On Rain’s Enlistment: Terri’s Two Cents
st, Well, at first, I posted these comments in response to a question on one of Stephe’s posts, but after reading them over again, I finally decided that I should bring them front and center, so that everyone would know how I really feel about Rain’s enlistment and his Clouds’ reaction to it.
Frankly, I wish everyone wouldn’t worry so damned much. That upsets me almost as much as Rain’s having to enlist in the first place.
I mean come on, ladies. Rain has GOT this. He is SO smart and SO physically fit already, that I absolutely KNOW he will do extremely well at his basic training. The only thing Rain has to do during army boot camp is absorb everything they teach him and do everything they say when they say to do it. We all know that Rain has such discipline and is so respectful to his elders and to authority already, right? So, I really don’t think he will have any problem at all doing what he needs to do to get through this experience.
The point of basic training is three-fold: to get soldiers into the best physical shape of their lives, to teach them the basics of being a soldier (military education: military history, military protocol, and military strategy/tactics), and to move the individual soldier from being an individual to being a team player. All of these things are taught to them so that they will be able to endure the rigors of battle and be able to SURVIVE. If a soldier doesn’t do what he/she is told to do IMMEDIATELY, as soon as they are told to do it, people die. So, it’s imperative that soldiers learn to obey the orders that they are given WITHOUT HESITATION.
During battle, there is a lot of noise and confusion, and the action around you is fast and furious (or so I’ve been told…). So, you have to be able to focus on that one task at hand that you must do RIGHT NOW, to make it through critical moments. That’s the main reason you will see drill sergeants screaming at soldiers and insulting them and making them do things as quickly as they can. They are not trying to break anyone’s spirit exactly. Instead, they are trying to get the soldier to the place (mentally, physically and spiritually) where they can act quickly and decisively, not just for their own survival, but also for the survival of the entire unit.
Have you ever been in a life-threatening situation yourself? An automobile accident? A mugging? A natural disaster? If so, what did you find was the most important thing you did at that time, to make sure you survived? I’ll bet it was that you had to think fast and without hesitation—to protect not just yourself, but anyone else that happened to be with you at the time—especially if that someone with you was weaker than you—like your child. No, war is not about playing nice and it’s not about YOU. It’s about the common good. And that’s what basic training tries to teach all of these raw recruits, some of whom are extremely soft and have never been in a tough position in their entire lives.
The good thing is Rain has already been through some really tough times already. He literally had to live on the streets. Think about how fun THAT was. He has starved. Has literally eaten BUGS. He has slept on a dirt floor. Frozen during the winter. And he has been through some really intensive physical training. So, I don’t think a little basic training is going to phase him AT ALL. After all, the Army will be providing him with food and a place to sleep—well for the most part. He won’t always be able to eat or sleep when he “wants” to because of the training, but it’s only 8 weeks…not 8 months, like his training for Ninja Assassin was. So, like I said: NO PROBLEM.
And let’s please not spend time worrying about what North Korea is going to do. North Korea is ALWAYS posturing and whining. So, for us to panic every single time Kim Jong-il or his pampered son gets bored and decides to make some noise is just plain dumb. We can’t do anything about it, so why bother worrying? No reason at all. Besides, our own U.S. Army troops are there in South Korea to help kick some ass if they have to and they will not hesitate–I guarantee you that. I mean, I’m sure the South Korean Army is tough as hell, but I’m absolutely positive that there ain’t nothing tougher than an American soldier either, right? Can I hear a HELL YEAH?
I just saw a tweet from Rain’s dad, and although I don’t know what he is saying yet, it appears that he mentions US—Rain’s fans. That bothers me a LOT. Seriously. Let’s PLEASE not make Rain (or his dad or Hana) worry about us anymore, okay? He has enough to worry about just trying to get through this himself. Instead, how about we all try to stay positive and supportive of him by CHEERING him on, rather than mope and whine about him not being able to communicate with us or worry about his health and welfare?
Are we bummed out that he had to leave us behind? SURE we are. Are we sad that he has to be put through this challenge? Of COURSE we are. Are we worried about his health and safety? Certainly. But what can we do about it? Absolutely nothing.
Is he happy about his situation? Most likely not, but as you can see from the first pictures of him we saw from the military, he certainly appears to be determined enough to try do well at whatever they ask him to do. So, PLEASE. Let’s try not add to his burden by being miserable ourselves and making him wonder if his Clouds will be okay. Instead, let’s all continue to achieve our own goals that we have set for ourselves for these next two years, so that when Rain is released from military service he will be pleasantly surprised to find his fan community thriving and ready to ROCK.
Just my two cents…whatever they’re worth.
