我在三月十日题目“一些关乎信仰的事”的贴子里，提到的是一位资深梵蒂冈神职人员声援一位巴西主教对一位母亲及数位医生发出的绝罚**行动。这位母亲准许她的一位九岁女儿，因被继父强奸怀孕而堕胎*。而医生们是因为考量了该女孩会有生命的危险，而决定为她进行堕胎。
当地的总主教在宣布了绝罚的决定后说："天主的法律至高无上。当人的法律与天主的法律发生相对时，人的法律是毫无价值的“。
他的行动受到梵蒂冈主教团的领导人及负责南美洲事务的利枢机主教的支持。
在三月十五号，梵蒂冈教廷生命学院的领导人费西卡拉总主教在一份梵蒂冈的报纸中，发言挺巴西为那九岁的女童堕胎的医生们的决定。他辩驳在这样的情况之下，必须以仁慈的情怀，尊重这些天主教徒医生的痛苦决定。他也强烈的抨击圣职同袍们，选择公开的羞辱这位母亲及医生们。
他也批评当地的巴西总主教操之过急的绝罚决定是”很不幸的伤害到了天主教的教导的可信度，并在许多人的眼中，沦为不够体谅，不全面及缺乏仁爱". (来自天主教ICN新闻）
最终我们才听到了像人说的话。这才是天主教会慈悲的一面。
*绝罚是天主教会的最严重处罚，就是被赶出教会，和教会断绝来往。
**堕胎是天主教徒的大罪（违抗天主的诫命）
My blog posting " Something about our faith" on March 10 was about a senior Vatican cleric defended the excommunication of the mother and doctors of a nine-year-old girl who had an abortion* in Brazil after allegedly being raped by her stepfather.
The regional archbishop, Jose Cardoso Sobrinho, who pronounced the excommunication** said: "God's law is above any human law. So when a human law ... is contrary to God's law, this human law has no value,"
His action was supported by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, head of the Catholic church's Congregation for Bishops, who also heads the Pontifical Commission for Latin America.
On March 15, in a statement in the Vatican newspaper, Archbishop Fisichella, head of the Vatican's Pontifical Academy for Life, came out to defend the doctors who performed the abortion on the raped 9 year-old girl. He argued for a sense of "mercy" in such cases and respect for the Catholic doctors' wrenching decision, and strongly criticised fellow churchmen who singled out the doctors and mother for public condemnation.
He also criticised the Brazilian archbishop's quick proclamation of excommunication as "unfortunately hurts the credibility of our teaching, which appears in the eyes of many as insensitive, incomprehensive and lacking mercy." (from ICN)
At last we are hearing "human words" (人话）. This is the compassionate face of the church.
* Abortion is a mortal sin (a great sin against the law of God).
** Excommunication is a suspension of membership... in exile.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Earth Hour
We have just concluded the "Earth Hour" 2009 in Malaysia.
Switching off lights for one hour is no problem at all for a household. But many have chosen not to. My opposite big bungalow continued with bright lights on, inside and outside (pic below).
We took a short drive round my area, got to have head lights on, and noticed about 10 % of household participated.
It was a quiet, cool and peaceful one hour. We chatted. It was a family hour too.
May be we can try harder next time. Good luck to Mother Earth.
马来西亚刚结束了普世“关灯一小时”运动。
普通家庭，关上电灯一小时，是轻而易举的事，但有许多却不以为然。我家对面的豪宅就是继续的灯火通明，屋内 、屋外(下面照片）。
我们驾车出去邻近看看，当然要开灯了， 发觉大约10 % 的屋子参与这行动。
这是一个清凉 、宁静及平安的一小时。我们在闲谈打发这时间，所以这也是家庭的一小时。
可能我们以后还得需要更努力。祝福慈母大地。
The party spoiler 运动捣蛋者
Qing Ming festival 清明节
"It rains during Qing Ming season,
people feeling sadness and sorrow (remembering the departed).
May I ask where to buy a drink (wine),
a boy pointed at a far end village named Apricot flowers."
This is a famous Chinese poem written in eighth century best describing the mood of the Qing Ming festival.
Chinese will celebrates Qing Ming Festival on 4-4-09, a day to remember and honor the departed ancestors and loved ones by paying respect at the cemeteries and columbariums. It can be done two weeks before the actual festival.
We went today early in the morning at 7:00 am to pay respect to my parents and a brother at the Nilai Memorial Park Columbarium. My second sister-in-law has prepared offerings consisting of chicken, pork dishes, cakes, dumpling, coffee, wine and boxes of paper gold and silver.
My father died in 1957 and my mother in 1966. Even though they did not know Christ, but I still pray for their repose through the mercy of God, rest in peace. I also asked them to pray for us. I strongly believed all creatures are saved "through Him, with Him, in Him".
The modern cemetery has diluted the feeling of sadness and sorrow. Moreover, it has been more than forty years since their passing....
So instead of getting a drink after the ceremony, we headed towards Seremban to have Dim Sum for breakfast.
Burning of paper gold & silver offerings 燃烧金和银冥纸
清明时节雨纷纷
路上行人欲断魂
借问酒家何处有
牧童遥指杏花村
这是中国著名诗人杜甫写的诗，最常被引用于形容清明时节的情景。
华人将在四月四号庆祝清明节。这是我们传统的纪念先人的佳节，到墓园或骨灰园追思已亡。在本地，扫墓可以在清明节前两个星期开始进行。
今天大清晨七时，我们就到了汝来的孝恩园骨灰塔拜祭我的父母及一位哥哥。我的二嫂准备了拜祭用的鸡 、肉 、菜肴 、咖啡 、糕饼 、酒 、肉粽等，还有好多包的纸金和纸银。
我的父亲和母亲分别在1957年及1966年逝世。虽然他们不认识耶稣，但我依然为他们的灵魂安息祈求，也要求他们为我们祈祷福佑。我坚信，一切受造物，都是“藉作基督，随同基督，在基督内”得救。
新式的墓园，已经淡化现代人在清明节对先人逝世的离愁和忧伤，守候一堆黄土，青丝变华发不复有。再说，我的父母也已辞世超过四十年了，所以，与其喝酒消愁，我们在拜祭过后，因时间还早，就驱车到芙蓉享用点心早餐了。
Cemetery at the back of my house 我家后面的墓园
people feeling sadness and sorrow (remembering the departed).
May I ask where to buy a drink (wine),
a boy pointed at a far end village named Apricot flowers."
This is a famous Chinese poem written in eighth century best describing the mood of the Qing Ming festival.
Chinese will celebrates Qing Ming Festival on 4-4-09, a day to remember and honor the departed ancestors and loved ones by paying respect at the cemeteries and columbariums. It can be done two weeks before the actual festival.
We went today early in the morning at 7:00 am to pay respect to my parents and a brother at the Nilai Memorial Park Columbarium. My second sister-in-law has prepared offerings consisting of chicken, pork dishes, cakes, dumpling, coffee, wine and boxes of paper gold and silver.
My father died in 1957 and my mother in 1966. Even though they did not know Christ, but I still pray for their repose through the mercy of God, rest in peace. I also asked them to pray for us. I strongly believed all creatures are saved "through Him, with Him, in Him".
The modern cemetery has diluted the feeling of sadness and sorrow. Moreover, it has been more than forty years since their passing....
So instead of getting a drink after the ceremony, we headed towards Seremban to have Dim Sum for breakfast.
Burning of paper gold & silver offerings 燃烧金和银冥纸清明时节雨纷纷
路上行人欲断魂
借问酒家何处有
牧童遥指杏花村
这是中国著名诗人杜甫写的诗，最常被引用于形容清明时节的情景。
华人将在四月四号庆祝清明节。这是我们传统的纪念先人的佳节，到墓园或骨灰园追思已亡。在本地，扫墓可以在清明节前两个星期开始进行。
今天大清晨七时，我们就到了汝来的孝恩园骨灰塔拜祭我的父母及一位哥哥。我的二嫂准备了拜祭用的鸡 、肉 、菜肴 、咖啡 、糕饼 、酒 、肉粽等，还有好多包的纸金和纸银。
我的父亲和母亲分别在1957年及1966年逝世。虽然他们不认识耶稣，但我依然为他们的灵魂安息祈求，也要求他们为我们祈祷福佑。我坚信，一切受造物，都是“藉作基督，随同基督，在基督内”得救。
新式的墓园，已经淡化现代人在清明节对先人逝世的离愁和忧伤，守候一堆黄土，青丝变华发不复有。再说，我的父母也已辞世超过四十年了，所以，与其喝酒消愁，我们在拜祭过后，因时间还早，就驱车到芙蓉享用点心早餐了。
Cemetery at the back of my house 我家后面的墓园Thursday, March 26, 2009
cute and smart
Our old friend, Mary Chong from Tawau, came over with her husband to visit their son Bernard in Beremban, Melaka. We took this opportunity to meet them at Bernard's house today.
Bernard is married to Marisa and they have two children. They are cute and smart.
Mary will be leaving for Dundee, Scotland on 29-3-09 to stay for about six months with her youngest daughter over there.
Aiman (right) with younger sister Mimi in front of their parents wedding photo
两个可爱的孩子，在他们的父母结婚照前合照
Bernard is married to Marisa and they have two children. They are cute and smart.
Mary will be leaving for Dundee, Scotland on 29-3-09 to stay for about six months with her youngest daughter over there.
Aiman (right) with younger sister Mimi in front of their parents wedding photo两个可爱的孩子，在他们的父母结婚照前合照
我们的斗湖老朋友，Mary Chong 和丈夫过来西马，到马六甲探望儿子Bernard. 我们乘此机会，今天南下马六甲去和他们见面。
Bernard 已经结婚，太太名Marisa。他们育有两名可爱又聪明的孩子。Mary 将在三月二十九号，飞去苏格兰的丹迪，探望最小女儿，并会在那里居留大约六个月。
Bernard 已经结婚，太太名Marisa。他们育有两名可爱又聪明的孩子。Mary 将在三月二十九号，飞去苏格兰的丹迪，探望最小女儿，并会在那里居留大约六个月。
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Good & bad 善与恶
Recently I read an article in the newspaper talking about "good people will be rewarded". The writer quoted the book why good things happen to good people by Stephen Post to back up his article. Stephen Post is a professor, writer, researcher, and President of the Institute for Research on Unlimited Love, focuses on the scientific study of altruism, compassion and service.
