A visit to the jungle

A visit to a jungle

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.

damp slightly wet trudge to walk slowly with a lot of effort hem in to surround someone and prevent them from moving or doing what they want to do