Sunday, December 07, 2025

Reflections After the Wanli Show -

 


Reflections After the Wanli Show

I woke this morning feeling heavier on the chest—but it’s only because there’s too much “anging” in the tummy. Not an emotional heaviness, mind you; I am still wrapped in the glow of the Wanli show, even if it was reluctantly performed. I listened to something earlier that uplifted my spirit even more: Neville Goddard’s “Talk to Money as if it Were a Person, and It Will Follow You Everywhere.” A curious, grounding reminder that our assumptions shape reality.

The ginger tea is ready, percolating, and the rhythm of peace surrounds me: my two adult children still snoring in bed, as are the two kittens. I’ve come to see this morning hush as a sign of serenity. What more can one ask for but gratefulness and a surrender to the unseen, allowing the next steps to unfold with fruitfulness?

Meanwhile, Liverpool is not doing too well! Can the Universe do anything about it? Hee! My son, meanwhile, is going through his own emotional withdrawal—most probably firing the manager already. Such is life!

Looking ahead, I am already excited for the astrology exhibition at USM, where two of my works have been chosen to hang. The Wanli show may have been a reluctant performance, but this upcoming event feels aligned with enthusiasm and expectation. I trust the Universe to assist in making it another uplifting moment in my art.

I’ve also noticed a change in myself. I no longer say, “Let’s hope so,” or “I hope this or that.” A lesson from Mr. Goddard: I simply assume. Not with arrogance, but with knowing and acceptance. Even my twin brother surprised me with a comment on my Facebook post of the Wanli show: “Way to go, Bro!” A simple message, yet a delightful acknowledgment.

At the show, my daughter and I had the pleasure of meeting a couple who actually authored the Wanli book. They traveled all the way from KL to attend, treated us to a wonderful brunch, and shared in conversation. They even agreed with my reservations about the show—an affirmation of my feelings.

My interaction with the Chief Minister was memorable. When my turn came to explain my work, I spoke about why the tic-tac-toe symbols appeared on my painting of the sunken vessel and what the Turtles and Jellyfish represented. My daughter’s reactions said it all: “Dad! What were you telling the CM? I was worried, hoping you would not talk too much!” I also made the acquaintance of a lawyer and a doctor who were listening. The doctor even asked for my card, and I apologized for having none. He smiled and said, “Hey, popular people always run out of cards!” Spontaneous, funny, and endearing.

Among the many kind words I received on Facebook, one message from Lilian Ch stopped me in my tracks. She was a former schoolteacher who used to invite me to her class to share art with her students. She always treated me like an artist long before the world did. Her congratulatory note — 'long time coming, long time overdue’ — reminded me that sometimes others see our path more clearly than we do ourselves.

Finally, I feel peace in closing the chapter of my relationship with Ben Ronjen and his wife. He has gone to Australia to be with his ailing mother, and our friendship remains intact, untouched by the minor turbulences of the last few months.

It seems life has a way of showing us what matters—our art, our family, our connections—and how surrendering to the unseen often brings the sweetest, most unexpected rewards.

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