¿y la indignación es el combustible?

tira de Liniers

mi adorable demonio

Bom, para começar, sinto-me um pouco como 'um peixe fora d'água' aqui na América do Norte, onde a (má) influência de um filtro estadunidense sobre a mídia em geral faz ecoar uma fama diabólica de Hugo Chávez.

Muitos comemoram por aqui. Estavam só aguardando o pior... Para outros tantos americanos/latinos (muitos mais, de fato), porém, esse foi um triste episódio para a luta - que continua, companheiros.

Estou triste com sua morte SIM. Afinal, ele foi para Venezuela fundamental na tomada do poder pela massa. Um pouco como o que Lula fez no Brasil. Chávez, embora militar, foi um dos nossos.

Sendo assim, quanto a essa imagem demoníaca que ele possui, faço a pergunta: ele é ruim para quem mesmo? Porque, na moral, de bicho-papão só tem medo criancinha ingênua e desinformada (algo, inclusive, cada vez mais raro num momento tão informatizado).

Claro que ele não foi um presidente perfeito. Aliás, existe algum? Difícil agradar a todos... Tudo dependende quando visto pelos intere$$es. Na realidade, os reais monstros da sociedade capitalista são bem outros...

Ficam agora justamente as dúvidas quanto à sua sucessão, ao futuro da oposição ao império ainda liderado pelos yankees.

___________________________________________________________ 

Deixo aqui a minha homenagem ao homem que mudou o mundo, melhorando-o, como pode...

um governante solitário

socialista

entrou para a História

cagando para os Estados Unidos

rien de rien

Non ! Rien de rien
Non ! Je ne regrette rien
Ni le bien qu'on m'a fait
Ni le mal tout ça m'est bien égal !

Non ! Rien de rien
Non ! Je ne regrette rien
C'est payé, balayé, oublié
Je me fous du passé !

Avec mes souvenirs
J'ai allumé le feu
Mes chagrins, mes plaisirs
Je n'ai plus besoin d'eux !

Balayées les amours
Et tous leurs trémolos
Balayés pour toujours
Je repars à zéro

Non ! Rien de rien
Non ! Je ne regrette rien
Ni le bien, qu'on m'a fait
Ni le mal, tout ça m'est bien égal !

Non ! Rien de rien
Non ! Je ne regrette rien
Car ma vie, car mes joies
Aujourd'hui, ça commence avec toi !

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Cette parole exprime très bien mes réflexions de fin de l'année. Les transformations passées, tout le changement, une reprise de vie, mon avenir ainsi... en couple dorénavant, à l'étranger.

Mais oui, c'est en français que mon histoire est racontée maintenant!

Écoutez cette belle chanson interprété par Edith Piaf.

lusarab

It's impressive how similar we, Brazilian people, descendants of Portugueses, are in relation to Arabs. Namely concerning gastronomy.

Some ties I've noticed:

- Cabagge;
- Condensed milk;
- Esfihas;
- Kibes;
- Lentils;
- Olive oil (in Portuguese: azeite, from the Arabic az-zayt);
- Oranges (in Portuguese: laranjas, from the Arabic naranj);
- Rosemary (in Portuguese: alecrim, from the Arabic al-iklil);
- Sirup (in Portuguese: xarope, from the Arabic xarab);
- Sugar (in Portuguese: açúcar, from the Arabic as-sukar)

More:

- Blue (in Portuguese: azul, from the Arabic al-lzaward);
- Cotton (in Portuguese: algodão, from the Arabic al-kutun);
- Custom (in Portuguese: alfândega, from the Arabic al-funduq);
- Market/warehouse (in Portuguese: armazém, from the Arabic al-Makhzan);
- Migraine  in Portuguese: enxaqueca, from the Arabic xaqiqa)
- Tile (in Portuguese: azulejo, from the Arabic al-zuleij)

Among lots of other examples...

Well, it's natural. Moors invaded Portugal from 8th century... Something always remains, in different branchs.

