Andy,
Very true dear friend! There were so many kind-hearted folks in the old days.
But I was also fortunate I had a very independent nature, unafraid to venture out alone even at night. My folks at home were never worried where I was or what I was up to. They knew I could look after myself pretty well in the 50's and 60's. 🙏😍
In 1960, I was in Primary Six at Geylang English School One. I was living with the family at Lorong 40, Siang Lim Park. But because I was sitting for the PSLE [Primary School Leaving Examination] and we had a big family at home, a decision was made that I should bunk with my elder sister's family at Dakota Crescent, in a ground floor shophouse unit. It was great for me as I could study quietly and walking to school was a breeze.
On many weekends night, I would go to the Happy World Amusement Park alone [also known as Gay World] as it was not far away for a twelve year old child. I would have no money to pay for the entrance fee or anything else. But I had observed other children entering free with adult parents or uncles and aunties. The trick?
I just stood near the entrance and always a kind unknown uncle going in will ask, "You want to go in?"
And "Yes!" was my reply.
Such friendly, kind uncles after getting me in for free will also ask what I wanted to see. My first request were the Wrestling matches inside the covered stadium.
"Come!" they'll say, as they bought tickets, and in we went. It was free again!
Happy World was a magical land at night for everyone. Food, music, dances, rides, local culture, shopping, delicious, chewy tidbits and more.
The story of my night adventures was featured on TV, "There Was A Time", a historical documentary by Media Corp, a few years ago.
Comments are always welcome...
🥰🌺✌👍☘️Here's another one:
Author: Dick Yip
