Create a model for harmonious living in Costa Rica

Hi, my name is Samantha Macia and I am one of the volunteers working on our pilot project in Costa Rica. Below is a reflection on my experience here so far:

Good News from Costa Rica

IBREA’s pilot program in Costa Rica is in its beginnig stages. We are working from scratch, creating connections with local community members that we hope will last and allow us to open up a pathway towards harmonious living.

One of the regions in which we are working is an area in the north called Sarapiqui, specifically in a rural village, Union del Toro. As an organization, we had previously worked with the people of Union del Toro but as an individual, this was a totally new experience.

The people there are very hospitable; the family with which we stayed made all of us volunteers feel at home. We were in the middle of the rainforest, with plants and animals all around. The natural setting was helpful in clearing the mind.

When we started training with the students, we sensed a lot of tension, especially with the middle and high schoolers. Many students hovered outside the classroom door but seemed too nervous to enter, curious but afraid. Of the ones who entered, took their shoes off, and decided to try something new, many didn’t seem comfortable exploring themselves around each other. There was much nervous laughter and many tense smiles.

Towards the end of each session however, the giggles stopped and they concentrated more. Once they closed their eyes, the atmosphere relaxed and most seemed more at ease. It was rewarding to be a part of that small transformation and to add positive energy to the room. With each small, individual transformation, we build bigger and bigger changes. Perhaps next time not only the students but also the adults of the community can get involved.

Thank you for reading and for your support. Please keep helping so that we can make more of an impact and bring more good news!