Splashing Through Fear

Today is July 18, 2023. We began our day with a hearty breakfast of pancakes, bacon, and eggs because we knew we were going to need a lot of strength to make it through the eventful day. We left the villa to enter an amazing experience at the Scape Park Adventure Park. Once we entered the Park, we went to the Hoyo Azul, which is known for having a cave with nice views. In Hoyo Azul we had the opportunity to jump in the 49ft deep water cave which I overcame a fear of deep water dives. I’m glad the love leaders encouraged me to jump because I was extremely hesitant. They chanted my name from the water below and shouted “you can do it Debbie!”. With all of their encouragement, I leapt forward and plunged into the beautiful blue water cave. The water below was so COLD, but I swam to my sisters and rejoiced because I was so proud of myself.

After our group dip in the Hoyo Azul, we took a 1.5 mile hike to the zipline area. While ziplining, we had the chance to see the whole park! I took in all the captivating views and took full advantage of the opportunity to connect with nature. When we arrived at the ziplining platform, I decided to be the first person to zipline to encourage other Love Leaders, in case some of them were afraid. I loved ziplining because it was an adventurous way to see the entire park from above. At times, you could see all the way to the ocean. After ziplining, we traveled to the other side of the park where we visited another cave to take a dip. To enter the Cave Swim we encountered a path called the Cultural Route where it was my first time observing big rocks (used as chairs) gathered in a spread out circle. The Cultural Route had several old living spaces and community areas used by the natives of the country. We could imagine what it would be like to be a villager of the country prior to colonization. When we entered the Cave, I noticed it was not that deep, but boy was it freezing cold.  It must have been like 60 degrees in that water. We splashed around the cave for a while until we couldn’t take the temperature any longer. 

Last up on the adventure tour was Saltos Azules. Saltos Azules included an obstacle called the Trapezio Mabey. Many of the Global Love Leaders including myself, were a bit nervous, better yet terrified about doing it. I observed the other Love Leaders doing it and figured if they could do it, so could I. Lucky for me, I ended up being the last person to jump before the park closed. So I held on to the handles and went for it. Once the whistle blows, you’re supposed to let go of the handles and fall into the Saltos Azules. The jump was invigorating and I am so glad that I was able to overcome my fear with my sisters. Splash, splash to a wonderful day full of adventure!
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Debbie Campos
​Cohort 2023