One Nature, One Community

Last September 2, 2012 the long awaited Tree Planting activity was conducted. 

Getting Ready for Tree Planting

It was only my second time to join a tree planting activity. First was when we were in College and it was a part of an activity in school. It was also held in Longlong, Pico but different site. Today, it was in Communal Forrest of Longlong, Pico.

The Site

Actually, the said  activity was supposed to be held a week ago but due to heavy rain it wasn’t possible. We are lucky enough that the weather condition was good. Different organization joined the activity to save mother earth and plant trees to name some UC students was there, Interactive Cordillera, DECAT, Bravehearts Team, Save 182 and last my family, La Trinidad Shutterbugs and for sure other volunteers were there too.

Caleb, 1year and 7months, youngest patiticipant

When we went on the site orientation started by Mr. Dean Cuanso, the organizer of this activity. He told us the guidelines on planting trees, the distance should be more than 1 meter circumference  and also to not forget to remove the plastic when we plant. Before we begin with the tree planting activity Hapiyoh-mi, a cultural dance group of University of Cordillera rendered a cultural dance to amused the participants. The men of Hapiyoh-mi opted to be on their G-string attire for them to show how our ancestors do it. I also saw the youngest participant Caleb, 1 year and 7 months. I know for sure that he will also enjoy the nature where we once enjoyed.

Mother and Son helping to plant tree

This kid told her mother not to help him ,  so  He planted  the tree

Men on G-String Planting Trees

Clearing the grass for a Tree

Taking a rest

This activity reminded me of a poem we once memorized when I was in Grade 2 entitled Trees by Joyce Kilmer and it was written on the path-ways going to the site.

TREES

by Joyce Kilmer

I think that I shall never see

A poem lovely as a tree.

A tree whose hungry mouth is prest

Against the Earth's sweet flowing breast;

A tree that looks at God all day,

And lifts her leafy arms to pray.

A tree that may in Summer wear

A nest of robins in her hair;

Upon whose bosom snow has lain;

Who intimately lives with rain.

Poems are made by fools like me,

But only God can make a tree.

  Let’s save Our Forrest, Our Ancestor’s Legacy.  Save Mother Earth for our Future generation.

-Louie Mae Vardeleon