power black out

For the first time, I have experienced a 70-minute power black out here in Singapore. Huh! Strange, really.

Mama Alice (owner of the new flat I’m staying) and I sat by the window and watched other blocks in darkness, too. We enjoyed the sight of lights from a distance – buildings, stars, moving train, cars, and airplanes.

I’m reminded of my little hometown in Cataingan, Masbate where power black outs are expected almost daily. Without electricity, I remember sweating at night because sometimes it’s too warm. No fan. No AC. No cold drinks. I remember the irritating sound of mosquitoes rambling right in my ears. Ugh! I remember always having to make sure we have enough candles, or make our gas lamps ready for the night.

It’s like a miracle when the power stays on uninterrupted. Or when it comes back at night and make the neighbourhood lighted after hours or days  or weeks of black out – oh, there’s so much cheering, clapping of hands, and celebration all over the place. Haha!

Those were inconvenient, but fun times.  When there’s no electricity, we forget about watching TV. So we end up going out and sitting at the roadside near our house. With my sisters, friends, and cousins , we share stories. We run around. Watch the stars. Take a stroll. Play till our parents summon us.  

From grade school to high school, I was used to reading and doing my homework with a candle light. It was okay. It was bearable. In fact, it was helpful. It made me mindful of my time – I shouldn’t waste, or else the candle will melt away and I’m still not done.