I have not read this book, but according to the synopsis of the book: the new research shows that when we give of ourselves, especially if we start young, everything from life-satisfaction to self-realization and physical health is significantly affected. Mortality is delayed. Depression is reduced.
The inspiring new research includes a fifty-year study showing that people who are giving during their high school years have better physical and mental health throughout their lives. Other studies show that older people who give live longer than those who don't. Helping others has been shown to bring health benefits to those with chronic illness, including HIV, multiple sclerosis, and heart problems. And studies show that people of all ages who help others on a regular basis, even in small ways, feel happiest.
I agreed completely with the finding. But on the other hand, good things happen to bad people too, especially in material gains. There are thousands of bad people leading immoral and corrupted lives yet enjoying luxurious and comfortable living.
And bad things happen to good people also. It is very common that good people suffer materially, physically and spiritually.
My definition of a "good person" is someone who is willing to give and help others. I do not expect returns when I give. I want to be a good person and accept the fact that bad things can happen to me too. I believe giving is the most happy thing to do, and on this basis, I am a happy man.
Bad things happen to good people is equally true as good things happen to good people. It depends on your definition of "good things".
Blessed are the poor in spirit: the kingdom of Heaven is theirs.
Blessed are the gentle: they shall have the earth as inheritance.
Blessed are those who mourn: they shall be comforted.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for uprightness: they shall have their fill.
Blessed are the merciful: they shall have mercy shown them.
Blessed are the pure in heart: they shall see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers: they shall be recognised as children of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted in the cause of uprightness: the kingdom of Heaven is theirs.
Blessed are you when people abuse you and persecute you and speak all kinds of calumny against you falsely on my account.
Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven.
(Matt 5: 1-12 The 8 beatitudes)
最近在报纸上看了一篇文章，讲的是好人有好报。作者也引用了一本由史提文教授所写的“为什么好事发生在好人身上”的书，来论证他的说法。史提文是一名大学教授，作家，研究员；他也是一间名为“无限的爱”学院的总裁。该学院专注于关怀 、怜悯及服务的科学化研究。
我没有看过这部书，但从它的简介中有这样的写到： 新的研究显示，当我们奉献自我的时候，特别是从年青时做起，生活的满足感，自我实现及身体的健康，都受到显著的影响。寿命延长。减少情绪低落。
这个令人鼓舞的研究也包括了五十年研究成果，显示了当人们从中学时代起， 就开始施 赠的话，他的一生会享受到更好的生理及心理健康。 其他的研究也证明乐善好施的老年人，比那些没有如此行为的老人，更加长寿。乐善好施行为，也为那些患有各种健康状况者 、包括艾滋病，肌肉萎缩及心脏病患者，带来健康的好处。研究也显示，任何人，不分年龄，只要是常常乐于助人，就算是一点丁行动，都会觉得快乐。
我非常同意这些研究报告。但另一方面，好事也会发生在怀人身上，特别是物质方面。成千上万不仁不义 、为非作歹 、腐败的人，却在享受着荣华富贵 、舒适的生活。
同时，坏事也会发生在好人身上。非常普遍的我们可以看到，许多好人遭受到物质 、身体及精神上的折磨。
我对好人的定义是：一位乐善好施，常常助人者。我愿意乐善好施，不望回报，也愿意接受折磨及噩运会发生在我身上的事实。而我确实的坚信，乐善好施是最快乐的事。在这信念的基础上，我是一个快乐的人。
坏事会发生在好人身上，和好事发生在好人身上，都是同样的千真万确，分别只在于你对“好事”的定义如何。
神贫的人是有福的，因为天国是他们的
哀恸的人是有福的，因为他们要受安慰
温良的人是有福的，因为他们要承受土地
饥渴慕义的人是有福的，因为他们要得饱饫
怜悯人的人是有福的，因为他们要受怜悯
心里洁净的人是有福的，因为他们要看见天主
缔造和平的人是有福的，因为他们要称为天主的子女
为义而受迫害的人是有福的，因为天国是他们的
几时人为了我而辱骂迫害你们，捏造一切坏话毁谤你们，你们是有福的
你们欢喜踊跃罢！因为你们在天上的赏报是丰厚的
（玛5：1-12 真福八端）
Sermon of the mount
（The 8 beatitudes）
山上圣训
（真福八端）
I have not read this book, but according to the synopsis of the book: the new research shows that when we give of ourselves, especially if we start young, everything from life-satisfaction to self-realization and physical health is significantly affected. Mortality is delayed. Depression is reduced.
The inspiring new research includes a fifty-year study showing that people who are giving during their high school years have better physical and mental health throughout their lives. Other studies show that older people who give live longer than those who don't. Helping others has been shown to bring health benefits to those with chronic illness, including HIV, multiple sclerosis, and heart problems. And studies show that people of all ages who help others on a regular basis, even in small ways, feel happiest.
I agreed completely with the finding. But on the other hand, good things happen to bad people too, especially in material gains. There are thousands of bad people leading immoral and corrupted lives yet enjoying luxurious and comfortable living.
And bad things happen to good people also. It is very common that good people suffer materially, physically and spiritually.
My definition of a "good person" is someone who is willing to give and help others. I do not expect returns when I give. I want to be a good person and accept the fact that bad things can happen to me too. I believe giving is the most happy thing to do, and on this basis, I am a happy man.
Bad things happen to good people is equally true as good things happen to good people. It depends on your definition of "good things".
Blessed are the poor in spirit: the kingdom of Heaven is theirs.
Blessed are the gentle: they shall have the earth as inheritance.
Blessed are those who mourn: they shall be comforted.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for uprightness: they shall have their fill.
Blessed are the merciful: they shall have mercy shown them.
Blessed are the pure in heart: they shall see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers: they shall be recognised as children of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted in the cause of uprightness: the kingdom of Heaven is theirs.
Blessed are you when people abuse you and persecute you and speak all kinds of calumny against you falsely on my account.
Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven.
(Matt 5: 1-12 The 8 beatitudes)
最近在报纸上看了一篇文章，讲的是好人有好报。作者也引用了一本由史提文教授所写的“为什么好事发生在好人身上”的书，来论证他的说法。史提文是一名大学教授，作家，研究员；他也是一间名为“无限的爱”学院的总裁。该学院专注于关怀 、怜悯及服务的科学化研究。
我没有看过这部书，但从它的简介中有这样的写到： 新的研究显示，当我们奉献自我的时候，特别是从年青时做起，生活的满足感，自我实现及身体的健康，都受到显著的影响。寿命延长。减少情绪低落。
这个令人鼓舞的研究也包括了五十年研究成果，显示了当人们从中学时代起， 就开始施 赠的话，他的一生会享受到更好的生理及心理健康。 其他的研究也证明乐善好施的老年人，比那些没有如此行为的老人，更加长寿。乐善好施行为，也为那些患有各种健康状况者 、包括艾滋病，肌肉萎缩及心脏病患者，带来健康的好处。研究也显示，任何人，不分年龄，只要是常常乐于助人，就算是一点丁行动，都会觉得快乐。
我非常同意这些研究报告。但另一方面，好事也会发生在怀人身上，特别是物质方面。成千上万不仁不义 、为非作歹 、腐败的人，却在享受着荣华富贵 、舒适的生活。
同时，坏事也会发生在好人身上。非常普遍的我们可以看到，许多好人遭受到物质 、身体及精神上的折磨。
我对好人的定义是：一位乐善好施，常常助人者。我愿意乐善好施，不望回报，也愿意接受折磨及噩运会发生在我身上的事实。而我确实的坚信，乐善好施是最快乐的事。在这信念的基础上，我是一个快乐的人。
坏事会发生在好人身上，和好事发生在好人身上，都是同样的千真万确，分别只在于你对“好事”的定义如何。
神贫的人是有福的，因为天国是他们的哀恸的人是有福的，因为他们要受安慰
温良的人是有福的，因为他们要承受土地
饥渴慕义的人是有福的，因为他们要得饱饫
怜悯人的人是有福的，因为他们要受怜悯
心里洁净的人是有福的，因为他们要看见天主
缔造和平的人是有福的，因为他们要称为天主的子女
为义而受迫害的人是有福的，因为天国是他们的
几时人为了我而辱骂迫害你们，捏造一切坏话毁谤你们，你们是有福的
你们欢喜踊跃罢！因为你们在天上的赏报是丰厚的
（玛5：1-12 真福八端）
Sermon of the mount
（The 8 beatitudes）
山上圣训
（真福八端）
Monday, March 23, 2009
Acies 检阅典礼
On Sunday 22-3-09, the legionaries held their annual Acies at the St. John Cathedral, Kuala Lumpur. It was attended by Archbishop Murphy Pakiam, Fr. Amala, Fr. Thomas Loh, religious sisters and about 1000 legionaries from English, Mandarin, Tamil, Filipino and Korean language groups.
There are four functions annually bringing together the members of the Legion in a district in order that they may know each other and that the spirit of unity may be fostered.
One of the functions is Acies, a Latin word meaning as it does an army ranged in battle array. It is a consecration of legionaries and as a body assemble to renew their fidelity to Mary, Queen of Legion，and from her to receive strength and blessing for yet another year's battle with the forces of evil.
The other three are Annual General Reunion, Praesidium function and outdoor function.
During the Acies, each member would make individual consecration to Mary by putting one hand on the vexillum and says the following words:" I am all yours, my Queen, my Mother, and all that I have is yours."
