In the midst of all the hustle and bustle in the inner city of Den Bosch, it is a short moment close to the Knillispoort, on Korte Waterstraat. The memorial stone, placed last year, has since become a permanent place for those who have to miss this carnival.
Under the Knillispoort, more and more people are slowly gathering, a lot with tears. “This is what makes Oeteldonk really special, because this is also carnival that we can share this together,” says the organizer. The stone under the gate is engraved: “An empty keel full of memories. A place especially for you. Especially for me.” Visitors put down roses and take a sip of their brandy.
“Carnival is emotion.”
Sabina, who came up with the commemorative moment last year, looks around moved. “It is really bizarre how many people are here. I never expected it to live that way. But somewhere I also knew this was necessary. I was also lost people myself and I always think of them during carnival.” The commemorative moment means that carnival lovers can mourn together, without it standing in the way. “Then we can give it a place again and loose extra well,” says Sabina.
Gerry Castelijns is visibly affected between those present. He commemorates a colleague from the Council of Ministers, died two years ago. “Carnival is emotion. Carnival is in the heart. And yes, if I am here, it will do me something ..” He pauses, takes a deep breath. “I really miss him, he was not only a colleague but also a friend. I hope they also have a nice carnival,” he says as he points to the air.
“After commemorating is the party.”
Soon the mop straps also walk along the memorial place near the arches, because the carnival is not waiting. And that is perhaps also good. “That’s the beautiful,” says Sabina above the music. “We take a moment to commemorate our loved ones, and then we toast to life.”
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