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If You Live To 100, You Might As Well Be Happy: Lessons for a Long and Joyful Life
As an old Korean saying goes...
¡®You learn to use gums in place of teeth.¡¯
Rhee Kun Hoo was in his seventies and retired from a prestigious career in psychiatry when he took up writing. In his youth Professor Rhee lived an extraordinary life, filled with action and purpose. He served time in prison for opposing his country¡¯s totalitarian government. He led the efforts to fix South Korea¡¯s fledgling mental health system. He built a family and raised four kids.
Now in his twilight years, having, much to his surprise, become a bestselling, beloved writer in South Korea, Rhee turns his pen to the often-overlooked value of ageing. Here he shares his wisdom and philosophy for finding a life well-lived, exploring forgiveness, how to persevere (but also know when to quit), facing your insecurities and opening yourself to the simple joys available to you every day.
This comforting Korean bestseller offers guidance for attaining ordinary happiness at any age and shows us that life is a story worth reading until the very last page.
¡®You learn to use gums in place of teeth.¡¯
Rhee Kun Hoo was in his seventies and retired from a prestigious career in psychiatry when he took up writing. In his youth Professor Rhee lived an extraordinary life, filled with action and purpose. He served time in prison for opposing his country¡¯s totalitarian government. He led the efforts to fix South Korea¡¯s fledgling mental health system. He built a family and raised four kids.
Now in his twilight years, having, much to his surprise, become a bestselling, beloved writer in South Korea, Rhee turns his pen to the often-overlooked value of ageing. Here he shares his wisdom and philosophy for finding a life well-lived, exploring forgiveness, how to persevere (but also know when to quit), facing your insecurities and opening yourself to the simple joys available to you every day.
This comforting Korean bestseller offers guidance for attaining ordinary happiness at any age and shows us that life is a story worth reading until the very last page.
192 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 16, 2024
96 people are currently reading
1574 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
June 10, 2024
Brief: This book is called ¡°If you live to 100, you might as well be happy¡± by Rhee Kun Hoo. It is a reminder to not underestimate the power of ordinary happiness. Originally, this book was recorded in Korean but his translator, as evidenced in the later chapters, took great care in ensuring that its translation from Korean to English was accessible and palatable. Although not apparent from the start, this book may be summarised as a person¡¯s way of welcoming the most important guest of your life, death, and how to do so without falling into complete despair. It is beautiful and thought provoking in a manner which is both humbling and bitter sweet. I could not put it down!
My favourite passage ¡°But fearing the future doesn¡¯t help us to face it¡±.
NB: hot tip from the author. Celebrate milestone birthdays by booking in individual appointments throughout the year with your favourite people. In this way, you¡¯ll get time to really get to talk and hear them. Then before you depart from them, tell them you wanted to see them for your birthday!
BS
My favourite passage ¡°But fearing the future doesn¡¯t help us to face it¡±.
NB: hot tip from the author. Celebrate milestone birthdays by booking in individual appointments throughout the year with your favourite people. In this way, you¡¯ll get time to really get to talk and hear them. Then before you depart from them, tell them you wanted to see them for your birthday!
BS
May 27, 2024
Really beautiful book. We need more books like this. The intital was a bit depressing but Mr. Rhee definitely had a point. Taught me a lot and let me look at aspects of life I never did. Will truly try to apply his insights and learn from his lessons.
An amazing and very inspiring individual. Would definitely go to his talk(even though the author may think his lecture may become ramblings!).
Really respect you, thankyou for writing this amazing book!
An amazing and very inspiring individual. Would definitely go to his talk(even though the author may think his lecture may become ramblings!).
Really respect you, thankyou for writing this amazing book!
September 4, 2024
Maybe I am not old enough to truly appreciate this book, but I thought it wasn't written in a compelling way. I found myself bored and wanting to skim. It just didn't resonate with me. It felt like too much telling and not enough showing.
June 13, 2025
Do understand that this is not a narrative. Each chapter's title is a clue to understanding the 'argument' of the text of each, because they're not really chapters but essays.
Do not expect perfectly coherent discussion - as we age, we have conflicting feelings. For a simple example, we don't want to 'look our age' but we do want the respect accorded elders. Do not expect every bit to apply to your life. Do not expect a perfect translation.
Do enjoy. Especially if you're in your 'golden years' yourself, but also if you want to learn more about what the older people around you are going through.
And do enjoy the tidbits of South Korean history and culture. I'm certainly learning plenty.
---
Done. The essays are, after all, arranged in an attempt to be coherent, to have rationale for which comes first, next, last. No worries though whether you want read one at a time or in any order. You'll likely find different favorite bits than I did; here follow mine:
This man, this psychiatrist and father, who has experienced life under the rule of Japan, the fight for Korean independence, and then the division of South and North, nonetheless says:
"Things are tough for the younger generations in ways that are very much unlike our times.... They've experienced the extreme competition of our tumultuous modern age, which often proves dehumanizing and harmful to their self esteem. Despite all their hard work, there will be less security and financial stability for them than there was for us."
He adds, "Maybe, just maybe what they need is not a teacher but a listener."
More advice: Practice forgiveness, for your sake, not theirs. "Once you've disengaged and have more room for reflection, try to study your trauma from a new angle. When you're able to put some distance between yourself and that painful memory, you'll have more room for re-evaluation and understanding."
" A trend Korean Millennials and Gen Zs live by: sticking with the small but sure happiness they can find in their everyday lives instead of sacrificing their present in pursuit of faraway, uncertain happiness."
"There is a uniquely human ability that's unlikely to be replaced by AI. It's empathy, or EQ, broadly speaking. In our individualist society of a growing number of one-person family units, people with superior EQ will be more and more highly sought-after. But how do you improve your empathetic skills? By connecting and forming deep bonds with others."
"Even if you had known it [what you know now] then, it might not have changed a single thing." For one thing, knowing about all the things that can go wrong would have interfered with having enough courage to strive.
One bit is particularly relevant to me. "Memory problems can you leave your feeling scatter-brained... struggling to get to the point or going off track way too often." My son says I do this when we have a conversation; he can't keep up with me because I don't finish articulating each observation or query, etc., nor do I use segues or other cues. But recently a neurologist gave me a completely clean bill of health so I dunno. I guess I'll just try harder to focus, in conversation as well as in daily tasks, etc.
"If you search for and develop a wide vocabulary for your feelings, you learn to avoid getting fixated on one dominant element in the complex concoction of your feelings and falsely amplify that alone. What's more, the process of articulating how you feel might itself prove cathartic."
Well, tldr, I, age 62, enjoyed it and am glad I read it, but my 83 year old mother only skimmed it. She did say she took some notes though!
"Ordinary memories... bring a smile to my lips, my heart swelling with the warmth of deep joy and filling me with the strength to tackle another day." "I'm happy to wake up to another day, and to get to enjoy yet another morning in my life. I'm happy to be able to watch a show on TV, as my hearing and health are still good enough. I'm happy to be able to perform an easy task on my computer, despite my partial blindness.... Remember to keep an eye on for good memories you can make right here, right now. We can find happiness in all of the most unexpected corners of our everyday life."
Do not expect perfectly coherent discussion - as we age, we have conflicting feelings. For a simple example, we don't want to 'look our age' but we do want the respect accorded elders. Do not expect every bit to apply to your life. Do not expect a perfect translation.
Do enjoy. Especially if you're in your 'golden years' yourself, but also if you want to learn more about what the older people around you are going through.
And do enjoy the tidbits of South Korean history and culture. I'm certainly learning plenty.
---
Done. The essays are, after all, arranged in an attempt to be coherent, to have rationale for which comes first, next, last. No worries though whether you want read one at a time or in any order. You'll likely find different favorite bits than I did; here follow mine:
This man, this psychiatrist and father, who has experienced life under the rule of Japan, the fight for Korean independence, and then the division of South and North, nonetheless says:
"Things are tough for the younger generations in ways that are very much unlike our times.... They've experienced the extreme competition of our tumultuous modern age, which often proves dehumanizing and harmful to their self esteem. Despite all their hard work, there will be less security and financial stability for them than there was for us."
