New Year?

Hmm.... I have written something ... but I don't feel like putting them up. Don't ask me why...

Anyway... just want to take this opportunity to thanks those who has always been supportive and encouraging me for the past year. Some of you of course do recall my most despaired moment this year and without you, I don't think I survives well enough. So, thank you very much.

For those who have hurted me (of course you won't be able to know if you are one as I am a good liar somehow... a trained one), thanks for making me realise my weaknesses even more. I shall try to do better in the year ahead. hahaha....

Anyway.... Happy New Year!!!!

Holiday?

It's so weird.... I purposely took today and tomorrow off to 'rest', but I ended up working since 8am although I went to sleep only at 3am this morning. Goodness... It's not very easy to put myself in holiday. A few friends called me and asked me why I went back to Tawau instead of going for holiday. I seriously don't know. May be it's an OBLIGATION for me to go back to be with my parents?

Oh well, I keep on telling myself that I need to put more efforts to make sure that I have holiday until 02.01.2008. Please remind me... anyhow, I do need to go land office for an appointment at 8am tomorrow and teaching on this Saturday from 9 to 1:30pm. hai...

Anyway... Christmas at home was ok. Meeting OLD friends is always good... and meeting those kids who remember me was fantastic... hahaha.... Check out the link below of the drama St.Patrick did. Very well!!!

http://picasaweb.google.com/peisanlin/StPatrickSChurchChristmasEvent

- holiday ? -

One more day...

After today, I have one more working day before I go back home for Christmas. Last month and this month are suppose to be my 'honeymoon' moment as I do not want to stress myself too much in works and ministries. Somehow, I get to escape from all Christmas functions, both in KK and Tawau. So, I hope I'll have a good, relaxing Christmas this year. 2 to 3 months ago, I was seriously stress and completely burned out. With unforeseenable and forseenable circumstances came to my way at the same time, I almost fail to handle my emotions and rationalism.

Oh well, I guess almost all those arounds me didn't realise how difficult I was. As leader, I was taught ways to handle situation like this. Suprisingly, those close one has failed to realise my 'situation' but some not so close one somehow got my stress de-stressed. Weird!!! Of course there's one or two who has always concern about me do follow up with my recent news. Don't get me wrong. I am not blaming anyone. I am just saying... we have certain friends on certain time/occasions. Some just happen to forgets about you when you need them and some just happen to be around when you need them. It's weird how thing works.

Well, since Christmas is around the corner and I will be 'disconnected' from the internet soon... I do want to take this opportunity to thanks those who happens to be around during my time of 'suffering' and also to wish everyone else, a blessed and merry Christmas!!!!

- merry christmas -

stress? exhausted?

Well, well, well... finally, the most busy week of mine has gone past. Thank goodness everything went well althought not to my satisfaction. hahaha... well, ... what can I say? I wasn't in a good state of health the other day.. and in fact, for the past 3 days. Just went to see doctor, nothing serious. So... not to worry!

I am going back home this coming Saturday. Therefore, this week is my shopping week. I need to get all the christmas gifts ready, both for KK and also Tawau's friends and relatives. I am seriously looking for a good, delicious Christmas cake for my godmother. Hmm... Not to forgot also my great grandaunt and some close relatives. I have yet to visit the new born nephew since he went back home. Oh well...

busy week... and according to doctor, my 'sickness' is highly due to tiredness. hahahaha.... I need some sleep... But I know it's hard to get sleeps at home... everytime I go back, I will need to fulfill some obligation. Speaking of which, I just being reminded that I need to get a DVD. OH NO....

- stress? exhausted? -

Tips of Borneo

Nice trip.... althought I was driving (I found out that I seriously love to drive while I am stress), but being with friends whom I don't know much is truely FUN. hahahahaa.....

I had fun. Thanks for everything...

- tips of Borneo -

Pre-Christmas!!!

I guess in a way, my body is trying to avoid things that I am facing at the moment. When I said Body, I mean it. I have at least manage to control my mind to face the challenges ahead, but my body has failed me. It started with a slide flu and later, cough in the middle of the night and these few days, it just rejected everything that goes in, including water. I cannot remember when was the last time my body rejected water. The moment water goes down and reached my stomach, it pushed it all out. Hmm... well, yes, due to that and a 3 days trials for the past 3 days, you can imagine how weak my body is now. However, it does seems BETTER today althought I woke up a few times during the middle of the night.

This weeks is pack. Pack with works, ministries and so on. I couldn't help it but to assign works to someone who is facing exam this week. I couldn't help it but ot assign works to someone whom I know has a busy schedules. Even though I felt the pain of doing that, but I can't help it. I just cannot do it. Usually I can force myself to do all, but just not this round. I am seriously 'weak'.

Friends who came over and expect me to have a meal with them ended up going shopping alone. "I am sorry" is what all I can do for now.

Oh well, thanks for those who are always around to give me support and encouragement! It has been for a long time now that I did not receive 'suprises'. You just did well on that.

By the way, I have just decided to go back to Tawau on 22.12.2007. It is a one way ticket though... hmm.... well, it's all because I have the whole Christmas week off from work. So...

- pre-christmas -

Facing v. Avoiding

I almost manage to get away from the past, but it came back to my mind lately of how painful things was in the past to me. I thought I was not of myself these few days because I am sick, but I guess it's more than that. I thought I started to get used to this new firm, but nope. I am not. I thought I have ended the issue of my "next step" for the time being but nope, I don't think so. Things just hitting me back ... again and agian these few days until I really wonder what I am doing now.

There are issues that struck me hard and strong years ago which just haunt me back these few days... there are issues which I thought I have forgotten, has just 'eating' my brain cell off. It's not easy somehow to understand why things still 'troubles' me today....

OF all things, I am sure only God knows every details of my life. It's so amazing... some people knows me during my primary school time, some only in secondary, some only when I was in my Uni time, some only when I was hurted, some only when I was happy, some only in church, some only at home, but God knows every details...

I guess, therefore, only God understands me....

- ... -

Finally...

Signed shown to me earlier on and I knew it's going to come my way weeks ago... I tried my best to prevent it but unfortunately, I am really too exhausted and with the lack of sleeps, etc... and things just turned to the way it is... I am finally down with flu!!! It all started from my ears... ghoosh... I have hearing problem these few days and especially TODAY. Serious throat infection I am sure... though no sign of sore throat as yet. Well, stop nagging me... I did tried to rest this morning but someone woke me up earlier. I did drink lots of water... till everyone is asking why I visit the toilet so frequently today.

Appetite came back today as I feeling hungry almost every single hour. Goodness me... finally... it reminded me that I should take a break SOON.

Speaking of which, I haven't tell my parents whether I am going home for Christmas or not. They didn't even call and that's not a good sign.... Oh well... I do know some people do expect me to be home for Christmas this year... but if I don't, I am sure they understand too... I have schedules to have 2 weeks off from my college during the Christmas season... and since that's done, ... may be I should really take 2 weeks off from work entirely. Hmm.... if you ask me what I want NOW... i really dunno.

- finally ... -

Planned ahead...

