Pura Vida. Pure Life. Pure Living. Full of Life. Happiness.
Definition of “Pura Vida” in the Urban Dictionary:
Spanish for “pure life.”
The law of the land in Costa Rica. The expression is used in many forms, from a greeting, to a synonym for “excellent.” Ticos follow this lifestyle and are some of the most wonderful people on earth. A synonym of “hakuna matata.” Life is wonderful; enjoy it.
“Que Me ‘Ice Mae, Pura Vida?” (What’s up dude, all good?)
http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=pura+vida
This phrase got me thinking…
For the Costa Ricans, there is nothing that describes their country, its people and their way of life better than Pura Vida!
What about Singaporeans?
What’s the best phrase that will describe us & our country?
The first words that pops up in my mind are ‘kiasu’ & ‘kiasi’.
I tried to search for it on the Urban Dictionary & to my surprise they actually have it!
Defintion of Kiasu:
Afraid of “losing out” to other people.
Being greedy… very very greedy…
http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=kiasu
Definition of Kiasi:
General meaning: afraid of getting into trouble.
Actual translation: afraid of dying.
http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=kiasi
Why are we so afraid?
& what exactly are we afraid of?
How did we end up the way we are?
Maybe it’s because we are such a small country with no natural resources?
Maybe it’s this feeling that we always have to work harder in order to prove ourselves?
Maybe it’s the constant need to compete to be the best & to stay on top?
I am hoping that one day this would all change.
One day we would be able to stop the crazy competition, celebrate our success and just be contented with what we have.
I doubt that would happen though.
Till then, I will just keep wishing and waiting…
iamanonconformist 