What
is it that makes ACS so uniquely endearing and
special to all true blue ACSians?
I believe that the reason for our emotive
connection is not because of our alma mater’s
enduring achievements or the outstanding results
or performances of the standard-bearers that we
celebrate from year to year.
Perhaps, ACS holds that place in our hearts
because the school generously embraces each of
us, warts and all. We are not a school with a
homogenous set of overachievers, neither do we
hold up a single model of success for students
to emulate. Indeed, ACSians seem to cherish
(even take pride in) the fact that our school is
often referred to as “… a school where students
(are) notorious for taking short-cuts and having
fun …”.
Yet, the light and carefree nature of ACSians
(at least as perceived by non-ACSians) belies
the understated deep-rooted sense of confidence
and self-assuredness of an ACSian. Even when the
odds are stacked against us, ACSians go into
battle believing in the mission and equipped
with the knowledge that God will bless the
outcome, come what may. The assurance “And we
know that in all things God works for the good
of those who love him, who have been called
according to His purpose” rings true time and
time again for all true blue ACSians.
So, as I gather my thoughts at the start of what
would appear to be a uniquely challenging year
ahead, I am grateful for the 12 years that I
spent in ACS which has provided me with such a
rich and varied tapestry of experiences and set
the benchmark by which I would judge life’s
experiences. The ACS experience is one that I
have found to be purpose-filled (intermingled
with purposeless moments) and which remains
totally fulfilling and satisfying to-date. In
ACS, I learnt to accept and embrace each person
for his (or her) uniqueness as God’s precious
creation, believing that each person has been
endowed by God for His special purpose. As an
old boy, I cherish the profound sense of
affiliation and camaraderie that comes with
accepting, believing and executing in the
collective cause of ACS.
To the ACSians of all ages who read this
article, I wish you a meaningful year ahead and
hope that you will spend a quiet moment or two
this year to reflect on what to me are important
issues in the times that we are living:
-
If our lives ended today, would it have
counted for anything as far as God is
concerned?
-
For those in constant pursuit of academic,
non-academic and sporting excellence, is our
pursuit (and achievements) aligned to God’s
work and His kingdom?
-
For those who have been blessed with
success, fame or fortune, is it not timely
to consider giving back to our alma mater
some of your time and resources, in
consideration of having received so unique a
gift, the privilege of having lived an ACS
experience?
Soli Deo Gloria!
The Best is Yet to Be!
Lim Tat
ACS OBA Management Committee Member