Memories and Love for My Home Town: A Heartfelt Reflection
Everyone has a special place where they call 'home.' For some, it’s the bustling city that never sleeps, while for others, it’s a small, quiet town. Each place holds unique memories and a special place in our hearts.
Little Village in Chicago
Chicago, or more specifically, little village in Chicago, holds a significant part of my life story. This quaint neighborhood is a warm and welcoming place where everyone knows each other. The close-knit community, peace, and friendly atmosphere are what drew me to this place. Even though we are finalizing the sale of our house, leaving my last tie to Chicago, I will always visit the grave of my friend Alyssa and other close associates.
One incident that casts a shadow over this idyllic place is the appearance of white supremacist Nazis marching in the streets. It’s a stark reminder of the darker parts of human nature. However, aside from this incident, Chicago remains a beloved home to me. After spending years away, I returned to build a home and start a family here, and my children are deeply attached to this charming city.
My Birthplace: Kuala Lumpur
I was born and raised in Kuala Lumpur from 1961 to 1982. This vibrant and cosmopolitan city has always been my starting point, but I ventured abroad to pursue education and career opportunities in the USA, Australia, Singapore, and Thailand. Upon retirement, I chose to return to Kuala Lumpur in 2014. The city is known for its peace, friendliness, and cleanliness, and about 70 percent of its residents can understand English, making it highly livable for expatriates and locals alike.
A Welsh Market Town
In my journey through different cities, another place that caught my heart is a small market town in Wales. Located on a steep hillside, this town has a rich history dating back to medieval times when it thrived on river trade. Although the river is now shallow and river trade has declined, the town still boasts a unique character due to its historic castle, which served as a jail for many years. Unfortunately, the recent construction of modern buildings has clashed with the town’s historical charm, a development that most locals find unsettling.
Despite these changes, the town retains its charm. A fantastic butcher shop, specializing in locally sourced grass-fed meat and free-range eggs, adds to the town’s appeal. The primary language here is English, as this part of Wales has a lower percentage of Welsh speakers compared to other regions.
In conclusion, these places hold a special place in my heart. Each reflects the unique blend of love, nostalgia, and the joy of belonging to a community. Whether in Chicago, Kuala Lumpur, or a Welsh market town, these memories are reminders of the love and history that defines our relationship with our home towns.