This much I know (ala The Observer)

 

Rara Avis, bohemian artist wannabe, 37, Singapore

Honesty is not always the best policy, but it is the simplest way to lead your life

You still don't have all the answers to the questions of life at 35 but you are less hung up on them as you were when you were 25

Life does seem easier when you are not constantly worrying about money

It takes time, effort,  love and a lot of emails and telephone calls to maintain long lasting friendships

Men look straight past you when you are heavily pregnant, so do those sitting on the designated seats in the Singapore MRT

The arrogance of youth and the rich can be an ugly thing to witness

Others see through the lies we tell ourselves to make us feel better, often they are just too polite to point it out 

You should be prepared to write off the money you lend your friends before you reach for your cheque book

It is easier to work out when your body least need the exercise; it is most difficult when your body needs it most

Tears  and sadness repel people; laughter and fun attract a crowd.  Only those who have survived depression have patience for others going through one

Having a baby does result in less sleep but the joy and happiness more than compensate the sleep deprivation

It is easier to stay within your comfort zone and stick to the routine instead of trying something different. However the fun and rewarding quotient of the latter more than make up the lack of ease

You don't contemplate  and make life affirming decisions when you are busy and everything is going well, you make them when there is thinking space or have your back against the wall

Empathy is underrated and under utlised in this world

There will always be an epilogue

Click here for the Observer's This Much I know series