Space

Wednesday, 1 April 2026

Grateful 1 Apr: April Fools' - Not

Today is April Fools’ Day. But no, I did not end up teasing anyone, much as I thought it might be fun to do so. Perhaps April Fools’ jokes do not come as naturally to a near 60-year-old anymore! Heh… anyway, the day turned out to be more tiring than I had expected not because of anything major, but simply from the usual, everyday things. And that, in itself, is something I am thankful for.

D. I met D for breakfast this morning, and we had a really nice chat. It had been a while since we last ate together, and it felt good to spend that time with him, just the two of us. I have known of him since the mid-90s, back when going to Fort Road was a trend. He was one of the more popular and attractive guys, and many of the gay men who hung out there had their eyes on him. But I never once spoke to him. One of my friends dated him for a while, and after they broke up, he went on to date another mutual friend. I kept my distance, preferring to stay low-profile. Fast forward 30 years, and I met him by chance last year. That was when we started chatting, and over time, we got to know each other better. Coming back to today - it was a simple breakfast, followed by accompanying him and another friend for a foot massage before we went our separate ways. Nothing extraordinary, but quietly warm and meaningful.

L. L contacted me a couple of days ago to say she had a doctor’s appointment today to assess a lump on her neck and determine if it might be cancerous. She is an ex-colleague and a cancer survivor. About a decade ago, she went through a major operation, and during that period - from pre-op to recovery - she leaned on me quite a bit for emotional support. She came through it, eventually got married, and I was honoured to be a witness at her solemnisation. We have stayed in touch since, with the occasional visit. So when she reached out again about the lump, I could not help but wonder if there had been a relapse. Even so, I have always admired her courage and her zest for life. When she messaged this evening to say that the initial assessment suggests it is not cancerous, I felt a deep sense of relief. She will still need further tests over the weekend, but for now, I am grateful for this piece of good news. I truly wish her all the best for the next phase.

Medication. Something clicked in my mind today - that there are over-the-counter medications available for haemorrhoids. After saying goodbye to D and T, I walked to the pharmacy to get some. I also told M about it, and he sent me a link to a cream, which I went ahead to purchase as well. The pain has improved today, though I still feel discomfort when shifting between standing and sitting. Hopefully, the medication will help things settle over the next few days. I am grateful for the accessibility of such treatments. I probably should have thought of this earlier, but as they say, better late than never. Now, I just hope it works.

So here we are - April Fools’ Day, yet there was nothing foolish about today. It was a day of simple routines, meaningful connections and reassurances. And oh, I got my laptop issue resolved! Yay! So yeah, today showed me how much warmth there is in the ordinary, and how fortunate I am to have people around me who bring that into my life.

Tuesday, 31 March 2026

Grateful 31 Mar: Shit happens

When shit happens, shit happens! Hahaha… but frankly, I am not too concerned about it at all, as there is no point getting upset over things beyond my control. There are always more constructive ways of looking at situations. Here are some of the things that did not go well for me today, yet I remain thankful for them.

Training. For the past two to three weeks, I have been chasing the training company regarding the confirmation of my training session this Sunday (Easter Sunday). Last Friday, they finally confirmed that it would proceed and that I will be delivering it. However, to date, I have not received any follow-up on the administrative details, materials, and so on. With Good Friday round the corner I got worried, so I wrote in again this afternoon. I then received a call and learnt that the company had screwed up. They had forgotten to register me with the authority to conduct the course (it is a government subsidised course and all trainers need to be registered to deliver the course). As a result, I cannot proceed with the training this Sunday. I have now been asked to swap my slot with another trainer. Am I upset? Tbh, no. The session has merely been postponed to a future date. This also means I have more time to prepare, and I can now focus on another course that will happen next week. That, in itself, is something to celebrate. Hurray!

Course. I had applied for a one-year Specialist Diploma course commencing in the last week of April, related to what I do best - career coaching. However, I received an email yesterday (or perhaps the day before) informing me that my application was unsuccessful as the course was oversubscribed. Am I upset about it? Not really. I admit it has been on my mind over the past two days, but today I reframed the situation. Upon reflection, I had some reservations about the location and the course schedule. The F2F sessions of the course is being conducted in a polytechnic located in Woodlands, a good 2 hours plus journey by public transport! And had I been successful, I would have quite a few F2F sessions to attend next month. So this outcome means my April schedule will now be a lot lighter, and I will have more breathing space. For that, I am grateful.

New Commitments. Next month, at least 5 to 6 days of activities have been cancelled or postponed (training, course, etc). Interestingly, just as news of these changes came in, I received a couple of messages from friends and social service contacts inviting me to lunch, appreciation events and other gatherings. The timing feels almost coincidental. Perhaps the postponement of the training and the unsuccessful course application are indeed blessings in disguise.

And of course, apart from the above, my laptop also gave up on me today, and I got a blue screen bitlock prompt when I tried to turn it on. But well, I supposed it is an opportunity to learn about how to unlock it, and for this, I should be grateful. So once again, the experiences over the past couple of days - culminating in today’s training postponement - reinforce the saying that “when one door closes, another opens”. There is no point getting upset over things I cannot control, and I am grateful for this reminder, once again.

Smells a rat…

A friend contacted me and told me the following story:

“Hi… I no longer have my house and I’ve been scammed and have lost more than a million dollars. Two days ago, the police called me and arranged for me to meet up with the PM. The PM leh! And they said they will try to get my money back to me from overseas. But they are asking me to put a deposit of $100k. I need help. Can you lend me $30k? I will return you the full sum by end-April”

I said no politely and we ended the conversation. He then texted me:

“Will you be able to lend me $5k instead? I’ll return the full amount in 2 months, complete with interest.”

I rejected him again. He is a friend and to get this call, I feel sad for him. My heart feels bad not helping him but my head tells me that it is obviously a scam.

Monday, 30 March 2026

Grateful 30 Mar: Listening Within (2)

Today was a continuation of yesterday’s lesson - learning to listen more closely to my body and respond with care rather than habit. While the discomfort from my piles relapse persisted, it also created space for me to slow down, be more intentional, and reflect on how I manage both rest and recovery. The pain has eased compared to yesterday, and I believe the proper rest I had last night made a significant difference.

Good rest. As a rule, I try not to take medication unless absolutely necessary, but I chose to take a muscle relaxant and some painkillers before bed. I am glad I did. I slept soundly through the night and woke at about 7am feeling sufficiently rested. It has been a while since I managed to sleep through without waking, and I was reminded that sometimes, allowing myself support - even in the form of medication - can aid recovery rather than detract from it.

Slow & deliberate. I moved through the day in a slower and more deliberate manner. To avoid aggravating the condition, I reduced my walking distance from my usual 13–15k steps to about 8k. I also took a more proactive approach by reading up on the condition and applying a steroid cream to manage the inflammation. This felt like a small but meaningful act of self-care - learning to respond to my body with informed and intentional action. In doing so, I realised that slowing down does not equate to being unproductive; in fact, the day still felt purposeful and passed more quickly than I expected.

Little blessings. I also found myself appreciating the small comforts around me - the breeze flowing through my home despite the warm weather, simple snacks like teriyaki abalone, cashew nuts, and belinjau crackers. These moments reminded me that even on quieter, slower days, there is a quiet abundance to be noticed and appreciated.

In many ways, today reaffirmed that taking care of myself is not a pause from progress, but part of it. Slowing down, listening within, and responding with care may seem like small actions, but they are building a more sustainable way of moving forward.

Sunday, 29 March 2026

Grateful 29 Mar: Listening Within (1)

Today was an unplanned lesson in listening to my body and practising self-compassion. I had a very bad relapse of my piles last evening, possibly triggered by long hours of standing and constant movement. The discomfort disrupted my sleep throughout the night, and by morning, I did not feel well enough to get out of bed. While the day did not unfold as I had intended, it gently reminded me of the importance of slowing down and paying attention.

Listening to the body. Last night was extremely difficult. Despite feeling physically exhausted, my mind remained active, and sleep was elusive. The pain made it worse, waking me frequently. It was only just before daybreak that my body gave way, and I fell into a brief but deep sleep. When I woke up, the discomfort lingered, and I could not immediately get out of bed. Even after I eventually got up, it was clear that my body was not quite ready for the day ahead. I had planned to attend my Buddhist class, but as the morning unfolded, I found myself reconsidering. Instead of pushing through or rigidly holding on to my plans, I chose to let the class go. It was a conscious act of self-compassion - acknowledging that rest was what I needed more. I am grateful for this reminder that listening to my body sometimes means choosing less, not more.

