[ Costa Rica ] Forgetfulness of Living
"There is an ecstasy that marks the summit of life, and beyond which life cannot rise. And such is the paradox of living, this ecstasy comes when one is most alive, and it comes as a complete forgetfulness of living."
Bathing suit top unknown //
c/o //
c/o // Forever 21 hat // Forever 21 sliders
It's been about three (four?) weeks now since my summer vacation in Costa Rica and California, and with literally no breathing room since the moment I landed back on Jersey turf, I'm beginning to believe the whole trip is more surreal than I can recall. While doing my best to bring those memories back to the forefront of my hectic life, it's almost illusory to real-ize the experiences I've had--the people, environment, adventures, sights, air, spontaneity, rawness. Everything has become chipping photos and fading postcards of fleeting memories as I jump so quickly back into the groove of things; I hadn't had a true moment to reflect on the genuine connection I've made with yet another beautiful country. Whether it's a sad acceptance of the trip's fizzling existence or a transpiring revival of my inner catalyst, it's without a doubt that a vacation this amazing was the much needed refresh button I've been waiting for.
Costa Rica was kind of an unreal tropical dream I never knew was possible. With its forested shades of green and dewey tones of pure vibrancy, the country simply inspires with its spirited rawness. I never would have imagined myself habited up in the rainforest at the base of the Rincon de la Vieja volcano but it's an experience I heartily stand behind as one people must try at least once in their lives to get in touch with the natural beauty of worldliness wonders. Maybe it was the limited internet access and remote location, or the simple living of rural farm life, but it has vastly opened my eyes to a side I merely knew of from an unattached distance. The deeply green place was a dire contrast to my current city life and my plain past experiences, providing an unknown perspective to my modest mind. And let me tell you this: tropical paradise doesn't have to mean tall palm trees, clear skies, and white sand beaches. I found this quaint resort a perfect exception to the popular vision because unpredictable rainstorms, thick humid air, and muddled nature were icings to the intimate cabanas, natural hot springs, and true blue rivers cake. And the people, well, they were perfect marvels--overly kind and freely generous who went above and beyond to make sure your experience surpassed their own, something I'm not quite used to back home.
This is living. Reaching a point of prolonged awe only to crave more of its divine reverence. Feeling more alive in stagnant air, where you are sunken behind Earth's statue. Forgetting for a moment the significance of living for yourself, but rather finding meaning in life far more dynamic and mysterious amongst grandiose nature. I've left with my heart still swimming in the Blue River waters and my soul breathing in the tropical Liberian air.
Travel makes you love deeper and see fuller. Costa Rica, I'm coming back for you soon.
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