Since I’ve performed Hamilton
Since I’ve been in an orchestra pit
Since I’ve lived on my own
Since I’ve lived on the road
Since I’ve been to physical therapy
Since I’ve been surrounded by friends
Since I’ve worked in a coffee shop
Since I’ve gone out for drinks after a show
Since I thought I had everything figured out
Since life felt normal
Without a full-time job
Without earning a living wage
Without live music
Without traveling for fun
Without discovering new places
Without distractions
Without plans
Without a drive or purpose
Without a reason to get out of bed in the morning
Without words
Of not knowing what tomorrow would bring
Of living in my childhood bedroom
Of having no choice but to look in the mirror
Of making coffee at home
Of realizing what I take for granted
Of debating a career change
Of learning new skills
Of watching the world adapt online
Of trying to take advantage of “found time”
Of grieving
Until this feels like a distant memory?
Until this is over?
Until everyone that wants a vaccine has one?
Until we can put away our masks?
Until the problems we have now feel solved?
Until the theaters and concert halls are packed again?
Until our industry comes back in full?
Until we know how bad it really was?
Until we recognize what got us here?
Until we forget?
With family
With time to do things I never thought I could
With a reset button
With a newfound perspective
With home-cooked meals
With a therapist
With streams of entertainment
With Raveena in the same city
With long walks and longer conversations
With gratitude…
Austin Burket 