I will not lie, the market was surprisingly different than what I thought it would be. On the mainland, we are so used to outdoor farmers markets with everything in sight. It was very peculiar, to me, to see everything still so quiet mid morning. I feel as though I am so used to the hustle and bustle starting from 7am and not calming down until 5pm at the earliest. At Rio Piedras, it did not start getting crowded til noon and we had also learned that the shop owners leave at 4pm. Going on a Tuesday also probably had some effect as to why the market was not as busy. Very similarly to our farmers markets on the mainland, the Rio Piedras Plaza del Mercado had many stands that were similar in produce but the prices varied. I found that this observation was made by my fellow peers too.

We had one group that hosted us at the market, Capicu Adentro. With Capicu, we learned from a local legend, Milagros, how to make sofrito. It smelled like a lush garden in the middle of spring. The smell of the sofrito was comforting and it tasted delicious. We got to dip some treats into it and it was the perfect touch.

Our friends at Capicu then taught us all about dominoes. A few of us had played it before as children but never knew the real rules. It was an eye opening experiences to learn about the history of dominoes and how important it is to the community. Outside of the market, there are actually many domino tables for people to play at. At the end of our game, once we had a winner, everyone got a reward but they were all things that are unique to Puerto Rico.

After we finished up at the market, we headed back to the hotel for some free time before dinner and our final presentations. Unfortunately, I do not have much memory on what I did during my free time before dinner. Our dinner was graciously provided by our professor and everyone had a good meal. For dinner we just walked to a place that was right around the corner from our hotel. Afterwards, we all headed back to the hotel and prepared to present our final presentations.

All of our presentations consisted of research, experience, and reflection. I do believe that everyone’s presentations were wonderful and truly captured every aspect of their topics. I enjoyed listening to everyone’s reflections on what we did and how it made them feel. I found that it was really important to not only express why you liked something but also how it felt for you. In the end, we all felt at home.

Today, if you were to observe our group from afar, you might see a group of students who went on a serious adventure. While there is truth to our group being made up of students and us going on an adventure, deeper down, so much more was happening. 

As we were on the bus to El Younque, there was a definite mix of emotions. These emotions were caused by what students were thinking about the upcoming experience with Montaña Explora. Beneath the surface, every student was feeling both nervousness and excitement in some way. In this situation, it was impossible to know what someone was feeling without talking to them and understanding what was happening inside their head. 

One of the most exciting and thrilling parts of the day is watching the guides leap off large cliffs and dive into seemingly very shallow water. From our perspective on the surface of the water, everything looked shallow. What we did not know was that lurking below the surface were 20-foot deep pools that, if dived into, would be perfectly safe. The key part about diving into these deep pools is knowing what is under the surface. These pools were in particular places, and only the guides knew where the pools were. The guides figured out where these deep pools were through experience and exploration. 

After a long day of exploration, we returned to basecamp and found some much-needed nutritious burritos. The beauty of eating a burrito is that everything is wrapped inside the soft brown tortilla. Other than the tortilla, one can not see the ingredients of the tortilla. Without finding out what is under the surface of the tortilla, one can not fully understand the taste of that specific burrito. 

Throughout almost every aspect of today, things under the surface affect how each of us experiences the day. Without understanding each student’s emotions, it would be impossible to understand each student’s experience. Without understanding the guide’s extensive knowledge of these waterways, one would be scared for their safety. Still, because these guides have extensive knowledge of what is below the surface, everyone stayed safe. 

Like everything in life, there is so much more happening that is not obvious, and to understand what is happening, you must look below the surface.                         

The potent theme throughout our trip has been collaboration. Many people put a lot of effort and time into creating the amazing trip that we had. However, collaboration has only been possible because of the community that has brought us together. Community is a key component of collaboration. 

On Sunday, we went to church, spent some time at the beach, and enjoyed a dessert called “limbers.” This was a day we spent entirely as a group. We were with each other the entire time, having fun and making memories together. Our group joined the church congregation for lunch, and we had the opportunity to talk to some of the people there and find out more about their culture on the island. There were not many opportunities like this one, where we could learn about life on the island from someone who has lived there their entire life.

At the beach, the group went into the water together, talked about the trip thus far, and had fun in the water. We took pictures of one another and went to buy food together. Although we spent a short amount of time there, we made the most of it. I was not very close with anyone before this trip, but we all quickly became friends and created amazing memories I will have forever. Afterwards, we went to Titi Limbers and enjoyed a cultural dessert made by a woman named Mabel and her son. They shared their unique stories with us and it was empowering to hear how Mabel started her own business and what motivated her to keep going. Her son told us about his career as well and how he hopes his daughter can continue the legacy of Titi Limbers.

All of these experiences we have had on this trip, especially on Sunday, would not have been possible without community.

Making connections with one another by listening to and sharing stories is how we created our community. We created lasting memories from our unique experiences that we may never have again. The creation of community and the collaboration within it allowed us to build relationships and bonds not only with our group members, but with the people of Puerto Rico as well.

This trip has taught me many things. The most important one of all is to connect with others and learn from them. What we learn can be used in the future to inspire more collaboration. Everyone has something to offer, you just need to listen and apply it. Find community in all places and use one another for inspiration in this beautiful world.

After heading back on the bus, we participated in a breathing exercise with our guide Natalia. It was to help us relax and loosen up for the long day ahead. Again, this felt like a reminder that I needed to relax and try to enjoy the moment for what it was instead of stressing the future. Our next stop was the coffee farm in the mountains of Adjuntas. It was so interesting to see how coffee is made in Puerto Rico and a good reminder of how most of everything is hand-picked and harvested here in Puerto Rico, which is so special. After finishing our tour of the farm, we were able to try the coffee directly. Although I am not a fan of coffee and had to put 4 packets of sugar in it, it was a beautiful, serene moment sitting with my coffee and gaining an appreciation for the work put into it. It was also a good energy boost for the rest of our activities.

Our next activity was a visit to the educational project at Casa Pueblo. This was such an interesting and educational experience. Here, we learned that the people of Puerto Rico came together to stop deforestation, and Casa Pueblo was the founder of this movement, as well as many others today. The most recent being the solar power movement. Their goal is to try to eliminate electrical power and move to solar power, especially in the case of an emergency. This was especially put into action after Hurricane Maria in 2017, which changed a lot for the people of Puerto Rico. It was amazing to experience the community that was formed through this devastation and just how everyone is so connected. After we toured this project, we were outside standing under the solar panels, and the words Sol Idaridad were displayed, which means solidarity in English. This was super important to this group as it represents the mutual support they share. It was also a good message for me to reflect on how I can collaborate in my own land for the better of the community and country as a whole.

To wrap up the day, we headed to a music class at Casita de la Musica Cayeyana. Here we learned how to play the Güiro. First, we watched the students play a song, then the instrument was handed to us. We played along to a few different songs and played different types of beats each time. This had to have been one of the most interesting experiences of the trip. While we were playing, everyone was a unit. It felt like a connection that I have never felt before. They say music is a universal language, and in this moment, it was the truth. It was an amazing way to end our busy day and had me reflecting. Puerto Rico is a country filled with love, spirit, and connections. Although I might have started the day feeling hopeless and burnt out, I ended it feeling uplifted and connected.

After our time with the Taino people, we were off to visit Ponce. Once arrived, we set out to our first, and only cooking class of the trip. Our lovely chefs taught us how to make mofongo, while providing us delicious plantain snacks. Once settled, and full of tostones, we were able to make our mofongo creations. We mashed our plantains in with our acetite, ajo, pieles de cerdo, and sal, into a thick paste, we shaped it into the sides of the mortar and pestle. After the art of crafting the bowl, our chefs asked for two volunteers, and what do you know, Grace and I volunteered. Our objective was to make the best mofongo creation by topping it with rice, beans, chicken or pork, and a side of salad. Turns out Grace is a lot better at making mofongo than me because mine collapsed as soon as I places my rice in. Nonetheless, we tied as the head chef (pity votes for me), and we were all able to enjoy the fruits of our labor together.

In comparison to the main island of Puerto Rico, Vieques felt like a whole other world. I faced the challenge of not wanting to leave.  

We then took a ferry back to the main island, and once back, we made our way to Loiza. Our first stop was at Raul’s house, where we watched him create a Vejigante mask from scratch out of a coconut. During this experience, his family made a series of unique cultural dishes and offered freshly diced papaya, covered in a sweet cinnamon glaze.  

Our next stop was Samuel Lind’s house, a popular artist in the area. We were given a tour of his home and got to experience his thought process on each individual piece, first-hand. 

Our last event of the day was a nearby Bomba class. We were immediately introduced into such an energetic environment which in my opinion, was a wonderful way to end the day. 

On this day, we faced many ups and downs, as there are with everything else in life. I experienced a wonderful start to the morning, but between the heat, dehydration, and mosquitoes that would not stop attacking my legs, I lost all energy. It was only until I entered the dance floor, that joy and gratefulness came flowing back. It is crazy how quickly our days can switch around. “In the day of prosperity be joyful, and in the day of adversity consider: God has made the one as well as the other, so that man may not find out anything that will be after him.”  – Ecclesiastes 7:14 

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.

