Moment to Shine

A few months ago I went with a friend to see a performance by Laura Benanti. At one point, she said "Man, I wish everyone could experience standing on stage and having a room full of people clap for them."

Tonight, I was back at the same venue for a totally different event - a chance to celebrate teachers for all the unsung work they do every day. A chance to recognize teachers who do their job very well, despite a multitude of odds.

As I watched the first teacher walk to the stage to accept her award I stood to clap for her. So did the rest of the room. At that moment, I remembered Laura Benanti's words and I was so happy for the individual being recognized - they were getting their chance to stand on stage and have a room full of people clap for them. As each of the next six teachers walked onto the stage to accept their award I thought the same thing "this is their moment to shine, what a great chance to stand up and be publicly recognized."

I'm grateful for all the people in this world who deserve to stand on stage in front of a room full of people and be applauded. I'm especially grateful for those who never have that experience, yet continue doing the things that make them deserving of the honor.