Out of the Shadows

Photo Credit: Josh Einwechter

     I quite enjoy being a behind-the-scenes person. And I have such a soft spot in my heart for all 'behind-the-scenes' and background performers: Musicians, Dancers, Cinematographers, Directors, and the like.

     I'm much more comfortable watching and observing, and then writing and processing those events that I experience.

     But time and time again (And now a bit more frequently), there comes a specific opportunity, a moment, where I'm asked to step outside of the shadows. Instead of being the observer, I become the observed. Instead of the student, the teacher.

     I cannot tell you how uncomfortable such a change in position makes me feel. Partly because we are creatures of habit and comfortability. And we'd rather stay in the place that we know. The place in which we know that we cannot necessarily fail or be seen being a failure.

     But I'm learning more and more to not succumb to my own intimidation, and to not be paralyzed by the potential of being misunderstood.

Breathe in. Breathe out.

     I've started a new TV show this month. I'm surrounded by strong personalities and renowned go-getters. These folks aren't shy. I almost want to crawl into my blankie and hide, or watch a good foreign film with a cup of good tea and not think about those things that challenge me, ignoring those things that force me to grow in new and unexpected ways.

     But I remain present.

Breathe in. Breathe out.

     Now is not the time to waiver. Hesitation may get you killed.

     I'm learning to be more forthcoming, and at the same time, kind. Vocal, yet still a great listener. Opinionated, while still just. Firm, yet loving.

Breathe in. Breath out.

     One must remember: When coming out of the shadows, the light awaits.

Wisdom's Knocking:

"Two roads diverged in a wood, and I--

I took the one less traveled by,

And that has made all the difference." -Robert Frost