Apocalyptic novels have been written for generations based on those who do run, or those who are in locales that are enough out of the way that they escape the nuclear holocaust, the plague, or the invasion. So, when looking for a place to live, do we base our choices on how likely it will be to survive the upcoming, indeterminate apocalypse? Of course not. We choose where to live based on personal contacts such as family and friends, employment opportunities, and housing availability and affordability.
So as you celebrate the end of our season of indulgence tonight and look forward to the season of Lent ahead tomorrow, wear your beads proudly. You celebrated when the minor apocalypse happened, and I firmly believe that partying is a better way to go. And for those of you (including myself) who will wake tomorrow clear eyed without a pounding head from overindulgence, at least we won't have to check YouTube carefully to make sure that our outrageous behavior has not been filmed and put out for public view. Have a safe and happy Mardi Gras.