In a recent LinkedIn post, Shulin Lee shares a poignant reflection on the true nature of giving, inspired by an anecdote from Christopher Tan, CEO of Singapore’s first fee-only wealth advisory firm. Lee uses Tan’s story to prompt a broader contemplation on time, intention, and the value of presence over material wealth.
The core of Lee’s post revolves around a seemingly unconventional statement by Tan: “I make my kids give me money.” While this might initially provoke disagreement, Lee quickly pivots to the underlying sentiment, as revealed by Tan’s subsequent explanation.
“The last ang pao he gave his mother was never opened. He kept it. Till today. Because it was never about the money. It was about having the chance to give.”
As Shulin Lee highlights, this story reframes the act of giving from a transactional exchange to an expression of love and connection. The unopened ang pao, preserved by Tan, symbolizes a moment of profound opportunity – the chance to express care and affection for his mother. Lee emphasizes that the value was not in the financial transfer, but in the deliberate act of giving itself.
The Inevitability of Regret and the Value of Time
Lee connects Tan’s anecdote to a universal human experience: the eventual wish for more time. The reflection underscores a common sentiment that as life progresses, people often realize the finite nature of their time and the opportunities missed.
According to Shulin Lee, the story serves as a powerful reminder of what truly matters in the long run. The focus shifts from accumulating wealth or possessions to cherishing moments and connections.
“One day, we will all wish we had more time… to give, to do more, to show up.”
Lee argues that this sentiment is a call to action, urging readers to recognize the present as the opportune moment to engage in meaningful acts of giving, whether it be time, attention, or resources. The implication is that waiting for a future, perhaps distant, moment to express these intentions might mean missing the chance altogether.
The Essence of Generosity
Shulin Lee’s post, by sharing Christopher Tan’s experience, prompts a re-evaluation of generosity. It suggests that true generosity lies not just in the quantity of what is given, but in the quality of the intention and the act itself. The act of giving, as illustrated by Tan, becomes a way to affirm relationships and express love, transcending monetary value.
“And by then, it will be too late.”
This stark observation, presented by Lee, serves as a critical takeaway. It emphasizes the urgency of appreciating and acting upon the opportunities to give and connect while they are available. Lee’s journalistic coverage of Tan’s story aims to highlight this deeper message, encouraging readers to consider their own actions and the value they place on time and relationships.
The post concludes with a call to share the insight, indicating Lee’s belief in the importance of this message for a wider audience who may still have the chance to act on such reflections.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Shulin Lee on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on March 5, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →