Day 10: Closing reflection Day

¡Pura vida familias! Today was day 10, which was the last day before our return to the US. Overall, today was a peaceful day full of emotions and goodbyes. Today’s leaders were Yamelis and Tsering!

First, we woke up at 7am which was later than other days. Then at 8am, Diego made us very tasty pancakes with eggs, fruits, two jugs of iced tea, and fruit punch. At around 8:45am, we started our mental warmup which was Duck Duck Goose. This was a throwback since many of us hadn’t played this game in years. It was super fun seeing others chase each other around. Everyone had a really good time. 

Starting at 9am, we had our closing reflections which were led by our leaders. We started off with our journey map, in which we described our most significant memories throughout the trip through words and drawings to go along with it. We then shared those memories with one another and discussed the impact of these moments on us. Additionally, we also wrote about what lessons we, Glimpsers, learned about ourselves and leadership. This was also a chance for Glimpsers to share which people from our trip inspired us the most. 

After this, we reflected on habits we will start, stop, and continue. From this second reflection, we were able to be inspired by other Glimpsers’ responses to how we want to grow after this trip. 

Then after a short break, our third reflection focused on the connections we made with each other during this trip. In this activity, we had volunteers in our group tap the shoulders of our peers in response to the prompts read out loud. Though it sounds like a pretty simple activity, it was actually much more profound and sincere. In which everyone immediately started tearing up and hugging each other afterwards. Fatima made sure to set the vibes with tunes of “End of the Road” by Boyz II Men & “Flamenco” by Beyoncé.

Following some moments of trying to briefly collect ourselves, we started yet another sentimental activity which was giving BIG LOVE on paper. Everyone of us received a paper to write a BIG LOVE for each other. Consequently, it ended in everyone tearing up yet again. Ending our closing reflections at 12pm. 

For lunch, Diego prepared us rice and beans with chicken and salad. It was such a delicacy and we wish to experience it once more. Thank you so much Diego. Right after lunch, we had one hour of free time before the local families we stayed with visited us one last time. During their visit we had sweet treats made by Maribel and danced to different genres of music with the entire group. We learned the Electric Slide, Wobble and even Boots on the Ground! Sadly, before we knew it, we had to say our final goodbyes to not only the families but to our Nino as well at around 3pm. 

Then most Glimpsers and our leaders jumped in the pool right after. After two hours, our GG leaders and some Glimpsers took a hike to the local bakery and Pulperia to purchase snacks to take back home. Then at 6pm we had a self served dinner prepared by Diego, the man himself, which were burritos. YUM!

A little after dinner, we had our last nightly meeting together on the balcony. Sharing appreciation and big love to the entire group. Then we got to pass the torch to Fatima and Danielle ending our day as leaders. Our last night was spent listening to “Pink Pony Club” and Soca. CPG (Chris Perea) even baked another delicious Tres Leches! Y’all are missing out!

This opportunity was very insightful and special. Thank you for reading our blog and see you in Newark!!

-Tsering & Yamelis

More Pictures of the Day