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.

Tuesday, December 31, 2013

REFRESHMENT

Growing a garden is liken to growing friendship. 
The nurturing process requires an immense amount of dedication, commitment, discipline, perseverance and enthusiasm. 
And even that, not all plants will blossom! Some inevitably get choked by weeds while others are starved for want of nutrition. A gardener can only do so much.

Loyal friends are certainly more precious than plants and need extra investment in time, effort and energy to sustain and thrive. Throw in respect, trust, admiration, affirmation and watch the friendship bloom. 

Never take important relationships for granted.

Bid adieu to shoddy friends and acquaintances who dropped off along the way. Save your time and effort for the ones who 'tarry'. You know them, there aren't many. The ones who are always present when your need is greatest. Critical. They who are last to leave.
Be refreshed in their good company, be wrapped in their warm embrace, be blessed by their love.

Go walk the garden and be intoxicated by the aromatic sweetness of the flowers in full bloom ...



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