Year 2010

Happy new year and season's greetings.

The spectacular fireworks display at Marina Bay in Singapore welcomed the new year with a literal "big bang". Sailing in the tugboat along the Singapore river forty minutes before the countdown was a new experience for me.

The whole place was bustling with people of all races and creed. Crowds had gathered at various vantage points to witness the fireworks display. But from the boat, the added advantage was also to watch the crowds along the river side, along the Cavenagh Bridge, the Merlion Park and the Esplanade Bridge. The atmosphere was one of festivity-people partying away in the pubs and cafes nearby, chatting away, or just strolling around. But what was more appealing to me was the enjoy the charm of the city lights of the iconic buildings around as well as the lights and floating balls in Marina Bay.

The Djs tried to boost up the joyful mood and at one instance even called on people to reflect on their lives of the current year and to make their resolutions for the new year. I wondered how this mental exercise could be possible..... maybe a quite time later would be more appropriate.

As countdown approached the crowds cheered and all were richly rewarded with the eight minutes of fireworks to usher in the new year. It is left for all of us to make our resolutions and set our goals for a richer and more meaningful life.