After the tiring journey, the Parker family had slept like a log. Jo, woke up, hearing the rooster's last call. As she stared up at the ceiling, she wondered where she was. Suddenly it struck her she was in a place called Vetora. She jumped out of the bed and went to the window, which received her with some cool fresh breeze. The view was something which she had not expected to see. Was this the same world she lived in? Or had she landed on some different planet? In contrast to the tall buildings, blocking her view from their City apartment, this was totally refreshing. For the first time, Jo was seeing the vast spread of endless green fields and trees. Bordering them further was a jungle of trees. The infinity was blocked with towering mountain ranges and peaks, merging with the sky. The calls and chirping of birds helped in mesmerizing the scene.
As Jo stood there admiring the landscape from her first-floor bedroom, she heard her mother calling her from downstairs. "Jo, are you awake, come down immediately if you want your breakfast." Jo tossed her long, unruly hair, and shouted back in response, "Coming."
Soon Jo joined her family at the breakfast table. Her father, Dr. Parker, was busy reading some documents. He was discussing with Mr. Situn, the medical check-up public program, for which they had come here to Vetora. Jo, soon found herself uninterested in their health camp plans. She was more interested in how she was going to spend her time when her parents were going to be busy during the day.
Just then Jo's brother, Monty entered the room. He looked very excited.
Monty was an ardent animal lover. His parent's medical background and his love for all living beings had created a passion in him for becoming a veterinary doctor. Like his father, he also aimed to take every opportunity of doing charity work, in regions where his skills and services were most needed. So, unlike Jo, he was not worried about how to kill time in this rural area. He was looking forward to work with the local farmers and assist the veterinary professionals, in and around Vetora. Mr. Situn had given him some names of selected villagers who were involved in animal husbandry occupation. Today, early morning, immediately after his arrival, he had gone to see a dairy farmer, who was raising cows of local breeds.
Without wasting any time, Monty started narrating his morning experience. He informed his parents and Mr. Sitan, that the dairy owner had invited him to help him in handling the cattle in the dairy. "I think I will learn a lot and will get firsthand experience of handling the animals." "You sure will. Just take care." His father told him.
"You can get kicked by them if you get too close." Jo vented her own fear and felt like advising her brother.
"I know dear." Monty knew there was some sarcasm in her suggestion. "That is why you have to approach them from the side. The angle is important. All these things are to be learned, practically." Monty turned towards the elders and continued, "but there is one communication problem here, which needs to be taken care of. People here largely speak their native, local language. They can hardly understand English or any European language." Monty seemed to be frustrated.
"This is not their problem. It is our problem. If we have to work with them, we must learn their language." His father was quick to respond. "Or at least devise ways to communicate with them, in a better way." Mr. Situn nodded in agreement.
"…But what about me?" Jo found the space to get into the conversation and secure some attention.
To which, her brother reacted adamantly. "…you can just stay over here, and do nothing. That is the best solution for you."
"Oh no! There are lots of interesting places here which you can see. Of course, depending upon your interest." Mr. Situn, suggested. Anticipating the family's curiosity, he continued. "..There is an ancient fort with rusted cannon on top of the mount. But it is a long tiring climb. And we have a beautiful river, with a number of shallow spots full of pebbles. Yes, there is a colorful market. …library, school, explore the town...and the forest. There are various birds in this region and there is also the wildlife Sanctuary nearby …where you should not go on your own, I suggest…"
"Look at that!" Jo's mother responded spontaneously. "There is so much to see and explore over here… if one is interested." She turned her attention towards Jo. "I think, you must move around on your own. Meet the friendly people, see around. I am sure you will soon start enjoying this place."
"…but Mamma, me alone?" Jo was trying to get some space to escape.
But her mother was firm. "Yes. Why not? That will make you more independent. And people over here are friendly and cooperative, only you should learn to communicate well."
"I think, you should ride around. Take a bicycle. You will be able to see more and return in time for your lunch. The streets in this town are safe from speedy heavy traffic." Her father added. Seeing that the majority of people over here were saying the same, Jo felt pressurized and had no choice but to nod an "Okay!"
***