Actually, even in both languages we detect a huge association. Probably, the fact of living abrod has enabled me to distinguish and recognize such parity more easily.

not that much smooth

To whom has thought Canada (in detail, Quebec) was a tranquil and serene place to live, I listed briefly some events I witnessed, which prove that it REALLY rocks in different aspects - for good or ill:

Hurricane Irene passed by here in August 2011;
 

Occupy Montreal resisted at Square Victoria more than a month last year;
 

Le Printemps Érable, how they call the period of students protests in Quebec this year, caused! Red squares, Bill 78, confrontations, violence... even the possibility of Montreal Grand Prix cancellation. Lastly, the inevitable happened: elections! People voted massively. Then, their Prime Minister was replaced as a democratical consequence of his own (unsatisfactory) administration. Without a doubt, a remarkable triumphe;

We watched live on 4th September night: Pauline Marois, the new Quebec Prime Minister, was abruptly dragged off stage during her victory speech (in which she was calling for unity). A man opened fire into the Metropolis, where she was speaking. This attack brought out "past" issues of sovereignty, once the felon was arrested claiming "The anglos are waking up". The shooting left one victim dead and a second in critical condition. At the theatre where tragedy happened; a benefit concert with local stars (as Celine Dion and Arcade Fire, among others) was offered for the daughter of Denis Blanchette (murdered). Donations were also collected for Dave Courage, the other man hit by the same bullet.

Charbonneau Commission scandalizes with strong allegations of illegal financing between Quebec Liberal Party and (Italian) Mafia. Due to revelations of his implication, Montreal citizens ask their mayor, Gérald Tremblay, to resign immediately;

Another season off: NHL lockout desapoints hockey supporters this year. If some kind of soccer strike occurs in Brazil, I'm sure it would give rise to a huge civil war there (In this regard, Canadians are so civilized!);   

In the end of May, Luka Magnotta shocked the whole world with his brutal crime. He killed his boyfriend, Lin Jun. I frankly don't know what was the worst: the fact of dismembering the chinese student, or sendind parts of his body by mail - to the Conservative Party of Canada national office, and also to elementary schools in other provinces. Only in June, they finally found Jun's head in a park of Montreal. Well, if the goal of this mere model was be famous, he got it. Let's face it: as a shoody porno actor, he made an successful 'real thriller' (not his speciality). However, I wonder myself how he will enjoy his celebrity confined in a jail until his death... Not worth job, dude!;

A 4.5 Richter scale earthquake shaked Montreal area last night.

Well, it IS something, isn't?!  

On se souviendra!

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911 turning 728

The classical police number is at a low... 728, instead, is on the wave crest nowadays. Actually, since the students protests occured last spring...

Cop n. 728, become famous by many videos showing her intolerant behavior to deal with people in general, not only rioters in upheaval. She pepper-sprayed broadly! 

Freshly, a new episode drew forth her! Once again, in an aggressive exchange captured on video. Watch a news reporting about here.

The worst, in my opinion, is her point of view, her both stiff ideas and conduct. Her unfortunate commentaries like "On a réussi à le menotter. Mais, pendant ce temps-là, tous les rats qui étaient dans l’appartement en haut, les gratteux de guitare, c’est toute des osti de carrés rouges. Des artistes osti. En tout cas, des mangeux de marde. Ils ont toute commencé à sortir de l’appartement, tsé" are wretched.

Stéfanie Trudeau, implied in more this case, drags attributtes of a violent person since school, according her ex classmates. Well, it's visible, evident, clear by seeing these videos. Hail current technology! (which permit people to record several occurrences).

After this event, Montreal police reputation was put in check. "Is this kind of police we want (and need) here?" - they called into question. At least, now, she was FINALLY suspended.

A site about her was even created. Check it out.

dicotomia

O Parque da Harmonia, estimado lugar que faz parte da tão primada tradição gaúcha, recebeu o nome do fundador da RBS em 1987. Faz tempo... (ou alguém esqueceu?)

Outra: hoje em dia, praticamente todos eventos culturais recebem o patrocínio de empresas privadas - mesmo o Acampamento Farroupilha. E a maioria deles só acontece graças a esse auxílio financeiro.
 
Oposições à parte, esse tipo de prática é recorrente em Porto Alegre, em diferentes níveis. Fato.

Reflexo de uma contemporaneidade corporativa mundialista, viral, forte e onipresente. Ou 'psicopata', como definiria o filme The Corporation.

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do local para o global 
(ou vice-versa)

O pior não é a imagem da Coca Cola massivamente em Porto Alegre, patrocinando reformas no Largo Glênio Peres, no Auditório Araújo Viana (wherever!), mas a ausência do Estado, sucateando bens públicos. Admitemos que, antes, esses espaços eram sujos, ruinosos... nojentos até(!), apesar de toda bagagem histórica cultural e política ligada a eles. Em tempos de preparação para a Copa (e campanha!), o prefeito da cidade (e candidato à reeleição!), José Fortunati, passou à diante a responsabilidade de um serviço de base. Esta questionável terceirização, por sua vez, proporcionou uma melhor estrutura em termos de limpeza, tecnologia, segurança etc. Mérito esse que foi incapaz de adquirir em seu mandato com os recursos devidos.

