Day 4: CAP Culmination

Good evening to everyone tuning in to todays’ blog!! Ani, Redina, Symir and Roliber present to you todays events. Today was definitely a memorable experience to all those who contributed and consisted of a multitude of ups and downs. The day started off extremely energetic as most of the glimpsers were able to experience a native perspective of Chitre which consisted of a morning stroll around town and picking up a nice boost of energy from the local coffee shop. The rest of the day was mostly a continuation of yesterdays action project including renovations and contributions to the school of Santa Ana. We were able to finish painting both classrooms and giving the walls a more lively spirit. The yard work was especially difficult due to the extreme weather, (Muy caliente!!) however; everyone was significantly determined to finish, allowing us to repaint the soccer/basketball court, paint a new shed, add a hop scotch area and incorporate more color into the schools atmosphere. To add on, individuals were able to gain a new opportunity to practice their Spanish skills as they ecstatically attempted to communicate with the younger Panamanian generation in a variety of ways. The younger students of the school were eager to assist with the painting allowing them to add their own touch to the project and give the glimpsers a chance to give instructions in Spanish and even get to know the children on a deeper level. A memorable event of the day was the soccer match that occurred in between our break granting everyone an eye changing moment showing how despite language barriers, cultural differences and contrasts in age, a simple interaction such as playing soccer on a simple field can connect people in a truly special way. The day was filled with high spirits all around; however, it’s important to mention the hardships along the way and how it shaped each and every glimpser throughout the experience. Continuing the project was at times discouraging due to the heat and lack of time and motivation. Some classrooms weren’t provided with air conditioning which constructed a difficult environment for the individuals painting the walls and forcing glimpsers to come out their comfort zone and assist each other out in discomforting times. Despite this, the experience was highly educational and allowed each and every member of this team to gather a new point of view and build strong connections through and through. The glimpsers today truly bonded over this action project creating close connections and joyful moments. To continue on with the day, we toured around Chitre during our free time purchasing a variety of souvenirs to remind us of our memorable moments. (Don’t worry mom I didn’t forget to get you a new vase and Ariana the bracelet I got you was hideous.)- Ani (Mom, Reg and Ersa I didn’t forget to buy you guys matching necklaces.- Dina) The final moments of the day were truly amazing consisting of high energy, hilarious talent shows and moments that made every glimpser forget about the obstacles faced in the previous hours. As the leaders of the day we truly felt that today was a notable day sparking new perspectives, connections and life changing moments.

Please enjoy the images and don’t forget to comment!!! Add in your personal thoughts and opinions about the day and get ready for upcoming adventures- With big love from Chitre to everyone back in the states <3