My hidden zen garden

30 Day Snapshots # 23

Walis tingting (broom stick)

Every morning, while growing up in a village we fondly called "Isla Berde", I would hear that familiar sound. The scratching noise of the sticks touching the ground along with my Grandmother's footsteps. Nevertheless, no one was spared in using the "walis ting-ting". When I was sturdy enough, it became my morning ritual. A right of passage just like when an eight year old girl started to cook rice over wood fire.
However, you wouldn't think that any grade schooler would love sweeping the front yard early in the morning. It was something I didn't like in the beginning but there was something about being alone outside and seeing the sun slowly appearing. Revealing  the whole Isla Berde with its tall trees and green surrounding.  And when you  survey everything, it looked like a zen garden. The dusty ground would have traces of tidy lines and footsteps. Seemingly well-raked yard and clutter free even for a while.
At present, holding my broomstick and looking at my frontyard, the little girl of Isla Berde came back. Sturdier this time, smiling and ready for the day.