The sun came through the tall trees, warming the ground. The air smelled fresh, like wet earth and pine. With every step, the noise from the world faded, and all I could hear was the sound of leaves moving and birds chirping in the distance.
Polo Forest had always felt like a secret escape, hidden away from the rush of life. The ancient trees stood tall, their branches swaying gently in the breeze. I walked slowly, letting my fingers brush against the rough bark of an old banyan tree. There was something peaceful about being hereālike the forest knew how to heal restless souls.
A narrow path led me deeper into the woods. The ground was covered in fallen leaves, crunching softly under my shoes. Somewhere nearby, a stream gurgled, its clear water flowing over smooth stones. I followed the sound and soon found itāa tiny river, shimmering under the sunlight. Kneeling down, I dipped my fingers in the cool water. It felt like natureās way of washing away all the stress I had been carrying.
For a moment, I thought I heard footsteps behind me. But when I turned, there was only the quiet rustle of the leaves. Still, I wasnāt alone. I could feel itāthe presence of someone else, walking beside me, watching the same trees, breathing in the same fresh air. He had always been there, just out of sight, yet never too far. ā¤ļø
A deer appeared from behind the trees. It looked at me, unafraid, its big eyes filled with curiosity. I glanced to my side, as if to share the moment. And though I saw nothing, I knew he saw it too.
I smiled to myself. There was something magical about Polo Forestāsomething words could never fully capture. Maybe it was the silence, or the way nature welcomed me like an old friend. Either way, I knew I would always find my way back here, whenever life felt too heavy.
With a deep breath, I stood up and continued walking, feeling lighter with every step.
The forest didnāt just hold memoriesāit carried whispers of those who had walked here before, and maybe, just maybe, I wasnāt the only one who never truly left.