The history books often narrate him as a stern and vivacious leader of Singapore; going through adversities to make Singapore a Jewel of the East. The sense of respect was enforced upon me since young though I have no knowledge of why does he command such respect.
As I got older, I got better at reading and I began reading about him. History books tend to narrate just the nationalistic achievements that he had achieve. I read his memoirs and a different view of him was presented to me.
His 'soft-side' so to speak appeared through the books and his smile was rather infectious. Through the words and minimal pictures that the book had, I managed to catch a glimpse of Mr Lee as the father, husband and son. He is human too.
Today his son, our current Prime Minister , Mr Lee Hsien Leong took centre stage to address the nation of the passing of our founding father; his father. The sadness in his eyes and voice was so clear and our heart mourn with him.
Thank you Mr Lee Kuan Yew for all you've done to fight for our freedom and fight for our nation. Thank you for not abandoning us when we need a leader. Thank you for your vision of the future Singapore. Thank you for sacrificing your youth and time to build us to where we are today. From 3rd world to 1st within 40 years, that by itself is an amazing feat. Thank you sir.
