It has been a year since an earthquake struck Mount Kinabalu in Sabah, Malaysia, killing 18 people, including 10 Singaporeans, most of whom were pupils from Tanjong Katong Primary School.

We have also just celebrated Father's Day.

These are reminders for all of us to appreciate and treasure what we have now, especially our family and friends.

Many of us have trouble expressing our care and concern towards our loved ones.

It could be as simple as asking them how their day was or lending them a listening ear.

Life is fragile, and we must enjoy the life we lead and treasure and show love to the people around us.

Bethany Chong Yu Lin, 14,

Secondary 2 student

CALLING YOUNG READERS:

If you are 21 or below and want to air your opinion on any article or letter in The Straits Times, e-mail your letter to stforum@sph.com.sg, with the header "Voices of Youth". Do include your age, educational level and contact details, and the headline of the article/letter you refer to.