I COUNT myself lucky to have survived two tough years of unemployment with mounting financial problems during the period after 9/11 right up to the Sars epidemic. My family had just returned from overseas as we were away for a year on study purposes. The situation was made worse when we decided to buy a private house burdened with a mortgage loan.

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Very touching. I face adversity squarely. You are your own navigator of your own life. Suicide is for the coward and it leaves a mess for your loved ones to clear.

I take my hat off to Gilbert! It takes a real man to share such personal moments of his own self-doubt with others. Doing so gains him nothing, but serves to encourage us all. Thank you!

this is a comment for the editor. very courageous and personal and all that, but what point does this letter raise on this forum? also, whatever happened to being sharp and concise?

I read Mr. Goh's story and I would say, my goodness, it is so inspirational! Even though I am not a jobless, but I found this article is so inspirational and beneficial for all readers. Since I am involved in education sector (as academician) I printed this article out and read it to the class in order to give motivation for my students. They are so moved with your story!

For Mr. Goh, congratulations

Thank you for the Straits Times of Singapore, too.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Me, I suffered 6 yrs no work no $! 2 yrs nothing

A very brave public baring of his private struggle.

When my brother lost his job in the last downturn, I remember how he would not, or could not meet our eyes when he talked to us. It was a sad loss of self confidence and self-esteem.

During this dark period, as the writer advised, don't lock yourself away.

With I got a big sister, got job or no job also never mind. Got jiao gor can already.

Men generally get self esteem from their jobs. The 'jiao gor' bit can only do so much. As the writer said, his mother played a big role during that period, but his turnaround was when he got a job.

Job should not be the medicine. Money is. I already thrown esteem to one side long time ago.