"When the Silent Suffer"

                  – A heartfelt reflection on the way we treat animals, nature, and the world we share.

Globally, there are several kinds of animals—domestic, wild, and aquatic. While the human population has expanded rapidly, animal numbers have dropped drastically in recent years. Often overlooked is the reason behind this alarming decline. While some animals die naturally after completing their lifespan, many others fall victim to human greed—habitat destruction, hunting, and neglect.

Imagine if humans faced the same fate—our homes destroyed, our lives uprooted. Would we call that fair?

Animals cannot speak or express their pain the way humans do, yet they feel just as deeply. Only 31% of Earth's land is habitable, some of which is covered by forests and some used for farming and housing. Human expansion has resulted in massive deforestation and declining water levels. The Amazon rainforest, one of the most dense and vital ecosystems, is being cut down tree by tree. Species are losing their homes, and concrete buildings rise in their place. Is it fair to expect animals to endure this suffering, simply so we can spread out further?

Careless individuals hunt animals for money, sport, or status. They sell their bones, skins, and organs, often starting businesses off this cruelty. Is that what animals deserve? Shouldn’t they be allowed to live without fear, just as we wish to?

In this era of learning, we still fail to teach one another to value every living being. Some pet owners treat animals as possessions rather than companions. Every animal should be loved and cared for like a child. Observe your pet closely—you'll see how innocent, emotional, and dependent they are, just like little children.

While many people adopt pets and treat them well, others impose silent suffering upon them. Some train animals not for affection but to obey meaningless commands. Breeds that bark or show aggression are often labeled as “dangerous.” But why don’t we label the kind, loyal animals as “safe” with the same energy? These animals behave according to how they are treated. It’s not magic—it’s love. Only 2% of people globally keep wild animals as pets. Not because of fear, but because animals respond gently to those who treat them with care. Some might dream of owning wild animals and then call them harmful. It’s ironic—are all animals harmful while humans are considered harmless?

We ignore the brutal acts of our own species—murder, abuse, bullying, torture—and yet we still call ourselves kind.

Is it humanity to pollute sacred rivers and continue calling ourselves “good”? Rivers like the Yamuna and Ganga, once symbols of spiritual purity, are now drowning in filth. Meanwhile, humans continue to commit horrifying acts—gender discrimination, rape, and violence. In India alone, 7–8 women are raped monthly in different regions. Are humans truly safe? Across the globe, women continue to suffer injustice. Aren’t they human too? What if women began treating men the same way—would society accept it? Despite education, people still commit horrific crimes. So, is our world truly safe?

No one truly speaks for animals. They are the most silent sufferers, yet they are often the most emotionally intelligent beings. They can’t voice their feelings, but they can comfort us in our darkest times. We've all seen it—on social media, pets comforting their owners in extraordinary ways. Yet, people still call them “burdens” or “dangerous.” But having a dog, cat, or any pet is a blessing. They aren’t a responsibility—they are support. They may walk on four legs, but they carry more love than most two-legged beings.

Nature has given us food, water, and a beautiful world to live in. But do we respect this gift? We pollute it day by day. Is this because of animals? No. It’s careless humans. For example, industries use water from lakes and rivers to cool machines and then dump that same polluted water back—unfiltered and toxic. That polluted water makes its way back to our homes and villages. This happens daily, unnoticed and unaddressed.

We are damaging the planet irreversibly. And we still dare to call ourselves “advanced.”

India, known for its rich culture and beautiful structures, is also home to sacred rivers like the Ganga, Yamuna, and Brahmaputra. These rivers once symbolized spiritual purity. Now, the Yamuna looks like a polluted lake. The Ganga is drying up, and its pollution levels are rising every day.

According to Indian traditions, taking a dip in the Ganga purifies the soul and washes away sins. But what happens when the Ganga itself is no longer pure?

We must wake up before it’s too late. It’s time we stop being silent about those who suffer silently—animals, women, nature, and even our own conscience. Speak up, act wisely, and be kind. Because true humanity is not about domination—it’s about compassion.

                                               

                   -  They may not speak our language, but their pain, their love, and their loyalty are louder than any words. Let’s not ignore their silent cries....