I use to be a Tinkle Friend. You know the helpline school encourages primary school children to call when their are feeling lonely or distressed, especially in situations when their parents are unavailable? We provide support and guide them through their emotional fears or uncertainties. It was something I did in my late 20s as a volunteer when I quit my job to be my mother's main caregiver from her cancer relapse. The trainings I underwent with Singapore Children's Society proved to be fruitful but I do not think I remembered much of it. Sometimes I felt like it was such a waste that I am not applying the same counselling skills I had learnt on my children when they needed it.  This morning though, I saw for myself that Ewan benefitted from my short impromptu chat with him. Tears welled up in his eyes as he listened and they started streaming down his cheeks. I probably hit the sweet spot and it got him really emotional. Words have the power to evoke deep emotions and I have a