An Indian, a Malay, a Eurasian and a Chinese met for lunch the other day.
Various places were suggested but rejected. Then one asked: “Where can we get good Nasi Padang?”
A well known eating place at Joo Chiat was mentioned.
So on that nice sunny day, the four met for a catch up lunch.
The four became friends almost 30 years ago while working in the same industry. Now, three are still working and one has retired.
The Chinese hadn’t met two of them for a few years. Still, there was no awkwardness, just lots of reminiscing and jokes. Although at times, the Chinese felt a bit lost as the jokes flew fast and furious. But the care and concern given to the very young Chinese back then as a young and green rookie in the working world, was still evident during lunch that day.
As I reflected on the meeting that night, I realised that it was not just a celebration of friendships that have lasted nearly three decades. It was also a realisation, how race, religion and gender were not part of the equation during all these years.
We shared a yummy meal of nasi padang that day before proceeding to kopi and tei (the kopi and tei were regrettable). Before parting, they repeatedly told me to to keep in touch and not to be a stranger.
Four different races, three different religion and two different genders. I felt blessed and fortunate.
Here’s to my friends and more nasi padang in the future.