Few more pics on Facebook
{Legion homepage}
一对团员宣读奉献词
Members renewing pledge in pair
Members renewing pledge in pair
Archbishop renewing pledge
总主教宣读奉献词
在星期天 22-3-2009， 圣母军假吉隆坡圣若望主教座堂举行了常年检阅典礼。巴吉安总主教，安玛拉神父，罗秀彪神父，修女及约1000名来自英 、华 、印 、菲及韩语组的圣母军团员出席了这项典礼。
圣母军每年都有四个常年活动，招集了教区里的圣母军们，互相认识，并促进彼此的团结。
检阅典礼是其中的一项重要活动。检阅典礼就好像军队的排阵，向圣母军的首领圣母玛利亚，表达对她的忠贞 、奉献及孝爱，也从她那里领受力量及祝福，面对新的一年的挑战和恶势力的斗争。
其他的三个活动是：常年大会，支团活动及户外活动。
在检阅典礼中，每个团员都会作个人的奉献。团员把一只手按在军旗上，口中念出奉献词：“我的母皇，我的母亲，我属于你，我所有的一切都属于你。
Sunday, March 22, 2009
无言的伤痛 A crying pain
It is a crying pain, a sad regret.
I just come back from a funeral parlour in PJ to pay my respect to a 27 year-old girl. Painfully, she died so young, regrettably, I was not able to see her when he was alive. It was a matter of today and yesterday.
yesterday, I received a call from Agnes in Kota Kinabalu, informing me that a daughter of a fellow Catholic in her parish was in coma after a brain surgery in University Hospital. The parents wished to see a priest. The girl was not baptised.
Requests from a dying person or from his/her members of family are urgent and I usually respond quickly and appropriately.
However, it was weekend, every one was busy...busy. In fact most of us were blinded by our busi-ness. Many things were beyond my control, but one thing I could do was to visit the patient and her parents in hospital immediately and to find out more about their needs.
Busy-ness blinded me. I only keep in touch with the parent through phone and arrange to see them the next day.
This morning (Sunday), at about 10:00 am, received a call from the father that she has passed away.
Distraught and helpless parents' request to see a priest, and possible baptism of the dying daughter was not met. I could have gone to the hospital to see the girl alive.... I didn't.
I have failed.
I am grateful to Anna, a fellow legionary in PJ for arranging Fr. Martin Thien and Fr. Thomas Loh to visit and console the parents at the parlour, and offered prayer for the deceased. Thanks to many legionaries' presence for prayer too.
Her remains would be cremated and ashes be brought back to KK by her parents. May her soul through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
We do not own time.
这是个无言的伤痛，遗憾之悲伤。
我刚从八打灵的殡仪馆回来。我去瞻仰的，是一位27岁年轻女孩，没有了生命 、冰冷的遗体。伤痛是这么年轻就离开了这个世界，遗憾的是我不能在他还有生命的时候，见她一面。相差只是昨天和今天而已。
昨天早上（星期六），我接到了亚庇惠琼姐的电话，告诉我一位亚庇教友的女儿，在马大动了脑部手术之后，就昏迷不醒了。无助的父母希望能见一位神父，也看看是否能够给她受洗。
一位病危的人，或病危者的家人提出的要求，通常都是很紧急的，我也通常是义不容辞，尽快给予处理。
周末大家都忙。我也忙，你也忙，大家都忙到“盲”。很多事情是不在我控制范围之内，但我可以做的，本来就是马上到医院和这父母见面，也去探访这位昏迷者，多了解他们的状况及需要。
就是因为忙，忙呀忙到盲了，没有立刻行动，只是以电话联系，等隔天再去看他们吧。
今天(星期天）早上大约十时左右，接到了病者父亲的电话，告诉我他的女儿已经去世了！
父母渴望神职人员的安慰，给予病危女儿降福，遗憾的我没有给予做到。对一位有信仰的人来说，这是一个捶心之痛。我应该立刻到医院看望这位病危，但仍有生命的女孩，我没有做到，这是我的疏忽。
无论如何，我很感激八打灵的军友秀群姐妹，在她联络下，邓英伟神父及罗秀彪神父在今天下午分别到殡仪馆慰问痛失爱女的父母，也给亡者送上祷告和祝福。还有好多到来祈祷的圣母军军友们。
她的遗体将在明天下午二时进行火化，骨灰由父母带回亚庇。愿亡者曾慧文的灵魂安息。
时间不是我们的拥有。
I just come back from a funeral parlour in PJ to pay my respect to a 27 year-old girl. Painfully, she died so young, regrettably, I was not able to see her when he was alive. It was a matter of today and yesterday.
yesterday, I received a call from Agnes in Kota Kinabalu, informing me that a daughter of a fellow Catholic in her parish was in coma after a brain surgery in University Hospital. The parents wished to see a priest. The girl was not baptised.
Requests from a dying person or from his/her members of family are urgent and I usually respond quickly and appropriately.
However, it was weekend, every one was busy...busy. In fact most of us were blinded by our busi-ness. Many things were beyond my control, but one thing I could do was to visit the patient and her parents in hospital immediately and to find out more about their needs.
Busy-ness blinded me. I only keep in touch with the parent through phone and arrange to see them the next day.
This morning (Sunday), at about 10:00 am, received a call from the father that she has passed away.
Distraught and helpless parents' request to see a priest, and possible baptism of the dying daughter was not met. I could have gone to the hospital to see the girl alive.... I didn't.
I have failed.
I am grateful to Anna, a fellow legionary in PJ for arranging Fr. Martin Thien and Fr. Thomas Loh to visit and console the parents at the parlour, and offered prayer for the deceased. Thanks to many legionaries' presence for prayer too.
Her remains would be cremated and ashes be brought back to KK by her parents. May her soul through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
We do not own time.
这是个无言的伤痛，遗憾之悲伤。
我刚从八打灵的殡仪馆回来。我去瞻仰的，是一位27岁年轻女孩，没有了生命 、冰冷的遗体。伤痛是这么年轻就离开了这个世界，遗憾的是我不能在他还有生命的时候，见她一面。相差只是昨天和今天而已。
昨天早上（星期六），我接到了亚庇惠琼姐的电话，告诉我一位亚庇教友的女儿，在马大动了脑部手术之后，就昏迷不醒了。无助的父母希望能见一位神父，也看看是否能够给她受洗。
一位病危的人，或病危者的家人提出的要求，通常都是很紧急的，我也通常是义不容辞，尽快给予处理。
周末大家都忙。我也忙，你也忙，大家都忙到“盲”。很多事情是不在我控制范围之内，但我可以做的，本来就是马上到医院和这父母见面，也去探访这位昏迷者，多了解他们的状况及需要。
就是因为忙，忙呀忙到盲了，没有立刻行动，只是以电话联系，等隔天再去看他们吧。
今天(星期天）早上大约十时左右，接到了病者父亲的电话，告诉我他的女儿已经去世了！
父母渴望神职人员的安慰，给予病危女儿降福，遗憾的我没有给予做到。对一位有信仰的人来说，这是一个捶心之痛。我应该立刻到医院看望这位病危，但仍有生命的女孩，我没有做到，这是我的疏忽。
无论如何，我很感激八打灵的军友秀群姐妹，在她联络下，邓英伟神父及罗秀彪神父在今天下午分别到殡仪馆慰问痛失爱女的父母，也给亡者送上祷告和祝福。还有好多到来祈祷的圣母军军友们。
她的遗体将在明天下午二时进行火化，骨灰由父母带回亚庇。愿亡者曾慧文的灵魂安息。
时间不是我们的拥有。
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Stunt dog 特技狗
My stunt dog. A broken front left leg, a missing front right leg! Yet walking tall.
我的特技狗。前左腿折断，前右腿不见了！但高高的站立着。
我的特技狗。前左腿折断，前右腿不见了！但高高的站立着。
Silent killer 无声杀手
Yesterday (Friday), my wife and I went to Kuala Lumpur General Hospital to visit a friend who is a diabetic.
His condition is serious. The diabetes mellitus has affected his eyesight and kidney, gangrene has set in to his two toes. Doctor is considering the options of amputation.
They are many others diabetics in the ward having the same condition - foot ulceration.
More Malaysians are suffering from diabetes. According to the latest figure, one out of 10 Malaysians has diabetes problem. My visit to the ward also served as a reminder to myself of the importance of a healthy life style.
Diabetes is a silent killer and life-style related disease. It is epidemic in developing countries like Malaysia. The complications related to this disease are appalling, being most common and serious are eyesight damage, kidney damage, nerve damage, heart problem, foot ulceration leading to amputation.
Healthy living - healthy eating, regular exercise and controlled body weight is the best prevention of this disease.
Check your blood sugar regularly, do not let the ants tell you.
Update 22-3-09: His right leg has been amputated from knee down.
Picture of our friend's foot ulceration 朋友的脚细胞坏死
昨天（星期五）， 我和太太到吉隆坡中央医院探望一位患糖尿病进院的朋友。
他的病况非常严重。糖尿病已经伤害到了他的视觉和肾脏，更糟糕的是他的脚趾已经有细胞坏死现象，医生正考虑截割的选择。
在同一病房，还有其他的糖尿病患者，都也是有同一个病况 - 脚趾有坏死（坏疽）的现象。
在这个进步中的社会里，越来越多马来西亚人患上了这个病。我这次拜访医院，也给自己一个醒觉，就是健康生活的重要。
糖尿病是一个无声杀手，也是一种和生活习惯有关联的疾病，在发展中国家，如马来西亚，迅速的扩张。糖尿病的后果非常惊人。这疾病会伤害视觉 、肾脏 、心脏，神经系统，也使到肌肉坏死（坏疽），特别是 脚部，可能被切除（截肢）。
健康的生活 - 正确的饮食习惯，经常运动，保持适当的体重，是防御这个疾病的最好方法。
经常检查你的血糖，不要等蚂蚁告诉你！
最新消息22-3-09：他的脚从膝盖下，已被截切。
His condition is serious. The diabetes mellitus has affected his eyesight and kidney, gangrene has set in to his two toes. Doctor is considering the options of amputation.
