Which 'Jungle Book' Animal Are You?

I have a circle of friends shielding me from the crowd.

I confess: If no one makes way, I shove my way through. Well, I have to get off at this stop!

Nah, I don’t usually take the bus. tuk tuk or cab is the way to go.

I’ve learned to stand near the door and face it. I don’t want to be right up in someone’s face (or underarms!) again. That was awkward.

I hop up and offer my seat to an elderly person.

Hey, don’t judge me. Someone offered this seat to me!

Just English. It’s okay, I’ve never cared if I don’t understand the people around me.

Being fluent in just one is useful enough for me because I’m great with words. Seriously.

Whichever’s the most useful and practical.

My fluency might be off, but I can switch between Standard English, Singlish, and, at least, one of the other official languages like that! (snaps fingers)

I’m a Lankan. I know a little bit of everything, enough to exchange greetings with everyone.

I studied my mother tongue in school for 10 years. But who am I kidding?

Mainly during those long public holidays adjoining weekends. Hey, don’t judge! That’s the only time when my family and friends can join me.

In my head, I leave and never return. In reality... I’m still here, aren’t I?

More often than I should!

On a vacation? I should try that someday

I practically have a suitcase on standby at all times. (Whether I actually have the cash to leave is another issue entirely)

I usually have more important things to do here. Do business trips count?

No worries. These kind strangers agreed to let me share their table. Oh wait, they’re almost done and they’re offering me the entire table!

I’m already seated. Sorry.

(Tells friends) Spread out, sweep the area, WhatsApp us when you have a table!

Please, I was here 15 minutes before peak hour to chope this table. I’ve texted my friends and they’re on their way.

Stares so deep into the person’s soul, till he eventually gives up the seat. Ka -chow.

Toss a packet of tissue paper at the nearest empty table. What? That’s what everyone does!

What’s important is that I improved over the years, right?

I know I nailed it (please, I’ve been going to tuition for years). I’m more concerned about that friend I’ve been tutoring.

As long as I pass, I don’t really care.

I’m usually more confident after an oral exam; at least I can talk my way through something I might not know.

Ace, schmace. Did I beat that guy? Will I be the top student?

No worries. What’s done is done. It’s time to PAR-TAY!

Becoming the Prime Minister. Or a CEO.

Not getting a Dhada Kole.

Knowing that my friends and family are all happy, healthy and safe.

Being married to someone who can cook.

Ask someone who actually cares?

Just being happy. It’s too stressful living up to others’ expectations. Have you met Sri Lankan parents?

Feel uneasy about having to spend money on a taxi. I’m only here as a last resort tuk tuk uncle.

Immediately tell the driver the exact route I want him to travel. I’ve learned that time is literally money here!

Scroll through my phone randomly, pretend to text. Basically, pretend I’m too busy to chat with the tuk tuk uncle.

I don’t take tuk tuk's (often). I drive, or know people who drive.

Have such a lovely conversation with the driver that he offers to drive me a bit further for my convenience, or he gives me some very useful advice on how to get to my destination. All with a warm-hearted smile.

Exchange life stories with the tuk tuk driver the entire way. Yes, I’m that friend who posts about these encounters on Facebook. But they’re just so meaningful!