He adds, "Maybe, just maybe what they need is not a teacher but a listener."
More advice: Practice forgiveness, for your sake, not theirs. "Once you've disengaged and have more room for reflection, try to study your trauma from a new angle. When you're able to put some distance between yourself and that painful memory, you'll have more room for re-evaluation and understanding."
" A trend Korean Millennials and Gen Zs live by: sticking with the small but sure happiness they can find in their everyday lives instead of sacrificing their present in pursuit of faraway, uncertain happiness."
"There is a uniquely human ability that's unlikely to be replaced by AI. It's empathy, or EQ, broadly speaking. In our individualist society of a growing number of one-person family units, people with superior EQ will be more and more highly sought-after. But how do you improve your empathetic skills? By connecting and forming deep bonds with others."
"Even if you had known it [what you know now] then, it might not have changed a single thing." For one thing, knowing about all the things that can go wrong would have interfered with having enough courage to strive.
One bit is particularly relevant to me. "Memory problems can you leave your feeling scatter-brained... struggling to get to the point or going off track way too often." My son says I do this when we have a conversation; he can't keep up with me because I don't finish articulating each observation or query, etc., nor do I use segues or other cues. But recently a neurologist gave me a completely clean bill of health so I dunno. I guess I'll just try harder to focus, in conversation as well as in daily tasks, etc.
"If you search for and develop a wide vocabulary for your feelings, you learn to avoid getting fixated on one dominant element in the complex concoction of your feelings and falsely amplify that alone. What's more, the process of articulating how you feel might itself prove cathartic."
Well, tldr, I, age 62, enjoyed it and am glad I read it, but my 83 year old mother only skimmed it. She did say she took some notes though!
"Ordinary memories... bring a smile to my lips, my heart swelling with the warmth of deep joy and filling me with the strength to tackle another day." "I'm happy to wake up to another day, and to get to enjoy yet another morning in my life. I'm happy to be able to watch a show on TV, as my hearing and health are still good enough. I'm happy to be able to perform an easy task on my computer, despite my partial blindness.... Remember to keep an eye on for good memories you can make right here, right now. We can find happiness in all of the most unexpected corners of our everyday life."
March 28, 2025
Livrinho simp¨¢tico com conselhos para envelhecer bem e n?o perder o estilo.
November 2, 2024
If You Live to 100 is by 87 year old Rhee Kun Hoo. He once went to jail for much of his 20s for his activism, protesting a totalitarian government, but even more impactful is the fact he improved the mental health system of Korea through his work as a psychiatrist and as a professor. The author has four children and several grandkids, and he lives together with them as an intergenerational family in a villa.
The audience for this book feels like it's for retirees (though there is no harm in learning from the author's wisdom), and the author reflects on the life he has lived so far, including the past thirty years living with seven chronic illnesses. He shares his life tips for aging gracefully, without forcefulness. I think for each reader would be a different takeaway message. For me, it was to live kindly, volunteer and help your community (and treat it as something ordinary) and don't let money take its reign over you, and know when to give in and listen to the younger generations.
'Not knowing begets fear, and knowledge makes you brave. It holds true for the big picture of life. The more you come to understand about life, the more prepared you become for whatever life has in store for you.'
'I believe that our true legacies are not inscribed in headstones. ... The only inscriptions we actually leave behind are the good memories we create with our loved ones. If I can make someone else's life a little happier, wouldn't my life have been worthwhile? Many of us make it through each day by holding on to the happy memories we've made with our loved ones.'
'Not everyone knows what it means to work hard. By which I mean, the pleasure you get from working hard is a reward reserved exclusively for those who know who they are and have found meaningful work. ... The good news is that work is a lifelong mission. And just because you're retired doesn't mean you need to stop working. If you've so far missed out on the meaning and pleasure of work, why not start now? Find the work that's truly meaningful to you, and see what joy it brings you.'
The audience for this book feels like it's for retirees (though there is no harm in learning from the author's wisdom), and the author reflects on the life he has lived so far, including the past thirty years living with seven chronic illnesses. He shares his life tips for aging gracefully, without forcefulness. I think for each reader would be a different takeaway message. For me, it was to live kindly, volunteer and help your community (and treat it as something ordinary) and don't let money take its reign over you, and know when to give in and listen to the younger generations.
'Not knowing begets fear, and knowledge makes you brave. It holds true for the big picture of life. The more you come to understand about life, the more prepared you become for whatever life has in store for you.'
'I believe that our true legacies are not inscribed in headstones. ... The only inscriptions we actually leave behind are the good memories we create with our loved ones. If I can make someone else's life a little happier, wouldn't my life have been worthwhile? Many of us make it through each day by holding on to the happy memories we've made with our loved ones.'
'Not everyone knows what it means to work hard. By which I mean, the pleasure you get from working hard is a reward reserved exclusively for those who know who they are and have found meaningful work. ... The good news is that work is a lifelong mission. And just because you're retired doesn't mean you need to stop working. If you've so far missed out on the meaning and pleasure of work, why not start now? Find the work that's truly meaningful to you, and see what joy it brings you.'
July 13, 2024
This book is written by an 87 year old man. I was surprised how accepting and gracefully he wrote about aging and others stepping into the roles he¡¯s toiled in for so long. It was a refreshing read!
January 26, 2025
Volledig tegen mijn gewoonte in, maar na 90 pagina¡¯s toch maar gestopt. Geen levenswijsheden gevonden, alleen veel gestoef van een oude man over zichzelf en zijn verwezenlijkingen. Voor mij dus geen aanrader. De tweede ster is simpelweg uit beleefdheid.
February 24, 2025
De 87-jarige psychiater Rhee Kun Hoo deelt zijn levenslessen en die zijn mild en nuchter. Het boek geeft meteen ook een inkijkje in de Koreaanse cultuur en geeft de ouderen in onze maatschappij een waardige stem.
August 20, 2024
The target audience seems to be 80-year-olds. Everything can be summarised as ¡°accept your reality and always look for the positive in every situation¡±. Nothing groundbreaking or transformative.
July 12, 2024
Lernerrgend
Rhee Kun Hoo, mittlerweile selber fast 90, erz?hlt in seinem Lebensratgeber von seinen Tipps f¨¹r ein w¨¹rdevolles Altern. Seine Aussagen stehen alle daf¨¹r, das Leben auch im hohen Alter noch zu genie?en. Wie das gelingen kann, geht er unterteilt in verschiedene Bereiche an. F¨¹r quasi jede seiner Aussagen nutzt er Beispiele aus seinem Leben, die seine Thesen anschaulich verdeutlichen.
Die vielen pers?nlichen Annekdoten machen das Buch zu einem ganz besonderen Werk, das sich super lesen lesen l?sst und den Leser gleichzeitig auf fast schon freundschaftliche Weise mit in Hoos Leben nimmt. Rhee Kun Hoo schreibt niemals urteilend, sondern zeigt stets nur auf, welche positiven Effekte es z.B. hat sich nicht zu sehr auf seine Altersleiden zu konzentrieren, um stattdessen auch im Alter noch etwas Neues zu erlernen. Abseits von den Altersweisheiten geht es auch um das Aufwachsen in S¨¹dkorea zu einer schwierigen Zeit und wie sich das Land ver?ndert hat.
Mich pers?nlich konnte Rhee Kun Hoo mit seinem reichen Erfahrungsschatz einige Male zum Nachdenken anregen. Auch wenn seine Tipps nicht weltver?ndernd sind, so helfen sie doch, sich wieder auf die wichtigen Werte zur¨¹ckzubesinnen.
Rhee Kun Hoo, mittlerweile selber fast 90, erz?hlt in seinem Lebensratgeber von seinen Tipps f¨¹r ein w¨¹rdevolles Altern. Seine Aussagen stehen alle daf¨¹r, das Leben auch im hohen Alter noch zu genie?en. Wie das gelingen kann, geht er unterteilt in verschiedene Bereiche an. F¨¹r quasi jede seiner Aussagen nutzt er Beispiele aus seinem Leben, die seine Thesen anschaulich verdeutlichen.
