Since their reunion dinner in December 2014, many in this cohort have not seriously taken a rest. Throughout the year they have continued with their activities despite an inevitable struggle between chronological age and biological age. Regular meetings for morning and afternoon coffee, and monthly lunches have had unexpectedly good attendance. Beyond their mid-seventies, with familial obligations and geriatric issues, such perseverance is laudable.

The more energetic and patient few among them even went to the extent of indulging in a golf challenge. After overcoming heavy morning traffic along the way, two ambitious flights stepped on to the course at Raffles Country Club on 8 September to vie for the coveted Challenge Trophy. John Chen and Tan Keng Jin took the honours respectively.

Needless to say, the long-awaited crème-de-la-crème event was the 59th year-after-school Reunion which took place on 27 November. Months of planning and endless phone calls by Tony Chan, John Chen and those behind-the-scene had overcome reluctance and lame excuses to garner an attendance equal to that of 2014 --- about 50 responded! The Spirit was still there! Understandably, those who could not turn up had valid reasons which were accepted and respected.

For sentimental reasons and for customer-loyalty benefits, cost-wise, the venue remained at OCBC Peach Garden. Before the appointed time, the majority had arrived and gravitated to their interest-groups. Topics of conversation were not achievements on the stock exchange or profitable property acquisitions. They centred round the maintenance of health and recommendations of medication specific to the age group. The absence of noticeable abdominous features testified to this!

Before dinner those who had passed on were remembered with the observance of a minute’s silence. A prayer of thanksgiving for blessings received followed.

There was no instant hurry to move towards the buffet. The eudemonic atmosphere could not be interrupted to allow that! Those who did proceed felt uneasy as they attracted attention!

No entertainment of whatever genre was possible as the karaoke system was not cooperative and refused to accommodate requests. The few who had the audacity to perform, managed to belt out in unison, a cappella, a mediocre version of “The Moon Represents My Heart” in Mandarin, something unusual for this ACS age-group! Obviously, the tete-a-tete and the munching continued regardless.

The munificence of the Cohort was never found wanting. Wah Thong, Hye Tin, Chek Chuan and a few others made sure that there were door gifts and salubrious red wine. Gratitude was strongly expressed.

When the appropriate location was found, the group photograph was taken with everyone singing the ACS Anthem! They dispersed only to re-group for the usual “Auld Lang Syne”. There was enjoyment cum excitement!

Before parting company, everyone was reminded that 2016 would be the 60th year after school and plans were afoot to have a nonpareil Reunion Dinner! Not surprisingly, the unanimous response sounded better than the entertainment singing!!

Foo Chee Jan