In about 12 hours, Malaysia will usher in a new year. We probably have our own idea how 2021 will unfold. Some of us are hopeful it will bring back the old normal. Some of us are resigned to the idea that the new normal is here to stay for a while.
Several things happened to me in 2020. I will list them in chronological order.
2 weeks before 2020, I joined a new company on 16/12/2020. I left my old company of close to 14 years, leaving behind many bittersweet memories of sweat, tears, and laughter. I left many good friends.
I meet new people in the new company. One of the question I asked the MD was the culture in the new company. He was both surprised and happy I asked that. The new place has a well established organization and structure. Real mature. I like the IT infrastructure and support.
Leaving my workplace of close to 14 years (and “3 songs” travel time) is heart tugging.
Around Mar, I was invited to take a look at the PJEFC Chinese church. I was invited to preach a few times. I got to know some people there. I saw the need there. After much prayers and thinking, I decide to move there to help.
This means leaving DUMC, which I have grown very fond of, my CG (like an extended family to me) and the Writing Team (like an extended family. I prepared them beforehand. Still, separation is sad. I told them this is like me going on a missions in Russia. I will still be in touch. I will still love them. It’s just that we don’t get to see each other as often. Under the MCO, EMCO, CMCO, it’s the same anyway.
A little part of me died. I started attending the PJEFC Chinese church. I met the Elder Chairman who invited me into his mentoring group. I attended the annual board retreat during which I got to know the church and the leaders better.
In October, my dad’s health got worse. He was in and out of hospital. We have then place him in Jasper Lodge so he could get professional care.
On the fateful day of 18/10/2020. He left us to be with the Lord. That’s 2 days before my birthday.
A large part of me died. Still, I look forward to meeting my dad one day.
I have been very active in the e-Commerce. I bought a LOT of things. I bought one TV which I have used only twice. Son asked me to returned but I decided to keep it.
Through it all, God has been with me. My family and my friends are with me. The pandemic has changed how we live, how we work, and how we “meet”. But as long as we put in the effort, we can maintain our treasured relationship.
To many, 2020 has not been a sweet year. It has probably left a bitter taste in the mouth of many.
No matter how 2021 or beyond turns out to be, we need to stay strong. We depend on God. We look to God. While we may have trepidation and hesitation, let’s look forward to 2021.
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