August 5th, 2025:
The first thought that comes to mind while observing the Ceiba tree in Vieques is to breathe and relax. Now, I don’t have those thoughts often, but when our tour guide Mark for the day described the Ceiba tree and its powerful roots in the ancient Taino heritage, I had no choice but to breathe and reflect. The trip to Vieques was everything I needed it to be. From discovering the sacred Ceiba tree to the water immersion experience, to the bioluminescent bay, it was an experience that I needed for my anxious mind.
Upon arriving in Puerto Rico, I had stressed the constant schedule of going and not taking any breaks, but this day allowed me to slow my anxious thoughts and observe what was around me. This tree, which is culturally known and tied to Puerto Rico, has so much significance and honestly, is unlike any tree I’ve seen before. From providing shade, a place to stay, and a place to reflect, this tree opened up its branches to us. This tree in Puerto Rican culture is seen as the creator of life and colors, as well as a link between heaven and Earth. It was used in ancient Taino ceremonies and meditation, and noted as living and deserving of honor. I respect the value that this tree has had on so many people’s lives and continues to have on people’s lives. I see the tree as a gift that God has given to humanity to remind us of His presence. In my life, I am constantly filled with anxiety and the urge to continue to keep up with life’s many demands and worries. This tree serves as a reminder to slow down and remember the blessings that God has given me at all times.
To rip off all anxiety, I stepped foot into the Caribbean Sea, and I began to completely relax. One of the things that calms me down the most and takes away all the stress is the water. Earlier learning about meditating and quieting all the noise, when I visited the Ceiba tree, washed over me when I visited the Caribbean Sea. Mark was teaching us about finding a spot every day to just quiet down and reflect upon our daily lives; listen to the birds, wind, and leaves. My favorite experience was snorkeling! Being a part of the water with the fish and life underwater was such an amazing, calming experience! Visiting the bioluminescent bay later in the evening reminded me to quiet down, listen to nature, and reflect. As we paddled our kayaks in the bay during the night, we looked up at the constellations, the moon, and simply observed the dinoflagellates as they produced a glow in the water during the night. It was all so awestrucking, and each event that day was a beautiful part of God’s creation and a reminder of His presence and the blessings of being still.
Going home, I want to learn to reflect upon the blessings that God gives me in everyday life, from the sun, the birds, the trees, and the water. God knows life constantly moves, and He wants us to take moments out of our days to reflect on Him and the blessings He has provided for us. This day in Vieques served as a beautiful reminder that I need to slow down and reflect.
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