SmileBy Ü

Remembrance by Matt Maher and Matt Redman

2012-10-29T16:21:00.001+08:00

Communion has always been special to me since I was baptized at our church long ago. It never fails to draw a picture in my mind of what Jesus did for me. I picture his pain and suffering and I can visualize him still hanging in there and not letting go of the wooden cross despite the tremendous shame and agony.

Yet today as I come into communion, the partaking of the bread and wine, I am invited once again to renew my commitment to Him that I will live for Him just as He came to save sinners just like me.

Here is a song by Matt Maher and Matt Redman about remembering what Christ did for us.

Here are the lyrics to the song:

Verse 1:
Oh, how could it be
That my God would welcome me
Into this mystery.
Say 'eat this bread, take this wine'
Now the simple made divine
For any to receive.

Bridge:
By your mercy, we come to your table,
By your grace you are making us faithful

Chorus:
Lord, we remember You,
And remembrance leads us to worship,
And as we worship You,
Our worship leads to communion;
We respond to your invitation.
We remember You.

Verse 2:
See his body, his blood,
Know that he has overcome
Every trial we will face.
None too lost to be found,
None too broken or ashamed,
All are welcomed in this place.

Here's the mp3 version:

Here's the Youtube version:

Let us continue to remember him everyday of our God-given lives!

Korea: My Inspiration (^.^) ♥

2012-09-14T16:10:00.001+08:00

A friend of mine posted in her blog about this contest by KTO (Korean Tourism Organization) and Korean Air.

I have never been an avid fan of travel before, but as my resolution this year... I've decided to travel the world as much as I can given the oportunity! :) (Like this one)

But wait there's a problem... I have never been to Korea and therefore I don't know what to expect. All I know about Korea are bits and pieces of their fashion sense, their great food and music and their koreanovelas (Korean series which are a hit here in the Philippines!)

I want to know more so I asked friends and family to help me compile a list of things to do in Korea. I hope you enjoy my list as I have enjoyed understanding more about Korea, it's culture and history and it's people. (I have shortened the list to 5 to be realistically achievable and to be simple yet straight forward)

TOP 5 THINGS to DO:

1. Visit famous landmarks

Based from what I've gathered, I definitely want to go to a mixture of traditional and modern landmarks.

Changdeokgung Palace, Injeongjeon

On top of my traditional landmarks to go is the Changdeokgung Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, that was build in harmony with nature. A prominent structure that was integrated with its natural settings that is why it is surrounded by several gardens.

N Seoul Tower

The top pick for the modern landmark to go is the N. Seoul Tower. I am excited just thinking I could ride the cable car to get over to the tower. I imagine being on the observation deck then going down to eat at the revolving restaurant.

Banpo Bridge rainbow fountain over the Han River

Last but not least, the Hangang River. I want to have cruise here while enjoying the scenic routes in Seoul though that might not be possible due to conflicts. But still it is a great place to visit especially seeing the rainbow fountain of Banpo Bridge.

Such awesome spectacles that will leave an indelible mark in me!

2. Immerse myself in Jeju Island

I want to experience how it is to live in this island. I imagine myself going on a morning hikes, or visiting the Manjang cave and the Manjanggul lava tube, or even just stroll through the peaceful and calm forest that is sanctuary to various flora and fauna. I also want to visit it's famous Jeju statue park and have lots and lots of pictures with these statues!

The fresh air, the magnificent scenic views, relaxing environment and rich cultural heritage are just a few perks to this place. That's JEJU for YOU!

3. Try out being a K-Pop star

Being a singer in church has often challenged me especially writing original lyrics and composing new melodies. I have this gut feel that maybe a change in environment will greatly help me in writing new and more meaningful songs after interacting with different people and surroundings.

I have heard several K-Pop songs here in the Philippines from groups like Super Junior and the like, but I am more of a melodramtic Korean drama song-type of guy. I really, really loved Winter Sonata and the 49 Days and the music was so beautiful... it just enhanced the whole story line. (It made me even cry at certain points in the story)

If given a chance, I would definitely go for the K-Pop challange even though I have not a single clue about the language (of course with proper guidance hehe). As a singer, it is a challenge worth trying! (Aja!)

Here's a link to a post here in my blog regarding 49 OST song Scarecrow: 허수아비

4. Eat, eat and eat some more!

Jap chae

Bibimbap

Ah, Korean food! Being a Chinese in the Philippines, my family and I are very particular when it comes to food. We are picky eaters but when it comes to Korean food, somehow we all get along fine.

My family has often gone to Ye Dang (a Korean restaurant here in the Philippines) to satisfy our Korean food cravings. Imagine if I were able to smell the aroma and taste authentic Korean dishes like kimchi and bibimbap. Oh the sumptuous seafood pajeon that I really like (sometimes I order two because one is just not enough!) Give me some of that Korean bulgogi and Jap chae.

Kimchi

Seafood pajeon

Ok, I am literally hungry right now. :) Imagine if I can learn how to make these then everyday, my family and I can enjoy a bit of Korean cuisine whenever we feel like it.

5. S-H-O-P-P-I-N-G!!!

Dongdaemun Market

Shopping and souvenirs... I am not a shop-a-holic but once in a while I splurge on things especially things that I deem necessary or worth it. I value memories and relationships that is why I am not forgetful of people who are close to me.

I've heard that Korea has great markets where I can buy souvenirs. The Namdaemun and Dongdaemun Markets have a great selection from traditional souvenirs to the newer ones. Maybe I can try out traditional Korean clothes here too!

I simply and will not leave Korea without contributing to their economy hehe. Just another way of saying, I need to buy pasalubong (souvenirs) for family and friends. I guess, in a way, that's what tourism is all about - being able to showcase a country through its tourist destinations and culture (fashion, heritage, music, food, etc.) and bringing in business that will help the economy of the country. And that's basically the job of KTO - promoting Korea to people around the world.

KOREA. I believe this is an experience worth investing it... an experience worth writing about! Wow! Without even visiting and just researching about it, I am slowly but surely falling it love with you! What more if I am able to personally experience and document my adventures there in your country! ;)

Give me this opportunity to be part of promoting your country!

I made this acronym to always remind me of my inspiration.... KOREA being inspired. (Keep on remembering everyday about being inspired!)

All pictures courtesy of Wikipedia.

More Than Words by ThePianoGuys and J Rice

2012-08-24T01:22:00.000+08:00

Hah. Another classic from my generation. This is what my "research" from Wikipedia led me to discover...

"More Than Words" is a ballad written and originally performed by the rock band Extreme. It is built around acoustic guitar work by Nuno Bettencourt and the vocals of Gary Cherone (with harmony vocals from Bettencourt). Released in 1990 on the album Extreme II: Pornograffiti, the song marked a departure from the funk metal that had permeated the band's style previous to its release.

