After the Festival: Reflections on Change and Transition
September 1, 2024
It is early in the morning on Sunday, September 1, 2024. The rain has come and gone, leaving a fresh start to the day at twenty-eight degrees Celsius—a relief, considering how long it’s been since we’ve seen temperatures dip below thirty. Despite the cool start, the mete-orological service has issued a code yellow warning: more rain is expected, and some spots on the island might flood. It’s a sobering reminder that, despite the slight reprieve, September remains the hottest month of the year, and the heat has already been relentless.
Today is the day after the festival. Thankfully, the rain held off until the festivities concluded. Now, the roads are quiet, save for a few familiar spots already submerged by rainwater, as I make my way out for coffee. There is a strange calm in the aftermath—a pause before life resumes its regular pace. I got back before nine o’clock to catch the start of the F1 race in Monza. It is one of those sports I find rather senseless, much like boxing, but I like to watch. And yet, there is no broadcast of the Paralympics in Paris, a stark reminder that we still have a long way to go regarding inclusion.
As I scroll through social media, my feed fills with people sharing their latest adventures, achievements, or thoughtful quotes. Those who attended the festival share their pictures and videos to mark the end of the festival. Come Monday, these stories will be shared at work, at least by those with a job. Many who could afford the festival either have steady employment or are baby boomers enjoying retirement, besides the many tourists, of course.
By the end of the week, reality will inevitably set in. Everyone will have to shift gears, make plans, set objectives, and work toward their targets. But the routine won’t change for many—it will be business as usual. We are in a transition period, primarily driven by the undeniable forces of climate change and the energy shift that comes with it. Yet, life moves on, not waiting for anyone to catch up or change their ways.
The truth is, this transition will only accelerate once a critical mass of people understand that it’s not just about personal gain—it is about collective well-being. Unfortunately, it often takes a personal crisis for many to realize this; only when they “hit the wall” does the need for change become evident.
So, as we navigate these uncertain times, it is essential to embrace the journey. Life, after all, does not wait for us to be ready. It is up to us to find excitement in this era of change, to adapt and grow, and to understand that the future depends on all of us, not just a few.
Miguel Goede
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