Going with the flow. With the training assignment now confirmed, I felt a natural pull to continue my preparation. After getting up and completing my morning routines, I began doing some work and gradually became engrossed in it. Time passed quickly, and what started as a small effort turned into a more focused stretch of preparation. After a quick lunch, I returned home and continued working, while also allowing space to rest in between. There is a certain flow that comes when I do not resist my state but work with it. Rather than forcing productivity, I found myself moving in and out of effort more naturally. I am grateful that even on a low-energy day, I was able to adjust and still make meaningful progress.

Receiving from others. It was interesting that as I slowed down, several unexpected connections happened. An old cabin crew colleague reached out, and it was comforting to reconnect after so many years. After dinner, another ex-colleague joined me for a simple grocery run and walk. Later in the evening, a friend’s husband messaged to check in - a small but thoughtful gesture I had not anticipated. None of these were planned, yet each interaction was warm and heartfelt. Perhaps when I allow myself to be in a more vulnerable, slower state, I also become more open to receiving care. I am grateful for these reminders that I am not alone.

The day began with pain, discomfort, and disruption, but it unfolded into something more reflective and grounding. I listened, adjusted, and allowed myself to slow down. In doing so, I not only took better care of myself but also found that support and connection came in gentle, unexpected ways. In all, I learned that when I listen to my body, I also create space to receive what I need - care and support from others, and above all, self-compassion. And for that, I am grateful.

Saturday, 28 March 2026

Grateful 28 Mar: Social work

Today has been an exhausting day of social work, yet I feel deeply grateful to have been part of it. There is something incredibly heartening about witnessing young people show such enthusiasm and commitment. So for today, these are the 3 moments I am most grateful for.

Breakfast. I woke up at 6am so I can meet K for breakfast before the event. It had been some time since we last caught up over a meal. I arrived earlier and noticed an exceptionally long queue at the coffee stall. Wanting to save time, I joined the queue, only to realise - just as I was about to order - that the stall accepted cash only. I had none on me. Oh my... in this day and age, it's amazing how there are still stalls that do not accept digital payment, I thought. Not wanting to queue all over again, I told the stall owner I would return with cash. Thankfully, K arrived shortly after with cash and I was able to make the payment. Otherwise, it would have been rather embarrassing to cancel the order at the last minute.

Volunteering. I spent the day volunteering at a project in Toa Payoh, where we cleaned and painted the homes of elderly residents. The effort also involved junior college students, and in total, five apartments were assigned for the day. 3 students, K, and I were allocated to an elderly lady’s home - though, truth be told, I thought she looked younger than me. She needed help to clean her fridge, do general cleaning of the flat, paint the walls, main door, gate and grills. It was really tough work. But what stood out most was the enthusiasm of the students. It was truly uplifting to see their energy and enthusiasm. More than that, it was deeply heartwarming to witness the smiles on the ladys’ face after her home had been cleaned and refreshed.

Food delivery. By the time I got home, I was completely drained. In fact, I could hardly stand while I was in the MRT! After a cold shower, I literally collapsed into bed, having been awake since 6am and running on little rest. The day had been physically demanding - washing, scrubbing, clearing rubbish - and I barely had the energy to move. Although I am not usually a fan of food delivery due to the higher costs and additional "platform" fees, I found myself genuinely thankful for it in that moment. I placed an order for dinner and drifted into a deep nap. It did not matter that the food took almost an hour and a half to arrive; what mattered was the convenience when I needed it most.

It was a long and incredibly exhausting day, but also a deeply meaningful one. Ultimately, it is not just the satisfaction of helping others and seeing their smiles, but also the inspiration I drew from the teenagers. Their enthusiasm, sense of responsibility, and cheerfulness throughout the day left a strong impression on me. I am truly grateful that I chose to be part of this experience.

Friday, 27 March 2026

Grateful 27 Mar: Reframing

I started off today with a sense of unhappiness that I could not quite explain at first. It wasn’t triggered by any one major event, but rather a series of small situations that began to accumulate. As I reflected, I realised how quickly I was slipping into a familiar pattern - attributing how I felt to external circumstances and people. This awareness reminded me that if I did not consciously reframe, I would simply spiral into unhelpful thinking. And so today became an opportunity to practise what I have been focusing on this year - self-compassion, and to embrace my own vulnerabilities. Let me share more:

Class confirmation. I have been scheduled to deliver a class next weekend. It is a new module that I had not taught before and there is much to prepare - content, activity, admin, and so on. Yet, to date, there has been no confirmation - something highly unusual. With no response from the coordinator despite a few follow-ups, I could feel my frustration building. But when I stepped back, I asked myself a simple question: regardless of whether this class proceeds next weekend, will I still need to deliver this module it at some point in future? The answer was yes. That realisation shifted something in me. Instead of waiting in uncertainty, I chose to begin my preparation. In doing so, I felt a sense of control return. I even found myself mentally rehearsing parts of the session. The tension I initially felt towards the organisation lifted, replaced by a quiet sense of progress. I am thankful for this reframing.

Meet ups. The second situation involved a friend who was silent and non-committal about meeting up this week, breaking our usual routine. Almost immediately, my mind began to fill the gap with assumptions - am I no longer a priority, did I do/ say something wrong?... I noticed how easily my earlier frustration fed into these thoughts, creating a chain of negativity. But again, I paused and reframed. If he is not available, wouldn't this be an opportunity for me to spend time with myself? To explore something new, or simply to enjoy my own company? Why should my emotional state depend on someone else’s availability? I have been here before, in past friendships and relationships, and I know where such thinking can lead. With this awareness, I let the thoughts pass. The lightness that followed reminded me that self-reliance, in an emotional sense, is something I am still learning - and today, I took a small step forward. I am thankful for this realisation.

Daily Routine. My daily mid-day routine has been lunch, kopi-o kosong at Simei and walk around the industrial estate. But it had started to feel stale, especially after a few more varied days recently. So instead of going through the motions, I decided to change things slightly. I took a bus to Bedok for my lunch and walked back via a different route. Along the way, I passed through the Tanah Merah estate, visited the San Qing Gong temple (see photo above), and observed people carrying out their Qingming prayers. Yet, I still kept to what mattered to me - my walk and my kopi-o kosong at Simei. This small shift reminded me that reframing does not always require drastic change. Sometimes, it is about adjusting how we approach the familiar, allowing space for new experiences without losing what grounds us. I am thankful for this simple yet refreshing change.

As I reflect on the day, I am reminded that life will always present situations that are uncertain, inconvenient, or disappointing. The instinct to blame or to externalise is a natural one, but it is not always a helpful one. What matters more is the ability to pause, to reframe, and to ask: what is within my control, and what can I do with what is in front of me? This is something I do when I coach others! And in doing so, I find that not only do I become more productive, but I also feel more at peace. Perhaps this is what self-compassion looks like in practice - not avoiding discomfort, but choosing how I respond to it. I am thankful for this awareness and the reminder to reframe.

Thursday, 26 March 2026

Grateful 26 Mar: Senses (2)

I wrote about 3 of the 5 senses yesterday, and today I found myself naturally completing the rest - alongside a deeper awareness of mindfulness. Not because I felt the need to finish the list, but more because the day itself presented the opportunity to do so.

Mindfulness. These 2 days, I surprised myself by being able to meditate for more than 30 minutes. To be honest, time isn’t something I aim for when I meditate - in fact, there have been days where I struggled to stay focused for even 10 minutes. But the past two days felt different. Perhaps I was more rested, or perhaps my mind was simply less preoccupied. At some point, I settled into a deeper state where everything felt very still - almost like falling into an empty space. “Nothing” is probably the closest word I have for it. It didn’t feel forced, and I didn’t have to try too hard to stay there. I came out of it feeling light, almost floaty, and very calm. A quiet reminder that sometimes, the mind settles when I simply allow it to. I am grateful for that.

Hear. I started meditating around June or July last year, and it has since become a practice I do every morning before breakfast. Part of it involves tuning into the sounds around me. When I close my eyes and let go of sight, everything I hear becomes more pronounced. And this is where the richness of what would otherwise be background noise comes to the fore - birds chirping, cars in the distance, babies crying, people talking on the phone, someone sweeping the walkway downstairs. All of it happening at once, in that same moment. Nothing special, just daily life unfolding. Yet when I pay attention, these ordinary sounds take on a different quality. They anchor me to the present and remind me that life is always happening, even when I am not consciously noticing it. I am grateful for these moments of awareness.

