Living in the deep forest was a journey that I never imagined I would experience one day. One year and two months, not long but not short either, was enough time for me to understand more about myself, about nature, and about the strange friendship between me and my dog P2.
I decided to leave the bustling city to find the tranquility of the deep forest after a major event in my life. With a backpack full of essential items, I took P2 – my loyal and mischievous dog – into the forest that many people said was dangerous and unpredictable. From the first day, I realized that this was not a vacation, but a real challenge.
The deep forest, with its wild and mysterious beauty, is not only a shelter but also a strict teacher. During the day, I had to find food and water myself and face the harsh weather. The torrential rains soaked me, the scorching sun burned every inch of my skin. At night, darkness covered everything, only the chirping of insects and mysterious sounds echoed. Once, I even encountered a big bear while looking for firewood. My heart almost stopped, but luckily P2 barked loudly in time to make the bear go away.
P2 is an indispensable companion on this journey. Not only does it help me keep watch, it also brings great comfort. Whenever I feel tired or discouraged, P2 is always by my side, his eyes full of encouragement. There were days when it rained heavily, P2 and I could only huddle in a makeshift tent, waiting together for the light of a new day. At times like that, I clearly felt that friendship does not need words, just presence and empathy.
Gradually, I learned to adapt to the wild life. I learned how to find clean water, distinguish between edible and poisonous plants, and build a small hut from natural materials. The deep forest, from a dangerous place, became my second home.
When I left the forest after 14 months, I not only brought with me survival skills but also a more peaceful soul. The time living in the forest taught me to appreciate simple things, from the morning sunlight to the loyalty of a dog. And most of all, I realized that sometimes, loneliness is an opportunity for us to find ourselves.
That journey will probably forever be one of the most memorable memories in my life. And P2, the little dog, will forever be my close friend that I cherish.
