My Country

When I was a small boy, National Day meant soldiers marching, tanks roaring past, lion dance and dragon dance.

When I was in my teens, I was told of beautiful countries in the west where one can stay in big houses, drive big cars and wide-open space of mountains and rivers. I was that everyone had more freedom and the govt was very nice to the citizens. The stories and pictures were so beautiful that I want to immigrate there for good when I become adult.

At the same time, I was told that National Service was a total waste of time. Our country was too small to defend against any attacks. I went into army with a heck-care attitude.

After National Service, I had a chance to fly around the world, to visit those western countries. I even had the chance to work and stay there for short time. My experience and my earlier perceptions did not match. I deleted that desire to immigrate there instantly. Those countries are good for me as a tourist. As a resident, I cannot settle in.

Perhaps its because of my extended family, perhaps its because of my children education, perhaps its because I missed my chilli crab. There are many factors. I still prefer Singapore as my home.

There was a year during my Reservists that I was shown photo of unrest in a nearby country (1997 asian crisis) where villagers attacked villagers. Huts were burnt, men were slaughters, women were raped. I could not erase those images off my brains till today. Its painful photo… opposite to those photo of merry-making people during Xmas parties. Terrible.

Those photo changed me permanently.

I took SAF training seriously.

I vote wisely.

I would do my part to help this Country improve.

This is my country and shall be my children’s homes.

If war comes, I will pick up my rifle and aim at the enemy’s head.

If necessary, I will trade my life, to protect my loved ones, and give them a chance, to live even better lives.

Singapore is my home. It will always be.

I thought there was another country out there, to be called home. I have explored, there is none.

Singapore is still the best … racial harmony, everything works, fair treatment and anyone can become rich without connections or corruptions.

My desire for this tiny island is to see it flourish, become an even better place on earth. I will do my part. And more than my part if needed.

I love this country. It’s the only place on earth I called home.

Please join me and shout “Majulah Singapura”.

Let’s work together and make home an even better home.

Majulah Singapura!

Love, Marko
Investor, Practitioner and Full-Time Coach