Remember the days, we set out together with faith?
Remember the times, so fine,
when we thought that nothing could stand in our way?
Then things weren’t the same,
the life that we knew had to change
We’ve struggled through the darkest storms we thought we couldn’t tame
Together we’ve tried, as we stood side by side
I knew we’d build a new world
A world of hope for ever after
Deep in my heart I just knew
Right from the start, we will grow
Look where we are, we’ve come so far
And there’s still a long, long way to go …
Do the opening words above sound familiar to you? They were taken from “We Will Get There”, released 5 years ago to celebrate the country's birthday.
This inspiring song tells us the progress and achievements a nation can make if its people put their hearts and minds together, and despite having overcome the seemingly endless obstacles, it still has a long way to go.
It is funny how the same words can now curiously apply to the current state of affairs in the company, with many of us riding this little boat attempting to stay afloat amidst the choppy seas for the past 8 months.
We have witnessed the exit of many a colleague and friend. I am just the next one in line, a natural progression for many of us who seek better career prospects, especially in the face of the growing job market out there. It’s a search for job satisfaction, for better work environment, and happiness at work ultimately. Whether the pursuit will prove to be a fruitful one, your guess is as good as mine.
When you reach the end of the boardwalk, and the engulfing fire behind you is catching up, what do you do?
Do you stay on and hope to somehow survive the fire, or take the plunge into the water? Yes, the cold water will probably provide temporary relief from the heat, and give you a cool head to think for a moment. But as you strive to swim ashore elsewhere, you can't help but wonder what awaits you in the lurking dark blue sea.
For me, I've decided to take that leap of faith.
Friday was my last day at work here. I sent an email to colleagues to say so long, but was asked how come the farewell note is so short! So by popular demand, here's the extended version (sugar donut remix), haha.
Colleagues came by to say hellos and goodbyes. At the end of the day, the team congregated at the cubicle area to "celebrate" the occasion with a chocolate cake. Many unfulfilled photo opportunities were realized. In the throes of excitement, a fellow colleague creatively altered the shape of the cake - even before anyone gets to have his cake and eat it. A perfect Hallmark moment.
As the staff began to gradually dribble out of the office, the whole office became quiet and void. After I did some last-minute packing, and had my station completely cleared of useless clutter, I carried my stuff and walked towards the exit. I glanced back to take one last look at the empty work space and the empty corridor, realising that this is the second time I'm making a departure from this same office on the second floor.
As I walked out of the office door past 11 on Friday night, my heart suddenly got heavier and a lump came to my throat momentarily. I felt a surge of inexplicable sense of sadness. My earlier sense of relief was suddenly overwhelmed by melancholy and uncertainty. It dawned on me then that I'm leaving behind my friends at work for real this time.
The friends I have made will always hold an important place in my heart. Almost 5 fulfilling years were shared with friends and colleagues here. I will bring with me fond memories of moments the team spent together.
These are friends who have shared the joy and pain from toiling day and night to keep a fledgling new start-up from going under, the anxiety of losing our jobs, to eventually the sweet taste of success when it was the other paper that folded.
Things aren’t the same now, and sad to say, will never be.
If I may speak on behalf of others, the sweat, the laughter, and the tears will always be remembered and cherished by many of us who walked through the 28th storey glass door over the years.
Friends who have provided as much joy as they have grievances. Friends who, despite causing exasperation, remain extremely likeable nonetheless. You know who you are lah.
1. If you’re good enough to drive, you’re good enough to quit the use of profanities. You’re the awfully sweet supplier of donut to the Donut Factory. Mulling Rodin loves excel, proclaiming it the 8th wonder of the world. The oyster is your world, and the world is your oyster.
2. You toil placidly, away from the glare of the direct spotlight. You remain quietly optimistic despite the changes taking place around you. We took comfort in sharing mindless stories about army and reservists at Clifford Pier.
3. You were the help desk close at hand. You were the gardener with TLC. You spilled your illicit affairs with the wonders of the net, and you share the joy with downloaded copies of Prison Break, as well as your dreams of traveling to US. A softie big-boned teddy we will miss.
4. The party's belle and fair maiden, not afraid to be the jester to provide the laughs. You believe in occasionally taking time off, to sway to the music of life. An excellent pole dancer - well, only if the price is right.
5. No superfluous conversations to prove we are still friends despite the passing of time. Little hellos and hugs provided an uplifting effect on the tired mind. A farewell message so long (ago), you have treasured so fine.
6. The guidance is unwavering. The esprit de corps is extraordinary. The leadership style unmistakable. The laughter infectious. You are the supermom who stood strong even when the blue skies fade to grey. Your support and belief in me gives me strength to move on. Your gifts are always generous and thoughtful, but it's the intangibles that are even more precious. They will be missed.
7. You are a great companion in and out of the office. You shared insightful anecdotes and shocking revelations of Uni days after arriving at little red dot. You’re kool and collected. But go easy on the bouts, bud!
8. It seems as though nothing could ruffle. Yet you mentally tug and tussle. Cutting an austere figure, you kept your cool in the enveloping fire. Alas patience ran out in the mire.
