A Costa Rica Conversation

The more locals I meet, the more I get to know about this fascinating country. On a nature walk for sloths and birds, I started realizing how really beautiful Costa Rica is because it has so much nature, and, unlike the States, you don’t see huge structures conveying wealth. I haven’t seen one department store, or any luxury brands even advertised. People are as they are, nothing more, nothing less.

National bird of Costa Rica – Clay Colored Thrush

I had thought “Pura vida” meant “pure life” but, in fact, it’s used like “hakuna matata.” So, when the waiter took forever to get to me to take my order, and then profusely apologized, I just said, “Pura vida” and all was well in the world.

Election day here is February 4th every year – so it happened on a Sunday this year. To win, the lead candidate must win by at least a 40% margin! This election, there were barely 4% between the two candidates. Opinion on same sex marriage is the main issue separating the two. So, on April 1, they will hold a second election! Can you imagine in America if we had this requirement? (Is a 40% victory possible in our America, I wonder….?)

Coati hanging out near the road

Back to the nature, I asked my guide how come Costa Rica is so great at nurturing its nature in a way that does not happen in America. He explained that they gave up their military so all the money that would have gone there goes into the thriving nature. It’s their number one tourist attraction, so very important to maintain it. Also, they don’t have oil or gold so there is no reason for another country to invade them.

Blue jean frog / strawberry poisonous dart frog

Interesting how when a country has wealth, it’s just like a person.  A lot of time and money is spent protecting that wealth. But, when you just have the basics, and you want everyone to enjoy them, no defense necessary. I wonder if every country tried to share instead of protect, what the world would be like.