One significant event in my life was when I
decided to join my junior college’s canoeing team. Being one of the toughest
co-curriculum activities (CCA) in school, it was expected that trainings were frequent
and demanding. It was with the juggling of grades and trainings, and my
mother’s relentless disapproval of my CCA choice that I strengthened my
tenacity and learned how to stand up for my beliefs.
During school terms, we had a minimum of 4
trainings per week. Each training session lasted at least five hours. After a long school day and training, it was
difficult to concentrate on our school works. However, that was not an excuse I
could give to my teachers for not finishing their assignments. It was through
such environment that I forced myself to grow up and learned to stop finding
excuses for myself.
My mother did not make this journey any easier.
She was very against my decision to join canoeing due to her perception that
girls should be in arts related CCAs. The fact that I got darker and more
muscular did not go well with her either. Even though it was only a few months
before the National Schools Canoeing Champion, she requested to my
teacher-in-charge to drop me from the team. Regardless of her persistence, I
stand firm in my belief that canoeing has led me to become a better person and
reasoned with her instead of just throwing a tantrum. I was able to make
responsible decisions for myself instead of succumbing to my parents’ pressure.
Despite the difficulties faced during my
canoeing journey, it was a fulfilling one that shaped me into who I am today.
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ReplyDeleteDear Shu ying,
ReplyDeleteIm proud of you. Must have been difficult to stand for what you believe in, against all the odds, especially with someone as close as your mum. I can imagine how helpless it must have been. But kudos for persevering !
Im sure that you have definitely gain alot from your experience with the canoe team. Physically, I'm sure you came out fitter. But more importantly, the 'soft-skills' that you have learnt such as time management, discipline, tenacity. These are the skills that would propel you to greater heights in the future. More importantly, the courage to stand for what you believe in, is important to self- determination and happiness.
At the end of the day, there really isn't any need to prove to your mum or anybody per se that your decision is right, as long as deep down inside of you, you have learnt and grown as an individual. But on a side note, Im sure that your mother and friends would been able to see it, though they do not say it.
Personally, Im always impressed by your strong-will when it comes to sports and academics. Perhaps this was inculcated in your through your 'tough times' back in junior college.
Cheers,
Boon
Very interesting post! We can see the same tenacity described here in your effort to do well in ES1102. I wonder if your mom's view has changed now that you are at NUS.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing!