We were never really meant to stay too much time together. Save for a year in Zurich in '95 and another year or so in Kuala Lumpur (96-97), D & I have had to endure a long distance relationship where we spend time together only during weekends. We made up for it with lovely letters and (then) expensive phone calls.
So, there is no way I am spending this sabbatical (however short) alone. We've planned for it to happen last year but the business situation did not permit it. So much for plans, but am glad we are able to do it this year.
We will be away for nearly 3 weeks - first to Brazil, the Peru, then the US. We will spend time in two cities in each country and finally return the other way round the world, stopping in Tokyo then back. Unlike our trip last June (Edinburgh, Boston) where we visited the smaller/more charming "2nd capital", this visit is to places that have been or could have been capitals of the world, from Rio to Macchu Picchu, the zenith would not be reached or sustained.
Compare to what we have here in Singapore where insightful economic planning coupled with rigorous, disciplined execution propelled it into becoming truly a global city. And it achieved this within a generation (the founding father, Lee Kuan Yew, is still alive albeit in frail condition presently). This journey from Third World to First in less than 50 years is a shining beacon for all developing nations.
That said, in every country, there are elements of superiority. So whether Brazil, or even Peru could continue to emerge or if the US or Japan can sustain its supremacy, what I would mits like to see (esp in South America, a continent neither of us has been to), is to bear witness to God's creations, first the geography, and then the history shaped by the geography.
So, goodbye Singapore (for a short while) and here's hoping for a good Sabbath :)
No comments:
Post a Comment