Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Army Journey - Chapter 1: Before BMT...

I just got back from my trip in Kuantan, Malaysia. I had sunburn, thus the constant need to scratch, with pain, at the affected skin area.

It was a trip to fill our tummies. We went for a typical Singapore family kind of trip. Just relax and explore mostly on the food. Well, that is one of Singaporean's greatest traits, the food is a must in our travel factor.

So I returned, carrying all our bags and I went to the mailbox. As I popped open the little door of the mailbox, I saw the very familiar, orange checkered MINDEF letter. I knew right there and then, its the letter.

For so long I have waited for this letter. Particularly because I have BEEN waiting for it. I lost my chance to enter early the moment I failed one of my modules, even though I have already went for the Medical Check-up for status of Pes A. Some people consider it being "unlucky" to get Pes A. Because usually they will post people with this status to Diving Unit or Commandos. I believe there is one more division, Guards... But I'm not really very sure about Army stuff... yet.

All my best friends are now serving army, and now all of them had their postings as they have finished Basic Military Training. Its a time of lonliness ever since. And now, in front of me, is the genuine letter that states my official enrolment to BMTC School 2!!!

I was excited and after that I felt a little sad. This marks the end of my life as a 'Boy' and its the start to become a 'Man'. I just felt a little sad. For Singapore, all males age 18-20 have to undergo National Service. In the end, this is also the mark for males to sort of "graduate" from becoming a boy to a man. Its a "ritual" to adulthood you could say.

Immediately after seeing the letter I was reminded of the times when my best friends shared with me their experience during their book out. Its surprisingly, interesting the way they tell their stories. And if my friends can make it, why can't I? Well, for one, all of them do not have trouble with arm hand power.

I started to think that I need to train up from this very moment. I guess I really have to take exercise a serious thing and has to be regularly from now on. Please God, make me discipline ever more now that I have received my letter. Its what I prayed for too. But God, make me stronger in my arms. Make me stronger in stamina. I do not want to be a "slacker" neither do I want to do "more" than I am expected unless required. God make me a stronger person, physically as well as mentally. Amen.

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