You know the show won’t be starting until much later
but you’re anxious
so you arrive early
thinking maybe you can help set up
or putter around the place
or circle the perimeter a few times
– anything to occupy the hours
before the evening truly begins.

The doors open reluctantly for you
and you begin your vigil
of pre-show nervous stalking.

You feel eyes on you,
but you know there’s little else you can do.
This is your process.
Before an even truly begins,
you must stretch, you must stir,
your must fluster around around the space.
You have simply gotta spend your time pacing.

A drink!
Perhaps that can stave off these nerves,
put you a bit at ease.
You ask for something fruity, and swallow it
in a flash, then resume your circling of the room.

The time clicks away as the room fills up.
There is less space to walk.
You find yourself unable to move freely,
but your jangly need has abated.
You feel comfortable
as the band takes the stage
and you are ready to enjoy the night properly.

Your ritual has worked.
You can take the evening on in the right way.
It will all go well.
Yes.