Charlie has been in Costa Rica for
close to 30 years, living in and around Mora and having a number of interesting
jobs. For a time, he worked as a guide at the University for Peace. Owned and
run by the United Nations, the University hosts 150-200 students from all over
the world for a one-year Master’s program, and is located right here in Cuidad
Colón. Having maintained his
connections with the University and being a well known person in the community,
Charlie was able to give us a private, personalized tour of the grounds today. Our
adventure began with a short climb to a lookout over the Central Valley. From
my first glimpse, it was obvious why this spot is referred to as “Gracias a
Dios,” with a view that stretched for miles in almost all directions. After
taking in the sights and learning some physiography, we climbed down and headed
for the Monumento al Desarme, al Trabajo y la Paz. Robert generously paid
admission for himself, Charlie and the 12 WWOOFers, and Charlie explained the
significance of the monuments, their arrangement and the inscriptions. Set in a
circle with a large obelisk in the center, the outer portions of the stones contained
artistic renderings of important quotations from the Costa Rican constitution.
Inside were quotations from, and sculptures of important Costa Rican leaders
that have made contributions towards achieving peace. The center, in addition
to having a dedication plaque with the United Nations emblem, also features a
moving quote by former president Oscar Arias Sanchez about the lack of a
military presence in Costa Rica. The structure is topped by an international
symbol for peace, a pair of hands releasing a white dove. A very powerful
place.
“Feliz la madre Costarricense que
sabe al parir que su hijo nunca sera soldado”
[Happy
is the Costa Rican mother, who knows at giving birth that her son will never be
a soldier]