9. The pair of swollen eyes gave you away. You sobbed yourself to sleep after a night of drama. A lover of dogs, you would jump at any opportunity to share your passion for Jeju, Hanbok or Kwon Sang-woo. Besides being Kleenex’s unofficial ambassador, you get my vote as the undisputed Queen of K drama, no contest.
10. You have a natural gift for design and photography. You have meaningfully embraced and exemplified the gift of giving with your handmade birthday presents each year, including the little travel companion music CD you’ve made for my US trip last year.
11. “Big sister” to everyone around, you personify a picture of cool and aplomb even in the face of crisis. Steamboat farewell lunch was a pleasant surprise. Your very able assistant has mellowed to exude more womanly appeal after marriage.
12. Quick and creative with your hands. High emotional quotient and highly organized. Like me, you are a fan of photography and music. More photo ops at home should be coming along, I surmise.
13. Stubborn and spontaneous, foul-mouthed and fun-loving. Suspect co-owner of Chevy 55. Your mischief and sense of adventure allows you to make friends quickly and not be afraid to tempt dangers out at sea. Closer to home, this gym rat ought to watch out for mad dogs and shady characters lurking near the canal!
14. Several unforeseen setbacks fail to diminish any hint of cheerfulness from your face. You will be remembered as the chirpy and rosy friend who keeps her spirits high in the school of hard knocks.
15. We are both fond of black-sauced fried carrot cakes, but I’m not crazy about bread – not for dinner at 11pm anyway. Your emails tend to stretch like no other. You use 5 words when 2 would suffice. Quit being a mule and start taking regular meals. Looking less like the Matchstick Man will let you pack a punch to deal with bullies.
16. A four-letter misnomer, a walking encyclopedia. Your friends appear at every corner, as if everyone's invited to coffee at breakfast. I dreamt I was your three-digit date - until prince charming appeared in the nick of time! Force be with Jedi.
17. Pilot of the airwaves at your best, answers dedications and song requests. Like campfire out in the cold, warms the heart and feeds the soul. Memories of treasures made of gold, gladdens the senses of young and old. Despite competitions from the rest, you are by far still the best.
18. You swear by the wonders of Aloe Vera and foliage. Your appealing sense of style defies time and age. When the fair gaze breaks into a smile on the face, you become the good natured joker we have come to appreciate.
19. You have a loyal following who lap up your corny jokes easily. You moonlight as a tour guide specializing in even districts, but it’s that one true love that you’ve set your eyes on - for eternity. Forever Love.
20. You call me brother, but it's you who are the messenger of faith. You shared with me stories of hope. You talent spotted my passion for writing, and encouraged me to pursue it. A friend in need is a “fan” indeed.
21. An intense countenance belies your kindness at heart. Welfare for the staff and families is legendary. Your no-nonsense approach to leadership has earned you admirable respect (and fear) amongst your peers and team members. Nestle proudly presents... the great training school for character building.
22. Efficient, resourceful, and competent. You're often quick to learn. It is no secret that you carry $3m budget with ease. You dot your i's and cross your t's. Your sales track record and P&L will set high standards for all to follow. Bright opportunities await you tomorrow.
23. You unequivocally speak your mind, at times throwing PC and everything else out of the window, including tissue boxes and action figurines. Your rule of thumb: if in doubt, throw! Yours is an inquisitive mind of an astute agent.
24. Strict mother to teenage son, dutiful wife to supportive husband, dedicated servicing person to gah men and women. Fickle minded at times. Armed with quick wits and fearless robin-hood spirits, you are the mother hen to provide the guiding light for junior staff (besides peddling new water).
25. You share with us your painkillers for headaches. You also share with us your headaches about the pain and desire to kill some annoying staff at the office. No, just kidding. You whisper words of encouragement, asking me to stay on track. Steady.
26. A gem of a friend and a mentor, not least because of your innate earnestness and genuine nature towards others. You remain positive amidst the upheavals of corporate life, as you tirelessly instill a sense of optimism and laughter in the team.
27. You share your childhood comfort food at Commonwealth - that remains your favourite till this day. You provide a fresh oasis of friendship when one least expects it. You prove to be extremely competent behind the wheels.
28. You're my regular buddy for break and lunch, before you decide to take the plunge. Toil and sweat for love and dough, alas, recognition you said adds up to none.
29. We chase the dollars. You chase the reports. Take a break to ride the bullet trains, to recover the radiance you've lost in vain.
30. You are a picture of calm - even as the storm arrives! Your wits and survival instinct provide you with the ability to go with the flow and harmonize with the yin and yang.
31. You are quick with your friendly sarcasm, makes for a perfect sparring partner. The great window view aside, sitting next to you did come with its privileges, bummer.
32. You provide water to wounded soldiers in the desert. You provide the fast car for struggling soldiers without batting an eyelid. It’s truly the little gestures that count.
33. A birthday treat that turned out to be farewell. Although you never fail to forget mine, for yours I don’t recall well. Your thoughtful gestures make my tears well, your elephant's memory scares me like hell.
