Jake B: Rainforest Reflections

The Jungle Experience: many of us Americans are so used to the hustle and bustle of typical every day life. Running to and from school, work, client meetings, conference calls and taking care of the kids, that our routines start becoming robotic and we miss the beauty of the natural world. But. When our faces are taken out of our iPhones, androids, and tablets, its amazing  what we can tap into. Our guide, Michael was an amazing local resident. When I think about the rainforest, I think of a gargantuois mass of trees, plants, and bugs, not to mention the humidity. But Michael helped me change that view. He showed us that everything is there for a reason. The smarts plant can have a huge effect on the balance of the environment. It can also have nutrition, a good smell, and healing powers. Yes I did try termites and they were delicious! Before yesterday I would have steered well clear of any mound of bugs. When you open up your eyes and unplug, it's incredible what you can notice. The locals are so friendly and they wave at you when the bus passes. Everyone has a smile in their faces despite having next to nothing. I believe we are so caught up in what we want an what we don't have, that we forget how lucky we really are. I have really widened my vision so far this week. The hotels are not the nicest in the world, but I am trying to make the best of it. I'm slowly starting to come out of my tightly bound shell and take a look at the world how it was meant to be seen. 

Disclaimer: this was typed on Mr. Musselman's iPhone.

Mr. Musselman's disclaimer: Mrs. Petersons iPhone is not working quite the same and access remains spotty. Please be patient for more pictures of adventure!

Let's all show that we're Boston Strong today!