Feel/ Touch. Today brought a gentle awareness of my body through simple experiences such as the feel of the breeze on my body when I meditate, the heat of the sun, or even the prick of a needle. While at MacRitchie for my afternoon walk, I took the opportunity to lie on the ground and simply sun myself. The heat was at times scorching but still tolerable, softened by the occasional clouds passing by. Having grown up by the beach, this feeling is familiar, enjoyable even. I went for my blood test after my walk. The sensation of the needle piercing the skin was brief, almost insignificant. It was a sensation that I anticipated. The whole experience reinforced the notion that it was not about the pain or discomfort. Rather, it was about being connected to the present through the body. Even these small moments are reminders that I am alive, aware, and responsive. I am grateful for that.

Bringing these reflections together, I am reminded that my senses are not just functional - they are ways of being present, and also quiet gateways to memory. The warmth of the sun, the layering of everyday sounds, even the stillness of the mind - each holds traces of past experiences, resurfacing in the present moment. There is nothing particularly extraordinary about any of this, and perhaps that is the point. When I pay attention, the ordinary not only feels quietly rich, but also deeply familiar. And for that, I am grateful.

Between Worlds

I was on holiday with my mum.

We were in a coach and had arrived at a shopping centre for a short break. The coach parked at the coach parking bay. It was drizzling lightly, and I quickly wheeled her - she was in a wheelchair - into the building. As the glass doors slid open, what greeted us was a brightly lit tennis court with people playing. Mum, in her usual critical way, remarked that the place was “lousy” - how could a shopping centre have a tennis court instead of shops right at the entrance? I laughed and told her to suspend judgement, since we had just arrived, and that the main shopping area was probably upstairs. We just needed to take the travelator up.

Then things shifted.

I suddenly realised I was completely naked. It didn’t feel right to be walking around like that, especially in public and in an unfamiliar place. There were many people around, and feeling self-conscious, I started looking for a toilet. Luckily, there was one nearby, and I went into a cubicle to change. It was an interesting toilet. Light blue in colour, brightly lit and very high ceiling. There was no urinal nor shower head, just an empty space. At that moment, I realised I hadn’t brought any clothes, but somehow I had a pair of black boxer shorts and a singlet in my carry-on pouch. Whew, I thought. And just as I was about to put them on, someone pushed the cubicle door open. It was a little boy…

Then things became a blur.

I found myself wondering where my mum was. It seemed like I had been away for quite some time. Was she still waiting for me outside the toilet? Had she gone back to the coach? And then… my thoughts and the scene shifted. Was she in her room? In the living room? Was she back in Marine Parade, our old home? I felt a sense of panic. It took a couple of seconds before it registered - Mum has been gone for more than a decade. What I am left with is not so much the dream itself, but how real that moment felt. For those few seconds, she was simply there again, and I was just going about things with her as I always had.

I was fully awake by then.

The dream itself got me curious. Is my subconscious trying to tell me something? Why was I naked? Why was I with my mum? Why did a little boy suddenly appear? I don’t quite have the answers. But what I do notice is that I tend to dream of my mum during moments when I might need some form of support. Perhaps it is less about the details of the dream, and more about what her presence represents. Or perhaps it is simply a reminder of the bond between us. Not something I actively think about after her passing so long ago, but something that continues to surface.

Again and again.

Wednesday, 25 March 2026

Grateful 25 Mar: Senses (1)

Today, I found myself becoming more aware of something I often take for granted - my senses. In the midst of an otherwise ordinary day, small moments drew my attention to how I experience the world through smell, taste, and sight. These are not grand realisations, but quiet ones that gently remind me there is depth even in the most basic human faculties.

Taste. I had a bowl of fish soup for lunch today and found it too salty for my liking. In fact, this heightened saltiness seemed to have become increasingly pronounced over the past week or two. And I wondered if my palate has changed. You see, since CNY, I have been trying to manage my weight after regaining what I had previously lost, and one key adjustment has been reducing my sodium intake. It seems that this conscious effort has recalibrated my taste buds, making me more sensitive to salt. Positively, this shift has also allowed me to experience flavours more distinctly — fish tastes more “fishy”, and eggs more “eggy”. It feels like rediscovering food with a renewed palate, and I am curious about what other experiences this “new tongue” might bring.

Smell. As I walked along a canal near the MRT depot, with hardly anyone within sight, I was suddenly met with a strong, flowery fragrance. While flowery smells are often associated with the supernatural, this experience felt different. It was the middle of the day - hot, bright, and sunny - hardly the setting for such encounters. More importantly, the scent itself is different from what I had previously experienced. I also did not get that sudden chilly feel. With that awareness, I found myself becoming curious rather than fearful. I do not have an explanation for what I experienced, but I am grateful that my sense of smell, together with past experience, helped me navigate my emotions - shifting me from fear to curiosity.

Sight. It was low tide during my walk and with it came sights that I do not usually get to see. The lowered water level revealed an abundance of oysters and barnacles clinging to the canal walls, forming textures and patterns that would otherwise remain hidden. I also saw white egrets perched quietly along the canal edge, watching the shallow waters with intent, clearly on the lookout for an opportunistic catch. It struck me that these sights had always been there, just not always visible - or perhaps not always noticed. And in that moment, I found myself appreciating not just the ability to see, but the opportunity to observe more closely. It was a gentle reminder that what we see often depends on when - and how - we choose to look.

As I look back on these experiences, I realise that my senses are not merely functional - they shape how I interpret and respond to the world around me. They guide my emotions, influence my habits, and evolve alongside me with age and experience. Perhaps that is the quiet gift in all of this - not just that I can see, taste, or smell, but that through them, I continue to learn, adapt, and stay curious. And for that, I am deeply grateful.

Tuesday, 24 March 2026

Grateful 24 Mar: Living Memory

Today, I found myself reflecting on how nostalgia has quietly become a meaningful part of my daily life. What began as a simple habit has, over time, evolved into something that supports reflection, connection, and a deeper appreciation of my life experiences. In the course of today - through watching YouTube, chatting with M, and conversations with B - I was reminded of how the past continues to shape and serve my present. For this, I am grateful.

Nostalgia. This evening, as with many others in recent months, I had YouTube playing in the background as I blogged and worked - songs and shows largely from the 60s through to the early 2000s. What started as a way to drown out the noise from the playground downstairs has become a quiet ritual. At times, it provides a gentle backdrop for reflection; at other moments, I find myself singing along to the hits of years past. More than entertainment, it creates space - to pause, to think, and to reconnect with parts of my life that still bring warmth and comfort. For this simple yet meaningful companion in my daily routine, I am grateful.

Caregiving. In my conversation with B, the topic of caring for elderly parents surfaced. As a foreigner residing in Singapore over the past decade, he has not been able to spend as much time with his elderly parents as he would like, much less look after them. On my part, I shared about my own experiences - particularly the years when I was the primary caregiver for my mum during the final six years of her life with dementia. Those were difficult years, but deeply significant. They became a time in which my mum imparted her final lessons to me - resilience and compassion. Being able to draw from these experiences to support friends and cousins who are navigating similar journeys gives them continued purpose. It is also my way of allowing the past to contribute to others. For these opportunities to share and to be of help, I am grateful.

Life’s experiences. I chatted with M last night and earlier today, we reflected on how little we truly know of each other’s lives, and acknowledged that there is time ahead to understand one another more deeply. Perhaps he sensed a certain level of reticence on my part and said that there is no need for me to disclose anything I am not comfortable with - that what matters is who I am today. On the contrary, I find this difficult. I have a preference to be open about my past, for it is my past that has shaped who I am today. I may have mellowed over time, but certain desires and less helpful tendencies remain, and understanding their context matters to me. What stood out in this exchange was the absence of judgement - just a quiet acceptance of each other’s journeys. For the ability to reflect, to share, and to be accepted without judgement, I am thankful.

In bringing these moments together, I am conscious that while I may indulge in nostalgia, I am not held back by it. Instead, it has become a resource that offers perspective, supports connection, and allows me to move forward with greater awareness. The past, in its own way, continues to serve the present. And in learning how to carry it well, I find myself ageing with a certain sense of grace. For this, I am thankful.

