Life in a Village
- Jan 26
- 2 min read
Hey friends!
Let’s talk about something close to my heart—life in a small village. You know how the world is split between urban and rural? Cities with their bustling streets and villages with their calm, quiet nature? Well, I’ve lived both. I grew up in a tiny village in the eastern part of Turkey, and now, thanks to university, I’m also experiencing city life. Today, I want to share what it’s like to grow up in a village like mine—a place called Şanezer in Kurdish and Korpeçayır in Turkish, tucked away in Eleskirt, Ağrı.
At first glance, life in my village might seem, well, tough. It’s far from the big cities, winters are freezing, and let’s just say it’s not the most developed place. But you know what? It’s also full of things that make your heart warm—like neighbors who feel like family, traditions that bring everyone together, and a way of life that’s deeply human.
Growing up there was something special. Imagine waking up to the sound of roosters, walking barefoot on the cool soil, and eating vegetables you’ve grown with your own hands. That was my childhood. My days were split between schoolwork and village life—taking care of animals, working with agricultural machines, and helping out in the fields. Balancing both wasn’t always easy, but it taught me how to juggle responsibilities and stay grounded.
The best part of village life? The connection. Everyone knows everyone. We’re all either neighbors or relatives, and there’s always someone around to chat with or lend a hand. It’s safe, it’s simple, and it’s full of kindness.
Thanks to this life, I’ve learned a ton about animals, agriculture, and machines. By the time I was 11, I was cultivating fields. At 9, I was milking cows, helping deliver calves, and checking on our chickens. These weren’t just chores—they were lessons that shaped who I am today.
Of course, not everything was picture-perfect. Village life has its downsides, too. For one, we often had to solve problems ourselves because there wasn’t much in the way of authority or support nearby. And then there was school. My primary school had only 10 students, spread across four grades, all taught by one teacher. Imagine trying to focus on your lesson while the teacher switches between first-graders and fourth-graders—it wasn’t easy! But hey, it also gave us plenty of free time to play, which I’ll always cherish.
Sports and extracurriculars? Not so much. We didn’t have a basketball court or any kind of fancy activities. And let’s not forget the constant work. Every season brought a new set of tasks, and they weren’t easy—physical labor was just part of the deal.
But despite all of this, I wouldn’t trade my village upbringing for anything. It’s where I learned resilience, gratitude, and the value of hard work. It’s where I first dreamed of a bigger world while staying connected to my roots. And even now, as I navigate city life and university, those lessons from my little village stay with me every step of the way.
So, here’s to the charm, challenges, and unforgettable memories of growing up in a village. What about you? Have you ever experienced village life? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
Comments