Coming into Costa Rica, I had a general idea of what to expect – volunteering, playing sports, and connecting with the community. But reality far exceeded my expectations in the most meaningful ways. One experience that truly changed my perspective was spending time at the soccer field. We often arrived and found the field already buzzing with kids and families, all gathered and either watching or playing. I knew soccer was called “the world’s language,” but seeing it firsthand really opened my eyes to how sport builds connection and brings people together in a way nothing else can. The energy, the laughter, the shared joy on the field created a sense of belonging that went beyond words.
One especially impactful moment was when we arrived at the field on the day of the soccer tournament. The kids were full of energy and excitement, running up to me with big smiles that created an instant connection. Even with the language barrier, those moments of laughter and interaction showed me that meaningful service goes beyond completing tasks—it’s about building genuine relationships and being a supportive presence. Later, when I talked with Andrey—one of the local group leaders—and his mother on the sidelines, they emphasized how much our presence truly mattered to the kids. Often, the impact of these connections isn’t immediately visible, but being a role model can make a lasting difference.
Being with the kids for two weeks taught me that service is really about patience, presence, and trust. It’s about creating a safe and joyful space where the community feels valued and seen. Watching the kids’ faces light up when they recognized me, hearing their excited chatter, and sharing laughs revealed the power of human connection. It showed me how trust and belonging can grow between people, even when we don’t speak the same language.
This experience also changed how I view life. It reminded me to slow down, appreciate the present moment, and be truly grateful for the experiences I’m living now instead of always focusing on the future. My past self dreamed about having moments like these, and now I understand how important it is to savor them fully – to be present in the here and now, because that’s where life truly happens.
Through this journey, I discovered and strengthened personal qualities like patience, empathy, and humility. I learned how to listen deeply, to approach challenges with an open heart, and to embrace the small moments that build lasting impact. These values will guide me not only in future service work but in all aspects of my life, helping me stay connected, grounded, and present in every moment.