Please do not deny me the privilege of practicing my faith by learning from a materially successful deacon, and by observing how God’s blessings are reflected in his life and achievements. I genuinely admire the deacon, and what I express comes sincerely from the bottom of my heart; it must not be misconstrued as sarcasm.
At present, I am living on government assistance, and like many others, I also have aspirations for a better life. I would sincerely value the opportunity to have been educated in a prestigious school, to live in private property in a prime district, and to drive a luxury car. However, I recognize that it is likely too late for me to return to formal education, as my upbringing in a lower socio-economic background and attendance at a neighborhood school shaped the opportunities available (or the lack of) to me in my earlier years.
As for private property, I remain realistic and hope to progress step by step. A 99-year leasehold private property in Yishun or Bedok would already represent meaningful progress for me.
Regarding luxury vehicles, I acknowledge that I have not yet done enough to consider myself deserving of such blessings. I understand that God’s blessings are bestowed according to His wisdom, and I have seen how His servants may be blessed when they find favor in His eyes. To begin with, I should learn to reject any feelings of envy when I see others who are more successful than I am. This would help me stay on a more parallel path with the deacon, as envy can give rise to prejudice, and prejudice may in turn lead to resentment or hatred.
It would be most unfair to compare me with the deacon, as a candle flame like me cannot compete with the brilliance of the sun and moon (燈燭之火豈可與日月爭輝).
In this spirit, I respectfully ask that no one sow discord between me and the deacon, or create unnecessary division where there should instead be understanding, respect, and peace.
