When I was young, my village was a world of its own, a
cocoon of simplicity and joy that shielded me from the complexities of the
outside world. I was innocent and naive, unaware of the vastness that lay
beyond my familiar surroundings. The outside world seemed like a distant dream,
and many aspects of it remained alien to me.
In that little world, I found meaning and happiness in every
small thing. The forest and deep jungle were my playgrounds, and the excitement of discovering their hidden mysteries was the most thrilling adventure I'd ever had. I cherished being within reach of my parents, listening to their wise advice, and experiencing the warmth of their affection. My days were filled with the laughter of my fellow villagers, and I regarded the pleasure of helping my neighbors whenever possible.
Modern electronic distractions were absent from my life,
leaving me with the pure pleasures of herding cows and playing archery. Even
the thought of joining school brought excitement and wonder. However, once
there, I felt a mix of fear and curiosity toward my teachers and struggled to
comprehend the enigma of mathematics.
In school, reading books and singing rhymes were our
afternoon delights. We learned about the weather and days, absorbing knowledge with
eager minds. Playing friendly games, competitions, and literary activities were
the highlight of my days. We played walnut games and marbles, and sometimes
fought and struggled for the fruits of a Dogwood tree which happened to be the Centre
of attention in my Pry School. I remember running to school barefoot in both
rain and sun and returning home late at night, the journey etched in my memory
as a cherished adventure.
Life was about learning essential skills, broadening my mind
to the outside world, and nurturing nature's gifts. I was introduced to gardening
and planting flowers around my school, enhancing the beauty of the
surroundings. Joining nature clubs taught me about environmental awareness, and
annual variety shows allowed me to showcase my talents in dancing, singing, and
drama.
As the seasons changed, I guarded maize fields from wild
animals and birds, collected firewood from the jungle, lumbered from the
forest, and gathered bamboo from the mountaintops. Dawn was a time of daring
adventure as I risked facing wild beasts to collect walnuts or firewood from
the forest. Orchids, mushrooms, and other plants from the forest and riverside
were treasured discoveries.
Local festivals were moments of pure joy, where we played,
sang, and danced with abandon. I fondly remember attending others' religious
festivals, where we performed songs and dances with passion and unity.
Shopping meant traveling days to the nearest road points,
accompanied by horses and bulls. Life was simple yet fulfilling. I can’t bury
the memories of several yak herders who would travel day and night
throughout the year through my village and such a beautiful sight it was.
These memories are so rich and beautiful, so difficult to
capture in mere words. I wonder if the generations to come will ever experience
the same unbridled joy and simplicity that I once did. With the advancements of
this age, will they ever get to breathe the cleanest air, drink the freshest
weather, and relish the most beautiful natural environment like I did?
The modern world may offer conveniences and wonders beyond
imagination, but I can't help but feel a profound attachment to the experiences
of my childhood. They shaped me, molded my character, and filled my heart with
the purest form of happiness. I was fortunate to witness the beauty of nature
in its untouched splendor, and no painting could ever do justice to those
breathtaking views.
As the world changes, I hold to these memories, a treasure trove of feelings etched in my heart. My childhood was a gift, a time of innocence, wonder, and connection with nature, and I shall cherish those memories that shaped who I am today.
