I have a dream…

It had been a trying period for people with the current erratic condition of the economy. Economic analysis, insights are as good as weather forecasts. Just a few months ago, the national day rally seemed to put many at ease with the assurance provided by PM Lee.

I was particularly intrigued by the visual presentation which showcased what Singapore will look like once the continuing development projects are completed. The progress Singapore had achieved over the years had awed locals and foreigners alike. I count my blessings everyday that I am born in the right country at the right time, being spared a lot of turmoil other nations suffered under.

The world has seen too much of extreme wealth and poverty living side by side. Is this continuous vicious cycle a result of apathy or just plain ignorance?

I turn to Dr Martin Luther king for inspiration. His dream for African Americans to be seen and treated as equals never fail to inspire me. His courage and passion to fight against all odds fuels the idealist in me.

Therefore, I have a dream too. I dream that while Singapore becomes well-endowed materially, we have to make sure there will always be a helping hand to offer to those lagging behind. There are many groups in Singapore that require our attention. The elderly, abused foreign workers, foreign construction workers cheated of their money, ex-convicts wanting a second chance, and many more…

I have a dream….. that sincerity and respect form the basis of social interaction in the country. With that, comes thoughtful, meaningful discourses and discussions about anything under the sun. Positive, interesting, creative ideas come about without fear or layered with hypocrisy. And forgiveness and acceptance become such a natural process as u know even the mistakes made, meant no malice.

I have a dream… that while we equip ourselves with knowledge, we have to know that wisdom makes us human. The wisdom to defend against evil and convert the negatives into positives. Knowledge equips us for the battles, but wisdom wins the war.

I have a dream… that while Singapore continues to build itself as a democratic society based on justice and equality so as to achieve happiness, prosperity and progress for the nation, we also not forget to build ourselves as a compassionate society, based on humility, respect, so as to achieve love, peace, and joy for our nation.