Scientific & Biblical Evidences of the _________ Star of Bethlehem _____________________ 用科学发现与圣经章节来查考及验证伯利恒之星

The following video explains how the reliable Starry Night software simulation methodological scientific discoveries & evidences match the biblical verse descriptions & prophecies in the Old Testament and New Testament based on Johannes Kepler's mathematical formulations on planetary motions that are also used by NASA. The match is explained in terms of the Star of Bethlehem during Jesus' birth and the celestial alignments during Jesus' crucifixion and death.

The world's most realistic astronomy software can be bought from http://store.simulationcurriculum.com/. An educational version can be found from http://www.starrynighteducation.com/skychart/.

This means that faith in Christianity is not based upon mythical fables, but based on the Truth, which can be supported by knowledge from biblical, real-life historical & scientific evidences.



Audio analysis: Thanks to Alan Silvestri for "Forrest Gump". This music blends well in time with the mood of the slides. I did not alter the original music. The following are some of the main turning points:
0:02 - Journey begins with a light & exciting note.
1:28 - Glorious transition as heavens declare the glory of God.
2:13 - Depressing transition when Kepler failed to find the star.
2:52 - Hopeful transition to discover & investigate the star.
4:55 - Female hum corresponds to Virgo & Venus (mother planet).
6:28 - Slowing down corresponds to retrograde motion.
6:48 - Triumph celebration of Jesus fulfillment of the prophecy.
7:39 - Marching towards the climax due to the match at 8:06.

Credit goes to 1) Law professor Fred Larson of University of Southern California who subsequently worked at Texas A&M University, for explaining the match and the truth to people around the world, including China. 2) Greg Dickson of Texas A&M University for distributing the PPT slides to the Chinese Christian fellows at Berkeley's Home of Students on Dec 16, 2011 (Friday). 3) Tianyu Fu of UC Berkeley for inviting me there that night. 4) Zihong Lian of UC Berkeley for video editing and including relevant descriptions. 5) Most importantly, God Himself who created the heavens and earth, and for His merciful salvation for mankind via Christ Jesus' death and resurrection at the exact moment in time.

More information and videos can be found from http://www.bethlehemstar.net/. Similarly, it is highly recommended that you view all 7 parts of YouTube videos, starting from "The Real Star Of Bethlehem (Part 1 of 7)", starring professor Fred Larson.



Credit goes to AlGendii for uploading the videos on YouTube.

Cantonese Christian Songs (基督教诗歌 - 粤语)

I would like to share my findings on this wonderful sacrificial song as listed below. Enjoy.

语言： 粤语/广东 (愛是不保留 / 我信愛是恆久)

1) Female Solo

2) Male & Female

3) Instrumental 1

4) Instrumental 2

Language: English (An Unreserved Love)

1) Female Solo

More can be found from http://www.youtube.com/user/ZihongLian

My 2 English Christian Songs YouTube Playlists (基督教诗歌 - 英语)

1. English Christian Songs (Instrumental) from http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDD6824DD204C191F


2. English Christian Songs (Vocal) from http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6DEE95F3C86B07B3


More can be found from http://www.youtube.com/user/ZihongLian

My 2 Chinese Christian Songs YouTube Playlists (基督教诗歌 - 华语)

1. Chinese Christian Songs (Instrumental) from http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5E10D01BB95D01BA


2. Chinese Christian Songs (Vocal) from http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFADC83C2E07B18FF


More can be found from http://www.youtube.com/user/ZihongLian

In The Beginning Was The Word. 太初有道

Do you know how ancient Chinese writing characters came about? It all started from the Bible knowledge. How interesting to learn that Chinese people know about creation, the flood during Noah’s time, Noah’s Art, and so forth…before the language was invented…or initiated….

HI FRIENDS, CLICK ON THE URL BELOW AND SEE HOW CLOSE THE CHINESE HAVE BEEN TO THE CREATOR GOD, SHANG DI...

http://students.washington.edu/cbsf/cool/Chinese.swf

Credit goes to Weng Khing for the above message and link.