Terri :-}
Cloud USA 
Thanks Terri and Stephe for your two cents. I totally agree with what you guys said. I have only been a fan of Rain for a little over a year. In the beginning i knew nothing about him having to serve in the military for 2 years. I cannot remember where and when i found out. At that time I was in shock. I could not believe it was manadatory for him to serve. From then I knew eventally he was going to have to go someday. I knew when he did go I was not going to be prepared and be happy. But what really effected me and had me feeling sad was seeing Rain cry or fight back his tears to not to cry. His emotional state really hit me. You know how it is when you are watching a movie and you are so invested in the character. Then the character experience a really sad moment in thier life and they cry. It effects you and makes you become just as emotional even though you do not know the person personally. I was really moved and almost brought to tears when I saw him crying and it made me sad to know he was sad. I just did not want him to be sad. However, It is funny that even though i found it hard to look at the pictures and watch him in the video in the army. Because both let you see him as a soldier. It has also made me feel that he is going to be ok. Even though he looked a little nervous. Probably because this is all new to him and because the media was watching his every move. He looked confident and strong. He looked like a soldier even though he has a whole lot to learn. That has eased my heart ack and made me feel fine. So unless i read something really bad about him being in the army I am not going to worry. I am going to stay positive, continue to support him and wait until he returns.
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Okay ladies…
I was chatting with some Clouds last night, and of course, Rain’s enlistment came up. One of the things were were discussing was the fact that South Korea has an active draft and we were all talking about how glad we were that the U.S. didn’t.
But at some point in the conversation, I realized that some people out there are a little confused. Some people actually think that the U.S.A. doesn’t have a draft system in place at all, which is incorrect. We DO have a draft system in place. It’s called the Selective Service. And most U.S. male citizens (there are a few exceptions…) are required to register for our draft within 30 days of their 18th birthday.
So, yeah. Right now, the U.S. doesn’t have an ACTIVE draft system, but there is still an INACTIVE draft system in place and ready to start up whenever the need arises.
Both of my sons registered for the Selective Service when they turned 18. To them it was the weirdest thing they’d ever had to do, because as long as they have been alive, our draft has been inactive. So, it was totally a foreign concept to them. But of course they did it, and I have no doubt that if there was ever a dire need in this country for soldiers, they would serve their country just as proudly as Rain is serving his.
You can read more about the U.S. Selective Service here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Selective_Service_System
Terri :-}
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Correct. My son had to register when he was 18 as well. I remember staring at the notice that came in the mail for about a week, as if it was going to bite one of us, before finally filling it out properly and sending it in. It was a strange moment.
But there was never any question between us that he would register, and that if anyone ever had the audacity to breach our shores, he would defend me, our family, our neighbors and countrymen, as his grandfather before him. NOT because his grandfather did it, no — my son is not a career defender like that, he’s an elite athlete with an affinity for sports medicine — but because it would be the right thing to do. I pray it never comes to that. I pray that the draft does stay inactive, and ONLY goes active for dire reasons (heaven forbid).
But if there ever was a legitimate reason… *saddling up*
Stephe ^@@^
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WOW 53 comments in less than 2 days impressive, though I can understand why. This is a topic close to my heart to because just like Terri and you guys I just don’t understand what all the fuss is about. JJH is a strong capable MAN who wants to do his duty for his country. This has been happening to Korean men since 1953 or so, so this shouldn’t be a surprise to anyone from Asia as most of those countries do the same.
I can only hope that those that are making all the fuss are just young fangirls that are letting their emotions take over for common sense.
I agree if there’s something we can do for JJH and his fellow soliders I’m in just let me know where to send the money. Something to make their lives easier, warm blankets for the winter. (If the arm will allow it)
Or how about calling cards so that they can call their families after training? I think they would all appreciate that.
Glad to see that the ladies of CloudUSA have their heads in the right place for JJH. I hope everyone is sending out happy energy to him so that he’ll get through this easily.
Dot.
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Much appreciated comments Terri!. I beet he is going to be the best soldier, team player and hopefully senior leader amongsts his peers. He has great potential and as for battle I dont really think it will come to that but if it does he will be the bravest.
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Thank you Stephe and Terri for your two cents on the matter. I feel like everyone’s emotions (including my own) are raw at the moment. Not only that but I feel like the military can be a bit of a touchy subject at times because everyone has a different opinion on it. I have the upmost respect and I am extemely thankful for anyone that serves. However as the wife of a former submariner I have to say military life is not easy. When I saw videos of Rain at his station it did sadden me, it just brought back memories of my own husband in the military….and the military lifestyle. I know that things between North and South Korea are not good. I have a lot of respect for Bi not only for this but for everything else has done and gone through. I know JiHoon would never try to escape his resposibilities. So for me right now the only thing that I can do is pray and support him while he’s doing what he has to do. Plus at this moment I have some issues in my own life that I have to deal with. As much as I love Bi and admire him at the end of the day my family is numero 1. Just as I am sure that Bi’s family is top priority for him and like it has been mentioned he wouldn’t any of his fans worrying to much about him. Instead he would want his clouds to put on a smile and be strong for him. Just my two pennies..
