I have been dead for too long, too long. But I’m back.
I’ve been posted to the 7th Logistics Officer Cadet Course in the School of Logistics (SOL) at Kranji Camp III. It’s a 5 month course from July to November upon which I head back to SAFTI for three weeks. And Then Boom. Anyhow there’s pride in being a Logistician, contrary to popular or is it preconcieved belief. After some time I’ve come to terms with not being in the infantry any more. The tangible benefits of the latter vocation kinda obstructed the underlying advantages of the former from my view. I wanted to remain in the infantry because the tough training would keep me fit, a JCC badge swells the chest and for the simple reason that an ice cold Coke tastes that much better after a 32km route march in sweltering heat rather than a lecture in an air conditioned room. But after much consideration, you realize that fitness is a lifestyle, and if I have to rely on something else besides self discipline and self motivation to get fitter, then what will happen after I ORD, after I start uni, start work, start life? I ain’t gaining the 20kg I’ve lost in army back. Hell no. Unless if it’s in the form of 1x good muscle.
The 7,8 months in NS has taught me three things. Funnily enough, these things have been taught and nagged to me all my life. Funnier still is how I’ve never noticed them during the days
1) If you’re wrong, say you’re wrong. Admit your mistakes readily and you have balls.
2) Say what you mean and mean what you say.
3) You can’t change a man if he has no desire to change.
4) Make the best of every situation. By this I mean that it’s immature and naive to expect every circumstance of event that happens in your life to suit your personal tastes and preferences. If things don’t suit you, suit things. That doesn’t mean apathy or resignation. It really means the reverse.
The army sells the best self help books I swear.
Speaking of books, I’ve been reading Parachute Infantry by David Kenyon Webster. It’s an inspiring if at times glazed memoir. I love it. It’s in the car now so I can’t get quotes. but yeah soon.
In essence I think I’ve changed. And I’m, mm not done yet.
