Backstage we are reminded
To smile and then we will shine,
A precious shine that catches the eyes of the audience,
Like the glitter which is sewn into our costumes
Clings to our flat-ironed hair
And is swept over our butterfly eyelids.
Maybe if I inhale deeply enough
Before I am swept onstage,
I will absorb the glitter from every nook and cranny,
Guiding it down into the inner workings of my lungs,
So that it can be pumped through my tired veins
To the structure which keeps me moving.
And maybe if all my blood is replaced with glitter,
Everyone would notice how I shine
And they'd pay attention to the marvelous girl
Who breathes specks of pixie dust
And leaves a trail of diamonds behind her.
Maybe then the smile plastered on my face
Would become a part of my daily routine
And I would become a beautiful dancer,
Because no one can ignore such an eye-catching display of movement
And maybe then I will never be forgotten
By breathing glitter into their hearts.
Maybe then such a memory of grace will stay alive
Long after I am gone.