Comments on: Better a Conscious Hellcat than a Sleeping Beauty…

By: Joaninha

Joaninha — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 05:49:24 +0000

Hey Branca, thanks =) Yes, that is too bad! Now you’ve got my curiosity going XD

By: Joaninha

Joaninha — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 05:48:09 +0000

Hi Bemtevi, and Panama,

I think it’s necessary, for our own sanity’s sakes, to fall somewhere in between what each of you are saying. I agree Panama that you can definitely marginalize yourself or get yourself alienated, just because, for one thing, who likes someone who gets riled up over “nothing” (to them) all the time? At the same time, I don’t think I could completely ignore it all either, and I really don’t like to accept the idea that “you can’t do anything about it”. Although I completely get what you’re saying…I guess it’s fight smart rather than just fight, and smart isn’t necessarily always to speak out everytime you find something wrong or offensive. Bemtevi, I couldn’t stay 100% awake all the time either, which is exactly what this post was all about! So I’d say…it’s important to be “awake”, but for a whole slew of reasons (mostly personal/practical ones), regular catnaps are probably necessary, too.

By: branca

branca — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 20:53:53 +0000

Very well put. I’ve referred to this post in a few conversations this week. Too bad you can’t hyperlink a face-to-face discussion : D

By: Panama

Panama — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 19:08:08 +0000

When it comes to capoeira, I’ve decided to ignore sexist comments or actions. You can fight a whole mentality that’s been ingrained in people for centuries. You just get worn out. Plus, you can really marginalize yourself if you are constantly bringing up issues of sexism, racisim, classism etc. I just try to focus on my training and ‘fight back’ by getting what I want to get out of each class. Am I selling out? Maybe. But that’s real. Like my Aunt said, ‘One bird does not make summer’. Meaning, you can’t fight a sexist racist, classist system alone. You have to have friends/allies.

By: Bemtevi

Bemtevi — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 15:15:31 +0000

Great post Joaninha!

I wonder though, if I could ever actually be “awake” 100% of the time. What does this mean, in reality? I am the type of person who usually likes to “pick my battles” rather than simply battling all the time. I’m not convinced that this is the right way to go about life but, you are right, it is easier.

However, I do believe that you should always live and act in a way that is true to yourself, but perhaps that doesn’t always mean speaking out and condemning other peoples actions/words. Not participating in (better yet, leaving) certain conversations may make a subtle point without coming across as someone preaching from their soapbox all the time. Personally, I usually tune out after I hear the same person hammering the same point over and over again. I am more likely to listen to someone who makes well thought out points at relevant times. Like the person who “doesn’t say much, but when she/he does… everyone listens!”

So I guess I am asking… how do we live out this state of “being awake”? Should we say something every time we are offended? Or only on certain occasions? What should one do instead, if he/she chooses not to speak out? Is this a matter of personal choice in how you choose to represent yourself and your values?

By: Joaninha

Joaninha — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 01:01:37 +0000

Thanks, Compasso Hahaha hey, I never saw those! You’ll have to hook me up. =P

Lol, well yes, but I hope I’m not seen as ever only or blindly just raging…!

By: compasso

compasso — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 15:37:12 +0000

Really nice post , Joaninha , I enjoyed reading that . I feel this dream state as well , though I think I spend a little more time in this nether realm then most people in general .
What can I say ? It’s cozy here . They have biscuits !
Axé , and keep raging ! After all , it is a dirty job , but …..