Yet behind its majesty lies simple – yet powerful – lessons for humans. Its ability to rise higher during a storm, for instance, or its steadfast loyalty as eagles mate for life.
The late KP Waran, an award-winning journalist, war correspondent and former executive editor of the New Straits Times (NST), held a deep admiration for eagles. And just like an eagle, he, too, left an impact on many through the lessons he imparted.
On Sept 30, his widow, Sheila Singam, released her debut book, “Lessons From An Eagle” – a collection of poignant stories, anecdotes and life lessons her late husband taught her. Through the book, she chronicles her journey through grief, healing and the rediscovery of purpose.
“After my husband passed away, I wrote a series of Facebook posts about the lessons that he had taught me. I think it was a catharsis of sorts,” Sheila told FMT Lifestyle.
“Then, I found out that it was helping a lot of people as well. They were really moved by what I had written. A couple of them suggested, ‘You should turn these into a book’,” she added. So, that’s exactly what she did.
These lessons are simple and powerful. For instance, the importance of making time for loved ones, setting goals for growth and practising gratitude – things that are often ignored when life gets busy. There are also prompts and spaces for readers to journal their reflections.
In the book, she also included contributions from friends, family and Waran’s former colleagues whose lives he had touched.
“Waran was larger than life. But it was only after his passing that I truly understood the depth of his impact on those around him.
“He truly lived his life with strength, courage and freedom – just like his favourite animal, the eagle – soaring above the ordinary and always guided by optimism and purpose,” said Sheila, a former journalist turned coach, trainer and innovation consultant.
Together, they founded Human Equation Sdn Bhd, a training consultancy in Kuala Lumpur, over 15 years ago.
Their story began in primary school, where they competed with each other for the English prize. Later in life, they reconnected and fell in love.
Describing Waran as a “very caring” person, Sheila said: “He had such a heart for people. He really loved people.”
Waran started his journalism career with NST in 1982, rising through the ranks from reporter to executive editor. During this time, he was honoured twice as “Malaysian Journalist of the Year”.
Known for his insightful writing, Waran covered a broad spectrum of topics, from human interest stories to commentaries on the local political scene, foreign affairs and the diplomatic landscape.
As a war correspondent, he covered assignments in Bosnia, Cambodia and Sri Lanka, among others – displaying courage, just like the eagles he so loved.
He passed away on Oct 14, 2018, at the age of 60, after a nine-month battle with cancer.
In honour of his memory, part of the proceeds from the sale of Sheila’s book will be donated to support cancer patients through Soroptimist International (SI) Damansara.
Asked about the most important lesson she has learnt from him, she said: “Eagles always soar above the storms. They allow the winds of the storm to propel them and help them glide. For me, everything I have gone through has a lesson to be learnt.
“Even in my grief, there were lessons I have learnt, which I have shared. I think one of the most powerful messages from Waran is that you don’t let the challenges of life bring you down – you allow the challenges of life to propel you further and higher.”
She added: “This book is my way of honouring him and encouraging others to live with courage, humour and heart.”
‘Lessons From An Eagle’ is priced at RM77 (excluding delivery charges).
To purchase, fill this form or message Human Equation on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. You can also leave a comment on any of these accounts. Delivery is available throughout Malaysia.
The book is also available at Lit Books, Tropicana Avenue, Petaling Jaya.