Graciousness.

Naturally, what would come to mind when one sees this word?
I see graciousness as a virtue that is not gifted to only a certain percentage of people but it is actually found in every individual all around the world. However in this perspective, I require your attention to be diverted to that of your very average day singaporean. Singapore. Such a vibrant yet small country. A country that has yet to blossom into those like one of her many fine sisters and brothers, who have prospered into countries that are mass producers around the world today. Though Singapore may be slowly and gradually advancing into a country of high technology, of recognisable major industries, and becoming one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world, there is still one thing that lacks. Graciousness. Courtesy. You name it.

Ever gotten on the MRT after a long day during CCA? Well I certainly have.
Now, just close your eyes and recall that day...
You're perspiring, and the MRT is packed, as, very unfortunatley, CCA ended at evening peak hours. The train is packed with many adults rushing home from work. Looking at your watch, you notice that it is very late. You start to panic and start to forecast on how badly your parents might scold you. Impatience gets the better of you and then decide to try your luck in entering the train cabin. Hustling your way through, your very heavy bag (due to all the lessons you've had that day) knocks into the arms of some commuters. Due to your natural human instinct, you start to apologise with every bump. Some commuters acknoledge your apology and gives a freindly gesture of "it's okay". Others, however, gives a disgraceful grunt and casts you a downcast look before turning away. As an act of courtesy, you naturally move to the centre of the cabin. Here, you notice that there is an old lady, with many bags with her. You look at the commuters all sitting on the row of seats in front of her and you feel an awful feeling of sadness welling inside you. Looking at all the commuters, you notice that they are either reading the newspaper or sleeping! Yet you understand how the sleeping commuters feel, after a long day at work, as you have just finished a long day at CCA. However you, on the other hand, wouldn't be so ignorant as to actually not give up your seat to an old lady! Silently you wait for one very kind-hearted commuter to perhaps stand up and give up his/her seat to the old lady. However it never happened, and even when you've gotten up at your station, you glance back to notice that the old lady is still standing. As you left the station, you feel a sense of regret, as you were unable to help. You also feel a deep deep sense of disappointment that Singaporeans wouldn't even bother to give up a seat for an old lady.

Now open your eyes.
A very daily scene. This is only one of the many other ungracious behaviours that are seen around Singapore today. This is my reason for wanting to raise awareness in sigaporeans and I hope that these situations will be a thing of the past. Maybe, our younger generations might even see it in their social studies textbooks in years to come.

' clarice :)

9:35 PM
Up, up, and away!