A Reminder: Stop Living Life In The Sidelines

The sparkle of the spotlight, the hauntingly beautiful vocals, and the energetic zing that only a troupe of choreographed dancers can convey! I recently had the exhilarating pleasure of watching the Mamma Mia musical at a local theatre in Sydney. The stage production was nothing short of a whirlwind of emotions, leaving me utterly mesmerised.

In many ways, stage performance and other forms of artistry are a truly noble pursuit. These individuals lay themselves bare, the true definition of vulnerability, just to entertain, inspire, and embolden us regular folk to live life with fewer inhibitions. They create scenes that weave the threads of human experience, inviting us into their make believe world. With every step, every note, they put themselves before prying and often judgmental eyes, knowing full well the very real potential of not receiving the applause they deserve. Fear doesn't stop them. It's a lesson, a bold statement that speaks volumes: No risk, no return.

When was the last time you put your self-consciousness aside and did something you truly believed in?

When did you last venture out to speak to a stranger and show genuine interest in their life? These performers, beneath the spotlight's embrace, remind us that judgment can be tamed, that fear can be conquered, and that human connection can flourish. Only if we take the risk and put ourselves out there.

We all fear judgment. It’s so human. Yet, when I pause and ponder: What's the worst that could happen? And more importantly, what could we actually gain? It gives me goosebumps to think about the potential of each moment.

As we navigate the twists, turns and (often) disappointments of adulthood, a world where we often feel compelled to suppress our true desires, it becomes easier to sit in the bleachers, casting our judgment upon those who dare to step onto the stage. It's takes so much less energy to criticise than to risk our own ego, safety, or comfort. But let's flip the script a little. How about we step into the limelight of our own lives? How about we bring wonder, mystique, and authenticity into our everyday actions?

Ever heard of a keyboard warrior? In this age of digital screens and virtual connections, it's easy to get lost in the comment sections and unleash a torrent of opinions and judgments. I admit, I've indulged in reading those comment rabbit holes myself. My guilty pleasure is watching semi-educational, more entertaining YouTube videos. Architectural digest, Vox and Try Guys. It’s great peeking into celebrities' homes or pondering the mysteries of how giant companies started, these distractions momentarily draw us into another's world. But, as I watched an Architectural Digest video recently of a stunning home, something struck me. The comments section, instead of being a place of diverse opinions, had transformed into a battlefield of judgments and quips about this human being’s home.

And so, in the midst of these musings, I find myself circling back to that magical stage, to those fearless performers who stand unflinching in the face of uncertainty. In a world where even a small group gathering can evoke nervousness, the energy and courage radiated by those who grace the stage is truly something to behold. It's a reminder of the extraordinary power of human connection and shared vulnerability.

As the scenes unfolded in Mamma Mia, it wasn't just about the storyline we all know and love from the Hollywood rendition. It was about the real people on that stage, about their journeys, their struggles, and their passion. Especially now, when the world has collectively weathered the storm of Covid, and stage theatre seemed like a distant dream, every moving scene prop and every note carried a weight that transcended the stage itself.

So, here's our wake-up call, a reminder to embrace more, connect more, try new things, and step far beyond the boundaries of our comfort zones. The performers inspire us not only to admire from afar but to take that leap of faith ourselves, to create our own magic, whether it's in front of an audience or within the quiet theater of our own lives. It's about recognizing that fear can be tamed, judgment can be silenced, and our lives can be painted with the vibrant hues of authenticity and wonder. Let's step onto our own stage, share our stories, and dance to the rhythm of our unique journey.