That was the best birthday yet!  Avdi, Stacey, Jess, and the kids gave me a mountain of fabulous gifts and a tiramisu cake.  That was only the beginning.

Much later in the evening, Avdi, Joyce, and I went to my first rave ever.  It was mind bending!  I loved it.  Everyone was so chill and friendly.  The original music and light shows were mesmerizing.  The whole atmosphere was trippy in a very comfortable way.  People went out of their way to make my birthday (“3 years old”) special.  Total strangers talked to each other.  It felt like my fantasy dream world, familiar yet otherworldly, as in not of this current US nightmare.

I could totally get why people of all ages go to raves, to feel safe and inclusive and very euphoric.  Just the contact high (with a little supplemental help) was enough.  It was a very secure environment.  I was almost disappointed when Avdi said it was time to leave (in the wee hours).  I slept it off and didn’t even have a hangover.  I’m glad I was brave and took a chance, thanks to Avdi and Joyce.  This is one way people can get through the next four years.