What am I made of

Our experience today, shape the choices we make tomorrow... And the things (and people) we associate ourselves with tomorrow, depends on the choices we make today...

How many of us are in a profession that follows someone whom we respected in our early years? How many of us pursue things that are 'approved' or 'owned' by someone whom we esteemed? And then, how many of us actually feel some form of connection to those who own something or is in a trade similar to ourselves?

In this world where individuals want to be differentiated with character and style that is uniquely ours, may not like to admit that we're constantly being influenced. I'm no exception; I do have my fair share of struggles to that point, but as I dig deeper into my past, especially when I look back upon my life as I write this blog, I have to admit that things and people whom crossed my life influenced the person I am today, to a very large extend.

It is when we are pushed to our mental, physical and emotional limits that we reveal our truest self; I witnessed the ugliest side of human nature during my 2.5 years of national service in the Army. Selfishness that cares only for one's well being, even if it is at the expense of risking another person's life. Paradoxically, it is also through harsh circumstances that bring the best out of mankind; selflessness that resembles what parents will do for their child. 1 such person that I've encountered is my platoon commander during my BMT (Basic Military Training), LTA Samad.

LTA Samad is kind, but never a pushover, he trained us hard, very hard. He often conducts extra lessons and seemingly unreasonable expectations that we'll curse in the process, but he never left us feeling alone. Whatever he asked from us, he'll do it with us, and twice as much; he'll complete a 100 push-ups, if he made us do 50. If he made us run in skeleton battle order, he'll run in full (battle order). He assumed the position of an elder, wiser brother, lending a pair of listening ears and dishing out advise whenever we run into issues, be it personal or with training. He epitomizes the officer's creed of leading by example and caring for 'soldiers', which still inspires me as the way to treat people today.

LTA Samad at one of the evening 'talks' with the our platoon

During one of the evening 'talks' that he often conducts with the whole platoon after our dinner, I noticed his watch in detail for the first time. In his Army-T and worn-out camouflage slacks, seated with folded arms and revealing the wrist watch he was wearing, a vintage looking military styled Heuer.

Classic Heuer Carrera worn by LTA Samad

That encounter sparked my first interest into serious timepieces, and began my journey into mechanical watch making. Heuer, founded in 1860 was bought over by Techniques d'Advant Garde in 1985, was named TAG Heuer to present. Though it has never been regarded as haute horology even with its illustrious history in fine watch making; introduced the 1st wrist chronograph in 1914, and many subsequent inventions especially in more recent years, a 'Heuer' will always remind me of the "war hero" I look up to.

Not sure if it is a Chinese culture or a family tradition, my parents would give my sisters and I something 'substantial' for our 21st birthday, as a mark of adulthood. My choice would naturally be a TAG Heuer.

My first "luxury" watch;
Discontinued TAG Heuer 1500-series

It has been more than 20 years since; besides the scruffs and scratches accumulated from wearing, I've kept it in excellent working condition. Even though it may seem too small (36mm) in present context and looks too tiny on my 'fatter' wrist now, I'm determined to keep it running "forever"; as a reminder of love and lessons from those who has made a significant impact to my life.

Of course, life experiences varies from people to people, and the permutation of these experiences yield infinite combination, which still result in an unique self of ours. Instead of focusing on our differences, why not begin with understanding each other and foster better relationships by asking, 'what are you made of?' today.