...why I am happy!

Our refuge and strength

2012-02-01T18:30:00.000-03:00

Wow, it's been more than 2 years without blogging. Where have I been? :) It feels good to be back, though. It's almost like going back to the old times.

Anyway, for today I just want to share a Bible scripture that I love and find very inspiring in times of trouble. Hope you enjoy it!

God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. PSalm 46:1

Changing your perspective

2009-11-21T23:09:00.006-03:00

A few weeks ago there was this huge blackout in Brazil, caused by a technical problem in Itaipu dam, the second-largest hydroelectric power producer in the world (Yahoo news here).

It was very weird and a bit scary to realize how dependent we are on eletricity. For hours there was no TV, no radio, no computer. Some cellphones weren't working and despite my notebook being ok, it seemed useless without internet.

I was at home when it happened and I prayed for those people who were out of their homes at that time. I imagine how many of them were in the subway, in the elevator, at the office, alone on the street. I remembered people in hospital and all kinds of situation in which people are highly dependant on electricity.

I took that time to think and I realized we should be always ready to live with little, even though the media keeps saying we need more and more, in this endless consumption world.

I remember the day after the blackout some people would complain about missing a TV show, or not being comfortable without air-conditioning.

But I could only think we should always be grateful for what we have, even though sometimes it seems to be difficult. So my suggestion is whenever thinking we don't have enough, take a few minutes to look around and notice people in real need.

Let's share!

2009-07-03T15:37:00.005-03:00

Interested in Indian recipes? Curious about the success of twitter? Studying for GMAT test? Need a business presentation template? It doesn't matter what you need, make sure you check Scribd website first. It's absolutly fantastic!

First, because there are lots of good materials for free! It's simple to create an account and you can start downloading right away.

Second, it gives everyone a chance to share their content and make it available to the world.

Scribd is definitely an example of what publishers should be already thinking about.

Let's share!!! :)

Happy Earth Day!

2009-04-22T14:28:00.005-03:00

Today is Earth Day, and among my emails and tweets I found this really cool post, written in the website "Matador Change", which name I found kinda interesting and weird at the same time, but that nicely gives us 6 ways to celebrate Earth Day. Enjoy!

Susan Boyle - Singer - Britains Got Talent 2009

2009-04-20T10:45:00.003-03:00

Wow! A touching video that shows us how we can get wrong by judging.

Don't let it bring you down.

2009-04-07T14:33:00.003-03:00

It doesn't matter where you are right now, the main topic of the moment is the world's economic crisis.

A few days ago, while attending a seminar about innovation, the presenter made his point showing the crisis from another perspective, where people see it as an opportunity, a good time to innovate, to create, to change, to grow.

Even though the word "crisis" is usually not associated to good stuff, if we think twice about it we can find a lot of positivity in there. Just like these...

"In the best of times, our days are numbered anyway. So it would be a crime against nature for any generation to take the world crisis so solemnly, that it put off enjoying those things for which we were designed in the 1st place: the opportunity to do good work, to enjoy friends, to fall in love, to hit a ball, and to bounce a baby." Alistair Cooke, American, journalist and commentator.

The Chinese use two brush strokes to write the word 'crisis'. One brush stroke stands for danger; the other for opportunity. In a crisis, be aware of the danger - but recognize the opportunity. Richard M. Nixon, American 37th US President.

Quotes found @ Think Exist website.

Vote Earth!

2009-03-27T14:32:00.005-03:00

This is just a short post to invite you to turn off your lights tomorrow (March, 28th), at 20h30, local time, no matter where you are, in order to support the WWF cause, the "Earth Hour"!

For the first time in history, people of all ages, nationalities, race and background have the opportunity to use their light switch as their vote – Switching off your lights is a vote for Earth, or leaving them on is a vote for global warming. WWF are urging the world to VOTE EARTH and reach the target of 1 billion votes, which will be presented to world leaders at the Global Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen 2009. (Source: Earth Hour website).

By the way, what will you do in the dark hour? Take a nap? Enjoy a candlelight dinner? Let your imagination fly! :D

One more day to hope

2009-03-24T13:18:00.007-03:00

Well, we all know that violence is out there, in different countries, cities, neighborhoods. We also know that sometimes the violence goes inside people's home, as we read in daily newspapers.

Today the city I live (Rio de Janeiro) got the world's attention, after a shoot-out between Brazilian police and gang members in famous Copacabana (Read news).

I believe when we face such situations our first reaction is to feel discouraged and hopeless about the humanity, as we see the world getting worse in so many aspects. But I also realized it is exactly the moment when our faith should get stronger, so we can turn things out positively.

As long as we trust in people, as long as we hope, as long as we fight for the good, we shall win.

As said by Mahatma Gandhi (wikipedia): "You must not lose faith in humanity. Humanity is an ocean; if a few drops of the ocean are dirty, the ocean does not become dirty."

Source: Wisdom Quotes

Todos nós sabemos que a violência está aí fora, em diferentes países, cidades, bairros. Também sabemos que a violência tem chegado à casa das pessoas, como lemos diariamente nos jornais.

Hoje a cidade em que vivo (Rio de Janeiro) chamou a atenção do mundo, após um tiroteio entre a polícia brasileira e traficantes no famoso bairro de Copacabana.

Eu acredito que quando enfrentamos situações como essa nossa primeira reação é nos sentir desanimados e deseperançosos em relação à humanidade, ao vermos o mundo piorando em tantos aspectos. Mas eu também percebi que é exatamente esse o momento em que a nossa fé deveria se fortalecer, nos permitindo resolver a situação de maneira positiva.

Enquanto acreditarmos nas pessoas, enquanto tivermos esperança, enquanto lutarmos pelo bem, venceremos.

Como disse Mahatma Gandhi (wikipedia): "Nunca perca a fé na humanidade, pois ela é como um oceano. Só porque existem algumas gotas de água suja nele, não quer dizer que ele esteja sujo por completo."

A day to hope

2009-03-17T09:36:00.006-03:00

Today is a day to hope. Kenya police destroys more than 4000 arms, apprehended since 2007, that had been used by criminals in the country. You might think that's nothing comparing to all bad news we read everyday. But I believe we should celebrate the good news, no matter how relevant they are, so we keep our hearts warm and full of hope.

I haven't found much more in the web, but these two pictures from Associated Press caught my attention. They were posted in G1, a brazilian news website. Check them out!

Hoje é um dia para ter esperança. Polícia do Quênia destrói mais de 4000 armas, apreendidas desde 2007, que vinham sendo utilizadas por criminosos no país. Talvez você pense que isso não é nada diante das notícias ruins que lemos todos os dias. Mas eu penso que devemos celebrar toda notícia boa, não importa a sua relevância, para assim mantermos nossos corações aquecidos e cheios de esperança.

Não encontrei muito mais sobre essa notícia, mas essas duas fotos da "Associated Press" chamaram a minha atenção. Eles foram postados no site de notícias G1. Confira!

Awww... the true love...

2009-03-04T23:01:00.005-03:00

"Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails." (1 Corinthians 13:4-8)

Aww, what an amazing love. Imagine all men in the world being able to love each other this way!

Now take time to examine the love you nurture in your heart. If it is not that great yet, and we know how difficult can be to get there, encourage yourself to take it step by step. Start with forgiveness. Hope things will get better, if this is what you've been missing. Believe, dream, trust. Be patient still, but do your part to make things happen. And be happy!

Advent Conspiracy Promo Video

2008-12-08T16:03:00.002-03:00

I've watched this video in my friends's site called "The World Awaits" and felt like spreading the message! It's a really good message!!!

Divide to Multiply :: Divida para Multiplicar

2008-11-26T18:04:00.003-03:00

"If two men are walking on different roads,

each one of them carrying one piece of bread,

and, when meeting, they exchange their bread,

each of them goes away with one...

But if two men are walking on different roads,

each one of them carrying an idea,

and, when meeting, they exchange ideas,

each man goes away with two..."

Whenever possible, exchange ideas...

they clarify, add, help, evolve,

and even if you think you don't need them,

believe that they might serve for others.

(unknown author)

"Se dois homens vêm andando por uma estrada,
cada um carregando um pão,
e, ao se encontrarem, eles trocam os pães,
cada homem vai embora com um...

Porém, se dois homens vêm andando por uma estrada,
cada um carregando uma idéia,
e, ao se encontrarem, eles trocam as idéias,
cada homem vai embora com duas..."

Sempre que possível troque idéias...
elas esclarecem, acrescentam, ajudam, evoluem...
ainda que você pense que não precise,
servirão para o outro.

(autor desconhecido)

Happy 2008!

2008-01-01T19:23:00.002-03:00

A new year.

To restart, transform, reflect, search.

Dreams fulfilled,

More dreams to dream about.

Looking inside,

Moving forward.

Doing our part.

Searching the good.

Tranquil conscious.

Peace of soul.

Interior Strengh.

Happy Now.

Happy New Day.

Happy Forever.

unknown author

Novo ano.

Recomeçar, transformar,

refletir, buscar.

Sonhos realizados

Mais sonhos para sonhar.

Olhar para dentro,

seguir em frente.

Fazer a nossa parte.

Buscar o bem.

Consciência tranquila.

Paz de espírito.

Força interior.

Feliz Agora.

Feliz Dia Novo.

Feliz Sempre.

How many?

2007-12-19T20:39:00.000-03:00

Have you defined what are your plans for 2008?

What if you had to put goals for yourself to achieve?

Would you define how many pounds will you lose?

Or maybe how much your wage is going to raise?

Well, you might want to quantify the events and parties you'll go .

Okay, now you've done all that... I am interested to know...

How many friends will you make and how many will you keep?

How many smiles will you give?

How many places will you discover?

How many times are you going to love and... how much of yourself will you give to your loved ones?

How many times will you forgive and ask for forgiveness?

How many hearts will you touch?

I invite you to meditate about your goals if you haven't done that yet, because what matters is the beauty of our soul, heart and the way we use it in this world. This is the real beauty.

The rest... well, the name says itself. ;o)

In case I don't post again, Merry X-Mas and Happy New Year!

What really matters

2007-12-15T16:04:00.000-03:00

A man alone can't change the world but if every person does a little, we together can do it.

How many times have you doubt about the real meaning of life? About the reason why you live and what is really important. How many people make plans for the future, but waist the present for that? Why do we exist?

I am sure that we were not created to earn a lot of money, become famous and buy a new car or a diamond ring. The most precious thing is that we were created to help each other, to give smiles, to embrace, to cry, to love and be loved. That's the reason of our existence.

So here is my advice: start focusing in what really matters. Everything you do only for yourself ends by the time you die, but everything you do for the others live forever.

So what little thing have you started doing yet?

"It is the greatest of all mistakes to do nothing because you can only do a little. Do what you can." (Sydney Smith)

To think about

2007-10-17T21:22:00.000-03:00

Today I have a message about the word "sorry". Hope you all enjoy it.
May we always have wisdom to use correctly this beautiful word.

***
Sorry
(Created by Aish.com)

Some people always have their apology in the planning stages...
And there are others who suppress their apology and can't get it out.
Some people need to have their apology squeezed out with force...
And there are others whose apology is never whole.
Some people say they're sorry so many times that it's hard to know when they really mean it.
And there are others who will never apologize, unless the other person apologizes too.
Some people whisper their apology so quietly, it is barely heard...
And there are others who never think to ask forgiveness.
For some people "sorry" is nothing but a game of words.
And for others their apology is part of a strategic plan.
Some people are separated by just one apology.
And others are reunited by just one apology.
For some people "sorry" lifts their spirit and carries them far...
And for others, sorry opens up locked doors.

Sorry clears the slate and creates a new beggining.

Video at http://www.aish.com/movies/Sorry.asp

It has gone!

