Older Me, Younger Me

Looking at all the Eunoia Junior College students walking around the Ghim Moh hawker centre this morning, I was suddenly reminded of my time in National Junior College 22 years ago. I was having the time of my life back then. Life seemed carefree (that's why I did terribly at my studies!). I was surrounded by great friends and enjoyed singing in the NJC choir tremendously. I felt genuinely happy with life then.

Those two years were the end of my age of innocence. I started experiencing life's realities bit by bit once I graduated. The next 20 years comprised many lessons I wish someone had taught me earlier in life. But I guess you learn best through personal experience.

There are many things I would have told Junior College me to do. But I have the benefit of hindsight and life experience now. I think younger me always did the best he could along the way. Some of those decisions make me cringe now and some of those experiences still sting slightly. But I know they are mine and I am where I am now because those things happened.

I don't believe a singing teacher is simply one who imparts vocal knowledge. Music is life and I therefore use it as a tool to educate my students about life. I guess I am hoping they will learn to be bold and do the things my own fear and insecurities held me back from doing till much later in life.

Perhaps I am seeking reparation. But I am realizing more and more that I am probably exactly where God intended me to be. The only thing I can do is to continue keeping myself open to what comes my way and doing my best to stay teacheable, humble and malleable.