Peace by Piece

Has anyone really taken the time to step back and appreciate what has happened in Egypt?  Do you realize we are watching history in the making?  That's kind of a silly phrase since history is continually in the making but I'd guess that the Arab Spring may actually take up an entire chapter in a World History book in the future.  If you are unaware, as was I unaware when I first came to UPEACE, of what exactly is going on in Egypt, here's a short re-cap: Mass non-violent protests and demonstrations force Egypt's President,  Hosni Mubarak, to resign.  OK.   OK.  That's really short.  You have probably seen images in the news and heard some stories.  Most popular images would include the Christians protecting the Muslims as they prayed in the streets and tanks hosing protesters on the bridge.  And maybe you saw other victory parties or heard about Egyptians finally voting.  Yada yada.  The revolution happened one year ago and voting took place this January. ANYWAY,

A cold Michelada on a hot day on Samara beach It seems so long ago, yet it's only been a week.  Vacation came and went in a whirl of travel, reading, sight-seeing, writing and finally relaxing.  There is something so special about the beach, about the ocean.  I get a sense of calm and relaxation that has been rare and difficult to embrace during this year of intensity.  Traveling is not vacation.  Maybe it is, but it wasn't relaxing.  Especially when you are on a budget and staying at hostels that cost $10/night.  Comfort is not included in that price.  Traveling is my specialty, however, and I can't handle leaving a rock unturned.  Adventure and me have had a long and successful relationship. So, the beach.  Upon arrival, I found myself.  My wonderful self who laughs easily and hasn't a care in the world.  Easy going is not synonymous with Jenn Manhoff except for on the beach!  I traveled with Sharon from Israel and her friend Adam who was visiting from Israel.

2012 is supposed to be a year of positive transformation.  The world and it's inhabitants are going to take a turn for the better!  Dreams can come true.  Altruism is not superfluous and we can all grow spiritually and mentally in this new age of positive energy. I can not think of a better way for me to have brought in this year than with an indigenous celebration surrounded by inspiring and kind people, nature, simplicity and adventure.  My dream is to always be able to enjoy nature and have adventures that take me deeper into nature and into the best vision of the human spirit and our unique place in the world.  I love to feel humbled by the beauty and the grandness of our mother earth.  That is probably whey being in the mountains is so special for me.  Boruca , the indigenous community where I spent my new years, is situated in the highlands of Costa Rica.  I was lucky enough to have met and been invited by Allegra who works for the Peace Corps in Costa Rica.  We set off