The air was charged with excitement at Yishun Stadium. 6 Stalwart students — even the mischievous ones — wore solemn expressions on their faces. They were warming up for the rigorous inter-class relay. Since every student had to run a lap around the track, it would be a test of their tenacious spirit. The race finally started, to tremendous applause from the spectators. 6 Stalwart runners sprinted with vigorous energy, determined to clinch victory.

Friction. You know it as the force that opposes motion, but do you know that we can use it to describe everyday occurrences? When we undertake something, it is normal to encounter setbacks occasionally. We can regard these setbacks as a form of friction that prevents us from accomplishing our goals. Hence, when we graciously accept these setbacks and do not feel frustrated, we should be able to overcome them. Let’s welcome friction into our lives! Success does not come about by accident!

I received my test paper from my English teacher with quivering hands (nervous). A dejected expression soon crossed my face (sadness) when I realised that I had flunked it. I hung my head low in shame (guilt) as I thought about how disappointed my parents would be.