Phone calls from the restroom need to be answered.

Our daughter tried out for the high school chorus yesterday. We found her a pretty dress. The ladies at Marti and Liz helped me with shoes to match and the rest was up to her. She sang a Faith Hill song, If My Heart Had Wings. She knew the words and had practiced. As I was headed over to the school parking lot, where I always wait while she tries out for stuff, just to be close in distance so she knows I am waiting for her, my phone rang. As I answer, I hear the anxiety in her voice, the last minute butterflies are coming alive. As I talk to her, I start chasing those fluttering wings out of her sky. I give her encouragement. I remind her how well she has practiced. Then I ask her what she is worried about. It is the "sight reading thing" required on the try-out. She is worried she won't do this correctly. I reassure her to sing her heart out and be free, then leave the rest alone. I tell her I will be waiting, just outside, while she performs. She knows and I know, whether she makes it or not, we will both be okay, and we hang up. Trying out for anything is hard, because one must realize your best may not be enough for the judges, but maturity realizes your best CAN be enough for personal satisfaction. As I watch the front door, I reconize the shoes and then I see her face. She is smiling, her step is quick. I know in that instant she feels good about how she did. The list will be posted on Friday, but the most important accomplishment has been achieved, the courage to try. I look into her face and I know she was so glad I answered her call. She knows that I am thrilled she would call me. We both know we are on each other's list, already.