Source : Straits Times – 4 Aug 2009
LAST Saturday’s special report, ‘It’s my condo and I do what I want’, revealed the social malaise among condominium dwellers. Squabbles prevail even in the upper strata of society. But this need not be a reflection on all condo residents. There may be others who are different.
A society of narcissists cares little for the common good, as narcissists are too busy contemplating their own navels to consider others.
The other day, I was spending time with my children and their HDB neighbours at a public playground. Children from all races, about 20 of them, were playing Frisbee and badminton together and sharing bicycles. It was a cool and refreshing evening that culminated in the celebration of a nine-year-old girl’s birthday at the public barbecue pit. Everyone in the playground was invited to join in the hearty meal. There was peace and friendship.
The warmth I felt with my HDB neighbours could be juxtaposed with the cold and hostile relationships among some condominium residents today.
Apparently, the comparatively less wealthy Singaporeans are enjoying the precious blessings of close and trusting neighbourliness. Their needs are simple and unsophisticated. Joy and laughter, which money cannot buy, emanated from the barbecue gathering.
I must thank the grassroots leaders for their tireless efforts in maintaining the tranquillity of our housing estates. And the neighbourhood police who vigilantly keep law and order. Social issues are well managed by responsible town council leaders, and Members of Parliament at Meet-the-People Sessions.
I hope our well-to-do Singaporeans living in private estates can relate better among themselves.
The quality of life lies not in owning a leasehold or freehold property, but rather in how much we uphold priceless values, such as social consideration and humility.
George Lim
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