Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro: 29oC, hot, Sunny and slightly overcast.
It’s the beginning of a new week, but it will be a short one. Thursday is a bank holiday, meaning Friday will essentially be a dead day—a day off.
Many places will be closed, including offices, factories, and companies. Traditionally, during a bank holiday on a Thursday, people make the most of the long weekend by travelling either on Wednesday night or early Thursday morning, returning only on Sunday.
The contradiction is that everyone is complaining about being short on money while noting the significant devaluation of the Brazilian currency, the Real. This devaluation has been ongoing for quite some time, but now we truly feel its effects. Shopping at supermarkets has become complicated. People must find new ways to save money and spend less because cash is scarce and not circulating.
Supermarkets are offering the option to pay for groceries in instalments. One of life’s most basic necessities is buying food; it should not be considered a luxury. The idea of paying for food in instalments seems quite absurd.
What is happening to Brazil? This country is so abundant in food—Brazilians are fortunate to have access to natural foods like fruits, vegetables, and meat. Yet, many find it difficult to buy these essentials because they have become too expensive. What is this government doing, and where are we headed with this situation?
One contradiction I’ve noticed is that most bars and restaurants are always full, especially on weekends. Whenever I walk through the streets, there’s always a crowd at these places. People seem to have difficulties buying food, yet they have no trouble spending money on beer and enjoying themselves.
The weather is an essential factor to consider, especially in Rio. Since the weather is pleasant for most of the year, many bars and restaurants have outdoor decks, inviting people to socialise. Even if someone is down to their last Real or centavo, the enjoyable weather encourages us to hit the streets and meet up with friends.
I recently listened to a psychologist, either English or American, discuss the notion that the latest generations are primarily pleasure seekers. He suggested that pleasure is important, and pleasure is often viewed as a means to make money, ultimately for the sake of enjoyment and more pleasure. According to him, this pleasure-seeking culture has emerged mainly due to the Internet, particularly social media, where individuals present themselves as happy and fulfilled, showcasing that they are having a great time in everything they do.
However, the reality is quite different. We all know the truth: life is often the opposite of that portrayal. Each day can feel like a battle to do the right thing, survive, be good, and, finally, find true happiness.
Jordan Peterson says that life is brutal, and I agree. Life is not easy, and every day feels like a struggle and even a fight. While living in England, my home country, life is somewhat easier, it still presents challenges. One negative aspect of England is the weather, which tends to isolate people from one another. It can be challenging to go out and enjoy oneself when temperatures hover around 10° or even 8°.
In contrast, life in Brazil can be cruel, unforgiving, and even perverse. To maintain your integrity and survive in Brazil, you are already considered a winner, though very few people may genuinely understand or appreciate this reality.
How can we be sold to live by appearances? We feel trapped in a Truman Show or a Coca-Cola or margarine commercial where everyone is polite and well-mannered. The families are perfect, with flawless teeth, enjoying meals in immaculate homes surrounded by beautiful gardens. It’s all nonsense—cruel and perverse. To accept this as reality, and even to desire it, is quite foolish.
Is it escapism? Do we all need to escape? Is this why drugs and other substances are so popular? It seems that reality can be too hard for us to accept. I believe that life is challenging, and once we accept that pain is a part of it, everything becomes easier.
I know that life often makes us pay the price afterwards with anything that brings great pleasure. For instance, substances lead to addiction and, ultimately, death. With alcohol, we face hangovers and dependence. Additionally, a lot of mindless scrolling on social media can result in depression.
What is the key to a fulfilling life? It starts with accepting pain and living with serenity, peace, and calm. Surround yourself with people who genuinely want the best for you. It’s essential to be wise in your understanding; the message of a Coca-Cola commercial does not reflect the true meaning of life. Instead, finding direction and knowing your path is crucial.
Ultimately, the key word is moderation. Embracing moderation can help us live better and more fulfillingly without excess. Through moderation, we can discover peace and happiness in the small things in life that brighten our days.
In bed by 10.00 pm.
Thank you.
Thanks for reading this blog post. Please explore my other posts and share your thoughts in the comments section.
Richard
