The heart, a drum in frantic beat,
A rhythm born of anxious heat.
I rehearse, I practice, all in vain,
Nerves take hold, a tangled rein.

The mind, a jumble, thoughts astray,
The words I know all drift away.
The stage is set, the lights ignite,
My voice a tremor, taking flight.

Though muscles tense and palms grow slick,
The effort burns, a burning wick.
I push it down, the rising tide,
And strive to let my talents ride.

For deep within, a fire glows,
A will that battles inner woes.
I fight the fear, the trembling dread,
And hope the message will be said.

Perhaps the voice will crack and shake,
But still, a chance for truth to make
Its way across the nervous hum,
A victory, though overcome.

So let the nerves their dance display,
I’ll meet them head-on, come what may.
For even shaky, voice unfurled,
My best I’ll give, and face the world.