It's amazing how things turned out ... I received a phone call earlier August about teaching law part time at this college and at that moment, I was thinking of getting some extra income to pay off some debts that has been incurred since I enter into this profession. I was therefore preparing all the notes, preparing myself, etc... to start teaching in October. When it started, the issue of me changing firm, etc. also came along and that within a month time, I changed firm. In this new firm, I don't receive salary. I only collect 50% of what I do and of course, 50% is good enough as another 50% will be allocated for office usage including payment of wages to the staffs, office running expenses, etc. However, I will have to expect that I won't get much 'income' for the first few months as I have just started to work on my files on the very prelimenary stage.

This month is tough but God has been a good planner and blessing. Due the part time teaching, at least, I manage to have some income to support my daily living. This whole situation has just reminded me that, God can see things far ahead of me. I don't know what's in my future, but God does. I guess the only thing He asked me to do is to trust and obey and He will arrange the rest for me.

Hmm... isn't He the BEST?

- planned ahead -

Bad of me...

I guess.. after the last conversation with mom 2 weeks ago, I didn't manage to call back. Of course, due to the last conversation, I got my parents to worried about me badly. The only thing I remember saying was that I am quite frustrated with works and situation arounds me and that I feel like quitting. Of course, as usual, they did said something not very positive to me, as if I am the one who wanted to be lawyer in the first place, etc. etc. I remember after I failed my CLP the first time, they actually urged me not to continue, and in fact, they urged to look for job instead. Of course, my first job was fun... but I still take the CLP again the next year. After I got my CLP, I was in the midst of deciding if I should quit the company and go for practice. Some of you do remember that I have to let go of my good paid salary and went for a RM1000 pupillege for 8 months... and later an additional 3 months in Sabah. It's not a very encouraging moment I had... someone, I got through all ... and still surviving today.

However, despite all these, now that I am telling the whole world that I am frustrated with works and wish to change professions, of course most of you will think that I am crazy. I too think it's not a very sensible thinking. What's gone wrong in my mind?

Anyway, since the last conversation with my parents 2 weeks ago, I didn't call home, simply because I know I don't like to hear what they are going to say and I do not want to argue with them at the end. I guess, somehow, I got them worried about me (trust me, this rarely happen). Due to that, my dad sms me at about 2pm today, checking if I am doing fine. I sms him back saying I am fine, just that I am a bit busy. He replied asking me to take care.

Well, it proved a friend's sharing yesterday about even though parents angry at you at time and not really happy with the decision you made, still after a while, they will be able to accept it as they do love us.

Seriously, along the whole journey to become lawyer, I shall say... most of my encouragement comes from myself and the Lord instead of my parents and brother. Don't get me wrong. I am not saying they are not supportive at all. They do and in fact, I really thank them for all that they did. But I guess, in terms of encouragement I got, it seldoms comes from them. Eeerr... may be they don't express it ONLY. hahaha...

Anyway... it's really bad of me.. of making my parents worried about me today!!!!

************************************

By the way, Congratulation to Flora and Desmond on your wedding. I know I know... I promised to be there for like a year ago and you have sincerely invited me. So sorry.... last minute, I just couldn't go away. So many things around and with change of new firm, etc... My apologise!!! I promise, your next trip to KK, it's ALL on me.

- bad -

Timing...

Timing 1: Just this month, I received 4 wedding invitations. Ghoosh... I thought I missed one very important one this month in Tawau, but ... I still get another 4 in KK. It's amazing...!!! I can TRY my very best not to attend 2. But there are 2 which I don't think I can say 'NO' to. Hai... anyway....

Timing 2: For those of you who do CARE about my ankle's condition.... I did went to see doctor today but unfortunately, the doctor was too busy to 'entertain' me. hahaha... I promise I will go again.

Timing 3: As I grew up in church and familiar with ministries... and seldom say NO to anyone who asked me for help, I guess people take it for granted... they expect me to have a higher level of committment then anyone else. Not that I am always free at all time to help them, but because I do set aside time for God. Sadly, some of course, take things for granted and always put other things as their priority and always uses their 'extra' time to serve the Lord. Whenever such situation exist, I'll always be there to help. At least I will try to set aside other things in my schedules to give way to it. Therefore, people start thinking that I am ALWAYS available. I am seriously very tired and as I am still not used to the new environment at my workplace, I guess people just didn't realise what I am going through... and I pulled myself so hard till not only my physical body, but also my mind and emotions are almost to the maximum. I am seriously exhausted. Not in His service, but ... on things coming on my way. All I asked is a week of rest and nothing else but I received a phone call this evening while I was still outside, telling me that no one is WILLING to be on duty this week. I wanted to blame on the bad management and bad leadership at first, but after a while, I just can't be bother. I asked myself, shall I give in or shall I not. But this time, I really cannot because I do have something on tomorrow evening (practice time). I am just wondering... why people can 'sacrifice' me at all time but not others? Why others can say 'no' to His service but not me? Can I say 'no' for once? Please...

(anyway, I am not blaming anyone here... I am just in a very bad stage at the moment. Better don't disturb me so much, thought I can still joke and smile and being crazy).

- timing -

Sleepless nights...

No No No... it's not the coffee. Don't blame it. It's something else... I suspect it's the weather. I was sweating everytime I woke up. Not bad dreams either as you all do know that I only dream occasionally. Something bothering me? Hmm... I am seriously not very sure about that. But if it is, I will feel pain in my heart as I always experienced. However, no such sign exist as yet. Seriously... I am not so sure what's going on here. No no no... don't get me wrong... it's not because I was trying to figure out this and that caused me to have sleepless nights... !!!

A friend kind of FORCE me to go for a holiday after knowing that I have not have any break since my visit to Europe about 9 years ago. Of course I don't consider my visit to Mauritius as holiday as it's a mission trip, though I love that place. Speaking of that... that's my second home... hmm... may be I should consider going there this Christmas, at least... just to my French improved? hahaha... ok ok ok.. stop the crap!!!

Yawn... feel like going home now... but I have to go back to the hospital to get a Will signed. Errg... and tomorrow morning have court matter.

- sleepless nights -

...

When I am speechless , I will normally put "..." as a sign, either in my SMS or MSN.

Some of you of course remember receiving it. hahaha...

Today's blog..... I refer to April 27, 2006 blog.

- ... -

p/s: I know the reason why my ankle was so painful last night.

Rainy day today... whole day!!!!

Time to act?

It was about 15 years ago while I was helping with the Diocese Children camp, I sprained my ankle during one of the midnight after helping a child with something. I didn't have any medicine with me then and I didn't take necessary step of it. Few days later, it was ok and I was running around having no problem. About 2 years later, during one of the morning when I woke up, I couldn't walk and my mom brought me to see doctor. Doctor confirmed that it cannot be cure unless I go through an operation to remove the 'extra' bone which has grew since the first sprained. Well, as I felt fine after some medications, I disregarded the matter. Thereafter, I only feel painful during rainy days... and I have no problem during my time in England.

When I first came back, this ankle has killed me terribly since then... I broke my ankle about 3 times withint 2 months and I was being given a metal to hold and control the movement of my ankle. I guess it was that 3 incidents that caused my ankle to feel even worse.

I am not sure the main cause of it. May be I have disregarded it for too long... and that I feel the pain more often these days. At this very moment, even without moving and/or walking, I feel so painful and almost cannot tolerant.

I guess... these few years... this ankle has caused me much problem. At least, I have to answer every single time when people asked why am I not wearing any high heels shoes. I guess, in a way, I am scare I will hurt it again and another, it's painful. Ghoosh.....!!!!

