A little more than a decade ago, I landed on this tropical island with my family and 2 gigantic suitcases. In the eyes of a 9 years old boy then, the weather was extremely hot and the road from the airport, very rural. No prizes for guessing, culture shock was imminent. I never knew about the multi-purpose void decks, that brown paper could be used to wrap take away foods, that coffee could be taken away with condensed milk cans , that primary school children sits on the floor for a lot of lessons, that Singlish existed. Not too long ago, I applied fervently to a university back in the hometown wishing not to return forever. If I were thrown the same question now, I would definitely think twice and would most probably not applied at all. I used to miss hometown food and the language spoken. Now with the very famous food chain and the many cafes sprouting out everywhere, the cravings are easily satisfied. As for the latter, cable TV solves everything. Well, human factor in the form of my family and the many good friends I have met through my school lives played the most important part. I guess, I feel more at home now.
Read from the news that new citizens will be inducted in a citizenship ceremony every 18th of August. I think this is a great move to welcome all newly minted citizens to this big family of 4 million people. I guess, little seedlings of a sense of belonging will be sowed unconsciously. If only I had such a ceremony then! Well, I do not mind a replacement ceremony anytime! haha
