Dear Students,
It’s been a while but I hope you’re still embracing the pura vida we learned together in Costa Rica. From the views of the valley to the steaming hot springs to the adrenaline of zip lining, I’ll never forget your group.
Working with a new group of students is always amazing, but your group went above and beyond expectations. You worked hard, stayed vulnerable, and overcame fears despite immense self-doubt. I’m so, so proud of you. Whether it was your enduring love of scraping paint, running after dogs during walks, or helping each other finish each and every zipline, you all found ways to make Costa Rica your own, to leave your mark on the memory of GLA and the communities around you.
The work that you did in communities will persevere for years—decades, even. Those puppers in Orosi will live in more comfortable conditions thanks to you. The dogs and cats you worked with vets to spay/neuter in Parrita and Liberia will no longer contribute to the stray population—more pets will stay in loving homes. And of course, the beach will be cleaner and prettier thanks to you—not to mention plentiful in almonds and shade, eventually.
Costa Rica is something special, but it doesn’t feel quite as special now that you’ve left it. Hope to see you soon.
A few highlights:
-The surprising delight of the cow hotel
-The equally surprising, but perhaps less delightful hike to Marvin’s house
-Learning Salsa with Luis
-Devouring ice cream at ZooAve
-Melanie becoming a true tree hugger
-Blessing trees
-The moody waves from beach cleanup
-S’mores with Chikys
Much love,
-Kira, Rebekah, and Lindsay
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