Seriously... may be it's time to go for x-ray and go for operation. May be it has gone worse. I am seriously feeling the pain now while I am sitting here doing some typing. Ghoosh...!!!

- time to act? -

What happen ?

Seriously.... I wonder what happen to me.... I pulled myself out from the bed this morning and I was so so so so reluctant to come to office. Not that I do not have works to do, but I am really so reluctant... and I am calculating how many hours left before I can leave this place. Not that this room is not nice, not that this office is boring, but I am just feeling... I don't know what word is more appropriate...anyway...., I want to get out from this place... that's the feeling!!!!!

May be... Just may be... I need a break?

I once thought that I am still ok if you give me lots of court matters, etc... but I really don't think so now as I have no excitement gained over tons of works laid in front of me now... what is that to do with me? Am I still not used to new environment yet? Hmm....

I really feel like getting out from this place to be honest...

- what happen? -

Confirmation?

I almost forgot the feeling I had years ago when God first spoke to me, and/or when God called me, and/or when God asked me to wait.... etc. Well, I cannot deny the fact that God did called me for something which I always thought, it is IMPOSSIBLE. My answer is IMPOSSIBLE because I made a conclusion with my own 'limited' understanding, which I didn't aware of at that point of time. However, that kind of feeling went past my brain cell, mind and understanding a month plus ago during a weekend on 2 occassions... and the most suprising moment was that, without me telling anyone, a stranger walked to me (imagine, there's about 300 to 500 people there at that moment) and asked if she can pray for me. As she prayed, with every single words she spoke, my just felt that I am so tiny and small and that I have disobeyed Him and His command. I felt that although I have tried my very best to serve Him now, I am still disobeying His command. The feeling of sinfulness was there... and to be exact, it IS still here. "Did try to ignore Him and His command? " has ever since that moment, flash across my mind over and over for a million times a day. Until the very day I decided to left my firm and join another firm and until today (this is second week of my joining), I still feel 'empty' ...

I went back to Tawau, not to search for answer of course, but for a case hearing. During the hearing and even after the hearing, I was feeling I am a failure of all things... and I started to have the feeling that I won't be a good lawyer because I have disobey Him in the first place. During the hearing while I was trying to 'argue' to win the case over, for a moment, I really wonder why I was there in the first place. After the hearing, I felt very upset over my own attitudes.

This morning, I woke up by heavy loads of works in the office and I woke myself up just because I have works to do. This is my second week, the issue of whether I have income for this month has left me, not because I get it sorted, it's because I am too busy with other issues and that I has ignored this issue (may be that's good for the time being). However, I was given more works to do and was being told that I will have more and more works coming in. A trial is on the way another trial is coming... and my own cases are moving, etc.etc. Ghoosh.... but is that what I am searching for in life? I don't find them 'interesting' or 'fulfilling'. I am not sure if it's 'normal' to feel 'meaningless' on a job/work. All over a sudden, I ponder over the issue of "the meaning of life" and that has drew me to think of Alpha course and ... there it goes... we have Alpha course tonight... and I need to start scratching my head for songs, for games, etc. etc.... and I also need to prepare my heart for it.... So, is that mean, I have put my work in the first priority?

Oh well.... I need a confirmation, from the Lord .... about some issues... and I am spending more time with God then anything else... and I am seriously praying hard for myself. Ghoosh....!!!!

- confirmation -

Loss!!!

I am in this new office on the first week and I am not feeling comfortable at all.... I am still not sure of the cause of it... but I really cannot wait for a break. May be I am stressful and/or may be I am really need time to get used to new office. hai... after all.... I am miserable still.

This morning, I went to meet a dear 'mother'. I call her mother because she has always been encouraging and always good in her advice. I went to deliever a DVD to her actually and ended up, we chat for a while and she did encouraged me a lot in my ministries and/or works and/or life. I really thank God for her. She teaches me music, she teaches me piano, singing, etc.etc. Of course she was shock this morning when I told her I am playing BASS these days... hahahaha.. I guess she has never thought I will play bass... obviously, that has made me think that I have truely changed a lot over the years.... hai... sometimes, I wonder if it is a good or bad... may be I like to be who I was.... it's really sad...

Well, ... I really am loss....

- loss -

Hmm.... satisfied?

I am seriously not very satisfied with life lately... due to the change of firm. I am not sure if it is the work specification or is it because of my heart. I doesn't like to be in the office and doing drafting, meeting clients, getting businesses anymore. I don't like chasing after all these thing... I am not so sure if it is because I am too tired with works or what...may be going for a break will change all these? I don't know. I am PRESSURED. I am lost... in a way...!!! The happiest thing I get now a day is a time to be in church, with my church members, serving the Lord even thought I don't get any pay from it. ... what happen to me???????

I really don't know.... but I really can't wait to go mission.... to England for a year... or anywhere else for mission.....

Now I am praying really hard that the revenue/profit I earned in my old firm will be able to pay up 70% of my debts.... and then... I shall have no worries to do what I need to do.... (some of you know what I mean... please pray for me, ok? )

- not satisfied -

New Start... New Chapter...

The feeling I have today is a bit weird and funny. Firstly, I am working and seeing different people then those I used to seen and meet. I travel through another road to another building. I do not need to travel all the way to somewhere near the airport anymore. I don't have sounds made by the airplanes and I do less travelling now a day.

It's also weird feeling because after so long of a time, I only have the feeling of "I am a lawyer" today. Since yesterday, I was panic with the case hearing this morning and I realise I have failed to serve a document to a special body and that has caused me prepare myself to be scolded. However, I was... but I also got what I was asking for. So, it's a lesson.... Well, after I came back from court and breakfast, I was stuck in my office and doing lots of research and drafting and faxing and filing... and wow... I once again being 'revived'. hahahaha....

Well, still... I am worry about this month's income though I thank God for giving me part time teaching months before hand. He has certainly done something for me... even before I know it. So, yes... I shouldn't worry, should I? God will provide somehow.

Well, pray for me... this job and profession is getting tougher and tougher... I don't think I am 'fit' for it... if it is not because of Him.

- new start, new chapter -

Clearing up... cleaning up ... gearing up...

I was so tired these days... trying to clear up things in my old firm and works from the new place is picking up a lot... and I have new works coming in which I suddenly felt I don't know if I should open a file in the old firm or wait till I go in to the new firm. Things really mess me up lately. I really was BUSY!!!!

2 days ago, my master in Tawau called me up to help him stand in a case in the Land Office here in Kota Kinabalu as he needs to be in the High Court for a short call hearing for his pupil. I went there not knowing who the other party is and when my new partner walks in, we were just laugh because it's so funny that we are in the opposing team. hahahaha.... I know I am no locus to be there that morning and it's hard to convince the Timbalan Pengarah to grant me another month of time. But speaking all the non-sense and bluffing in front of someone I knew was really funny. Of course we both know that it is just a JOB to be there to make our grounds. hahaha.... well, of course no one wins in that matter as the Timbalan Pengarah didn't prepare any rulling and the other party was asking for a decision to be delivered. hahaha... and I was asking for time and I guess in a way, another date will be set and so, yes... my bluffing was correct in that sense. hahahahahaha... it's crap really!!!!

