Come Dancing With Me In The Garden Of Friendship

 Linda Tsang (A6)

In the garden of friendship, the land with a non-setting Sun
In the garden of friendship, the flowers are forever young
In the garden of friendship, the music never ceases playing
differences yield to belonging
In the garden of friendship, there’s no regret, sadness or sorrow
There’s always love, happiness and fun 
In the garden of friendship, there’s plenty of room to run
So, My Dear Friends, come, come, wouldn’t you come dancing with me
in the garden of friendship where eternity is found

The year of 1984 marked the 25th graduation anniversary of our class, I failed to attend the HK home coming which I have longed for. At that time, I have just started a new life on my own with my young son. I was learning to cope and to survive. It has been my regret to have missed that very special time. But I can’t turn the clock around!

With skepticism and my year book in hand, I joined our 40th reunion in Vancouver,BC in l994 and received a wonderful welcome. We reminisced, ate, danced and sang, we had a great time. I returned home with a renewed appreciation for our class and the anticipation that before long we will see each other again.

I made my way to Toronto from Seattle in 1999 for our 45th anniversary. The enthusiastic crowd from all corners of the world overwhelmed me with excitement and joy, the well organized and impressive reunion programs sent me home feeling so proud and sentimental to be a Lighter. I can’t wait for the next round.

Soon, it’s time for Hong Kong bound, 2002 was a landmark year for me, I have participated in two reunion events instead of one. I stayed at the” Y” with the majority. I have re-connected with many Lighters and started to get to know some. I felt so humble when I saw Pat in his wheelchair the second time.(the first time was in Toronto) My heart was warmed by friendship and filled with gratitude. What a memorable journey! It’s been such a ride, what’s next? What are we going to do now?

The past reunions have been so special and enjoyable, we are spoiled, so, what are we going to do now? How about sailing the “Norwegian Dream” where we don’t have to worry about someone getting lost riding the subway from Tsimshatsui to Yau Yat Chuen City Club, where we don’t need to wait for dinner in a long serving line, we can meet on board of the ship collectively or privately, we can go sightseeing with a built-in hotel. There are entertainment, games, sports, meeting rooms & lounges, we can manage, we should have plenty of fun.

My Dear Friends, let’s embrace our differences, let’s remember where we come from, we come from the land of the Lighters, we shall always be one. Would you stroll down the memory lane with me once again, hand in hand, heart to heart, because, because at the end of the day, that’s what it counts, that’s what’s all about. I look forward to seeing you all in London.

With Love, Linda (A6)