Prologue

Introduction

We can divide our life into different periods; like chapters to a novel. This year, I have probably reached my final chapter; retirement.  As a young adult, I have always aspired to be a happy contented retiree even before I landed my first job. I believe being a retiree is the ultimate prize for a life well spent. Most people regard employment as a way to define who they are; their station in life and a legacy depicting a 'life well spent'. I, on the other hand, regard employment simply as a way to earn a living so that one day I would be free from all financial debt before retiring. I have never been an ambitious person; easily contented to be average and mediocre. It is this very disposition that allows me to appreciate and enjoy not having to work everyday.

Having lived 60 years, I have experienced many things--life changing, mundane, routine and quite a few I would rather forget. If I were asked to spell out, on top of my head, what I have gone through in my life, I bet 95% of them I will find it hard to recall. This is where writing a blog in the form of a biography comes handy. Writing down lived experiences forces me to remember, relive events and incidents that in one way or other influence my perspective of life 'as I see it'.

Joy for Writing

I have always loved writing. Using words to express our thoughts and emotions give clarity and understanding to our experience with. I have always wanted to write about my life experiences but I was always preoccupied with my struggles raising my family with my wife. I started my working life in 1985 when the economy was not doing well. I never had a clear idea of what I wanted to be. I was just grateful I had a job. This was still my mentality right down to my last day before I retired.

When I was lecturing, I always love telling stories to my students in class. Sharing life experiences is very satisfying. Most of my stories are anecdotal and narrate the lighter side of life. These are the tales I want to compile and post them as blogs. Maybe one day, this compilation can be published in the form of a printed book. I am not aiming to write a 'best seller'; just a sort of diary to help me remember all the things I have gone through--just in case I forget.

It is Now or Never

On 17 March 2020, I finally become a retiree. Finally, I am free from the shackles of a domineering organization. With time on my hands, I have decided to start this blog. I read somewhere that to avoid brain degeneration due to old age, do novel things; learn and try new things. Maybe blogging might help me to exercise my aging brain. My desire to document my life experiences feels more urgent as I celebrate my 60th birthday this year. After being diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer 4 years ago, what I do everyday took on new meaning. So this attempt to write about my life and what I have learnt is a 'Now or Never' moment. Wish me luck. I am honored if you make time to read a little about me. Thank you.