The song was described by Bettencourt as a song warning that the phrase "I love you" was becoming meaningless: "People use it so easily and so lightly that they think you can say that and fix everything, or you can say that and everything's OK. Sometimes you have to do more and you have to show it – there's other ways to say 'I love you.'"

From my childhood days since it was released and popularized by many artist like Westlife, I find this version very amusing since it has adapted a classical background to the song. Hey you know what... this is a classic for me so join me in singing this song if you were born during the late 80's or 90's. :)

That "cellotar" was a great addition to the collboration of two great artists and to great genre of music.

Here are the lyrics:

Saying that I love you
Is not the words I want to hear from you
It's not that I want you
Not to say, but if you only knew
How easy it would be to show me how you feel
More than words is all you have to do to make it real
Then you wouldn't have to say that you love me
'Coz I'd already know

What would you do if my heart was torn in two
More than words to show you feel that your love for me is real
What would you say if I took those words away
Then you couldn't make things new just by saying I love you
More than words

Now I've tried to talk to you and make you understand
All you have to do is close your eyes
And reach out your hands and touch me
Hold me close don't ever let me go
More than words is all I ever needed you to show
Then you wouldn't have to say that you love me
'Coz I'd already know
More than words
More than words

Here is the mp3 version:

Here is the Youtube version:

Another amazing video featuring the song and some artistic drawing :)

Hope your "I luv u's" are more than just words coming out of your mouths, but words coming out of your hearts! Don't just say it! Do it!

Pour My Love On You by Phillips, Craig and Dean from Let My Words Be Few

2012-07-17T12:52:00.004+08:00

Last Holy Week, I was rummaging my song books to find a song to sing at our family retreat. I didn't know there were so many good songs that I wasn't listening to. So what I did was to find the song in Youtube to hear the generally feel and melody (since I have the pieces anyway.) One of the songs that I heard was this song "Pour Out My Love On You." I immediately developed a love for this song since it talks about loving our God to the extent of our abilities.

I recall in the book of Matthew the story of the woman who had a precious and expensive perfume in her possession. And yet when she had an encounter with Jesus, she was willing to break the perfume bottle and pour out the contents on Him. Other people saw her action as very rash and not prudent. They thought why waste such a good and perfect bottle of perfume when it could buy food to feed the poor. But Jesus replied, "She has done a good thing for me... and wherever this gospel is preached, what this woman had done will be spoken in memory of her."

Here's the lyrics of the song:

Verse:
I don't know how to say exactly how I feel
And I can't begin to tell you what your love has meant
I'm lost for words
Is there a way to show the passion in my heart
Can I express how truly great I think you are
My dearest friend
Lord this is my desire
To pour my love on you
Chorus:
Like oil upon your feet
Like wine for you to drink
Like water from my heart
I pour my love on you
With praises like the perfume
I lavish mine on you
Till every drop is gone
I pour my love on you
Is there a way to show the passion in my heart
Can I express how truly great I think you are
My dearest friend Lord this is my desire
To pour my love on you
Repeat Chorus
Here's the mp3 version:

:

Here's the Youtube version:

Hope you can show your love for God in your own way!

就在這裡 by 泥土音樂 from album 就在這裡

2012-06-01T14:48:00.004+08:00

I was pondering what song to do for prelude last Sunday when it hit me... right there and then Amy Sand's song played in my iPhone. The song's title is 就在這裡 (Right Here). I was really listening to the music... not only the tune and melody but also the lyrics and the realness of the singer.

Anyway as a priase leader, we were required to show an example on how to quiet down before the worship service starts... so the congregation can go back to their seats and quiet down in preparation for worship. As I prepare to go up the stage and sing the prelude, I felt nervousness in my stomach. I remember how my good friend Rev. Harg Ang would say "Here you go God" before going up the pulpit everytime he gave his sermon. So I did the same.

I can't really explain what I felt when I sang this song... it was as if the peace of God came upon me! I started to close my eyes and sing very quietly the verse and chorus. I now understood what my friend meant by that statement. When we shift our focus from ourselves to God, all things work together for them. In this case, I felt calm and more confident to come boldly before the throne of grace.

Afterwhich, the piano played an interlude and visions of imagery filled my mind. I imagined God smiling on this little church and very well pleased that we came there to seek him and praise him.

After the interlude, I sang again the verse and the chorus to which I sang differently because I know that it is not about me, it is about God. People did not come here to see me or hear me sing, they came here to worship God and be blessed by the sermon.

Right here, right now, we want to worship God!

Here's a link to a free piano sheet from claymusic.org: 就在這裡.pdf

Here are the lyrics to the song:

最好的時刻, 最美的地方, (The best moment, the best place...)
就是現在, 就在這裡. (Is now... Is right here...)
因這裡有祢, 有祢的同在, (Because your presence is here)
吸引我, 不願離開. (It draws me to never leave)

就在這裡, 我要尋求祢, (Right here, I will seek you)
懇求聖靈, 翩然地降臨, (O Holy Spirit, lightly come down)
如波浪洪濤漫過我身, (Like big waves flowing over my body)
無比榮耀, 充滿全地. (Your incomparable glory fills the earth)
在這裡, 我要敬拜祢, (Right here, I will worship you)
全心全意, 歸榮耀給祢. (With all my heart and will, all glory to you)
這一刻, 在地如在天. (In this moment, it's like heaven on earth)
這裡有祢, 勝過萬有, (You are here, surpassing all things)
別無所求. (I ask for nothing else)

Here's the mp3 version:

Here's the Youtube version:

Here's the live version:

無論你在那裡, 此時此刻, 就可以來敬拜祂!

May I Live by Byron Lim

2012-05-26T08:42:00.001+08:00

This song is very personal as it seeks to evaluate a person's life. At the start of the song, the person is acknowledging that He can only live because God allows it and that he'll try to live for Him. At the end, he's saying that hopefully, all his actions, thoughts, words - life - brought God the glory and pleased Him.

Verse 1:

Another day is here, another day brand new.
So I praise You for the work that I’ll do.
Another day is dawning, another day to live.
Whatever You choose to give me I’ll gladly receive.

Chorus:

And may I live my life according to Your will.
And may my thoughts be pleasing Lord to You.
And may my words reflect the beauty of Your presence.
May my actions bring glory to You.

Verse 2:

Another day is through, another day is gone.
And I thank You Lord for what You have done.
Another day is over, another day has passed.
Only what is done for Christ will truly last.

Ending:

O have I lived my life according to Your will?
And are my thoughts all pleasing Lord to You?
And do my words reflect the beauty of Your presence?
Did my actions bring glory to You?
Do my words bring glory to You?
Are my thoughts all pleasing to You, O Lord?
Is my life bringing glory to You?

How am I living daily as a Christian?

Eyes on Me by Faye Wong from Final Fantasy VIII

2012-04-24T11:03:00.001+08:00

Definitely one of the most loved games of all time... the Final Fantasy Series. And out of all the Final Fantasy series, I would still say that FFVIII definitely was the most memorable... not only due to the characters and the plot and the summons (or what they call GFs) at that time, but also because of the music that accompanied the FFVIII story line.

