Performances. Step on the stage and dance, darling.
Your body was beautiful once. Now it won’t move like it used to. The gown is too small. You’re busted open – buttons and heart alike. But dance.
The audience wanted you, but not this you. The better one who smiles and means it. Who tries because they want to try.
Not this you – who tries because trying is the only thing to do.
If not this, then what?
People look away, wondering if they can tell you how painful you are.
You break their hearts by showing yours.
Would it be rude, they consider, to pull the curtain? Would it not be kindness to stop the show?
It’s a pity that you know from the crack of your wrist to your tiptoes.
They bite their tongues but their thoughts grow, stretching into shadows at your feet.
But it’s shadows that you greet like a second skin and, with that, a second wind.
Dance, darling.
With Love,
Natalie