Today I had the Mid-term test for the elective called "Fundamentals of Communication". It had the most no. of surprise tests and free bonus points for class participation. I was studying topics like perception, listening, mass communication, verbal & non-verbal communication. It just occurred to me that the theories & principles are rather true, and I've learnt quite abut of life skills... I reflected and will consciously try to improve my interpersonal skills...

For example, the concept of person-centeredness, which means the ability to perceive another as a unique individual. I never knew this term, but the concept is like familiar, yet I didn't have that perception of people until one or two years back. I realised the importance of treating each individual as someone special/unique, because God created each of us special. I must admit that last time I tend to stereotype people by looks or results, and am rather racist too. But God puts friends from various races and religion into my life, and I found it harder to love your neighbour as yourself (second commandment of Jesus). I did not like this struggle. Hence, I am repentant of my racism, and trying my best not commit it again. No wonder God puts my FYP supervisor and team mate who are Indians. Haha!

Another concept is about the relationship between expectations & perceptions. My textbook says, the influence of expectations on communication is the basis of positive visualisation, which is a technique used to enhance success by visualising ourselves positively. How true is this? It works for me to a certain extent. But positive visualisation of self requires a 360 degrees change in mentality, self-esteem and confidence. I recalled the phase "believe in yourself that you can do it", is usually used in similar connotation to encourage ourselves or others to have faith in selves that we are the only ones who can make it happen. I used to believe alot in myself to make things happen, like doing well for exams, etc, but the human self have often failed me, making me realise how weak & perishable we are as humans are. So, now that I have a God whom I can trust my life with, my perceptions have also changed. Its not about having positive visualisation, but knowing the fact that "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!" :)

You may be wondering why on and off I would mention something about God. Well, it is the truth that there is a living God who is so GREAT. He is the one who raised Jesus from the dead on the third day after his death, the one who rescued Jonah the prophet from the fish three days after he was swallowed by the whale, and the one who performed many many miracles in the past and in my life! :)

I am thankful...and still in awe of You...

To read about the story of Jonah and the big whale, click here. God bless! :)