This Tuesday, when I went to the hall to watch the girls from the Malay Dance CCA perform, I serendipitously spotted my son sitting in front of me. Without hesitation, I put him on my lap, all ready to enjoy the show. He squirmed in what I assumed was embarrassment and returned to his original place. Nonetheless, we enjoyed the dance in close proximity to each other - in the same space.

During today’s Slow Sip, a colleague brought up the fact that her ex-colleague laments about how he is stricter with his daughter at school, thus creating a double personality quandary. His daughter complains that she doesn’t understand why he is so harsh on her at school. After hearing this anecdote, I realised that what you see is what you get. I have no qualms about acknowledging my son at school.

In fact, I initiate a hug before he goes off for his afternoon student care. Actually, I think I need it more than him. Teaching is so pressurising these days. That hug from him is a balm to my wounded and weary soul.

All in all, I’m glad to have my son study in the same school as me - especially when he still doesn’t mind physical closeness with his old man.