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Thankyou for coming so far (down under?!) to this site!! I would like to invite everybody to participate and help us play the Capoeira Internet.

I must clarify that I have not trined directly under Master Geni, founder  and true master of Zambiacongo, and in no way want to express any disrespect  to him. On the few meetings I have been fortunate enough to meet him I was  impressed and respectful. I do not feel that he is even aware of the truth  and issues involved in capoeira in Byron Bay, Australia. I certainly have  not spoken to him and any information he has received has been passed on in  a chinese whisper fashion. He has not recently observed the work I have been  doing in capoeira and has no reference to comment on my progress.If I have  caused him any embarrasment I strongly appologise. I understand the work he  does in capoeira is close to brilliant. Working with the street kids,  ect........... I do not mean to generalise when I speak of my unfair  treatment and definately offer no shame to capoeira it self, after all I  have played for eight years out of love and interest.
I just want to recognize and acknowledge that there is reason for concern  about grading unfairness and capoeiristas being mistreated in the name of  money and egos. I want to stop the mistruths that have evolved and create a  fair playing feild for all.
To give the children in Australia the oppurtunity to be a part of capoeira  not get caught up in body building, weight and muscle image concerns that  are as maladaptive as the sought after model image that girls starve  themselves to acheive. This is the message being given to the children.
Young students see people not train for a year and give their money at  grading and be allowed to grade. These children and teenagers have approached me with their concerns.They themselves work hard all year for what others just get handed for a few bucks.They are shown that to be the biggest is what capoeira is about that to hand over money is the ticket to the next grade. Those who can make the group more money are also rewarded with belts. Is this prominent in other countrys. I do not see it as a specific group or master or in the name of capoeira, but individuals with no morals destroying the truth of capoeira.
Capoeira will always be a part of my life and I will not loose it just because of unfounded misguided judgements. Capoeira does not need academys and belts and tournaments. I see that now. It is intrinsic and about freedom and breaking through the chains of life that enslave you. I have been enslaved by the indoctrination that being graded is of importance. I felt it
was neccesary so I could work with children and teach them the wonders and skills of the art of capoeira. But I now give up working in this system. I will find other ways to keep the art alive.
Sydoni Smith.

----- Original Message -----
From: hermes rios <itabora@yahoo.com> To: Mestre Jeronimo
Sent: Thursday, September 26, 2002 12:55 AM
Subject: Re: About women + Capoeira in AUS + human corruption
 

Don't blame the art CAPOEIRA. Don't say that CAPOEIRA is bad business. CAPOEIRA IS ABOVE US. CAPOEIRA  DOESN'T BELONG TO US, WE BELONG TO CAPOEIRA. What you and many others in Australia and all over the world
need to do is to do better character research on capoeira "masters". There's a bunch of "safados" who abuse a title that we don't even know who gave it to them, or if in fact it was ever given. What you gringos/as need to do is to stop making MAN (capoeira masters) GODS.
People make mistakes, people have different set of values. Don't drop capoeira because of people with no values. Find a good, decent masters with honesty and integrity in his/her heart.
Itabora - from BR

----- Original Message -----
From: Sydoni Smith <sydonismith@hotmail.com> To: Mestre Jeronimo
Sent: Wednesday, September 25, 2002 10:48 AM
 

After playing Capoeira in Australia for eight years and instructing classes  for four years, I now understand why there is need to be concerned about the  direction Capoeira is taking in this country. I have found the reason I have  stayed involved in recent years is in fact to share my knowledge, love and  experience of this art form with others. Having taken the opportunity to  instruct classes I have been extremely rewarded by feedback and observing  students learn and progress from my insights and instruction.
However,,,,,,,,

We know Capoeira began out of a need for slaves to free themselves from  there oppressors. It enabled these slaves not only to physically escape but  also to discover freedom within their bodies through the movements and game
of Capoeira. It was a tool to liberate the slaves and give them all round  freedom.

This is what Capoeira in Australia should be offering students. The reasons  for the birth of Capoeira and to give students the chance to play the art  and experience freedom and liberation. To learn the ritual and reasons  behind its existence. Not to be drawn into an egotistical display of bravado  and acrobatics, in a circle where the maladaptive ego rules over the beauty  of the art of Capoeira. This is so prominent in Australia. Capoeira is  poetry in motion, evidence the slaves existed and were smart enough to  escape their oppressors.

It is no secret that Capoeira did not begin as a sport but has in fact  evolved as a modern sport. It is also apparent that in its modern evolution  it has lost much of its context and truth. Yes we should be concerned about  this.

I am a sports science major with a degree in Human movement (exercise  science). I have been involved in sports and competition for 24 years. I  have been practicing Yoga for 11 years and Martial arts for ten years, eight  being Capoeira. I do not speak to you as a novice.

From all my experience and research I can confidently and factually state  that sport is business. That is not to say it does not have many other  rewarding attributes. It is however a multi million dollar industry.  Capoeira in its purist form, what it truthfully is, is not a sport. In  Australia and around the world that's precisely what the major groups are
existing for. Yes the art is being lost students are being mistreated all in  the name of money.

I am very versed on the bullshit politics between groups, masters and  teachers in this country and finally after being involved with various  schools I can confidently draw the conclusions I now present to you.

I have no fear in naming groups and teachers as its about time I did. I have  been involved with group Zambiacongo Australia for 5 years. I have taken  much pride in this group and have operated from Byron Bay. I have been  graded at the  Batizados each year, and been actively involved with  teaching, administration and the development of other students. I have been  dedicated, reliable, highly involved, and truthful to the art and passing  the jewels of Capoeira onto others. I am now in the situation where by I  have been mistreated. I have now had to take a double look and assess
current Capoeira in this country.

I have left grupo Zambiacongo, Master Geni Capoeira from Bahia, and  apologies that I have only been awakened by my  own misfortune. Hopefully  this will prevent unfair behaviour for other  unaware students.

Each year we had a Batizado, each year the criteria  changed. These changes  developed,  not within structured rules but to suit the business of the  group. When I graded for my early belts playing the Berim-Bau was essential,  others who proceeded after me for the same belts could not even hold  Berim-Bau. I have for years felt that discrimination was happening but over  looked it because I was in awe of Capoeira and my teachers skill. People who  had not trained all year would suddenly appear at grading time offer their  money and be allowed to grade. Students who obviously had no participation in Capoeira that year. Belts where invented for other students that had  never even existed before. It seemed changes were invented to accommodate  not a valid structure but successful business. The biggest and the strongest
where the heroes and the ones who where dedicated and held knowledge,  experience and a true sense of the art and its reason for being were  over  looked.

I recently stated to my teacher, that another student, who is taking my  position in Byron due to my departure (named after a white shark, but would  be more suited named after a slimy snake due the fact he has been  undermining me due to the fact I would not have a sexual relationship with  him) could make the group more money. This has been prominently the reason
behind my mistreatment. This student has been out of Capoeira for one year.  My teacher agreed and unfortunately is more concerned about money to be made  then quality of teaching. Again Capoeira is dying as a business.

