Man, what a day! I’m a forester, right? But today, I felt like I was in a wild jungle, and not the good kind. So, I roll into Singkil, and lemme tell ya, it’s a whole vibe. The streets are buzzing, like, seriously, I thought I was in a beehive. Jalan Raya Singkil was packed! Cars honking, people shouting, and me just trying to find a parking spot. Ugh! First off, I hit up this little warung on Jalan Jendral Sudirman. Best nasi goreng ever! I mean, I could’ve sworn I saw the chef throw in some magic spices. I was so hyped, I almost did a little dance. But then, boom! My phone buzzes. My boss wants me to check on some trees near the river. Like, really? I just got my food! So, I scarf down my plate, and I’m off. I’m driving down Jalan Lintas Sumatera, and it’s like a scene from a movie. I’m dodging potholes like they’re landmines. Seriously, who needs a rollercoaster when you got this road? I’m gripping the wheel, praying I don’t lose my lunch. Finally, I get to the river. It’s beautiful, man. The water’s glistening, and I’m thinking, “This is why I love my job.” But then, I see it. Trash everywhere! Like, come on, people! This is nature, not your personal dump! I’m fuming. I start picking up plastic bottles, and I’m muttering to myself, “What’s wrong with these folks?” While I’m cleaning up, I hear this loud noise. I look up, and there’s a group of kids playing soccer. They’re kicking the ball around like it’s the World Cup. I can’t help but smile. They’re having the time of their lives, and here I am, picking up trash. But then, one of the kids kicks the ball too hard, and it lands right in the river. I’m like, “Oh no, not again!” So, I wade in to get it. The water’s cold, and I’m thinking, “This better be worth it.” I grab the ball, and the kids are cheering like I just scored a goal. I’m feeling like a hero for a sec, but then I slip! Splash! I’m soaked! The kids are laughing, and I’m just standing there, dripping wet, thinking, “Great, just great.” After that, I head back to the city. I’m still wet, and my hair’s a mess. I stop by a café on Jalan Merdeka. I need coffee, like, stat! I order a kopi Singkil, and it’s like a hug in a cup. I’m finally feeling good again. But then, I overhear this guy talking about deforestation. My heart sinks. I can’t believe people still don’t get it. I’m about to lose it. I wanna jump in and say, “Yo, trees are life!” But I hold back. I just sip my coffee and try to chill. As the sun sets, I stroll around the market. The colors, the smells, it’s all so alive! I see some street vendors selling grilled corn. I can’t resist. I grab one, and it’s like a flavor explosion in my mouth. I’m in heaven! But then, I spot a stray dog. He looks so sad, just sitting there. My heart breaks. I can’t just leave him. I buy some food from a vendor and feed him. He wags his tail, and I’m like, “Dude, you just made my day.” Finally, I head home, exhausted but happy. Singkil, you crazy city, you’ve got my heart. I’ve seen the beauty and the mess, and it’s all part of the ride. Can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!