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Nicer Human Beings

Another hard-to-decide-where-to-dine lunch time.

I came to a café, and was looking for a table. Here comes the problem: almost all tables are 4-seaters. I have this impression that Singapore in a way is trying to promote "unity", "community", "togetherness" or whatever they call it; that is why, every food place I go, most tables are meant for at least 4 diners (except on Valentine's Day, some restaurants would rearrange the tables for couples). But the ironic truth is, most people -- as I observed -- come out for lunch alone! So what you would normally see in a restaurant or café is, most of these 4-seater tables are occupied by just 1 person. What a clever scheme to campaign for so-called "togetherness". Huh!

However, I still have to eat. So I have no choice but to sit at a 4-seater table. I look and feel really inconsiderate, but what choice do I have, being in a country like this, on a planet like this?

While I was eating, a girl came to speak to me - surprisingly, as you don't get that much here - and asked if she could join me at my table. Of course, I said, please do. That would be more sustainable than just me alone hogging such a big space.

We started having small talks. She seemed like a nicer human being anyway. You don't get this a lot on earth. Most people - especially those from or residing in a more developed country - would think you are a nutter if you start talking to them. So new Erisians out there, take note. What surprised me even more was, she is a Singaporean! So there are some friendly Singaporeans! There are some nicer human beings!

Does it mean there is still hope for human species? I surely hope so.

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