It is obvious many people are attracted to Capoeira because of its  demonstration of physical skills, acrobatics and precision. It is beauty to  the eye. My teacher for the last five years, Barrahvento,is a true master in  his physical talent and is literally brilliant at displaying awesome body  control and strength. As are other teachers in this country. This is the
main reason for there huge following of students. Sadly the majority of  humans value others and themselves on extrinsic displays of beauty and skill  and over look true inner worth. The show of Capoeira and the big business is  what is winning in this country and I can now understand Master Jeronimo's  concern. The intrinsic nature and essence of Capoeira is being killed. Sadly it is not only apparent in Capoeira but is in fact human dilemma and  the unfair and superficial way that most of the world politics operate.  Capoeira is the concern though and I do not believe anything can be done to
stop its demise and deterioration as the majority usually wins and  unfortunately the majority of teachers have not a lot of integrity to the  art of Capoeira but pride themselves on the business of Capoeira. In my  opinion it is unavoidable that Capoeira become a huge money making  competitive sport with no memory of its fore fathers the slaves. Bimba did a
good thing to have Capoeira legalised but unfortunately in its  institutionalisation and progress it's truth is being lost.

Commendations to Jeronimo who  is fighting and also being abused by other  teachers and groups for his good intentions to promote a healthy true  Capoeira and teach the world about its essence. He is seemingly a minority  in the numbers of true masters.

Sydoni Smith.

** This game was send from BR in Portuguese but contains English subject/ginga. If you want to know more about it, if you can ginga Portuguese, go to Problems in AUS
 

Hi, JC and Jorge Draga, I would like to ask you to read this beloow and hear your views on this subject. It seems that this Corean boy is learning Capoeira at your Roda ?! And it's already a "master" in the art?! What is going on?! I hope to hear from you.

O Eterno Vagabundo  - Peace
 

http://wk.koreaherald.co.kr/SITE/data/html_dir/2002/08/09/200208090002

>--- In delaseoul@y..., "FITZCARL" wrote: friday august 9th paper >http://wk.koreaherald.co.kr/SITE/data/html_dir/2002/08/09/200208090002.asp
 

> > Saturday, August 10, 2002

> > Dancing with the enemy

> >

> > At a nondescript gym in Nowon-gu, northeast Seoul, an unfamiliar  rhythm emanates from within, one rarely heard in
these Eastern parts.

> > Singing to the beat of a drum, students encircle two opponents  fighting - or are they dancing? - in a smooth, ritualistic
motion.  ¡ãTwo capoeiristas test their physical prowess in the ritual circle, or "roda," at Hanyang Gym in Nowon-gu.
Instructor Choi Hyun-hwa is in  the background, playing the drum.  A taekwondo studio during the day, every night this
"dojang" becomes  the training ground for another type of "do," or martial art, one  with its contemporary origins in Brazil and
its roots in Africa -  capoeira.

>>"I have to thank Marc Dacascos for my business," said instructor Choi Hyun-hwa, referring to the actor who artistically
displayed the  fighting art in the 1993 American film, "Only the Strong," which  prompted many of his students to seek him
out.

> >  Because of its athletic grace and its accompaniment by  traditional Brazilian music, it is often mistaken as a "dance," to
 the irritation of some capoeira enthusiasts.  But Choi doesn't mind this characterization.  "If you do it right, it looks like a
dance," Choi admits. But with a  fourth degree black belt in taekwondo, Korea's traditional martial  art, Choi himself is
inclined to teach capoeira as self-defense. Choi is known among Seoul's martial artists as the first master to  teach capoeira
in Korea. Five years ago, his own taekwondo master, who had seen capoeira on his travels abroad, demanded Choi learn
the  African-rooted art form.
> > Since then, Choi has shuttled back and forth from Seoul to Sydney,  Australia, learning capoeira from trained masters
there. And just last year, he began teaching techniques to interested students at his  own dojang.

> >

> > He seems to be right. In his classes, his students seem as caught up  in the rhythm of the music as they are focused on
perfecting their  technique.
> > At his gym, Choi teaches a traditional style of capoeira, but his  knowledge of other martial arts - kendo and "teukgong
musul"  (special  forces combat training) in addition to taekwondo - cannot help but  come through. "To teach self-defense,
it wouldn't be fair to students  to exclude some moves, just because they belong to another martial  art," he said.

> > Rather than guarding the secrets of this traditional art, Choi seeks  to share his knowledge of capoeira with as many
Koreans as  possible. "What's the point of enjoying these great techniques by  myself?"

> > By Catherine Jun Staff reporter (cjun@k...)

> > 2002.08.09 >From: catherine

>To: Fitzcarl
>Subject: Re: could you please let me know how to contact master choi hyun hwa
>Date: Sun, 11 Aug 2002 16:24:47 +0900

>Classes are 6 days a week, 8pm to I believe 9:30pm. Dropping in at about 7:30 or so would probably be good.
>
>The gym's phone # is 02- 3392-4382, but Choi Hyn-hwa doesn't speak very good English. He can possibly pass it onto someone who does.
>
>Good luck,

From Fitzcarl Sun Aug 11 00:21:46 2002
>Subject: could you please let me know how to contact master choi hyun hwa
>To: cjun@koreaherald.co.kr
>
>dear catherine jun,
>
>thank you so much for your wonderful article. could you please let me know how to contact master choi hyun hwa. how
can i find the hanyang gym in nowon gu.
>
>i have been looking for a capoeira school for years in korea. i have been here for about four years already. i have studied
capoeira angola in new york for three years. but my training stopped after leaving new york to come to korea.
>
>sincerely,
>
>fitzcarl

Subject: Bantus Capoeira Australia

~ ~ ~  About this game: This 'Jogo' was performed in Portugues - yet, Mestre Pintor student replyed in English to BR - later, after I've called him to respect Capoeira and his "graduation" he sent a proper reply to BR with FUNDAMENTO DE JOGO ** If you want to know more about it check out 'RODA' and also Shaming BR Culture in AU
 

Caro Mestre Jeronimo, Dear Mestre Jeronimo,

I don't like to communicate through E-mail, yet I was notified from some gossip (from Mestre Jorge Draga) and would like to reply. I will reply in English...

eu nao gosto muito de communicar pelo email, mesmo, quase que nao pego no computador, mas fui notificado
de algumas foffocas que sinto obrigado a responder. vou escrever em ingles pois a primeira carta estava escrita assim.

I'd like to respond briefly to M. Jorges request to remove links to his and other Australian sites.  The links were placed in a spirit of goodwill to promote Capoeira in general and direct people with an interest in Capoeira to groups in their area.  However we have no problem in removing those links and this has been attended to by our web master.

