Capoeira

What is "Capoeira"?  I found a very simple definition describing Capoeira as "a Brazian martial that combines elements of fight, acrobatics, music, dance and ritual".  This is a very generic definition and I mean no disrespect by breaking it down to this simple form.  Alex and Trace have been involved in a local program of Capoeira since last fall.  I honestly couldn't tell you what it REALLY was until this past weekend.  I would usually watch the last 10 minutes or so of their 2x a week class and be very happy they went eagerly to each class, were meeting new kids and were dedicated to the program.  Most importantly for me was that they were getting "coaching".  I was always a coached kid and learned so much about dedication, discipline, respect and hard work from the coaches I had growing up.  I wanted that same type of experience for our children beginning at a young age and I hope this program could provide that.  This past weekend a "Batizado" was held for the kids in the San Pancho program.  A "Batizado", again in a simple definition, is an annual gathering to learn and practice with more experienced students from other schools and to acknowledge the accomplishments of it's local members. This kind of event strengthens the bonds of the larger, overall Capoeira community.  Instructors came from other programs to support the gathering and during the "Troca de Cordas" ceremony each youth was given a new belt and a few moments to showcase their new skills to the community and with more accomplished instructors and members.  You can see Alex and Trace's moment in the YouTube link.  The level of energy that the group brought to the event to support the kids was amazing as the music and voices were bouncing off the walls and ceiling.  It was a very proud moment (watery eyes included) for Dad as the kids were the only ones in their age group moving up from their current level so their portion of the event was together.



It's during this ceremony I saw Capoeira at a very high level as some of the adult members/instructors took the floor.  Unbelievably impressive how fast, powerful, fluid and skilled many of these people were.  I really liked the fact that there were many women involved.  Alex has remarked that she is now the only girl in her class and for her to see older teens and even some of the moms of her friends at school participate was important.  One exceptionally skilled young woman even had a red bow in her hair which I thought was interesting.  Hair in a pretty bow and a bad ass as well.

I had never heard of Capoeira before we came to Mexico.  Other martial arts programs in the States were much more visible.  Now, the kids have entered into an amazing community and have been included in such an amazing experience due to our decision to relocate here.  I really hope they have the desire to continue and pursue higher levels of skill, discipline and grow in such a positive environment.  They really have no idea what they have accomplished in the short 2 1/2 years they have been here and their involvement in this program just adds to what kind of people they are becoming.  If you ever are here and a "Batizado" is being held, please make an effort to attend.