Dear Colleagues,

 

Let me begin with this story to illustrate a simple truth about personal connection.

 

Spend time with people.

 

"I had spent an hour in the bank with my dad, as he had to transfer some money. I couldn't resist myself & asked...

''Dad, why don't we activate your internet banking?''

''Why would I do that?'' He asked…  ''Well, then you wont have to spend an hour here for things like transfer.  You can even do your shopping online. Everything will be so easy!''

 

I was so excited about initiating him into the world of Net banking.  He asked ''If I do that, I wont have to step out of the house?

''Yes, yes''! I said. I told him how even groceries can be delivered at the door now and how amazon delivers everything!

 

His answer left me tongue-tied.  He said ''Since I entered this bank today, I have met four of my friends, I have chatted a while with the staff who know me very well by now.  You know I am alone...this is the company that I need. I like to get ready and come to the bank.  I have enough time, it is the physical touch that I crave.

 

Two years back I got sick, The store owner from whom I buy fruits came to see me and sat by my bedside and cried.  When your Mom fell down a few days back while on her morning walk.  Our local grocer saw her and immediately got his car to rush her home as he knows where I live.

 

Would I have that 'human' touch if everything became online?  Why would I want everything delivered to me and force me to interact with just my computer?

I like to know the person that I'm dealing with and not just the 'seller'. It creates bonds of Relationships.

 

Does Amazon deliver all this as well?  Technology isn't life.  Spend time with people .  Not with devices."

 

The story ends, but our reunion connection continues!

 

As this reunion gathering will most probably be the finale of such occasions of our time together, whether short or long, will bring back nostalgic memories.

 

Many of our colleagues started their working careers with AIA, some have remained in the insurance industry while others have ventured into other areas. 

 

We have all gone through the roller coaster of life!  I have the privilege of keeping in contact with former AIA/AIG colleagues in Singapore and other countries.

 

Each of us have our own memories to reflect and our stories to tell.  As we age, social contact and interaction are vital to keep our minds in active mode rather than dementia mode.

 

This posting is to remind you of another momentous opportunity in our gathering in July.  For those that have not responded, we hope to see 🙊 you.  Please note that registration is required as we have to furnish a list of visitors to AIA Tower for security reasons.

 

Take this opportunity, once in a lifetime to enjoy your past memories with your former colleagues. 

 

See you on July 22 (Saturday), 2:30-5:30pm at AIA Tower (Collaboration Room),1 Robinson Road, Singapore.

 

Your colleague,

Douglas Cho

June 7, 2023