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.

Wednesday, October 7, 2015

DUTY AND OBLIGATION

When we perform deeds out of duty or obligation, we feel a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment at having met an expectation. That is highly commendable. Having fulfilled that particular task and taken off from our list of things to do, we move on to tackle the next item; not sparing a thought for what has gone before.
In contrast when we purposely go out of our way to be accommodating, gracious and attentive whether with family, friends or colleagues and even undeserving individuals, something astounding happens with the choice we make from dozens of options available each day. When we choose to act from the heart, caring no longer becomes a burden or even a responsibility. The sheer joy of bringing peace, pleasure and imparting good will become all consuming; the giving of unconditional love fueled by unbridled passion, for the well being of another.  You know you have touched someone's life in a remarkable and lasting manner.  Strangely, both of you will never be the same again!

The heart sings; the spirit soars and the soul dances; that's the reward of intimate relationships. 
Oh, to regard another individual as more important and precious than oneself is divine...


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