Partial Salvation and Repost

My pops saves the day - once again. He read my post and cut and paste the part he wanted to share with my mom. My mom doesn´t read my blog because she worries too much (in my opinion) and gets triggered very easily. But make no mistake about it - she is the best mom around. They don´t get any smarter, supportive, sophisticated or prettier. She is the epitomy of class. And they will be here tomorrow - God willing (a very common phrase here Brasil that I love). Anyway.....here is a repost of part of my blog from yesterday.

I´ll be back in the U.S. in less then a week. Whoa. I can´t believe how quickly the past four months have passed. I have learned about the identify of my family, a culture of a country, a dynamic of a continent, and more importantly I have found an important part of myself - so closely tied to the above mentioned factors. I am an American, born in a foreign country with a foreign mother and a love for both that I can´t begin to put into words. For the very first time in my life - with all my eccentricities (liberal Catholic, indifferent animal-rights vegan, sister with not one functioning sibling relationship, singleton totally hung up on the ex) - I feel part Brasilian. And not just because I like samba and black beans (without rendered bacon fat) but because I´ve learned just a little what it means to be Brasilian.

And what does it mean???? Well, that is a complex sociological question with all the standard dangers of gross over generalizations. But in its simplest form I think it means being a part of a culture that truly values interpersonal relationships, family ties, and enjoying life. It means not being very nationalistic/patriotic except when it comes to soccer, complaining constantly about politicians, traffic, poverty but not doing much about it. For the most part Brasilians truly seem to be able to the beauty in everyone, despite the insanity of what they do to be beautiful (waxing, bleeding manicures/pedicures, hair straightening for straight hair, plastic surgery, constant dieting). It is a culture that is incredibly friendly and trusts almost no one. It´s a culture that doesn´t blink twice at effusive compliments and self promotion but at the same time has a low tolerance for egoism. It is a damaged society with tremendous inequality and corruption, a crappy education system, and a inefficient government. It is a fantastic place to visit, live, learn and grow. I`ve loved every moment here - the sad, frustrating, joyful, and rainy.

What have I gained/learnt/discovered? (some unrelated to Brasil, perse, but realized while living here)
- I don´t live in a favela because I wasn´t born in a favela. I am no smarter, prettier, or better. And as such I`ll express my gratitude for my many blessings by serving those born in different circumstances.
- I am positive homosexuality isn´t wrong. I know it is against the teachings of a religion I believe very firmly in but I don´t. I´ve become very close to my cousin Sylvinha and her girlfriend Vanessa. The simplicity and integrity of their relationship is just one more example of how God works, in my opinion.
- I don´t want a maid. Ever. God bless Maria and all the best to her. But....no.
- Even if I work out two hours a day I can´t eat whatever I want. I have been working out that much and have gained weight. Don´t give me that crap about muscle mass, blah, blah. Eat three paçocas (peanut dessert) a day and you don´t lose weight.
- If I don´t know something ask, if something isn´t right, if I´m lost= ASK! ask. ask. ask. ask. doesn´t matter which language - all that matters is not being embarrased to ask for help.
- If I want want to know if someone thinks I am pretty or my new dress is cute = ASK! Brasilians are great about this, they keep asking until they feel sure.
- Vegans are hilarious. I´m up to about 25 vegan blogs and a good portion crack me up. They have a great self depreciating saracastic humor. I hope to get around to posting all the blogs I follow before I leave.
- Don´t be afraid of conflict. Just have the guts to work it out. Not always easy, pretty, or clean - but definitely worthwhile. and a definite must for being around family.
- Patience and compassion. I had never quite experienced anything like the feeling of not being able to express myself fluently. It requires a lot of patience with oneself and others. And it´s a great reminder to be compassionate for those in similar circumstances.
- Everything happens exactly as it is supposed to. Good, bad, ugly, indifferent. I do the best I can at each and every moment. If I had more to give I would. As always, and forever, I just keep learning to love what is.