War Stories

A young boy, age 10, sits wide eyed and attentive as 3SG (NS) Dominic recounts his 'war stories'. A barrage of questions on how to fire a M16S1, how a GPMG functioned, and how to launch an anti-tank weapon punctuates the conversation. Following tales of wild boars, how I charged an 'enemy' bunker, and the life in the jungle made him jump up and down, pulling my hand as his curious nature takes him to another level of interest. It was time to go, and he wanted to hear more. He was promised more in-camp stories from the poor old soldier the next time he 'airdrops' over his school.

This was one of the events that really moved me today at work. I never thought I could one day use my experience in National Service to enchant these lives that had been ravaged by the harsh realities of life. This little boy is one of the worst cases I've come across, and though he doesn't say it, he is in need of a father's love and attention. They are in need of a role model, someone who is willing to look beyond their faults. Sometimes a short and simple conversation and a wrestle time can really do wonders to help them find some meaning in this miserable life.

God is really at work, and it is a blessing to see it first hand on the battlefield. For a man who regards a lack of patience as one of his weak points, God has held me through these past 3 weeks. Everyday I am depending on his grace, coz to not trust in Him I will lose my sanity. This journey is simply amazing.

Woohoo!