Jumbled up days

2003-07-17 5:13 p.m.

These two weeks were nothing but more mess and disruption. First up, we hear that our two dear Iranian twins passed away in their quest to achieve an independent body. Its not that their goal was unrealistic, it shows the setbacks wee can face in our search for an ideal world. Speaking of setbacks, the past few days were mainly filled with cries of anguish and sheer shock at our common test results. When I say "our", I just don't mean my class; I refer to almost every student. The shouts of jubilation were not so much because one received a distinction, but it was the relief of passing. Then again, we turn green with envy when we encounter the usual high flyers, and curses have been flying at those who were least likely to improve.

It was not so much a setback after deep contemplation, but really evidence to see how far we have moved. Speaking of this, I found slight differences from my secondary school days. Other than discovering how far you have fallen, it’s this issue about school halls. Back in ACS, when you enter the hall, you always come prepared with jumpers or something to shield you from the cold. Here in NJ, no difference can be seen, save the fact that there is no fixed type of jumper to bring in. What really differs is that when you look up in ACS, you see Proverbs chapter 3, verses 5 to 7 which reads,

"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil."

Its gives one a small moment of comfort, and slight inspiration to press on, even if you are lost. However, in NJC, you look up to see the list of president scholars and it feels as if there are urging you to attain their level of achievement. In any case, it is always interesting to know that there someone or some people urging us on every step of the way in the midst of an examination.

I am digressing. Back to the events of these two weeks, one such one which made the news was the RJC incident (the video clip of the teacher tearing up the student's work and scolding him). Now, I have not watched the clip itself and neither do I intend to. Technology has come thus far in our lives and we have seen its propensity to alter our future. The incident does indicate in some sense that "big brother is watching you" but it also serves to end the traditional school life. "Two wrongs don't make a right" as Zhilin's famous maxim goes. Let us no be troubled over this matter anyhow.

On another disappointing note, ACS (I) lost the B division Swimming Title to RI. It was a quite a shock when I opened the sports section yesterday. Dr Ong once told the whole school (ACS) that the Straits Times was quite anti ACS. Whether this is true or not, I guess that its high time that something like this happens. It would serve as a wake up call for the swimmers. Another depressing fact was that MGS did not snatch the Girl's trophy either. Could it mean the downfall of the methodist schools? Let's hope not.

Another thing popping up this week is the frantic rush to set up stalls for Saturday's madness--NJC's Food and Fun Fair, otherwise known as Funtasia. Students scurry around, teachers bark out orders, tables and chairs are uprooted from their original positions and even a tent is set up. The atmosphere is that of both anxiety and excitement as the whole population rushes to sell their remaining tickets and paint banners. While ACJC's biannual Fun O Rama is of a larger scale, there is the constant hope that it will turn out as grand as any fun fair.

14 days of disruptions and chaos. Such is it in this world.

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