In the Heat of the Lights

                In the Heat of the Lights                      

The sweat, the tears, the fears,

and all of the work pushes you 

farther than you ever thought you could go.

Close quarters and raw nerves 

around people you may or may not enjoy.

The high notes crack, when they should be getting stronger.

Is what you need deep down

Or not even there?

The stress somehow melts away

as the recitation begins.

When the notes resonate, clear and strong,

it's a feeling beyond belief,

utter relief.

Behind the curtain, 

between every scene,

you can be yourself for a moment.

Breathe as yourself

after holding your breath to be someone else.

Breathe.

The very last scene is the leg of the race.

Your charade slowly fades.

The last, loud, crescendo of music rises and falls.

A wave of alleviation, happiness, and thankfulness crashes over you.

You thank God for pulling you through.

Finally,

you are you...

But somehow more.

They say that you take a little bit of your character with you.

I agree.

But I also think you leave a little bit of yourself with your character.

You portray a character's journey, 

it's hard not to accompany them.

Journey's teach you so much

and teach you how to grow into who you are.

Blossom with your character.

Take what you learn from them 

and leave your old self behind.

//.

                                                                        J.C.

                                                                         A Girl in Black & White