Monday, 23 March 2026

Grateful 23 Mar: Simple Joys

It was a simple day, and I initially wanted to write about being grateful for life’s most basic things - the air I breathe, the water I drink, and so on. But as I reflected more deeply, I realised there were a few moments that stood out, not because they were significant, but because of what they revealed:

Walk-Jog-Bus Ride. I met a social worker for lunch at Bedok Interchange hawker centre today. As usual, I left early to have my kopi-o kosong at Simei, thinking I could simply take the MRT to Bedok afterwards. But after my coffee, I realised I had more time than expected and decided to take the bus instead. The app showed that the next bus would arrive in 9 minutes, so I thought I might as well walk to the next stop. And then the next. And then the next. Since I have another hour to go, why not right? And before I knew it, I had covered more than half the distance. At a certain point, I figured it wouldn’t be ideal to arrive drenched in perspiration, and eventually took the bus instead. Funnily enough, I still ended up early as the social worker was late. Doh! But well, despite not planning for it, I ended up clocking my steps! Perhaps it is a reminder that things do not always have to go according to plan to turn out just fine.

Swim. After meeting the social worker, I returned home and felt it was too early to get back into my work routine. It was really breezy and I decided to sit by the pool to enjoy the breeze. The weather was warm, and before long, I couldn’t resist the temptation and ended up taking a dip. It had been almost a year since I last did so. I only did 2 laps, and decided to just enjoy the refreshing cool water. It was such a huge contrast to the heat of the sun and the morning’s walk-jog and I was grateful for the presence of this pool. Once again, I was reminded how I have stopped making use of such facilities after living in a condo for a while. Perhaps I should do this more often.

eSIM. 2 days ago, my phone unexpectedly displayed “No SIM”. It was strange and came out of nowhere. I was outside at the time and almost ended up stranded, as I rely on my phone for transport payments and don’t have the habit of carrying my wallet. Thankfully, a food court attendant lent me a pin so I could remove and reinsert the SIM card. M suggested switching to an eSIM, but I hesitated, thinking it might be troublesome. When the issue recurred yesterday and again today, I decided - while sitting by the pool - to just go ahead with it. Within minutes, it was done. Simple. It made me wonder how often I hold back from making small changes because I assume they will be inconvenient, when in reality, they are not.

So yes, it was still a simple day, yet one that reminded me that not everything needs to be planned so tightly. At times, especially when time is not a constraint, it may be better to let things be. A little spontaneity can inject some quiet excitement, and even if things go slightly awry, one can always respond to the moment, and things will work themselves out.

Sunday, 22 March 2026

Grateful 22 Mar: Duty, Honour, Country

I read with horror a comment by a leader of a country on the passing of a senior statesman. It set me thinking about the leaders of my own country and, more broadly, the system we have built. I found myself feeling a deep sense of gratitude. I have seen first-hand how our political leaders have consistently been pressured by foreign powers and the international press, particularly from Western countries. Yet, they have held their ground and chosen to build what is relevant to our context. The result is a model of governance that is distinctly our own - one that, at its core, seeks to serve Singaporeans.

Political leadership. I find myself reflecting on the sense of responsibility that comes with the role. It brings to mind what was instilled in me as an officer cadet in the 1980s - Duty, Honour, Country - a call to serve, and to do so with the nation at heart. It was relevant to me then as an officer cadet and, later, an officer, and I would suggest relevant to all leaders in the country. Leadership is not simply about holding office; it is about clarity of purpose - knowing what one stands for and whose interests one is entrusted to protect. When I look at developments in other parts of the world and especially in countries with much longer histories, I am reminded of how quickly systems can be weakened when leaders place self-interest above the collective good. In such moments, I come to appreciate the deliberate way leadership is developed in Singapore - the thought given to identifying, grooming, and renewing leaders over time. This continuity is not accidental; it reflects a long-term view that I have come to value more deeply with time.

Institutions. Beyond the individuals, I have come to also better appreciate the role of institutions. When they are strong, institutions provide stability that goes beyond any single leader. They embody values, set boundaries, and ensure that governance remains consistent even as individuals change. Observing how institutions elsewhere can be challenged or eroded has made me more aware of how important it is to protect and uphold them. Here, I see institutions that are not only established, but continually reinforced - and that is something I do not take lightly, and for which I am grateful.

Decorum of office. At the intersection of the individual and the institution lies the decorum of office. I am often struck by the tone and behaviour of some political leaders that I encounter online. It reinforces a belief I hold - that once a person is elected into office, they carry the responsibility of representing not just a segment of society (that voted for them), but the nation as a whole. In that sense, the office demands a certain standard of conduct, one that reflects respect for both the role and the people it serves. It requires office holders to place the office above themselves. In Singapore, there remains a general expectation of this standard, and I have come to see how important it is in maintaining trust. It is also, I believe, one of the reasons why political leaders here have been held accountable and removed when necessary, regardless of political affiliation. For this too, I am grateful.

As I reflect on these observations, I am reminded that what we have today did not come about by chance. It is the result of intentional effort, careful stewardship, and a shared commitment to something larger than any one individual. And that is why, when I look at what's happening in many countries abroad, I find myself returning to a simple but genuine sense of gratitude.

Decorum of an office

When one occupies an office, he carries the role and represent what the office stands for. It’s sad to see the extent some had spiralled down to, self-interest, name calling, lies, fraud, etc… and it just gets worse and worse with time. It’s utterly embarrassing.

I feel so sorry for the country.

Saturday, 21 March 2026

Grateful 21 Mar: Celebrations

It’s Hari Raya Aidilfitri today - such a joyous occasion, and a public holiday too. I decided to sleep in before making my way to MacRitchie Reservoir for a walk and a bit of sun, ahead of meeting my buddy for dinner. On the whole, it was a lovely day, made so by the following:

Hari Raya Aidilfitri. It was such a delight to see the Malay community out in full force, all beautifully dressed as they celebrate the occasion. These days, the variety of attire is especially striking - from the traditional baju kurung, to the more form-fitting sarong kebaya, to those dressed more conservatively with tudung and, for some, black tunics. What stood out most to me was how families coordinated their outfits. There is something deeply heartwarming about that. I feel grateful to be able to celebrate this festival with them.

The bus driver. Living in a multicultural society means that during festive periods, people from different communities often step in to keep essential services running. During Chinese New Year, for instance, many frontline roles are taken on by non-Chinese staff. And of course, there are always some who choose to work on their own festive holidays. Today, I boarded a bus driven by a Malay driver. My first thought was, “Aiyoh, he should be celebrating with his family instead of working.” Then again, he must have had his reasons. As I alighted, I wanted to show my appreciation and in my way to celebrate the occasion with him, wished him “Selamat Hari Raya”, placing my hand on my heart. He responded with a broad smile, almost a grin, and returned the greeting in the same manner. I felt grateful to him for being at work today.

Dinner with M. It has been a while since I last had a proper dinner out with M. With both our schedules, it has not been easy to find time to meet. So I was especially glad that we managed to do so today. And it was so nice to be able to take a drive around Seletar after dinner! Been a while! The evening was simple, yet meaningful as we celebrate our friendship! Happy and grateful.

Hari Raya Aidilfitri marks the end of fasting for the Muslim community, but in many ways, the celebration extends beyond - shared and experienced by people of different backgrounds. I am grateful to live in a multicultural environment where we can partake in one another’s celebrations. And for many non-Muslims, it is also a time to reconnect with friends and loved ones. All in all, it was indeed a lovely day.

Friday, 20 March 2026

Grateful 20 Mar: Discoveries

It is the eve of Hari Raya Aidilfitri (Festival of Eid), and it also happens to be the school holiday week. Many places feel less crowded than usual. I am grateful for this, as everything seems less rushed and, by extension, less stressful. In such moments, one can simply take a step back and watch the world go by - slowly and deliberately, noticing things that might otherwise slip past the conscious mind. And that was what I found myself doing today.

Tampines West. I wandered around Tampines West this afternoon. The last time I was here was about 2 to 3 weeks ago with my sister and brother-in-law for the Chap Goh Meh (last day of CNY) dinner. Tbh, Tampines West is not a place I would usually visit these days, as it is not well connected by public transport and tends to be crowded. Part of the reason I returned today was rather light-hearted. You see, during that CNY dinner, I had noticed a rather cute, hunky guy working at one of the coffee shops, and I thought I might chance upon him again. Alas, he was nowhere to be seen. But in return, I discovered something else: a variety of eateries and zichar stalls that I had not paid attention to before. I also enjoyed a plate of chicken rice with duck gizzard - my first time trying it, and, surprisingly, thought it was nice.

