The descent began while rounding the peak of the mountain. We paused to take in the view from the other side. While standing here, we learned about the second reforestation of Tijuca. It took place directly after the first projects completion in 1874. A new project manager was assigned to oversee the operation; this time it was a man named Baron Gastao D’Escragnole. Baron not only added an additional 30 thousand seedlings, but transformed the forest into a leisure park- one that people could visit and appreciate. The forest is now “a privileged place where nature and culture entwine, harmonize and compliment each other.”*

“What is this life if, full of care,
We have no time to stand and stare? -
No time to stand beneath the boughs,
And stare as long as sheep and cows:
No time to see, when woods we pass,
Where squirrels hide their nuts in grass:
No time to see, in broad daylight,
Streams full of stars, like skies at night:
No time to turn at Beauty's glance,
And watch her feet, how they can dance:
No time to wait till her mouth can
Enrich that smile her eyes began?
A poor life this if, full of care,
We have no time to stand and stare.” ~ unknown

* http://www.belief-eela.org/tourist_attractions.pdf

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