I have lived here ever since I was four. Growing up here, I have developed sentimental feelings for this place, a sense of familiarity and love – Dakota Crescent is my childhood sweetheart! 10 I used to share a three-room flat with my parents and six siblings. With five cents in my hand, I would run with my siblings to the nearby roadside huts at Old Airport Road and purchase stationery. Now, I am the only one left here.
Last time, you can hear the quacking of ducks below, and even see baby crocodiles in the Geylang River. Now you don’ t see these things anymore. 11 You see when I open my window, I can see the river, I can see the planes landing Open space, very open. I will miss the relaxed atmosphere and the scenary. 12
I left Singapore to work overseas for about 20 years. Coming back home, I still chose to live at Dakota Crescent. There will be a place to settle in after passing many destinations in life, because only that place can truly give me a sense of belonging. I grew up together with Singapore, witnessed it evolving, changing and eventually turning half a century old. 10 The residents here are extremely close-knit. We would invite our neighbours to our homes for meals whenever we see each other.
My primary school is gone, my secondary school is gone, now the place that I grew up, it is going to be flat. Places like Dakota Crescent are an asset. It is very sad, because buildings like these, you can touch and feel. 12
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