Time to reflect (From The Northern Echo)

Time to reflect

3:46pm Monday 5th October 2009 in

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I have been back for a few weeks now and have finally started to settle back into civilian life, people always ask me, what it is like out there and I must admit I find it hard to explain some of my experiences and feelings, as I can describe them but to get the real picture, you really need to have been out there to see things first hand.

It was certainly an experience which took me through all levels of emotions.

My opinions have changed towards the Afghan people as the majority would just like peace and to improve their lives, many of them having nothing, no education or even clean water.

To top that off they have a government that is trying, but still suffers with corruption.

Unemployment is very high and many are being caught up in the fighting and explosions caused by the insurgents disregard for life. I hope if I was ever to return, the life of an average Afghan will have improved considerably.

I think the experience has changed me slightly, I appreciate life so much more, I am certainly a lot more patient and I appreciate what I have.

To the soldiers and civilians that were not so lucky and lost their lives during the period we spent out there, my thoughts are certainly with them and their families. What did shock me was the amount of support I received from my friends, colleagues, neighbours and of course family - it was incredible and it really did get me through the six months and for that I will always be grateful. I now look forward to the future, returning to Freemans Quay Leisure centre where I have received warm welcome back, carrying on with my career, as well as spending quality time with family and friends.