In the past few months Chica Brava has teamed up with Escuela Adelante in San Juan del Sur to form a group called ‘Chicas Adelante’. This group of young Nicaraguan girls from San Juan del Sur meet once a month to talk about real issues, partake in fun activities, and develop the skills every budding, young surfista needs to have in their back pocket.
This past July I was lucky enough to make it just in time for the Chicas Adelante meeting, and I must say, it was a highlight of my trip. The topic was one of my favorites; growth. We discussed the process of seed to flower as a metaphor for our own lives and all the things we love. For a seed to grow, not only does it need water, sunlight, and nourishing soil, but also protection, love, and care. The favorite flower amongst the girls was pretty much roses across the board – these chicas have some good taste.
We planted seeds, reusing old water bottles as pots and also talked about our favorite fruits and veggies and how we like to prepare them. As I discussed the simple metaphor of each of our endeavors like that of a seed, I was surprised at the simple beauty in the reminder. Sure, I’ve thought about it any time I’ve worked in my garden, or pruned back flowers to make way for fresh buds to bloom, but the metaphor almost seemed to come alive in the company of these girls, whom are just beginning to form roots and dream up the future of their leaves and blossoms.
I look forward to coming back in a few months, meeting with the Chicas Adelante group again, and seeing how they have blossomed. We wrapped the day up with thoughtful gifts of homeade soaps that a friend from Hawaii hand crafted for the girls – sea salt and aloe, perfect for after a sun filled ocean day!
With Aloha,
Noelani
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