Having self-love in times of hate is the answer and the path. The Super Bowl performance presented love as a trench, a word, and a form of resistance against the alarming election results. At the world's biggest concert, with 135 million viewers, reading "only love is more powerful than hate" became a balm for the pain of seeing dehumanizing policies gain votes.

When I was eighteen, I used to get lost on the subway every day. Now, at thirty, I've explored more parts of Barcelona than average. House calls, moonlighting between university classes and recitals at schools, community centers, and libraries made all the difference. As a decision, Barcelona has been one of the best of my life. As a dream, it's been a challenge. A city that shines with promise when you first see it: cosmopolitan and seemingly open. But with an abrupt and bittersweet landing. I'm still landing in many ways, and that says it all.