Day 5: Reforestation

Hola, Our names are Desmond, Kauan, and Chiekh

Today, us Glimpsers started our day at 7:00 am with a healthy breakfast of turkey sandwiches and pineapple. We looked onward to a series of check-ins and verified everyone’s wellbeing. We then took our journals to Pedasi, where we were able to learn about sustainable development and the endangerment of spider monkeys in Panamanian farmlands. During the presentation, we were informed about how climate change has affected local ecosystems within Panama. Afterward, us glimpsers were tasked to form separate groups to prepare for the Community Action Project (CAP). Those groups included glimpsers that needed boots and clothing in preparation for the following day. The CAP will consist of us planting bags of saplings into the soil and then firmly patting the soil. The goal of this project is not only to preserve Panama’s ecosystems, but also to take a small step in achieving worldwide sustainability.

At 11:30 AM, We headed back to the hotel where we all ate a healthy meal consisting of chicken soup with rice and plantains. Afterwards, we all had some free time to enjoy the city of Las Tablas; we spent our time filling up on desserts, eating local cuisine, and shopping at markets. We also had the chance to get back in touch with family and friends leading to some emotional moments and bonding. When it was time for dinner everyone regrouped to eat a delicious meal – chicken chow mein and salad. During this time, we strengthened our bonds even more and began to become closer than ever.

We are all really beginning to find ourselves; the shift is more evident than ever, those who were once shy have begun to open up more about their feelings and thoughts. This is even more apparent epically during tonight’s meeting. Kauan introduced the meeting with a nice warm welcome to all glimpsers and referring back to the question of the day. Desmond then took off by announcing the quote of the day. Chiekh continued by stating his wishes along with his “pluses” and “wishes” and so did Desmond and Kauan. Following, our GGL Leadership Coach, Pierre took over to give us leaders of the day one “plus” & one “wish.” After all of that, it was time for the talent show to begin; the upcoming leaders were tasked to demonstrate their talents. Their talents included dancing, drawing and magic tricks. This concluded the nightly meeting with the following leaders presenting a new schedule and glimpsers returning to their rooms to receive well rest for the next day.

Desmond – Hello everyone, I have been gone for a few days as you know, and I want you guys to know I am doing well. This trip has been very informative and educational for me. I hope you all are well and I want you to know I love you all. Viva Panama.

Chiekh – Hi everyone, Hope you’re having a good day! Today was so fun and I feel like we’ve grown closer than ever. Hi mom and dad. I love you guys so much. I’m having so much fun, can’t wait to see you guys again!

Kauan – Oi Familia, hoje foi um dia legal sem brincadeira, eu criae muito amizades aqui que eu nem acreditava. Mas eu so quieria fala que eu amo todo voces e eu estou com muito saudade. Deus abencoua suas vidas!