The Performers

Recently, I had the opportunity to bring my family to the visiting Royal London Circus. For my 5-year old daughter, it was one of the most highly-awaited event for her. The last time I went to the show myself was nearly a decade ago, and that in fact was my very first circus moment, and believe me what an occasion that was. The atmoshere was no different this time - the crowds were enormous, the band music was blaring, spotlights projecting various themes and shapes circled the big top much to the amazement of the kids, different colored light displays illuminate the stage in grand splendour, vendors with attractive balloons, fancy soft candy, popcorn, bottled water and canned drinks mingled through the maze of chairs and hordes of visitors, some who seem extremely lost in looking for a good spot for their evening entertainment. We were there more than one hour prior to the event and already more than half of the tent was filled with excited spectators.
Suddenly all the lights went out and the band stopped playing! Everyone heaved a sigh of relief that the show was starting, finally! Then in a spectacular display of light works, band music and song, all clapped to the presence of the parading stars of the night. When the smoke cleared after the two-and-half-hour show, all that was left in the minds of all those who came was the extraordinary performances by the circus stars.
Well, what has this got to do with motivation and inspiration? Nothing specific really.... but come to think of it, there just might be! Even before the start of each performing session, which occurs twice a day for the next three months here, just imagine what goes on behind backstage as the performers prepare for the grandest show of the night. Each of them might have done the makeup, the stretching exercises, etc. countless times over the years, but the intensity of their gymnastic and often risky executions say it all. Each of the performers came out extremely well-prepared for their routines. The years of gruelling training have honed their appetite to perform to the very best of their abilities. Yes, they are in the entertainment industry alright, and it is one where self-motivation to project the ultimate best of oneself is of utmost importance. There were times where certain acts were downright dangerous and death-defying, and yet all of them impressed the audience with the same vigor and tenacity.
So the question we ought to ask ourselves is this - Can we perform all our daily activites with such fortitude, patience, excitement, drive and enthusiasm each and every time? Or do we meet each day with gloomy disposition and disheartening views about our work and everything else? Think about it - what we project, we will get in return.
Here's the circus-master's farewell message to us all - May all your days be circus days!