This is a personal story by the son of man who was very much involved in politics during the period of the expulsion of Singapore from the Malayan (then known) federation. Perhaps this might help remind our leaders, especially LKY, why a lot of Singaporeans choose to remain silent.

There is this theory that force of habit somehow becomes part of the genetic makeup of the future generations. Hence, affecting how they behave instinctively. Maybe our forefathers' force of habit is now the instinctive behaviour of our current batches of local undergraduates. Of course we cannot forget upbringing, academic and learning culture, and the possible cost (material, emotional and mental) factor.

This post is more than just about politics back then. It's also a loving memorial to a man's father who had just passed on, a father who despite all semblances of calmness and equanimity hides a secret past; a past that his son should be proud of. Though it's sad to see his father's fire eventually extinguished by political expediency at a cost to the state of Singapore's current and possibly future generations.

I recommend this post from The Online Citizen: "Zen And The Art Of Maintaining Silence"

Labels: history, politics, singapore