Downpours in Singapore don't usually last very long. I looked at my watch, 12:15 pm. My back was thoroughly drenched despite holding an umbrella, my feet stuck in the dank cold of my soggy leather shoes. My wallet was soaked and dyed a deep dark brown, with my ticket stubs stained with the brown of the leather. The notes and scribbles which I always carry in my bag which were smudged, with wet, white flakes tearing off from the paper. The only thing that was dry was my Bible.

Yet I did not complain. No one did. I was content standing by Parliament Place beside the Supreme Court in that rain. Perhaps everyone else shared my sentiments. It was a time of remembrance and respect. The cortege went past the crowd, and shouts and cheers erupted. But strikingly, as I locked my eyes on the lacquered coffin draped over with the colours of the flag that I am so proud of, it was about me. A personal significance that the man had for me.

I am glad I went today. || posted by Kuan Hui