Everyone and everything has their own story. Moments of collaboration can make or break how “big” or “small” our worlds can be. We can choose what we want to listen and learn from-who and what we grow from. 

After an early morning ferry ride, we made it to the small island of Vieques, located east of Puerto Rico. Upon meeting our guide, Mark, I think everyone could instantly feel his welcoming presence and friendly energy, despite adjusting to the fast/tightly packed-paced schedule. As we rode through Vieques on a little yellow school bus, it reminded me of how far we all have come from our elementary school bus days. We are always learning. Imagine how much more exciting would learning new things be if we always explored new ideas with the bright eyes and open minds of a child who just stepped off the yellow bus for their very first day of school. 

Our first stop was at the magnificent Ceiba tree. Mark told us about how the branches of the Ceiba tree are shaped by how the wind blows. I am constantly in awe of how God is always in charge of our lives, and how our growth is shaped by Him. As we learned about the mangroves and all the efforts Mark, Hatuey, and so many others at the Vieques Conservation Trust make in the restoration process, it is hard not to think about the months of collaboration needed. Even though hurricanes made the mangrove restoration process have to start from square one, it was very inspiring to hear how passionate the workers at the mangrove nursery are in creating a better future for the environment, and Vieques. 

Hearing passionate stories about how people like Mark and Hatuey have dedicated their lives to educating and restoring the mangroves and protecting the bioluminescent bay, really stuck with me. As we are college students we are only at the “start” of our journey. Imagine how much we can do for our communities if we listen, learn, and are inspired by those around us who encourage growth towards a brighter future. Sometimes we think setbacks are the end of a journey. Just like the mangroves, sometimes we just need to find the right communities and people who can help you back to growing through what you’ve gone through. Sometimes a setback is a setup for something greater!

On the first morning of our trip to Puerto Rico, we had the privilege to at El Comedor de la Kennedy, a place where free meals are provided to those that have food insecurity. There is no limit to type of people that they serve. From children to the elderly, anyone in need is welcomed.

From the very start, I could tell that community was important. The supervisor, Luz, told us how all of the workers there were volunteers and that they received most of the food through donations. But what really stuck out to me was what happened when we began handing out meals. As people young and old waited to be served, Luz turned on some music and began talking to all the people there. It wasn’t long before the smiles started. Soon, everyone was laughing, cracking jokes, chatting to one another, and even dancing! I was in awe. Despite their dark situation, the community had created a place where they could receive food and uplifting love. It was truly a beautiful sight to behold.

Strength isn’t just physical. It’s also the resilience cultivated by people supporting one another. El Comedor is proof of this. The interactions I witnessed were so full of love and joy that it made the whole building feel brighter. These people were not just volunteers and those receiving food, but a family. When they left, you could tell they carried with them more than the meal they had been giving.

I will never forget my time at El Comedor. Being able to witness and contribute to to such tangible cheerfulness and determination was truly an honor. It showed me just how powerful the kindness a united community can bring.

Gazing over the edge looking at Iguazu Falls from thousands of feet above brought a flood of emotions to my mind. This was our last full day in Brazil and I was already feeling emotional, but something about this moment made me realize just how impactful this trip has been to me. As the water rushed over the rocks and tumbled down the cliffs, I was overwhelmed with a feeling of God’s abundance on this trip. Before coming to Brazil, I had very few expectations, but I knew I needed a change in scenery. After a difficult semester and many highs and lows, I was burnt out in more ways than one. Even though I knew it would be an amazing three weeks of activities and cultural experiences, I wasn’t sure how I would be able to enjoy it all with how drained I was. Also, three weeks is a long time to spend everyday with people you don’t know very well, so I was hesitant to get excited. Little did I know how close we would become in the following days. Between snapping photos of each other sleeping, going on random side quests to get açaí, and making jokes with our limited Portuguese, our group and our new Brazilian friends slowly became like family. We teased each other endlessly and supported one another when we were going through difficult moments.

We shared everything, even our sicknesses. Through drama and stressful situations, our group held each other accountable for their behavior. It was through the relationships I built with these people that God filled my heart over and above my wildest expectations. Like the crashing gallons of water at the falls, my heart is brimming over with joy after our time in Brazil. I know I will carry these memories and friendships beyond Brazil, and I’m excited to share the fruit of this time with others in my life. If you would’ve told me a month ago that on our last night together, our group would be sitting around a pool, laughing uncontrollably at our professor roasting us during paper plate awards, I wouldn’t have believed you. However, I couldn’t think of a better way to end the best trip with some of my new favorite people. “Parabens!”