Mais lastimável que a ofensiva da Brigada Militar contra os manifestantes desgostosos com a "venda" da capital gaúcha à multinacional, é sua presença ostensiva em defesa de interesses exteriores aos da população em geral (ou a prioridade agora é interceder em prol do mascote tatu? - na verdade, 'TATUdo errado'!). É difícil ver tantos brigadianos reunidos, prontos, dispostos e incentivados a proteger o cidadão - de bandido, injustiça, violência, corrupção... Normalmente, falta polícia nas ruas, sobra insegurança.

Quando os papéis se invertem, é aí que mora o perigo...

Estar num local 'próprio', agradável, oferecido pela iniciativa privada (dessa marca), e ter a opção de beber outra, se e quando convier - a rival Pepsi, por exemplo (ou melhor: nenhuma das duas, mas um mate, respeitando as raízes), parece-me melhor que deixar de frequentá-lo por falta de condições ideais, precariedade. Onde está a liberdade? - ou a privação dela. E ainda: sua  'privatização', nesse caso. Impostos foram pagos. Investimentos feitos onde? - essa é a questão. Pelo menos, parte do dinheiro de quem compra esse refrigerante, a gente conhece o destino.

Que fique claro: não sou a favor deles, muito menos dessa situação ridícula a que se chegou. Entretanto, convenhamos: atualmente, empresários capitalistas são mais competentes que nossos politicos nesse sentido. Infelizmente. Ou seja, NÃO é "culpa" exclusiva da Coca Cola, em si. Ela (apenas) desempenha super bem seu trabalho no sistema econômico (e selvagem!) em que vivemos. Cruel, mas é essa a realidade.

Fora SIM, mas (também) o(s) mau(s) governante(s) permissivos que estão no poder. São eles que oportunizam tudo isso.

A instisfação social é saudavel, coerente, bem-vinda. No entanto, a fúria do povo está mal focada. A grande arma de mudança é ainda o voto (frase de efeito - excelente em véspera de eleição!).

Viva a democracia! Afinal, é tudo uma questão de escolha. 

___________________________________________________________

 sem vestir a camisa

Admito que (ainda) bebo Coca-Cola, embora não me orgulhe, e evite. Porém, JAMAIS seria capaz de publicar (por livre e espontânea vontade, e em sã consciência) meu nome numa latinha deles e divulgá-la na internet ou onde quer que seja(!) DE GRAÇA e (ainda por cima!) cheia de brios.

Bom, para aqueles que o fizeram (principalmente os porto-alegrenses que estão a reclamar agora, infelizes com essa invasão toda), meu recado:

every breath I take

I’ve missed being somewhere where I’m not. I constantly think about that...

How can be Amsterdam so present in my life? - in many movies I've watched, news I've read, songs I've listened... everywhere - doesn't matter the circumstances.

In fact. I've never wonder why, once it makes me believe everything is possible - come what may.

Yesterday I watched Anne’s Frank Diary, the whole BBC’s series. I was deeply touched especially because I was there, in that secret annex, where they lived more than two years. Anne Frank House - my tip: a very nice visitation to do while in Holland.

Despite not showing so much of the city (I chose to love it) on the screen, I recognized quickly that beautiful place and I hope to be there as soon as possible. Of course my wishes are not to be under the same conditions of Anne’s family and the others who used to live there with them at those war days.

I’m homesick… Thoughts going upstairs or downstairs, in the summer or winter, past, present or future. Nevertheless, always free. By now, my specialty here, as her: writing - but online.

old is cool

Today, on the 75th birthday of Dedé Santana, one of the most famous Brazilian humorist, I have some to say...

Firstly, nowadays, our television is really need of better people making us laugh. At least, Zorra Total is a crap, excepted for that it has introduced us some talents such as:

- Samantha Schmütz, playing Juninho Play and as a child at these days;
- Katiuscia Canoro, as the extravagant Lady Kate;
- Maria Clara Gueiros, with the caracther Laura, who presented the jargon "Vem cá, te conheço?";
- Fabiana karla, that used to play the role of “Gislaine”, a personal trainer that was always saying “Isso não te pertence mais”, and now is “Dr. Lorca” – who advice about what “Pode” and “Não Pode! (can/can't).

*By the way, recently, when two known journalists (Zeca Camargo and Renata Ceribelli) are working out intensively to make them slim on the air, it is in fashion those worries about health, physical exercises etc.

