Veil Vision

Ever since I coloured Nelly the elephant in pink, I’ve been longing to visit Brazil. It’s been my dream ever since the penultimate cup was won in 1994. Growing up, disturbed visions perturbed my mind: crime, drug lords and prostitution – verily a land of sin. Travelling the amazon’s cousin was slowly drawing away. The renowned cup was won again in 2002 – the sound of the samba started resonating through my heart strings. This was a call to depart.

Were these visions through a closed veil? Perhaps these visuals had shown me mambas before it went through some samba? It was like a river flowing in me…the river thames? I think it was the River of January. So I ought to set sail, and there I was…2014…in the favelas!

One tends to seek the luxurious spots of a location. I tend to differ and chose to stay in the favelas for a week – the poverty capital of Rio de Janiero. Day and night, ascension to either heaven or hell. From coconuts to hazelnuts, coffee beans to cafés, confined spaces to confronted vehicles, armed men and safe havens, match-boxed homes to tiny outlets, confused and glittering faces, and my final destination – Mirante Arvrao.

A country in which beautiful visions are encapsulated in our minds, yet majorities suffer. Sixty percent hardship, forty percent pleasure. There are poverty stricken areas which are presumed to be dangerous. Reviews read on the internet are dismal – thus contributing to a closed veil. You have to experience it for yourself…You have to see things beyond the shady-glassed armour.

On the other side of rhythmic parties, Football is not just a passion nor their national sport; it’s their fourth meal of the day, keeping them afloat despite their troubles. Ipanema beach is the calm before the storm and a way to de-stress, not merely catching a tan or a game of soccer-volleyball.
A notable epitome is the warm-hearted, generous people who are constantly devoted to God. The serenity of the Christ Redeemer is their icon for self-belonging and resembles a prolific landmark for the people – dedicated Christians persevering to make an honest living.

My tolerance, patience and appreciation towards people had increased. The Sugar Loaf Mountain had sugar-coated the overall experience and Christ the Redeemer was definitely a cherry on top of the tropical Everest.

The first time I saw, I admired. The second time I saw, I pondered. The third time I saw, I conquered.

I have answered the call: my veil is lifted and my vision restored.