Fruit Aisles and Safari Smiles by Liam O'Keefe
My day in Brazil reminded me how closely nature, culture, and human connection can all work together to create peace. It consisted of appreciating nature, culture, and human connection. Throughout the day we were able to cook dinner for our host family, visit the zoo, and explore the botanical gardens. Throughout the day, I kept noticing how appreciative Brazilians are; appreciating people, food, and the beautiful nature around them. It was a very calm, loving day that involved a lot of human connection that I am not used to in my normal everyday life.
Our morning started with a trip to the supermarket to buy ingredients for lunch that we planned to cook for our host family: chicken parmesan. The supermarket itself immediately caught my attention because it was unlike any grocery store I had seen in America. The fresh fruit section was enormous, stretching across a huge portion of the store, while the ice cream section consisted of only a couple of freezers. In the United States, it often feels like processed foods dominate grocery stores, but here fresh foods seemed to take priority. Even something as simple as grocery shopping revealed differences in values and lifestyle.
After cooking lunch, our host family kindly assured us that the chicken parmesan was delicious (whether they truly believed it or not I do not know, but I appreciated the compliment). One thing I have consistently noticed in Brazil is the kindness of the people. Brazilians seem naturally affectionate and welcoming, always making others feel comfortable and appreciated. That kindness became a theme I noticed throughout the entire day.
Later, we visited the “Simba Safari” and the São Paulo Zoo, followed by a walk through the botanical gardens. I saw animals I did not even know existed, but what stood out to me most was not only the wildlife, but the atmosphere surrounding everything. The gardens were absolutely beautiful, filled with vibrant plants, peaceful walking paths, and quiet moments that made it easy to appreciate the scenery around me. Everywhere I looked, I could see what I would describe as God’s creation on full display through the animals, nature, and the people surrounding us.
One thing that really stood out to me was how peaceful such a crowded place could feel. Back home, when I think about going to a zoo on the weekend, I imagine stressed parents, screaming children, and the smell of poop. But here in São Paulo, despite the crowds, everything felt relaxed. Couples walked hand in hand, families laughed together, and people simply seemed more present and connected with one another. There was a sense of affection and calmness that made the entire experience feel different from anything I was used to.
Today taught me that culture can completely shape the atmosphere of everyday life. Brazil feels deeply connected; connected to nature, connected to people, and connected to moments of peace that are often overlooked in busy everyday routines. Even in a packed zoo in one of the world’s largest cities, there was still room for appreciation, love, and calmness. That is something I hope to bring back home with me after this trip.
About the author
Roberts Wesleyan University
As a community of learners committed to historic Christianity, Roberts Wesleyan University seeks to prepare thoughtful, spiritually mature, service-oriented people who will help transform society.
We are a private Christian university in Rochester, New York, offering over 80 undergraduate and graduate programs.
As the only NCAA Division II institution in the region and member of the East Coast Conference, Roberts is committed to academic excellence, spiritual formation, and competitive athletics.