Leo Club of University of Kelaniya as always blesses the community with a mass of remarkable projects such as Lassana Sri Lanka, Luminaria, Thuru, Nenasara Athwela, Waruwa, Suraksha, Eco Bricks, Femina, Sanhinda, One Blood, Kelibimata Arunalu for which the preparations are ongoing. NethSuwa, Diya Dahara, Eco Aura, Leoninus are some of the upcoming projects. These are the projects that are launched by Avenues. Further, there are projects initiated by the club as a whole such as Noelita, VOB, and Avurudu. It is noteworthy that the technical units of the club also aim to launch a number of significant projects this term such as CyberShield by the IT Unit and Defend Her by the PR Unit showcasing their spirit and enthusiasm to bring UOK Leoism to greater heights. Leo Club of University of Kelaniya possesses immense strength and speciality to enhance leadership, experience, and opportunities among the young undergraduates of the university. The vision of the Leo Club of UOK is to make a better world unveiling ourselves. As everyone knows there are fourteen Avenues in the Leo Club of University of Kelaniya. Different kinds of projects have been initiated through these Avenues which furnish the advancement of the society. MONTHLY RANKING AVENUES in the Past Six Months Penned by: Leo Sandupama Edirisinghe 51 Our Highlights
With just a pen and a book, I set out on my own journaling journey years ago. There were no decorations or stickers, just my ideas written down in their most unadulterated form. However, as time spread its wings and carried me onward, my experience in journalling changed. Every journal I keep contains a piece of my soul, whether I'm writing about my literary adventures in a reading journal, organizing my days in a planner, or just expressing my love for anime and K-pop in a daily diary. However, what gems did I find during this pen and paper journey? Journalling became my constant companion on the wild ride that is life, even beyond the visual treats and organizational skills. My journal was always there for me, a silent confidant willing to hear everything I had to say without passing judgment or holding back—in times of happiness, sadness, or anything in between. But keeping a journal gave me more benefits than just emotional release. It turned into a furnace for ingenuity and skill. I improved my abilities with every submission, trying out different looks and methods. Most surprisingly, journalling turned out to be a great way to detach from the overwhelming amount of digital content in today's world. I lost myself in the tactile pleasure of writing with a pen on paper in my journal during the quiet times when the screen's allure drew me in. I thus extend an invitation to you, my dear reader, to grab a pen, unlock your creativity, and set out on a journey through the pages of journaling. Give yourself permission to let the creative currents carry you away, to explore the mental landscapes you find yourself in, and to uncover the magic you contain within. Have a fantastic journalling journey! A JOURNEY THROUGH THE PAGES OF JOURNALLING A glimpse into my journaling journey... Penned by: Leo Nimoshi Jayasooriya 52
In addition to the informative session, the day highlighted the donation of an essential water filter to Puleliya Vidyalaya, Medawachchiya by promoting safe drinking water as the water resources of the area are known to be contaminated with chemicals. As a whole, the awareness session promoted positive lifestyle changes and individual well-being, fostering awareness about kidney diseases, cancer and consequences of consuming junk food. Thus, the project “HopeHarvest” reached its goal, elevating holistic health development among the rural community of Medawachchiya. “HOPE HARVEST” In a proposal to foster health, nutrition and food safety among students, the Healthcare Avenue of the Leo Club of University of Kelaniya recently organized a comprehensive awareness session on kidney diseases, cancers and the impact of junk food consumption on 15th of December 2023 in Puleliya Vidyalaya – Medawachchiya. The event was held with an active participation of over 100 participants, including both students and teachers by shedding light on measures to lead a healthier lifestyle, distributing leaflets and provision of an essential water filter for the school in order to ensure their overall well-being. The session reached its triumph with the collaboration of the Base Hospital – Medawachchiya. Following kidney health awareness, the focus shifted to cancer awareness. The students and teachers who were present were made aware