They are many others diabetics in the ward having the same condition - foot ulceration.
More Malaysians are suffering from diabetes. According to the latest figure, one out of 10 Malaysians has diabetes problem. My visit to the ward also served as a reminder to myself of the importance of a healthy life style.
Diabetes is a silent killer and life-style related disease. It is epidemic in developing countries like Malaysia. The complications related to this disease are appalling, being most common and serious are eyesight damage, kidney damage, nerve damage, heart problem, foot ulceration leading to amputation.
Healthy living - healthy eating, regular exercise and controlled body weight is the best prevention of this disease.
Check your blood sugar regularly, do not let the ants tell you.
Update 22-3-09: His right leg has been amputated from knee down.
Picture of our friend's foot ulceration 朋友的脚细胞坏死昨天（星期五）， 我和太太到吉隆坡中央医院探望一位患糖尿病进院的朋友。
他的病况非常严重。糖尿病已经伤害到了他的视觉和肾脏，更糟糕的是他的脚趾已经有细胞坏死现象，医生正考虑截割的选择。
在同一病房，还有其他的糖尿病患者，都也是有同一个病况 - 脚趾有坏死（坏疽）的现象。
在这个进步中的社会里，越来越多马来西亚人患上了这个病。我这次拜访医院，也给自己一个醒觉，就是健康生活的重要。
糖尿病是一个无声杀手，也是一种和生活习惯有关联的疾病，在发展中国家，如马来西亚，迅速的扩张。糖尿病的后果非常惊人。这疾病会伤害视觉 、肾脏 、心脏，神经系统，也使到肌肉坏死（坏疽），特别是 脚部，可能被切除（截肢）。
健康的生活 - 正确的饮食习惯，经常运动，保持适当的体重，是防御这个疾病的最好方法。
经常检查你的血糖，不要等蚂蚁告诉你！
最新消息22-3-09：他的脚从膝盖下，已被截切。
Who can be trusted 谁最可信赖
In a latest annual survey released by the Royal College of Physicians in Great Britain, doctors have been named the profession most trusted by the public, followed by teachers, professors, judges and clergymen/priests completing the top five.
I am sure the finding is not applicable to Malaysia. With the highly commercialized medical services, doctors are the most needed persons but not the most trusted people to many men and women on the street.
A complaint of stomachache can cost you a bomb. In most private hospitals, you find yourself attended by three to four specialists, charging you with each visit, running medical tests which you have no faintest idea. I called it the referral practice. Specialist A would refer you to Specialist B, B to C, C to D then back to A. From consultant physician to consultant surgeon, to gastroentrologist ... to god knows who!?
In fact, medical profession top the number of complaints among government departments according to the government's Public Complaint Bureau's figure.
The fourth placing was accorded to judges.That is in England... not in Malaysia. With the many high profile cases, Lingham incident, Mahathir's strong arm twisting with justice during his tenure, the dramatic revelation by judges themselves, the judiciary has just come out of the darkest hours and is facing public confidence crisis at this movement.
May be it is a good idea to have our own survey....!
在最新公布的英国皇家医生学院年度调查里，前五名的排名中，医生是最被信赖的职业，接下来是教师，教授，法官及神父/神职人员。
这是英国的调查，并不适用于马来西亚。在今天高度商业化的环境里，医生可能是最需要的人，但不是最可信赖的专业。
今天，假如你是肚子痛进院的话，将会是一件费用昂贵的事情。在私人医院里，将会有三、四个专科医生前来“照顾”你，每一次到病房，都要算费，还有好多知名、不知名的化验。从专科内科，到外科，到肠胃专科，到鬼知道什么科名堂的医生。。。。我称这个为“互相介绍”的做法。甲医生会推介乙医生，乙会推荐丙医生，然后又回到甲医生。。。
事实上，在政府公共投诉科大数字显示，医药人员是最高投诉的对象。
排名第四的是法官。。。那是英国的排名，不是马来西亚。在过去的两年里，许多高调的案件审判，林甘事件，可疑的委任法官制度，马哈迪时代的专横法治对抗，马来西亚的司法刚从最黑暗的时期苏醒过来，目前还面对大众对司法的缺乏信心的困境。
或者我们也应该有自己的调查！
I am sure the finding is not applicable to Malaysia. With the highly commercialized medical services, doctors are the most needed persons but not the most trusted people to many men and women on the street.
A complaint of stomachache can cost you a bomb. In most private hospitals, you find yourself attended by three to four specialists, charging you with each visit, running medical tests which you have no faintest idea. I called it the referral practice. Specialist A would refer you to Specialist B, B to C, C to D then back to A. From consultant physician to consultant surgeon, to gastroentrologist ... to god knows who!?
In fact, medical profession top the number of complaints among government departments according to the government's Public Complaint Bureau's figure.
The fourth placing was accorded to judges.That is in England... not in Malaysia. With the many high profile cases, Lingham incident, Mahathir's strong arm twisting with justice during his tenure, the dramatic revelation by judges themselves, the judiciary has just come out of the darkest hours and is facing public confidence crisis at this movement.
May be it is a good idea to have our own survey....!
在最新公布的英国皇家医生学院年度调查里，前五名的排名中，医生是最被信赖的职业，接下来是教师，教授，法官及神父/神职人员。
这是英国的调查，并不适用于马来西亚。在今天高度商业化的环境里，医生可能是最需要的人，但不是最可信赖的专业。
今天，假如你是肚子痛进院的话，将会是一件费用昂贵的事情。在私人医院里，将会有三、四个专科医生前来“照顾”你，每一次到病房，都要算费，还有好多知名、不知名的化验。从专科内科，到外科，到肠胃专科，到鬼知道什么科名堂的医生。。。。我称这个为“互相介绍”的做法。甲医生会推介乙医生，乙会推荐丙医生，然后又回到甲医生。。。
事实上，在政府公共投诉科大数字显示，医药人员是最高投诉的对象。
排名第四的是法官。。。那是英国的排名，不是马来西亚。在过去的两年里，许多高调的案件审判，林甘事件，可疑的委任法官制度，马哈迪时代的专横法治对抗，马来西亚的司法刚从最黑暗的时期苏醒过来，目前还面对大众对司法的缺乏信心的困境。
或者我们也应该有自己的调查！
Friday, March 20, 2009
The epic journey 漫长的旅途
Moving out to the port on 16-10-08 搬运到码头The two boxes we sent in October 2008 to Elizabeth containing food stuff, books, clothes has arrived safely almost 5 months after leaving the house.
The shipment from Port Kelang was OK and arrived at Manchester as schedule in January. The inefficiency and bad attitude of the local agent caused the almost 2 months delay in delivery to Aberdeen.
One box was delivered to Elizabeth a month ago. The other box was missing. After much haggling and complaining, the box was found and took another three weeks to deliver.
It almost caused Elizabeth high blood pressure. But more important, the two boxes of "homely love" was delivered to her thousands kilometers away after a six month epic journey.
2 boxes each weighed about 40 kg两箱，每箱重约四十公斤
它们终於抵达阿伯尔丁了。
我们在去年十月尾用海运寄给小女儿的两箱衣物 、食品和书本，经过了将近五个月的旅途之后，终于到达目的地。
货船从巴生港口如期的启航，并依照船期在今年一月抵达曼徹斯特。但是那里的当地代理，因为工作态度及效率奇差，所以拖延了几乎两个月才送到阿伯尔丁。
一箱在一个月前送到，另一箱却失踪了。经过一番投诉及追讨，失踪的箱子终于找到了，但仍然在三个星期后（上个星期六），才送到我女儿手中。
我的女儿几乎给气得血压上升。无论如何，最重要的，这两箱宝贵的“家乡温情”，平安到达了她的手上。
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Stupid act 愚蠢的疏忽
Timmy (front) and Bobby 甸米 （前）及波比Last Saturday, I took Timmy, the shorter fellow for a spin, he seemed to enjoyed the ride with eyes looking curiously at the passing scenery.
Then it was Bobby's turn. The moment I started to move, he panic and jumped out of the basket. My wife was watching. To our horror, he cried in pain. He broke his front left leg!
We sent him to a vet and X-ray confirmed it was broken. It was plastered and needed six weeks to recovered.
Unnecessary pain. I regretted myself for taking such a stupid move, and thousand apologies to Bobby.
我们在训练两只小狗，学习在屋内时，静坐在篮子里面。所以，我也就想把他们房子摩多单车的篮子里，去兜兜风。
上个星期六，我先带甸米（Timmy)，较矮的那只，放在单车的篮子，兜了一圈，看来他好像很享受沿途的景色。
接下来，是波比了。当我正要开动时，他突然从篮子里跳了出来，落在地上。当时太太也在场。令我们惊吓的是，他痛楚的嘶叫，原来脚受伤了。
我们马上把他带去给兽医检查，证明左脚骨折断，需要包上石膏，并需六星期才能复原。
真是不必要的受苦。我很后悔这个愚蠢的疏忽，真对不起波比小伙子。
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
The NAME of the game 游戏名字
Karpal and son, Gobin Singh(Terhad & For Christianity, required by law ;D)
Non-Muslim cannot utter or print the word "Allah".
No one can say "sue the Sultan".
Member of Parliament Karpal Singh was charged with sedition in Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court this morning in relation to his threat to sue the Perak Sultan over the political crisis in the state.
The man-made laws has eroded the greatness of the names, the people who proclaimed themselves the protectors of the names has tarnished the purity of the names.
They have private-owned these great names. The names are "Allah" & " Sultan".
In Parliament, Member of Parliament Gobin Singh, son of Karpal Singh calling Deputy Prime Minister Najib a "murderer", was suspended from Parliament for one year without salary, allowances and perks.
