Achieving the impossible

Candido Rondon (1865-1958) is a great Brazilian hero famous for his role in building a telegraph network through the vast expanse of western Brazil in the late nineteenth century, which required traversing the deepest recesses of the Amazon rainforest. He was a champion of humanism, a person who dedicated his life to the happiness and prosperity of the people. The Federal University of Rondonia is named in his honour.

[Candido Rondon was a military officer, engineer and explorer who did important work mapping and opening up the Mato Grosso region of western Brazil. He was also a staunch advocate of the rights of indigenous peoples.]

Extending telegraph lines through the unexplored reaches of the Amazon presented such a daunting undertaking that everyone thought it was impossible. Why was Rondon able to make the impossible possible? Three keys to his success can be cited.

First, he followed the lessons of those he looked up to as his mentors. The greater the challenges he faced, the more he turned for guidance and inspiration to the teachings and examples of such people as Benjamin Constant (1836-1891), a military officer and educator who was a leading figure in the establishment of the Brazilian Republic. And he strove tirelessly, never retreating a single step, for the sake of society, the people and the future, doing his utmost to realise his predecessors' dreams for the development of the young republic of Brazil. That's what made him strong and undefeatable.

The second key to success was staying wisely committed to the course of unity. Rondon was supported by many colleagues who stuck by him through thick and thin. They called the Rondon Commission, in which they worked alongside him, `the school of duty', and had immense respect and admiration for their leader. In the task of establishing the telegraph network, Rondon showed himself to be indefatigable and uncomplaining. Heartily encouraging his colleagues in this proud undertaking, he inspired them to work with amazing dedication and unite together solidly.

Unity will lead to victory in any struggle. Rondon's message of what can be achieved through a united effort resonates with me powerfully. Let's follow his example! Let's forge ahead in unity to a new summit of victory!

The third key to success was tenaciously pursuing the course of dialogue. Rondon respected the indigenous peoples of the Amazon. He made sincere efforts to engage them in dialogue and promote communication, and through these bold initiatives fostered firm friendships.