Mom’s Lesson #5 – Just do Your Best March 29, 2008
Posted by Gary in Personal Development, Public Speaking, The Shy Speakers' Guide, Thoughts and Reflections.add a comment
As a student, studying was probably the activity that I least enjoyed (then again, I guess that pretty much applies to everyone too). The television was my best friend when I was in primary school. That black box of animation, movement and sound was my best friend in the house! We were practically inseparable. Well, I exaggerate. I did possess enough self control to peel my eyes of the television… but in most cases it was because the cartoons had ended, and I decided to play with my toys and transformers figures.
My abject indiscipline where studying was concerned often had Mum up in arms. (more…)
Mom’s Lesson #4 – Just a Little Bit More March 28, 2008
Posted by Gary in Hope & Inspiration, The Shy Speakers' Guide, Thoughts and Reflections.2 comments
Children can be unbelievably hard to coax at times. When this happens, my mother does not necessarily need to resort to the sort of “penalties” to discipline us and get us to conform. Yet, neither will she allow us to have our way when my siblings and I refuse to follow through with the some simple tasks in life (more…)
Mom’s Lesson #3 – Discipline & Respect for Your Elders! March 27, 2008
Posted by Gary in The Shy Speakers' Guide, Thoughts and Reflections.2 comments
Dear Parents,
have you had sleepless nights wondering how your child might turn out in the future? Whether they would ever be able to fit into the scary place that is society when they grow up?
Well, stop wondering and start working to prepare your child for the future! And what better way to start than by getting them to respect their elders – most notably, your parents and your friends around you!
Interested to know how this seemingly simple gesture can help give your kids a headstart besides impacting you too? Then read on! (more…)
Mom’s Lesson #2 – More than Just a Thought March 25, 2008
Posted by Gary in The Shy Speakers' Guide, Thoughts and Reflections.1 comment so far
A week before my mother left, I was instructed to get my niece a present for her 21st Birthday. Recognizing the significance of the event, and partially acting in appreciation to my aunt for taking care of her in the hospital over the years, my mom gave me specific instructions to get my niece a nice diamond necklace for the occasion.
I was given a budget of $**** (*er hem*, the exact figure’s top secret!) for the necklace. However, the budgetary issue was secondary. What really mattered, however, was to get something presentable and most importantly something that my niece would like.
I got the present on Tuesday evening – just hours before my mom left. My niece, who had spent an entire day at the hospital was controlling her emotions well – until I presented her with my mother’s gift.
She broke down, and she couldn’t stop crying until she got home much later that evening. (more…)
Mom’s Lesson #1 – Family comes First March 24, 2008
Posted by Gary in General, Thoughts and Reflections.2 comments
(Top, From Left: Myself, my brother, Vincent, brother-in-law Kenneth)
(Bottom, From Left: Dad, Mom, my sister, Trudy, my Niece, Therese)
It’s okay – we are after all, family
Born 23 June 1943, my mother was born right smack in the middle of the Japanese Occupation during WWII. Growing up during the lean times of Singapore history wasn’t an easy affair. It would be no surprise to say that there were several challenges surrounding her family back during those days. Still, there were much excitement and adventures surrounding the family – especially after considering the size of her family There were more than 8 members in her immediate family and another 8 in her foster family.
Oh, I can still recall the stories that she would tell me! Uncles getting into trouble and stories of biasness in the family. I could still see how her face shines with glee when she recalled them! (But these are stories reserved for another day!)
Growing up in such a huge family (and not mention WIDE extended family network) did bring about its fair share of challenges. There would be bickering every now and then. And it was natural to observe a particular set of siblings being closer than the rest. Through good times and challenging ones, mum had simply refused to take sides – opting to remain neutral and offer a listening ear to all who needed it. Her time was really ready for all who needed them. And although she would often complain to me how she busy she was working around the house, she would always put down whatever she had on hand when a call of ‘distress’ sounded over the phone.
Mind you, with the exception of minor personality clashes, our family has never witnessed an episode of major infighting over assets or anything else in particular. Still, it would’ve been easy for my mother to take sides. But she’d simply refused that notion.
“What for?” she’d quip. “We’re after all, still a family. Let’s just say it and forget about it!” (more…)
In Loving Memory of My Pride, My Strength & My Inspiration March 22, 2008
Posted by Gary in General, The Shy Speakers' Guide, Thoughts and Reflections.4 comments
Editor’s Note: It’s been awhile since my last post. I’m really sorry for my extended recluse since February. I think I’ve stayed out a little longer than what I’d intended. Here’s the story behind my absence over the past 3 weeks… (more…)
