How do I describe what this feel like? Bit of nostalgia, a tinge of sadness, some bittersweetness, some joy. And some physical fatigue. But I feel pretty good overall. It's been a while since I've felt something like this.
Two good friends of mine came over from the UK to visit Singapore for the past few days. Silly, funny, happy moments ensued. But amid all these laughter, the deep convos hit hard. It's made me realise how much I've missed having different persepectives on life, and learning about random things. There's no expectation of talking about anything specific, or having to necessarily be doing something.
They remind me that life can be simple sometimes. Good food, good weather, with the right company. Work seems so far away from it all. The meaning of life doesn't always have to be about achieving big things. At the end of the day, we're all just dependent on our social relationships to keep us sane and healthy in this age of division. You can blame it on god or whatever supernatural forces for designing us this way. The human psyche thrives on social relations, and there is no way out of that. This is who we all are, deep down. Without the web of social networks, we might very well cease to live.
I also relished the opportunity to become a tour guide. I've always enjoyed sharing with others what I find interesting about Singapore: the sheer diversity of conflicting cultures amalgamated together, our politics, our nature, and random bits of history. It's a boring country only if you stay in Marina Bay Sands, Orchard and Sentosa. We ventured to Mayflower hawker centre to have some authentic non-overpriced food. It was hard to believe they had a better spice tolerance than I did...
Billy even paid a visit to Admiralty Park (apparently closed oops) and Woodlands Waterfront Park. I've only been there once or twice myself. It's nice having a friend view the country through your lens, but with their own interpretation. It happens to all of us: when we spend too long in one place, we forget to appreciate the simplest of beauty in front of our own eyes. Go out to your neighbourhood park, and spend 5 minutes just observing a single tree. You might very well discover a whole new world waiting for your embrace.
I would be lying if I said that I don't feel platonic love for them. This very strong sense of emotional connection that transcends just a normal friendship. It took me many years to understand that such a level of emotional connection doesn't necessitate a romantic relationship, or an interest in the other party. (It might be a starting point for it though). I think guys are much worse at this kinda thing, but honestly just saying 'I love you bro' is really wholesome. Are we afraid of the other party misinterpreting it? Likely the case.
Damn, I'm physically exhausted. But I feel whole, like a warm hug from the inside.
***
Music of choice: 日落大道 - 梁博
To my non-chinese-speaking friends, this is a beautiful song about looking forward in life and enjoying the beauty of the sunset. A timely reminder to stop and appreciate little things in life. Things will always get better.
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