2007-10-09T09:08:00.000-03:00

You know, it went faster than I thought.
I am feeling so happy. It's not that I have no problems anymore, it is just that I've been dealing with them in a different way.
This morning I came to the office looking at people on the street. I had a nice conversation with a simple man who begs on the street light... He had a beautiful smile, very sincere. The radio station was playing a new song that says "It's so beautiful to dream. With eyes opened. It doesn't cost you anything but time".
Thank God my heart is smiling again.
Thank you for all support and concern, my bloggers friends.
Have a blessed week.

A short break

2007-10-06T12:03:00.000-03:00

"If all your efforts have been seen with indifference, don't be discouraged. Because also the sun, every morning, gives an special spectacle while most people are still sleeping".

I've been out for a long time and still don't know when I will be back. But the only thing I know is that truly happiness must be found in simple things, that we usually ignore. Because, many times, "great" things are actually empty inside.

I've been looking for myself and the simple things I've ignored. Soon I'll come back to my blog and give lots of reasons for everyone to be happy every single day, because we definitely have a million of reasons to be thankful. Right now I just don't have enough inspiration to write (sorry). I'll be back soon.

P.S. I thought about deleting my blog, since this post don't say "Why I am happy", but I decided to keep it because I do believe I will get through this very soon. :o)

God bless you all. Thanks.

Connections

2007-09-09T21:53:00.000-03:00

I feel like tons of things have happened in my life in the last few weeks.
That's the reason of my missing in the blogsphere. But here I am, to write about connections...
I can't remember right now the details but the inspiration for this post is a report about Steve Jobs, from Apple.
Since I read it, a month ago, I've been thinking of how much it has to do to what I've been living right now.
In this report he says something like we aren't able to make all the connections in our lives (in the present for the future), which means, we can't figure out what exactly is going to happen based on what we do. We just know something is going to happen.
I've had a professional opportunity lately (the reason of my lack of time to write) that I believe to prove this theory.
The theory that future is made by ourselves.
But, hey, I am not talking about great things... I believe that little but powerful details build our destiny. For the good or not.
Quoting a good friend of mine (that quoted someone else)... "God is in the details".
I believe the results are in the details.
So don't avoid doing things if you can't make these connections to your future, because this is something we don't know much about.
Try new things, be open minded, do good stuff. You'll see how helpful it will be to you one day.
Have a good week! (am back!) :o)

My testimony

2007-07-28T19:55:00.000-03:00

I can't forget their faces...
Their way to look at me as if we had met before.
Their request for my lap as if I were their mom.

I can't forget their laughs...
Their smiles as if their lives were only happiness.
Their hugs as if we could stay like this forever.

I can't forget that moment...
With so much love for a stranger.
A tough moment to say goodbye.

These words represent exactly what I felt yesterday, when visiting (for the first time) an orphanage.

I thank God for this opportunity, showing me life just the way it is (or it should be).
When I left, all I could remember was a big lesson - of happiness, hope and true love.

Your path can make the difference

2007-07-15T18:51:00.000-03:00

"Success is a journey not a destination."
Ben Letterman

I read this phrase in a Mizuno's advertising a month ago.
Do I agree with that? I thought a thousand times... and couldn't stop thinking about it. Maybe there was some kind of "secret of happiness" in it... Maybe not. But the thing is that after a while I realized it has a lot to say, so this is what this post is about.

People often live of making plans in order to guarantee a successful future. Sometimes thinking that one day they won't have to fight in "battles" anymore. They'll won and that's it. But the truth is that battles never finish.

When you are a child your battle is to finish school. Then you get older and have to finish high school. After that, your struggles become what course you will take at the university... Ufff, you've done all that... you must find a job... where? how? am I going to be good at it? how much? You think "things will get better when I find a better job". You get it! After a while, it isn't enough... you get married, have a family, there are a lot of expenses... you think about working long hours to get some extra money, but just for a short time... you want to buy a car, plus you need to save money to be able to buy a house in the future... The future comes... you have all this. You thought you'd be able to relax and enjoy... but now you'll have to keep all your goods and help your kids, that now are getting married and having their children.

In our lives we create expectations for some sort of future that many times never come. It happens because we expect it to be the end of our frustation, stress, struggles, challenges and the consolidation of our success, happiness, freedom, tranquility.

When we think of it as a destination, we get frustrated. We live the present planning a great future and when it comes we realize it is ephemeral. It isn't endless because life is a journey. Also it is success which it is daily conquered by our attitudes, by the path we choose. No one can get in the south if running to the north. So don't give the responsability of your happiness to the future. Put your hands to work and make the difference now. Because this is what will give you more chances of being successful. And remember to keep doing it, because it's a journey, not a destination.

When travelling, enjoy planning as much as doing the trip itself. It will guarantee you more time of excitement. When working, celebrate each step you make, and your path will be more enjoyable. When living, be thankful for every bless you receive, and you'll be able to see how wonderful your life is.

Wish you have a great week! :o)

The Marvellous City from The Christ Reedemer

2007-07-15T17:02:00.000-03:00

Some photos of Rio de Janeiro from the Statue of Jesus.

2007-07-08T20:03:00.000-03:00

Yesterday the New 7 Wonders of the world were announced.

For my sweet surprise my city (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) was chosen as a new wonder because of our beautiful and famous Statue of Christ Redeemer!

I am so happy, especially because it is a statue of Jesus.
It is an inspiration from everyone who visit the statue and for those who have the privilege to see the statue everyday, like me! :o)

The Christ Redeemer from New7Wonders's website:

"This statue of Jesus stands some 38 meters tall, atop the Corcovado mountain overlooking Rio de Janeiro. The statue took five years to construct and was inaugurated on October 12, 1931. It has become a symbol of the city and of the warmth of the Brazilian people, who receive visitors with open arms. "

The New 7 Wonders of the World:
The Great Wall of China, Petra, Chichén Itzá , the Statue of Christ Redeemer, the Colosseum, Machu Picchu and the Taj Mahal.

My declaration of love

2007-07-01T15:17:00.000-03:00

What's the difference of being different?

2007-06-27T10:44:00.000-03:00

Yesterday I felt like Shrek... not belonging to the world.
I felt like a stranger and that made me feel really sad.
But you know what? Today I see a positive side of it.

I mean... what is the point of being like everyone?
Being different doesn't mean, in the first place, being wrong.
Being different means being yourself.
How many brilliant and talented people have contributed to the world? Weren't they different? That's why they could make the difference.

From this point of view, I kinda like the idea of being different. In fact, I love that!
Check out what people think about being different...

"In order to be irreplaceable one must always be different." (Coco Chanel)

"Be daring, be different, be impractical, be anything that will assert integrity of purpose and imaginative vision against the play-it-safers, the creatures of the commonplace, the slaves of the ordinary." (Cecil Beaton)

"Share our similarities, celebrate our differences." (M. Scott Peck)

"Always show the you in you that makes you the you that you are." (Chidinma Obietikponah)

"When we lose the right to be different, we lose the privilege to be free." (Charles Evans Hughes)

Therefore, we should always respect the difference and never let anyone bring us down.

Have a niiiiiiiiiiiiiice week! :o)

What is 'for sure'?

2007-06-10T11:01:00.000-03:00

photo: of mine (check out more here)

How many times we get surprises from life...
Sometimes desired in our hearts, they can make us the happiest person in the world.
Other times unexpected, they hurt us so profoundly that it seems to be hard to breath.
These daily surprises of life are actually the life itself.

I am the kind of person who make plans for everything, living always ahead of time. Or behind, analyzing my past. My favorite questions are "Have I done the right thing?" or "What would have happened if I had done that?". Questions that will never end, because past and future will last forever.

So today I ask "What about today?". Why do we make so many plans if these surprises of life come, sometimes obligating us to start all over again?

I still believe it is important to think of both past and future; to avoid mistakes, to improve, to achieve goals, to make the difference, to be happy... But if that costs us the present, then we should care less for the future. No one should live only of plans or memories. Much better to make them tools to live a better life... now! ;o)

"Of everything, 3 things last:
The certainty that we are starting;
The certainty that we must continue;
The certainty that we might be interrupted before we finish;

Therefore, we should:
Make the interruption a new path;
The falling, a dance step;
The fear, a staircase;
The dream, a bridge;
The search, a encounter;
And then, it will have been worth it".
(Fernando Pessoa)

Althought no one is able to get back to the past to make a new beginning, everyone can start now and make a new end". (Chico Xavier)

"Wherever you are now, this is the place to start" (Kabir)

Wish you all the best!

P.S. These poems were translated by myself from portuguese.

Baz Luhrmann - Everybody's Free (To Wear Sunscreen)

2007-06-07T12:53:00.001-03:00

Note: I wasn't able to make a colorful and interesting post from youtube, so I've decided to use my creativity (okay) in the next post. Enjoy!

Everybody's Free

2007-06-07T12:47:00.001-03:00

Everybody's Free (To Wear Sunscreen)- Baz Luhrmann

While organizing some stuff at the office last night I found an 'old' CD that I brought home and played this morning. Everybody's Free was the first song. So touching. So true. Just amazing. So I've posted the video here.

It's funny how everytime I feel blue something great happens to show me how life is incredible and marvellous. God is always there to help us out. Wow! It's so good to exist!

My Top 10 phrases:

Don't be reckless with other people's hearts. Don't put up with people who are reckless with yours.
Don't waste your time on jealousy. Sometimes you're ahead, sometimes you're behind.
Remember compliments you receive. Forget the insults.
Don't feel guilty if you don't know what you want to do with your life. The most interesting people I know didn't know at 22 what they wanted to do with their lives.Some of the most interesting 40-year-olds I know still don't.
Whatever you do, don't congratulate yourself too much, or berate yourself either. Your choices are half chance. So are everybody else's.
Get to know your parents. You never know when they'll be gone for good. Be nice to your siblings. They're your best link to your past and the people most likely to stick with you in the future.
Understand that friends come and go, but with a precious few you should hold on. Work hard to bridge the gaps in geography and lifestyle, because the older you get, the more you need the people who knew you when you were young.
Travel.
Respect your elders.
Don't expect anyone else to support you. Maybe you have a trust fund. Maybe you'll have a wealthy spouse. But you never know when either one might run out.

"Brother and sister together we'll make it through, Someday a spirit will take you and guide you thereI know that you're hurting but I've been waiting there for you and I'll be there just helping you out whenever I can..."

Everybody's Free, Everybody's Free To Feel Good!

Check out more at Wikipedia

Quoting a stranger

2007-06-03T18:10:00.000-03:00

I don't know who wrote this but it has been circulating in the internet, so I've decided to post it here. It is simple but true.

"Work like you don't need the money,
Love like you've never been hurt,
And treat people, just the way you want to be treated."

Não sei quem escreveu isso mas tem circulado na internet, então decidi postá-lo aqui. É simples, mas verdadeiro.

"Tabalhe como se não precisasse de dinheiro,
Ame como se nunca tivesse se magoado,
E trate aos outros exatamente como gostaria de ser tratado."

How to be Happy :: Como ser feliz

2007-05-27T12:25:00.000-03:00

Curious to know what people should do in order to be happy?

Now you can find out at How to Be Happy website, where the writer Michael Anthony introduces himself and his free e-book called "How to Be Happy and Have Fun Changing the World".

He believes that true and lasting happiness always comes from within (and so do I), and continues... "This free happy ebook reveals simple, but profound insights that will help everyone that uses them to live a more fulfilled and happier life. If enough individuals use them, it will help change our world for the better."

It's a very cool website to visit, plus, there are also interesting links related to happiness. I've just downloaded his book. Help him to spread the happiness you too! :o)

****

Interessado em saber o que as pessoas devem fazer para serem felizes?

