Collaboration, dedication, lifelong commitment, and family are all things that were very apparent on the Chrisley Farm. This farm was a good example of a pluralistic approach. A pluralist perspective is about seeing multiple points of view within a larger picture. I went to this farm as a part of my school’s study abroad trip. It was one of our first stops and was the most impressionable. I was blown away by the different values and views held by Mr. Chrisley. He did not speak English, but I was able to get a sense of the love he possessed for what he did. He was so genuine and kind to all of us. He conveyed the “Pura Vida” lifestyle that Costa Ricans live by.
Had to come all the way to Costa Rica from Texas to milk a cow. This was one of my favorite activities.
The Chrisley farm was great because it showed me how much Costa Ricans value their homes and the fruits of their labors. They appreciate the opportunities provided by the land and the value of hard work. Within the first few hours of our visit, the Chrisley family invited us into their home, showing us the life of an average Costa Rican dairy farmer. I was humbled by the patience Mr. Chrisley had with 30 students because he let each one of us take a turn milking his cow. This made an impact on me because we are not used to that kind of generosity in the United States.
Mr. Chrisley also grew fruits and vegetables, along with making cheese from milk collected from his dairy cattle. He truly provides for his family with his own two hands, making cheese from scratch, and caring for all the crops and animals on his land.
Mr. Chrisley showing us his hard work while making cheese.
Mr. Chrisley has discovered many different applications for one piece of land; he uses the small parts of his operations for the bigger picture, which is his community. He trades his goods locally to support his family. His efforts aren’t alone though. Mr. Chrisley also collaborates with five other local families who benefit from one another by trading and selling their goods at discounted prices. Everyone is satisfied with their earnings because it’s enough for each family’s livelihood.
It tastes better than it looks, I promise.
I appreciated Chrisley’s Farm and having the opportunity to meet with such a wonderful family.
We felt welcomed while tasting farm-grown fruits. Mr. Chrisley cuts a starfruit.
It was a perfect start to the Costa Rica trip because it definitely kept my mind open to the “Pura Vida” lifestyle! Mr. Chrisley taught me the value of hard work and the importance of using the land fully. This was by far my favorite visit during the study abroad. I plan to live PURA VIDA!
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