I am who I am

Come to think of it, I'm always surrounded by males. I grew up with two brothers, now I live with two sons and three male dogs.

Maybe that's why some friends say I think like a man. I make swift decisions, I'm not afraid of sweat and dirt, I don't wear frilly clothes and I'm physically quite strong.

It's probably a good thing because I can't afford to be a damsel-in-distress given my circumstances. Now that we're living with my parents, I'm expected to maintain the garden, wash my own car, bathe the dogs and do some yard work.

I've also become quite skilful at assembling furniture, refurbishing old cupboards, sawing trees and digging trenches.

In my line of work, I can't afford to be helpless either. Walking through puddles, surveying containers under the hot sun and climbing into dark, dank containers are part and parcel of my job.

When I was younger, I often wished to be more feminine, just like the legendary four Chinese beauties. I envied women with delicate frames who could wear flouncy dresses. Who can blame our young minds for having such fanciful thoughts after all the literature we've been fed.

John Keats wrote "A thing of beauty is a joy forever". But of course, we all know beauty is transient. Beauty is also in the eye of the beholder. As long as my beholder is not complaining, I am happy with who I am!

My son and our male dogs. We've no more room for bitches.