Agora você já pode, visitando o site How to Be Happy (Como ser feliz) onde o escritor Michael Anthony apresenta seu e-livro "How to Be Happy and Have Fun Changing the World" ou "Como ser feliz e se divertir mudando o mundo".

Ele acredita que a verdadeira e duradoura felicidade vem sempre de dentro (e eu concordo) e continua... "Este livro revela uma simples, mas profunda percepção que ajudará a qualquer um que usá-lo a viver uma vida mais feliz e completa. Se muitas pessoas o fizerem, ajudarão também a melhorar o mundo."

Vale a pena visitar o site, que também traz diversos links interessantes sobre felicidade. Eu acabei de dar download deste livro. Ajude você também a espalhar felicidade! :o)

Clique aqui para download da versão em português do livro. É preciso ter Acrobat Reader.

Marisa Monte - Gentileza

2007-05-16T20:44:00.001-03:00

Movie clip of the song about the story of Profeta Gentileza.

I love what it says: "Love, the word that gives freedom"

Gentleness generates Gentleness

2007-05-10T05:07:00.001-03:00

Gentleness generates gentleness.

How a simple phrase can make so much sense nowadays.

A simple attitude that makes the difference in a world hungry for peace and love.

I want to take the example of a man called José Datrino or Profeta Gentileza, that became famous in 80's for his words written under a viaduct in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

While a child he had a very simple life in a rural area, where he started to work very young with his 9 brothers. Because of his work he learned to brake in donkeys. Many years later, he would describe himself as "the tamer of not clarified urban men".

When he was 12 years-old, he started to have premonitions about his mission in the world, where he believed one day he would leave family and possessions to do it. Eight years later he moved to Rio, where he got married and had 5 children. There he opened his small company, which became successful.

In 1961 there was a big fire at the circus called "Gran Circus North-American", a tragedy that killed more than 500 people, most of them children. Some days after, José got up saying that he was called to abandon the material world to dedicate himself only to the espiritual life. He got into his truck and went to the place of the tragedy and planted a garden. He lived there for 4 years, where he did volunteer, consolating the families of the victims with his words of kindness.

After leaving this place (which was named "Gentleness Paradise"), Profeta Gentileza started his journey as a hiker. He crossed all the city, doing his 'preaching' of words of love, generosity and respect for everyone around. For those who would call him crazy he would say "I am crazy to love you and mad to save you".

In the 80's he chose 56 walls in the city to write his manifest (in green and yellow), criticizing the world and giving his alternative to the illness of the civilization. His main phrase was "Gentleness generates gentleness".

He was 79 years old when he died, in 1996, in the city where his family lives. Some years later, these columns got damaged by vandalists. After that they were painted with gray. Some people protested, so the prefecture of Rio helped to organize the project "Rio of Gentleness", which restaured his paints. He became famous and many books and articles were written about him, besides a song of a famous brazilian singer, Marisa Montes.

From this story I can see how we can change things by our attitudes. I am sure there are many people doing amazing things to the others, but we can also do. What we do, we get back. May we plant love and generosity to make the world a better one. Love and peace to you!

Sometimes, a hug is all what we need.

2007-04-29T12:16:00.001-03:00

Free Hugs Campaign is based on a real life story of Juan Mann. Hope it inspires you as it did to me!

If you are too shy to hug strangers, start giving smiles! What matters is that we can always give something good (and free of costs) to the others who need. And believe, sometimes that's the best we can give.

Lots of hugs, smiles and kisses to you!

Our daily choice

2007-04-27T14:11:00.000-03:00

Everyday we have difficulties.
But everyday we have opportunities.

Remember life is short.
We should make of our daily choice the best one, renewing our votes of hope and faith and staying happy.

Sometimes bad things happen, bringing us unsureness, but trusting in God gives back peace and love into our hearts.

May you all have good options everyday! and thanks for the support. :o)

Hunted

2007-04-23T13:17:00.000-03:00

Hey, I invite you to check out this blog - The Cool Hunter.
It is really worth it!
Have a good week. ;o)

Living... not just existing

2007-04-22T10:19:00.000-03:00

This week I've thought I couldn't post anything. How could I write about happiness if inside my heart was crying? I've had some struggles and a great loss in my family. My uncle has passed away after suffering from a heart attack. He would get married in 3 months, that was his dream.

Why? I thought. What does that mean? I knew there was something else to learn from that. I believe it always has, although many times we don't see. This questions ended up as I read an e-mail that showed me the difference from living and existing.

"The last day"

That was his last day, but he didn't know. In that morning, he wanted to stay in bed a little longer. He was tired and hasn't had a good night of sleep. He gave up the idea, thinking of how many things he should do at the office. He got ready automatically, paying no attention to his exausted semblant, result of so many nights without sleep. He had his coffee in a hurry and left, wishing a good morning that couldn't convince even himself. He disconsidered his wife's lips, who offered a kiss of good-bye. He couldn't understand why she complained so much about his absence, since he was being able to mantain a high standard of life for his family.

In the car he called his daugther. He smiled as she told him his great son has given his first steps. He became serious again as she reminded him that for long time he hasn't showed up to see his great son. She invited him for lunch, but he refused. He would love to see them, but that day he couldn't be absent from the company. Maybe next weekend, he thought.

He arrived at the office and badly said hi to his co-workers. He was full of compromises so decided to start right away. For lunch, he had a sandwich and a diet soda that he asked to his secretary to buy. His colesterol has high; he needed a check-up but that would be for the next month. He ate it fast while reading some papers he would use in the afternoon meeting. He felt dizzy and remembered of his doctor warning, but thought it was temporary, needing only a strong coffee without sugar.

After lunch, he continued his work. More papers to read, more decisions to make, more compromises. Leaving late for a meeting he decided not to wait for the elevator. He ran down the stairs, got into the car and felt dizzy again, but also felt a strong pain in his heart.

He became out of breath... the pain increased... everything disappeared from his eyes as he started seeing scenes of a film he knew very well... his wife, great son, daughter, and all people he liked most. Why didn't he have lunch with his daugther and great son? What did his wife say while he was leaving the house this morning? The pain has continued but now he felt a greater one: the repentance.

He heard the noise of something breaking inside his heart and his eyes cried silent tears. He wanted to live, to have another chance, he wanted to go back home and kiss his wife, hug his daugther, play with his great son... He wanted but there was no more time.

Many people live as if they would never die and die without living. May we never forget the real meaning of life.

Interesting life

2007-04-15T10:37:00.000-03:00

How interesting life is.

This week has been tiring for me and for some time I thought I couldn't stand such stressful atmosphere. I shared this with a co-worker, who said: "This is the right moment for you to make the difference, by holding tight, instead of giving up". That simple and almost obvious phrase was enough for me to have my enthusiasm and optimism back.

Today, I've got a message from a person I worked with about 3 years ago. She is now married, pregnant and looks very happy. Her message was exactly the song I sang to her when she needed help. We were working together by that time.

"Everything I want, I'll try even harder than before,
wherever my destiny might be, I'll search for the luck and be happy.
Everything I want, my Father in heaven will give me,
He will give me all the courageous I want,
and may I never lose my strengh to fight."

It really touched my heart, especially because the same song has so much to do with me now. Life is so interesting. It's a cicle. Things come and go... then they come back again. That's why it is called Life.

Perfection

2007-04-08T17:16:00.000-03:00

That's what I first saw as I got up this early morning. A sweet surprise of a beautiful sunrise. At that time, my reaction was to catch my camera and take as many shots as I could. So I did.

I didn't want to forget this moment ever. Especially because I felt, at that very moment, the greatness of God. And His incredible creation.

Happy Easter to everyone! :o)

Mixing thoughts

2007-04-01T09:48:00.000-03:00

What you'll read now it's a mix of thoughts from different sources...

There is a way to be good again.

You should never let anyone take from you:

Your faith in love, even in times of war;

Your power to transform lives;

Your hope to make dreams come true;

Your freedom's mind;

Your pride to be yourself, even with imperfections;

Your energy to start over again;

Your courage to face challenges;

Your capacity of asking for help;

Your happiness in doing the right thing;

Your certainty that life is worth it!

The worst place to be in this life is in the half-way.
Never be conformed with less than everything.

Inspired in a romance

2007-03-24T23:46:00.000-03:00

I've just finished reading the book The Kite Runner from Khaled Hosseini. I found it amazing and touching. A beautiful story that I highly recommend in case you haven't read it yet.

"For you, a thousand times over!" he said to his friend.

I kept thinking of how special a relationship must be for someone to say that. I believe it has to exist a sentiment, strong enough to make everything worth it, even a sacrifice.

Other amazing thing is to know that, when done by heart, this 'sacrifice' can be transformed in such happiness for the person who does it.

As written in the book Minutes of Wisdom:

Always try to give the most you can...
a good word...
a smile...
a gesture of incentive...
a generous thought...
And you will feel the greatest truth in your heart: is much better to give than to receive!
Haven't you noticed it yet? Try it then!
Help someone with no interest, and observe how it will come and knock at your door, with hands full of joy, the greatest happiness that you could ever known in your life:
the happiness of giving!

This post has just reminded me of a few people. Yes, it's really good to love.

Too meaningful

2007-03-20T22:29:00.000-03:00

That's from a small research I did some weeks ago. I didn't use it at that time but couldn't erase nor leave it as draft. They are too meaningful for that. Enjoy.

Wisdom is the ability, developed through experience, insight and reflection, to discern truth and exercise good judgment.

"Appear weak when you are strong, and strong when you are weak." -- Sun Tzu

"Wise men talk because they have something to say; fools, because they have to say something." -- Plato

"I hope our wisdom will grow with our power, and teach us, that the less we use our power the greater it will be." -- Thomas Jefferson

How come?

2007-03-14T10:47:00.000-03:00

"How come can you leave at this time and still have a smile in your face?"

That was what I heard from a co-worker last night, as I left the office at 10 pm. I stopped for a moment, trying to figure that out. "What could make me feel that happy?" I thought for a second. Then I remembered of an article that I read a few days ago and has a lot to do with it.

"The 90/10 Principle" - by Stephen Covey

What is this principle?
10% of life is made up of what happens to you.
90% of life is decided by how you react.

What does this mean?
We really have no control over 10% of what happens to us. We cannot stop the car from breaking down. The plane will be late arriving, which throws our whole schedule off. A driver may cut us off in traffic. We have no control over this 10%. The other 90% is different. You determine the other 90%. How? By your reaction.

You cannot control a red light, but you can control your reaction. Let's use an example. You are eating breakfast with your family. Your daughter knocks over a cup of coffee onto your business shirt. You have no control over what just what happened. What happens when the next will be determined by how you react.

You curse. You harshly scold your daughter for knocking the cup over. She breaks down in tears. After scolding her, you turn to your spouse and criticize her for placing the cup too close to the edge of the table. A short verbal battle follows. You storm upstairs and change your shirt.

Back downstairs, you find your daughter has been too busy crying to finish breakfast and get ready for school. She misses the bus. Your spouse must leave immediately for work. You rush to the car and drive your daughter to school.

Because you are late, you drive 40 miles an hour in a 30 mph speed limit. After a 15-minute delay and throwing $60 traffic fine away, you arrive at school. Your daughter runs into the building without saying goodbye. After arriving at the office 20 minutes late, you find you forgot your briefcase. Your day has started terrible. As it continues, it seems to get worse and worse.

You look forward to coming home, When you arrive home, you find small wedge in your relationship with your spouse and daughter. Why?

Because of how you reacted in the morning. Why did you have a bad day?
A) Did the coffee cause it?
B) Did your daughter cause it?
C) Did the policeman cause it?
D) Did you cause it?

The answer is D. You had no control over what happened with the coffee. How you reacted in those 5 seconds is what caused your bad day.

Here is what could have and should have happened. Coffee splashes over you. Your daughter is about to cry. You gently say, "It's OK honey, you just need to be more careful next time."

