they played in the garden and the dog jumped up and attacked one of the numerous pigeons which belonged to the neighbour.
the pigeon was injured but did not die.
the neighbour was angry and threatened to shoot the dog should it happen again.

it frightened the children because how the dog behaved wasn't entirely under their control. and they were scared for their dog.

the next day around the same time, mummy went to the garden. knowing that their neighbour would be tending to his numerous pigeons.
she took up her gun. aimed and shot. she then reloaded and did it again.

no one frightens her children.


-from Mad Men. Season 1.

Tuesday is just like any other work day. And i have a pile to clear. Someone sent me a bouquet and i have to go get it from the mail room.

I hold the flowers in my hand, barely grasping due to the thickness of the bunch. White lilies. When i was a kid, i'd think to myself that the man of my dreams would present me with a bunch of white lilies and I'll be very touched. U know, that kinda mini daydreams.

Sunday was my birthday. And i took Monday off to relax, do something for myself. And I was expecting the "special-ness" of the day to have worn off by Tuesday. But as i held the lilies, yea, i have to say, that makes me feel kinda special.

I hurried back to my seat in the office, abashed at the pretty bunch that was catching a lot of attention. The first thing i did was to put it where i can see it, yet not be so obvious that everyone would ask me about it. Then i opened the card. It said this: "Cheryl dearest, you're deeply loved".

I beam to myself and left the card open on my desk. So that i can glance over now and then and repeat the whole 'smile-to-myself' thing. Suddenly the day felt a bit lighter. I didn't become smarter i'm sure but the work seemed more manageable. Probably because it didn't seem to matter so much if i failed or something. I am loved, you see.

Then i thought about You. And how You said that when i comprehend the breadth and length and height and depth of Your love, I am more than a conquerer. Today i received flowers from a few very dear friends and i felt on top of things. Like i can handle it all. Everyday i receive Your love. Grace that renders me perfect. Love that makes You want to give me the world. Love that makes You ache when i hurt.

Today i caught a fraction of a glimpse of that Love. While it's still beyond my simple understanding, it gave me a taste of that sustenance. No wonder You say i'm more than a conquerer. The careless grin i can wear and the confidence that i can feel. Perhaps should i know better, my face would crack from the smiling and my head dizzy from the mere idea. Of Your Love for me.

My day

Today's sermon was awesome awesome stuff. the worship was awesome awesome too. I think i'm starting to get the hang of things.

i'l let on the details later. i'm SO tired.

M called from Switzerland today. Just to check in. I'm inspired by her courage and strength. Going so far away to study. even thinking about finding work there.

before hanging up, i told her to keep warm. And she told me it has just started to snow. then she told me about flowers. i ask her u mean there are flowers in winter? she says yes. and that's how nature is inspiring.

and it's at that precise moment i know it's God. telling me in sunny Singapore about His creation over in Switzerland. it's winter,


Flowers in winter. what a pretty sight.