Not too long ago, I was explaining the idiomatic expression "as happy as a lark" to my students. Displaying an image of the bird for more clarity, I inquired if any of them had ever encountered one. To my surprise, the unanimous response was negative. I pointed out that these birds were a common sight in our schoolyard, only to be met with puzzled expressions.
Explaining further, I described how larks boast more
intricate calls and elaborate songs compared to many other avian species, often
performing extravagant displays during flight. However, instead of
enlightenment, my explanation seemed to deepen their sense of wonder.
Reflecting on the reasons behind their lack of familiarity,
I considered the overly protective nature of modern-day parents, who confine
their children indoors, shielding them from the natural world. Additionally,
the pervasive culture of smartphones discourages exploration, research, and
curiosity.
This realization evoked a sense of empathy and sadness for
today's youth, contrasting their constrained experiences with the freedom and
security enjoyed by my own generation. It prompted me to share with them the
timeless tale of “The Lark and the Hunter”, hoping to impart a glimpse of the
natural wonders they might be missing.
In the tale of the ”The Lark and the Hunter”, a narrative
ingrained in our primary school memories, a hunter ensnared a small lark, and
the bird eloquently pleaded its case. "I am but a feather's weight and
cannot quell your hunger; why not grant me freedom in exchange for three pearls
of wisdom that will enrich your life?" The bird laid down additional
terms, stating, "I’ll grant them to you this way: one while I linger by
your side, the second as I perch upon the tree, and the third when I soar high
in the sky." Accepting the lark's proposition, the hunter demanded the
first. The lark then imparted—in lyrical verse: "Do not rejoice
excessively in your gains." Relinquishing control, the hunter watched as
the lark alighted gracefully upon a branch, where it continued its sage
counsel, "Nor should you regret past losses." Yet, as the lark took
flight into the boundless expanse, the hunter lamented, "Alas! You
deceived me; hand over the third." To which the lark responded, "You
failed to grasp the essence of the first two; the third shall remain beyond
your reach."
The essence of this post encapsulates two key points:
Firstly, contemporary children find themselves somewhat disadvantaged due to
the constraints imposed upon their freedom within the modern world. Secondly,
from my personal perspective, today's schoolbooks seem to be a bit lacking in educational value, as well as falling short in terms of
entertainment.
