Recollections Redux Post-Ironman

Congratulations to my ENR/Triathlon Family buddies for completing the Singapore Marathon last Sunday! It was the same day as Ironman Western Australia. 42.195K is a long way to run or walk, I assure you and I was there in spirit as you nursed your battered bodies.

My observations of that day-of-three races (including Phuket half-IM):

1) Although I fell short of my personal expectations, I completed my 10th Ironman (hooray!).
2) I did not receive a finisher timing online, yet I actually crossed the line. Evidence aplenty (I have video, photos and real witnesses) of my 226K event.
3) I did finish this race; and it was not easy despite finishing nine earlier ones. Loved running through the chute - felt like a winner! Thank YOU, Volunteers and Spectators!
4) I enjoyed my day - truly and fully - despite disappointments with my body at some stages.
5) I raced against physical discomfort which was no excuse, but a motivator to complete what I started.
6) Staying focused and being in the moment are crucial to your personal success. Keep your mind on your plan, strategies, tactics and reasons.
7) I did have a strong run - no PB again - yet I can recount every step I took. Bizarre but true.
8) I was very happy to bask in my friends' achievements, because I could share in them. Thanks, buddies!
9) I was thankful for early well wishes and post-race concerned calls. I am truly alright because I am thankful of my friends. I am one lucky person!
10) Cliched as it may sound: The pain is temporary, but the memories are forever!

Having Friends Over

When was the last time you had friends over for dinner? Have you invited friends to join you on a vacation tour? Have you invited close confidants to give you feedback on a public presentation you made? What was that like?

It is a tough decision when you have limited spaces and group dynamics can be challenging. Who sits next to who matters, as it will affect the energy of the group if there is any hint of awkwardness and residual resentment. Our workplace is rift with an abundance of confusion and misunderstandings.

A few hours ago, on Sunday evening, I invited a dozen guests over to my magic club’s 60^th anniversary gala show. This show featured some of our best professional talents in magic. We showcased an astonishing array of magical acts including J C Sum and Magic Babe Ning, Jeremy Pei, Jeremy Tan, Gician Tan, Joseph Then (ventriloquist) and Sherman Tang. American, Jay Scott Berry who is a musician and magician was our only overseas guest artiste and lecturer.

I was glad I invited my colleagues and good friends. They in turn brought along friends and family who they thought would enjoy the experience. It is important to place our sense of faith and trust in our friends, colleagues and associates. Having made that decision to invite them, I was also glad that they enjoyed the event, as I was mindful of their commitment to attending. It is so good when everything falls together well.

Thank you for making my evening special, my friends!