One was married for a year plus and soon divorced after declaring that the marriage is dead. There was no communication after about six months into the marriage. They hardly talk to each other and SMS became their only communication tool.

The wife worked late and was often tired after returning home. Weekend was also a time whereby they recharged by sleeping in and doing their own thing.

It took another six months for my friend to realise that he did not want to endure the turmoil for the long term and broke the sad news to his wife that it would be better that they led separate lives.

It was fortunate that they have no kids, otherwise it will be tough for them. He is now happily attached to another girlfriend who is a foreigner.

Another friend of mine who divorced recently was married for close to 15 years - he has two teenage children. He recently divorced the wife after befriending a foreigner who is working here. Their marriage was also on the rocks for many years and it was only the children who were holding him back from throwing in the towel.

The wife worked late and was flying high in the corporate ladder. Weekdays were strictly for work and sleep and they also hardly communicate. Weekend was more for the children and they also hardly had time for each other. Love and commitment had been missing for many years.

Though the news of two close friends divorcing hit me hard as I also know their families well, I was not the least bit surprised.

Though we are economically prosperous, our children have suffered and many live in dysfunctional families. Nothing can replace the loss of a father or mother at home.

The way we work has always shocked me as many climbing up the corporate ladder will go all out to prove themselves. The family is put on hold for many years and soon family members are used to the person being missing from home. When the member decides to 'return' to the family, often, they are not missed or, worse, another person has begun to take over their place.

We ought to live a more balanced life and consider that family time is also important.

As we go into another year of economic prosperity, let us make it a point to work hard and play hard.

Gilbert Goh Keow Wah