Costa Rica

I can confidently claim that spontaneity is not my strong suit; but in deciding to travel to Costa Rica, I hardly had a solid plan in my head with so little time. I spent this past week there with a couple of friends and the blessing of my extended family. We were able to stay with my second cousin Tina and her husband Andy in the capital of San José, where they have a mission organization for students called Atlas Abroad. In their property they have a beautiful guest house that we stayed in, and had an incredible time with them. We hiked up Three Cross Mountain, hung out with their kids, and ate food traditional to the Philippines. We also met a couple of friends while staying in the guest house—Chilly and Shane—who we traveled around the city with!

What was really priceless were the conversations. To be able to learn about Tina and Andy’s mission and their journey as a family ending up in Costa Rica was so impactful. To have so little time with them was a pity; but I am sure I will return someday soon. :)

We continued our trip in Playa del Coco on the coast of Costa Rica to explore the beaches and national parks. This is where creation left everyone speechless. Rincón de la Vieja National Park has a turquoise river of water winding through canyons and pouring from waterfalls. Its truly a small natural wonder of its own and a privilege to experience. The bay of Playa Hermosa next to Coco has crystal clear water with collections of reefs and gentle waves. We kayaked right in the ocean, seeing manta rays gliding along the ocean floor and pufferfish that fit in the palm of your hand. We hiked on volcanic rock barefoot (would not recommend), and climbed up a precarious peninsula that overlooked the ocean. The view from that point made it all worth it. Most beautifully was the culture and people that we were able to meet; but sadly have so little time to know. This is the typical story that never is there time enough to spend in beautiful places you’d rather stay. From this I felt blessed to leave with the lessons I had gained and friends I had made from a week’s worth of precious moments.

Now I have started my service in San Pedro Carchá in Alta Verapaz, where I will be for the next month. I ask for prayer during this time for sensitivity to the different culture; that I can have strength from God to be serving others to the fullest extent, both in body and spirit; and that my heart and eyes are open to what God is placing into my life with this beautiful place. I ask for prayers for my friend serving in a similar capacity as me—that he would also provide and receive blessings during the experience. Finally, a prayer of thanks to my church Blooming Glen Mennonite, and the other families who have been answering my prayer of financial provision for the rest of my gap year. Thank you for all of the ways you have blessed me.

Con Cariño,

~Sara