This episode contains graphic descriptions and audio that may be upsetting to some listeners.

Listener discretion is advised.

Like most people, I'm not a fan of doing anything in front of a crowd.

Throughout my years in school and even at my day job, public speaking

isn't really my forte. Podcasting doesn't really count, seeing as I'm literally sitting in a

sound booth in complete solitude. I have, however, been on a stage to perform a grand total

of one time. And despite the fact that I would do anything to avoid reading a paper in front

of a class,

I was somehow convinced to enter into my high school talent show in my senior year.

Many moons ago, I used to play the guitar and sing, but within the comfort of my own home.

I never did these things in front of anyone.

I was a shy girl and didn't want people to think I was terrible,

so not many people apart from my close friends and a few family members even knew that I played. At some point, I decided to audition for the school show after being pestered by one of my friends, who had heard me fiddle around on a guitar once in music class.

It was senior year, allegedly the best year of anyone's high school career,

and I felt that if I never gave performing a shot, even in this small capacity, then I would

regret it for the rest of my life. Just a quick fun fact, everyone who auditioned got into the

talent show, so actually getting the thumbs up from the teacher who was in charge of organizing it wasn't

some great feat, but it was still a small boost of confidence that I was an instant yes and not a

hesitant one. We all, meeting myself and the others who were performing in the talent show,

had to practice a group opening number, our talent, and then I had to partake in a senior performance at the

very end. So on the whole, this entire show was way more than I bargained for. All I wanted to do was

sing and play my guitar, but no, I was forced to do a two-step in front of the whole student body,

...