Back from training

Just came back from 2 weeks of reservist training. The annual in camp training is not something that I look forward to, because it invariably it entails the sacrifice of creature comforts and not being to see my kids and family except on the weekends. It means waking up every day at a god forsaken hour (always before 6am), having to going into the jungle for outfield training, braving the elements, getting messy and dirty, and going through a physically and mentally demanding training. Being an officer buys certain privileges but goes with the added responsibilities as well.

This year's in camp training wasn't as bad as the previous year. Although we had to go outfield, we didn't have to stay overnight outfield. This year, we did the first stage of our evaluation exercise. The first stage entails testing on basic combat skills, weapon handling and knowledge tests. Not everyone takes part in the tests, and participants are randomly selected. I was one of the lucky platoon commanders (three our of the nine commanders were selected) to have been selected for the platoon battle course.... so yes, I was pretty stressed for a day or two, having to plan and deliver my operations orders, and having to actually to lead my whole platoon out on the mission. In the end, our platoon did the best amongst the other 2 platoons. Overall, we scored very high on the evaluation exercise, (apparently we got the second highest score for a reservist unit for this stage) and everyone was pretty happy about it. Because of our results we pretty much got to stay out Wednesday and Thursday evening on the second week.

Reservist training has always been an opportunity to live simply, to reflect on life (because of the time we spend rushing to wait and waiting to rush) and in some ways get closer to God. It's really the only time, I actually have to wake up early and I can see why, Jesus, the saints, monks wake up early to pray. There is a certain crispness to the cool morning air and breeze that helps us focus our minds on God. So yes, I always find this period a time a welcome retreat especially in the hustle and bustle of our daily life. Spending time away from Laura and the kids, also makes me appreciate their presence a great deal more, especially its so easy for me to take them for granted.