Are you ready to dance?

Allow me to help you up,
Your steps will be unsteady,
Do not fret or worry,
I’ll let go when you are ready.

Are you ready to perform?

The lights are bright,
Shining in my eyes,
I look to him for support,
As he’s helping me to rise.

Are you ready to dance?

A smile upon my face,
Raised on pointed toes,
Taking a deep breath,
My eyes begin to close.

Are you ready to perform?

Twirling in tiny circles,
My music begins to play,
Sweet little whispers,
Encouraging me to sway.

Are you ready to dance?

Dance for them,
Keep him entertained,
Spinning for them,
My steps never waned.

How long can you perform?

The prettiest girl,
I hear them say,
Lights behind the crowd,
Music begins to play.

How long can you dance?

Murmuring starts,
They’re no longer looking at me,
My spotlight flickers,
And I begin to see.

How long can you perform?

I am no longer alone,
A dancer on another stage,
My music begins to hush,
Her lithe little steps meant to engage.

How long can you dance?

My lights begin to dim,
My music begins to hush,
Whispered words begin to fade,
Panic sets in, my breath leaves in a rush.

How long can you perform?

Reaching out for you,
But you’re nowhere around,
Stumbling on the darkened stage,
I fall upon the ground.

How long can you dance?

I’m unable to move,
No more sweet words to sustain,
So what do you do with a dancer,
Who no longer entertains?