After a 3 hours lectures today, I went back to my old office to see if there's any urgent matter to be handle and I just realise, except the account, nothing else I need to worry about. So, I ended up took all those things belongs to me home with the help of a wonderful friend of course. Thanks, my dear...

When I saw all the things in my small tiny apartment now, the only word I can think of is "stress". I can even feel 'stressful' now.... I looked at those files on the floor (no place to put them), I just don't know which one to start. There's so many things to handle... and so many clients to do. I am not sure if I can finish teaching these 2 classes this semester. It's tough!!!

- clearing up... cleaning up ... gearing up ... -

A challenge...

It all started 2 weeks ago by the issue of drinking water and that it just triggled my anger and discomfort ... which lead me to share my discomfort with a friend in another firm. Things just overturned since then... I was offered a place to be partner at that firm and I was also being told, I will be given lots of works which means, finances would be much better than now. It's not easy to have such opportunity. I know God does listens to prayer and listens to what I have been telling Him. Well, just 2 days before I was offered, my partner has asked for a meeting. God knows what's the purpose of the meeting. But as I was too busy with works, I didn't manage to speak to my partner until I was given an offer. I then make appointment with her, we sat down and talked and I have to her I am thinking of leaving this partnership. She took it positively. I guess in a way, she does know that I am not very happy about things already. I proposed to her that I will leave this firm in mid December as the Partnership Agreement we entered did mentioned that I need to give 4 months notice. However, she suggested I leave end of November. I am fine with that as the other firm wanted me to join soonest possible. Well, last Friday, she told me through phone that she wants me to leave a bit earlier, that end of this month, October instead. Well, of course I can think of a few reasons why she reacted in such a way. First, she doesn't want to share another month's profit with me. Secondly, she doesn't want me to take away her client. Thirdly, she wants to show me that, I will lose out if I didn't go with her. Without a firm that I can attach to, I will surely have problem bringing away my files.

(I didn't tell her I am joining another firm by then).

Yesterday, she reverted to my draft Deed of Dissolution of Partnership and while I was going through with her on that, I told her I am going to the new firm and I am bringing over some files. Obviously it's a shock to her and she was so unhappy with me bringing over some of the files. No particular reasons why I want to bring over the files. It's all because they are my clients.

So, I am still staying up in the office late... trying to sort out some of the things here. Phew... it's not easy... sudden change, AGAIN.... and yes.. without a single day of BREAK!!!! At first I was thinking that I will be jobless for next month... but no... my new big boss told me, I am so much wanted and he is so happy that I can join by 1 Nov. So, yes.... my initial plan for a holiday is vanish... so I better take this weekend off... to Tawau. HOME.....!!!!

I was told that my new boss has passed all his files to my other senior and senior is now distributing files among her and me. hahaha... I am being called to go to new office tomorrow to sort out files. What can i say except praising and thanking God for His blessing?

- a challenge -

These days...

I opened this page for about 5 times for the past 2 days and yet, I wasn't able to write a single word on it. Don't ask me why. I guess it's all because I was busy with works and that things happen too fast, and guess what? even my family doctor in Tawau called me yesterday to refer a client to me. Business is definately picking up at my end. But with changing of firm soon, I am not sure if things will still be the same. I hope it is ....

Well, ... my partner obviously is trying very hard to cope with things around and I have yet to help her with all...

speaking of no time.. a phone just rang and i have to go...

- these days -

A change...

There will be changes in my life for the next couple of weeks to next couple of months. It only happen about 2 weeks time (always short notices). I have told my partner that I am retiring from this partnership hopefully starting in the mid December. However, she allows me to retired by the end of November instead, which is a good time for me as I am being offered by the other law firm to start working with them soonest possible, right after they finish renovated their new premise (due to my joining, they are moving and renovating a bigger place). I consider the offer is a blessing from them. The new partners are really very kind enough to take me in and even considerate for me and all my circumstances. It's a blessing!!!

I have just spoken to my partner before lunch and that she was shocked by my decision as there's no sign given earlier. I noted her concern. I have been handling lots of works, including accounting, clients, etc.. and that she is now worried that she won't be able to handle it all by herself. We do have works coming in and more works coming in to be exact. I have been actively getting more cases to come in, etc... and now, I am leaving... she will have to learn the accounting packages, fill in the cases that was previously handle by me, etc. etc. She is somewhat feeling that she can't go for holiday in the short period of time as she cannot have firm open without any lawyer around.

To me, it's no difference. I still do my business, contact my contacts and get in cases and I will still get the shares of all my sweat and running around. On top of that, I got a computer, got clerk, got parking allowances, etc. I no longer need to worry about toilet paper roll, water, paying bills, going to bank, bank in cheques and cash, issue salary, etc. etc. It's just ... GREAT!!! Although I am being warned that I will be given LOTS OF WORKS... !!! You know I am workaholic... I don't mind working and working and working. So, yes... please give me works... but don't give me 'unnecessary' stress.

For the time being, I therefore need to sort out some files before handing over to my partner. I need to get a time to teach her how to use the accounting package and I need to go to bank and do all necessary arrangement, etc.

However, I shall start worrying about pay for this month (2 more weeks to go) and next month and then... bye bye....!!!!!

It's a challenge somehow to leave my own 'created' firm. I created the letterhead, I created the signboard, I created the office rules, I created everything here... and that this is really like MY creation. It's not easy to leave MY creation and join other's firm. It needs boldness, it needs sacrifies, it needs humble, etc. I don't really know what lays in the future... in the new firm, but I guess at this moment, I just need to trust and obey... have a positive thinking ... and work, work, work....

Some of you might wonder what then will happen to my 1 year mission trip. As for now, I have no idea also... but if things happen, I still have the choice to whether let go my profession and leave or stay on with profession and go mission later. So... i guess I won't know the answer until then.

- a change -

I wonder...

I wonder.... how long I have been busy with things that's within and outside my capacity. I am only one normal soul. Not that I am being given some supernatural power, etc... and yet, I am busy since ... I cannot remember when. With church ministries, with works, with all kind of things arounds me.

I prayed for the Lord will shut the door which He doesn't want me to get in to and I pray for the Lord to bless me blessing that I can contain. All over a sudden, I received phone calls and clients, and files... and all over a sudden, I am being offered a place in another law firm. Hmm... I started to wonder... what's the purpose of my life. I don't intent to practice law the rest of my life. But I do want to practice law at least for now. May be for another year or so? I don't know. Even for a year, the question of 'how i am going to survive for the next one year' always goes around my mind... and ... I just failed to get an answer. I know I wanted to go for England, but which law firm will take me in now considering that they know that I will leaving next year? It's just too impossible... until this firm name keeps on appearing in my mind and during one of the afternoon, I just took the gut to talk to one of the partner and... it happened.. things happened and I had a talk with both the partners today about the plan of joining them. I am not sure what lies behind all these thing. I am not sure how God will leads me to England if it is His will for me to go, but I just pray that, my decision now won't be a hindrance for me to see Him more clearer. Going to England is really a dream. I remember praying to God to see if He can really send me to England next year and I also remember praying to God to open a way for me sort out my finances. By joining another firm, finances would be solved... but the plan about going to England for a year will be more uncertain. God... I wonder... what do you want me to do?

