This weekend, my oldest daughter was in her first play, 101 Dalmatians. She had been going every weekday to drama camp for two weeks, and this Saturday was their performance. Georgia had several parts. She was Narrator #1, a puppy, and one of the boxers. As Narrator #1, she had the first line and had a solo speaking part (the only one, if I recall).
With her puppy outfit that she made and her makeup, she was just too cute
She did really well. She nailed her lines, sang loudly enough, and didn't trip over her own feet, which being my child is a feat in and of itself.
I admit I was all sorts of choked up during the play. My daughter has tried several things like sports and whatnot, but this was the first thing we've found that she truly got into and it wouldn't surprise me if acting and drama become her hobby. Watching her have the time of her life, knowing how much it meant to her, and seeing the enjoyment on her face and those of the other children reminded me what life is all about; Moments like these.
For 45 minutes, there were no problems in the world. Nothing else mattered except watching my offspring in her first play. I didn't think about politics or gun rights or anything. What mattered was her and she had my full attention.
I'm still smiling.