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Ceci,
Thank you for your thoughts. Yeah, as an ex-army wife, that is where my head is too. Military life was difficult at best. And it changes even the best of people–sometimes not for the better either (like my U.S. Army officer ex, for example). My ex served in a peacetime army, and he still saw quite a few his men die in training accidents and during troop movements, because people simply can’t help but do stupid things sometimes. Being a soldier is dangerous in SO many unexpected ways. So, yeah, I worry, based on my own past experiences.
I’m handling it fine, of course. I mean goodness, I have a life, after all. LOL. I’m a really busy woman. Still, that doesn’t mean I don’t think about it now and again and wonder how Ji Hoon is faring.
Terri :-}
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As usual Terri and Stephe, you guys are right on! I agree 100%, and will be waiting for his return. I know when this is over, JiHoon will be even better, stronger, mature and ”special” then ever before. Aja, Aja, Fighting! 🙂
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I agree He got this!! Although I miss him and his tweets and messages I believe he has to do what he has to do. And I think mentally and Physically he is prepared since all that training to become a top star is grueling and he survived it. I wish him the best and hope time goes fast for him and that it won’t be to hard, but if it is I know he got it; much love Rain.
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well said 🙂
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You need a raise…that was worth more than 2 cents! Thank you for taking the time to post. You read you mind…
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All I have to say is, yeah it hurt a bit when he had to leave. My biggest thing was I thought we were going to be TOTALLY CUT OFF FROM HIM. It made me sad inside THINKING that I wouldnt be able to see new pics and info about Jihoon.
WELL HOT DOG DIGGITY the press has been following him around for days and I get to know about his every movement. So actually I’m just fine. As long as he’s well, Im coo. It just had hurt me that going hurt HIM. That Jung Jihoon was hurting. But he’s a South Korean man and he has to do what he has do to.
I actually think its EXTREMELY SEXY that Jihoon’s going through all this training. Running all sweaty, and knowing how to lock and load a gun if he ever needed to save me lololol, or knowing how to survive in the freezing cold or ice cold water if something ever happen. SEXY MOFO
THAT ARMY FATIGUE LOOKS SOOOOO SEXY ON MR.JUNG. It’s such a turn on. WORK IT JIHOON. KICK SOME A** BABY!!!!!!
ROLLING DOWN HIS SEXY WINDOWS!!!!
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Lollll @ rolling down his sexy windows. Love eat your kimchi.
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Thanks for posting this…a lesson in life. Really, one should be able to understand the basic of military training, that way we may be able to perceive what actually happens in the real world. This is exactly what Rain has been trying to tell us: that is, when he comes out from the military he is going to be a changed man. He probably meant he will be more responsible and with a better understanding of the real world and a practical man at that. Thanks Terri for the lessons you taught us.
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Stephe’s Two Cents.
I haven’t heard of even one celebrity going to that boot camp and not coming back from it, or for that matter being lost at sea, or lost in the mountains, or a victim of the enemy, or not returning from military service in one piece. So I have no reason whatsoever to assume that JiHoon can’t make it through what other celebs have, especially with him being a hell of a lot tougher than some of them. Life is unpredictable and I don’t know what’s going to happen, anything could, frankly. There is an armistice going on, and things shouldn’t be taken lightly. The situation on the Korean peninsula worries me more than you will ever know. But moping over scenarios that haven’t even happened takes away valuable energy that should be used for supporting JiHoon instead.
I cannot let my personal fears and concerns for him and stuff on the Internet spin me off into some world of doom, and stop functioning. I want to reason things out the way he does, keep a level head, and be strong for this man the way he’s been strong for me. I believe that his nervousness is because he’s in an unknown place in his life, and that his worry is for the emotional suffering of his loved ones. I do not believe for one second that he is sitting there crying “woe is me” in some misery, and barely holding himself back from breaking down in front of cameras during troop meetings and such. I mean really. What an insult to a man of his calibre. Let’s not emasculate the guy.
JiHoon is amazingly tender-hearted when those around him are in distress and he will definitely shed some tears, but when it comes to himself, he’s as strong as ox because of the hell he’s been through during and since his childhood. I’m not going to insult him by acting like he needs me to hold his hand while he’s a soldier (although I’d love to hold his hand, that beautifully gorgeous hand with those long, tapering fingers… ahem, but that’s beside the point).
He was put on this earth to change lives, not just from the stage, not just from the screen, but from everywhere possible. He is going to kick ass, take names, help, inspire, and change some young men for the better, be the hyung that they need and never had, show them that YES they can do what they didn’t think they could, save someone emotionally or physically, directly or indirectly in some manner by being where he is, show his fellow soldiers how it’s done, learn a hell of a lot himself, and come back home to his career with a great sense of accomplishment and even more respect from his countrymen.
And his star is going to be blinding when it hits Hollywood again.
This is just my two cents. It might come off as me being a know-it-all, or lecturing folks like their mama and presuming to tell them what to do, but oh well. It is what it is. And what it IS is about JiHoon and what he needs, not about me.
Stephe ^@@^
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Amen!
Terri :-}
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I agree 110%…………………………………………………….
