I have been studying abroad in Costa Rica for almost a month now, and so far, my experience has been amazing. I chose Costa Rica because of my educational goals, but also because of the fact that Costa Rica is known to many people around the world as a place where man is best friends with the environment.
It is true! The country is full of greenery, beautiful animals, and amazing beaches. Fortunately, I have had the opportunity of enjoying plenty of it and it is only the beginning. Even though I have only been here for less than four weeks, one of the most valuable things I have learned so far is appreciating the little things that come with life.
This past weekend I was able to visit one of the most beautiful places in Costa Rica: Manuel Antonio National Park. The park is both a wildlife preserve where there are different trails one can take and different beaches where one can swim. After hiking around the park and seeing different wildlife, it was time for my friends and I to hit the beach.
Clear blue water, palm trees full of coconuts, calm beach waves, mountains at the distance… this is beauty at its finest. When I say I was in awe of nature, I mean it! This was the first time I had ever experienced such a natural beauty, and it was then that I realized how crazy something so simple and beautiful can make someone pause and think about so many things.
As I sat facing the water and taking in all the beauty, I began to think about my life in the United States and what I have experienced since being in Costa Rica. It is so crazy to think that we have it so much easier than a lot of people. What is even crazier is that even though we may have it all, we are never satisfied. When I say “we have it all,” I am not talking about money or luxuries. I am talking about the basic necessities.
We take it “all” in and never get enough. If it is not one thing, it is another. We are always competing and wanting more than what we can have or can afford and it is easy to see why (in this case) American ways of living are not followed or adapted.
I think of all of these things and feel guilty. Guilty because I am a part of that group of consumers. Guilty because my parents work hard to provide me with the best they can and I’m not satisfied. Why am I like this? Why are we like this? It’s so sad and horrifying at the same time, so reflecting on it and experiencing it makes me realize that I am blessed beyond measures. I’m in another country, learning about a different culture and realizing that there are so many more things I have yet to realize and learn about myself.
Costa Ricans have this really catchy saying, “Pura Vida,” which translates to “nothing but life” and they absolutely live up to it. The purpose of the saying is to let go of the negative and enjoy the simplicities that life brings with it. As I sit still and listen to the waves, I realize that it takes so much for someone to appreciate what they have. Maybe it is because we never have time to stop and think due to how busy we are but learning to reflect, especially the little things and the large value they have, is necessary. Easier said than done. But I am so glad to have the opportunity of a lifetime, and I cannot wait to see what else I gain from this amazing four-month adventure.