Joe was already seated at café Algarve when Nelly Furtado arrived, her energy vibrant yet contemplative. She carried a notebook and a copy of The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho, its cover slightly worn from use.
“Nelly, you’re glowing,” Joe said as she sat down. “What’s on your mind?”
Nelly smiled, her eyes scanning the horizon where the waves met the sky. “Big things, Joe. I’ve been thinking about world peace.”
Joe raised an eyebrow. “World peace? That’s a pretty tall order.”
“It is,” Nelly admitted, setting her notebook and book on the table. “But someone has to dream it, right? I’ve been reading The Alchemist again, and there’s this quote that keeps playing in my mind:
‘And, when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.’
Joe nodded, intrigued. “So, you think the universe can help us achieve world peace?”
“I do,” Nelly said earnestly. “But it’s not just about wishing for it. It’s about believing it’s possible and taking steps toward it. That’s why I’ve been following what António Guterres, the UN Secretary-General, has been doing. He’s been advocating for diplomacy, unity, and solutions to global crises. I think he has the vision and the heart to lead the world toward peace.”
Joe leaned back in his chair. “That’s ambitious. But how do you see it happening?”
Nelly opened her notebook, revealing pages filled with ideas and notes. “It starts with small, tangible actions—fostering dialogue, promoting education, addressing inequalities. But it also requires a shift in mindset. People need to believe that peace is achievable, that it’s worth fighting for in a different way—through words, compassion, and collaboration.”
Joe glanced at her notes, impressed. “And you think Guterres is the one to make it happen?”
“I think he’s a key figure,” Nelly said. “But it’s not just about one person. It’s about inspiring a movement. That’s where the quote comes in. If enough of us truly want peace, the universe will align to help us achieve it. It might sound idealistic, but every great change starts with a dream.”
Joe smiled. “You’ve always been a dreamer, Nelly. But you’re also someone who turns dreams into reality. So, what’s your role in all this?”
Nelly’s expression softened, but her determination was clear. “I want to use my platform to amplify the message. Through music, through conversations like this, through supporting initiatives that promote peace. I know I can’t do it alone, but I can be a part of the ripple effect.”
Joe nodded thoughtfully. “It’s a big dream, but I like it. And you’re right—if anyone can inspire people to believe in something bigger, it’s you.”
As the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting golden hues over the ocean, Nelly gazed out at the horizon. “It’s not just my dream, Joe. It’s humanity’s dream. And I truly believe the universe is ready to conspire with us, if we’re brave enough to ask.”
The two friends sat in silence for a moment, the weight of the conversation settling between them. In that quiet space, surrounded by the rhythm of the waves, Nelly’s hope for peace felt not just possible, but inevitable.