While all these are going on, the snatch thieves and robbers going on their business as usual too. An Australia tourist who arrived at Taiping 3 hours earlier, was injured when 2 thieves snatched his bags containing cash and his and wife's passports while walking to take his lunch.非回教徒不能说或写 “阿拉Allah"这个字眼。天主教前锋报被发出禁止令。不过在较後时，内政部长发出一个取消指令，这个字眼可以用，但在刊物的头版，必须印上“基督教徒而已”。但这个取消指令，在较後的较後时，又别另一通取消指令取消了，理由是“。。喔 喔。。我们弄错了。。”
没有人可以说“起诉苏丹”。行动党国会议员卡巴星今天早上以煽动之罪名，被提控上法庭。他是在霹雳州政府变天后，质疑苏丹委任新的州务大臣，曾恫言要控告霹雳州苏丹违法，而犯了侮辱苏丹之罪。
人的法律，已经侵袭了这名字的伟大。这些声称要保护这些名字的人，已经污蔑了这些名字的圣洁。
他们已经私佔了这名字。这名字是“阿拉” 和“苏丹”。
昨天在国会，卡巴星的儿子，国会议员哥宾星，因指副首相纳吉是一位“杀人凶手”，而被禁足国会12 个月，不能享有薪金 、津贴和福利。
当这些事情正在闹哄哄的进行着时，强盗和劫匪照常的进行他们的非法勾当。一位刚抵达太平三个小时的澳洲旅客，在步行时，被攫夺匪抢了皮袋，跌倒而遍体鳞伤。 他的皮袋里有现金和他及太太的护照。
Monday, March 16, 2009
年轻的神父
年纪大了，看到年轻人，包括神父，修女都好像是自己孩子的感觉。就如自己孩子般，对他们有期望，有失望，也有希望，但肯定的是祈望他们永远过得快乐，过得好。
近年来，接触了很多年轻神父，包括本堂两位正副本堂，然后再读了【溪水信女】的转载文章[年轻修女，希望你......] 后，我也来轻松的谈谈年轻神父吧。
现在进入修院的修生，都必须有社会及工作经验，所以，大部分年轻神父，对世俗的生活，社会及人性，都有一定程度的了解和体验。七年的培训及陶成，他们的知识及神修，都足够应付他们的牧灵需要。当然在一些事情 、课题 、教友、教会及社会问题上，需要一段时间，吸取经验，增广视野，累积成智慧，以后的司铎生涯就会很愉快胜任了。
不过，有些东西，却是没分彼此，是必备及必须的。比如我选择了婚姻生活，必须负起责任，对另一半奉献及忠诚，要刻苦耐劳的工作，照顾孩子及家。我过得是个已婚的男人生活，一个做人父母，以身作则的生活。我不能再吊儿郎当的好像单身般的行为，但要维持一个丈夫 、父亲的行为及形象。
同样的，年轻人既然选择了修道生活，成为一位司铎，就要牺牲世俗的物质，过一个耶稣基督的福音使徒生活。他们的生活是个奉献 、简朴 、谦逊 、刻苦耐劳 、服务的生活，他们也要活出一个神父的形象和生活。这可能会误为保守，但世俗和修道生活，就如神父和家父，确是有很大的分别。
假如我的孩子愿意送一辆最新款的宝马汽车给我，我当然可以接受，因为我过得是世俗生活，能够及可以享受到最好的物质生活。不过我还是会考量我是否需要，也考虑我是否要提升我的身份到某个程度，因为在世俗生活里，汽车或某些物品，是代表身份的象征。
但作为一位神父，假如有一位教友愿意赠送一辆 Toyota Camry 给你，你应该知道你的答案是什么。不止汽车，就算是一部昂贵的手机如“蓝莓”或 I-phone，你应该以一位耶稣的司祭立场，作为考量。
对我的孩子，我希望他们不会怀才自傲，要谦虚，虚心向学，对人有礼及恭敬。同样的我也是希望看到年轻的神父有这样的德行。假如缺乏上述，他的生活将会过得不快乐，脾气暴躁，更糟糕的心高气傲，引来了对抗，生活就变得紧张。所谓涵于内 、形于外，你看到的这位司铎，是心浮气躁，缺乏那种修道人的平和 、可亲及内心平安仪态了。
年轻神父不要只以年轻人为服务的对象。神父是为所有人服务的神长。因为年轻，比较能够和青年人打成一片，推心置腹，这是毫无疑问的事实。危险的是，你会永远都张不大，不会成熟。但和长者相处，你可以学到生活的智慧；和年小的相处，你可以保持你的童真无邪及纯朴。
我要在此提出我常引用的处世警言：“男想女，隔层山；女想男，隔层纱”。不管是一位血气方刚的年轻人，世俗或修道者，包括我这位老头，都要警惕。天主经说：不要让我陷于诱感。。。就是说不要把自己处在一个诱惑环境里面，以免掉入陷阱。不要太高估自己抗拒诱惑的能力，特别是男、女之间的相处或肌肤的亲近。
孟子说的：“.....天将降大任于斯人也，必先苦其心志，劳其筋骨，饿其体肤，空乏其身，行拂乱其所为，所以动心忍性，曾益其所不能 。............... 生于忧患，而死于安乐。”，加上孔子说的：“ 饱暖思欲”，不必耶稣告诉我们，都应该知道这些千古圣贤的智慧良言，引以为鉴。
寂寞不只是老年人的痛苦，也是修道者的芒刺。在信友都离开教堂，神父把办公室的们关上后，寂寞就会来相伴了。修会神父还可以回到团体里面，但堂区神父通常都是形单影只，的确是一个很大的挑战。一天的辛苦，一天的经历，一天的故事，向谁分享 、倾述呢？这就凸显了自己个人的神修及祈祷生活的重要了。
今天，通讯科技的发达，手机 、电脑可以使到与朋友 、亲人的联系，容易方便。不要离群 、不要孤独，生活就会快乐，信德也更坚强。
不要太顾念私情。有时环绕在你身边的“亲近”信徒，和你吃喝玩乐的“内圈子”，可能是潜伏的陷阱，会使你歪离基督纯朴和正直的精神。你和他们可能都没有不当的行为，但却会误引他人犯罪。千万不要被人形成一个你好像被某些信徒“拥有”的形象。很多信徒会以和神父甚笃私交为荣（包括我本身），但当你的名字被提起，有人反应说：“他是我的好朋友”，你就得小心了，因为下一句可能是“我包你可以搞定！”
一年至少五十次站在台上，宣讲福音道理，数千只耳朵在聆听，加上不同的期望，确是一种挑战。所以，除了圣神的辅佑，还要多充实自己，虚心向学，聆听回馈，再以身作则，你的话就会掷地有声，淳淳善诱的福音了。
受华文教育的司铎，我更要劝请你们不惜代价，加倍努力，必要把英文搞好，虽不必能写长篇大论，但必须要交谈自如，这会加强信心，司铎工作更加完美。这是年轻人，下定决心，必能做到的事。
到你七十五退休高龄还有一段好长好长的路，所以你的健康是绝对重要的。工作之余，要有足够的休息及运动，保持身心健康，知道你本身的有限度，这段路就顺畅平坦了。
我可能是一派胡言，但确是我这老者的真言。我是衷心祝愿大家都过得快乐，幸福，忠心及真诚。
“滚滚长江东逝水，浪花淘尽英雄......" 今天的你是昨天的我；今天的我，是明天的你！你可以不必认真，但必须认清。
哈哈哈。。。。 就当是一阵过耳清风吧！
晋铎（成为神父）是团体及教会的大盛事，天人共庆
（总主教介绍五位新神父 2、2、2009）
近年来，接触了很多年轻神父，包括本堂两位正副本堂，然后再读了【溪水信女】的转载文章[年轻修女，希望你......] 后，我也来轻松的谈谈年轻神父吧。
现在进入修院的修生，都必须有社会及工作经验，所以，大部分年轻神父，对世俗的生活，社会及人性，都有一定程度的了解和体验。七年的培训及陶成，他们的知识及神修，都足够应付他们的牧灵需要。当然在一些事情 、课题 、教友、教会及社会问题上，需要一段时间，吸取经验，增广视野，累积成智慧，以后的司铎生涯就会很愉快胜任了。
不过，有些东西，却是没分彼此，是必备及必须的。比如我选择了婚姻生活，必须负起责任，对另一半奉献及忠诚，要刻苦耐劳的工作，照顾孩子及家。我过得是个已婚的男人生活，一个做人父母，以身作则的生活。我不能再吊儿郎当的好像单身般的行为，但要维持一个丈夫 、父亲的行为及形象。
同样的，年轻人既然选择了修道生活，成为一位司铎，就要牺牲世俗的物质，过一个耶稣基督的福音使徒生活。他们的生活是个奉献 、简朴 、谦逊 、刻苦耐劳 、服务的生活，他们也要活出一个神父的形象和生活。这可能会误为保守，但世俗和修道生活，就如神父和家父，确是有很大的分别。
假如我的孩子愿意送一辆最新款的宝马汽车给我，我当然可以接受，因为我过得是世俗生活，能够及可以享受到最好的物质生活。不过我还是会考量我是否需要，也考虑我是否要提升我的身份到某个程度，因为在世俗生活里，汽车或某些物品，是代表身份的象征。
但作为一位神父，假如有一位教友愿意赠送一辆 Toyota Camry 给你，你应该知道你的答案是什么。不止汽车，就算是一部昂贵的手机如“蓝莓”或 I-phone，你应该以一位耶稣的司祭立场，作为考量。
对我的孩子，我希望他们不会怀才自傲，要谦虚，虚心向学，对人有礼及恭敬。同样的我也是希望看到年轻的神父有这样的德行。假如缺乏上述，他的生活将会过得不快乐，脾气暴躁，更糟糕的心高气傲，引来了对抗，生活就变得紧张。所谓涵于内 、形于外，你看到的这位司铎，是心浮气躁，缺乏那种修道人的平和 、可亲及内心平安仪态了。
年轻神父不要只以年轻人为服务的对象。神父是为所有人服务的神长。因为年轻，比较能够和青年人打成一片，推心置腹，这是毫无疑问的事实。危险的是，你会永远都张不大，不会成熟。但和长者相处，你可以学到生活的智慧；和年小的相处，你可以保持你的童真无邪及纯朴。
我要在此提出我常引用的处世警言：“男想女，隔层山；女想男，隔层纱”。不管是一位血气方刚的年轻人，世俗或修道者，包括我这位老头，都要警惕。天主经说：不要让我陷于诱感。。。就是说不要把自己处在一个诱惑环境里面，以免掉入陷阱。不要太高估自己抗拒诱惑的能力，特别是男、女之间的相处或肌肤的亲近。
孟子说的：“.....天将降大任于斯人也，必先苦其心志，劳其筋骨，饿其体肤，空乏其身，行拂乱其所为，所以动心忍性，曾益其所不能 。............... 生于忧患，而死于安乐。”，加上孔子说的：“ 饱暖思欲”，不必耶稣告诉我们，都应该知道这些千古圣贤的智慧良言，引以为鉴。
寂寞不只是老年人的痛苦，也是修道者的芒刺。在信友都离开教堂，神父把办公室的们关上后，寂寞就会来相伴了。修会神父还可以回到团体里面，但堂区神父通常都是形单影只，的确是一个很大的挑战。一天的辛苦，一天的经历，一天的故事，向谁分享 、倾述呢？这就凸显了自己个人的神修及祈祷生活的重要了。
今天，通讯科技的发达，手机 、电脑可以使到与朋友 、亲人的联系，容易方便。不要离群 、不要孤独，生活就会快乐，信德也更坚强。
不要太顾念私情。有时环绕在你身边的“亲近”信徒，和你吃喝玩乐的“内圈子”，可能是潜伏的陷阱，会使你歪离基督纯朴和正直的精神。你和他们可能都没有不当的行为，但却会误引他人犯罪。千万不要被人形成一个你好像被某些信徒“拥有”的形象。很多信徒会以和神父甚笃私交为荣（包括我本身），但当你的名字被提起，有人反应说：“他是我的好朋友”，你就得小心了，因为下一句可能是“我包你可以搞定！”
一年至少五十次站在台上，宣讲福音道理，数千只耳朵在聆听，加上不同的期望，确是一种挑战。所以，除了圣神的辅佑，还要多充实自己，虚心向学，聆听回馈，再以身作则，你的话就会掷地有声，淳淳善诱的福音了。
受华文教育的司铎，我更要劝请你们不惜代价，加倍努力，必要把英文搞好，虽不必能写长篇大论，但必须要交谈自如，这会加强信心，司铎工作更加完美。这是年轻人，下定决心，必能做到的事。
到你七十五退休高龄还有一段好长好长的路，所以你的健康是绝对重要的。工作之余，要有足够的休息及运动，保持身心健康，知道你本身的有限度，这段路就顺畅平坦了。
我可能是一派胡言，但确是我这老者的真言。我是衷心祝愿大家都过得快乐，幸福，忠心及真诚。
“滚滚长江东逝水，浪花淘尽英雄......" 今天的你是昨天的我；今天的我，是明天的你！你可以不必认真，但必须认清。
哈哈哈。。。。 就当是一阵过耳清风吧！
晋铎（成为神父）是团体及教会的大盛事，天人共庆（总主教介绍五位新神父 2、2、2009）
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Scrutinies 考核礼
Handing over of the Creed 颁发信经Today is the 3rd Sunday of Lent. During the Mass this morning which was celebrated by Fr. Lawrence Ng, CDD, the RCIA candidates (now called the Elects) went through the first of a series of three scrutinies during this final period of purification and enlightenment. It is an intense preparation before they are accepted into the Catholic Church through Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Eucharist on Easter.
It is a time for the preacher (priest) to lead not only the candidates but also the whole gathered assembly into an ever deeper understanding of the mystery of Christ through the gospel message and to stimlate them to an inner conversion of heart.
