and girls honor me with your affirmations, and I was pleasantly surprised to see how many I have at the end of the day. I never intended to be affirmed for my deeds. I only wanted everybody to just feel proud of what they learned and to go out into the world with their eyes open.

And I never thought I'd say this: 'Open your eyes, ears, heart and mind, and you can make that change.' I told Wei Kit that, and in hindsight, I didn't really understand how I said that to him. But now that I look back, I must say it was my experiences that helped me form those words.

I guess change came in the most surprising of ways to me.

Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself. ~ Leo Tolstoy

Most of us really think we can one day change the world. I hope that Convention made you realize that only when you start from within can you really help the world.

My parents were instrumental in making sure me and my elder brother learned good moral values that have shaped the way we see the world. We used to live a comfortable life, and back then, I wasn't the person I am now. Time has its ways of changing a person. The events that I had to go through brought me new insights to what Life is really all about. And I'm thankful I had to go through all those to reach where I am now.

Now I live a simple life, and I do confess it's not as easy as it once was. But me and my family get by. Besides, I'm thankful I come from a caring family. Though things haven't really been looking up and may just become better than before.

Another thing I'll point out is that, honestly, I'm quite socially inept, especially with women. Ironic? There are just times when I say or do things that are (a) said at the wrong time; (b) lame; (c) misinterpreted; and a few other reasons. And I'm saying this based on personal experience. I've lost - and almost lost - friends because of that, and even now I regret my actions. So if I did say or do something without realizing its damaging effect, I offer my sincerest apologies. I'm pretty much at war with myself, but rest assured that I'm not intending on giving up.

It's all about accepting change. And I'm glad I accepted it.

Before we acquire great power we must acquire wisdom to use it well.
~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

When the last day came, it was indeed a very sad occasion. But despite that, I'm very happy. I'm overjoyed, really! Finally, we've come to our journey's end - but it's only the end of the Convention. Once you return home and return to school, then you're back to reality. That marks the beginning of a new journey: one that may lead us across numerous obstacles. But as long as we hold on to our beliefs and make that leap of faith, surely nothing, not even a force of nature, can stop us.

Of course, I cannot deny there will be times when all seems hopeless. I assure you, change is never easy. But if you are willing to make sacrifices, then by all means do it. If you have doubts, confide in your friends. We have the Facebook group not just to keep everyone connected. Use it to share your doubts, your sorrows, your victories, your lessons learned. It's a platform to remind us that what we do is for the greater good of all. Altruistic love is what we practise.

I have this quote I'd like to share, found on the tomb of an Anglican bishop of the 11th Century:

When I was young and free my imagination had no limits, I dreamed of changing the world. As I grew older and wiser, I discovered the world would not change, so I shortened my sights somewhat and decided to change only my country. But it, too, seemed immovable. As I grew in my twilight years, in one last desperate attempt, I settled for changing only my family, those closest to me, but alas, they would have none of it. And now as I lay on my deathbed, I suddenly realized: If I had only changed myself first, then by example I would have changed my family. From their inspiration and encouragement, I would then have been able to better my country and, who knows, I may have even changed my world.

Small steps. Small steps are capable of making that difference. Now that we know ourselves, it's high time we took all that we've learned to walk the talk and hopefully bring about the change we want to see. If we agree that another world is possible, then I can tell you that it starts from us. Don't think of today as another one in paradise. Paradise isn't here yet. We need to work for it.

Are you with me and the La Sallian dream? Then let's make that step forward together as a family. And let us not forget there are thousands of others out there who share in our dream. Let's unite them as well and make the difference.

Understanding someone properly involves learning from him, and learning from someone properly involves changing oneself.
~ Hans Kung

Before I end, I'd like to affirm each and every one of you who participated in the Convetion whether as a Delegate, an accompanying teacher, an OT or even as a facilitator. I may not have talked to you much, nor would I have been able to write to each of you, but let me make it clear that I acknowledge you for who you are. No matter what our background may be, we are all the same. I am, you are, we are La Sallians. Never forget that!

And lastly, I will set up a blog for ourselves to be used as a platform for sharing other insights, personal experiences, projects and such that we could not shared throughout the Convention. Your contributions to this new blog - which I will name Journeying With The Dream - will be very important to helping everybody remember our mission and our responsibilities, as well as learn new lessons that will be key in making their dreams come true. Please feel free to email me with your stories and I will do my very best to publish them on this blog. If you do not know my email, drop by the blog once its complete. You'll definitely find it listed there.

Also, for those who have regular Internet access (I don't have any at home) and are willing to lend a hand, please let me know first hand. I need other administrators who can receive and publish stories on the blog whenever I'm not online. This blog might just be that first step in starting a chain reaction for the better.

Signum Fidei, brothers and sisters! And until the next time we meet, good luck and God bless.