I would say that is necessary more intelligent humour programming, comparing with the 80’s. However, I’m in doubt if ‘Os Trapalhões’ was a nice TV program, or I was only a child - easy to be convinced by any silly joke…

I remember some chapters that I dislike because Renato Aragão’s character called Didi were always taking some advantage of his other friends, included Dedé. I confess that I used to enjoy in particular both Zacarias and Mussum.

Other excellent and memorable Tv program was TV Pirata. Albeit, it was not for children… as the quartet’s one. Nevertheless, TV Pirata has an incomparable black comedy. It was excellent being sarcastic… a watershed on our screens.

In fact, I reckon that this is the main current matter nowadays: quality of programming, the contend of jokes, the smartness of the script - more than the way the casting plays… In most cases while they are good professionals, the basis aren’t. So, doesn’t work!

Casseta crew have tried, for a long time, they were on the top, but couldn’t  keep their texts as sagacious as before… Nowadays, maybe the audience prefer another kind and format  similar to Pânico (which sucks, in my opinion), or CQC - ok, I like it very much, but is more journalistic than only comedy.

former youth

Secondly, our past young idols and beauty icons are now 70 (or almost there!). Believe! It’s true. Look that:

Abroad
- (Sir) Mick Jagger is 67. He was born on 26th July 1943;
- (Sir) Paul McCartney , that is 68, was born on 18th  June 1942
- Robert Redford, who is 74, was born on 18th  August 1936;
- Clint Eastwood is already 80. He was born on 31st  May 1930;
- Lou Reed is 69. His birthday just passed, on 2nd March (1942);
- Bob Dylan is almost 70. His birthday is on 24th May (1941);
- Roger Waters, that is 67, was born on 6th September 1942;
- Jimmy Page is 67. His birthday is on 9th January (1944).

And here, in Brazil
- Chico Buarque is 66.  He was born on 19th June 1944;
- Caetano Veloso , who is 68, was born on 7th August 1942;
- Roberto Carlos is 70. His birthday is on 19th  April (1941);
- Tarcísio Meira, who is 75, was born on 5th  October 1935;
- Arnaldo Baptista is 65. His birthday is on 6th July (1948);
- Erasmo Carlos is almost 70. He was born on 5th June (1941)
- Ronnie Von is 66. His birthday is on 17th July (1944)

Even Marcos Paulo and Carlos Alberto Ricelli (that my mother simply used to love!), who are "only" 60 and 64 respectively, nowadays, are already a third-aged leading men. As them, if Bob Marley would be alive, he would be 66; Jim Morrison, 67; Jimi Hendrix, 68; John Lennon, 70;  Elvis, 76;  and finally the oldest: Marlon Brando, 87.*

Thus, we can confirm that the old concepts about being the ancient has changed since who is grandfather-aged at the present time was someone avant-garde in the past, even revolutioners, in some cases. Teens and early adults of 60’s are almost 70 now. People has gotten old… by the way.

It’s interesting that those folks must be well-behaved when their grandsons appear… Different generations, another History! Finally, I believe that will be easier to respect the third-aged people more from now than it happens before, when there are no admiration.

*I only pointed men especially because women, when their ages are related, are complicated! (not old!)

don't letting bygones be bygones

Lastly, I’ve been wondering myself about the example that our parents gave us with their roles when they could change the world. Or rather: when they were young.

On the contrary of north americans, that were drugging themselves while had asked for peace and love, Brazilians were fighting and dying in reason of their ideals. Ok, I know that some of them went to Vietnam, but this is another History... other context.

In Brazil, for instance, people who are now more than 50, could had done something against the military dictatorship. This mournful period lasted 21 years. So, during the 60’s and 70’s, when they were young, it was the time to act. Think about that and answer me what did your parents do at those days?

However, I’m not proud about what mine did, unfortunately. I reckon I would have acted alternatively. Probably I would have integrated one of guerrilla warfare groups. I admit I would not sleep if I had done anything about that when it was possible.

versus versus versus

From Osama’s point of view, it was ‘Struggle against American Imperialism’. At the same time, Bush (whose father during the Cold War supported and heavily armed Taliban people) and (now) Obama defend the idea of  ‘War against Terrorism’, in which Bin Laden is seen as a reincarnation of the Devil - probably as Uncle Sam is not only for Afghans, but in almost Muslim World and Communist nations.

