When the unfortunate news splashed across the media on Monday morning, I was truly struck by a sense of grief. I'm not one who actively engages in political affairs, and truth is, as much as I've heard so much about Mr Lee Kuan Yew's role in shaping modern Singapore, I'm was not very much acquainted with his contributions to this country.
I did not live in an era when independence was thrust upon us. I did not live in an age when I could witness first-hand the transformation that his strategic (or some would say autocratic) measures triggered. And I certainly do not know him on a personal level to speak of his merits or demerits. Yet, there are many things that I know with conviction.
I know that I live in a country where I can sleep soundly every night. I know that I can feel safe walking home in the wee hours of the day. I know that I will never be discriminated because of my race, gender and religion. I know that I belong to a clean and green city, where I have the freedom to pursue my dreams and goals, because my merits will be what propel me to success.
Some of us get frustrated by the occasional lack of social graciousness in our society. Others complain about the unreliable local transportation system. Many bemoan about the high cost of housing and cars. And while I do not trivialise these issues, the reason we can do all that is because everything else has been taken care of by our metropolitan city that is Singapore.
For that, I am grateful. Ironically, gratitude seems to be something we express only in less opportune times. Seeing how hundreds of thousands flock to the Parliament House to pay their last respects to Mr Lee Kuan Yew is somewhat bittersweet, because I can only imagine how lovely it would have been if he was around to witness the extent of respect and appreciation people have for him.
On a more positive note, in the midst of our nation's period of mourning, we should also celebrate the tremendous legacy that Mr Lee Kuan Yew has left us. He has left behind a people proud to call themselves Singaporeans, a prosperous metropolis that has stamped its presence on the world map, and a nation that will always have its flag fly high.
No comments:
Post a Comment