, Day 179
2 hrs, 3 .0 kms

I haven't had a lot of interaction with people so far on this Superhike--this next one kind of makes of for it. Passing through the plaza in a busy part of town, I see a group of people all wearing t-shirts with hearts on them and approaching random strangers. At first it looks like a fundraiser or campaign of some short--but no, it's Brazilian based denomination that is taking its message to the streets.

I'd like to do a little socializing, so when an attractive young Brazilian girl approaches me, I decide to play along

"Is there something that you want that you don't have?" she asks

"Actually, I have pretty much everything I want"

"Don't you want more money?"

"Not really--more money can create more problems"

"Are you married? Do you have problems with your wife?"

"Yes I'm married--but we're doing fine"

"I see you play music--do you wish you could make money playing music?"

Ah, you got me! You guys are good! "Yes, I suppose so"

"Then come and we'll pray for you, and this wish will come true ." I think for a minute... Aw, what harm could it do? So I follow her to where an older fellow, I guess their pastor is administering on the spot miracle prayers.

First the girl gives me a speech about how if ask Jesus into my heart, everything will work out in my life, and I'll have joy and peace in my life--telling me that this is the case for her. I must say, I'm quite taken by her enthusiasm--and wonder if, by being such a die-hard optimist, this in itself might help people be more successful in life. I mean, BELIEVING you're going to succeed (even if it be on a false premise) might actually help you succeed, won't it?

Now it's my turn to recieve a "prayer", and the pastor puts his hand on my head and begins invoking a greater power to bring me success and have all my wishes come true. Meanwhile the girl keeps gesturing that I close my eyes. I do--for a moment. Ah! That's the trick! With your eyes closed, and a loud, insistent voice and and hand pressed against your forehead, you do start to feel a bit woozy--you might even start believing that there is something supernatural going on... if you don't know better. I could see how folks who are down on their luck, going through rough times could easily be drawn into this sort of thing--especially with the strong feeling of community.

Of course, there's the fine print to... these types of groups typically have long list of rules you have to abide by, activities you're supposed to attend, and of course, a big chunk of your paycheck that you're expected to hand over...

For me it's just another of many intriguing encounters along my way. I bid them farewell and continue on my way.