...do all the good you can
to all the people you can
in all the ways you can
as long as ever you can
~ D.L. Moody

Thoughts: Faith And Lessons

(Unless you're not a freethinker or liberal, I suggest that you read this to the very end)

Came back from an INFUSE event held some time ago. Many thanks to Venkeeran for the sudden yet meaningful invite. Truly appreciate it, dear friend.

Despite the fact I am not Christian, I am always amazed at the amount of faith the youth of today have for Jesus and God. Like tonight's event, so full of song and praise and fervant belief in the Creator. Oh, words fail to describe such a wonderful scene!

The mini gig was one thing, but the guest speaker for the night - Pastor Rudy - was truly the highlight. He touched upon two very interesting topics: perceptions, the choices that we make, and to look forward and never backward. His words fired up the crowd, and they were entertaining and also thought-provoking at the same time.

So let's see how I can pass his words in my own interpretation. Hopefully, the meaning is still retained.

1. PERCEPTIONS
Two people, who possess the same job, pay, car, etcetera, may be similar at first glance. But what differentiates them are their perceptions.

For example, one of the two mentioned above may come into the office, and complain and crab and blabber and gossip and what-not, about almost anything that bugs his head. The negativity easily diffuses into the office atmosphere, and everyone starts to feel as bad as he does.

But then the other comes along and exclaims out loud: "Man, today is a GOOD day and I'm loving it!" And the next thing you know, the entire office gains a positive mood.

Two people with similar backgrounds. What differs are their attitudes, their perceptions. Should we not be like the positive one? For it is said that whatever we say, it is prophesied as your future. This is more or less what is said in Rhonda Byrne's The Secret, whereby your thoughts decide whether good or bad comes to you. Here, it's words. But even if you're not Christian, there is some truth to what is being said.

Why so? Well, technically, what we say actually influences our actions and thoughts in future because we believe in them. If we look in the mirror and say, "Man, I look terrible," it might stick for a very long time. Unless you change your words from vitriol and disgust into words of encouragement and positivity, you might not move on from where you are now.

2. CHOICES
The choices we make determine our destiny. So was written at the event. Who can deny it?

While one's perceptions points us in the direction that we are going, the choices we make move us to opportunities that will shape our lives - whether these may be in the form of obstacles to overcome, or even moments of utter joy to cherish. It is all in what we choose that counts.

But it's not to say that choices alone are important. As mentioned above, if your perceptions are cloudy and dark you might find yourself stuck in the same spot. You might be successful at that point, but if you want to expand your horizons you may not be able to move any further.

And speaking of choices, there are always times when we have to make difficult choices that may very well alter the course of our future. It may be forgiving someone who has wronged you deeply. It may be kicking an old habit that has been detrimental to you in some way or other. Or maybe it's mending bridges with your parents.

Difficulty is assured. It might just take you days, months or maybe even years just to make that one choice. One choice! But that one choice may be a life-changing event for you. And believe me, it may just turn your life around for the better. So think it through, weigh the options carefully and cast your dice.

3. LOOKING FORWARD
We are usually told to look back on our achievements or memories and take them as examples. (Or some other) While it is a good thing, it must be said that we cannot always hold ourselves back in the past, for we must move on to the future.

How can we just keep lingering in the past? If we hold onto it for too long, we'll only be looking to what we have done then rather than what we can do now. Would that really work? What was then doesn't necessarily mean it would be the same now, nor would methods from the past work again in the future.

Just like the choices we made, should we actually let our regrets and our burdens bog us down deep?

We need to realize that it's no use holding on to old hatreds, old grudges, old memories, etcetera. While some memories should always remain clear in our mind, never let them get the best of you. Never let your thoughts get to you till you prefer to stay in your comfort zone. It is necessary to go out of that zone and venture into something new.

Take heart, people. All you need to have is faith. Whatever your religion may be, always have faith in your religion's principles. If you have doubts, never hesitate to ask your pastor/imam/priest any questions you have doubts on.

Cheers for now!

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!!!

An Extract of The Prefect's Address

(Pass this on to those who do not know of this blog. Thanks)

Attention all Prefects!!!

This is a call to unite together as Prefects and to take up the challenges that lay ahead in our path to achieving new heights in our duty. The past few days have had us face some great challenges that have tested our faith, perseverance, determination and courage. Many have fallen, while others remain doubtful of their future in the Board.

But I believe that there's still hope for all of us.

It only takes a lot of belief in our abilities, capabilities and potential that lay in our hearts and souls. Why is it that we seem so negative in what is to come in the coming future? How can we change our mindset on this behavior?

BELIEVE, BROTHERS (and sisters)!

If we do not, is there any way we can reach out to the stars as glorious Prefects of St. Michael's? Will there be any way to redeem ourselves? I cannot say for sure, but to redeem our lost glory, we must begin in our own selves. Once we do, there is no stopping us.

I know that every one of you can make the difference. Just pray to your respective deities, work hard and work tough, push yourself, and change yourself. God be with us all!

Morituri te salutant!

MAVERICK LAW
The Prefect's Address, dated 16th April 2009 AD