In response to the other two pages of M. Jorges lengthy request I'd firstly like to say that the elected senior position on our committee is that of chairperson. The cultural leader of our group is Mestre Pintor and this is recognised with the honorary
title of President, it is not an elected position recognized by our constitution, and he is not a member of the committee, rather it is an acknowledgement of the respect that we give to the Master of out group.

The upcoming elections are not urgent, as has been suggested, rather they are timed to the start of the financial year.  The meeting has been discussed with our members over the past few months. Our members think that listing Mestre Pintor as our President is a nice gesture of respect to acknowledge the support and direction that he provides.

This direction is shown by the two six month residencies of two experienced Bantus instructors here in Perth that M. Jorge unfortunately forgot to mention, professor Gringo and Carlos Alberto. Professor Gringo is known personally or by reputation
to many Capoeira professionals in Australia and Brasil and his quality of teaching would be acceptable anywhere.

Personally I am proud of our group here in Perth, of mine and everyones efforts to make it as good as it is today.  We have increased in size and quality despite all the "generous" help shown by the Western representative of the Aussie Capoeira Federation (such as being asked NOT to visit classes nor attend events).

Unfortunately M. Jorge has had little opportunity to see for himself the progress of our group as he has never accepted any invitation extended by myself or professor Gringo to visit our classes or events. He did not accept the request of professor Gringo for permission to attend and participate in a Samba de Roda training session or roda. In fact the only event
involving professor Gringo that M. Jorge attended was his farewell at the airport.

I am happy to communicate personally with anyone who would care to contact me. I find broadcast emailing unsatisfactory as the source of the information (rumour?) is often inaccurate, biased and uninformed.

I would like to extend a friendly invitation to anyone who comes to Perth to visit our group and see for themselves to make up their own minds.  I am sure that over time our good name will spread this way of its own accord. We're very easy to find, our group plays at least one roda on the street each week, winter, summer, rain or shine because we love to play and promote Capoeira.

If you cannot make it to Perth, have a look at our website, and keep your eyes open for upcoming events. Mestre Pintor will be visiting our group very soon for our first batizado and another one year residency is being arranged for one of the Bantus instructors to come over from Belo Horizonte.

We're looking forward to the day when we also get enough money from the government to be able to fly 15 people over from Brasil and the Eastern States and put everyone up in nice hotels for a Capoeira Festival. Until then, we'll do it under our own steam and work hard to build up Capoeira and promote this art which we all love.

Sincerly,

Canguru - Tom Foss
Chairperson Bantus Capoeira Australia Inc.
0411 242 576

-------

Capoeira (global community, others)

Axe'

    Indeed this 'subject' that Monique is calling in the Roda is very important and not the 1st time that we have a reference on this "game" - Who is... What is... (respect to) Capoeira!

    Many people will have lots to say, others nothing to add. But there's something that must B decided some of those 2000 days regarding this issue.

    I would like to add, to call your attention to the fact that people talk many times about the profession of Capoeira in a discriminative way - perhaps ignorance. Some, many, just want to "graduate" again the memory of the struggle of our people (Palmares), the work (luta) done... of Zumbi, Bimba, Pastinha... - they are icons to us - why people want to graduate professional Capoeira to die (live) into misery - social misery!?????

    Why? As I recall another day, to another call (from "grupo bantus" Perth AU) why the Daly Lama (for ex) can have a good life, a good time, travelling 1st class to do his "spiritual business" (of course in the gOod holy name of piece, evolution, liberation of his folks, etcs - social matters in 2000) and Us - CAPOEIRAA - professional capoeirista can't have the right to earn $$ for the (productive) work that we provide to YOU - right to enjoy FREEDOM (SOCIAL)!!! ??? - Why Capoeira has to be labelled as "piece and love" (?), fun thing, blablabla... for those that want to have fun THEMSELVES... and gladly (?) will spend their $$ to please others... BUT not Capoeira sons???? Cant' we respect Capoeira work? The problem of paying is irrelevant. What matters is the quality of the work you have... the comida (food) that you will put through your mouth - the graduate your spirit!

    I agree with this comment that we should look to Capoeira to evolve and belong (have fruits) at the place where we take it now, 2000. I fell the same, why can't an Australian (be aborigine or not) become a master (professional) and be respected for the work he/her is doing to evolve and educate the community? If... IF only this person has the knowledge (experience) of the traditions of the Ritual Capoeira, and respects the traditions of BRs; this "new - young" (mestre) can sing and (tune) master the Gunga to conduct the Roda and educate people  - ?! One does not to be "old" -- age does nnot prove you are the ONE - Capoeira!

    I don't think that only BR mestres can do the good JOB. But, I guess many of them (old?) fear that 'YOU' (in the memory will display as: outsiders - invaders ?!)  will take away the only "thing" (precious) that they have now to survive. They fell important in the eyes of society when they are NOW called "mestre" - Master was the invader?!

    Would YOU (non BR) consider that matter, of respecting these "old" masters (old) way of living in 2000. 'Cause to some it can B a hard adaptation to new times (of $lavery). So far, they would fell OK, we would like this to happen, to respect you when you are 'playing' your own games with Capoeira. - ?!@

    Of course there are far$ants and people that would never show ($show) respect to you (Capoeira) after that you (pay) for the (sportive) graduation (belt) they offer. Others, in the name of "tradition" (could be just bullshit!) will never recognise you to 'belong' (TO BE CAPOEIRA) indifferent of the colour of your skin and passport.  In fact, are those that agree with Galileo... ' Earth is round (like a Roda) ' ... intelligent people will lead to educate Capoeira sons. Yet that are many (new) traitors to "ZUMBI & PALMARES" (CAPOEIRA Way!) that are amongst U$ - and Them!!! (..)

One could only ADD this one more comment: "shadows (B it from a "negro" or "white" etc) don't have a different colour" !!!! Capoeira is Life!

Capoeira eh tudo o que a boca come!!! Let's us respect US!

Laroiê... !! Axe'

Me. jc

Subject: Nao saia na Chuva, se na quer se molhar

municao

Yoji Senna

To: billsj@rocketmail.com  (** a student of Master Loka in the USA)

Thank you Mrs. Sparague for writing.

