Manoel, a simple man, evoked sacrifice, hard work, pain, and punishment. My father defied the challenges of this difficult life, reshaping his name to be strong and voracious. He revered work, simplicity, and selflessness throughout his life. A naive soul, not tainted by malice, even though at times we couldn’t understand his contrite soul. In a rush, he ran to everything, he was his own impulse. Perhaps he was marked by an urgency he didn’t know. We never really know what drives us, but my father was driven by good deeds, analyzing now after years with my experience. He made friends in every corner. An old-fashioned, moralistic father. He raised his children with an iron hand, teaching us from an early age that we should each learn to take care of ourselves. Averse to gossip, one day, faced with it, he called me and said: “My daughter, the birds are singing more than they should. So, know how to take care of your life, if you do something wrong, it’s your own fault.”

He didn’t know how to make money, his wealth was his work, and of course, telling stories – always. He never complained about anything. A broad heart, a closed pocket, and always dignified. Far from appearances, he taught us the essence. Early on, I discovered that there was no chance with him. Life, a struggle to be fought on its own. The challenge was thrown. Existence as a road — a walk invented and reinvented daily. Rely on your own strength, your own resources. Print your mark, don’t shy away from the fight of knowing yourself. Don’t be ashamed of your uniqueness. Happiness is a concept, build your own.

A man of the countryside, with boots and an old pipe. Averse to fads, his children had to fit into the authentic life he offered them. He set the example – buy what you need, pay your bills, be dignified. Each one should cultivate their own soul. The place where the best of us resides, the values we choose – what we want to leave behind and how we want to be remembered. What I loved and still love about my father, was the life he gave me, to be strong, to face life head-on. Without asking for anything. A life forged with the strength of work, the pride of looking in the mirror.

© Beatriz Esmer