Thanksgiving

There is a lot to be thankful for this Thanksgiving season. I went through a lot of things in the last one year, made quite a number of important decisions, and was just generally more contented with my life.

Chit Hui was a blessing. I say that without doubt. One thing I learn from her is to ask questions. People usually say, "Listen", "Listen more, talk less." That is true, but before we can listen, we have to ask questions. We were not that close, but when she asked me questions about my plans, thoughts, opinions, etc, I feel she cares and is genuinely interested to get to know me.
Her presence at home always cheers things up, too. Never a dull moment watching her shopped with my sister and carried bags of shopping items home :). I will miss that.

Can't talk about Chit Hui without talking about my sister. I have to say she influences lots of my decisions in life, directly or indirectly. Regardless of the pain I have to go through because of her, she has many merits that I look up to and am grateful for. She can be very impatient when we get lost and she has to drive aimlessly for a while. But she is very patient and understanding when I am in bad moods :p. Another way to say it is, even though I put a bad face, she will not keep it to heart and still treats me nicely. Bless your heart, ce. And even though she is tired and just want to relax when she gets home after work, cooking for me is a good enough reason to break that deal. She makes sure I have food for dinner and lunch. Oh, and they are delicious.

I am also thankful for having Happy in the family. He lives up to his name :) - bringing joy to my sister, myself, my friends, and lights up the home. It won't be honest to say there is no trouble with having him. But I know my sister loves him and is happy with his company. I'm glad just with that reason.

There has been several changes in our bible study group, too, in the last one year. Maybe it is only me who feel this way: we have grown closer to one another. Some more than others, but that is okay. I can feel more comfortable sharing with the group. I know more about each person individually. I will go out for lunch/dinner or activities with them now, happily, compared to somewhat reluctantly in the past.
One person, OB, just has to stand out, especially for how he has blessed my sister and Chit Hui. Weekends would not have been the same without him. Oh, but of course, right? Yeah.. just won't be the same and a lot worse. I thank God so much for him, a good friend, companion, and role model. Never did I see humility, modesty, and a passion to serve Jesus like he has. What a living witness he is for You, Lord.

Last but not least, the very people who I can't say I love them as much as they love me. My parents. I do think about the time I will be back home with them for good. You won't miss me anymore, mom, dad. You will probably be upset with me :D. I know they pray for me at all times. Their support, words of encouragement, and love have kept me strong in my journey. Their words of correction, too, have rebuked me and helped me to get back on track. Lord, please, care for them.

This grateful heart also wants to mention the many people who have come to my life and influenced me in incredible ways. Debra, the volunteer coordinator at Salvation Army, who shows me what it means to love, have open arms, and even open house to the very people she is serving. Sarah and Jason, the parents in my respite program, who loves and works very hard--despite the many challenges--for Max, their child with special needs. And many friends, both who are far and who are near, who have made me to be who I am today.

I can hardly recall where I was during last year's Thanksgiving. But I will remember this year's Thanksgiving. My sister actually came with me to a dinner gathering with some good friends. They are like my family here.