Sulkan, an Indonesian teacher, sits amidst the serenity of his small mosque, surrounded by the vast expanse of the sea. With a nostalgic gaze, he peruses through a collection of photographs, each one holding a precious memory close to his heart. As his fingers trace the faded images, his mind wanders back to a bygone era—a time when a vibrant marching band would resound through the air, and a chorus of smiling children, who had completed their kindergarten education under his guidance, proudly stood along a road that now lies submerged beneath the murky embrace of green water.
In this quiet sanctuary, Sulkan’s thoughts dance between the past and present, encompassing both joyous recollections and the harsh reality that has befallen his coastal community. Located in a region susceptible to the unforgiving forces of nature, Sulkan’s village has been severely impacted by rising sea levels, a consequence of global climate change. The once familiar landscape, teeming with life and promise, now bears witness to the encroachment of an unwelcome intruder—water.
With a heavy heart, Sulkan reflects upon the profound changes that have swept across his cherished surroundings. The road, once a symbol of connectivity and progress, now lays hidden beneath the somber waters, suffocating dreams and ambitions within its depths. The kaleidoscope of memories captured within those photographs serves as a testament to the resilience and fortitude of a community once anchored firmly on solid ground.
The images evoke vivid scenes of past glory—an exuberant marching band, adorned in vibrant uniforms, parading through the streets, filling the air with melodies that uplifted spirits and reverberated with hope. Smiling faces of children, their eyes gleaming with innocence and curiosity, illuminate the frames, reflecting the transformative power of education that Sulkan imparted to these young minds. Each child, like a budding flower, flourished under his tutelage, nurtured with love and knowledge that would shape their futures.
Yet, as Sulkan’s gaze shifts from the photographs to the present reality, a sense of melancholy settles within him. The once bustling road, now swallowed by the encompassing water, stands as a haunting reminder of the ephemeral nature of human endeavor in the face of an increasingly volatile climate. The village, once a thriving hub of activity, is now confronted by the relentless assault of rising tides that erode not only the physical landscape but also the dreams and aspirations of its inhabitants.
Sulkan’s contemplation within the walls of his modest mosque encapsulates the untold stories of countless communities grappling with the devastating consequences of climate change. Through his poignant memories, we catch a glimpse of the profound impact that environmental degradation can have on the lives of ordinary people, robbing them of their homes, livelihoods, and cherished memories.
As Sulkan lingers amidst the faded photographs, he yearns for a future where the smiles of children will once again light up the landscape, where the rhythmic beats of a marching band will echo through rejuvenated streets. He clings to hope, knowing that by sharing his story, he brings attention to the urgent need for collective action in preserving our planet and safeguarding the precious legacies that lie submerged beneath the murky waters of indifference.
