Observations from a Soldier
The first thing was that everyone was at the same level (thanks to the uniform haircut given all recruits). Other things were: stand at attention and salute, which instilled discipline and obedience; to march in step and function as a part of a team while taking individual pride as a team member; that if he did not stay in step with the others there were undesirable consequences; and that if he performed well, both he and his team were recognized.
Basic training physically hardens recruits and makes them respect their own bodies, enabling them to perform better. The first week is generally so hard and the drill sergeant so demanding that most recruits develop something akin to hatred for the sergeant. But the hatred fades quickly. By the second week of training, the typical recruit is doing everything he can to please his drill sergeant.
That is an amazing turnabout. For many recruits, the discipline is translated to love and caring for them, which is a new experience for some. The truth is, discipline is loving – just ask any parent. Discipline is essential to every individual and crucial for teams. No unit can ever become a potent fighting source without discipline and no life can be truly successful without it.
The criteria for becoming a successful soldier or a successful private citizen are the same. If we learn to function as a team member, we will do so only after we have brought our personal life under control and learned how to “drill.” When you sum it up, it really says there is something we can do about our future.kAkA.hUnTeR
Do not pray for tasks equal to your powers. Pray for powers equal to your tasks.
spoke at : 7/22/2008 01:03:00 AM