The Dancer

A spin and a twirl
A kick to a split
The dancer knows eyes are on her
Watching her every move
Scared to look away as if they might miss it
Miss the ease with which her body moves

She is strong and capable
No longer the little girl she once was
The dancer is a force now
No one dares to riot against her
For they know they would lose

The dancer knows what’s at stake
She can’t afford to slip or fall
She must be strong and brave
She cannot be afraid
Afraid to fail, afraid to flop
Those are not options for the dancer

She must be perfect
She must point her toes
Straighten her arms
Dance her best
Perfection is the standard
This dancer cannot afford to lose