My vacations in Goa were coming to an end much sooner than I thought they'd be, and although I'm thrilled about going back to Dubai, I can't help but think about these past 3 years of mine in Goa. I actually never intended to be here in the first place, but I had to practically force myself to come here to finish up my bachelor's degree in commerce since I didn't want to burden my dad with the expensive fees the colleges were offering, plus I knew he wanted me to study at the same institute as he had. So I took this as an opportunity to explore my parents' native place as well as visit my extended relatives.

However, it didn't go as planned, and I ended up hating almost everyone. Don't get me wrong, I loved the place, but most people made me want to leave it for good. I felt like an outcast, but I didn't mind since I accept I'm dorky and prefer being a wallflower rather than being one of the popular kids on the block. My thoughts are suddenly interrupted by a loud burst of firecrackers. I turn to my left and see King Momo and his float approaching, indicating to the onlookers that the carnival has begun. My aunt and cousins decided it would be great if we all went out for an outing, and so we arrived in Mapusa to watch this carnival show. We all stood across from St. Jerome's Church to get a better view of the whole event.

I notice that the floats are wonderfully adorned, and the music is on full blast, with each float having its own song that ties to its own theme. The people are cheering them on, with bright smiles plastered on their faces. One could even see the kids looking entirely absorbed by the whole carnival, while I stood there feeling completely disinterested with a dull and gloomy look on my face. What was my...