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.

Sunday, September 25, 2016

STARK REMINDER

The gaiety seemed less; the mood more subdued and sombre. The laughter is restrained, everyone appeared lost in his own thoughts. Conversation halted in mid air. There's a discomforting disconnection; a broken link.
The vacancy at the dining table is a stark reminder of missing loved ones who have gone afar. The emptiness tugs persistently at the heartstrings; relentlessly tormenting. It is during festivals and significant celebrations that missing family and friends are sadly missed all over again...


STARVED

No one owes anyone a living! Even if someone puts food infront of us, we will still have to put it into our mouths. Left untouched, even with abundance around us, we will still be starved and deprived. 
In reality, we are stronger, smarter and steadier than we think...


Friday, September 16, 2016

PRESENT

Never let it be said of us that we are too heaven bound to be any good on earth! 
Heaven can wait! There is much work to be done in the present...


FROZEN

If I could freeze one moment in time, I wouldn't know which to choose! There have been so many significant treasured encounters and experiences that I wish could last forever. Reality dictates otherwise. When I can see things the way they really are and not what I wish them to be, then I am ready for a new level of growth and understanding. 
Life is a collection of wonders...fresh, fragrant and forever ongoing. Think I'll pass on frozen!


Tuesday, September 13, 2016

EULOGY

It's not always easy but try not to withhold good from those who deserve it especially when you have the power to act. 
Even when your good intentions and kind deeds go unnoticed, unrecognized, unappreciated ...and at times unsolicited, be a 'do-gooder' rather than a 'good-withholder'!   Make yourself happy --- generate positive energy and goodwill.

I hope my eulogy would reflect that somewhat! 
"LW was a generous soul - in words, mannerisms, actions - and gave lavishly to every darn thing. She wasn't always smart or discerning in her giving but she gave anyway!"
Right... one more for the bucket list!


Sunday, September 11, 2016

DARING AND FINESSE

It is satisfying and exhilarating to watch young people pursue and realize their dreams. Opportunities abound for those with courage, daring, relevant skills, finesse and a plan. 
Launch out, move forward, thrive and never look back. The world is at your feet...


Monday, September 5, 2016

BE A FRIEND IN NEED

Without hinting, without asking, without pleading, your closest friends know what's in your heart and quickly jump at the chance to bring you extra smiles. Understanding your hesitation and reluctance to ask, they save you the bother! Small and random acts of kindness needn't cost a lot but they leave deep impressions. Go ahead, make someone's day today .... and everyday!

Friday, September 2, 2016

GOLD COAST n SYDNEY - AUG (WINTER) 2016

It's all about food....mostly kwai-loh stuff and some Asian delights with a Western twist!

RELAXING

What could be more calming and relaxing than chasing ducks and geese on a cold, breezy, lazy winter morning?...at Centennial Park, Sydney, Australia - August 2016 Bliss in light moments...

FEELINGS

Some of the fiercest battles are fought in the mind. Don't let your feelings get you down...

Thursday, September 1, 2016

BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU PRAY FOR...

If everything I asked and prayed for had come true, I would have missed out on some of the greatest adventures of my life; unravelling mysteries that would otherwise remain hidden! Not to mention my bungling up big time! Truly thankful for the times God said, "NO", "WAIT", "THINK AGAIN"... He knows best, really.

REGRET ---- POOR COMPANION

Time passes quickly and before you know it, regret remains your only companion. Reason and excuse have long fled. Procrastination and complacency are close cousins. They aren't much help in times of quiet desperation. Live the life you've always wanted...

STEP BACK

As with all relationships that matter, you can expect bouts of endless chatter and also inexplicable silence. There'll be times of great celebration and flashes of solitude, annoyance and irritation. A season of springtime closeness and then wintry separation. A relationship involving living beings evolves naturally. Sometimes you need to step back but never too far as to invite indifference and isolation.