As we are in a period of national mourning, I feel that I should take this time to pen my thoughts on the recent passing of Mr Lee Kuan Yew, the founding father of Singapore. I was deeply saddened and emotional when I heard the news. I've been dreading this day for the past few weeks, ever since it became apparent that this time, he was indeed very ill. Although death is inevitable in everyone's lives, it is always a difficult pill to swallow, especially with someone as revered and as remarkable as Mr Lee. As a Singaporean, I have nothing but great respect for the man who built our nation. I cannot say that I agree in all entirety with everything he has ever done. I understand that he was sometimes too harsh with his words or that some of his policies were difficult to stomach. However, I believe that Mr Lee's intentions were always for the good of Singapore and her people in the long run. In a time when I was not yet born into the world, Singaporeans like my parents and their parents were encouraged to make hard sacrifices for the good of their futures.. and ours. They placed their faiths in this man, his party and their promises and they were not let down. I don't believe that Mr Lee built this city on his own, I definitely give recognition to the other great politicians and leaders that have brought Singapore to where we are today. To bring a country, no matter how small, from third world to first world in one generation is a stunning feat that no other country can ever take from us, and one that would have been impossible if not for the foresight and audacity of one Mr Lee. Living in modern Singapore, we are enjoying the spoils of his labour and dedication. In Singapore, we enjoy everything so easily to the point that we don't even notice it anymore. We don't notice how clean our streets are, how we have easy access to clean, drinkable water, how well lit and organized our streets are. Yes, living in Singapore is expensive and yes, the political situation is not exactly ideal. Nobody has it all. But as a Singaporean, I can't bring myself to say that what we have isn't sufficient, because it is more than good enough. I have long considered myself as patriotic, despite it not being the popular view amongst my peers. But I will always be proud to be Singaporean. And as a Singaporean, I grief and mourn the tragic loss of our founding father. Thank you for everything, Mr Lee Kuan Yew. I will always be grateful for everything you've done for us.
(Photo credit: ST.com)