about common types of cancers, risk factors and the importance of regular screenings. Furthermore, the event focused on junk food consumption among the younger generation. The Guest Speaker shed light about detrimental effects of excessive junk food intake, linking it into various health issues such as child malnutrition, overweight and obesity. The practical tips on consumption of balanced diet and making healthier food choices were introduced by encouraging the participants to maintain a healthy lifestyle, starting from the school age. The community of Anuradhapura faces a pressing need for education and resources as they suffer from Chronic Kidney Disease of Unknown Etiology (CKDu) in their agricultural background due to excessive exposure to chemicals as fertilizers. Hence, the awareness session embarked with a lecture on kidney diseases, highlighting the importance of the vital organs and how they can dysfunction due to various factors. The medical officer of the Renal Unit, Dr. R. M. C. Rathnayaka led the discussion emphasizing the significance of early detection and its preventive measures. THE SECOND PHASE OF THE PROJECT “ONE BLOOD 2.0” Penned by: Leo Thimasha Gunawardhana 53
Youth Development Avenue of the Leo Club of University of Kelaniya orchestrated the Phase 01 of the project BreakingFree'23, a creative competition focusing on drug awareness, prevention, and youth empowerment. The competition encouraged contestants from schools and universities nationwide to showcase their creativity through short videos, social media posts, and poetry aligned with these critical themes. BREAKING FREE’23 On January 6, 2024, the Award Ceremony of the Creative Competition convened schools and universities from various corners of the country, extending its reach to rural educational institutions and successfully concluding phase 01 of our project. A distinctive feature of the Award Ceremony was the presence of police agents from the OIC Training Narcotic Bureau of Sri Lanka. The involvement of Mr. N. M. L. Edirimanna, Inspector of Police OIC Training Narcotics Bureau, added a significant dimension to the event, aligning with the project's objective of promoting drug awareness and prevention. They shared experiences working with young drug addicts, offering valuable insights resonating with the competition's themes. However, the journey towards the successful realization of Phase 01 was not without its challenges. Unforeseen setbacks within the university necessitated the rescheduling of events and language barriers too came across amidst the presentation on drug awareness. Fortunately, a member from the Youth Development Avenue bridged the language gap, interpreting the presentation in Tamil for students from Vavuniya hurdling over a challenging encounter as such flawlessly. The project aimed not only to create awareness but also to foster unity and collaboration. The Leo Club succeeded by overcoming challenges, ensuring active participation from diverse backgrounds, including rural schools and universities, emphasizing inclusivity and social impact. Acknowledging the Co-Directors, Leo Virochana Piyushana and Leo Hashini Maheshika's pivotal role, the success of BreakingFree'23 was attributed to their consistent and resilient leadership. The collective effort in our mission for youth betterment through BreakingFree'23 showcased remarkable teamwork, transcending affiliations with our Avenue. Organizing Committee members and the Leadership Body were the event's backbone, providing unwavering support from decorations to hosting. It was noteworthy to witness individuals from different Avenues willingly contributing, highlighting the broader impact of our humanitarian initiative. BreakingFree'23 drew youths from diverse backgrounds, aligning with Leoism's core motive of unity for the greater good. As we celebrate this success, we honour the collaborative spirit defining Leoism, destined to drive positive change in the future endeavours of the Leo Club of University of Kelaniya. Penned by: Leo Geyathi Abeynayaka 54
