Michelle Bernard

HER LITTLE WINGS

I never knew how strong I could be.

I was a shy kid. Never danced. Only laughed on the sidelines. I wanted to jump in and play my life, but I felt insecure, sometimes invisible.

Till one day, I forgot who I was and became who I dreamt I could be. One day, literally overnight, I picked up a microphone and sang like a super goddess. One day, I was spotted in Woolworth's by someone who hardly recognized me 20 lbs smaller than the year before.

I was once sitting in the wings watching the party go on. Now I bring the party and my wings.

I was once hiding chocolate chip cookie dough (yes, I said DOUGH) in my coat pocket. Now I'm doing chin ups and headstands.

I saw her. Me, actually. Though, I hadn't yet become her. She existed in my mind, in my heart. I saw her come alive in my journals. And I saw other goddesses who'd embodied her. I emulated them. I studied them. And I imagined what could be possible for me, too.

Then, as if it was always inside, I became who I saw in my mind.

I became a variety singer and performer of poetry all over the US.

I became a special needs Theatre Arts teacher in the NY public schools. I became a dancer of improvised movement. I became a creator of a children's yoga program called Creative Movement for Enlightened Minds. I became a sculptor of clay vessels and clay jewelry. And I became a published writer of articles, poetry, workshops, and the book you will have in your hands, LEAN HAPPY HEALTHY YOU.

I saw it all inside me first. Then I gave the visions wings.