- I wonder -

Ghoosh.... what a life!

Today, I started my first lesson with the Accounting students. They are shock to see a very young lecturer of course. Some of them came in with fear and shock... while the others, were keeping quiet.. until i break the ice by introducing myself and so on. Till almost 30 minutes later, only then i remember that some of them do not understand english that much and that I explained things with chinese. I hope they understand what I was trying to explain as I realise besides of their poor english standard, there are quite a few of law terms that needed them to remember either. So, it's such a pain...

Today is also my best friend, Yee Ling's birthday... she asked me out for lunch and spent me good lunch... and we celebrated for an hour (lunch time) and I did manage to get her a book. So, yes... I hope she likes it. Well, happy birthday, my dear friend....!!!

Rushed a few matters now... and I just cannot believe I was BUSY with works and other things since last week and that I have NO chance communicating with my partner. I know she wasn't happy about the water we purchased and she said she got something to say, but till now, she has not say it yet. I just heard from my colleague that she is not coming in tomorrow and this message has not conveyed to me at all. But, that's not a matter. It only means, I am FREE tomorrow. hahahahahahahaa...... Besides, what I need to do is to do my works, my duties, my responsibilities and not calculating who worked more, etc. Hmm... life is tough enough... hahaha.. and calculative on who worked harder and who worked lesser just won't help much. But I do know some people take that as essential. Well...

But i have been really tired working lately. No complain... good.... !!

Doulous will be here soon. 13-22 October 2007. All encouraged to go. Because of that, I might need to let go of the chance to go back home for a best friend's wedding. I know she won't mind as she always know that I won't be joining EVERYONE's wedding. hahahaha...

- ghoosh.. what a life! -

Anniversary

When I look at the date today... GHOOSH....it's 30th September 2007... It's the date I was first called.... in the High Court of Malaya... I cannot believe time flies... and that.. things, people, surrounding, place are all different now. I was worried so much about salary then and I was just being told the pay in KL is still very good to lawyer. At least, all my friends are getting about RM4000 per month for the time being. Of course we all do know that, it will soon reached the maximum pay and if we are good enough, we will be offered a place as partner. Well, what can I say? I am still not over with the issue of 'future' YET.

However, as today is the Vacation Sunday in our Diocese, the preaching today has really spoken to me. I was thinking for myself... when is the right timing for such move. However, to my suprise, I found that I am not called to go now. May be at the time when I need to leave everything (my success) behind me and not now when I needed comforts and encouragement.

Well, my pastor in church has spent me for dinner and we managed to share a bit about ministries, etc. Well, I guess though she keeps on reminding me about full time ministries, she does understands that what lays in my heart for God also.

Well, I really don't know 'what's next'. I wonder if I should tender my notice of resignation NOW. I always get emotional on things arose... I had a lesson before and I was warned of my emotional action and consequences that it might brings. So... I better give myself a few more days.. or may be weeks.

Lord, show me the way....

- anniversary -

Weird...

Yesterday, my left foot was painful and that has caused me almost cannot walk or drive. However, without realising what happen, the pain was gone this morning... and before I notice the pain was gone around evening, my right foot was feeling painful. I couldn't remember if I ever injured my foot intentionally or unintentionally. Ghooosh..... what happen to my foots? Thank God I always carry the chinese medicine with me wherever I go...and after applied it, now I am feeling much better...!!!

********************

Without telling you in details... I guess I have just made a decision today. This decision might or might not be good to me, but it will surely nourishing my spiritual life... if it didn't nourish my wealth. The conclusion is... it will definately impact my future. Ghoosh... I used to love having 'unpredictable' life... but honestly, I feel a bit frustrated with UNSETTLED lifestyle lately. I can't seems to have a good and stable and predictable lifestyles.... what I am saying? Hmm.. nope.. i don't wish to have settle down as in get married, have my family, etc... I just wish to have a stable lifestyle... as in I don't need to worry about so many things at the same time. Ghoosh... and these few years... I have different things happen at the same time ... and every year... I seems to be in a different place, different job, different lifestyle and so on. It seems like I cannot do ONE thing at ONE place, living a same lifestyles of life for a period more than 2 years. It's that weird.... Why is this happen to me? It must be something to do with ME... !

Many issues came into my mind because of this. Be it.. whether I run away from something that caused all these, or whether it's my attitudes and characters problem, etc. etc. Or did I missed some important messages from God, etc.etc. Or may be I shouldn't even come back from England? Or may be I shouldn't even come back from KL? etc. etc. What and where and when did I made a WRONG move?

Anyway... I won't be able to get an answer NOW, that's for sure. ... but weird... I started to 'worry' about my future. hahahahaha.... (some of you do know what I mean)

- weird -

Be Warned!!!!

It was last year when I first arrived in KL that a friend in KL called to asked what he should do in a case were his brother received a phone call alleging that it's from the High Court, asked for details, etc. and his brother gave all the details asked. Well, a friend has called me recently telling me that the same thing happen to her father lately and I heard from a few friends that they are also receiving similar call. Together with this call, there's another call from whatever shopping mall, telling you that they are doing survey, etc, etc and that they wanted your personal details. First, let me warn you and tell you that, this is a scam.

The court will not initiate proceeding to sue you if you didn't do anything wrong. On top of that, even if you done wrong, it is IMPOSSIBLE that they do not know your details. If you tell me you want to sue your neighbour or someone, as a lawyer, by whatever details you gave me, I will be able to get all his IC, Name, address, etc... so, it is impossible that the court will call you for details.

All the phone calls are speaking in Chinese, Mandarin to be exact and hello... Malaysian... I heard you complain why court today need to use BM and with that in mind, why would you want to trust that your court has improved until they can use Mandarin or ONLY knows how to speak in Mandarin?

So, please... whoever calls you for details, ask them to request by writing with their letter head.

I seriously received 2 calls yesterday morning. One through my KL line phone and another, my house phone. At the SAME time... one from the shopping mall and another from the court (that's what they said). I heard 2 of ther versions with my own ears. It's a scam!!!!!

*********************

On no warning and cause, my left leg (not my broken leg) was feeling pain since yesterday to a point that I couldn't walk this morning. Well, it's like a pull of muscles then broken bone for sure. But the pain is irritating and ... I can barely walk. This morning, I even had difficulties driving... I almost couldn't press the clutch to the end. Whatever it is... I hope I can be home safely later. hahahaha...

- be warned -

Weekend Challenge

It was 2 weeks ago that I have decided to join the Medical Camp organised by the Diocese Welfare Board, Diocese of Sabah, although it was published and calling for volunteer months ago in all churches across Sabah.

The journey started at 1pm though we gathered at Wisma Anglican at 12pm. It was because I have to take photographes of their departure and also Annie was taking video of the departure of the team. We stopped by Ranau for a drink and snacks before we continue our journey to Telupid. We reached Telupid, the Valley of Blessing at about 6pm. We were all being warmly welcomed by the Archdeacon Melter Tais and his family by a small but yet very tasty BBQ buffet at the church compound. We had a short briefing after the dinner before we head to our bed and sleep.