One such song is the theme song of the game... it is called "Eyes On Me" sung by Faye Wong. This song is very nostalgic to me since I remember the scenes playing in my mind as if I was there in the game with the characters. Laguna Loire was a soldier who had trouble approaching the ladies. He had a crush on one particular lounge singer named Julia Heartilly. This was the song sang by Julia on that fateful night when they first met and talked with each other.

You could say that this truly was love at first sight. But who saw who first? Did Julia ever shyly looked at Laguna when she was performing this song? Or did Laguna take those long and meaningful looks at her? Irregardless, we know that this song is a manifestation of feelings that have been kept for so long. It is just sad that though they were probably meant for each other, they didn't end up together.

Well here's Eyes On Me:

Whenever sang my songs
On the stage, on my own
Whenever said my words
Wishing they would be heard
I saw you smiling at me
Was is it real or just my fantasy
You'd always be there in the corner
Of this tiny little bar

My last night here for you
Same old songs, just once more
My last night here for you
Maybe yes, maybe no
I kind of liked it your way
How you shyly placed your eyes on me
Oh, did you ever know
That I had mine on you

Darling, so there you are
With that look on your face
As if you're never hurt
As if you're never down
Shall I be the one for you
Who pinches you softly but sure
If frown is shown then
I will know that you are no dreamer

So let me come to you
Close as I want to be
Close enough for me
To feel your heart beating fast
And stay there as I whisper
How I loved your peaceful eyes on me
Did you ever know
That I had mine on you.

Darling, so share with me
Your love if you have enough
Your tears if you're holding back
Or pain if that's what it is
How can I let you know
I'm more than the dress and the voice
Just reach me out then
You will know that you're not dreaming

Darling, so there you are
With that look on your face
As if you're never hurt
As if you're never down
Shall I be the one for you
Who pinches you softly but sure
If frown is shown then
I will know that you are no dreamer

Here's the mp3 version:

Here's the live version:

Here is a more direct kind of "Eyes on Me" by Angela Aki:

The story didn't end in tradegy coz' Julia's daughter (Rinoa) and Laguna's son (Squall) eventually ended up together :)

脚步 by 泥土音樂 from album 脚步

2012-04-03T01:59:00.002+08:00

Hello once again. Late last year, a Praise and Worship leader in our church introduced this song. At first I couldn't get into it since it is not the typical 讚美之泉 (Stream of Praise) song. I've left it off until we sang it again this year. Bugged by my curiosity, I finally researched about the song and the group that sang it. It is a group called 泥土音樂 (Clay Music). I copied their story from their website below:

Clay Music is a non-profit organization incorporated in California, in January 2004. Our mission is to preach the love of Jesus through music.

When I needed to pick a name for this ministry, I felt clueless for a few days. The album was merely a response to God’s grace, with no specific vision at the beginning. I remember blaming myself for not understanding exactly what God wanted to use us for, and feeling guilty that I could not come up with a name to tell people about this ministry. Then one day, as I read Jeremiah 18:6, “…Like clay in the hand of the potter, so are you in my hand….” I immediately found comfort in God’s words and realized what we were…clay in His hands!

This ministry is just a piece of clay in the Potter’s hands. How is clay supposed to know what vessel the Potter will mold it into? Clay has no right to decide for the Potter, only the willingness to obey! So, I gladly named this ministry “Clay Music”. My prayer is very specific: May God’s will be done in Clay Music!

~ Amy Sand, founder of Clay Music ~

Indeed, amen! I agree to their story as I am a songwriter myself. Initially, I write songs for my own, but God used it somehow to touch people and bring them to him. The song talks about walking with God. Although at times it is hard to follow with God's step, he gives us the faith and strength to continue to follow him.

Here is Clay Music's 脚步 (Footsteps)

祢的脚步带着我的脚步 (As I follow in you footsteps)
一步一步都有祝福 (Every step brings its blessings)
每个脚步我要紧紧跟随 (I will follow ever so closely)
走在蒙福的道路 (And walk upon the blessed path)

求给我更多的勇气 (Give me more courage)
给我更多的信心 (Grant me more faith)
让我勇敢踏出 (That I may bravely take the step)
跟随祢的脚步 (To follow where You lead)
跟祢行在水面上 (Be it on water)
跟祢走在旷野地 (Or through a desert path)
曲曲折折我也不在乎 (I will take each step with no regrets)

我只要更多信靠祢 (All I have to do)
只要更多顺服祢 (Is trust and obey You more)
凡是出于祢的 (Everything that comes from You)
我就默然不语 (I willingly accept)
就算经过黑暗谷 (Even the dark valleys)
就算遇到暴风雨 (And the fierce storms)
在祢手中都将变成祝福 (Will turn into blessings in Your hands)

Here's the mp3 version:

Here's the Youtube version:

Here's the live version:

I hope that each footstep you take will lead you closer and closer to God!

Lamb Over Me by Byron Lim

2012-03-26T00:05:00.000+08:00

The idea of this song came from the Chinese word for righteous (義). Literally speaking, it is the Chinese character for Lamb (羊) on top of the Chinese word for Me (我). This word has a powerful message indeed. Jesus died for us as a Sacrificial Lamb, but He rose again and reigns on high. Now and forever, He will be the one who makes my day, the Lamb over me!

I am blessed that God used this song... that God used someone like me who doesn't even know much about music... to save someone after hearing it during Shalom G2's evangelistic concert. All praise be to God!

Verse 1:
Jesus, You are God’s precious Son
You came to earth for me
Jesus, You are the Sacrifice –
Who bore my sins,
Who took my place,
Who died on the cross for me.

Chorus:
You’re the Lamb who paid the price
Yet you are holy and without sin
You're the Love sent from above
To cleanse us wholly within.
So I ask you now…
be the Lamb over me.

Verse 2:
Jesus, You are better than gold
Your worth is greater to me.
Jesus, You are the morning star –
Who brightens my day,
Who brings me to say,
“I’ll be devoted to You!”

Chorus:

Ending:
Jesus, You are God’s precious Son
Jesus, You are the Sacrifice
Jesus, You are better than gold
Jesus, you are the morning star
Jesus, You are the Lamb over me.

Here's the mp3 version:

By the way, that's me singing solo with our church's acapella group Shalom G2. This was arranged by our very own Pastor Hensie Reyes. We will be doing a proper recording of this song for our church's 40th anniversary!

Broken Vow by G4 from album G4

2012-03-06T02:25:00.002+08:00

My search for the origins of popera (pop opera) drove me to find a group of talented British lads who entered the X Factor talent show in UK. This group called themselves G4 and sang good songs in harmony. They did not win that year's top spot and yet this group moved on to release 3 great albums full of great harmony songs. I could firmly say that before Il Divo was G4 and I'm glad, that although they are now debunked, their songs still remain.

