There is something within human nature that innately connects with the underdog. We all root for it, hope that it succeeds against all odds. Witness how most of the bestselling movies or books often revolve around underdogs and their rags-to-riches stories. Somehow, we feel bonded with the perceived "loser". Perhaps a brief glimpse of inner insecurity?

I found a strange clash of emotions within me today as I looked at the students from my alma mater. I must admit that many a time I have felt ashamed by them. I've wished the school produced more A1s and less gangsters. And yet, I cannot forsake it, nor can I stop feeling a sense of pride of having come from there, or whenever a victory is announced. When I moved into the JC, this strange mixture of pride and underdoggedness continued. I suppose the feeling of pride I get whenever we stand up to the so-called elite schools stems from this desire to be the best, or the knowledge that somehow, we can beat the best. Perhaps society has so honed into me this sense of egalitarianism that I cannot help but sneer at the elite. There is somewhat of the socialist within me. Equality should be the proper way of life.

And yet, when I look again, I also acknowledge the pleasure gained from looking down on others. The concept of an egalitarian, meritocratic society is perhaps an oxymoron. So all at once I desire to be the elite, and yet disdain the elite.

I think the conclusion of the whole matter is pride. And you know what, I think that whole chunk of round-about thinking above was just a complicated way of looking at a rather straightforward matter from the beginning. Sheesh.


Adri: Hi! When you come back, you should sit in and watch us give you the most organised prep time you've ever seen from our team, haha.

Owen: Ha, forced into retirement. That's a nice way of putting it. They didn't give us any golden handshake though.