Ever wondered what your parents think of NDP? Especially since they've been through so many National Day celebrations and they're possibly older than our soon-to-be 44 year-old Singapore. Well it was Mother's Day and i was having mother's day dinner with my family. So i decided to ask my parents about their thoughts on NDP.haha.So here goes..

What's NDP's significance to you?

Dad: To me it signifies the maturity of Singapore as each year passes. It is the growth of a young nation into adulthood as it is now.
Mum: NDP brings memories of a school or public holiday (laughs). Well, it's a celebration of the achievements our nation has gotten thus far.

What do you remember most about NDP?

Dad: The most endearing significance of the NDP is the coming togeher of the various races of different cultural and religious backgrounds to celebrate together without reservations.
Mum: The smart-looking participants all check in their uniforms and finery, the mass displays and the fireworks.

Have you been involved in NDP?

Dad: Involved at school level for many years in stage preparations etc. There was once when me and some of my friends were chosen to do drills for the parade. The training was tiring, but it was meaningful afterall.
Mum: Not a direct participant in NDP but an enthusiastic spectator.

What do you hope to see in this year's NDP?

Dad: I hope to see something diffferent from the usual singing, dancing, drills and fireworks. For instance, the ministers could put up a little show/skit. They could celebrate more as participants rather than as spectators.
Mum: Our young people's vibrance. It's always heartening to see their unbridled energy in their stellar performances.

How do you feel about being a Singaporean?

Dad: As a Singaporean, I can feel proud that our nation has achieved so much in so short a time. However, there is a price to pay in terms of being one of the most expensive cities in the world to live in.
Mum: I feel proud to be a Singaporean, proud to be part of a nation that has become "something" and "someone" in the world from very hunble beginnings.

So do you like it here in Singapore?

Dad: Generally,I like living in Singapore, bearing in mind that it is a place where most things work very well and a very high level of safety is experienced. Again, the price to pay is living a relatively stressful life in a fast-paced society and in an environment lackng space and natural surroundings.
Mum: Yes, the standard of living is good here. I'm comfortable with life in Singapore and many of my relatives and friends are here.
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Anyway, since it was Mother's Day, i thought it would be a good idea to have a little tribute here for my mum. She's been a great mum who has worked hard for the family. She's an English teacher who enjoys her job. As a teacher, she feels that the role of one is to teach and nurture students, to inculcate values and help groom the young of our nation for future endeavours in society. " A teacher wears many hats and is expected to excel in all. It is stressful but rewarding". She finds that the best part about teaching is being able to interact with young people, and to see how they progress and mature as individuals.

Well, a Happy Mother's Day to all hardworking mothers out there! It's not always easy being a mother. My mum says being a mother in Singapore means a lot of hard work. It entails helping children to cope with studies, working to provide for the family with a second income, having to cope with rising costs and spending time with the family. "But the joy of seeing my children grow up and the love for my family's my main driving force". =)