Finding Confidence in the Keys

A Story by Courtney

Looking out at the crowd, my heart begins to flutter. I search to find a familiar face in the sea of the unknown. All alone and vulnerable I look to the piano and see the caring smile of the elderly woman behind the keys. The first note she plays, and my heart begins to beat faster. Faster, faster, fasterfasterfaster! Here it comes. My entrance. I try to block out the feeling of being watched as the familiar tune on the piano is nearing it's end. I open my mouth and out comes the first note. As the piano dies, I continue living, breathing, singing. I can do this, I think, as my eyes meet with my mother's. I see pride and joy and love reflected back at me, giving me the confidence to keep going. Here it comes. My exit. I reach for the stars and belt it out, knowing that I have done a good job as the crowd rises to it's feet. I stand there with a large grin on my face. My sister rushes to the stage, bouquet in hand, as the crowd gets louder yet. I take a bow and feel invincible. As I look back up I notice that I'm looking at my bedroom ceiling. Only a dream...