remember: life is the occasion. the gala cloaked in galavanting and good garb. and big laughs. and heavy tears. and cocktail glasses cosplaying as chalices. and bespoke embraces made by either a loved one or a note, or a melody, or a song. Or both or all. ladies and gentlemen! being is the ball. dress every breath in whatever little luxury that calls your spirit by name. date your city. your friends. your lover. your block. and find any and every reason to step out in your best, with a smile that only your face can fashion. ——— The Metropolitan Opera, April 2025