Simei. After lunch, I decided to head to my usual coffee shop in Simei for my kopi-o kosong. It was then that I realised there is no direct MRT nor bus route between Tampines West and Simei MRT, where the coffee shop is located. Feeling a little adventurous, I boarded whichever bus that came along to see where it would take me. In doing so, I discovered that Services 69 and 5 connect these two areas. I even alighted one stop earlier to save 20 cents on the fare. A small, almost trivial detail - but somehow part of the charm of the afternoon. A quiet little lesson in navigation, and perhaps in perspective, to which will come in handy in future. And I am grateful for it.

Giant. During my frequent walks along the park connectors around my area, I often notice discarded beer cans on the ground. I have occasionally seen groups of foreign workers spending their time there - having their dinner and chatting - and I assume these cans may have been left behind in the process. It is something that continue to irk me, so much so that I have taken to picking them up and disposing of them properly when I can. Through this simple act, I became more aware of the different beer brands. Today, while at Giant supermarket, I noticed those very same cans on the shelves. At about $4 per can, they are not cheap. It made me pause and reflect - on choices, on habits, and on the unseen stories behind everyday scenes. I choose not to speculate, but simply to observe and acknowledge.

Today’s small discoveries - coffee shops, zichar stalls, duck gizzards, bus routes, and even beer prices - may seem ordinary or trivial on the surface. Yet, taken together, they offered me new insights into places, people, and everyday living. Also, they reminded me that when I slow down, pay attention, and stay open, even the most unremarkable moments can become quietly meaningful. And for that, I am grateful.

Thursday, 19 March 2026

Grateful 19 Mar: Quiet Routine

Today was, in every sense, a very routine day. There was no urgency, no pressure, no expectations - a clear contrast to the previous few days of training, meet-ups, meals, and constant movement. Moving from one thing to another, watching the time, trying to get somewhere, meet someone, deliver something - all these come with their own inherent stress of deadlines. Today, none of that was present. And for that, I am grateful. Let me share more:

Predictability. The day unfolded with no plans, and things moved along routinely - wake up, meditate, breakfast, housework, lunch, a walk, and so on. In other words, very predictable. Someone once told me that when things get too predictable, the mind switches off and one becomes lazy. I can see that. But I also think predictability gives the mind the opportunity to rest. And rest creates capacity - for the mind to be more open and more ready when it needs to engage. Today didn’t demand much from me mentally, and I needed that.

Freedom. I had full freedom of control over my day. The decisions were simple - what to eat, what to cook, where to go, what to do next. Nothing big, nothing heavy. I was accountable only to myself, and somehow that made everything feel lighter. No expectations to manage, no one else to coordinate with. Just me deciding, moment to moment. I ended up going to Tampines, had my kopi-o kosong at Simei, walked through Giant and FairPrice, and bought nothing. And that was perfectly fine. There was no agenda, and no stress.

Ease. And from that predictability and control came a sense of ease. Life felt simple today. Familiar. Unhurried. There was nothing to chase, nothing to prove, nothing waiting at the end of the day that I needed to deliver. It was just… a day. Boring even. But it was a restful one. It gave me space to slow down and just be. And perhaps that is its role - to balance out the days where everything feels like it is moving a bit too fast.

Uneventful days are often seen as boring or even wasteful. Since transitioning from corporate life to that of a freelancer, I have had to remind myself, time and again, that I need to get used to having more time on my hands. And truth be told, it does take some getting used to. Waking up late may be seen as laziness, but I am learning to reframe it - as focusing on my well-being, and recognising that I deserve it. Today is one such day. And for this quiet sense of ease, I am grateful.

Wednesday, 18 March 2026

Grateful 18 Mar: Reconnections

Today was special - I had the chance to reconnect with a few people who, in different ways, matter to me.

D and T. I met D and T this morning. It wasn’t planned. I had gone for a urine test and had to wait as I didn’t have sufficient urine for collection. While waiting, I chanced upon them. It was such a coincidence! We ended up having a quick breakfast at Geylang Serai. Being just three days before Hari Raya Aidil Fitri, the place - long the heart of all things Malay - was buzzing with activity, with many doing their festive grocery shopping. D, T and I used to meet more often, but with work preoccupations recently, our meet-ups has dwindled. In fact, I have not seen them since CNY. As such, being able to reconnect with them today felt really good and I am grateful for it. I am glad to see T managing well despite his health issue.

L. I met L for lunch today. It’s been months since that awkward conversation some months back and I have chosen not to initiate contact, leaving it to him to decide instead. He needs to decide how our close-to-five-decades friendship will evolve in the years ahead. As for me, I do not wish to place myself in a position where I might feel judged. Life is too short for that. We’ve only met once following that meet up, and last week he asked if I was free for lunch today. So we met. The conversation was warm but at times, awkward. Nonetheless, I am grateful that he took the initiative to reconnect. The ball remains in his court.

M. I miss my buddy. He last visited me a week ago and has been busy taking care of his mum. I didn’t want to impose, and had left it to him to initiate any meet-ups. Looking after an elderly is not easy and I can relate and empathise. Whenever I think about his situation, I am reminded of how I once told my ex that my priorities would always lie with my own mum - that I would place her above everything else. This morning, at the Geylang Serai market, I had intended to buy ondeh ondeh for breakfast, but the makcik (Malay auntie) sold me roti jala (see picture) instead. I didn’t correct her and simply paid for it, and decided to keep it for dinner. As it turned out, during my conversation with M, he mentioned that he enjoys roti jala. It felt like a small, timely alignment, and I took it as a cue to invite him over. I am glad and grateful that he made time to come by this evening. After some time apart, it felt good to reconnect again - simply, quietly, and without expectation. It was nice to finally spend time together.

Today reminded me that reconnections do not always come in big, dramatic moments. Sometimes, they happen quietly - in chance encounters, in tentative conversations, or in small, unexpected turns, like how a simple packet of roti jala ended up finding its way into the right moment. And for all of that, I am grateful.

Tuesday, 17 March 2026

Grateful 17 Mar: Tourist

I had a most tiring but enjoyable day today, being a local tourist. And I am thankful to have had the opportunity to do so. It has been some time since I last looked at the island through a different lens, and I found myself appreciating it in ways I had not expected. In this regard, I am grateful to a colleague-turned-friend for making it happen:

Friend. I thank WL for arranging this walk. Since leaving corporate life some years back, I have kept in touch with him. He would also reach out to me to seek counsel on his career, and at other times simply to catch up. In recent months, our meet-ups have taken on a more intentional form: morning coffees and walks. And for today, he suggested something different - a walk from the western side of the island towards town. As an eastie, my familiarity with the west is largely limited to areas around MRT stations and key attractions. So having the opportunity to explore the park connectors in the western and central parts more closely was both new and deeply enjoyable. I am thankful to him for that.

Local Tourist. We met at Queenstown MRT and began our walk towards the CBD area, had breakfast in town, and continued towards the Victoria Street and Bugis area before I left him near Jalan Besar. The route took us through park connectors linking Redhill, Jervois Road, River Valley, Killiney Road, Robertson Quay, and Clarke Quay - areas that, when explored on foot, felt totally different from how I usually experience them. What stood out to me was the morning rhythm of these neighbourhoods - workers hurrying to work, elderly residents going about their walks and breakfasts, and tourists exploring local suburbs. From Clarke Quay, we continued towards the Peranakan Museum, SMU, CHIJMES, the National Library, Bugis, and the Sultan Mosque (see picture) at Arab Street area. These are places I have passed through many times, often without a second thought. Yet today, walking through them unhurried, I was reminded of the stories they carry, stories that form our nation’s history. It made me realise how easily we overlook the richness of our own heritage in the midst of our daily routines. For this, I am grateful.

Tourist. After I bade WL farewell close to noon, I made my way towards a bus stop in the midday heat. There, I noticed two foreigners - probably in their 70s, rather heavy in their build, visibly warm, perspiring heavily and a little flustered. From their appearance, they seemed to be Westerners, possibly from Eastern Europe, judging from the unfamiliar language they were speaking. They were studying the bus routes, the lady clearly tired and somewhat exasperated, while the man - presumably her husband - tried to figure things out. Sensing that they might need help, I approached them and asked if there was anything I could assist them with. They were trying to get to a particular MRT station, and I guided them accordingly. It was a simple interaction, but their smiles as they boarded the bus, along with their enthusiastic wave, stayed with me. I was thankful for the small opportunity to be of help.

