I initially didn’t want to go through the process, but I did. If you didn’t pledge your section, then they totally shunned you. Everyone taunted you. Your band experience would not be very pleasant if you chose not to participate in the abuse. But I looked at it like a challenge. I was considered the weakest link in my section and probably in the band. At first glance I was fragile and intolerant. I wanted to prove them all wrong, so I pledged my section and I crossed. It was pure hell. Yes, I got the paddle COUNTLESS times. I shed many tears.

Was it worth it? No. I have moved on with my life (military) and I don’t keep up with them anymore. After I crossed, I was still bitter about a lot and I couldn’t bond with them the way that I was "supposed" to (I was bitter because personal reasons. . . . long story). Some other things happened… a lot of drama and conflict arose. They weren’t my "brothers" and "sisters" like they were "supposed" to become. But it was a very memorable experience. I had some good times with them while it lasted. Do I regret it? Nope! I look back on some situations and I laugh at them. I’m stronger and the pain from back then doesn’t pain me anymore. Plus, the experience showed me that I had an inner strength and endurance that was previously unfelt. It was hard going through it, but at the end I was so proud of myself. . .

I won’t tell you what to do. I don’t condone hazing and abuse. But trust me when I say that IF you decide to go through with it and you cross, you will laugh at most of the happenings. Beautiful bonds are created with your line brothers/sisters. But again, I DON’T condone hazing and abuse. I’d NEVER tell someone that they should go through that.

I don’t regret my experience though. I wouldn’t re-do it.

If you really don’t want to do it, don’t. And don’t do it for the boots, lol. I had to personalize my reason to pledge to make me feel like doing it. . . . . . . . . .
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