Die vielen pers?nlichen Annekdoten machen das Buch zu einem ganz besonderen Werk, das sich super lesen lesen l?sst und den Leser gleichzeitig auf fast schon freundschaftliche Weise mit in Hoos Leben nimmt. Rhee Kun Hoo schreibt niemals urteilend, sondern zeigt stets nur auf, welche positiven Effekte es z.B. hat sich nicht zu sehr auf seine Altersleiden zu konzentrieren, um stattdessen auch im Alter noch etwas Neues zu erlernen. Abseits von den Altersweisheiten geht es auch um das Aufwachsen in S¨¹dkorea zu einer schwierigen Zeit und wie sich das Land ver?ndert hat.
Mich pers?nlich konnte Rhee Kun Hoo mit seinem reichen Erfahrungsschatz einige Male zum Nachdenken anregen. Auch wenn seine Tipps nicht weltver?ndernd sind, so helfen sie doch, sich wieder auf die wichtigen Werte zur¨¹ckzubesinnen.
April 26, 2025
O escritor n?o nos mostra os passos para ter uma vida mais feliz, diz-nos como acha que podemos ser mais felizes at¨¦ aos 100. Fala sobre a sua experi¨ºncia, como encarou a velhice e como decidiu viver a sua reforma. Conta-nos a sua hist¨®ria de vida de uma forma simples e direta. N?o admira que este livro seja um bestseller. Abre-nos os olhos ¨¤ m¨¢xima de que todos os dias, mesmo nos momentos mais mon¨®tonos, onde parece n?o acontecer nada, devemos aproveitar bem e apreciar o que nos rodeia.
November 3, 2024
Very quick read, felt like a list of learnings passed down from wise person to young person - I guess you could call it didactic? Some chapters more applicable than others, also very big on filial piety which I am unsure if I am on board with despite also being Asian. Anyway, quite wholesome, maybe it is my folly of youth that I take away some messages more than others.
January 18, 2025
Gelezen in het nederlands, opzich een leuk boekje met leuke verhalen/tips voor het leven, maar het grootste gedeelte is toch wel echt gericht op mensen van zo'n 15 jaar ouder dan ik, en dat is wel zonde.
July 13, 2024
Watch my review on YouTube -
January 17, 2025
Nuttige inzichten, anders dan de Westerse zelfhulp boeken.
June 23, 2024
In W¨¹rde ?lter werden
Mit 43 Jahren stehe ich wohl ¨¹ber meiner Lebensmitte aber auch nur, wenn es mein Schicksal gn?dig mit mir meint. Ich habe grosse M¨¹he damit zu akzeptieren, dass man sein Schicksal nicht ?ndern kann. Niemand weiss wie lange das eigene Leben dauern und wann die Gesundheit br?ckeln wird.
Ich liebe mein Leben und meine Familie und habe gerade deswegen viele Verlust?ngste. Ich bin aus diesem Grund immer wieder auf der Suche nach B¨¹chern, die mir helfen meine Gedanken einigermassen in den Griff zu kriegen und das Positive in den Fokus zu r¨¹cken.
Dieses Buch gef?llt mir sehr gut und ist zu einem Lieblingsbuch geworden - ich mag alles daran. Der Autor schreibt einfach und verst?ndlich in einer angenehmen und sch?nen Sprache, die den richtigen Ton trifft. Rhee Kun Hoo, fast neunzig Jahre alt, fasst die wichtigsten Prinzipien f¨¹r ein gl¨¹ckliches und w¨¹rdevolles Altern gut zusammen und macht einem Mut. Ich werde mich dank seinen Zeilen in Zukunft wohl nicht mehr so allein f¨¹hlen, denn ich kann das Buch in meine H?nde nehmen und mir den Inhalt immer wieder zu Gem¨¹te f¨¹hren. Ich bin sicher, dass ich das machen werde.
Ich mag die Gestaltung und die Farbgebung dieses Buches. Die Schildkr?te als Symbol ist sehr passend und stimmig f¨¹r mich. Die Kapitell?ngen sind genau richtig, um immer wieder einzelne Teile zu lesen.
Mit 43 Jahren stehe ich wohl ¨¹ber meiner Lebensmitte aber auch nur, wenn es mein Schicksal gn?dig mit mir meint. Ich habe grosse M¨¹he damit zu akzeptieren, dass man sein Schicksal nicht ?ndern kann. Niemand weiss wie lange das eigene Leben dauern und wann die Gesundheit br?ckeln wird.
Ich liebe mein Leben und meine Familie und habe gerade deswegen viele Verlust?ngste. Ich bin aus diesem Grund immer wieder auf der Suche nach B¨¹chern, die mir helfen meine Gedanken einigermassen in den Griff zu kriegen und das Positive in den Fokus zu r¨¹cken.
Dieses Buch gef?llt mir sehr gut und ist zu einem Lieblingsbuch geworden - ich mag alles daran. Der Autor schreibt einfach und verst?ndlich in einer angenehmen und sch?nen Sprache, die den richtigen Ton trifft. Rhee Kun Hoo, fast neunzig Jahre alt, fasst die wichtigsten Prinzipien f¨¹r ein gl¨¹ckliches und w¨¹rdevolles Altern gut zusammen und macht einem Mut. Ich werde mich dank seinen Zeilen in Zukunft wohl nicht mehr so allein f¨¹hlen, denn ich kann das Buch in meine H?nde nehmen und mir den Inhalt immer wieder zu Gem¨¹te f¨¹hren. Ich bin sicher, dass ich das machen werde.
Ich mag die Gestaltung und die Farbgebung dieses Buches. Die Schildkr?te als Symbol ist sehr passend und stimmig f¨¹r mich. Die Kapitell?ngen sind genau richtig, um immer wieder einzelne Teile zu lesen.
December 23, 2024
Read section by section then would let it sit. The bits not translated from Korean made me wish I knew the language, and I am always grateful for words from elders I do not know. Feel akin to much of what he wrote save for having and being with children. Substitute dogs, and then yes.
Loved this:
"While I was having a hard time at medical school, I found the spiritual companions of my life--mountains."
Loved this:
"While I was having a hard time at medical school, I found the spiritual companions of my life--mountains."
June 20, 2024
Alleen al de bijzonder en nieuwsgierig makende titel weet mijn interesse naar de inhoud van het boek te wekken. Ik ben dol op non-fictie boeken rondom persoonlijke ontwikkeling en aangezien mijn streven is om 108 te worden en natuurlijk zo gelukkig mogelijk door het leven te gaan, ben ik erg benieuwd naar de inzichten en kennis van Rhee Kun Hoo.
Wat is de kracht van doodgewoon geluk? Rhee Kun Hoo vertelt het in zijn persoonlijke verhaal. Rhee Kun Hoo is inmiddels een gepensioneerde psychiater en vertelt over vergeving, spijt hebben en het altijd maar willen en blijven doorgaan, het plezier van een simpel en eenvoudig leven en de kracht die schuilt in gewoon geluk. Tijdens zijn eigen leven deed Rhee Kun Hoo een onuitputtelijke bron op van opmerkelijke ervaringen die hij als psychiater, humanist, activist, oorlogsoverlevende, echtgenoot, vader en grootvader heeft meegemaakt. Rhee Kun Hoo's inzichten bieden wijsheid, troost en mooie inzichten.
Wat een helder, persoonlijk en inspirerend levensverhaal van Rhee Kun Hoo. Hij weet door middel van verschillende gebeurtenissen, momenten en situaties van zijn leven een prachtige verzameling aan levenslessen aan je te bieden die uiteenlopen van het zien van liefde en goedheid, kwetsbaarheid, troost, steun, vergeving en de kracht van een simpel, eenvoudig en gelukkig leven.