By focusing on the youth, Luminaria 2.0 plants the seeds of a healthier future. It's a message that resonates beyond the fields of Umandawa; embracing organic food and farming practices is more than a dietary choice. Penned by: Leo Kavithma Kudagama LUMINARIA 2.0 - PHASE 01 CANCER: (N.) “OFTEN DEADLY ALLERGIC REACTION TO MODERN LIFE.” In a world where the buzz of urban life often eclipses the rhythm of nature, the Child and Elder Care Avenue of the Leo Club of University of Kelaniya introduces the first phase of the revolutionary project, Luminaria 2.0. Embarking on a journey that defies the norms of our fastpaced, modern existence, this initiative seeks to unravel a crucial truth: the potential role of organic living in warding off the spectre of cancer. This first phase of the project Luminaria 2.0 was held on December 21, 2023, in the Umandawa Global Buddhist Village with the participation of over 60 determined undergraduates, aged 21 to 25, stepping forward to embrace a transformative experience. This educational field visit is not just a trip; it's a pilgrimage to the heart of sustainable living. It's where theories meet soil, and knowledge blooms amidst the green. In a time where processed and artificial foods are the norm, Luminaria 2.0 stands as a beacon, guiding these young adults towards organic and nutritious choices. This shift is not merely about diet; it's a proactive step against the rising tide of cancer, a modern plague that lurks in the shadows of unhealthy lifestyles. - SOL LUCKMAN, THE ANGEL'S DICTIONARY - In essence, the success of phase 01 is more than a day away from the chaos of city life. It's an opportunity to rekindle the bond with the earth, understanding that our health is inextricably linked to the health of our planet. As the echoes of success reverberate, the Child and Elder Care Avenue eagerly anticipates the unfolding of the next phase. We, the Child and Elder Care Avenue tread on this enlightening path and carry with us the hope of a cancer-free future. The journey we embark on today is not just for their benefit but for the generations to come. In the heart of Umandawa, we find not just knowledge but inspiration, a vision of a world where living cancer-free is not just a dream but a tangible, achievable reality. 55
NACL + H2O 2.0 PHASE-01 Engaging in coral plantation initiatives is imperative as they help rehabilitate damaged reefs and foster awareness about the delicate balance within marine ecosystems. Sri Lanka, surrounded by a beautiful ocean, boasts coral reefs that act as vibrant underwater ecosystems critical for diverse marine species, significantly contributing to the island's fisheries and supporting the livelihoods of coastal communities. The project NaCl+H2O 2.0, of Wildlife and Animal Conservation Avenue of the Leo Club University of Kelaniya has made a significant impact in initiating steps towards conserving wildlife and the marine ecosystem in Sri Lanka. Moreover, effective collaboration with the Society of Oceanography and Marine Geology at the University of Ruhuna has facilitated the successful implementation of the project's first phase. As part of the initial phase, a virtual webinar series was conducted, aimed to increase knowledge about coral restoration, prevention of underwater pollution, sea turtle conservation, and the ecological and economic importance of corals and turtles. The sessions, held via Zoom, witnessed 184 registrations and over 100 participants. The first session was on January 7, 2024, at 8.00 p.m., featuring Mr. Sudesh Ruvinda who discussed Sea Turtle Conservation. The second session on January 8, 2024, at 8.00 p.m., was conducted by Prof. Turney Pradeep Kumara, focusing on the Coral Ecosystem of Sri Lanka. Organizing an online webinar series to promote the preservation of Sri Lanka's coastal ecosystems and beings has many advantages. This approach overcomes geographical limitations and enables specialists to share important information with a wide range of people. The webinars, which attracted over 100 participants, promoted increased awareness, community involvement, and capacity building. Through networking and communication among those involved, the virtual platform encouraged collaborative action for marine conservation. This effective and userfriendly approach provided people with educational ideas, promoting well-informed actions and environmentally friendly practices. In the end, the online webinar series served as a spark for extensive support and coordinated efforts to protect Sri Lanka's priceless marine habitats and species. With dedicated support from the Directors and Leadership Body of the Avenue, the project's Organizing Committee achieved significant success in conducting the webinar series. This initiative extends beyond a mere project, recognizing that wildlife and the world's ecosystems are crucial for human existence. The sessions successfully conveyed the message that we, as stewards of nature, should nurture the environment that provides us with everything. Penned by: Leo Disni Alwis 56
REATIVE CORNER
