Wednesday, June 09, 2010
The weekly Tuesday Report documentary never fail to arouse my interest by coming up with shows that captures my attention. The heartlander in me loves to watch those that revolve around the lives of the common people and it was indeed refreshing to see a Dutch expatriate who has now become a permanent resident. When he's not contributing to the economy, he's busy being a godfather to a pair of twins belonging to his good friend (who's a local). That's not the end though - he volunteers his time to be part of the volunteer special constabulary.
Just imagine an ang moh marching hand in hand with other Singaporeans while listening to malay commands. My stereotype is that most would probably spend their free time after work or on weekends drinking in a pub or playing rugby by imagining themselves as being superior to Asians. That's how bad it is. The training alone does not take into account the minimum hours (24 hours a month for senior officers and 16 for junior ones) he has to spent on patrolling or attending to non-urgent cases. He spoke of his distress at seeing the elderly who lived alone in those one-room flats and having to attend to cases where they were injured in residents. He was not even born here but the fact that he empathized with these old folks should make us feel ashamed of ourselves.
While the sight of him talking to many of the old folks at those cosy corners located in the blocks makes for a double take since both don't speak a common language, one could tell his love and concern was genuine. Getting paid a paltry S$3.60 per hour for his services would have put most off the job but he takes his job seriously. That resulted in a letter of commendation by a Singaporean who had trouble crossing a junction as a result of having to take care of her baby and groceries. Stijin, the VSC constable, helped to direct traffic to ensure that she gets across safely. We've lots to learn from him in the way he gives back to society without expecting any in return.
One of my childhood ambition is to become a policeman but the fact that I had colour deficiency ended this dream of mine. If the opportunities present themselves, who knows? I might sign up for a VSC position myself.
