Always second, never first.

details to be posted when tiredness fades

edit:
Finally, the verdict was made and our facade won second place. To be honest about it, we weren't happy with the outcome. I wallowed in disappointment yesterday about the whole thing, but things are looking a lot better now.

I guess it just takes time to accept something as harsh as the realization of being only second best, considering all the hard work put into it. I initially refused to settle for anything less than first place because I know we have not given anything less than our all in working in that facade. But then again, acceptance must come in order for contentment to linger and so I've learned to let go of that sentiment and simply be grateful that at least we've created something wonderful. The number of sacrifices made along the way was paid off, not by any award, but simply by the sight of our glowing masterpiece.

That's life, as they say. Anyway, there will always be time for redemption.

Redemption. Where everything is twice as sweet. ;)