"Les Saveurs du Palais" is a delightful French comedy-drama directed and co-written by Christian Vincent, released in 2012. The film, lasting 95 minutes, is a cinematic adaptation by Vincent and Étienne Comar, inspired by the true story of Danièle Mazet-Delpeuch, the private chef for President François Mitterrand. However, this film was released in English under the title “Haute Cuisine”. The plot revolves around Hortense Laborie (Catherine Frot), a passionate and talented chef unexpectedly appointed as the president's private culinary expert at the Élysée Palace. Despite initial resistance from the male-dominated kitchen staff, Hortense earns the President's admiration through her culinary prowess and unwavering dedication. The film beautifully captures the clash between traditional regional cuisine and the refined tastes preferred by the palace staff and the political and gastronomic atmosphere of France in the 1980s serves as a backdrop to the film. Catherine Frot delivers a compelling performance as Hortense, embodying passion, determination, and authenticity in the face of a male-dominated culinary world. President Mitterrand, portrayed by Jean d'Ormesson, emerges as a discerning connoisseur of fine cuisine, forming a unique bond with Hortense over their mutual appreciation for traditional cooking. The film addresses gender inequality in the culinary industry, showcasing Hortense's struggle for acceptance and success in a challenging environment. "LES SAVEURS DU PALAIS": A CULINARY DELIGHT FOR THE SENSES - A FILM REVIEW 58
Moreover, food itself serves as a potent symbol, with each of Hortense's meals carrying deeper meaning, catalyzing reunions, reconciliations, and acts of love. The visuals, particularly the depiction of the Élysée Palace, create a captivating culinary world filled with vibrant kitchens and elegantly set tables. Furthermore, Gabriel Yared's soundtrack enhances the emotional impact of the film, capturing the excitement and passion of preparing and savoring delicious meals. Therefore, it perfectly complements the traditions and refinement of French cuisine and culture. In conclusion, "Les Saveurs du Palais" offers a delectable blend of gastronomic delights, engaging storytelling, and themes of passion, authenticity, and empowerment. Therefore, this film is a must-see for enthusiasts of French cuisine, strong and inspirational female protagonists, or those seeking a well-crafted narrative. However, just be sure not to watch it on an empty stomach and prepare to be transported into a world where food becomes a language of love and expression! By Leo Imali Ekanayake 59
The two poplars they planted together on the hill are a symbol of their incredible bond. However, through so many tragic incidents, Altynai finally had to go to the city for advanced education leaving Duishen behind which was always Duishen’s great hope for Altynai. The story ends with Altynai’s hope of seeing her first teacher, first school, and first love. This is a heart-aching but inspiring, and also a women empowering Russian classic. Although the story ends with the sadness of unfulfilled desires, it still gives the reader a small hope of their reunion someday. This literary work can be recognized as a must-read book which is full of passion. The First Teacher is a masterpiece written by the famous Soviet writer Chinghiz Aitmatov. He wrote his works in both his native Kyrgyz and in Russian. The original novella “Der erste Lehrer” was written in Russian and published in 1962. It was translated into English by Olga Shartse. The story is based on the Kurkureu village which lies on a plateau at the foot of mountains. On the hill, behind the village now, there are two great poplars and it is called “Duishen’s School”. The story revolves around Duishen and Altynai. Duishen arrives at the village to open the first school in the village and educate the children. At first, Kirghiz villagers did not accept him as a teacher and had no idea about educating their children for the bright future of the country. Therefore, no one helped Duishen but he achieved a place in the school on the hill. The character ‘Duishen’ portrays good qualities such as being honest and passionate about the duty which can be added to the reader’s life. Those qualities inspire someone to not give up on the targets. Altynai, the major narrator of the story, was then an orphan teenage girl who was passionate about learning. Her curiosity on everything and stamina finally made her a successful academic. Duishen and Altynai develop a strong bond filled with Duishen’s kindness and selflessness for Altynai and her respect and love for Duishen. DUISHEN, THE FIRST TEACHER - A BOOK REVIEW By Leo Hiruni Saubhagya 60
Lily is a song which is like a fairy tale. Three artists being Norwegians where the fairy tales are meant to be originated, critics believe that they had capitalized on such a theme. The whole song tells a story about a girl named Lily, who lived in a castle and was afraid of the world. And everyone has warned her not to go outside. One day she decides to leave her castle. Then she meets a mysterious creature who invites her to be with it. The creature promises her protection, care, and love. Unluckily soon enough she understands she has been cheated. Then she escapes again, alone, seeking help. It metaphorically tells the tragedy of a naïve girl who has been trapped by her family and society. Though this looks like a fairy tale with a tragic ending, it brings out a strong message. “Lily was a little girl Afraid of the big, wide world She grew up within her castle walls” She is of utmost innocence as her name symbolizes. She lives in a castle “within her castle wall”. This shows her lack of freedom and her ignorance of the outer world, and society. The castle is a place of utmost protection and facilities but lacks freedom. As a whole Lily symbolizes the life of a girl who is trapped by family and tradition and kept away from society. “Now and then she tried to run And then on the night with the setting sun She went in the woods away” Lily decides to leave as the wish of most such castled girls. Departure of Lily proves that no matter how they were protected from society by hiding them from it, one day eventually they will have to open up. “Then something came creeping It told her "Don't you worry, just Follow everywhere I go Top of all the mountains or valley low Give you everything you've been dreaming of Just let me in, ooh" "Everything you want in gold I'll be the magic story you've been told And you'll be safe under my control” LILY - A SONG REVIEW 61
The mysterious creature who promises her protection, love, care, and luxury is one of the most deceitful people in society. Unfortunately, she gets trapped by the ones she tried to be protected from. She couldn’t identify the deceitful nature of people who are like lambs covered with wolf skin; just because she did not have any experience. She believes what she just sees and hears which is very tragic. Only if she had the chance to experience society and was taught how to protect herself when she was still growing, instead of saying “Don’t go there, there are creatures hiding in the dark”. “She knew she was hypnotized And walking on cold thin ice Then it broke, and she awoke again Then she ran faster and Start screaming, "Is there someone out there? Please help me, come get me" Even Lily finally understands the true colour of the one she believed. There was nothing she could do, except for asking for help. Her screams show her eternal struggle to survive in society. The song shows the mistakes of parents, adults, and their contemporary society in their way of protecting children by keeping them away from society. Ultimately when the children enter and experience society as adults, they find it harder to adopt and blend up. In the end, protection becomes the destruction itself. Society is full of different types of people, it will be better to be in the society in order to survive in the society instead of hiding. Experience is also a way of protection. ARTISTS: ALAN WALKER, EMILY HOLOW, K391 ALBUM: FIRST MAIDEN ALBUM “DIFFERENT WORLDS” (2018) By Leo Ashani Imalka 62
By Leo Nifha Nazar In the universe of art museum’ dome, A caged bird dreams, through paths unknown. Sings freedom of song in silent prose, Yearning for skies, where apricity’s founds. Aloof of clouds heavy on the sky, The caged bird sings, a desperate cry. Flying high, chasing sky, where Freedom is the last destination, Yet bound by bars, with a linnet of hope. CAGED BIRD 63
In the quiet moonlit night A dreamer’s eyes filled with light Though dreams take a flight The heart is in a struggle tight The path is rugged with threaded hardships The obstacles test the courageous guardianships Though the future is not clear Dreams persist conquering the fear Dreamer, let your dreams be the starlight That guide your flight in darkest nights As with each challenge, a victory gleams And in pursuit of dreams, the soul redeems A DREAMER'S ODYSSEY By Leo Thejani Somarathna 64
