What I am reflecting?
Spreading Joy
Earlier in February this year, one of my mentors, Meng Chai, passed away.
I remember when I first heard the news—I felt really sad. At the beginning of February, I didn’t get the chance to speak with him. At that time, I was also off Facebook for a few months, and I missed the post where he shared about his condition. Looking back, there’s a sense of regret.
Let me share a quick story of how I got to know him.
I first reached out to him on Facebook after attending his book launch. I found him to be a very interesting person, so I texted him and asked if I could speak with him privately. Instantly, he said yes. We scheduled a call, and that’s how he became my “Zoom friend”—something I’m grateful for, thanks to the COVID period bringing him into my life in unexpected ways.
During that call, I asked if he would be open to speaking and sharing about his book at our 10:10 Book Club. He said yes, quite instantly.
Some time later, I planned to attend a training in KL. To reduce costs, I remembered he once mentioned I might be able to stay at one of his places. So I asked him again—and he said, “Why not? Come over and stay at my house.”
We made the arrangements, and I stayed at his place for seven days. He hosted not just me, but also my family, and even brought us out for meals. The hospitality was amazing.
Looking back, one thing I learned from him is this—he helped me without expecting anything in return.
I was practically a stranger, and he probably didn’t know how I could ever repay him. Money or favors never even came up. It just showed me that he truly had a golden heart.
I also resonated deeply with his mindset. I remember one thing he said: “always look for gold in people and not rocks.”
Lately I also had the opportunity to meet up with Sam (his mentee). We had great conversations, sharing wisdom and our life experiences.
Sam is also a great person, kind and wise. I’m grateful that I took the step to reach out, and virtually thank Meng Chai for getting us connected together in a way.
Maybe he too can be mentoring me in the future. “Why not?”
Even though it has been a few months since Meng Chai passed, we are still talking about him. His wisdom is still impacting me. He continues to be a role model for me.
Wouldn’t it be amazing if I could also contribute in the same way he did?
A few days ago, I found myself reflecting on my “North Star” again—how I can truly help make people’s lives better, and aligning that with the idea of living each day as if it were my last day.
As you’re reading this, I don’t know what you might be going through. Life can be tough, challenging, and stressful.
But let me ask you this:
If today were the last day of your life, would you still do what you are doing now?
What matters most for you to focus on?
Quote I’m pondering
“Live today as if it were the last day of your life.”
Affirmation I used
My increased mental faculties is to serve humanity better.