Tuesday, September 13, 2005
Of sugar-coated chendols, new pink bags and irritating houseflies
"Welcome back to Singapore," she smiled and said to herself, the moment the coach left the Malaysian customs. It was a nice feeling to be out of that place and finally step foot on native land again. Some people slog their lives away, just to make enough money to take a holiday. She'd rather a routine life, with no excitement, no adventure. Three days flew by with a new collection of personal memories, frustrations and a bloated stomach...
She had fun, but at times missing her life back home.
She ate well, although she vividly remembers the food to be better in previous years.
She spent time with family, appreciating the precious moments together, and yet hating these exact moments whenever an argument sparked.
She tried to pray, and got an inch closer.
She tried to make sense of His doings, and was thrown into confusion once again.
She wanted to fit in, but always seemed to be left out.
She enjoyed the long lonely bus rides down the expressways. It was a time to relax and reflect, but this time, she was pestered by irritating houseflies.
She still craves for deliciously thick and sweet Chendol - A daily must-have in Malacca which brought a smile to her face.
She directed her energy to taking some good pictures for keepsake, only to be greeted by a flat battery on day two.
She enjoyed a night at the hotel lounge, with aunties and uncles twice her age.
She wanted to indulge and do some shopping, but ended up only buying a pink bag for herself.
She saw, felt and experienced - Embracing a different culture and appreciating her own even more.
Having said all this, she is glad. Contented that she is given this opportunity to revisit memories and make new ones. To get away from it all. To spend the time with the people she loves most. And most of all, to carry her cross while venerating His.
Posted by Jo at 2:07 PM
