Netizens recently labeled the social media post of wealth coach and book author Chinkee Tan as “insensitive” when he reflected on the cancellation of his trip to Israel.
In his now-deleted post on LinkedIn, Tan mentioned his planned trip to Israel to visit the Holy Land, which did not push through.
He expressed relief that it didn’t happen because the conflict in the region had escalated. As a result, the motivational speaker contemplated on how they felt the protection of God.
Tan began his post with the quote, “GOD[‘]S TIMING IS ALWAYS PERFECT.”
“Just before we left, attack happened there so we were spared. Imagine, if war broke out when we were there,” the motivational speaker wrote.
He continued, “This reminds us all to trust in God’s timing and goodness, even when things don’t make sense. We might question why things happen, but God is always looking out for us. Our plans might get delayed, but if we believe in God’s guidance, His plan for us will come together.”
His statements did not sit well with online users who called his post “insensitive” and “inappropriate” for those who have suffered and been affected by the ongoing conflict.
“So your so-called “god” loves you because “he/she” made perfect timing just for you? Kaya nangyari yung kaguluhan between Israel and Palestine kasi hindi sila love ng so called “god” mo? Taray naman! Main character ka siguro sa bible lol,” a netizen reacted.
“These are the types of people who think the world revolves around them. Nevermind the millions of people stuck in the crossfire, as long as he is safe and sound. Yup, God’s perfect timing indeed ?,” a Facebook user wrote.
“Nakaka-disappoint from a ‘motivational speaker’ ?, said another.
Following the backlash, Tan issued a public apology on his social media pages on Oct. 13, titled, “A Genuine Apology and Personal Reflection on My Earlier Post.”
“I deeply regret my previous post where I expressed insensitivity regarding the cancellation of our trip to Israel. I thank you for calling my attention and I apologize for what may have seemed as a thoughtless response,” he wrote in his apology.
“I am truly sorry for any hurt or offense I caused to those affected by my words. I take full responsibility for my mistake and acknowledge that it was wrong. I would like to pray for peace for everyone affected by conflicts, in Israel, in Palestine, and the rest of the world,” he added.