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i MAYBE sound like a baby sitter early BUT
YES!!!!!!!!!!! I TOTALLY AGREED
he will show his fellow soldiers how it’s done, learn a hell of a lot himself, and come back home to his career with a great sense of accomplishment and even more respect from his countrymen.
And his star is going to be blinding when it hits Hollywood again. OH GOSH i just LOVE WHAT U State on that AMEM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
i could agreed more and i will wait to see hole NEW MEN stand in front fans and star And Open door NEXT LEVEL in USA watch out for that !! 🙂 i wanted to see rain SHINE and more accomplishment
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Agreed Stephe! Love your optimism and Rain;s too! I think you’re right that he is at a point of uncertainty in his life…who isn’t during their own lifetime right? I think that’s why he is contemplating marriage and what not. Hope he finds what he’s looking for! Why couldn’t it be me?!?!??! LOL!! (^^) Have a great weekend!
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Jihoon is going to be just fine. LOL.
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Mari,
I went back and read your comment. I see why you would think I was talking directly to you. However, I don’t always read every comment before I comment sometimes, it depends on how lengthy they are. Having said that, let me reiterate, I was commenting to Terri’s article and coming from My Own perspective…….that’s it. But, let me be clear to anyone/everyone who reads my comments. I respond, Directly to those who make comments that I feel compelled to respond to (funny ones and serious ones alike). In other words, I will never talk “at” you, I will talk “to” you. I will address you directly by name/alias. I wouldn’t throw a comment at you or anybody else, cause I don’t like having it done to me. If you feel I offended you by my comment, I apologize to you. If you feel you need to say something to me privately, please feel free. I am not here to offend, I only speak from my experiences. This enlistment with Rain is an emotionally charged thing and everybody’s on edge one way or another. So I hope you don’t take offense to my words, but I just wanna be as Clear as I can possibly be.
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No offense at all, my friend!! It’s all good! Is just that, as you can see now, we used almost the same wording and I thought you were worried about me. I took it as an advice not as an offensive comment. It was good advice by the way. No worries.
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Terri & Stephe
Rain in TIME Magazine Newsfeed
check new feed of MTV massive of rain
http://newsfeed.time.com/2011/10 … ain-joins-the-army/
thank for massive with and yes let keep rain shine even he away
thank to so much for a great massive of rain MTV please keep rain shine and encouragement his duty and Artist i very appropriated the article u guy wrote about and we sure love this guy he is our honor to COUNTRY served yet he is WORLD-STAR in Asia King of Asia & Stage as known he is!! however i wish rain LUCK Healthy and Wealth on his duty rain will kick that ass in his duty thank so much for this massive i know rain will as proud to know all this still supporting and love and give rain such good view and who he is been celebrities Artist
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OPPSI: :oopsi:
TYPO — i mean TIME Magazine ahahahaah sorry for that >_<
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Dear Terri,
Thank you for your ‘two cents’. To me, it’s worth so much. I agree with
all you’ve shared and will now think more positively on the situation. One way I can do this is to start planning what I will contribute to Rain’s Goodwill package(when we are allowed to send him one).
{{{{{{I know I should keep my perspective as you said. Believe me, that’s is very present in my mind. I NEVER felt like this for ANY other celebrity EVER. Never being an official fan for any celeb, only Rain. I can’t help to feel what I feel for Rain. Maybe someday I will understand it but for now, I go with it, share with new friends the love for Rain and enjoy the ride.}}}}}}} These words might as well have come out of my mouth. If I knew why this man has this affect on me, I’d say….but I don’t. Heck, I traveled all the way to Korea alone to see him.
Patsii
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Patsii,
Thanks for the comment.
I know how you feel. I have never EVER been an official fan of anyone. Ever. Not as a child. Not as an adolescent. Not as a young adult. NEVER.
So the fact that I bothered to created a humongous international fan site for not an American celebrity but a Korean one simply boggles my mind. You just don’t know. Well, then again, maybe you do. LOL.
Terri :-}
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Thanks Terri for posting this, I must admitt that I did worry and cry just a little only for the fact hi family and the emotions you can see in his eyes and the comments i was seeing from others, but I know in my heart that he will be fine. So with everything you said I totally agree with everything you said, so now i will keep staying strong and pray for his safety cause we are STRONG CLOUDS..FIGHTING!! 🙂
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Ah….I heartily agree 🙂
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Terri
thank u so much for give us such a HEAD-UP Encouragement of bi… rain… i know i am got scare for a bit and it make my freeze after what i heard about sending rain to next to the border where he have to training active at… anyway i felt my emotional are deep and so heavy when i know rain have to leave us for his Military duty as matter of curse all of us too..
i never have such a heavy felling on anybody NOT even my boy friend but rain have give me such full feeling i admit that i got scare so fast what ever i heard something it scare which NOT even at al…. that just my feeling of rain i guess however… he the ONLY one that give me tear i swear that when rain enter his MS on 11 i have crying so many time on that not to mention i don’t cry to any body hardly do but this one it just making me weak for him… i have feeling of rain meaning i very care and supporting and i never ever admire adore any celebrities like rain period i have know a favorite Chinese singer actor just about as rain is too but do i tear on him NOPE!!!!!!!!!!!!
