“Miss, IC please” instructed the bouncer. I stared blankly at him, puzzled and felt rather insulted, at the edge of my twilight years, reaching the big 30, in 2 years time, this muscular, stern man demands for my identification. I was outraged, so I replied rather defensively. “Are you sure you want to check my identification ? I am very old ler.” “This is a strict bar, I’m sorry. I need to check your ID” he humbly replied.

The queue was getting longer and I was creating an obvious bottle neck. Without further a due, I took out my wallet, dug out my ill looking identification card and reluctantly handed it to him. He took a good look at my photograph and blink at me, in contempt and said “You and I same age la. Enjoy the night, YOUNG LADY”. He snickered away.

It must have been at least ten years ago I last partied in a bar/disco till wee morning hours. I didn’t think I could afford a night like that. Age is just a number. Yes, I know. I can’t help feeling paranoid, especially when you walk down the bar and you see plenty of hot, young girls out there. Fortunately, I have friends who uplift my spirit with their kind, generous compliments, “May Leng, you look so young. You look like a student yourself!”. Sincere or merely humble words of comfort ? Does it matter ? I am thankful that I am reminded of my youth. Yet, another thoughtful reminder from “The One Above” via a book I’m currently reading;

Me, standing proud at 28

Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty. Anyone who keeps learning stays young. The greatest thing in life is to keep your mind young.