I hope you have a good day when you receive this. That the Oxala' peace cape cover you with its eternal power.
First of all I don't think I'm disturbing, but, if, I'm sorry. Capoeira is something very important and dear to me, Capoeira is everything to me.
As you should be aware, I've talked extensively with Jay recently, and he have provided me with a good insight about you and your group. And particularly how you regard me. I absolutely understand why your fear me and have to resort to character assassination to explain your fear.
I don't have nothing personal against you, au contrarie. I admire your for your organizational skills and your care-de-pau by leading a Capoeira group. You're courageous and bold, and I admire that in a lady. But you're extremely lucky that your nemesis in town is me. I'm pretty mellow.
I would like to assure that if we cross paths (we will) your physical integrity as well those of your 'student' will be respected.
This is a small world and it's get smaller and overpopulated. I sent you the email so you could feel a taste of what is going on in the rest of the world. And cases like yours are being repeated everywhere.
I don't have a problem with teaching Capoeira et all. Nor because you're a woman, or white. But I have a problem with you doing whatever.
Last week I get a hold of a CD of your and was laughable at least.
It very offensive to me that was born na Capoeira, and am an Afro-Brazilian proud of my heritage to know that you're out there perpetrating, sounding like that and saying that you teach Capoeira.
If your physical Capoeira looks like you guys sound, Meu Deus!
That's is fact, Rosa, you can't cover the sun with your hands.
However I will contact everytime I feel like. Of course always inside the canons of civility and respect.
I wasn't born yesterday. And I've been dealing with Capoeira since the time your parents were thinking about conceiving you.
Rosa menina, Menina Rosa, I'm not out to get you at all. And, I would like you to succeed but above all, I demand, yeah, I demand you to do a respectable work.
We are playing social Capoeira, and in Capoeira you know that you don't block, you flow or dodge.
But, bottom line if you want to be left alone, start doing things right, if do know learn, but don't teach people half truths. You can fool some people sometimes, but you can fool all the people all the time. I've offered help with the music. If really had learn and practiced, by know you should be playing berimbau with Philharmonic. Get at the U, and learn Portuguese, go spend sometime in Bahia, or in Sao Paulo, or Cuiaba.' Prepare yourself to don't leave holes in your Ginga(atitude). In other words don't be bogus, or a false-pretender, an impostor. And you should be doing it for free, if not is fraud.
If you recall once when you came to our Quilombo, I asked you with taught you're qualified for the task, Do you remember you answer?
It's basics, You don't like me, or you're afraid, you think I'm a voodoo priest (hahaha). I didn't start Capoeira last night as you, and you like or not I'm established, and I know what I'm doing. I'm not guessing.
Is up to us to make things better.
Thank you again for writing to me, and thanks for give me the opportunity to express my taught directly to you.
As far talking to Loka. I don't is pertinent given that we supposed to meet when he was in town, but he let me down. And is you who is not doing Justice to Capoeira, Loka is allowing only.
nuff respect, that Exu open your paths and your mind.
I hope you read this with a open heart, and understand me a little bit better. I don't want to be your enemy.

Yours,

Yoji Senna
www.abcapoeira.com
with the beat on the feet since 1974.

rosa escreveu,

I am respectfully asking again, please leave us alone.
We want only to train capoeira in peace, under the
direction of our own master.

Please do not contact me. I am not interested in
receiving email from anyone except Mestre Loka
regarding our training of capoeira.

Please do not contact our students. If any of the
CapuraGinga students are interested in joining your
school, they know how to contact you.

If you have anything further to discuss, please direct
it to Mestre Loka.

Thank you,

-Rosa
-------------------------------------------------
----- Original Message -----
From: J C  To: Mestre Sena USA <CYBERZUMBI@aol.com> Sent: Tuesday, February 26, 2002

Subject: cara-palida que esta 'ensinando capoeira' nos EUA
 

Bom,

Pediu... ganhou... to enviando via espresso da meia noite... indiferente de cor e raca...  pra todo mundo!

Axe'

JC
----- Original Message -----
From: CYBERZUMBI@aol.com  To: ss.jeronimo@bigpond.com
Sent: Tuesday, February 26, 2002 2:41 PM
Subject: Re: March is comming and I'm wandering on your thoughts Re: Canberra Capoeira

Muito Obrigado pela mensagem Jeronimo.

Gostaria se possivel que voce mandesse esta mensagem para, billsj@rocketmail.com, e' um chaveco.

Essa e' a cara-palida que esta 'ensinando capoeira' representando o Loka, aqui Mpls.
 

Yoji Senna
=============
----- Original Message -----   see  ^{Problem of BRs in AU}
From: J C
Sent: Tuesday, February 26, 2002 2:02 PM

Subject: March is comming and I'm wandering on your thoughts Re: Canberra Capoeira

Subject: Re: ^{Problem of BRs in AU} = shaming the reputation of BR, culture and people - Capoeira!

Dear Jeronimo

Thank you for keeping me up to date of events in the Capoeira community.

I am heartened to see you are still playing a very effective and sincere  game, to untie the shackles that many capoeiristas still wear to serve their  masters' egos.

You are helping people move from a place of dependency and servitude to  become true, effective citizens of this earth. Who will demand what is  right, not what is proper.

For centuries, people did what they were told to. Environmental disasters,  wars, failures, because they were following orders. NO MORE, no more. In  order, for the human race to grow, we must learn to question each and every  aspect of our life. To demand an end to violence and slavery of minds.

I am with you in spirit, all the way.

Calada = USA

Neillie, I will try, try, to respond some of your questions below.

I know  your master Ousado, perhaps better than you do in some ways. Let me firstly remind you about US, Brazilians, and you guys, "so-called gringos"  - the way we behave... - our cultural differences - ?! Ye$$...!!!!!! Can you read or speak Portuguese?

Regarding my protest against violence, and the 'call' (Chamada -?!) I gave to the "so-called mestres" includes anyone that is directly or not involved in any act of aggression and disrespect to the Ritual of Capoeira. By the way, what's Capoeira to you?

Regarding Ousado and < when he comes back to Sao Paulo, where his 'home' school was founded some 27 years ago >, dear Neillie, did you hear about his last trip to S. Paulo, what happened there when people did play a tribute to him, during a public event, a batizado? - I read in a Brazilian Capoeira Magazine ((ABCapoeira, from Sao Paulo)  that one of Ousado's graduate was taken to a emergence (he was knocked out) after a confrontation with another... "so-called" belted... mestre?!

I don't have anything personal against Ousado or any Capoeira mestre, student, etc. I say that  people should be responsibly for such disrespect to the community (Capoeira) during such public events of Capoeira. I am not blaming people about being "black or white" or disrespecting anyone that plays Capoeira with respect. By the way, Ousado is again in AU participating at Edval's Boa Morte Batizado in Melbourne. I will see him if he comes to Sydney.

Anyway, I ike your way to approach me and I would like to say the same to you: <If I have mis-interpreted your intentions, please accept my apologies >.

There's no such a thing like "mestre de Capoeira" - we are all students of Capoeira, LIFE, so far we are alive. I prefer to say that we are professional capoeiristas, and if I use the word master, in English I believe it does say what I mean by professional, but in Portuguese the word "mestre" implies other (cultural, social...) situations to US in BR.

To end our game, why would you prefer to hide your voice from the Rod@ Virtual?

Axe'/LOVE to you. May the REAL Capoeira Ritual be always with you, to help evolve your body and spirit!

