Journalled on Friday, 31st of March 2023 | Copacabana, Rio de Janeiro: 30 degrees, 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 point for me; only in the last couple of years have I given my birthday more importance. 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 exercised, came home, had another coffee, showered, and shaved; now I am ready to work.
My first pupil of the day, a woman lawyer whom 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 gained power through dishonest means, including lying, cheating, and stealing.
I don’t understand why society tolerates this kind of behaviour from politicians. It is unacceptable for anyone, including our 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. It is also connected to deep-seated selfishness, where people tend to care only about themselves and their families.
If they are not personally affected by an issue or it does not directly harm them, they do not think much about it. This disregard for others and lack of concern for social problems 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.
I don’t always have the same level of pleasure in teaching all my students; 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 to pay today, and she kindly did. We arranged to pick up my money in an envelope she would leave at her building’s reception immediately.
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 2km round trip; I have done it many times and enjoy walking around the neighbourhood.
By 11 am, I had money again. The first thing I did was 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 kind and encouraging, knowing I could 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 p.m.
Thanks again.
Thanks for reading my blog. Check out my other posts and share your thoughts in the comments.
Richard
