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, March 30, 2017

CHEAPSKATE

I don't clamor for the latest fashion or (overly) pricey branded stuff. Just as well! There's no way I'll pay $80k for a handbag or accessories or clothes because of the name. For one, I couldn't afford them; for another, I don't have the right avenue to show them off, anyway! No one or group I care to impress.
Admittedly, I shop only when there's an irresistible SALE- like 70% discount!! 


And yes, I still look at the right hand column (price indicator) of restaurant menus before I order. CHEAPSKATE!? Maybe. But it's better than splashing mindlessly and impulsively on stuff I don't really need or want. 
Why be in debt? Rather save for that rainy day. 
It's probably just me. I'm happy...


Saturday, March 25, 2017

SHALLOW FLATTERY

I am a sucker for 'sweet' words of ... exhortation... endorsement...enchantment.. encouragement and affirmation. Most are, I believe!
I've learnt to differentiate shallow flattery from genuine feedback. Rather than be swollen headed over nice things heard, I try, instead, to be more grounded, level headed and work harder at outperforming myself. Attempt to be a little better, kinder, gentler and happier today than I was yesterday. 

Life is more significant that way. 
More importantly, I hope my words, too, are sweet and seasoned to appease the hunger and thirst of some needy soul, in timely fashion...



TEMPORARY INCONVENIENCES

As long as the 'storms' (of life) are around and not IN us, we can find reasons to smile. Regard challenges, difficulties and mistakes as temporary inconveniences which will soon be gone; just passing through. Laughter is good medicine and music to the ears. 
Let troubles rage, we can still find joy, calm and peace when we know on WHOSE shoulders we stand. HE will surely lift us up and raise us to where He wants us to be. 
It is when we are weak that HE is strong...


Tuesday, March 21, 2017

HAPPY ENDING

People have drifted so far apart that it's hard to imagine once upon a time, they were inseparable to the extent their very existence depended on each other. Then came the fallout and imminent disappearance. Never seen again and not missed!
Quite sad and unfortunate, really.  But that's life.

In reverse, it's exceptionally heartwarming and nice when people reconcile after a long absence and silence; rekindling that old familiar feeling of tender love and care.
Happy endings always bring a smile...


Monday, March 20, 2017

HOBBIES

Can't decide whether she likes gardening or cooking more. So, she took up both and really satisfied that these hobbies have turned out surprisingly well.
On the downside though, she's beginning to feel and look more and more like an Auntie Ah-Soh! Somewhat domesticated. 

Better do something before she's mistaken for the house help or nanny!!!!






Friday, March 17, 2017

THORNY

Thorny issues surface because people are 'torn between two lovers, feeling like a fool...' 
One part says, 'do it' whilst the other insists, 'don't!' 
The conscience is clear on what must be done but the ego dictates otherwise.
And so the 'horns' ...errrmm...sorry, I meant, the 'thorns' grow!!!



Tuesday, March 14, 2017

LONG AND WINDING ROAD

And the memories come flooding back...
Finding closure isn't the easiest thing to do for one who has been gravely traumatized; hurt, humiliated, slighted, battered, violated and tortured. Some don't ever heal and continue to live sad dysfunctional lives, of quiet desperation. Thankfully, there are others who through medical therapy, expert counselling with strong support from family and friends have managed to overcome their heartbreaking, devastating mental anguish and 'rise from the ashes.' These individuals are like 'dried bones given new life' almost miraculously.
Faith fueled by courage, perseverance, determination, resilience and an attitude that never-say-die could possibly be the beginning of the long and winding road to recovery and finally, self awareness.
Bravo for staying the course!



EXCELLENCE

There's always a first! 
Life presents endless opportunities for those who dare venture out in search of excellence. If you like the idea, stay with it. If you don't, shelve it and think no more of what might have been!
Find your niche and make your mark. It's never too late or too early to begin a new 'project.' 

Age is merely a deterrent and not a definition of who one is. 

I'm moving forward and not looking back!




Saturday, March 11, 2017

KEEN OBSERVER

I'd like to imagine I'm a keen observer of life and a proactive one at that! Always examining, forever exploring, experimenting and enlarging my horizon; curiously and enthusiastically embracing the inexhaustible wonders of creation. Being totally immersed and engaged in and about my little part of the world. 
May the all consuming fire for the zest of life, burn, unabated in my heart, for eternity...


Thursday, March 9, 2017

SABAH


Here I am, at the site of Mt. Kinabalu, Sabah. 
Well, truth be told, I didn't climb the mountain but I got close enough! Alas, the spirit was willing but the flesh, weak!! 
Dubbed mini New Zealand, Sabah has many irresistible charms and in some inexplicable wonderful way, I am under its spell...
















Wednesday, March 8, 2017

GOLDEN EGGS

May the proverbial hen that lays the golden eggs continue to bring you peace, prosperity, success and good fortune in every area of your life.  Blessings abound...


SMILE

What a difference a   s m i l e   makes ...





SOW LOVE

Take it one day at a time. Linger over tea and stop to smell the flowers...drink in the beauty that surrounds us. Think happy thoughts, exercise patience, spread joy, show kindness and sow love. 
Live with few regrets. 
Cheerio!!


Friday, March 3, 2017

UNLEASH THE POWER

An inquisitive mind, an adventurous spirit, a generous heart and a loving nature put us on the path to be all we can be. 
With perseverance, practice and panache, we can unleash the power within us for greater performance and higher achievements.

Every day I try to do a little better than the day before. Always learning, constantly exploring and never stop listening. Give time for reflection and meditation. Quit blaming and keep moving. 
Happy!!!


COOL

Thankful and in awe at how things are falling in place; slowly but surely. No more running in circles, no mad scramble, no beating round the bush, no charade and no sweat. 
Just go with the flow; stay calm, stay collected and always be cool ...




😅😎


PERSONA

Like it or loathe it, everyone is different; unique in his/her character, talent, purpose and calling. No two persons are alike. 
Rather than apologize, let us celebrate our one-of-a-kind persona with gusto!



Thursday, March 2, 2017

FEELINGS

A decision based solely on emotions can sometimes lead to regret with adverse repercussions. Feelings are mostly flighty, flimsy and fickle.
"Think before taking the leap" is sound advice.



JUNGLE TREKKING

Certainly ill prepared but took the plunge anyway! 
On the spur of the moment agreed to go jungle trekking and hill climbing. A definite first for me. Felt unreasonably adventurous and courageous. Oblivious to the dangers deep in the forest, we were fortunate not to encounter wild boars, snakes, scorpions and other unmentionable creepy crawly creatures. 
Good thing the weather held good. What a triumph to emerge after the trek unscathed. Good training to prepare for my next challenge - Mt. Kinabalu! 
Yea, sure, talk only !?*^"


BANANA LEAF

Nothing speaks better of being home than home food. Banana leaf rice with teh tarik kurang manis (pull tea less sweet!!) 
Absolutely irresistible...