The next day, we woke up at 6am and got ourselves ready to go to this village call Entilibon which is about 1 1/2 hours drives from Telupid. The road was bumpy but we thank God that it did not rain. Otherwise, I cannot imagine how difficult our journey would be. When we reached the community hall at Entilibon, I was shocked to see so many people were gathered in front of the hall, waiting for registration and waiting to be attended by the doctors. It was a challenge for me as photographer to go around every single 'department' to take some shots of their interesting 'encounter'. However, about 700 villages turned up just that morning and that many has their medicines picked up and went home happily. I can see how happy they were although they were sick.

It was a very tiring trip but it was not only fun, but also very meaningful trip. It was my first time seeing a tooth being extracted because it was joined with bone. It was interesting to see people lined up to get their eyes to check up because there's free spectacles to be taken home. It's interesting also to see the kids playing around, and asking for candies, etc. The people who is born and grew up in the City though they were there to so call help, but I can see that they are not used to the environment and the situation. But they had stepped a very brave step to at least turned up. To me, the villages' life is not something strange to me. I used to play around with those local people when I was younger. I get along with their lives easily as I did got around with them when I was younger. I like their food. Treasured their food and surrounding. It's sometimes weird to found out that I am really alright with their kind of living. hahaha....

All photos can be view at http://picasaweb.google.com/peisanlin/SabahMedicalCamp

Well, because of the challenge in Entilibon, I have missed a good friend's wedding. So sorry my dear... I know you don't mind because I really am not absent from your wedding purposely. You know that... anyhow, Contratulation and God Bless, Felicia and Nicholas!!!

- weekend challenge -

Pressure!!

It's rather easy to give me pressure... just gave me more than 200 matters at one time, and keep on asking for the result and works and rushed me till I couldn't get up in the morning but forced myself to get up no matter how, then you are successful. But if you give me only 10 matters at one time and wanted to fulfil your mission to give me pressure, forget about it. hahahaha....

Well, this morning however, I realise that I can easily feel pressure when it comes to loss soul. There are millions, brilliant, tons lost souls in the world and and yet because of the amount of the loss souls and my failure of reaching out to them and get them to be saved, I am very much pressured. In fact, I shall say, I am very much frustrated of not being able to reach out to them and that people arounds me, also has less care of them though they know they are not saved. A cell member used an illustration last night.... imagine that you are seeing a group of people inside the burning house, would you be able to just sit there to watch them die, or at least pour some water over the house and try your best? I believe some people will just sit there, enjoy themselves and rather go shopping just like they didn't see the burning house and heard the screaming of those who are inside the house. I saw a car blocking the way of an ambulance lately. The car was about the 9th car in front of me. All of us, tried out best to gave way to this ambulance but this car, in front, just stop there without moving... caused the ambulance have to horn it for a few times, still, it didn't move. I am thinking if the driver would have thought that, the patient is not someone related to him/her and therefore he/she doesn't want to care at all. I guess, some people are this selfish. If he/she is on the ambulance, I wonder what he/she would do then.

Many Christians today are just like this. It's good that we are christian and that's good enough. Now, we are busy with other things, we will keep our faith, we will pray, we will read bible, we will go to church, we will involve in ministry, but the rest of the time, we want to use it for ourselves. Don't ask me to share the gospel to others or bring somone to Christ or church. It cost too many of my time to take care fo them. I don't even have enough time for myself, etc.etc.

Most of us, have forgotten what is the Great Commission. In fact, we just thought believing in God is good enough. This is really saddening....

I am somehow feel the pressure given me to me lately... to lead this group of people who are not only stubborn, but also arrogant and selfish. Most of the time, I really feel TIRED and Frustrated... !!! They thought the group owe by me. And because of that, they will not do anything to help nor volunteer themselves to help. They will just have this "don't care" mentality. I can understand if a non-christian is having this mentality, but I just cannot tolerant it when the mature christian (they claimed themselves matured) are doing the same. It's really pressuring when I need to attend to this group of people.

- pressure -

Frustration!

Usually, I will shown my frustrations over some people when I really feel frustrated, but these few days, I guess I am really too tired to even think or feel the frustration even thought I know I am very much being frustrated.

Since young, we were teached that new comer in church will be the TREASURE and therefore, all schedule has to be put down just to take care of new comer. New comer, new soul is the first priority. However, I guess I have forgotten that not everything being educated the same way we are because most of the christian today has forgotten about the Great Commission. All they remember is to 'enjoy ' themselves with what they 'feel' like they want. They do not want to bother about some other things, especially new comer because taking care of a new comer will take away all their 'privacy', their 'freedom' and it needs attention, sacrifices and so on. I guess that's the main reason why in this church that I am attending now that there happen a 'cold' section and that the church is struggling in its breakthrough.... only a few noted the word and work of 'sacrifices' and ... more over, most are so reluctant to 'give' and to 'sacrifies'.

I was told by some KK people that this is KK culture. They are selfish and they only care for themselves and their own feeling. May be I was brought up from this small town that we tend to care for each other more (until sometimes, we really do not need newspaper to spread over a news). I am honestly feeling very frustrated over their attitudes over the weekend.

The second issue of course is that the court matter that I attended in Tawau yesterday. Well, since morning, I was being bothered by delay and postponment .... first the hearing was postponed to the afternoon and later, it was postponed to other date which will be notify later. I was of course glad that my friend didn't come because at least, I have a home to go back to for a rest and good meal. If my friend attended, she would have needed to hang around in town. Thirdly, my flight to come back to KK was delayed... everything is delayed... postponded and waiting...

Goodness.... so frustrated over things... !!!!

- frustrated -

Satisfaction

It was a huge responsibility and pressures when I was told that I am the official photographer for the Mooncake Festival in my church on 15.09.2007, which was just ended about 2 hours ago. I was very happy to knows that I do not need to be in any of the functions. Hence, I do not need to attend all the rehearsal, setting up, etc. etc. However, I was "pressured" these few weeks with the task assigned to me. Mainly I guess it was because I know I lack of a very important gadget, the flashlight. I did consider getting one but I really do not have such budget for now. But the Mooncake Festival is at night and I was told the children will be playing with 'Tang Lung' (Lantern) after the colouring competition. However, nothing I can do about it. I just need to use whatever I have to the maximum to achieve the BEST quality possible.

I woke up this morning by a call from this client. Thereafter, another client just when I finished the first call. The third one came in about 30 minutes later, then another two 30 minutes after that. It was suppose to be my ONLY sleepying day but I ended without achieving my 'resting' and 'sleeping' time. Anyway, after the second call, I realised someone sent me a message. After I read it, I was sadden by it. A sister, Sister Oi Chin has passed away this morning around 6:45am. I forwarded the message to my parents as they know this sister very well. Thereafter, I went to get all my things done with 2 friends, then to church, start my photo capturings.

To cut the story short, just today, I have taken around 721 pictures from 1:30pm until 10pm. After I downloaded it to my computer and browsed through them, I am kind of satisfied with most of them. I must say, I have to invest on flashlight. Apart from that, I am satisfied. I realise that I really love photography. Such a satisfaction I had.

Well, time to sleep. Have to wake up at 6am tomorrow as there's this Hong Kong Group attending our chinese service tomorrow and yes.... I am sure you have guessed it, I am assigned for another task. It's great!!! No regret buying the new DSLR though it really cost me ... hahaha... Anything that is used for God's kingdom is a good investment. Don't you think so?

- satisfaction -

Suprise...!!!!