Grabbing a towel you rush upstairs. After grabbing a new shirt and your briefcase, you come back down in time to look through the window and see your child getting on the bus. She turns and waves. You arrive 5 minutes early and cheerfully greet the staff. Your boss comments on how good the day you are having.

Notice the difference? Two different scenarios. Both started the same. Both ended different. Why? Because of how you REACTED. You really do not have any control over 10% of what happens. The other 90% was determined by your reaction.

For more information on Covey's programmes, visit www.stephencovey.com

There are only two days in a year that nothing can be done. One is yesterday and the other is tomorrow. Therefore, TODAY is the day to love, trust, act and LIVE.

Have a good day! ;o)

Making a parallel...

2007-03-10T19:59:00.000-03:00

I've been practicing rowing for 2 weeks. Last week I had an interesting experience. The tank where the beginners practice (including me) was pretty full, except for a single spot in the front. The instructor called me. "Okay, it's just a spot", I thought. As soon as I sat there he said "You are the watch of this boat. Whatever you do, they'll copy you." Then he repeated the same instructions to the group.

Trying to avoid an embarassing moment I whispered "It's my third class, isn't it better if I exchange with someone more experient?". "No, you'll be okay." he replied. At this time, I became sure it wasn't going to be an easy task. I was right.

During the trainning, part of my mind was out of there. There were so many feelings going on at this time... It was just a simple trainning day, but the moment and atmosphere made this particular day greater than itself. I could only think of how similar sports and life can be sometimes.

Let me explain what I meant by that... In that day, I was nervous because I had the control of something I believed not to be prepared for. I knew every single movement would be copied by the others. I was afraid to fail and to be the responsible for their failures too. Okay, it was just a regular trainning day. Besides that, there was no risk in any mistake I could make. But my mind had experimented something else that did make me reflect...

Many times we are sitting in the first spot of a boat. A special one. Our family's boat. Our company's boat. Our marriage's boat. Not always we know what it does really mean. Not always we are prepared for it. But the fact is, in one moment of our lives, we all sit in the front of the boat.

So what we must remember is that when sitting in the first spot, we have some advantages, like control, some kind of 'power', status. But we certainly have even more responsabilities. Because we are in the front, we have the best view in the group, which means we have to give the direction, the rythym, the speed. Also our movements and attitudes are copied and followed by the others.

We are guides when we become mothers and fathers. Oldest brothers and sisters. Best friends, teachers, executives of big companies. There are tons of examples. The most important thing is to know that in whatever you do, you will have someone who is following your path. Someone who admires you, respects you, loves you. Someone who depends on you.

So remember to do always your best, being an example for those who are on your boat.

More from Coelho

2007-03-01T23:23:00.000-03:00

A wise man arrived in a village called Akbar but people didn't give him much importance. Apart from a small young group, the wise man couldn't be of anyone else's interest; in contrary, he became the reason of irony for the villagers. One day he was taking a walk with his disciples through the main street, when a group of men and women started insulting him. The wise man approached them and blessed them. As he walked out from there, one of the disciples commented: "They said terrible things, and you responded with beautiful words". The wise man responded: "One can only offer what he has".

This passage was adapted from an article written recently by Paulo Coelho in a magazine. It reminded me that the best way to react to any kind of aggression or disrespect is to do exactly the opposite. In fact it's contraditory to complain or disgard others attitudes if we react to them in the same way. So let's remember to use our strongest weapon when facing a hard situation... our heart!

Wish you a sweet weekend! ;o)

Be Happy!

2007-02-23T22:23:00.000-03:00

A forwarded message that I received in my e-mail this week...

___________**__**_____*
___________***_*__*_____*
__________****_____**___******
_________*****______**_*______** Being happy is not
________*****_______**________*
________*****_______*_______* having a perfect life; ________******_____*_______*
_________******____*______*Being happy is recognizing
__________********_______*
__***_________**______** that is worthy it to live
*******__________**
_*******_________* even with all challenges and losses.
__******_________*
___***___*_______*
___________*_____*
_______****_*___* Being happy is stop
_____******__*_**
____*******___** being victim of the problems
____*****______*
____**_________*to be the author of your own story...
_____*_________*
_______________*
_______________* Being happy is a conquest not a coincidence.
_______________*

"Happiness is something that is multiplied when it is divided"

2007-02-20T19:08:00.000-03:00

This is so true. Sentiments are the only thing (as far as I can remember or recall) capable of being multiplied when shared. Love, peace, happiness... for these things, we all should use this 'math' on daily basis.

I've read this phrase today in the book "By the river Piedra I sat down and wept", written 13 years ago by the famous brazilian writer Paulo Coelho.

Besides this thoughtful sentence, I am also quoting a part that I liked a lot and wanted to share with you.

"(...) Every day God gives us - with the sun - one moment when it is possible to change everything that makes us unhappy. Everyday we try to pretend that we don't perceive this moment, or that it doesn't exist, that today is like yesterday and it will be like tomorrow.
But, those who pay attention to their days, find their magic instant. It can be hidden in the time we put the key in the door in the morning, in the instant of the silence right after the dinner, in one thousand and one things that seem to be equal to us. This moment exists - a moment when all the strengh of the stars passes by us, and permits us to do miracles. The happiness sometimes is a bless - but it is generally a conquer. (...)"

Thank you!

2007-02-19T18:33:00.000-03:00

It was an interesting and sweet surprise! My blog was nominated "the best blog of the day".

Well, I don't know much about this award; I just know that someone has nominated my blog as "the best blog of the day". And that's pretty cool. Even though it might have come from just one person, it means a lot to me. It shows how important we can be to other people and their importance to us as well.

It proves that everyday our simple attitudes influence people's lives and in many cases we don't even notice. Every contact, smile, 'hi', every single movement has impact to the others around.

Thank you reader. You make all the difference to me. I only have a few readers, but even if I had just one, it would be worth it to keep writing. I've been learning a lot from you. Thanks, thanks and thanks! ;o)

Would you like to hold the candle?

2007-02-16T09:16:00.000-03:00

There is a story that comes to my mind every now and then, since I've heard it from a close friend of mine. That was some days ago, while I was sort of complaining about having too much responsabilities to carry on.

When he told me that story, I stopped. There wasn't space for complaining anymore. By that time, I became sure that life is what you want it to be. It is also what you choose to see.

I might not tell the story the best way, but I'll try. By the moment I heard it, it sounded magic to me...

Sometimes life puts you in a position, as if you were holding a candle. This candle is necessary to illuminate yourself and the others around you. It is dark and you are the person who holds the candle.

While you see yourself as a privileged person for being in that position, you'll be very proud, happy and thankful. On the other hand, as soon as you start thinking of it as tiring or an obligation, the simple candle will turn to a heavy pack to carry. Then you will stop and see all the darkness around you.

So, if you are in this position... if you are the one who carries the candle in your family, in your job, among your friends... think twice before you decide to stop to see the darkness. See yourself as a hero, if necessary, but don't see this position as a pack, cause it is not. Remember that not everybody is enough prepared to hold the candle. Just some people are.

It was interesting to read a verse this morning in the Bible, right after I decided to write this post. The verse is from the book of John. "I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness". John 12:46

*Tomorrow the carnival starts here in Brazil, so I won't be logging much. I'll take advantage of my broken PC to take a rest and enjoy the sun... Hope you all have a good weekend! God bless! :o)

Priorities...

2007-02-11T17:01:00.000-03:00

I am impressed by the fact that most people doesn't know what is really important in their lives. In fact, everybody knows what is best and could make their own top 10 list, but theory sometimes is far away from the reality. I myself have had a hard time trying to balance my priorities. And it seems that I never get it.

I had a teacher in my master who used to compare economy to a short blanket. He used to say "If the country reduces the interests in order to acelerate the economy, it will suffer from inflation. On the other hand, if it increases the interests in order to control the inflation, it will suffer from stagnation". From that I want to make a parallel to our lives. To cover all we need or want we sometimes change our priorities. In this way, we are constantly trying to balance our lives, though not always with success.

Since the last few weeks I've had some struggles. I've had no answer for them or maybe I just couldn't see their real importance. This weekend something became clear in my mind. Actually I got this 'message' from another situation a week before but I didn't give much attention to it. Now it is weekend and I am sick on my bed. Fever.

It's amazing how many desires we have in life. To have a good job; to be well paid; to be gorgeous, smart and thin; to buy a big house and a brand new car; to have great kids and a perfect wife or husband; and so on.

That's ok. It's good for us to have dreams and ambitions. They are great motivation. I also have many desires like that. The point is we usually forget other things that are much more important than all this stuff, just because we consider them as 'default'. We just remember them when we miss them. In example, when you are sick, you feel like you would give all you have just to be healthy again. When you are facing a hard time your priorities change; your old ambitions disappear.

Ask anyone who is sick what is the most important thing for them to have. Ask anyone who has lost someone in their family what they would ask for, if they could.

What I want to say is that we must remember what is really essencial in our lives. Never put yourself, your religion, family, friends, hobbies or whatever is important to you, aside. I know that other stuff might demand more attention for some time. But don't make it endless. We usually think we have time to do everything in the future. But we don't, unless we learn how to balance our lives. I say that to myself before anyone cause I must learn that too. And I felt like writing about this in my blog because in someway I thought it could be helpful.

May we always be thankful to God for these 'default' blesses, because they do make our dreams possible!!! I am very happy with the idea of starting swimming this week.

Ummm... it's so good to know that one day I'll get there! :o)

How would the world be if...

2007-02-10T12:29:00.000-03:00

I want to share with you a passage that my friend Fari took from the Bible and sent to me yesterday. It has a lot to do with this blog cause it shows us some important attitudes we all should be guided by. Those are:

Compassion
Kindness
Humility
Gentleness
Patience
Forgiveness
Peace
Thankfulness

Each one is important and can make all the difference in our lives and relationships.

Now I invite you to think of how many wrong things (like wars, arguments and violence in general) wouldn't happen if the world were guided by these amazing words?
May we be the example around us. Have an awesome week! :o)

Colossians 3:12-17 Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

I feel like writing poetry...

2007-02-03T10:30:00.000-03:00

Since the last few days I feel like writing poetry. Many things have come to my mind, but at the same time, nothing has made sense to be written. I guess I'll have to insist in writing about my thoughts until I get something interesting. To fullfill my current desire I've decided to write down some verses from songs I like. Because they are in portuguese, at least in english they will sound like new poetry to me. :P

I've been working all day
I've been thinking a lot
I've been doing some things
That are not quite right
I've been thinking about you
I've been thinking about you
When will you return?

***
Who has invented the love?
Please explain to me
Who has invented the love?
Please explain to me
While life comes and goes
You look for someone
That one day will tell you
I just want to stay with you
Who has invented the love?

***
They tell me about a place
But where is it?
Where there are virtue and intelligence
and people are good and sensitive
and the light in my heart
is what can save me

Where is that place?
Where is that light?
If what I see is so sad
and what we do is so wrong?

And they told me that place can be
always at your side
and the happiness inside you
because your life is light

Because of it, I ask you please
Think of me, pray for me
And tell me: - that far away place is inside you
and tell me that our lives are light
tell me that our lives are light

Já faz alguns dias que me sinto como se escrevendo poesia. Muitas coisas vieram à minha mente, mas ao mesmo tempo, nada que fizesse sentido para ser escrito. Acho que terei de insistir em escrever meus pensamentos até produzir algo interessante. Para atender meu desejo imediato, decidi escrever alguns versos de canções que gosto. Como são em português, ao menos na versão em inglês eles me parecerão nova poesia. :P

Tenho trabalhado o dia todo
Tenho pensado bastante
Tenho feito algumas coisas
Que não estão muito corretas
Quando você retorna?

