I have always been proud to be a Singaporean. Generally, Singaporeans are typically “kiasu”, meaning afraid to lose (out) and speak Singlish. Well, I admit I possess the aforementioned traits, but there are times that call for them, and times that do not. I mean, who likes to miss out on a good deal? I, for one, do not. Who does not want the latest Hello Kitty plush toy? Hmm, actually, I do not. That is why I say that for me at the very least, it is a case-to-case basis.
The same can be said for speaking Singlish. I do speak in that infamous slang, but I also “code switch”, to an adequate extent, to “proper English” when the occasion arises. Code switching seems more and more commonplace these days anyway, and it allows me to preserve my heritage as a true blue Singaporean, yet allows me access to shine on the global stage with the universal English language.
I will turn twenty-three in half a year’s time. When I was younger, I could not wait to grow up and lead my own life. But standing at where I am today, there are times when I could not help but wish that I am still around the age of the majority of my classmates. There are plenty of those around my age who have yet to accomplish anything, and this segment largely comprises of those who do not know what they want in life, or lack the drive, motivation, desire or whatsoever to go for it.
I was like that once, a couple of years back. But fortunately, I realigned myself with my interest in passion and here I am now, studying in Ngee Ann Polytechnic and writing this reflection for Storytelling Techniques. I would not say if I feel that I am a typical or atypical Singaporean. I feel that I am somewhere in the middle. But if you ask me to take a side, I feel that I am more of a typical Singaporean. Now, would you tell me which camera shop has a 50% storewide discount?
