CLEARER PICTURE

Valeyne.wordpress.com (Photo Credit)

​​A few weeks ago, I traveled to Los Angeles and performed in a Showcase in front of 35 agents and a crowd of people. Here's what I learned:

Airplanes-- Not seeing what's ahead. 
I used to have a horrendous fear of airplanes.  When I was five, I watched a video about a mother and daughter whom had lost each other to a plane crash.  I then decided that my feet needed to be as close to the earth as possible from then on out.  After realizing that I would have to travel by air to reach the next level of my dreams, I was nervous.  It was time. The plane was rolling down the runway and here I was physically, spiritually, mentally, and emotionally shaking hands with my first biggest fear.  We ascended, I nervously chewed my gum, and the pressure of the world tried to hold me down.  Peering out the window, I saw the earth get smaller and smaller.  I cried. Tears of pure happiness. Watching God's creation, flying, and conquering fears placed me in a peace I hadn't experienced before.  As we climbed above the clouds, the sun rose.  After staring out the window for twenty minutes, I realized I could only see the inside of the plane in front of me. My nerves twitched a little at the sudden uncertainty.  After 14+ years of staring out the windshield, knowing exactly what's ahead of me, this first plane ride showed me something new.  I couldn't see the way, yet I trusted that the pilot knew the way.  I sat back, enjoyed the view I did have, and worked when I was supposed to.  I'm starting a new chapter in my life, I don't know exactly what's ahead, but I trust God to lead me the right way.  In your life, you may not see what's in your future, but trust that it will be great, enjoy and make the most of the view that you have, and work your hardest when you're supposed to!

Subway-- Riding in reverse.
After a few days of meeting incredible people and working hard, my family and I took a trip to the beach.  We rode the Metro train...my first Metro.  This time I sat in a different section than my family.  My seat was in the opposite direction of the train's path, so I was moving backward.  Sometimes we ride in reverse, so that we see how far we've come.  While riding in reverse, I thought about the great moments, people, and turnarounds that lead up to who I am now.  Even though I was sitting backwards underground in the dark, I still made it to my sunny destination.  Riding in reverse is your time to reflect and be grateful!

Celebrities-- Realizing what you really want.
I met people that I grew up watching on tv, and I somehow kept my cool.  In those few days, they taught me important tips and techniques on acting. However my real lesson came outside of the classroom. I was sitting outside before the audition with beautiful new friends and Geno Segers.  He told us stories about his life and his experience in the industry. As he shared honest word after honest word, I felt my vision align.  The future was more clearer than the first time I actually verbalized that I wanted to be an actress.  I realized what I need to do, who I want to be, and what I truly want.  I titled this section celebrities, but that can mean anything to you.  It can be family, a book, or even the sky. It's whatever speaks to your soul. Listen closely, realize what you want, and work unforgettably hard to achieve it!  

Sending out positive vibes, I hope that August is the month of your ascent into success. I challenge you to rise above, and succeed!  Have a great month!

Kaci Hollingsworth