Both proclaim peace in name of their own interests (be it for petroleum, revenge or hate… doesn’t matter!), while using the force through by guns and tanks, airplanes included. By hook and crook, either are wrong. After all, violence gives rise to (even more) violence.

I admit I’m afraid of what this dead is bring about with it. In actual fact, I honestly can feel some ill will happen as a consequence. I would like to say that it wont be somewhat similar to (or just) biological weapons. Personally, I think nobody are ready to face it.

Overall, all this sucks… Finally, I simply lament to have born in a as cruel as UNFAIR society - something usually said because of Islamic chauvinist behaviour. As a matter of fact, I’m referring myself in general, once US Army has tortured its enemies throughout the decades, for instance.

Considering that all this bullshit has begun athwart Soviets… There was never a good war or a bad peace indeed. In conclusion, everything goes wrong… over and over. I wonder myself about this way which we are going by? As far as I’m concerned only kindness will save the planet of (other) fatal battle, as predicted Gentileza, the prophet.

love it or leave it

31st March, 1964 (almost 1st April...) - could be some kind of mistake, or a lie of Fools Day. However, wasn’t! It was one of the most sad days in the Brazil’s History. A military coup d’état was established. That date completed 47 years few days ago. So, it is a perfect chance to talk about it!

As a (violent) joke, militaries defended the idea that they were helping the democracy through the army force. The president at that moment, João Goulart (called 'Jango'), was overthrown. students, actors, journalists etc many were against, rebelling. Communist people were arrested, tortured or killed. Many bodies have never been found.

I’ve been deeply touched about that! Furthermore, I’m so glad that SBT (even broken) is presenting those mournful chapters through ‘Amor e Revolução’, their new soap opera which has begun this week. Heavy (and also bloody), it shows the truth about the period that changed the course of country‘s future. Unfortunately, our population at that time was not strong enough, since was not united, to making the revolution here. Thus, it has resulted in our current reality.

It's pretty good: quite nice casting, excellent sound track, intelligent text as well as interesting edition, in addition of being an essential story to be known by everybody - mainly the younger, who didn’t have any contact with it. Apart from teaching in classes, I reckon that is very important this kind of representation to inform the present audience. I’m not going to loose even one day of it!

On top of that, I was satisfied to hear real testimonies, somewhat similar to the end of Manoel Carlos’ work. Fellows have been telling us their 'below stairs' stories in the dictatorship (while I simply can’t stand, always crying affected as consequence - I'm sure that I lived at that time in the past, whit another name of course, as usual then).

doubtless

Yesterday I was between 'Divã', the guerrilla and bar. I chose revolution and then I made the tavern table my social divan. Forgive me Lília Cabral! My situation at these days asks something more intense. I inclusively could say that was always like that… I'm not going to deny that I've been inclined towards left since I was born, worried about the world - believing in another one possible.

my blog life

I haven’t planted a tree, I don’t have children yet and I haven't started to write a book until now. However, my current contribution for the world is everything that the mula ruge (related with it). In other words: I have my blog, whereby I've been posting daily some texts about many subjects.

Furthermore, I don't lie, besides separating my whole garbage. I believe that adopting a child as well, teaching his to grow up a good person, is a good alternative to a better (possible) world. Small noble acts, big positive consequences...

While here is not a perfect place to live, I keep writing on… Today is the two-years anniversary of this website - 730 dedicated days and/or nights to it. Even (still) with a short existence, it has already its importance. I’ve been building my own (Hi)story, expressing myself through my ideas and thoughts.

Telling the world what I believe is becoming me someone more satisfied. I really hope I can cooperate, bearing a part of something useful… For me, the others and the planet too, by my way. I'm enjoying it! Each one does what thinks it can help, which is within his reaching. 

What do you do?

not good as his bad words

ONCE UPON A TIME in our History a period when signatures were not necessary, only a simple word was enough to believe in somebody. Well… It happened, a long time ago(!), though.

Nowadays, NOBODY should do agreements without be full sure of who is the other person with who is doing it. In detail: the signature is fundamental. That is to say that our WORD doesn’t worth so much anymore (almost nothing, indeed). 

Surreal this… We simply CAN’T trust in which people say, only in their acts: what they sign on (or proof in another way that is true). Not even in which some individuals write they will do it is secured anymore...

Not so far, in my time, a word given was a fulfilled word (even by mouth). Unfortunately, it doesn’t work like this anymore… Even so, in my opinion, someone who does not keep its words doesn’t deserve any respect.

So, finally, when and in whom we can trust? I REALLY don’t know.

