Haze Craze

Typically, I like to wake up by walking up to an open window and taking a deep breath of the morning breeze. This is all the more so in Kampar, which has a lovely view and a range of mountains that have held its charm on me from day one.

However, although I've been in Kampar for more than a month now, I have been cruelly shorn of this pleasure. That's right, itu haze sudah mari. 

To be honest, it scares me a little when it's at its more serious levels. I'm asthmatic, and the haze has triggered in me probably the longest niggling (and sometimes serious) sickness in a while. 

What a start it has been to my working life, then... or so one might think.

You know, in spite of this thorn on my flesh (or in the air), I really am thankful for so much.

Work has been a very engaging experience so far and I've been handling many things beyond my ken. 

Fortunately, I have very supportive and nurturing colleagues/superiors who know their stuff and have good attitudes. Our relationships do not end at work, and at home (they are my neighbours) we occasionally get together. It's been delightful getting to know their children, who are an interesting lot to say the least! 

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, work has been purpose-driven. 

I know that, on top of all those stuff typical young graduates have in mind like remuneration, job advancement, training and so on, I am very convicted about the part God wants me to play in this Westlake International School. My personal hope is that it can really be an oasis for children to grow in a holistic and Godly manner: powerful learners, others-centred and compassionate.

And...  I know that my hope is not in vain, because a similar conviction is shared by the other members of the team. What can I say but that God is doing something?

So, what's a little haze? Inconvenience and discomfort are something, but I have a God on my side that has given me a mission, and I won't let these hinder me.