Het boek is opgedeeld in vijf delen:
1) De keiharde waarheid over ouder worden
2) Zorg ervoor dat je nergens spijt van hebt
3) Het geheim van 'nog lang en gelukkig'
4) Het voordeel van ouder worden
5) Hoe je vandaag nog kan beginnen met 'nog lang en gelukkig'
Deze delen zijn weer onderverdeeld in vijf verschillende hoofdstukken rondom dit deel. Wat me direct opvalt en waarmee dit boek van Rhee Kun Hoo anders is dan de meeste andere non-fictie boeken rondom persoonlijke ontwikkeling en levenslessen.?Rhee Kun Hoo deelt de levenslessen, wijsheid en inzichten vanuit zijn eigen persoonlijke verhaal. Het is hierdoor een verhaal wat eigenlijk als het ware leest als een biografie. Het is alsof je luisteraar bent van de persoonlijke, kwetsbare en openhartige verhalen over het leven van Rhee Kun Hoo. Het is mooi dat de verhalen heel uiteenlopend zijn. Zo deelt hij heel persoonlijke verhalen over zijn vaderschap en grootouderschap, maar deelt hij ook ervaringen over zijn tijd als activist en zelfs het strafblad dat hij hierdoor opliep.
Doordat hij het vertelt als zijn eigen verhalen, ga je gemakkelijk mee met Rhee Kun Hoo en neem je zijn levensinzichten, kennis en wijsheden gemakkelijk tot je. Daarnaast bevat het boek echt een aantal persoonlijke verhalen die me zonder twijfel altijd zullen bijblijven, want er zitten echt wat pareltjes tussen.
Als je honderd wordt, kun je net zo goed gelukkig zijn is een persoonlijk, openhartig en helder verhaal van Rhee Kun Hoo over zijn eigen leven en de levenslessen, wijsheden en inzichten die hij door de jaren heen opdeed. Hij vertelt openhartig over de fouten die hij maakte en hij durft zich kwetsbaar op te stellen. Hierdoor komt het verhaal echt bij je binnen en weet Rhee Kun Hoo je te raken. Daarbij bieden zijn verhalen zonder twijfel ook hoop, troost, steun, motivatie en geluk.
Wat is de kracht van doodgewoon geluk? Rhee Kun Hoo vertelt het in zijn persoonlijke verhaal. Rhee Kun Hoo is inmiddels een gepensioneerde psychiater en vertelt over vergeving, spijt hebben en het altijd maar willen en blijven doorgaan, het plezier van een simpel en eenvoudig leven en de kracht die schuilt in gewoon geluk. Tijdens zijn eigen leven deed Rhee Kun Hoo een onuitputtelijke bron op van opmerkelijke ervaringen die hij als psychiater, humanist, activist, oorlogsoverlevende, echtgenoot, vader en grootvader heeft meegemaakt. Rhee Kun Hoo's inzichten bieden wijsheid, troost en mooie inzichten.
Wat een helder, persoonlijk en inspirerend levensverhaal van Rhee Kun Hoo. Hij weet door middel van verschillende gebeurtenissen, momenten en situaties van zijn leven een prachtige verzameling aan levenslessen aan je te bieden die uiteenlopen van het zien van liefde en goedheid, kwetsbaarheid, troost, steun, vergeving en de kracht van een simpel, eenvoudig en gelukkig leven.
Het boek is opgedeeld in vijf delen:
1) De keiharde waarheid over ouder worden
2) Zorg ervoor dat je nergens spijt van hebt
3) Het geheim van 'nog lang en gelukkig'
4) Het voordeel van ouder worden
5) Hoe je vandaag nog kan beginnen met 'nog lang en gelukkig'
Deze delen zijn weer onderverdeeld in vijf verschillende hoofdstukken rondom dit deel. Wat me direct opvalt en waarmee dit boek van Rhee Kun Hoo anders is dan de meeste andere non-fictie boeken rondom persoonlijke ontwikkeling en levenslessen.?Rhee Kun Hoo deelt de levenslessen, wijsheid en inzichten vanuit zijn eigen persoonlijke verhaal. Het is hierdoor een verhaal wat eigenlijk als het ware leest als een biografie. Het is alsof je luisteraar bent van de persoonlijke, kwetsbare en openhartige verhalen over het leven van Rhee Kun Hoo. Het is mooi dat de verhalen heel uiteenlopend zijn. Zo deelt hij heel persoonlijke verhalen over zijn vaderschap en grootouderschap, maar deelt hij ook ervaringen over zijn tijd als activist en zelfs het strafblad dat hij hierdoor opliep.
Doordat hij het vertelt als zijn eigen verhalen, ga je gemakkelijk mee met Rhee Kun Hoo en neem je zijn levensinzichten, kennis en wijsheden gemakkelijk tot je. Daarnaast bevat het boek echt een aantal persoonlijke verhalen die me zonder twijfel altijd zullen bijblijven, want er zitten echt wat pareltjes tussen.
Als je honderd wordt, kun je net zo goed gelukkig zijn is een persoonlijk, openhartig en helder verhaal van Rhee Kun Hoo over zijn eigen leven en de levenslessen, wijsheden en inzichten die hij door de jaren heen opdeed. Hij vertelt openhartig over de fouten die hij maakte en hij durft zich kwetsbaar op te stellen. Hierdoor komt het verhaal echt bij je binnen en weet Rhee Kun Hoo je te raken. Daarbij bieden zijn verhalen zonder twijfel ook hoop, troost, steun, motivatie en geluk.
May 31, 2025
Throughout my reading this book, it feels like a grandfather was talking to me, and giving me beautiful advices to live a meaningful life. Sitting with a kind heart, a gesture of an old man who simply wants you to slow down, breathe, and remember what it means to be human.
This book contains 5 parts that truly talks about a reflection of the author, as he's reaching 90 years of life, he is delightful to share his insights on what he had been through in life. He was facing hard times such as war, poverty when his family's business was down and imprisonment for pro-democracy activism and with that, he offers wisdom and words of encouragement on embracing the aging process. We are all getting old, right?
My favorite part from this book when he discusses about HAPPINESS. He highlights the value of finding contentment in simple, daily experiences, suggesting that true happiness often lies in the mundane rather than in extraordinary achievements. But it doesn't mean that he denies big achievements that we should celebrate and be proud of. He tries to bring the idea of appreciating small things that we often take it for granted such as a warm cup of coffee, watching the rain fall outside the window, browsing the books at the bookstores and many more.
Many of us are taught to believe we¡¯ll only be happy after we succeed. For example, getting a job, buying a house, reaching certain milestones. Yes, it is true, it's a happiness. But, that doesn't mean that we couldn't be happy if we couldn't reach at certain point of life.
"You don¡¯t have to wait for happiness. It¡¯s already here¡ªif you stop and notice".
"Don¡¯t wait for the perfect moment. Happiness is already around you¡ªin the little things you do every day."
This concept is especially comforting in a world that glorifies busyness and achievement. He gives us permission to slow down and find peace in being enough, just as we are.
So, if you are tired and hustle between works and responsibilities, and you feel pressured to keep up, inhale...exhale...and grab this book. It offers a breath of fresh air. If you love Tuesdays With Morrie, I promise you will love this book as well. Such an honest advices given and soulful reflection about life.
This book contains 5 parts that truly talks about a reflection of the author, as he's reaching 90 years of life, he is delightful to share his insights on what he had been through in life. He was facing hard times such as war, poverty when his family's business was down and imprisonment for pro-democracy activism and with that, he offers wisdom and words of encouragement on embracing the aging process. We are all getting old, right?
My favorite part from this book when he discusses about HAPPINESS. He highlights the value of finding contentment in simple, daily experiences, suggesting that true happiness often lies in the mundane rather than in extraordinary achievements. But it doesn't mean that he denies big achievements that we should celebrate and be proud of. He tries to bring the idea of appreciating small things that we often take it for granted such as a warm cup of coffee, watching the rain fall outside the window, browsing the books at the bookstores and many more.
Many of us are taught to believe we¡¯ll only be happy after we succeed. For example, getting a job, buying a house, reaching certain milestones. Yes, it is true, it's a happiness. But, that doesn't mean that we couldn't be happy if we couldn't reach at certain point of life.
