By the blessings of God, we are born in this world, where nature has given us the opportunity to eat, live, walk and dream. But have we ever thought—is this environment, which surrounds us every day, really healthy? Are we living in an environment that keeps our body as well as our mind healthy?
Before calling an environment ‘healthy’, some important things need to be kept in mind. A healthy environment does not just mean a tidy or well-organized place. It means something deeper. It is a place where the air is pure, the water is drinkable, the noise level is bearable, the food is safe and the relationships between people are good. A healthy environment means a world where the body does not get sick, nor does the mind get depressed.
Looking at my own environment—yes, there are some good aspects, such as there are trees around, cleaning is done according to a certain rule. But there are also some shortcomings in it. Sometimes I see, the sewers are full, dust is flying in the air, noise pollution is constant, plastic is burned on the roof of the house next door. Then we understand that a healthy environment is not just the responsibility of one person—it is the responsibility of all of us.
The first thing needed to create a healthy environment is awareness. If we understand that the plastic bottle we throw away can one day cause river pollution, then we will not throw it away like this. If we know that excessive honking can damage the ears of a small child, then we will be a little more patient.
Secondly, cleanliness is needed. It is important to keep not only our own house but also the area around us clean. Polythene or dirt lying on the roadside, open drains—all spread germs. And these germs make our lives risky.
Thirdly, tree planting and greening. More trees mean more oxygen, a cooler environment, and mental peace. A tree not only provides shade, it provides security for life. I wish that trees should be planted in small gardens in our area, and trees should be taken care of in school or office premises. Trees are not only nature, but also a friend.
Fourthly, mental environment. Many may not think of it differently, but I believe that an environment is only fully healthy when the people there are compassionate towards each other, listen to each other, and make room for compassion. If only anger, jealousy, and pride are circulating around, then no matter how pure the air is, that environment can never bring peace.
Is my environment really healthy? Ahhhh......truly said , half yes and half no.
On days when I see smiling faces around me, children playing, adults talking, and the sound of leaves rustling in the wind, I consider my environment healthy. But when I see an old man sitting alone on the street, no one taking care of him; when I see a child working on the side of the road, not going to school—then my mind becomes depressed.
So I want—we all to make our environment a little better together. If everyone tries from their own place, change will come.
If you look out the window now, if you see birds flying in the distant sky, the sun shining on the branches of trees by the roadside, someone smiling—then be sure, you are still in a healthy environment. And if you see the opposite—then let the change start with you.
