Instead of the usual emotional exhaustion from my starring role within the Blended Family Ballet, I am tired only due to extreme fun. The tutu remained in the wardrobe and there was no need for the tiara to be polished or the rouge to be applied.
After a long awaited epiphany, I informed those I love that there would be no more performances through gritted teeth.
I watched in awe as the magic wand was being waved by others. I was overflowing with love and pride as I witnessed those who usually sit with arms and feet crossed in the audience, prancing about on stage as a part of the most beautiful Blended Family Ballet I could have ever wished for.
While it would be easy to reprimand myself for not realizing sooner, the talents within the audience who I now find quite brilliant on the stage, I must remember that my own previous performances were not in vain. Family traditions, the sense of belonging and pride for what we all share, are the contributing outcomes from the times of tears behind my rouge.
I am optimistic that this feeling I have will be maintained. The seats in the audience were vacant as I joined the rest of the cast for our final bow on stage. The silent standing ovation was deafening.
The Blended Family Ballet has transcended from a performance to a shared dance. One which I'm happy to learn new steps as our accompanying music score evolves.
