While in CostaRica, I noticed how much we as a country, and even I personally, take forgranted. Not only are we extremely wasteful in terms of our use ofnon-renewable resources, but our waste management and recycling programs simplyaren’t working. In Costa Rica, their energy is almost completely generated byrenewable resources, almost all businesses seem to either be sustainable, or onthe way, and they are the first country to commit to being Carbon Neutral by2021. Sincereturning to the United States, I’ve made quite a few changes to my lifestyleto be more sustainable. I reuse my plastic water bottles, am constantly turningoff the lights, and I’ve even resorted to wearing clothes more than once inorder to cut down laundry loads. Going back to the topic of taking things forgranted, I never really realized how lucky I am personally to have the things Ihave. I remember driving down some of the roads in Costa Rica and seeing housesbuilt out of sheet metal. I’ve become so much more grateful for the things Ihave, and made sure not to let any of it go to waste – I don’t even let myselfleave food on my plate at our dining hall anymore.
The thing thatmade the biggest impact for me personally was the happiness that every singleperson we came into contact with exuded. Being the happiest nation in theworld, I expected to see smiles and some friendliness upon our arrival.However, the Ticos were so incredibly friendly and helpful that it wascontagious. So building off of some of the other changes I’ve madesustainability-wise since I’ve returned from the country, I’ve also tried tochange my general outlook towards others. I noticed that smiling for no reasoncauses others to smile, doing favors for others really does make a difference,and even though I’m just one person I know that between my changes insustainability, our efforts to spread the word, and giving ample kindnesstowards others I can make a difference. 
I miss everysingle thing about Costa Rica. We learned so much as a group that I’m sure noneof us will ever forget. I’m proud to say I now feel like an expert to allthings coffee related.The deliciouscoffee, beautiful sights, warm air, and the absolute abundance of natureeverywhere are all things I think about daily. I honestly can’t wait to return.And I sincerely hope countries like our own can follow in Costa Rica’sfootsteps.
Pura VidaEveryone!
By StephLemire
