A learning experience I won't forget.

This C.I.P trip to Cambodia really taught me many things that I could never have learnt here in Singapore. Over there, the peoples' living conditions were extremely bad and impoverished unlike Singapore where the majority of people get to enjoy their lives in luxurious conditions, e.g air conditioners, beds to sleep on, proper toilets etc. and get to have nutritious meals three times a day. Majority of the Cambodians were poor and left hungry as seen from their small frames. I feel that most Singaporeans are priviledged to actually have a place to live, food to eat, chance to study etc. These things do not come easy for most Cambodians as they simply cannot afford it. So I think that Singaporeans should treasure and cherish what they have instead of complaining and grumbling on things that are superficial, taking things for granted. ( no offence ). Life in Cambodia were very simple and yet the people were contented, going about their daily lives. I really admire them for their simplicity, as simplicity, to them is an attribute, and they would make full use of what they have to survive. No complaints came from them at all. As most of the children in Cambodia are weak in the command of English, communicating with them was a tough job. Fortunately, they were humble. I believe that they would succeed in mastering the English language and a better life would be ensured for them as English is an international language. Though I have only taught them for a while, but I could see that they were putting in the effort to improve their English language, and if they continue with this positive attitude consistantly, I'm confident that they would be successful in the future.
I was also very touched by one thing about the Cambodian children, and that is their sincerity. They were very sincere and appreciative in everything they do. E.g. they would welcome every visitor to their school by waiting at the entrance and saying 'hello', also giving thanks to everything they receive. Though this is a simple word, it can brighten up someones day. The smile from their faces did have an impact on me as they were not arrogant/stuck up, at all. I have taken away so many things from this trip and all these are experiences that would help change me to become a better person. Jia you and good luck to all the children/people in Cambodia in achieving their excellence in life.

Low Chuwen Fu