Persistant Perseverence

 

Persistence and perseverance have been the cornerstones of my personal journey, shaping my experiences, molding my character, and defining my path to growth. Throughout my life, I've come to realize that achieving meaningful goals requires steadfast determination and an unyielding spirit.

One of the most profound lessons I've learned is that setbacks and challenges are inevitable companions on the road to success. Whether facing academic hurdles, personal struggles, or professional setbacks, I've encountered numerous moments where giving up seemed like the easiest option. Yet, each time, I chose to press forward with renewed determination.

Persistence, for me, is not just about pushing through difficulties but also about maintaining a resilient mindset in the face of adversity. It's about embracing failures as opportunities for growth, learning from mistakes, and continuously striving to improve. This mindset has not only helped me overcome obstacles but has also shaped my approach to life, instilling in me a belief that every setback is a stepping stone towards achieving greater things.

There have been times when doubts crept in, when the path ahead seemed dauntingly steep, and when success appeared out of reach. During these moments, I leaned on my resilience and unwavering resolve to persevere. I reminded myself that setbacks are temporary and that with perseverance, resilience, and a positive attitude, I could navigate through any challenge.

Persistently pursuing my goals has taught me valuable lessons about the power of resilience and determination. It's about showing up consistently, putting in the hard work even when results are not immediate, and maintaining faith in the process. This commitment to persistence has not only helped me achieve personal milestones but has also shaped my character, fostering a sense of strength and resilience that extends beyond individual achievements.

In essence, persistent perseverance is more than just a trait—it's a mindset, a way of life that embraces challenges as opportunities for growth and views setbacks as temporary detours rather than dead ends. It's about believing in oneself, refusing to give up in the face of adversity, and continually striving towards personal and professional excellence.

As I continue on my journey, I carry with me the invaluable lessons learned through persistent perseverance—lessons that remind me of the strength found in resilience, the power of determination, and the endless possibilities that await those who refuse to be deterred by obstacles.

From Festivity to Disenchantment: My Changed Perspective on the 4th of July

 

I hesitated to write this during the Fourth of July festivities out of respect for my fellow American friends and family. However, it’s time to share my evolving perspective on this holiday. When we moved back to Singapore almost 19 years ago, I held onto American traditions, celebrating everything we used to in the USA, including the Fourth of July. It was important to me that my children didn't miss out on their roots. We proudly celebrated every year in our own way, keeping the spirit of American independence alive in our household.

However, I no longer feel the same pride in America. The celebrations now feel hollow in light of current events and the state of the country. The ideals we once celebrated seem to be in stark contrast to the reality many Americans face today.

One of the main reasons for my disillusionment is the treatment of veterans. These are individuals who fought for the very freedom we celebrate on the Fourth of July, yet they are not being taken care of as they should be. In my ten years working in real estate rentals, I’ve seen firsthand how many veterans struggle. They fought for our freedom, but it often seems like everything is reversed now, with those who should be honored and supported instead being neglected and forgotten.

In addition to the plight of veterans, I am deeply troubled by the epidemic of gun violence, particularly the tragic shootings of innocent children in schools. Schools should be safe havens, yet they have become sites of unimaginable horror. Despite the urgency of this crisis, meaningful gun control legislation remains elusive due to the entrenchment of the Second Amendment and powerful lobbying groups.

I could list many other reasons for my disappointment with America, but it’s essential to also acknowledge the opportunities I had while living there. My 11 years in the USA helped me grow as a person and become more independent. I experienced much more than many of my fellow Singaporeans who never had the opportunity to live overseas. For that, I am grateful.

However, this does not negate the frustrations I feel about America's current state. For instance, our tax money often goes to support individuals who contribute little to society, while veterans are denied much-needed assistance. Moreover, as long as we hold US citizenship or a green card, we are required to pay taxes to both the USA and the country we live and work in, which can be financially burdensome.

The situation has become even more complicated now that my children have chosen to be Singaporean citizens. Singapore does not allow dual citizenship, so they have decided to give up their American citizenship. The process has been anything but straightforward. The American embassy requires an exorbitant fee of USD $3,000 to renounce citizenship, a figure that was increased from USD $400 under Obama’s administration. This fee feels like a desperate attempt to retain citizens for tax purposes and leaves a bitter taste in our mouths.

I am unhappy about paying a total of USD $6,000 for my kids to renounce their American citizenship, but I will be relieved when it’s over. If America is so financially desperate that it needs to charge such high fees, then so be it. This experience has cemented my view that there’s nothing great about the once-great America.

My heart goes out to family and friends who are unhappy living in the USA but have no other choice. We are fortunate to have an alternative, and what an awesome alternative it is: Singapore. Here, we feel safe, supported, and part of a community that values and protects its citizens.

In conclusion, the Fourth of July has transformed from a day of joyous celebration to a time of reflection and disillusionment for me. The disparities between the ideals of freedom, justice, and equality and the current realities in America have led to a profound shift in my perspective. While I cherish the growth and experiences I gained during my years in the USA, I cannot ignore the systemic issues that have tarnished my view of the country. As I move forward, I do so with a heavy heart for those still grappling with these challenges and a deep appreciation for the life we have built in Singapore.