Quote from (NIV) John 1:1: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 太初有道，道与　神同在，道就是　神

Biblical Quotes

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. [Genesis 1:1]
起 初 ，神 创 造 天 地 。[创世记 1:1]

And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. [Genesis 1:3]
神 说 ：要 有 光 ， 就 有 了 光 。[创世记 1:3]

God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: ‘I AM has sent me to you.’” [Exodus 3:14]
神 对 摩 西 说 ： 我 是 自 有 永 有 的 ； 又 说 ： 你 要 对 以 色 列 人 这 样 说 ： 那 自 有 的 打 发 我 到 你 们 这 里 来 。[出埃及记 3:14]

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. [Proverbs 9:10]
敬 畏 耶 和 华 是 智 慧 的 开 端 ； 认 识 至 圣 者 便 是 聪 明 。[箴言 9:10]

For he spoke, and it came to be; he commanded, and it stood firm. [Psalm 33:9]
因 为 祂 说 有 ， 就 有 ， 命 立 ， 就 立 。[诗篇 33:9]

Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one and calls forth each of them by name. Because of his great power and mighty strength, not one of them is missing. [Isaiah 40:26]
你 们 向 上 举 目 ， 看 谁 创 造 这 万 象 ， 按 数 目 领 出 ， 祂 一 一 称 其 名 ； 因 祂 的 权 能 ， 又 因 祂 的 大 能 大 力 ， 连 一 个 都 不 缺 。[以 賽 亞 書 40:26]

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. 5 Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. 6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. 7 Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. 8 Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. 9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. 10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you. [Matthew 5:3-12]
虚 心 的 人 有 福 了 ！ 因 为 天 国 是 他 们 的 。4 哀 恸 的 人 有 福 了 ！ 因 为 他 们 必 得 安 慰 。5 温 柔 的 人 有 福 了 ！ 因 为 他 们 必 承 受 地 土 。6 饥 渴 慕 义 的 人 有 福 了 ！ 因 为 他 们 必 得 饱 足 。7 怜 恤 人 的 人 有 福 了 ！ 因 为 他 们 必 蒙 怜 恤 。8 清 心 的 人 有 福 了 ！ 因 为 他 们 必 得 见 神 。9 使 人 和 睦 的 人 有 福 了 ！ 因 为 他 们 必 称 为 神 的 儿 子 。10 为 义 受 逼 迫 的 人 有 福 了 ！ 因 为 天 国 是 他 们 的 。11 人 若 因 我 辱 骂 你 们 ， 逼 迫 你 们 ， 捏 造 各 样 坏 话 毁 谤 你 们 ， 你 们 就 有 福 了 ！12 应 当 欢 喜 快 乐 ， 因 为 你 们 在 天 上 的 赏 赐 是 大 的 。 在 你 们 以 前 的 先 知 ， 人 也 是 这 样 逼 迫 他 们 。[马太福音 5:3-12]

“This, then, is how you should pray: “‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, 10 your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us today our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. [Matthew 6:9-13]
所 以 ， 你 们 祷 告 要 这 样 说 ： 我 们 在 天 上 的 父 ： 愿 人 都 尊 你 的 名 为 圣 。10 愿 你 的 国 降 临 ； 愿 你 的 旨 意 行 在 地 上 ， 如 同 行 在 天 上 。11 我 们 日 用 的 饮 食 ， 今 日 赐 给 我 们 。12 免 我 们 的 债 ， 如 同 我 们 免 了 人 的 债 。13 不 叫 我 们 遇 见 试 探 ； 救 我 们 脱 离 凶 恶 （ 或 作 ： 脱 离 恶 者 ） 。 因 为 国 度 、 权 柄 、 荣 耀 ， 全 是 你 的 ， 直 到 永 远 。 阿 们。[马太福音 6:9-13]

