Writing like Hemingway
View from the Road
There are many things I love about Costa Rica such as living completely surrounded by nature, the simple way of life and the culture’s pura vida philosophy. However, another reason to love Costa Rica that everyone could learn and benefit from is the fact that 74 years ago Costa Rica officially abolished its military. It declared a national holiday. This week we will celebrate Army Abolition Day 2022 on December 5, perhaps with a traditional dish of Chifrijo. On December 1, 1948, President Jose Figueres Ferrer made the declaration and now Costa Rica spends the money that was once used toward the military and weapons to invest in health and education. Such a simple concept and yet another reason to love Costa Rica.
Field Notes
The very foundation of life is gratitude.
When you are grateful, life expands. Being grateful for the abundance all around us which already supports our lives in every way is the key to receiving all that is available to each of us. How can we look for and expect for more when we forget to appreciate all that we already have and the many gifts which already surround us? Spend some time time in nature today. Take a walk, look around, notice and realize all the ways in which the universe already supports you every day and the miracle of life that you are even here for this brief time. Take a moment to express gratitude for all that surrounds you and makes your life even possible for this very short life. Think of the many people who were here this time a year ago and today are not. This gratitude only opens the door for more of life’s true riches to grow and expand in your life. Some of the happiest most peaceful, joyful people I have ever met were the poorest by the world’s standards, and some of the wealthiest people I have ever met were miserable, never a moment content, peaceful or happy. Take time today to reflect on the abundant blessings and beautiful people, however few or many, that surround your life. If you have one true friend in this world you are wealthy beyond measure. Express your gratitude and experience the real abundance and peace grow in your life.
Recently discovered in an old journal I had written.
From the Archives
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