Are they still man like Toh Chin Boon
in our midst? He was highlighted in the Star
6 February 2012 under the “Be Inspired” series. A 90 year old man
who for the past 54 years has scoured the obituaries of government
servants in the local newspapers and helped the widows on how to make
their pensions.applicatons to the Public Service Department (PSD). He
will send a comprehensive pack which contains a hand written letter
that outlines the steps, a sample letter to the PSD and photocopies
of all necessary forms for the application.
Toh became aware of the difficulties
widows faced when filing claims for their spouse's pensions while he
was a legal assistant before his retirement.He wanted to help but
during the bereavement period, any advice given might have just
fallen on deaf ears. He used another approach by writing to them
instead. His helpling hand since 1957 has seen some who thanked him
through letters or even meeting him personally. He himself just
continues with his routine and many more hopefully will benefit from
his selfless act in the future.
Yes, how many are like Toh? Maybe there
are others unknown to us bringing cheer and hope, kindness and
inspiration to those who need them. These are members of society who
are the backbone and pillars of strength, giving themselves in the
service to others, without any thoughts of rewards. They are the ones
who should be highlighted and put up as examples to emulate. Not just
the millionaires, high academic achievers or political big wigs. Some
might feel the contributions of these good samaritans do not merit a
second mention as their deeds only affects a few. Even though those
who benefit from these deeds are few in number in comparison to
national level projects, at least some members in our society are
taking the initiave without any help from the government. Real life
stories like these are inspiring and can have a domino effect. If and
when the act of helping others becomes part of our psyche and just
another altruistic act, imagine the impact on the whole nation.
Image from legaljuice
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