Beach day! Our trip to SESC Bertioga on the shores of Brazil was one of the most fun activities yet. Though diving through waves and spiking volleyballs may have been at the forefront of our minds, this day also provided a moment for thoughtful introspection about the reverence of nature. At times, it was a simple admiration for the beauty of unfamiliar surroundings, while other sights made me think about the way we can take everyday experiences for granted. In both cases, our trip to SESC Bertioga became a formative activity of the trip so far.

Our drive to the beach was almost as exciting as the beach itself! Once we left the limits of Sao Paulo, we were treated to some amazing sights just off the road. Thick tropical forest was everywhere as we descended down into the mountains toward the shore. These sights were what I most associated with Brazil, and they did not disappoint. What I also reflected on was the way that beautiful sights like this can be taken for granted. Though not quite as grand, I live around many mountains similar to these at home, but I don't always acknowledge their beauty like I did on this drive because of how often I see them. Seeing these mountains and the unique lush vegetation covering it gave me a greater appreciation of God's creation, both here and at home.

We played a lot of volleyball as well! Volleyball on a beach in Brazil was one of my bucket list items, and it was so much fun! It was a great way to have fun and bond with my classmates, and playing it surrounded by wonderful sights like this curious bird and the beautiful mountains in the background was a dream come true. I grew closer with the people around me in a way that sitting in a classroom simply can't achieve. We certainly didn't want to leave when it was time to get back on the bus! This day gave me lots of fun memories, but it also left me with a great admiration of the unique sights along the way, and a greater appreciation for nature as a whole. I hope to go back again!