Back to one’s own roots

 BACK TO ONE’S OWN ROOTS.

Hazy memories of my grandfather’s farm and the burning  desire of a mindset change were the convincing reasons I volunteered on a two-week organic farm program. Were these ideas germinating in my mind what I expected? Not absolutely sure yet, but definitely this decision was a truly rewarding experience.

Having to get up at the crack of dawn to milk the cows was not an appalling thing, especially,  for a person who is accustomed to an hour’s drive to get to his job. However, in the end, it resulted in a much more gratifying and mindful experience. In fact, the day started by doing a thoughtful practice; smelling, touching, feeling and observing how livestock behaved in their natural habitat.

Undoubtedly, working the land got me back to those memorable days where my grandfather and I would pick potatoes and tomatoes. Being in contact with nature also made me go back to the days where I would listen to the donkeys braying, the hens clucking and the spring chicken squeaking. It was a time where creatures graced freely and where they were not confined to concrete and battery cages.

Apart from the arduous tasks, our daily activities were varied. Some days we worked hard from sunrise to sunset but others we would identify rotation goals or gather data. Other days we simply sat in the peace and quietness of the countryside and enjoyed a homemade meal.

In conclusion, this exciting adventure has made me disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city, reencounter my past and find my true self. I highly recommend this unforgettable life activity not only because it familiarises one with country life and sustainability but because it is beneficial for the self