Update

Like my health and sanity, I've left this blog neglected for a while.

I apologise for the both brief and depressing entry.

Work is pretty stressful.
Uni is an uphill battle against a glacier.
I'm really cracking at the seams right now.

Cadets

I've never joined the Army, neither ARA or ARES. On a number of occasions I've been sorely tempted to do as well, for periods of months at a time. One of the main things that has held me back in recent times however has been my girlfriend, Jaynnie. I won't deny that the Army probably played some part in my parents break-up, to my Dad, the Army came first and my Mum didn't like/understand that. Seeing as one of my original desires was to go full-tilt ARA with a lean towards preferably being deployed, that probably would have put any romantic relationship to hell. Even if we did try and keep together something long distance, it wasn't worth it given the chance of it breaking up or even worse; my renowned paranoia overtaking my mind again. So instead I've decided to go into a university career for now and try and make my way in the world.

At the age of 20, I'm not working in the corporate section of my company, renting a beautiful apartment in Northbridge with a good mate, furthering my knowledge and studying Computer Science and all the while, I have my amazing girlfriend by my side. I often do wonder how things would be different had I joined the army, but I don't regret that decision at all. In fact, I'll add that to the list (and point of this blog entry) of major things that cadets (and the Army through my father's teachings) has taught me:

• Discipline
• Indomitable will
• Great personal hygiene
• Fitness/keeping in shape (y'know, in case war does ever break out)
• Walking (probably one of my favourite activities)
• Always keep your necessities on you, no excuses (never away from keys, wallet and phone)
• Clean dress sense
• Survival training
• Medical skills
  
• Ability to eat food quickly
• Tuck your shirt into your pants when wearing a jumper in winter (added warmth)
• Don't ever regret your decisions or experiences, they all add together to make you who you are

I guess I'm happier than expected at the moment, I've submitted all the homework I needed too, I've written up a heap of extra stuff for work already and I'm getting into my major assignments for uni as well. For now at least, there is some respite.

Regards,
Adam O'Grady