the little ironies

THEN: You were not allowed to address any one older than you by their first names. You have to call them Mr/Mrs/Miss/Aunty/Uncle/KorKor/JieJie.
NOW: You are told to drop all formalities and address superiors/lecturers directly by their first names.


THEN: You had to stand up when voicing your opinions in class.
NOW: You can just sit down and talk to your lecturers during lessons without having to stand up and attract unnecessary attention.


THEN: You were instructed to return your plates and utensils to the respective pails of the canteen vendors.
NOW: You have people four times your age to clear your table and clean up after you.


THEN: Getting 4As was all that matters.
NOW: You ask so what?


THEN: You were encouraged to dream.
NOW: You know it is reality that matters.