The Gift
My eyes twinkle like diamonds
As I enter the room
Dart around
Absorb all
The mirrors
The barre
The dancers
Home once again
Thinking of The Gift while I
Pull on my skirt
Lace up my shoes
S-t-r-e-t-c-h arms, legs, back, and neck
Prepare…
Stand at the barre
The smooth wood is silk in my hands
Music begins to flow through the room
Execute movements of the warm-up routine
First position
Second position
Third, Fourth, then Fifth
A necessary evil to get to The Gift
The Gift will come soon my mind truly knows
While I work on my turns
And
Elongate my neck
And
Increase my extension
And
Make my leaps soar
And don’t forget to “POINT YOUR TOES!”
Take your places my instructor booms
Girls scurry to their spots
“And 5,6,7,8….”
The routine begins
Concentrate
Sweat
Give my all
The music stops and starts and stops and starts
Practice routines to prepare for The Gift
Over and over and over again
The big night approaching they must be just right
The Gift is here
Finally arrived
The butterflies flutter as I
Pin up my hair
Put on my face
Step into my costume that sparkles with grace
Inhale a calming breath….
Step on the stage and take my place
The stage is home to me
The work and dedication now rewarded
With The Gift of performing