One of such songs is Broken Vow... made famous by Lara Fabian... a song that was used in the Chinovela "Meteor Garden". Anyway, it is a song of release and letting go. I'm in this stage where I am ready to let go and yet time and time again, visions of past blast through dreams and even in reality when I see the person that I had loved. It really is hard to move on but life must go on.

Here's the lyrics:

Tell me his name I want to know
The way he looks and where you go
I need to see his face; I need to understand
Why you and I came to an end

Tell me again I want to hear
Who broke my faith in all these years
Who lays with you at night when I'm here all alone
Remembering when I was your own

[Chorus]
I let you go, I let you fly
Why do I keep on asking why
I let you go now that I found
A way to keep somehow
More than a broken vow

Tell me the words I never said
Show me the tears your never shed
Give me the touch that one you promised to be mine
Or has it vanished for all time

[Chorus]

[Bridge]
I close my eyes and dream of you and I
And then I realize
There's more to love than only bitterness and lies
I close my eyes

I'd give away my soul
To hold you once again
And never let this promise end

[Modified Chorus]
I let you go, I let you fly
Now that I know I'm asking why
I let you go now that I found
A way to keep somehow
More than a broken vow

Here's the mp3 version:

Here's the Meteor Garden Youtube version: (sung by Lara Fabian)

Here's the G4 Youtube version: (Can't find a whole song video... only part of it)

We let go and forgive, but we never forget 'cause it is a part of us...

恋ごころ by 菅崎茜

2012-02-21T17:17:00.002+08:00

Sorry it me a long time to post here. Anyway here's something new for you guys reading... especially if you are into anime.

The song I'm posting here is called Koigoko meaning Sincere Love. It is sung by Akane Sugazaki. It was also used as the 1st Ending theme song for the Anime Detective Scool Q or Tantei Gakuen Q. I really love crime / detective / mystery themed movies, animes, etc. anything that has crime busting in it, I love it :) I fell in love with this anime when I was still in high school because of how the main characters are five children, but by combining their power of logic, photgraphic memory, analysis, strength and technology... they are able to capture the bad guys!

Here's the lyrics: (Kanji, English translation, Romaji)

遠くまで続いてる雲の流れをながめては
(I continued watching the flow of the clouds)
tooku made tsudzuiteru kumo no nagare wo nagamete wa

君の前で泣けなくて口笛を吹いてる
(Unable to cry in front of you, I'm whistling instead)
kimi no mae de nakenakute kuchibue wo fuiteru

「いつまでもそばにいて」とひとことが言えなくて
(Saying "I'll always be beside you" without even saying a single word)
"Itsumademo soba ni ite" to hitokoto ga ienakute

あふれてく恋ごころよせつない想いは
(My loving heart is overflowing; My sad thoughts...)
Afureteku koigokoro yo setsunai omoi wa

気づかれぬように宙に消えようとして
(Are things that fade away unnoticed in midair.)
Kidzukarenu you ni chuu ni kieyou to shite

そしてまたホッとするようなせいいっぱいの笑顔で
(And again with a mighty smile of relief)
Soshite mata hotto suru you na seiippai no egao de

君を見送るよさよならアリガトウ
(I will see you off; Goodbye and thank you)
Kimi wo miokuru yo sayonara arigatou

それぞれのこれからはどんなふうになっていくのかな?
(I wonder what our future will be like?)
Sorezore no kore kara was= donna fuu ni natte yuku no kana?

そんなことを考えて夕暮れを待ってる
(I think about these sort of things as I'm waiting for the twilight)
Sonna koto wo kangaete yuugure wo matteru

いつかまたきっと会えると信じてみたいけれど
(I want to believe that we'll meet again one day, but...)
Itsuka mata kitto aeru to shinjite mitai keredo

ふるえてる恋ごころよ悲しき別れは
(Oh, my trembling love; A sad goodbye was...)
furueteru koigokoro yo kanashiki wakare ha

始まりの日からとうに近づいていた
(Already close at hand the day we first met)
Hajimari no hi kara tou ni chikadzuite ita

君とここにいれることがわかりあうことが
(Me, being able to be here with you and us, understanding each other...)
Kimi to koko ni ireba koto ga wakariau koto ga

うれしくてこわかったよ
(Has made me happy and sad)
Ureshikute kowakatta yo

誰にも話せないこんな秘密を
(I can't tell this kind of secret to anyone)
Dare ni mo hanasenai konna himitsu wo

心の奥に隠したまま育てていきたくて
(It's shut away in my heart; I want to hold it)
Kokoro no oku ni kakushita mama sodatete ikitakute

恋ごころよかなわぬ想いよ
(Oh my love, oh this unbearable feeling)
Koigokoro yo kanawanu omoi yo

生まれて初めてこうもひとを好きになり
(This is the first time to love a person this much since I was born)
Umarete hajimete kou mo hito wo suki ni nari

君がまだずっといるようなまぼろしを今も
(Even now, I feel this illusion in my heart...)
Kimi ga mada zutti iru you na maboroshi wo ima mo

胸に感じているよ
(That you will be always here)
Mune ni kanjite iru yo

La la la... 恋ごころよ朱くなる空よ
(La la la... Oh my love, oh red sky)
La la la... koigokoro yo aku naru sora yo

やがて雲は切れ夕闇につつまれ
(At last the clouds part and are enveloped by the twilight)
Yagate kumo wa kire yuuyami ni tsutsumare

明日はまたやってくるけど
(Tomorrow will come again, but...)
Asu wa mata yatte kuru kedo

君がいない町は少し広すぎるよ
(Without you, it's a little vast for me)
Kimi ga inai machi wa sukoshi hirosugiru yo

「もう一度あいたい…」
("I want to see you again...")
"Mou ichido aitai..."

Here's the mp3 version:

Here's the Youtube version: (live and anime)

I hope you'll like this song too!

我只在乎你 by 成龍 and 鄧麗君 from 真的, 用了心

2012-02-05T00:24:00.007+08:00

Who does not know the name Jackie Chan? He is well known for his action packed movies, his incredible stunts and his charms. But little did we know that he also sings. This is one of my favorite songs of his... not only because of the meaning of the song, but also because he sings this with famous singer Teresa Teng.

Well, by this time, Teresa Teng was already dead, but through technology, the video was made possible, the new arrangement was also done. I think a new verse was also added to be specifically sung by Jackie. Anyway, this is "I Only Care About You."

