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, February 27, 2014

ELEMENT OF SURPRISE

What I like best about friendship is the element of surprise we can bring to it. 

Both hands are needed to clap and it wouldn't do if one party hesitates to participate and merely observes with folded arms. 

That spoils the fun. 


In addition to practicing common courtesies and social etiquette, it's also nice and wise to give some extras - interesting and vibrant trimmings - to spice up and liven up the relationship. 
Taking each other for granted is the first sign of deterioration no matter how close you once were.


Nothing kills faster than settling for monotony.


Monday, February 24, 2014

FOIE GRAS AND CHAMPAGNE

The corporate - rat race, dog-eat-dog-world has its moments but only for a season.

Chauffeur driven, private executive suite, foie gras and champagne, business class indulgence.
The adrenaline rush, hard sale, suave opponent, sweet triumph and sickening defeat. 


Sometimes we win, sometimes we lose but at all times, on guard.
The market place is a war zone and it would be suicidal to go out and do battle unprepared.
Certainly not a game for the weak or half-hearted. 


Had my share, seen most of it, done most of it and glad for the experience.
And now equally happy to be moving into a new season... 




Saturday, February 22, 2014

CLOWNS AND CIRCUS

When a company is run by clowns, it becomes a circus! 
While it is good entertainment for the competitors, the employees are jittery and never know when they'll be out of work. 
And of course, the stakeholder's concern is when the circus leaves town in a hurry!
OUCH!!


Tuesday, February 18, 2014

YEAR OF THE HORSE

The Lunar New Year celebration ended officially on 14th February. 
According to the Chinese calendar, I am a year older and  ...... definitely - hopefully - prayerfully .... errrrrr.... wiser!
Say what? 


Thursday, February 6, 2014

MAGIC OF LOVE

Life is incredibly beautiful when one is in love, magical even ...




PSALMS 23

Psalms 23 - A Psalm of David

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want;
he makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters;
he restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness
for his name's sake.

Even though I walk through the
valley of the shadow of death,
I fear no evil;
for thou art with me;
thy rod and thy staff,
they comfort me.

Thou preparest a table before me 
in the presence of my enemies;
thou annointest my head with oil,
my cup overflows.
Surely goodness and mercy shall 
follow me
all the days of my life;
and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord
for ever.

Amen.


Wednesday, February 5, 2014

THINKING MAKES IT SO

If it is within my power to turn back time, I wouldn't risk it!
Some things may not be all that I want them to be but they could be worse.

Nothing is absolutely good or bad.
Thinking makes it so.