No, Thank You!

Life can be quite an amazing and ironic adventure. I have found that the lessons I learn unintentionally are often the ones I need to learn the most...

There is an area in Rio de Janeiro named Lapa. It is a unique place where the worlds of the rich and poor come within arms reach of each other, yet they do not interact. Similiar to two ships passing in the ocean, the rich and poor operate in close proximity, yet far enough away to not cause a stir of the other. On any given evening you will find young professionals enjoying a football (soccer) match over a refreshing cocktail, and three meters away you will surely see a shoeless, homeless person sleeping on a piece of cardboard.

Recently, while walking to have dinner, I noticed a family of four sitting on a mattress placed on the sidewalk of the streets Lapa. The father appeared tired, the mother worried, and the two children played a game of tag as if this was the status quo. The little girl's brown skin and curly hair I remember vividly, but it was her ability to keep laughing and smiling, even when she was shirtless and shoeless that reminded me of a child's resilience and simultaneous vulnerability.

While eating, I recalled a conversation I had with a friend who told me how he consider's himself to be just one wrong move away from homelessness himself, therefore he gives to those in needs whenever he encounters them. He explained that it does not matter what the person does with the money you offer them, only that you offer it as an expression to God of your love and appreciation of your blessings. At that moment, I requested a to-go container and after packing my food left to find the family.

The little girl and her family sat on the mattress in front of a grafitti covered building with broken out windows above. The door of the buidling was boarded, but broken, so people could enter if they so desired. Other poor people stood, sat and laid on the pavement. I watched as people walked pass as if the less fortunate did not exist. I crossed the street and offered my bag to the father. At that moment the little girl jumped up and screamed, "obrigada!!" (Thank you in Portuguese)

I looked at her, we examined each other's eyes for just a split second, I turned then walked away. I could tell by the look in her eyes and her spirit's energy that she would not allow her current circumstances to be permanent ones. As I walked back to my hostel, I smiled knowing that one day, that little girl would be able to share her story with others as a source of inspiration.

A few days later, I saw the mother and little girl walking. The father and son were not around. I hoped the father found work, and the son, who appeared to be school age, was paying close attention to his teacher. The little girl, now fully clothed, walked with bounce, as did her curls. I could not have forgotten her or her smile, she did not notice me, but I felt connected to her.

The sensation of happiness I felt after giving my meal to them showed me the irony of the lesson. I offered them a small amount of food, in return, they gave me an immense happiness and an understanding of one of life's most valuable lessons: It is better to give than to receive.