The day was beginning to fade, and in the distance I could faintly hear the sound of the rice threshers still working. I stood at the edge of the embankment, gazing out at the expanse of freshly harvested rice fields. The rows of straw appeared to rise like natural steps, a testament to the hard work of the farmers who had been sweating since dawn for the crops that would become a source of livelihood for so many.
There was a distinctive aroma I always missed every harvest season, a combination of wet soil, freshly cut rice stalks, and the touch of warm mud underfoot. For some, the smell might seem meaningless, but for me, it was like a childhood memory revived. I used to accompany my parents to the rice fields. I'd sit on the embankment, watching them work, occasionally playing in the mud, unaware that it was all part of the real struggle.
Now, as I gazed at this expanse of straw, I realized the immense value of every grain of rice we eat. Every handful of rice that reaches the dining table holds a long story about unpredictable rain, about the merciless sun, and about strong hands that never give up hoping for a sufficient harvest.
The tractor tracks in the wet soil are like a lifeline, marking a never-ending cycle. After the harvest, there will be another period of tilling the land, then planting, tending, and finally returning to this point the harvest. Nature has its own way of teaching balance and perseverance.
I imagine how peaceful life would be if everyone could learn from the rice fields: working hard without complaining, patiently waiting for results, and remaining grateful even when the results aren't always perfect. Here, amidst the freshly harvested rice fields, I learn again the meaning of simplicity and sincerity. There is no luxury, only the serenity that comes from sincere gratitude.
The sun slowly sets behind the hills, leaving a soft orange sky. I gaze at the rows of cut rice and promise to myself I will always appreciate the hard work of the farmers. For it is from their hands that life continues, and it is from this land that we are all taught the meaning of endurance. 🌾
Note: I am writing in Indonesian and using the help of Google translate to translate into English.
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| Photographer | Smartphone used | Location |
|---|---|---|
| @gunting | Realme C53 | Aceh Province. Indonesian Country. |