When you open your palms, And let love nourish in its warmth, You will get used to the presence, And take the chance to love it for granted. Hold on! At one point in time, You are forced to let go, That feeling will be impossible to touch, From those bare hands that once did. Your heart stops for minutes, And then restarts, On rhythms that hurts Rhythms that make you shudder. The butterflies that once soared, For excitement, love, and lust, Now waste on memories, Tightening the now empty palms. It’s not like one can catch the next train either, Because life is one way, Where there is no coming back. No, not again. WARMTH By Leo Dehemi Marasinghe 65
66By Leo Disni Alwis
? ! By Leo Navodya Dhananjani 67
பணத்தை ஒரு கணம் தள்ளி வை யுங்கள் பா ர்க்க மறந்த உங்கள் பா ல்ய கா ல நண்பர்கள் வீட்டுக்கு செ ன்று வா ருங்கள் சமூக வலை த்தளங்களை தூர எறி யுங்கள்; தற்போ தை ய சமூகத்தை பற்றி உங்கள் பா ட்டியி ன் எண்ணத்தை கே ட்டறி ந்து கொ ள்ளுங்கள் ஆங்கி ல மோ கம் வி ட்டு வி டுங்கள் கொ ஞ்சம் மழலை யி ன் முதல் தமி ழ் வா ர்த்தை யி ல் தி ளை த்து போ ங்கள் வி யா பா ரத்தை மறுத்து வி டுங்கள் வி சா ரி க்க மறந்த தா யி ன் மடிமே ல் ஒரு ஐந்து நி மி டம் உறங்குங்கள் பா ரா ட்டு வி ழா க்களை துறந்து வி டுங்கள் துணை வி யி ன் சமை யலுக்கு பொ ன்னா டை போ ர்த்தி கௌ ரவம் அளி யுங்கள் கூட்டங்கள் மறந்து வி டுங்கள்; குழந்தை களி ன்கூட்டா ஞ்சோ று வி ளை யா ட்டில் நீங்களும் இணை ய அனுமதி கோ ருங்கள் கணி னி தொ டர்பை துண்டித்து வி டுங்கள் ஒரு மெ ழுகுவர்த்தி யி ன் ஒளி யி ல் கவி எழுதுங்கள் சொ குசு கா ரர்கள் வெ றுத்துவி டுங்கள் ஈருளி யி ல் அலுவலகம் செ ன்று வா ருங்கள் தொ லை பே சி யை தொ லை த்து வி டுங்கள் தொ லை த்துவி ட்ட உறவுகளே தே டிப்பா ருங்கள் வி யா பா ரத்தி ல் உச்ச புள்ளி யா ய் இருந்தது போ தும் சி ல நொ டிகளுக்கா வது மனி தனா ய் மா றுங்கள்.... சி ல நொ டிகளுக்கா வது By Leo Salma Farhath 68
கற்பனை க்கு எட்டா த கா வி யமா ய்… கனவுக்குள் சி க்கா த கவி வரி யா ய் கவி ஞன் எழுதா த புத்தகமா ய்… சி ந்தனை க்கு எட்டா த என் சி ற்பி யே ... உனை சொ ல்லா ல் வடிக்கி றே ன்….. கருவறை யி ல் உதி த்த நா ள் முதல் எனக்கா ய் நீ... உனக்கா ய் நா ன் அறி யா த பா தை களை அறி ய வை த்தா ய் அரவணை ப்பி ல் உணர்கி றே ன்…. உலகத்தை உன் வா ழ்க்கை யி ன் தி யா கமா ய் என் வா ழ்க்கை ப் பயணம்….. இடர் நி றை ந்த வா ழ்ககை யி ல் பல கசப்பா ன தருணங்கள்…… கடக்க முடியா த சோ கங்கள் கடக்க வே ண்டிய நா ழி கை கள்….. ஆழ் மனதி ன் அலை யா ய் உன் தி யா கங்கள்……… எனக்கா ய் நீ தா ண்டிய பி ரசவ போ ரா ட்டம்... ஆற்றோ ர நா ணலா ய் நா ன் ஆற்றுப்படுத்தும் தெ ன்றலா ய் நீ….. உன்னா ல் தி றக்கப்படா த பக்கங்களை என்னா ல் தி றக்க வை த்தா ய்….. உயி ர் தந்தவழுக்கா ய் சி ல வரி கள் 69
இடம் மா றி ய களனி வா ழ்வி ல் இனம் புரி யா த சோ கங்கள் எட்டா ததூரத்தி ல் நீ எட்டும் சி கரத்தி ல் கல்வி நகர்கி றது நா ழி கை கள் - உன் நி னை வுகளி ல்…… லீவுக்கா ய் ஏங்கும் தருணங்கள் நி னை வுகளி ல் உன் வா சகங்கள்…… நகர்கி றது என் அனுபவ வா ழ்க்கை பல வெ ற்றி களுடன்……… கா த்தி ருக்கி றே ன் பட்டமளி ப்பு வி ழா வி ல் - உன் கடை க்கண்பா ர்வை க்கா ய் புரி யா த முடிச்சுக்களை கட்டவி ழ்க்கும் சா வி யா ய் - உன் பா ர்வை உலகமே உன்வசமா ன தருணங்கள்……. By Leo Ramachandran Sweeskaran 70
You gasped awake in the soft grass surrounded by the wildflowers: pink and white cyclamen, purple anemones, blue lupines, yellow corn marigolds, crocus, and squill, all bursting with life. It must have been easy to fall asleep with the wind in the face and golden sunspots that bloomed through spaces between trees. The sky was still there, forever looming, radiant in its glory. You sat down reaching to pluck a marigold but the thought crossed, “You and I both belonged to this land right?”. A sunbird answered in a song, settled comfortably on a nearby tree. The air singed slightly of salt and nostalgia took hold of you, first gently then kindly afterwards with the force of a tsunami. You are standing. There is an architectural phenomenon in front of you. One that you are familiar with. The corridors, lecture halls, giant theatre, and auditorium are all familiar, a different kind of home away from home. You could not help but smile. Your abi first took you here when you were five. He told you how this was a place where they passed the mantle to the future generation. You remember all the cooing you had to endure from your Abi's friends. Then later you were here, this time alone but not with less excitement, ready to grab your dream from its stubborn horns. You were close too. Now you are walking home. You probably should have taken a bus. But remember? buses are down. It is good that you are in the mood for reminiscing. See that tiny stall with a badly drawn watermelon? You thought roasted watermelon from the old woman who ran it was heavenly. You promised to paint a better watermelon for her too. That quaint bookshop over there? You can hear the charming bells of it when the door is pulled open from memory. There were thousands of books inside in all shapes, forms, and languages. The hanged poster of Mahmoud