Those who sow in tears will reap in joy - so says Psalm 126. the sackcloth of ashes is exchanged for a crown of beauty and glory, and hope persists despite the sheer logical hopelessless of situations. if not for God I'm afraid I would have given up somewhat.

but His voice tremors in the stillness of nights, saying 'why are you downcast, O my soul? why so disturbed? put your hope in God' (psalm 42-3).

and truly enough, as the dark cloud passes over there's finally a recognition that times of sheer weakness are not times of regression, but times of further purification and sanctification as when silver is purged of dross in the infernal fire. sometimes there's a constant bouncing to and from a state of goodness to that of lousy-ness... but therein an awareness of the need for God is constantly renewed and heightened. I hope, I only hope that in the light of coming challenges... my strength in God will grow. 'lead me Lord, to the ground that is higher than I'.

sang last Friday at the songwriters showcase and it was unbelievable for the fact that there were so many screwups but God's power manifested nevertheless, or rather, through those screwups. the encouragements and affirmations from people were profuse, and it's exciting to see what God will be leading me onto next. :) fragments of a once-impossible dream coming together?

currently in between things. finished my dissertation and have yet to start work, so I'm taking advantage of this time to 1) slack, 2) read more, 3) clear my room and finally unpack those boxes. Besides the first I think the rest still need a lot more work. But I'm happy. :)

I haven't even started work and I need a beach getaway holiday! going to sentosa tomorrow, yay. that's about the closest I can get to a getaway island holiday in light of the dismal figures in my bank account. Pound, O Pound, why aren't you up?
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