JERÔNIMO CAPOEIRA - Bondi Beach, Sydney AUS

Diana Espinosa/USA, (Global Roda, Capoeira, 'people'... out there...)

Thanks for writing. Then, also, thanks for your 'short based' E-mail game.

Sorry but, YOU missed the REAL "game" (jogo de Capoeira) that is on display...on TV?! Yet, if people can't read a single book, what else can we do to enjoy our lives playing with Capoeira inside a Roda de Capoeira regardless of race, creed, sex, etc...?! The only relieve left for U$... perhaps, is to go shortly  playing IT and have a "fast one" (Capoeira game?) at oncle Mac's?! What do YOU, out there, think about IT, about such human  attitude?!

Regarding the subject about the "Jewish 'hate' and German" that Diana remarked bellow, I can't also deny the possible "hate" (in focus) that the 'Japanese people' would like to display against the American, regarding their holocaustic Capoeira atomic game and, of course, the native AUS (so-called aborigine people) "hate" to the English invader. Not  to mention other human that are still hating and fighting against each other ever since before the 'capoeirista' called 'Jesus '  played his Capoeira games on Earth. Therefore, if I am to be blamed for any spread of hate (?) there are lots of people everywhere that consent with "hate" by supporting the  Global promotion of Holly-wood and TV holocaustic business movies, just to give YOU a REAL example of IT?! Or this kind of promotion is intended to educate and stop our hate and quarrels in between ma$ters and $laves?!  Yes, Diana/USA, I can understand well what and why the Jewish community "play against" the Germans, yet, I don't see the same "educative promotion" regarding the Japanese, aborigine, Africans, etc., pain (fate?) promoted with the same intensity. Why?! Is there any difference in between the other holocaust human fate?!

Therefore, in my HP, I am exposing the same (human hate) quarrels that the capoeiristas from the Capoeira Angola style play against the modern martial arts capoeirista (Regional style) everywhere in an attempt to stop (control) it and help evolve our lives, Capoeira. Diana/USA, let me ask you a simple question: Do you play and live your life with REAL Capoeira?! Or should we just talk about fancy acrobatic move and worthless martial arts belts (cordao) and be happy forever?! Satisfied by playing 'capoeira' with the me$tre FMI commanding the Global Roda while our world is falling apart divided by such human hate and discrimination in our Rodas?!

In short words, E-mail, as you suggested, what's Capoeira anyway?! Capoeira is just to insist on repeating 100 "armada & martelo" kicks inside the Gym academy every day?! This kind of 'Capoeira' unfortunately is a poor Capoeira/life style to follow, in my professional human opinion!

My (their) message (regarding the remarks made by unknown Mr David Luzius <luzius@earthlink.net> about the kind of promotion my professional work with Capoeira, includes my HP, and your comments Diana)  to the world is clear, and I will repeat it with another 'short words' to YOU (Capoeira Angola X Regional) human capoeirista... out there... with 'THE WALL' inside your minds and souls:

Thank you

Iconoclast 'capoeirista' JC

-----Original Message-----
From: Diana Espinosa <diana@activerse.com> Date: Wednesday, 12 January 2000
Subject: Re: HATE?!

i really don't understand what the disagreement is about and i doubt if anybody else who reads these long emails understands it either.  On the subject of Jewish "hate" and German Masters(?), I find it repugnant that you cannot comprehend what some Jewish people feel towards the German people and why. I don't know what tv program you are talking.  Can we talk about Capoeira and how interesting it is and how it can change people's lives regardless of race, creed, sex, etc...After reading these last few emails, I can see why people become disillisioned with capoeira.

----- Original Message -----
From: Jeronimo Santos Da Silva  Sent: Monday, January 10, 2000
Subject: Re: HATE?!

Axe' David, (Capoeira, Brazilian community, people from our loved world...) ---- Regarding this message bellow:<

Thanks for the note. Where are you writing (playing) from?  I don't understand well what you mean. Yet, it seems to me as if you are trying to tell me that I am promoting something "bad" to Capoeira, the world?! You may correct me if I got it the wrong way.

Let me give you an idea of my way of playing with Capoeira in 2000:

After graduating myself to an AUS citzenship belt (?) years ago, I am now just folowing the educative way that the government (AUS) uses to progress our nation, eg; advertising that drink drive is a crime. Yet, you would be very surprised with the impact of such promotion on national TV. Some would say it looks very negative, heavy on people, but believe me, it does work! People, humans  unfortunatelly in general can't just listen to [please let's play peace and love]. My HP, my work with Capoeira, is based in the same constructive way, showing sometimes the opposite side of the moon to get U$ to the right side of the sun. Do you understand the (traditional) game of Capoeira I play?! I believe that my work, there are others in the same way, is doing well to help and to educate capoeiristas and people in general. It suits to evolve our lives and to 'play the game' by exposing the REAL mattters of Capoeira. This includes your remarks of our "mestres" of Angola & Regional and their followers students [whom set down quarrels that their mestres have with each other].

By the way, your message made me think about the news that I watched tonight about the "hate" (since you mentioned this word) that the Jew community still promotes to the whole world about their past quarrels with the Germans ma$ters... interesting it! As you know, Australia is now on the focus of this quarrel (HUMAN HATE?) that they have with each other. Could that B just a commercial based "HATE" game?! --- Perhaps?!

Yes, we are humans, and so far Capoeira, like other human matters we have inside our society, can give US a good picture of what humans can handle. Some can evolve, some others not! Some chose to hate, others will respect and also play (Capoeira) their lives with LOVE!

I don't know how far you are involved with the art and the rituals of Capoeira. I hope that you can have a good time and enjoy REAL Capoeira anyway. I will also send you the last message (game) that I played with the USA Capoeira. This message includes the 'news' about a new HP (bellow) from Canada. Check it out!

Regards,

JERÔNIMO CAPOEIRA - Sydney, AUS

-----Original Message-----
From: David Luzius <luzius@earthlink.net>  Date: Monday, 10 January 2000 17:16
No subject

you page seems to spread quite a bit of hate within capoeira (regional or angolerias whom set down quarrels that their mestres have with each other)

• Subject:Capoeira is many things!
From: Jeronimo Capoeira
Date: Friday, 31 December 1999

Regarding this new  Capoeira HP from Canada   http://home.canadianwebs.com/aufumy/ - URL ml#Machismo http://home.canadianwebs..com/aufumy/capoeira.html#E-mail1

On December 6, 1999 Paul "Gigante" (USA) <zmolekjo@luther.edu> wrote to Calada (Canada) <audrey@canadawired.com>

-------------------------

Indeed, "Capoeira is many things!" Such great words were stated with wisdom by the Mestre Pastinha, in Bahia, BR.

