A Show of Talent

Last chance to prove myself,

Won't let nerves get the best of me.

I'm trying to rewrite my history.

Five years ago from then, I had a horrible blunder.

Stood in front of a crowded room;

Cant catch a breath, notes stuck in my throat.

Trying to fight back tears of embarrassment.

Coming back to reality - it's now or never.

Gotta get it together or be buried in shame.

Support from friends and family pushed me to write my name.

The fear of performing was not going to stop me from shining my light.

I practiced and practiced, trying to make it perfect.

Audition day came and my friend was in the crowd when they called my name.

The walk to the front of the room nearly stopped my heart.

"Begin when you're ready," They said into the hush.

My throat runs dry. Inhale. Exhale.

Hand shaking as I grab the microphone,

I meet my friend's gaze out in the crowd.

With a burst of confidence, I opened my mouth and notes began to flow.

When I was done, I felt like I was suspended in time - weightless.

Burden from when I had failed slipped off of my shoulders and down my fingertips.

My chin tipped a little higher and preened under the applause.

My reaction was the same after my performance the actual day of the show.

No longer am I afraid to step into the spotlight;

In fact, I crave it now more than ever.

This fear dissolving like salt in water

Cleared up the pathway to future performances.