Suprise, suprise... I have not been reading my friends' blogs for a long long time. Time flies and things changed. I wonder what kept me occupied for the past few months. Some said I shouldn't take a 'job' so seriously. Some said, I shouldn't take 'religion' so seriously. Some even said, I should treat myself better, at least give myself time to rest. I wish all that came through deep down from my heart but it is just 'impossible'. Simply because the 'job' that you mentioned is actually a responsibility. The 'religion' that you talked about has impact to lives and that time for myself has always been given to both the 'job' and 'religion' so as my family.

A friend has reminded me that I should treasure my time to be with my parents more. Suprisingly, I have been travelling back to hometown the 4th times this month. Out of the blue, a friend offered me to go back to Tawau for a case on behalf of her. I guess she is giving me chance to go home. Isn't that a blessing? Therefore, as decided yesterday, I am going back to Tawau again this Sunday afternoon, after the sunday service.

Well, ... 'suprise'!!!!

-'suprise' -

Frustration

It's not long ago that once again I was challenged to work faithfully with this ministry. However, I guess people didn't realise that they could be the cause why things cannot be advanced and that they have became a hindrance for people to serve God MORE.

I met lots of these people since I came over to KK. I won't say it is totally the KK fault but I would say, it is the attitudes that the KK people developed that makes it such. People in small place or especially those who never seen the outside world thought they are already the BEST and that it is ENOUGH to stay where they are. I guess, it is good enough for small places who developed a high quality to stay where they are FOR A WHILE. But they shouldn't stay there for the rest of their life. When generation passed, things changed, technologies advances, things and methods need to be improved. However, what I encounter so far is that they LOVE to think that they are the BEST and they wanted to keep it for the rest of their life and that's what made me frustrated.

Seriously, it's 'frustrated'.

- frustration -

Great man of God!

During my last visit to Tawau, my hometown, a grandaunt passed to me and my dad a booklet. A booklet which has a record of Elton Hill, a missionery who served in Borneo. He has made such an impact in today's churches across Borneo. The reason this grandaunt gave us this booklet, not because of Elton Hill, but it's because it has records of my great great grandfather. (My dad's grandmother's father) His name is Fong Hau Kong. He came from Guang Dung, China around 1890+ and served God here as missionary and later, he was ordained as Deacon and Priest and became the first Priest in Kudat, Sabah. He was made Deacon after a few years of serving, but only ordained as Priest after 20 years of serving as Deacon. The moral of the story of what he did was his faithfulness to the Lord!!! He is a great man of God.

Now if you ask me how many of us in the family who is a Reverend/Priest, I really scratching my head. But it's clear that I am at least the 5th generation's Christian. Now I started to know why I have such burden for people in Sabah.

It is continuous....

- Great man of God! -

Lately...

It has not been a 'predictable' weeks for the past 2 weeks. I cannot remember when was the last time I post anything on this blog. My mind is filled with too many details and works, be it works and/or ministries, friends and/or clients.

I attended the Worship Conference last holiday. It's great to have been able to play, learn and enjoy music. Music... is something I don't think I can lives joyfully with if it is not around. It's something I believe not only God loves, but all of us loves. I had really learned so much during the whole worship conference. Thanks for those who is willing to share and teach. I really thank God for them. However, after the worship conference, once again I am challenged to do better for the Lord in this ministry. What I had, was a truely busy holiday.

However, I had a 'genuine' holiday (unexpected) las weekend. Everytime when I planned to go back for holiday, I ended up working crazily until I had no time for anyone in the family. I remember how much I missed the change to play with my nephew and niece the previous time. I didn't even have time to pass urine I shall add.

Well, last weekend, it was a sudden arrangment for me to go back to my hometown to bring 3 groups of people to see a piece of land which my uncle is selling. It's too sudden until arrangment was really upside down. At first, it's schedule to be on Monday but last minute, it was arranged to Tuesday, then Tuesday afternoon. So, I ended up to have Monday and Tuesday free. Glad to have some really nice and close friends to hang around with as it's their day off and holiday. So, I happen to have an unplanned holiday.

Mom of course cooked what I long to have since a month ago... CRABS!!!!! It's so delicious and nice... !!!!

So yes.. that's all about what happen lately...

- lately -

YO!!!

Finally, I have made the decison to UPGRADE my SLR camera to DSLR. With a few months of saving and few months of torturning and few months of sleepless nights... I finally stand on my feet and went to the shop and got it. It's the last piece of camera when I was there. This shop's boss gave me the BEST deal in KK and I found out that I can use my previous lens on the new DSLR body. So, ya... I am happy and contented with it. After a few shootings, I really really like it and I really am happy that I made the decision. Wait.. don't rush me for the photos... it's COPYRIGHT.. I need to make sure it is a MASTERPIECE and the ONLY masterpiece in the world when I post it online. hahahahaha.....

Last Saturday, finally I had a time of my own last saturday though I did spent some time to play badminton with friends. Eh... 2 hours of badminton infact, is too little. I didn't get to play with certain people though.

Well, on Sunday... I had great time with 2 friends of mine who came back from Singapore to visit their family. It's really nice to be able to spent some time with them and also to brought them all the way to Beaufort. We had lots of fruits there. It's awesome.

Today, geared up to do works. Just feel like sleeping when I need to work. hai...

- yo! -

PRESS STATEMENT - For your knowledge

PRESS STATEMENT

COMMON LAW

The Bar Council is disturbed to read reports published in today's papers containing remarks made by the Chief Justice questioning the need to use English common law after 50 years of independence and seeking its abolition. It is an issue that has been raised before in 2004, and now that it has resurfaced, some explanation is necessary.

The Federal Constitution is the supreme law of the land as provided in Article 4(1). This Merdeka Constitution also formed the basis when Malaysia was established on 16th September 1963 and North Borneo and Sarawak joined the Federation with the common law system having pride of place.

The Courts are tasked with the responsibility of interpreting the Federal Constitution. In undertaking that duty, common law principles are applied. The cold print of the words used in the Constitution and its spirit are developed by judges deciding cases within the structure of the common law system. Interpretation of the Constitution is not undertaken in a vacuum.

The body of Malaysian law comprises the Federal Constitution (as the supreme law), written law, that is, Acts enacted by Parliament, and judge made law that is, case law. Subject to being declared as unconstitutional by a Court, Parliament has a free hand to enact laws. In the exercise of its legislative function, Parliament has passed hundreds of statutes since Merdeka: some of which are modelled on or inspired by foreign statutes while others are purely domestic without any foreign parallel.

Judges have applied the laws of Malaysia in the thousands of cases that have been determined in all branches of the law in all the Courts of Malaysia for the past 50 years. A significant portion of them have been reported in our law reports, and form the large corpus of case law which is an integral part of the laws of Malaysia. These reported cases operate as precedents for future cases, so that like cases are decided in a like manner to avoid injustice and thereby promoting reliability and certainty.