Here's the lyrics of the song: (Chinese, pin yin and English translation)

鄧麗君 (Teresa Teng)
如果没有遇见你 (If I do not meet you,)
rú guǒ méi yǒu yù jiàn nǐ

我将会是在哪里 (Where will I be?)
wǒ jiāng huì shì zài nǎ lǐ

日子过得怎么样 (How will I complete my day?)
rì zǐ guò dé zěn me yàng

人生是否要珍惜 (Will I treasure life?)
rén shēng shì fǒu yào zhēn xī

成龍 (Jackie Chan)
通往平静的天梯 (On the ladder leading to peace,)
tōng wǎng píng jìng de tiān tī

是你最美的声音 (Is your beautiful voice.)
shì nǐ zuì měi de shēng yīn

让天空都放晴 (Let the sky be clear,)
ràng tiān kōng dōu fàng qíng

就让世界更光明 (Let the world be brighter.)
jiù ràng shì jiè gèng guāng míng

鄧麗君 (Teresa Teng)
任时光匆匆流去我只在乎你 (Let time fly. I only care about you.)
rèn shí guāng cōng cōng liú qù wǒ zhǐ zài hū nǐ

心甘情愿感染你的气息 (I'm willingly to be influenced by the way you are.)
xīn gān qíng yuàn gǎn rǎn nǐ de qì xī

人生几何能够得到知己 (How many times in our lives can we get a close friend?)
rén shēng jī hé néng gòu dé dào zhī jǐ

失去生命的力量也不可惜 (Losing my strength in life is also not a pity.)
shī qù shēng mìng de lì liàng yě bù kě xī

所以我求求你别让我离开你 (So I beg you, do not let me leave you.)
suǒ ǐ wǒ qiú qiú nǐ bié ràng wǒ lí kāi nǐ

除了你我不能感到一丝丝情意 (Except for you, I do not feel affection for anyone else.)
chú le nǐ wǒ bù néng gǎn dào yī sī sī qíng yì

成龍 (Jackie Chan)
谁的世界没有风 (Whose world has no wind?)
shuí de shì jiè méi yǒu fēng

谁的世界没有雨 (Whose world has no rain?)
shuí de shì jiè méi yǒu yǔ

祇要我们想起你 (As long as we think of you,)
zhǐ yào wǒ men xiǎng qǐ nǐ

彩虹就出现天际 (The rainbow will appear in the sky.)
cǎi hóng jiù chū xiàn tiān jì

就算物换星移 (Even if things change with passing time,)
jiù suàn wù huàn xīng yí

没有人会忘记你 (Nobody will forget you.)
méi yǒu rén huì wàng jì nǐ

你甜蜜的倩影 (Your sweet features,)
nǐ tián mì de qiàn yǐng

永远没人能代替 (Will always be irreplaceable.)
yǒng yuǎn méi rén néng dài tì

成龍 (Jackie Chan) and 鄧麗君 (Teresa Teng)
任时光匆匆流去我只在乎你 (Let time fly. I only care about you.)
rèn shí guāng cōng cōng liú qù wǒ zhǐ zài hū nǐ

心甘情愿感染你的气息 (I'm willingly to be influenced by the way you are.)
xīn gān qíng yuàn gǎn rǎn nǐ de qì xī

人生几何能够得到知己 (How many times in our lives can we get a close friend?)
rén shēng jī hé néng gòu dé dào zhī jǐ

失去生命的力量也不可惜 (Losing my strength in life is also not a pity.)
shī qù shēng mìng de lì liàng yě bù kě xī

所以我求求你别让我离开你 (So I beg you, do not let me leave you.)
suǒ ǐ wǒ qiú qiú nǐ bié ràng wǒ lí kāi nǐ

除了你我不能感到一丝丝情意 (Except for you, I do not feel affection for anyone else.)
chú le nǐ wǒ bù néng gǎn dào yī sī sī qíng yì

鄧麗君 (Teresa Teng)
任时光匆匆流去我只在乎你 (Let time fly. I only care about you.)
rèn shí guāng cōng cōng liú qù wǒ zhǐ zài hū nǐ

成龍 (Jackie Chan)
心甘情愿感染你的气息 (I'm willingly to be influenced by the way you are.)
xīn gān qíng yuàn gǎn rǎn nǐ de qì xī

成龍 (Jackie Chan) and 鄧麗君 (Teresa Teng)
人生几何能够得到知己 (How many times in our lives can we get a close friend?)
rén shēng jī hé néng gòu dé dào zhī jǐ

失去生命的力量也不可惜 (Losing my strength in life is also not a pity.)
shī qù shēng mìng de lì liàng yě bù kě xī

所以我求求你别让我离开你 (So I beg you, do not let me leave you.)
suǒ ǐ wǒ qiú qiú nǐ bié ràng wǒ lí kāi nǐ

除了你我不能感到一丝丝情意 (Except for you, I do not feel affection for anyone else.)
chú le nǐ wǒ bù néng gǎn dào yī sī sī qíng yì

Here's the mp3 version:

Here's the Youtube video:

I really do hope your can say to a certain someone this season, " I only care about you."

When God Ran by Phillips, Craig and Dean from Restoration

2012-01-27T16:44:00.002+08:00

This year, I've decided to take voice lessons from a professional voice teacher and one of her assignments to me is this song. When we we're rehearsing this song, I was dubious of myself. I was thinking if I could really sing out this song as the song requires a big vocal range due to the low notes at the beginning and high notes in the chorus. I didn't really focus on the lyrics till I got home and reviewed the song.

The song is about the story of the prodigal son based on Luke 15:11-32. (I actually wrote a devotional based on the same passage which I will post next time.) But more than the focus on the son, the song focused on the father (God) and how he received his returning son (us) with anticipation, excitement and open arms.

Did you know that it was not customary for men to run in those days? But here is a father, not minding the customs, not minding the eyes of his peers, who is eagerly waiting for his son and ran when he saw his son from afar. This is true love.

Here are the lyrics:

Verse 1

Almighty God, the Great I AM,

Immovabe Rock, Omnipotent, Powerful, Awesome Lord,

Victorious Warrior, Commanding King of Kings,

Mighty Conqueror, and the only time,

The only time I ever saw Him run

Chrous

Was when He ran to me, He took me in His arms,

Held my head to His chest, said "My son's come home again",

Lifted my face, wiped the tears from my eyes

With forgiveness in His voice, He said,

"Son, do you know I still love you?"

He caught me by surprise when God ran.

Verse 2

The day I left home, I knew I'd broken His heart

And I wondered then if things could ever be the same

Then one night, I remembered His love for me.

And down the dusty road, ahead I could see

It was the only time - it was the only time I ever saw Him run.

Chorus

Was when He ran to me, He took me in His arms,

Held my head to His chest, said "My son's come home again",

Lifted my face, wiped the tears from my eyes

With forgiveness in His voice, He said,

"Son, do you know I still love you?"

He caught me by surprise as He brought me to my knees

When God ran - I saw Him run to me

Bridge

I was so ashamed, all alone and so far away.

But now I know He's been waiting for this day.

Chorus

Was when He ran to me, He took me in His arms,

Held my head to His chest, said "My son's come home again",

Lifted my face, wiped the tears from my eyes

With forgiveness in His voice, I felt His love for me again

He ran to me, He took me in His arms,

Held my head to His chest, said "My son's come home again",

Lifted my face, wiped the tears from my eyes

With forgiveness in His voice, He said, "Son", He called me Son

He said, "Son do you know I still love you?"

