NS Defaulters

In the news today, harsher punishments for NS defaulters. I think we have to remember that in most cases, these defaulters have already forfeited their bonds, i.e. they left the country legally. They were made to put up a bond to ensure their return to serve NS. In general, the bond is pegged to the person's parents' salaries. This can amount to quite a lot. So it looks like they have already paid the price. Why more punishment? Sounds like populism to me. Doing something to appease the crowd. Ah well, politics. By the way, I've done my share of NS and lots of reservist.

In Today, writing in 'I Say', Frances Ong talks about being the mother of 6 children. I have always advised people not to have children, for purely practical reasons. However, if having children brings you joy, more power to you.