Plan de Vida
In a quiet corner of San Juanillo, Costa Rica, I had the privilege of meeting Don Astrubal, a 97-year-old farmer whose life radiates wisdom, simplicity, and purpose. His weathered hands, strong voice, and bright eyes told the story of a man deeply connected to the earth and his community.
"Live simply, love deeply, and move naturally—true longevity comes from a life rooted in purpose, connection, and balance."
As we toured his farm, he shared his "plan de vida"—his life plan—a concept that embodies the balance of work, family, and joy. For Don Felipe, this plan is not written on paper but lived through his daily rhythms. He grows what he needs, shares with his neighbors, and embraces each sunrise with gratitude.
"The heaviest rainfall in 30 years reminds us of nature’s power to both nourish and challenge—turning dry plains into rivers and resilience into a way of life."
Don Asdrubal
We were accompanied by Mahi who owns the Ancient Peoples Cafe down the road. Don Astrubal proudly showed us his flourishing cacao plants, which he lovingly tends to each day. The fruit is harvested and sold to the Café, where they’re transformed into rich, handcrafted cocoa. His connection to the land and its heritage was evident.
Sharing fresh cane sugar water with the Blue Zone farmer and his wife was a moment of pure connection—simple, sweet, and a testament to the joy found in life's most humble offerings.
Drinking fresh sugar cane water with him, harvested from his own fields, was more than refreshing—it was grounding. The sweetness of the cane carried the essence of his life's work, a taste of pure, unadulterated tradition. Don Felipe's world is humble yet abundant, filled with the richness of a life spent cultivating not just crops but meaningful connections. We left feeling inspired—not just by his age, but by the timeless wisdom in his plan de vida. It was a gentle nudge to slow down, appreciate the present, and live with intention, much like Don Felipe has for nearly a century. A reminder of the beauty in simplicity and the sweetness of a life well-lived.
"Cocoa grown in a Blue Zone carries the richness of the earth and the wisdom of generations—a sweet reminder that longevity is rooted in nature’s gifts and mindful living."
