my country and I

I never blogged about the National Day Celebarations not because I don't love my country but because I never got to tickets to see the parade. I love Singapore, and I watch the National Day Parade each year without fail on TV, when I am overseas, I download and read the National Day Rally Speech.

Living overseas has made me aware of the many different views people have on my country. As much as I agree with some of them I still defend my nation fiercely. Peers of my age would readily do so too, even the guys who has two precious years taken away from them to serve National Service would fiercely defend Singapore should we hear bitter remarks about Singapore.

I dont hang my flag during National Day but I wear Red and White on August 9th.Whichever part of the world I move to, I always packed a Singapore Flag with me, Strangly enough, no room is complete without it.

I hate it when we are so small and no one really know where we are so whenever I walk into a bookstore abroad with foreign friends, I always pick up an atlas to show them where we are located, 4 degrees from the equator. I attempt to educated my friends that Singapore is NOT part of China.

I dont sing my National Anthem often but I do it with a lot of pride. National Day Songs still give me goosebumps and watching my country's flag go up at any sports meet or international convention can make me cry. We are one of the smallest contigent at world sport events but I still look out for them.

Sometimes, I get fustrated with red-tape or government regulations but watching a MTV like below can instantly recharge my patriotism.


My Prime Minister said in his National Day Rally Speech :

Singapore is an improbable nation

We are a small country in an uncertain world we should never take our future for granted. Many have put their heart and soul into building this country. Through hard work and clear thinking, our forefathers have created a unique and precious home here for us . They planted the trees that now provide the shade for us
Now our duty to continue to plant the trees of hope and strength for our next generation.

Do this not because we happen to be born here or to carry a Singapore passport
But because we have something valuable here – our family and friends, our hopes and dreams, our home and nation – because we believe in Singapore

It made a lot of sense and this can be termed 'Propaganda' but it has hit home for many Singaporeans.

Now that I am back home, I relate to the songs that are sung on National TV. And I can watch them over and over again without getting bored. 3 or 4 Times.. I can probably sing it in perfect pitch. Enjoy !



There are things you cannot trade for, good education accessible to all, low crime rates, subsidied medical benefits and a good government.

So I am celebrating my National Day by believing a little more in my country, a little more trust and faith in my government and staying here just a little longer before I travel the world again ( and come home again. ) Finding the little joy of paying income tax ( one of the lowest in the world ) and find comfort in paying for my expensive dream car( knowing that no one will be stealing )

Besides, how can you not smile when you watch this.