He’s the reason why I sing.

I found the lyrics to a poem that Mary, Queen of Scots wrote called "Think On Me", which was set to music by James Mulholland. I sang this song with the Biola University Chorale. One of the most moving pieces we've ever sung. The lyrics are so heart-wrenching, and if you get a chance to hear it sung, it's one of the most beautiful melodies you'll ever hear. I stumbled upon it while browsing for British history stuff online.

"When I no more behold thee, think on me.
By all thine eyes have told me, think on me.
When hearts are lightest, when eyes are brightest, when griefs are slightest,
Think on me.
Think, oh, think on me.
Think, think on me.

In all thine hours of gladness, think on me.
If e’er I soothed thy sadness, think on me.
When foes are by thee, when woes are nigh thee, when friends all fly thee,
Think on me.
Think, oh think on me.
Think, think on me.

When thou hast none to cheer thee, think on me.
When no fond heart is near thee, think on me.
When lonely sighing o’er pleasure flying,
When hope is dying, think on me.
Think, oh think on me.
Think, think on me"

Another year is drawing to a close. I can’t believe that in about 24 hours we will be ushering in 2006! There are so many things to be thankful for, but I wouldn’t bore anyone by listing it on this blog. However, I have to say that it’s been a good year. I think the most memorable part of 2005 for me would have to be the mission trip that I went to with my church group this past summer. It was definitely an eye-opening, faith-stretching experience. I pray for another opportunity to do that in 2006. Overall, I’m just grateful for family and friends – old and new – with whom I’ve grown and have learned from. I am grateful for those who have lifted me up in prayer, and who have continued to encourage me in my walk with Jesus. Looking forward to new and exciting things God has in store for the coming year!

To those who read my blog/journal/xanga, I just want to wish you all an amazing new year filled with blessings. May you experience the grace of God and get to know Him more intimately, and please continue to pray for me as I do the same.

Just wishing everyone a very MERRY CHRISTMAS and a blessed HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Stay warm, stay safe, and remember the true meaning of Christmas.

Yes, I know it’s a little too late in the game, since Christmas is 3 days away. But here’s my wishlist anyway, just in case you’re stumped and don’t know what to get me for Christmas. Of course, there’s always my birthday.

ACHAU’S WISHLIST

Have fun! hehe

I’m currently watching a rerun of Scottie Pippen’s jersey retirement ceremony. Scottie, Michael, Phil Jackson, Horace Grant, Bill Cartwright and Dennis Rodman. Man, memories. The Chicago Bulls of the ’90s was THE team (and still is), and I was the biggest fan you’d ever meet. Whenever I’d watch the NBA Finals with my guy friends, I would always be the only one cheering da Bulls on, and I would never fail to rub it in their faces whenever the Bulls would win, which was, of course, ALL THE TIME! haha Anyway, I think Scottie’s retirement was the final chapter of the glory days of the NBA. The NBA has never been the same since and will never be the same again.

And that, my friends, is my basketball commentary for today.

Happy Birthday to my lovely cousin (and momma to the most beatiful babies ever, Nevaeh Jane and Tristen Jade), Christine! Keep growing in God’s grace, and may He grant the desires of your heart as you seek to follow Him. Love yah!