while others see it as danger
performing is safety

when I am acting
I know exactly what to do

just what to say – no awkward pauses or
tedious moments spent waiting for action

the right decision is to hit your cue
the audience reacts and you are alive

in life I am uncertain
nervous, unsure of my next move

no idea what others will say – I freeze up
and retreat to my thoughts, to safety

I’d rather be on stage, warmed by the lights
than out in the world, in the rain and cruelty

on stage I know it’s over and i can relax
when I hear the applause and take my bow