Larry's Escape

I am never good with words, neither am I a good writer. When I was asked to write about my experience in the GK Village. I was taken aback. I was afraid I could not churn out a wonderful piece of essay, with mountains of cliche statements. But as I now reflect upon what I experience there, it just flows out so naturally.

I wondered why? Perhaps it was the sincerity of the locals that allowed me to naturally write out this sincere reflection.

Perhaps some sincere declarations. Before I arrived in the village, I kept thinking to myself, what would be the situation there at Bagong Silang? Can I even take the hardship? Being a “pampered” kid since young, and always making it a point to stay in posh hotels for vacations, will Larry be able to take it? My friends even joked, “Larry, do not go there for 1 day, and fly back the very next day.”

I had doubts. I had doubts about my safety, my experience, and even my comfort. But these 2 weeks of stay had indeed changed my view of many things. I had never felt so happy before in my life.

I was indeed touched by how the community were so close together. I was so touched by how all the villagers were so sincere in whatever they do. Simple gestures like hugs had never meant so much to me. Just a simple “I will miss you”, “I love you”, to them, meant so much. But in a busy city like mine, how much do any of the above mean to an individual?

In the midst of our busy lifestyle, we strive for wealth, we strive for status, and we strive for so many things. But to the villagers, having their family with them, and loving god, is all that matters. The love they had for one another is so pure, and so sincere. I felt so loved by everyone there, from the children to the adults. Till now, even when I look back, I can still remember all the little love they showed me, and all the little gestures that mean so much to me.

In this lonely city, we lack love. And within that short period of time there, I felt the love which had been missing in my life for a long time. All I can say is that the villagers brought me to realise how important my family is to me. How I should treasure them, and love everyone around me like how they did in the village.

Perhaps one country may have many skyscrapers, many beautiful architecture. But the one X Factor that makes a place beautiful is the community, their people, their love. And I am proud to say that, GK Village is a true sincere beauty. Thank You for the experience, the joy and the smiles. It will last a life time.

Larry Yeung