***
Quem inventou o amor
Me explica por favor
Quem inventou o amor
Me explica por favor
Enquanto a vida vai e vem
Você procura achar alguém
Que um dia possa lhe dizer
Quero ficar só com você

***
Falam de um lugar
Mas onde é que está?
Onde há virtude e inteligência
E as pessoas são boas e sensíveis
E que a luz no coração
É o que pode me salvar

Onde está esse lugar?
Onde está essa luz?
Se o que vejo é tão triste
E o que fazemos tão errado?

E me disseram este lugar pode estar
sempre ao seu lado
E a alegria dentro de você
Porque sua vida é luz

Por isso lhe peço por favor
Pense em mim, ore por mim
E me diga: -este lugar distante está dentro de você
E me diga que nossa vida é luz
Diga que nossa vida é luz

Copying Beethoven

2007-01-27T10:08:00.005-03:00

By the title you might think this post is sort of old, since this movie came to theaters in November, 2006. In fact, I am writing about "Copying Beethoven" because I want to bring up something more than the film itself. The reason for writing this post is to make you think rather than giving you information.

Even though this drama has been 'created', it has still a beautiful message. That's what I want to share with you.

First believe in yourself. Then act. Don't miss either.
Surpass your limits. It is always possible.
Pursue your dreams. That means dedication and also sacrifices.
Listen to your heart. It always tells you what is the best.
Have passion in all that you do. Use love as your fuel.
Be yourself, whole. You have amazing things to share with the world.
Life isn't black and white. Don't miss the variations of the gray.
Nobody is perfect. Everybody is beautiful. Get to know the first; live according to the second.
Music is the language of the soul.
Find out your mission, your gift. And contribute to make a better world.

I just loved the movie! :o)

Now I'd like to hear from you. Have you watched it yet? What did you think of it? If not, I'll be waiting for you to get it and come back to make your comment, ok? :P

Talvez o título faça você pensar que este post é antigo, uma vez que este filme foi lançado no cinema em Novembro de 2006. Na verdade, escrevo "Copying Beethoven" para trazer algo além do filme em si. Escrevo hoje muito mais para fazê-lo pensar do que necessariamente informá-lo.

Embora este drama tenha sido "criado", ainda assim tem uma mensagem linda. Isso é o que quero compartilhar com vocês.

Primeiro acredite em você. Depois aja. Não ignore uma delas.
Ultrapasse seus limites. É sempre possível.
Persiga seus sonhos. Isso significa dedicação e também sacrifícios.
Escute seu coração. Ele sempre te diz o que é melhor.
Tenha paixão em tudo o que faz. Use o amor como seu combustível.
Seja você mesmo, completo. Compartilhe com o mundo as qualidades que existem em você.
A Vida não é preto e branco. Considere as variações de cinza.
Ninguém é perfeito. Todas as pessoas são bonitas. Reconheça a primeira sentença, mas viva de acordo com a segunda.
Música é a linguagem da alma.
Descubra sua missão, seu talento. E contribua para tornar o mundo melhor.

Eu simplesmente amei o filme! :o)

Agora eu quero saber de você. Já assistiu? O que achou? Se ainda não, espero você assistir e voltar aqui para deixar seu comentário, ok? :P

Learning to live in the chaos

2007-01-20T11:26:00.000-03:00

I think difficulties are important to bring us to our center, even though we have the tendency to think the opposite when facing a hard time.

This week has made me reflect a lot about this. It's been tiring and busy, including the longest hours ever, at the office. Many things didn't seem to be right this week. Besides that, I broke my first resolution for 2007 (no long hours... lol). Today is Saturday. This morning I had planned to catch up some stuff in the computer when I found out it was someway broken. I don't know, it's just not working. Maybe my PC is in a bad mood.

Anyway, all these little 'big' things would make me mad in other times. But I chose not to react that way. A friend of mine told me "we must learn how to live in the chaos". Things come and go, good or bad... so take advantage of what you have. I am now in my brother's computer, happy to have at least a chance to write in my blog today. Thanks bro! I'm going now to the office to finish some important stuff... I chose to be happy for having a job and being important to it. As written in an advertising... "the world is for doers". I am also glad because I have God in my life, that gives me endless strengh, peace and joy. :o)

Eu acredito que dificuldades são importantes para nos trazer ao nosso centro, embora tenhamos a tendência de pensar o oposto quando vivendo em tempos difíceis.

Essa semana me fez refletir bastante sobre isso. Tem sido difícil e intenso, incluindo as horas mais longas possíveis, no escritório. Muitas coisas não pareciam estar certas essa semana. Além disso, quebrei minha primeira promessa para 2007 (não às horas extras... hahaha). Hoje é sábado. Essa manhã eu tinha planejado resolver algumas pendências no computador quando vi que estava quebrado. Eu não sei, não está funcionando. Talvez meu PC esteja de mau humor.

Enfim, todas essas pequenas 'grandes' coisas me irritariam em outros tempos. Mas escolhi reagir de outra forma. Um amigo meu me disse "precisamos aprender a viver no caos". Coisas vêm e vão, boas ou ruins... então tire vantagem do que tem. Estou agora no computador do meu irmão, feliz por ter tido ao menos a chance de escrever no meu blog hoje. Valeu irmão! Estou indo agora ao escritório terminar algumas coisas importantes... escolhi ser feliz por ter um trabalho e ser importante para ele. Como escrito numa propaganda... "o mundo é de quem faz". Estou feliz porque tenho Deus em minha vida, que me dá força, paz e alegria infinita. :o)

The best experience I've ever had

2007-01-16T21:39:00.000-03:00

Last year I did my first trip abroad and I can say it was the best experience I've ever had! Travelling is like changing an old B&W televison to a brand-new colored widescreen. You see things so much better! You have so much fun! You amplified your limits, being able to make better comparisons. You become addict to it. :o)

Reading a magazine today I've found an interesting article, written by Martha Medeiros (a very good brazilian writer). She describes her experience in letting her teen daughter travel out of Brazil. At the end of the article there is a poem written by her about 12 years ago, that reminded me of my adventure to Canada.

"I've embarked my daughter in the ship and said, my daughter, go
said, my daughter go to find out what exists
in the other side of the ocean
I embarked and said, go
my daughter, find out what exists
that aren't possible to tell
said, go and look with your own eyes
what none love can detail
go, my dauhter, dream
and know the world better to better navigate
I said, go, my daughter
cross the frontiers and find
what exists in the other side, I said
go, that I'll wait for you here,
my daughter, I stay waiting for you,
I said go, that I keep your place".

Ano passado eu fiz minha primeira viagem para fora do país e posso dizer que foi a melhor experiência da minha vida! Viajar é como trocar uma TV antiga, em preto e branco, por uma novinha, colorida, tela grande. Você passa a ver as coisas tão melhor! Você se diverte tanto! Você amplia seus limites, se tornando capaz de fazer melhores comparações. Você fica viciado nisso. :o)

Lendo uma revista hoje, encontrei um artigo interessante escrito por Martha Medeiros (uma ótima escritora por sinal). Ela descreve sua experiência em deixar sua filha, muito jovem, viajar para fora do Brasil. Ao final do artigo ela cita um poema escrito por ela mesma há cerca de 12 anos, que lembrou minha aventura no Canadá.

"Embarquei minha filha no navio e disse, minha filha, vai
disse, minha filha vai
descobrir o que há do outro lado do mar
embarquei e disse, vai
minha filha, descobrir o que há
que não se pode contar
disse, vai e olha com teus olhos
o que amor nenhum pode detalhar
vai, minha filha, sonhar
e conhecer melhor o mundo para melhor navegar
disse, vai, minha filha
atravessar fronteiras e encontrar
o que existe do lado de lá, eu disse
vai, que eu fico te esperando aqui,
minha filha, eu fico te aguardando,
eu disse, vai que eu guardo o teu lugar".

Minutes of wisdom

2007-01-12T21:05:00.000-03:00

"Your light must shine from inside to outside. Manifest to everybody your interior light which vibrates in you through your acts and words of comprehension and optimism.
Be yourself your own light, illuminating all with your words of comfort and incentive, your smile of enthusiasm and encouragement, your example of faith and optimism."

Extracted from the book "Minutes of wisdom".

"Sua luz deve brilhar de dentro para fora. Procure manifestar a todos a luz interior que vibra em você, através de seus atos e de suas palavras de compreensão e otimismo. Seja você mesmo sua própria luz, iluminando a todos com suas palavras de conforto e incentivo, com seu sorriso de entusiasmo e de encorajamento, com seu exemplo de fé e otimismo. "

Extraído do livro "Minutos de sabedoria".

What I love in the countryside!

2007-01-09T19:36:00.000-03:00

My trip to the countryside was awesome! A bit of what (and who) I've seen there...
Minha viagem para o interior foi tudo de bom! Um pouco do que (e de quem) eu vi por lá...

There is much more at my Flickr album. Why don't you check it out? :P
Tem muito mais no meu álbum de fotos do Flickr. Por que você não dá uma conferida? :P

êtes-vous intéressé par le Français d'étude ?

2007-01-07T11:51:00.000-03:00

Using google to translate sentences to French, like I did in the title of this post?

This is a tip for brazilians who are interested in learning French online. Created last year from a partnership between Brazil and France , Francoclic is a free access website where you can learn French and also get to know more about the France culture.

It's a very good initiative of Brazil and France, that amplify the possibilities for people to learn another language. It is not enough to be able to communicate perfectly in French but it is a good start! Have fun! I will too! :)

Usando google para traduzir frases para o francês, como eu fiz no título deste post?

Uma dica para brasileiros interessados em aprender francês online. Criado ano passado de uma parceria entre Brasil e França, Francoclic é um site de acesso gratuito onde você pode aprender mais sobre a língua e cultura francesas.

Uma boa iniciativa do Brasil e da França, que amplia as possibilidades das pessoas em aprender outro idioma. Não é suficiente para se comunicar perfeitamente em francês mas é um ótimo início! Divirta-se! Eu também irei! :)

Tour Eiffel, de nuit - photo : F. Eberhardt

Some changes...

2007-01-06T18:59:00.000-03:00

After some reflection, I've decided to disactivate my other blog "why I say no". Although I do believe we have many wrong things to complain about (in a constructive way, of course) writing about it has changed my focus.

As written in a religious lyric: "I just want to bring to my memory what brings me hope".

This is the way I will contribute to make another world possible! :)

It's 2007!

2007-01-01T01:17:00.000-03:00

Have you made promises to 2007 yet?
Every year I make them, but forget in the first month. So I've had an idea to make a good use of my blog and write down my promises, in order to be able to check them later.

1) I will work less - no 'endless' long hours anymore. Yes, that's a tough one. I always make this promise but never realize it. This year I'll make it!

2) I will have enough sleep - which means discipline to turn off the computer... no internet stuff after 11pm. Ok, weekends are permited. yes! (this one is necessary because of the third promise)

3) I will practice sports - after one entire year doing nothing it is time to get back to the gym, dance class, jiu-jitsu, whatever makes me less sedentary.

4) I will make a good use of my time - taking care of my relationships, meeting new people, reading & writing, having fun, learning something new, loving more, helping more and keeping my heart in Jesus Christ.

Enthusiasm, passion and courage to you in this New Year!
Now I invite you to do the same... What are your promises to 2007?

Já fez suas promessas para 2007?
Todos os anos eu faço, mas esqueço deles logo no primeiro mês. Então tive a idéia de fazer bom uso do meu blog e escrever aqui minhas promessas, podendo checá-las ao longo do ano.

1) vou trabalhar menos - não às intermináveis horas extras. Sei, essa é difícil. Todo ano prometo isso e nunca cumpro. Mas esse ano eu consigo!

