I returned to work in the middle of October last year after a bilateral knee replacement.
For a few weeks after my return, I had to hobble around with the aid of a walking stick.
Many people have lamented the lack of social graces among Singaporeans, especially the younger generation, but my experiences during those weeks were positive.
Whenever I boarded a train, someone would offer a seat to me without my having to ask for it.
On one occasion, a young woman even apologised for not offering me a seat earlier because she had closed her eyes and was apparently resting. Another time, during a rainy evening, a young man even carried my bag up and down two flights of stairs when he saw me struggling with it.
Special mention must go to the SMRT service ambassadors at Jurong East station.
They not only ensured that I got to the head of the queue for boarding the train, but one of them even carried my bag into the train and ensured that I was properly seated before departing.
She is a real asset to her employer and deserves special commendation.
Freddy Neo
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