Contrary to what the title may
suggest, this is not a review of the popular film from 2002. Rather, I wanted
the title to convey clearly the gist of the short essay that follows.
As a freshman at college, most
of my time is spent attending lectures, rushing out assignments and spending
time with friends. I never consciously dedicate time for my health. I have
gotten by for nineteen years without ever really paying attention to my body
and its needs.
Hence it was fortunate that my
mother insisted that I accompany her to Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. The walk
through Durian Loop allowed me to explore a different type of nature than I am
accustomed to, and I felt myself becoming more awake as I took in my
surroundings. Growing up in Singapore, I have been so used to the orderly trees
planted alongside our roads. I also felt myself becoming more alert, as I had
to look out for mud and thorns through the hike up to the summit.
What made the experience
memorable was that I did not feel tired at any one point during the walk. There
was so much to take in, from the abundant flora and fauna (including one
fascinating blue snake) to the constantly changing inclines. It was a stark
contrast to the gym, where I would normally go when the rare burst of
enthusiasm for fitness hits me. Though the gym is comfortable, it is boring.
Exercise is a lot more appealing when there are things to see and people to do
it with you.
The walk also gave me time to
think about the pressing need to conserve water and biodiversity. Global
warming threatens the existence of all species. Closer to home, the end of our
remaining water agreement with Malaysia in less than 50 years comes to mind. In
a small country like Singapore with few real resources, preservation
initiatives should be treated seriously and nature reserves held in high
regard.
To sum up simply, nature is
important - especially given the challenging realities of the world we live in.
Moving forward, I hope to take more time to value and safeguard the planet we
live on, not just for myself, but for everyone and everything around me as
well.
-
Saaradhaa Muthunatarajan
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