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. [John 1:1-5]
太 初 有 道 ， 道 与 神 同 在 ， 道 就 是 神 。2 这 道 太 初 与 神 同 在 。3 万 物 是 藉 着 祂 造 的 ； 凡 被 造 的 ， 没 有 一 样 不 是 藉 着 祂 造 的 。4 生 命 在 祂 里 头 ， 这 生 命 就 是 人 的 光 。5 光 照 在 黑 暗 里 ， 黑 暗 却 不 接 受 光 。[约翰福音 1:1-5]

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. [John 3:16]
神 爱 世 人 ， 甚 至 将 祂 的 独 生 子 赐 给 他 们 ， 叫 一 切 信 祂 的 ， 不 至 灭 亡 ， 反 得 永 生 。[约翰福音 3:16]

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. [John 14:6]
耶 稣 说 我 就 是 道 路 、 真 理 、 生 命 ； 若 不 藉 着 我 ， 没 有 人 能 到 父 那 里 去 。[约翰福音 14:6]

For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse. [Romans 1:20]
自 从 造 天 地 以 来 ， 神 的 永 能 和 神 性 是 明 明 可 知 的 ， 虽 是 眼 不 能 见 ， 但 藉 着 所 造 之 物 就 可 以 晓 得 ， 叫 人 无 可 推 诿 。[罗 1:20]

Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. [Romans 5:3-5]
不 但 如 此 ， 就 是 在 患 难 中 也 是 欢 欢 喜 喜 的 ； 因 为 知 道 患 难 生 忍 耐 ，4 忍 耐 生 老 练 ， 老 练 生 盼 望 ；5 盼 望 不 至 於 羞 耻 ， 因 为 所 赐 给 我 们 的 圣 灵 将 神 的 爱 浇 灌 在 我 们 心 里 。[罗 5:3-5]

Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ. [Romans 10:17]
可 见 信 道 是 从 听 道 来 的 ， 听 道 是 从 基 督 的 话 来 的 。[罗 10:17]

No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. [1 Corinthians 10:13].
你 们 所 遇 见 的 试 探 ， 无 非 是 人 所 能 受 的 。 神 是 信 实 的 ， 必 不 叫 你 们 受 试 探 过 於 所 能 受 的 ； 在 受 试 探 的 时 候 ， 总 要 给 你 们 开 一 条 出 路 ， 叫 你 们 能 忍 受 得 住 。[哥林多前书 10:13]

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 8 Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. [1 Corinthians 13:4-8]
爱 是 恒 久 忍 耐 ， 又 有 恩 慈 ； 爱 是 不 嫉 妒 ； 爱 是 不 自 夸 ， 不 张 狂 ，5 不 做 害 羞 的 事 ， 不 求 自 己 的 益 处 ， 不 轻 易 发 怒 ， 不 计 算 人 的 恶 ，6 不 喜 欢 不 义 ， 只 喜
欢 真 理 ；7 凡 事 包 容 ， 凡 事 相 信 ， 凡 事 盼 望 ， 凡 事 忍 耐 。8 爱 是 永 不 止 息 。 先 知 讲 道 之 能 终 必 归 於 无 有 ； 说 方 言 之 能 终 必 停 止 ； 知 识 也 终 必 归 於 无 有 。[哥林多前书 13:4-8]

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. [Galatians 5:22-23]
圣 灵 所 结 的 果 子 ， 就 是 仁 爱 、 喜 乐 、 和 平 、 忍 耐 、 恩 慈 、 良 善 、 信 实 、 23 温 柔 、 节 制 。 这 样 的 事 没 有 律 法 禁 止 。[加拉太书 5:22-23]

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. [Ephesians 2:8-9]
你 们 得 救 是 本 乎 恩 ， 也 因 着 信 ； 这 并 不 是 出 於 自 己 ， 乃 是 神 所 赐 的 ； 9 也 不 是 出 於 行 为 ， 免 得 有 人 自 夸 。[以弗所书 2:8-9]

The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven. [Hebrews 1:3]
祂 是 神 荣 耀 所 发 的 光 辉 ， 是 神 本 体 的 真 像 ， 常 用 祂 权 能 的 命 令 托 住 万 有 。 祂 洗 净 了 人 的 罪 ， 就 坐 在 高 天 至 大 者 的 右 边 。[希伯来书 1:3]

Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. [Hebrews 11:1]
信 就 是 所 望 之 事 的 实 底 ， 是 未 见 之 事 的 确 据 。[希伯来书 11:1]

MUNDO Michigan Educational Trip for U.S. 44th Presidential Inauguration at Washington D.C.

