The Delight of 'Not Going'
The author reflects on the joy of opting out of social events during Carnival, emphasizing personal contentment over societal expectations.
In a personal narrative, the author shares her experience of deliberately abstaining from the social whirlwind of Carnival. Instead of participating in the festive activities, she chose to stay in, read literature, and enjoy intimate moments with close friends. This choice, while seemingly unconventional in a society that celebrates communal gatherings, brought her a unique sense of fulfillment and peace despite the general perception of Carnival as a pivotal social event.
The piece also contrasts her preferences with the contemporary 'FOMO' culture, describing her belonging to a group that experiences 'JOMO'βthe joy of missing out. The author critiques societal pressures to attend every event and highlights the pleasure found in solitude and thoughtful leisure over frenzied socialization. It suggests that this way of living, which may seem like an avoidance of life, is, in fact, an embrace of personal choice and self-reflection.
Through her reflections, the author encourages readers to reconsider their engagement with social norms and to appreciate the moments of stillness and self-discovery that can be found in choosing not to participate in the overwhelming pace of modern social life. Such choices are presented as acts of freedom rather than mere laziness, inviting others to explore the depth of what it means to find joy in solitude.