Have you ever indulged yourself in a morning with bright sunshine and chirping birds? Peace and happiness are what I perceive during time walking between the rows of trees.
Going for a walk is my favorite hobby. I love walking in natural surroundings, wandering alone with my mind. Every morning, walking among the lush greenery allows me to see myself in nature, which makes my worries disappear. This kind of exercise helps me improve my physical and mental health, and it is also a way to return to my childhood with a lot of joy.
I grew up in a small village, living with my family members in a charming country cottage. There was a garden with various trees which provided shade all year round. The road to school was through rice paddles waving in the wind, signaling that they were ready for harvest. This road was also where my mom went to the local market, selling her goods. Although she passed away many years ago, I still see her in a blue shirt, which stood out from the yellow color of the ripened rice.
Playing on the path, five of our siblings were waiting for our mom.
“Mom! Mom’s back home!” five of us shouted loudly.
Rubbing our heads, my mom put down her things and gave a package of cake to each of us. While wandering along the streets and living again in my innocent age, I was startled by a telephone call.
“Mom, we are waiting for you,” my children said.
“Oh, no! It is time to go back home and cook meals,” I whispered to myself.
Time goes fast and never returns. I cannot go back to my innocent age. What I can keep is the memory that exists during my life.
Whenever you experience a difficult time, or you want to relive your childhood, I suggest that you go for a walk under the trees, listen to bird songs, and wander in your mind. This will help you feel true relaxation and imagine the child within yourself.
(Artwork by Lily’s son!)
