As I entered Sims Avenue the regular chaos of buses stopping, people jaywalking, and everyone changing lanes at random was more intense than usual. I always give credit to Singapore’s best durian stands on the left side of the road. The intense fruit smell pushes some away but to many it is a call they cannot resist! It is a recipe that always calls for careful and considerate driving.
Today the major activity was on the right. Given that most of the shops were closed this time of the evening, I found myself guessing on the source. Whatever my imagination came up with, life is always stranger.
Cruising in the right lane, riding tall, smack in the middle of the lane, was a custom painted, red metallic, motorized wheel chair. The older man riding and driving was sitting tall and proud. This was not a new device. The old model was in perfect condition. It was as if it had been restored to a state that was far better than when it was new.
The site was majestic! With the setting sun behind him, the chair was lit perfectly. It was reflective and magnetic, reminding me of custom car shows and the care that goes into every vehicle on display.
The confidence of the man in the chair was phenomenal. His erect back, perfect posture, and resolute focus on the road ahead spoke of someone who knew exactly what he was doing! There was no doubt, hesitation, or wavering of any kind. He was the king of his domain. He wanted, no demanded, the world to be aware and give him the appropriate respect.
My thought? Ride baby ride!
As I passed on by, giving him plenty of space, I wondered where, how, and most importantly why. On the morning after, I am still unsure. I am reminded of a psalmist prayer; “Don’t let them mock and humiliate me; I’ve been careful to do just what you said.” (Psalm 119.22) I am not sure the author saw a link but from here, I see one.
