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.

Friday, November 22, 2019

DISTINCT STYLE

I am certainly not dictated by the latest fashion or addicted to passing trends! Can't afford to be anyway.
However, I've developed my own distinctive style which I'm comfortable in. Dress sensibly, of course, but add a dash of flamboyance on occasions. Doesn't hurt anybody.
As we mature it takes more effort and creativity to have a look that works for us. I've found mine ....happy me.




CORPORATE

I enjoyed my corporate life but that was ages ago. It was exciting rubbing shoulders with the 'big boys', the corporate chieftains; learn their business techniques and tactics; move in their circle; get connected to the right business partners and you're set.
After all as they say, 'It is not what but who you know that matters!'
Rode in chauffeur driven cars; enjoyed extended power lunches; dressed in business suits paired with 4-inch stilettos. The authority to hire and fire!

Yep, loved my job and the people I worked with even more; relished the adrenalin rush when we secured a huge project and earned good revenue. For sure, work was satisfying and rewarding. But there were bad times too. Those were the days. 
Glad to have been a part of the corporate scene with its many ups and downs. Equally glad to be out of the rat race now! Starting a new chapter and loving it ...



MERE EXISTENCE

When confronted with the pressing question, "What is the real meaning of life?" -----
I begin to ponder, What IS the real meaning of life? Is this not the very core issue...dilemma... predicament that confuses and consumes us, young and old today? A complex, conflicting and controversial question even for great minds; nonetheless one which we must all eventually, face up to.
In the pursuit of meaning in my own life I draw on the rich experience and wisdom from Viktor E. Frankl who wrote: Since Auschwitz we know what man is capable of.
And since Hiroshima we know what is at stake.
Unquote.

Deep .....


SELFIE

Mirror reflection selfie in the ladies restroom at a major hotel! Mirrors everywhere. The WC was so elegant ... so exclusive ... so private ... so royal!
Silly? Yea, oh well, no one's watching!



ANNIVERSARY

It's Anniversary month!
We aren't always lovey-dovey. Infact what we have is very much a love-hate relationship. In some instances and on many occasions, I confess, there are more feelings of hate (resentment, annoyances, anger, blame) than love (admiration, respect, affirmation, trust) between us!! I suspect most couples have the same experience in varying degrees! 


We shouldn't expect perfection from two people who are still very much 'work in progress.'
So it's okay ... we try 'not to let the sun go down on our anger' - in other words we don't go to bed angry! 

Be patient with each other; tolerant too; smiles help! Live and let live and a lot of problems and challenges can be solved eventually.

I'm still learning and although it has taken like forever I'm glad - we're glad - to be making headway in the right direction...
Thank you, God.
Happy Anniversary to us!



LESSON

I learnt a precious lesson from gardening recently. My custard apple plant refused to go quietly! 
See that lone fruit ripening sweetly; well, that's for my pleasure and enjoyment. Rather than die barren and defeated, it wants to go with fanfare and aplomb! I like it ...I like the spirit!
I, too, would like to have that 'fighting spirit.'
When I go, I want to be bearing fruit still till my last breath. Oh yes, Bless the Lord O'my soul ...