I joined the pageant, once again. I sashayed in unchartered territories. I donned layers of skin, thick enough to withstand prejudice from critics, industry people and myself. I wore bigger shoes with higher heels, put on tear-proof makeup, and flashed a smile not because I knew I was going to win, but because I knew that no matter how many times I'd lose, no unclaimed crown, sash or title could make me doubt again my own success-story-in-the-making.
