Company of Friends

"The glory of friendship is not the outstretched hand, nor the kindly smile, nor the joy of companionship; it is the spiritual inspiration that comes to one when you discover that someone else believes in you and is willing to trust you with a friendship."

- Ralph Waldo Emerson, adapted.


I had a wonderful and very meaningful time last night. It was one of our Catholic Youth Apostolate Alumni (CYAA) monthly gatherings - this month's host is Aston and so we were at his place - and the topic for the month is FRIENDSHIP.

It was a very meaningful session, as always. But it had more significance to me because of recent events - things that had happened and those that are happening.

There was a lot of self-reflection, which in many ways have moved me to re-look at the relationships I've got. I've always understood the importance of friends; but more so in times of need, that you see what you had achieved with life, with who is coming to your aid. Of course, this is only quantifying a qualitative experience.

Through this reflection, I've been very touched by the thoughtfulness of people and the love of those around me. For one thing, the CYA community had always offered it's love and respect to the individual. A kind of genuine concern that in this present day, is very hard to come by. I truly believe they are a gift from God. Love you all!

I have also realised, that I had neglected the feelings of others when they needed me. And I know what I need to do about this - seek forgiveness. I'm Sorry for not being there when you needed me.

There are others outside CYA that I am truly grateful for too. Of course there is my family, espcecially my Mum, who had always been the very rock in the family, and the one I had always relied on for comfort. Love you mum!

Then there is Boon & Wong, my OCS course mates who had been through thick and thin with me, and know my inside outs. They had always given their support in whatever I was doing, and though, on the surface sometimes we look like we are ignoring each other or making each other's life difficult, but somehow we really care for each other (it may be a man thing); bottom line is, they had also been there to catch me when I fall. Love you too brothers!

Then there are the people from St. Mary's! Incredibly supportive.

I'm sure I've not mentioned a few more here. Forgive me for that.



My dear brothers & sisteres, Do remember Me, for you are family.

"If one is estranged from oneself, then one is estranged from others too. If one is out of touch with oneself, then one cannot touch others."

- Anne Morrow Lindbergh