Lately, people are not what they say, but what they do. However, they are unpredictable. Honour is something that many of them don't care about. It "simply" doesn't matter anymore... UNBELIEVABLE!

[Oh, God!]

annoyances

 Maybe it was merely coincidence, nevertheless was so intense that I’ve wondered myself about which reason made it happens to me.

Firstly, was a frustrating disregard with my professional dedication, then, a incredible irresponsibility even working (or pretending to) for a both interesting and important job. Not enough, was an injudiciousness and a stab on my back from who I provided some status, besides put inside my circle of friends. Finally, a default due to a lack of character, not at work at this time but worst: chez moi.

Many 'miss'es along the way… Now, as a result I have another one: I miss good people around me, my real friends. They are the best medicine to heal (and forget) these bad things that haunt me.

desires, memories and melancholy

I would like to go upstairs and see all the city (or a large part of) through its roofs. I always think about that, the landscape and thoughts by this point of view… the outlooks.  It's a possibility to get a breath of fresh air (and equally old and historical). “Telhados de Paris”, a Nei Lisboa’s song outlines some idea about that. 

So, when I saw the ‘Blue Roofs’, a Picasso’s painting, in Van Gogh Museum (Picasso in Paris 1900-1907 exhibition – until May there), this intention was brought to the light, more than ever. It results in a fantasy... It's a real illusion, only mine. When I was there, in Paris, last year, I simply didn't realize that I could put into practice this dream. However I asked for, in Amsterdam (in vain...) Silly girl...

                                                          

(nem tudo azul)

Sometimes, the unpreparedness leads us to this way… Changing the subject, I remembered, both seeing that shadowy images from his melancholy Blue Period and reading about its stories, the Broadway musical ‘Spring Awakening’, an rock adaptation of the controversial 1891 German play of the same title.

Carlos Casagemas, a Spanish painter aswell, moved to Paris in the same period of his friend, Picasso. In 1901, he killed himself with a shot in the head when he was only 21 years old as a consequence of an unanswered love. This unsuccessful affair drove him crazy (literally).

Notably, the beginning of 18th century was distinguished by this youth behavior. Their immaturity gave rise to some unhappiness which brought about these damages to the society of that period. In the teen ages being as an infant and after that, immediately becoming a mister… with all responsabilities and the burden of it on their back. It used to be too severe for everyone.

                                                         

Museums – a cultural trip around important subjects of our History. I really appreciate it!

Picasso in Paris 1900-1907 exhibition

18 February - 29 May 2011

Van Gogh Museum

Museumplein - Paulus Potterstraat 7 

Daily from 10am to 6pm

Adults: € 14
0-17 years: free (a valid ID may be requested)

*My tip is going on Friday Nights – in these occasions the museum in open until 10pm.

Besides the free guided tours around the exhibition (and also for the permanent one - unlosable!) – in English and Dutch, there is always something special going on: lounge chairs, video projections, live music, DJs and a bar to relax and enjoy it even more (better if in a special company - of course!).

'luba' way in them!

It’s extremely important knowing who REALLY we are… our roots.

- Good morning.
- Good morning.

I was going out... After a few minutes, suddenly, a figure called my attention to it, walking by my side. It was the guy I’d just meet.

- Could I escort you?
- Of course!

Then, I took off both of my headphones (or would be ‘earphones‘?). However, I said it without being sure.

- Are you Vanessa’s sister, aren’t you?

Whether coincidence or not, I started to think that conversation could be interesting.

- My name is Stevens. Sorry, I really thought you were Vanessa’s sister.
- No problem because I AM Vanessa.
- … Really?!
- Yes, I am. Could I ask you something?
- For sure.
- Are you from Africa? Aren't you?

Due to his black skin and his strong French accent, I was right that he was African.

- Yes, from Democratic Republic of the Congo.

At this very moment, I knew I’d have at least two more question to ask him.

Being Africa divided inappropriately during its colonization, to know him better, I should be more specific, more intense and cultured.

- But… Which tribe is yours?

So, he stopped to walk and look at me with watered eyes. I knew that had been strong for him...

- Abroad, NEVER, NOBODY asked me this before you! You're special for being aware about it… I’m originally from Luba.

Ready. I've already knew much more about him.

Although more important, this wasn’t the first thing I asked him:

- Do you support Mazembe (the 'Almight')?

Of course I would like to know that!

He laught gently.

Yes… he bit me.

Africans don’t fiddle about.

                                                         

 négre savoir faire

By the way, sex included.

