I've always wanted a pet dog since primary school, but my Mum wasn’t too keen. About 2 years ago, she finally agreed. Not just that, she even went the extra mile to take care of our dog’s needs. I was so touched, because my Mum’s love for me was bigger than her concerns. She wanted me to be happy.
I love her dearly, I am where I am because of her. She is strong-willed, gentle & supported me throughout my life, despite knowing my condition will worsen slowly. She gave me the freedom to make my choices, she comforted me when I felt low, she followed me throughout my schooling life until my graduation. She waits for me when I'm having classes, helps me when I need to go to the toilet and joins me and my classmates for lunch.
Recently, she can’t carry me anymore, so we had to hire a domestic helper. I’m glad she finally gets a rest after 20 years, although she still follows me around, it’s part of her. She comes to my public speaking programs, takes videos and pictures of me, and claps along even though she doesn’t understand English. When I see the pride in her eyes, I am grateful.
My advice to students would be to increase mutual understanding and love with your parents. Maybe find a time to ask them out for a meal, they’ll be pleasantly surprised. Just have a chat & know them better. Once there is a stronger relationship, it becomes easier to communicate when you have different values and opinions. It’s also easier to open up and seek help when you need to.
In primary school, I had a friend who did some DJ-ing. I thought ‘that’s pretty cool’ and persuaded my Dad to buy some simple DJ equipment. I fell in love with it.
In Sec 1, I played at a talent contest in school. I got some flak. Some said I was just “pressing some random buttons”. Well, I can’t blame them because it did look like that haha. Still, I kept playing. Eventually, when they learned more about it, I received a lot of support from my peers and the school. I owe them a lot…. CCA groups gave me a chance to perform and my teachers encouraged me to nurture my unique talent, instead of stopping me.
I learnt mostly online and had a tutor for a short while. I kept practising and made tons of mistakes. It sucks at first, but they’re great learning moments. To be a good DJ, my mantra is ‘Be carefree, yet mindful’. You have to play to the crowd, be upbeat and passionate, yet watch your Mixer and Jogwheel (the board with many buttons & the big spinny wheel). Your hands have to work independently to mix and match the beats/effects to the music track. It’s not easy because our brain naturally synchronizes our hand actions (you know when your friends make you do that irritating hand switch thing).
It’s tough, but the challenge is satisfying. Benefits of DJ-ing? I overcame my shyness, which helps me be a better leader too. And I get to play to many people! Last June, SYF organizers saw my videos and invited me to perform. I collaborated with a band and performed to my biggest audience yet of ~1000 people. The feeling is priceless, to bring joy to others through music. I’m happy when I do it.
I always encourage friends my age to explore opportunities too, go beyond the initial fear, you might find something you’re good at. I believe if you put your mind to something you enjoy, you will make a contribution to others, which makes your own life meaningful too!