I am a local Singaporean. Growing up, I had a normal life just like any other Singaporean kid. I went to school, hung out with my friends and did everything that kids did.
I was a bright and promising student but I was never a top student.
Joined a gang
When I was in my teens, I made a wrong decision that changed my life forever. I joined a gang. I was led astray by my peers and thought it was cool to be part of a gang. I thought I would be respected and well-liked among my friends if I joined. I was wrong.
Being part of a gang was not as glamorous as I thought it would be. I was constantly getting into trouble with the law and was frequently called to the police station. I was always on the lookout for the police and had to constantly lie low. It was a life of fear and paranoia. I was never able to enjoy my teenage years like my peers.
The worst part was that I was not able to focus on my studies. I was never able to focus properly on anything and I could not concentrate on my studies. This resulted in me performing badly in school and I eventually dropped out of school.
After dropping out of school, I had no idea what to do with my life. I was stuck and could not find a job. I had to resort to unskilled jobs like washing cars and delivering food. I was barely making enough to survive and was always struggling to make ends meet.
My life was a stark contrast to my classmate who studied hard and went on to university. He is now a successful professional with a stable job and a comfortable lifestyle. I, on the other hand, am still struggling to make ends meet. I regret joining a gang in my teens and wish I had focused on my studies instead.
I have come to accept my life and have made peace with the fact that I will never be able to change my past. All I can do now is focus on the present and try to make the best out of it. I am currently working hard to improve my skills and am trying to find better job opportunities.
I hope that my story will serve as a warning to other teenagers who are tempted to join a gang. It is not worth it and you will regret it later. Focus on your studies and make something out of your life instead of wasting your time and energy on something that will not benefit you in the future.