No, we enjoy the play from a distance, grateful for the times we are called on stage, glad to step back when we’re no longer needed.
In the TV show I watched, the director wanted to be backstage, but she was wise enough to know her time had come and gone. She had handed over the reins, something that happens to all of us. The smile on her face at the end of the show clearly let me know how her character was feeling. I’ve felt it too.
It’s bittersweet to know the curtain has gone down on that part of my life. My children are grown now, leaving me with memories as well as a new role, a role that doesn’t seem to require as much of me, but one that is still important. I no longer run around making sure everyone is in place.
My life isn’t as stressful as before, but I have been gifted a seat in the front row where I know all the actors on the stage. It’s a privilege to sit in the reserved seats. It’s a blessing when I catch the eye of one of the actors on the stage. I see not only what their life is like, but I also see my younger life reflected back in their expressions.
When I was directing the play that was my life as a young mother, I rushed around wanting everything to be perfect. Now I rest and watch and enjoy the show of my adult children and grandchildren that’s playing out in front of me. And I’m grateful I have tickets to the show.
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This piece originally appeared at SandyBrannan.com, published with permission.