I’m worried about the disparity between Africans and Europeans behavior, their sexual approach. While the firsts are quick-fire, I stand in fear of the others... maybe they fall behind blackmen in this aspect.

Is it possible even being the nordic giants? Oh, God… please, no!

como tudo começou...

Gostaria de ter distribuído presentes no dia seis de dezembro, ou na véspera, como manda o figurino. Assim, estaria dando o real sentido ao natal - que depois foi deturpado pelo  gordo, capitalista que toma coca cola, inventado pelos Estados Unidos. Mas a partir do ano que vem... Se Deus quiser!

Fiquei realmente emocionada com o comercial do Santander que está no ar e mostra a história de Nicolau. A animação so cute conta que foi sua a ideia da distribuição de agrados, louvando essa iniciativa de bondade que depois se tornou popular no mundo inteiro. Salve o verdadeiro Santa Claus!

Nada é por acaso. E, logo agora que venero o santo, vejo propaganda na TV e matéria no Fantástico a seu respeito, conheço até um “marinheiro” devoto... Visitei “sem querer” sua igreja em Amsterdam e foi assim tudo começou, pelo menos para mim. Agora, não vivo sem.

Meu Senhor e meu Deus,
arrancai de mim mesmo 
tudo o que me impede de ir a vós.

Meu Senhor e meu Deus,
dai-me tudo aquilo
que me conduz a vós.

Meu Senhor e meu Deus,
tirai-me de mim mesmo
e entregai-me todo a vós.

E o melhor presente que posso dar, sou eu mesma – de corpo e alma. Amém.

valores globais

Por que precisamos saber qual a cor do batom da Melina da novela Passione (Please Me - da Mac, campeão de ligações para o CAT da Globo nos últimos meses) enquanto pouco conhecemos a China - país que brevemente vai dominar o mundo? Por que nos abalamos com o caso do Bruno, ex-goleiro do Flamengo, e não nos importamos mais com o fato de a África estar sendo dizimada pela AIDS ?

A resposta está no foco dos nossos meios de comunicação. O que eles querem que saibamos? Justamente o que eles transmitem para a gente, deixando MUITO a desejar em qualidade e conteúdo, beneficiando marcas, produtos, mercados, fazendo tendências, direcionando o consumo, o rumo, o interesse e o comportamento da população.

Infelizmente na TV aberta são poucas as opções. E o que é veiculado, em quase nada atende a uma ampla demanda de conhecimentos gerais necessária - àquilo que REALMENTE importa ser noticiado. Daqui a pouco começa o Big Brother e, aí sim, as manchetes tupiniquins, durante três meses, serão somente os amassos e as intrigas da casa mais vigiada do Brasil. E o bicho pegando aqui fora...

A solução seria um suporte de outros veículos - internet, jornais, revistas especializadas, livros etc. No entanto, a maior arma de todas contra a ignorância é a vontade do povo em saber. Quando a gente quer, buscamos a informação. É lamentável que esse interesse não seja alimentado na escola e em casa. Só aí já vemos a dimensão do probrema, o quanto ele [e maior do que parece. É geral, global e interno. Onipresente, a mídia está mais poderosa do que nunca, acomodando as pessoas, desinformando o mundo.

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 out

Tanta coisa para a televisão mostrar e, ontem, a Globo transmite ao vivo a fuga dos bandidos, evitando assim, sua execução pela polícia. Até onde esse reality da vida real nos ajuda? Atrapalhou, no caso, inclusive.

Aliás, no quesito 'gafe', nada foi mais feio que as caixas deixadas em Ipanema anteontem, numa infeliz ação promocional do Domingão do Faustão - não autorizada pela Prefeitura. Na boa, no mínimo demissão e processo para os responsáveis por alardear pânico ao colocarem caixas vazias em praças em meio a uma guerra civil!

A Globo está por fora. Sem noção do perigo.

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cabeças pensantes

Adoro conversar com meus amigos mais politizados, da História - tête-à-tetê, ou ‘Pé com pé’, porque, assim, a mula ruge consciente, indignada, voltando-se para o que REALMENTE importa. Meus objetivos ficam bem claros, e a certeza de que não quero e não posso mais perder tempo com futilidades.

¡Gracias, Grazi Linda, pelo questionamento, boa prosa e cia siempre!

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longe do lugar-comum

Ainda no tema, a companheira citada acima está produzindo um evento bem no clima... Segunda-feira, dia 29/11, às 9h30, no Auditório do Centro de Filosofia e Ciências Humanas da UFRJ, no campus da Praia Vermelha, vai acontecer uma palestra com os meninos do programa Não Conta Lá em Casa, exibido pelo Multishow (às quartas-feiras, 22h30).

