Haw Par Villa is just a short walk from our condo in Pasir Panjang. Built by the two brothers who made their fortune from Tiger Balm, the park contains a set of scenes from Chinese mythology, telling moral tales and depicting, very graphically, what happens to those who fail to live up to the standards of conduct expected of them.

None of the scenes are more graphic than the ten courts of hell. Passing by the fierce looking, bulging-eyed horse and bull that guard the entrance (quite why one needs to guard the entrance to hell is beyond me), and the place of judgement just inside, you soon find what happens for each misdemeanour. You’ve been disrespectful to your elders? Your heart is cut out. Not paid your tax? You’ll be pounded by a stone mallet. Shown a lack of filial piety? Depending on which of the ten courts you are in, you’ll be ground by a large stone or have your intestines and organs pulled out. And don’t expect any mercy—those charged with carrying out the punishments seems to be taking great delight in their work.

Mind you, being ground by a large stone also applies to those who have been disobedient to their siblings. As the oldest of four, I’ll have to mention that to my sisters and brother. It might not make a difference, but at least they’ll have been warned.

So, did you remember Father’s day? If not, I suggest you do something about it as soon as possible.