It was supposed to be an ordinary day. Yet, it turned out anything but ordinary. I had a meaningful catch-up with a friend, saw my own city with fresh eyes, and was given a chance to extend a small act of kindness to strangers. By the end of the day, I had clocked more than 17km. And for all these, I am grateful.

Monday, 16 March 2026

Grateful 16 Mar: Embarrassing

By all measures, it was a routine day. And by routine, it was supposed to be uneventful, but I was tickled by an incident that could have been highly embarrassing. Thankfully, it wasn’t. Here’s what happened.

Oops. I always freeball unless I absolutely need to put on underwear. So today, as I was having my afternoon coffee before my usual walk, I suddenly felt the need to fart. But something didn’t feel quite right - my stomach started growling, and I worried that I might actually need to shit instead. Would be totally horrible if I misfired and soiled my shorts! So I squeezed, held back the fart and looked for a toilet. Thing was, the coffee shop toilet was not the cleanest and so I walked over to the MRT public toilet. But that wasn’t very clean either. Sigh! Thankfully, there was a shopping centre next to the MRT where the toilet was cleaned regularly. I heaved a sigh of relief and felt so thankful for the presence of that shopping centre.

Flush. I hurried into the shopping centre toilet and what a relief - it was clean! I sat on the toilet bowl, wondering whether it was just a fart or whether I really needed to move my bowels. I was totally caught by surprise by the amount of gas my body had been holding, and I let out a huge fart! Holding back the fart earlier could have made it worst. Feeling embarrassed (even though I was in the cubicle) and fully conscious that there were people outside, I quickly reached backwards to flush the toilet. I was so thankful the flush was strong and loud - enough to mask my explosion, not just once, but it came out again and again! When it finally stopped, it was such a huge relief! Ok, I think I must have sounded totally gross here. But yes, this could have turned into a hugely embarrassing moment for me. Thankfully, the loud flush helped to mask it.

Walk. Having cleared my body of gas, I proceeded to confidently take my afternoon walk. It was another beautiful day, with the sun bright and warm. As I walked along the canal, I reflected on the incident, had a good chuckle, and decided that today’s entry would be about this embarrassing moment. Of course, there were many other things I was thankful for today - the good sleep I had last night, waking up feeling energetic, having a nice relaxing morning and finishing a show on Netflix, and the simple ability to enjoy my walk after a couple of days of being preoccupied with training and other matters. And yes, I even managed to get a nice tan along the way.

So yes, I’m thankful for many things today.

Sunday, 15 March 2026

Grateful 15 Mar: Training (2)

Its the second and final day of my training, and another superbly intense day. But it was made easier for me by several things, such as the pre-training administrative preparations and a thoughtful gesture by my sister. I therefore give thanks for:

Pre-training preparations. For all training runs, there is usually a lot of administrative work to complete after the session. These include post-training reports for each individual learner, consolidation of process issues faced so that they can be fed back to the company, and so on. Today, I managed to complete all these within 3 hours after the end of the training. I am glad and thankful that I had actually completed most of these preparations even before the training itself, including the individual reports.

Lunch. Whenever I conduct training, food - or rather lunch - often becomes an issue. There is usually insufficient time to eat, given the need to prepare for the afternoon’s lesson, complete training admin, and so on. What I would usually do is order takeaway or cook something simple for myself. But today was particularly difficult given the need to handle some challenging learners. In the end, I ended up with no lunch at all. I was therefore very thankful when my sister dropped by with some afternoon snacks and placed it on the table. The snacks helped sustain me till dinner.

Learners. I had a rather difficult learner in this run. Apart from a negative attitude, she had unrealistic expectations of wanting to learn “how to resolve all her workplace issues”. At one point, I felt her behaviour was affecting the other learners and I had to pull her aside to counsel her. I don't think I was too successful as she remained problematic till the end. Reflecting on the experience, however, I have to thank her the opportunity to practice mindfulness and to manage my own emotions while handling the situation. On the brighter side, there were also very positive learners who contributed generously. To these learners, I am grateful for their openness and participation.

I ended the day close to 10pm after completing all the post-training administration, cleaning up the slides, and sending out the materials to the learners. Overall, I am glad to have successfully completed this run without too much of a hitch.

Saturday, 14 March 2026

Grateful 14 Mar: Training (1)

I had a long and tiring day today, conducting another round of training. But it was also a fulfilling day, as always, because I know I am helping my learners learn. So here is my gratitude entry for today.

Morning walk. I woke up at 5:40am, as usual, whenever I have to conduct training. I need to be ready by 8:30am at the latest, and I know I will be too caught up with the training until the evening. So I woke up early to do my daily walk. While I do not particularly enjoy waking up early, I did enjoy the cool early morning walk at 6am before daybreak. Today was especially pleasant for several reasons. Firstly, it was the weekend, so there was no weekday traffic to contend with and the park was quiet. Also, the March school holidays have started, so many people have probably taken leave or are sleeping in later than usual. As a result, I was able to do my walk without being disturbed by the usual morning joggers or families. All these factors made my walk extra pleasant and I am thankful.

Training. I had delivered today’s topic several times, and am familiar with the content - so familiar that I can deliver it “artfully”. Nonetheless, I was glad that I made the effort to review the materials again to ensure that I was sufficiently refreshed on both the content and the activities. I am thankful that the effort paid off. I was able to share more real-life examples in addition to the rather difficult content that I was expected to deliver. I strongly feel that providing real-life examples and sharing my personal experiences helps learners connect better with the theories.

Learners. Most of the learners were new to the topic and found it challenging to keep up as the day went on. Thankfully, I was able to adjust my pace to better support them. The day ended well, with every learner saying that they were comfortable with the pace of delivery and activities, and that they had learned something from the session. Of course, the real test of my effectiveness will be tomorrow when they sit for the assessment. Let’s hope every single one of them passes.

I am glad I had enough energy at the end of the day to go through all the activity slides that the learners developed during the session, and to make sure they can use them as references in the future. It was a long and tiring day, but a meaningful one. I look forward to Day 2 of the module tomorrow.

Friday, 13 March 2026

Grateful 13 Mar (2): Ego Boosting Day

Today was supposed to be uneventful, and in many ways it was - except for one interesting experience. Cheekily, I’d say it boosted my ego and it was certainly a huge contrast compared to what happened yesterday. Let me share a little more, starting with the uneventful ones.

Warm Experiences. I visited the Bedok South hawker centre today for lunch and realised that I had not eaten pork porridge for quite a while. Thankfully the stall was open and the owner’s wife was there taking orders as usual. I paid using my government-issued vouchers. The thing about these vouchers is that most shops do not give change, so we often have to combine them with cash or digital payments to make up the exact amount. But this stall allows me to pay more than the item cost and will give me the change in cash. Such arrangement works very well for me because the coffee stall I usually go to accepts only cash. After getting my porridge, I went to the coffee stall to order my usual caffein fix. The coffee uncle (actually he’s about my age) is so used to my order that he asked his staff to prepare it even before I said anything - kopi-o kosong, mai ka muah (black coffee, no sugar, not too full/ partially filled). This has been my usual order since many years ago as I wanted to limit my coffee intake. I was surprise he remembered my order as I had not visited his stall for months! These small interactions reminded me how stall owners recognise their regulars and remember their usual orders, and such simple familiarity brings much warmth to the experience. I’m thankful for these small, everyday connections.

CDC Vouchers. I’m also thankful for the vouchers issued under the CDC Vouchers Scheme. These are given to households as a way of providing support and the amount vary every year. Over the past few years, households have received hundreds of dollars annually for reasons that had evolved since the scheme started: initially to help offset the 1% GST increase, and later to cushion the impact of rising living costs due to inflation post-COVID, etc. These vouchers can be used at neighbourhood hawker stalls and heartland shops or supermarkets and is also a mean to help these neighbour businesses sustain themselves. On average, the amount given to me each year translates to free lunches for almost 4 - 5 months in real terms. So today’s lunch was one small reminder of how such policies quietly support everyday living. As a freelancer, I am grateful for this scheme.

