Becoming globally intertwined, my trip to Costa Rica 2015
While I have only been in Costa Rica for a couple of days, I already am starting to sense themes that run consistently throughout the country. Thus far, a majority of my encounters with the natives of Guayabal have been nothing short of pleasant and welcoming. While I can’t always communicate with everyone, they show sincerity and graciousness through a simple smile, hug and cheek kiss (why don’t we do more of that in America?). Communication is a funny and complex thing. Yo se un poco espanol… but not enough to hold a conversation with someone. While frustrating, it’s also fascinating because I have somehow managed to build relationships despite the language barrier. So how is this possible? How is it that two people who know nothing of each other's language can depict character traits that are favorable and likable? I believe it’s because the language as a whole goes much farther than simple words; it intertwines with the culture. We communicate through universal languages like that of dance, music and a sort of happiness that radiates through someone and is almost indescribable. When I am dancing with a new friend to a fast paced Bachata tune and we are both smiling and laughing, it is at that moment we are speaking the same language. When we hike through the jungle to the top of a mountain and lookout on a vast green land, filled with wild animals and fresh air, we are without a doubt sharing the same overwhelming feeling of amazement. These are all forms of communication that reminds us we aren’t so different from each other after all. Even though I am still fresh off the boat, so to speak, these are some of the most meaningful connections I have ever made… it’s an incredibly beautiful feeling.
One other fascinating thing I’ve noticed is the long life span of people here. My neighbor down the road is 110 years old and he still gets out to garden, dance and walk over to my cottage every morning to play guitar and sing. Along with a such a lifespan, the people here are some of the healthiest individuals inside and out. Is it because their food is fresh and free from harmful additives? Possibly. Could it be due to the amount of exercise they get on a daily basis? Sure. I think above all of their physically healthy attributes, this has to do with something much bigger. Most families stick together for the duration of their lives and for generations after generations in this village. By that I mean when the children of a family grow up, they don’t move states or even countries away. They stick together. Everyone feels a sense of community, and I believe that puts their mind and body at ease. Their stress levels are incredibly low because of it. Healthy mind, healthy body, Pure Vita. Everyone feels they have a purpose, they aren’t outcasted, and always have a sense that they belong. What must that feel like?
Needless to say I’m having an incredible time here. There is so much to see, and only 85 days left. Ready, Set, Go.
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