The Journey Home

After a long and relaxing weekend at Tioman with some friends, we finally had to make our way back to Singapore.

The return trip was a bumpy one. First of all we had a not so smooth ride on the speedboat from Tioman to Mersing.... I was counting the minutes when we would finally reach land.... It was hot and stuffy and we had a splashing not-so-good time. Anyhow I thought it wasn't so bad... and treated ourselves to an ice cream.

We had a good start on our drive back from Mersing to Singapore. Traffic was light and everyone was in a happy mood including the baby. Our friends' baby then got restless.. She isn't too happy sitting in the car seat for such a long time. Nothing seemed to pacify her and she definitely made her unhappiness known.

As we approached the Causeway, it turned out that we were unable to cross it as there was a huge pileup in traffic and the roads were closed. The guys immediately said to head back and make way to the Second Link and got to reading maps and getting their bearings... It was already 8.30 pm.

We suggested taking a break and grabbing a bite somewhere and stretch our legs. We found this Pizza Hut by the road side. It turned out to be a delivery outlet and there were limited tables. All were taken and there was no other eatery in sight. Well, we thought, heck, we shall buy our pizzas and eat somewhere outside. What were we thinking??? The restuarant manager wanted to come out and chase us away. However, he was stopped by some customers who were dining in the restuarant, who offered to combine some their tables and let us use one of theirs.

We were touched. Such a generous gesture... especially that they combined their tables with a couple of strangers so that we can have one. We had definitely not expected this and felt the warmth that was shown by them. Such a warm welcome on the foreign land.

It had affected us. There was more laughter and light moments on our remaining journey despite the heavy traffic...

To the family and the couple, we are grateful. .. They have shown us that in our lives, this is what that matters.... the humanity to others regardless of our nationality, our race and our culture.