For kids, there’s somehow more joy in buying food from the canteen than bringing a packed lunch from home.

TEARS of nostalgia well up in my eyes each time I hear the beautiful song Terima Kasih on TV. I find the melody fascinating and the opening scene of the mother handing over the lunch box to her child, sends me down memory lane.

Decades ago, I used to painstakingly pack wholesome sandwiches, delicious fried rice or nutritious cookies together with some fruits (and occasionally a small packet of junk food!) for my child to bring to school when she was in primary school.

I strongly felt that the canteen food was unhealthy. My beloved daughter is now a graduate and currently holding an executive post in a big company in the city.

As a mother, I am happy to see her enjoying her life with her many friends but it saddens me that she seldom calls me on the phone.

I long to hear her voice, I long for my adorable daughter of yesteryear. When she’s back home for the holidays, most of her time is spent on her cellphone and Facebook.

Just recently, I came to know that she hated bringing the lunch box as she preferred to buy food from the canteen and it was a bitter blow.

It hurts to realise that she did not appreciate her mother’s love. Silently, I told myself she will only understand when she becomes a mother.

But, to all the mothers out there, perhaps you could learn from my mistake. Maybe your child too, likes to buy food from the canteen.

Perhaps, to avoid any unpleasant rift, it’s alright to allow your child to do so. And to all the children who decide to do so, think about it – it means so much to the person who prepared your lunch!

Terima Kasih is now playing on air ... I feel so deeply touched by this enchanting piece and would like to say Ribuan terima kasih, syabas (a million thanks, well done) to the singer and songwriter.

I miss my daughter very much ... nay, immensely.

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