rain have give such a warm feeling i learn a lot about this guy he such a person we SHOULD alway love him to our heart coz the reason we all should why right????
anyway i know that rain is a determine person just like how he work so hard to all his filming and ect… he type of person like to give effort and succeed it TRUE…!! BUT AS GIVE RAIN in the training place at it right by the border YES!! i shock and scare but then now that u have bring all those up i read it i can feel much better but, like i say training for rain it might be tough on him but rain already have his experience in Ninja Assassin no doubt rain can do his duty i just ….. felt the hard care of him back again >_< but like u have state in here U ARE SO RIGHT !! i should be PANIC !!!!!!!!
I AND we ,i should keep think more POSITIVE and warm Rain up by his message i don't want rain to felt burden knowing hey what??here it goes again found out his fans out their are so worries about him uh?? what now he could even focus his duty thinking how his fan react while he in training i just felt blank BY HAVING RAIN !! have such a odd experience their but again it is GOOD for his life so he can actually became a REAL SOLIDER id this possibilities just saying !! rain lead to many think that his country will even more PROUD of what he done to his country.
anyway i love rain for life even i have no change to be one…. but HECK yeah i love this all my heart even just plain fans & cloud why oh i have so many reason for him but as we all supporting rain too i will patient wait for rain 22 Month until the day he discharge from hi MS so let keep post and POSITIVE and bare with rain for until the day he we cloudUSA should wrap him updo a paming on rain new look i will get the hair first ahahahahaha 🙂
now that u post this i feelling so MUCH better then NOT!!!!!!!
thank u so much terrie HUG!!
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Well, I just turned my computer on two minutes ago and saw this post first thing. Now, you KNOW I’m gonna add my “change” to yours Terri. I want to preface my comments by saying that this is what I alone feel and how I alone deal with celebrity in this regard.
I have said in recent weeks and days even, that Rain touches that human side to my soul like No Other Celebrity I have ever followed or come across in my life. When I see the tears in his eyes, it affects me greatly like it does many of you. Have I in actuality shed tears for him? No. Have I come close? Yes. HOWEVER, my late father was a wealth of knowledge and advice for me and there is one word that comes to mind from him to me that he used to say all the time and that word is PERSPECTIVE. “Daughter, you must look at people and situations from the proper perspective.”
I am a married woman (as you all know). I have a loving hubbie I live with and see everyday. Now, I do have my FUN regarding Bi…..no doubt about it, however from my perspective it’s all fun and fantasy, cause not a damned thing I say about Bi is gonna happen in my world. As much as I admire him, respect his hustle and go-getter mentality, his humility, his beauty, his mental strength…..in my world, Bi is still a celebrity and also a person I do not personally know. Worrying about Bi to the point of shedding hard core tears, I wouldn’t feel right doing when I have someone beside me everyday who should actually be the one to garner that kind of deep emotion from me. ANY husband would be like, WTF? How, can you be So Affected toward this man…..to such a degree. Of course we are human and feel for him and his situation….Of Course….BUT, if you are BLESSED (IMO) to have a loving family that you see AND can Love On everyday, that is the perspective, I Feel, one ought to have in regard to the celebrity versus real life thing and how far to take it. His being drafted, brings up memories of my husband’s stint in the Navy and Reserve duty. I KNOW others here have relatives (spouses and loved ones) serving as we speak. THEY are were your deep worry should be focused upon. Ultimately Bi has a family…..he has a father and a sister who love him dearly and just as much as we love our own family members. I would be willing to bet, NO ONE here will shed more tears or feel his absence or have more fear in their heart More Deeply than the two of them will. Before someone says it, I DO get that not everyone is married and everybody’s personal life situations are different, but ONCE AGAIN this is how I Deal from My Perspective……nothing more, nothing less.
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BiAlamode,
Thank you for your perspective.
Terri :-}
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Dear Bia since I understand that you are talking to me, let me clarify my comment a bit. I cried ONCE in front of my hubbie and it was cuz he notice I was sad when he came home. My hubbie work A LOT and now he is planning to enter politics so I know he’ll be more busy than ever. My kids are young ladies with their own activities to go so most of the time I am alone. That doesn’t mean I’m not busy cuz if my hubbie is working guess who’s in charge of everything else? Me, of course. Why I feel the way I feel for Rain, only God knows! I can’t explain it. I know I should keep my perspective as you said. Believe me, that’s is very present in my mind. I NEVER felt like this for ANY other celebrity EVER. Never being an official fan for any celeb, only Rain. I can’t help to feel what I feel for Rain. Maybe someday I will understand it but for now, I go with it, share with new friends the love for Rain and enjoy the ride.
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I was speaking to Terri’s article Mari and commenting for myself, but now that you have responded to me I will go back to read your comments.