Darwish in black and white face gentle, was in the right corner by the sixth bookshelf. It was creased and well-loved by the passers-by who could not resist gently pressing their fingertips to him in empathy. The hot air sizzled noisily and your mouth watered by thinking of the juice bar just ahead of you. You always loyally stick to the mint lemonade even when caffeine became a staple in all-nighters you had to pull through. You decidedly turned left from the split street to find- nothing. You stopped in your steps and desperately looked everywhere. Everything was blurry. By now the air was stifling and you were strangely feeling parched to the point of dizziness. It is okay. Everything is okay, you are sure. It was your favourite juice bar and now you are bummed out but it is okay. Just for today you can forgo Noury's and visit the juice corner on the other street, Noury's competition on this block. You hope they do a sick mint lemonade over there too though nothing beats Noury's you added in a hurry in your mind, feeling a little guilty. You took to the other road steps long and eagerly looked only to find again, nothing. Where did it go? Where did it all go? Well, it is okay. Omi's homemade fruit juices were better than anything anyway. Now you just need to get home and everything will be okay. There is tinnitus in your ears ringing louder and LOUDER. THIS IS THE SUN EXPLODING 71
In peripherals you see the world- no your world, the world only you cherish crashing and burning. You tremble with terror, snapping your head back and nothing. A mere trick of light. you are running. There is sweat-drenched your back and a stab of constant pain in your legs. You do not know why you are running. Panting, gasping, and hearing the beat of your heart roaring louder than anything. Then you were home. Your throat is raw from screaming at people who claim, “There is nothing but debris left from that side.”. They can say whatever they please but you know better. That side is where your home with your abi and omi and fufu the cat exists. That side is where your old school is, the playground, your best friends’ houses and the sea is. “It is unsafe out there! A bloodbath!”, in a trance you hear. You cannot see the path beneath your feet or the scene ahead with eyes. The dust never settles. How did they see? They did not answer clutching the shattered pieces of your soul and you sob incoherent, inconsolable. Amidst it you hear a little cry and feel a tiny hand hugging your legs and the world snaps to focus once again. Your tears dry in horror as the kid sniffles hard and shakes like a leaf. You almost wished the world as of now stayed blurry because this right there is a heartbreak in a manner you never quite knew was possible. The shrapnel rained, bullets gazed and gazing at the tear stricken wide-eyed look of the child, righteous fury found a home in you. You did not let go of the tiny hand till you had to say farewell at a child protection centre hidden deep in the underground. You left food and water, your leather-bound journal, little trinkets, and paraphernalia with him because that was all you had in your possession. You desperately wanted to give everything to him. Finally, you were home. You fondly look at your omi who is reading a novel in her chair. She notices you instantly, motherly instinct sharp even after 19 years. She smiles and gestures to her tea and you nod happily. Few minutes and a tea warming up your hands, you no longer feel the cracks in your dried heart. The stretch in your mouth stings and it jolts you with the surprise that you are smiling, and have been smiling long enough for it to hurt. A calm acceptance washes over you. You feel your neck and stomach slick with blood. You have been lying in a pool of your own blood for a while now. It does not hurt anymore, no more than the thought of everything and everyone you knew not existing anymore. Every time you blink your eyes, you are taken to a flowery meadow, and like a clockwork, you take one last long walk through the streets to your home. The mind takes every detour it can conjure up, changing the journey, savouring life. Yet the ending stays the same. The ground shakes and you brace for impact. Somewhere within a hearing distance, a bomb explodes. It is easier to imagine it was the sun finally exploding wiping everyone out unapologetically with no prejudices. You open your eyes even when they are not closed. Dust settles. By Leo Gayanee Buwaneka 72
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Penned by: Leo Saudupama Ediridinghe 74
https://blog.uokleos.org/