thanks to the relationship with the Tampa Bay Bloggers and the Straz Center, I did receive complimentary tickets to see Phantom of the Opera in exchange for a blog post & social media love. All opinions are my own.
The Phantom of the Opera will always hold a special place in my heart. When I was actively playing the piano, the songs from the soundtrack were one of the first big-names (and commonly known) songs I learned to play. My mom still misses the days when I would fill the house with music, and I miss belting out the song accompanying Phantom entering the room.
You can see Phantom of the Opera for yourself now until Sunday, February 25th at the Straz Center. Full ticket information and show dates can be found HERE.
Majority of us know the story of Phantom of the Opera: there is love, hate, passion, with plenty of lair visits but high notes to be met. The Phantom is always hiding, heck, we don’t even know his real name (by the way, it’s Erik). But his identity is mostly a secret, along with the reason of his feelings. His mask speaks volumes… he is always hiding something, hiding from someone, even hiding from his own feelings.
Thinking deeper than a typical review, we all wear masks. Sometimes, everyday, sometimes only for certain situations. Some masks are permanent, some are temporary – regardless, we are all hide from something at some point in our lives.
While I am sure we are all good humans and try not to, it is easy to wear a mask; I know I definitely do from time to time. Before judging, without harping, without gossiping and even passing a glare — simply ask. Ask them if they need to talk – Ask if they need an ear to listen – Or just a hug. They even might need a high five!
But #keepingitreal, here are ways we can innocently, and purposely hide.
a smile. It is so easy to hide behind a smile, and I know many of us are guilty. If you’re not ok, if it’s a rough day, or if you’re just tired. Flashing a grin can often times, help you grin & bear it.
makeup / hair / clothes. Sounds odd, but it is very easy to allow your outer appearance hide how you really feel. I will be the first to admit that when I am feeling down or sick, I will up my makeup or dress as an attempt to feel better.
answering “I’m ok.” “I’m fine.” Us ladies *may* be more at fault at this than men… but we’re all guilty. We all can hide behind these responses to brush off the real issue, and to avoid the underlying issue.
a shoulder shrug. …without a clear answer. This is not always hiding… but it is definitely avoiding the issue.
Are you willing to say what you sometimes hide?