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really now…he is not the only celebrity in the Army right now, he and us knew he was going to go at least 3 or 4 years prior and to worry about him is ridiculous!!..he is in training he will not be in combat, as for being the “breadwinner” of his family it’s a joke, I’m sure he has left plenty to live on to his sister and dad…and doesn’t his dad work??…hhmm…as a mother of tow Army soldiers, one that went to Iraq for 2 years I gotta tell you this will be a piece of cake for BI and for as to worry is useless, worry about our soldiers that are in Iraq and Afghanistan right now and try to do something for them, after all they are OUR people…thank you
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Raindasy,
Thank you for your comments.
Terri :-}
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Terri, I just wanted to thank you for posting this because I totally agree that fans are making it a lot more worrysome for others out there too. Besides that, Rain has already made peace and has accepted the fact that he had to serve his country no matter what. It would bring peace of mind to others, himself, and his family if we were being positive supporting him rather than negative!! Couldn’t agree more with you there!
Yes, I was definitely sad and cried when he cried watching vids on youtube but after that moment passed I felt strong and motivated because he didn’t mope around so why should we? I was also sad that I had only become a fan of his in the last 3 weeks or so and to learn that he was going to enlist was a shock. I didn’t know that there were parts of this world still forcing people to enlist so yes, it took me a while to get over it.
As Rain has said many times, it’s a time for reflection and a look back on his life up til this point and to look towards the future and to climb higher mountains is his goal!! Besides, he needs a break from the entertainment world for a bit so this should be almost a vacation minus the bootcamp.
I still wish him well everyday and he is my motivation to do the things I do.
Thanks Rain!
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Thi,
Thanks so much for your comment. And welcome!
I can imagine the shock you felt as a brand new fan of 3 weeks finding out he was leaving. Awww. {{{Hugs}}}. I have only been a part of Rain’s World since late 2009, Stephe since 2005. When we learned he hadn’t served in the armed forces yet and that he was almost thirty, we braced ourselves, because we knew it was coming. Not that it helped, but still. Sigh.
I honestly think Rain will enjoy many things about military service. For one thing he seems to love a physical challenge. Military service will certainly give him that. We will likely be astonished how “fit” he appears to be when he gets out. He will be too thin for us, probably, but that will likely be because he will be all muscle. I’ll never forget when I saw the pictures of Song Il Gook right after he got out of the military. I had been a fan of his for some time and thought he was a very fit person, but then I saw his after MS pics and I was floored. He won’t be able to maintain peak, military fitness, of course, because he won’t be training all the time, and we wouldn’t want him to, because it would be bad for his body. Still, it will be interesting to witness.
I also think he will enjoy the comraderie with the other soldiers. Although I can’t imagine that he will ever just “be one of the guys” (since he is so famous and since so many of his fellow recruits probably admire him as much as his fans do), I do think, though, that his basic training period will bring him as close as he can get to being just one of the pack. He is going to have to work out with his fellow soldiers, shower with them, eat with them, sleep with them, train with them, etc. So, at some point, some of them are even going to “forget” that he’s “Rain” the “star” and they’ll just let him BE. And when that moment comes, I think he will enjoy it thoroughly. That’s a good thing.
As for the break being a mini-vacation from the entertainment industry, I don’t know about that so much. The lack of privacy he has out in the world is horrible, but honestly, he’s not going to have much “real” privacy in the army either. The only thing that will change there is the “face” of the fans–that and the fact that he won’t have the luxury of his security force between him and his army fans. I’m pretty sure that the army will actively discourage the fans in his unit from bothering him, but they’ll still be there–and able to get to him directly, which is going to take some adjustment for him. What that does mean, though is when he gets out he will likely be able to handle his Clouds in the real world more comfortably himself, rather than having to always depend on his “security force” to do it for him. He will be more confident in that regard. So, that is another good thing.
Also, he’s a planner and he has always been very driven by the fact that he is the major breadwinner of his family. So, I doubt not being paid for a year is going to make him real comfortable. The fact that he is even thinking about “self-reflection” and “looking towards the future” tells me he will likely spend much of any spare time he gets planning his comeback into the limelight. I imagine if he does relax and rest it will be only because he’s utterly exhausted and can’t help doing so. Then again, once he finishes boot camp and gets to his regular unit, maybe he will be able to settle into a routine and the experience will become more of a mini-vacation of a sort. I hope so anyway.
Again, welcome and thanks for commenting!
Terri :-}
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Awwww *HUGGSIES*!! Thanks for the warm welcome and trying to reply to all of us!
I really was shocked and very devastated when I heard he was going to enlist…I was just very enveloped in his down-to-earthness and humble personality and of course his charisma! I didn’t have enough time to accept it as most of his cloud fans probably already slowly came to terms with it. I’m sure though that since they have been longer fans than I, it must’ve been very difficult for them also.