He ran to me and then I ran to Him

When God ran

Here's the mp3 version:

Here's the Youtube version:

I hope this reminds you to also forgive others.

禱告 by 讚美之泉 from 單單只為你

2012-01-10T02:04:00.004+08:00

Christian Chinese songs really touch my heart and what a way to start the year (Jan. 1 being a Sunday) to spend time in the Lord's house. Usually, we tend to be overly and eagerly happy because it is New Year. I am one of those who was expecting big song numbers and happy songs, but instead the worship leader chose this to be the first song. At that moment, I wasn't sure if it fit the theme, but looking back, I think it was perfect.

New year. New challenges and problems. New trials. New beginnings and blessings. New endings (at least for me). Everything is unpredictable. Only God knows and He wants us to daily commune with him through prayers and supplications.

I really like the verse because it depicts the attitude of how we should come before our Lord... with humbleness, humility and reverence. I know we can't see God, but He still deserves utmost respect. I also love the promise of God being with us despite the tears flowing out and that His grace is sufficient for our needs. He supplies His daily grace to us when we come to Him.

Here's the Chinese and English lyrics: (both for singing)

禱告，因為我渺小；(I pray, for I am nothing)
禱告，因為我知道我需要 (I pray, for I clearly know I need)
明暸，你心意對我重要。(To seek Your will as it's shown to me)
禱告，已假裝不了；(I pray, for I am searching)
禱告，因為你的愛我需要；(I pray, for Your love is what I need)
你關懷，我走過的你都明白。(On my knees, through the valleys, You walk with me)

有些事我只想要對你說，(Some things I only wanna let You know)
因你比任何人都愛我；('Cause no one loves me like You, my Lord)
痛苦從眼中流下，(Though tears of pain may fall out)
我知道你為我擦。(You're with me I have no doubt)
在早晨我也要來對你說，(As day breaks, Lord I wanna cry to You)
主耶穌今天我為你活；('Cause you so love me, You'll pull me through)
所需要的力量你天天賜給我，(The strength that I need I receive every morning)
你恩典夠我用。(Your grace is all I need)

Here's the mp3 version:

Here's the Youtube version:

Pray to God this start of the year... why pray everyday. Remember, God doesn't need our prayers, it is us who need it more badly.

Dominion: The Battle For Your Heart

2012-01-07T16:05:00.002+08:00

What: United Evangelical Church of Malabon 10th Winter Camp

When: December 26 - 30, 2011

Where: Philippine Baptist Theological Seminary, Baguio City, Philippines

Theme: Dominion: The Battle For Your Heart

Who has dominion in your hearts? What / Who has taken a hold in your heart? This question is very important because what is inside your heart will naturally flow out in your life. If worldly things have taken up space in your heart then your focus will definitely not be on God. The Bible says we cannot serve two masters.

These other things are what we call our "idols". The definition of "idols" have changed over the years. In the days of Moses, these things refer to crafted images that were used in pagan worship. But in this age, "idols" refer to something / someone that has your priority and value. In short, these "idols" have taken up most of our time, effort, money, life to the extent that, sometimes, we sin to get it or we sin if we do not get it.

The bottom line is: Because our heart is sinful and deceitful, we cannot trust it. The mind says it is wrong, but the heart tells the mind that we should get what we want. But when we accepted Christ into our life, He gives us a renewed heart - a heart that desires after God. He also gave us the Holy Spirit and His Word to guide us in living a life that is pleasing to God.

Theme verse: James 4: 7-8

"Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Come near to God and He will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded."

Theme song: Lord I Will Bow To You

Lord, I will bow to You
To no other god, but You alone.
Lord, I will worship You
Nothing hands have made, but You alone.

I will lay down my idols,
Thrones I have made,
All that has taken my heart.

Lord, I will bow to You
To no other god, but You alone.

Some pictures from the camp:

Me... giving the opening remarks

My counselling group

All of the campers, officers, counselors and speakers

My Wacky officers

Hope this inspires you to evaluate your life as well!

Some references:

UECM webite: http://uecmalabon.org/

PBTS website: http://www.pbts.net.ph/

O Christmas by Byron Lim

2011-12-24T03:43:00.000+08:00

It has been 5 years since I wrote this song and I believe the message is still as meaningful as before if not more endearing. Thanks Wenslyn for transcribing this onto a music sheet for me.

The beauty of this song is in its internal message. (Clue: something to do with the bold verbs) The melody of the song is purposely written not to be melancholic but to be very solemn and reflective. Christmas is not only a time to be merry but also a time to be silent as we remember the purpose of the blessed event.

Christmas, O Christmas
A time to care for the people around
A time to hope in the newborn Son
A time to remember of what has been done
Christmas, O Christmas

Christmas, O Christmas
A time to invite someone to the Lord
A time to spread the good news everywhere
A time for thanksgiving and kneeling in pray’r
Christmas, O Christmas

Christmas, O Christmas
A time to make joyful music to Him
A time to allow for God’s work to begin
A time to surrender and turn from our sin!
Christmas, O Christmas

Need a clue? Get the first letters of all the verbs...

Bethlehemian Rhapsody by Mark Bradford

2011-12-20T02:59:00.001+08:00

Mary and Joseph

Since I've started reviewing and writing about songs in this site, it is good once in a while to be able to just listen to creative stuff by other people especially when it comes to changing lyrics set into popular music. What's more special about the song that I'm reviewing now is that Christian lyrics are set into the very popular secular music of Queen, Bohemian Rhapsody.

I like the idea that puppets were made as actors in this music video as it makes the story and song rendition more interesting and easy to watch since the scenes shift so drastically.

Here's the lyrics to sing along:

Is this the real birth? Is it Nativity?

Caught in a census, in the town of his ancestry.

Open your eyes, look up to the skies & see...

He's just a poor boy, foretold by prophecy

Because the wise men come, wise men go, angels high, shepherds low;

This is how God's love shows, it's a wondrous story to me, to me.

Mary just got the word

The angel did appear, but he told her not to fear.

Mary, now it's just begun. Your son is gonna wash our sins away.

Mary, ooooh....

The God who reigns on high has sent his son thru you to die for all.

I see a little sillouetto of a sheep,

Shepherds watch, Shepherds watch over their flocks at nighttime.

Angels shine like lightning, very very frightening me.

Glory to God! Peace on earth! (repeat)

Unto you is born this day, the only way!

I'm just a shepherd, nobody loves me.

He's just a shepherd from a poor family.

Angels said, go to the stable & see.

Wise men come, wise men go, will Herod let him live?

Hey Herod, NO he will not let him live...BETTER GO! (repeat)

GO, go, go, go!

Oh, Mary, Joseph, Mary, Joseph to Egypt now,

gotta save your son who came for me, for me, for me!

