Family is everything. We often live out our self-created faiths, first, within the family.

All going well we will have a strong foundation for the rest of our lives: a combination of what we learned as children and ongoing support. It is good to honor our parents and grandparents, this is thinking positively, sometimes it is impossible if our destinies appear to clash.

My father taught me many good things which I ignored, unfortunately. Now he is gone I reflect on all his wise teachings that are still valuable to me as an elderly gentleman.

Families are where, at an early age, we should learn teamwork, helping others, budgeting money and respect for all living things. Unfortunately, in my home country most people can’t wait to be rid of their parents as soon as possible.

My children left home at 18 and I have hardly seen them since. So, like karma, they treated me much the same as I treated my parents, with a loving indifference.

I wish I could go back, with what I know, and undo all the stupid things I did that caused them grief. Mum and Dad, I am truly sorry.

In south East Asia families stick together like the best wedding vows, regardless of age. The photos in this book are testament of how important families are and how much you should cherish them, take care of them, and never put yourself before or above them.

Maybe the grief you feel, or not, when your parents die will expose your feelings and actions as a family member. .