"You don¡¯t have to wait for happiness. It¡¯s already here¡ªif you stop and notice".
"Don¡¯t wait for the perfect moment. Happiness is already around you¡ªin the little things you do every day."
This concept is especially comforting in a world that glorifies busyness and achievement. He gives us permission to slow down and find peace in being enough, just as we are.
So, if you are tired and hustle between works and responsibilities, and you feel pressured to keep up, inhale...exhale...and grab this book. It offers a breath of fresh air. If you love Tuesdays With Morrie, I promise you will love this book as well. Such an honest advices given and soulful reflection about life.
July 21, 2024
If You Live to 100, You Might as Well Be Happy is a comforting hug, offering pockets of advice and anecdotes on various chapters of life one typically goes through. Originally written in Korean, 87-year-old Rhee Kun Hoo has much to part on his meaningful experiences as a husband, father, grandfather, son, friend and medical professional, reminding us to value the responsibilities and relationships which come with them.
As the Korean saying goes, ¡°Even a petty rock that meets that toe of your shoe is a work of fate.¡±, emphasising the importance of being kind to everyone as the world is indeed small and we are all interconnected in some way or another. This is especially key for family and friends within our own circle ¨C show them you care by keeping in touch and making time for them. Rhee shares his greatest blessing ¨C living under the same roof with his 12 family members from 3 different generations. This intergenerational family arrangement has allowed them more quality time together, quick responses in managing family emergencies and opportunities for children to socialise, by maintaining a healthy environment through privacy and independence of each individual family unit.
Rhee further advises that while it is crucial to stay sociable and fulfil your duties, always prioritise yourself. This includes practising work-life balance, having a hobby to indulge, learning self-control and being aware of your health ¨C all leading to a purposeful life. There will be inevitable adversities, financial issues, heartbreaks, but hope keeps us alive and we should consistently strive for joy. After all, accumulations of little joys can eventually become great happiness.
As a translated work, I personally feel that the translator, Suphil Lee Park, did a wonderful job in making the book an easy read for a wider audience. Her note at the end was truly heartfelt, a good closure to an inspiring book filled with life lessons and guiding principles.
I would like to thank Definitely Books for this review copy in exchange for my honest review!
As the Korean saying goes, ¡°Even a petty rock that meets that toe of your shoe is a work of fate.¡±, emphasising the importance of being kind to everyone as the world is indeed small and we are all interconnected in some way or another. This is especially key for family and friends within our own circle ¨C show them you care by keeping in touch and making time for them. Rhee shares his greatest blessing ¨C living under the same roof with his 12 family members from 3 different generations. This intergenerational family arrangement has allowed them more quality time together, quick responses in managing family emergencies and opportunities for children to socialise, by maintaining a healthy environment through privacy and independence of each individual family unit.
Rhee further advises that while it is crucial to stay sociable and fulfil your duties, always prioritise yourself. This includes practising work-life balance, having a hobby to indulge, learning self-control and being aware of your health ¨C all leading to a purposeful life. There will be inevitable adversities, financial issues, heartbreaks, but hope keeps us alive and we should consistently strive for joy. After all, accumulations of little joys can eventually become great happiness.
As a translated work, I personally feel that the translator, Suphil Lee Park, did a wonderful job in making the book an easy read for a wider audience. Her note at the end was truly heartfelt, a good closure to an inspiring book filled with life lessons and guiding principles.
I would like to thank Definitely Books for this review copy in exchange for my honest review!
December 6, 2024
Reflections on mortality and the pursuit of happiness ??
¡°Just because nothing special seems to happen to you, you shouldn't go through life bored and disinterested.¡±
A book from someone who had/living a life well lived.
But how do you define a life well lived?
A life well lived isn¡¯t a perfect life without flaws. Only you can decide¡ªhow to live your life, to forgive, breaking free from regrets, ends that passive attitude from holding you back, etc¡ªif it¡¯s not going good, how do you make it better?
Delves into the principles of graceful aging and finding happiness throughout life, particularly in old age. Draws on Rhee's professional experience as a psychiatrist as well as personal experience as a father and grandfather. Emphasises the importance of maintaining physical & mental health, nurturing relationships, cultivating a positive mindset, and embracing life's inevitable challenges.
[Personal reflection] People tend to have certain stereotypes when it comes to self-help books;
Boring and dry content, self-absorbed narcissists, corny, low intellectual depth, and the list goes on¡ªif that¡¯s the label you¡¯ve put, it is what it is.
But for me I¡¯m reading someone¡¯s life and experiences, it¡¯s psychology broken down to layman¡¯s term, it¡¯s reality, no matter how corny or mundane, and see what they make out of it (tho it might or might not be a good one).
Despite stereotypes that may dismiss the genre as simplistic or impractical, certain self-help books, like this one, shares life journey and wisdom¡ªlike taking a peek into someone¡¯s mind¡ªwhich might gives us different outlook on life. The kind of books that offers solace and guidance in navigating life's uncertainties, particularly in aging, by promoting emotional resilience and a sense of purpose in getting through twilight years.
After all it¡¯s best to prevent than to heal, during young age, by exposing yourself to people¡¯s life stories or we might say secondhand experiences. This one allows me to reflect and form new understanding on mental health in relation to aging.
¡°Just because nothing special seems to happen to you, you shouldn't go through life bored and disinterested.¡±
A book from someone who had/living a life well lived.
But how do you define a life well lived?
A life well lived isn¡¯t a perfect life without flaws. Only you can decide¡ªhow to live your life, to forgive, breaking free from regrets, ends that passive attitude from holding you back, etc¡ªif it¡¯s not going good, how do you make it better?
Delves into the principles of graceful aging and finding happiness throughout life, particularly in old age. Draws on Rhee's professional experience as a psychiatrist as well as personal experience as a father and grandfather. Emphasises the importance of maintaining physical & mental health, nurturing relationships, cultivating a positive mindset, and embracing life's inevitable challenges.
[Personal reflection] People tend to have certain stereotypes when it comes to self-help books;
Boring and dry content, self-absorbed narcissists, corny, low intellectual depth, and the list goes on¡ªif that¡¯s the label you¡¯ve put, it is what it is.
But for me I¡¯m reading someone¡¯s life and experiences, it¡¯s psychology broken down to layman¡¯s term, it¡¯s reality, no matter how corny or mundane, and see what they make out of it (tho it might or might not be a good one).
Despite stereotypes that may dismiss the genre as simplistic or impractical, certain self-help books, like this one, shares life journey and wisdom¡ªlike taking a peek into someone¡¯s mind¡ªwhich might gives us different outlook on life. The kind of books that offers solace and guidance in navigating life's uncertainties, particularly in aging, by promoting emotional resilience and a sense of purpose in getting through twilight years.
After all it¡¯s best to prevent than to heal, during young age, by exposing yourself to people¡¯s life stories or we might say secondhand experiences. This one allows me to reflect and form new understanding on mental health in relation to aging.
November 28, 2024
I get that it can be boring for young people but I pray that this book finds you when you are ready.
Written by a former psychologist, Rhee Kun Hoo.. the book is a gentle reminder to learn to be happy. Easier said than done! I have seen many authors parroting this, but it often felt like the normal pep talk .. coming from Rhee Kun Hoo it felt genuine and truly coming from a place of love and acceptance.
There are many aspects of this book that I love but my most favourite chapter is when he discussed karma. Rhee Kun Hoo, while not explicitly discussing karma, does explore the concept of cosmic balancing and the interconnectedness of human experiences. He often recounts stories where he helped others, and in turn, he received unexpected kindness and support.
For example, he might share a story about helping a struggling student or offering advice to a troubled individual. Later, he might encounter a similar situation where someone else extends a helping hand to him, perhaps in a way he hadn't anticipated.
While he doesn't directly attribute these positive experiences to karma, he does convey a sense of cosmic balance and the idea that good deeds often lead to positive outcomes. He emphasizes the importance of empathy, compassion, and helping others, suggesting that these actions can enrich one's own life in unexpected ways.