So you think that it's just a tale of days gone by?

But this child who was born went to Calvary to die.

Oh, Jesus, it's the story of Jesus

Wash our sins out, wash our sins right out of here.

It's a wondrous story, anyone can see.

Let's give God the glory, it's a wondrous story to me.

Here's the inspiring video:

The most important line of the story is of course the last two lines:

It's a wondrous story, anyone can see.

Let's give God the glory, it's a wondrous story to me.

Little Drummer Boy by Sean Quigley

2011-12-08T11:46:00.001+08:00

I have heard several versions of the song "Little Drummer Boy" but none that has more impact as Sean Quigley's version. Heck, I've been listening to the song every Christmas and yet not know the story behind it nor have I spent time to really listen to the lyrics. And what is more for me to be amazed is how Sean, a 16 yr old Chritsian boy from Winnipeg, could come up with this brilliant project as his gift for Jesus this Christmas.

Sean played drums, sang the song, recorded the video, and even edited the video which is now being seen worldwide. How cool is that and how big a testimony is that showing the world why we celebrate Christmas!

Sean recounts the story of the song in his interview with Larry Updike on CBC. "There was this little boy gets word of Jesus being born, but he doesn't get to see him and he doesn't have anything to give him. I have no money, I has no physical gift, but I can play the drum... And that's more than enough."

Interesting in the video are several friends of his who held "Merry Christmas" in several languages. Sean thought of doing this so that this message can be understood by a lot of people in the world and bring cheer to them this season.

Sean added that it is not for recognition but all for Jesus. Still, his video is getting positive reviews and recognition (especially in school). :)

Here's the lyrics to the song:

Come they told me, (Pa rum pum pum pum)
A new born king to see (Pa rum pum pum pum)
Our finest gifts we bring (Pa rum pum pum pum)
To lay before the king
(Pa rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum)
So to honor him, (Pa rum pum pum pum)
When we come.

Little baby, (Pa rum pum pum pum)
I am a poor boy too.(Pa rum pum pum pum)
I have no gift to bring (Pa rum pum pum pum)
Thats fit to give the king
(Pa rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum)
Shall I play for you, (Pa rum pum pum pum)
On my drum.

Mary nodded, (Pa rum pum pum pum)
They ox and lamb kept time, (Pa rum pum pum pum)
I played my drum for him, (Pa rum pum pum pum)
I played my best for him,
(Pa rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum)
Then he smiled at me, (Pa rum pum pum pum)
Me and my drum

Then he smiled at me, (Pa rum pum pum pum)
Me and my drum

Here's the mp3 version:

Here's the Youtube version:

Happy drumming!

Higher Window by Josh Groban from Illuminations

2011-12-03T13:30:00.001+08:00

One of my favorite singers... one that I strive to be... singer with platinum albums... singer with a wide range of voice... singer of classical and pop... singer of inspirational, uplifting music... that is Josh Groban! I've practically followed this singer as he grew and grew from the boy who sang "The Prayer" with Celine Dion to the now grown-up 30 years old solo artist that he has become.

The song "Higher Window" is from his recent album "Illuminations". I love the lyrics of the song particularly the last line of the chorus... "Just don't tell me that it's too late for me to love you." Have you ever felt that you were meant for someone in this world? Someone like a soul mate? My girl and me have practically known each other since were 8 yrs. old. We have grown up with each other in school, church and practically in our circle of friends. I feel she is the one sent by God to me to love and to care. My pops always tell me that life is short and I should get engaged with her already. In a sense, he is right because they are getting older... we are both not getting younger. So this made me gather my guts and tell her how I feel. At least now, she is my girl and it was not too late for us. :)

Here's the lyrics:

For all the times I tried for this
And every chance at you I missed
I've been known to go my way, but I confess
It made me miss you more

I drew my line across the sand
And set my flag in no man's land
But here I am the one man band
With a song that's meant for two

And there is a light, from a higher window
Shining down on you tonight
And the music floats on the breeze
Bringing an easier time
And all of our cards are on the table
Tell me what you want to do
Just don't tell me that it's too late
For me to love you

How perfect we were meant to be
Our warm and silent symmetry
It's times like these when all, all we need
Is to be reminded

And I have flown a thousand miles
To empty room and crowded aisles
And we went from cathedral bells
To show and tell and wish you wells
And I, I still look at you and I am blinded I am blinded

Because there is a light, from a higher window
Shining down on us tonight
And the music floats on the breeze
From an easier time
And all of our cards are on the table
Tell me what you want to do
Just don't tell me that it's too late
Don't tell me that it's too late now
Just don't tell me that it´s too late
for me to love you.

Here's the mp3 version:

Here's the Youtube version:

Hope you won't be too late in love :)

神的道路 by 天韻 from 與信心有約

2011-11-28T00:24:00.002+08:00

Isaiah 55:8-9 "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."

This is the Bible verse where our song for today is taken. It is aptly called "God's Way". It is interesting to note that in the secular world, there's a song called "My Way", but I guess, in the end, God's way is still better especially if you've personally experienced His love, grace and mercy.

This song is sung by one of my favorite Chinese Christian singing group called Heavenly Melody. You can visit their site here.

Here's the lyrics to the song:

神的道路高過人的道路，(God's ways are higher than man's ways)
神的意念高過人的意念。(God's thoughts are higher than man's thoughts)
祂的心裡有藍圖，(He has a blueprint in His heart)
祂的時間不錯誤，(His timing is never mistaken)
一步一步帶領你前途。(Leading you step by step to the future)

祂立大地的根基，(He established the foundation of the earth)
祂讓雲彩空中漂浮，(He let the clouds float in the air)
是他創造生命氣息，(It is He who created life's breath)
是他應許照顧賜福。(It is He who promised to care and bless)
神造萬物各按其時，(God made everything in His time)
耐心等待必要歡呼。(Patiently waiting with joy)
啊！...耐心等待要歡呼。(Ah... Patiently waiting with joy)

Here's the mp3 version:

Here's the Youtube version:

Hope you consider today God's way!

Expressive Hill ~ Harmonics EOLIA ~ from Ar Tonelico Hymmnos Concert

2011-11-26T02:23:00.003+08:00

Another one of my favorites from the game Ar Tonelico. It seems this strange, unintelligible language has captured my heart one way or another through its uniqueness and abrupt change in emotion.

