A review by:

Mr. Chan Bing Fai

Former school teacher, Headmaster and educational technologist

Lynn Wong's latest book is SMILE though your heart is ACHING. This is a much awaited book, a worthy sequel to her first book "As Time Goes By" published five years ago. Both her books are generally about life and living. They are not autobiographies.

Her first book is centred more on childhood memories and growing up pains based more on events, observations and her responses and reactions to them, with the innocence of a child. Her latest book, however, is about the adult world with its ups and downs.

It is also about fighting corporate battles.

The words she has chosen carry her thoughts succinctly. They are warm and friendly without being pretentious. The topics included in both her books cover a broad spectrum of subjects and events. Some are more hilarious and many are focused on a more serious note.

Her approach to life is spontaneous, governed by prudence and common sense. It appears lighthearted and easy. Being a keen observer, even trifles, will not escape her scrutiny. Her response to these is largely based on common sense and knowledge; laced with wisdom.

Her thoughts flow through smoothly from one idea to another and the transition is gentle, methodical, tidy and logical. Lynn's philosophy appears simple and yet very profound and thoughtful; gracious and tinged with a lot of human skills and understanding.

Her books are very personal and subjective; unique, highly perceptive, intimate and reflective. I have enjoyed reading both her books and excitedly look forward to her next one which I hope will not take too long to come to fruition.

Her artist -illustrator- is equally talented in bringing out the many encounters and experiences of the author through her drawings; depicting expressions, moods and emotions subtly and with precision. Congratulations to both of you for complementing each other perfectly!

The typography and layout is attractive and designed for easy reading. The book is available in major bookstores.

It is priced at RM27.90.

Thursday, December 6, 2012

THE BEST OF ME

For as long as I can remember, throughout my career which has spanned more than three (3) decades, I've always tried to help the female employees in my company. When I was in the position to do that, I made sure they were given equal opportunities and benefits as the men.
How often I have defied Management, stood up to the Board of Directors and tirelessly searched for reasons to promote the ladies.
For those who weren't so bright, I made excuses for them, explained away their weaknesses, concentrated on their strengths, looked to their potentials and gave them intensive personal training and coaching to encourage, counsel, guide and inspire that she may (eventually) excel.
This to improve and enhance the quality of her life.
 
I came to be known as the champion for the under-dogs (which incidentally is a name I've been labelled since I was fifteen years of age)!
 
Naturally, my staff (especially the ladies) and I had a very solid, trusting and mutually satisfying relationship.  I believe everyone was happy (some happier) and gave their best for the company.  In return the company provided them with secured jobs, conducive working environment and attractive terms of employment.

And if that was not enough very often I use my own money to reward staff who performed above my expectation or as an incentive for improvement or simply because the staff needed financial help.
We were family and I did this with no ulterior motive except to try and bring out the best in my people using every means possible.

Whether appreciated or scorned for what I did don't bother me much.  I follow my heart.
I'm very glad I went the extra mile for the ladies in my company and gave each one of them the best of me...
 
 

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