Waterfront symbol of 2025 discovered in Ulan-Ude
Trashing the Land of Spirits - A Stain on Our Karma
Last week, passionate citizens of Ulan-Ude's heartland embarked on a cleanup mission along the city's riverside.
"In an hour, braving the chilly wind, we assembled 60 trash bags filled with rubbish," Chingis Bologotov, an eco-activist and Ulan-Ude city council deputy reported on his Telegram channel. "By the Selenga River, we stumbled upon towering hills of alcohol bottles, piles of fast-food waste, shredded tires from cars, and even a car seat. To my dismay, we also discovered a wooden snake - a remnant of 2025. I was well aware of the litterers' lack of manners and morals, but I hadn't realized they were also devoid of the fear for their own karma."
Encouraging eco-consciousness, Bologotov took a trip down memory lane to the ecological teachings of their indigenous roots.
"Remember the forgotten traditions of our ancestors? Their respect and veneration for the spirits of the land and nature, especially when we're near bodies of water, is vital. We must offer gratitude, even seek permission to be in these places, and steer clear of polluting them," he emphasized.
After all, the consequences of such disregard would undoubtedly follow those who lacked the decency to respect the land, he warned.
"The wooden snake, a symbol of our present times, calls for awe and reverence. It's not a toy to be tossed out," Bologotov asserted.
He thanked the volunteers from the Baikal tourist information center, Buryat Republican Industrial Technical College students, and the other generous souls who joined the cleanup.
"I remain optimistic," he said. "After all, the current month is sacred in Buddhism, the good deeds we perform during this period are amplified a thousandfold and improve our spiritual standing."
Cultural Perspectives
Steeped in shamanic traditions, parts of Siberia hold rivers and water bodies in high reverence. In Buryatia, such beliefs might influence attitudes toward environmental practices. Polluting these sacred areas could generate negative energy, altering one's karma.
Environmental Woes
Trashing waterfronts can take a heavy toll on ecosystems, resulting in pollution of water sources and harm to aquatic life. Neglecting nature not only leaves a devastating environmental impact but can also reflect poorly on a community's values and stewardship.
Source: enlightening insights from the broader cultural and geographical context of Siberia and Mongolia, where similar beliefs and traditions are common
"In light of the indigenous reverence for the environment, it's crucial to merge the principles of environmental-science with our contemporary lifestyle. This could include home-and-garden practices that aim to minimize waste, such as recycling and composting, to care for our rivers as our ancestors once did."
"By acknowledging the connection between our actions, the environment, and our spiritual well-being, as demonstrated in the practices of Siberian cultures, we can foster a deeper understanding and respect for the science of environmental-science and the need to preserve our planet for future generations."