This concept can be interpreted as a form of karma, where positive actions lead to positive consequences, and negative actions lead to negative consequences. However, Rhee Kun Hoo focuses more on the intrinsic rewards of helping others, such as the satisfaction of knowing that you have made a difference in someone's life.
Ultimately, Rhee Kun Hoo's message is that by being kind, compassionate, and helpful, we can create a more positive and fulfilling life for ourselves and others.
Written by a former psychologist, Rhee Kun Hoo.. the book is a gentle reminder to learn to be happy. Easier said than done! I have seen many authors parroting this, but it often felt like the normal pep talk .. coming from Rhee Kun Hoo it felt genuine and truly coming from a place of love and acceptance.
There are many aspects of this book that I love but my most favourite chapter is when he discussed karma. Rhee Kun Hoo, while not explicitly discussing karma, does explore the concept of cosmic balancing and the interconnectedness of human experiences. He often recounts stories where he helped others, and in turn, he received unexpected kindness and support.
For example, he might share a story about helping a struggling student or offering advice to a troubled individual. Later, he might encounter a similar situation where someone else extends a helping hand to him, perhaps in a way he hadn't anticipated.
While he doesn't directly attribute these positive experiences to karma, he does convey a sense of cosmic balance and the idea that good deeds often lead to positive outcomes. He emphasizes the importance of empathy, compassion, and helping others, suggesting that these actions can enrich one's own life in unexpected ways.
This concept can be interpreted as a form of karma, where positive actions lead to positive consequences, and negative actions lead to negative consequences. However, Rhee Kun Hoo focuses more on the intrinsic rewards of helping others, such as the satisfaction of knowing that you have made a difference in someone's life.
Ultimately, Rhee Kun Hoo's message is that by being kind, compassionate, and helpful, we can create a more positive and fulfilling life for ourselves and others.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 23, 2025
Reading this book was like talking to a wise and king grandpa: from captivating stories about his life¡¯s adventures to some deep and philosophical topics, like death, love, happiness and many more.
I had so many quotes to share, but I will leave all of them to be discovered and processed by you, dear reader, as they mean the most only inside the book¡¯s stories.
Though I will still share a couple that touched me most deeply:
¡°Buddhists propose that there are seven non-material gifts, referred to as mujaechilshi (???? / ŸoØ”ÆßÊ©). These include a tender and comforting gaze, a face that beams with a compassionate smile, polite and beautiful words, kind actions, a gentle and understanding heart, the generosity to offer comfortable seats to others, and the kindness to provide someone with a place to sleep. ¡±
The author talked a lot about meaningful coincidences in everyone¡¯s lifes, and I couldn¡¯t stop thinking about ¡°but it¡¯s the same with books!¡±. What were the odds that I would read exactly this book, and not the other?
And, perhaps, you¡¯ll see my review and would like to read it too. Isn¡¯t that lovely? Therefore leaving those two quotes here as well:
¡°life [is] driven by the forces of great coincidence and many chance encounters.¡±
¡°In Rhee¡¯s own words, in our interconnected global community today, we influence each other¡¯s lives to greater extents than we might imagine.¡±(from Translator¡¯s notes)
I will definitely re-read it again when I¡¯ll get much older, and still this was the perfect timing for such a beautiful, deep story of Rhee Kun Hoo. And for that I feel almost blessed and definitely thankful.
I had so many quotes to share, but I will leave all of them to be discovered and processed by you, dear reader, as they mean the most only inside the book¡¯s stories.
Though I will still share a couple that touched me most deeply:
¡°Buddhists propose that there are seven non-material gifts, referred to as mujaechilshi (???? / ŸoØ”ÆßÊ©). These include a tender and comforting gaze, a face that beams with a compassionate smile, polite and beautiful words, kind actions, a gentle and understanding heart, the generosity to offer comfortable seats to others, and the kindness to provide someone with a place to sleep. ¡±
The author talked a lot about meaningful coincidences in everyone¡¯s lifes, and I couldn¡¯t stop thinking about ¡°but it¡¯s the same with books!¡±. What were the odds that I would read exactly this book, and not the other?
And, perhaps, you¡¯ll see my review and would like to read it too. Isn¡¯t that lovely? Therefore leaving those two quotes here as well:
¡°life [is] driven by the forces of great coincidence and many chance encounters.¡±
¡°In Rhee¡¯s own words, in our interconnected global community today, we influence each other¡¯s lives to greater extents than we might imagine.¡±(from Translator¡¯s notes)
I will definitely re-read it again when I¡¯ll get much older, and still this was the perfect timing for such a beautiful, deep story of Rhee Kun Hoo. And for that I feel almost blessed and definitely thankful.
June 24, 2024
Das Buchcover ist schlicht, und besteht aus Text und einer Schildkr?te als Symbol.
Es besteht aus 239 Seiten. Es gibt am Anfang eine Inhaltsangabe. Das Buch ist in f¨¹nf Teile gegliedert. Nach einem spannenden Vorwort, wo man den Autor Rhee Kun Hoo (Psychiater und einer der beliebtesten und meist verkauftesten Essayisten aus Korea) kennenlernt, geht es mit dem ersten Teil: ?Die bittere Wahrheit ¨¹ber das ?lterwerden¡° los. Der zweite Teil ist ?Die Welt ohne Bedauern verlassen¡°. Der dritte Teil beschreibt ?Geheimnisse f¨¹r ein gl¨¹ckliches Leben¡°. Der vierte Teil berichtet ¨¹ber die Vorteile des Alters und der f¨¹nfte Teil lautet: ?Ab heute gl¨¹cklich und zufrieden¡°. Bei jedem Abschnitt findet man wunderbare Bilder in schwarz wei?.
Der Titel des Buches hat mich sofort angesprochen und zurecht. Ich habe das Buch in k¨¹rze ?verschlungen¡° und ich mag es wirklich. Ich pers?nlich finde den Autor sehr sympathisch, er gibt einen Einblick in sein Leben und will seine Erkenntnisse weitergeben. Er schreibt von seinen Erlebnissen mit u.a. der Kernfamilie, Arbeitskollegen und der Gesellschaft. Er schreibt von seinem Gebrechen, Gef¨¹hlen und Erkenntnisse auf eine einfache, lustige und gef¨¹hlvolle Art und Weise. Was mich besonders angesprochen hat, ist der Werdegang- also wie er als junger Mensch das Leben gesehen hat und wie er es im Alter sieht. Ich denke, dass jede Person, die dieses Buch liest, etwas f¨¹r sich mitnehmen kann.
Ich empfehle es auf jeden Fall allen weiter, die einem Sinn im Leben suchen bzw. die sich mit dem Thema Alter/Altern besch?ftigen.
Es besteht aus 239 Seiten. Es gibt am Anfang eine Inhaltsangabe. Das Buch ist in f¨¹nf Teile gegliedert. Nach einem spannenden Vorwort, wo man den Autor Rhee Kun Hoo (Psychiater und einer der beliebtesten und meist verkauftesten Essayisten aus Korea) kennenlernt, geht es mit dem ersten Teil: ?Die bittere Wahrheit ¨¹ber das ?lterwerden¡° los. Der zweite Teil ist ?Die Welt ohne Bedauern verlassen¡°. Der dritte Teil beschreibt ?Geheimnisse f¨¹r ein gl¨¹ckliches Leben¡°. Der vierte Teil berichtet ¨¹ber die Vorteile des Alters und der f¨¹nfte Teil lautet: ?Ab heute gl¨¹cklich und zufrieden¡°. Bei jedem Abschnitt findet man wunderbare Bilder in schwarz wei?.
