Lilian

Minutes until showtime, the music gets louder. The only things that seem to exist are the hooks about to be thrown, and my team, who does their job with ease. With a deep breath in and a sigh to relax, suddenly we have wings. Tap your foot or dance to your music, but nothing can truly distract you from what comes next...the curtain is pulled back and the crowd parts for the performer, making sure to snap pictures of the hooks or gilsons. They cringe, they gasp, they smile. Adrenaline has taken over and you can't even feel your body. But here you are, being escorted to the center of them all. The announcer will say your name, start your music, and the crowd will cheer! They're ready, are you?

 

Suspension isn't comfortable, but tunnel vision and endorphins don't care. To follow this process through, and keeping your composure throughout, is greatly rewarding. Being lifted gives a physical element that parallels to my mindset while I fly, for I am lifted to the top of the world.

 

What comes next doesn't matter, because I don't fear it. To put yourself through a stressful and physically tolling situation, one that you are in control of, is preparing yourself for the unknown and how to react. For days to weeks after, all is quiet in the mind as the body heals.

 

Shawn and Verona take the lead. They take your hand, allow you to find comfort in this chaos, and give you just enough time to think before asking..."you ready?" There is only one answer. The cue is given, and feet are no longer flat as the crowd sinks with the rest of reality...