The flashing of purple and pink lights is as intoxicating as the drinks in everyone else’s hands. And as I look up and see my idol and inspiration beckoning for me to join her on stage, how can I refuse? I rush up on stage practically about to cry from happiness. And strangely at that moment, I did not feel nervous, I felt exhilarated. The stage in itself was enough to fill my wildest dreams and set my soul on fire.

I will never forget the strange feeling of looking down on a crowd of strangers, singing my heart out and not feeling scared or anxious. See growing up in a household that encouraged music was always a way for me to express myself, and yet I was still incredibly scared of what others might think. But that moment in time, on that stage, made me overcome my fear. I was singing and dancing and I didn’t care what others thought because I was having fun. That moment is one that I can never take back, and it was one of my happiest memories. Words truly can’t describe that breathtaking experience.