In the heart of summer 2023, I joined a group of volunteers from all over Europe for a project called “Hopeland” in Greece. For a month and a half, from July through August, we lived and worked together, united by a common purpose: to build an eco-friendly farm that would not only thrive but also teach us about living harmoniously with nature. Robert Vartanov, Georgia.
“Hopeland” was more than just a project; it was a life experience. The farm was our canvas, and we were the artists, creating a space where sustainability wasn’t just a concept but a way of life. What set this project apart was its commitment to a fully vegan lifestyle. We ate only plant-based meals, not just because it was healthier or trendier, but because it was a crucial part of the eco-conscious environment we were building. It was about living the values we were trying to promote.
Life in the Tents
We lived in large tents, five to six people in each. It wasn’t always comfortable, but it was real. Sharing such close quarters with people from different backgrounds quickly broke down barriers. We weren’t just co-volunteers; we became a little community. We shared stories, laughter, and sometimes frustrations, but we always came back to the sense that we were all in this together.
Each day brought something new. Our schedule rotated, so one day you might find yourself cooking for the whole camp, learning how to prepare satisfying meals without any animal products. The next day, you might be feeding the animals, feeling the joy of caring for creatures that depend on you. Other days were spent watering the plants, watching them grow stronger under our care, or building and repairing parts of the farm that needed it. The work was hard, but it was rewarding in a way that’s hard to put into words.
A Step Closer to Nature
For me, “Hopeland” was a huge step toward understanding both human nature and our relationship with the environment. Working the land, caring for animals, and living simply among like-minded people gave me a new appreciation for the world around us. I realized that sustainable living isn’t just about reducing our impact on the planet; it’s about deepening our connection to it.
By the end of the project, I wasn’t just leaving behind a farm; I was taking with me a renewed sense of purpose. I learned that when we strip away the distractions and focus on what really matters – like caring for the earth and each other – we discover a deeper, more meaningful way of living.
“Hopeland” wasn’t just a place; it was a transformative experience that changed the way I see the world. It taught me that sustainability is not just an abstract idea but something we can live and breathe every day, no matter where we are.
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