Jul 21, 2008

Redefining Culture

Posted by Mr.Keropok

15 years old, Bubble Tea was largely unheard of in Singapore. A typical teenager's favorite drink would still have to be Coca-Cola, F&N Fanta Grape or Ice Cream Soda. However, today when you walk along the streets almost anywhere, you would be able to see most teenage school students holding a cup of Bubble Tea in their hands! And not to mention that the price of a cup of bubble tea is even cheaper than any canned or bottled soda drink!

What actually happened? Who actually sparked forth a chain reaction that redefined the youth culture of Singapore (or even globally)? What actually happened that resulted in a transformation of culture - From Coke to Bubble Tea?!?!

Well honestly, I don't really know. I never really did trace back the history of bubble tea (Hmm.. maybe if you are keen, you can do a Wikipedia search on it and share info with me? Hehe... ). I only know it originated from Taiwan. But I am certain that it has got to begun with one man's crazy idea to bring Bubble Tea from Taiwan into Singapore. He probably would not have imagine that the simple little step of bringing a drink over would soon result in a teenage revolution that took the world by storm!

Can you see what I am trying to highlight here?..... Redefining Culture all started with One Man!!!

Is there a culture around which you would hope to change and make it better?

Alright, I know it is still rather far-fetched if we talk about us being that 'One Man' to redefining a world culture. But how about beginning on a simpler and smaller front of your world at Home? Or even at School or your workplace?

You may be facing alot of challenges in your workplace, home and school. You just don't like things the way it is and wish that the culture of the place can be improve. Maybe it is the way people speak to one another that could be more affirming and encouraging. Maybe it is hoping for a culture where everyone in the family readily stands out to help and support one another instead of giving excuses.

Whatever the problem is, stop focusing on the problems and start stepping out to redefine the culture ourselves! Yes.. Redefining Culture begins with ourselves! We got to be like a sore thumb sticking out doing things that no one does. That how people will notice us and that's how people will catch and follow what we are doing. That's how culture is sparked and redefined!

Many people might have scoffed and scruffled at the idea of Bubble Tea when it first burst forth onto the scene back 10 years ago in Singapore. Many would just term it as "High Class Tea". But soon, more people tried and more people liked it, and soon? the rest is history.

Brave yourself for a new world ahead! Be a Trend Setter and Culture Transformer!

PS: I occasionally like to drink Bubble Tea too. Ice milk tea with jelly (not pearl!) if you would like to give me a treat.

Note: This post is specially dedicated to my spiritual daughter Joadine. Thank you for introducing Daddy to bubble tea! Haha...

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