Today's scrutiny consisted of exorcism, handing over of the Creed and praying for the candidates.
The handing over of the Creed signifies that official handing-on of the faith that is received from Christ through the apostles in the beginning. Creeds in themselves are summaries of the Catholic faith (12 articles).
- 1. I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.
- 2. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord.
- 3. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary.
- 4. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried.
- 5. He descended into death. On the third day he rose again.
- 6. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
- 7. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.
- 8. I believe in the Holy Spirit,
- 9. the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints,
- 10. the forgiveness of sins,
- 11. the resurrection of the body,
- 12. and the life everlasting.
- Amen.
“Ephphetha (open)! proclaim your faith, praise and glorify the Lord"“开了吧！愿你宣认你的信德，以赞美及光荣天主”
今天是四旬期的第三个主日。成人慕道者（现称为侯洗者）进入了一个最后的净化及光照时期，以准备在复活节时，藉着入门圣事 - 圣洗 、坚振及圣体圣事，成为天主的孩子，进入天主教会团体。在今天的弥撒中，侯洗者完成了三个考核礼中的第一个考核。
这个时候，主礼神父带领侯洗者及全体出席的信徒，藉着福音讯息，更深入的了解耶稣的奥秘，也促使他们心灵的皈依。
今天的考核礼包括了驱魔 、颁发信经及为侯洗者祈祷。
颁发信经，标志着侯洗者正式领受来自耶稣，传自宗徒的信仰。信经是天主教信仰的信条简缩（12 条）。
1. 我信全能的天主父，天地萬物的創造者。
2. 我信父的唯一子，我們的主耶穌基督，
3. 衪因聖神降孕，由童貞瑪利亞誕生；
4. 祂在比拉多執政時蒙難，被釘在十字架上，死而安葬
5. 祂下降陰府，第三日從死者中復活
6. 祂升了天，坐在全能天主父的右邊
7. 祂要從天降來，審判生者死者
8. 我信聖神
9.我信聖而公教會，諸聖的相通
10. 罪過的赦免
11. 肉身的復活
12. 永恆的生命
阿孟。
Friday, March 13, 2009
Stimulus package 救市振兴配套
The announcement of RM60 billion second stimulus package in Parliament 3 days ago by Deputy Prime Minister-cum-Finance Minister Najib created no excitement for the majority public in the country. The first package of 7 billion announced last year left not a tiny ripple or trace to be seen or felt.
People are more interested to know how is this fund to be distributed and implemented. Does this has immediate benefit to the ordinary citizens who are jobless or facing retrenchment? or only a selected "cronies" big corporations or sectors and projects only. It looks like government is giving out big contracts soon, you know to who-lah ! Transparent and accountability are the key words to determine the success or failure of the package.
The distribution of the 60 billions:
1) 2 billions to increase employment and reduce unemployment:
- 63,000 new government servants be added to the already bulging numbers of government servants
- training for retrenched workers including unemployable graduates
- others
2) 10 billions to ease the burden of the people:
- 476 millions for food subsidies
- 480 millions to tolls concessionaires to ensure their profit and not to increase toll rate
- Almost 4 billions for infrastructure projects ( contracts...lah）
- others
3) 19 billions to build new projects for future
- 10 billions goes to Khazana Nasional, government investment arm ( how much you know about this corporation?)
- more big projects and contracts....
- others
4) 29 billions to private sector:
- 2 billions to build new LCCT terminal
- 5 billions to promote productivity and green technology
- 5 billions on government guarantee loan scheme
- RM 5000 discount for 10 years old car trade in
- others （tax relief and incentives)
To the ordinary people on the street who are struggling to meet end needs, life goes on... the threat of loosing job, pay cut.....less bread on the table..... skyrocketing prices.....
Most probably these people can feel happy that they can trade in their 10 years old cars (which they needed for transport and work) for a brand new Proton to enjoy RM 5000.00 rebate under the stimulus package. In this way, government is encouraging these already burdened people to dig their own graves for early demise!
As a small & medium businessman myself, I hardly can see any immediate benefit to my business at all. One of my fellow businessmen called me this morning talking about retrenching workers and pay cut. His business is well established but the financial crisis spares no one. No sign of improvement of export markets and Foreign Direct Investment.
Perhaps me and my friend may be able to receive some benefit on the 19 billions for private sector under the new ruling "Company’s current year losses be allowed to be carried back to the immediate preceding year." I hoped our businesses can last that long to enjoy this "benefit"!
The battle for the share of fund has started, vultures are circling .......
副首相兼财政部长纳于三月十日，在国会宣布了马币六百亿的第二个救市配套，没有在大多数人民中，引起共鸣和回响。去年的七十亿第一个配套，根本都见不到任何踪迹和效益。
人民大致上更关心如何成功的去执行及分配这个配套的基金。对于那些已失业或面对裁员的普罗大众，会有帮助吗？或者只有某些“朋党”的公司 、利益集团 、行业或工程受益而已？看来在这配套下，政府会发出很多大工程和合约给某些受益者。。。你该知道是那些吧！其实，透明度及有效的管理，才能够保证这个配套的成功。
六百亿的配套分配大约如下：
1） 二十亿用来增加就业及避免失业人数
- 增聘六万三千名公务员加入本来已经庞大的公务员行列
- 培训事业人士，包括没人聘请的大学生
- 其他
2） 一百亿减轻人民的负担
- 四亿七千六百万元作为必需品津贴
- 四亿八千万给大道（大盗）公司，以免他们提高公路收费
- 四十亿提升基本建设工程（发出很多的合约罗！）
- 其他
3） 一百九十亿建设新的基建工程
- 一百亿交给国库公司。。（你对它有多少了解？）
- 更多的工程和合约。。。
- 其他
4） 二百九十亿给私人界
- 二十亿建筑新的廉价机场终站
- 五十亿奖励提供生产力及绿色科技
- 五十亿作为政府保证贷款
- 十年以上车辆换购新普腾，可获五千元回扣
- 其他（税务减低及奖励）
对于那些为三餐而挣扎的普通市民，他们的生活照常 。。。继续的面对裁员的阴影，减薪。。。钱不够用。。高涨的物价。。。
他们可能会很高兴的把他们作为交通工具的十年以上旧车，去换一辆新的普腾，获得回扣五千元，然后每个月被绑着要供还整千元的贷款。这无疑是政府叫这些已经捉襟见肘的民众，火上加油，自掘坟墓而已。
身为一名中小型商人，我看不到这个配套对我的生意马上有什么帮助。今天早上一位同行朋友刚打电话来，谈到如何要实行裁员及减薪来面对困境。他的生意可说是已经稳固，但金融风暴不放过任何一个人。目前还看不到出口市场及国外直接投资有所改善的迹象。
或者我和朋友能够享到在十九亿发放给私人界中，公司亏损可以提前扣除（有待所得税局指示）。我希望我们的生意能够坚持这么久来享受这个“优惠”。
谋得这个配套款项的争夺已经开始，秃鹰已在天空盘旋了。。。
People are more interested to know how is this fund to be distributed and implemented. Does this has immediate benefit to the ordinary citizens who are jobless or facing retrenchment? or only a selected "cronies" big corporations or sectors and projects only. It looks like government is giving out big contracts soon, you know to who-lah ! Transparent and accountability are the key words to determine the success or failure of the package.