2) vou dormir o suficiente - o que significa ter disciplina para desligar o computador... nada de internet depois das 11 da noite. Ok, finais de semana estão permitidos. Oba! (essa é necessária por causa da 3ª promessa)

3) vou praticar esportes - depois de um ano inteiro sem fazer nada, é hora de voltar para a academia, aula de dança, jiu-jitsu, qualquer coisa que me torne menos sedentária.

4) vou fazer bom uso do meu tempo - cuidando dos meus relacionamentos, conhecendo pessoas novas, lendo & escrevendo, me divertindo, aprendendo algo novo, amando mais, ajudando mais e mantendo meu coração em Jesus Cristo.

Entusiasmo, paixão e coragem para você neste Ano Novo!

Agora convido você a fazer o mesmo... Quais são suas promessas para 2007?

My wish...

2006-12-31T19:11:00.000-03:00

Lots of happy moments in 2007!!!!!!! :)

Muitos momentos felizes em 2007!!!!!!!! :)

Christmas has gone but its spirit is still around...

2006-12-27T00:22:00.000-03:00

You can't miss "A Worldwide wish". It's a cool website where your wishes worth money and help others! You just need to hang your wishes on a Christmas tree, and they will donate $.10 per wish to a non-profit organization, called "Adopt-a-Classroom". They will donate up to $50,000, but we have less than $3.000 so far. It just depend on us! Let's make it! I am counting on you! :)

O Natal já passou mas o clima ainda continua...
Visite o site "A Worldwide wish". É um site legal onde seus desejos valem dinheiro e ajudam os outros! Você só precisa pendurar seus pedidos na árvore de natal e eles doarão $0,10 por pedido para a ONG "Adopt-a-Classroom". Eles poderão doar até $50.000, mas temos menos de $3.000 até agora. Só depende de nós! Não custa nada! Tô contando com você! :)

Is time money?

2006-12-22T21:15:00.000-03:00

People say time is money. I can't compare both. If that was true I'd have spent some money to get extra time in the exchange store. Time is what I've been missing most and I guess I'm not alone.

Time to hang out with friends. To have fun. To enjoy the sunset. To relax. To work for pleasure. Time to write. Time to read. Time to pray. Enough time to be tired to have time. This is what I wish to myself and to everyone on Christmas' day.

Tomorrow I am going to the countryside where my parents were born. I haven't seen my relatives for 2 years. I am all excited! It's a tiny place, in the middle of nowhere... A place where the time goes slow... :)

Merry X-mas!

As pessoas dizem que tempo é dinheiro. Eu não posso comparar os dois. Se isso fosse verdade eu teria gasto algum dinheiro para comprar tempo na loja de câmbio. Tempo é o que mais tenho sentido falta e acredito que não esteja sozinha.

Tempo para se reunir com amigos. Para se divertir. Para curtir o pôr do sol. Para relaxar. Para trabalhar por prazer. Tempo para escrever. Tempo para ler. Tempo para orar. Tempo suficiente para se cansar de ter tempo. Isso é o que desejo para mim mesma e para todos no dia de Natal.

Amanhã vou para o interior onde meus pais nasceram. Não tenho visto meus familiares há 2 anos. Estou toda empolgada! É um lugar minúsculo, no meio do nada... Um lugar onde o tempo anda devagar... :)

Feliz Natal!

It might be the x-mas atmosphere...

2006-12-17T19:46:00.000-03:00

After receiving all kinds of "forwarded" e-mails over the year, today I've decided to make a good use of them. I've picked up some phrases for you to meditate, though I have no idea who wrote them.

"Make your days to be worth to be remembered."
"We have been learning how to fly like the birds, how to swim like the fishes, but yet we haven't learned the sensitive art to live like brothers."
"I've learnt that we don't wait for the happiness to come, we look for it."
"The death is not the greatest loss in life. The greatest loss in life is what dies in ourselves while we live."
"There are people who transform the sun in a simple yellow stain. But there are those who make a simple yellow stain their own sun."

Deve ser o clima de Natal. Depois de receber todos os tipos de e-mails "encaminhados" ao longo do ano, hoje decidi fazer um bom uso deles. Escolhi algumas frases para você meditar, embora não tenha idéia de quem as escreveu.

"Faça seus dias valerem as lembranças."
"Temos aprendido a voar como os pássaros, a nadar como os peixes, mas ainda não aprendemos a sensível arte de viver como irmãos."
"Eu aprendi que não se espera a felicidade chegar, mas se procura por ela."
"A morte não é a maior perda da vida. A maior perda da vida é o que morre dentro de nós enquanto vivemos."
"Há pessoas que transformam o sol numa simples mancha amarela. Mas há aquelas que fazem de uma simples mancha amarela o próprio sol."

Inspiring... :)

2006-12-13T19:11:00.000-03:00

"I stay with the purity of the children's answers. That's life and it's beautiful. To live and not be ashamed to be happy. To sing and sing the beauty to be an eternal apprentice. I know that life should be better and it will be. But it doesn't impede me to repeat it's beautiful, it's beautiful and it's beautiful." (samba lyric)

We should never lose the purity of the children. This photo I took recently. It means a lot to me. I recommend you to visit "Children's portraits" group at Flickr. Children are inspiring!

"Eu fico com a pureza das respostas das crianças, é a vida e é bonita. Viver e não ter a vergonha de ser feliz. Cantar e cantar, a beleza de ser um eterno aprendiz. Eu sei, que a vida devia ser bem melhor e será. Mas isso não impede que eu repita, é bonita, é bonita e é bonita." (letra de samba)

Não deveríamos nunca perder a pureza das crianças. Esta foto eu tirei recentemente. Significa muito pra mim. Te recomendo visitar o grupo "Children's portraits" no Flickr. Crianças são inspiradoras!

Saving the world!!!

2006-12-11T19:30:00.000-03:00

Today I've visited a cool website called "Guapuruvu.com". Guapuruvu is the name of a typical species from the Atlantic Forest. According to the indian legend, finding a seed of guapuruvu was a sign of prosperity in the life of the village.

Guapuruvu.com was created in 1995 by 2 experienced forest engineers with a challenging objective: recuperate the most of the 93% of the Atlantic Forest that has been devastated since Brazil's colonization and maybe start a movement to save the planet, includding different aspects like arts, music, communication and people! On this website, you can buy a t-shirt or request a design work and the price you will pay is equivalent to the amount of trees they will plant... :) You can download songs, wallpapers and prints for free. All these are related to nature. You can also make your art available on this website and help with the cause!

I've tried it already... I've sent some pics and downloaded the dolphin's wallpaper and two songs... "Be reggae" from the green feeling band, and "May's flower" from Nego Leo!!!

Hoje eu visitei um site muito legal chamado "Guapuruvu.com". Guapuruvu é o nome de uma espécie típica da Mata Atlântica. De acordo com a lenda indígena, encontrar uma semente de guapuruvu era sinal de prosperidade para a vida da aldeia.

Guapuruvu.com foi criada em 1995 por dois engenheiros florestais experientes, com um objetivo desafiador: recuperar o máximo dos 93% de mata atlântica devastada desde a colonização do Brasil e quem sabe iniciar o movimento de salvar o planeta, incluindo diferentes aspectos como arte, música, comunicação e pessoas! Nesse site você pode comprar uma camiseta ou pedir um trabalho de design e o preço que você vai pagar é equivalente a quantidade de árvores que eles irão plantar... :) Você pode dar download de músicas, papéis de parede e estampas de graça. Todos esses relacionados à natureza. Você também pode tornar sua arte disponível no site e ajudar esta causa!

Eu já experimentei... Enviei algumas fotos pra lá e dei download do papel de parede do golfinho e de duas músicas... "Seja reggae" da banda Green Feeling e "Flor de Maio" de Nego Leo!!!

What's your choice?

2006-12-08T10:28:00.000-03:00

She had a dream, a not easy one... but she walked forward to it...
she was afraid, she could get hurt... but she took the risk...
she made a choice, she believed... and it became true...
She says "it's never easy to walk away from the dreams we invest in..." That could be my story, your story or someone's else story, cause it happens everyday, everywhere... But today I want to focus on Simonee's story... beautiful and touching... a prove that life is made by choices... to believe or not... to fight or give up...

As written in her website "Chichester's choice is a documentary that follows Simonee Chichester as she investigates the life of her homeless father, Edgar Chichester, who left the family when she was six years old. 23 years later, Simonee journeys to the streets of Brazil to reunite with Edgar in the hopes of understanding him and herself".

In this path to get support for her film, Simonee made Toronto more brazilian last night, with the "White party", described as a party that"embodies the Brazilian theme and tradition of wearing white on New Years Eve and symbolizes Simonee’s spiritual journey in Chichester’s Choice." Her story is an example of courage and determination to every one... Have you made your choice yet?

Ela tinha um sonho, nada fácil... mas andou ao seu encontro...
Ela tinha medo, podia se machucar... mas preferiu arriscar...
Ela fez uma escolha, acreditou... e o tornou realidade...
Ela diz "nunca é fácil fugir dos sonhos nos quais investimos".
Essa podia ser a minha história, a sua, ou a de qualquer um, porque acontece todo dia, em todo lugar...
Mas hoje eu quero focar na história da Simonee... bonita e tocante... a prova de que a vida é feita de escolhas... de acreditar ou não... de lutar ou desistir...

Como descreve seu próprio site "Chichester's choice é um documentário que acompanha Simonee Chichester enquanto ela investiga a vida de seu pai, morador de rua, Edgar Chichester, que abandonou a família quando ela tinha apenas 6 anos de idade. 23 anos depois, Simonee inicia sua jornada pelas ruas do Brasil para se encontrar, Edgar na esperança de entendê-lo assim como a si mesma."

Nesse caminho de conseguir suporte para seu filme, Simonee fez Toronto mais brasileira na noite passada, com a "White party", descrita como uma festa que "incorpora o tema brasileiro e a tradição de vestir branco no Ano Novo, simbolizando a jornada espiritual de Simonee em Chichester 's Choice".
Sua história é exemplo de coragem e determinação para todos nós... Já fez a sua escolha?

Collective happiness

2006-12-03T10:07:00.000-03:00

Last night, Rio de Janeiro was even more marvellous... the entire city gathered to see the beautiful Christmas tree by the lake "Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas"...
Measuring 82m of height (equivalent as a 27 floor building) and weighing 500 tons, it's in the Guinness Book as the highest suspended Christmas tree in the world.
Sponsored by a big bank company, this event has made the city happier for the last 11 years, being the third most important event, after New Year's eve and Carnival.
P.S - I'm itching to mention the marketing side of it... I love it, as a marketing professional, but more as a citizen, because it's an original and successful idea that brings beauty to the city, instead of visual pollution... I am glad to have it close to my place, so I'm able to admire it every day, until 2007 comes...

My photos

Ontem o Rio de Janeiro estava ainda mais maravilhoso... toda a cidade se reuniu para ver a linda árvore de natal na Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas...
Medindo 82m de altura (equivalente a um prédio de 27 andares) e pesando 500 toneladas, ela está no Guinness Book como a mais alta árvore de natal suspensa do mundo.
Patrocinada pelo banco Bradesco, este evento vem fazendo a cidade mais feliz nos últimos 11 anos, sendo o terceiro evento mais importante no Rio, atrás apenas do Reveillon e Carnaval.
OBS - Estou me coçando para mencionar o lado marketeiro disso... Eu amo este projeto... como profissional de marketing, mas principalmente como carioca, por ser esta uma idéia original e de sucesso que traz beleza para a cidade, ao invés de poluição visual... Estou feliz em tê-la perto de casa, assim posso admirá-la todos os dias, até que chegue 2007...

There is more...

