Archive for September, 2009

9

Moken Faces

September 28, 2009
I had a chance to go with hubby to visit the Community Development project that has been happening among the Mokens in Ranong, Thailand. It started after the December 26, 2004 tsunami. So much has been developed since then. I couldn’t help but take photos of them… which they loved. Here they are, the faces of the Mokens:


“The poor are despised even by their neighbors,
while the rich have many ‘friends.’
It is a sin to belittle one’s neighbor;
blessed are those who help the poor.”

Proverbs 14:20–2

First, there’s an observation here: Most people look down on the poor, and curry favor with the rich. Then comes the exhortation: You must be different. Do not despise the poor, as most people do. Rather, find ways to help them. God cares about the poor and blesses those who share his heart. Who are the poor in your world? How can you help them? Ask God to give you the eyes to see needs which perhaps are hidden. Then ask him to open opportunities to help.

—Diane Eble, author of Abundant Gifts: A Daybook of Grace-Filled Devotions

: asia, Ranong, southeast asia, Thailand
1

d’Village Melaka

September 26, 2009

Nestled amidst a flora and fauna splendor, soaked in a peaceful atmosphere. This budget resort is an oasis of tranquility for leisure holiday makers and budget conscious travelers. The name d’Village reflects the “Kampung” style atmosphere of the resort.

We just did a Youth Conference called the Plan 09 in d’Village Melaka. As part of the committee, the hubby and some went there one day ahead (that would include me). And because there was a bit confusion with the guest list, we kena from the receptionists. I mean it wasn’t our fault that there was some kind of a mixed up but since we got there first, it’s like we got the blame. The lady manager named Suhaila was a bit rude to us. It’s probably because it’s the last day of Puasa (fast) too. Well, whatever, the first day we had quite a bad impression with the management.

In fairness though, the food they served throughout the seminar was good. Except on “simple life” day where they were asked to serve the participants rice and dhal only. The only thing was, because there was only one dish, it wasn’t enough for everybody. I ended up eating rice only… along with others who got there late.

But of course, it didn’t stop everybody from having a nice time during the conference. I was glad to see a group of Malaysian youths being fired up to serve God.

: asia, malaysia, melacca, southeast asia
1

Schengen Visa

September 16, 2009
I think I need to apply for a Schengen Visa. With my dream of doing a backpack traveling around Europe, I think it’s time I think of applying for a Schengen visa. Besides, I have a friend who’s been inviting us to visit them in Finland.

Which countries cover Schengen?

Schengen is made up of 15 European countries that would include:

  • Austria
  • Germany
  • Belgium
  • Denmark
  • Finland
  • France
  • Greece
  • Iceland
  • Italy
  • Luxemburg
  • Norway
  • Portugal
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • The Netherlands

How do I apply for a Schengen Visa?

My case is slightly different because I am a Filipino living in Malaysia. I need to find out whether I can apply here in Malaysia. So far, I heard that if you don’t have a local residency, you need to go back to the Philippines to apply for a Schengen Visa, particularly at the Danish Embassy.

: Europe, Schengen Territory, visa