To The Moon

Breakfast – The Dragon’s Secret: Free Food at the Buddhist Lodge (8:00 AM)

With a swish of my jacket, I head out to catch the bus. My EZ-Link card still has just enough magic left, and soon I’m at the Singapore Buddhist Lodge. I can already smell the porridge in the air—a perfect fuel for my dragon strength.

Inside, it’s busy but calm, and I grab a tray. A warm bowl of congee with bits of veggies, a side of crispy fried bee hoon—it’s simple but satisfying. The best part? It’s all free, just like the generosity in my heart.

I drink from my water bottle, nod to the volunteers, and leave with my $10 still tucked safely in my pocket. I feel like I could conquer the world (or at least survive another few hours).

Lunch – Sri Venkateswara Temple (Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh) – A Dragon’s Indian Feast (12:30 PM)

By noon, my tummy starts growling like a dragon waking up from a nap. This is no ordinary meal—I’m on an adventure in India for lunch today! My dragon wings take me to Tirumala, where the world-famous Sri Venkateswara Temple offers its legendary "Anna Prasadam"—a free meal for all.

The scent of rice, sambar, and vegetables fills the air as I take my seat. A warm plate is placed in front of me—soft rice, spicy sambar, tangy buttermilk, and a few crispy papadams on the side. The meal isn’t just filling; it’s like magic, energizing my dragon spirit. Each bite feels like fuel for the next chapter of my journey.

As I eat, I look around at the other devotees, all of us sharing this simple, wholesome meal with smiles. My belly is full, my wallet is still $7 intact, and my heart is lighter than ever.

Dinner – The Temple’s Gift: Free & Magical (5:00 PM)

As the day cools down, I find myself wandering into Chinatown. I’ve heard rumors of a free meal at the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, and I’m ready to claim it.

Inside the temple’s basement dining area, there’s a peaceful calm. I line up and get my tray—it’s a meal fit for a dragon:

✔ Steamed rice (soft and pillowy)

✔ Tofu in a delicate sauce (smooth like scales gliding through water)

✔ Mixed veggies (so colorful, like the sunrise from a dragon’s peak)

I sit in the quiet, eating slowly. Outside, the incense swirls like smoke from my dragon’s breath. There’s peace here, and a little triumph in knowing I’ve made it through the day.

Conclusion – A Dragon’s Victory

I survived the day, full and fueled with $7 still left. The streets of Singapore are nothing to a boyish dragon like me, and the world is full of opportunities, whether you’ve got a lot or just a little. It’s not just about surviving—it’s about doing it with strength, wit, and a little bit of adventure.

Tomorrow’s a new day for a dragon like me—but for now? I’ll rest, wings tucked in, ready for whatever comes next.