Journalled on Sunday, 15 October 2023 | Flamengo, Rio de Janeiro: 26 degrees, 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 looked 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 held 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 hold meetings there. At that time, it was much more sophisticated and exclusive; now it has become a Brazilian BBQ restaurant.

Next to the restaurant is also a dog park.

When I had my dogs, the boxers, I would take them to the park almost every day. Because I went there so often, and as it is one of the best places in Rio to take your dog, I ended up joining a group of friends who regularly brought their dogs there.

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, including beer, Coke, mineral water, and more, from his mobile store, an old tricycle.

Those were good times. There was frequent confusion among the dogs and even among the owners as we defended our pets. But despite that, it was still a wonderful experience.

Nowadays, the same place is overrun with university graduation parties and photo sessions.

Across the bay, in front of the park, stands Sugarloaf Mountain, one of Rio’s most iconic locations. A photographer probably had the idea of taking graduation photos with Sugarloaf Mountain as the backdrop, and it became a huge hit.

As a result, many others followed 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 become a bustling venue for people dressed up to celebrate their achievements. For some families, these graduates may be the first in their families to earn a degree, breaking chains and 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 graciously 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 to 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 much, and we soon parted ways.

Dogs are wonderful companions, and I know many people, myself included, who have become better individuals because of having a dog or having contact with one.

This little, not-so-beautiful dog makes a significant impact and draws attention wherever she goes. She is truly impressive. Admiral and noble, Perola seems to shine with an inner beauty that is brighter and more noticeable than her physical appearance.

Once, I read that dogs are little angels sent from heaven to help us in this world. For me, this is true, and we have been lucky enough to have one named Perola!

A quiet Sunday: some work, a late lunch, and a movie.