Na pauta, as viagens dos rapazes a destinos pouco convencionais como Irã, Iraque, Afeganistão, entre outros, mostradas nos programa. A boa: a troca, o debate sobre a proposta diferenciada oferecida, na contramão do que é oferecido hoje pela grande mídia, e a experiência única de terem conhecido pessoalmente esses lugares, sua realidade, e a visão de mundo com que voltam.

Eu sou fã, amiga e suspeita, mas fica o convite de um programa que vale a pena (ambos, na verdade) - oportunidade imperdível, entrada gratuita.

Inspirada... Lugar-comum - o meu, definitivamente, não é aqui.

- Hein?!

O que acontece?

Gaúcha como sou, antes e acima de ser brasileira (justificável historicamente e compreensível por aqueles tantos povos que foram obrigados a permanecer ligados a uma república ilegítima, da qual foram obrigados a fazer parte por questões políticas e de interesse central e não por afinidades, culturalmente), entendo a fábula do 'Balde de Siri' que assombra os gaúchos em sua realidade, "impedindo-os" de deixar o pago, a querência amada.

Compreendo a esranheza e a zoação do resto do país, uma vez que a eles falta esse sentimento, laços maiores que em outro lugar qualquer, assim como respeito a decisão afetiva dos nossos. Não concordo totalmente, entretanto, pois meus horizontes vão além sul - tanto, que desgarrei. Fui conquistar outros terrenos, meu espaço, pé na estrada, de coração aberto. E me apaixonei pelo Rio.

Demorei para me acostumar com o novo jeito de ser informal. Não foi de uma hora para outra para me sentir de fato "em casa". Sentia saudade. E, por anos lamentei o fato de artistas e bandas como a Ultramen, por exemplo, não virem para cá e serem sucesso nacional. Talento tem para tanto, o que falta é coragem de ultrapassar fronteiras, cortar o corsdão umbilical e enfrentar a ponte-aérea Rio-São Paulo. Exterior então, fora Argentina e Uruguai, é outro planeta!

Nei Lisboa sempre me pareceu um caso de auto-omissão, de preferência pelo anonimato brazuca, opção pelo reconhecimento local. Enquanto isso, seus súditos despatriados aguardavam ansiosos uma visita musical sua (vide Vitor Ramil), o aconchego saudosista de ouvir sua voz doce em lindas canções que falam nossa língua, sobre a terrinha, de um tempo que vivemos por lá - "Berlim, Bomfim", ou aqueles "Verdes Anos" e por aí vai... Outra época, que não volta mais (e também outras belas letras que nos lembram o amor).

Não é uma questão de dar as costas para o que importa, de esquecer o passado, as raízes, patriotismo, bairrismo, de perder o orgulho de ser gaúcho (ou seja como for... tchê), e sim de AGREGAR. Só é este um comportamento próprio nosso, questionável e criticável, mas defendido por muitos que optaram por lá ficarem para sempre, puxando uns aos outros para dentro do balde novamente, sem deixar nenhum siri escapar. Vai que, saindo, dá certo...

Pra mim deu. Ganhei o mundo e não perdi a essência.
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Fã assumida, cantei ontem, entusiasmada, todas as músicas no seu primeiro show em turnê no Rio de Janeiro. Foi no Rival, num climinha bem dentro de sua proposta intimista de ser. Em 2005, fui ao festival Brasil dos Gaúchos só para assisti-lo. Boa apresentação, mas não completa como esta foi... Opa! NEM tanto: ele não cantou nenhuma do Hi-Fi. Mas ok, ganhei um CD autografado e rimos lembrando da lancheria - tomar vinho e ver a bunda das pessoas a passar. Tá valendo (sempre!).

E para encerrar, uma meia "Confissão":

...
E eu vejo a vida vindo ao meu encontro
E vejo agora o que amanhã chegar
Eu tenho os olhos sobre o teu encanto
E tudo a desvendar

Os quatro cantos desse mundo
Eu tenho a febre feita de alcançar
E tenho a força bruta das palavras
Ditas para amar

...
E eu tenho o sol guiando meu caminho
E tenho as senhas pra te conquistar
Eu tenho o norte sob o fio da espada
E cada dia a me esperar

Nos quatro cantos desse mundo
E tantos quantos tenha de alcançar
Eu tenho a sorte de viver cantando
E o céu a me ajudar