A Star Is Born

My girl has got some serious gumption, and on stage, that grit shines.

For nearly four months, Weezey and her friends rehearsed three to five evenings a week to put on an anything-but-typical-high-school production of Shrek The Musical. The culminating perfomace was incredible—ovations were stood and tears were shed.

But what made our Princess Fiona royalty in my mind was the incredible bonds she made and the quiet fortitude and relentless determination she demonstrated behind the scenes for the months leading up to the show—even with all her other responsibilities. She learned to tap dance for goodness sake, and it was a rhythmic show stopper. I know, proud mama gushing…but it was awesome. She was awesome. Her friends were awesome.

There is something about watching kids take to a stage, a page, a field or a canvas that just takes my breath away. Their bravery and promise is inspiring and makes me wish I had taken more chances as a student. Perhaps bearing witness to this youthful courage is why I love teaching, it is definitely an undisputable perk of being a parent.

I pray that these kids, and every other kid on the planet, continues to take these chances, showing up when things are hard or scary, and boldly committing to being the best version of themselves in whatever forum or form they choose. This gives me hope. This gives me joy.

In the meantime, Weezey Rose, you are a star!