Page 114 - Musings 2022

Rajesh called his base unit through the army exchange later in the evening. The army telephone

operator patched him to the drill sergeant in a few minutes. The sergeant started talking through
the receiver, “Hello, Rajesh! How is your field duty going on?”. “It is good sir; the situation is

being handled with great care. However, I am not able to cope with the working conditions
here. I want to get myself transferred.”, Rajesh said with a weary tone. “What happened Son,

is everything alright there? What is the problem?”, the sergeant inquired. Rajesh took a long

breath and said, “Sir, the forest Naxalites keep attacking every week. I am unable to keep
fighting them any longer. Moreover, whenever I go out for night patrols, there are bear sounds

nearby. I am terrified and unable to withstand such a hostile environment.”. The sergeant
started speaking with a soft voice, “Have patience! Everything will be fine. Consider the

Naxalites as a part of the jungle, don’t be annoyed by them. And for the bears, think of them

as they are singing a song, don’t be afraid! They don’t attack non-hostile rangers.” Then
stiffening his tone a bit the sergeant continued, “You have to stay there; you cannot leave and

that’s an order. Do you understand, Son?” “Yes, Sir! Loud and clear.”, Rajesh chimed. “Alright
then, good luck to you, take care of yourself. Would you?”, the sergeant said. “Yes, sir”, Rajesh

responded and the phone disconnected. Rajesh thought that his sergeant was pressing it too
hard. But one thing was that he had learned at the academy. Seniors were always right, no

matter what the situation.

Rajesh spent three years working at the Ratangarh base. Soon he became used to the hot and
humid weather. He did his work with heart. When he returned to his home base, he had

developed extraordinary fighting skills and a very rugged personality. He was now more
fearless than ever. He started to top the firing range tests and mental tests. Over the years,

Rajesh came to realise that,” I always thought that sergeant was unfair to me. However, the

stay at Ratangarh forest had moulded my raw skills into a professional and a better fighter. I
have overcome my fears and developed qualities of bravery which will benefit me in my

present life.” Thus, ultimately Rajesh realised that whenever a teacher or parent does something
harsh to the pupil or child, it is only for the greater benefit.

114