Nonetheless, I have to agree with you that he probably will be planning on his comeback and what to do with his future. He seems like a very determined and goal-oriented individual that is very hungry for more of everything. I don’t blame him either when hearing about his background. Makes me feel like I take a lot of things for granted here in Texas and having the freedom of being born in America.
I also forgot to say that I was lost for a few days not understanding what enlistment really meant in Korea and if he was going to war etc…I’m so bad at politics and prefer to stay out of things like that so I’m not as educated about that area as I would like to be. But thanks for giving us an idea of what might be going on for him. At least it puts ease in my head and what I think is going on.
You know what is weird is that 2 years seems like a long time but when you put it into months or days…time really flies! I wished time would actually slow down a bit for once. Well except that I want Rain back asap as much as any of his other fans. I would just like to one day be able to go to a concert of his when I get some money saved up for such a trip. That would be epic!
Also, as a side note which has nothing to do with this post…can I say how great it is that you guys offer Rain merchandise on your website? I could not find very much on Amazon. I’m still trying to find my way around this website and figure out where to post things. I don’t know if Katie reads everything also but I just saw she watches The Walking Dead and I’m a huge fan! I am also just now starting to watch my very first Korean Drama and it’s Full House!! I am only on episode 2 but I’m loving it!!!
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Thi,
Oh, Full House is great. You will really enjoy it. The characters are maddening and delightful all at the same time.
Enjoy.
Terri :-}
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Terri, though the heart hurts me very much for his absence, I know he will be fine, he us has transmitted this safety, and thank you for sharing your words with us, you gave me lots of encouragement, thanks again .
Sorry for my English, I’m trying to do better, I love them very much :$ ♥
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Adry,
Thank you for your comment. You’re welcome. I’m glad I helped. My heart hurts too. It really does. 😐
And your English is WONDERFUL. Don’t worry about your English so much! It’s fine! It’s much better than my Spanish. I can assure you! :-}
Terri :-}
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You are absolutely RIGHT Terry!!! I must admit I did PANIC but it wasn’t cuz I doubt Rain can be up to the challenge cuz I know he can or cuz the facilities where he’s staying are awful. I was prepared for that cuz I did some research and I saw videos. What really scared me was that his boot training is gonna be soo damn close to the border! Geezz damn computers always doing a number on me!! But you know, I’m glad you bring this up and front cuz now we can talk about it, vent here our worries and somewhat take comfort and strenght from each other. We all need to talk about it cuz anybody is going to understand us better than another sister cloud! I mean, my hubbie see me crying and he comfort me but I know he’s going WTH? I’ve only known Rain for a year and a half! I can’t go to a psycologist either cuz he’s gonna hear me, said uhm and then he’s gonna give me pills for depression and I don’t want them! I don’t need that, I believe that talking with the only people I know who can understand me is gonna be more effective than any pill. Also, you are right, we should send only good vibes and comforting messages to Rain and his family. They are already worrying sick about Rain so we can’t add to that pain with our messages via Twitter. They know Rain’s situation cuz they are in Korea, know the war’s history and receive news constantly! So let’s talk about Rain here in our little space were its safe and we can vent till we feel better. Is gonna be two hard years but if we pray, cry, panic, laugh and wait for Rain together is gonna make us stronger to get thru it. Nothing last forever and this awful time will be behind us soon, so hang in there my friends cuz Rain needs us more than ever.
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Thank you, Mari, for bringing that up.
I appreciate the pain I’m hearing in your comment. I really do. {{{Hugs}}}.
Here at Cloud USA, we do want everyone to be able to have a voice. We do know that many Clouds don’t have support at home for their bias. We know it’s hard. So, here’s what we will do.
We certainly welcome your honest thoughts, feelings and opinions. And we will try to listen to you all as best we can. However, please keep in mind that me and Stephe are Clouds too, and as such, we are ALSO having somewhat of a difficult time with this whole thing ourselves. So, please do forgive us if we don’t chime in on every comment or if we sound particularly upset. Because, frankly, we ARE sometimes.
I know I sound so strong, but that’s because I’m trying really hard to be. Trust me. I do have my bad moments…mainly because I have some real military baggage of my own. My EX was an Army officer and served in the U.S. Army for 12 years. Some of the things we experienced while he was in there were not pretty. And one of the main reasons my husband and I aren’t together anymore relates to the military too. So, as you can imagine, I’m totally THRILLED by this latest development for Ji Hoon. (Um…that’s sarcasm, btw, just in case you missed it) :-\
HOWEVER, I would much rather put POSITIVE thoughts out into the Matrix than I would NEGATIVE thoughts. Because, frankly, negative thoughts simply depress the hell out of me. So that is what I’m going to do. Be positive. No matter what. I say 22 months isn’t that long of a time to have to wait. And so can we all please just try like hell to wait patiently and supportively?
Regardless of how Rain or his family feels about it, it sure as heck would help me and Stephe too.
Thank you greatly for your input, Mari. We appreciate you.