The distribution of the 60 billions:
1) 2 billions to increase employment and reduce unemployment:
- 63,000 new government servants be added to the already bulging numbers of government servants
- training for retrenched workers including unemployable graduates
- others
2) 10 billions to ease the burden of the people:
- 476 millions for food subsidies
- 480 millions to tolls concessionaires to ensure their profit and not to increase toll rate
- Almost 4 billions for infrastructure projects ( contracts...lah）
- others
3) 19 billions to build new projects for future
- 10 billions goes to Khazana Nasional, government investment arm ( how much you know about this corporation?)
- more big projects and contracts....
- others
4) 29 billions to private sector:
- 2 billions to build new LCCT terminal
- 5 billions to promote productivity and green technology
- 5 billions on government guarantee loan scheme
- RM 5000 discount for 10 years old car trade in
- others （tax relief and incentives)
To the ordinary people on the street who are struggling to meet end needs, life goes on... the threat of loosing job, pay cut.....less bread on the table..... skyrocketing prices.....
Most probably these people can feel happy that they can trade in their 10 years old cars (which they needed for transport and work) for a brand new Proton to enjoy RM 5000.00 rebate under the stimulus package. In this way, government is encouraging these already burdened people to dig their own graves for early demise!
As a small & medium businessman myself, I hardly can see any immediate benefit to my business at all. One of my fellow businessmen called me this morning talking about retrenching workers and pay cut. His business is well established but the financial crisis spares no one. No sign of improvement of export markets and Foreign Direct Investment.
Perhaps me and my friend may be able to receive some benefit on the 19 billions for private sector under the new ruling "Company’s current year losses be allowed to be carried back to the immediate preceding year." I hoped our businesses can last that long to enjoy this "benefit"!
The battle for the share of fund has started, vultures are circling .......
副首相兼财政部长纳于三月十日，在国会宣布了马币六百亿的第二个救市配套，没有在大多数人民中，引起共鸣和回响。去年的七十亿第一个配套，根本都见不到任何踪迹和效益。人民大致上更关心如何成功的去执行及分配这个配套的基金。对于那些已失业或面对裁员的普罗大众，会有帮助吗？或者只有某些“朋党”的公司 、利益集团 、行业或工程受益而已？看来在这配套下，政府会发出很多大工程和合约给某些受益者。。。你该知道是那些吧！其实，透明度及有效的管理，才能够保证这个配套的成功。
六百亿的配套分配大约如下：
1） 二十亿用来增加就业及避免失业人数
- 增聘六万三千名公务员加入本来已经庞大的公务员行列
- 培训事业人士，包括没人聘请的大学生
- 其他
2） 一百亿减轻人民的负担
- 四亿七千六百万元作为必需品津贴
- 四亿八千万给大道（大盗）公司，以免他们提高公路收费
- 四十亿提升基本建设工程（发出很多的合约罗！）
- 其他
3） 一百九十亿建设新的基建工程
- 一百亿交给国库公司。。（你对它有多少了解？）
- 更多的工程和合约。。。
- 其他
4） 二百九十亿给私人界
- 二十亿建筑新的廉价机场终站
- 五十亿奖励提供生产力及绿色科技
- 五十亿作为政府保证贷款
- 十年以上车辆换购新普腾，可获五千元回扣
- 其他（税务减低及奖励）
对于那些为三餐而挣扎的普通市民，他们的生活照常 。。。继续的面对裁员的阴影，减薪。。。钱不够用。。高涨的物价。。。
他们可能会很高兴的把他们作为交通工具的十年以上旧车，去换一辆新的普腾，获得回扣五千元，然后每个月被绑着要供还整千元的贷款。这无疑是政府叫这些已经捉襟见肘的民众，火上加油，自掘坟墓而已。
身为一名中小型商人，我看不到这个配套对我的生意马上有什么帮助。今天早上一位同行朋友刚打电话来，谈到如何要实行裁员及减薪来面对困境。他的生意可说是已经稳固，但金融风暴不放过任何一个人。目前还看不到出口市场及国外直接投资有所改善的迹象。
或者我和朋友能够享到在十九亿发放给私人界中，公司亏损可以提前扣除（有待所得税局指示）。我希望我们的生意能够坚持这么久来享受这个“优惠”。
谋得这个配套款项的争夺已经开始，秃鹰已在天空盘旋了。。。
Thursday, March 12, 2009
生活书 （Lifebook)
最近收到一通电邮，和大家分享：
生活书 2009
健康
1. 多喝水
2. 早餐吃得如皇帝，午餐如太子，晚餐如乞丐
3. 多吃来自树上和植物的食物，少吃工厂制成品
4. 生活要过得有精力 、活力和热情
5. 腾出时间祈祷
6. 多运动及游戏
7. 阅读比2008年更多的书
8. 每天至少有十分钟的静默
9. 睡眠七个小时
10.每天步行10到30分钟--还要带着微笑
人格
11. 不要和别人的生活相比较。你对他人生活的体验毫无头绪
12. 不要有负面思想，或对你不能掌控的事情胡思乱想。倒不如把你的精力投注在眼前的积极实况
13. 不要过度，凡事有个自己的限度
14. 不要对自己过于严谨，别人可没把你当回事
15. 不要浪费你宝贵的时间说是道非
16. 在醒悟时刻，多作梦想
17. 羡慕他人是浪费时间。你已经拥有你的一切所需
18. 过去的就让它过去。不要对你的伴侣旧事重提
19. 生命苦短，不要浪费时间去憎恨任何人。不要憎恨他人
20. 把过去的释怀，就不会对你的现在造成破坏
21. 没人掌控你的快乐，除了你自己
22. 理解到生活就如一所学校，你是来学习的。生活的问题，是课程的部分，犹如数理科目，会成为过去，但你所学习到的，确是能受用一生
23. 多多的微笑及欢笑
24. 你不需要赢得每个争论。应赞同彼此不赞同
团体
25. 常常和家人保持联络
26. 日行一善
27. 宽恕每个人的每样东西
28. 花点时间，和七十岁以上，六岁以下的人相处
29. 每天尽量使到三个人微笑
30. 别人对你如何想法，与你无关
31。你的工作在你生病的时候，不能照顾你，但你的家人和朋友却能够。和他们保持联络
生活
32. 做正当的事
33. 把那些没用，丑陋或没乐趣的任何东西丢弃
34. 天主治愈一切
35. 好 、坏的局面，都将会变动
36. 不管你的感受如何，你得站起来，整装，出发
37. 明天会更好
38. 当你早上一觉醒来，该感谢天主
39. 你的内心是常常喜乐的，所以，喜乐吧
最后，但并不是等于不重要，就是
40. 把这讯息传给你关心的人
（原文是英文，可能已有中文版。我尝试粗草地翻译，任何错误，不当、请谅及指正）
生活书 2009
健康
1. 多喝水
2. 早餐吃得如皇帝，午餐如太子，晚餐如乞丐
3. 多吃来自树上和植物的食物，少吃工厂制成品
4. 生活要过得有精力 、活力和热情
5. 腾出时间祈祷
6. 多运动及游戏
7. 阅读比2008年更多的书
8. 每天至少有十分钟的静默
9. 睡眠七个小时
10.每天步行10到30分钟--还要带着微笑
人格
11. 不要和别人的生活相比较。你对他人生活的体验毫无头绪
12. 不要有负面思想，或对你不能掌控的事情胡思乱想。倒不如把你的精力投注在眼前的积极实况
13. 不要过度，凡事有个自己的限度
14. 不要对自己过于严谨，别人可没把你当回事
15. 不要浪费你宝贵的时间说是道非
16. 在醒悟时刻，多作梦想
17. 羡慕他人是浪费时间。你已经拥有你的一切所需
18. 过去的就让它过去。不要对你的伴侣旧事重提
19. 生命苦短，不要浪费时间去憎恨任何人。不要憎恨他人
20. 把过去的释怀，就不会对你的现在造成破坏
21. 没人掌控你的快乐，除了你自己
22. 理解到生活就如一所学校，你是来学习的。生活的问题，是课程的部分，犹如数理科目，会成为过去，但你所学习到的，确是能受用一生
23. 多多的微笑及欢笑
24. 你不需要赢得每个争论。应赞同彼此不赞同
团体
25. 常常和家人保持联络
26. 日行一善
27. 宽恕每个人的每样东西
28. 花点时间，和七十岁以上，六岁以下的人相处
29. 每天尽量使到三个人微笑
30. 别人对你如何想法，与你无关
31。你的工作在你生病的时候，不能照顾你，但你的家人和朋友却能够。和他们保持联络
生活
32. 做正当的事
33. 把那些没用，丑陋或没乐趣的任何东西丢弃
34. 天主治愈一切
35. 好 、坏的局面，都将会变动
36. 不管你的感受如何，你得站起来，整装，出发
37. 明天会更好
38. 当你早上一觉醒来，该感谢天主
39. 你的内心是常常喜乐的，所以，喜乐吧
最后，但并不是等于不重要，就是
40. 把这讯息传给你关心的人
（原文是英文，可能已有中文版。我尝试粗草地翻译，任何错误，不当、请谅及指正）
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Lifebook 2009
Got this email and is good to pass on:
Lifebook 2009
Health
1. Drink plenty of water
2. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a price, dinner like a beggar
3. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants
4. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm and Empathy
5. Make time for prayer
6. Play more games
7. Read more books than you did in 2008
8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day
9. Sleep for 7 hours
10.Take a 10-30 minutes walk every day --- and while you walk, smile
Personality
11. Don't compare life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about
12. Don't have negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the present positive moment
13. Don't over do; keep you limits
14. Don't take yourself so seriously; no one else does
15. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip
16. Dream more while you are awake
17. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need
18. Forget issues of the past, Don't remind your partner with his/her mistakes of the past
19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don't hate others
20. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil your present
21. No one is in charge of your happiness except you
22. Realise that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class but the lessons you learn will last for a life time.
