Vasundhra Arulazi

May 28, 2023- Some days on a journey are filled with joy and wonder, while others may present unexpected challenges. Today was one of those days for me. From the moment I woke up, my stomach seemed to have its own schedule, causing me to face discomfort throughout the day. Despite the setbacks, I persevered, finding small moments of happiness.

Breakfast offered a bittersweet experience, with the delicious waffles earning a perfect 10/10 rating, while bread failed to ignite any enthusiasm. Little did I know that my digestive system had a different plan in store for me. Within the hour, I found myself making frequent trips to the bathroom, a situation that I despised 😦

We planned to go to Matapalo Rainforest but it had to be canceled, and I couldn’t help but feel responsible for the disappointment that followed. Determined not to let the circumstances completely dampen my spirit, we decided to explore Puerto Jimenez. Unfortunately, my stomach continued to rebel and nausea crept in as the horrible smell of the car messed around with my brain.

In an attempt to better myself, we went back to the hotel and ate at the bar for lunch. Getting for coconut-crusted shrimp, I hoped for some respite. To soothe my unsettled stomach, I turned to a refreshing mint lemonade, providing a brief moment of relief during this hectic day.

After lunch, we went out for a walk, took pictures of the beautiful vibrant parrots, but I was met with pain, cutting the walk short. Sad by the uneventful day, I sought peace at the hotel infinity pool, hoping for some goodness. Above me, perched a sloth. Despite its reputation for slow movements, this seemingly creature was surprisingly agile, crossing the branches with an unexpected speed. The sight served as a gentle reminder that even though I have an upset stomach, unexpected moments of joy can still find their way to me.

After I showered, we reserved a table for dinner and I had a simple yet satisfying option—a margarita pizza—allowing me to savor its flavors despite the challenges of the day.

In life, not every day can be filled with grand adventures and amazing discoveries. Sometimes, setbacks force us to adapt and find joy in the simplest of moments. Tomorrow is a new day and I am determined to face it with hope and resilience.