December 1 is much more than the beginning of Christmas month (though we will be going to the annual Light Up parade, “Monteverde Brilla”, tonight) – it’s the day we celebrate perhaps THE pivotal moment in Costa Rican history. 68 years ago today, the new government abolished the army, and started investing that money in education, health care, and ultimately Peace. It’s one of the main reasons our founding Quakers moved to Monteverde in 1951 (don’t forget about our 65th Anniversary Celebration and Reunion in March!), and continues to be one of the key reasons Costa Rica is a thriving, Peaceful place to live.
Our celebration this year lasted almost all morning. Carlos and Laura explained the history and importance of the abolition. We sang songs of Peace (including the perennial favorite “Turn the World Around”). Then they broke into 7 groups, led by grade 12 students. Each group was given a different conflict situation (stealing a snack, coming late to class…), and developed a skit of a bad way then a good way to deal with it.
As with everything our teachers organize, this morning was full of laughter, interest, earnest discussion and energy. Our students are actively learning and living the principles of Peace and non-violent communication, and feel blessed to live in a country founded on those same values.
