A Simpler Life

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Visiting Costa Rica and getting in touch with itspeople, culture and lifestyle changed the way I perceive and approach life.This class reminded me that human beings belong in nature, not in man-madecities. We get so involved with everyday life that we lose our identity andforget what life is really all about. This trip allowed me to humanize myselfand realize all the unhealthy and unsustainable behaviors that we haveincorporated into our lifestyles. The most important thing I learned duringthis trip is that it is possible to live a happy and fulfilling life withouthaving to stick to the American conventions about what life is. This experiencehelped me reevaluate my values, especially those related to how we can attainhappiness.               One of the most influential experiences I had during my time in CostaRica was speaking with Mr. Olman, the proprietor of Las Manzanas Cabinas- Bed& Breakfast. His honesty, passion for his family, farm and chosen careerdefinitely helped me realize how shallow our lives can be. It is incredible howtaking different perspectives in life can modify what you value. For example,for Mr. Olman it was more important to produce top notch, pesticide free fruitsand vegetables, than making a profit from his farm. In other words, he was moreinterested in being responsible with his produce and customers than becomingwealthier.  I believeliving a simple life in which we become close to nature can benefit us in manyways. For example, by eliminating contact with artificial products likemedicines, cleaning chemicals and processed foods we can considerably reducethe risks of life threatening diseases. In addition, by eating only organicfoods, free from pesticides and hormones, we can decontaminate our system whichwill almost guarantee a healthier lifestyle. Also, by removing ourselves fromthe mass-society, we reduce the levels of stress we are exposed to. It is amodel basically designed to mimic the lifestyle of our ancestors who livedfulfilling lives without the influence of artificial products and ideas.               For this reason, I have begun to modify my lifestyle to incorporate morenatural elements to the extent possible. I have completely eliminated frozen,processed or artificial foods from my diet. It is incredible how small changesin our diet can improve our performance and overall well being. I am also tryingto live more sustainably by utilizing less water, turning light switches off asmuch as possible and recycling everything from water bottles to scrap paper.Juan Aviles