For anyone connected to Singapore, we recognised the colours and meaning of the balloons. There were no signs. There were no explanations. I did not hear anyone ask about their meaning. The details, meaning, and purpose were etched on our hearts. Kids played, and everyone celebrated another national day.
As the evening fades and today begins, I think of the recurring themes embedded in the red and white: respect for all, strength in diversity, and moving forward. I recognise how each theme mixes a national call to action with a calling to the heart. I am filled with hope because of my experience in the way these values flow into conversation, song, and community. In the turning towards the day ahead, the whispers that shape and guide return.
Truth-filled values transcend written rules and instructions. We can look at examples and explore how closely they exemplify the heart, all while knowing that life moves onwards with each step to the future of our imagination. My awareness takes me to an old story and the echo I experienced in the celebration; “This new plan I’m making with Israel isn’t going to be written on paper, isn’t going to be chiseled in stone; This time I’m writing out the plan in them, carving it on the lining of their hearts. I’ll be their God, they’ll be my people.” (Hebrews 8.10)
Every individual has, within their heart, mind, and soul, the ability to model kindness, care, and compassion. It’s an individual challenge. Corporately, it includes my calling to support the individuals around me in a way that s/he recognises and has asked for. My starting point is a ruthless examination within. When I start there, everything is possible. Awareness gives birth to learning and finding itself in my expressions of growth and change. Celebrations can happen anywhere. Last night, I saw it in the forgiveness and understanding between young individuals. I can see it now, in this moment and the ones to come, each a balloon waiting to be waived and popped. Celebration steps revealed in words and action.
