Feeling blue over present state of the nation

I USED to take part in the Merdeka Day parades and celebrations when I was in school and later while I was serving in the Royal Malaysian Air Force. The feeling of pride and patriotism was evident on the faces of the rakyat during these events.

I feel sad that over the last few years, I seem to have lost these feelings. Merdeka Day has lost its significance as far as I am concerned and I cannot help but ask myself why.