It was seven years ago when I first stepped into the army school as a little girl full of dreams in her eyes, nervous but confident. Ironed uniform with two hair braids, that’s how it began.
Discipline was not just taught, it was lived every single day. From outside, it looked like a place that creates soldiers and in some ways it does, but soldiers are not just the ones who carry guns. They are also the ones who can rule nations through pen.
We were trained to follow the rules in every possible way. Our lives were built around routines. Punctuality defines us as we are Sainikians. Discipline was not forced on us but it was passed down like a tradition -- to respect our seniors, be on time, follow the rules.
Talking about experience
And then, I finally found my inner-self there and the creativity which was seeking for an opportunity. I used to participate in each and every ECA activity. Whether it be debates, elocutions, poem competitions, I believed my words would change the perception of the world.
Despite my quiet nature, I slowly found ways to express myself not just through poems that I scribbled at the back of my notebook, but by stepping into the roles I never imagined I could hold.
I began conducting school programs, announcing on the mic during morning assemblies, hosting literary events, conducting annual functions, etc. I discovered that behind my soft voice was a strong sense of purpose.
I still remember that first time I was handed the mic for a school function, my hands trembled, my heart raced but my voice didn’t fail me and that moment changed something in me. I was no longer just the quiet girl. I was someone who could lead, speak and bring people together.
Sometimes, people think army schools don’t allow creativity, but I believe they shape it differently. I learnt to be consistent, work hard and respect time – qualities that now help me a lot. I was never the loudest in class, but I was someone who used my voice to lead from within with courage, clarity and calmness.
When I look back, I am filled with gratitude towards my school. It didn’t just teach me how to march but taught how to move forward in my life with a purpose.
(The writer can be reached at shreyapokhrel73@gmail.com)