Terri :-}
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Will be as positive as I can. That was my plan, it really was, but knowing his location rattled me. It was hard but I’m over it now. Thanks for your words of enlightment, they really helped me. Love and hugs to you and Stephe. 🙂
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Mari,
I must admit it rattled me too, but then I looked around and realized that all of the boot camps are close to the DMZ, which would make sense, really. If you’re going to indoctrinate troops and show them the stark reality of the situation, what better place to start out their military training than close to the border? It makes total sense. It’s what I would do if I were in command.
This ain’t fun and games, soldiers. This is serious business.
Thank you too for sharing. Hugs back. :-}
Terri :-}
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I agree Terri, I know that fans are always worrying he doesnt eat enuff or he is not sleeping enuff and that drives me nuts sometimes. I think he was nervous not knowing quite what to expect but he will have a good life in the military when he gets used to it and makes good friends. I don’t think he’ll get to see much action, most soldiers over there don’t.
I see Dad Jung tweeting more than before and actually more worried about him than Jihoon. Cloud should let dad know that we are OK and let him know that he doesnt need to worry about his son, two yrs will go by quickly. He will get some vacation time, right?, after boot camp, he will visit his family then.
I think we just have to settle in to this new chapter in Rain’s life and know he will benefit in his career from being a soldier so we should get behind our favorite military guy and cheer him on. 🙂
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Patrice,
I agree. His Dad’s tweets worry me a lot more than Ji Hoon’s basic training adventures. Everyone please send lots of positive thoughts and hugs and kisses to Mr. Jung, and let him know we are behind his boy 100%!
Power of The Cloud!!! I really like that phrase. Rain used it recently himself when he was talking about his upcoming film and I think it’s absolutely perfect. How about we all show the ROK Army The Power of The Cloud? Yeah!
Terri :-}
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Yes The Power of The Cloud is mighty and we are gonna show it to the ROK!! As soon as we get an address, we are gonna send our love to JiHoon so they know that the whole world is watching them!! Rain is not alone in this!! We are there to support him always!! We are gonna see his movie twenty times or more so it gets to be a HUGE hit!! Cloud Power!!
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Well said Dear Terri, I almost running out of things to say to answer to those who are still angry at this situation. Some even tried to start petition to take him out off MS >.<
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Will you post it on RL too pls I beg you.
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You’re welcome, RedCloud.
Sigh. I know the feeling, Red. Do they really think Rain doesn’t want to do his duty to his country? I mean really? I’m sure he isn’t thrilled about having to serve, because it’s not like his one dream in life was to be a soldier, right? But the idea of the damage it could do to his career if he DOESN’T serve surely gave him pause and made him even more determined to get it done and get it done right.
Certainly, I will post my comments on Rain Legend too. (At least, I’m assuming that you are talking about Rain Legend. :-}
Terri :-}
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One question though. Where on Rain Legend should I post the comment?
Terri :-}
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RedCloud,
Never mind. I found the thread that talked about the petition and so I posted my comment there. I added this PS though, and I really really REALLY want us all to do this: As soon as we get a good address, I think we should flood Rain and his buddies with lots of love…just to show all of those precious boys the real power of THE CLOUD.
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really RedCloud, PPl are starting a petition? Are they crazy? Korean Nonfans will be upset if he doesnt serve. That will just bring dishonor to him and his family. That cannot happen!!
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Thank you for voicing that concern, Patrice. I agree. Rain doesn’t want to bring dishonor to himself or his family.
Everyone please go over to Rain Legend and put in your two cents too.
Thank you,
Terri :-}
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Do fans REALLY think JiHoon wants to walk around his country and his peers as the guy who “wimped out of his duty because he’s obviously better than anyone else”? Do “fans” realize what him being exempted will do to his career, not to mention how that will make him look down on himself as a man? Respect for him will be gone. Even his future children will be known as the kids of a service dodger and it could even affect them getting jobs and stuff in the future. Their school lives will be hell. Korea is like that!
He has said that when it comes down to it, he wants to be known by his family, his friends, his fans, and his country as the best example of a responsible Korean man that he can be. That’s very important to him. Doesn’t anybody listen to what this man says and wants?
When is it going to be about what HE wants and not about what WE want?
Stephe ^@@^
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Exactly he has way to much pride in his country for that and I totally respect him for that. At the end of the day a man’s gotta do what a man’s gotta do.
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I feel your frustration and agree with you. But you’re absolutely right, if he was to be exempted, people would be like….Oh HELL No! My son gotta go serve, but Mr. K-Pop world star doesn’t have to. The people wouldn’t stand for that. Even if he could be exempted, he SO wouldn’t do it. Especially, now that he’s probably gotten to know some of his young recruit-mates. He’s getting to talk to regular peeps now and hear their stories about their families and daily lives. He’s not in a K-Pop world now, this is the real deal world where mere mortals reside not superstars. (SMILES) As crazy as it sounds, it’s probably a refreshing change of pace to get to talk one on one with these young guys who don’t belong to his superstar world. They are probably, in some way, reminding him of the start of his own journey a decade ago.
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