I stare at the door
feet frozen in place,
fingers trembling and
knees shaking.
My mouth dries up
as voices grow louder.
Tears blind my large brown eyes
as a surge of adrenaline
pounds on my poor heart.
My hair rises
and teeth clank.
At the back of my mind I know
I must get in there.
But I'd rather die
before taking a step closer.
Courage fails me
and my feet stay stubborn.
Sweating, shaking,
I continue staring.
The door seems larger
the crowd more impatient.
I take a deep breath
and reach for the door.
As my shaky hand hits the steel knob,
a warm sensation suddenly
slathers over my ashy knuckles.
I sigh in relief
realizing I no longer stand alone.
And with Your hand on mine,
I turn the doorknob
and step into the floodlights of the Arena...
