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.

Saturday, October 22, 2016

THE REAL YOU

There are days when you need company. At other times, you just want to be alone. It's healthy. In fact this is encouraged and highly recommended! We need people around us to nurture and help us develop as responsible, respectable and accountable individuals who are useful and helpful to societies and the communities. 
Alone, in contemplative meditation, study and correction, we learn more about ourselves. Hopefully, in the process, we gradually become more comfortable in our own skin, get acquainted with the real us and tune in naturally with our true feelings. In essence, discover who we are deep inside.
Yes, do love and appreciate the significant people who are concern about you but more importantly, please love and appreciate yourself. No doubt people are valuable but you are your greatest asset; never, never to be overlooked!


Sunday, October 9, 2016

REVIEW by Mrs. May Goh

SMILE THOUGH YOUR HEART IS ACHING ...a book by Lynn Wong
An excerpt of my article on the author Lynn Wong (Narcissus, an endearment) from MY GARDEN OF THOUGHTS...
"Narcissus has an exceedingly excellent command of the English Language.
Her written works always hold my attention and interest. Her descriptive versions with the most appropriate choice of words enable me to visualize scenes and people vividly. I can only say that she has acquainted herself with human life in all its variety and has thoroughly enjoyed the society of friends. She is able to, with such precision, grasp in her mind, all the sentiments for character study. As she relates past incidents, her marvelous gift of repartee, seasoned with wit, together with such a smooth train of thought, keep me enthused for hours.
I have developed a passion for her literary works. Some of her articles were indeed splendid descriptions and my mind was a stage. Occasionally, I found myself leaping into the scenes and I was persuaded to laugh as I pictured myself shifting positions. She has manufactured her own glowing style; her bright and breezy manner of presenting characters is indeed credible and worthy of not only my attention, but other readers' attention too. This talent of hers became a productively utilized talent when she was able to arouse the interest of other readers and equip them for better writing skills through the launching of her book 'As Time Goes By...'
She seems to appreciate all of life ... the light and shadows, sun and rain, joy and trials, laughter and sorrow - all these have deepened every part of her life."
Do get hold of copies of her books 'As Time Goes By' and 'SMILE' from the MPH bookstores. You'll definitely say...WOW!

Review by Mrs. May Goh
Former headmistress, educationist
Coach and mentor



Monday, October 3, 2016

WUSHU MASTER CHEF

Nothing new.  We've had those awkward tongue tied, sweaty palm and anxious moments before!
Where to start; how to begin!? Anxiety heightens and panic sets in. 
Shucks!  Isn't asking favors for others a lot easier than asking them for ourselves!  I think YEP!
And so, imagine how thrilling and heartwarming it must be when someone does something that you had hoped for, without you even asking!?  Totally unexpected and more than pleasantly surprised!  It doesn't happen very often but I did have such an experience recently and, believe me, it was so, so, cool.

Overseas, they have Bourdain, Ramsey, Oliver, Zimmers, Belud and a host of other celebrity chefs. In Malaysia we have Jimmy Hooi, Celebrity Master Chef, possibly one of the best in the country! 
Jimmy is a fascinating storyteller. He loves to mingle with customers and often stops at tables to say hello. When you next visit his restaurant and meet the man, ask about the time he nearly died with three deadly bullet wounds, from gun shots that were fired at close range when he tussled with robbers and thugs at his restaurant one night after closing. The assailants weren't just looking for tips!
It was a most harrowing encounter for him.  Most major national newspaper carried the story and made him quite famous after that!

Thankfully, this Wushu master survived and today he is more than eager to testify of the miracle that changed his life...


Jimmy Hooi: restauranteur/owner of Cappuccino Garden, Bacon and Balls, painter, wushu master, landscape designer, musician and philosopher

Easily accessible.  Opens seven days a week. Best to make reservations especially on weekends.

NOBLE CALLING

People are the same everywhere. 
We need food, shelter, clothing, healthcare, education, security, love, acceptance, affirmation etc. Unfortunately not everyone possesses all of the above. 
Each one has needs begging to be met! Our responsibility is to help the less fortunate when and wherever we can. It's not merely a responsibility but more of a calling, I believe. Perhaps even a noble one that defies logic and reason. 

Lets try to make our homes, schools, neighbourhoods, communities, societies and nation a happier, more amicable and harmonious place to be in. 

Change can happen....one person at a time.