Post by Dominic Chan

My Annual “10 Reasons to Smile Today” — Embrace Positivity! - 7 March 2026 This year, there are nine reasons to smile instead of ten. My beloved mother passed away three months ago, and this is my first birthday with both my parents gone to a better place. I carry their love and strength in my heart every day. 9. Grateful for wonderful people: As always, I’m thankful for the kind and generous people who surround me, offering warmth, encouragement, and connection. 8. Stepping outside my comfort zone: Though I’m not a musical person, I joined a four-day Ocean of Voices (聲音的海洋 吟唱工作坊) singing workshop in Taichung. It was an unfamiliar world—but I learned, laughed, and found a new appreciation for music and self-expression. 7. Home, rebuilt with love: After nine months of house renovation, our home is nearly complete—and it’s stunning. Irene’s grand vision has turned it into a warm, beautiful, and comfortable space. She has truly been the heart and project director of this dream. 6. A milestone achieved: After five and a half years of hard work, sweat, and the occasional injury, I earned my Hapkido black belt in January 2026. The discipline and perseverance have been their own rewards. 5. Lifelong learning continues: I keep exploring diverse topics—online courses in such as cybersecurity, AI, and the Brain and psychology of decision-making; offline studies such as The Ocean of Voices, The Art of War (孫子兵法)—because curiosity keeps the spirit alive. 4. New adventures at work: I’ve taken on a new role that pushes me to stay bold and creative, just as I encourage my students to step outside their comfort zones. Practice what you teach! 3. Watching Jin grow: At Jin’s inter-school Waldorf Olympic Games, I was moved to see how much he has grown—in strength, confidence, and curiosity. His passion for music continues to shine as he plays the jaw harp, horse head fiddle, and flutes, solving problems and creating with joy. 2. Health and vitality: I’m deeply grateful to be healthy, active, and still glasses-free. I cherish the freedom to travel the world with family and students—fully present and alive. 1. Family strength: Together as a family, Jin, Irene and I continue to face new challenges with courage and love. We embrace change, grow through it, and enjoy the journey side by side.