An unexpected ego boost. Yesterday, someone - not particularly young - offered me his seat on the MRT, which created my "happy yet WTF" moment. "WTF" cos it probably bruised my ego (heh heh...). Today I had another experience that, cheekily speaking, gave my ego a small boost instead. You see, after lunch, I went to a shopping centre to window shop and visited the toilet. As I was at the urinal, I noticed someone - probably in his late 30s - washing his hands at the basin and beoing (looking at/ cruising) me through the mirror. The next thing I knew, he came over and stood at the urinal next to me. That was a little unusual, since most people would leave an empty space between urinals. As he stood there, he kept glancing at me - up and “down”. The signals were obvious. But I didn’t respond and left. He then followed me out and walked quickly ahead of me towards the next toilet, turning his head frequently - quite obviously inviting me to follow him... Ok, shan't go into details. Suffice to day, nothing happened. But his behaviour clearly suggested that he was keen in some toilet fun. It has been ages since I experienced such “invite”, and I must admit it gave my ego a little boost. I’m thankful for this moment in what was otherwise a simple day.

So yes, that was my day. It would have been rather routine had it not been for that small episode at the shopping centre. Reflecting, it was funny how the most ordinary days like today can provide such small, warm and amusing moments - a familiar hawker stall, a coffee uncle who remembers my order, and an unexpected encounter that, admittedly stirred me a bit down there... Heh... and for all these moments on an otherwise routine day, I am grateful. And oh, I just realised today is Friday, the 13th. Ok, that's a little random!

:-)

Grateful Mar 13 (1): The Delivery Man

Tonight, I got a call from a Malaysian number about my regular medication delivery. At first, I thought, “Scam alert!” - but then I noticed a message from the same number asking if anyone was home. I picked up the call. The guy spoke in Malay, sounding a little flustered, asking where I was. He had been going round the area but couldn't find my place. Luckily for him (and me), I can speak enough Malay to understand and respond. I told him I’ll sent my Google location.

That he spoke in Malay made me conclude he’s Muslim and I wondered - has he broken his fast? This is the fasting month and it was already about 8pm, way past Maghrib - the evening prayer and break fast time. As a non-Muslim, I don't have anything halal to offer. So I hurriedly prepared a can of Coke and two packets of biscuits for him. Soon enough, he arrived at my door. After handing over the medication, I asked if he had eaten, and he confirmed he had not - just some bread and a quick drink. He needed to finish his deliveries first, he said. I offered him the Coke and biscuits, and he gratefully accepted before heading off. He texted me after leaving: “Terima kasih bagi air dan biskut!” (Thank you for giving the drink and biscuits!)

Poor guy! I could tell he was running purely on determination (and maybe a bit of stubbornness). It made me pause. I wasn’t thinking about my medication or the fact that a Malaysian was delivering it - I was thinking about him, working on an empty stomach during Ramadan. So here’s a heartfelt wish: Ramadan Kareem & Selamat Berpuasa! And a little reminder: sometimes the smallest acts - like offering food or a smile - can mean a lot.

I am a blessed person. Thank you.

Thursday, 12 March 2026

Grateful 12 Mar: Hahaha…

Today I found myself in a happy yet somewhat WTF situation. It was quite funny when I thought about it, and it certainly broke the monotony of what had otherwise been a peaceful day. Here are the details - and I am thankful for the day too.

Nice catch-up. There are those friends with whom you can share your darkest - and even your sexiest - secrets, things you might not even talk about with your partner. And I do have one such friend, whom I affectionately address as “Sister”. We had a very nice catch-up this afternoon. It has been quite a while since we last met face-to-face, and I am glad to see that he is doing well. I have known him for close to 19 years, and he has seen both the best and the worst of me through my relationships and career. Friends like these are rare, and I am grateful for his presence in my life.

Beautiful walk. I took the MRT to Botanic Gardens and walked towards the Central Catchment area, eventually reaching MacRitchie Reservoir. It has been a while since I last took a late afternoon walk, and I was glad I did so today. The walk took me through the private estates fringing University Road, past the busy PIE, and Bukit Brown Cemetery. The transition from the busy post-office-hour traffic to the quiet peace of the forest was quite a contrast. Once I entered the forest, it immediately felt calmer. The natural environment energised me and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I am thankful that in this highly urbanized island, there are still such natural environments for us to enjoy.

Ermmm… the happy yet WTF moment. After my walk at MacRitchie Reservoir, I took the MRT home. I felt somewhat tired and I guessed my tiredness showed. When I boarded the train, a man stood up and offered me his seat. It felt totally weird! He was probably in his early-50s, and honestly he looked less fit than I did, with a protruding stomach and all. I politely declined his offer, but he insisted. To avoid drawing further attention, I thanked him and simply sat down. I supposed my post-shower messy salt-and-pepper hair must have either made me looked extra tired or extra old! On one hand, I was happy to rest. Yet on the other hand, being offered a seat by someone in his early-50s… that was definitely a WTF moment for me. Still, I am grateful to that gentleman for his offer.

I end the day feeling grateful for: a nice catch up with a friend, the quiet energy of nature, and the unexpected kindness from a stranger on the MRT.

Wednesday, 11 March 2026

Marcotting

Finally cut off 2 shoots from my ficus plant yesterday. Had marcotted them since 3 weeks ago and much roots has grown. Passed one to my sis (above) and planted one in a pot (below). Let it stabilize and I’ll pass it to my friend.

I decide to do 2 more today and I believe I will have another 2 pots ready in about 3 weeks to a month’s time. Have to think of who else I can give the plants to!

:-)

2026 Review

Time flies when we do not observe it? Or time flies when we get older? Whatever the reasons. 2026 simply flew by and we are already in mid-Mar, almost a quarter down. So I thought it would be useful to give some thoughts about where I am with regards my 2026 focus:

Remain grounded in gratitude. I’d rate this 8/10. I’ve made it a point to do my gratitude journaling daily. My buddy called it my “daily prayer” - quite apt, I felt. Admittedly, it’s still not as intuitive as I would like, but I do feel the effects, especially when I observe how others tend to focus on the negatives. The real outcome, I think, is to feel inner peace and happiness. I shall continue to work on this.

Live with purpose and compassion. I’d rate this 7.5/10. Life has been rather routine lately, but amidst the routines, I’ve kept focused on what is meaningful to me - helping and supporting others. I continue to do this through coaching, mentoring, and training, although coaching and mentoring have fallen short of my expectations. This is despite renewing my commitment to mentor with one organisation this year and signing up with another to do career mentoring. Regardless, these commitments, beyond allowing me to live meaningfully, also provide the engagement I need and a way to practise compassion toward my own mental well-being and ultimately myself.

Embrace vulnerability and courage. I’d rate this 7/10. This is a direct outcome of what I went through last year (and am still going through). I am embracing life as it comes, handling daily affairs as they arrive and navigating people as I need to. I will probably face my ultimate test in the middle of the year, but I’ll cross that bridge when it comes.

Nurture relationships that matter. I’d rate this 8/10. I have a clearer view now of what truly matters and have made efforts to invest my energy in the people who do (and consciously not in those who don’t). In this regard, I am glad to have established a better relationship with my sister and my buddy. After a decade, I also sent a text to my brother wishing him a Happy CNY. I recognise that whatever misgivings I have, I need to let them rest - holding onto anger would only punish myself. He is, ultimately, still my brother. He did not reply, and I respect that. Otherwise, I am deeply grateful for the few friends who continue to reach out to me, check in on me, visit me and support me.

Deepen my spiritual practice. I’d rate this 7/10. I’ve maintained my daily meditations unless I have early engagements. I also make it a point to attend Buddhist classes every Sunday unless I have to conduct training. Otherwise, I remind myself to live life according to what is taught. It’s definitely not easy, but I will consistently keep this in mind.

Care for my health and well-being. I’d rate this 6.5/10. This is probably the lowest rating for me compared to the other points. I started the year well with my walks, exercises, and careful diet, but I’ve slacked over the past month or so. The most telling sign is the weight gain. I need to be more disciplined and put more work into this.

Of course, the ratings are somewhat arbitrary, but they give me a sense of where I am and how much more attention each area requires. Overall, I feel I’m progressing well this year, and I’m glad I listed these broad focus areas - they’ve guided me effectively so far.

