Since I just started a blog, I think I should add a write-up on Eurojam 2005. It was really a memorable and unique experience for me, and for the rest of the Eurojam contingent. I think it was worth missing school for. Anyway, I did the write-up for the SJI update. Here's how it goes... ( the unedited version at least)

Eurojam 2005
From 29th July to 13th August 2005, four SJI Pelandok scouts – Ng Shih Hoong (332), Trent Lai (331), John Isaac Lee (323) and Chin Hao (333) – represented Singapore at Eurojam 2005 held in Hylands Park, Chelmsford, United Kingdom. We were part of a national contingent consisting of twelve scouts from St. Joseph’s Institution, Raffles Institution and St. Andrew’s Secondary School. The Singapore contingent participated as a result of collaboration between The Singapore Scouts Association and the Singapore Tourism Board for the purpose of promoting Singapore at the international event.

Eurojam was a jamboree involving more than 10,000 participants from 67 countries. At the jamboree, we were provided the treasured opportunity for adventure and the chance to make new friends from many different countries, exchanging contacts, whilst simultaneously learning to understand other cultures and helping to build a better world. During Eurojam, we took part in adventurous activities from abseiling to mountain biking – plus a glance back into a century of Scouting’s history at the Gilwell Adventure Park. We also participated in Splash!, a day of water-themed activities such as sailing, canoeing, dinghy sailing, rafting etc. In EuroVille – an innovative set of programme days – we experienced the many unique cultures of other European countries.

Through the Global Development Village, we explored the issues facing young people today from fair trade to land mines to the environment. Moreover, we managed to give back to the community through meeting up with local community groups and working together in a project named Starburst to help solve environmental or social issues. We were astonished at the momentous, grand and large-scale celebrations of the opening ceremony, closing ceremony and celebrate Europe day.

By the end of Eurojam, we were almost reluctant to put an end to our jamboree of learning, enjoyment and international friendships. All of us unanimously agreed on one conclusion - The eventful two-week jamboree was a meaningful and unforgettable encounter. What we would remember most are the new friends we make during the event.

END

That was the official version. For me, all that was true, but there's more to it that cannot be expressed with words. I mean, being exposed to many different cultures and people from all around the world, there was something wonderful about it. Everybody was extremely friendly. Everywhere you walked, anyone you came across would just say "hi" or greet you. It's just like greeting complete strangers. Extremely friendly complete strangers with one common link - being scouts. In Singapore, I do not think that this could possibly happen on the streets, at least not that soon. I mean, do you actually see people greeting each other on the streets, or simply walking past, not even sparing you a glance. Actually, I cannot say I'm not guilty of it.

Thinking deeper, it is the enviroment that leads to that. In Singapore, where people are the only natural resource, where time is of paramount importance, and multi-tasking is essential, how can one possibly "waste precious moments" looking for others to greet? On the train, on the bus, or while walking, we grab the opportunity to think of our project, plan our day, or maybe catch some sleep. But at Eurojam, everything becomes relaxed. The main objectives are making more friends, and attending projects. There is adequate sleep, no homework, projects to worry about. And I think that really helps to improve social cohesion. It is fun, but while we learn socially, we do not learn worldly issues, if thats the correct term I'm using.

The irony is that I don't have the "time" to continue my reflection, so I suppose the right way to go here is a balance of both worlds.

Balance is key.

I will always have fond memories of Eurojam.