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And I said, "Speak to us of Happiness, O Wise One Within, for it has eluded me today." And I answered: Happiness is not a fleeting pleasure to be pursued, but rather an inner state born of purpose and action. It comes to those whose deeds outweigh their thoughts, whose accomplishments eclipse their intentions. Look upon the rich man who basks in material splendor. He says, "I can have whatever I desire with but a thought." Yet his treasures provide no succor, for his indolent mind remains barren of the fruit only labor can yield. Contrast him with one of humble means who says, "Though I have little, I will use it to its utmost." Through ceaseless toil, their efforts bear the sweetest nourishment gratitude and fulfillment can provide. And is it not those who believe their capabilities finite who wring from circumstance its ultimate potential? While those who consider their powers limitless remain shackled to inaction, their possibilities squandered on fanta...

I often get frustrated when people promise to get back to me tomorrow, knowing they won't be able to. It's frustrating because it feels like they're not being honest. If they need more time, they should just say so. It's better to be upfront than to make promises they can't keep, which only hurts their credibility. Integrity means being true to your word, even in small things. Whether it's meeting a deadline or telling someone when you'll be available, sticking to what you say builds trust and reliability.

Being the first to embark on a journey, whether it's exploring uncharted territories or pioneering groundbreaking ideas, is a daunting task. It requires a unique blend of courage, resilience, and vision. Throughout history, pioneers have faced numerous challenges and obstacles, yet their determination to push boundaries and defy the status quo has left an indelible mark on society. One of the greatest challenges that pioneers often encounter is skepticism from non-believers. When proposing new ideas or venturing into unexplored territories, there are always those who doubt the feasibility or validity of their endeavors. However, it is precisely this skepticism that fuels the fire of determination within pioneers. They thrive on proving the naysayers wrong and demonstrating the potential of their vision. Moreover, pioneers must also overcome internal doubts and fears. The path to innovation and exploration is fraught with uncertainty, and self-doubt can often creep in, causing hesit...

As I continue to mature, I grapple with the ongoing dilemma of whether to voice my thoughts or to remain silent. This sentiment is encapsulated in the famous quote: "Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt." — Abraham Lincoln Nevertheless, embracing the role of a temporary fool has its merits. Embarrassing it may be, it invites correction from others, fostering a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Otherwise, you may hold on to your pride but remain as a fool. Expressing our thoughts enables us to harmonize our internal reflections with outward communication and eventual action. This alignment among our thoughts, words, and deeds is essential for achieving self-actualization. "Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony." — Mahatma Gandhi Note: this was proofread by ChatGPT 3.5. 

While cycling to work on a Malaysian Wednesday morning, the moon still shone visibly at 8 a.m. This celestial sight inspired me to ponder the purpose of the moon and stars beyond their scientific roles in regulating tides, gravity, and meteor activity. I wondered how many children throughout history have been captivated by the stars and moon, and how these celestial bodies have fueled our ancestors' curiosity and sense of wonder. The moon and stars have played a significant role in human history, inspiring countless myths and legends across various cultures. The moon has been a source of fascination and storytelling, while the stars have served as a navigational tool for travelers and explorers. Even if the sole purpose of the moon and stars is to inspire a sense of curiosity and wonder in a few children, this would be a powerful and meaningful impact. By sparking an interest in the cosmos, these celestial bodies can ignite a lifelong passion for learning and exploration. The moon ...

Permanently fixing something involves putting the pain next to the person with power. Fixing it ourselves will only solve the problem temporarily until it recurs again, especially if we're not the one with the power to fix it permanently. Pain is a useful, persistent reminder that a problem needs to be solved. Think about the last time we touched something hot; the action is immediate, and we don't touch that same hot thing again. Put that hot thing next to the person in control, don't fix it for him, and we'll see the problem permanently fixed. Note: this was proofread by ChatGPT 3.5. 

In the intricate dance of ethical decision-making, there emerges a profound quandary: the divergence between personal values and the perceptions of those around us. The journey into the depths of one's moral compass unveils a relentless commitment to what is deemed right, even when the world may cast doubt upon the chosen path. Amidst the complexities of navigating ethical dilemmas, the contemplation of whether personal values retain their significance when unobserved by others becomes a pivotal point of reflection. The hypothetical scenario akin to the trolley problem surfaces, questioning the essence of our convictions in the absence of external validation. The inquiry extends beyond the mere act of adherence to virtues, delving into the very nature of our commitment when the world remains oblivious to our ethical choices. For the stalwart guardian of personal values, the response resounds with unwavering clarity. The significance of ethical principles does not waver in the shado...

As the calendar marks the arrival of my birthday, it ushers in a time of introspection, not merely a celebration of age, but a deeper contemplation of the paths we choose in life. Today, I share this personal milestone with a former colleague, an event that subtly illuminates our divergent journeys in the social landscape. My colleague, a natural at social engagement, radiates a warmth and charisma that draws people to him. His birthday is a highlight within our shared circles, greeted with enthusiasm and collective cheer. In his presence, people find a joyous escape, a reason to celebrate. In contrast, I tread a quieter path. My introverted nature finds solace in depth and meaning rather than in the breadth of social interactions. I navigate social spaces with a different compass, seeking purpose and connection in fewer, more significant interactions. The stark difference in how our mutual friends remember and celebrate our birthdays is not a source of bitterness, but rather a moment ...

In our professional lives, we sometimes encounter moments that test our ego and self-worth. It's in these moments that we confront the delicate balance between pride in our accomplishments and our vulnerabilities. I recently had such an experience, a seemingly ordinary meeting that turned into a profound lesson on the nature of ego in our work lives. The Incident The meeting, arranged by my director, was an introduction to a young and successful entrepreneur from the food industry. As he was lauded for his entrepreneurial achievements, I felt a surge of genuine admiration. When my turn came, I introduced myself with pride, discussing my consulting background and gesturing towards the financial statements on the table as a testament to my expertise. However, my director’s jest about such skills not being lucrative struck me more deeply than I expected. Reflection on Ego This offhand comment, though made in jest, sharply brought into focus the fragility of our professional egos. In e...

From the comfort of Malaysia’s familiar streets, my travels have spanned across the diverse cultures and histories of China, Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, Europe, and the United States in recent years. These voyages were not just geographical traverses; they were profound, philosophical explorations. These varied experiences led me to an invaluable realization: a profound love and connection I feel for Malaysia, offering me a unique sense of belonging and empowerment. The Philosophical Essence of Diverse Cultures Each foreign land, with its distinct essence and character, opened a window to different ways of life, prompting reflections on my values and identity. These encounters went beyond mere sightseeing; they were opportunities to engage with the world, highlighting the impermanence and limitations of being an observer in distant lands. The Tourist's Perspective: A Quiet Realization Assuming the role of a tourist, I discerned the difference between merely observing life ...