Auspicium Melioris Aevi (yes, cheesy, sorry)
Just read Mr Otto Fong's letter that was posted on a blog (ottofong.blogspot.com) - he has already removed the post some days ago but you can still find it archived on google if you are lucky. [Postnote: It's also on theonlinecitizen.com]
I am really vastly moved by his letter, and admire his bravery in coming out when he is in the position he is - a teacher in an all-boys school, well-loved by his students for being an excellent and inspirational guide for the past 8 years. He must have thought long and hard about it, because he has so much to lose, Singapore being what it is, and for him to come to the conclusion that the affirmation of what he is (and not to continue living as a 'bonsai tree') is worth more to him than anything he could lose from the fallout - it speaks of the weight of his resolution. I'm not optimistic about what's going to happen to him, but whatever happens the reaction will be closely watched, and this will undoubtedly be the talk of the town for quite some time, sparking more debate and possibly even bringing MOE and school policy regarding gay teachers under the spotlight (in spite of the endless bureaucratic smoke they have been generating to throw attention away from this issue).
I really respect Mr Fong's courage; I've never been taught by him but I really wish I had, not because of his sexual orientation but because I'm sure he would have been a most inspiring teacher worth every value of the calling, and I would be proud to have been taught by him, just as so many students have rallied behind him in support. The world will not change over a few days, or months, but I have hope that this is one small push that starts the mortarstone rolling; and hopefully more small pushes will join in, in the days to come.
Mr Fong, though you will never read this, I wish you all the very best, and my heart is with you in hoping for a better age, soon to come, for our small island.