2006-12-02T22:03:00.000-03:00

I found out there is much more to say about the last two posts I wrote...
I realized those were actually incomplete... as I said before, this blog was made for you reader... so should be the message...
What's happened in my life, in fact, has a lot to do with yours... let me explain how...
Has anyone ever told you something that made you stop, reflect and change?
Not necessarily from your friends or family... it could be from your boss or someone you don't even know... in fact, sometimes you get "the message" that was actually said to another person... but it touches your heart, so you feel like it is yours...
In this case, what do you do with this message?
Do you learn from that? Do you take it as an advice? Or do you ignore it?
That's the point! I know it might not be easy to look at yourself, and recognize your mistakes and weaknesses... We usually prefer to pretend we don't have problems to get through...
But this is exactly the moment when you must choose between the static and the movement, the comfort and the newness, the problems and the challenges...
Choose the second option... Turn your 'problem' into something positive!
Make them the stairs and take your first step to reach the top...
It will also change your life!!!

Descobri que existe muito mais a dizer nos 2 últimos posts que escrevi...
Eu percebi que os mesmos estavam incompletos... como eu disse antes, esse blog é feito pra você leitor... então assim deve ser a mensagem...
O que aconteceu em minha vida, na realidade, tem muito a ver com a sua... deixe-me explicar como...
Já aconteceu de alguém dizer algo a você que o tenha feito parar, refletir e mudar?
Não necessariamente de seus amigos ou familiares... pode ser do seu chefe ou alguém que você nem conhece... na verdade, às vezes você recebe "a mensagem" que na realidade foi dita para outra pessoa... mas toca seu coração, então você sente que é sua...
Neste caso, o que você faz com a mensagem?
Você aprende com ela? Você a considera como um conselho? Ou você a ignora?
Esse é o ponto! Eu sei que pode não ser fácil olhar pra si mesmo, e reconhecer nossos erros e fraquezas... Nós normalmente preferimos fingir que não temos problemas a superar...
Mas esse é exatamente o momento em que você precisa escolher entre o estático e o movimento, entre o conforto e a novidade, entre problemas e desafios...
Escolha a segunda opção... Transforme seu "problema" em algo positivo!
Faça-o escada, e dê seu primeiro passo para alcançar o topo...
Isso irá também mudar sua vida!!!

Never give up... never

2006-12-01T13:11:00.000-03:00

For now I just want to say "Turn every difficulty into a positive thinking & acting!"
I've made this choice today, after being in a situation I didn't want to... and I'll make it, it doesn't matter how difficult it seems to be... I will start doing my homework! Believing in God's power and never giving up...

Por agora só quero dizer "Transforme toda dificuldade em pensamento e atitude positivos!"
Eu fiz essa escolha hoje após estar numa situação que não queria... e eu vou fazer dar certo, não importa quão difícil pareça ser...
Vou começar fazendo meu dever de casa! Acreditando no poder de Deus e nunca desistindo...

Sleeping beauty... the fair tale

2006-11-29T23:27:00.000-03:00

Something has changed my life today...
It's almost like getting up after a long night sleep...
It's happened before, a few times, when I felt like getting nowhere...
Someone comes... and whispers something in my ears... or puts everything upside-down...
Taking me out of my comfort zone... bringin' me up to the newness...
One side of me is afraid... the other is fascinated about this changin' idea ... Lucky me, my brave side is stronger... so I come back to the battle, sure that in the end... I'll be a winner! Remember... if you haven't won the game yet, it is because it's not the end... :)

I wish I could keep writing... about people, connections, relationships... the reason why so many lives are transformed... but I must go now... it is time to dream... :)

Algo mudou a minha vida hoje...
É quase como acordar após uma longa noite de sono...
Já aconteceu antes, algumas vezes, quando me senti indo a lugar nenhum...
Alguém surge... e sussura em meus ouvidos... ou coloca meu mundo de cabeça pra baixo...
Tirando-me da zona de conforto... trazendo-me para o novo...
Um lado meu tem medo... o outro é fascinado pela idéia de mudar...
Sortuda que sou, tenho meu lado bravo mais forte... volto pra batalha, certa de que no final serei vencedora! Lembre-se... se o jogo ainda não está ganho, é porque não chegou o final... :)

Gostaria de continuar escrevendo... sobre pessoas, conexões, relacionamentos... a razão pela qual tantas vidas são transformadas... mas eu preciso ir agora... é hora de sonhar... :)

What about you?

2006-11-28T12:24:00.000-03:00

Today let's not bring up my thoughts nor the reason I am happy...
Cuz I am curious to know why YOU are happy...
This blog has a lot to do with you... you are part of it...
It's all about sharing... experiences, moments, opinions, sentiments...
Moreover, this blog has its own life... and today it is YOURS! :)
Feel free to write whatever you want... and don't forget the reason why you are happy!
I'm looking forward to it! :P

Hoje não vamos falar dos meus pensamentos nem da razão pela qual estou feliz...
Estou curiosa pra saber porque VOCÊ está feliz...
Este blog tem tudo a ver com você... você é parte dele...
Tem a ver com compartilhar... experiências, momentos, opiniões, sentimentos...
Além disso, esse blog tem vida própria... e hoje ele é SEU! :)
Fique à vontade para escrever o que quiser... e não esqueça da razão pela qual você está feliz!
Estou esperando por isso! :P

Amazing!

2006-11-27T12:00:00.000-03:00

I am amazed with this fantastic world called Internet...
The more I get to know it, the more I love it!
It's like the earth without borders nor limits...
It's a free-media, where you have the opportunity to express yourself, contributing to the world... :)
I was just thinkin' how I would finish my post today... I could write a thousand things, all goods, about the internet... nice blogs, funny videos, good initiatives, creative people and so on...
But as I was writing this post, my friend Flavia made a comment to another post, called "my role in this world"... right after, one more from her and two from my friend Flavio...
Those comments called my attention, making me realize the amazing benefits inside an each simple blog like mine... and believe me, I am the lucky one!
Thanks guys, you've made my day happier!

Estou encantada com este fantástico mundo chamado Internet...
Quanto mais eu conheço, mas eu amo!
É como a Terra sem fronteiras nem limites...
É uma mídia gratuita, onde você tem a oportunidade de se expressar, contribuindo assim para o mundo... :)
Eu estava pensando agora como terminar meu post de hoje... Eu poderia escrever mil coisas, todas boas, sobre a Internet... blogs legais, vídeos engraçados, boas iniciativas, pessoas criativas e tudo mais...
Mas enquanto escrevia este post, minha amiga Flavia fez um comentário em outro post, chamado "meu papel neste mundo"... depois, mais um dela e dois do meu amigo Flavio...
Esses comentários chamaram a minha atenção, me fazendo perceber os maravilhosos benefícios existentes em cada blog simples como o meu... e acredite em mim, eu sou a sortuda!
Obrigada pessoal , vocês tornaram meu dia mais feliz!

Useful links :P

2006-11-26T13:27:00.000-03:00

I love good initiatives... people who create, change, move... things, ideas, plans... people who start again... as many times as they need or want to...
Some good initiatives to make your day happy...

My friend Fari, the "good responsible" for me to become a Christian (thanx buddy!) has a nice blog - with others authors, called Theology One. You can check it out in "my favorite links"...
It's worth it! :)

My friend Harsh told me about a blog called "The fruits of imagination" of the agency Leo Burnett Toronto. It's an interesting blog, especially if you like advertising or are just curious! Don't miss the post of kids defining ad's! The link is also my favorite! ;)

Eu amo boas iniciativas... gente que cria, muda, move.... coisas, idéias, planos... pessoas que recomeçam... quantas vezes for preciso ou desejado...
Algumas boas iniciativas para fazer seu dia feliz...

Me amigo Fari, o "bom responsável" por eu ter me tornado Cristã (obrigada meu irmãozinho!) tem um blog muito legal - com outros autores, chamado TheologyOne. Você pode conferir nos "meus links favoritos"... Vale a pena!

Meu amigo Harsh me falou de um blog chamado "Os frutos da imaginação" da agência Leo Burnett de Toronto. É um blog interessante, especialmente se você gosta de propaganda ou é um curioso! Não perca o post das crianças definindo propaganda! O link também é meu favorito! ;)

You have to do your best...

2006-11-25T19:20:00.000-03:00

"...oh baby, give me your best, for us to be happy.... Woman, you have to do your best... you have to do your best"

Tonight I have a concert to go, of a brazilian band called "Cidade Negra" (Black City).
I don't know much about music, thou I work in a radio station (lol)... but I'd say it is a mix of reggae and pop music...
I am a big fan of them... cuz more than a good melody, their songs have a wonderful message... also has a lot to do with my blog, so I will write down some verses for you...

"Today I've woken up thinking of a good life that can get even better
Today I've woken up easily, I've woken up so light
I am gonna make the world dance
Today I've gotten up to life
It's a good reason to keep goin'
Remember life is short like fire and snow
Like the breeze that comes to the ocean"

"Leaving behind bad thoughts, disequilibrium, bitterness
Live in peace every moment, at home, in the middle of the street,
If you think it is impossible to have all this and a calm love...
Why don't you try just a little bit?"

Wanna know more about them? They have a new website www.cidadenegra.com.br where you can get the lyrics and download photos... or just google it!
p.s - the english version is still under construction :(

"oh baby, me dê o seu melhor, pra gente ser feliz... oh woman, you have to do your best... you have to do your best"

Oba, hoje à noite vou ao show do Cidade Negra!
Não entendo muito de música, embora trabalhe numa rádio (risos), mas diria que a banda é um mix de reggae e música popular....
Sou uma fanzona deles... porque mais que uma boa melodia, suas músicas têm uma mensagem maravilhosa... além disso, tem tudo a ver com meu blog, por isso, vou escrever alguns de seus versos abaixo:

"Hoje eu acordei pensando
Numa vida boa que ainda pode melhorar
Hoje eu acordei na boa, acordei tão leve
Vou fazer o mundo dançar
Hoje eu acordei pra vida
É um bom motivo pra poder continuar
Se lembre que a vida é breve como fogo e neve
Como a brisa leve que vem pro mar"

"Deixar pra trás maus pensamentos
Desequilíbrios, as amarguras
Viver em paz todo o momento
Dentro de casa, no meio da rua
Se você acha impossível
Ter tudo isso e um amor tranqüilo
Que tal tentar só um pouquinho?"

Quer saber mais sobre eles? A banda está com um site novo www.cidadenegra.com.br onde você pode pegar as letras de música e baixar fotos... ou até mesmo procurar pela banda no Google!
obs: a versão em inglês está em construção :(

Flickr.com

2006-11-24T21:35:00.000-03:00

Some of you know I love photography. My friend told me about a website where you can upload your photos, choose keywords (tags), comment, and best of all, easily!
I was impressed by the photos I've seen... I loved the idea, so I created an account and uploaded some of my pics... I'll keep it updated...
You can check them out at www.flickr.com/photos/tathims
Take advantage and make an account for you too! ;)

Alguns de vocês já sabem que eu amo fotografia. Meu amigo me falou sobre um site onde você pode colocar suas fotos, escolher palavras-chave, fazer comentários, e melhor de tudo, facilmente!
Eu fiquei impressionada com as fotos que vi... Eu amei a idéia, então criei uma conta e coloquei algumas das minhas fotos... Vou mantê-lo atualizado...
Você pode conferir no link www.flickr.com/photos/tathims
Aproveite e faça uma conta você também! ;)

I hope...

2006-11-23T21:52:00.000-03:00

I confess today hasn't being the best one... It has nothing to do with my life... it's just today I've read so much bad news... terrible things... happening quite often in this city... violence, poverty, corruption and so on... but I must transform this sadness into something positive... HOPE!!!
hope to be proud to say the city I live is really a Marvellous City;
hope to see all children going to school, none begging on the streets;
hope to see everybody with enough food to eat;
hope to feel the love everywhere;
hope to see this world in peace;
hope to have hope for as long as I live...
cuz a life without hope 'for sure' is incomplete...

