3 things I learnt during my most recent trip to Malacca

On impulse last month, I booked a coach ticket and hotel stay for one in Malacca for 2 nights. The day I left (31 July), I almost regretted it as I rued the absence of my usual travel companion-  my cousin Karen. The journey took 5 hours and I realized people viewed a lone female traveller unusually. The bus driver tried to be friendly with me when we arrived in Malacca and I was the last to alight, so I was all too happy to check into my room quickly. But it was not without a moment's hesitation. I had not travelled alone for more than 10 years and initially, the silence unnerved me. That night, I met my old friend there and he took me to his mother's home to enjoy homecooked Peranakan food. :) I also met his wife and cute little son.

On Day 2, my adventure truly began after a very sound night's sleep. I explored the town on foot and got totally lost at Jonker Street. Miraculously, I found myself outside one of my favourite cafes and settled down for lunch. Then I did the usual touristy stuff and I asked myself why I was there by myself. By nightfall, the answers came. I was there to find myself, and for many years I could not answer the question. It was about finding my purpose in life, and to face my demons. When I did, it wasn't that bad at all. In fact, nothing bad happened.

I also decided that I had to let go of the past and move on. What is past is past, and I can do nothing to change it. I can only live each day right and as meaningfully as I can. Then when I do look back, it will be worth remembering, and I can honestly say that I am living my life well. :)

Travelling solo has its perks too.

My letter to the Straits Times, published on 15 Feb 2013

Nurses who made a difference

THE article ("Health officials in strong defence of nurses"; Sunday) reminded me of the two times I was hospitalised - in KK Women's and Children's Hospital in 2005, and in Thomson Medical Centre in 2008.

Both times, I needed to have ovarian cysts removed and I remember two nurses who took care of me.

On the first occasion, I was hospitalised for unbearable abdominal pain.

As I lay on the hospital bed, I began hyperventilating and a nurse came over to comfort me.

She rubbed my fingers to try to relieve the pain, then dashed to the pharmacy to get a painkiller for me.

She was still gasping for breath when she administered it to me.

I was hospitalised again in 2008 for the same problem.

I remember a nurse who would quietly pop into my ward at night to touch my toes to check if I was cold, and cover my feet with a blanket.

In times of pain and ill health, the actions of nurses bring great comfort and relief to patients.

Nurses are certainly not "low-skilled" workers.

It takes a lot of patience, courage and heart to be a good nurse.

I appreciate the health-care workers out there and thank them for their work.

Sophia Tan Chay Lee (Miss)