Leaving something that will last

Today was our last full work day at Colegio. We were assigned to work with Jorge. I woke up sore from the work we had done the day before, but looked forward to working with Jorge again. We went back up the hill and continued to shovel and rake the land to build a garden. Today wasn’t nearly as hard as yesterday, since we got most of the hard work out of the way. We worked on this hill with Jorge and his students and were able to take breaks to enjoy some recreational activities with the students.

Jorge brought some of his students down to the gym and we played a game of basketball. Jorge even hopped in the game to play in his rain boots! Our friends in the cooking department also joined us, which made for a very fun game. I could tell that they were impressed with our knowledge of the sport. After basketball, I asked the students if they wanted to show us how to play soccer. They were very excited to show off their skills and definitely wore us out.

We took a break for lunch and went back to work on the hill. Once we were finished working on the hill, I could hardly believe how different it looked! Just yesterday, it was all tall, packed in grass. I was amazed at how much we were able to accomplish only with a few shovels and rakes. The land is almost ready to have seeds planted into it. The blisters and sore muscles were definitely worth knowing that someday, there’s going to be a garden there that will provide for the school long after we have left.

After working with Jorge, we went to the gym to watch the student’s intramural soccer tournament. We saw some students we had never seen before, as well as some of our close friends we’ve made over these two short weeks. I love how soccer seems to bring the whole school together. Watching the games was so exciting. We were very impressed with the athleticism of some of our friends, like Henry and Calero.

To conclude our night, we enjoyed our last dinner in Monteverde at Bon Appetit. The food was great and the dinner conversations were even better. We were reflecting on all of the people we have met through this experience. From Jorge, the most easy-going, hardworking person you will ever meet, to Dulce, one of the most passionate activists I’ve ever encountered, the small town of Monteverde is full of wonderful people who I will always remember. I am really going to miss this place.

Ellie and Henry working in the school gardens together

Matt and Henry shoveling away so new plants can beautify the school

Entry submitted by: Ellie

Message of the Day – Ellie: “Only if we understand, can we care. Only if we care, we will help. Only if we help, we shall be saved.” – Jane Goodall