Singapore is being inundated. Slowly, steadily, and surely increasing numbers of people are looking to Singapore for the next opportunity. As I watch, two recurring reasons come to mind. First, it is tropical. Even when it rains, it is warm. A very cold evening is likely in the low 70’s (20’s for those thinking local). When it gets hot, there is always air conditioning and plenty of refreshments. Second, there are opportunities. Unemployment is in single digits, there is business growth (some), and businesses are investing. Additionally, Singapore has a good climate for starting new businesses.
There are conditions, requirements, and knowledge requirements if one is to seize an opportunity. The key factor is that, in contrast to many countries in the West, business conditions are positive, business regulations are friendly, and people have a chance. Australians have known this for years. Europeans are waking up to the contrasting facts. In general, Americans are still trying to figure out where the island sits geographically. Every geography seems to be represented, even central and southern America.
If I think of what has happened, in many places, “the bottom’s dropped out of the country; good people don’t have a chance.” (Psalm 11.3) What was unthinkable is reality. What would have never been considered now is. I wonder where it stops.
Will the search end with employment? Will individuals go on to explore Singapore’s many faith systems (including hedonism) and respect for the other?
There are a few that came to Singapore years ago and never left. They have put down roots, yet I cannot help but wonder how deep they are. I am intrigue with the growth of Christianity and Buddhism. Singaporeans are searching for more than a paycheck. Many from the West come to survive. In general, they find warmth and opportunities. Many only see the surface. Like being in any location, there is an opportunity to go behind the obvious towards the meaning and purpose that forms the foundation of every community. It is an invitation that many tend to miss, regardless of where they are.
