Hindustan Times (Bathinda)

One earth, one life, one future together

- Parambir Kaur parambirka­ur@gmail.com ■ The writer is a Ludhiana-based freelance contributo­r

In spite of being a non-entity, I happen to nurture a high opinion of myself. Why? There is more than one reason behind this perspectiv­e. I belong to the topmost of the species around here and the kind of conduct which is expected of me, is one conspicuou­s reason behind this assumption. Even otherwise don’t we all require some level of assurance for leading a positive life?

Now guess how I am expected to behave. I am supposed to do as much as I can, for the general good of this planet and its other occupants. Nothing in my lifestyle should ever go against the welfare of any being or even the vegetation. Every morning, I am indebted for another bright and a brand new day at my disposal. But the thought that weighs me down is that I am supposed to pack this period with all constructi­ve and eloquent accomplish­ments. And this can become possible only by omitting nonessenti­als. The idea of being able to look back with pride and contentmen­t is enough for one to keep treading the desired path.

I am answerable to myself first and then to the whole universe as well. I have to be on guard all the while, indulging only in relevant endeavours. My father’s words, “Always focus on the larger meaning of life; and try to become the finest version of yourself,” have stayed with me like a shadow. The real import of the statement is, in fact, becoming clearer as time goes by. This is what maturity does to us and who can afford to overlook the fact that time once gone won’t return.

I have earned the reputation of practising the four Rs i.e. refuse, reduce, reuse and recycle in the use of plastics. Not indulging in any such act as might go against our already ill-treated environs, has always been a priority.

My first morning ritual is to confer with the ever-burgeoning green pals in our garden. They too greet me with a cheerful demeanour. The numerous birds hopping around suddenly stop to look expectantl­y at me. They hardly know the kind of secure feeling they end up giving me by such lavish display of affinity. I can only be grateful for the faith they all repose in me.

I scatter grains and roti bits for the wonderful winged visitors. I also feed my plants with organic manure of fruit and vegetable peels which I call their salad. If some fruit or vegetable in the fridge goes bad, I bury it in the ground under any of the plants. They in turn show their delight by thriving fervently with large blooms, shining leaves and provide us with some organic vegetables, too.

I love doing my best for them, knowing pretty well that there is only one earth and one life. But I am sure that many people are doing this and much more for our future, together.

ALWAYS FOCUS ON THE LARGER MEANING OF LIFE; AND TRY TO BECOME THE FINEST VERSION OF YOURSELF

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