PLACE IN THE SUN

– Mrs. Rozhkov, thank you ever so much for finding the time to meet with us. For a person living in a foreign land, it is common to compare two countries, two lifestyles. The human mind always takes notice of how things are done at home versus someplace else. So what do you like most about life in Singapore and what do you dislike here?

What I love most about Singapore is the overall atmosphere of serenity, security and predictability of events, as well as the comfort of life, which, I think, does not depend on social background. What I find depressing is the lack of seasonal changes. The Russian national archetype has been shaped by a different climatic zone. It is through the change in seasons that we Russians feel the flow of time in our lives. A yearly cycle is a reference point of sorts against which we correlate our age and our capabilities, and which reminds us of the life cycle, with its completion and rebirth.

One has to adjust to Singapore's climate and appreciate its positive sides. For instance, keep telling yourself that the sun is the source of life on earth. Just try thinking that in Singapore your talents, abilities and prosperity could develop and burst into bloom, similar to the lush tropical vegetation of this country. There is a saying about a place in the sun – it is most true in the case of Singapore.