Der Titel des Buches hat mich sofort angesprochen und zurecht. Ich habe das Buch in k¨¹rze ?verschlungen¡° und ich mag es wirklich. Ich pers?nlich finde den Autor sehr sympathisch, er gibt einen Einblick in sein Leben und will seine Erkenntnisse weitergeben. Er schreibt von seinen Erlebnissen mit u.a. der Kernfamilie, Arbeitskollegen und der Gesellschaft. Er schreibt von seinem Gebrechen, Gef¨¹hlen und Erkenntnisse auf eine einfache, lustige und gef¨¹hlvolle Art und Weise. Was mich besonders angesprochen hat, ist der Werdegang- also wie er als junger Mensch das Leben gesehen hat und wie er es im Alter sieht. Ich denke, dass jede Person, die dieses Buch liest, etwas f¨¹r sich mitnehmen kann.
Ich empfehle es auf jeden Fall allen weiter, die einem Sinn im Leben suchen bzw. die sich mit dem Thema Alter/Altern besch?ftigen.
June 28, 2024
Altern ist individuell
Elke Heidenrich, die auch gerade ein Buch ¨¹ber das Altern ver?ffentlicht hat, habe ich in einem Interview sagen h?ren: "Jedes Altern ist anders." (Ich wei? nicht, ob das auch in ihrem Buch steht, das ich bisher nur durchgebl?ttert habe.)
So ist auch das Buch von Rhee Kun Hoo eines, in dem er weniger DAS Altern beschreibt, als vielmehr seines. Da alte Menschen schon einiges erlebt haben, das sie alles mit in ihrer Alter nehmen, ist das auch wenig ¨¹berraschend. Das Alter ist das Alter eines schon lange gewordenen und im g¨¹nstigen Fall - wie im Fall des Autors - gereiften Menschen, genau seins.
Insofern erz?hlt Rhee Kun Hoo von sich und so manche objektivierende ?berschrift f¨¹hrt ein bisschen in die Irre. Was er erz?hlt, fand ich mal mehr, mal weniger interessant. Etwas fade St¨¹cke wechseln ab mit anregenden Gedanken. So wirklich, wirklich vom Hocker gerissen hat es mich aber nicht - das tut nur die Buchgestaltung, die ist wundersch?n. (Wenn jetzt noch ein Leseb?ndchen drin w?re, w?re es perfekt.)
Fazit: Wer sich gerade mit dem eigenen (!) Altern besch?ftigt, vielleicht wie ich ebenfalls einen runden Geburtstag in Aussicht hat, kann an dem Buch Gefallen, Anregung und vielleicht auch Gelassenheit finden. Dass koranische Lebenswelten und Wertesysteme etwas anders sind als hierzulande, ersp¨¹rt man nebenbei. Wer sich also f¨¹r asiatische Kulturen interessiert, kann diesem Buch sicher zus?tzlich einiges abgewinnen.
Elke Heidenrich, die auch gerade ein Buch ¨¹ber das Altern ver?ffentlicht hat, habe ich in einem Interview sagen h?ren: "Jedes Altern ist anders." (Ich wei? nicht, ob das auch in ihrem Buch steht, das ich bisher nur durchgebl?ttert habe.)
So ist auch das Buch von Rhee Kun Hoo eines, in dem er weniger DAS Altern beschreibt, als vielmehr seines. Da alte Menschen schon einiges erlebt haben, das sie alles mit in ihrer Alter nehmen, ist das auch wenig ¨¹berraschend. Das Alter ist das Alter eines schon lange gewordenen und im g¨¹nstigen Fall - wie im Fall des Autors - gereiften Menschen, genau seins.
Insofern erz?hlt Rhee Kun Hoo von sich und so manche objektivierende ?berschrift f¨¹hrt ein bisschen in die Irre. Was er erz?hlt, fand ich mal mehr, mal weniger interessant. Etwas fade St¨¹cke wechseln ab mit anregenden Gedanken. So wirklich, wirklich vom Hocker gerissen hat es mich aber nicht - das tut nur die Buchgestaltung, die ist wundersch?n. (Wenn jetzt noch ein Leseb?ndchen drin w?re, w?re es perfekt.)
Fazit: Wer sich gerade mit dem eigenen (!) Altern besch?ftigt, vielleicht wie ich ebenfalls einen runden Geburtstag in Aussicht hat, kann an dem Buch Gefallen, Anregung und vielleicht auch Gelassenheit finden. Dass koranische Lebenswelten und Wertesysteme etwas anders sind als hierzulande, ersp¨¹rt man nebenbei. Wer sich also f¨¹r asiatische Kulturen interessiert, kann diesem Buch sicher zus?tzlich einiges abgewinnen.
July 15, 2024
"Wenn du schon hundert wirst, kannst du genauso gut auch gl¨¹cklich sein" von Rhee Kun Hoo richtet sich klar an eine bestimmte Zielgruppe: Personen ab 50 oder gar 60 Jahren, die auf die Rente zusteuern oder bereits in Rente sind. Das Buch thematisiert intensiv die Gef¨¹hle und Herausforderungen des ?lterwerdens und bietet einen tiefen Einblick in die Gedanken und Emotionen alternder Menschen. Besonders betont wird, wie man mit seinem Stolz umgehen kann, wenn die k?rperlichen und mentalen F?higkeiten nachlassen.
F¨¹r mich pers?nlich war das Buch weniger relevant. Es fehlte an universellen Erkenntnissen, die auch f¨¹r j¨¹ngere Leser interessant oder hilfreich sein k?nnten. Stattdessen schien es mir eher eine Sammlung von Erlebnissen und Erfahrungen des Autors zu sein, ohne klare Handlungsempfehlungen oder Ratschl?ge, die auf alle ?lteren Menschen zutreffen.
Die Geschichten und Anekdoten des Autors waren zwar gut geschrieben und teilweise unterhaltsam, jedoch fehlte mir eine breitere Perspektive. Es wirkte eher wie ein pers?nliches Tagebuch als ein Ratgeber.
Zusammenfassend l?sst sich sagen, dass "Wenn du schon hundert wirst, kannst du genauso gut auch gl¨¹cklich sein" vermutlich f¨¹r jene lesenswert ist, die sich in einer ?hnlichen Lebensphase wie der Autor befinden. Wer jedoch auf der Suche nach allgemeinen Ratschl?gen oder inspirierenden Gedanken zum Thema Alter und Gl¨¹ck ist, k?nnte entt?uscht werden.
F¨¹r mich pers?nlich war das Buch weniger relevant. Es fehlte an universellen Erkenntnissen, die auch f¨¹r j¨¹ngere Leser interessant oder hilfreich sein k?nnten. Stattdessen schien es mir eher eine Sammlung von Erlebnissen und Erfahrungen des Autors zu sein, ohne klare Handlungsempfehlungen oder Ratschl?ge, die auf alle ?lteren Menschen zutreffen.
Die Geschichten und Anekdoten des Autors waren zwar gut geschrieben und teilweise unterhaltsam, jedoch fehlte mir eine breitere Perspektive. Es wirkte eher wie ein pers?nliches Tagebuch als ein Ratgeber.
Zusammenfassend l?sst sich sagen, dass "Wenn du schon hundert wirst, kannst du genauso gut auch gl¨¹cklich sein" vermutlich f¨¹r jene lesenswert ist, die sich in einer ?hnlichen Lebensphase wie der Autor befinden. Wer jedoch auf der Suche nach allgemeinen Ratschl?gen oder inspirierenden Gedanken zum Thema Alter und Gl¨¹ck ist, k?nnte entt?uscht werden.
August 3, 2024
Herzerw?rmende Lektionsessenzen eines langen Lebens
Rhee Kun Hoo betrachtet mit einem durch Lebenserfahrung gesch?rften Blick den Reifungsprozess des Alterns auf k?rperlicher, psychischer und sozialer Ebene und vermittelt in dem gehaltvollen Buch ?Wenn du schon hundert wirst, kannst du genauso gut auch gl¨¹cklich sein¡° herzerw?rmende Lektionsessenzen seines langen Lebens. Obwohl sich der Autor recht ernsten Themen widmet, vermittelt er mit seinen humorvollen Betrachtungen glaubhaft, dass mentale Stolperfallen und auch k?rperliche H¨¹rden des Alterns gemeistert werden k?nnen. Mir pers?nlich verhalf die Lekt¨¹rezeit dazu, einen Inventurstand meiner Lebenssituation zu erstellen und ich habe ein besseres Verst?ndnis davon gewonnen, wie das Wertsch?tzen von allt?glich wirkenden Begebenheiten tats?chlich gelingen kann. Zudem wei? ich nun, wie wichtig es ist, einen Weg einzuschlagen, der Zufriedenheit innerhalb des letzten Lebensabschnitts erm?glicht. Ja, das "Altersego" muss nicht das reine Endprodukt ¨¹berwiegend negativer Erfahrungen sein. Ich kann mich jeden Tag bewusst daf¨¹r entscheiden, welchen Entwicklungsweg ich w?hle und wie ich mich selbst und meinen alternden K?rper betrachte.
