One Tuesday afternoon…recently…

The morning was good. The weather looked decently cool, though it was brighter than usual. As per what I first do on most days in the mornings, I go through all my messages, social media and answer text messages if there are any (which is guaranteed “sure got” (local slang for definitely will have).

If I am to be more accurate in how my normal days start after I get out of bed; I start by making my own bed. It gives me a sense that I have started the day off by completing a task.

Ever since I watched a video of a U.S. Navy Rear Admiral giving a speech about personal discipline by completing tasks each day, to a room filled with young naval officers, it has inspired me to do the same. He said, “Start with making your own bed”.

I have made this beautiful idea my own to keep. I have shared this beautiful, yet simple idea; to my family and friends, as well.

When I left my house that mid-Tuesday afternoon to deal with an insurance policy matter at my insurer, I had already done walking my everyday 10-plus kilometers which is 15,000 steps. I also completed a few other tasks (errands), too.

The plan was that I would be at the insurer for about half an hour, then, head over to Good Ground Bakery (GGB) a few doors down the street, for a cup of coffee before heading to PJ (Petaling Jaya) to pick my wife, Jeannie; up from work.

By the time the insurance errand got done, it did not leave me much time for coffee at GGB.

I went over to GGB just to say “hi” to the folks there. They are always a pleasant and cheerful bunch of people to be with.

As I stepped in through the door, I was greeted with the usual cheer from Monique – bright and spritely (hmmnn… This is the second time I used the word “spritely” in recent times) as usual. And warm smiles from Sarah and Joanne. When you are in SS17, Subang Jaya, or around these parts; GGB is definitely a place to have a good afternoon beverage, pastries and a relaxed atmosphere. For sure.

As I got to the counter, I heard someone behind me call out to me. I turned around to see Jordan, one of my neighbours from our Tudor neighbourhood home community, sitting at a table near by. Jordan had a big smile. He always has a big smile when we run into each other.

I was happy to see Jordan. He was having one of GGB’s nice, hot beverages. I have bumped into Jordan and other neighbours from our Tudor neighbourhood community at Good Ground Bakery on several ocassions.

“Alan, I heard your book is published. Can I buy one with a personal message from you written in it?” Jordan asked.

I had a book on me and was honoured to personalise it for him.

Jordan is among one of the fast growing numbers from my Tudor neighbourhood who have got themselves a copy of the book, SPARKS OF JOY – SEIZE THE MOMENT.

Before long, it was time for us to go; he to pick his children from school activities and I, to pick Jeannie up from work.

What a nice afternoon. It certainly was.