I still remember my university days as a young singer in the Nigerian Federation of Catholic Students (NFCS). Our Thursday evening prayer and worship sessions were a highlight of my week. Although I wasn’t always given the opportunity to lead, when I did, my performances were always met with enthusiasm and appreciation. People would approach me after the sessions, acknowledging my gift and passion. However, I was always in a hurry to get back to my studies, and I would brush off the praise.
Deep down, I had a desire to perform on a bigger stage, to minister to a larger audience, and maybe even gain recognition. So, when the opportunity finally came, I was thrilled. But little did I know, I was about to learn some hard lessons about the difference between the training ground and the stage.
The Stage: A Place of No Mercy
My first time holding a mic was on that big stage. I was overwhelmed, and my nerves got the better of me. The crowd wasn’t singing along like they did in my small fellowship circle, and their eyes were fixed on me. I stuck to one song for too long, my backup team grew tired of repeating after me, and my music director looked at me with a mixture of confusion and concern. All I wanted was to get off that stage.
That experience taught me some valuable lessons. The spotlight not only highlights your strengths but also exposes your weaknesses. It’s like a stained cloth – the stain is more noticeable in the light than in the dark. I also learned that the audience in the spotlight isn’t always supportive; they’re often there to critique and judge.
Preparing for the Spotlight
If I had to do it all over again, I would prepare more thoroughly. I would practice handling the mic, work on my stage presence, and learn to handle the pressure. The spotlight can be tempting, but it’s essential to remember that it’s not just about the benefits – there are also risks involved.
If you desire to be in the spotlight, make sure you’re prepared for the challenges that come with it. Keep learning, practicing, and preparing. Don’t just focus on the accolades; be ready for the scrutiny and criticism that comes with being in the public eye.