Calada, Virtual Roda, Paul contradicts himself and acts as a confusing capoeirista/dancer. Paul Capoeira skills evolved from his  training inside an academy Gym with his main mentor Prequica in the USA. Yet, I grew up in the Amazon jungle and learnt my first Capoeira steps when I was 13 years old (now I graduated 40...) in the streets, beaches and backyards of Manaus city. I was surprised to learn that he is a professional dance teacher. It seems very contradictory to me that a dancer (teacher) would follow and pray for master Prequica's aggressive Capoeira style as he does...?! By the way, I don't need to prove to Paul, to anybody (in a Roda) that I have two balls just by kicking and physically hurting regarding his remarks about my protests against violence and my updated Capoeira way of life: [to became powerful without having the skills to back it up in the roda] —??!  The ritual of Capoeira means more than to play such fancy commercial martial arts sport style that many people promote -? There are other ways to prove you ARE Capoeira, if you have (can use) your brain/computer and play deadly games! Let's (U$...) also play the "Matrix" Capoeira games...?!

Paul also missed out the REAL  'subject Capoeira' at school when he says that he (an educator) left the Roda (his Roda) because of the nasty politics of Capoeira. However, he should fight back to improve Capoeira and help U$ to stop the irresponsible mestres (teachers) and their student followers that are egotistic promoting disrespect and distressing our Global family. I don't like the way he commented about me suggesting to others that the only way to fight back oppression is to kick back in a Roda. A very poor Capoeira attitude! Where have our unique Mandinga & Malicia traditional Capoeira skills (wisdom & craftiness) of such "sportive trained" capoeiristas gone?!

Paul also says that I am lying to you/others...? I think that he is misrepresenting my person to others who he got involved with. Particularly  the "mestres" that often lied to him. I am not lying to anybody. Why would I <use you to become more powerful...> ?? Powerful to do what? Perhaps, to play/promote Capoeira in an aggressive way as he says he loves and teaches?! It looks again like Paul's following some kind of Authoritarian & Powerful Capoeira way that he learned from his mentors -?! I promote Capoeira and teach my fellow students to BE  ICONOCLAST warriors and respect their brothers and sisters in a Roda/Life. I also show my kids what a REAL kick (rasteira, meia-lua, tesoura, etc) can do regarding Capoeira as a self defence subject.

Indeed, It takes time to learn about the many artistic and martial aspects of Capoeira, but, again, time is an illusion. In your HP I saw a letter where Paul remarks (this time IT is about you Calada/Canada):

[You say that you have not been involved in capoeira long yet you have some rather strong opinions about it. I do not know your experience but I think your statement "To all the "Mestres" out there that teach conformity and thus spiritual death, I am glad that I am free" does not come from a very full understanding of capoeira. In all endeavours of art and ritual, individual freedom can only truly be attained through focused discipline.]

To me, Paul words seems to be the result of this military Capoeira based training (includes Regional & Angola styles) where the "mestre" (?) subjects (brain wash) his students as an omnipotent god or general. This game fits better with Paul's "a macho game of one-upmanship" description. I think Paul got surprised with Calada's 'understanding of Capoeira' because she just spoke out what she fells without fear of the master/mestre whip -?! It looks to me as the result of one that doesn't have a colourful belt/cordel  around the neck, isn't it?!  Discipline is necessary to learn about Capoeira as Paul sad before, but there's more then that in his words, including the 'Capoeira Global Supermarket' promoted by many masters that he remarked before in previous E-mails.  I believe that in order to learn/teach Capoeira we must at first love it! Primarily to me, Capoeira is not just a martial art sport as Paul and others insist in promote in BR and elsewhere. Now in 2000, Capoeira must evolve and should be promoted as a ritual to educate and evolve our spirits, and we should fight against the oppressive "me$tre sy$tem" to get equal social rights and to achieve an enlightenment that will lead U$ to: Total Freedom!? Capoeira is very simple to BE, of course, in the hands and feet of those $laves that can simple: LOVE!? Capoeira is so simple as to be born, to survive and to die in a kind of dreammed "Amazon Jungle..?" — But this REAL natural "jungle game" should exist inside everybody minds and souls — isn't IT!?

Calada, your Web Page is good to help Capoeira (people) grow 'cause it says what we should say when we are not happy about the way modern Global Capoeira is promoted. The kind of iconoclast HP page of yours can shake the mind and body of people, and will help some of those $laves who are not happy about their "commanded" lives (the military training) and yet are just following the authoritarian will of martial belt graduated "mestres de Capoeira" (?!) without protest. As I responded to the Virtual Roda, to Paul, I professionally work with Capoeira and for this reazon I describe myself as a master capoeirista. "Paul" (??)  doesn't know what he is, yet he works professionally with Capoeira. Confusing?! Since he stated that I am lying,  it would be good to know Who is really lying in this game?! Perhaps, he is the one who is lying to himself?! Perhaps because he would like to be acknowledged (graduated with a belt?!) as a mestre and his "mestre" will not do so...? I don't have much problems in this matters 'cause I don't pray to me$$tres and I also never paid any $$  to get  any fancy martial belt as he did! The problem with the "mestre" (master) word is that nowadays many people believe that they are more than just flesh and blood, after they graduate their Capoeira with belts. Real Capoeira (in 2000) goes beyond the academy Roda. By the way, I don't care if people give me a commercial label of mestre. My rent is paid (?) and I know well who I am and the quality of work I promote to my community.

Paul (like others did) remarks that I should have asked him permission to fwd his letters to the Virtual Roda. Yet, the subject was Capoeira and he responded to my protest against violence with a kind of "Only The Strong" attitude — sending me aggrressive virtual kicks -?! Then I replied his game and exposed IT (U$... Capoeira?!) to the Global Capoeira World.  I believe he (and many "so- called me$tres") got very surprised with my martial Capoeira Internet moves?! Regarding this matter of permission to 'share the game' in the Virtual Roda my suggestion is simple: If you don't want to have your E-mails (the aggressive Capoeira you and your mestre pray for...) globally promoted in the Net, the world, better not send any E-mails. Often the people that complained about my open "virtual REAL games" (protest against violence, etc) are usually associated with those capoeiristas who like to promote discrimination and conflict inside the Capoeira events we have everywhere and are shaming the name of Brazil and the culture of my people. If people don't want to have their names and E-mails  publicised they should hide themselves and not write at all. Yet they are making critics and sending virtual kicks to U$...  Global Capoeira 2000 World — ???!! Confusing?! Yes my friends, we are in a new era of Capoeira. Illiteracy is going to end in our Roda and the $lave Ritual will grow and evolve!

Finally, I would like to say that Paul is just a name/subject I choose to play this game. There are many "Pauls" everywhere in the circle/roda of our Global Capoeira 2000 World playing Capoeira against U$...>>>. For this and other reasons, it's good to remind you folks that if you ever get involved with the Brazilian culture and want to educate, evolve, your life playing "games" with Capoeira there's an old saying that spells: Be always aware in the roda/ring of life, mate!