Eu confesso que hoje não tem sido o melhor dia... nada que tenha relação com a minha vida... é só que hoje eu li tantas notícias ruins... coisas terríveis... acontecendo com freqüência nsta cidade... violência, pobreza, corrupção e tudo mais.... mas eu preciso transformar essa tristeza em algo positivo.... ESPERANÇA!!!
esperança em dizer que a cidade que eu vivo é realmente uma Cidade Maravilhosa;
esperança em ver todas as crianças indo à escola... nenhuma pedindo esmola nas ruas;
esperança em ver que todos têm alimento suficiente para comer;
esperança de sentir o amor em toda parte;
esperança de ver o mundo em paz;
esperança de ter esperanças enquanto eu viver...
porque uma vida sem esperança com certeza é incompleta...

Gotta add...

2006-11-22T22:41:00.000-03:00

It's almost midnight but I must add another post for today...
I'm happy cuz today is a very important day, it's my friend's b-day!
Happy Birthday Flavio! God bless you! :)

É quase meia-noite, mas eu tenho que adicionar outro 'post' hoje ...
Estou feliz porque hoje é um dia muito importante, é aniversário do meu amigo!
Feliz Aniversário Flavinho! Deus te abençoe! :)

Take a break & sleep!

2006-11-22T08:55:00.000-03:00

I am happy today, but I have no specifically reason to be... I am like laughing for nothing, smiling to every body here at the office and calling my co-workers in a way that sounds more like singin' (LOL)...
Okay, I've slept 9 hours... so I'm in a good mood!!! Everything I see is beautiful today! :)
Now you know... if you feel tired, without patience, or something like that... take a break & sleep!

Estou feliz hoje, mas sem razão específica... Estou do tipo... rindo por nada, sorrindo para todos aqui no escritório e chamando meus colegas de trabalho de um jeito que mais parece 'cantoria' (risos)...
Tá bem, eu dormi 9 horas... então estou de bom humor!!! Tudo que vejo é bonito hoje! :)
Agora você já sabe... se você se sentir cansado, sem paciência, ou algo parecido... dê um tempo & duuurma!

My role in this world...

2006-11-21T12:31:00.000-03:00

This morning I got up thinkin' about work... maybe because I've dreamed about it...
In my way to the office, I got a traffic jam... I had nothing to do, no book, no music, just an empty mind...
I looked at the street... among cars, buses and buildings, many people coming and going... some people walking fast, looking busy... while others seemed to have nothing to do... children, teens, adults... women and men... the poor and the wealthy... all together...
This dynamic right before my eyes made me realize we are all parts of a big machine called world... all of us are important, each one in a different way...
And I felt so good inside... because it is not about the position nor the company I work at... not even according to the money I have... What really matters is what I do in this world... and how I see myself in this big and awesome planet! I am just one, but with you, we are already two... in this way we can be a thousand one day, fighting for a good cause! Never forget how important you are!

Essa manhã levantei pensando em trabalho... talvez porque tenha sonhado com isso... No meu caminho pro escritório, peguei um engarrafamento... Não tinha nada pra fazer, nenhum livro, nem música, apenas uma mente vazia...
Olhei para as ruas... entre carros, ônibus e prédios, muitas pessoas vinham e iam... algumas pessoas andavam ligeiro, mostrando-se ocupadas... enquanto outras pareciam não ter o que fazer... crianças, adolescentes, adultos... mulheres e homens... o pobre e o rico... todos juntos...
Essa dinâmica assim frente aos meus olhos fez-me perceber que somos todos partes de uma grande máquina chamada mundo... todos importantes, cada um à sua maneira...
E eu me senti tão bem... porque não é pelo cargo ou empresa em que trabalho... nem de acordo com quanto dinheiro possuo...O que realmente importa é o que eu faço nesse mundo... e como eu me vejo nesse imenso e maravilhoso planeta! Sou apenas uma, mas com você, já somos dois... deste modo podemos ser mil um dia, lutando por uma boa causa! Nunca esqueça como você é importante!

Future... I'm coming!

2006-11-20T09:33:00.001-03:00

Today I am inspired... don't know why...
Maybe because it is Monday, the day we usually decide to change our rotine, makin' decisions like goin' to the gym, gettin' into a diet, or just thinkin' this week is goin' to be much better than the last one...
On the other hand, today is also the last day of a long weekend here... I'm just chillin' and thinkin' about my life, what is going to happen... Sometimes I think too much (lol)... but I like... I make plans, change my ideas...
As if I was an author of a novel I create the story of my life, owner of my destiny... I believe our daily choices draw our future... What makes me very happy cuz I'm able to change things... everything is possible...
It sounds like a fiction movie but it's REAL! Newspapers, books, reports and thesis often approach this subject... that, in fact, it is just a simple attitude...
So... Have you made your choice today? :)

Hoje estou inspirada... não sei porque...
Talvez porque seja segunda-feira, o dia em que normalmente decidimos mudar nossa rotina, tomando decisões como ir à academia, iniciar a dieta, ou apenas pensando que essa semana será bem melhor que a que passou...
Por outro lado, hoje também é o último dia do final de semana prolongado... Estou de bobeira, pensando na minha vida, no que irá acontecer... às vezes eu penso demais (hehehe)... mas eu gosto... faço planos, mudo as minhas idéias...
Como um autor de novela, crio a estória da minha vida, dona do meu destino... Eu acredito que as nossas escolhas diárias traçam o nosso futuro... o que me deixa feliz, pois sou capaz de mudar as coisas... tudo se torna possível...
Parece um filme de ficção mas é REAL! Jornais, livros, matérias e teses freqüentemente abordam esse assunto... que, na realidade, é apenas uma simples atitude...
Então... já fez a sua escolha hoje? :)

There is none like You!

2006-11-19T17:24:00.000-03:00

"My comfort, my shelter
Tower of refuge and strengh
Let every breath, all that I am
Never cease to worship You...

I sing for joy at the work of Your hands

Forever I'll love you, forever I'll stand...

Nothing compares to the promise I have in You"

It's amazing what He can do in our lives...
He does such great things every day...
Take a moment to see how many miracles happen daily in your life...
He brings me up when I am feeling down...
I am happy because I love you, Jesus!

"Meu conforto, meu abrigo
Torre de refúgio e fortalecimento,
Deixe que cada respiração, tudo o que eu sou,
Nunca deixe de O adorar...
Eu canto de alegria pelo trabalho de Suas mãos,
Pra sempre Te amarei, sempre em Ti permanecerei
Nada se compara à promessa que tenho em Ti."

É impressionante o que Ele pode fazer em nossas vidas...
Ele faz coisas maravilhosas todos os dias...
Pare um momento e perceba quantos milagres ocorrem diariamente em sua vida...
Ele me coloca pra cima quando estou triste...
Estou feliz porque te amo, Jesus!

Like my friend! :P

2006-11-18T14:21:00.000-03:00

I'm so excited about this looooong weekend! ;)
A girlfriend of mine has come from São Paulo to visit me (in Rio)...
I've picked her up at the airport, we've gone to the beach and now... we are heading up to the Christ Redeemer!
The interesting thing is... I am always so busy that I don't stop to admire the place I live...
I've forgotten the reason it's called Marvellous City!
So, today I am happy like the tourists, like my friend... :)
..Cuz I'll have the opportunity to enjoy the city...
For those who like photos, check them out in my blog http://tathims.blogspot.com

Estou tão empolgada com o fim de semana prolongado! ;)
Uma amiga minha de São Paulo veio ao Rio me visitar...
Eu a busquei no aeroporto, fomos à praia e agora... estamos indo ao Cristo Redentor!
O interessante é que... estou sempre tão ocupada que não paro para admirar o lugar em que vivo...
Esqueci a razão pelo qual é chamada "Cidade Maravilhosa!
Então, hoje estou feliz como os turistas, como minha amiga... :)
... Porque terei a oportunidade de curtir a cidade...
Pra quem gosta de fotos, dê uma conferida no meu blog http://tathims.blogspot.com

Very simple reason... hehehe

2006-11-17T09:35:00.000-03:00

Today I am so happy! I guess everybody is....
Cuz today is Friday! :)

Hoje eu estou tão feliz! Acho que todos estão...
Porque hoje é Sexta-feira! :)

The sunshine after the storm...

2006-11-16T09:01:00.000-03:00

This morning I slept in... I didn't go to the gym... I was in a bad mood...
In my commute I got a traffic jam, arrived late at my work, and a friend gave me bad news.
For an instant I thought I wouldn't have a reason to be happy today...
But... then, I looked at the sky... the sun was there, beautiful... Strong!
After so many rainy and blue days...
My heart was filled with happiness as I realized tomorrow is another day... :)

Esta manhã eu dormi demais... não fui pra academia... estava de mau humor...
No meu caminho pro trabalho peguei um engarrafamento, cheguei atrasada no trabalho, e uma amiga me deu uma péssima notícia.
Por um instante pensei que não teria razão para estar feliz hoje...
E então, olhei para o céu... o sol lá estava, bonito... Forte!
Depois de tantos dias tristes e chuvosos...
Meu coração encheu-se de alegria ao perceber que amanhã é outro dia... :)

Freedom to my mind...

2006-11-15T11:15:00.000-03:00

Although this blog has just started, I confess I've had doubt in choosing the reason I am happy today... Some of you might think it's because I have no reason, but in fact it's just the opposite... I have so many that is hard to bring up one! :)
So, today I've decided to give the merit of happiness to the human being, for being able to IMAGINE!
It sounds funny, but this is the best trip you could ever experience!!!
Being able to remember good moments, amazing people you've met, places you've been to, and above all, being able to live in a place where you can do whatever you want, be whoever you want, without limits nor costs!!!
I travel every day... from my past to the future I desire to myself and to the world... my dreams... they do become true... It has being like this since I started to dream... it can be exactly like this to any one who believes in their dreams...
My special thanks in this post to my friend Graeme who reminded me - by accident- how good is to imagine! :P

Embora esse blog tenha apenas começado, confesso que tive dúvidas em escolher o motivo de estar feliz hoje... alguns de vocês poderão pensar que é porque não tenho nenhuma razão, mas na realidade é justamente o contrário... Eu tenho tantas que é difícil escolher uma!
Então, hoje decidi dar o mérito da felicidade para o ser humano, por ser capaz de IMAGINAR!
Soa engraçado, mas essa é a melhor viagem que você pode experimentar!
Poder relembrar bons momentos, pessoas incríveis que você conheceu, lugares em que você esteve, e acima de tudo, ser capaz de viver no lugar em que você pode fazer o que quiser, ser quem você quiser, sem limites nem custos!
Eu viajo todos os dias... do meu passado pro futuro que eu desejo pra mim e pro mundo... meus sonhos... eles se tornam realidade... tem sido assim desde que eu comecei a sonhar... e pode ser exatamente assim com qualquer um que acreditar em seus sonhos...
Meu agradecimento especial neste post pro meu amigo Graeme, que me lembrou - sem querer - como é bom imaginar! :P

Why am I happy today?

2006-11-14T19:14:00.000-03:00

I'm a happy person... :)
And I think everybody has a daily reason to be happy too!
So... that's the idea of this blog... to remind ourselves how happy we are or should be!
Hope you enjoy! ;)
And today... I am happy because I have a new blog!
And you???

Eu sou uma pessoa feliz... :)
E acho que todo mundo tem ao menos uma razão diária para ser feliz também!
Então... essa é a idéia deste blog... de lembrar a nós mesmos como somos felizes ou deveríamos ser!
Espero que goste! ;)
E hoje... Eu estou feliz porque tenho um blog novo!
E você???