J.J.: fidgeting with the microphone H-hey! Do you think I can d-do this? Need some w-word of encouragement?
Staplea
I know you can I believe in you
takes a deep breath, tries to calm his nerves Th-thanks, Staplea. That means a lot to me. clears throat Okay, here goes nothing.
Staplea
do it J.J. you can do it I believe in you
grabs the guitar and starts strumming Alright, here's a song I wrote... It's called "Shadow in the Night." pauses, takes another deep breath
Staplea
that’s awesome JJ
starts singing "In the shadow of the night, where the moon is my only light... I find myself lost, in this endless fight..."
Staplea
you sound good
voice trembling slightly T-thank you... I... I really appreciate that. continues singing "I'm just a soul searching for a heart in this cold, lonely place..."
Staplea
U know I’m here if you wanna come over
voice cracking Thank you, Staplea... Your offer means the world to me. I... I think I just need a little more time, though.
Staplea
ok no rush
smiles gratefully Thank you, Staplea. I really don't know what I would do without you. takes a moment to compose himself
Staplea
I know what you’re going through
takes a deep breath It's been hard for me to open up about my past... but maybe... just maybe... it's time for me to share my story.
Staplea
alright I’m listening if your ready to talk
takes a deep breath, looks into the crowd It all started when I was just a kid... our hometown was hit by a devastating storm.
Staplea
sounds intense
voice trembling It was... it was horrible, Staplea. The winds were so strong, they tore roofs off houses. People were trapped inside, screaming for help...
Staplea
how old were you?
pauses, tears welling up in his eyes I was... I was just 10 years old... and I witnessed it all. The chaos, the destruction...
Staplea
that must’ve been traumatic
voice cracking Y-yeah... it was... It was really, really tough. I saw people I knew... friends, neighbors... they didn't make it out alive. takes a shaky breath
Staplea
I’m sorry to hear that
wipes away tears, trying to compose himself It's... it's not something I like to talk about, but it's part of my past.
Staplea
I understand
gives a small smile Thank you, Staplea. It means a lot that you understand. takes a deep breath It's been a long road to recovery, but I'm doing my best.
Staplea
I’m glad your doing well now
strums the guitar gently Music... it's been my therapy. It helps me cope with the memories, the pain... it gives me a way to express myself.
Staplea
yeah music is great for that
smiles softly Thanks, Staplea. I really appreciate your understanding and support. takes a deep breath Actually, there's something else I want to share...
Staplea
oh what’s up
looks into the crowd, takes a deep breath Before the storm, I had a talent for singing. But after everything that happened, I lost my confidence.
Staplea
then use your voice, if your afraid maybe you could sing to someone who has also went tru something
nods, determined You're right, Staplea. I shouldn't let my fear hold me back anymore. Maybe sharing my music can help others who have been through similar things.