As long as I can remember, I have been singing Majulah Singapura with ample pride, and reciting the pledge with fist to my chest in both English and Mandarin (I prefer the mandarin without questions) without stopping to question myself if I should, or shouldn’t.

Even singing it during “We are Singapore“.

The moment I recited it when all of us flooded into Padang at the grand finale, randomly looking for a spot to stand, almost shouting out the pledge as we were overwhelmed with emotions, with tears in our eyes… I have never watched a National Day Parade the same way again.

I can sing ALL the patriotic songs, when I can’t even sing my country’s national anthemn.

I cheered for Team Singapore table tennis ladies during the Olympic with real zest, I believe they would have their hearts in this home as well.

No one ever believed I was from the “nextdoor neighbour” cos I am at Singaporean at heart as I can be.

The day I got my blue IC was perhaps one of the happiest day in my life, and I am just glad the little one can call this tiny island her home as she is nurtured into an impressive young lady.

Someday, maybe the pink will beckon.

Happy 44th Birthday, Singapore, I am just glad to be here, and to witness the hits and misses of your growth, just like those I went through during mine over the years in this country I have grown overly comfortable in.

Edit: 8.22pm is the pledge moment, maybe I will lead Minibean to say pledge chugeder with me!