I am in a reflective mood after watching Civil War.
I applied to join the military as a fresh faced 18 year old.
I passed the eye exam. I passed the written exam. I was running at the gym, all prepared. Then I got given instruction sheets on the training camp, to become a fully fledged soldier.
But being arrogant old me, I did not look it over.
I came to the interview dressed all dull and dowdy. I knew from the off set that he was not my biggest fan. I said I wanted to be a writer since I am female. Without even knowing my exam results he, looked at me quizzically and said "are you sure you are intelligent enough" so I paused and I changed my mind and I said, if I don't score enough, I would like to work in the logistics field and he seemed more content with that decision.
But he proceeded to really knock my confidence. He said I had slender shoulders and didn't look very strong. I was fit as an OX! I trained at martial arts five times a week plus I ran and more.
He must have sensed my heart was not in it as I sank into my chair. But he had to deliver a final blow. Why do you want to join the military?
Do you have friends?
I was a little taken aback because I am a very sociable person. I looked up to my friends. I also had a loyal boyfriend. I was also family orientated.

So years down the line, I began to question myself. I take things to heart you see. I am so different now to ten years ago. There was a girl there that had failed the exam and was trying again. I felt like saying there is more than one way to skin a cat. If that interviewer was anything to go by, I am very fortunate that I stayed a civilian and being able to see the world is becoming more possible for me, day by day. I like where my life is heading.
I just thought I would share my experience.