The Civil Law Act, which came into force in Malaya on 7th April 1956 and therefore prior to Merdeka, provides for the reception of English common law and the rules of equity, but only insofar "as the circumstances of the States of Malaysia and their respective inhabitants permit and subject to such qualifications as local circumstances render necessary": see Section 3 (2). Thus, the Malaysian Courts have a wide discretion whether to accept any English common law principle or rule of equity. When Malaysian judges accept such principles, they become part of Malaysian common law and Malaysian law is developed in that manner. Nearly every British colony has adopted the common law system inherited from the British. But in each country, the Courts develop their own common law which may not be identical or similar to English common law. It is in this flexibility that lies the strength of the common law. Thus, Malaysian common law differs in many respects from Indian common law or Australian common law. Without doubt, the common law system is one of the greatest and most respected legal systems in the world. It also forms the basis of public international law. There is no other comparable legal system that commands such universal respect among jurists.

In these circumstances, it is unfortunate for the head of the Judiciary, which institution applies Malaysian common law principles in all the Courts of the land daily, to state publicly and without acceptable basis that the common law system should be replaced. What then is the system suggested? What is to happen to the corpus of Malaysian case law painstakingly built up by distinguished Malaysian judges - is it to be discarded overnight? What about the commercial community including foreign investors; for whom - the common law's certainty, flexibility and adaptability have made it a favourite and for whom any suggestion of change will be a source for concern?

There is little to be gained in changing a system of law that is respected and has worked well for 50 years in our country, and hundreds of years in other jurisdictions.

What is required instead is an examination and positive change in the system that administers that law so that it inspires public confidence and ensures a strong and independent judiciary.

Ambiga Sreenevasan

President

Malaysian Bar
22 August 2007

Symtoms!

It's weird.. but I didn't realise it only now. I realise it when I travel to various places one of the year a couple of years back. I thought it only happen when I travel 'too much'. That particular of year, I moved and travel from places to places almost every 2 to 3 months. Therefore, I thought this 'symtoms' only happen when I travel too much.

However, this 'symtoms' happens very often. Almost everytime upon my arrival at my destination. I travel less for the past few years but since I came back to Kota Kinabalu Sabah, I travel quite a bit for the past one and a half year, in particular, to and fro Kota Kinabalu to Tawau.

For the past 2 weeks, I travelled back to Tawau for my best friend's wedding and then last Saturday, I travelled to Lahad Datu. After the journeys on Sunday, I was suffering from this 'symtoms'. You might ask by now, what am I suffering...

Well... I have short term memory loss for a day or two. Yes... you are right, just like DORY!!! The first experience (as far as I remember and noticed it) was years ago when I first came back from England. I forgot songs that I used to sang everyday. I forgot how to cook my curry. I forgot details on things, etc. This round, I even forgot who are some people, what I need to do, etc. I will act 'loss'.

Goodness... I am not sure if it is going to be serious... I hope not though... but ya... I just remember I had things to settle within this week to prepare for next week and I do have 2 matters in courts soon. OH NO....!!!!!!

- symtoms -

Desperate...

I am desperate for a break... but I am also desperate to get some works and earn some money. Well, to some they would think I had about 2 weeks break... But to me, I really need a break. 2 weeks of works has enough to 'kill' my spirit and energy. Ghoosh... I need a break!!! However, some people just think that I am FREE for 2 weeks and therefore, I need to 'work' again. I am tired. Really tired!!!

- desperate -

Another challenge!

This year, God gave me another challenge.

About 3 months ago, I attended the Young Adult Youth Camp in Kundasang, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. During that camp, a Priest asked if I can give a special talk / sharing about Will-writing. Giving a talk/sharing about Will-writing is not something new to me as I done many similar things to the franchisee when I was working as Legal Executive with this leading Will-writing company. However, sharing with 3 congregation in 3 services on Sunday is something very very NEW to me. I need wisdom not only to share about Will-writing, but I do need to share about Will-writing and giving in a Christian perspective. It's something very challenging. However, I thought it is something I might be able to gain experience with as well as a learning opportunity.

So, when the Priest called me again about a month ago with regards to the matter, I took up the challenge and sacrified my best friend's another wedding dinner at Kedah. Well, the best thing about best friend is that they understands. It's nothing like what or who is more important. It's always about priority. Well, at least I am sure my best friend do know that my care, my love will always be with her.

Well, ... everything was set and I travelled to this small town yesterday afternoon. When I reached, I joined the children camp till late evening. I am very glad to be able to met an old friend and we chat and shared quite a bit. Well, as I went to bed last night, I almost couldn't sleep as I really was praying and thinking of what's the BEST way to convey the message to the congregations. It's a tough job to make sure that they got what I wanted to say. Moreover, I need to share in 3 languages, i.e. English, Chinese (Mandarin) and BM. It's chanllenging. The most challenging of course, sharing in BM as I have no experience whatsoever in sharing Will-writing in BM moreover, about giving to the Lord. It's my first experience sharing in BM.

While I was preparing and putting my sharing in BM to paper, I remember that my godmother did gave me a BM bible years ago. I remember she passed it to one my the priest to pass it to me. I wonder the reason of giving me a BM bible. However, I have used this bible in preperation for my sharing.

I had a somewhat exciting and challenging day today and when I reached KK, I just felt that I just finish work and at one point, I thought I am already in a full time ministry. I almost forgot that I am a lawyer and not a preaching nor a full time worker. It's a challenge and I believe, the Lord is directing me to the path He has planned for me. I know He is preparing me for something... something that He has planned for me way before anyone of us knows about it.

- challenge -

A week has gone past...

It is so unbelievable that time flies so swiftly that a week has gone past. I remember last week, everyone gathered for dinner before the big day on Saturday. At this hour, I recalled that we are decorating the cars for the big day and to done up with all the last minute preperation. We had 'fun' that evening. A week has gone past and I really has started to feel the pressure, the pressure of chasing time. Another 4 months and year 2007 will come to an end. I wonder what have I achieved so far. Since the end of December last year and/or beginning of January this year, I have been thinking whether to continue to be partner in this firm. Somehow, God has opened a door for me to come back to Sabah. I am really glad that I am back here. I really wanted to practice law for a few years and at the same time, serving God in the Sabah community. God also has opened up a door for me to go mission and more over, the business was quite stable then.

Business has suddenly become very quiet in KK. However, I always has businesses to handle everytime I went home for 'holiday'. God has nevertheless blessed me! After next month, I will have to check my account to renew my practising certificate and that's mean, it's the 3rd year I practices in Sabah. Time flies... I can't believe this. But what I really wanted to do now, is that the time will come soon for me to step out to another phrase of my life. Be it a short term mission or whatever. I really pray that God will from now till I am called to go out, prepare and provide me with finances. It has somehow pressured me these few months where the business is really really slow. But thank God that people arounds me constantly remind me of not to worry about future. A friend has today encouraged me by saying that the business doesn't belong to me and therefore, I shouldn't worry about it. Well, I guess she's right. Since when I can control anything about myself? Since when I hold the future? Since when I can run my own life to the way I want it? I always says that "my life is not in my hand" and I believe, my life is STILL not in my hand today.

All I ask therefore is that, I will be able to continue to hold fast to Him for Him to bless me!

These few days, I have been quite emotional. People has been 'offending' me somehow regardless of light or serious matters. I guess, I am really frustrated when people arounds me doesn't seems to understand my situation. I guess, I am really frustrated when I saw people entering into another chapter of life and that they are happy and has nothing to worry about. I really pray that God will bring me to the next chapter of my life without any 'cost'.

...

Well, I really had a good break last week during my friend's wedding. I have started to miss them now... ghoosh....!!!!

...

- time flies -