There is something both tragic and comforting in watching the determination to press ahead with a plan when all prevailing circumstances say you'd be better off cutting your losses and moving to plan B. Whilst this can be catastrophic in some contexts, in others it is inspiring.
I was reminded of this again during the weekend, surely one of the wettest Brussels has seen this year and all the more incongruous as other parts of the continent roast. And even if tropical temperatures seem too much for Belgium to expect it is difficult not to feel swindled by the run of rain seen last month and that kept coming down the first weekend of August.
Indeed, the organisers of a beach volleyball competition in the city centre have every right to feel cheated – after depositing 780 tonnes of sand in front of the most frequented pedestrian areas in town the stage was set for them to "put Brussels on the beach volleyball map." The ambition was noble but old Murphy was having none of it.
Under bucketing rain the teams did their best, demonstrating not only the absorbent attributes of sand but also why it might be some time before beach volleyball really catches on in Brussels. Whilst spectators did gather, it was more to remark at the comedy of the scene – the players' pluck outshining their prowess.
On reflection, it is moments such as these that for me bring out the best of this city. The urge to rue my decision to enjoy a Brussels summer has lately been difficult to suppress, especially given that heading south for summer is exactly what most people living here do.
But the self-deprecating shrugs and comical expressions directed skywards became signs of solidarity between strangers splashing through the streets, all seeming to say It's not so bad. The common sense of forbearance and all being in the same boat (though hopefully not literally) was strong this weekend, and make Brussels a great place come rain or shine.
Did you brave the weather? Let @Orlando_tbt know.
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