Many things to be grateful for

...here are but a few.


I am grateful to my father, who- despite my flaws- continues to offer to pick up my dry cleaning bill every week, among a myriad other acts of support.

I am grateful to God, who- despite my failings- refrains from striking me down with a well-deserved lightning bolt.

I am grateful to my teachers from my school days, who- despite my incredibly stubborn nature, were patient and kind mentors.

I am grateful to my Sec 3 chinese teacher (who for my own safety shall remain nameless) who taught me that it was indeed possibly to insult and describe a persons woeful inadequacies (in this case, mine) in so detailled and colourful a way as to actually be inspiring.

I am grateful to my SJI classmates and school mates, for being like my family during those early years as a pimply pip squeak.

I am grateful to my tennis coach, who was like an elder brother to me when I needed one.

I am grateful to my first ever Platoon Commander, (then) 2LT Yeo Chin Heng, who- while he no doubt has no memory of me- gave me a lasting impression of how an officer should behave.

I am grateful to my first ever Platoon Sergeant, (then) 2SG Safiruddin, for teaching us that the first mark of a leader is respect for all men. <-- not 'men' in the SAF regimental sense.

I am grateful to my 3rd OC, (then) CPT Charles Ong, who taught me that more capable men are too often overlooked on account of their lack of so-called 'qualifications'.

I am grateful to Emerson for his words on "success". They have been a light for my footsteps along many a darkened path.

I am grateful to my days in 30SCE during national service- the people, experiences and challenges that I have met along our journey have made me a more motivated and positive person.

I am grateful for the fellowship of Lawrence, my 30SCE PC, under whose command I would gladly serve, any time.

I am grateful to Hugh Collins, Master of Ormond College, for modelling the epitome of decorum.

I am grateful to Mel, for times shared, her friendship and great patience beyond what I deserved. Pizza + Kenshin = winning combo.

I am grateful to BP, for the times he was strict when he deemed necessary and for the times when he stood back to let me walk, so that I might one day learn to run.

I am grateful to Peter Hauser, my Year 11 head-of-level, who taught me the value of efficiency, as well as being "Justice without Mercy" personified.

I am grateful to the LLTC A '05 gang, whose fellowship has been a boon. And to Papabear, for saying "just come along and join in" when he did all those months ago. It has made all the difference.

I am grateful to ALL I have met at BPSS(even the annoying ones), every one of you have taught me lessons about myself and given me food for thought on many things.

I am grateful for the many opportunities I have been given in life, I strive execute them to the best of my ability, as I was taught to by Mrs Pestana.

I am grateful for the occasions I find to give others opportunities. Perhaps eyes will be opened, hearts moved or perspectives refined.

Finally, I am grateful that through all my experiences, I have learnt that a positive attitude can turn any situation into a learning opportunity.


Sole note on the day:

I enjoyed today very much. Very much indeed.