Since a few years ago, I have been bringing my boys to the Marina Square / Esplanade area to watch the aerial display and fireworks a few weekends before the actual National Day.
This year, we went to the Esplanade and took a good position along the water, with a clear view of the bay facing the spanking new Marina Financial Center and Marina Bay Sands. Good position and angle to catch the series of displays: parachutes, Chinook fly-past, Apache appearance, and even the 21-shot ceremonial artillery fire, and of course the finale of spectacular fireworks (which costs $??).
In between the displays and performance, some one came up to me, and asked me permission to answer a questionnaire. It was a simple one question: “What are your aspirations for Singapore?”
Interesting question, to which I think deserves my most honest answer: “A more balanced Parliament.”
Anything else?
“Happier people.”
Yes, what more can I ask for, if our country has a more balanced Parliament in which issues are debated and finally agreed upon, based on views from different sides, not conclusions that are decided even before the motion is being tabled.
And of course, the pursuit of Happiness is such a difficult thing, that if one day we can confidently say that Singaporeans are a happier lot, I think we would have made it as a nation.
Difficult targets to meet, but not impossible. What is needed is the collective will of the people, to make Singapore a better place for all.
With that thought in mind, I wish everyone a Happy National Day. 