Every year on June 2nd, the earth beneath my feet and the memories in my heart resonate with a celebration that has shaped my life: Social Forestry Day. As a nature lover from a tender age, this day was always a cherished festival, an art of soil, saplings, and smiles. It is more than just a day to plant trees; it's a day that nurtures memories, fosters community, and sows seeds of environmental stewardship.
I fondly recall my primary school years when Social Forestry Day was celebrated with full of excitement by our principal. The barren landscapes surrounding our school transformed into heavenly natural park, thanks to our collective efforts. Initially, we planted around our school campus, but as our initiative grew, so did our reach. One memorable year, we planted saplings atop Murbi village, just below the grand stupa on the way to Serdam Goenpa.
Preparation for the day was an adventure in itself. A few days before the event, we were sent to Phongmey, the nearest road point, a two-hour trek on foot. Armed with empty bamboo baskets, we fetched tree saplings, which were stored in a corner of our school until the big day. On Social Forestry Day, we carried these saplings to the designated location. The day before, we dug holes one meter deep, ensuring cow dung was ready to enrich the soil.
Watering the plants was an unconventional task. We used beer bottles as makeshift watering cans, which sometimes posed a risk of breaking and causing injuries. Despite these challenges, the day we planted the trees atop Murbi village remains etched in my mind. Under a bright sun, we ascended from our school, traversing the Bumpalong valley to reach our destination. Each of us carried our packed lunches, while the elder students hauled the essential tools: hoes, shovels, and spades.
The saplings, supplied by the Forestry Park Office, were accompanied by the speech from late Ranger Pema, who graced the occasion with his presence. His speeches on the importance of the day and the significance of forestry left a lasting impact. The saplings were carefully wrapped in small plastic bags to keep the soil intact. We would tear off the plastic, mix the soil with cow dung, and gather humus from the forest floor to ensure the saplings had the best start.
As we worked, the air was filled with the sounds of nature – insects buzzing and birds chirping. Grasshoppers and ants, unfortunately, sometimes fell victim to our activities. After completing the plantation, we were treated to a refreshing drink. Our school management ingeniously mixed orange juice with water to quench our thirst, creating a drink that was a delight to our young palates. If the budget allowed, we also received a Parle-G biscuit, a coveted treat among us.
In years when we planted around the school, the afternoon was dedicated to literary activities themed around Social Forestry Day. Art contests and extemporary speech sessions were highlights. One year, when I was in class six, I eagerly participated in both contests. Though I didn't win the art contest, I triumphed in the extemporary speech, securing a cash prize of Nu. 300, sponsored by the Forestry Office. Elated, I saved the money, only to have it stolen from my wallet during a summer vaccination session. My teacher was not present and other visitors had been around, and I suspected them of the theft. Discovering my empty wallet broke my heart, and I regretted not treating myself sooner, but it taught me the value of using and safeguarding my earnings.
Today, the fruits of our labor are visible in the towering trees surrounding my old school. These once fragile saplings now stand as sentinels, protecting the school from wind and storm, and providing shade and beauty. They have become homes for countless animals, insects, and birds, adding to the school's aesthetic charm. Seeing these trees mature and thrive is immensely satisfying, a dream realized after more than two decades.
I miss those days and the sense of purpose and camaraderie they fostered. As I reminisce on this Social Forestry Day, I extend my gratitude to everyone involved in creating these memories.
Written on June 2nd, 2024, before getting out of bed, as the memories gently unfolded in my mind, I wish I could visit those saplings-turned-trees and relive the magic of those days.
Thank you for the memories, the lessons, and the growth.
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