Hola my young friends,
I hope that you are all doing very well wherever it is this letter finds you. Your GLA family misses you. Thank you for saying, “yes” to this opportunity and for allowing us to share it with you. Given the impact of the experience, we often reminisce about our time together. Each of you was a special part of our experience and brought something unique to our lives in Costa Rica. Because of you, I grew as a person and learned much more about what it means to be a leader and living life to the fullest.
It seems like our time together was only yesterday. Remember how lovingly the community welcomed us open arms and hearts? Remember the rally? Remember the rain? The opportunity we had to spend time with Yolanda, Pilo, Enrique, Marvin, and everyone else was a true blessing. That opportunity has undoubtedly shaped me in many ways, some that I may never realize. I trust that it has shaped you in many ways as well. I encourage you to continue embracing and seeking similar life-shaping opportunities.
Your group had the privilege to work with the garden and filter projects – you would be incredibly proud of how much work has been done since your work. The filters located all over Rancho Quemado are helping the community minimize its impact on their natural habitat, a commitment that we can all agree is very important. The garden project is well underway as well. It may not be finished yet, but each of you that contributed left your mark, no matter how big or small. Way to go team.
My favorite memory was the community farewell. I invite you to take a pause from reading this, close your eyes, and take yourself back to that day. Feel the feelings of gratitude, love, appreciation, and connection. Listen to the people speaking. Perhaps you didn’t understand every word, but I bet you felt their sincerity. You all created that experience in two short weeks by persevering, putting others first, staying present, stepping out of your comfort zone, and being selfless. As we spoke on our last day in San Jose, that opportunity is available to you every day, take it. Continue creating what you created in Costa Rica my friends. Please get in touch if I can ever be of service.
With love,
Your friend Ric Barron
Feeling nostalgic? You can experience that same sense of friendship and adventure abroad again! Check out all our new destinations for Summer 2018, or enroll now.