I was driving to an early morning assignment in Papar when I spotted a familiar activity. It brought back really sweet childhood memories, and I could not help myself but to feel sentimental suddenly.
There, driving on the opposite lane was a father, who had his young toddler seated on his lap. The young child had a proud smile on his face. I know how the toddler felt because, I too, once had that same exact feeling. The I-am-in-control-of-the-wheels feeling.
Decades ago, my father used to do the same. I would climb and seat on his lap. He would let me hold the steering wheel, and acted as though I was driving our blue-coloured Toyota Corolla. Of course, he was controlling the steering wheel but that was secondary, I was behind the wheels! What can be more awesome than that? My dad would cheer for every "successes" I did, like making a turn or keeping the car on a straight lane.
My mother, on the other hand, was not exactly a good sport. Being the more sensible-one, she was more worried of the danger. I mean, can't blame her since the wheels was under the control of a young girl, who does not even know how to spell her name right.
And my dad's favourite quote (when my mom starts to yell) would be: "Biarlah bah dia ... bukan selalu." (Let her be, it doesn't happen often). I always love those time, and yes, I was the daddy's girl. In fact, deep down inside, I still am.
(not my photo)
Today, I have my own car, a Malaysian-made vehicle. Although I can't to do the same for my parents (let them sit on my lap and drive), but I get to return their deeds with great pleasures like driving them around.
I believe everyone of us have the same experience, or something close to that. Whatever it is, it is among my best memories of driving.