Where I am from, conscription is mandatory. So having a spine injury years ago immediately landed me in a non combat role. It was allocated that I would be posted a camp's guardhouse with probably light ushering and security checks duties. Desperate to not waste my time, I went to try out for the drama company in more backstage roles which I had many experiences and a diploma to support. Was one of the lucky few to get in and I was really thankful for the opportunity and really keen to pick up new skills and experiences especially in AV side of things. The company was staffed by civilians and it pretty much felt like a normal job.

The real bummer starts when they effectively forced me to work as an office clerk and an AV production crew. Apart from having to carry heavy equipment despite an injury, had to continiously work while the rest of the AV crew rested on off days. It was pretty crap seeing yourself work harder than some of the AV crew yet putting up with their condescending remarks that I was invaluable outsider. Few months later, I was kicked off the AV team as my other clerk friend has completed his service and I was to replaced him.

From then on, I couldnt technically Gtfo of the place but I didnt go the extra mile to help or contribute. Life changed for the better. Eventually the hardworking ones in the AV crew completed their service and they werent able to get additional manpower for months. My rest of my days were spent in peace and judgemental eyes whenever I walk passed the AV storeroom