Fazit: F¨¹r mich enth¨¹llte dieses eigentlich recht unscheinbar wirkende B¨¹chlein zwischen seinen Seiten einen nachdenklich stimmenden Schatz, der mich hoffentlich noch viele Jahre begleiten und mir gewiss ?fter zur Neujustierung verhelfen wird.
Rhee Kun Hoo betrachtet mit einem durch Lebenserfahrung gesch?rften Blick den Reifungsprozess des Alterns auf k?rperlicher, psychischer und sozialer Ebene und vermittelt in dem gehaltvollen Buch ?Wenn du schon hundert wirst, kannst du genauso gut auch gl¨¹cklich sein¡° herzerw?rmende Lektionsessenzen seines langen Lebens. Obwohl sich der Autor recht ernsten Themen widmet, vermittelt er mit seinen humorvollen Betrachtungen glaubhaft, dass mentale Stolperfallen und auch k?rperliche H¨¹rden des Alterns gemeistert werden k?nnen. Mir pers?nlich verhalf die Lekt¨¹rezeit dazu, einen Inventurstand meiner Lebenssituation zu erstellen und ich habe ein besseres Verst?ndnis davon gewonnen, wie das Wertsch?tzen von allt?glich wirkenden Begebenheiten tats?chlich gelingen kann. Zudem wei? ich nun, wie wichtig es ist, einen Weg einzuschlagen, der Zufriedenheit innerhalb des letzten Lebensabschnitts erm?glicht. Ja, das "Altersego" muss nicht das reine Endprodukt ¨¹berwiegend negativer Erfahrungen sein. Ich kann mich jeden Tag bewusst daf¨¹r entscheiden, welchen Entwicklungsweg ich w?hle und wie ich mich selbst und meinen alternden K?rper betrachte.
Fazit: F¨¹r mich enth¨¹llte dieses eigentlich recht unscheinbar wirkende B¨¹chlein zwischen seinen Seiten einen nachdenklich stimmenden Schatz, der mich hoffentlich noch viele Jahre begleiten und mir gewiss ?fter zur Neujustierung verhelfen wird.
December 24, 2024
'Wenn du schon hundert wirst, kannst du genauso gut auch gl¨¹cklich sein' von Rhee Kun Hoo ist ein Buch ¨¹ber das ?lter werden und die Herausforderungen, die dies mit sich bringt. Es ist aber auch gleichzeitig ein Ratgeber f¨¹r die junge Generation als auch eine philosophische Abhandlung ¨¹ber das Leben und seine Werte. Sicher aus einer sehr koreanischen Perspektive aber dennoch sind die meisten seiner Aussagen auch universell anwendbar.
Das Buch ist in. F¨¹nf Abschnitte unterteilt. Der erste k¨¹mmert sich um die Leiden des Alterns und beschreibt den Prozess, den er durchmacht. Zum einen von dem immer schw?cher werdenden K?rper aber auch von der Tatsache, dass sich die Kinder irgendwann um einen k¨¹mmern.
Der zweite Abschnitt ist f¨¹r mich der wertvollste und spiegelt auch meine eigenen Meinungen wieder, dass man nie etwas bedauern sollte und immer versuchen sollte seine Mitmenschen kennenzulernen und sie zu verstehen. In den darauffolgenden Kapiteln geht es darum, wie man ein gl¨¹cklicheres Leben f¨¹hrt.
Ich habe das buch sicher 20 Jahre zu fr¨¹h gelesen, aber ich bin mir sicher, dass ich es wieder hervorholen werde in den kommenden Jahren und immer und immer wieder lesen werde. Es ist ein toller Ratgeber und vor allem m?chte ich in der Rezension seine drei Orientierungshilfen f¨¹r die Liebe mitgeben: Haben Sie m?glichst viel Freude, zweitens: Seien sie kreativ und drittens: helfen sie einander, sich weiterzuentwickeln.
Das Buch ist in. F¨¹nf Abschnitte unterteilt. Der erste k¨¹mmert sich um die Leiden des Alterns und beschreibt den Prozess, den er durchmacht. Zum einen von dem immer schw?cher werdenden K?rper aber auch von der Tatsache, dass sich die Kinder irgendwann um einen k¨¹mmern.
Der zweite Abschnitt ist f¨¹r mich der wertvollste und spiegelt auch meine eigenen Meinungen wieder, dass man nie etwas bedauern sollte und immer versuchen sollte seine Mitmenschen kennenzulernen und sie zu verstehen. In den darauffolgenden Kapiteln geht es darum, wie man ein gl¨¹cklicheres Leben f¨¹hrt.
Ich habe das buch sicher 20 Jahre zu fr¨¹h gelesen, aber ich bin mir sicher, dass ich es wieder hervorholen werde in den kommenden Jahren und immer und immer wieder lesen werde. Es ist ein toller Ratgeber und vor allem m?chte ich in der Rezension seine drei Orientierungshilfen f¨¹r die Liebe mitgeben: Haben Sie m?glichst viel Freude, zweitens: Seien sie kreativ und drittens: helfen sie einander, sich weiterzuentwickeln.
September 30, 2024
The author, Dr. Rhee Kun Hoo, a psychiatrist from Korea is 87 years old. In this book, he shares the life lessons he has learnt as he¡¯s grown older & wiser.
Dr. Rhee teaches us to accept life as it is and to maintain a positive attitude even when things get tough. He compares life to a story that we should keep reading until the very end. Also, don¡¯t allow yourself to be disinterested and bored just because your days are ordinary. We should always actively seek fun and joy in life.
And¡ here are the takeaways I treasure ???:
1. Live a simple life. Relax. Don¡¯t rush.
2. Don¡¯t hold grudges. They will eat you from the inside and harm your health and emotions.
3. Listen more than you speak.
4. Know when to stop and excuse yourself.
¡°The true virtue in the elderly lies in their self-control.¡±
I aim for this - a graceful exit if Allah permits me to live a long life. (Early retirement ?)
Reading this makes me feel like I know the author. I can almost hear his soothing voice talking to me, as if he genuinely cares about me ? Fascinating, right? He¡¯s Korean, I¡¯m Malaysian and we¡¯ve never met.. but his words touched my heart.
Thank you for sharing your ups and downs with us, Dr. Rhee. I hope to be someone like you when I¡¯m old and grey.
Dr. Rhee teaches us to accept life as it is and to maintain a positive attitude even when things get tough. He compares life to a story that we should keep reading until the very end. Also, don¡¯t allow yourself to be disinterested and bored just because your days are ordinary. We should always actively seek fun and joy in life.
And¡ here are the takeaways I treasure ???:
1. Live a simple life. Relax. Don¡¯t rush.
2. Don¡¯t hold grudges. They will eat you from the inside and harm your health and emotions.
3. Listen more than you speak.
4. Know when to stop and excuse yourself.
¡°The true virtue in the elderly lies in their self-control.¡±
I aim for this - a graceful exit if Allah permits me to live a long life. (Early retirement ?)
Reading this makes me feel like I know the author. I can almost hear his soothing voice talking to me, as if he genuinely cares about me ? Fascinating, right? He¡¯s Korean, I¡¯m Malaysian and we¡¯ve never met.. but his words touched my heart.
Thank you for sharing your ups and downs with us, Dr. Rhee. I hope to be someone like you when I¡¯m old and grey.
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