FaReWeLL fRoM oFfiCe

...Lo aNd BeHoLd...


Yesterday marked the second most touching day in my life this year other than my birthday, My last day in the office.


My heart and mood were on a low as I walked up the hill to my office for probably the last time this vacational attachment. As I entered the office, every single person greeted me, "Good morning, Sir" with total enthusiasm, all knowing that it was going to be my last day in office. Then, Miss Amanda came in and shook my hand to congratulate me on completing the attachment. She gave me a shoe bag. What happened next totally hit me by storm. Jill bought me two boxes of Royce chocolate. For those who know me, chocolates are the one thing that I cannot resist. The Royce chocolates were heavenly. I shared one box of them with the office and brought the other box home.


In the afternoon, the whole bunch of us went to Jack's Place at Bukit Panjang Plaza for my farewell lunch. The food at Jack's place was not bad as usual. I had the grilled chicken that I would rate 3.5 stars out of 5 stars. Of course, Jack's place is a steak eatery so I guess I cannot rate the overall restaurant since I cannot eat the beef. During the lunch, the NSFs surprised me with a new set of Nike headphones and a farewell card written by every single person in the office. I was thoroughly touched. Thank you everyone.


However, there was more to come. After work, my bosses brought me down to the mess. Although they made me down almost 2 mugs of beer (I don't drink), I had the most enjoyable time ever. I talked to them, got to know my bosses and commanders on a better level. I even got to see the Minister in real life for the very first time. Amazing....


After, reaching home, I got changed and went out to meet some of my office people for supper at Punggol Nasi Lemak. The nasi lemak there was savoury as usual. The rice was fragrant and the batter used for the fried chicken enable the chicken skin to be light and crunchy. I'll give it 4 stars out of 5 stars. After sitting around and chatting, I finally retired home, at bliss with the day's events. I was very touched indeed.


Here are some of the messages my office people wrote for me:

• Dearest Sir, thanks for being such a great officer and friend to all of us. We'll miss ya, keep in touch
  

• Sir, it really saddens me to see you leave. You've been really a good officer and you really got every inch of my respect. This period was really inspiring to me and I've also learnt alot from you. Not only were you a great officer, you were a great friend to all of us, esp me. Thanks for encouraging me always and helping me to overcome my fear of 'the bar'. Life in office will definitely be different without your presence. Will really miss ya and do not forget us. Hope you enjoyed your stay with us and all the best.

• Loke, you're indeed an interesting character to be with. I like your sense of humour and especially your great smile! Thanks for bringing so much fun and joy to our branch. I am impressed with your passion and dedication towards your assignments. Keep up the good work and maintain the good work attitude. With this, I'm sure you'll scale the peak of excellence in whatever you do, be at at a professional or personal level.

• LTA Loke, though your stay with us has been short, I find that you are a very responsible and humble officer. It was great to have you as our project officer.I can see that despite being very busy,you always spare time for exercise. This is something I should learn... haha... take care and see you around

• Yoyo Handsome Mr Eggs, really appreciate your enthusiasm in organizing those bonding activities- life became so much more fun! Will miss your company. but hey, goodbye is not forever. Do well in school and realise your dreams:) Keep on runnin'...

• Hey man, although its been a really short time, its easy to tell that you're one driven individual and a responsible one at that. Remember to stay in tune with yourself as you climb the rank ladder. Other than that, you are one that definitely leads by example. Keep in touch.

• Sir, its really nice to know you. You and Ashwin really made the office much more happening. Hundreds and thousands of thanks for your help in the book and thank you for being my confide. See you in dec or in NUS.

• Heya Mr Loke, it has certainly been a great time having you around. It really doesn't feel like you've been around for 10 weeks. Suddenly, much life was injected into the branch with so many activities lined up. Night cycling will really be something I'll remember as my best experience in NS.

• Loke, we are going to miss you alot, especially me. But I can look at your photo everytime...hahaha

• Sir, it was nice knowing you. Thanks for all the fun and joy you've brought to the office. Have a great time at school!

• Hi Sir, I think I'm going to write have a nice day again... lol

• Yo Loke, your presence has brought much joy and laughter despite the short time. Thank you and all the best!! Ps, "I'll be monitoring you"

• You guys have been a great help. Keep up the positive attitude!

• Dear bro, haha, hw coincidental for us to be in the same branch togather! But it was fun and I grew to know you better and get closer to you! What a bonus in that! I know we will be friends forever. SSSS Twins rule!!!

• Hi Loke, it was good to get to know you. All the best to your studies and may you have a fruitful stay with the force.

I really thank each and everyone of you in making my stay such a memorable one. With all these well wishes, I feel invigorated to try my best for the scholarship interview next week.


...aNgeLs BrOugHt mE HeRe...