It was an exciting news when I found out that my Multicultural Understanding through Non-traditional Discovery Opportunity (MUNDO) educational trip application to Washington D.C. to witness the 44th president's inauguration into the White House. This application is open only to on campus housing students. I was among the 50 Wolverines who were eligible to witness this once-in-a-lifetime historical moment. Almost half of us were from East Quad. The rest were from Couzens Hall, Bursley Hall, Baits, Morsher-Jordan, Markley, Oxford...etc. The theme of our educational trip is entitled "The Dream Is Alive". This theme corresponds to Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Dream and that the inauguration of the first Black President of the United Stated States gave hope to the American citizens.

Regarding the application details, we were required to send in a half-paged essay. We were informed about the conditions in which they will accept the first 300 applicants for 50 spaces on the bus by the due date and that only 7 students can receive grants, while the rest have to pay $ 75.00 after applications are accepted (most of the fees were subsidized by the university and the resident halls). The following are my short essays according to the respective questions and available spaces on the application form.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1. How do you feel you will benefit from this experience?

I will definitely benefit from this trip! I'm an International student from Malaysia and my visa only allows me to stay in the U.S. for a maximum of 4 years. I'm very fortunate to have this opportunity to witness this once-in-a-lifetime inauguration of U.S.'s first African American President. I'll share and post the educational trip experiences to my friends and on my blog.

2. Have you ever been out of the State of Michigan before? If so tell us the farthest from Michigan you have traveled.

Yes, I went to Ohio, not to lose to them, but we won the entire Ohio division in our inter-collegiate table tennis competition! We showed them our Wolverine spirit... Go Blue! I've never been to Washington D.C. yet, but I'm eager and willing to experience and share this spectacular moment.

3. Has Dr. Martin Luther King been an influence in your life and if so, how?

Dr. Martin Luther King has indirectly influenced me. I've heard stories about how he upheld justice and freedom. His speech on 'I have a dream' has a great impact on me. I certainly agree on his ideology as I came from a multiracial and multicultural country.

4. How has Barack Obama fulfilled or not fulfilled Dr. King's quest for social and racial justice? What more must he do?

The fact that Barack Obama is about to be called Mr. President has partially fulfilled Dr. King's quest of racial harmony, peace, integrity, freedom of speech...etc. Barack Obama has to take this opportunity seriously to boost U.S.'s economy, which enhances and improves the quality of life of billions of people around the world. He has to continue to strive for world peace and harmony, to reduce world hunger, to disseminate racial tensions and bring an end to unnecessary wars.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

And so I paid the $ 75.00 after having a minor struggle with my parents by convincing them that everything will be alright, that terrorism is unlikely to happen, that the organizers (Mr. Phillip, Ms. Kim and Ms. Laura) are aware of security threats and that I'll follow the group leaders as close as possible to avoid any possible unforeseen circumstances. I prayed that God will protect everyone during the inauguration and that we will be delivered from the evil ones. Indeed, God was with us and paved the way for us for He heard our earnest prayers.

Before the trip, which spans from January 18 '09 to January 20 '09, I attended the MUNDO predeparture meeting on January 14 '09 at East Quad's Green Lounge. We were given information on terms and conditions, itineraries of our journey, thing to and not to bring, and Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s famous speech entitled "I Have A Dream". We were briefly informed of our possible evacuation plan in case anything bad happens. The organizers weren't informed of the official evacuation plans due to security reasons. Before dismissal, each of us were given a certificate-like-confirmations, which are to be given to our respective subject professors as proof of our absence on the following Tuesday. It was fortunate that we'll only be missing a day of class, the day after Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s holiday.

Day 0: January 17 '09 (Saturday)

On the day of departure, we gathered near the East Quad Community Center at 11:30 pm and departed at midnight.

