The New Hampshire mountains are definitely different. Similar to my hometown Darjeeling, minus all the water. I feel embraced by these mountains. Born of the mountains, I am home again. As I left the bustling streets and busy highways of New York, where I have spent my time since graduating college, peace started settling in, like the continuous drops from a loose tap.
As I explored my new home, I found the distance between work, home, and the grocery store astonishing. There are so many turns in the road, as if I am riding on a path built by giant snakes. Riding on my moped has never been this fun. The turns make me feel like a superbike racer. As I pass other bikes, I flash up a peace sign in return for a nod.
Working with the Newfound Lake Region Association has presented a close-up view of conservation. I have learned about the building blocks of conservation; the ground workers like AmeriCorps who spend half a year out in the fields collecting data, removing invasives and engaging with the community. It is their efforts that keep the act of conserving an act. This is combined with the behind-the-scenes work and the support of the community, which come together to create a strong and resilient nonprofit like the NLRA. Conservation and preservation is being undertaken on a small but magnifiable scale.
The lakes are so beautiful, after dark they remind me of a busy Indian flea market. I have never heard this many conversations simultaneously. Frogs, birds, insects all trying to scoop their next customer, yelling at the top of their voice to garner attention. A dip in the water is exactly what a service member needs after a hot day at service. Newfound Lake deserves its name; it feels fresh and untouched like a newborn baby. I hope my service helps protect the future of this child.
