A Toast to Our Nation

We are celebrating National Day on 9 August 2021. We are still living with Covid-19. This is second year running. We are in it together as a whole nation toggling between pessimism and optimism. While I am in a celebratory mood, I wish to acknowledge those who keep the nation going. They have my respect and gratitude.

The delivery people who came to my home to deliver items we bought on-line. We limit going out during restricted movement periods and therefore we bought things on-line.

Hawkers, food preparers and chefs who have to wear their face masks when cooking. It is not comfortable when they are cooking over a hot fire.

Retail shop assistants, supermarket personnel and wet market stall holders who have to interact with customers are at risk of contracting the virus.

Hairdressers are vulnerable since they are in close contact with customers.

Dentists, doctors, nurses and clinic assistants have to wear PPE to treat us. They are the front-line people in facing the virus during their workdays.

People who lost their jobs or reduced work hours in sectors hit badly by this pandemic. They had to find other jobs during this trying time. Some took up roles such as Safe Distancing Ambassadors and Swabbers.

Finally, all Singaporeans who have to live with Covid-19, from lockdowns to Work-fromHome and Home-Based Learning. Most of us played our parts to keep everyone safe.

Happy 56th National Day!