(Edited 11/27/2023)

Long time ago, I worked in theater. That shouldn’t be a surprise, given how I title my entries 🙂

There were many rollercoaster-style emotions going on during rehearsals and the show’s run. The one that sticks out the most was months after the show ended, when the director during a web chat revealed I was the “last choice” of everyone/anyone that came out for the role. To which there were very few.

Years later, I was a top choice in another production with the same director, where I exceeded many expectations, including my own.

Despite that, sometimes I think about that “last choice” comment. Maybe because by that point, I had proven myself capable of doing what was needed of me, and didn’t deserve to know that.

Or maybe I needed to hear it because it reminded me how there are some things that shouldn’t be said about what a person lacked. Not after they’ve shown their rising potential in anything they’re showing up for.

You never know how much emotional hurt that can do to someone, no matter where they may be on their mental health journey.

Admittedly, during that time I was far from taking that path, but had enough to go on that gave birth to the blog, and give myself a place to revisit these moments.

Plus, drunk or not, stating a comment like that can say more about the person than it does you. My lack of recognizing my need for therapy, both then and now, does not excuse anyone else’s hurtful behavior.

You don’t have to be on stage like I was for that to happen. Just make sure you approach and leave moments like that with your peace in mind.

D.F.