Day 1: January 18 '09 (Sunday)

We reached Washington D.C. after approximately 12 hours of bus ride, as opposed to the estimated 9 hours. That was why we missed the chance to visit the National Museum of American History (NMAH) that day as stated in the itineraries. Fortunately, I get to visit NMAH the next day. Due to time constraints, we settled down our luggages in the cabins located at the Conference Center. Since there were less 'Y-genes', the men were situated at Cabin 7, while the ladies were situated at Cabin 8, 9 & 10. Then, we took the railway transit from Shady Grove to Metro Center using the Red Line and subsequently switched to the Blue Line to Smithsonian. From there, we rushed to the General Public area, which is located between the Washington Monument and the World War 2 Memorial. Since the 2 entrances to the Inaugural Welcome Concert at the Lincoln Memoral was closed because the place was full, we had to stay at the General Public area instead and view the concert via the Jumbotrons or huge projectors there.

Cabin 7 where the Y genes stayed for 2 nights.

Metro Station

Obama T-Shirts, Obama winter hats, Obama badges, Obama pins, Obama everywhere.

Police Petroling using cars, trucks, bicycles, motorcycles and horses.

Notice the green cubicles. Those are called porta-potties, which is also known as portable toilets.

MUNDO Michiganders waiting for the rest of the group members.

The Lincoln Memorial, where the Inaugural Welcome Concert took place.

The World War 2 Memorial

The concert was initiated by the U.S. National Anthem at 2 pm at sub zero degrees Celcius. Then, singers and choirs sang many songs that I have not heard before. To my great surprize, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s son - Martin Luther King the 3rd gave a speech on his father, followed by Tom Hanks, who quoted and reminded us with some famous quotes by U.S.'s 16th President, Abraham Lincoln. Vice President-elect, Joe Biden gave a powerful speech on respect, dignity and freedom. Songs were then played, followed by Queen Larifah's speech on 'America being America'. I heard cheers when Tiger Woods name was mentioned. He quoted a quote from Abraham Lincoln in his speech. Next, Samuel Johnson gave a speech using Rosa Parks as an example to social unjust, racial inequality and democracy issues. After that, a bald eagle trainer showed a simple performance or 'bird walk' with the National-symbolizing-animal. Last but not least, as most would have expected, President-elect Obama also gave a speech. He appreciated the performances, singers, reminders and everyone's presence. In his speech, he reused a quote he has mentioned in Chicago when the Democrats won the Republicans: "The road ahead will be long. Our climb will be steep. We may not get there in one year or even in one term. But, America, I have never been more hopeful that we will get there." He mentioned various aspects of difficulties and uncertainties for everyone's children and that there will be struggles ahead, but he's hopeful as ever.

Thousands of people weren't on time for the Inaugural Welcome Concert at the Lincoln Memorial, thus they watched the concert via the Jumbotrons at the General Public area between the Washington Monument and the World War 2 Memorial.

Kids tired of standing in the hugecrowd.

Some people were desperate to enjoy a better view, but sure enough they had a tough time coming down. Luckily no one was hurt.

The Bald Eagle performance. The bald eagle is America's national animal. It's the national symbol of USA.

*****

The following video was taken by me when Obama gave his speech during the Inaugural Welcome Concert at the Lincoln Memorial on January 18 '09

Source: Courtesy of me from YouTube.

After the concert, we went to the Old Post Office for dinner. Since the Old Post Office is a federal building, we were required to go through a security screening. I went in successfully and bought a plate of noodles with sesame chicken for $ 6 from Panda Cafe. Notice that the the stall and its name is very similar to those of Panda Express in Michigan. At 6 pm, the security guards asked us to leave because the building was about to close. We walked to Metro Center and took the Red Line to Shady Grove and boarded the bus for the Conference Center.

