Swing

The power to evoke came from a swing today... somewhere in Bishan Park. After the gym session, while walking all the way from YCK to Bishan, we encountered a playground, a deserted one at that. It's not the slide that was enticing me but rather the slinky swing; how it dangles upon the steel bar like a puppet calling its master. I answered the call.

Even before I sat on the seat of the swing, I was already swept by the surge of memories that came rushing. Gaping synapses were soon fired once more as I recalled vividly the days that were long gone, but not from my mind.

'Every week, during our visit to my grandma's house in Khatib, me and my cousins will play at this playground just beside the block. And a playground is never complete without a swing. Literally I was pushed to greater heights, heights and excitement that only a child could comprehend. With the wind brushing my face as I was swept upwards during the motion, it felt like flying. Holding on to the steel 'ropes' that held the swing, it represents the fear of falling. How silly it was then.'

Now, even at the age of 21, it felt unmistakably familiar. Kicking the sand to attain height, tucking the feet during descend, I could still remember it. Though I didn't swung high, I certainly felt lifted.

It swings both ways...