the thing that struck me when we visited the poorest places in Hougang was that although on the outside the HDB blocks were really nicely painted with hues of cheerful blues and yellows, it was really different once we got inside. the one-room flats were so tightly packed that the corridors were incredibly dark with just one opening at each end that gave any clue that it was broad daylight outside. it was almost like we did that cliche thing where we stepped into an alternate universe. even the mood of the place was just __. i can't really describe it. all i know is that everyone just felt that it was just more respectful to be quiet. if the walls could talk.

the saddest part of it all was perhaps that most of the flats we ventured into were mostly lived in by an old person. it felt terrible to think of someone living out the last of years of his/her life in that place. it's heart-wrenching and it's just not right.

i knew that as soon as i got home, i was going to forget about what i've heard or seen once i settled on my comfy bed with my laptop and listening to my grandpa in the next room watching television. i knew. i know. but at least, this is still a testament that i did/do/will continue to care.