By chance, I was just watching America’s Got Talent. A show I have never watched, and within 6 minutes I was inspired and moved.
Twelve year old Ansley walked onto the stage (a feat of bravery and strength in itself) and began to sing what Simon said to an ambitious song by Arethra Franklin. About 15 seconds in Simon calls for the music to be cut. He did like the track and to be honest it was kinda drowning her out so I didn’t disagree.
Little Ansley looked confused but didn’t seem to worry. Simon then explained why he cut the music and asked she would like to try again without the accompaniment. She looked nervous, took some water he offered her, made a cute joke, closed her eyes, took a deep breath and sung her heart out.
Maybe she is just young and dumb and didn’t realize that amazing thing she had just done, but I did. She had likely practiced over and over again with her music. She had a dream and she wasn’t going to let the judges or the crowd intimidate her. She knew the kind of opportunity she had being on that stage, and took the pressure and adversity in stride.
I was honestly so impressed with her willingness to peruse her dreams in the face of adversity, mental toughness, and ability to roll with the punches.
I am not ashamed to say I got a little choked up, I want to be as tough as that little girl chasing her dream.