At 8.30 pm, we went to the common area at Cabin 9 for a dialogue session. We were praised for our attentiveness to instructions and the fact that we didn't face much trouble with hundreds of people moving around us. We were then given a briefing for the following 2 days on the do's and don'ts. We abandoned the idea of joining in the Inaugural Parade, because that will take time and that some of us needed to get back to class the next day for tests. Everyone's photos were taken individually by our unofficial photographer, Mr. Aaron so that we can use those photos as evidences if ever we lose anyone on the following days. As there were 3 organizers, we were divided into 3 pods. I was under Mr. Phil's pod. We dismissed ourselves and called it a day.

Day 2: January 19 '09 (Monday) OR Martin Luther King Day (MLK)

With about 8 hours of sleep, I woke up at 7.30 am and washed myself. Thank goodness I found a person sleeping on a couch at our cabin's common area, or we might have left him there. The Conference Center provided a decent breakfast for all of us. At 8.30 am sharp, we left for Shady Grove Metro Stop. We boarded Red Line to Gallery Pl-Chinatown and reached at about 10.30 am. The reason we headed there was to participate in a Community Service Project, entitled "Feeding America". The project was organized by most of the black people there. The purpose of the project was to feed the poor, the homeless and those who are in hunger and to reduce poverty rate.

Conference Center worker heating up the place while we enjoyed our breakfast. The heating materials had 3 layers. The bottom layer consisted of old newspapers, the middle layer consisted of properly chopped woods with holes in the center for ventilation and that fire can be lit the newspapers through it. The top layer consisted of larger woods.

Community Service Project, entitled "Feeding America"

Enthusiastic MUNDO Michiganders posing in front of several cameras. We were waiting for the signing-in procedure.

Everyone of us signed up and waited for our names to be called. The project organizer called out hundreds of volunteers' names according to the respective duties. Some went to the Food section, while some went to the T-Shirt distributing section. Others were asked to be Cleaners, Greeters or to pray for the project. There were quite number of people who weren't called. I was one of them. We were asked to go to different sections and see if they need our help. We were also asked to greet the people with smiles and just communicate with one another. One of my interesting duties was to create a human-wall to make the place more organized. While carrying out my duties, I took many candid photos. Indeed, I witnessed many people who are homeless, poor, sick and handicapped who came and lined up for their food serving. Some of them might not have bathed for many days.

Some people had the priviledge of being interviewed live by reporters.

The people in blue shirt are performing in a marching band. They created the celebrative atmosphere and attracted more people to participate in the project.

Volunteers served food to those who were in the line.

The homeless, poor, sick and handicapped enjoying their free meal on Martin Luther King Day (MLK).

A volunteer from Idaho & me.

At 12 pm, Ben, Jimmy, Jorge, Martha and I went a few blocks down the street for lunch. Many eateries were packed with people, so we went to Clydes instead. I bought a baked ziti at $ 6.25 . After our lunch at about 1 pm, we headed back to the project site and heard that we missed Josh Groban. He sang on stage, took pictures with some people there and left the scene. The people at the project site were scattered and started to leave. We strolled around at Chinatown and eventually met at our predesignated meeting place near the white elephant at the project site. We followed our respective pods and headed to where each pod wanted to go based on the preferences of the majority.

Baked Ziti for lunch at Clydes.

Action Figures of Obama sold at the project site. Kids were the main target.

Souvenirs related to Obama, MLK... etc.

The Chinatown Gate. I expected more Chinese traditional buildings though.

Subway's translation in Chinese... interesting.

The food displayed made my mouth watered. Too bad I had my lunch.

No idea what this means, but this is an interesting picture.

The White Elephant with colored railway map on it. This was where we met at 2 pm after the Community Service Project and lunch.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle..!

Our pod decided not to go to see the monuments as the museums have much more to offer. We decided to begin our journey at the Ford's Museum, where Abraham Lincoln was assassinated. Unfortunately, it was closed and will reopen next year due to reconstruction. We then went to the National Archives, but the line was incredibly long. We went to the National Museum of Natural History instead, but realized that the National Museum of American History was a better choice for everyone. So, off we went, through the security check point and into the 3-storey building.

The Ford's Theater. This is the place where Abraham Lincoln was assassinated when he attended a performance entitled "Our American Cousin".

