It was a strange day. I went in there bringing people I knew, and I was welcomed by the sight of people I knew. But every few steps I would feel a sense of isolation, like I was an outsider looking in. As if I was a mere spectator in this festival, surrounded by merrymakers, doused in confetti, but not really someone who belonged. Then someone would call out my name, pull my elbow, flash me with the warmest of smiles, award me with the kindest of embraces. And I would remember that this is real. I’m here. And it’s my festival…
