Shivaraj KC Ukhu Baari, Bhimeswor NP 7, Dolakha
“I am happy that this lockdown has brought me home. It has taught me the importance of family. There is work in the fields these days. Recently I was busy sowing seeds. And now it is time for all of us in my family to work in the fields harvesting rice. Before the virus, I was in Kathmandu busy with my college and life in the city. But even in Kathmandu, I am a simple guy. Maybe because I was raised in a family where you have to get your hands dirty to meet life’s needs, I understand the value of money. As a young boy, I remember the loan that Father had to repay, the fear of losing our buffaloes, and the stress it caused my family. I remember dreaming of earning money and paying everyone off. I understand the sacrifices that my family has made in order for me to attend school in the city. I have seen my brother’s struggles to uplift the family. I am happy that he is in Australia and doing well. He tells me to get a bike and that he will send me the money. But I don’t feel the need. I do not want to buy a bike to impress anyone or to post a picture on Facebook, which I hardly use. The few times I have posted on FB was pictures of nature and flowers. I only use messenger because it is easy for my brother to call us. I am happy being a simple guy from the village. I am okay with walking. I am okay with taking buses. I am okay with a few pairs of clothes.”