Of fireworks and drunks

I went to the HSBC Celebration of Light show for the first time yesterday night. It was an awesome performance - the fireworks display were breathtaking. I loved, loved being there. The hundreds of thousands of people, the mass crowding, the weirdos who come out at night, the beach, the pitch black of night, the explosions of brilliant, multicoloured, fireworks all around us and even the long, long, incredibly long lines for the trains and buses. The streets were closed for the event and police were stationed every few feet. At first I was scared of the few trouble makers who always come for the fights and drinking - not the fireworks itself. Every year there are weapon confiscations, drunks arrested, people stabbed, fights breaking out randomly. I’m terrified of being mugged or my personal space being invaded…but it was truly a family event. There were little kids in strollers everywhere and I guess the presence of hundreds of police officers calmed me down enough to enjoy the night.

I hope to make it an annual tradition. Next year, hopefully I will be brave enough to bring my little brother and sister along.