Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro: 26oC, warm, sunny and slightly overcast.
This Sunday felt like just another typical Sunday. The sky was cloudy and cool for Rio. After a few days of rain, everything appeared fresh and washed in the streets.
I took Perola for a long walk along the edge of Praia do Flamengo, right in front of the bay. There is a large restaurant there with an elevated and privileged view of the water. When I arrived in Rio and began working with boats, I had many business meetings at this restaurant overlooking the bay.
Since then, the restaurant has changed hands once or twice, and it is no longer as it was when I used to have meetings there. At that time, it was much more sophisticated and exclusive; now, it has become a BBQ restaurant.
Next to the restaurant is also a dog park. When I had my dogs, I would take them to the park almost every day. Because I went there so often, and since it is one of the best places in Rio to take your dog, I ended up being a part of a group of friends who regularly brought their dogs.
We often enjoyed weekend BBQs while letting our dogs roam freely in the dog park. All those friends have dispersed, and sadly, their dogs are no longer with us. Sassa, an old man at the time, was a street vendor who used to sell us drinks—beer, Coke, mineral water, and more—from his mobile store, which was a tricycle.
Those were good times. There would frequently be confusion among the dogs and even among the dog owners as we defended our pets. Despite that, it was still a wonderful experience.
Nowadays, the same place has been overtaken by university graduation parties and photo sessions. Across the bay, in front of the park, stands Sugarloaf Mountain, one of the most iconic locations in Rio. A photographer once had the idea to take graduation photos with Sugarloaf Mountain as the backdrop, which became a huge hit. As a result, many others started to follow suit. Now, every Sunday, thousands of people gather there to celebrate and take photos with their friends and loved ones who are graduating.
What was once a relatively quiet dog park has transformed into a bustling venue for people dressed up to celebrate their achievements. For some families, these graduates may be the first in their lineage to earn a degree, breaking a long-standing tradition. This milestone is significant—imagine the pride felt by parents and relatives of those graduates!
Moreover, this achievement allows others in the family to follow in the same direction. Sometimes, breaking a tradition, especially one that feels like a curse, can lead to positive change. By setting an example, these graduates pave the way for future generations to improve themselves and build a brighter future.
What I find funny is that Perola attracts a lot of attention wherever she goes. I like to let her run free because all dogs enjoy being off the leash; it is good for them. Besides, she never strays far from me—like a shadow at my feet. When we cross the park, weaving through the crowd, everyone stops to look and appreciate her.
It is incredible how such a small mongrel has such a fantastic aura. Some people want to compliment her, and she gracefully returns the gesture. She has no trouble approaching people she does not know and giving them compliments and attention. However, in many situations, she prefers talking to people rather than other dogs.
It is so funny that this tiny, fat mongrel with a patch over one eye and a Mohican-style haircut is so popular. It is incredible how, generally speaking, everyone likes dogs. I have had one or two girlfriends who did not like them so much, and we soon parted ways. Dogs are wonderful companions, and I know many people, me included, who have become better individuals because of having a dog or having contact with one.
This little, not-so-beautiful dog significantly impacts and draws attention wherever she goes. She is truly impressive. Admiral and noble, it is as if Perola’s inner beauty shines brighter and is more noticeable than her physical appearance.
Once, I read that dogs are little angels sent from heaven to help us in this world. This is true!!!
A quiet Sunday: some work, a late lunch, and a movie.
In bed by 9.30 pm.
Thank you.
Thanks for reading this blog post. Please explore my other posts and share your thoughts in the comments section.
Richard
