Lessons learnt from the 'wilderness'

10 lessons learnt from my sojourn in the ‘wilderness’ (a.k.a. Diamond Cove) before I embark on another chapter of my life....

1. There is so much joy to be derived from simple pleasures in life

A simple walk around the green grassy compound in the hospital can be interesting and calming. Even kite-flying can be fun when we see how little children and adults alike try to lift their kites in the sky and work so hard to keep them up.

2. Solitude is not a scary word

There are so many things to be done when we are by ourselves: blogging, playing music, reading, cooking, gardening. We are never alone when God is with us anyway :-)


3. Long-distance traveling alone is a very reflective and deep time

Each trip brings different memories and experiences that form this kaleidoscope of life. Although single-person trips will be cut drastically due to the rise in petrol price, I guess it was good while it lasted...


4. Life in a small-town can be difficult initially but we learn to be self-dependent and God-dependent

When we grow up, we have to assume responsibilities for our own lives and with limited resources in a small town, we learn to improvise and provide for ourselves. Not only that, there is just so much of time in communion with our Lord due to the quietness.



5. Racial lines can be blurred when we are willing to bridge our differences

This is what being Malaysian all about…we appreciate each other’s culture and enjoy our differences and yet respect and continue to practise what our forefather’s taught us


6. Everyone can keep in touch via the Internet, especially with facebook, blogging and chats

This current generation has the most impactful, explosive, life-changing media that knows no boundaries and censorship..it’s a double-edged sword


7. Walking to work in the morning in the mist before the ray of sunlight burst through the clouds can be the most evocative, dramatic and surprising experience

Being eco-friendly is part of life..if we don’t love the nature, how do we sustain life on earth for long?



8. An easy-going group of working colleagues means life is less complicated and work more efficient and pleasant

This is only applicable if we have understanding and responsible bosses who nurture our growth and trust us when we are capable and trustworthy, which I am glad that it’s found here in the surgical department


9. People come and go very fast

Another reality in life that I begin to accept as farewells became more frequent. We have to say goodbyes in life but that doesn’t mean that the friendship ends.


10. Changes are inevitable

Change is a constant in life. As I surrendered my transfer form and place it in God’s hands, I pray that I am making a worthwhile decision for my future.