Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro: 30oC, hot, sunny, cloudy and unsettled.
Friday is the eve of the weekend and, coincidently, the eve of the new month. It is also my birthday month, which has never been a great reference to me; it has only been in the last couple of years that I have given more importance to my birthday. This is partly because I want to change and improve my life while I still have one.
In the morning, I got up early as usual. I did exercise, arrived home, had another coffee, a shower, and a shave, and now I am ready to work. My first pupil of the day, a woman lawyer who I like and respect very much, even though I don’t agree 100% with her beliefs in left-wing socialism in Brazil; a Lula supporter and admirer who doesn’t necessarily agree with corruption but accepts it, which for me is just as bad.
Lula is a corrupt politician. He appears harmless on the outside but has gained power through dishonest means such as lying, cheating, and stealing.
I do not understand why society tolerates this type of behaviour from politicians. It is not acceptable for anyone, including our own family members, to steal. We should hold our leaders to the same standard.
This dilemma of having double standards and hypocritical values is widespread in Brazilian society, particularly among the upper middle class. I believe it is also connected to a deep-seated selfishness, where people tend to only care about themselves and their families.
If they are not personally affected by an issue or if it does not directly harm them, they do not give it much thought. This disregard for others and lack of concern for social issues is a form of prejudice.
Our class was great, as always. Even though we have different political opinions, I really enjoy teaching her as she is not only a great lawyer but also a wonderful person and an excellent student.
However, I must admit that I don’t always have the same level of pleasure in teaching all my students, as some are more enjoyable to teach than others.
At the end of the class, we renegotiated the class fees as it was time to, and I was broke. I asked her if she could pay today, which she kindly did. We arranged to pick up my money in an envelope that she would immediately leave in her building’s reception.
It is five or six blocks from where I live in Copacabana. It is also Friday, so it is quieter with fewer classes. The walk is about a 2km round trip; I have done it many times and enjoy walking in the street.
By 11 am, I had money again. The first thing I did was to pay off my debts. On my way back home, I happily and willingly paid my two favourite takeaway meal suppliers, thanking them profusely for their generosity and understanding.
Both were extremely thankful and offered their services whenever I needed them. I felt the sincerity in their words, which was very nice and complimentary for me, knowing that I would be able to count on them whenever needed. Knowing and having contact with such generous, truthful and hardworking people is an honour.
I gave classes until 7 pm, and then I was done for the day, the week and the month.
In bed by 10.00 pm.
Thanks again.
Thanks for reading my blog. Check out my other posts and share your thoughts in the comments.
Richard
