Saturday, November 22, 2008

Break Down

This is in response to Amy's question as to why they belittle you so much in basic when it seems it would get the opposite result that one would want.

Before I went to BMT I wanted to figure out all I could about what I was getting into. Under the FAQs section there was a question that basically said " Will the Military Training Instructors (MTI or just TI as we called them) yell at me." The answer was "Yes" It went on to explain why, but I am not sure exactly what it said. Basically we all grow up in different environments with different levels and types of discipline. They are mean the way they are and belittle you the way they do, to break you down. Because without that they cannot build you back up to live with the discipline required in the military.

I was told everything to expect prior to going in, but knowing what will happen and experiencing what happens are 2 totally different things. And although I hated the daily "abuse" and the fear and constant worry that someone would mess up and we would pay for it, and although there were many days, probably almost everyday that at one point or another I wondered if I made the right choice in joining. I can now look back and say I did. I am truly grateful for that experience and that I made it through. Even after experiencing it, I don't think i know why it works, but that form of discipline does work, and I saw it change many people completely. So though I would never want to do it again (and I have had nightmares about that) I am glad I did it once, and would completely recommend it to anyone thinking about going into the military, even though it (BMT) may be the hardest or at least one of the hardest things you will ever do.

I hope that makes sense and answers your question. If now let me know and I will make sure I do. Let me know of any other questions you may have.

2 comments:

Susannah said...

Wow, that makes it make sense in a way to me! Me being on the mother aspect of it when Adrian goes in doesn't make me to happy. They are going to "break" my baby boy and bring him to tears. I hope he will read this and take it to heart, I think it will help him when he goes in!!

Amy said...

I'm glad that it was a good decision for you. I guess it kind of makes sense to me too, but I still think I wouldn't be able to handle it.

It kind of reminds me of the Miss Nelson story we always used to love. The mean "witch" comes and make their lives miserable and that's what makes the kids realize how good they had it before so that when the "good" teacher comes back, they are all reformed and never have trouble with discipine again. I keep thinking I need to try that with my kids...