Mr. Phillip was interviewed by local reporters.

The National Archives with a long queue that made us changed our minds.

The National Museum of American History. I was very glad that we came here, because I was able to visit historical moments, civil wars, ex-presidents...etc.

Star Wars's C3P0 figure

Dumbo the elephant. I'm sure my sister will be excited over this cartoon figure.

From the side, it looks like a telescope, but the fact is that it's actually a machine gun.

One of President Abraham Lincoln's famous quotes.

More information of The Emancipation Proclamation can be found here.

One of the entrances of the National Museum of American History. The people there were lining up to visit certain sections of the museum.

President Washington on a white horse. I think he is greeting the British on the right side of the picture.

Various dress codes, swords, guns, riffles, knives...etc.

People from all walks of life with different culture and background.

Strategies in wars, navigation at sea, leaders, weapons...etc.

The dishearthening historical event of 911.

Sophisticated hand-crafted battle ship of the past.

1st President of the United States of America - George Washington.

Histories of the Vietnam War.

Short clips on Vietnam War from the past.

Ranks, Structures and Responsibilities of the President and Commander in Chief.

Symbols of a New Nation.

Excruciating Wars.

Journals, short clips and articles on wars.

Life of soldiers at war.

The Price of Freedom. Americans at War.

A quote from George Washington.

Quizzes or polls for U.S. Presidents.

The White House as Symbol and Home.

Sketches of Abraham Lincoln.

Benjamin Franklin's scientific experiments.

Presidential Facts

Mass destruction of World War 2 due to atomic bombs.

After our pod's 3 hour visit in the National Museum of American History, we headed to the Washington Monument, where we were supposed to take a group picture. Out of my surprize, the Ohio University students were invited to take a group picture with us. For those who don't know the history, Michigan and Ohio people have been known as rivals, especially in American football games. After our group picture, we went to the Ronald Reagen Building for our dinner. As expected, we went through security screening again. After our dinner, we listened to two guest speakers about their experiences during the recent political campaigns. Then, we took the Red Line to Shady Grove, boarded our bus and reached Conference Center at 9 pm. We were reminded that we have to wake up at 2 am the next day, so that we get to take off at 2:30 am to get a spot to view the Presidential Inauguration at the General Public area.

I took a picture of this Limousine on the way to the Washington Monument after we are done with National Museum of American History.

The Washington Monument.

The evening view of U.S. Capitol from the Washington Monument.

Some passionate guy taking photos of the Washington Monument.

I took a candid photo of our unofficial photographer, Aaron while he took a candid photo at the Washington Monument.

From right to left: Katy, Carrie, Patrick, Molly and me at the Ronald Reagen Building. The 5 of us were in a group to attend our dinner there.

Swechuan Rice and a bottle of orange juice for dinner.

Alice and her friend were invited as guest speakers after our dinner to talk about their experiences during their participation in the recent political campaigns.

Day 3: January 20 '09 (Tuesday)

At 2:30 am, after having less than 5 hours of sleep (some people were unbelievably awake throughout the night for different reasons), we packed all our luggages and belongings onto our bus. We headed to FedEx field, where all buses for the Inauguration should park there, so that visitors can board metro for DC by taking the Blue Line from Franconia-Springfield to L'Enfant Plaza Metro Station. I felt a bit annoyed that there wasn't any security check points or screenings when we went to Washington D.C. It was about 4 am and there was already a huge crowd where people were squeezing their way to get through the metro ticket counter. The level of leniency of the security checks was too good to be true and I felt more threatened that anyone could have brought anything to do anything absurd or terrorizing. On the metro, some of the Wolverines were so exhilarated that they couldn't hold back their excitement and so they sang songs, laughed and cheered. Once arrived in Washington D.C., we walked North to the National Mall, because we wanted to be as close to 4th and Madison. It was dark and cold at sub zero degrees Celcius at 5 am, but there were many passionate people who were willing to forgo their sleep and rush their way through to have the best view on the Inauguration that they can get. By the time we reached the General Public area at 5:30 am, most of our group members had been widely dispersed. Only Emma, Ruth and I were able to catch up with the person leading the way, Ms. Kim. Some of them decided to stay as close to the U.S. Capitol as possible. Others just went out of sight. Thank goodness no one was hurt or lost. The four of us found a nice spot under a tree, which is located at the outskirt of the crowd. We were able to have a higher view of the people there, the Jumbotrons, and the U.S. Capitol.

