What a blessing it is to be in Brazil right now- to have
learned so many amazing lessons and embark on such an awesome journey! The time
here in Belém is just flying by so quickly, and I hate to think that the
experience will only be temporary. Nevertheless, I have grown so much
personally and believe that there is still so much more that this country has
to offer me.
The one thing that won my heart here is the kindness and
generosity of the Belém residents. You could literally meet someone today, then
go to the beach and drink a beer with that person the next. You never know who
you will befriend here, and that’s what has made this summer so exciting and
eventful for me. I have met so many incredible people that are eager to spend
time together, learn about our lives and share their stories with us.
Just this past week Erika and I traveled to São Luís, the
capitol and largest city of the Brazilian state of Maranhão, with our
friend Aline and her family. It was a 17-hour
bus trip filled with lively music, singing and dancing. While in São Luís, we
attended a folkloric festival specific to the northeast region of Brazil called
Bumba-Meu-Boi where a handful of groups retell a historic, theatrical Brazilian
tale. The dramatic costumes, music, and dance made the night so remarkable! We spent
the rest of the week enjoying the beautiful beaches and eating delicious
regional foods. We even attended a reggaeton party where Erika and I met some Afro-Brazilians
who taught us how to dance!
Towards the end of the week, we got
together with a few people through CouchSurfing and toured the old city. While talking to one of the girls, I was
shocked to learn that she recently gave up her job and entire life in Spain to
move to Brazil. She had plans to travel the country, learn the language and simply
live for the moment. She continued to say that the personal freedom that she
received was much greater than any material possession she gave away. Although
I’m sure none of us have given up any of belongings, her words led me to
believe that this ideal is true. Although we will be coming back to the states
soon, I’m sure that I am not the only one who feels like I am gaining much more
that I could have ever imagined- simply by stepping out of my comfort zone
and integrating my life into Brazilian culture.
I hope everyone's experience is just as
fabulous! Tchau ladies <3
Praça dos Pescadores- São Luís, MA
Playing with the Parrot at our pousada
Relaxing at the beach!
Shopping at the markets in São Luís
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