34. You think I'm deaf, I think you're there. A childhood slap has made my talk time scarce. Besides your apparent dare, you've been a trusted friend who cares.
35. Your kind words of encouragement give me faith and hope. Your timely reminders come in handy for many to cope.
36. A misunderstood person, you are. Not many people can relate to you, simply because you do not give them a chance to. You only open yourself up to a select few. Rewarded with good karma for your good deeds, you will be. At work, you are capable of more, only if you also open up your mind to it.
37. Memories of Nissan Terrano, driven with such guts and ferocity, stayed with me after all these years. You still call out to me by name each time we pass. It is a pleasure to know someone as spirited as you.
38. Your aspirations came hard on your heels, and placed you at the quandary. Your ability to roll with the punches will probably set you apart quickly.
39. You tolerate no nonsense. Your watchful eye for details creates works of perfection but distress to many. Perseverance is observed without complaint. You and your team have taught us the most valuable lesson in life - nothing matters more than good health.
40. Spanish flies rendered you helpless and worn, still you carry on. In us, you find listening ears for your pride and woes. From you, we enjoy showers of cups and dough.
41. Whether work or hobby, you undertake it with utmost conviction and passion. You impressed many with the level of intrinsic know-how, matched only by your extraordinary breadth of knowledge and exquisite taste in music and movies. Sometimes spotted somewhere in town seeking spiritual asylum.
42. Two-hundred pound beauty, you're not. Double-duty stunner, you've got. Both are head-turners, both are hot. Twice the envy, twice the sport. Hmm.. Better than whiskey on the rocks, my lord.
43. Bright, matured, and warm. You exude a sense of assurance about you. Sharp, sassy, and street smart. You pursue what you want in life. Nature and people fascinate you. Flickr serves as a record of your passion for travel, cultures, and life.
44. V is for Vivacious. V is for Vogue. V is for Vespa, and Vanishing tears. Your curls make you retro, your eyes make you glow. Happiness oil gets you back on the ground soon after you fall. Press on, and you will soon see the return on your investment rapidly growing. Why? Because you’re worth it.
45. Imagination and creativity are your forte. You are the shining star among the band of brothers. You’re the brain and the muscle behind the celebrated creative buy. Not just an idea but an inspiration, dude! Lorem ipsum. iSalute to iGuru.
46. Well-deserved superlatives have been bestowed upon you. You're a deep well of endless wits and energy. Panadols and laughter are the best medicine. A rare gift with people hands you a fast pass to the highway. Go forth, Luminor. Take route 56 to reach your destination.
47. We count on you for the latest blockbusters from Warner Sis and other Hollywood studios. The unmistakable belly laughter and the mock slap give us something to smile about.
48. Your mirth and embrace never closes. Gemini and junior add joy to shoulder. Boss makes good stance to smell the roses. Fair radiance wins you bosom pals and posers.
49. You are the senior to hold the fort when the occasion calls for the man. In place of a tank, you now drive a saloon car as the family man.
50. Flower power is the name of the game. You are a fair dame who's never lame, and twice in 2 years the blossom came.
51. Your warm support and words are music to the ears. Why a great source of inspiration, the reason is clear. Your enthusiasm to embrace provides occasion for cheer. Precious 35 moves one to tears.
52. Dependable and trusted gym buddy with clout. Chinese idioms and British quotes you spout. You dispense sound advice whether it's head or heart. You display resilient spirits even when life sucks. A bigger and brighter Xmas is promised in store, of swell scale not seen before. You are the role model of lifelong learning we seek, and I am not even referring to that lifetime membership.
53. The smile conveys the regards. The chat brings the esteem. The word carries the faith. The red embodies the goodwill.
54. You shine at dealing with people and their problems. You enjoy travelling, but not as much as playing Charlie to your Angels. You certainly can constantly crack corny comments to make them chuckle.
55. Diligent. Earnest. Appealing. Responsible. Oh, add Meticulous too. Our friendship goes beyond sharing woes, foes and tools. A mutual code of trust, unspoken in dreams to last. A strong and firm mind, the delicate mien seems to mask. Life in farceland may be hard to pass, but with you around it's been such a blast!
Phew! Finally. Little tongue-in-cheek recollections and reflections of the top 55. My personal tribute to the unsung heroes and heroines who each contributed an important slice to the pie.
The characters, idiosyncrasies and incidents portrayed and the names herein may be fictitious, and any similarity to the name, character or history of any person is entirely coincidental (but obviously intentional for some). The oldest trick in the book - if you think it’s you, it’s probably not. Ha.
A dear friend accurately reflected the mutual sentiments when she said she felt a tinge of sadness and emptiness as we hugged and said good-bye. Other friends said it's not good-bye but hello, a new found "freedom", a new chapter in my life. May every step that I take be lighter, and every conversation be made with a smile from the heart.
So, as I embark on this new journey, I wish you all the very best. Everyone has been a significant part of this big family I've come to know and cherish. I will miss all of you.
Hang in there, I hope the dark clouds will soon yield to clearer skies, and wish a better tomorrow for everyone.
Catch you later, alligator. Meanwhile, have a donut! :)
