In the neon glow of spotlights and the loud applause that fills theatrical halls, there’s a common misconception that success and recognition are the only benchmarks of a life well-lived. As I prepare to launch my new podcast, “Living Strong Sunday“, on November 5th, I’d like to share a deeply personal journey. A journey that doesn’t boast of the spotlight but thrives in the embrace of the shadows.
Growing up, I danced ballet. Now, before you conjure up images of Mikhail Baryshnikov leaping gracefully through the air, let me set the record straight: I was far from reaching those heights. Yet, those ballet classes were my initiation into discipline, commitment, and passion. It wasn’t about mastering every move to perfection; it was about the resilience I developed when I faltered and got back up. It was about the grace with which I carried my failures as much as my successes.
My professional performing career, as a proud member of Actor’s Equity Association (AEA), saw me mostly in roles as a “swing” and an “understudy”. To many, these roles might seem secondary, perhaps even insignificant. But in the world of theater, they are the unsung heroes, always prepared, always ready, living perpetually in the shadows, waiting for their moment to step into the light, if called upon. This phase of my career was a testament to the beauty of living in the shadows, teaching me patience, adaptability, and humility.
From ballet, I transitioned to musical theater, and later, to roles in TV and film. On paper, it sounds glamorous. But the reality? Countless auditions, facing rejection, and more often than not, playing the supporting character rather than the lead. Yet, those experiences shaped my perspective, reminding me that every role, no matter how small, is crucial to the narrative.
Parallel to my artistic pursuits, I delved into the world of karate. First as a practitioner and later, as a teacher. Through karate, I understood that strength isn’t just physical. It’s mental and emotional. And sometimes, the most powerful warriors are those who choose not to fight.
As a public speaker and author, I’ve been blessed with platforms to share my thoughts. But the real lessons came from my travels. Living in multiple countries, touring the USA and Canada with Broadway shows, I met people from all walks of life. And a common thread emerged. The most inspiring stories often came from those who lived in the shadows, away from the limelight.
Which brings me to the heart of “Living Strong Sunday”. This podcast is a tribute to those unsung heroes. It’s about the local business owner who, despite all odds, keeps their doors open, serving the community with unmatched passion. It’s about community members whose small acts create ripples of change. Each episode is a tapestry of tales that embody resilience, innovation, and community unity.
In our pursuit of success, we often overlook the power of humility, the strength in vulnerability, and the beauty of living in the shadows. As I’ve journeyed through different phases of my life, I’ve realized that true fulfillment doesn’t come from the applause or accolades. It comes from gratitude for every experience, every challenge, and every person that shapes our story.
Join me on November 5th as we embark on this voyage with “Living Strong Sunday”. Let’s celebrate the beauty of stories that often remain untold, the tales that inspire, and the spirits that remain unbroken, even in the face of adversity. Because sometimes, the most profound lessons come not from the spotlight, but from the enriching embrace of the shadows.
I invite you, dear reader, to be a part of this journey. Please comment below and share the names and stories of small business owners, community members, or anyone you believe to be an “unsung hero”. Let’s shine a light on those who’ve made a difference from the shadows and give them the recognition they truly deserve. Your insights and suggestions will not only enrich our podcast but also celebrate the strength and resilience of our community.
