Even the smallest act of love for the Earth is a step toward change. There are still those who don’t seem to care, but I do. – Tyra
When I first joined the Laudato Si’ Club, I envisioned an exciting experience filled with activities like designing posters, carrying out a lot of campaigns and maybe even replacing few classes for hands on environmental initiatives. However, I quickly discovered that it was far more challenging than I had anticipated. Some students mocked our efforts, asking, “What’s the point?” of going around planting trees and flowers or picking trash while others simply ignored us. Even a few teachers appeared indifferent, which was disheartening. I found myself questioning whether our actions truly made a difference or not.
Despite the setbacks, my friends in the club remained determined. And recently our mentor, Madam Immaculate, started talking to us and she often reminds us,
Even the smallest act of love for the Earth is a step toward change.
It was during this time of uncertainty that I discovered my voice—through art. I have begun to create vibrant murals around the school that depict flourishing nature, hands cradling the planet, and rivers flowing into blooming flowers. With the help of my friends, we are also put up posters with messages promoting care for our environment. Gradually, people have begun to take notice.
One day, a younger student approached me and exclaimed,
I love your painting! I want to join the club too.
At that moment, I realized that change doesn’t always have to be loud and dramatic. Sometimes it manifests in small acts, like planting a tree, picking up litter, or infusing hope into a wall through art. Admittedly, there are still those who don’t seem to care, but I do. My friends to do. And that’s more than enough to keep us pushing forward.
Esther Tyra is a
Laudato Club Leader at HCLV