A nation that destroys its soils destroys itself. Forests are the lungs of our land, purifying the air and giving fresh strength to our people.”
-Franklin D. Roosevelt

Today has been declared as International Day of Forests (as declared by the United Nations). The theme of the International Day of Forests for 2021 is “Forest restoration: a path to recovery and well-being.” The restoration and sustainable management of forests can help in addressing the issues related to climate change and biodiversity. Forests, the green canopy are undoubtedly, directly proportional to our sustainable existence. A single day of thought towards saving them is not enough .The thought process and action towards it has to be perennial. It never is but I guess this is just an attempt to make us aware about the gravity of the situation of how essential is it to save these resources that are our lifelines. I only wish , if a fraction of the effort in making a calendar of these important days can percolate down to some real actions ! The conflicts that arise when mankind is faced with choosing between a short term happiness over the long term tranquility has always been there. And I think in spite of being the most intelligent of all the human race, we tend to take up the easiest path. This is when we neglect the futuristic view and compromise the benefits that are guaranteed in the long run!!

I am referring to the conflict that arises when any Government that has to take the action of exploring the mines and minerals for the public use and which forces large scale destruction of the forest cover. We will always have two groups with two contrasting view points when such cases come to the light. Who is right, who is wrong? Who will say that? Some might argue for the development of living standards, meeting the current demand while some may bring forth the need to save the green cover! The tussle goes on and will always continue to be there, I guess. Only a wise decision and making a healthy choice can help us lead towards a more fulfilling future . The numerous flora and fauna that constitute an essential element of the biome are directly linked with the climatic factors and when the balance is destroyed due to illogical and greedy decisions of the mankind, that is when we start our own downfall. I do not know how soon or early this will take us to realize and propel us to act towards reviving the forests, the only organ of the world that helps us breathe ! The rapid expansion of the concrete jungle, the growing aspirations of owning a house and having a personal stamp on the real estate , the explosion of population , the craze of living an urban lifestyle etc. has added to the cause of such exhaustion . Hoping for a better sense to prevail, nonetheless .

Well, today also being World Poetry Day, I thought of dedicating a small poem to the Forests , which I had composed earlier and recorded in my voice today. You can click the name of the poem to hear it . The poem is tittle as Come with me to the Woods ! I shall look forward to your suggestions and your feedbacks.

Love,

Chinmayee