I used to be that person who dreaded the two weeks of mardi gras.. the puking and peeing in the street, the ridiculous of drinking, and the stupidity of doing whatever it took to get those plastic beads.. I never understood the locals who stayed, I always wanted to take a vacation at that time but working in the service industry always prevented me from doing that.
Then on one Mardi Gras day in 1998 a friend of mine from New York wanted to walk around the Quarter so after much huffing and puffing we decided to walk around, and I saw the most wonderful thing ever ... many many people (locals) with these elaborate gorgeous costumes, the air was filled with bubbles and glitter and streamers, so we decided to follow the group, they were headed to the river. What I saw and heard was just magical to me, I cried, and I cry every year now. That was the day that Mardi Gras came into my heart and soul, and I think the city did also, I really knew what it meant to be a part of something. I now truly LOVE this time of year, there is no other place in the world that I would rather be ...
I have come to love all of it really ... the song say's it all .. if you have any sorrows or burdens please bring them with you and leave them in the river .. cleanse yourself .. you will feel it move you
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