Years and decades, (a lifetime, really,) of enduring significant insecurities and self-doubts have built a veneer, a facade, a glossy mask, around my authentic self. I’m an introvert and I’m quite content to hunker down inside of my own quiet life.

Yet there are cracks in this old skin. They offer a glimpse of that kid who used to know her way. By daring to be vulnerable, by exposing raw bits and parts of my flawed self, I am empowered.

A gentle nudge just might breach the tough scaffold harboring my soul.

A burden is lifted and I will let you in.

24” x 36"

Three girlfriends hover at the punch bowl and grip paper cups, (vital props for nervous hands), desperate to blend in. Boys line the wall across the gym. A brazen few, with apparent confidence, begin to dance.

Prepping for this night was no easy feat, settling on the perfect dress, the party shoes, and a hint of blush. And despite weeks of awkward practice, (of dancing to vinyl 45’s, the records scratched and skipping with every heavy thump,) their confidence withers. Yet their toes keep rhythm to the beat.

And then the cute boy accidentally (on purpose) bumps into the girl and the ice is broken. They dance with clumsy feet and flailing arms, too shy to look forward. The song ends, the spell breaks and she melts back into the wall.