The More Meaninglful Entry

National Day beckons. After playing soccer I pondered upon what patriotism really means and am impelled to display my thoughts. Its significance undoubtedly stretches beyond the parading of flags, singing of anthems with pride, sensational feeling of belonging as well as charging forth with bad national decisions blindly. The concept of patriotism can be a misleading tool if selfishly harnessed to shore up national(more likely political) support at the expense of a country's interest by unification under this 'virtue' that had nothing to begin with. Also, it is wrong to exhibit condescending behaviour towards foreigners under the 'umbrella' of patriotism as a bad excuse, because it never did and shall never entail such an atrocity.

Patriotism, from my perspective as an individual, is about thinking rationally and critically about material national issues with the benefits of your country as your top priority, as well as courageously projecting them to those who've access to the corridors of power, with wisdom. Yet, it's also crucial to consider that in spite of a country consisting of merely patriots, we must recognise those're also individuals, and that can incite dissension among ranks and within nation in the likely event that combustion of the variants of opinion occurs. Therefore, it is not only my hope but more importantly wise that we Singaporeans treat the exchange of all issues and one another with great sensitivity. Also, don't misconstrue or undermine its depth, for patriotism is not merely about being an opinionated loud mouth in society; it is true courage because it reflects genuine effort in refined, objective and critically analysed thoughts, as well as balls when the occassion calls for the damning of a bad decision despite whatever impending eventualities it might bring.

I, therefore implore to everyone at large this national day, to set aside the many differences that have divided the Singaporean population and wholeheartedly indulge in the significance of this event by trying to love our country more, even if it doesn't come naturally. Be good celebrating citizens and patriots all at once. I hope this idealistic entry provokes each one of us to think about our function in society and how we can keep this fabric consistently intact.

-Kenneth Wong(I swear I didn't get paid to write this)

*I realised if the President could come up with some bullshit which we HAD to endure during army camp parades on the eve of National Day, so can I churn some too. Eh my tip of the day to all u NSFs is to take MC on Aug 8th.