The clock is ticking and grupo maya is not wasting anytime. This radical group of motivated young adults have just made yet another transition. It is no secret that many of us left our hearts in san juan del sur either in the waves, the welcoming community, or parque maderas (a center for art, ecology, sustainability and natural medicine) itself. Its mary and hannah reporting here from our shnazy hostel oasis in granada. To say the least, our bus ride here was not exactly pleasant. Some would say we cheated death as we cruised down the highway dodging motorists and keeping our eyes peeled for the occasional loose backpack. Or, maybe we like to exaggerate a little. But sure enough, we´ve made it to this lovely city safe and sound. But let´s not get too ahead of ourselves, let´s talk Parque Maderas.
Not only did we experience our most organized, productive, and rewarding volunteer project, but we departed knowing more about ourselves and feeling inspired for the future. Tyler, the founder of Parque Maderas opened our eyes in more ways than one. He showed us that, in fact, dreams can become realities and that living a life practicing sustainability is possible. We were provided with three meals a day, each meal was a healthy balance of fresh locally grown food. A unanimous decision was made by the group that this was the most amazing food we´ve ever had.
Between catching waves and enjoying free time around the property, we worked with an organization called Comunidad Connect to construct composting toilets out of earth materials. The leader of the volunteer project, taught the group about natural building and carpentry.
Now we´re free traveling and carpe-ing the diem more than ever, friends. There are plans to zipline as well as trips to markets, volcanoes, and lakes. We are all slightly apprehensive considering these last weeks on our journey, but are without a doubt soaking in the moment and loving every minute of it!
now a quick poem by hannah.
It has been years since I have seen the stars so bright.
Months since I have woken with the morning sunlight.
Too long since I have seen colors reflect off the Pacific Ocean.
Or even had the time to appreciate it´s constant calm motion.
It has been a long time since playing in the mud has sounded fun.
Or since i have spent a day splashing in the waves and soaking up the sun.
Never have i let the voice of nature speak louder then that of all else.
More then ever aware of more then just myself.
It has been a lifetime since I have realized how I want to live and be.
Finally the future now holds something for me, unwritten and free.
Dedicated to the staff and atmosphere at Parque Maderas.
Until next time…hannah and mary.
