In memoriam.. Norberto Franciolly Mangolin

Norberto was the best friend I ever had. He was also the most giving and loving person I have ever met. His unexpected death, at the age of 40, has left a deep wound. I feel, however, that our friendship is still alive and his presence is strong every time I recall him.

A few words about Norberto's life: He was born in Brazil. He studied dance as a child at Musica in Goiania, Brazil. At 14 he was recruited by the Royal Academy in England. In his 20s, Norberto performed with the Paris Opera and the world famous Bolshoi Ballet in Moscow, Russia. He closed his dancing career at the Atlanta Ballet company. During the last ten years of his life he worked as yoga instructor and personal trainer in Atlanta. This is also how I met him in August of 2003.

Norberto's favorite thing was to give to others. Perhaps this is the most profound and humble goal we can all have in life.