The Dream That Planted Trees: A Story of True Charity

The Dream That Changed My Heart

Selection: Nazima Ayaz

Last night, I had a dream. In it, the late mother of Syed appeared beside me. She spoke softly, “Today, I met Phika’s mother. She lives in a beautiful house her son built for her, surrounded by lush fruit trees.”

I woke up, stunned. Phika’s mother passed away years ago. But the dream felt so real, so peaceful. I thought to myself, If Phika comes by, I’ll tell her everything...

Phika Returns

Two days later, Phika came to town. I didn’t get to meet her immediately—she was busy with work. When I finally saw her, she looked tired, but calm and collected, as always. I asked her gently, “Phika... are you okay?”

The Heat and the Tree

She began to tell me about her recent experience. A few days ago, while returning from work, her bus broke down in the middle of nowhere. The heat was unbearable. There was no water, no shelter, and no one to help.

“All of us passengers were exhausted,” she said. “But we found one big tree nearby. Like a mother’s embrace, it sheltered us from the cruel sun.”
She paused. “It reminded me of my own mother. That tree felt like her—protecting us without asking anything in return.”

The Realization

That incident changed something in Phika. She told me she had saved up money to cement her mother’s grave. But now, she felt that true tribute wasn’t in stones, but in service.

“I didn’t fix the grave,” she said. “Instead, I bought new shoes for myself and began planting trees near the village pond and along the roads.”
She smiled faintly. “It was more fulfilling. I felt my mother was happy with my decision.”

A Dream's Hidden Message

Listening to her, my heart trembled. The dream... it wasn’t just a dream. It was a sign. Inspired by her act, I quietly sent someone to have Phika’s mother’s grave repaired. I didn’t tell her—maybe she didn’t need to know. But I needed to do it.

That one dream, that one bus breakdown, turned into an act of lasting charity. Trees were planted. Shade was given. Lives were touched.

And I realized: some dreams aren’t just dreams—they’re directions.