Grateful 11 Mar: Escape (2)

Today was a tiring day. I woke up earlier than usual to meet a coaching client and, once again, worked outside. Somehow, the day ended up being another spontaneous one. Still, it turned out to be a day with much to be grateful for. Here's why:

Coaching. It’s been a while since I last coach, so I was glad to have the opportunity today. I’m grateful to an ex-colleague who referred her friend to me. Having attended a coaching workshop just last evening, I got the chance to put some of what I learned into practice. It was probably a little rough around the edges, but the session went reasonably well. We met early in the morning and spoke for about 2 - 3 hours. During the conversation, I noticed myself slipping into mentoring mode rather than staying fully in the coaching role. It reminded me that coaching is a skill that needs constant honing. In the past, I might have facilitated a similar conversation within 1 - 2 hours, but today it took longer. Still, I was thankful for the chance to practise again and to be reminded that learning never really stops.

Coachee. I met a new coachee this morning, and to be honest, I was a little worried about whether I could really help him. But my fears were unfounded. Once the initial chemistry was established, he opened up naturally, and the conversation even went beyond what I had initially expected. That was good, because it gave us a chance to explore the issues more deeply. I was thankful for his openness and willingness to reflect honestly on what he was going through and helped him dissect what he was experiencing and structure the conversation clearly and systematically. I was glad he left the conversation achieving what he had hoped. I left it to him to decide if and when he might wish to return for another session.

Daily Grind. I was supposed to meet a friend tomorrow, but I mistakenly thought it was today! After coaching, I made my way to town only to realise the mix-up. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise. I found myself repeating what I had done yesterday - being spontaneous and doing whatever came to mind. This time, I visited the Singapore Sports Hub for lunch, took a bus ride and just watched the world go by. What I experienced today felt somewhat different from yesterday, but I was nonetheless grateful for the chance to slow down and observe life unfolding in its ordinary ways.

I end the day feeling drained, yet grateful - grateful for the opportunity to coach again, for the trust someone placed in our conversation, and for the unexpected pockets of time that allowed me to pause, wander, and simply be present with the day as it unfolded.

Tuesday, 10 March 2026

Grateful 10 Mar: Escape (1)

These few weeks, a unit above is undergoing renovation. We have been told there will be major hacking of the walls until Thursday. As such, the next few days will be crazy and unbearable. So today, I chose to escape the noise by working from different places outside. It turned out to be a surprisingly smooth and even enjoyable experience. On this note, let me give thanks for a few things that made this little escape possible.

Working Spaces. I left home before 9am, just as the hacking was about to begin, knowing that the noise would start from 9am and end at 5pm. Over the course of the day, I moved between several places, alternating between short walks, work, and meal breaks. I ended up working from a café in Suntec City mall, the communal learning space at NTUC LHub@Bras Basah, and finally my usual HDB heartland Simei coffee shop. I didn’t deliberately plan to work at these spaces. Rather, I just work wherever felt right at that point in time as I walked. Reflecting, this was the first time I had spent an entire workday moving between different spaces like this and it was interesting to experience the unique rhythm of each space! Above all, I was thankful I could escape from the noise and still get a fair amount of work done.

Walk. One thing I wanted to ensure was to continue my daily walk even while working outside. I had considered heading to the central catchment area initially but the that would limit my ability to work. In the end, I decided to be spontaneous and just take the MRT to town. And instead of staying in one place, I moved from point to point throughout the day. I walked from Suntec City to Millenia Walk, then to Marina Square for lunch, before continuing on to Raffles City, Bras Basah, and Waterloo Street, where I stopped by the temple along the way. I then made my way to Bugis before taking the train to Simei for my kopi o kosong before walking home. In many ways, the day felt quite different from a typical work-from-home routine. The walks allowed me breaks between work and, thankfully, it was easy and the weather was not too punishing. It was a refreshing escape from my usual routine and perhaps something I should do more often.

Hotspot. Despite working from different places throughout the day, I was grateful that I could continue accessing my cloud drive through my phone’s hotspot. In truth, my habit of working from home has been influenced, to a large extent, by the stability and convenience of my home Wi-Fi. Yet today’s experience showed me that I could still work effectively while on the move. Accessing my documents and files was smooth and reminded me how much technology has expanded our freedom to work from almost anywhere. I am thankful for this convenience, something that would not have been so easily possible in the past.

In the end, what began as an attempt to escape the loud hacking above my flat turned into something unexpectedly positive. I am grateful that I could step away from the noise, find spaces where I could continue working, and at the same time keep up with my walking routine. It was a small reminder that even disruptions can sometimes open the door to new rhythms and possibilities. Today, I am simply thankful that I had the freedom to escape the noise, while still being able to work, walk, and end the day feeling that it had been a fruitful one.

Monday, 9 March 2026

Grateful 9 Mar: Friend & Buddy

Today, I remembered and commemorated a friend’s birthday by sending him a birthday text last night. He is a year older than me, and I have known him for probably 15 years. Yet, if I am honest, I do not truly know him in a deep way despite all these years. Regardless, I find myself grateful for his presence in my life, particularly over the past two years. And so today, I give thanks for:

Him. For simply being who he is. For allowing me to glimpse parts of his life and for extending his friendship to me, despite all that he knows about me. It’s only over the last year or so that he started sharing more about himself and, for that matter, his real full name with me. To me, it reflects the openness and an outcome of the trust built over time. Over the past two years, he has been a source of support when I needed it. His presence has brought moments of warmth and joy into my life, and for that, I am thankful.

The Confectionery. I wanted to make his birthday a little special for him, just as he has made mine special in the past two years. Knowing that he enjoys the Teochew la piah - not the usual sweet version, but the mixed sweet-and-savoury kind - I thought it would be nice to get one for him. This, I reckon would be more personalised compared to the usual birthday cake. I am grateful that a small confectionery shop in Chinatown still makes and sells it. And I’m glad he enjoyed it.

The MRT. It may sound unusual to express gratitude for the MRT, but today I felt thankful for the ease and convenience it provides. It allowed me to travel from my home to Chinatown and back within the time I had planned, without difficulty. Sometimes the ordinary systems around us quietly enable and support the small acts of care we wish to offer others.

In recent weeks, I have found myself reflecting on whether I might see him as more than a friend. I do not know how this friendship - or relationship - may unfold, and so I remind myself to hold it gently, without expectation. It probably suffice to refer to him as my buddy for now. And today, it is enough to celebrate his birthday, to appreciate the connection we share, and to give thanks for this small but meaningful relationship in my life.

Sunday, 8 March 2026

Grateful 8 Mar: The Three Jewels

Today, I attended the weekly Buddhist class and was once again reminded of the teachings of the Buddha - that there is suffering in life, and that there is also a way to overcome suffering. These teachings are simple in their expression, yet profound in their meaning. Each time I listen to them, I find myself reflecting on them a little differently. Perhaps it is because life itself continues to present new situations and experiences. As I close the day, I want to pause and give thanks for the Three Jewels - the Buddha, the Dhamma and the Sangha - that continue to guide me as I seek to understand life more deeply.

The Buddha. I give thanks to the Buddha, the teacher who showed us the truth through the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path. One reminder that continues to resonate with me is that every one of us has the potential to become a Buddha. Enlightenment is not reserved for a select few, but something that can be cultivated through discipline, mindfulness and sincere effort. The Buddha also taught the importance of the Middle Path - a path of moderation that avoids the extremes. In many ways, this is also a reminder that the journey of cultivation requires balance, patience and steady effort over time.

The Dhamma. I am also grateful for the Dhamma. To be able to learn and reflect on these teachings is itself something to be thankful for. Yet today’s reflection reminded me that the truths contained in the Dhamma often have many layers. In living our lives day to day, we are constantly faced with situations that require wisdom to interpret and apply these teachings. Life is rarely black and white. More often, it presents itself in many shades of grey. As such, it requires us to reflect deeply on the teachings and to live our lives with mindfulness and clear intentionality, guided by the spirit of the Middle Path.

The Sangha. Finally, I give thanks for the Sangha - the monastics who dedicate their lives to preserving and sharing the teachings of the Buddha. Their commitment ensures that the Dhamma continues to be shared with people like myself who are still learning and still trying to understand. Through their guidance and example, they help keep the light of the teachings alive and remind us that the path of cultivation is one that we continue to walk, step by step.

As I end the day, I am reminded that cultivation is a lifelong journey. The teachings may be clear, but living them requires discipline, constant reflection, moderation and practice. For today, I am simply grateful for the opportunity to listen, to reflect, and to be reminded once again to walk the path with greater awareness and intention.

Pages