A new entry to the list of "Firsts"

24th July 2011

Its 11.30pm, and I am in a place I do not usually associate with myself at that time of the day. The bed. Wrapped in the blanket, eyes closed, trying to count the sheep that lull me to sleep. However, there's a sense of anticipation tonight. An excitement felt only on an eve of a new beginning. I recall this fluttering feeling before the first day of a new grade in school; the expectations from a new class, new teachers, and a new stage to showcase all that you've got. After a long time such anticipation has resurfaced, finally making its way back, the night before I start the first day of my career.

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25th July 2011

As the morning set its sight on the day ahead, the nervous energy of last night had faded. Replacing it was the realization that, today would be one of those "once-in-a-lifetime" experiences that would warrant a special place down the years. Leaving home for my first day at work, it only seemed apt to look at the young ambitious youngster who had set foot in Singapore four years ago (almost to the date!). Determined to make the most of his time at the National University of Singapore, experiences taught the boy aspects of life; failure and troughs, making and losing friends, and most importantly, discovering what one wants from oneself. Now, equipped with a Bachelor's degree in an area which he's decided to bid adieu to, he set foot on his first ever journey to the job that would remain special to him. Like your first car, first bike, first crush, first relationship, your first job holds a place very special in your heart. No matter how many more come, you look back at it with some sense of fondness.

Giving me my share of fond memories, the day itself at work panned out like one which may seem nothing extraordinary to anyone else, but for those experiencing it. The faces of newly joined graduates, punctuated now with an expression of excitement, all looked ahead to a job they've worked hard to earn. The best part about the first day of a new job is the lack of any past to dwell upon and worry about. All that's there is the opportunity to make new incidents, and leave a mark. In everyone's mind, a picture perfect career has probably taken shape, one where they hope to go places, and continue the progress in the relay race that was once started by their elders. It is however, this very uncertainty of the future, and anticipation of experiencing the best, that makes this day special to everyone who has had the pleasure of experiencing it.

As far as first days go, I am glad I can say that at the end of it, I lived it and I loved it. And as with the many other firsts in life, this would acquire that very special spot which would be preserved, only to be rekindled in moments of deepest desire.