The Talented Don’t Always Win

What helps lead to success? Is it skill? Confidence? I believe that talent isn’t the only thing you need to succeed; you also need faith.

In 2009 at a National Dance Competition in New York City, I sat at the awards ceremony friendless. The announcer called out the numbers, dancers and names one after the other. I was waiting, somewhat patiently, for “Number 126 Everything’s Coming Up Roses-Melissa Keeler.” Yet as the minutes ticked by I began to lose faith in myself and my capabilities. As place numbers in my category got smaller, I repeated to myself “Expect the worse and you’ll never be disappointed.”

Growing up, my mom always told me to have confidence in myself, that I was special, but I just thought she said that because she had to. My mother always believed in me; even to this day she thinks I’m the best dancer ever. However that’s how stage moms are, over-exaggerating and bragging about everything.

It wasn’t until recently when I realized I could be successful if I just had faith. After years of competing, I left feeling I made it through the event, but this was never what I wanted. I felt like I was never good enough for anything. I hoped and prayed to be an over achiever, and I could have fooled myself I was one. All I wanted was to walk out of one stage doorway being able to feel amazing about myself.

The next summer, in 2010, I went back to my dance school and worked harder than ever. Everyone could see I really wanted it, and I was in it to win it. When my last chance came to prove to my friends, my family and myself that I could be the best, I put my all into it. Standing backstage hand in hand with my close friend Alexia, I eyed the trophies and tiaras. “That WILL be mine!” I whispered to her seconds before stepping onto the marly.

I felt amazing after that dance, but how I felt was never good enough. This time I wasn’t leaving after getting it over with. I would leave when I succeed.

I set my goals high, but they weren’t impossible for me at this point. I left that awards ceremony with a contagious smile on my face. I could finally say it feels great to be compared with Ann Miller and be crowned Miss Teen Turn it Up. There was a major difference between this competition and the rest, and I don’t mean winning title. This time, I had confidence and faith in myself. When I believe in myself and I do something because I love it, it accompanies my talent and I will succeed. This I believe.