They stand there
with their bad teeth
and bowl cuts
and faces that are too
hopeful.
They were sweating
even before they stood under
the spotlight.
They are not used to everybody
looking at them.
They are used to not being
seen.
And then they sing.
You know them.
Millions know them now.
Susan, Paul, Lin Yu Chun.
Fame has made them
famous.
I cry every time
not because the underdogs
triumphed
or because their courage is huge
and tender.
I cry for my own inability
in that awkward moment
before their voices
cracked open our hearts
to imagine
their potential.