On my 2nd day in Amsterdam, I started feeling a little ill. I wasn’t sure if I was just exhausted from the jet lag or I had caught some flu bug. But my nose started to run constantly and that was annoying. Despite that, I mustered whatever strength I had and rented a bike to cycle around Amsterdam. Everyone cycles in Amsterdam. It’s an easy way to get around. I missed cycling. I remember how I loved cycling to school when I was a kid, and the feeling of the wind against my face. It brought back memories.

I spent the day visiting the Anne Frank Museum which was really informative. I like the way they did the exhibition, it was pretty interactive with video screenings as well. After that I visited a photography exhibition in a place called FOAM. After that I made my way to Vondelpark, where there were hordes of people just sitting around, sunbathing, making out on the grass or just feeding ducks. That was really nice. I took a nap on the grass and had a really relaxing afternoon.

The place where I stayed in Amsterdam is called the Shelter, and it is a Christian hostel run by Christians for the general public. It was a really cool concept because though they make no apologies for being Christian, they do not push Christ to others. But rather, show it to people in practical ways. Every night, there is a bible study and prayer meeting and everyone is invited to join in. I decided to join the 2nd night, and there was one guy there who was genuinely seeking for answers to questions he had about God and love. What a tremendous opportunity to share Christ! Christian brochures are everywhere and there is even one PC dedicated to playing the Jesus film if you wanted to watch it!

The next morning, I woke up flushed with fever and feeling really crappy. It’s so easy to take credit for things when you are feeling well and everything is going your way. But when you don’t have the strength to lift up your bag or even to hold the camera, that’s when you really have to rely on God’s strength. I am reminded to constantly rely on God… for when I am weak, He is strong. He is able to work through me because His grace is sufficient for me. If the photos turn out well, I cannot take credit for it. I have to give glory to where it’s due.

This evening we started with a short portraiture session with Chee Su and Christina. It was hard to manage a shoot while blowing your nose at the same time but we got through. Hopefully I’ll feel better tomorrow. I’ll be going to a place where there’s lots of windmills. I can’t wait for that. Please pray for strength and for a speedy recovery for me.