This song seems to bring me somewhere else like in a fairy tale, like in a make belief world where maidens are singing calming yet meaningful songs. And in the actual case of the game, these songs turn into powerful spells which aid your characters to defeat the baddies! hehe

Well enough chitchat and here's the lyrics of the song (the lyrics is a re-post from this blog)

Expressive Hill ~ Harmonics EOLIA ~

Lyrics: Tsuchiya Akira
Composition: Tsuchiya Akira
Arrangement: Tsuchiya Akira
Vocals: Shikata Akiko

Rrha ki ra tie yor ini en nha

Come here

Wee ki ra parge yor ar ciel

Strip off everything

Was yea ra chs mea yor en fwal

Because I’ll accept all of you
Ma ki ga ks maya yor syec

Don’t be afraid, entrust your body to me

Was yea ra Was yea ra

I’m happy, I’m happy
chs hymme

being able to become the waves
chs frawr

being able to become the flowers
chs yor

being able to become you
en chs ar ciel ya

being able to become the world

Wee yea ra ene foul enrer

I always think that hymns are mysterious
Wee yea ra ene hymme syec mea

That hymns shake the bottom of my heart more than anything
Was yea ra hymme mea ks maya gyen yeal

As if weaving the magic of happiness, I strum my heartstrings
innna ar hopb syec mea ya.ya!

in the abyss of my deep, deep heart

Amakami o kakemau tama sasayaki yueba

When you tie the spiritual murmuring that flies in the heavens
Kanmuribi furi michite nani hito yuki orinase

The crown fire falls to the brim, weaving happiness for everyone

Samidare no aimi o tada nagaruru koe wa

The voice that simply drifts in the indigo sea of early summer rain
Utsurohi sakanagi oboroge na furusato no ne

Is the changing and reversed calm, the vague sound of home

Kanade narifuku gaia sora ni hibiki ainaseba

When the gaia, which plays and calls, mutually echoes to the sky
Habataku inori no uta matohite

It entwines with the soaring song of your prayer

Ar tonelico

Ar tonelico

Yasuragi no oka namida no garasu kioku no hako omoi no hi

The hill of peace, the glass of tears, the box of memories, the monument of thoughts
Hitoe ikue no utsurofu kiito tamashii no ne musubi tsunagu

Single and multiple hollow and raw silk threads tie and connect the roots of souls

Tayutau mu no umi shourei no kazaiki

The swaying ocean of nothingness, the spirits’ breaths of wind
Toke yufu mandara ni utahi no miko are

There exists singing maidens in the untying and tying mandala

Here is the mp3 version:

Here is the Youtube version:

Did you feel this song?

Life Without You by Byron Lim

2011-11-19T13:52:00.002+08:00

This song came after I read the first chapter of Max Lucado's God Came Near. Isn't it a wonder that we could miss such a big event like the birth of Christ in the midst of our everyday chores. This song reminds me that all we do - our life - is meaningless, incomplete, empty even lost WITHOUT God's grace in our lives. This is my prayer today that I might truly see Him in my life.

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Verse 1:
As a page is empty without words or paint,
My life is hollow without You.
As a quilt has holes without its bright patches,
My life is incomplete without You!

Chorus:
O Lord, let me see You, open my eyes.
Lord, let me see Your majesty.
Lord, let me catch a glimpse of Your face.
May I experience Your overflowing grace.

Verse 2:
Like a boat that cannot turn left or right,
My life is lost without You.
As music goes wrong without its harmony,
My life is meaningless without You!

Chorus:
O Lord, let me see You, open my eyes.
Lord, let me see Your majesty.
Lord, let me catch a glimpse of Your face.
May I experience Your overflowing grace.

Ending:
My life is nothing Lord… without You!

Over the Rainbow from GLEE: The Music - Journey to Regionals by Glee Cast

2011-11-04T00:20:00.017+08:00

A remake of the timeless classic from the movie "Wizard of Oz" comes back to life... "Over the Rainbow" aka "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" was originally sung by Judy Garland in the beginning of the movie. Judy Garland (as Dorothy) just experienced an awful situation, but her aunt didn't mind her and even told her to go off somewhere where she will not be trouble. She imagined a place where there is no trouble... somewhere inaccessible by boat or train... somewhere beyond the moon, beyond the rainbow... This is the background of the song.

Here we see this song played as an end to the Glee season 1 after being beaten by the opponent glee club. Yes, they were defeated but the song implies a positive tone and an optimistic future where brighter days are expected.

I love this version because of the ukelele effect and the blending of the singers is magnificent. I also treasure the message of it!

Here's the lyrics to this song:

Somewhere over the rainbow
Way up high,
There's a land that I heard of
Once in a lullaby.

Somewhere over the rainbow
Skies are blue,
And the dreams that you dare to dream
Really do come true.

Someday I'll wish upon a star
And wake up where the clouds are far
Behind me.
Where troubles melt like lemon drops
Away above the chimney tops
That's where you'll find me.

Somewhere over the rainbow
Bluebirds fly.
Birds fly over the rainbow.
Why then, oh why can't I?

If happy little bluebirds fly
Beyond the rainbow
Why, oh why can't I?

Here's the mp3 of the song:

Here's the Glee version from Youtube:

Here's the original version of Judy Garland:

Somewhere over the rainbow, all my dreams will come true :p

Collapse by Byron Lim

2011-10-31T14:18:00.005+08:00

Completed September 20, 2006

A true account just happened here in the office and I saw the person on the floor already. This experience motivated me to write this poem. It made me think of "What if I saw her while she was collapsing, what would I do?" Hope you'll really consider the question too.

My friend, I want to ask you a simple question, just something out of the blue.
"If you saw a person just collapsing in front of your eyes, what would you do?"

Honestly speaking, would you have helped that person yourself and just dive right through?
Or would you rather order some people to help maybe someone from your crew?

Would you be the one to call an ambulance even though you don’t have a clue?
Or would you be the first to leave and say to that person, “Bye-bye and adieu!”

Would you disperse the growing crowd and dare say to them a big “Go away! Shoo!”
Or would you call other people, even stay there to see an intriguing view?

Would you be the one to hold that person’s hand to encourage, comfort and coo?
Or would you still act and behave like that person is someone you never knew?

Would you go with that person to the hospital – something done by just a few?
Or would you continue what you’re doing because you’re afraid it’d go past due?

Would you go to the extent of praying for that person – a concern that’s true!
Or would you rather do things awaiting something in return or a thank you?

"If you saw a person just collapsing in front of your eyes, what would you do?"
My friend, please consider another question, “What if all these happen to you?”

Take it easy my friend... or you might collapse!

More To This Life! by Byron Lim

2011-10-26T19:17:00.001+08:00

I am reposting some of my earlier works from my previous blog here as I feel it is still a big part of me that I want to share with you guys.

This first poem is my last post there. I feel it is just fitting to be the very first poem that I post here.

In my little space on earth, I try to live my best.
Yet many times I've failed and just went on like the rest.
I've worked and toiled and burned my brow so that I'd fit in.
But still I can't attain that sense of peace from within.

I've done a lot of mistakes that I'd like to forget...
I tell you - thinking of these only makes me upset!
Somehow I knew that living this life should be better...
Like I should live my life for a purpose much greater!

But just like what happened at the road to Damascus,
Something is stirring inside of me that made me muse...
About life, about love, about God and other things -
Something more to this life and what it hopes to bring!

Hope this made you muse as well :)