Dare to Sing in Scotland

2022, this was the second time I landed in Scotland. The first time, five years ago, left me with a taste that was hard to match with any other trip or place. That could be dangerous because it brought very high expectations, and that made me feel a certain fear and nervousness that this time they might not be fulfilled. New house, a different neighborhood, different goals than last time, new people to meet, seminars to give in a language that isn't mine…

It didn't take me 48 hours to confirm that Alba was still as charming as ever. The professor from the University of Edinburgh, whom I had met to finalize the seminars I would be giving in the upcoming days (I am a lecturer of Psychology), recommended that I visit a pub with live music in the city that day. Why did he say that? Well, I confessed to him that my other passion in life was music.

Despite some doubts, I found myself there alone that afternoon. Knowing there would be music, I couldn't resist. During a break in the musicians' performance, they asked if anyone wanted to sing. The first time, I didn't dare, but as I was leaving she (the singer) stopped me and invited me to sing. She understood that my initial refusal was actually out of fear. So this time, I did it. I sang and played for all those strangers (a challenge for me, as I gradually reveal myself more to the public in my musical field). They thanked me so kindly and invited me to meet them at another pub the next day...

What a pub! Those days were magical. I walked through the door of the Captain's Bar, and they would shout, "Hello, Abigail!" and "Your turn, Abigail". And so, I ended up going there every other afternoon, spending hours enjoying that cozy and familiar atmosphere, singing, and sharing my songs, making friends, and listening to others' music. I said goodbye, yes. I had to return to Spain, but I assured them I would come back.

Now it is May 2023, and I'm writing these lines from Spain, but after returning from my third trip to Edinburgh. The magic of this third time would bring another story or many other stories full of great adventures...