House Visit

Last night, a call through the gates alerted the Swallow of several people standing outside her nest.  They were the advanced party heralding the soon arrival of an MP to the block, and checking with each homeowner whether they would like a visit from him.

There had been several house visits before but they were usually on Sundays.  It was a year back when the request came while the Swallow was at home.  Alas, the Swallow had to decline the visit.  The time was just not right - there were short-termed guests staying in the nest whose young one had just thrown a tantrum and his cries could still be heard, the Swallow's young ones were sleeping (even with the noise - amazing and thanks to her Lord!), her mate was overseas...no, the time was just not right.

Following the Singapore General Elections in May, a new MP had taken over and he followed in the steps of his predecessor, conducting house visits and "Meet-the-People" sessions to touch the hearts of the residents staying in his ward of responsibility.

Last night's appeal came at 9pm.  Being a school night, her young ones were sleeping.  Her mate was out on his cycling routine.  The Swallow was just about to start her ironing.  Well, the time was just not right - again!  When the Swallow informed them that her young ones were already sleeping, looks of surprise and disappointment flitted across their faces, before they smiled, thanked her and left.

The Swallow is happy that her MP is reaching out with such methods, but she would be happier for more advanced notice.  Having to decline the house visit, she felt like she had taken the role of the inn-keeper who told Joseph and a very-pregnant Mary that there was no room in the inn...