I like to see my Virtual Roda original idea (protesting against irresponsible capoeiristas, protesting against the growing of social violence, etc... ) growing and helping people to find their own... Starway to...??!!

Dear sister Calada, congratulations for your HP. I give (U$...) my full support in the promotion of any kind of 'Capoeira' that suits to educate and evolve people lives.

Axe'/prosperity to Global Capoeira in 2000!

iconoclast JERÔNIMO CAPOEIRA - Sydney 2000, AUS

• Subject: Stop the violence in Capoeira website

Calada
--------------

ICONOCLAST J C - SYDNEY AUS

-----Original Message-----
From: Jeronimo Capoeira  To: Virtual Roda Date: Wednesday, 29 December 1999 14:26
Subject: End of Days...??? - Jeronimo's virtual roda

Global capoeiristas... regarding Mr Scott/USA remarks (bellow):

Scott/USA, why are you now complaining about your comments (game) against violence in Capoeira, life that you stated before? Did you change your mind about it?

My "game" is simple: I aim to promote EDUCATION playing Capoeira to evolve our lives! Scott/US, Global Capoeira 2000 World, I am not buying any game of disrespect promoted by any irresponsible capoeirista that aims to shame the name of BR and distress the global Capoeira  family. By the way, I believe it's time for US all to decide who really wants to play Capoeira with US and delet from our Rodas, events, etc., those delinquent who insist playing against U$... --- before The End Of Days?! Yess, Scott as you demanded, I am deleting your name from the Virtual Roda. Also, if you are playing Capoeira but do not want to share it (?) <Please remove my comments from your website and do not distribute them> ??? ... end of days...?!... ... if y'are afraid to die... Mate... you better stop writing E-mails and stay away from REAL Capoeira...! Scott, regarding your remarks: < I never have been graduated by Master Preguica and have never said so....>; I apologise for this BIG mistake!

Axe' - J C Sydney 2000 - AUS

-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Rozman <sfrozman@facstaff.wisc.edu>Date: Tuesday, 28 December 1999 4:34
Subject: Jeronimo's virtual roda

First of all, I never have been graduated by Master Preguica and have never said so.... Second, Jeronimo apparently feels the right to post and email segments of a message that I sent to him years ago in response to one of his emails...I sent it as an email to him and never expressed by approval to have it posted on the web. Third, I want to "buy out of this roda"... Please remove my comments from your website and do not distribute them.
>
>thank you,
>Scott

**[words pronounced by Mr Scott <sfrozman@facstaff.wisc.edu> from Madison, WI - Scott was graduated by Master Preguiça (BR) and his  "Omulu Capoeira Group" in the USA ]. Posted at VIOLENCE

 ----Original Message-----
From: Jeronimo Capoeira  Date: Monday, 27 December 1999 9:15
Subject: Shame on BR?! - From NJ, USA

I would like to express my professional and personal view regarding this note I received (bellow):

Unfortunately, this persistent kind of delinquent conduct performed by irresponsible capoeiristas is bringing Brazil a (international) dishonourable image. People promoting Capoeira with this "Only the Strong" EGO X Capoeira attitude (and those who accept their presence and support such vicious behaviour in their houses/rodas without protest) are fully responsible for shaming the name of our Brazilian race and the name and reputation of Capoeira. Such irresponsible people are trying to destroy the productive work promoted by our professional (mestre) capoeiristas and students, artists and social and cultural based institutions that aim to perform Capoeira to educate and help evolve the lives of our brothers and sisters everywhere.

SOLUTION: Let's ban those delinquent  from our Rodas and Capoeira events and unite Capoeira to serve our communities. This attitude will help  US (BR) to progress our lives and enjoy Capoeira in 2000!

Axe'/long live  to Capoeira in 2000!

Iconoclast JERÔNIMO CAPOEIRA ---------- BACK TO NEW GAME ------------- BACK TO TOP

• Subject: Brazilian culture globali$ed?!

On Wed, 6 October 1999, Douglas <daiyo@rd.mmtr.or.jp> from Japan, wrote: <...I excuse myself master Jeronimo but I do not agree with this judgment accusing all the Abada capoeiristas to be corrupted and play against the other Capoeira groups with aggression... >

Sydney, October 13, 1999

Axé to all! (It means, peace, love and prosperity).

JERÔNIMO CAPOEIRA
Iconoclast Professional Master Capoeirista. Bondi Beach, Sydney/AUS.

Sydney, January 23, 1999

Firstly I would like to thank you for your time in reading this letter. After receiving a letter from Mr Paul Zmolek, US, I am now forwarding this new one from a french woman called "Lúcia Palmares." Lúcia says that she is a graduated teacher from Master Nô Capoeira school, based in Salvador, Bahia and is currently teaching Capoeira in France, Paris. I value the importance of these two letters since these people of non Brazilian origins have been in contact with our culture and are now working and promoting Capoeira to their local communities. They also have developed an individual concept about the Brazilians.
Therefore I believe this subject is of our concern to debate and try to find a solution for this kind of problem. Thank you for the participation on this cultural based Capoeira debate.
Let's follow the virtual game with Lúcia's message and the aftermath of my response to the game.
Cordialy,

Jerônimo Capoeira 

---

• Subject: French games...(?) ^{click here}

Lúcia Palmares.

• Subject: Le Tour de France...(?) ^{click here}

Jerônimo Capoeira.

• Subject:  Apologies from USA... ??!

I feel it is unfortunate that young, naive American capoeiristas, many with two years of experience or even less, felt compelled to write to you regarding your incident with Amem. Even if they had seen the roda, they are far too new to capoeira to really see or understand. It would be good for you to take their letters off of your website as they have written out of ignorance. I almost fell to the floor laughing when I read Capixaba's student claim that he is full of love and not violent (when I saw him 7 years ago he was the most aggressive, scary, violent  capoeirista I have ever seen). I did hear that he was attacked by everyone at once during a roda in Brazil and almost died so maybe he matured through experiencing the consequences of his actions. I have no complaint against Abada which is just a natural outgrowth of Senzala which is a natural progression from Bimba's innovations. Camisa has figured out how to become wealthy through capoeira and every Brazilian capoeirista I have ever met is always trying to hustle a few dollars through the "capoeira supermarket". I do feel that his younger students are overly enthusiastic about the martial aspect of the art and, the last time I was in Brazil, was a little disturbed to see that several of these young studs clearly have no understanding of angola.  Abada is vastly improving the technique of regional which is good in one aspect but there clearly is a cost to such a one-sided focus.

