In the shadows

tethered to the cast of a blue light

is like being able to lick the cherry on top of the sundae,

but to have your dripping, silver spoon

snatched from your fist last second.

In the shadows

as the voice between two worlds,

I feel the warmth of the glorious limelight,

but my skin never deepens

from the heat.

In the shadows

on my own wooden island,

I'm cast away from the mainland,

away from those prancing, carving,

and focusing onstage.

While I may be in the shadows,

I am still happy.

I may not be dancing, but I

have my share in the smiles

that dance brings the audience,

and that's enough

for me.