I think I over-Picniked this shot. But I didn't want too many details to show. 8D
That's a shot of The Kid putting on his boots, getting ready to go back to camp last Sunday. He won't be home this weekend because right now, he's taking part in a 6-day field camp, which is the most gruelling part of the 9-week BMT (Basic Military Training) course all recruits go through.
All male Singaporeans, upon reaching the age of 18, are required to perform two years of full-time national service in the military.
Even though he enlisted only last month, The Kid is looking forward to completing his service so that he can continue his tertiary education in a local university which has already made him an offer of admission. I take everything one day at a time, and I look forward to seeing him next weekend.
@seanoneill Can't say he's enjoying being in the military service---he didn't have a choice since it's compulsory for all male citizens to do this---but he tries to keep a positive attitude about it. Good thing is, he is looking forward to getting back to his studies. We're encouraging him to consider an overseas tertiary education as well but, right now, he seems quite determined to remain here. He did indicate that he'd be interested in picking up French and then doing some kind of exchange program as a university student. I think he's influenced by The Husband, who spent 6 years in France studying in a grandes écoles. Wow, sorry for rambling! (But I get so good at rambling, the more I ramble! ) 8D It's hard when they grow up and are ready to face the world without us but it also feels good to know that, as parents, we have done everything that we could have done to equip our kids with the right attitude, values and skills that they need to live independently and happily. It's... bittersweet. Enjoy your kids, they grow up so fast!
@myautofocuslife You're not rambling, I enjoy learning about other peoples lives and perspectives Livia, and yours is fascinating, in Singapore, in a radically different culture to Britain. I hope your lad gets through unscathed and better for the experience, and then gets a chance to follow his dreams. You are right, we should try our best to give them a good upbringing where they learn good values, and are able to surpass us in what they can achieve. That isn't easy in todays world. I am enjoying my boys, we have a lads day out tomorrow at the football, can't wait!!!
I feel for you. I whole heartedly disagree with national service. It sounds like your boy has a wise head on his shoulders and I am sure he will take some great lessons from this that will stand him in good stead for the rest of his life. Interesting POV on this BTW :)
Totally agree with Humphrey's comment above. Sounds like your son has set goals for himself that will help him bide his time during his service. Saying a prayer for his protection.
He's growing up fast now, Livia. Sounds like he's got his priorities straight . . wanting to get that education. Love your pov on this photo and the processing. The focus is right where it should be. Best of luck to your son.
Singapore has got some great ideas for safety and running the country. It's a pleasure to visit. The training is admirable and more countries should adopt it. There would be less crime from the bored teenagers!
I too am amazed by your country and admire what is being achieved. It is a most impressive place as is this photograph. I think your processing is superb.
I was a mess when my daughter left home and went overseas, although I was happy for her, it left a little hole in my life. It totally is bittersweet. I made a photo dvd of her life and cried my eyes out. I sent her the dvd and she laughed at me for my soppiness.
Love the angle - dont think it is over processed - l thought , looking at his hands , that he was younger than 18 ...will be a bit hard on you - enjoy his time home in between!!
I am all for mandatory national service and think it needs to be implemented in a few other countries around the World. Really nice perspective on this shot Livia.
ohhh, his hands look so very young in this. i know how hard it is for you to see him go off to training. I hope his 2 years of service fly by for him so that he can begin the next phase of his education:)
great POV...I didn't know about the mandortoy military service in Singapore thanks for sharing...my youngest just enlisted in the U.S. Navy he won't be leaving for another 4 months...the way time flies its crazy!
oh, no fun, esp for parents! over here young boys and girls are randomly picked to go through 3 months' of extremely MILD military training. Even that had us a bit worried.....
I like how you did this shot..reminded me of my basic training days... getting dressed for morning inspecition with vewry little light.... nice perspective!
This is a great shot Livia. All the best to both you and your son as he commences his national service. My husband spent 13 years in the Australian Army and I remember the day his left for his Basic Training (6 weeks full time, no trips home) and it was a difficult time for us all. Hugs to you and I hope the next 6 days go by very quickly for you!
I want to thank everyone for taking the time to stop by and leave a comment on this photograph. I appreciate all your well wishes so much. Thank you! It's not an easy time but we're reminding ourselves to make the best of the situation, to take the opportunity to learn new skills and new things about ourselves and to stay positive.
love this shot Livia.....i'm so very behind on catching up with everyone!! I have always thought that some amount of time in the military should be compulsory (within reason of course)! My husband joined the Australian Army at a time in his life when he could have gone completely of the rails (he was only 18). It changed his direction completely and he has no regrets! I hope The Kid gets through ok, and of course yourself, heres hoping he will be a better man for it:)
The pov here is just right, it's a good shot. It's good that your son is positive and looking forward to moving on and his studies. Credit to him and you as parents.
Interesting prospect and cool story!
That`s service our country did in my time. To day not anymore .
Love the spot lightning in this pic
Again, thank you so much!