A tropical jungle is an awesome place. I had the
opportunity of visiting one recently.
My friend Rahim, who works as a forest ranger,
took me along on one of his trips into the jungle. I had
wanted to experience for myself first-hand what he had
always spoken about.
The moment we entered the jungle, a sort of semi-darkness enveloped us. The sky was almost completely
shut out by the canopy of leaves high above us. At ground
level, thick vegetation grew in every direction. The air was
damp and had a peculiar smell to it.
All around us were the sounds of insects, birds and
animals. Though we could not see them, except for some
birds, we knew they were there. The sounds echoed all over, making the jungle feel eerie and strange.
I had no idea how Rahim could find a way through
the bushes and trees. He said he was just following a path
used by the aborigines. As far as I was concerned, I could
not see any path. I realised then how easily an inexperienced person could get lost and perish in the jungle.
Nevertheless I followed Rahim as we trudged along
slowly. The most uncomfortable thing about being in the
jungle were the leeches. These little bloodsuckers never
gave up. Despite thick boots and clothes, they still
managed to bite me.
For the first time in my life I saw strange birds,
insects, huge spiders, snakes, trees, flowers, vines as thick
as a man's hand and various animals. The experience was
unforgettable. I was awestruck by the might of nature.
When we emerged from the jungle I felt as though
a great weight had been lifted from me. The clear blue sky
was a welcome sight. Outside, the world was definitely
easier to cope with. The jungle made me feel hemmed in
and helpless. It was a good experience but I would prefer
to remain outside it.
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