23. Smile and laugh more
24. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree
Community
25. Call your family often
26. Each day give something good to others
27. Forgive everyone for everything
28. Spend time with people over the age of 70 & under the age of 6
29. try to make at least three people smile each day
30. What other think of you is none of your business
31. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your family and friends will. Stay in touch
Life
32. Do the right things
33. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful
34. God heals everything
35. However good or bad a situation is, it will change
36. No matter how you feel, get up , dress up and show up
37. The best is yet to come
38. When you awake alive in the morning, thank God for it
39. Your inner most is always happy. So, be happy
Last but not least:
40. Do forward this to everyone you care about
Lifebook 2009
Health
1. Drink plenty of water
2. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a price, dinner like a beggar
3. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants
4. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm and Empathy
5. Make time for prayer
6. Play more games
7. Read more books than you did in 2008
8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day
9. Sleep for 7 hours
10.Take a 10-30 minutes walk every day --- and while you walk, smile
Personality
11. Don't compare life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about
12. Don't have negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the present positive moment
13. Don't over do; keep you limits
14. Don't take yourself so seriously; no one else does
15. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip
16. Dream more while you are awake
17. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need
18. Forget issues of the past, Don't remind your partner with his/her mistakes of the past
19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don't hate others
20. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil your present
21. No one is in charge of your happiness except you
22. Realise that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class but the lessons you learn will last for a life time.
23. Smile and laugh more
24. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree
Community
25. Call your family often
26. Each day give something good to others
27. Forgive everyone for everything
28. Spend time with people over the age of 70 & under the age of 6
29. try to make at least three people smile each day
30. What other think of you is none of your business
31. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your family and friends will. Stay in touch
Life
32. Do the right things
33. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful
34. God heals everything
35. However good or bad a situation is, it will change
36. No matter how you feel, get up , dress up and show up
37. The best is yet to come
38. When you awake alive in the morning, thank God for it
39. Your inner most is always happy. So, be happy
Last but not least:
40. Do forward this to everyone you care about
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Kota Kinabalu adventure 亚庇探险 （5 ） concluding
Aidah & Luke Yong (2nd and 3rd from right)To many first time visiting members, it was a wonderful experience. The tour itinerary was well-thought, the accommodation was comfortable, the food was fantastic.
We regretted the unhappy bus incidence where Ah Kheng sustained back injury. Taking consolation that she is recovering slowly albeit a little tightness and numbness in her hands. Doctor said may take up to three months for a full recovery.
I have been to KK many times on different occasions and with different people. It was a new experience to be with a group of mostly non-Catholics and senior people (majority 65 and above), but I enjoyed the fellowship and the journey too.
I did not contact or inform any of my friends in KK of my visit due to the tight schedule. My apology to Agnes, Raymond and also Peter Kuan whom have tried to contact me.
We left KK in the evening with the beautiful sunset at the far horizon. Not to my suprise, Air Asia flight was delayed 35 minutes.
(Video on Youtube 2:50)
Our own tour co-ordinator Mrs Lee with a chocolate man我们的协调员李太，和巧各力人合照
我们这趟亚庇之旅，是一个探险，也是一个历险的体验。
对许多第一次来到团友们，这的确是一个从未有过的探险。旅游社的行程，很用心思的给恰当安排，住宿舒适，餐食也非常丰富及别致，如早餐“任你吃”点心，牛腩及鱼滑面等就是很好的例子。
对许多第一次来到团友们，这的确是一个从未有过的探险。旅游社的行程，很用心思的给恰当安排，住宿舒适，餐食也非常丰富及别致，如早餐“任你吃”点心，牛腩及鱼滑面等就是很好的例子。
但很遗憾的，就是阿琼在巴士上，背部受伤，确是一个从没料到的历险事故。值得安慰的是，她回来后，虽然手部肌肉有点紧绷及麻痹，但还算是慢慢的有进展。医生说完全的康复，需要至少三个月的时间。
我在不同的活动，与不同的人到过亚庇好多次了。这次可算是一个不同的体验，因为是和大部分都是非教友的年长者同行（大部分65岁以上），但我仍然很享受这次的旅游及情谊。
我感到很抱歉的是我这趟行程，因为非常紧凑，所以没有联络在亚庇的朋友。我要向惠琼姐，Raymond 及关少云兄弟说声对不起及感谢，因为他们都尝试联络我见见面。
我们在傍晚的美丽夕阳中，离开了亚庇。意料之中的，亚航班级延迟了35 分钟。
(录影Youtube 2：50)
Happy memory of the Land below the wind风下之乡，留下美好的回忆
Something about our faith
It is Praying Catholic Vs Thinking Catholic !
Vatican defends excommunication for 'raped' nine-year-old girl's abortion.(From The Age, Australia)
- March 8, 2009
A senior Vatican cleric has defended the excommunication of the mother and doctors of a nine-year-old girl who had an abortion in Brazil after allegedly being raped by her stepfather.
Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, head of the Catholic church's Congregation for Bishops, told the daily La Stampa on Saturday that the twins the girl had been carrying had a right to live.
"It is a sad case but the real problem is that the twins conceived were two innocent persons, who had the right to live and could not be eliminated," he said.
Re, who also heads the Pontifical Commission for Latin America, added: "Life must always be protected, the attack on the Brazilian church is unjustified."
The row was triggered by the termination on Wednesday of twin fetuses carried by a nine-year-old allegedly raped by her stepfather in the Brazilian state of Pernambuco.
The regional archbishop, Jose Cardoso Sobrinho, pronounced excommunication for the mother for authorising the operation and doctors who carried it out for fear that the slim girl would not survive carrying the fetuses to term.
"God's law is above any human law. So when a human law ... is contrary to God's law, this human law has no value," Cardoso had said.
He also said the accused stepfather would not be expelled from the church. Although the man allegedly committed "a heinous crime ... the abortion - the elimination of an innocent life - was more serious".
Battista Re agreed, saying: "Excommunication for those who carried out the abortion is just" as a pregnancy termination always meant ending an innocent life.
The case has sparked fierce debate in Brazil, where abortion is illegal except in cases of rape or if the woman's health is in danger.
On Friday, President Luiz Ignacio Lula da Silva hit out at Sobrinho's decision, saying: "As a Christian and a Catholic, I deeply regret that a bishop of the Catholic church has such a conservative attitude."
"The doctors did what had to be done: save the life of a girl of nine years old," he said, adding that "in this case, the medical profession was more right than the church."
One of the doctors involved in the abortion, Rivaldo Albuquerque, told Globo television that he would keep going to mass, regardless of the archbishop's order.
"The people want a church full of forgiveness, love and mercy," he said.
Health Minister Jose Gomes Temporao also slammed the archbishop.
"Two things strike me: the assault on the girl and the position of this bishop, which is truly lamentable," he said.
The girl, who was not identified because she is a minor, was last week found to be four months' pregnant after being taken to hospital suffering stomach pains.
Officials said she told them she had suffered sexual abuse by her stepfather since the age of six.
Police said the 23-year-old stepfather also allegedly sexually abused the girl's physically handicapped 14-year-old sister.
He was arrested a week ago and is being kept in protective custody. If convicted, he faces up to 15 years in prison.
The website of the news group Globo reported that another girl, aged 11, had been found to be seven months pregnant following alleged sexual abuse at the hands of her adoptive father.
The girl has said she does not intend to seek an abortion, according to reports.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Kota Kinabalu adventure 亚庇探险 （4 ）
We were moving up to the mountain, the high point of our KK adventure.
On the third day, we had the opportunity to taste the best beef and fish ball noodles in town before leaving for Mt. Kinabalu Zen Resort.
The resort we were staying has a good view of Mt. Kinabalu. But due to cloudy weather, we were not able to see the full view of the mountain top.
The visit to Poring Hot Spring was the most fantastic part of the trip. Many of us, including an eighty years old member, climb up the trail to reach the canopy walk. It was a fantastic experience.
(Video to Mt KK and Poring Hot Spring on Youtube 3:30)
我们将前往山区，这是我们亚庇探险旅游的高潮。
在第三天，没有出发前，我们品尝了亚庇出名的牛腩牛筋 、鱼滑面。
我们住进昆达山的禅园度假村。这里的环境优美，可以看到神山。可惜的是，在早上，因为 天气不好，多云，所以我们不能看到神山的全貌。
去保林温泉是最刺激的活动。许多团友，包括一位八十高龄的团友，不辞辛苦，走上山道，抵达离开地面三十多米的索桥。这是一个非常珍贵的体验。 (神山录影Youtube 3:30)
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