Moving to Brasil: A Little Paulo Coelho & A Big Transition

Posted on May 10th, 2011 | 7 Comments »

“When we least expect it, life sets us a challenge to test our courage and willingness to change; at such a moment, there is no point in pretending that nothing has happened or in saying that we are not yet ready. The challenge will not wait. Life does not look back. A week is more than enough time for us to decide whether or not to accept our destiny.” — Paulo Coelho

Paulo Coelho is my favorite author. Period. I love the way that he strings plots and words together with a level of simplicity and authenticity that most writers fail to execute. As I am announcing my decision to move to Salvador (Bahia), Brasil, I couldn’t think of a better person from which to pull a quote. Not only is he Brasilian, but he’s also my creative muse.

Last summer, I read The Alchemist, for the first time. I devoured it, sucking the inspiration out of its pages, while mourning the end of my college career and having my full-time job disintegrate. I eventually got another full-time job with an amazing organization, and began building my writing career at night. But as many artists know, the time eventually comes when you have to choose between the 9-5 and your passion.

I chose my passion.

In mid-July, I’ll be moving to Salvador, Brasil to enroll in a local artist in residency program. I will be writing full time, freelancing for various publications and finally finishing my memoir. My excitement is indescribable as I welcome this new chapter in life and make a much-needed lifestyle change.

I welcome significant creative growth, new international friends, and soothing non-American home. I’ll be blogging throughout my journey and of course, updating my Facebook page with tons of pictures. Make sure you follow!

I appreciate all of your love and support throughout the last year. Every time you tweet, share, or comment on something I’ve written, it brings me incredible joy.

A toast to new beginnings!

Much love,

Arielle Loren

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  • http://heardhimsay.com Drew-Shane

    I’m so excited for you. This is very inspiring. You keep impressing me. Keep. Impressing. Me.

  • http://www.arielleloren.com/2011/05/red-afro-pierced-nose-traveling-and-leisure-writing-time » Red Afro, Pierced Nose, Traveling, and Leisure (Writing) Time Arielle Loren

    [...] City). Starting out, you won’t be able to afford 1,000 dollar rent, but you can live large in Brasil for $500 or even less in another country! I just interviewed a woman who lived in Thailand for 2 [...]

  • http://www.iriseben.wordpress.com Iriseben

    My copy of the Alchemist is black and blue from annotations, smeared tears, and dog earred pages. I loved the book so much that I bought an additional 3 copies for my friends as a: the future is bright graduation gift, birthday surprise coupled with a camera to document ah-has, and friendship gift for someone finding her way.

    It’s awesome that you took the leap to live a location-independent lifestyle. I’m still in college and hope to do the same. God willing and with incredible hustle, South Africa will be my future home.

  • StacyAustralia

    Congrats lady!! So proud of you. I know I’m late responding but as you know I haven’t been online much. I wish you well in Brazil. Thats very admirable :-)

  • Anonymous

    Thanks Stacy! I’ve really appreciated all your support over the last year. Enjoy your internet free days, we’ll stay in touch :-)

  • http://twitter.com/Bucho_NZ Bucho Bucho

    Battling my saudade for Brazil this rainy Auckland morning I was just searching images of Salvador and picking through the results and I discover this. Thanks for sending my jealousy meter off the charts Arielle! Thanks a lot.

    Anyway, as far as I can tell so far you seem more than a little awesome. Today, because of Brazil, almost by accident, another joined your band of followers.

  • Anonymous

    What a coincidence! Appreciate you reading :-) Brasil is a dream, I haven’t even updated my blog since moving here. Salvador is life! It’s just magical here.