Regarding your discussion on what makes a master:  I know that I will never be a master because I have other interests in my life. I believe that, in order to be a master, one must completely dedicate one's life to capoeira (As Preguica has said, "I am a slave to my art"). I do believe that the standards of who can be given this title of respect has slipped and, in fact, this led to many disagreements and seccessions from Senzala by several of the original members. At first I found your capoeira via the internet a bit absurd but, on second thought, realizing that capoeira is life and capoeiristas are always playing capoeira I applaud your attempts. This media has already been colonized and claimed by the capitalists who base human value on monetary standards. Any effort to subvert this process is appreciated.

Paul "Gigante" Zmolek.

• Subject: Stop the Violence(?)

• My reply:

Thanks for the e-mail. I appreciate your participation on the Internet Game and response on the topic about "VIOLENCE!!"

<Your campaign against Amem and other (as you term it) "so called masters" over the Internet is doing nothing positive and only serves to lower your reputation.>

**Your mistake! My protest is helping people to change their attitude towards the game in a positive way and Capoeira to evolve everywhere. By the way, it is not my reputation which is getting lowered but the reputation of those who are still promoting and supporting violence and aggression. Also I am not doing any particular campaign against anyone in particular. I am protesting against the abusive use of aggression and personal frustration that people, including our "so called" modern masters and students of Capoeira bring to our Rodas. I don't approve of this kind of non professional attitude and disrespect towards Capoeira from those "aggressive players" who are the only ones responsible for lowering the reputation of our ritual/art form and shaming the name of the Brazilian Nation and its people everywhere!

<I was taught by Mestre Preguica (who was trained and graduated by Bimba) and had it reinforced by other mestres that everything stays in the roda. >

**Talking about masters' saying in Capoeira, Mestre Pastinha stated: "O Jogo da Capoeira (a vida) não tem método, seu fim é inconcebível ao mais sábio dos mestres...!!" — Have you heard or read about it?! I agree with Pastinha: the Jogo de Capoeira, as life itself, doesn't have any particular formal method to B followed because its END (seu fim) is yet unknown even for the most wise of masters...! The Roda for me seems to be something different then it is from what people taught you in the USA. The Roda for me, as it was to those $laves who invented Capoeira, is life itself! I am living my Capoeira games in 2000, mate!

<To think that there is no "violence" in the roda is completely naive.>

** Indeed, Life contains violence... but people are aggressive and selfish! Unfortunately nowadays many students and ma$ters of Capoeira (professionals?) are only focussing on promoting aggressive games and bringing negative competitive attitude in between the Capoeira groups in our modern Rodas!

<If you have a problem you deal with it in the next roda. Those who don't obviously are not complete capoeiristas who understand the spirit of capoeira.>

** How naive and academically trained you seems to B! The next Roda is here, mate! I am playing Capoeira in 2000! My Capoeira has evolved and I updated my games also including the techniques from the most current "programs" we can buy from "big chief" master Bill Gates! What a game!? Yet I am note sure about what did you learn in the US regarding the "spirit of Capoeira" to teach and guide your students to "fight" with Capoeira in REAL life!

<I have suffered several injuries in both angola and regional games and I have accepted it as part of capoeira.>

**I presume that you like to get injured? I don't! I prefer to enjoy my life and be creative (vadiar!) playing with Capoeira. I was born in Brazil in the Amazon jungle and started learning with Capoeira in the 70's and understand what you mean by getting injured playing Capoeira but now, fortunately, I evolved my lifestyle and my spirit with Capoeira. I don't like to play or promote Capoeira as a "military sportive art form" (the so-called, "Esporte Nacional" or Brazilian National Martial Art Sport — ??) to compete against my fellows... — $laves?! Also I am very surprised to hear that from you, particularly regarding the Capoeira Angola way of living and the promotion of this art form/style overseas. Can you play and understand traditional Capoeira Angola? Or is it else you mean by "angola" games?

<At the batizados I have participated in, the times I saw what you term "violence" was when one capoeirista had a grudge with another or sensed that a Brazilian capoeirista was being arrogant and needed to be taught a lesson.>

**I too believe that many people who're playing Capoeira nowadays need to B taught a "good lesson" in the Roda, the wheel of life! But what kind of lesson? Did you hear from people "around you" that I am an arrogant man? Do you know, many people are talking lots and doing nothing of positive to evolve in their lives, poor spiritual things! As a father and professional capoeirista I know well what and how to tell (give a lesson?!) to my daughter and my students about respect for life and my next inside and outside the Roda. Is your own opinion that Capoeira should follow a different way of education and promotion? Also I learned that the Batizado, according to Bimba's Regional tradition, was a very special moment for the life of a capoeirista. It was a celebration to award and demonstrate the students abilities playing WITH and not against Capoeira! By the way, Bimba used to call "ESQUENTA BANHO" (full contact) the time session to hit and play the macho man ("Only the Strong??") ritual inside his academy. Where are our mandingueiros playing this game nowadays? By the way, the physical aggression in my eye (the master's lesson?!) that I suffered, as I denounced in my Protest, happened in an outdoors Capoeira demonstration for the local public in Bondi beach, Sydney. Is your opinion that we should clap our hands and support this kind of delinquent attitude?! There are any knowledge (fundamento) of the traditional Capoeira (Angola) or modern sporty (Regional) style to B learned in "such" lesson? Think about it, mate!

<Based upon your website and rantings, I imagine that the second is the case. As you yourself wrote in your website "Capoeira is deadly">

**Capoeira in my life goes beyond playing such Hollywood "Strong" moves and tricks played with the help of the cameras or imitating "monkeys" playing with acrobatics moves in a Roda. Real Capoeira is culture, education and a art form of survival, camarado! Where have your mandinga and social malícia skills gone?! I suggest that you should keep reading and learning more about the present and past historic ways of the... $lave Ritual?! So B aware of your "next Roda" and who you are going to play Capoeira within... Zum, Zum, Zum...?! Axé Capoeira Internet!

<You got tagged, get over it.>

**Thank you for your opinion and your interest in my work with Capoeira. I've already stated in my Webpage that I am an iconoclast capoeirista. But I don't expect to change the whole world! Jesus, Martin Luther King, and many others iconoclast mandingueiros protested against violence and discrimination and tried to educate people to grow their lives (Capoeira) in the Roda. Yet, after all they did, we have "masters" Sadam and Clinton (just to mention a few of "such" kind) playing aggressive, violent and immoral Capoeira games, and for more insane that it may B, they have being fully supported by many of their voters and followers citizens capoeiristas. — Compreende camarado?!

<Because there are so few English language books on capoeira I was thinking about using it in the classes I teach.>

** Since you are teaching Capoeira I also would like to suggest that you should learn more about the Brazilian Portuguese language and experience the REAL (spiritual?!) game of Capoeira in Brazil. I sense you love Capoeira and perhaps wants to evolve more within Capoeira? Is this so?

<Now I am sure I won't.>

**Take care and if you ever decide to "buy" the game... ($lave Ritual) just call us back!

Axé,

JERÔNIMO SANTOS DA SILVA