I took this picture when we were on our way to get as close to the U.S. Capitol (the white building in the picture) as possible. It was about 5 am, but there was already a huge crowd.

This picture was taken when we found a nice spot under a tree located at the outskirt of the crowd. Just look at all the passion and enthusiasm these people demonstrated.

It was about 7 am when the Inaugural Welcome Concert on January 18 '09 was replayed on the Jumbotrons.

It was somewhat pleasant to see helicopters flying past above us from time to time. At least we know that we are safe and that the helicopters can play an important role if anything bad suddenly occurs.

I think those people in black on the roof of several buildings are people in charged of our safety at the General Public area. They could be FBI agents, snipers, security guards...etc.

The snail-like vehicle in the picture is supposedly meant for the Inaugural parade after the Swearing-in Ceremony.

Morning view of the people waiting patiently for the defining moment in a few hours time.

Magnificent morning view of the U.S. Capitol.

Some people climbed on trees or trash cans so that they can snap their desired pictures.

The cold and the boredom of waiting could have triggered these young ladies to do the Hokey Pokey dance.

It wasn't a pleasant sight to see rubbish thrown or left on the ground. These selfish people could have just thrown their unwanted stuffs into the nearby trash cans.

The crowd started to sway their flags frantically before, during and after Obama's speech. They also waved their flags when video cameras directed towards them.

Obama gave his Inaugural speech after the harmonious Swearing-in Ceremony.

*****

The following video is President Barack Obama's 2009 Inauguration and Address

Source: Courtesy of CSPAN from YouTube.

After the inspiring speech which ended at about 2:30 pm, the crowd started to move to the metro stations, buses or their vehicles. The place was very congested that I practically "swam" through the people (I used the word "swam" because it really feels like it when everyone have their filled-with-air winter clothes on). It was unfortunate that the exits weren't properly labeled and that people were confused on their way back. I was informed that a few metro stations weren't operating (Some of my Wolverine friends and I received a D.C. alert that a 68 year old lady was struck by a metro train. I heard that she died instantly. That was probably one of the main reasons some of the metro stations weren't in operation and that there were ambulances driving through the crowd). Emma, Ruth and I went to L'Enfant Plaza (our meeting place), but no one from our group was there. I couldn't reach the 3 organizers: Mr. Phil, Ms. Kim and Ms. Laura, probably because of the trumendous telecommunication interference we had at that time. We searched other places and subsequently found Mr. Phil's pod after about 30 minutes. There were only about half of us in the group. I could see that most of us were hungry, cold and exhausted. Meanwhile, we kept on waiting for people to join our group as we single-filed our way to the L'Enfant Plaza Metro Station. Ms. Laura joined our group while Ms. Kim took her group of people and headed to our bus. The rest of us followed Mr. Phil and took the metro and headed to our bus. It was a relief that no one was left behind. I just thought to myself that I was glad that nothing bad happened before, during and after the Inauguration, because most of us couldn't have escaped the scene, especially when the rather poorly organized traffic, metro stations, road blocks could have worsen the situation and caused more chaos. Praise be to the Lord for protecting everyone at the Inaugural ceremony.

Everyone was at the bus by about 5 pm. We waved goodbye to Washington D.C. and headed back to Ann Arbor, Michigan. We reached Ann Arbor at approximately 4 am. About half of us were dropped of at East Quad, then subsequently the bus driver dropped the rest of us at our respective resident halls. I had 3 hours of sleep before I attended my first class at 10 am at Central.

This educational trip was worth it and I am glad that I have participated in it. It has been an enjoyable and fulfilling once-in-a-lifetime experience. The end.