Pura vida
As I reflected on the beach at Reserva Pacuare in Costa Rica, I felt an overwhelming sense of joy because I had just experienced my most spiritual awakening day. We have one earth and one life to see the world for what it is and acknowledge that we share the responsibility to truly live humankind and enjoy other species on earth. I’m starting up my small business with the inspiration of a brighter future to focus on leadership developing sustainable branches. I participated with Global Glimpse x Ecology Project International which allowed me to study an endangered reptile; leatherback sea turtles. From the morning mist to humid afternoons and the starry night skies, My peers and I walked along the rainforest and learned about the biodiversity of tropical flora and fauna. Every moment felt surreal. Until I had the opportunity to see from the perspective of a scientist, explorer, researcher, and someone who is not only living on earth but also learning how our beautiful ecosystems live and intertwine with one another I didn’t understand what it meant to be present. With no prior knowledge of environmental justice or the importance of protecting wildlife, I was awestruck when I learned about the various factors that contribute to the endangerment of leatherback sea turtles. There is a need for a certain nesting habitat, but coastal development, urbanization, and tourism have fragmented nesting areas, disrupting hatchling's natural routine. Throughout my life, I’ve heard about climate change, but this experience has helped me understand how global temperatures and changes in weather affect hatchling sex ratios. Higher temperatures promote more females, leaving fewer males to partner with for reproduction. I couldn’t help but think of all the decisions I make back home that unconsciously affect the natural growth of our planet. So there I was, miles away from home, admiring the most beautiful scenery, observing life outside the human realm, Pondering just how vital conscious decision-making is to our planet's capacity to reproduce. Thinking about how important my relationship with the planet is, I start to wonder why I ever felt separated from Earth as if I don’t breathe the oxygen that comes from our trees. It never occurred to me how much of what I do, feel, and think affects the one earth we call home. I know my urge to take action is a universal message to follow my calling and greater purpose in learning and teaching. As part of my mission, I would like to motivate communities to dismantle oppressive systems that keep us disconnected from our earth and come up with solutions that’ll normalize a culture of eco-consciousness. I must find a family of people who find love in advocating for the rights of our rainforest, animals, and oceans, so since I have been back from Costa Rica I’ve been working to create a space that can hold a voice for our environment. The art of saving the planet begins with us. In dedication to all baby sea turtles, I’ve presented tote bags to spark discussions about reusable products and hopefully slow our investments in intoxicating items that hinder a healthy lifestyle. As of right now, I’m working to earn a degree in environmental studies concentrating on conservation and natural resource management while also taking time outside school to continue a lifelong journey studying our earth. I aspire to lead this space with an open heart and willingness to practice living as one. This space is dedicated to healing so join me on this journey to save our planet.
