This CIP trip to Cambodia has been a really meaningful one, It is a trip that one will not find in Singapore.
I've learnt alot from this trip from basic skills to moral education, This trip shows the different side of me, one that I will never find in Singapore. From the living the life of a modern 2000s year Singaporean in a pampered and rich city to a peaceful kampong life of Singapore back in the 1950s.
Before day 1, I've been looking foward to this trip for a long time, Upon arriving at Cambodia, the first thing that change myself is eating Insects about an inch long, Everyone dare to try it and we felt really proud of ourself, When we arrived at the Village, We really found ourself back to the simple facilities, I will never forget that experience and life there. Animals roam freely and the villagers were friendly and hardworking, and noisy rooster woke me up in 4 in the morning and I had to go to the toilet in total darkness,It was also enjoyable to look at the night sky.
While teaching students from the school, It was tough espicially since we speaked different language, but we manage to teach them as they were very willing to learn, unlike us who take school for granted, they go all out, one boy said something to me that really motivated me, He said that he wanted to study very hard and go to university so as to be able to come to Singapore to meet us, Upon hearing that, I've felt really guilty about the way we are back in Singapore. When delivering food/clothes to the needy, their genuine smile on their faces warms our hearts and brightens our day,We feel a strong urge to help more people then. During campfire, We were all dancing and moving according to the music, everyone was enjoying ourself, in the end, we were all tired but happy, this would not have happen in Singapore whereby most will just stay attached to the computer rather that enjoying themselves to the 'real' natural entertainment. From that experience, I've learnt that we must all strive and learn to live life to the fullest and happiest. Although I cannot bear to part with the village, but we evantually have to go.
I felt that the toughest day was on Day 4 when we spent our whole day doing community service such as carry zinc blocks, painting and leather carving. I've learnt that the people there have a very strong will to go all out and strive for the better, after that day, I felt that I need and will change for the better. It's not just about doing community service but also about helping out others and making their lives much better. The words that are painted by us will remain in my mind, and I hope the local Cambodians will remember and strive to their fullest potential : When there is a will, There is a way!
The best day was probably day 5 whereby we enjoy ourself the whole day, It felt very magnificient to see Angkor Wat, one of the 20 finalist candidate to the 7 wonders of the world.
Overall, This trip has been very meaningful and has change my life for the better, I will not take things for granted and will strive to work hard and be a better person, I do wish the trip was much longer, as I felt an urge to continue there for about a week more. I would like to thank the teachers : Ms Quan, Mr Ong,Ms Voo, Ms Kati, Ms Lim,Ms Karen ,Aunt Esther and Mr Moni for their support towards me and the group. Hope there will be more people joining for the next year trip as it will definitely change your life for the better and bring out the 'true' in you.
Gladwin (Gazing into the night sky from a different angle on Earth)
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