Moments in the Spotlight

It's been a very long week.  My volunteer job at the theatre is more than I could have imagined.  It's been incredibly challenging.  Not just mentally and physically, but emotionally as well.

When you work backstage, you are the unseen force that makes the show happen.  You are rarely seen.  There is no green room for you to gather in.  You have to be their early and stay there late.  Let's face it, you're lucky if your name even appears in the program.

But backstage is my love.  I love the challenge.  There is a plan for you to follow, but you have to be prepared for the unexpected.  You need to be able to problem solve and deal with the actors who are all convinced that their individual needs are the most important at any given time. 

I also grow very attached to my crew.  These unsung heroes are willing to do whatever it takes to make sure everything goes smoothly.  And at the end of the night, while the actors are receive applause and receiving praise from the audience members, the crew members are resetting the stage for the next night without any recognition.

The career I've chosen is not unlike my theatre experience.  The work I do is for the success of others.  I put my heart and soul into all I do and hope they get the praise and applause they deserve while I cheer them on from the background.  It gives me tremendous joy.

That being said, we all need to have our little moments in the spotlight.  Every once in a while, we need to know our efforts are appreciated.  It really doesn't take much.  A simple thank you.  An extra smile.  A unexpected surprise.  It's truly the little things that matter.

Random encounters with others could be the moment where you make a difference.   It could be that little spark that reminds them that what they do matters.  It could be that moment where they feel like what they do isn't taken for granted.  It could a small moment for them to be in the spotlight.  And who knows--maybe someone is out there waiting to do the same for you