It has been two arduous weeks since enlisting as a full time Singaporean Soldier. The transition from a civilian to a soldier, has ,no doubt, been difficult. Not exactly the most resilient of people, the initial days in Tekong was torturous. Had a hard time adapting to life as a soldier. The constant shouting over the most trivial mistakes, the regimentation and the highly, and overly disciplined lifestyle, has left me disgruntled and very unhappy. So desperate was I, I played dirty. Four MO visits over a period of 12 days; not surprising should I become famous for the wrong reasons. Missed many training sessions that were otherwise necessary to hone my non-existent basic military skills and to improve my deteriorating physical condition. My mood turned for the better on the 4th day, before plunging to the nadir the next day. Was moody for the rest of the confinement period. Light hearted one moment, and depressed the very next moment. Mood swings ensued, and that aptly summarizes my confinement days in Tekong. One thing though I must admit; I am very fortunate to be in the Coy I am in, the sergeants and officers are understanding and friendly. The training regime, at the moment at least, isn't that "siong". Things are expected to change after confinement tomorrow. But what's more urgent and imperative, is that of my attitude, it must change for the better. Time to step out of my shadow. Life as a recruit may not be easy. Clearly not in my comfort zone, I must start stepping up to the challenges. With buddies and friends to rely and depend on, I believe life in Tekong will only get better. Having undergone 2 weeks of military training, I realized the need to cherish whatever freedom ,we as civilians enjoy. The little things we take so ever for granted, the love and concern from family members we tend to dismiss so ever willingly; these little things I will learn to cherish them more. Toughen up Eugene, and walk out of Tekong a man, for the strongest of steel is forged in the fires of hell. 05/05/11 ~ 17/05/11 BMTC 3 Ulysses Platoon 4 Section 3 Bed 9 4309
