"Love for imperfect things" by Haemin Sunim

Glad to finish another book written by Haemin Sunim. As we continue to live our lives to the fullest during this pandemic, don't forget to take some time to look inwards and give yourself and the people surrounding you some tender loving care.

1. Self-care

"When you have an important decision to make and are not sure what to do, stop for a while and listen to what your heart is saying."

I enjoy sitting on the breakwater at East Coast Park and listening to the waves crashing in. It's nice to just block off all the 'noise' and think calming of your next step. When in doubt, always reach out to your friends who can give sound and reasonable advice.

2. Family

"If you love someone, rather than doing what you think they need, do what they themselves ask you to do."

Sometimes we do things for others without knowing what they really need and similarly when people buy 'new' things for us. Let's create less wastage by asking what is indeed needed.

3. Empathy

Words hold great power.

"You will get better starting today!"

"You are so talented. U will become an amazing writer!"

"Your music will touch the hearts of many people one day!"

The moment someone says such words to you, a new field of possibility opens up for you. Words can become the seed of reality.

Very often we missed giving praises to others. Self-confidence takes time to grow, so why not be the one to nurture this in others and make their day even brighter.

4. Relationship

"Try to share your true feelings. Even if the other person is hurt at first, eventually he will be grateful to know the truth. The truth is freeing to both the one who express it and the one who hears it."

Being truthful to each other helps build the foundation for a stronger relationship. When in doubt, ask questions to understand why the other party is feeling that way. This way you won't repeat the same mistake again.

5. Courage

"When something hasn't turned out well, don't give up; keep going, and try different ways of making it work. There is no fixed answer, no single solution. We find the best approach through trial and error."

There are many grey areas in life, so muster the courage to try new ways. Through such experience, we learn to appreciate things and it becomes one of the skills you achieved.

6. Healing

"When life feels empty or mildly depressing, do

1. Learn something new

2. Spend 3 hrs a week volunteering

3. Invite friends for lunch

4. Meditate in the truth of impermanence in this world"

Exploring new things or reconnecting with friends allow the brain to 'restart' and experience new things again. It helps to build both our mental and physical resilience and prepare for what is coming ahead.

7. Enlightenment

5 ways to clear your thoughts and find peace in present:

1. Look at beautiful scenery and smile

2. Close your eyes and breathe deeply 10 times

3. Listen to music with your eyes closed

4. Enjoy walking without a destination in mind

5. Shift your attention to your body, focusing on how your shoulders and back feel

We do not need to look far to be at peace with ourselves. It is all within us and we just need to take some time to reflect, relax our mind and recharge the body.

8. Acceptance

"The secret to a happy life is not chasing after a better job, but learning to enjoy the job you have." - Hyegwang Sunim

When we changed jobs, we believe it will allow us to gain new experience or learn new skills. Trust your instinct when you took the leap of faith and give your best. Discuss with your friends to identify what might be going wrong and if it is really time to make the switch.

Hope the above helps to trigger some reflections as we move into the Year of the Tiger.

Wishing everyone a Prosperous Lunar New Year with lots of Happiness and Good Health!