First Anniversary ...

28 March 2009 marked my first anniversary in New Zealand and today (1 April 2009) is my first anniversary working at SDMG (NZ) Ltd. It has been a wonderful year, one which has had a great impact on my career and personal life. What else can I say except thanks to the Almighty God for this great opportunity and for all the blessings in my life. Alhamdulillah!

It may not be a great deal for some people but for a ‘Kampung Boy’ like me, who used to earn RM8 for an eight-hour job, it has truly been a once in a lifetime opportunity. For a person who is always struggling with his English, working with people for whom English is their first language has certainly forced myself to step out of my comfort zone. Even writing this posting is a struggle for me.

I still remember what it was like when I was offered this secondment. I felt uncertain, excited, sad and happy and a host of other feelings especially when I started to realise that I would be missing my home, my family, my friends and my country. Many people don’t realise it, but deep down, I am a shy, introverted person and I have self-esteem/confidence issues too - believe it or not? He he he. And this secondment would force me to face my deepest fears.

Somehow, I always seem to have a way of overcoming my weaknesses. Perhaps it is just my luck. But I really think it is because I am blessed to have great friends around me no matter where I am. They are always ready to help when I need them the most. Thanks very much guys and girls (or as the Kiwi and Aussies would say, “Thanks, mate!”).

By the way, the world’s first global election between Mother Earth and Global Warming was held last Saturday. People voted for Mother Earth by not producing any green house gases for one hour (except for the natural ones … he he he) – no electricity, etc. How interesting was that!

Of course, I voted for Mother Earth. I was with my buddy Henry, helping him pack his belongings in the dark … LOL. Henry is selling his house with the beautiful sea view and is keeping his stuff in storage until he decides what to do next.

Soon ‘Kembara Ahau Dee’ is going to celebrate its first anniversary too (24 April 2009)! For those who keep visiting my blog, thank you very much. May our ‘cyber-friendship’ last forever (or at least for as long as this blog exists … he he he)

Happy Anniversary to Ahau Dee!

Ahau Dee with Chrissy(centre) and her friend. The photo was taken almost a year ago. Can you see the extra 20 kg being cover up by his jacket?

Ahau Dee with Managers from NSMG after he facilitated the E-Learning Group Session recently and of course, he is more confident about showing his minus 20kg figure … ha ha ha! Don’t be too self-satisfied Ahau Dee… still more to lose.

PS: To mark the upcoming 1st anniversary of this blog, Ahau Dee will write more in English, as he would like his Kiwi friends to read this blog as well. To Mas, Enida and Wiz please do not hesitate to correct my English if you spot any typos or grammatical errors. Of course I can’t write as well as you can. After all, I am just a simple ‘Kampung Boy’ at heart… ha ha ha.

Cheers.

Ahau-Dee