but i was never a contender

I love the theater. It feels so alive and in turn makes me feel alive as if being in the audience really makes me a part of it. It oftentimes brings me to tears I am so moved by it's sincerity. Never is that more so than when I personally know someone performing on the stage.
When I was in the 8th grade a friend was the lead in Annie at the Pikes Peak Center. I saw her in that production at least 2 times and cried through every show. At that time not really understanding what had come over me and a bit embarrassed by it all.
On Friday My Heart and I went to see a friend perform as George Bailey in a local production of It's Wonderful Life. He was fantastic and the performance was heart wrenching. I think it only took all of 3 minutes before the waterworks started. I cried throughout the entire show. Sure it was partially the story and because it was the theater atmosphere in general but mainly it was because Friend J was on the stage and he brought it. Just like Annie all those years ago.