“When a blank wall is turned into a captivating canvas, an intriguing story unfolds. If you look very closely, you might find a part of you in that story.” – Cariema Isaacs
In the bustling streets of Kampong Glam, Singapore’s Muslim Quarter, a blank wall transformed into a captivating canvas beckoned me closer. Little did I know that within those murals lay a story that resonated deeply with my childhood memories of Bo-Kaap. Guided by my dear friend Shahida Ismail, a resident of Singapore, I embarked on an unexpected journey into the heart of my Islamic and Cape Malay heritage. With every step, I could feel my dreams taking shape, reminding me of the power of intention (Aniyah) and the innate ability to shape our own destinies.
As we wandered through Kampong Glam’s 19th-century shophouses turned vibrant shops and restaurants, the rich history of the area unfolded before my eyes. The colourful textiles and scent of spicy Malay cuisine filled the air, transporting me to a world woven with cultural diversity and shared stories. Notable landmarks like the golden-domed Sultan Mosque and the Malay Heritage Centre offered glimpses into the tapestry of local history.
Amidst the bustling streets, our encounter with a mesmerizing mural stopped me in my tracks. It depicted scenes of long-gone traders, reminiscent of the community I grew up in. The vibrant colours and familiar imagery awakened a sense of nostalgia, connecting me to my roots in Bo-Kaap. In that moment, the notion of dreams and destiny intertwined, setting the stage for a meaningful conversation with my friend Shahida.
As we unravelled the stories behind the mural, Shahida shared tales of her husband’s Indonesian heritage and the rich history of his family. Through our conversational journey, I discovered the intricate tapestry of her husband’s Sumatran heritage, interwoven with my own Cape Malay lineage. It became clear that this encounter was more than a mere connection with a friend; it was a signpost on my heritage tour, shaping the path that lay ahead.
The realisation struck me that when we open ourselves up to dreaming, the universe responds. Suddenly, the intangible becomes tangible, and our dreams start manifesting in unexpected ways. With each step, Shahida’s stories became threads woven into the fabric of my own journey. The more I embraced the idea and set my intentions, the clearer my path became. I felt as if I was guided by an invisible compass, leading me towards a purpose that lay waiting to be discovered.
In the midst of the vibrant streets of Kampong Glam, I began to understand the true essence of living, of pursuing dreams that align with our purpose. Our lives are like canvases, waiting to be painted with vibrant colours and meaningful experiences. When we surrender ourselves to the journey, possibilities emerge, and our dreams become our North Star, guiding us towards the life we were meant to live.
As I continued my journey from Singapore to Malaysia, the echoes of Kampong Glam lingered within me. The mural, the stories, and the connections forged along the way served as reminders that our dreams are not merely figments of imagination but powerful forces that can shape our destiny. So why not take the first step, open ourselves up to the dream, and allow the path to unfold?
Imagine, the possibilities if take the first step and discover that the journey you embark on becomes the very purpose of your existence.
