Oscar

I am becoming an Oscar nominee for Best Writing (original screenplay). I am sitting in my chair in the chic, spacious hall that does not at all reflect how I feel on the inside – Panic Room! My heart is pumping louder than the music and my hands are starting to sweat. I close my eyes and remember the few hours before; in an attempt to dissolve my anxiety and untense my muscles.

I put my first high heeled foot on the edge of the red carpet and stepped out of the stretch limo; escorted by my very supporting, very loving husband. The crimson red wrapped around me shone with glamour as the cameras flashed. The soft, silky fabric complimented my tan and hid my goose bumps; while the tail flowed behind me as I glided across the entrance. The cheers, though deafening, were so flattering that I blushed with shyness; and I turned to wave and smile as my heart started to beat faster.

This is the moment I have dreamed about for years; the chance not only to convey a deep message through my writing, but to be recognized and awarded for it. Of course, as a girl, I also dreamt about the charm of winning an Oscar, and the thrill of being among world class stars even for a day, but haven't we all?

I recalled being escorted to where the cast of the movie was sitting; the movie based on a novel that I wrote. I, the little girl from a country so far away from the Oscars, the girl who's had a million dreams but so few attained, who's had great potential but so little achievements. A girl who's had challenging years and some complicated relationships, but who was determined to do something with her life.

The cast cheered me on and congratulated me for the nomination. The ceremony started and the entertainment relaxed me a little; but as the awards were called one by one I listened, applauded and stood only with half a heart, as the other half was so busy praying.

The moment drew closer and I grew tenser; and as it crawled in, I clutched my husband's hand and shut my eyes in anticipation. I only opened them on hearing "and the Oscar goes to……".