Student Essays, Opinions & Other Insights on a Sustainable UMD 2013-2014 Academic Year | Page 10

Neha Gupta

Major: Biology and Neurophysiology
Class of 2017
Friendship is a mutual understanding between two
people that they care about each other and will protect
one another from harm. My relationship with the
environment is similar to my relationship with all the
important people in my life.
The environment takes care of me. Like a mother, it
calms me when I am worried, anxious, or sad. I just step
outside and breathe the fresh air, and clarity instantly
hits. Like a coach, it teaches me life lessons. Its vastness
puts my small problems into perspective and reminds me
not to worry. Like a friend, it keeps me company. My
walks to class guarantee at least two squirrel sightings.
Like a significant other, it exudes beauty in every way.
Even when the weather dresses up in sweats and a tee
shirt and gets gloomy from the rain, it is glorious. The
smell of wet grass makes me feel so fresh and pure. At
any time in any weather, the earth provides me with
unparalleled comfort.
If the Earth can do so much for me, it is only fair that I do just as much back. Not only is it fair, it is also
necessary. If I neglect the Earth, I will lose it. I will lose my mother, my coach, my friend and my significant
other. I am a product of the world I was born in. By turning my back on the environment, I am turning my back
on my home and, consequently, a part of me.
Turning off the lights when I’m not in the room and the water when I’m brushing my teeth is the smallest
action I could take for something so important to me. Putting my waste in one bin instead of another is
effortless, and it yet it has such a big impact. My friends are important to me, so I work hard to take care of
them. Likewise, this earth means everything to me, and I will do anything in my power to protect it.

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