say what?

 

对方听不进的话，何必说

对方想要听的话，何妨说

对方须要听的话，小心说，用心说

If it's something the person won't listen to, why say it? If it's something the person wants to hear, why not say it? If it's something the person needs to hear, say it tactfully and kindly.

Life's most valuable lessons come from the people you hate

 

This is not referring to learning what not to do. When you find yourself hating a person, that may actually tell you more about yourself than the other person. 

What you want clouds what you see

 

We sometimes deceive ourselves that what we see in front of us is exactly what we have been looking for. A new job, a new relationship, a new business partner. We jump in because it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity we don't want to miss. Unfortunately sometimes our deepest desire trick us into seeing what we want, instead of how things really are. If we never learn our lesson, we will go into a cycle of hope and disappointment. Stay grounded. Take a deep breath.

I envy my wife

My wife Michelle and her group of friends from secondary school days have a tradition which they have upheld for many years. Every year on the 3rd day of Chinese New Year, they have a gathering and bring their families. This started before some of the children were born, and by now the oldest ones are going to university. I am amazed when I compare the group photo taken this year with that taken 10 years ago. 

Friendships are treasures in our lives. They take conscious effort to maintain, from everyone, not just from one or two enthusiastic organisers. When you know a friend is important to you, take the effort to reach out, and make time for them.